#and buy some red wine to have something a little special | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

benispunk · 2 months ago

Text

Lucky Number

logan howlett x reader

Logan wants to know why 12 is Y/N's lucky number. He might be falling in love all over again.

TW: language

Masterlist

\I/

Y/n’s favorite time of the day was the evening. Not because she could finally relax, have some time for herself, enjoy the silence of her room without, most of the time, anyone in the mansion interrupting it… Well, maybe yes, it was that. But that’s not the point.

Y/n’s favorite time of the day was the evening because she could finally spend time with Logan outside of the school’s routine, out of everyone's eye sights, just the two of them against the world.

And this evening wasn’t any different. She absolutely adored those moments with him as he looked and sounded so relaxed, and she felt as if she was falling more and more in love with him every single time.

She had bought a bottle wine and some appetizers that she had hidden in the kitchen all day, just for their special night, and Logan would do the same. Even though their relationship was official to everyone in the mansion, they always felt the need to sneak into each other’s rooms like teenagers in love.

One time, Logan was discreetly walking towards her door with two glasses in hand and his bottle of whiskey under his arm when he heard someone cough at the end of the corridor. He turned around, startled. Scott had been standing there, probably waiting to catch one of the two lovers and embarrass them. Logan stood there, saying nothing before flipping him off and entering Y/N’s room.

She sat curled up on her bed, a glass of red wine in hand, as she lazily picked at a plate of cheese and crackers between sips. Logan sat next to her, leaning against the headboard, holding his own glass of whiskey, his eyes glinting with amusement. He could stay there for days, listening to her talk, laugh, watching her smile. Anything that had to do with her, he needed to be there.

They had been playing a ridiculous card game for the last 20 minutes where you had to pick a number between one and twenty and then pick two cards, the closest to their number wins.

They were laughing again when Logan leaned forward with another challenge, his grin cocky. “Alright, one more time.”

Y/N smiled wide and quickly answered, “Twelve!”

Logan narrowed his eyes at her this time, his smirk softening into something more curious. “Again with twelve?” he asked, amused. “That’s the third time tonight you’ve picked twelve.”

Y/N blinked. “No, it’s not,” she said, a little too defensively, taking a bigger sip of wine. Maybe she should slow down with the drinking part.

Logan chuckled, the sound deep and warm. “Yeah, it is. You even won with that number.” He gave her a knowing look. “And now this. You pickin' twelve on purpose or somethin’? Are you cheating?”

She gasped at the accusation, « How dare you accuse me of such a crime? A girl can’t have a lucky number anymore. » She sipped some more wine dramatically, which made Logan laugh. How much she loved that sound.

Logan’s grin widened as he leaned in a bit closer, his curiosity getting the better of him. "Lucky number, huh? What makes twelve so special?" he asked, raising an eyebrow and swirling the whiskey in his glass.

Y/N felt her breath catch slightly, the warmth from the wine making her feel just a bit too relaxed. She hadn’t even realized she'd been picking twelve that much. It just... came out. It was her lucky number indeed. And now, Logan was asking about it. Oh no.

She gave a casual shrug, trying to play it off. "Oh, you know… twelve’s just... a good number. Balanced. You know, 1 plus 2 equals 3, and… uh, three’s cool."

Logan tilted his head, staring at her with an amused expression that said he wasn’t buying a word of it. « Then why not pick three? »

She could feel the heat rising to her face even more. He was too perceptive. She tried to shrug again, but it came off awkward. « I—I don’t know! Twelve just feels… lucky, I guess."

But Logan wasn’t letting it go. Of coure, he wasn’t. He leaned in even closer, his voice a low tease. "You’re hiding something." His tone was playful, but his eyes held a tenderness that made her feel even more flustered. "Why twelve, darlin’?"

Y/N's heart raced as she realized there was no escaping the truth. She hadn’t even thought about it consciously until now, but of course, twelve was special. It was his birthday— October 12. And the more she thought about it, the more it embarrassed her. It felt too sweet, too sentimental to admit out loud, but Logan's gaze was gentle, and she knew he wouldn't let up until she told him.

She cleared her throat and bit her lip, looking anywhere but at him. "It's... It’s your birthday. » she finally mumbled, barely above a whisper, still trying to avoid his eyes. "October 12. That’s why it’s... my lucky number."

There was a pause— a silence that stretched just long enough for her to regret saying it, but when she glance up at Logan, she saw something different in his expression. His face softened, his eyes widening just a bit before something warm and quiet settled in them. For a second, he seemed speechless, which rarely happened with Logan.

« My birthday?" he asked, his voice softer than before, as if he couldn’t quite believe it.

Y/N nodded, feeling vulnerable and a little embarrassed. « Yes. I’m sorry this is so embarrass— »

“Put your glass down,” he said firmly, cutting her off mid-sentence.

“What?” she asked, confusion clouding her expression.

Without missing a beat, Logan took her glass from her hand and placed it gently on the nightstand beside his own. Just as she opened her mouth to protest, he closed the distance between them, capturing her lips in a tender kiss.

Time seemed to pause as they melted into each other, the warmth of the moment enveloping them. Every worry, every ounce of embarrassment faded away as Y/N felt herself sink deeper into the kiss, the intoxicating taste of whiskey on his lips mixing with the sweetness of the wine on hers.

Her lucky number was his birthday. How fucking wonderful. What did he even do to deserve that? To deserve her. His grip on her tightened slightly, pulling her closer as if he wanted to fuse their bodies together, to ensure that nothing could ever come between them. How lucky he was.

When they finally broke away, he held her gaze with a softness that made her heart race.

“I love you so much,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

The moment hung between them. Y/N could see the sincerity in his gaze, the way he was allowing himself to be vulnerable. Her heart ached with love. But he wasn’t done.

His hand cradled her face, his thumb brushing lightly against her cheek. “You keep doin’ this—showin’ me how much I mean to you… » He paused, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, « I’m falling for you all over again,” he confessed, his voice low and raw.

Y/N felt her cheeks heat up, a smile breaking through her earlier embarrassment. « See why twelve’s my lucky number? »

Logan laughed softly, a glint of mischief in his eyes, before he suddenly lunged forward, pinning her down onto the bed. Y/N squealed in surprise, laughter bubbling up as he captured her lips in a quick kiss. The warmth of his body over hers ignited sparks of electricity that left her breathless.

As they broke apart, he held her gaze, his eyes gleaming with adoration. The warmth between them crackled with unspoken affection, and Y/N felt her heart swell. If he was her lucky charm, she was his too.

With a gentle tug, he pulled her closer, their foreheads touching as they breathed each other in. Logan leaned in for another kiss, this one deeper and more lingering, their lips brushing together softly. The moment was pure magic.

Y/N felt happiness enveloping her, knowing that luck wasn’t just about numbers; it was about sharing her life with him.

XXX

#fanfiction #fandom #ao3 #logan howlett x reader #deadpool and wolverine #marvel cinematic universe #logan howlett #hugh jackman x reader #wolverine x reader #logan howlett x you #logan howlett imagine #xmen fanfiction #xmen x reader #deadpool 3 #logan x reader #x men movies #xmen fanart #x men

349 notes · View notes

wcnderlnds · 19 days ago

Text

mulled wine | kyle spencer

CHRISTMAS ADVENT — DAY THREE

・❥・summary: you get a little tipsy with your boyfriend and confessions are spilled・❥・warnings: alluding to kyle's abuse but it's not specifically said・❥・word count: 1.2k・❥・authors note: gotta be honest this isn't my best work but we still out here anyway!! you can join my taglist here!

College had consumed most of your time lately. The end of the year meant exams, which in turn meant your usual free time was spent studying. At this point your dorm room was covered in books, papers and endless amounts of empty cans of Red Bull. So many all nighters had been pulled just to make sure you were fully prepared. The last thing you could afford was failing your exams. The major downside to studying meant you'd barely had time to see your boyfriend Kyle. He was in the same boat. He was preparing for his engineering exams so the most you'd talked was a FaceTime call here and there that barely lasted five minutes.

You missed him. Kyle was the best part of your days. There wasn't anything his bright smile couldn’t fix. It wasn't the same seeing it on a small phone screen. Thankfully, the last of your exams approached. Once that final one was over with, you made plans with Kyle. It had felt like weeks since you'd been around him in person. What you needed right now was a Kyle Spencer hug.

The plan was to check out the local Christmas market. It was perfect – you really needed to buy some last minute gifts before you headed back home for the holidays anyway. Maybe even treat yourself. After all, you deserved it after the stress of the past few weeks. It was a miracle your head hadn’t exploded. Kyle had said he'd meet you at the market so you hopped on the bus, jacket wrapped tightly around you. Actually, it was Kyle's jacket that you'd 'borrowed' from him weeks ago. It smelt exactly like him; bringing you the comfort you so very needed.

It didn't take you long to spot him when you stepped off the bus. His messy blonde hair peeked out from under the beanie he was wearing. The biggest smile imaginable graced your features as you ran over to him. Without missing a beat, he wrapped his arms around you, spinning you around in a hug.

"I missed you," he mumbled into your ear, pressing kisses all over your cheek. He placed you back on the ground, only pulling away slightly to look at you, taking in your flushed cheeks and bright smile. "How did I last this long without seeing your beautiful face?"

His words were so sweet, enough to make you want to melt into a puddle on the floor. How you ended up with the sweetest, most caring boyfriend you had no clue. It had been a chance meeting in a coffee shop almost a year ago now. You had been picking up your coffee order when you bumped into Kyle, knocking his right out of his hands. It was something straight out of a rom-com. You had expected him to kick off and get mad at you but he only smiled, telling you not to worry. You bought him a new coffee and after a brief chat, he gave you his number and the rest was history. Although he never let you live that day down.

"You're ridiculous," you giggled, leaning in to press your lips against his soft ones. It felt like home finally being able to kiss him after weeks. His arms around you tightened, pressing you flush against his body like he couldn't get you close enough.

"Only because weeks of not seeing you have driven me insane."

"You were already insane before that."

"Rude," he playfully rolled his eyes, tapping you on the ass in a joking manner. "Don't see me for weeks and this is the welcome I get."

"I'll make it up to you later." One chaste kiss later, you tore yourself away from him, sliding your hand into his. "Come on, I have to get some Christmas presents before I forget."

An hour later with shopping bags in hand, Kyle had pulled you into the makeshift Christmas bar that was the main attraction of the whole market. Eggnog and mulled wine were the specials on the menu but you’d never really been one for eggnog so mulled wine it was. Kyle had tried the eggnog with the words “it can’t be that bad” but he instantly regretted it, spitting it out. It was the highlight of your whole day.

“At least this isn’t as bad as that other crap,” Kyle said, bringing the mulled wine up to his lips. “Who knew warm wine was nice?”

You were both about three glasses deep now, feeling a little tipsy. It was well deserved after the last few weeks. Both of you deserved to let loose and enjoy each other’s company. It was one of the last times you’d get to be together before you flew home for the holidays. Kyle’s home life wasn’t the best – he hadn’t told you exactly what was going on but you knew it was something to do with his mom so you’d asked him to come with you. He’d politely declined. His mother was already jealous that he was dating you so if he went home with you for the holidays? All hell would break loose.

“We have to make this a new tradition.” You cradled the small glasses of liquid in your hands, the heat keeping you warm. “Just me, you and mulled wine every Christmas.”

“You got yourself a deal, babe.” He sipped off the last bit of his current drink, placing it back down on the table with a thud. “Oops.”

“You’re cute when you’re tipsy.”

“You’re always cute,” his grin slowly turned into a frown, his chin resting on his hand as he looked over at you. “When do you go back home?”

“Next weekend. I wish you’d come with me,” your hand reached across the table, lacing your fingers with his free one. A simple gesture but it meant the world to him.

“Can’t, babe. I’d love nothing more than to spend Christmas with the person I’m madly in love with but…” He shrugged his shoulders not realising what he’d said. His brow rose as he saw the look you were giving him. “What? Do I have something on my face?”

“Person you’re madly in love with?” Unshed tears brimmed your eyes. You’d known for a while how you felt about Kyle. It had been so easy to fall in love with him but you weren’t sure if he felt the same way. Turns out he did. Your heart felt like it was on cloud nine as you gazed into the soft brown eyes of your boyfriend.

Kyle’s eyes widened slightly. “Oh shit, did I say that out loud?” He chuckled, his hand rubbing the back of his neck - a nervous habit he’d picked up over the last few months. “Cats out of the bag, I guess. I love you. I’ve been in love with you for a while just… never really knew the right time to tell you. Guess the mulled wine knew, though.”

Your thumb lightly brushed against the skin on the back of his hand, your voice gentle as you spoke. “I love you, too. Best thing to ever happen to me, Kyle Spencer.”

“Same even if you like throwing coffee over me.”

“Shut up or I'll make you drink some more eggnog.”

Giggles erupted from both of you, Kyle waving over the bartender for some more mulled wine. He knew that no matter what happened, he always had you and this moment to get him through whatever waited for him at home.

taglist: @strawb3rrystar @jazzy-reads @ldydeath @decaf-mother @mistysconcilium @xrag-dollx @lacucarachapisser @honeymoon8 @urmomsg1rlfreind @marchsfreakshow

#kyle spencer #kyle spencer x reader #kyle spencer x you #evan peters #christmas advent #my fanfiction

78 notes · View notes

c-e-d-dreamer · 5 months ago

Text

Wreck My Plans, That's My Man: Prequel

A/N: Sometimes, family is... (checks notes)... being in a band with your brothers? That counts, right? @cassianappreciationweek Listen, I just wanted an excuse to bring back Drummer Cassian! Time to find out how Cassian and Nesta met and how Cassian got that first date 😉 If you've read the first part, there are some fun easter eggs in here like Cassian writing the song and a callback to “I can’t wait for you to be mean to me for the rest of our lives.”

Part One // Read on AO3

“I think the end of the queue is this way.”

“I can’t believe there’s already so many people here.”

Nesta allows herself to be led down the sidewalk by her linked arm with Elain, the middle Archeron following the path carved by Feyre forging ahead. As they walk, Nesta can’t help but eye the crowds around them. Elain is right, there are more people than Nesta expected, almost all of them dressed up in some way. Some have face paint scrawled across their cheeks, some have handmade signs clasped in their hands. And Nesta even spies a trio of girls dressed as cows, some sort of band inside joke that she’s clearly not privy to.

Although, she’s not really privy to anything when it comes to the band.

She still can’t believe she allowed Feyre to talk her into attending this concert in the first place. Sure, she’s always had a deep love of music, ever since she was a little girl. Something about the way a lilting melody can carve and embed itself within her very bones, about the way a harmony can flood and warm her veins, about the way a simple string of notes can somehow sing to her very soul, plucking at strings within her until only peace remains.

But she has no knowledge of what type of music she can expect to hear tonight.

And when the choices are curling up beneath a pile of blankets with a glass of wine and her latest Sellyn Drake novel or standing all night while dealing with screaming girls and songs she doesn’t even know? Well, Feyre and Elain are lucky that Nesta loves them.

“What time do the doors open?” Elain asks, drawing Nesta out of her thoughts.

“They should have already opened,” Feyre explains, trying to peer around the bodies in front of them. “Either way, we don’t have to worry. Our tickets are for one of those fancy boxes.”

“Really?”

“We could get one of those fancy boxes but not a special entrance that doesn’t require standing in line?” Nesta asks dryly.

“Alright, grumpy,” Feyre teases with a roll of her eyes. “I’m sure it’ll move quickly.”

At least, Feyre’s assumption is correct. They continue to shuffle forward and forward until the line of doors is in full view, workers making quick work of checking bags and scanning tickets. Wristbands are secured around all three sisters’ wrists, and then they’re stepping inside the venue. Upbeat music from a playlist blares through the sound system, fans excitedly rushing forward toward the general admission crowd gathering along the floor in front of the stage.

“Come on. I want to get a t-shirt,” Feyre declares, wrapping a hand around each of her sisters’ wrists and dragging them toward the large table to the right.

While she and Elain wait for Feyre to make her purchase, Nesta eyes a pair of girls also waiting to buy merch. One of the girls has a sign, looping red letters declaring, Won’t you be my Van-Daddy? The request has Nesta snorting softly to herself. She still remembers when Lucien Vanserra first hit his growth spurt, when he was all middle school gangly limbs in their kitchen while he and Feyre worked on a school project. And that nerdy boy with unruly red hair is meant to be “daddy?”

“Got it,” Feyre announces, stepping back over to them and holding her shirt up for them to see.

“Isn’t it a bit weird to have a shirt with your childhood friend’s face on it?” Nesta asks, tilting her head as she takes in the design of the front of the shirt.

“More like hilarious,” Feyre argues, folding the shirt and tossing it over her arm. “When we get up to our seats, you have to take a picture of me in it, so I can send it to Lucien.”

They make another pit stop at one of the venue bars, each ordering a drink, and then finally, they make it to their seats. Nesta has to admit, the view is pretty amazing. She steps right up to the low wall meant to act as a railing for their box, peering down at the throngs of bodies excitedly awaiting the start of the show along the floor. Her eyes trail up and to the stage, skating over the setup for the opening act. It’s simple, just a drum set and two microphone stands set in front of it, but despite the good view of the stage, Nesta can’t quite make out the white script on the front of the drums.

“Who’s the opener?” Nesta asks, turning toward where Feyre is posing with her new shirt thrown over her dress while Elain takes her photo.

“Um…” Feyre hums, taking her phone back from Elain and typing away at the screen. “Some band called the Bat Boys.”

Nesta snorts softly. “What a stupid name for a band.”

As though the Mother herself is laughing at Nesta, the lights dim as soon as she’s made the comment, an echo of cheers ringing out all around them. Three men step out and onto the stage, each of them with dark hair and dressed in all black. They take up their spots, the guitarist speaking into the microphone and to the crowd, but Nesta finds her gaze instantly drawn to the drummer.

He’s certainly larger than his bandmates, all wide shoulders and chest. The black tank he’s wearing stretches against his size and his skin, the swell of muscle of his arms and the ink swirling along the golden brown skin on full display, and those very arms and muscles flex with every swing of his arms against the drum kit as he plays the opening song of the band’s set. His hair hangs loose around his face and down to his shoulders, dark curly strands practically swaying along with the beat of the music he’s creating. And even from her vantage point, Nesta can tell he’s got a wide, cocksure smirk plastered across his face, even as he leans forward to sing into his own microphone.

“For a band with a stupid name,” Feyre leans over to shout in Nesta’s ear over the music. “They’re pretty good.”

Nesta rolls her eyes at the almost smug tone of her youngest sister, but she can’t quite disagree. She finds herself tapping her foot and nodding along with each song that the Bat Boys play, humming appreciatively when they slow it down to a more stripped back song.

But when the song ends, the drummer jumps to his feet, peeling off his tank and tossing it into the crowd, showing off every hard line of muscle and every line of tattoo ink. A clamor of screams rings out from the crowd in response, making the drummer’s grin widen as he makes a big show of flexing.

“One two three four!” he shouts, banging his drum sticks together and jumping into the next song of their set, another upbeat one.

Nesta shakes her head. “What a fucking show off…”

~ * * * ~

Nesta’s ears are still ringing, an ache pressing against the balls of her feet, as she follows her sisters down the steps and out of the venue. The cool, night air is a welcome reprieve after the heat inside, and Nesta takes a deep breath, allowing it to prickle across the skin of her cheeks. She can still feel the music humming through her veins, still hear the last song the Band of Exiles played winding around her mind, her soul.

“Should we split an Uber?” Nesta turns to ask her sisters.

“Actually, Lucien sent me the bar they’ve gone to for post gig drinks,” Feyre offers with a sly smile. “He said we’re welcome to join.”

“Really?” Elain asks, the clear excitement coloring her tone leaving both sisters blinking in surprise for a moment, but Elain doesn’t say anything more. She merely turns away as though the night will hide the blush flooding her cheeks.

“Then you two go,” Nesta says. “I’d rather just go home.”

“Oh, come on, Nesta,” Feyre pouts, looping her arm through Nesta’s as if that will physically keep her from leaving. “It’s just one drink. It’s not going to kill you.”

Feyre continues to pout at Nesta, making a big show of blinking her eyes as if she’s seven years old again and that look will make Nesta give her an extra cookie for dessert. Still, it has Nesta sighing with a fond roll of her eyes.

“Fine. One drink and then I’m going home.”

“That’s the spirit! And just think of the money you’ll save on an Uber by waiting out these crowds.”

Nesta rolls her eyes again, but it doesn’t deter either of her sisters. Feyre doesn’t even bother dropping Nesta’s arm, using their linked arms to tug Nesta along the sidewalk in what she assumes is the direction of the bar. At least, it’s not a far walk. A small consolation, Nesta supposes.

The bar itself isn’t one that Nesta has ever been to before, but she can admit it’s quite nice. Pendant lights hang above the dark wood of the bartop, painting the whole space in golden light that bounces off the colorful bottles lining the shelves behind the bar. With the moody green wallpaper and the dark tiled floors, it’s as though the space has stepped directly out of an elegant speakeasy.

Unsurprisingly, there’s already a large crowd enjoying the drinks and ambience and their respective Friday nights, but Feyre leads the way up a set of stairs and to what appears to be some sort of private event space. Nesta glances around at the smaller secondary bar along the left side of the wall, the people gathered around it and the various high top tables lining the railing to the right.

“Feyre Archeron.”

Nesta turns just in time to find Lucien Vanserra now standing in front of her sisters. He’s certainly had another growth spurt since Nesta last saw him all those years ago, Lucien now standing a head above them all. He seems to have grown into his red hair too, the strands hanging around his face and framing the high cheekbones and strong jawline of his features.

“Lucien Vanserra.”

Feyre and Lucien continue to stare at one another for a moment, but then, Feyre is letting out an excited squeal, all but leaping into Lucien’s arms. He hugs her back tightly, lifting her off her feet in the process and laughing into the golden brown strands of her hair.

“Did you get shorter?” Lucien asks, setting Feyre back down on her feet.

“Fuck you,” Feyre gasps out on a laugh, punching him in the arm. “It’s not my fault you went and became a giant after going away to fancy private school. You know, I still remember when I had to defend you on the playground as kids.”

Lucien laughs easily, shaking his head. “We remember those days very differently clearly.”

Nesta clears her throat loudly, finally drawing back Feyre’s attention. “Sorry. You remember my two older sisters, Nesta and Elain.”

“Of course, I…” Lucien begins, his voice trailing off when he meets Elain’s brown eyes. “Elain.”

Elain smiles sweetly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “I really liked you and your band’s songs.”

“You did?” Lucien asks, his voice practically breathless.

“Especially that one song about losing a love, but still dancing with the ghost of them in the kitchen.”

Lucien’s smile is slow, russet eyes bright and only on Elain. “I wrote that one myself actually.”

“It just really spoke to me,” Elain tells him, stepping forward as though tugged by some invisible golden thread. “Right to my heart.”

“Can I buy you a drink?”

“Please.”

They don’t even say anything else, don’t even bother looking back before Elain and Lucien vanish toward the bar. It takes everything within Nesta not to snort in amusement at the whole thing, at the way they’re both so clearly staring at one another with stars in their eyes. At least, one Archeron is ending their night happy.

“Is she serious?” Feyre asks, affronted. “Lucien is my friend.”

“Can I go home now?” Nesta asks in response instead.

“Only if you’re going home with me.”

The deep timbre prickles along the back of Nesta’s neck, and when she whirls around, she comes face to face with the drummer of the Bat Boys. He has that same cocksure smile that he wore up on stage, and he seemingly found a fresh black shirt to pull on, the fabric clinging just as tightly as the tank did.

Nesta had known he was large when she saw him on stage, but face to face, she realizes she still may have underestimated. This close, she realizes that his eyes are hazel, a burning maze of greens and flickering gold, that there’s a scar through his eyebrow of the right one. This close, she realizes he smells of pine and leather and that sweet scent that twists on the breeze right before it snows.

This close, she realizes he is unfairly attractive, and she just might hate him for it.

“Did you really think that line was going to work?” Nesta asks dryly.

“Can you blame me for trying? A woman as beautiful as you, I had to shoot my shot.”

Nesta raises an eyebrow, settling the drummer with a look cold enough to send any man scampering back to his table. “Compliments will get you nowhere.”

In a surprising twist, rather than cut his losses, the drummer throws his head back and laughs, the sound deep and warm. It seems to come straight from within his chest, seems to curl around Nesta’s limbs. When he meets Nesta’s gaze again, there’s a fire blazing in his eyes, a challenge, and his smirk has morphed into one of pure amusement. The reaction sparks the embers in Nesta’s own chest, but she’s quick to douse them, quick to keep her face perfectly cool and neutral.

“So it’s a no for pickup lines. A no for compliments,” the drummer notes, daring to lean in closer into Nesta’s space until she gets a lungful of pine and a crackling fire. “How about bribery then, sweetheart? Can I buy you a drink? Your choice.”

“And what if I order the most expensive drink I can get? Top shelf.”

The drummer hums as though he’s actually considering it. “Alright. But you have to chat with me until you finish the drink.”

“Deal.”

The drummer holds his hand out expectantly, and Nesta has to blink a few times at just how large his hand is. But she refuses to be fazed. Raising her chin, she slides her hand into his. His calluses slide against her palm, fingers curling around almost her entire hand and threatening to send a shiver skittering up her spine. His touch is surprisingly warm, his entire body and presence seeming to resonate heat.

Before the handshake can last too long, Nesta yanks her hand away again. She turns on her heel and strides toward the bar, heavy footfalls behind her and the gaze burning into her back informing her that the drummer is following. She leans against the dark wood of the bar top, quickly grabbing the bartender’s attention with a simple raise of her hand.

“Can I get a shot of your best, most expensive vodka? On his tab,” Nesta requests, gesturing with her head to where the drummer now leans against the bar beside her.

The drummer laughs again, an easy chuckle. “Now that’s just cheating.”

Nesta turns toward him properly, finally giving in to the smirk she’d been biting back. “Guess you better talk fast.”

“How about we start with names? I’m Cassian, and you are…?”

The bartender returns at that exact moment, setting the small shot glass full of clear liquid down in front of Nesta. She swipes it up and tosses it back. The vodka is smooth, but it still burns on the way down, mixing and coaxing the burn of satisfaction low in her gut. Slamming the now empty shot glass back on the bar top, Nesta spins around toward the door.

“Time’s up. Better luck next time.”

She keeps her chin raised high, keeps that smirk firmly in place. She revels in the prickle across her skin at that gaze she can still feel pinned to her, and if she sways her hips a bit more than she normally would, well, no one but her has to know.

~ * * * ~

When Nesta checks her phone while enjoying her morning coffee, she’s surprised to find a new follower and a new DM request on her Instagram. She clicks on the account and almost rolls her eyes at the hazel eyed, curly haired man smirking back at her in the profile photo. He’s certainly dedicated, she’ll have to give him that. She knows that she should ignore him, maybe even block him, but curiosity has her clicking back over to the DM.

@BatBoyCass Hello, Nes 😏

@LadyNesta Stalking me on Instagram? Really?

Nesta’s surprise only grows when almost instantly the three small dots appear at the bottom of the screen, indicating that Cassian is typing. Was he waiting by his phone for her response? Didn’t he have band practice or something? According to Elain, the tour was moving on to a new city today, much to her younger sister’s apparent disappointment.

@BatBoyCass Actually, your sister gave me your handle. She refused to give me your number and decided this was safer. Quite protective. Rhys was into it But that’s not important. How’s your morning going, Nes?

@LadyNesta It’s Nesta. Not Nes

@BatBoyCass Guess you should’ve stuck around last night. Could have told me that yourself. It’s too late now. Nes 😜

@LadyNesta Is this your next tactic? Bribery didn’t work so now you just plan to annoy me?

@BatBoyCass Actually, my next tactic is this

Nesta frowns down at her phone screen, at the message, but then a moment later, a photo comes through in the chat. It’s a mirror selfie, but Nesta can’t tell where it was taken from the background. Although, it’s hard to focus on anything other than the large body taking up the frame. Cassian is shirtless, black fabric draped over his shoulder presumably the remnants of his shirt.

Nesta can do nothing but stare at the hard cut of his jaw where his head is tilted to look at the phone in his hand. At each swirl and loop of black ink across the golden brown skin of his chest and arms. At every hard line of muscle that makes up his stomach. At the waistband of what looks like gray sweatpants hanging low enough that his v lines are on full display.

The whole sight is enough for Nesta’s mouth to go dry, for heat to creep up her neck and spill across her cheeks. Before she even realizes, her bottom lip has found home between her teeth, eyes tracing over the photo again and again. What would it feel like, getting her hands on that body, feeling each hard line and curve beneath her fingers? What would it feel like to have his hands on her? She still remembers just how large they were compared to her own.

“Fuck,” Nesta whispers to herself, mentally chastising herself and shaking her head of any of those sorts of thoughts. Instead, her fingers tap across the screen of her phone.

@LadyNesta What’s next? A dick pic?

@BatBoyCass That goes against Instagram’s guidelines. You’ll have to give me your actual number for that Or I’d be more than happy to give you a show in person😏

@LadyNesta You’re not even in Velaris anymore

@BatBoyCass Did you look up our tour, Nes? I’m touched 🥹

Nesta scoffs and rolls her eyes, setting her phone face down on the table. She goes back to finishing her coffee, but she barely lasts a minute before she’s swiping her phone back up. She refuses to let him have the last word, refuses to let him continue to believe she would ever look up his tour dates.

@LadyNesta You wish. My sister mentioned it

@BatBoyCass Don’t worry. There’s only a few weeks left of the tour. Then, I’ll be back in Velaris. Maybe we can get dinner then?

@LadyNesta Pass

@BatBoyCass How about another bargain? You have to send me a message every day, just one. Unless my irresistible charm has you wanting to send more 😉 But one message, that’s the deal. Maybe a fun fact about yourself? One every day until I’m back in Velaris. And then if you still don’t want to get dinner with me, then I’ll leave you alone

@LadyNesta Fine. Here’s my first “fun fact” about me. I’m incredibly stubborn and I hate not winning. So hope you’re prepared for the crushing disappointment of rejection

With a satisfied hum, Nesta sets her phone down for good. The man clearly needs to learn how to phrase his bargains better. One message a day. Easy. It will be the easiest thing Nesta has ever done. And in a few weeks time, this stupid drummer with his stupid chiseled body and his stupid easy smile and warm laugh and pretty hazel eyes will be out of her life for good.

But when Nesta finally dares to check her phone later that night, she finds a new message from Cassian waiting for her. He’s shared an Instagram Reel with her, and when Nesta clicks it, Jake Johnson’s voice blares from her speakers, ‘Stop being so mean to me or I swear to God I’m going to fall in love with you,’ and there, in the quiet and dark in her bedroom, where no one else can see her, Nesta laughs.

~ * * * ~

Nesta wakes to another photo in her Instagram DMs, but this time, Cassian is nowhere to be seen in it. Instead, the photo is of a beach. The waves crashing against the sandy shore look almost silver, the silhouettes of birds flying just above. The horizon is a line of purple that gives way to pinks and yellows before fading into the deep blue of night still clinging to the top of the frame.

Sunrise. It’s the beach right before the sun rises, Nesta realizes. She finds herself wondering what he was doing awake so early, almost going so far as to type out that very question and ask before she catches herself. She holds down the backspace, focusing on Cassian’s message below the photo instead.

@BatBoyCass Good morning, Nes! We’re in sunny Adriata today. I bet you’d look gorgeous in a bikini 😍 Definitely wish you were here. I could rub sunscreen on your shoulders. You could rub sunscreen onto mine. Sounds like a dream…

@LadyNesta Sounds more like a nightmare

Nesta continues with the rest of her morning, getting ready and heading to one of her favorite brunch spots in town to meet with Emerie and Gwyn. It isn’t until she’s settled at the table, thanking the waitress who sets down three waters while she waits, that Nesta finally looks at her phone again.

@BatBoyCass Not a fan of the beach, sweetheart?

@LadyNesta Oh, I love the beach, but I much prefer a cold drink and a good book on the beach rather than obnoxious drummers

@BatBoyCass You like to read? What kind of books do you like?

Instinctively, Nesta starts to type out a response, always more than happy to talk about her love of books, about her current read, but then she remembers their bargain. And she’s already shared her ‘fun fact’ about herself for the day, already met her quota, and she still refuses to lose. She quickly deletes the message she had typed out, but Cassian must be watching for her reply, must have seen the three dots to show that she was typing appear and then disappear.

@BatBoyCass That’s alright. We can save that question for tomorrow. I’ve always preferred historical fiction. I actually just finished reading Hatfield 1677 while on tour and really enjoyed it I think if the band didn’t work out, I’d end up a history teacher. I’d be good at being a history teacher. Maybe in another life

@LadyNesta Another life? I didn’t take you as the type of person to believe in that sort of thing.

@BatBoyCass I hope I meet you in every life

“Who has you smiling and blushing at your phone?”

Nesta snaps her head up to find Emerie now standing at their table, her brown eyes alight with amusement and a small smirk tugging up her lips. She scowls fondly at her friend, setting her phone face down on the table and willing the heat prickling her cheeks to dissipate.

“No one.”

~ * * * ~

@LadyNesta Do you ever get nervous up on stage?

Loathe as she is to admit it, over the last couple of weeks, Nesta has come to enjoy her messages with Cassian. There’s something easy about it, about their back and forth. Something about the way her teasing and jabs only leave him laughing, the way he gives back as good as he gets. Something about the way he genuinely cares about what she has to say, about her ‘fun facts.’ Something about how he doesn’t balk when she dares to share a deeper piece of herself.

It’s surprisingly comfortable, as though she’s known Cassian much longer than she actually has. As though she’s known him her whole life, as though her very soul somehow recognizes him. As though there’s music entwining them like golden threads.

@BatBoyCass Actually, I love it. It’s exhilarating being up there. I can feel the music all the way down to my bones. And to hear a crowd sing back a song you wrote? There’s nothing like it

@LadyNesta You write songs?

@BatBoyCass That’s right, Nes. I’m more than just a pretty face 😎 I even started writing a new song just yesterday

@LadyNesta Let me guess. You’re going to play it for me?

@BatBoyCass Not until it’s finished. I still need that last bit of inspiration Hoping to find it tomorrow 👀

@LadyNesta What’s tomorrow?

Nesta stares at the screen of her phone, waiting. She watches the three dots appear and then disappear. They appear and then they disappear again. It has Nesta tilting her head curiously, eyebrows dipping in confusion. She knows that she hasn’t known Cassian particularly long, but this certainly doesn’t seem like him. He’s usually so quick to respond to her messages, so quick to turn on the teasing and the charm without a second thought. What could it mean that he’s typing and retyping his answer? Is he… nervous?

@BatBoyCass Tonight’s the last show of our tour. In Scythia. I’ll be back in Velaris by tomorrow afternoon

Nesta’s heart skips a beat in her chest. This is it, the moment of truth, the end of their bargain. She could tell him that she’s still not interested, and that will be the end of their interactions. She’ll never receive another message from Cassian. She could tell him that his charm and his kind heart and good looks has had no effect on her.

But she’d be lying to him just as much as herself.

Only a few weeks, and already Nesta can’t imagine a day without talking to Cassian. Just the very idea has ice bleeding between her ribs and threatening to crystalize in her chest. She wants to see that fire blaze in his hazel eyes and push back to meet it until he’s smirking in amusement. She wants to hear his crazy stories from tour and his teasing innuendos. She wants him to make her laugh. And if she’s really being honest with herself, she wants to see and feel that body and those hands outside of a mere photo.

@LadyNesta 7pm. Don’t be late

~ * * * ~

The knock on her front door sounds through the apartment just as Nesta is finishing up the last touch ups to her makeup. She glances toward the clock, the red digital numbers declaring the time to be 6:58. Punctual. One last look over herself in the mirror, and Nesta steps out of her bedroom.

When she pulls open the front door, Cassian is standing on the other side. His hair is scraped back away from his face, piled into a bun at the back of his head, and a comfortably worn leather jacket hangs on his frame. His hazel eyes in person spark that same way Nesta remembers, a slow smirk tugging up his lips as he leans casually against the door frame.

“Hello, Nes.” His eyes sweep over her, his jaw slackening. “Mother save me. You look amazing.”

“I thought we already established that compliments will get you nowhere.”

“Can you blame me when you look this beautiful?”

Nesta has to swallow down a blush at his words, at the sincerity burning in his gaze. She rolls her eyes and shoves lightly at Cassian’s chest, enough to get him to move back so she can step out of her apartment.

“Are we going to dinner or not?”

“Of course,” Cassian confirms, holding his hand out until Nesta threads her fingers through his own larger ones. “I got us a reservation at Carmichael’s.”

Nesta’s steps stutter for a moment and she peers up at Cassian in surprise. “Carmichael’s? Don’t you need to make reservations weeks in advance there?”

“Oh, you do. I made the reservation as soon as we agreed on our bargain.”

Nesta comes fully to a stop at that. She blinks a few times, trying to wrap her mind around this new information, and she can’t help it. She laughs. Cassian’s eyes light up at the sound, the gold flecks within the hazel practically glinting beneath the lights of the hallway. His smirk morphs into a wide, genuine smile, and the sight is enough to leave Nesta feeling breathless.

“Feeling confident, were you?” Nesta teases, trying and failing to fight back her own grin.

“I’m confident about plenty of things, sweetheart,” Cassian tells her, stepping closer into her space. He uses his free hand to twist one of the strands of Nesta’s hair framing her face, the tips of his fingers skimming along her temple.

“Is that so? And what else are you confident about?”

“That I’m going to marry you one day.”

—

Taglist (let me know if you’d like to be added or removed): @moodymelanist @nesquik-arccheron @sv0430 @talkfantasytome @bookstantrash @eirini-thaleia @ubigaia @fromthelibraryofemilyj @luivagr-blog @lifeisntafantasy @superspiritfestival @hiimheresworld @marigold-morelli @sweet-pea1 @emeriethevalkyriegirl @pyxxie @dustjacketmusings @hallway5 @dongjunma @glowing-stick-generation @melonsfantasyworld @lady-nestas @goddess-aelin @melphss @theladystardust @a-trifling-matter @blueunoias @kookskoocie @wolfnesta @blurredlamplight @hereforthenessian @skaixo @jmoonjones @burningsnowleopard @whyisaravenlike-awritingdesk @ofduskanddreams @rarephloxes @thelovelymadone @that-little-red-head @readergalaxy @thesnugglingduck @kale-theteaqueen @tarquindaddy @superflurry @bri-loves-sunflowers @lady-winter-sunrise @witch-and-her-witcher @fieldofdaisiies @freakingata

#CassianWeek2024 #nessian #nesta archeron #cassian #cassian acotar #acotar #acosf #nessian fanfiction #nessian fic #nesta x cassian #my fic

68 notes · View notes

ukeshik · 4 months ago

Text

What kind of alcohol would the AOT characters drink?

Eren, Armin, Mikasa, Jean, Connie, Sasha, Reiner, Annie, Bertholdt. (Part 1?)

TW: Alcohol is harmful to your health!

Eren: This fool is definitely insane, because he would drink gin. It doesn't matter in what form, cocktail, tonic, in its pure form. His passion is gin. Its excessive bitterness, coniferous aroma and notes of juniper with spices excite his receptors, which is why he loves this drink. (Fanfact, I hate gin, the nastiest alcohol after absinthe)

Armin: something light, like apple cider, wine or light beer, maybe even alcohol-free. He definitely does not tolerate alcohol well, so guys try not to pour this guy, because he always forgets his measure and gets drunk quickly, which is why he does rash things.

Mikasa: definitely an expensive dry red wine for meat and cheese. She likes to arrange such gatherings with Annie and Sasha, discussing what interesting things have happened these days, and what kind of fools their friends and boyfriends are. Mikasa personally goes to buy cheeses, camembert, brie, Cheddar, parmesan, maasdam, although she and Sasha mostly eat all the cheese.

Jean: Mmmm... everything? Depends on which company he's in. If he’s with guys, he doesn’t want to miss one other can of beer. In a restaurant with his woman? A couple of glasses of wine or a glass of single malt whiskey. In some interesting bar? He will definitely try some interesting unusual cocktail. Did he want to drink alone? He'll sit in the kitchen with the most normal whiskey he could find in the nearest store. But he definitely won't take something cheap.

Connie: Tequila and beer. Or ruff (a mixture of beer and vodka). This guy will definitely become addicted to alcohol as soon as he gets access to it, although he will be very upset when his mother finds him drunk and will be depressed by it herself. After that, he never came home drunk, and tried to stay with someone else. Because he drank well, and not always just for promotion. Vodka before beer sounds good, right?

Sasha: light beer and tinctures that her father taught her to make. Currant, raspberry, melon, cactus, cranberry, apricot, in general, everything that she found delicious, she tried to make tinctures, and they really came out cool and delicious. She brings her schmurdyak to girly gatherings, although in the end she also drinks wine, which she does not like at all.

Rainer: vodka or cognac. Sometimes he gets in the mood when he wants to get drunk, and he does it quickly and does not sit idly by. Even when he's with the guys, and everyone just brings beer, Rainer specially buys something stronger for himself separately (as a result, he has to share with those who ask, because they want something "more interesting and stronger").

Annie: she mostly drinks dry red wine with Mikasa, although she prefers some cocktails more, for example juice with vodka, or something fruity with syrups, like sex on the beach (and she vehemently denies that she loves this cocktail, although she is ready to drink a few if she has the opportunity).

Berthold: he drinks rarely and little, because he believes that it is pointless, because because of his large physique, and therefore his large weight, it is very difficult for him to feel the influence of alcohol, which is why he does not like it. He'll try a can of beer, and that's enough for him to realize that it's not interesting at all. But then he helps Rainer, who can sometimes overdo it.

52 notes · View notes

i-arch-my-backula · 2 years ago

Text

Slashers on Valentines day

Happy Valentines day everyone. I'm single so I don't really have anyone to celebrate with but who cares when I still get chocolate and can watch a campy slasher movie centered around the holiday. This is kind of a random selection of slashers including Danny because he's my baby girl and I saw really cute Valentines day themed fan art of him. Anyway I hope y'all enjoy <3

Includes: Hannibal Lecter, Harry Warden, Candyman, The Sinclair brothers, Amanda Young and, Danny Johnson

Warnings: Mentions of murder and gore kind of

Hannibal Lecter

He's obviously cooking for you today. You're not to step foot into the kitchen because he's taking care of all of it himself. You're getting spoiled today and that's final.

He's going to buy you something expensive that you'll love. It might be a ring or a new bag, maybe an entirely new outfit. Whatever he sees fit to give you. He doesn't expect you to get him anything but if you do he's very thankful.

He's probably taking you to the opera with him. Something high brow and fancy for his lovely s/o, nothing but the best for you on a very special day.

I can see him spending the evening drawing you too. You're probably in his study, drinking wine and doing something relaxing while he sketches you and recites love poems.

Harry Warden

He's going to be busy murdering people on Valentines day so he's not going to be able to do much of anything with you.

But he is going to bring you whatever he thinks you'll like. Flowers, chocolate, a card addressed to one of his victims, whatever he finds he's giving you.

He doesn't really enjoy having decorations up for Valentines day. Having pink and red themed decor is fine with him but explicit Valentines day decorations aren't his jam.

While he isn't there on the actual day, he's going to be there after Valentines day and that's when he's going to shower you with love and affection.

Candyman

It's going to a very romantic day overall for you. Lots of your favorite flowers around your house/apartments waiting for you when you wake up. Maybe some chocolate but probably a little honeycomb too.

He's going to steal you all of the gifts he gets you. Mostly expensive jewelry he thinks you'll like or you've pointed out to him.

Oh and he is most definitely writing you a love letter pages long, listing off every detail of why he loves you and what he would do for you.

Of course he's going to be spending the entire day with you. You're not going out but you're going to enjoy time spent with him in your house together.

Vincent Sinclair

He's going to give you whatever gifts he can make/get you for the occasion. He doesn't have access to most traditional things for Valentines day so it might just be a painting or a love letter, but he's trying ok?

He wants to spend the entire day with you. He usually spends a lot of time with you anyway but especially on this special day. He'll keep Bo away so he doesn't make stupid comments about you two, and Lester won't bother you at all.

He might want to try slow dancing with you since he's never done it before and he sees couples do it in romance movies all of the time. He might suck at it but he doesn't really care because it's with you.

He's going to end the day with a nice dinner between the two of you. He pulled out an old cook book to use for this and he did a pretty good job at cooking it too.

Lester Sinclair

He's going to get you all of the stereotypical gifts, chocolate, flowers, a card, etc. He just loves you so much and he wants to spoil you every once and awhile you know?

He's going to take you out to an actual town where the two of you can really be a couple. You're probably just going to be walking/driving around and getting dinner but it's the thought that counts.

Lots of physical affection too. Like he wants to always have a hand on you today. He thinks that he can't fully express how much he loves outside of giving you hugs, kissing you, holding your hand, etc.

He's probably taking pictures of all of this. I can see him being a sentimental person so spending a special day with you is something that he's going to want to document.

Bo Sinclair

He thinks the whole idea of the day is stupid. But that doesn't mean he isn't going to do something special with you for Valentines day. He can be a gentleman when he wants to and today is one of those days.

He'll probably get you flowers. Nothing too special, he'd ask Vincent what flowers to get if he doesn't know your favorite flowers are. I feel like Vincent could go off on a big thing about the different meanings of flowers but he knows Bo doesn't care so he'll just say roses.

I feel like he would maybe get you a ring that matches one of his. Partly to sell the idea that you're married to victims, partly because he's a possessive guy and likes the idea of you always being reminded who you're dating.

He also expects you to be romantic. He knows you can't do much because you can't leave town without him but he still expects you to do something like cook him something special or write him a love letter if you're that kind of person.

Amanda Young

She also thinks Valentines day is stupid. She's never been much of a romantic and probably has never been in a healthy romantic relationship, let alone an actual relationship.

Like Bo she's still getting you something. If you're like her she's getting you a gothic box of chocolate and maybe flowers (They do sell gothic boxes of chocolate and I'm in love with them).

She will happily go out to dinner with you. She somewhat expects you to plan it and pay for at least half of the dinner. I can see her getting dressed up if it's a more fancy restaurant and looking so pretty.

She's also going to rub it in Hoffmans face that she has a partner who loves her and that she got spoiled while he probably sat home alone doing whatever he does.

Danny Johnson

He's going to make a scrap book of all of his favorite pictures of you and share it with you. Pointing out the ones he likes the best or ones with fun stories behind them.

Because he's an obsessive little shit he knows all of your favorite things and he's going to get them for you. Expect to find your favorite flowers, candy, drink, etc on your kitchen table in the morning.

Maybe does a romantic photo shoot with you. He wants to pick out some aspects of it but will let you pick out outfits to wear. He's going to spend half the time actually taking pictures and half posing you so he has an excuse to touch you.

If you're as morbid and crazy as him then he's going to get you an actual heart. It might be human, it might be an animals heart he got at the butcher, ok it's probably a real heart that he says is an animals.

#hannibal lecter #hannibal x reader #hannibal lecter x you #hannibal lecter x reader #hannibal nbc #harry warden #harry warden x reader #candyman #candyman x reader #vincent sinclair x reader #lester sinclair x reader #bo sinclair x reader #amanda young #amanda young x reader #danny johnson #danny johnson x reader #slasher x y/n #slasher x reader #slasher fanfiction

998 notes · View notes

laundryandtaxes · 9 months ago

Text

@fetusdeletustotalus I actually happened to take pictures the most recent time I made beef burgundy, which is very handy here. What I usually make is basically an extremely simplified, totally stove-top version of the dish. I don't necessarily reference a specific recipe, but ATK has a version called Modern Beef Burgundy that's similar, though theirs is much more complex and probably, resultingly, better. I find that using fairly few ingredients works perfectly well for me, and allows me to cook this routinely without any fuss and without needing a special trip to the grocery store for anything other than a shallot if I'm out or some fresh thyme. I rely on method to build flavor, and it works for me.

Basically, for one pot:

1 lb or more of chunks of high connective tissue beef- I usually just buy what is labelled "stew beef" by the grocery store

As many carrots as I want (about twice the amount pictured), half cut into circles and half cut into quartered chunks

One onion, half cut into big chunks and half diced

A tablespoonish of butter

1 shallot, half quartered and half sliced

As much garlic as I'd like

As many potatoes as I'd like, cut to roughly similar sizes and then submerged in cold water to keep them fresh in the fridhe while everything else works. This recent batch featured maybe too many potatoes even for me, an extreme lover of potatoes

1 bay leaf

A few sprigs of thyme

3ish cups of chicken broth (not beef broth, because the storebought stuff just isn't good ime, though I've been meaning to experiment with better than bouillon beef since the chicken is so good)

3ish cups of red wine, ideally something drinkable and robust

Corn starch dissolved into a little bit of cold water- more than I, at least, initially guessed I would need

S&P

Prep all your items, and you can spend almost no time touching anything after the first few minutes.

Steps post prep:

Sear beef over medium high heat in a generousish amount of oil, just enough to get sufficient color on all chunks. I salt in the pan, and cook in batches. The reason I do this is to prevent crowding the dutch oven/steaming the meat rather than frying it. Once a chunk is ready, set it aside on a plate, etc, working in batches. You will need to monitor heat, and likely lower it at some point in this process to prevent oil smoking or anything burning. This is the only step that's trickyish.

Lower heat to medium low. Add a tablespoonish of butter. I do this for yumminess reasons and because it helps to prevent the oil/beef fat in the pan from burning. Add in the roughly chopped half of the carrots and alliums. S&P in pan. Cook until everything has some light charring. Then, add in chicken stock, wine, the bay leaf, and maybe 2 sprigs of fresh thyme. Salt again. The reason that I do this is basically to make a richer beef stock- the flavor from these carrots and onions is part of the stock, and these will eventually become mush. These are not to be eaten as pieces.

Bring to a low/moderate boil and let it reduce a little. I let it reduce until I no longer really strongly smell wine. At that point, add in beef chunks, submerging them as much as possible in liquid. Reduce to a simmer. Walk away and forget the stew for a minimum of 2 hours.

Pull beef chunks, set aside. Pour the stew liquid into a bowl through a strainer. You will be left with very mushy vegetables and your herbs in the strainer, and basically finished stew stock in the bowl. Toss the bay leaf and thyme. I personally mash the vegetables up as much as possible, then add them to the stew and stir as much as possible. If I were being sophisticated, I might immersion blend the veggies in for texture uniformity. But it's stew, and I don't have an immersion blender and this sure isn't worth using a standard blender for me. The only reason I don't just mash the vegetables in the dutch oven is that I use a potato masher and don't like using metal in my dutch oven. Otherwise, I'd just mash it in the pan directly after removing the beef.

Put everything back into the pot, and add your more nicely cut carrots, onions, and potatoes. Simmer for another 30 minutes minimum.

Prep corn starch. Once added to the stew, bring it to a boil for a minute minimum to allow the corn starch to set up.

Profit

Basically, once the veg is cut and the meat is seared, you're doing very little. This is definitely not the most classic or involved beef burgundy, it's just how I personally choose to make beef stew when I make it. Some people like to remove the fat from the broth, and there is a special measuring cup sort of device you can purchase cheaply for that purpose, or you can use an ice and ladle trick that I've heard works well. Or you can do what I do and just leave it.

56 notes · View notes

meltedbluecaterpillar · 2 months ago

Text

Olfactophilia

QUARTET NIGHT - HE★VENS

TW FOR SEMI SUGGESTIVE CONTENT! These are my personal headcanons on what I think the idols would wear. You do not have to agree with me. I just dislike how Broccoli always gives their character merch scents like; apple or lavender. They are adult men in an entertainment industry. They usually get promotional items so I think that they have preferences... But I also have a thing for exploring the world around me with my nose first. I hope you enjoy.

Quick explanation; top notes, middle notes, and base notes are the length of how long the scent will last when applied. Top notes; 5 - 15 minutes / Middle notes; 1 hour / Base notes; Max of 6 hours

Otoya Ittoki

God of Fire by Stéphane Humbert Lucas Unisex Cologne Around 200 USD // 29,896 Yen

I chose this particular cologne based on my personal views and how I see Otoya Ittoki. Usually for character merch he has a very delicate and gentle smelling item (lavender usually) but I personally do not think it fits him. Especially now that he is a fiery adult! Do I think he would actually spend that much on cologne? Once... If he is planning to go on a special date or he has to go to a big fancy event he will have this prepared. God of Fire has the scent of smoke and embers. Imagine a wildfire that has reduced it's surroundings to ash. Otoya is a very free spirit and he is full of energy like a burning flame. He and I also share a star sign, so I know my Aries men the best. The top notes are mango, ginger, lemon and red berries (usually this is raspberries) which gives it an upper tropical and fruity smell. Middle notes; Coumarin (a grassy smell mixed with vanilla), jasmine and cedar. Making it very woodsy! And base notes have musk (this usually means fabric, soft and clean), amber, agarwood. The base notes are the raging, smoky flames that will reduce everything above to ash.

You won't be burned by Otoya, although he is much hotter than any sun...

Ren Jinguji

Triumph of Bacchus by Argos Masculine/Unisex Cologne Around 250 USD // 37,370 Yen

Ren usually will have citrus as his scent. Oranges... But I think that is overplayed. Allow me to entice you my little lost lambs!~! This cologne is designed to seduce. And Ren is also a nepobaby so I don't think he looks at prices very much? As long as it is something he truly wants. And what he wants is to charm you out of your clo- I mean... Take you on a date... And fun fact, Bacchus is one of the twelve Olympians and he is the god of wine making, fertility, ritual madness, theater, and 'religious ecstasy'. Catch my drift? The top notes are Rum, white peach, green apple and saffron which are nice and fruity!~! Middle notes are tonka bean, patchouli, jasmine and vetiver (it's a grassy smell with wood as well). This is where the more sexy aspect starts to really kick in especially when he hugs you tightly against his chest... The base notes are tobacco, vanilla, amber, sandalwood and musk. Tobacco (natural and unburned) is actually oddly sweet so it fits extremely well to me.

Don't lose your way little lamb, the big bad wolf might lure you in... Just kidding, it's only Ren...

Natsuki/Satsuki Shinomiya

Au Lait by Alkemia Unisex Perfume 20 USD // 2,990 Yen

Le Lion by Chanel Unisex Perfume Around 325 USD // 48,581 Yen

Natsuki is our double dipper because he is a very special case. His scent is... Pure yellow. But that reminds me of extra strength cleaner which is so horrific. I like these instead! The first one is something I think he would buy because it reminds him of bouncy fresh bread. He doesn't seem interested in prices or anything like that. Just if something is small and cute. Because it isn't a luxury brand... Fans would go insane knowing this is what he wears. It has only a few ingredients which aren't really categorized. But we have wild honey, hints of brown sugar, tonka beans and creamy milk. Some reviews say it really does smell like fresh buttery bread which I adore. The next one is technically Satsuki, but still Natsuki. But please interpret this however you want. I picked this particular fragrance for many reasons , but I won't bore you to death! Honestly... A fan probably bought this and sent it to the company PO box... The top notes are bergamot and lemon. Which is very acidic and citrusy, like a sudden jolt when you inhale. Crackle even. The middle notes are labdanum(woody smelling resin from a species of rockrose) and amber. This makes it have a very inviting and somewhat... Almost animalistic... In a good way. Kind of wild and a little... Dangerous. But it lingers around because if Natsuki is wearing it there's nothing to worry about... Right? The base notes are vanilla, patchouli, sandalwood, and musk. This is where that charm really shines through for me Natsuki wise. It's delicate and masculine, still inviting and strong just like he is.

Natsuki wishes he could hold you all the time... Satsuki has other intentions...

Cecil Aijima

Oro Verde by House of BŌ Unisex Perfume 175 USD // 26,159 Yen

Unfortunately Cecil is a victim of the green apple craze. I do not think green apple suits him at all it is such a childish thing. Something I would get at Claire's. So I choose this. Which is very simple but I also do not see Cecil as someone who would wear a lot of cologne? He doesn't want to rub stuff on his skin that isn't natural so he probably dabs this on his clothes or staff will ask to put it behind his ears/on his wrists. The top notes are bergamot, cannabis, mate- LOWER YOUR PITCHFORKS! Cannabis smell when it is unburned has an earthy scent to it. Somewhat sticky and almost like fresh cut grass. When it is burned that's when you get the skunk and garlic... Okay? Middle notes are basil, watermelon, and vetiver sables (earthy like rotten log smell). This with the light scent of lingering fruit really makes me smile it has a very fresh smell which I really like. Like the scent of your skin when you sunbathe. And finally the base notes are herbals and spices (I don't want to list off all of the plants). When they say spice that actually is in reference to black pepper! Which all together is so wonderful to smell. And Cecil is a prince so of course he smells good.

The fresh scent lingers on your clothes, just as Cecil had hoped!~!

Masato Hijirikawa

Quasar Ice by O Boticárioro Masculine Cologne 50 USD // 7,474 Yen

Of course our ice prince gets something ice themed. I did not want to give Masato something expensive like the others just because I don't think he is into luxury items. I am not suggesting the others are... I am implying that he doesn't think to hard about cologne. As long as it smells nice for a meeting he won't mind. The only issue is that this is an alcohol base so he would spray it gently... Leaving a nice fade out. No dousing... The top notes are ice (this is hard to explain but it is the molecule that allows you to smell cold air), lime, sage, and cardamom. So in other words... A store bought key lime pie! I wanted something sweet for Masato since I think he is a very sweet guy, even if he doesn't look like it. The middle notes are cedar, black pepper, bourbon geranium, and lavender. This will reminisce a nice winter walk though the forest! And the base notes are oakmoss, amber, sandalwood, and cashmere. So after your frozen pie and a chilly walk, it's like you've returned to a nice cozy cabin with him at the end of the night...

To think that even Masato could wear something so romantic...

Tokiya Ichinose

Midnight by Rawchemistry Masculine Cologne/Pheromones' 30 USD // 4,485 Yen

My original choice for Tokiya was something different. However I cannot find the original scent and nor do I think it truly fits the Tokiya that lives in my mind anymore. So, I chose this. It is also not an alcohol base which I think Tokiya would like because he is overly conscious and critical of everything he eats/wears/does. And this is technically pheromones. Not cologne. So there aren't really top, middle and base notes. Just an overall scent. And that would be; lavender, orange blossoms, patchouli and vanilla. And if you didn't know... All four of these are aphrodisiacs. The usual notes used in cologne are made in fact to attract. But these all together are made with the intent to seduce if that makes sense since there are no other ingredients to note. Is Tokiya a sexual character? No. But he is designed and written to have that form of charm without directly saying it. So that is also why I chose this. He is very confident with what he does as an idol. So... He wants you to understand that without him saying it...

Maybe there is some appeal to Tokiya after all... Just kidding...

Syo Kurusu

Sahara Rose Absolute by Habibi NY Unisex Perfume 135 USD // 20,180 Yen

So... Usually Syo will have a rose scented item. Which... I personally like a lot actually. He is a character designed to not fit into most traditionally masculine stereotypes while still being very masculine. So I chose this scent because it sort of replicates what I think his actual character scent actually is and what he would like to wear. Although I regret to inform the masses that he used to drown himself in Axe body spray... Thankfully he's grown now and he knows that shit was wack. The top notes are Turkish rose, geranium, jasmine and black currant. Very floral and very delicate which is so pleasant when it lingers. The middle notes are pink pepper, saffron, incense, and agar wood. These are spicy and semi-sweet, the balance between femininity and masculinity. The incense offering a powdery-ness that makes it not overwhelming. And finally the base notes are musk, sandalwood, vetiver, and amber. Very sensual at the end, and again not overpowering. I love the balance it has personally and this one was my 'absolute' favorite.

Even though Syo is so strong... He still leaves that rose colored hue behind...

21 notes · View notes

denaliwrites · 1 year ago

Text

Something Meaty For The Main Course

Aziraphale x GN!Reader

Summary: You cook a special meal for Aziraphale to tell him how much he means to you.

Soundtrack: Take Me To Church by Hozier

Requests: Open!

Warnings: Blatant use of Take Me To Church lyrics for the symbolism. Also weird Christian symbolism. I saw the opportunity and I took it.

You were no trained professional when it came to cooking, but you knew your way around the average kitchen, you knew the names of most tools and utensils, and in a pinch you were quite skilled with Google.

But Aziraphale deserved better than "average home cook." He deserved a meal even Gordon Fucking Ramsay couldn't find fault in. You weren't exactly sure you could deliver that kind of meal, but you'd be damned if you weren't going to try on the angel's behalf.

After all, this meal in particular had to be perfect. Literally perfect.

You settled on roasted lamb with pomegranate sauce and mint.

You didn't consider yourself a particularly religious person, or a particularly sinful person, but you were pretty sure Aziraphale wouldn't miss the meanings there. You were also pretty sure God was docking off some points for your brazenness.

There were still a few minutes left on the kitchen timer when Aziraphale's knock on your door filled the otherwise silent flat. "Coming!" you called, shooting the oven a warning look (as if it could see or understand) before wandering to the door and opening it for the angel to enter.

"Oh, it smells absolutely heavenly, my dear," he purred as he stepped over the threshold. You could see his eyes taking in the flat -- you didn't have a lot of belongings, and most of what you did have was second-hand. It didn't bother you too much, that was just the reality of living on your wage.

Even though you knew he wasn't, you couldn't help but feel a little judged.

He stepped towards the kitchen area, and you followed with your hands nervously wringing as they rested over your belly. "Erm, the table is just there," you offered uselessly, motioning towards the rather obvious dining set that he couldn't have possibly missed.

Stellar.

"Would you like me to sit?" he asked, and when he turned to you his eyes were nothing but cheerful and kind.

"Oh, er... only if you want," you stammered. "I didn't mean to... you can keep looking around. The roast isn't ready yet, anyway."

"Oh, you've made a roast? How delightful!"

The genuine joy warmed your heart and your cheeks. Much like the table, you were sure it was impossible for him to miss how red your cheeks got.

Despite your invitation to keep looking around the flat, Aziraphale chose to take a seat at the little table. Unbeknownst to him, he'd taken your usual spot -- you weren't going to tell him that, of course. He could sit wherever he wanted. You'd let him sit on your corpse if it so pleased him (though, now that the thought had crossed your mind, you really hoped it didn't).

Wordlessly, you stepped into the kitchen and grabbed the wine you'd bought for the evening. It was nothing special, the most expensive you could afford was a twenty pound bottle of some red you couldn't say the name of. But you knew the angel liked red wine, so you'd squeezed it into the budget for him.

You'd just set the bottle and two glasses on the table when the timer for the roast went off. "Oh," you sighed in disappointment.

"Would you like me to get it?" he asked helpfully.

"Oh, no, I couldn't... ask that of you," you told him, holding a hand out to pause his progress upward. "It's fine." You made sure he sat down fully before you ducked out again, this time to get the roast out and prepare everything.

You'd had to buy serving trays for this meal, something you hadn't really thought you needed until this whole affair. Now that you had them, though, you were determined to use them for any occasion that you could justifiably use them for.

You transferred the roast to a tray, then carefully carried it out to the table. Next were the potatoes, then the salad, and finally the gravy boat filled with pomegranate sauce. Finally, you were able to sit down, and you all but collapsed into the chair.

Aziraphale's attention immediately snapped from the food to you. "Are you all right, my dear?" he asked gently.

"Yeah," you answered, waving a hand dismissively. "Just glad to be off my feet."

He smiled sympathetically, then looked back to the food, his eyes lighting up. "Wherever did you learn to cook like this, my dear?" he asked distractedly.

"Google," you answered honestly, thankful he hadn't actually wanted an answer and hadn't seemed to hear you regardless.

He looked to you, as if asking for permission, and you motioned for him to go ahead.

You weren't sure how much you'd expected the angel to eat, but it certainly wasn't... nearly as much as he served himself. Not that you were complaining, you couldn't eat all that food by yourself, even as leftovers.

While he was busy piling food on his plate, you busied yourself with opening the wine and pouring the glasses, making sure to set his somewhere he wouldn't accidentally knock it over.

"This was very kind of you," he said suddenly, and when you looked up his eyes were on you rather intently. Uncomfortably intently.

"O-oh... no, it's nothing," you weakly assured him, smiling nervously.

"No, no, it's not nothing," he insisted, shifting in his seat to move closer to you. His delightfully warm hands wrapped around yours, and while his hands warmed your skin, his smile warmed your soul in a way you didn't even know was possible.

Then again, he was an angel.

"It is," you said, voice stronger. You wondered if he had something to do with that. "Nothing, I mean. It seems perfectly normal to cook dinner for someone you love, you know?"

Both of you froze.

Shit.

Well, that certainly wasn't how you'd planned to tell him, or how you'd planned to phrase it. You wondered, idly, if maybe he had something to do with that, too. Not that it really mattered now, since the words were out there, hanging awkwardly in the air.

"You... love me?" he asked softly.

"Oh, yes. Very much."

Finally, he cracked, and a joyful smile spread over his face, eyes gleaming. "Oh, isn't that just wonderful! And I you, of course."

"Of course," you agreed deliriously. "Of course."

"I do think this calls for a toast."

"With cheap wine?" you asked with a light chuckle.

He made an odd motion with a hand, then gave you a wink. "Not anymore."

#aziraphale x reader #aziraphale x you #good omens x reader #good omens fic #good omens fan fiction #michael sheen #i'm of the opinion the forbidden fruit was a pomegranate

101 notes · View notes

enbysiriusblack · 26 days ago

Note

Hello fantastic friend!! I love seeing your posts, Congrats on the 2k 🥳🥳🥳 my ask is: 🫅🏿 for either Wolfstar or Jily - you pick!

thank you sm !!! <33

here's a jily drabble. it ended up a lot longer than i planned so apologies:

Lily walked through the open doors with Marlene by her side. She had opted for her favourite green slip dress and brown crinkle boots. She had flooed to Marlene's and spent the last hour doing each other's nails and pregaming before heading down the street to Potter Manor.

The two girls walked through the hallway, filled with other teenagers, some of who they recognised from classes, until they made their way to the large lounge.

Lily instantly spotted James, standing on his coffee table and playing some odd wizarding drinking game that seemed to involve charmed paper balls whizzing above people's heads. James clasped onto one, unfolded it, and chugged a red cup handed to him by Sirius, to the cheers of the others surrounding them.

"This is so stupid", Lily muttered, taking her eyes off James to take in the rest of the party. A ravenclaw girl, she vaguely recognised from the year above, threw up into a large plant pot beside Lily.

Lily turned up her nose, "I think I hate teenagers."

Marlene snorted, grabbing Lily by the arm and pulling her over to the kitchen, "You are a teenager, Lily, so lets have some fun! Get a little tipsy, snog some people we'll regret snogging and then head back to mine and get yelled at by my mum!"

Lily laughed, letting Marlene pour her a cup of spiced mead.

"Cheers!" Marlene held her own cup up against Lily's.

Lily gently tapped Marlene's plastic cup before bringing the drink to her lips and taking a large gulp.

"Ugh", Lily muttered afterwards, "God, I hate wizard alcohol."

"There's some muggle wine and scotch in the cellar."

Lily whirled around to see James standing in the kitchen doorway.

He lifted a hand to his hair nervously, "Would you-uh... Would you want some?"

Lily nodded, placing the cup of mead back onto the side. Marlene quickly took it and poured it into her own cup.

James grinned, "Right. Which would you prefer?"

Lily shrugged, "I'm not sure. How about I come with you to look?"

"Sure", James tried to lean against the doorway casually but tripped slightly and tried to play it off by turning around and making his way to the cellar.

Lily held back a laugh and followed him.

James pointed his wand into the dark cellar, setting the lamps alight and brightening up the room.

"So... Here it all is", James hummed, glancing to Lily.

She looked to the labelled 'muggle drinks' shelves and plucked out a bottle of scotch.

"I've never tried it", she turned to James, "My Dad gets it as a special occasion on his birthday though and I've always wanted to try it."

James nodded, "Is your dad... nice?"

Lily snorted, "Yeah. I mean he works a lot, so does Mum, but when he's not then we do a lot of stuff together, he tends to take a lot of days off when I'm home for break because he says he missed me. And, I don't know, he cares about me I suppose."

James grinned, "Well, I'll send him a bottle of my dad's best scotch for Christmas."

Lily turned to him with a frown, "You don't need to do that."

"Well, I want to."

"You don't even know him."

"But I know you."

Lily sighed, "Why are you... like that?"

James paused, "Like, what?"

"That", she threw her arms up, "I mean we're barely friends and you're still buying presents for my family. People don't do that."

"I always buy presents for my friend's family. As long as they're nice, although I suppose I did get a present for Sirius' before but it was more of a prank gift? Like I basically transfigured a snake into a tiny lion and put it in a gryffindor jumper. Sirius said his mum got so mad she gave herself a migraine."

Lily laughed, "You're really something, Potter."

"In a good way?" He tilted his head slightly.

Lily smiled, "Yeah. In a good way."

#follower event #beloved mutuals <33 #jily #james potter #lily evans #my writing

13 notes · View notes

foodandfolklore · 6 months ago

Text

Ingredients you do NOT need

I made a brief post about some tools you can probably pass on in the kitchen. You can find that here if interested. But I thought I'd get more controversial and talk about ingredients. Now, this is not a list of ingredients you should never get. This is more about stuff you really don't need to keep on hand that I find a lot of newer kitchen witches might think they need it.

Vanilla Beans Have you ever bought a vanilla bean? They are so expensive! For day to day stuff, it's not worth it. Just get some vanilla extract. If you want the magical properties, maybe invest in real vanilla extract. I get a big bottle as a gift from my Step Mom when she travels. But if you're just wanting vanilla flavor, just get the artificial stuff. Some people are put off by the fact it's made with things like beaver glands or waste molecules, but I think that's pretty amazing personally. Vanilla tip: add to your food when it's cool. Heat breaks down some of vanilla's complex flavor.

Saffron This is literally the most expensive seasoning in the world. It's the center prong things of a flower. But each flower only has 2 or 3 of them. If you're making something super special and want to get some, go for it. But you don't need to keep it on hand. Magically there are alternatives. Taste there are alternatives. If you want that colour, use some dried turmeric.

Multiple Salts It may seem weird that a Kitchen Witch is telling you not to keep salt on hand. But I'm saying don't keep ALL the salts on hand. There are multiple different kinds and colours of salt that can be added to food. Volcanic black salt, red salt, gray salt, pink salt, rock salt, flakey salt, TONS of salt. I hyper fixated one day and got them all. You know what I use in my cooking most often? Simple kosher salt. Got a big box of it for like 2 dollars. Salt is important for cooking; but don't get carried away.

Cooking Wine Cooking wine has alcohol in it, but it's at a higher concentration so it's cooked out faster. This can cause the cooking wine to taste like a weak vinegar as a result. Either use wine to cook with, or use it's red/white wine vinegar counter parts (in smaller amounts). You don't need special cooking wine. And wine vinegar can be used in ways cooking wine can't, like in dressings.

Shelf Stable Parmesan Cheese I get it, I grew up shaking this stuff on my pasta as a kid too. But that's really the only thing you can use it for. It's dehydrated cheese, so it should be refrigerated after opening. And it only lasts about half a year. You can't use it like regular cheese as it won't melt. And it's basically not cheese anymore so it's magical benefits are out the window. An alternative I recommend is nutritional Yeast. It has much more versatility and is actually shelf stable. It is transformative, expands ideas, allows for growth, change, and uplifting.

Truffle Oil I saw this everywhere a few years back. I think the hype has died down, but if you're still clinging to your truffle oil; just get olive oil. That's all it is. Truffle oil is Olive oil that's been infused with truffles. If you're lucky; a lot of the time it's just added chemicals to mimic the aroma. You can make your own if you want a little bit of truffle oil for something. Or you can experiment with infusing oil with other flavours. I think that's more fun.

Things you don't eat on the regular Look, there's nothing wrong with trying something new. You're at the grocery store, see something interesting, and want to try it. Fine, that's a great thing to do. But have a plan. Don't do something like look at all the jars of curry pate, and decide to grab a few flavors despite never making curry before. Cause most recipes you look up for curry are not going to include the step for adding store bought curry paste. So now these jars of curry paste are just taking up space in your kitchen. Or you see a spice you've never tried before. Don't buy the huge bag of it. Get a smaller quantity. Sure, the larger bag may be more bang for you buck. But you have no idea if you like the spice, if it pairs well with your cooking, or if it resonates with your magic intentions. And yeah spices don't go bad, but they do go stale.

#food and folklore #kitchen witch #kitchen witchcraft #food magic #house witch #witch #cooking tips #cooking #cook #home cooking #you don't need it #klickwitch #pagan #magick #witchcraft

22 notes · View notes

the-graves-family · 3 months ago

Text

No. 9: Obsession

There’s a man who’s been watching him since the midnight rush. This is not particularly unusual, Aaron’s a stripper, after all. He’s paid to have people watch him. But still, every time he turns his head in the direction of the bar, he can see those eyes on him.

He thinks he recognizes the man. A regular, maybe? Long dark hair and dark clothing, he almost blends into the background.

It’s a really busy night, and he’s being pulled in every direction any time he even wants a sip of water. A bachelorette party, a regular who wants a dance, a group of guys barely older than him enjoying their first time at a place like this. Aaron has no time to go see what this guy wants.

He almost completely forgets about him until it’s the end of his shift.

“Hello there, little thing,” a deep voice purrs from behind, and Aaron turns around, swallowing back some frustration. Damn it, he’s tired. All night staring at him and the man couldn’t have chosen a better time to get his attention?

“Hi, handsome,” he murmurs, smiling and leaning on the nearest wall, to at least try and get some weight off his feet. “Looking for a fun time?”

The guy must be as tall as him, but Aaron is wearing heels, making him have to look down just a bit to look the patron in the eye. The man has an angular face, maybe a decade older, and the smile on his lips is cold. His face is framed by dark hair, long and straight, and he’s dressed like he makes a lot of money. A simple dark suit that fits so well it has to be tailored.

“Looking for a dance from you,” the patron tells him, and Aaron swallows. He’s tired. He’s really tired. But money is tight, and a dance means money.

“Buy me a drink, handsome,” he purrs, reaching out to run well-manicured nails along the man’s sleeve. “And I’ll show you to one of the private rooms.” The guy looks like he can afford it, after all. There are no complaints as his current patron smiles and goes to the bar to order said drink. Aaron takes a moment to close his eyes and breathe deeply. Just one more, he can do one more.

When the man comes back with a house special, Aaron leads him to one of the private rooms. “What’s your name handsome?”

“You may call me Samuel, dear. And your name?”

“Talon.” Just a work name, a persona, something that begins and ends at the club’s thresholds. Aaron doesn’t exist as a person inside these walls.

Samuel says nothing, just smiles as he follows him. Aaron really feels like he’s seen this guy before, but he has no idea where. Must be one of those people who comes to the club and never asks for anything. Maybe that’s why he only got up to talk to him near the end of the night. Needed courage or something.

Inside the private room, the lights are dim enough for Aaron to knock back his drink without feeling embarrassed, and he sets down the glass on a little table near the plush seats around the stage. “Can I get you anything?” He murmurs, gently pushing Samuel to sit down, which the man does without complaint.

“Wine, pretty thing, if you have any.”

Aaron flushes and nods, unwilling to examine why an older man calling him that gets him so flustered. He goes to the minibar and takes out a small wine bottle, red by the looks of it, and takes a glass. He feels more like a waiter, opening the bottle and pouring it, but he guesses some people are into that.

Samuel definitely looks like someone who’s used to being waited on.

“Thank you, pet,” the man murmurs as he takes the glass, smelling the wine before tasting it with a sigh. “I suppose one can’t really expect more from such an establishment.” Smiling, he nods at Aaron. “Go on, pretty thing, dance for me.”

Aaron smiles back, something fake and perfected, and gets up on stage, golden chains draped over his body and glinting in the low light. He moves to the beat of the song that plays from the speaker, just the right combination of slow and energetic, and makes good use of the pole, no matter how tired he is. If he can get a good tip, maybe he’ll be able to eat something nice.

He tries to keep an eye on Samuel as he dances, in case the patron wants something else, but after a few minutes, he starts feeling strange. Like he’s drunk. Is he so tired that a single drink is about to knock him out? Aaron tries to shake it off, but it feels like his body is moving without permission, like his vision is swimming. He feels nauseous, unsteady.

Not good.

It’s like he’s no longer in control of himself, and he almost trips, grabbing onto the pole for support, panting. He grimaces, too dazed to even be embarrassed, but when he looks at Samuel, the man doesn’t seem bothered at all. He’s still smiling. All five of him, because Aaron isn’t seeing straight anymore.

He tries to get up, but his muscles aren’t obeying. The music is too loud in his ears, the room too dark and too bright. It’s a nightmare. A hand in his hair makes him groan, and he looks up blearily at Samuel, who’d gotten up without him noticing. Everything’s going by too fast.

“There, there, pretty thing, are you not feeling well?” The man croons, and Aaron makes a small noise, trying to pull away from the touch. It’s overstimulating, and he just wants to die. “Ah, ah.” That same hand grabs his hair and pulls him closer, and he whines, darkness creeping up the corners of his vision. Even as tired as he is, one drink shouldn’t do this to him. He shouldn’t be moments away from passing out, head aching, stomach turning.

“Is that any way to treat your biggest admirer, Aaron?”

Aaron. Aaron?

How does Samuel know his name?

He looks up with wide eyes, fear surging through him. Samuel’s smile isn’t just cold, it’s cruel. Aaron tries to reach up to bat him away, but his arms barely twitch by his side. Nausea makes him close his eyes, feeling like he’s falling into a dark ocean. The patron laughs, and the sound is distant. Aaron feels himself being picked up, head lolling back because he can’t hold it up anymore.

“Oh, beloved, rest. When you wake up, we’ll have all the time in the world together.”

#whumptober2024 #no.9 #obsession #OC #fic #drugging #(aaron)#(stripper)#(writing)#(suggestive)

10 notes · View notes

adiwan · 10 months ago

Text

Recently I was helping out clearing a house and while taking out the old furniture out my eyes fixed on a little box in the corner. It was a wooden box from a sparkling wine producer called "Matheus Müller". The old owners of the property liked drinking alcohol. The box was empty and in a good shape, except from some minor discoloration from age because the wood had no varnish on it to give it any protection.

I have no idea what it contained in the past but I knew what it could contain in the future: my miniature paint! My paint was stored in a rather small box that was way too small for the paint I gathered over the years. As you can see in the picture above it's not a little amount. I just needed to expand my storage.

When I got it home the first thing was to get my hands dirty and use sand paper to get rid of the wood discoloration and a huge printed picture. Removing it was quick and the over all cleanup of the surface made it instantly more pleasant. As much as a depiction of a scene with a river with boats and a castle in the background in poop brown has its charm I wanted to give way to a more cleaner look. After that I gave the box a good layer of matte wood polyurethane varnish that I still was good. I prepared a stencil of the D&D logo and printed it out with my 3D printer and used it to airbush a good layer of black primer in the hopes it sticks well enough the the varnish. I wanted an extra protection in case I messed up the stencil part but luckily it was OK. I had some problems as the air pressure of the airbrush lifted parts of my stencil. For my first attempt I'm satisfied. Originally I wanted to put another red layer on top of that but I chickened out and the black was good enough for me.

For the inside I had the idea to use the Gridfinity system. It is an open source system that uses a grid to keep inserted bins and other types of inserts in place when the whole thing is tossed around (within reason of course). I downloaded this file for the grid and bins and this one for my paint in drop bottles. I could print bigger inserts but firstly I wanted to get rid of ABS filament that warps too much if it were any bigger and secondly I wanted to keep it small enough if I wanted to reconfigure the inside of the box in the future. The ABS filament was a huge pain to print out to begin with. It was the cheapest filament imaginable as it was part of a 3D pen. Not only gave me the filament head aches from the fumes but also many many many print failures due to extreme warping and the filament breaking apart.

The only thing that I can rant about is the AWFUL Citadel paint. It dries up way too fast. The STUPID tubs don't seal well enough and it's TEDIOUS to get paint out without contaminating the paint with other paint. It's another story for another time. As soon as I empty the Citadel paint I won't buy anymore of them. This is why I didn't made any special inserts for them.

Despite all the problems I had I am somewhat OK with the result. Yeah... I see the flaws at every corner and step I made, the prints aren't as clean as it could be but I made something from stuff I was already getting rid of for something another one wanted to get rid of. I rather have it at the state it already is instead of chucking it into the bin and doing all the work all over again for minor flaws that don't impede the functionality and practical use of the box.

#miniature painting #storage #3d printing #gridfinity #airbrush #dnd #dungeons & dragons #my art #recycling #upcykling #rant

10 notes · View notes

hellcatinnc · 1 year ago

Text

Day 8 Victor/Zen - Mr. Love: Queen's Choice

I felt like this man needed some recognition whether you know him as Victor or his Japanese name Zen either way this is one fine man, now let me tell you why he is husbando material.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Is All About You

You are his everything, his number one need and he will do anything for you. Yes he has his dominates side to him but he will always treat you with tenderness and kindness. He is still the guy who will wait until you tell him what you want and once he knows then his dominate streak kicks in but he will never make you do anything you don't want to. He knows he doesn't want to lose you at any cost.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Loves To Cuddle

Any chance you get your welcome to fall asleep in his arms. He will read you a bed rime story, or just hold you and keep you warm. After a long day he might even snuggle you and fall asleep in your arms. You are the only one he has let his guard down and can rest peacefully next to you without worrying about anything bad happening to him. He knows you take care of his heart same way he takes care of you. He likes to watch you sleep at times, pushing your hair back off your face so he can see how beautiful you are as you dream. He loves to watch you breathe knowing the woman he loves is in his arms.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Is Very Passionate

It doesn't always have to be sex but he has no problem pulling you in as your putting up your hair before you go out or grabbing you and kissing you while your at a fancy party. He doesn't care where it is if the notion strikes him and he knows he wants your lips he will grab you and pull you into him crashing his plush lips against yours and embracing your whole body as he does so. Its not hard to see in a moment like this his whole body will be pushed against yours and if he doesn't make you wet from just a simple gesture like this trust me he will do it again before the nights out until you want him and can't think about anything else.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Has A Softer Romantic Side

He is the guy who will hold you all night long if you tell him your scared or hold a umbrella over your hear while he stands in the rain to protect you from getting sick. He will open your door for you and carry your purse and items if your hands are full. He is a gentleman to you and loves sharing romantic recipes with you when he wakes you in bed. He will throw rose petals all over the floor before you come home leading you to a bubble bath with soft music, wine, bubbles and him waiting for you to join him. He knows how to make you feel special.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Is Your Prince Charming

Consider him your prince charming because he will ride in on a horse sweep you up off your feet and carry you in his arms with him. He even looks sexy as a prince too so its a win/win. He is very charming and knows all the sweet little things to whisper in your ear as he has you in his arms as you ride the countryside.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Will Bring You Flowers

He loves to bring you flowers whether a single rose on some occasions or bouquets on others. He even likes to bring teddy bears to go with it sometimes just to give you something to squeeze when you can't squeeze him. He loves bringing you flowers based on his wants and needs. So red for passion is his favorite to buy for you though.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Is A Tsundere

Yes this man is such a tsundere to everyone who meets him or works under him they see him as a very dominate and strict man your the only one who tore those walls down and got his softer side, and it was well worth it. Sometimes watchin him treat others the way he used to do you brings back nostalgia but also turns you on a bit how dominate he can be.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Is Sexy

This man drips sex appeal. He loves to walk around the house with nothing but a towel on after a shower or leave his pj's open as he shaves. Anything to bring your notice to his perfectly chiseled body. He likes to make sure he is wet or dripping any chance he can get thats when he knows you find him the sexiest.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Can't Take His Eyes Off You

No matter what your out doing he has a habit of stopping and watching you. Your beauty captivates him he can't look a way at times. He loves watching you when you get excited and when your happy. He loves it even more when he watches you get happy over something he has done for you and know it makes your world brighter.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Knows How To Please A Woman

click video to watch it on tiktok

Trust me he will keep your sexual needs satisfied in every way. He loves to make passionate love every time he gets a chance to seduce you. He won't stop until he has you begging him to. Being a very dominate man he likes to control every part of you including when he makes you cum and when makes you scream his name. He likes to make you strip for him then after you have been a good girl he rewards you from top to bottom. If you want him all you have to do is tell him he doesn't care where you are at he will take you in a bathroom, at the beach, or even in the car if he wants you bad enough and knows you want him.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Will Protect You

He will stop cars, time and even break the world if he needs to so that he knows your protected above anything else. He has a temper when someone tries to hurt you but its the only time he shows his anger because you are everything to him. His jewel you are and no one will take you from him without going through him first.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

He Will Take Care Of You

He will tuck you in bed when your sick and won't take no for a answer, if he has to he will pick you up and put you in bed himself. He will make you your favorite foods and soups and then go the extra mile and feed them to you. He will monitor your fevers and hold your hair when your sick. He plans to take care of you until the end of time because he loves you.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

#anime #otome #shoujo #shoujo anime #gaming #husbando challenge #husbando #mr love queens choice evolver #victor mr love queens choice #mr love queens choice #zen mr love queens choice #mlqc

28 notes · View notes

blueberrypancakesworld · 1 year ago

Text

Happy Birthday old friend

warning : comfort, fluff and a big little late Happy Birthday my sweety Crocodile

masterlist

Info : So I know this is one day late but I could not help but to write for him based on THIS wonderfull picture from the talented @pocketwei and her swwet post for his birthday (which looks so good as always). I hope you, he and everyone else likes it. Have fun reading

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

The execution of Goldroger brought three young boys together. Three boys in a crowd of people who all set out to find the One Piece after Gold.D.Roger. announced the news of the century. His treasure for the title of Pirate King. The atmosphere is as tense as the heat in Alabastia thought the young man in his early twenties as his dark eyes moved across the square.

He watched the many different people show a variety of reactions. Some seemed shocked or even excited, others were silent and even swearing at the navy or Roger. Before his dark eyes lingered on two people.

Two people who seemed to stand out from the crowd. A young teenager, maybe fifteen or sixteen, Crocodile thought. The teenager had blue hair and a striking look to his clothes, which were almost too colourful. He seemed completely shocked and he felt that it was the teenager's fault. As if it was his fault. As if he understood what it meant when Roger died, unlike the second person.

A young man maybe a year or two younger than himself. A distinctly dapper look, the loose white shirt, darker green belt and gold bracelets with the tighter black trousers and loose open hair was a nice look on Crocodile. But when his dark eyes met the young man with the big sword lying on his back, he felt almost underdressed.

The longer wine-red coat with the flower embroidery, the golden cross hanging from the chain and lying on his exposed torso. In the look of his bright yellow, almost hawk-like eyes, there was determination and almost stubbornness.

He seemed to know what would happen as soon as the blades came down on the pirate king. It was three boys meeting on a special day with two meanings. Can you call that luck, king? was the last thing he asked himself as his eyes went up to the podium and he saw the self-proclaimed king laughing. How he seemed to laugh himself to death before the blood stained the wood and the king slumped slightly.

He was dead and with the death of the king the mass of people started to move. Everyone rushed to the harbour to get on their ship, to buy one, to have one built or to steal one. All but three people. The blue-haired boy fell to his knees crying and seemed to mumble something while Crocodile watched him and let his eyes wander to the one with the sword.

The young man with the hawk-like eyes watched the scaffold and the dead body of the king meticulously. ,,The age of the pirate," the black-haired man muttered, averting his gaze from Roger and walking down from the square as the first of the three. A drink before he would take his little ship to pursue his own plan. His own path for the pirate age.

Not knowing that some two decades later he would be one of the seven samurei of the seas, having his own company, hero of a country and subordinates under him. The path he was now taking would come true, at least for a time.

Walking away from the scaffold, he found himself moments later in a bar that was quiet and almost empty due to the storm at sea. Sitting down in one of the corners and ordering a whiskey, he looked at the dark golden liquid, slightly lost in thought. ,,So he's really dead," he murmured and took a sip of the wood-like liquid.

He saw the moment in his mind's eye when the older man died and yet there was a small smirk on his lips. ,,And on my birthday," he added and looked at the gold bracelets he had bought. Valuable and yet he had had to loot a thing or two to get them. ,,What a happy day for you," he heard the murmur of another man who had sat down at the bar and was drinking wine.

The dark red liquid seemed to match the swordsman's coat. ,,For me yes...for him no" he replied and raised his glass slightly which the black haired man returned. There was respect between them, but it was tempered by a sob.

He saw that the blue-haired man had also shuffled into the bar and was sitting at a table drinking a beer mixed with apple spritzer. ,,A sad day and yet all is well," sniffed the teenager and the three raised their glasses to Crocodile who couldn't help smirking at the wishes of the two. But that same smirk would reappear on the fifth day of autumn month. Only twenty years later.

Then when the fifth day of autumn dawned again and they were no longer just simple pirates. They were Sir Crocodile one of the seven and head of the Baroque Company.

Hawkeye Mihawk the best swordsman in the world. As well as Buggy the Clown one of the most notorious pirates there is with his crew who spread fear and terror. But on that very day, in the same bar as before, sand began to manifest itself.

A sword flashed from the corner and the horn of a clown was heard. ,,Nice to see you again, gentlemen," murmured the bartender, who continued to turn to his glasses. The regulars who gathered here every year to celebrate the day when not only the age dawned but also their friend of some sort, because they all respected each other somehow, celebrated his birthday.

The smoke of the cigar wafted through the bar as he settled back into the corner and the two other men took their places at the bar and table. ,,Another year all the best...old friend to you both," the swordsman murmured and took a sip of his wine as he thought of both the former king and his long time friend. The three had formed an alliance now and then, almost a guild.

A bond that seemed to be only between them. But all these years it had not broken. ,,It almost makes you sentimental," the clown quipped and took a sip of his beer, which was still laced with apple juice. Before Sir Crocodile brought the glass of whiskey to his lips and made a satisfied sound. ,,Thank you, old friends, you shouldn't have...but it's been twenty years," he said, looking down at the small gift wrapped in green wrapping paper.

Opening the bow with the tip of his golden hook and lifting the lid of the gift, he couldn't help but show his crocodile-like grin. ,,The same bracelets" Mihawk said, and Buggy finished with an ,,As then" as Sir Crocodile rolled the two gold bracelets onto his left wrist. Lifting his dark eyes from the bangles he looked with the same smirk as then at young Mihawk and Buggy again and at himself. How they said goodbye to third outside and vowed to come back.

To hold on to the old legend as well as the Crocodile's birthday. Because the ,,Happy Birthday Crocodile" they said to him was something he always listened to and remembered what a special day it was. His birthday. Happy birthday Sir Crocodile.

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

#one piece #one piece sir crocodile #sir crocodile #dracule mihawk #hawkeye mihawk #op mihawk #buggy the clown #op buggy #happy birthday sir crocodile #one shot

18 notes · View notes