#and by that I mean I'M IN LOVE WITH HER SHE'S SO CUTE GIVE ME TRIXIE REQUESTS I HAVE SO MUCH TO ADD TO HER CHARACTER

[kairaloi]

I'd never expected this.

I sat at the dining table my dwarf neighbor had built for me when I first moved to the swamp. A warm ceramic mug of tea between my large clawed hands was another gift from a neighbor.

The weather was miserable; pouring rain in white sheets and cold enough to fog breath.

Inside my stone hut, it was warm, dry, and cozy.

My sister sat across from me. She'd been engulfed by the massive wool blanket I'd wrapped her in. The mug was nearly too big and heavy for her to lift, so to avoid spilling, she rested it on the table and tilted it to sip. She'd lost all dignity at this point. In fact, she'd lost everything, or so she claimed.

Water dripped from her hair.

"How about you start from the beginning?" I asked, my voice low and rumbling.

Arabella flinched. Her small, soft voice was still hoarse from her trip through the torrential rain to my soggy domicile of exile. Probably the farthest she'd ever traveled, let alone unaccompanied. I was surprised she'd made it here without more mishap than a torn and muddy dress. "Father... is a liar," she said.

I nodded. "Yes. But I'm sure you didn't come here to tell me the obvious."

Arabella flinched again, lowering her head. "I'm sorry."

That was unexpected.

I sipped my tea. I'd learned how to make a few simple brews from the witch of the forest. In exchange, I gave her some of the meat I caught and scared off hunters that got too close to our part of the woods. Her face was hideous, but she was old, and who was I to judge?

Arabella's face twisted. "He promised that if you took the curse for the family that the rest of us would be fine. But Kyle has... He's turned to stone! Mother is sprouting feathers! Father is the only one untouched--but I know he's made a bargain. Everyone else in exchange for his life!"

I leaned my elbow on the table, chin resting in my palm. "Ah... Arabella, I've learned a few things while out here, so let me fill you in."

Her eyes lifted, wide and shining.

"The curse is permanent." I lifted a finger, releasing my mug to do so. "The curse requires consent. If you don't consent, it doesn't work. So Kyle agreed to take it on. Monica--"

"Mother."

"Monica. Agreed to turn into a chicken."

"Harpy."

My lips curved. "Ah--" I barely stopped myself from laughing.

Arabella's jaw clenched. She looked down.

"So unless you agree to take his curse... nothing can be done."

"But Kyle! He's only thirteen!"

"Oh. Wow..." I mused. I hadn't realized it had been that long. "Well, sorry. But it's like sex. Once the deed is done, you can't undo it. He agreed." I briefly wondered if our parents had even told him that he had an older sister. Probably not. Not that it mattered now anyway. Kyle was as good as dead... unless.

"Is there nothing that can be done?" Arabella screamed, her voice giving out at the end even though she'd slammed to her feet. It was hardly impressive since jumping out of the chair made her lose eight inches of height.

"Well... The Bog Hag said that curses are a lot like locks, and any lock can be picked. You just have to figure out the locking mechanism."

Arabella's eyes widened. "Like True Love's Kiss?" she asked.

"A fae demented enough to continue making deals with Allen in exchange for his family wouldn't pick something so cute."

"Father," Arabella corrected automatically, then looked down as she carefully climbed back into the chair. "What do you mean continue?"

"Loki, as he likes to be called, told me that I was taking on Allen's debt," I said with a shrug. "This leads me to believe that Allen has asked for more favors, which has incurred more debt."

"That..." her voice faded, expression changing to one of someone putting the pieces together.

"So I'm guessing the family has had quite a bit of fortune lately?" I asked, picking up my mug to finish my tea. I stood, careful not to knock anything with my tail as I went to the stove to refill my mug.

"Please help me..." Arabella asked.

I looked over my shoulder at her. "Why should I? I'm happy here."

"But you're..."

"A monster?" I grinned. "I feel more myself than I ever did in Allen's house. You can't tell me it was easy to get here with your ribs wrapped in steel and legs bound by cloth." I set my mug on the table and leaned over her, a hand on the back of the chair she sat in. "Tell me, Arabella. Were Madam Wretched's dancing lessons fun? Were Mister Wrathful's tutoring sessions enjoyable?"

My sister swallowed. She wanted to correct me on Wreath and Willson's names, but she didn't.

"Did you jump for joy when they assigned a knight to watch you day and night so you couldn't have a moment of silence without his resentful sighs interrupting?"

She flinched, hunching down in the wool blanket. "It wasn't all bad..."

"One thing," I challenged, lifting a claw near her face. "Name one thing."

Arabella opened her mouth, then closed it. She was struggling.

"All the food. All of it looked and smelled so delicious, but you weren't allowed a morsel," I offered.

She grit her teeth.

"The garden you weren't allowed in without a wide hat, parasol, and six men carrying a tent over you at all times."

"Stop..." she begged, hands covering her face.

"The man you were ordered to marry who looks like a slime and mud golem had a child," I finished.

She choked.

I put my hand on her back, gently rubbing. "Go ahead and laugh."

Arabella sobbed, laughing and crying at the same time. I knelt and put my arms around her. She gripped my thick neck, her tiny hands buried in my wild red mane. "You're right!" she admitted, voice muffled by my shoulder. "But how did you know about him?"

"People from town sometimes go to the Bog Hag for help with... problems."

"His personality is even worse than his face!"

"I could tell by the sneer they gave him in the newspaper."

Arabella sat back, wiping her face with her fingers.

I looked up at her with a sigh. "I'm still your sister," I said, resigned. She'd only been four when I was cursed, after all. She had been my little shadow, and... being thirteen at the time, I'd found her to be very annoying. Now, she was sixteen. If I'd looked up the definition of the word Princess, her picture would've been there; blonde, blue-eyed, petite, weak, soft-spoken...

Arabella stared down at me and swallowed as her eyes searched my face. "Please help me... get revenge."

My lips curled, revealing the sharp teeth my curse had blessed me with.

Despite being cursed into a monster and being banished by your royal parents, you were happy with your life. Your home was peaceful. You always had enough to eat. You even had friends despite your appearance, so yeah your life was great. Your non-cursed sibling's life, on the other hand

[cherryblooom]

2XL — OP81 [ part 1 ]

Summary: You are a young artist who gained a lot of popularity at the ripped age of 14 due to your talent and unusual style. Your body is considered "voluminous" so, in public, you only use 2XL clothing, to protect yourself from people on the internet and feel more comfortable while performing. You have managed to keep your personal life outside the spotlight but when Oscar finally made it to the glamorous lifestyle of motorsports, everything changed.

Pairing: Oscar Piastri x Reader

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Fic warning: best friends to lovers, slut shaming, weird people on the internet, people commenting about a minor's body, sexism, rape comments, rape "jokes", reader battles with her self-esteem, self-image, and self-love, Oscar is obsessed with his girlfriend and her body (not in a creepy way) and is not afraid of showing it, Oscar is not afraid of defending reader and dragging people though the mud.

Faceclaim: Billie Eilish

Note: Oscar is a year older than the reader. SMAU mixed with narrative. Reader doesn't have that much access to social media right now as they are mostly controlled by their management.

You were in shock, appalled, shaking in your boots. No, that wasn't enough to describe the excitement you felt when you saw the success your debut song was having. It had gone viral on the Soundcloud platform, and your followers were increasing rapidly, it honestly felt like a dream.

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ynusername Thank you so much for all the support and love you guys have shown to my debut song and EP. I am still in shock and shaking. I can't wait to see what comes next 🩵

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fanusername you deserve all the love, the songs are beautiful

→ ynusername Thank you so much for the support, it is a dream come true 🩵

oscarpiastri beautiful and talented, you deserve it! ☁︎🩵

ynusername has liked your comment

username this girl is going to be a fucking star

ynusername has liked your comment

username245 ocean eyes makes me cry so much 😭

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oscarpiastri I can't even begin to express how proud I am of you. You are such a talented artist and seeing how you are achieving all of your dreams makes me so excited. And…happy birthday! I don't care how famous you get, i’ll always remember how you almost die because you couldn't stop eating grapes.

Please don't forget me when you are famous, I can't live without your pancakes and you always REFUSE to share the recipe 😔

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ynusername and i’ll NEVER give you my pancakes recipe ☺️🙂‍↔️

→ oscarpiastri boooh, u are just mean and for what😣

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ynusername This pookie just won his first championship in motorsports and I'm still scared to cross the street alone, wtf. Anyways, CONGRATULATIONS!! I don't need to read your horoscope to know that you have a great and bright future ahead of you ❤️@ oscarpiastri

P.S. I understand that winning a championship is a bit of a big deal, but I'm not going to give you my pancake recipe. I don't care how pretty your eyes are 🙄

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fan1 wait, are they a couple?

→ fanuser3 No, as far we know, they have only been best friends since kids

randomuser oscar had an amazing season, I can't wait to see him in f1

fanuser2 Is Yn that tiny or is Oscar a giant? 😭

→ fan1 I know, their height difference is so cute 😔

→ fan3 both answers are correct 😂 but she's 5’1 so I would say that is not that hard to tower over her

Oscarpiastri if you give me the recipe, I will teach you how to cross the street without dying 😃

→ ynusername no❤️

→ oscarpiastri oh COME ON

→ oscarpiastri then, can you come and prepare me some? I pledge not to peek

→ ynusername that I can do

Oscar turned off the screen of his phone when he saw that you had returned from the bathroom, since he had taken advantage of those minutes that you were away from the table to respond to that disgusting comment on Twitter. There were times when he hated social networks, and because he was not a fan and did not find the logic in arguing with a stranger on Twitter, he could not avoid the anger that began to feel when he saw that comment from someone who claimed to be his fan. It wasn't the first time, and unfortunately it wouldn't be the last, that your fashion style was the center of conversation, and not in a good way.

“So, are we done here then? Nobody wants to order anything else?” asked his team leader. All the team members shook their heads and after the bill was paid, everyone started to get into the cars that were already waiting outside to take them to the bar they had reserved for the rest of the night. It wasn’t just that they had won the championship but now Oscar was officially of age, so it was also a reason to celebrate (although he wasn’t old enough to drink alcohol yet, but it seems that detail wasn’t that important to his team).

“Let’s go to McDonald’s for our monthly greasy burger” Oscar told you as you walked out of the restaurant. Your arms were intertwined, and your head was resting on his chest as the two of you slowly made your way to the exit. You couldn’t help but feel a warm flush running through your body. You felt so comfortable and safe.

''Even though I wouldn't want to break our tradition, you should go with your team to celebrate. I'm sure they made you a cake or something like that.'' Since you were both 12 years old, on the last Friday of every month you would go somewhere to eat sweets, junk food or things that you couldn't eat on a daily basis and, for both of you, it was almost a sacred day where you could be yourself, spend time together and just eat, talk or relax.

"Maybe you're right but honestly I'd rather spend time with you."

''I'd love to accompany you but I'm not 18 yet''

''Ohh right, you're still a little girl, I almost forgot. My bad''

''Shut up!'' Oscar just laughed and you let him guide you to his car. ''So, you're not going to the bar?''

''I told you; I prefer to be with you.'' You were both already inside the car and after buckling his seatbelt, Oscar leaned over you to put your seatbelt on for you, but you didn't realize how close you were from each other until he was practically right in front of you. Time felt like it had stopped, or at least it was going slower, since you felt like you had been in that same position for minutes. Oscar for his part couldn't help but run his gaze over your full, kissable and pink lips. For Oscar, you had always been a beauty that didn't need makeup, and if you had put on any, it would only be to make your already natural beauty shine. A few inches were all that separated your lips from his and Oscar smiled cheekily as he watched you hold your breath, maybe waiting, but waiting for what exactly? Oscar pursed his mouth into a satisfied smile.

Oscar finished fastening your seatbelt and sat back down to his seat as if nothing had happened, but he smiled mischievously when he watched you wipe the palms of your hands on your pants and felt you release the breath you were holding.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with that belt, but sometimes it gets stuck. I should check it out later,” Oscar said, and you nodded you head accepting his explanation. It was a lie. The belt was perfect, he just wanted an excuse to do what he did and yes, he didn’t regret anything. He got the answer he was looking for...that he wasn’t the only one who felt that way.

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dailyop81 One of the photos that are already coming out of Oscar's team celebrating the championship title, but he doesn't appear in any of them. Could it be that he didn't attend his own party?

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dailyynupdates yn and oscar hanging out today. According to the person who took the photos, the two were seen leaving a food store with a couple of bags (with snacks and what it looked like some junk food). They stopped at the park for a few seconds and then oscar started chasing yn while they both laughed. It should be noted that today is Oscar's celebration party, and he apparently decided to celebrate with yn.

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oscarpiastri such a lovely night with a pretty girl 🩵

tagged @ ynusername

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yn_global23 the height difference between them, I can't-

→ ynhater1 she looks like a fucking midget besides him, how is that cute? lol

→ ynhater1 and btw, the only reason she's famous is because she is with Oscar, if not, she would have flopped so hard 🤣

→ yn_global23 you are aware that yn was already famous before your little vroom vroom guy won any silly tittle, right?

Oscarpiastri liked your comment ❤️

fanuser5 Oh, the way I would give my left kidney to see them together! Like TOGETHER 🙂‍↕️

Oscarpiastri liked your comment

→ ynfan2 ong, me too!! I don't know a lot about Oscar but yn seems so comfortable and happy whenever they are together

→ ynuser2 omggg, Oscar liked your comment 😭

→ fanuser5 WHAT? I can't see it.

→ ynfanuser4 I think he removed the like but, we all saw it. @oscarpiastri explain 🫠

Oscarpiastri liked your comment ❤️

→ ynfanuser4 ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?

Radio check: I'm finishing up the next part of Enchanted, but this came to my mind, and I couldn't get it out of my head so here we are. If you'd like me to tag you, let me know. Like and Reblog if you like it!

[zorosangell]

hiii! hope you’re doing good and I’d like to give in a suggestion, could you make a fic about gnreader being choppers mother figure and both zoro and reader are fighting for the parental role 😭😭

(they later on share it lol)

⛥ﾟ・。 endgame

synopsis: prequel to inn -- when chopper asks about your past, zoro reminisces on your history together... and is reminded of exactly what you are to him.

cw: THIS IS A PREQUEL TO INN, fluffly fluff, comfort, takes place pre-timeskip during alabasta, young reader is so cute, protective zoro, ZORO IS WHIPPED, i really loved writing this.

a/n: i really, really loved writing this

"Hey, Zoro!" Luffy called, eagerly. "Look over here! Look at what we're doing!"

"We're training!" Usopp added, clapping his hands together.

Begrudgingly, Zoro looked up from Chopper's fur, glancing toward the boys, who were standing under a huge stream of water like it was a ninja's waterfall.

"Real funny," he nodded, sarcastically, before returning to what he was doing.

After saving the kingdom of Alabasta, the king invited the crew to the royal bath, hoping to clean up after dinner.

The young doctor had asked for help washing his back, and the swordsman played it off as having nothing better to do.

But, in actuality... he enjoyed helping boy, feeling a sort of fatherly obligation toward him.

"Zoro?" Chopper piped up, quietly, eyes trained forward as the man went back to carefully scrubbing his fur.

"Yeah?" Zoro hummed. "What is it?"

"Do you know why (y/n) acts the way she does?"

Confused, Zoro raised a brow, unsure of what he was talking about.

"What do you mean?"

"Well... you know," the boy slightly stammered. "She's so nice... and kind... she cares for me so well even though I just joined the crew."

He looked down at himself, making sure to choose his words carefully.

"Even Doctorine didn't warm up to me this quick... but she treats me like she's known me all her life. And I figured since you two grew up together, you could tell me why."

'So, that's it...'

Zoro nodded, finally getting the picture.

"I see what you mean," he confirmed, moving on to the boy's shoulder. "(y/n)'s always been like that... even when we were kids. There's no rhyme or reason to it."

He glanced up, the memories rolling back like calm waves after a storm.

"She just... is."

"I thought I told you to stop following me! Cut it out!" a ten year-old Zoro exclaimed, glaring at you sharply.

"But... you're bleeding..." a nine year-old you reminded, worried, as you tightly clutched the handle of your first aid kit. "Kuina beat you up really bad this time."

"Shut up!" he barked. "I don't need your help! Or anyone else's! I'm gonna get stronger all on my own!"

You flinched at his tone, but held strong, despite the tears welling in your eyes.

"Well, you can't be the strongest if you can barely lift your arms!"

Zoro's eyes widened, surprised.

In your months of chasing him, attempting to patch him up, you had never raised your voice.

Not even once.

"I believe in you! And I wanna help you! So let's make a deal!"

Brows furrowed with determination, you pointed at him, firm in your disposition.

"Every night, I'll patch you up, and help you out with normal stuff, like food and clothes! And in return, you work your hardest to become the strong enough to beat Kuina! Sound fair?"

"No!" he scoffed, incredulously, and incredibly confused. "Why are you doing this?! You don't even know me! What do you get out of that?!"

"I get to watch you!" you grinned, jumping at the chance to gush. "You're so cool! And tough! I'm no good at sword-fighting, but you're amazing at it! I can tell you're gonna be a really great swordsman someday!"

Happily, you looked up at him, your starry eyes bringing a faint tinge of pink to the boy's cheeks.

"And I wanna be there to watch the whole thing!"

For a moment, Zoro paused to think, weighing his options before caving with a sigh, unable to say no to your hopeful smile.

"...Fine."

"YAY!"

Without hesitation, you pulled him into an embrace, overwhelmed with joy.

"Hey! Hey! Hey! No hugging!"

Zoro chuckled, moving the scrub brush to the young doctor's head.

You were the strangest, most persistent girl he had ever met... but the only one that believed in him from the very beginning.

Even if it was at your expense.

"What were you thinking?!" a twelve year-old Zoro scolded, haphazardly applying band-aids to all your cuts and bruises. "You know Haru and Kenzo are stronger than you. Why'd you try to fight them?"

An eleven year-old you sniffled, using the back of your hand to wipe away the stray tears rolling down your cheeks.

"They were making fun of you," you mumbled, looking down at your lap. "They said three-sword style was stupid, so I tried to punch them... but I missed and they ganged up on me."

"Did they, now?" Zoro glared, turning to the two boys next to him.

Quickly, he struck them both in the back of the head, giving them two giant welts and adding to their multitude of injuries.

"What do you two say to her?!"

"We'wre sowwy..."

Chopper lit up, relieved to her you had no ulterior motive in your kindness.

"(y/n)'s been this nice all her life? Wow! I wish I met her sooner! She sounds like a really great friend!"

Zoro nodded, fighting off the small smile threatening to rise to his lips.

"I was lucky to meet her when I did... her enthusiasm always gave me something to look forward to."

He sighed, dreamily reminiscing on the thought.

"Even when the future was unclear..."

"I can't believe it! We're actually leaving!" an eighteen year-old you squealed, watching the island of Shimotsuki get smaller and smaller as you clung to the mast of your small fishing boat. "This is so exciting!"

"I know," a nineteen year-old Zoro agreed, watching with an air of pride. "Feels like a new chapter. One step closer to becoming the strongest."

You nodded along, until you were suddenly hit with a thought, which forced you to sit down.

"But... I can't help but wonder," you started, glancing up at him. "Why'd you bring me along?"

He raised a brow, confused, and silently asking you to elaborate.

"You know I'm not very strong. Hell, I can barely throw a punch," you reminded. "I won't be much of a help..."

"All those years ago... didn't you say you wanted to watch me become the Greatest Swordsman in the world?" Zoro asked, rhetorically. "You can't do that cooped up in a dojo."

Your eyes widened slightly, not expecting such a straight-forward answer.

"I promised you I'd work hard to become the strongest. So you better believe you're getting a front row seat," he smirked, plopping himself down next to you, slightly rocking the boat. "You're stuck with me, (y/n). There's no backin' out now."

You replied with a chuckle, carefully resting your head on his shoulder, blissfully unaware of the flush on his cheeks.

"Thanks, Zo'."

He nodded, slowly and warily looping an arm around your shoulder, letting out a sigh of relief when you didn't move away.

"Don't mention it."

"Wow! I'm so happy!" Chopper cheered, jumping up from his seat. "I'm gonna go dry off and give her a big hug to say thank you for all the stuff she's done!"

Quickly, he turned to Zoro, his blinding smile warming the swordsman's heart—though he'd never admit it.

"Thanks for telling me Zoro!"

Without a word, Zoro nodded, and Chopper zoomed off back to the rooms, leaving the man alone with his thoughts.

Glancing at the divider separating the men and women's bath, Zoro listened closely, tuning out Luffy and Usopp's roughhousing to see if he could hear you.

And he did.

From beyond the great wall flowed in your silvery laugh, the delightful sound hitting his ears like the world's greatest song.

Closing his eyes, the swordsman rested his arm on his knee, and his cheek in his palm, allowing himself to fully experience its beauty.

God, he was so in love with you...

Words couldn't even begin to express.

You were the most consistent thing in his life.

His personal nurse.

His number one supporter.

His best friend.

His childhood crush.

If he was being honest, he didn't know where would've ended up if it weren't for you, or the person he would've turned out to be.

You taught him the value of kindness and compassion at such a young age, and were never afraid to wear your heart on your cheek if it meant pushing him closer to his dream.

And you knew him so well.

He couldn't have found a better partner in crime if he'd searched for a thousand years.

Muscles relaxing, a small smile rose to his lips as your laugh floated into the air once again, accentuated by the occasional, adorable snort.

There was no one else in this world for him.

There would be no one else in this world for him.

You were absolutely, positively, without a doubt... his endgame.

[kimoralov3]

lay all your love on me 24

jj maybank x heyward!reader

<- previous next ->

"y/n come on, we're gonna be late if we keep waiting on you!" pope calls from outside your door. you roll your eyes at that, putting on one more swipe of mascara.

"stop rushing me! i just need like two more seconds!" you call back as you apply your lip liner and lip gloss. you give yourself a final once over, making sure you look decent before grabbing your sandals and sliding them on as you hobble over to the door.

when you open it pope is still standing there, arms crossed over his chest as he shakes his head. you stick your tongue out at him before taking the steps two at a time to meet everyone else outside in front of the twinkie. sarah wasn't feeling well today, so it'd just be you, pope, jj, cleo, kie, and her girlfriend lex going to the party at the boneyard today. sarah and john b were sitting on the front porch when you got out there, so you stopped to talk to them.

"hey guys. are you two sure you don't want me to stay home? i wouldn't really mind." you ask as you stand in front of them. sarah waves a dismissive hand at that.

"yes yes, we're sure. besides, you have more important things to worry about." she says as she and john b wiggle their eyebrows at you. sarah was pregnant so you couldn't exactly hit her, but you sure as hell did give john b a good punch in the shoulder before walking away.

ever since you and jj had fallen asleep together outside, the pogues would not leave the two of you alone. i mean, it's not like it meant anything. just friends helping each other out. friends who had been doing a lot of... hanging out lately. the kind of hang outs that felt like dates. but they weren't! jj was just trying to make up for being an ass. in a very rom-com way. but still! the two of you were just friends. much to your dismay.

you all had been at the boneyard for about 3 hours now, and it was really starting to crank up. not that you could really focus on that, though, because you had spent basically the whole time running and hiding from jj.

"y/n, would it really be that bad to talk to him?" aubree asks as rafe comes back with her drink. rafe immediately wraps an arm around her, and you get the sense that that should make you upset or something but it doesn't. you've both moved on for the better.

"obviously. don't wanna embarrass myself. besides, he seems a little... preoccupied at the moment." you say as you tilt your cup in his direction. he's currently talking to some girl that went to school with you guys- her name was like, ashley or something? doesn't really matter, what matters is the fact that she has jj's full attention and not you.

"aww, are you jealous because he's talking to other girls?" kiara asks teasingly, causing lex to elbow her in her side.

"i am not jealous. if he wants to talk to other girls, he's very free to. it's not like we're dating or anything." you say as you take a sip of the beer you'd been nursing since you got there.

"but you want to be." rafe says. it's a statement and not a question, which makes you even more frustrated with all your friends. why couldn't they just butt out of your love life?

"i'm leaving." you say, walking away quickly before any of them could poke fun at you again. as you're walking towards the water you hear someone calling your name, and you turn to see jj jogging towards you. just what you needed, great.

"hey, y/n! haven't really spoken with you since we got here." he says once he catches up with you. you force a smile on your face as you try and come up with a response.

"yeah, sorry about that. to be honest, i'm not really in the partying mood tonight." you say with a shrug. "i'll probably head home soon, anyways."

"you're gonna walk all the way back home by yourself?" he asks as he shoves his hands in his pockets. it's a nervous habit of his that you've always found cute, but you can't help but wonder what could possibly be making him nervous at the moment.

"yeah. don't wanna ruin the fun for everyone else." you say with a light chuckle as you kick up some sand.

"i'll walk with you." he says as if it's the easiest decision he's ever made.

"what? no, jj. you stay, i'll be fine." you say quickly. "you love parties."

"yeah, but i'm not really feeling this one. 's kinda lame." he says with that boyish smile of his. god, he's making this really difficult.

"alright, fine. if you insist." you say as you toss your empty cup somewhere. (sorry kie!)

"lead the way, m'lady." he says as he tips an invisible hat at you. you roll your eyes, shoving him gently. he just laughs, seeing as your little push didn't do much in the way of moving him.

the walk back home is pretty much silent, save for the late night sounds of the town. you almost wish that it could be like this forever, the two of you just enjoying each other's company. but there's this thing that keeps floating around in your head, and no matter how hard you try you just can't seem to rid yourself of it.

"so, i saw you talking to ashley earlier." you say so quietly that jj didn't hear you. "the two of you looked pretty cozy."

that causes jj to stop walking, looking at you as if you had grown three extra heads. "huh?"

"you and ashley. the two of you were talking at the party. are you into her? it's totally cool if you are. i mean yeah, she was kind of a bitch to us in high school but i'm sure she's changed-"

"and they call me the oblivious one." he says with a chuckle. he was looking around as if he thought he was being pranked.

now it was your turn to be confused. "what?"

jj looks at you for a moment, almost as if he was studying you. "y/n, do you honestly think i'm interested in any other girl besides you?"

had you drank more beer than you thought? was it actually beer in your cup, or had you been drinking something else the whole time? because that was the only logical explanation for what you thought you just heard. "huh?"

jj smirks, taking a step closer to you and using his finger to push your chin up. "close your mouth, mama. wouldn't want bugs getting in there would we?"

you couldn't believe it. had jj really said what you thought he said? "i'm sorry, could you repeat that please?"

"i'm in love with you, y/n. have been for a while now. and i know that i acted like a total fucking asshole about the whole rafe situation, and there will never be enough time or enough words for me to properly apologize for that, but i want to be with you. genuinely. in fact, i don't think i've ever been so serious about something the way i'm serious about you." he says as he gently takes your hand in his.

"b-but, you were talking with ashley and it looked like-"

"i was talking with ashley because i was buying something from her. something for you." he explains as he reaches in his back pocket and pulls out a braided bracelet. he slides it onto your arm, making sure it's secure before removing his hands so you can get a proper look at it. it was fairly simple; peachy colored thread holding up a bead with the letter j on it. "i was gonna give it to you when i asked you to be my girlfriend."

"i don't know what to say." you whisper, still in awe. you hear jj laugh at that, and when you look up he bring a hand up to cup your cheek.

"just say yes, y/n. say you'll be my girlfriend." he whispers as he brushes his thumb across your cheek.

"yes, jj. i would love to be your girlfriend." you say with a smile. the biggest smile you'd ever seen broke out across jj's face, so big you're surprised his face didn't split in half. he brings his other hand to the other side of your face and pulls you in for a kiss. it's a lot more gentle than you would've expected from someone like jj, but you wouldn't have it any other way. his lips were soft, almost cloud like and he tasted like cheap beer and his favorite spearmint flavored gum.

you honestly couldn't tell how long the two of you kissed for, but you didn't want it to ever end. unfortunately the two of you needed to come up for air and when you did, jj pressed his forehead against yours.

"i love you too, jj." you say, pressing a small kiss to the tip of jj's nose. he smiled again, but this time it was charged with something else, something you couldn't quite put your finger on. but if you had to guess, it was somewhere between love and admiration.

"good. now let's get you home." he says as he grabs your hand, lacing your fingers together as the of you finish the walk back home.

taglist: @arkofblake @ivysprophecy @murdockcastleslut @queenvane64 @yoongling @cassiewritessalot @iloveeejjjj @divierses @dreamybabbyy @freyawhitexxx1 @sheisntyou @212-apricity @beeskisses

[maomiscorner]

Christmas is in Town

[author: wrote it a little late, but these days i was so busy but this story deserves so much] Pairing: bf!jake x f!reader

Background: His family organized a family dinner for the first time after months, they took the chance to invite you for the christmas dinner. You’re gonna meet his family for the first time as half of it leaves in Australia. With a surprise in the final part

She was already getting ready, wearing a red velvety skirt with a white pullover and tights underneath. Now, she was doing her hair, styling it in a wavy half-updo with a red bow at the back, leaving a few strands in front.

Clothing reference:

Jake entered the house after work and looked at her. His heart skipped a beat as he saw her outfit, the red bow adding a cute touch to her appearance. His eyes roamed over her figure in admiration, a warm smile spreading across his face. "God, you're so pretty, love," Jake commented, his smile soft and loving.

She turned her head from the bathroom, catching his gaze. “Thank you,” she replied, shyly smiling. He saw her look at him, their eyes meeting, and a small, shy smile formed on her lips. His heart swelled with affection at her modesty, his eyes tracing her pretty figure once more. "Mmm, and you're not just pretty. You're absolutely gorgeous, my love," he said, his voice soft and adoring.

She closed the door shyly, feeling him move closer. Jake's heart raced as the door shut, and his smile widened at the image of her inside, her shyness making her even more endearing. He was drawn to her but held back, leaning against the wall, his hands in his pockets as he waited for her to be ready.

“Get ready, love, it's already 7 p.m.!” she called from inside the bathroom, now finishing her makeup. His heart skipped a beat at the sound of her calling him “love,” a warm sensation washing over him. Realizing the time, excitement surged through him. "Mmm, I'll be ready in a few minutes, my love. I'll meet you out here soon," he replied, tracing his fingers along the wall as he waited, anticipation building.

She chuckled, knowing he was eager to hug her, so she hurried with her makeup—a natural look with eyeliner and mascara to highlight her doe-like dark green eyes, red lipstick to match her skirt, and a light touch of blush. She then stepped out of the bathroom, meeting his eyes. “Here I am, all ready.”

Jake's heart skipped a beat as she appeared, his eyes widening at the sight of her. For a moment, his breath caught in his throat—her natural makeup and red lipstick made her look even more stunning. Instinctively, his body moved toward her, his arms wanting to wrap around her. "You look absolutely divine, my love. Truly a goddess," he said, his gaze full of admiration and love. She smiled, his compliments making her heart flutter as if it were the first time she’d heard them. “You're so pretty too,” she said, playfully.

His heart swelled at her smile, her happiness bringing him joy. His cheeks flushed, and he returned a shy smile at her compliment. "Thank you, my love. Your words mean so much to me. But I'm still not as pretty as you," he said softly, gently tracing her cheek with his fingers.

“Thank you, it means a lot,” she said, noticing his reddened cheeks. “Now it's time to get you ready, love.” His smile grew wider at her words, though a hint of embarrassment lingered. He nodded. "Alright, my love. Let's get ready," he said, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek before heading to the bathroom.

She waited for him on the bed while he showered. When he entered the room with just a towel around his waist, she smiled. “Here's my man.” His heart raced at her warm smile, though he felt a bit self-conscious, standing there in just a towel. She playfully covered her eyes with her hands, respecting his privacy until he got dressed, then peeked when he came closer to move her hands away.

She smirked, checking him out. He was now wearing a light blue shirt under a grey oversized pullover and black baggy jeans. “You're the prettiest, I swear.” His cheeks reddened at her gaze, feeling both embarrassed and flattered. He laughed softly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Thank you, my love. But you're the prettiest person ever," he said, tracing her cheek affectionately.

Clothing reference:

She smiled, her doe eyes sparkling. “How are we getting to your parents' house?” "My father is picking us up at 8 p.m. Is that okay, my love?" he asked, gently touching her waist. She felt a little nervous but nodded. “It's okay.” She stepped away to apply some perfume, trying to calm herself. “I want to be honest with you… I’m feeling a little nervous about meeting your family,” she admitted, chuckling at her reflection as she checked her hair and makeup.

He heard the nerves in her voice and moved closer, gently resting his hands on her shoulders, looking at her in the mirror. "Don’t worry, love. I promise they’re going to love you. And you look absolutely stunning tonight. There's no need to be nervous at all."

She sighed, turning to hug him. "Thank you for being so understanding with me." He held her close, his heart full of affection. "My love, I'll always understand. I get why you’re nervous, but I promise everything will be alright. I'll be with you the whole time."

She lifted her head and looked at him. "I love you." He gazed into her eyes, feeling his heart melt. "I love you too, my love. So, so much." She giggled, his words lifting her mood.

He smiled warmly as they both prepared to head to the living room. He took her hand, gently tracing her fingers. "It's time to go. My father will be here soon."

They sat on the sofa, chatting while they waited for his father. When the doorbell rang, Jake's heart raced with a mix of excitement and nerves. He looked at her, feeling the weight of the evening ahead. "I think it’s my dad. Are you ready?" he asked, gently holding her waist. She nodded, a bit anxious, as they went to the door. Jake opened it, revealing his father.

"Dad, this is Y/N. Y/N, this is my father," he introduced them with warmth and respect.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Sim," she said, extending her hand politely. Jake watched, his heart swelling as his father smiled in appreciation. "It’s a pleasure to meet you too, Y/N. My son has told me a lot about you," his father replied, shaking her hand gently.

She chuckled shyly, and Jake rubbed her back in reassurance. "We should go now, Dad. Let’s get some food; I’m starving," he said, wrapping his arm around her waist again. They quickly slipped into their jackets and shoes, making sure to grab the bags with their gifts before heading out. Once outside, they all climbed into his father’s car and drove to his parents' apartment.

Jake held the car door open for her, smiling as she got in. Once he settled in the front seat and his father started the car, the journey to his father's apartment began. Jake glanced back at her, his heart full of affection as he admired her, feeling both excited and a little nervous for the evening ahead.

They soon arrived at his father's apartment, the sight of the building triggering memories of his childhood. Jake felt a wave of nostalgia and affection wash over him as he glanced at the familiar structure, the feeling of home settling in. He turned to her, a small smile tugging at his lips.

"Mmm, we're here, my love. Are you ready to go in?" he asked, his voice gentle and reassuring as he gazed into her eyes.

She nodded, her voice soft but steady. "Yeah, I'm ready," she replied, waiting for him to open the car door for her.

His father led them to the lift, and as they ascended, Jake reached for Y/N's hand once more, intertwining his fingers with hers. His heart swelled with a mix of excitement and nerves as the elevator came to a stop. He glanced at the door, then back at her, giving her a comforting smile.

When his father opened the apartment door, a small, modern space came into view, cozy and welcoming. Suddenly, Jake’s mother appeared, and more notably, so did his dog, Layla.

"Wow! You weren’t exaggerating when you said your girlfriend was beautiful, my Yun!" his mother exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as she saw Y/N.

Y/N shyly chuckled, slipping off her jacket with Jake’s help, and removing her shoes. "Thank you," she murmured, feeling slightly flushed from the attention.

Jake's heart leaped at his mother’s words, a warm smile spreading across his face. A sense of pride surged within him, seeing how well his mother had reacted to his girlfriend. "I knew you'd love her as much as I do," he said softly, his eyes meeting hers as he took her jacket, his fingers brushing lightly along her back in a reassuring gesture.

As soon as they spotted Layla, Jake's face lit up with pure joy. "Mmm, Laylaaaa!" he cooed affectionately, bending down to greet his dog. Layla, overjoyed to see him after such a long time, started jumping around him excitedly, her tail wagging uncontrollably.

They made their way to the living room, placing the gifts under the tree before settling in the kitchen for dinner. She, feeling a little nervous, stuck close to Jake like a lost puppy, gaining confidence with his presence. As the evening progressed, they all chatted and enjoyed their meal, with Jake occasionally glancing at her, proud of his girlfriend. After dinner, it was time to open the gifts. They all gathered on the sofa by the Christmas tree, and Jake went first. Y/N handed him his gift with a smile. "I know how much you love this. I bought it two months ago, and when I saw it, I thought, 'OK, this must be Jake's gift!'" she said as he eagerly tore open the wrapping.

Jake's eyes lit up as he gasped in excitement, revealing a LEGO set he'd been wanting for months. "Oh my God, oh my God, it's the LEGO set... the one I wanted!" he exclaimed, unable to contain his joy. He immediately pulled Y/N into a tight hug, his arms wrapping around her as a wide grin spread across his face.

Y/N grinned back, thrilled by his reaction. "I'm so happy you like it, love." Jake, still holding her close, murmured into her shoulder, "I love it, I love it so much, my love. I can't believe you remembered. Thank you, thank you, thank you." She chuckled and gave him a quick peck on the cheek, forgetting for a moment that his family was watching, her cheeks turning red with embarrassment.

Jake, noticing his family's amused glances, felt his own face flush but didn't mind. His brother smirked, his mother smiled warmly, and his father looked pleasantly surprised. Jake, still holding Y/N by the waist, gave her a shy chuckle before pulling back slightly. "Thank you, I swear it's the best gift ever," he said softly, his eyes meeting hers with a tender smile.

Y/N smiled back and replied, "You're welcome, love," before they sat down again. It was Jake's turn to give her a gift. He handed her a wrapped package, his fingers gently brushing hers. "This is for you, my love. Go on, open it."

Y/N’s face lit up as she unwrapped the gift, revealing a familiar-looking beanie. Her eyes widened with excitement. "Is it what I'm thinking of?" she asked, pulling it out of the box. "Oh my God!" she exclaimed, recognizing the beanie Jake had worn at one of his recent concerts, which she had admired.

Jake's heart swelled with affection as he saw her reaction. "Yes. It's the hat, the one I wore at the concert. I knew you really liked it," he said softly, his hand gently tracing her back in a comforting gesture.

"Thank youuuu!" she squealed, throwing her arms around him and giving him a small kiss on the cheek. Jake's heart melted as he hugged her back, his face warm from her affectionate gesture. "You're welcome, my love. I'm glad you like it so much."

Y/N, realizing they had gotten a bit carried away, smiled apologetically at his family before putting the beanie on, clearly loving it. She then handed out the gifts she'd brought for his family. "Since I wasn't sure what you'd like, I made some biscuits for everyone," she said shyly.

Jake's mother beamed at the mention of biscuits, her eyes lighting up. "Oh my God, biscuits! You made them?"

Y/N nodded, smiling. "Yeah, it's my grandma's recipe. I made them yesterday at home."

His mother seemed genuinely delighted, her face lighting up with joy and appreciation. "Oh my God, they look so good. Thank you, dear. You didn't have to go through the trouble; you could've just bought a gift. But these biscuits look fantastic, you have my praise," she said, taking one of the biscuits and eagerly biting into it. Her eyes closed in delight as she savored the taste, a soft "mmm" escaping her lips. Y/N smiled as she watched them all enjoy her homemade biscuits. "I prefer to make them, after all, it's Christmas," she said, her heart swelling with happiness at the praise.

He watched as his family enjoyed the biscuits, their faces filled with genuine appreciation as they bit into them. His brother nodded, taking another biscuit and eagerly taking a big bite. His father smiled, a small grin appearing on his face as he said, “Mmm, they’re delicious. You’re the first girl Jake has brought here, and you certainly know how to leave a good impression on us,” he said, his arm wrapping around his wife’s shoulders.

Y/N smiled at them, but when she turned her head, she saw Jake eating her biscuits enthusiastically, and it made her chuckle. "Yunie, you like them?" she teased.

He heard her tease him and felt his heart warm, his cheeks flushing slightly. He quickly finished chewing his biscuit, a sheepish smile on his face. Chuckling, his face reddened with embarrassment as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Mmm, yeah, they’re delicious. I couldn’t help myself, they were too good,” he replied with a small laugh, his eyes full of affection toward her.

She smiled at him and moved closer, brushing away some crumbs from his mouth. He felt his heart melt at her gentle gesture, a small shiver running down his spine at her touch. His body instinctively leaned closer to hers as he continued to eat, careful not to make too much of a mess this time. His cheeks flushed even more as she wiped the crumbs from his face, his heart swelling with love and adoration for her.

The night went on, and it was nearly 11 p.m., so they decided to head home, with his driver waiting outside. “Thank you so much for inviting me; it was a pleasure to meet you all,” Y/N said as they stood up.

Jake felt a wave of affection wash over him as the evening came to a close, his hand gently holding hers, comforted by her presence. He looked at his family, their eyes filled with warm smiles and approval. His father spoke up, "It was a pleasure to have you here, Y/N. Thank you for coming. You're welcome anytime."

She smiled as they dressed, gathering their gifts and heading out of the house. As they entered the driver’s car, Y/N sighed and laid her head on his shoulder, not knowing that the surprises weren’t finished yet.

“Now I know why you’re so sweet and caring. Your family is pure gold and candy,” she joked, playfully messing with his hand that was intertwined with hers.

He let out a small laugh, a warm smile spreading across his face. He felt his heart swell with affection as he looked at her, his eyes filled with tenderness. “Yeah, I got lucky with my family. They’ve always supported me in everything I do. And they seem to really like you too, so we’re going to see a lot of each other from now on,” he said softly, his fingers tightening their grip on hers. Their hands felt warm and comfortable together.

They arrived back home, took off their jackets and shoes, and placed the gifts on the table before sitting on the sofa, settling into the quiet comfort of each other’s company.

She smiled at him as he led her to his room, only to reveal another surprise. "You wanna go to bed?" she asked, confused, while he sat her down on the bed. His heart skipped a beat at her puzzled expression, feeling a mix of anticipation and excitement. He sat beside her, gently caressing her back, trying to contain the small smile tugging at his lips.

“Mmm, no, but I have a surprise for you, my love,” he said softly, his eyes filled with affection. She blinked, still unsure. "You already gave me my gift," she said, a bit confused.

He chuckled at her confusion, his hand continuing to trace soothing circles on her back. His eyes met hers as he tried to keep the surprise a secret for just a bit longer. “I know, but this one’s different. Wait here,” he said softly, his eyes glowing with warmth.

She watched him as he moved to his desk, opening a drawer and pulling out a small blue box. Her curiosity grew as he returned to sit next to her, their bodies close.

“Open it, and tell me what you think,” he said warmly, his heart racing as he handed her the box.

She took the box, unwrapping it carefully. "God, Yunie, what did you buy me?" she chuckled nervously, noticing the iconic Tiffany box, knowing it was likely something expensive.

His heart fluttered as she opened the box, a mix of excitement and nervousness swirling inside him. He watched her face as she unraveled the ribbon, revealing a Tiffany Knot Ring in Yellow Gold with Diamonds. A gasp escaped her lips. "Yunie... I..." she was at a loss for words, looking at him in shock.

Ring reference:

His heart swelled with warmth as he saw her reaction. His fingers lightly drummed against her leg as he waited for her to speak.

“Mmm, do you like it?” he asked softly, his voice barely above a whisper, his heart beating wildly as he awaited her response.

A smile slowly appeared on her lips. “I love it... but it must have been expensive. I mean... I...” She was overwhelmed by the gesture, her emotions rising as the significance of the ring hit her.

He leaned in, his fingers intertwining with hers, his other hand lightly touching the ring. “Don’t worry about the price. It’s not about that. It’s about what it means to me.”

Her heart raced, and butterflies filled her stomach. With her left hand trembling slightly, she extended it to him.

His emotions surged as she offered her finger to him. He gently took the ring from the box, his fingers trembling with anticipation. “Can I?” he asked softly, his breath catching as his eyes searched hers for permission.

She smiled and mouthed a small "yes," her eyes beginning to well with tears as he gently slipped the ring onto her finger.

He felt a rush of joy as the ring slid perfectly onto her finger. It was a moment he would never forget. His heart soared as he saw the tears in her eyes, and a soft smile appeared on his lips. “It looks beautiful on you,” he said quietly, his hand moving to gently cup her cheek, brushing away the tear that had escaped.

She stared at her hand in disbelief, then looked up at him, her voice barely a whisper. "I love you," she said, straddling his lap and hugging him tightly. "I LOVE YOU SO MUCH, GOD, I LOVE YOU," she exclaimed as she peppered his face with kisses.

His heart overflowed with love as she hugged him, her body pressing against his, her kisses making his heart race. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her tightly, his hands tracing comforting patterns on her back. “I love you too, my love. You mean the world to me,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he held her close.

He buried his face in her neck, inhaling her sweet scent, feeling at peace as they embraced. His arms tightened around her, their bodies fitting perfectly together, and for a few moments, nothing else mattered but the warmth they shared. Eyes closed, they stayed wrapped in each other's arms, their hearts beating in sync, enjoying the intimacy of the moment, the outside world completely forgotten.

[midnight-mourning]

Sleigh Bells Ring (Are you Listening?)

❄️❄️Midnight's DCA December Day 16❄️❄️

Another cute fluffy fic for you all, what a surprise amiright? Anywho, really tried to capture the scenery with this one, personally a big fan of cold snowy winters mhm, and also kissing robots-WHAT WHO SAID THAT anywho, enjoy!

Prompt: Oouu bats my little eyelashes,,i have a request!!💥💥 i think going on a sleigh ride with the dca would be fun!!!

Word Count: 1796

❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

Your feet hit the floor with a quiet thump. You stretch, yawning as you check the time on your phone. Still early, but the smell of food cooking downstairs has made you wide awake.

You twist to look outside, seeing a white, rolling landscape looking back at you. You walk over to the window, putting your hand on the cool glass. There's a bit of snow still falling, not as hard as the past few days, but enough. 

When you first thought of the idea of returning to your family's old farmhouse all those months ago, you'd been hesitant. Mainly because you weren't sure how the attendant would react to such a stark contrast in environment compared to the Plex, and then your small cramped apartment. Two very different locations in terms of size, noise level, and population. 

However, after the devastation that was the fire, and the months of recovery that followed, you think a change of pace would be what was best for all of you. And, you were right. 

Both Sun & Moon had seemingly loved every minute of being on the farm, cleaning things up, taking care of the animals and the land, and so on and so forth. 

You walk downstairs, the old floorboards creaking with each step, the air getting just a little warmer as you enter the main floor. 

You spy Sun in the kitchen cooking breakfast. He turns to you as you enter. 

"Good morning, Sunbeam! Did you sleep well?'

You nod, pouring yourself a cup of coffee. "Yeah. You guys been up long?"

"Just a little bit!" Sun walks over, depositing a plate of pancakes, bacon, and other breakfast goodies in front of you. You don't ignore how the food resembles a smiley face, commenting on such. His rays spin at your words. 

Mid-bite you speak up. "I'm thinking after we check on the animals we clear out the back of the barn. There's a bunch of stuff back there that either needs fixed up or thrown out already. It'll be an all-day activity, if you're up for it."

"You know how much we love organizing!" Sun claps his hands. 

"Great. Let me finish breakfast."

The air nips at your nose, hands in your pocket as you make your way over to the barn. Sun's ahead of you, stopping every so often to examine the snow in detail, or to drop to the ground and make a snow angel. If you weren't trying to stay warm you'd join in, you were having a competition and you were losing severely. 

Upon arrival, the animals greet you. Cows mooing, goats bleating, and what have you. 

Before you open up the doors a bit further and hit the lights, you watch Moon retrieve a spare carrot from his sleeve, giving it to his—supposedly not favorite—favorite horse, Opal. 

"You're spoiling her." You say, unlocking the big doors and starting to push them apart.

Moon scratches the horse's head with both hands while she revels in the attention. "Nonsense. She needs it."

You scoff, but smile as the two continue to admire each other. 

You allow all the animals that want to out to roam in their yards for a bit while you and Sun work on cleaning and feeding them. With the help it takes very little time at all. Allowing you the chance to get started on your project in the back. 

It's as messy as you always remember it being, your grandpa wasn't a hoarder by any means, just a collector rather. Among the old farm equipment is random knick knacks and quite frankly, junk. No disrespect to the old man, but what use he saw in a five foot tall chicken statue, that was between him and the statue you supposed. 

You make good progress however, getting about half of it at least organized in piles before lunch time. 

You're about to head back inside and shut the barn up again for a bit when Sun calls you to the very back of the barn. 

"What's this, Starlight?" He points to a large mass half covered in shadow and a sheet. 

You furrow your brow and decide the best course of action is to just pull the sheet off. After the dust settles, something clicks in place in your memory. 

You can't help the grin that splits your face. "Hey! It's the sleigh my grandpa used to take us for rides in when we were kids." You take a step closer, hand ghosting over the brass trim. "Man, I completely forgot about this. Didn't know he kept it all these years. Still in good condition too."

It's true, it was a lot better than you would have ever expected. The dark green painted wood has only a few minor chips and scratches. The leather seats and have no cracks or tears, just a fine coating of dust. Even the brass that decorates and lines the edges of the sleigh look good, you can see your own warbly reflection in places. 

"It's beautiful..." Sun says beside you, his own hand hovering just above it, like he's afraid to touch it. "Would, would it still be useable?"

You shrug, looking back to the sleigh. "I don't see why not." You knock the side a couple times. "Wood doesn't seem to be rotted, meaning it should still be pretty sturdy. Why, would you guys want to go for a ride?"

"Please!" 

You look up to him, slightly surprised. 

Sun fakes a cough, rays flitting. "I mean, if we could, we really, really want to. Pretty please."

You laugh. "Okay, yeah. Shouldn't be too hard. Let's drag it out to the front and we'll clean it up after lunch."

After a bite to eat, you and the attendant work to clean up the old sleigh. Wiping it down, polishing, sharpening the blades and so on. It's tedious work, but you enjoy it and the conversation you share. 

By mid-afternoon, the sleigh is ready to go and both Sun and Moon are more than ready to go for a ride. 

"Sun hold on, I need to adjust the reins to make sure they're comfortable." You have to shoo him away from you so you can focus. 

His rays spin as he whines, but retreats to sit down in the sleigh. "I know, I know, but we've been waiting alllll day."

"And you've been so incredibly patient." You respond, adjusting the bridle on Marshmallow's—named by your cousin's kid—nose.

"Exactly!"

With a laugh, you double check everything before walking behind the horses to the sleigh. Picking up the reins you turn to the frantic bot beside you. "Ready?"

"Yes!" He clasps his hands together. "Please, Sunshine. I'm begging you. Let's go."

You sigh, long and dramatic. Then, you grin. "Alright, let's go." You click your tongue, tugging on the reins once and you start to move forward. 

The wind blows all around you, cold against your face. But, you're having too much fun to care. 

You swear Sun's eyes are sparkling as he takes it all in. Head whipping back and forth as you travel along. It's peaceful, the crunch of the snow under the horses' hooves, the skating of the sled. Despite the weather it's a gorgeous scene as you cross the countryside. 

The snow thankfully isn't too much for Opal and Marshmallow to handle, and you think they seem very content and please to not be cooped up in the barn. 

Besides the cold on your face, it's pretty cozy inside the sleigh, the two of you are wrapped up in an old fur blanket you'd found in the attic, and if you weren't so happy that they were having such a good time, you'd be burning up at the thought of sitting so close with them. 

Sun's knee bounces against your as he taps his foot, hands fidgeting with your coat sleeve as he has no other way to expel his energy. 

You spend a good hour or so out in the snow, even stopping by some of the neighbors places to check in. You return home, cold and hungry, and Sun is happy to usher you inside and cook up dinner. 

While cleaning up, you check outside and are pleased to see that the snow has stopped for now, leaving way for a clear night with a full moon. Just like you were hoping. 

It takes a moment of convincing, but you pull the boys back out into the snow, stating that it's only fair that Moon should get a ride too. 

Soon enough, you're back out in the world, the peace of the night just a pretty as the day. There's only a few stars out, but the moonlight is so gorgeous as it illuminates your path that it more than makes up for it. 

It's somehow even quieter out now. The wind blowing only every so often. The lantern you'd set in the back seat casts a yellow hue of the back of Moon's head as he enjoys the ride. While not as fidgety as Sun, he does stick close, hand having somehow intertwined with one of your own, rubbing small circles into the back of it every so often. 

All of the sudden, you feel his head rest on your own, it causes heat to grow on your ears. 

"Thank you for indulging us and our insistent demands today, Star." He sighs, snuggling closer to you. "This has been lovely."

You duck your head a moment, then clear your throat. "Yo-You're welcome."

Moon's chuckle reverberates against you. 

"Could you stop for a moment?" He asks after some time has passed. 

You nod. "Sure."

It takes a second, but eventually you're sitting still, waiting for what he's going to do. 

What you don't expect is Moon to shift, using his free hand to move under your chin and turn you to face him. 

"Wha—"

He bends down then, pressing his smile to your lips, pulling away after a moment. 

"That's all, you can keep going now." He snickers, sitting back in the seat. 

You blink, taking a moment to process before protesting. "Are you serious? You think you can just do that and not say anything more?"

"Opal wants to get moving, she has carrots to snack on when we return. Marshmallow too."

You hook the reins around part of the sleigh, twisting to face Moon fully. "Opal can wait. I have a few things I'd like to say first." You use both hands to pull his faceplate down to your lips, kissing him again. 

And as you sit there, kissing—one of—the bots you love, you can't help but feel a little more grateful that you'd found the sleigh.

So, very grateful.

❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️

Gah loved writing this one, thank you @crystalmagpie447 for the request! I hope you enjoyed the fluffy sleigh ride, I def did :)

Masterpost link

Tag list (if you would like added, see this post for more info):

@scarletcowboy @beemyhuneybee @fishm0ther @deviouscrackers @elsajoyagent8

@luckyyyduckyyy @zenkaiankoku @jogimote @local-shrub @amarynthian-chronicles

@robinette-green @everlightreader @sinister-sincerely @starredeclipse @dangerva

@juukai @crystalmagpie447 @mothgutz236 @lizyxml

[selenityshiroi]

I know that Call the Midwife gets a little more cheesy and a little more on the nose each year...but it's good cheese and some issues need to be smacked on the nose with a rolled up newspaper.

And every episode still has heart. Still makes you feel. Because it's always about people being people.

I rolled my eyes at the completely unsubtle romance they shoved in for Nancy (and what do you mean 'one day I'm gonna tell you I love you'??? It's been one date, lad!) but also cried at that convict saying goodbye to his mum.

I know, at some point, they really aren't going to be able to continue the show. But until then I'm going to get my annual dose of real human emotions from watching it.

Also the Turner family continues to give me warm fuzzies and it's so cute that the kids we've watched growing up in this show now have plots and lines, Phyllis Crane is still the greatest person who has ever existed, I hope Trixie's plane never leaves (clearly she's gonna be back for some episodes, from the preview), I'm glad Reggie is back for some episodes and I wonder if we'll see Tim for any at all, I hope that man who has it in for Sister Jullienne steps on a lego and then chokes and dies how dare he (but are we going to get new, more relaxed habits for the nuns to make them more approachable?), I genuinely forgot that Sister Veronica was midwife trained and not just a social worker, the Cyril and Rosalind plot is obvious but I wonder how they will handle the Lucille of it all, Miss Higgins and her grandson bonding is so sweet (even with how heartbreaking it was to see her find and lose her son)...and, well, here's to the show making me cry with some character who has like 15 minutes of screen time for another season!

[ghostnotoast]

I'm having withdrawal symptoms from waiting for the new episode to come out, and this has been buzzing around my head since this part came out (also I wanna talk about my wife Lily)

Relistening to this part twice made me cry I'm not even gonna lie but weirdly enough it made me think of the end of season 1 where John gets a taste of being the king for a split second but then chooses to go back to Arthur. After he returns, he says:

"But it was in that time in the hospital, that month alone. Trapped in this body without you, when something changed"

"I found meaning. I found that the challenges of life within the boundaries of death were not only acceptable, but could be meaningful. That without a purpose I could forge my own. Is that humanity?"

Don't get me wrong, I don't think it was Lily who was fully responsible for giving John humanity - if anything, that's the mistake Arthur makes in season 3 when comparing John to Yellow (which John calls him out for). It was Arthur who laid out the pieces, and Lily was basically the one to make it click.

Buttt I think reducing John's reason for humanity to only one thing is almost a disservice- because developing a sense of self is so much more complex than that.

It was Arthur's love, it was the stories and thoughts he would share with John, it was being in awe of seeing trees and nature again after so long of living in the dark, it was hearing music, it was listening to the radio, it was the joy he felt after they complished something and he was finally able to feel something other than fear, it was seeing the wraith help them, it was holding a cute baby and picturing her future as a pianist, it was seeing her mother and recognising that she had just lost something priceless, it was having to hold onto hope that anyone is capable of redemption, it was defending and having empathy for the widow despite what Arthur had said.

The last moment is paralleled in season 3 with their conversation about Yellow. Listening to all these makes me realise just how much Yellow missed out on.

Arthur no doubt played a massive role in helping John find humanity and meaning, but honesty? I don't know if purely being with Arthur is what made John who he is. John himself has a conscious and had to make decisions on his own and, on multiple occasions, fights Arthur about ideology with basically little to no outside influence (e.g, their infamous first divorce).

Despite all that though, I still do think Arthur was one of the biggest reasons, I mean just look at Yellow 😭 I'll write an entire essay about him one day

But this entire yap session was basically me trying to imagine what exactly was so special about that month at the hospital because let's be real if I were John I would go crazy BUT sometimes i just imagine John being there, in a hospital without Arthur, being able to do nothing but think

He thinks about the bright clear blue sky he saw, a bird that landed on the windowsill when they were at the library, he thinks about how alive this world is compared to where he came from, he thinks about the radio that's playing, he thinks about the piano, and then he thinks about Arthur

And I imagine he looks at Lily, at her tending to them, at her chatting to them, at her turning on the radio for them so they're not bored and even though people would call all these extra bits of care pointless - she does it anyway, and she does it for them, and John is there to witness this, and that's the moment where it clicks.

I imagine it sort of being like being moved back to see a finished puzzle and finally understanding what you've been making this entire time after spending so long up close looking at individual pieces

And I think that's what the witch didn't understand about John's story. Lily's care was the climax of John becoming John, and even though John acknowledges that for her it was probably another Tuesday - it still doesn't dampen the fondness and love he has for her, he just loves for the sake of it

[caffedrine]

Yves and Rio - Christmas Special: The Beasts' Drink - Event Translation

Thank you to @otomehoneyybearr for providing the script for this event.

This is a poor attempt at a fan translation, so take everything with a grain of salt. For a better translation, buy this when it comes out on the ENG server.

On a winter day as Christmas approaches, at the Rhodolite Castle—

Yves: “Well, if it were me, I’d invite someone on a date like this.”

Rio: “As expected of you, Prince Yves! How romantic!”

Yves: “Well, it’s just this much, you know.”

Yves: “Though, to be honest, I’ve never actually done it…”

Rio: “It’s so like serious Prince Yves to have multiple heartfelt date plans prepared for the coming day.”

Yves: “Heh, by the time you reach my level, you can have it all perfectly planned in your head without actually going on a date—wait, why am I saying this!?”

Yves: “...Ah, I got surprised and now I'm feeling thirsty.”

Yves: “Hmm, this alcohol you brought is rich in aroma and delicious.”

Rio: “Right? I thought Emma would like it, so I ordered it.”

Yves: “Are you sure it’s okay to give me such important alcohol?”

Rio: “It's fine, I ordered a hundred bottles!”

Yves: “Oh, is that so…”

Rio: “By the way, Prince Yves, how can we make the date day more romantic?”

Rio: “I want to convey all my overflowing feelings, but I’ve been told by various people that it’s ‘too much’.”

Yves: “Hmm... I think adding an element of ‘subtlety’ would be good.”

Yves: “On the day, since you’ll be excited for the date, first compliment their outfit and makeup. Casually, you know?”

Rio: “Being casual is difficult. No matter how hard I try, I just think I’ll be overwhelmed by her cuteness and end up on the ground.”

Yves: “That would be the complete opposite of subtlety.”

Rio: “It might be difficult to compliment casually. Is there anything else?”

Yves: “Hmm, I think giving a small present would be nice too. Something separate from the Christmas present, of course.”

Rio: “A small present! That’s good!”

Rio: “...A light gift apart from the Christmas present… for example, a hundred love letters…”

Yves: “No, wait. I think I heard something strange just now, but that’s too much. That’s not a small gift at all.”

Rio: “Really? I think that's lighter than a thousand letters.”

Yves: “I’m not talking about its physical weight.”

Rio: “By the way, how about the meal on the date day?”

Yves: “Huh? Oh, meals... I recommend reserving a restaurant that isn't too extravagant.”

Yves: “Even if the presentation of the food is flashy, the taste is the most important, after all.”

Rio: “I understand.”

Rio: “Honestly, the sweets that Emma tried to hide because she ‘burned them...’ are tastier than the finest dishes.”

Yves: “I feel like that’s not quite the point... No, but essentially, it might be…”

Yves: “Wait, am I a bit drunk? I’m starting to lose track of what’s right.”

Yves: “Well, whatever, let’s get to the all-important Christmas present!”

Rio: “I’ve been waiting for this!”

Yves: “What matters most is the feeling behind it. It’s about expressing your feelings for the other person through a gift.”

Yves: “So having a large quantity doesn’t necessarily mean—”

Rio: “So, you’re talking about things like gloves to keep their hands warm, right?”

Yves: “That’s too much… Huh?”

Rio: “What?”

Yves: “…It’s not that bad.”

Rio: “Yes.”

Yves: “Sorry, I was wrong. Gloves are a good choice.”

Rio: “I’m glad!”

Yves: “…”

Rio: “…”

Yves: “Why is it that we’re suddenly being so sensible here!”

Rio: “Huh? I thought I was being serious and sensible from the start…”

Yves: “If you think that’s serious, then it’s even worse!”

Yves: “Ah, I knew your love was great, but I didn’t realize it was this much…”

Yves: “Just keep the gifts to a moderate level, okay?”

Rio: “Understood! I’ll make sure the bouquet of roses I give along with the present will be 1,000 instead of 10,000 so that Emma’s arms don’t get tired!”

Yves: Like I was saying!

[mahojelly92]

Ask and you shall receive! This one's short n' sweet. (Lmao see what I did there)

18+ for smut, fem!reader

Schlatt could tell by the way you were belting Sabrina Carpenter's lyrics that he'd have to deal with this for a while. Whenever you discovered a new obsession, you would latch onto it like a wild animal latched onto its prey. Your infatuations would last for weeks at a time, until one faded into oblivion and another replaced it. He didn't complain, though, because he loved seeing you all happy and excited over something you liked, even if that meant his ears would bleed from how loud you sang.

Last week you forced Jay to watch TikToks from Sabrina’s recent tour, endlessly scrolling and grinning at the screen.

“Isn't she just the best?” You beamed and looked up at him expectantly, observing how he'd react to her promiscuous dancing. He just rolled his eyes and smirked at you.

“Babe, you really like this? I mean, it's good music, but I can't see why you….” And then she performed her signature Juno pose, causing his cheeks to flush.

You laughed and egged him on, gushing about how great she is and that he needs to listen to her more.

This led to present day, where you both listened to her whole album on a road trip, much to Schlatt's protests. He grumbled and stayed quiet in the beginning, painfully enduring each song. But when Juno came on, Schlatt glanced from the road to the passenger seat, smiling as you passionately performed the lyrics. You weren't far from home when the song came on. Little did you know, you wanted this. You planned for this.

The lyrics were playful and fun, but just freaky enough to where Jay would notice and… well, you know.

I know you want my touch for life

If you love me right, then who knows?

I might let you make me Juno

You know I just might

Let you lock me down tonight

One of me is cute, but two, though?

Give it to me, baby

He pulled into the driveway, putting the car in park, turning towards you and smirking as you chant the lyrics proudly. You pulled on his shirt during , “lock me down tonight “.

You make me wanna make you fall in love

Oh, late at night, I'm thinkin' 'bout you, ah, ah-ah

Wanna try out some freaky positions?

Have you ever tried this one?

As you sing, you stare into his eyes, bending and arching your back as far as the front seat could allow you. Schlatt chuckled and raised his eyebrows, staring back at you in amusement.

This was getting good.

You wrap your arms around him as you sing the next verse. You giggle and lean into him, almost daring him to kiss you right then and there.

Adore me, hold me, and explore me

Mark your territory

Tell me I'm the only, only, only, only one

Adore me, hold me, and explore me

I'm so fuckin' horny

Tell me I'm the only, only, only, only one

You flip your hair back and forth, staring up at him and making sexy, silly faces. Needless to say, Schlatt was turned on by your air of confidence and goofiness. His arousal grew with each word that came out of your mouth, making him feel like you were singing just for him. As soon as the song ended, he couldn't help but take you inside and fuck you right in the living room.

Juno was ringing in both your ears as Schlatt pounded into you on the couch. The song drifted between your moans and whimpers. What can you say? It was super catchy! You smile to yourself as Schlatt thrusts into you, realizing that he was becoming a Sabrina fan just as much as you were.

I wrote this in like 30 minutes at 1am so please forgive me for any mistakes, haha. T'was fun!

i need a schlatt fic based on juno by sabrina carpenter so bad,,, i would write it myself but Y’ALL ARE BETTER AT WRITING THAN ME PLS

[sysig]

They’re both so cute, what’s up with that (Patreon)

[commsroom]

Ok so I absolutely love your Hera art.

But

Have you considered

Pink/orange/multicolored Hera

Honestly I feel like warm colors in general just suit her so well.

oh, i don't know! when i ask people to draw hera blue, the reasons for that are: 1) it makes her more immediately recognizable, and 2) i like what it represents! it draws on existing sci-fi imagery of holograms. a projected image of someone who is physically elsewhere. it's associated with water and sky, distance and longing.

physically, i think there are two heras: there's the way people literally perceive her from an outside perspective - formless, or associating her with the hephaestus itself, which is misidentification. i love when people draw eiffel interacting with hera's cameras + monitors very much, but i also think it's clear she feels she's seeing through them, not that she is them. and there's hera as she sees herself in her own mind (and in eiffel's mind, in the finale), where... i really think she just perceives herself as an average, tangible person.

so i don't think she's literally blue, i just think it's a good way to give her a visual presence in art that's closer to her self-perception, while still communicating some sense of distance / disconnect, if that makes sense? if hera had a body and could wear clothes, i think she'd love to try on all sorts of colors!!

[daiourage]

Thank you for the insight on your thoughts!!!

(Sorry for being late I'm in Japan time rn also I wanted to switch to my computer and respond before class bc I have much to say about your having much to say lmao--)

On the topic of me saying that Kris doesn't like Ralsei all that much, I just meant in comparison to the other characters, but looking back on Noelle's tea-healing on Kris, I guess it really doesn't change all that much, huh? I think also I got caught on the fact that Susie's healing is CRAZY when Kris uses her tea, and (I just thought of this) I think it's because she showed growth and that she can change. I know I'd like someone SO MUCH more if I knew them at their worst and saw them change in front of me (probably why I like mean/strange characters sometimes...). Ralsei doesn't have that change, and we've only known him at his current state. I hope you're right and that it does change, because I like Ralsei a lot;;;

Also, it does seem that people don't have much of a positive opinion on Kris and Ralsei's relationship purely because of the "incest"-ish implications, and how awkward Ralsei acts around Kris like he's in love or something. But there's also some things that you've mentioned, where Kris does show some interesting actions regarding Ralsei. I know they probably don't like socializing as much as someone outgoing does and probably thinks Ralsei's overbearing at times, but I do find the "biting the dummy's cheek" part interesting. While we control Kris, there are options to hug Ralsei, and I'd like to think that Kris is the one giving us the options. As well as the option to call him cute, and other factors (I'm blanking right now, please tell me what I'm missing ;w;)

But yeah, I'm glad you also like my "Ralsei is Kris's childhood ideal self" or in other words, "Ralsei is Kris's childhood fursona" if we're gonna be a little more humorous about it.

(I'd love to hear more honestly, please talk to me I'm sick and also going to school so I might respond late but know that I appreciate you)

“Are you… proposing?”

Merry Krismas!!!

(Edit: not a ship drawing but just in case I’ve tagged it as such!!!)

(It’s not Christmas-like but it’s based on the Snow Ring dialogue… Noelle is Christmas themed… please accept this;;;)

I personally enjoy the theory that Ralsei is Kris’s (childhood) ideal self, which is why they don’t like Ralsei all that much. It’s also why Ralsei likes Kris a lot and says some… questionable things, like flirting around the idea of marriage, despite looking like Asriel.

(Though to be fair, he is probably not all too used to social interactions…)

I also think he’s a boy because Kris wanted to be like Asriel. He’s probably also a prince because Kris wanted to be important…

I dunno. It’s an interesting theory I like!

Also I’m a “marriage = become one” kinda person, and I like the idea of Kris becoming uncomfortable at the thought of becoming their previous ideal self.

I know I’d be a little uncomfy;;;

[hotpinkboots]

i just think she's neat

Photographs were found on Pinterest and do not belong to me. The only one I made is the, "Science Fiction, Double Feature!" picture.

[thesorrowoflizards]

i really like ericka and wolf's interactions in the pilot. and honestly just generally wolf's interactions with the interns

[crystalslucky]

Crystal listened intently as he gave his thoughts on the situation, nodding along to look as though she was taking it all in. "Death or mass abduction is our only options here? The only way I see mass kidnapping making sense is…aliens. Though, I don't know if I'd give up on the afterlife theory just yet." She had been out in the lake in the middle of the night after all, either death or alien abduction made sense to her as an outcome for arriving here.

"That is kind of weird huh? You get this big group of people and then randomly one offs come around to join the party? You'd think would whoever brought us here just have us all show up all at once and then nobody else, otherwise what's the point of bringing the whole group if you've got a few stragglers every few weeks that you forgot about."

But what did she know, right? That seemed like something that would take way too much time and energy to figure out. Especially when she would much rather focus on Tej than some mystery. At least she might get actually somewhere with Tej, at least she hoped so based off the way he looked at her and licked his lips. "I'm glad you agree. You do strike me as a guy who likes to have a good time though so it looks like I waved down the right person. Maybe you can give me a tour and show me all the best spots on this beach."

Crystal did love the paint splatter effect that his gem seemed to have, from the parasocial knowledge she had of him, it seemed like it suited him. But she wasn't going to say it out loud so instead she posed it as a question. "You into art? Big on paint? Or do these little accents have a deeper meaning than that?" Her own gem, she wasn't entirely sure of. The only blue gems she knew about were sapphires, and it didn't have any special touches like his did. "I don't know. I think it's lovely though. And I do like the idea that I could make someone jealous. Not like I have any control over what I got."

She hummed softly, shrugging at his remark about sneaking into pools. "Maybe. It's also very good when you want some alone time." which in a way was true. Wanting that time to be alone and self reflect, until she ended up here. Then a question meant to be more heart wrenching. Did she really miss anyone? Maybe her parents, despite everything they always did their best to be there for her. But…it was incredibly difficult for her to think about anyone truly special enough to miss. Crystal looked down at her feet dangling in the water, clasping her hands together in her lap and letting out an almost wistful sigh. "I don't really have anyone back home to miss. People in my life are either already gone or don't deserve to be missed. What about you? Feeling homesick?"

Any other concerns? In this moment Crystal didn't think she had any right to have any concerns. Even if her dramatic lore drop caused a shift in the mood, she was still on a beautiful beach with perfect weather, chatting up a hot guy. She was having a great time. "That's about it for now. I don't see this getting dull for me any time soon, I'm a simple girl, easy to please." she answered, giving him a coy smile. "I've met a few other people but not too many yet. Though, you know what I did see that there's that list of everyone's phone numbers hung up. I thought that was so cute and thought it would be fun to text a few numbers to say hi. So there's some I've met just not in person."

"There's actually one," she started, chuckling in amusement to herself as her brain already started to twist the events that took place. "It was kind of funny, kind of weird, I think his name is Zaid? That's what the name was on the sheet next to the number. I think he really misunderstood me and thought I was hitting on him over text. Like, ok, ego much? I was just being nice and all of a sudden he invited me over for 'dinner'." she put emphasis and air quotes around the word, as if he hadn't offered up the information to her that he was a chef. "I don't know what that's all about. But I don't think I'm going, especially if he's some kind of weirdo."

Why were they there. A frost filled his chest, an ice cold spring of dread. Those rows of bungalows did not house as random of a sampling as it seemed. Not when Tej knew a few of them, or discovered being separated by a degree from another. A self-centered view but then again how could he not think that way?

"Yeah," he started. "See, I dunno. Thought maybe I bit it, you know. Died. We're all dead." Tej thought about it enough after Inika, so maybe his wish was granted. "Too obvious, the dead thing? It'd be an elaborate mass kidnapping otherwise, yeah? But, ah. Not sure how long it's been. Months now. Woke up with a big group of people. The first group. Or, first ones in awhile."

Why waste time asking unanswerable questions. Tej wasn't sure he was the type to accept the unknowable or wander blindly through it. However, that did not matter in the moment. Hell, didn't even care if she was real or a figment of his imagination. The anesthetic of grief deadened the nerves for so long, but now they began to feel again. "Enjoying ourselves, yeah." He wet his lips, gaze in a quick sweep over her again. "When you put it that way, it's almost impossible to resist."

She kept his arm in place to admire the stone. "I'm just special, hm. It's nice. An opal, I think. Reminds me of paint. Little splattered specks of the stuff." He did the same to her bracelet, reached out for Crystal's wrist and brushed the pads of his fingers over the blue stone. "Gotta wonder what these mean. Everyone's is different. What about yours. It's bright, clear. I'm sure someone will envy it."

Tej eyed the calm in front of them. Imagined Crystal alone in a pool with only the glow of the water reflected on the walls (the same color as her stone). "Sneaking into a pool? Thought that's reserved for skinny dipping with friends." In a public pool? Nah. He wondered if Crystal was in the community one at Barretto park but decided not to pursue it.

"Fine, not a black out. I might've seen a light. Barely remember now." His chin lifted. "Missing anyone back home?"

Tej thought nothing of the smooth slide from tacos to pizza. Tej nodded with a sliver of a smile. "Everyone's got their favorite place for a slice, but there's not really a bad one in New York, yeah?"

At the word cuisine, Tej sat a little straighter. Shoulders stiff, smile faded. Everything came back to Zaid, and it was infuriating. A star chef probably could whip up a delicious rival pizza using the processed dregs in the warehouse, no problem. Fuck Zaid. "Yeah, shit out of luck food wise. Well, you've seen the warehouse? There's packaged and tinned foods in there. Nothing fresh. Some people are doing the hunting and foraging thing. There is a fishing hole too. Fish jump right into the baskets. If you find a stand or food truck, lemme know."

"Got any other concerns aside from an empty stomach, Crystal from NYC?" Perhaps the easy air she seemed to move through this horror show with should be unnerving. It kind of wasn't. A temporary relief, more than anything. A chance to shut his mind off to the seriousness around him. "It's not gonna get dull dipping your toes in the water every day? Staring at the same crowd. Have you met anyone else?"