#and i just planned my brother's bday gift for next week

[zeynatura]

.

[rinhaler]

PRELUDE

CHAPTER SUMMARY : Your best friend Chigiri is hanging out at your place helping you wrap gifts for the holidays. Weird coincidence that your ex-boyfriend's brother texts you while you're talking about him with an invitation to visit the Itoshi family cabin!

ex-fiancé!rin x f!reader

WARNINGS : 18+, alchol consumption, mentions of a breakup.

WORDS : 1k

notes: SOOOOO nervous to share this but I hope u all enjoy :3

               MASTERLIST ┊ NEXT CHAPTER

“Do you miss him, still?” Hyoma asks, helping you wrap gifts to deliver to your family throughout the week. His question halts you, momentarily, before you shrug the thought away. “I get it, this time of year makes you think about things like that too much.”

You sigh, finishing one present and placing it in a tall gift bag before starting another.

“I don’t have any right to miss him, right? I ended things…” you try to laugh at yourself so you don’t cry, but Hyoma knows you too well, he knows how sensitive you are. He knows how you try and downplay your feelings so that you don’t make others feel uncomfortable.

But he knows you.

“It’s a big change, though.” he reminds you, “Cut yourself some slack.”

“Anyway!” you giggle, still trying to hide your true feelings before you burst into tears. “I’m dreading Christmas. I’m meant to be seeing my parents on different days, my dad has a new girlfriend who is younger than me. It’s so weird.”

“I told everyone I’m working so I don’t have to see anyone all week.” he smirks, laughing a little when he sees you staring at him with a look of horror. It’s kind of genius, really, you’re a little jealous you didn’t think of it. “It’s my birthday week, I choose peace.” he tells you, defending his choice.

“I love your birthday.” you tell him, finishing up another present. You stand up so you can stretch your body, sitting on the ground is definitely taking its toll. You end up yawning loudly as your body relaxes, but you feel a surge of energy as you look down and see a notification on your phone.

SAE: hey, are u doing anything next week?

“Um…” you say, pacing around a little as you read the text over and over. You catch Chigiri’s attention, he finishes wrapping the last item and puts it in the bag for your dad. “Sae just texted me.”

“Sae? What did he say?” he wonders, pulling his body up so he’s sitting on the couch behind him rather than the cream, fur rug in the middle of the hardwood floor. “You’re still in touch with him?!”

“Well, y-yeah! I figured I broke up with Rin, not his family, so…” you explain, sitting next to him on the couch and showing him the text. His eyes widen, surprised at what he’s asking. “Once we started getting along we were close! I didn’t feel right about cutting him off too… should I reply?”

“I don’t know. This is weird.”

You roll your eyes and look at the text thread again.

YOU: it’s chig’s bday and I’m seeing family! wbu? SAE: my parents are in Europe for the holidays so I’m heading up to the cabin with some friends. Interested?

“Oh my God.” you speak, showing Chigiri your phone.

“Stop calling me Chigs.” he scolds you, focusing again to read the most recent text. “Shit. What’re you gonna say?”

YOU: can’t! hyoma will be alone for his bday if I come 💔

“Don’t use me as an excuse!” he chastises you. “If you wanna go, go.”

“I don’t want to… what if Rin is there?”

SAE: bring him. SAE: there’s more than enough room.

Your heart is racing. You only realise how much when Hyoma reminds you to breathe. Even your hands are trembling as you hold your phone. He doesn’t say anything in way of an answer if he’d like to come or not, he’s leaving it in your hands.

“I- it’s your birthday, Hyoma!”

“I don’t have plans! We’ll either spend it together at home or spend it together in a rich boy’s cabin.” he assures you. You smile, weakly, appreciative of the support. But there’s no way you can go. You can’t face Rin after everything, not yet, maybe not ever. “Whatever you wanna do, I’ll support you!”

You look down at your phone again, still having no idea what to say.

SAE: Rin won’t be there, that’s why I’m inviting you. YOU: �� YOU: why? Let me guess, training? SAE: yeah. SAE: so… YOU: ugh… fine! If ur sure he won’t be there SAE: I’ll send the address 😊

“What am I doing?” you ask Chigiri, tossing your phone down onto the coffee table before turning to face him. He laughs, leaving you alone to open a bottle of Disaronno. “Hyoma… it’s 11am.”

He shrugs, “It’s Christmas.”

You laugh, watching him pour two small glasses for you both. The two of you get comfortable on the couch, facing each other, as you begin to dissect what just happened. He pulls the blanket down from the back of the sofa and you both struggle to adjust it with one hand each, neither of you willing to put down your drink.

Disaronno is dangerous, because it tastes so good. You drink it, lots of it, forgetting it isn’t in fact Dr Pepper in a glass. You both end up wasted, forgetting everything that just happened.

You look at your sparse Christmas tree, feeling a wave of sadness as you remember this time last year you and Rin had decorated it together.

“I do miss him…” you tell Chigiri after a lull of silence, lip wobbling as you think fondly of your ex. Chigiri shakes his head, though, taking another big gulp of a much larger drink.

“Don’t start.” he insists.

You sigh, putting your drink down and taking a few deep breaths. He tries to distract you with nonsensical chit chat, though it doesn’t really help. Rin is still at the forefront of your mind, no matter how hard you try and push him away. Who’s stupid idea was it to drink at 11am? Hyoma’s! It’s all his fault you’re in your fucking feelings.

“Hey, I’ve been wondering something…” he tells you, tilting his head as he thinks. “How are you gonna get out of seeing your parents for Christmas?”

You look at him, dumbfounded. You lean back over to the coffee table to grab your drink without taking your eyes off him. It’s gone in one swig, so he tops it up again. And you devour that, too.

“… Fuck.”

© 2023 rinhaler

[koolades-world]

help im suck a bad wife I totally forgot it about his bday. had a chatic weekend so this is a little late, but it's the thought that counts right?

happy birthday to my favorite man and fellow cat lover <3333

Happy Birthday Satan!

While his brothers seemingly has no trouble figuring out what to get their youngest brother for his birthday, you were stumped this year. His brothers always found some sort of large group gift, and each of them pitched something smaller. You were also in on the group gift, since the other brothers would feel bad if your name wasn’t added. However, you’d already exhausted your ideas for small gifts for him.

One year, it has been a rare, signed copy of his favorite book that you hunted for. Another time, you’d arranged a lunch with his favorite author (with the help of Simeon). For his past birthday, you’d had a day just doing his favorite things, since at that point, you’d also been running out of ideas at that point.

But, you couldn’t show up empty handed to his party. While you knew that his love for you wouldn’t be affected by a simple gift, it was something you wanted to do for him. You thought for hours on it, and couldn’t come up with anything he didn’t already have. So, instead, you decided to handmake something. That way, he'd have that memory forever, and it would be unique.

So, you got to work. First, you decided to make a handmade card. It seemed a bit childish at first, but you knew he'd appreciate the sentiment. It took you about an hour to complete it in a way you were happy with. You set it aside and promptly began the more challenging task.

The way you and Satan had initially bonded was over Alice in Wonderland. You'd just so happened to have the book in your bag when you'd been teleported into the Devildom. That, along with the other contents of you bag, were scattered around the room you'd been given. Satan had entered your room for some trivial reason neither of you remembered, and had had his attention diverted by the book on your desk. Your first real conversation was about the book. The conversation had gone so well, in fact, the two of you agreed to get coffee together the next day to continue the talk. After the events of the Lucifer-Satan body swap, the rest was history.

The book itself was now in poor condition. The pages were worn and stained. The cover was falling apart and taped back together in a few places. It was clear that the book was loved, and that the two of you had flipped through it easily hundreds of times. In honor of the beginning of your relationship, you decided to refurbish the book, and give the cover a well needed makeover. Using what he had taught you, you used a spell to repair the cover. However, you'd decided to leave the pages the way they were. It was still legible, and you loved that it was easy to tell how loved it was. Rather than just leaving it there, you designed and handmade a new jacket for the book that encapsulated all the memories you'd made together thanks to this very copy of the book.

The overall project took you easily all night. You could've put it down and done it in a few sessions, but you just couldn't. You wanted nothing more than to complete it. Once it was done, you tucked it under your bed in a box easily a week in advance for his birthday. So, you didn't really think anything of it when the other brothers caused a ruckus in your room the day of his birthday.

"Boys! Go get changed for Satan's birthday dinner. We're going to be late." You entered your room, already in the outfit you planned to wear. Asmo and Mammon seemed close to squaring up in the center of your room. Neither of them were ready, oddly enough. They acknowledged you, but didn't stop. "I don't care what this argument is over. Just go change and I'll sort it out later, ok?" You sighed, and tried to shoo them out of the room.

"But it wasn't my fault." Mammon insisted.

"We can talk about this tomorrow. Go get ready." It was odd of neither of the usually amiable brothers to budge. Usually, they caved pretty easily for you. You stopped Beel, who was passing by. You were not in the mood to bargain with them.

"Beel, please do me a favor and get them out of here? I have some snacks I can give you here somewhere." You quickly opened your bedside table and pulled out a bag of unopened chips. Beel happily accepted them, and did as you asked. Both Asmo and Mammon flipped out after their standoff had been interrupted. It involved lots of flailing of limbs, and the dragging of the carpet. It was pulled out just enough to reveal the nicely wrapped present. With several well timed swinging of limbs, the present was kicked through the open door, and into a table in the corridor. Before you could even think about running to get it back, a vase filled with flowers topped off the table, and onto the present.

You rushed to the present, inspecting it. It was completely drenched in water and covered in wet flower petals. You didn't want to open it, but you knew the book was likely ruined. As you were making the debate, crouched down in the hallway, the demon you wanted to see least in that moment walked up to you.

"I heard commotion." Satan rushed towards you. "You're not hurt, are you?" He glanced into you room, and took a large step back as Beel passed through with the spatting brothers.

"No, I'm alright. Thanks for asking." You let out a dejected sigh.

"I won't ask, if you don't want to tell me." Satan offered.

"It's only fair that I do." You weren't exactly sure how to go about explaining the situation. You got off the ground, and extended the soggy box to him. "Happy birthday." You tried to sound as happy as possible.

"You don't have to give this to me now." Despite his words, Satan accepted the present.

"It's probably ruined, but I felt bad opening it myself." When Satan saw that you weren't going to budge, he began opening it.

"I'm sure it's still fine." The wrapping paper gave way easily, and the waterlogged cardboard top was placed onto the same table the flowers had been on. Satan's face light up at the sight of the contents of the box. He set the other side of the box down and lifted the book into the air. It was untouched any traces of water, and looked just as it had when you'd wrapped it up.

"Mc, this is beautiful." He opened the book, and quickly realized just exactly what copy it was.

"It's not damaged." You were astonished.

"How long did this take?" He flipped it over in his hands, running his fingers over the picture of the two of you on the back cover.

"About a night." You admitted, hoping he wouldn't lay into you about it.

"Did you do this last week, when you were locked up in your room?" Laughed edged his voice.

"You know me too well." You couldn't help smile yourself.

"The reason why it's probably not damaged is whatever repair spell you used on the book. But, it just as equally could be the amount of love you put into this." As he said that, the picture of the two of you sheened a glittery gold.

"Well, this isn't how I'd planned to give it to you, but I'm really glad you like it." You opened your arms, offering him a hug. He accepted, leaning into you.

"I love it." He gave you a kiss on the forehead. "Since it's my birthday, I'd like you to read this with me." He smiled.

"You're finally using your birthday powers, I see." When you'd first introduced to concept to him, he'd thought it was strange. But now, he was more than happy to use it in his favor.

"So? Will I be seeing you?" He teased you.

"We're going out to dinner together, and we're coming back to the same house. Of course you will." You took note of just how quickly the sight of his smile could turn around a sour mood.

"Great. It's a date then." He gave you another little kiss before letting you go to take your hand. "Let's head to the front. Not everyone is ready yet, so we can have some us time." Satan held the book in his other hand.

"I like the sound of that." You felt so lucky to have him in your life. "Happy birthday, Satan."

[the-bird-and-the-flute]

Kuchen (Yumekuro) - 2023 Birthday

Featuring: gastronomy guild boys + Emma

Warnings: fluff, just a bit suggestive

Word count: 476

A/N: Happy bday Kuchen, my love!!! I didn't have time to do a more elaborate fic, but it's the thought that counts, right? I wanted to right a NSFW fic but I just didn't had any good ideas this time XDDDD

“Ohh, look at the time! Hurry up! He’ll be here soon.”

“Don’t worry, Emma. We’re almost there. There it is, the grand finale!”

“Wow, nice touch, Riche. That mini Caprice on top of the cake was a great idea. I think our brother will like that.”

“A shame they can’t be here now to celebrate his birthday, but we’ll make sure to invite them tomorrow, right, boys?.”

“Yes, the more the merrier. We should celebrate Kuchen nii-san’s birthday for a week. No… better yet, a whole month!”

“Fufu, it seems Riche is super excited about Kuchen's party.”

“By the way... Cuit, thank you so much for helping us to make this birthday cake. If it was just me and Riche here… Well…”

“Hehe, don’t worry about that. It was my pleasure. After all, it’s my old brother’s birthday, so I’m more than glad to do something for him.”

While Emma, Riche, and Cuit are adding the finishing touches to Kuchen’s blueberry cake, Walter and Oscar took Kuchen to a bar on the other side of the town to give the siblings and the guild keeper enough time to organize this simple party for the chocolatier.

“So… I think we should go back now, right, Oscar? I still want to discuss some last-minute arrangements with the guild about our next event.”

“Yes, you’re right, Walter. Let’s go. Kuchen, you should come too.”

“Hmm… What are you up to? Is something related to…”

“Ah… Whatever. I think I can tag along with you. Better than staying here before those women over there throw a fit because I didn't invite them for my birthday.”

Walter and Oscar laugh while Kuchen stands up first to leave as fast as possible without making eye contact with the thirsty ladies in the bar.

At the guild, Oscar and Walter head with Kuchen to their kitchen. When they get there, the trio starts singing happy birthday to Kuchen, but they notice he doesn’t seem surprised AT ALL. Then, Oscar and Walter explain that the birthday boy was probably aware of their schemes even before they took him to the bar.

“Well… I won’t deny that, but… That was a very nice team effort, huh? Thank you all. Shall we eat the cake or…?”

“Oh my god, Kuchen nii-san, I’m so happy you liked it!!! Yes, yes, let’s eat all together.”

An excited Riche was helping serve everyone when Kuchen saw Emma going to the pantry to get some napkins. The chocolatier approached and whispered in her ears: “You still planning to give me another gift tonight?”

“Wha- What are you saying? The cake is your gift, you know…”

“Oh yeah? I don’t know about that. Let's talk about this later... just the two of us”. He winks at Emma and heads back to his party to get a piece of his blueberry cake.

[cantquitu]

...

[nature-played-a-trick-on-me]

.

[roseyange]

happy bday human ~

mammon x gn!reader

♧♤♧♤♧♤♧

♡ reader is referred to by they/them/you

◇ kinda angsty but has a happy ending!!

an : really wanted to make a post for my birthday, but I'm impatient and decided to post it a few hours early lmaooo. this is my first time writing something this long in forever so!! hope u like it!!

♧♤♧♤♧♤♧

Mammon woke up just like any other day, immediately regretting it and wanting to go back to sleep. He cuddled up to his human who was still fast asleep, letting out a deep breath and allowing himself to get lulled back to sleep, but something didn't feel right. A nagging in the back of his head told him that he had something big happening today. After a few minutes he blew it off, letting himself relax more, deciding he can figure it out once he wakes up.

On the verge of sleep, it hits him, his eyes fluttering open with a shocked look on his face. Today was his human's birthday! How could he have forgotten?  He allows himself a minute to mentally scold himself, not believing he almost went back to sleep. All of the plans he had made over the past three weeks would have gone to waste.

He slowly lets go of you, gently making his way out of the bed, checking to make sure you are still asleep every other breath you take. Another thing that would ruin his scheme he had been planning would be you waking up before anything is prepared.

Once he makes it safely out of his bed, he pulls on a shirt and grabs his DDD, checking the time before making his way out the door, making sure to quietly shuts it behind him. He ran over his list in his head as he made his way to the third born room. His knuckles rasped on the door, knowing that the chances of the otaku still being awake were very high. After a few loud grumbles and a very concerning thud noise, Leviathan opened his door, a tired and angry look sitting on his face.

"What the hell Mammon?! You made me pause my game! I am just about to beat my high score too!" Levi whined, rubbing at his eyes as if trying to rub the sleep out of them.

"I'm here for MC's gifts! Remember, you were lettin' me store them here?" Mammon said, peaking around Levi's shoulder hoping to see them sitting in sight so he could just grab them then get on to his next task, but the look on Levi's face suggested otherwise.

"Oh, yeah, that. I remember seeing them the other day. Let me go and look! I just got a few Akuzon orders the other day so they may be mixed in with those boxes." Levi assured, turning to go to the corner that he stacked all his Akuzon boxes in. He could build a cardboard castle the size of Lord Diavolo's castle with the amount of boxes he had. Levi quickly started shifting through the boxes as Mammon let out a sigh, rubbing his face, wishing he never put your gifts into Akuzon boxes to help them blend in with Levi's room.

After a few minutes of Levi's failed attempts to find the packages, Mammon started helping him. Making angry comments about the amount of stuff Levi bought, even asking Levi if he was sure he wasn't the Avatar of Greed. It took thirty five minutes before the first box of presents was pulled from the bottom of a stack, revealing some of the clothes Mammon had bought you. After that, it took an extra ten minutes to find the rest of them. With a mumbled thank you from Mammon, he was out the door, quickly heading to one of his younger brothers' rooms.

This time, he knocked a little bit harder, knowing that Asmodeus was more than likely still asleep. He knocked three  times before Asmo opened the door. He had his hair pulled back in a loose top knot, pulling his eye mask off of one eye, squinting into the hallway..

"Mammon, what are you doing up so early?" He asked, raising a hand to stifle a yawn.

"You and I were talkin' earlier this week and you were goin' to wrap MC"s birthday presents for me. Could you please get them done before breakfast is done?" Mammon asked, pushing his box filled arms towards Asmo. Asmo dodged the boxes then tapped his chin, as if trying to remember the conversation like Mammon had not texted him to remind him the day before. Asmo gasped and started laughing.

"Oh yes! I do remember that now! Of course I will! It may take longer than that though. I told MC I was going to take them out shopping today!" He said, taking the boxes from Mammon and setting them down on a table next to his bedroom door. Before Mammon could protest, saying that that was not what they agreed to, Asmo waved with his fingers and shut the door. Mammon raised his fist to the door to give Asmo a piece of his mind, but he took a quick glance at the time on his DDD, realized how much time he had taken with Levi and dropped his arm, deciding that he could talk with Asmo later.

He quickly walked down the stairs, taking two at a time, before practically jogging to the kitchen. His plan for breakfast was simple. He was going to make you breakfast in bed, something sweet and simple, so you could both enjoy the morning together. What he didn't expect was for Lucifer to be sitting at the kitchen counter with coffee in one hand and a book in the other.

"Lucifer?" Mammon said confused, barely catching the glance Lucifer gave him over the top of his book.

"I was expecting to see Beel before I saw you."' Lucifer said, then took a long sip of his coffee.

"It's MC's birthday and I wanted to make them breakfast in bed.'' Mammon responded, making his way over to the cabinet where he had hid some of the ingredients to your favorite breakfast food, in hopes of keeping it out of yours and Beels sight.

"I know it is MC's birthday. I`m up earlier than normal because me and MC are going to head over to Lord Diavolo's castle as soon as they are awake to have tea." Mammon wasn't sure what made him stop in his tracks. Was it what Lucifer had just said, or the empty ingredient boxes that sat lazily thrown back into their hiding spot.

"Oh." Was all Mammon could say as he slowly turned around, leaning against the counter as he looked over at Lucifer. He was still leisurely sipping on his morning coffee as if he didn’t just drop a pipe bomb on Mammon.

"Are you sure you can't wait a bit till headin' over to Diavolos? I had been plannin' this for a while and it would mean a lot. I know I ask for a lot Lucifer, but this one thing means a lot to me." The white hair demon asked, a wave of defeat washing over him. He had all of this planned out so well, why did it seem to be going so wrong all of the sudden? Lucifer sighed, placing down his book while he stood up, straightening his shirt then grabbing his mug and walking to the sink next to Mammon.

"I can not do that Mammon. I can not leave Lord Diavolo waiting, nor reschedule at such short notice." He said as he rinsed out his cup and placed it gently in the sink, not passing Mammon a single glance. Mammon went to say something, but he was interrupted by you walking into the kitchen. You were wearing a pair of jeans and one of Mammon's shirts, tugging on a  jacket as you made eye contact with your lover. Mammon's heart skipped a beat at the wide smile that crossed your face.

"Mams! I was worried about you this morning. I'm glad to see you're not in any trouble " You said, sending a wink his way, then turning your attention to his older brother who was also facing you.

"Lucifer, is Diavolo ready to see us now?'' You asked as Lucifer nodded, grabbing his jacket from the chair that he was sitting at, then walked towards you.

"He is. We should not keep him waiting any longer.'' He said as he walked past you, turning and starting to head to the door. You watched after Lucifer then turned towards Mammon.

“Wait for me out front! I will be there in a minute!" You yelled after the oldest, then quickly ran over to Mammon. You threw yourself into his arms, holding onto his neck tightly. It caught him off guard, but within seconds he was melting into your arms, wrapping his own tightly around you. You pulled back just enough to be able to look up at the demon's face, placing one hand on his cheek. He could feel the blush creeping up his ears and cheeks, and by your ever growing smile, he knew you could see it too.

"Happy birthday hun. I'm sorry I wasn't there when you woke up. I wanted to make you breakfast in bed but it looks like Beel got to it before I di- " He got cut off by you placing a sweet kiss on his lips, which he quickly returned. You both could have stayed like that for eternity, but your ringing DDD in your pocket broke you from the shared embrace. You groaned as you rested your forehead against Mammon's chest, no other words needing to be said, you both knew it was Lucifer impatiently waiting for you at the front door.

"How about we Akuber some food once I get home? Just a bit of a change to your plan. " You suggested as you started leaving the kitchen, pulling out your phone from your pocket, and by your eye roll Mammon knew it was Lucifer calling you. He nodded at your suggestion, not completely satisfied with the beginning of his planned out day going up in smoke in front of his eyes.

"Bye Mams! I love you! " You said, blowing him a kiss from the doorway of the kitchen as you placed the ringing phone next to your ear, quickly reassuring Lucifer you were heading towards the door. Mammon shouted an “I love you” after you as he went to the kitchen entryway, watching you walk down the hallway and into the main entrance, pocketing your phone and walking out the door, closing it with an annoyed thud behind you. He sighed and leant against the entryway. He couldn’t help but think about how poorly the morning seemed to play out. 

No matter the disappointment Mammon felt, he didn't let that affect the rest of his plans he had for the day. He took the first hour of you being away to get himself ready. Taking a shower and changing into one of your favorite outfits for him, not forgetting to add accessories you had gifted to him over the span of you being in the Devildom. The next hour he made his way to Asmodeus’s room, seeing if there were any updates on the presents. Just like that morning, he knocked multiple times, never getting an answer. He opened the door slowly, poking his head into the room in hopes of seeing his younger brother.

Asmodeus’s room was deserted. His bed straightened and done up nicely, his vanity clean and organized, only a tube of lip gloss sat lazily tossed to the middle of the vanity. Your birthday presents sat in their Akuzon boxes off to the side of the vanity, wrapping paper and decorations sitting next to them in a basket. Mammon couldn't help but let out an aggravated sigh. It was  past the time he had asked Asmo to get them done, and now it was past the time Asmo had said he would get them done by. It was about two hours before lunch time. Maybe if Mammon was lucky, you would come home within the hour so you two could have a light brunch then go out for lunch.

With wishful thinking and some time to kill, Mammon settled himself on Asmodeus’s floor, pulling your gifts out of their temporary boxes and grabbing the paper, scissors, and tape. He may have gone overboard on the gifts, but dear Diavolo did he love to see you happy, and he was so greedy for your smile. If you two went out and you spared an item a second glance, Mammon would mentally note it and return to buy the item. If he saw something he even remotely thought you would like, he had bought it before you could even say Goldie. He was so in love with you. He was so greedily in love with you. He couldn't help the feeling of sadness wash over him as he thought of you sitting with Lucifer and Diavolo in Diavolo's castle, chatting and laughing while sipping on tea. How badly he wanted to spend your birthday with you. Compared to him, human birthdays seemed like a once in a lifetime experience to have. He would give all three realms up just to spend them with his precious human.

Mammon was brought out of his thoughts by his DDD chiming. He picked it up and saw a message from you. It was a picture you snuck, showing Diavolo and Lucifer in a deep conversation. You sent a text along with it saying how they had been talking about RAD for the past fifteen minutes. He sent an apologetic response, knowing how conversations about RAD between the two of them got, then followed with a question wondering if you knew when you would get home. He then placed his phone down, quickly getting back to wrapping your presents.

It took a lot of effort to not tape himself to some of the packages. He put a few bows on the gifts, dried flowers on some others, while leaving a few plain so you could enjoy the beautiful floral wrapping paper. When he was content enough with the gifts, he started taking them down stairs, storing them in a small closet next to the living room, knowing that's where everyone would retire to that evening to share gifts. As much as he wanted to give you the gifts first and alone together that morning, the plan was ruined, so he decided to play it safe for once.

Around lunch time he still had not received a response about your estimated return, so he decided to grab a quick snack. While eating ,he pulled out his phone deciding that writing down his plans would help. Now it was lunch time, your presents had been retrieved from Levi and they had been wrapped, a bit behind schedule no thanks to Asmodeus. He thought about some of the other stuff he had planned as back ups, going to the movies, going to one of Diavolo's lush gardens, taking you for a drive out in the Devildom, going out for dinner.

He brain stormed, looking at the chat room between the both of you, staring intently at the delivered message under his last text. He decided that maybe dinner was the best option. Without a response from you, it gave about a six hour time frame for you to return, which seemed reasonable enough for him. He quickly put a table for two on reserve at Ristorante Six, thankful that there was still a table available at this time.

Now, all he had to do was wait.

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Mammon did wait, that was for sure. First he hung out in the living room right next to the front door, eagerly awaiting your return. Then he drifted to the kitchen, making himself a cup of noodles to hold him off till dinner. He ended up in his room, laying on his bed as he watched Deviltok. 

Hours seemed to pass. Hours did pass. And not a single word from you.

Fifteen minutes before your table was reserved for, Mammon was seconds away from calling you, knowing there was no way to make it in time for the reservation. He heard the door burst open downstairs. He was off his bed and halfway down the hall before he could even back out of your contact on his DDD. He half stumbled down the stairs as he turned to look at the door. You walked in with Asmodeus, both giggling with bags filling up both of your arms. Lucifer came in behind you both, a single small bag on his left hand as he shut the door behind you both. Mammon's heart broke a bit, but he was relieved to see you safe.  You looked up at him, your smile glowing a bit more.

"Mammon! I missed you so much! I'm sorry. My DDD died right as Asmo swung by Diavolo's castle saying he was going to take me shopping. I'm sorry I wasn't able to make it in time for breakfast." You said, making your way up the stairs to stand next to him. You put all of your bags into one hand as you reached out the now empty one to him.

"Why don't we go to my room and spend some time together? I can show you what all I got!" You said, as Mammon instinctively grabbed your hand.  You had a perfectly reasonable reason that you were unable to text him back, Mammon was just happy that you were back with him.

You lead him to your room, kicking open your door and dropping all your bags near the bathroom door. You plugged your DDD in and sat it down on your bedside table, turning to Mammon with a tired yet beautiful smile. He would be lying if he said that his heart didn't melt a bit at your smile. You sat down on the edge of your bed, falling back so you were laying with your legs hanging off the side, you opened your arms for Mammon. He quickly sat down next to you, laying his head on your chest as you wrapped your arms around him.

"Today has been a bit hectic hm? You asked, Mammon letting out a small laugh.

"You wouldn't even believe it" He responded, letting himself decompress in your arms, the tension that sat in his shoulders releasing as he enjoyed  your embrace.

"It's okay though! We still have tonight! Maybe your brothers will give me enough time to spend with my boyfriend on my birthday." You said, letting out a breathy laugh. Mammon couldn't help but smile, hoping you were right.

After a few more minutes of laying together, you asked him if he would like to see some of the new clothes you had gotten as a gift from Mammon. He said yes as he pulled away from your embrace, allowing you to get up as he situated himself comfortably on your bed. You showed him some of the items, one of the most notable was a hoodie that looked strikingly similar to one of his that you enjoyed to steal. 

“So are you not goin' to steal my hoodie anymore?” He asked, raising an eyebrow doubtfully, a bit sad at seeing the comfortable looking hoodie. He loved when he stole his clothes. 

“I wouldn’t say I’m not going to steal them anymore. Maybe we can just match sometime.” You responded, folding the hoodie as you sent him a wink. Just then, your door burst open and Belphie walked uninvited into your room. 

"Lucifer wants everyone in the living room." He announced, turning on his foot, leaving with your bedroom door wide open.

"Can't have a single moment alone with my human? I swear!" Mammon groaned, standing up from your bed and leaning over to peck you quickly on the lips. He grabbed your hand in his and helped you off the floor,  then out of your room. 

You both made your way downstairs, you updating Mammon on all the stuff that had happened while you and Asmo went out. Once in the living room, Lucifer looked around the room at everyone then nodded.

"As we all know, today is MC's birthday." He announced, eyes stopping on you, " To celebrate, I will be taking us all to Ristorante Six." He finished, all of the brothers gasping and chatter quickly filled the room. Mammon stood dumb struck.

"Mammon? Are you okay?" You whispered, squeezing his hand that was still nestled into yours.

"Yeah.. Yeah. Just funny timing I guess." He said, looking over at your sympathetic face. He had not told you about the abandoned reservation, but just by his comment earlier about everything going wrong, you could only guess what he meant.

"I'm sorry Mams." You said, offering a bit of comfort as you squeezed his hand.

Lucifer announced that you would all be leaving in thirty minutes and expected everyone to be ready by then. Asmo screeched at the short deadline, then made his way out of the living room first, everyone else piled out after him. You and Mammon made your way back to your room, you changing into one of the new outfits Asmo had gotten you while Mammon sat on your bed, scrolling through his phone, unbenounced to you looking at his list. Even though everything had gone the opposite of what he would have wanted, at least you were happy.

Ristorante Six was packed. Every table was full, well, other than one. It sat overlooking the Devildom lights below. You had followed Mammon's gaze to it as your party of 8 was being escorted to one of the private rooms.

"I'm sorry Mams." You whispered to him, his eyes turning to catch yours holding a sympathetic gaze. He waved his hand as a small smile pulled on his lips.

"At least I get to spend time with my favorite human on their birthday! I was startin' to get a bit worried." He said, pulling you under his arm so he could rest his arm across your shoulder. You leaned into him, smiling as you all entered the private room.

The night carried on blissfully. Everyone indulged in the food, and enjoyed the company of each other. Mammon snuck in an order for a two hundred year old wine, mumbling to you to not worry about it since it was all on Lucifer's card. It was an enjoyable dinner. The trip back home was full of laughter and playful jokes, everyone just enjoying the time together.

Once back at the HOL, everyone made their way to their rooms to grab your presents while you and Mammon stayed back in the living room. Mammon brought out all of his presents for you from the closet. 

“You know you didn’t have to get me so much Mams.” You said, watching as the pile of floral clad presents kept piling up around you, almost making you a throne of gifts. Mammon took a step back and admired his work, seeing his human surrounded by gifts he had gotten. 

“What do ya mean?” It’s ya birthday! Of course I am going to go all out for my humans birthday!” He exclaimed, finding a seat next to you as the other brothers made their way back to the living room. There was only room for Mammon and you on the couch thanks to all of the gifts, and Mammon saw nothing wrong with that. He watched as you slowly made your way through all of the gifts. The love all the brothers had for you apparent just by the sheer amount of gifts you had received.

The night went by fast. Before Mammon knew it, everyone was retiring one by one to their room, wishing you one last happy birthday wish before leaving the room. Beel was the last one to leave, holding Belphie over his shoulder he wished you both a good night and disappeared around the corner. Mammon looked over at you, you were admiring a broach Lucifer had gotten you for your school uniform. You must have felt his eyes on you, because you turned to look at him. You scooted closer to him, resting your back against his chest, interlocking your hand with his. 

“Thank you for today Mams.” You said. Mammon was surprised at your words, but you wouldn’t be able to tell. After such a long day, the comforting silence other than the popping of the fireplace had brought him to the first purely calm state since you two had been in your room earlier in the day.

“I wish I could have gotten to spend more time with you.” He responded, rubbing the back of your hand with his thumb. He was taken by surprise when you turned around to face him, grabbing his other hand. 

“I know things didn’t go as planned today. Asmo ended up telling me all the things you had planned while we were out, and I simply can’t begin to say thank you for all of your effort. I wish everything would have gone to plan, or I at least got to spend more time with you today. But you know how it can be sometimes with your brothers. There are seven of you for crying out loud.” You said, a smile pulling at your lips as you made the comment about him and his brothers. Mammon couldn’t help but smile too. You took his face into your hands, blush instantly creeping up onto his cheeks.

“How about tomorrow, we don't do anything. Just you and me all day. We can get up early and make breakfast together, then take it back to your room and pretend that we had made it for other.” You suggested, he couldn't help but laugh and nod in agreement. Your smile grew a bit before you gasped, scrambling off the couch and over to one of the tables by the fireplace, opening one of the drawers and pulling something out. You plopped down on the couch next to Mammon, holding out a small box. 

“I got you something while I was out with Asmo.” You said, pulling the lid off the box and showing two gold rings. You took one out and slid it onto Mammon's finger before putting on the other.

“I know we already have some matching jewelry, but I figured rings would be a nice surprise.” You told him, him taking your ring clad hand to adore the matching rings. He couldn’t say anything, he just took you in his arms and hugged you tightly. After such a long day filled with so many emotions and uncertainties, your love was one thing that he could always count on to be there. He peppered your face in kisses and showered you in thank you's and praises of how beautiful the rings were. 

“I knew my human had good taste!” He exclaimed as you giggled at his reaction. Both of you are falling silent at a loud yell coming from upstairs. 

“MAMMMONNNNNN” Lucifer yelled, the house pretty much rumbling at his yell. You both shot each other concerned looks, both knowing he had found out about the wine Mammon snuck onto his tab. A smile pulled on Mammon's lips.

“How about I treat my human to a nice hotel tonight for their birthday. Or er, the next few nights.”

[omiscurls]

I love your writing and how much you’re able to bring out the true personalities of each character!! I was wondering if you could do Kaeya, Xiao, Diluc, Zhongli, and Childe celebrating y/n’s bday. (My birthday was a couple of days ago but I didn’t receive any greetings from my genshin team for some reason... 😔)

happy birthday

a/n: SO SORRY FOR THE DELAY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! as for your problem, have you tried looking in character>voiceover>voicelines? the wishes should appear there, i dont know what happened if they don't

plot: celebrating the reader's birthday

contains: kaeya, diluc, tartaglia, xiao, zhongli

warnings: brief mentions of alcohol, otherwise pure fluff

kaeya

a surprise party

to be completely honest, kaeya barely cares about his own birthday enough to even remember the date

and obviously he does remember yours, how could he not, but- he's just not used to celebrating, you know?

so watch him know very well your birthday is coming up, with a mindset like: "okay, you've got time, you'll figure something great out, it's gonna be amazing"

and the day or two before he realizes, he indeed wants to do something great and amazing, but he completely ran out of time

fortunately, who cares about reservations when your brother's a bar owner, right?

he figures out that if he waits till sunset with the party he still has an entire day he can spend of preparing everything he needs

so as you sleep peacefully, he sneaks out of the room at the break of dawn, ready to work his ass off

he doesn't want you feeling bad, after all, right?

the thing is, you do start to feel a bit bad, as an entire morning goes by, and not only is kaeya nowhere in sight, literally nobody is! you walk through the streets of mondstadt, looking for any familiar face to spend the time with, but the city seems awfully empty of your friends. you end up having fun at diona's cat's tail, her complaining about everyone, and you, surprisingly, joining in, but it still doesn't replace the companion of your friends.

you go over your day as per usual, and decide to bake yourself a cake, since you think that'll cheer you up. you run out of flour, though, so it's necessary to go over to the store and stock up on some. right as you cross the city's main square, you run into diluc.

"oh, sorry, haven't seen you" you say, not even lifting up your face to look at who's chest did you bump on, until he grabs your wrist, stopping you in your tracks.

"someone looks dejected" he says, and you almost want to punch him for not realizing why. instead of doing that, however pleasing it sounds, you just shrug your shoulders. "come on, you look like you could use a special drink of mine"

and with that, he pulls you towards angel's share, letting you complain about your day, though you don't explicitly say it's your birthday, still mad he didn't remember that on his own.

"so he completely ditched you without a word?" he acts surprised and offended "that's so awful-" he continues, opening the door before you.

just as he opens it, and you hear the word "awful" you see the bar as if for the first time. flowery garlands are up beneath the ceiling, the tables are arranged differently and covered with colorful, pastel table cloths, music is playing. the backdoor is opened and you see the outside of the building decorated in a similar manner, candles and fairy lights spread all over the place.

the sun is slowly setting over the buildings visible through the back door, and the atmosphere inside borders on magical, but to top that all off-

"happy birthday!" you hear a lot of voices shout, and your eyes widen at the sight of all those who you hold dear present. you can't help but smile, seeing all of them cheer, grinning from ear to ear.

"i-" you look over at diluc "how'd you pull this off?"

you swear you saw him crack a soft smile before admitting that he in fact, didn't. you're about to ask who did, then, but you're interrupted by a silvery voice, coming from behind you.

"i did" the voice says, a hand moving to cover your eyes "wanna guess who?" you hear a whisper inches away from your ear, shaking from surprise.

affection swells in your chest as you quietly say "kaeya", your smile growing fondler, knowing that aside from all your friends, he's here too, and as a mastermind, at that.

"hope you don't hold leaving you by yourself for a couple of hours against me" he continues, arms sneaking around your waist, chin rested on your shoulder "d'ya like it?"

emotion gets the better of you, and you don't know what to say, so choose only to nod eagerly.

"a lot" you finally whisper, much to kaeya's satisfaction.

"happy birthday, then" he says, suddenly pulling away from you, as to exclaim loudly "attention everyone!!" he takes a fork to ring on his glass "i hereby declare, that the next round's on me!"

cheers fill the room, along with one "yea right" and another "like we'd believe that" before the owner of the bar speaks up as well.

"as much as i'd like to see that" diluc settles "today's drinks are on the house."

diluc

a magical evening

so he’s a fan of planning

not a diehard fan, but a fan nonetheless 

it’s just, he would rather have things planned ahead than wake up a day before and not know what to do (like a kaeya) like an idiot.

so you bet he has already calculated how much time he has left the moment you told him the date of your birthday.

unlike kaeya, he prefers to be working alone, but also likes to keep his plans a surprise. he himself hates surprises, but has to admit, doing one for someone else is quite the fun 

he stays quiet about your birthday coming up until the very last moment, and if you want to ask him if he wants to do anything with you that day, he says he already has something in mind, you know, nonchalantly. as if he hadn’t been thinking about it for archons know how long 

he’ll wake up before you just to wish you a happy birthday the moment you wake up, and he might be unusually affectionate for a bit, but don’t even bother asking what he has planned out - he won’t tell, not even if you beg. 

diluc wanted to kick you out of the house all day. “oh, there’s shopping to be done” “oh, this lady wanted to talk to you”, or “you know, come to think of it, didn’t jean say she had something she’d wanted to show you for your birthday?” every lame excuse in the book, he has used it. 

you decide to finally grant him what he so obviously wanted, and leave, choosing to walk all around the city, and even outside the gates, you make it quite a trip, not knowing when to come back. 

you smile upon thinking about how secretive he tried to be, but how even he, the mighty descendant of one of the noble families of mondstadt, a man as collected and stoic as can be, couldn’t contain his excitement. you saw all his little side smiles and the way he bit his lip a little after settling today’s rough plans with you, he was so happy, you’re satisfied just by seeing that, sometimes forgetting the real reason for why he was actively plotting something. 

you walk and walk, and then walk some more, but your legs start to hurt, and you’re growing hungry, so you decide to finally get back home. 

when you approach the winery, you can see the lights in the ballroom are lit up from a mile away. your heart can’t help but flip with excitement, since diluc hates using the room, hates throwing parties, and would much rather just forget it exists. 

it’s a beautiful venue though, looks like something out of a fairytale, and you always tell him how much you love it. it’s no surprised he decided to use it, but you can’t wait to see it anyway. 

as you get closer to the building, it becomes more and more apparent that the ballroom isn’t the only place that got upgraded to a five star level for one night and one night only. the building looks amazing, and the gates are open all the way, as if there was a party to be thrown and guests to arrive any time soon. 

but as you’re welcomed into the mansion, there’s no one else in the hall, other than a dressed up diluc, his hair in a high pony, just how you always said you liked it, wearing a suit you hadn’t seen on him since... well, you don’t even recall. 

“well, if it isn’t my honorary guest” he announces with an official tone, almost making you a bit flustered. 

“what’s all this? am i not, i don’t know, underdressed?” you giggle nervously, and he approaches you, a tiny little black box in his hand. 

“you could wear a potato sack and shine brighter than all the stars together” he says softly, showing you the little box. “and as tradition orders, happy birthday.”

you carefully open the box, a simple, silver necklace resting on the little cushion inside. you take it out, and watch the ornament, but can’t for the life of you figure out what it is. 

“you see” diluc provides an explanation “it’s a common thing to do to gift someone jewellery as a gift, and almost as common to have necklaces with your star constellation. that is, the allignment the stars were in the moment you were born. but i decided, that i wanted to give you one with the alignment that shone on the sky on the happiest day of my life. well, according to mona it did.” 

you stay silent for a second, astonished with the present, before asking 

“and that is?”

“the day we met.”

tartaglia

how to surprise your lover 101

when i tell you this boy knew EXACTLY WHAT HE WAS DOING from the moment he first thought of it

now. he loves celebrating, anything, really, the atmosphere of a party is almost magnetic to him

he grew up thinking every person deserves to have an amazing day once a year, only about themselves, so it’s very obvious to him that he IS doing something, and it needs to be huge

now, in a family as big as his, it was hard to keep things a secret, so he developed a whole plan on how to avoid having you finding out what he was planning

and that is: by having you know

it’s really getting annoying, how everybody keeps walking up to you, for a good week now, and asking if you’re excited for the big party childe’s throwing. the first time you hear it, you almost immediately run to confront him about it, since you explicitly said that a party, a big one, at that, is the last thing you want.

he obviously says that it’s nothing, and you needn’t worry about that. not that you trust his words, obviously, but you let it go, partly because you know how attached he is to the idea of a huge celebration, and partly because arguing with someone as stubborn can really be tiring.

so you settle, and fake a smile for every conversation with the alleged “guests” for your alleged party, thinking you’ll just suffer through it and then just do something with your childe the next day, having yourself plan it.

the wait is stressful, and when you finally see tartaglia walk through your bedroom door, dressed up really nicely, with a soft ribbon to tie on your eyes, so you wouldn’t see anything before it’s “time”, you almost want to ditch him, but that would be too rude.

complying begrudgingly, you let him guide you through the city, feeling the cold evening air hit your skin, wondering where did he set up this party of his, since you don’t hear anything.

oh god, is everyone gonna jump out of hiding yelling “happy birthday”? please, not that, at least not that.

when he finally unties the material covering your eyes, you see nothing but a wooden platform at the end of the harbor, with a blanket set up, some really nice-smelling food and what appears to be champagne laying on it. the sun is setting slowly behind the mountains in the distance, the only sound you hear being waves crushing on the rocks.

you can’t help but gasp.

“but” you turn around to face childe with a questioning look “what about the party?”

“what party?” he looks surprised “i never said anything about any party” he adds with a knowing smirk.

as you analyze your surroundings, he watches you with a soft smile.

“come on, don’t be so shocked now” he finally says “i know you better than to plan you something you’d hate. i’m not THAT much of an asshole”

his giggle sounds almost too good in the beautiful scenery around you, and you can’t help but let your eyes water for a little while, before rapidly blinking the tears back.

“is this more similar to what you’ve dreamed of?” he asks.

“yeah” you whisper “yes, it is”

“well, that’s the only thing that matters. shall we?” his hand points to the blanket, and you nod, smiling.

this may or may not be inspired by that one episode of Brooklyn 9-9

xiao

trying something new

birthdays? what’s that

you mean to tell him he has lived two thousand years of his life without realizing the day it was brought to him should be celebrated?

yup, no, you can explain it all you want, he still doesn’t get the idea. he just finds it to be way too trivial, okay?

what gets to him, though, is that there’s a custom of doing something meaningful for the person celebrating their birthday, to make them feel important

well, you should’ve led with that, that he can do!

he would never just go and straight up ask for help if he needed any. so don’t be surprised if you hear yet more new stories about the yaksha that allegedly lives near wangshu inn sneaking into the kitchen, or watching through the glass.

he spends HOURS waiting for the chef to finally prepare the dish he hopes for, and once he does, he follows every step very carefully. and then again. and again. and one more time, up until he feels he can do it himself.

when he finally gets to enter said kitchen, it’s already way past midnight, and everything is dark, barely visible. he manages to find his way around, though, preparing all the ingredients, and starting to mix them the same way the chef did.

turns out it’s not as easy as it looks, for example, he didn’t measure how long this thing is supposed to be cooked, or on what temperature, so the process gets a little messy at one point. he might even have to start over. like, twice, tops.

it’s already nearing dusk when he finishes, taking the fruit of his works with him.

as per usual, you wait for him on the roof, and as per usual you don’t realize he’s right behind you until he speaks up.

“happy birthday” he says out of the blue, causing you to jump up in shock.

“oh my, xiao, you scared me! again!” you laugh.

“it’s today, isn’t it?” he continues, as if he didn’t hear you. when he sees you nod, he awkwardly shows you the package he held behind his back, watching closely as you open it with a questioning look.

inside, there’s a carefully wrapped serving of almond tofu, it could use a little bit of touch ups, but it still looks and smells delicious nonetheless.

“did you do this yourself?” you turn around to face him, smiling in disbelief

“mhm” he gets a little flustered, and decides not to tell you about his little kitchen adventure. “is it… is it good?” he asks, and you smile even more fondly.

“why don’t you come over here and taste it with me?”

zhongli

one can never go wrong with a classic

zhongli knows every single tradition there is to know.

literally.

so you don’t have to even tell him anything - he knows. he might not know what to do with his knowledge, but he does know what would make you happy

this man is a gentleman who believes that some moves to make someone swoon never get old

he even got a free day from work just for the occasion, or he may just think he told hu tao that he wants it? either way, he’s not there. not like his boss isn’t used to it.

right as the clock strikes 5 pm, you hear a knocking on your door. checking how you look one last time, you smile to the reflection in the mirror, and walk over to answer.

as you open said door, you find yourself dumbfounded at the sight of a completely soaked zhongli, rain pouring heavily behind his back. his hair sticks to his face, and all the layers of his suit seem drenched to their very core, but a smile you see so rarely paints his face, as he presents you with a bouquet of flowers.

and my oh my, just how huge is it! he barely even manages to hold it in hand, and the flower crowns hide his entire chest and half his face when he places them in front of you.

“i believe this is for you” he says gently “are you ready to go?”

you can’t even find the right words, as you size the bouquet up, taking it from him with a quiet “thank you so much” before taking it back to the house, already in search of the right vase to put them in.

“may i come in and dry myself up a bit?” he asks, still from the doorstep, and you laugh before granting him the permission.

when the both of you are ready to go, you meet in the hallway, both smiling softly at the other, a bit awkwardly, as the beginning of every meeting is.

“you look even better than usually” he finally says, pride rising in his chest at how your grin widens.

“same goes for you, mr zhongli” you answer just as cheekily, waiting for what he’s gonna say next.

“well, thank you, but i don’t think today’s about me now, is it?” he counters with a bit of a side eye. “shall we go?” he points to the open door, and the both of you leave, you grabbing his arm to fit under one umbrella.

“may i ask where’re we going?”

you can’t miss the way his smile turns prideful and confident as he says:

“i” he accentuates “am taking you out to dinner”

he might feel a bit offended by how sarcastically you gasp at the revelation, but it’s okay. as long as he gets to see you laugh, it’s okay.

daily reminder that requests are open [here]

[thatsamericano]

Take My Hand, Take My Whole Life Too

Pairings/Characters: America/Romano. Background Gerita, and Seborga and Prussia are there too. Very brief appearances from Denmark and Lithuania in the video, as well as a ton of other characters who don’t get lines.

Rating: Teen, but only for cursing. Very fluffy, and no warnings to speak of.

Word Count: 2518

Summary: America sends Romano a special video for his birthday. He isn’t Elvis Presley, but it’s the best rendition of the song Romano’s ever heard.

A/N: I wanted to post something fluffy for Romano’s birthday. This will be up on AO3 soon.

It had been a nice, quiet birthday for Romano so far. Feli’s macho potato had dropped by to spend the day with him, and Prussia had tagged along too. Savino was glad Gilbert and Marcello were here, because otherwise he would’ve been stuck third-wheeling the sappiest couple in the world on his own birthday. Spain and Belgium had said they would arrive in a couple hours, which Romano was looking forward to as well. Most of the people who had sent his little brother a happy birthday message had remembered to send one to him too. America had sent them both silly e-cards, and the gifts he’d sent had arrived a week early and would be unwrapped along with all the others after they frosted the cake.

Romano was not lonely, especially not for someone who would’ve had to fly across a whole ocean to see him. He only threw a spatula at Germany’s head when he leaned in to kiss Feli right after he put the cake in the oven because the sight of the potato bastard kissing his little brother grossed him out to no end.

Feliciano pouted at him. “Fratello, that wasn’t very nice of you.”

“I had to stop you two before I lost my appetite. I want to actually be able to eat a slice of cake later!”

Germany muttered something under his breath, and Seborga giggled while Prussia ruffled his hair. “Relax, Savi. It’s your birthday.”

Romano shoved Gilbert’s hand away. “I’m relaxing just fine, damn it.” He walked over to the counter to check his phone, which had received a few new messages since he and Feli had started making their joint birthday cake.

As he was reading a message from New Zealand (who seemed to be confused by the time difference and hoped their message had arrived on time), a new text popped up on his phone. From America.

“Huh, that’s weird.”

“What’s weird?” Marcello asked.

“America sent me a link to a Youtube video.” Alfred liked to upload a lot of strange things on Youtube, including cooking videos with his twin, recordings of him prank calling England, and the occasional stunt that would’ve turned Savino’s hair gray if he’d aged like a human. Seriously, what the fuck had possessed him to surf down a staircase on a fucking ironing board?

The message before the link was cryptic as hell. Happy bday. Here’s an extra present for you. 😉 Hope you enjoy.🎶 Knowing America, Romano wouldn’t have been too surprised if he’d opened up the link and seen that one Rick Astley song the idiota still thought was funny to send to people. But Feli immediately got excited about it.

“Oh, he finally sent you the video! I thought he’d do that a month ago!”

Prussia smirked as Feli rushed over to them. “Nah, Al had always planned to upload it today.”

Germany came over with a subtle hint of a smile on his face, like he knew what all this was about too. At least Marcello still looked baffled as he leaned over to get a look at Savino’s phone.

“What the fuck are you assholes up to?” Savino didn’t like this feeling. He didn’t like that everyone except his baby brother had been plotting something behind his back.

“It isn’t bad, Romano,” Germany promised. “Just open the link and you’ll see.”

Romano didn’t trust Germany further than he could throw him, and the guy was way too heavy for him to even lift. But if Germany thought it was okay, it probably wasn’t a video involving the kinds of ridiculous shenanigans America liked to film, and it certainly was nowhere near as heart-attack inducing as some of the videos he’d seen Fredo post (especially if Prussia or Denmark were egging him on). Savino squinted at Ludwig suspiciously before he clicked on the link.

It wasn’t Rick Astley. The video started with a black screen. “No, Gil, you’re supposed to press the red button!” The voice sounded like Denmark.

“Magnus, I pressed the red button!” That was Prussia.

“Guys, maybe we could use my iPhone instead?” America asked. His voice sounded uncharacteristically strained and nervous. “The quality won’t be as good, but at this point Vinny’s probably given up anyway.”

Suddenly, the image of a white dress shirt with a navy tie (and an inexplicable ukulele) appeared on the screen. The camera zoomed out a little, and he could see Alfred smiling at him in a crowded bar with many nations Romano knew well, and many who were only acquaintances. Denmark rushed past him, but Romano could scarcely take his eyes off America. He was wearing the same outfit he’d seen him in on the day of the last world meeting he’d attended a couple months ago in Berlin, and he was cradling a ukulele in his arms. His warm smile, as always, made Romano’s heart skip a beat. But there was a hint of anxiety in his crystal blue eyes, and that made Romano wish he was there to talk to America and help him with whatever seemed to be bothering him.

“Hey, Vinny! Right now it’s still January, but by the time I upload this video, it will be your birthday, so happy birthday, dude! I hope you’re having a good day with your brothers.” He chuckled. “You guys will probably need a huge cake if you’re gonna blow out all your birthday candles.”

Romano rolled his eyes. “That’s what numbered candles are for, idiota,” he murmured.

“Anyway, I know I’m not the best singer in the world—” Prussia snickered from behind the camera and America glared at him sharply before relaxing back into the smile he’d had on his face before. “But I’ve been practicing this song a lot, so hopefully you’ll like it.”

Romano wondered which song it was. If it was the Italian version of “Happy Birthday,” America wouldn’t need a ukulele, and this video would not be three and a half minutes in length.

America started strumming the ukulele, and it wasn’t the “Happy Birthday” song. Savino vaguely recognized the melody, and apparently Feliciano knew what the song was, because he was bouncing next to him and muffling squeals behind his hand. Savino was tempted to smack him, but that would involve looking away from his phone.

Then, America started to sing in a shaky but surprisingly clear voice, staring straight at the camera. “Wise men say, only fools rush in…”

Marcello gasped. “He didn’t!”

“Oh, he totally did,” Prussia replied smugly.

Savino was too emotional to talk. He teared up as Alfred continued with the next line. “But I can’t help falling in love with you.” Fredo’s voice was full of sincerity, like he actually meant it, like he actually loved him. For so long, Romano had assumed his feelings for America were completely one-sided, that he would have to ignore them as much as possible, vainly hope they might disappear, and move on with his life as best he could. But clearly, he had been wrong, and the proof was that America was serenading him with a love song. On his birthday.

America started walking backwards with his ukulele, and Prussia’s camera followed him. At the end of the first verse, he’d reached a booth with Spain, Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. They all held up signs wishing him a happy birthday in various languages as they sang the last line together. Spain waved and Belgium winked at the camera, and America grinned as he kept walking through the bar.

He briefly stopped by other groups of people to allow them to hold up signs wishing Romano a happy birthday as he sang. Russia, his sisters, and Canada. Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia and Poland. Hungary, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. China, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, and South Korea. France, Monaco, all the UK countries, and Ireland. Australia, New Zealand, Seychelles, and Kenya. Greece, Turkey, and Egypt. All the Nordics too. It was the sweetest, most romantic thing anyone had ever done for Romano. America must have gone to so much effort to orchestrate something like this, to gather so many countries together in one bar in Berlin and convince them to go along with his plan. Savino smiled as he kept watching the video. Maybe Alfred wasn’t as good a singer as Elvis Presley or any of the many people who had covered this song, but his performance was heartfelt, and Savino loved every second of it.

Near the end, all of the countries sang the line “For I can’t help falling in love with you” together and held up their happy birthday signs. The bartender and some confused humans sang along with them. Savino laughed as Alfred chuckled sheepishly in the video, cheeks turning pink because this was an unusually public spectacle, even for him.

Alfred repeated the final chorus and sang with just him and the ukulele, as he had begun the song. “Take my hand, take my whole life too.” His eyes were shining with tears, and not the happy kind Savino had been shedding since the second line of the song. “For I can’t help falling in love with you.” He repeated the final line then took a deep breath.

“So, yeah. That uhh… wasn’t just a song.” America glanced off to the side. “I’ve kinda been hopelessly in love with you for a while.”

“About 90 years, give or take!” a tipsy voice shouted from off camera. It sounded just like Lithuania, the few times he’d had a little too much to drink at a speakeasy back when he, America, and Romano all lived together. Romano remembered those days fondly.

America hunched his shoulders with a pained look on his face. “Yeah. What Tolys said. You mean a lot to me, Vinny, both as a friend and possibly more, if you want that. If you just wanna stay friends, that’s cool. I hope you liked the song. Happy birthday.”

The screen abruptly cut to black, and the video ended. Savino wiped his eyes and looked up at Feliciano. “This is… this is why we had to fly back right away, isn’t it? Our boss didn’t call you.”

Feli shook his head. “I lied. America asked me to lie so he could surprise you with that video.”

“I can’t believe he did that for me.” Part of Savino felt like he didn’t deserve it, but a much bigger part of him was too selfish to care about what he did or didn’t deserve. He just wanted to be happy. “I wish he was here,” Romano confessed quietly. “I wish I could tell him I feel the same way.” And he wanted to kiss away every tear that idiota had ever cried over him, which was long overdue.

Savino ignored his little brothers cooing over what he had just said and tried not to bristle at the fact that even Germany seemed to think it was adorable. Prussia, weirdly enough, was too busy texting on his phone to join in on the overbearing fawning.

Gilbert chuckled at something on his phone. “Alfred’s a lot closer than you think. He decided to skip the Saint Paddy’s Day parade this year.” He grinned up at Romano, who instantly got the message. Alfred wasn’t celebrating with his Irish-American citizens. He was here in Italy, and it wouldn’t take much effort for Romano to find him.

He sprinted to his front door and flung it open. Alfred, who had been standing with his back to the front door, turned around to face him. “Vinny, I…”

Savino was too impatient to let him get another word out. He tugged on the collar of his emerald green t-shirt and sealed their mouths together. Alfred made a muffled sound of surprise and started kissing him a couple seconds later. He wrapped an arm around his waist, and Savino could feel that he was holding something wrapped in cellophane in his hand. He didn’t give a fuck what it was. He didn’t give a fuck about anything except the fact that Alfred was grinning against his mouth as he reluctantly pulled away for air.

Alfred’s face was flushed, and he had to reach up to fix his glasses. “Wow. This t-shirt never worked before.”

Savino glanced down at the shirt, which read “Kiss Me, I’m Irish!” (of course it did) and snorted. “I didn’t kiss you because of a fucking t-shirt logo. I kissed you because I watched that birthday video you sent me, which was the most adorable goddamn thing I’ve ever seen in my life.”

“So you liked the song, huh?”

“I loved the song. And I love you too, Fredo.”

He heard sniffling, and it couldn’t have been Alfred, who was beaming at him like every prayer he’d ever uttered had been answered just by Savino saying those words to him. And the sniffling noise was coming from behind him. At least one person had followed Romano to the front door, but Romano had been too focused on America to notice.

Romano tensed up as America laughed and put an arm around his shoulder. “Germany, are you crying, dude?”

“I… I’m verklempt. That was a beautiful moment.” Savino glanced over and saw that Germany wasn’t the only one. Veneziano, Seborga, and Prussia were all standing in the entryway, and they all looked misty-eyed.

Romano groaned and turned to bury his face in America’s ridiculous t-shirt. “Seriously, did you come out here to fucking spy on us?! What the hell is wrong with you?!” America squeezed his arm around him in a silent gesture of support. He could probably tell how embarrassed Romano was.

“Well, you were the one who decided to run out the front door suddenly,” Marcello said teasingly. “You can’t blame us for wanting to see what was going on.”

Veneziano piled on. “It’s nice of you to visit us on our birthday, America. You can come inside if you want, or you can stay out here and kiss Savi some more.”

Romano growled and turned to shoot vicious glares at both of his brothers, but America didn’t seem bothered at all. “As tempting as it sounds to stand here and kiss Vinny all day, I think I’ll come inside.” He dropped his arm from around Savino’s shoulders and presented him with the floral bouquet he somehow hadn’t noticed earlier in his mad dash to the door. “These are for you.”

“Grazie.” Savino smiled as he bent his head to sniff the bouquet of red roses mixed with white lilies. The symbolism wasn’t lost on him.

“Anything for you,” America whispered, too quietly for the others to hear. He pressed a kiss to Savino’s cheek, grabbed his wheeled suitcase, and dangled out his free hand as they headed into the house behind the others.

Romano grabbed America’s hand and laced their fingers together. This was the best birthday he’d ever had, and it was due in no small part to the fact America was holding his hand right now and smiling like he was the one who had received everything he ever wanted.

[theonlygamergost]

Fd au prompt: it's Phil's bday and the bois are planning something... interesting. Can't say it doesn't end with egg yolks on the ceiling, but at least they tried.

Haha Techno is a god at baking sweets while Tommy and Wilbur suck is an idea I’ve had for forever and now it goes BRRRRR-

Il’l be honest, I don’t like how it turned out THAT much, but I still hope you guys enjoy it.

“Eggs?” Tommy yelled “CHECK!”

“Flour?” Wilbur didn’t yell but, “Check!”

“And uhh… Milk… cocoa powder… yeast…” Techno double-checked his mental list while pointing at the ingredients on the counter, Tommy was shaking with energy next to him, ready to start preparing Phil’s birthday cake.

“And water, ok uh… we should have almost everything, alright let’s get started!”... this wasn’t gonna end well...

~~

Wilbur poured the milk and it was time to mix, “Ok so…” Techno was about to take the whisk when- “I’M USING THE ELECTRIC WHISK!” Tommy grabbed the tool, “WAIT NO-” the pink-haired boy grabbed the other end, so they started arguing over it, “Come on Technoblade, I know you’re the good one at baking here but let him do something” he grabbed the whisk out of their hands, “Wilbur you don’t understand- if you aren’t careful with it you can-” but as Techno was warning his bigger brother, Tommy turned on the electric whisker, covering of flour the entire counter plus themselves.

Silence fell until…

“I swear to god…” Techno whispered as the other two started laughing loudly, booping each other’s nose to make a blank spot in their flour-covered faces.

~~

Closing the oven quickly to avoid more heat escaping it, Wilbur sighed and Techno leaned back on the counter, Tommy kneeled down and simply stared at the cake, “And done!” the pink-haired boy hit the timer, “Now we gotta wait for fifty minutes, ohhh boy… we’re half-way there…” at the news, the older brother disappeared into his room and Techno collapsed on the couch, Tommy stared at the cake for a bit longer.

“And then what?” he asked without removing his attention from inside the oven, “We poke it with a chopstick, if it isn’t humid, we pass onto adding the frosting” the boy on the couch reached out to grab his book, pushing a pillow underneath his head to rest on it, “If it’s still humid, we make it cook for another five minutes and repeat the process until it’s cooked” the blondie hummed, finally getting up and walking towards the couch, grabbing his phone on the way there and flopping next to his brother, Wilbur came back into the living room with his laptop and schoolwork, making a little clean space on the counter to place everything down without the risk of flour getting attached to anything.

~~~~~~~~~

“Leave it for three minutes” Techno had said, “It should be enough” he said…

“Do you have anything to say for yourself?” Tommy looked down, no, no he didn’t.

After they did the “chopstick test”, Techno had decided to let it sit in the oven for a little more, just for it to get perfectly cooked, and Tommy was nominated to keep an eye on the cake while Will studied and Techno went to the bathroom. It was an easy task, but staring at a cake wasn’t as fun as texting Tubbo and…

Now the cake resided in front of them, the black of the burnt parts camouflaged with the already dark colour of the cake, but the smell of burnt chocolate reassured Tommy of his mistake, the cake had been partially burnt.

“it’s still savable, plus the frosting will hide the colour” Wilbur tried to cheer both the perfectionist and the bummed down gremlin, “... won’t hide the taste though…” to no avail. “Oh come on! It’s still edible! I’m not about to throw it away! Phil will appreciate the though either way” pointing out the facts made Tommy feel a little better, Techno simply grunted and moved along, “Ok so… I need the electric whisker, Tommy please wash it for me” the young boy nodded and opened the sink, “And… ugh how do you even make frosting again…” he took his phone into his hands as a voice made them all jump, their gazes snapped to the front door, “Three cups of powdered sugar, one-third of softened butter, vanilla and two tablespoons of milk”.

Phil had entered the front door and listed the ingredients casually, “Why do you need to make frosting anyway- oh…” he slipped his shoes off and realized the situation upon seeing the cake on the counter and his brothers frozen in place, “W-weren’t you supposed to arrive at half-past seven?” Wilbur asked, the clock on the wall indicated it was ten to seven pm.

“Uh yeah… the boss allowed me to come home early since it’s my birthday though… “ he took off his coat, sniffing the air as something caught his attention, “Why is there a burnt smell in here?” Techno groaned again at the reminder of his overcooked mistake.

Phil got closer to the counter, “So you need to frost the cake? Why bother buying one without it?” The three brothers looked at him in confusion, “What do you mean “buying”?” Techno furrowed his brows, so the older brother glanced at the sink and realized what was really happening, all of the dirty bowls… the smell of burnt chocolate..

“WAIT! You guys were trying to cook me a cake?!” He jumped a little as Wilbur nodded, “Well… “trying” is the keyword… “ the pink-haired boy pointed out. “Wait, you thought we had bought a cake and to make it look like we cooked it, we would put some frosting on it?” the blonde boy looked offended, “I mean... we did that last year…” Will pointed out, making Tommy stutter in embarrassment.

“Let’s do it like this: I’ll go to Will’s room and you guys call me when you’re done, ok? Just like nothing ever happened” the gloomy faces began shining as a second opportunity for redemption arose, Tommy pushed Phil into the room and closed the door, getting right back to baking.

The cake ended up alright, the three bakers had flour stuck in their hair for a week or so, but Phil believes that gift was the best one he had ever gotten, even if a little burnt and just a tad too sweet.  

[chill-that-ur-inmyhead]

Are you currently wearing anything red?

my red nail polish

Have you had a deep conversation with anyone today?

nope

What would you say is the most disgusting thing you’ve ever tasted?

not a fan of christmas pudding but would I say its the most disgusting thing ever? hmmm probs not maybe I need to try more foods and get back to you

What was the last food you got a random craving for?

toast, but that is a daily occurrence

Has anyone/anything made you angry recently?

yes.... I arranged to stay with my friend for a weekend to which she announces that she has also arranged for another one of her friends to stay. So instead of telling her friend that she’s busy, this friend is gonna crash and it made me angry because I wanted to spend the weekend with her, I don’t mind meeting her friends but now they’re gonna be there 24/7. I made my peace with it now

Who did you last go to the cinema with?

probs the same friend mentioned above haha

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Little Big Town - Better Man

When was the last time you listened to it?

the other day

Who was the last person to say something thought-provoking?

my friend questioned our group if we think we’re fat phobic so we had an open discussion about it and it got us thinking

On your Facebook friends list, who was the last person to have their b-day?

who knows

How old were they?

probs 22 or 23

What did you/are you having for dinner tonight?

I had steak, yum

Is your best friend in a relationship?

I have a few close friends, some are dating and some aren’t, tis a mixture

How old were you 5 years ago?

17

What is something you enjoy doing, but aren’t good at?

dancing, hehe

Who was the last person you talked to, whose name started with ‘C’?

probs Cara :)

What colour are that person’s eyes?

brown

Name some healthy foods that you enjoy eating.

CUCUMBER FOREVER

What is your favourite Studio Ghibli film?

hmm haven’t seen many Studio Ghibli films but Howl’s Moving Castle was a rollercoaster, note to self: watch more Studio Ghibli creations

Do you have a favourite hair accessory? What does it look like?

yes and no, I love using sunglasses or normal glasses to push my hair back so its both a hair accessory and isn’t

What’s your favourite type of insect?

one that leaves me alone

What’s your LEAST favourite type of insect?

slugs

Who was the last person you Facebook messaged?

Laura!

What’s his/her favourite food?

I do not know haha

Did you have a good day yesterday? What did you do?

hmmm it was a stressful day, my dad and brother were driving up to join us for my grandad’s 90th over the weekend but they broke down on the M1 and took the car back to home in a lorry. mum was stressed and I was sad that we wouldn’t have use of our car to travel back in 

When was the last time you went to a fancy dress party?

have I ever? maybe when I was like 10

Who/what did you dress as?

witch?

What genre was the last film you watched? Did you like it?

FANTASY - I re watched Narnia Prince Caspian and oh wow 

Have you made a sandwich today? What did you put on it?

nope I had a salad

Do you remember the last time you overheard part of a random conversation?

nope, I do like to eavesdrop but can never remember what I hear

Did it make you feel awkward?

nah, I doubt it

What were you doing at 10 o'clock this morning?

showering

How many vowels are there in your first name?

3

What was the last song you listened to? Does it mean anything to you?

Taylor Swift - right where you left me. It reminds me of my last relationship and it’s literally just ONE moment it reminds me of because the song is about the narrator being left at the restaurant and I can just vividly see the moment when my partner and I went for korean bbq. He didn’t leave me at the restaurant and I don’t know why the song would remind me of that moment besides it being at a restaurant. Crazy how taylor works her magic

What flavour was the last cupcake you ate?

tomorrow evening I’ll be able to tell you because we have cupcakes for my Grandad’s 90th :)

When was the last time you complimented a stranger?

in a pandemic? pfffttt hardly spoken to anyone let alone a stranger

What’s your favourite milkshake flavour?

nutella and oreo

Have you had an interesting or amusing dream recently?

nope they’re all stressful and weird

Do you know how old your favourite actor is?

27

Is there anything worrying you right now?

yes

If so, have you talked to anyone about it?

I want to but I just can’t bring myself to

Is there anything you desperately want, that you can’t have?

bread

When will you next see your best friend?

a couple weeks time but we keep in touch every day

Apart from sleeping, what do you plan to do tonight?

read

What’s the age difference between your parents?

5 years

You can only have one flavour of ice-cream for the rest of your life. Which do you choose?

chocolate always

Are there any foods you’ve been craving, or eating a lot of, just recently?

I always crave yoghurt so situation normal there

When was the last time you wanted to do something, but didn’t do it?

I wanted to drive my dad and brother back from the station

Why did you choose not to do it?

I knew it would cause a fight with my mum so I let it go

When was the last time you ate an apple?

within the last week for sure

What’s the nicest thing your best friend has ever said to you?

it’s not something they say once it’s more that they keep coming back to say more nice things :)

Have you ever experienced a hangover?

yep

What was the last food or drink that you tried for the first time?

blood orange gin

Did you like it?

yes

What do your friends think of the person you’re currently interested in?

I’m not interested in anyone rn

Name one of your favourite foods, that starts with the letter ’S’

sausage!!!!

The last time you hung out with your sibling(s), what did you do?

waited for my parents in the car whilst our parents went food shopping

Who was the last blue-eyed person you spoke to?

padre

Is there a person you’d like to speak to right now?

I hope to get a response from Rena soon but I can wait

Why that person, specifically?

She has organised a party and I need more details haha

When you woke up this morning, what was on your mind?

It is spider season :/

At this moment, what are you most looking forward to?

CAKE (for my grandad’s 90th bday) and ofc seeing the extended family

Do you have any scented candles in your home? What scent(s)?

I do, sea salt, bergamot & another one from & other stories

Are you planning any special outings with family or friends?

YES my grandad’s bday dinner is tomorrow

Who were the last 3 males you talked to?

my padra, mon frere and Yao

Do you ever wear lipstick? What colour(s) do you prefer?

either nudes or deep reds, difficult to not look like a clown in the latter, that is always the fear

If you have a pet, when did you last pet him/her?

I don’t :(

Do you have a favourite Celine Dion song?

nope

Name one of your favourite foods, that starts with the letter ‘C’

chicken!

Does the person you love/like have a car? What colour is it?

I’m sure Timothee Chalamet does not sure what colour

Have you ever received a compliment on anything you’re wearing?

yes

Have you had any caffeinated beverages today?

nope

What was the last alcoholic drink you tried for the first time?

blood orange gin 

Did you like it?

yes

Have you eaten any chocolate today? What kind?

so much

The last person you kissed - are they older or younger than you?

older

When was the last time someone wanted you to do something, and you refused?

mum wanted me to not have so much smoothie but I wanted the smoothie haha

What’s your favourite feature of the person you’re currently interested in?

nobody right now but I always notice a nice smile and kind eyes

How many people have you hugged today?

loads! twas my grandad’s 90th bday - we had the whole family come to celebrate

Do you have a favourite hair colour or eye colour on your preferred sex?

I don’t

Do you remember the first CD you ever bought?

it was probably taylor swift’s 1989 album. If it was the first CD I ever bought I dont know but I sure remember buying multiple copies of 1989 to get the polaroid collection

Is there anyone on your mind atm?

not in particular

The last song you listened to - does it remind you of anyone?

nope

Is your birth year an odd or even number?

odd

Have you eaten any of your favourite foods today?

CAKE!

What did you have for lunch yesterday?

fish finger salad!! I hope I’m never too old for fish fingers

Who was the last person you Facebook messaged?

Laura

How many different towns/cities have you lived in?

4

What are your parents’ middle names?

Steven & Anne

Are your eyes the same colour as your sibling’s?

nope

How many pets do you have? Would you like any more?

I don’t have any! we used to have bunnies and I would love some more again

Do you prefer still or sparkling drinks?

depends on the mood

Is there a song you can’t stop listening to atm?

Little Big Town’s Better Man is on repeat rn

Did you have a strange or interesting dream last night?

nope

Which friend do you confide in most?

I kinda tell the world my problems hehe

Who was the first male you talked to today? What colour are his eyes?

either my dad or brother, dad has blue eyes, brother has brown

Are you wearing any accessories in your hair? Describe them.

nope

When was the last time you felt ill? What was wrong?

I caught this WEIRD bug that would just make me feel awful all of a sudden and then drained my energy. It was unlike anything I’ve ever felt it made me miss the normal cold

If given the chance, would you change anything that’s happened today?

the food came later than expected so I would change how much breakfast I had

Who was your first best friend? Do you still speak to that person?

nope

Do you like your middle name, or does it embarrass you?

It fits my name

Are you wearing anything that was given to you as a gift?

nope

Have you received any compliments about your appearance today?

yes! my auntie said I looked like a doll and how much I’ve grown since we last saw each other!

Have you ever written a song or poem for someone special?

nope

Have you ever had an argument with the last person you text messaged?

probably

What colour is your shampoo bottle?

pink

Are you attracted to the last person you Facebook messaged?

she is wonderful but I am not attracted to her in that way haha

Do you have any ice-cream in your freezer? What flavour is it?

chocolate & raspberry 

Have you spoken to any of your neighbours today?

nope

[0vorenation0]

Jakes Surprise (Part 2 Final)

(Warning~ This story does not contain vore or any sexual components.)

Jakes bf turned to me and looked down, thinking about what the plan was. While he thought I opened my suit case and grabbed Jakes Bday gift. I couldn’t wait till tomorrow so I wanted to give it to him when he saw I was here for birthday. Once I got it out and placed it to the side, Jakes bf had an idea.

Jakes bf~”I got it Cal, I’m gonna act like I have a early surprise for him like a present. Then I’m gonna tell him to cover his eyes and I’ll bring you out and we will surprise him.”

Me~” That’s perfect, okay we got a game plan. Alright u go get jake and I’ll wait here until u come and get me.”

Jakes bf left and went to go get Jake, I stood there waiting for him and while he did that I put my clothes in the dresser. Jakes bf came in right after I was done and gestures me to come slowly and quietly. I took off my shoes so he couldnt hear two sets of shoes and walked with him. We got to the living room when I saw my buddy Jake standing there eyes covered.

Jake~” come on bud what’s the surprise, you didn’t get a puppy or something cuz I don’t think we’re ready for that kind of commitment.”

Jakes bf~” not quite a puppy but your going to love it, it’s something you would never have expected and you will most likely never forget it.”

Jake~”surprises are scary when I’m not the one doing them can I open my eyes yet!!”

I stood in front of him and jakes bf counted from three.

Jakes bf~” 3, 2, 1 open your eyes jake!!!!! Happy Birthday!!!!”

Jake opens his eyes real quick and his eyes widened as he froze in shock.

Me~” how’s this for a birthday surprise Jake, Happy Birthday my friend.”

Jake finally came to and jumped in excitement and screamed “OMG CAL, is it really you?!!! WTF I thought u were in Texas. Omg bro I’m crying COME HERE give me a hug.!!!!”

Jake ran to me and gave me the biggest hug I had ever received, a tear feel down the my cheek as I finally met in real life my best bud jake. We probably hugged for a solid 2 mins, you would think that two brothers had been reunited after years apart. After the hugging and some crying stopped, Jake couldn’t believe it. He turned to his bf and asked him if he had anything to do with it. He shocked his head yes and jake hugged and kissed his bf, he came back to me and hugged me again.

Jake~” Cal this is the best Birthday present I have ever gotten, thank you so much. I’m so happy and excited, wait how long are you staying. It’s just just till tomorrow right?”

Me~”Haha Love you jake and happy birthday, naww I’m satying for a week bud. So we can go do lots of stuff.”

Jake~” Are you serious a whole week? OMG YES, I can’t wait to show u around and have fun. What should we do first? Maybe the university I’d love to show u around or the museum, maybe the park.”

Me and Jakes bf~” slow down Jake, we can do all of those things haha.”

Cal~”so now that you got to see ur bfs big present, would u like to open mine?”

Jake~”You got me a gift too, aww Cal thanks. Let’s see it”

I tell jake to stay there and I go into the guest room and pick up the presents. All neatly wrapped in a box. I head back out and hand it to Jake.

Cal~”here you go bud hope you like it.”

Jake sits down on the couch and opens the wrapping, he gets a knife and cuts the box open. The box opens and jake takes out a bottle wrapped in tissue paper. He tears the tissue paper off and smiles. Then looks up at me.

Cal~”I know it’s not much bud, but I promised to give that to you when I visited u for the first time. Do u like it?”

The gift was a Roger Staubach Dr. Pepper two liter bottle, I promised Jake one day while we were talking. That I would personally deliver that bottle to him, most people would think it wasnt worth anything. For me and Jake tho it represented our friendship, he hated the Dallas Cowboys but he was a sports fan and it came from me. He smiled at me and said,

Jake~”I cant believe you remembered to bring it Cal, thanks this means so much to me. Every time I look at it, I will remember this day and how u made me feel. This to me is better then any expensive gift because this comes from you and it means a lot to you.”

The bottle wasn’t worth but 15 bucks, I had picked it up and some garage sale. The worth was that it was a gift to my dear friend Jake. That’s what made it priceless in his eyes. He put it one the table and stood up and went over to me. He hugged me again and said thank you for everything, your my best friend. Meeting jake for the first time was the best day so far of my life. After his gift, he gave me a beer and we sat down to watch an old Syracuse game that was probably ten years old. We laughed and talked me Jake and his bf, I had a great night. We talked about the future and the past. The present and random stuff, I wouldn’t trade that for anything. The day ended and we all went to sleep, the following day Jakes bf made me and Jake a birthday breakfast and we discussed what we would do today. Jake was really excited to show me his campus.

So after we ate we all got ready and went out, he showed me around his campus. It was beautiful and then we went out to a pizza place cuz i wanted to try some NY pizza. It was a the best pizza ever haha, the next day and following rest of the week was so much fun. We went to see a movie, a museum and we even drove four hours so I could see the 9/11 memorial and the Statue of Liberty. The vacation I decided to take was the best trip of my life and I loved every minute of it. Jake and his bf were sad on the final morning before I had to leave. The end turned out like the beginning, lots of hugs and a little crying. I was saddened to go home but I told them I would be back as soon as I could, and told jake and his bf to surprise me in Texas when they could. With that we said goodbye and I left home for Texas. I will never forget meeting my best friend Jake, and having an awesome week. Now that I met him, I felt closer then ever to him. He was like my brother I never knew I had, you wonder how someone u meet online can make a huge impact on ur life and then when u meet them. They turn out to make and even bigger impact on ur life.

Right when I got on my plane jake went out to get the mail. It was a birthday card and he opened it, happy birthday jake. Hope you loved ur gift and I know I’m writing this in advance but I love you bud and I’m so happy I got to meet u. See you soon bud!!!

That’s where the story ends everyone, HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAKE. I love you so much, u mean so much to me and hopefully one day that’s how us meeting will go. @texanstrongjake

[selfcareparker]

hi bae <3 reading that last ask i’m realizing i have no grammar? lmao

glad university is funnnn, when you said linguistics i was like 🤨 but then i googled it and it does sound interesting lmao

the too much free time part though... :( its like you expected to be thrown in and like WOO BUSY and WOO purpose (purpose may be going too far lol) but i totally get what you’re saying. ESPECIALLY when you expect to be busier and you’re not it’s like :/ ok. (& girlllll it’s fine to complain, it’s how ur feeling)

and bc of covid you have eVEN LESS STUFF TO DO, which sucks. the social part may help? even just a little bit, but maybe having some socialization.. it could be somewhat uplifting? idk gsjshsj

where i live the vaccine is for 16 and up right now but for the younger kids (12-15) it hasn’t been ✨FDA approved✨ yet so my brother is still waiting for his 🤠

okay really quick, how does drivers license work there? here you learn to drive at 16 and you can like actually drive (sometimes even alone in the car) by 17... (also burneks?)

YAYYYY GIRLLL i remember you telling me about how you haven’t seen your family in England in such a long time 🥺🥺🥺 i really hope you get to see them soon!!!! and that covid eases up so you can see them frequently again 🥺🥺🤍

i’m gonna tattoo that to my forehead “not being friends with your parents is unhealthy” EXACTLY!! the people saying that stuff are usually not close to their parents so 👀

i’ve been really busy (unfortunately imo lol) with my dance recital coming up and this singing group (which i don’t like at all) and my final tests bc of school i’m EEK but it’s a good eek i think? maybe? idk lolll, i can’t wait for everything to be over though so i can CHILL. after school however i have a missions trip in north carolina? don’t quote me on that, but yeah 🥰 i’m really excited about it bc i’ll be without my family (like on my own :)) and it’s this whole thing and i’ll get to know people and i’m gonna buy a new bathing suit that makes me look gooooood cuz i’m tryna cop a boyfriend while i’m there HAHAHAH but besides that... more acting and singing camps probably? most likely a summer job.. i don’t have any plans reallyyy set in stone but ya know (ACTUAL i do have a few things planned. but those are things i don’t want to do. so i will be ignoring them <3)

that was a long ass paragraph- but PLEASE UR RESPONSE WAS FINEEE & i love you 💓💓💖💞💘💓💞💕 literally watch me buy a ticket to germany rn

- lovely anon (or catherine? i feel that lovely anon is iconic now tho so. kinda like how i call you aria in my head not your real name lol ALSO I PROMISE IM GONNA RESPOND TO THAT REALLY SOON, it’s just really busy rn) <3

what’s wrong with tumblr i just saw this a minute ago 🥲🥲🥲🥲 they don’t want to see us together ✋🏼 but fuck them 💘

Whaksk wait wdym by you have no grammar? 😭😭hejsjs

Honestly I’m so surprised that I’m enjoying linguistics but i think since i speak english and german i’ve just always been interested in language and esp english since it’s just my second language so i was forced to learn more about the language than just words and grammar, because it’s such a big part of me and also i didn’t always have a british accent so i kind of had to... develop a british accent, and it was natural but also kind of wasn’t??? Anyway why was this one sentence like 17 lines i’m sorry

YES OMG EXACTLY and obviously i’m missing out on the whole uni experience i mean I’m introverted anyway but i don’t mind going to a party every now and then? but i haven’t talked to a single person from my uni (except in class when we had to analyse a poem or something— okay technically some of my friends go to the same uni as me but they’re all studying other stuff)

But yeah I’ll definitely try to meet my friends more often 🥺 but we all have really different schedules rn so it’s really hard to find days where we both/all are free and not too tired and yeahssjsksj but i mean.... i can pay 50% of your ticket to germany? and then we can hang out? 🥰

I think everyone over 18 can get their vaccine from Monday on so I’ll try to call (okay, my mum will call sisjsh) and see if i can get an appointment. but i think everything will be super full because previously only people over... 50?or 60? or people with like illnesses could get it and now everyone over 18 can get it??? Like that’s a lot of people who can suddenly get the vaccine sksjjs but at the same time they’re getting quicker with it (i think today over 1 million people got the vaccine???? Like i know the US probably gets wayyy more people done so idk if that sounds like nothing to you but obviously Germany is much smaller so to me that sounds like a lot???) and also one of my father’s friend’s wife (djdkdj) works at a hospital or something? And she said she’ll ask if I can get it done there so yeah 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼

Isksmsjjs it took me so long to figure out what burneks was, i googled it (very weird results?) and then i realised i made a typo.... yeah no idea what i was trying to say lol

So in Germany (as far as I’m aware) you can start at 17 and you can’t have your test before you’re 17 years and 6 months old (idk why) and then you’re not allowed to drive alone until you’re 18 and then you still have two years on probation(is that what it’s called?) and you’re not allowed to drink a single sip of alcohol before you’re 21 (and drive) (cause in germany you’re allowed to drink when you’re 14 (if your parents are with you and allow it), then when you’re 16 you can buy beer and wine, and when you’re 18 you can buy everything. But you’re not allowed to drink and drive (even if it’s just 0.01 promille) until you’re 21)

(Okay I just googled and I don’t think you say pro mille/per mille in english sksjsjs but like the percent (or something...) of alcohol you have in your blood (idk biology sorry) (not that you asked about drinking and driving anyway? 😭 but there you go lmaoo)

Also idk if that’s just a UK thing or you also have it in the US? But all of my relatives from England keep asking me how often I’m driving with my parents (for practice)... and in Germany that’s.... not allowed? Like in england you can get these L (Learner) plates that you can stick on the back of your car and then you can drive anytime with your parents, but in germany you can only drive with your driving instructor during a paid for and legally organised driving lesson so. Kksskaj

Yess, the good thing now is that i can go to england anytime? Because Uni is all online anyway so it’s not like i have to wait until the holidays to see my family, i really hope i’ll see them soon🥺 it was my nana’s bday today and my grandad’s a few weeks ago so i’m painting two pictures for them tomorrow and sending them as a (late) gift next week 😌 (i’ll do like an impressionist ✨field of flowers✨ (that sounds awful sksjsjsj for reference i’ll look something like this: (it’s not mine i just found it on the internet while i was looking for some inspiration

for my nana, and something with a waterfall for my grandad) (looking at it now i don’t even think that’s impressionism? Idfk i had art as my subject for my a levels (like one of my final exams) and i actually got an A 👀 but it was mainly architecture and i don’t even remember that so

Ahhh I hope it’s a good eek!! Sksjj hopefully you’ll be done with everything soon and i already know you’re gonna do really good in all of your tests😌 but still: good luck ❤️❤️❤️

Idk if it’s actually cool? But North Carolina sounds so cool to me (but honestly you could have said any state and i’d think it’s cool sksksskm) And girl I still think it’s so amazing that you just sing and dance and act and omg ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

(I’m imagining us in a montage (?) like they always have in films while we’re shopping to get you a hot bathing suit😌😌 and then they always come home with like 6 shopping bags in the movies—)

This is gonna sound so dumb because who tf wants to work? But I’ve always wanted a summer job 🥲 like nothing too exhausting obviously but i’ve never earned any money by myself? I haven’t had a single job in my life (not that I’m that old and like only one of my friends has worked in her life like we’re young sksjsj) and yeah i think it would be really cool to have a summer job and earn some money 😌 but during the summer holidays (they’re only 6 weeks in germany) we’d always go to england for at least two weeks and then we’d drive to bosnia to see my dad’s family for a few days and then to croatia and then to Bosnia again sksksksms so i never had time for a summer job (obviously i’m aware that it’s a fucking privilege that i’ve never had to work and that i get to go to multiple countries during the holidays but yeah)

WHY DO I TALK SO MUCH AUSSKKSSM

Like I said I’ll pay 50% of your ticket 😌 i’ll be here stuck at home anyway, just let me know when you’re coming so i can come pick you up😌 (this emoji djskksks— but i mean it fits so i’ll use it as often as i can 😌)

Lovely anon IS iconic 😌✨ but Catherine is more than okay too🥰 so just say whatever you prefer ❤️

(And omg you never have to apologise for responding to my long ass, full-of-mistakes responses late sksjs take your time (i mean i wouldn’t be mad if you just didn’t respond to some of them i talk too much anyway <3333)

[1heartfanfics]

Nathan’s Birthday

So Nathan’s birthday was about a month ago, on June 26th and I was planning to do this bday fic for him but clearly that didn’t happen so I’m doing it now even though it’s way late. 

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“Good morning babe, happy birthday!!” Hazel said excitedly as Nathan entered the kitchen. 

“Happy birthday Nate!” Zander echoed with a smile. 

“Aw thanks guys,” Nathan replied, grinning at his girlfriend and his younger brother, who were already up and making pancakes, his favorite. “You guys didn’t have to do this,” he continued.

“Everyone should get a special breakfast on their special day,” Hazel smiled, bringing over a plate with two pancakes over for him. 

“Thank you babe,” he said. Hazel leaned over and gave him a kiss, then walked back into the kitchen to get a plate for herself. 

Zander sat down opposite him and pushed a small wrapped present across the table. Nathan smiled, it had been so good to have his brother around, although he knew it was only a temporary solution. He worried about Zander so much normally and he always missed him, so he was grateful for this time that they got to live together. He couldn’t help but worry about what came next though, him and Hazel couldn’t afford to support a 14 year old forever. 

“Here you go, open them up,” Hazel set another wrapped gift down on the table when she came back in with a plate for her and one for Zander. Nathan took a bite of his pancakes, then picked up the gift from Zander. He opened the box to find a fancy pair of dress socks in red, his favorite!

“Aw wow thanks Zand, these look great!” he said, pulling them out with a smile. 

“You’re welcome,” Zander beamed, looking very proud of himself, although Nathan was sure that Hazel had helped him pick them out. 

He took a few more bites of his pancake before picking up Hazel’s gift. He unwrapped it and opened up the box, revealing a watch. It was an leather banded analog watch. His had broken a long time ago, and he’d been meaning to buy a new one, but had never gotten around to it. 

“Wow, Hazel thank you, this is awesome,” he said, quickly putting it on his wrist. 

“I’m glad you like it,” Hazel smiled, admiring how good the watch looked on his wrist. 

“These are awesome guys, seriously, and the pancakes are great, thank you,” Nathan said, feeling so incredibly lucky. With the way he grew up, he’d never had a birthday like this, not really. 

“I do have one more present for you,” Hazel said, biting her lip. “It’s kind of for both of you actually,” she said, glancing back and forth between Nathan and Zander. 

“Both of us?” Zander asked in confusion. It wasn’t his birthday, why would Hazel have gotten him something too?

“It’s not really a physical thing, and it’s not for sure yet, but...” Hazel trailed off, practically vibrating with excitement, which she was trying to contain for the sake of building anticipation.

“Just spit it out babe, you’re killing us,” Nathan joked, although he was beginning to feel a bit nervous to be honest. What the hell was she up to?

“I talked to my older brother, Dean, the other day... So Dean’s wife Tammy is a social worker, so she feels really passionately about kids, especially those who are in situations like what you guys have had to deal with. And they have always wanted to have kids but Tammy can’t because of some medical reasons,” Hazel explained. 

“Okay, go on,” Nathan urged. He had a suspicion of where this was going but he didn’t want to get his hopes up until he knew for sure that he was right. 

“They want to adopt you Zander,” she said quickly.

“Oh my god,” Nathan laughed, relieved that he’d been right. 

“What?” Zander asked in shock. 

“They still have to go through the whole process and of course I’ll take you to meet them sometime soon but I know you guys will get along great. And anyway it’ll still be awhile before anything happens, but they want you Zand. And that way he’ll be close and he’ll be with people you know and trust and-” Hazel was cut off when Nathan jumped out of his chair and practically tackled her with a hug. 

“Your brother is going to adopt me? Like they’ll be my new parents?” Zander asked with wide eyes.

“Yeah, kiddo, they’ll be your new parents,” Hazel nodded, reaching out to take his hand in hers. 

Nathan let go of her and walked around the table to Zander, wrapping his arms tightly around him as he cried tears of his own. He’d spent his whole life worrying about Zander and trying to keep him safe, and now, for the first time ever, he really would be safe. 

“They’re such good people Zand, you’re gonna be so happy there. They’ll take great care of you, I know they will,” Nathan cried, smiling at his brother as tears poured down both of their cheeks. 

“Everything is going to be okay you guys,” Hazel told them. 

She got up and moved to wrap an arm around both boys, feeling some tears of happiness welling in her own eyes as well. 

“Thank you Hazel, thank you so much, for everything,” Zander said, looking up at her. 

“You don’t have to thank me, Nathan and I both just want you to be happy,” she said.

“No Hazel seriously this is amazing, what you did, I can’t ever thank you enough for doing this. He was my responsibility, but yet you took it upon yourself and I-I don’t even know how to thank you,” Nathan stammered, almost at a loss for words.

“That’s my job love, to share your burdens. That’s what we do,” she nodded at him, smiling softly. She reached out to wipe the tears off of his cheeks as he smiled back at her. 

Nathan felt like he could breathe for the first time in weeks. Zander was out of that house forever, and he was going to be somewhere with people who would love him and take care of him. People who could afford to support him. 

“This is freaking amazing, Zand, seriously. They’re wonderful, I promise. And this way I’ll still get to see you lots,” Nathan turned to address his brother again, who hadn’t stopped smiling since Hazel had told them the news. 

“I love you so much, both of you,” Zander cried, swiping at the tears on his cheeks as he stood up to embrace them again.

They both wrapped their arms around the boy, all of them holding eachother for a few more moments, reveling in the happiness and the knowledge that this was all going to be okay. Nathan really should’ve known that Hazel would figure it out. She had promised to keep Zander safe, and not to let anything happen to him, and Hazel did not take promises lightly. He owed her the world. 

[astorytellerforthatgirl]

Who is Maine Mendoza for this Storyteller?

Maine is just a simple celebrity for me as I watched her first in July of 2015. Few months after that, I started venturing in my inconsistent freelance career. I’m a home-based content writer submitting my outputs through email or uploading in a Wordpress admin account. I’ll make sure at 12:00, I have to watch Eat Bulaga to have a glimpse of her. As the days passed by, I just find myself laughing and smiling at the slapstick comedy and funny antics of her silent character relying on Dubsmash.

I did not know it was a point of no return of my fangirling on Maine.

Being in a fandom is not new to me. I was an active UAAP vball fan before to the point I would even watch highschool vball games to know who are the prized bluechip recruits all UAAP teams want to have in their program. I made my Twitter account almost a decade ago to follow the Gosiengfiao sisters (Alodia and Ashley) to interact with them via tweets. Also, through Twitter and other socmed sites, I got to be in a fangroup of Pinay American Idol finalist Thia Megia and saw her in person. Through social media too, I met other fans of our Olympian Yan Lariba and met her in a friendly encounter.

I know the good side and also the bad side of fangirling. I’ve been into useless arguments with online trolls and I admit their words get to me…until I just learned to be indifferent and not mind it at all. Then here comes Maine. I was hesitant to be a vocal fan because of her immense popularity but again she just have that “something” in her that I want to root for.

I started profiling Maine like how I used to in the other celebrities I look up to her public accounts like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Ask.fm and lastly her blog….

MAY BLOG SI MAINE!!!

MGA KAPITBAHAY MAY BLOG SI MAINE!!!

Yes, I was surprised to know she has a blog!! My writer heart is leaping with joy!! That was the conviction I told myself it would be easier to fangirl for her since writing is my core and passion.

I started following her and knowing more about her like how she is close to her family, the rumors she went to PBB Auditions, and her other past Youtube uploaded videos. But I was still a silent fan back then since I am clueless how to handle a barrage of comments from other fans once I begin to be vocal. I am happy as a silent fan until the inevitable thing happened…

Maine released her Open Letter in November 26, 2017.

Yes, I won’t forget how I cried after reading it and not enjoying the ice cream I am eating on a Sunday afternoon. I began to connect the dots. I wanted to hate some people and wish them to have double, triple the pains of whatever Maine felt. I do want to start expressing my support for her to prove there are still like me…”isa sa sampu” fans of Maine.

The problem though is I am still at a down moment by that time. I failed to handle the pressure of a teaching career. I love the kids inside the classroom but the paperworks overwhelmed me. Attendance, quizzes, understanding the lesson plan, submitting other requirement, etc---those did not fare good for me. I just realized I only want to be with the kids even if I am with them 6-7 hours straight, I don’t get tired at all. I found out I like to be a public speaker but I cannot cope up with the tremendous responsibilities of the teacher.

Being an overthinker, I felt I failed again not myself but my family and everyone who believed in me. I was down for months and clueless what to do next. I even think if there would still be a company or business owner who would take risk with me seeing my resume with months of no work as I rested after resigning from the teaching post.

I thought of how I am a burden again and have no direction in my career, whereas my batchmates might already be settling down with their partners, finishing their master’s degree, or exploring more of what they can do abroad. There I was, clueless and do not know again where to start. I am just thankful I have a supportive family and set of friends who waited until I got tired of being afraid and overthinking.

There were even days I wish I can just sleep forever and not wake up to those clueless and empty days again. I was also telling God that time I wish I was the one He took instead of my papa who passed away in 2007 due to an illness. Because my papa would be able to help my family instead of my inconsistency, fears, and overthinking. I was in that bargaining stage and I am too blinded, hurt, and tired to see my own worth and potential.

In those dark times, I would pray for a direction…for an enlightenment. Angels in the form of my friends and my family gave me words to fight back. It was enough to hold on….until I saw an excerpt from Maine’s book through an online article of cosmo.ph promoting her book:

“Things may go from bad to worse and you might feel like it’s never going to change, but believe me when I say it will get better. Everything will be all right, I promise you. We may have our own different battles, but remember there is only one God. He is always looking down on us wherever we go and whatever obstacle we face. You may currently be in a lot of pain, but you never know what God has in store for your future.

Marami pang magagandang bagay ang mangyayari sa buhay mo. Magtiwala ka. Kapit lang, laban lang.

P.S.  If you are looking for a sign on whether you should still hold on or give up, this is it. Hold on tight, my dear. Don't you ever give up; never ever give up. “

I cried and smiled after reading it. “Ikaw talaga Lord ha, si Maine pa pinadala Mo rin para sabihin kaya ko pa.” The darker those moments are for me, the brighter are all the Bearers of Light shone in my life. I begin to see more how my mama is patient with me, how my brothers would ask what do I want to eat or where do I want to go, friends who would tell me they will meet me anywhere I wish to be…and that excerpt from Maine’s book.

So I told myself: May laban pa ako. Isang subok pa.

It took me until January to gather all my guts. I started editing my resume. I came back to my freelancing career by looking for homebased jobs. It was also the time I just thought of blogging for Maine. I was still doubting if I am ready to be a vocal fan…but I know in my heart if God is telling me to do something even if I am still scared or doubtful of it.

I posted my first entry about Maine on this tumblr account. What comes next are series of unexpected blessings coming in my way…I did not look for them but the opportunities found me instead. Here are some of them:

(a)    Got a DM asking if I can write for Clairedelfinmedia.com after they read my blog about Maine and Nadine parallelisms

(b)   Got invited twice to Maine’s bday party by generous fans. First is when I told her she is a Bearer of Light and we are her 10th heartbeat in the #EnchantressMaine23. Second is when I co-host in the #DearMaine bday event.

(c)    An anonymous fan who works abroad gifted me a Microsoft Surface Tablet just because she is thankful for my support for Maine.

(d)   Meeting some fans who are as level-headed and as classy like Maine I felt I attended a business conference instead of a fan event.

(e)   Getting back on my feet again to find the direction in my career.

Also, I am grateful my mama is a silent fan of Maine. You see, I am already in my late 20s but she treats me like a pre-teen kid and I find it difficult to ask permission to go to different places and stay late. Kung pwede 6pm sa bahay na ako at may number si mama ng lahat ng kasama ko para mapanatag siya. So I was surprised it was easy for me to ask permission going to Maine’s bday event even if I come home late at evening. As my mama said, “May swerteng dala sayo si Maine, puntahan mo lang pag meron.”

Of course, going back to my freelance career is not as smooth as what I expected. Rejections and no follow-up interviews came, some would even ask me to stop writing for them and they would just pay me for the weeks I wrote, or I have already written an article then suddenly my contact person said the client forgot to ask for the specific writer and that isn’t me.  

It was still difficult but I am grateful to find this new courage, thanks to God’s constant faithfulness in my life and to all my Bearers of Light. In 2018 too, I found CCF, a Christian church whom I am comfortable with in sharing my flaws and mistakes. They focus more on God’s grace, justice, and mercy for everyone than other close-minded religious people or groups who condemn sinners.

Thanks to Maine too, I started to try new things which I still hesitated before. I remembered reading her IG post on her skydiving experience. She encouraged us to try things out even if we are still scared. In 2018, I tried acting workshop and auditioned in a production house for a voice-over artist. I even tried if I could be a female reporter in an FM station. Although these things haven’t yet prospered for me, I am happy to try it out and see what else I can try aside from writing.

At present, I invested in a copywriting module and joined an uplifting and supportive Filipino community of freelance copywriters in a Facebook group. I am determined to venture into copywriting because it is parallel to my passion in storytelling and writing. The process of improving myself excites me.  I am a homebased content writer (as of this time) who still have a lowpay rate but I am enjoying the flexibility of my time. Plus, the company I work for recently gave me incentives and gift certificates.

Going back to one of the dark times in my life and just want to give up, God sent His angels in different forms to remind me I still have to fulfill His purpose, His story, and His plans in my life. He intended to break my heart and dreams so He can form it with a new one. In those times, God chose Maine too to tell me I can and I will be able to do it with God’s help.

This is just a fraction of what Maine did for me. I am more than thankful and will always support her even in the future that she is a private citizen and enjoys that under-the-radar life away from the fame and attention of public.

Salamat talaga Maine sa lahat lahat! 

Bearer of Light, please keep on radiating! 

God rewarded your sacrifices and good heart.

Embrace the genuine happiness you have now.

[sasuhinasno1fan]

A trip worth of Birthday Grimlin

So I never wrote a bday fic for Pidge last year, I had no time, and I want to keep the YouTuber AU train going with the bday fics. So I was trying to think about what they’d do for their birthday, since a lot of my ideas have come from other video’s I’ve watched, and then I remembered in Japan, there’s a place called the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku and I was able to find a video of one of their whole shows and I thought, “would Pidge make all their friends get on a plane and fly to see this show? Probably.” So I mixed together two different shows, this and this. The first link is more of what I described. Also these shows are from two different years so if by any chance you did want to go to this resturant, the show won't be spoiled because they have new shows each year I believe. I know there's was a new one last year. So here we go, please enjoy.

Pidge was scrolling through their twitter feed when they felt their brother lean on them. They looked up to see their vlogging camera attached to what looked like Lance’s selfie stick, extended just far enough to get them both in frame

“So Pidge, my amazing younger sibling, where are we?” Matt asked, looking down at Pidge, who smiled unapologetically back at them.

“At the airport.”

“Right and what’s coming up?”

“My birthday. I’ll finally be 21, so I can legally drink now. Even though I’ve already had beer before.”

“You hate beer though. Anyway, why exactly are we at the airport with your birthday so close?”

Pidge stared the camera down. “We’re going to Japan to go to the Robot Restaurant!”

“Now anyone who knows me knows I’d usually be pretty scyed to go to this but Pidge,” Matt asked, the smile on Pidge’s face turning from unapologetic to embarrassed, “what else did you do?”

“I might have misbooked the tickets I got everyone? Ok but seriously, the whole time zone thing confuses the hell out of me. I know Japan is 3 hours ahead of us but I somehow forgot that Japan is also a day ahead of us.”

“No joke, they were googling and texting Shiro like crazy and yet they still managed to mess up the tickets and the reservation for the Robot Café.”

“I thought we’d be getting in on the 2nd still.” Pidge tried to defend

“Pidge, it’s the fact that Shiro texted and called you to remind you about this. He’s from Japan and talks to his parents all the time. I’m extremely tempted to make you read the gigantic text Shiro sent you reminding you about this.” Matt said, as Pidge hide their face on his arm.

“Shh, I feel bad enough. the good thing is the Robot Show isn’t until 4 and we get to Tokyo at like 12 pm so we have time to go to the hotel, shower and change, maybe eat something, even though I want to buy things at the place.”

“Oh yeah, the original plan was to do one of the dinner shows but those end near closing and where the Restaurant is, can get really crowded. besides, Shiro was like, after the show, we should hang out maybe a bit long until like it’s 8 and then go to sleep because our bodies will still be like, jetlagged.”

“An 11 hour flight and some of us aren’t surviving so far.” Pidge told the camera, taking the selfie stick and fiddling with it a bit to extend it even more before turning and lifting it so the whole Voltron crew could be in shot. Keith and Lance were next to Matt and using each other as supports as they snored away, Shay was passed out on Hunk’s lap and Hunk looked like he was following. Allura and Shiro were still awake, no doubt used to what they had to do when they went to go visit Shiro’s parents in Japan. “Only 4 of us are left if Hunk gives in.” Hunk woke up more at the sound of his name and waved sleepily at the camera. “I think we’re losing him. Thankfully we have like half an hour left until boarding starts and we all have first class tickets so we can go on early and pass out. It might be hard for me because Grassbomb usually comes and purrs next to me when I’m trying to sleep but Matt suggested I record her and listen to it on the plane.” Pidge explained shortening the stick so they wouldn’t whack any other tired passengers. “I don’t really think I’ll be recording on the plane and – oh Coran!”

The orange haired man had gone to get coffee since he said even in first class, airplane coffee was abysmal. Pidge didn’t care, coffee was coffee.

“Yes number 5? Is that Lance’s selfie stick?”

“I stole it from his bag.” Matt said, not sounding sorry

“Don’t expect help when he comes after you or worse, sends Keith after you. But, yes Pidge?”

“You’ve been to the Robot Restaurant right?”

“Yes I have and I can promise you one thing, there isn’t any other kind of show like it.”

“Sweet. Well, we’ll see you guys in Japan.”

The Voltron crew was able to sleep most of the flight away. Recording Greenbomb, Pidge’s cat, purring helped the youngest member pass out, almost missing when Keith and Lance got in trouble for trying to share the same pod seat to sleep. Pidge also wasn’t sure how their brother managed it, but he got the flight attendant to announce it was Pidge’s birthday during the announcements to landing. It was 12 pm, April 3rd, which made filling out customs forms hard.

Borrowing Lance’s selfie stick, Pidge was able get them all in the shot so they could all announce to the camera, “We’re in Japan!”

“And we have our entire luggage so we need to go and find our hotel’s shuttle driver because we have to get to the hotel, possibly change if we have time and then get down to Shinjuku because we have a reservation to make. Let’s go!” Pidge explained while the others grabbed their stuff and headed out to hopefully find their ride.

Luck was on their side as the driver found them easily and after playing Tetris with everyone’s bags, they were off. Almost everyone had either their phones or cameras out to take footage of the passing scenery, Pidge testing her Japanese on the driver. They got to the hotel and into their rooms before being given a small tour by the staff. It killed time before they got changed and were able to get a taxi all the way to Shinjuku where Coran told them to look for the sparkly dinosaur.

“Um, I found it.” Keith said, as Lance videoed the sparkly dinosaur as well as two robotic women, which the Holt siblings immediately ran to. “This is gonna be a weird evening isn’t it?” Keith asked rhetorically

“Pidge told us that we were going to Japan for their birthday just because they wanted to come here. Trust me, nothing about this day will be normal.” Lance said, giving his boyfriend an answer anyway.

Once they got enough pictures with the moving woman robots, they headed inside the narrow hallway and went down the stairs with strange and crazy themes for each floor, the bedazzled elevator being the groups favourite. They finally reached the front desk, where Shiro got them signed in and they were directed to get their drinks before being lead into the stage area to get their seats. Pidge was willing to admit they spoiled things a bit by looking at videos but they wanted to figure out the best place to sit. They got most of the whole third row on one of the sides reserved for them and while most stayed to save the seats, others went back to where they got their drinks to get bento boxes for everyone.

“Ok, so ready?” Matt asked, Pidge’s video camera in his hands, pointing it at his younger sibling.

“The mic is on right?” the room wasn’t fully packed but it was already loud from the excitement. At Matt’s nod, Pidge focused on the camera and waved. “Hey guys, so we’re finally here at the Robot Restaurant. Getting down here was weird because of all the crazy themes they have for each of the floors, not really up my ally but I was warned that there’s no other place like this, except for maybe the Monster Café Matt wants to go to.”

“It looks so cool!” Matt said from behind the camera

“Well, we’re here for a week, so we have time. Anyway, coming here gets you a free drink and if you wanted to, you could book tickets that also get you access into restaurants who work with this place, which was the original plan, but they’re mostly for dinner shows and Shiro suggested an early night, so most of the others are getting us bento boxes so we can eat. They do have a gift shop that we’re gonna visit later because I told everyone I want them to buy me something each from there.”

“There’s 8 of us here and only about 10 items I remember from the website, you’re just getting the whole store.” Matt said, Pidge not even looking the slightest bit concerned.

Pidge and Matt had set up cameras to film the whole thing and no have to worry about constantly messing with it while they watched.

Finally the show started, first with clown hype men getting the crowd excited while the master of ceremonies welcomed everyone and explained the rules. Pidge was glad they didn’t reserve front row tickets since those in the front row had to practise leaning back to avoid any passing robots. Soon the stage was clear and Pidge could see two moving stages come onto main stage and they started bouncing in their seat as the taiko drummers started their performance, the stages lighting up and moving as the drummers got very into their performance, the separate person on drums and percussion also rocking out before they were joined by a yokai dressed guitar player.

“Having fun?” Matt asked, watching the huge smile on Pidge’s face

“This is the coolest birthday ever!”

Before they knew it the stage was filled with performers and the performance was over as all but one stage of taiko drummers went off stage before they were joined by dancing fan girls, yokai dressed warriors and ninjas, who fought as the music surrounded them before the master of ceremonies invited new floats and robots to parade in front of the audience, the floats seeming to become filled with each round they made before a large silver robot with outstretched hands joined. Pidge did notice the floats seemed to all be pushed along by men in black with strange looking hats that covered their face. They leaned around their brother to poke Shiro, who sat next to Matt.

“Who are the guys in black?”

“They’re called kuorko, servants who hid in the shadows. They’re kinda like the backstage crew that moves stuff in the dark.”

After the performance, they were once again joined by the clown hype men who danced for the audience before announcing they were giving away a free popcorn to a lucky winner. Pidge stared at the screen, hoping their seat number would be picked. They had finished their bento and half of Matt’s but they were still hungry. The winner turned out to be Shay, who poured some in her empty bento box and passed it down for the others to do the same, but it never made its way back up once Pidge got a hold of it.

“Are you going to be able to eat dinner after this?” Allura asked as the lights were dimmed and the sound of chains filled the room.

“I don’t know. I didn’t eat anything yesterday because I was editing all day.” Pidge said stuffing more popcorn in their mouth.

“Pidge!” Allura scolded, to which Pidge shrugged

“I got busy. Besides that McDonalds breakfast from wasn’t exactly filling.”

The next show was a battle royal between robots, though Pidge could tell there were just costumes, it made them even more excited to see the one that actually looked more like robots. They show wasn’t as entertaining as the others and when it ended, they were given an intermission to go to the bathroom. Matt used it as an excuse to grab food and also somehow get the master of ceremonies to know it was Pidge’s birthday.

When he got back and the master of ceremonies came back to the stage, they first made sure everyone had been given a light stick and introduced the performers. Pidge had been focused on eating that they didn’t pay much attention to the start of the happy birthday song until their name was called.

“Happy birthday Pidge!” Pidge looked up, a piece of tempura hanging from their mouth as the master of ceremonies was able to get to the stairs to get to Pidge. They looked over to see a line of vlogging cameras capturing the moment.

“What did you do?” they demanded to know, but wasn’t given an answer as they were handed one of the robot plushes from the Restaurant’s store.

Once that was over, it was announced that the last show was about to start before LED lighted people came out on skates, segways and the coolest circular motorcycle Keith ever saw.

“No you can’t get one.” Lance teased seeing the look on his boyfriend’s face.

“Screw that, I’m making one!” Pidge announced

The stage was soon filled with two DJing dressed robots as they danced along while two robots, similar to the once that Matt and Pidge darted to at the entrance came moving on with bikini clad girls cheering on them. It was like a rave on steroids. When the rave ended, the one thing Pidge had been waiting for finally walked or in some cases was rolled onto the stage, the people in the more robotic looking costumes.

“Do you think we can make this?” Pidge asked their brother as the music started and the robots started dancing as the dancers came out to join them.

“As long as mom and dad don’t find out.” Matt replied

“Don’t encourage them!” Shiro said, already seeing the plans forming in the Holt sibling’s minds.

The last part of the show involved a plane that was covered in bikini clad girls, who’d switch with the girls on the LED tank that came towards them on the opposite side, a girl on a Tron looking bike and two other girls on barrel shaped robots making their rounds around them.

It all seemed like it ended too soon for Pidge but the whole crew of dancers and performers came on the stage one last time before disappearing into the wings. With their skill of putting video equipment away quickly, the group was able to gather their things and start exiting early so the store wasn’t as crowded as it would be once everyone was out. When they were finally on the street again, Pidge sat themself’s down on the robot again so their brother could film them.

“So what can you say about the show?” Matt asked, knowing the look from Pidge’s face had to tell the audience all

“Like Coran said, can’t find a show like it. Guys, I did record this, but watching the recording and seeing it for yourself are two different things. Trust me, if you have the chance, book a ticket and get down here! Now we need to get food because I couldn’t book the dinner combo tickets without it dragging on too late. I think I might end it here. Thanks everyone for your birthday wishes I would have read by the time this video goes up. We’re getting on a train in the morning to get to a prefecture that has a dog amusement park, because why not love both cats and dogs? This is your HackingGrimlin signing off and I’ll see you later, bye!”

Pidge didn’t survive the trip back to the hotel though. For the first time since getting their cat, the rush of adrenaline knocked Pidge out without the need for purring. Matt had to piggy back them back to their room, where they slept until 1 am and had to kindly ask the front desk if they could still order room service, since no one left after that.

Pidge was right about one thing, this had been their coolest birthday ever. It did make the others just slightly concerned with what Pidge no doubt had planned for the next year.