#and the quinceañera meal

[lamamasjamas]

I want Miguel to eat all of the tradition Mexican dishes, not just the empanadas most people write about him eating for some reason. It isn’t even a good Mexican food imo 🙊; fight me, I’m from the coast we don’t eat that there and I’ve only had one in my entire life. It was Argentinian too and I was in Mexico. 💀

I know mans would love gorditas, sopes, and huaraches. Also, where’s the love for Mariscos? He’d suck those shrimp tails so good. I have so many photos of fucking food it’s kind of embarrassing.

Babe would eat the large ass portions they give at Mexican restaurants.

[nuka-cherries]

Sweet Like Honey

Fandom: The Bear (2022) Pairing: Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto x Aurora Saltillo (oc)

A double Michelin star(s) award winning pastry chef, Aurora Saltillo is adjusting to a complicated world without her mother and without Mikey. Just when she is barely starting to see process in The Beef, Carmy takes over and enters her life again.

Carmy, the same rival from culinary school. Carmy, the same cold-hearted bastard from New York City who took her dream job. Carmy, the same one who ultimately broke Mikey's heart.

Simply said, Aurora can't stand Carmy; Carmy can't stand Aurora. And now, they have to work together.

It only gets more complicated from there. \\\ Latina OC.

Lindsey Morgan as Aurora Saltillo.

Thank you @thatone-brightstar for the cheering! ily!

Spotify soundtrack here!

AO3 Link here!

Lindsey Morgan as Aurora Saltillo | Ming-Na Wen as Ming Saltillo     

Aurora Saltillo contemplated every decision she had made up to that point in time. 

Carmy was not a bad person. But when he got serious, he got serious. For Aurora, cooking and baking was fun. It was her joy. She made her own quinceañera cake when she turned fifteen. She catered meals for her family. Growing up with a Mexican biological mother and a Chinese adoptive step mother, she fully embraced both cultures and proudly incorporated both into her cooking. 

That was, until she disappeared for two years following a personal crisis and a major breakdown after her mother’s diagnosis. And COVID. Can’t forget that. At least at The Beef, no one questioned her disappearance. They were there for her, unlike the culinary scene in New York. The Beef had her back. 

Between losing her mother a month before Mikey’s suicide, there was too much going on for her to process anything. 

Now, the kitchen was cleaned up and it has calmed down. Well, more like it had burned out. 

Today was a fucked up day and those did not happen very often. 

Aurora was too amped up on adrenaline to cry in the freezer. She was too devoted to Mikey to leave. Mikey should be in the kitchen, cooking with them, calming everyone the hell down and cracking jokes and being silly.

So, she numbly took a step back, looking at the recipe for pure disaster.

One energy drink, two stars, three major breakdowns and four tragedies later, Aurora found herself here. In the middle of the aftermath of an angry kitchen. The online orders got fucked up. Everything got fucked up.

Syd walked out. Marcus walked out. Everyone was angry. Richie was bleeding. Everyone was pissed off. But ultimately, the day was over and they could all go home and leave the stress behind. 

Syd was not answering Aurora’s texts. Marcus sent her to voicemail.

It was a fucked-up day.

But at least there was tomorrow.

Aurora had cussed out Carmy in the kitchen once the last order was done. She kept it together. Then the onions had to happen. She fucked up an onion. She almost walked out. But she remembered where she was. She remembered who she was. 

And she cussed Carmy out to the point even his ancestors must have felt the shame.

She was angry. They were both angry. Frustrated. Hurt.

Richie tried to lead her to the cooler and tried to have her sit there for twenty minutes. She only made it for five. She was too angry to even feel the cold. 

“Nothing smart to say this time?”

Here we go…

It was going to be one of those exits, it seemed.

“Plenty,” Aurora said flatly. “Today was a fucked up day, Carm.”

“Don’t need the reminder.”

He did.

“No, you fucking do,” Aurora said. “You had two amazing chefs walk out on you today. Be lucky you didn’t lose three.”

“You were going to walk out too?”

“I was tempted.”

“Well, chef of the year goes to you.” Carmy exhaled the smoke.

Somehow, that was what got to Aurora.

“You know what? Do me a favor—no, do us all a favor—and go home, get the fattest fucking blunt, smoke it and chill the fuck out,” Aurora snapped. “Today was a fucked up day and your shitty attitude is what drove everyone apart. Mistakes happen! It happens! But you’re too much of a fucking egoistical perfectionist to realize it.”

“Yeah, I get it.”

Aurora ran out of steam. She let out a huff. “Fine.” She turned on her heels and began to talk to the train station.

“Wait.”

“What is it?”

“Marcus’s donut. It was…” Carmy trailed off. “It was good.”

A really weird olive branch.

“Of course, it was. Marcus made it.” Aurora tightened her coat. “Goodnight, Carmy.”

On a rough day like this, Mikey would have hugged her. Told her it was okay. He would have reassured her that everything was fine and to cool off in the cooler so she could get cooler.

Boy, did she sob at Mikey’s funeral.

She was broken. Everything was broken. Her best friend, lost and gone. The one who called her Rora. The one who called her the Little Lion, who liked to roar. Marcus held her in his arms for comfort and so she would not collapse again. Her mom, widow, held Richie’s arm.

She did not connect the dots about Carmy being the same Carmen from New York City, nor the same asshole from culinary school while at the funeral. She was too busy crying. She couldn’t compose herself for Richie’s sake, as much as she tried to tell herself to do so. All that was on her mind was Mikey. All she could process was Mikey. All she could think of was Mikey on the cold table. 

Richie didn’t blame her either. 

At his apartment after the service, she curled up with him on the couch on his lap, held each other in silence. Watched the Blackhawks game on low volume. Both of their eyes were swollen from crying. Throats numb from the sobs. He merely held her. Mourning for the same man who should have been alive. She fell asleep like that.

She woke up to Richie talking to Marcus in the middle of the night. About how he was worried about Aurora. About how he was in shock and felt like an endless nightmare.

Mikey stressed about The Beef. She knew that. She was the one sitting on Mikey’s desk trying to crunch the numbers on her calculator app on what supplies they could get in bulk from the dollar store. The Lion Perch, as she called it. She was an optimist. She was the one who was trying to fix it all alongside him. 

She was the one who was with Richie when they identified the body too.

A month later, she returned to work at the Beef to Carmy trying to fix everything. The same Carmy who took her dream job. The same Carmy who despised her in culinary school. 

Just like in New York City, Carmy was making it worse.

Her mom was in the kitchen watching the telenovela when Aurora got home.

“Ma, I’m home!” She loudly greeted.

“Hey baby!” Her mom greeted. “Dinner is ready. I made sesame beef.”

Aurora loved making dinner. It was one of her favorite meals to make, next to breakfast. But sometimes, her mom took over and unexpectedly made it. She said it was to vary the flavor. But Aurora knew it was to try to take the weight off her chest.

But her mom cooked something. She actually cooked! 

This was a win. This was a big win. Her mom rarely cooked after her mama’s funeral. 

“Fuck yeah! How was work?” 

“Shit,” her mother said simply. “But I survived. What about you?”

It was horrible. I miss Mikey. I miss mom. 

Instead, Aurora shrugged and laid her head on her mom’s shoulder. “I made it through.” She sat down at the kitchen table. “Come on, ma. I do not want to miss this part.” She gestured to sit next to her. 

At least there was tomorrow.

[toaverse]

The Two Healers AU

Basically, an AU where Dolores also got healing with food, like Julieta :D

Enjoy!

Alma thought that two Madrigals having the same gift was out of the question, but it wasn’t.

Because, well, Dolores also got the gift of healing with her food, just like Julieta.

So, the day after her ceremony, the 5 year old girl was immediately taken to the kitchen to help Tía Julieta with cooking.

Naturally, having the same gift, Julieta taught her sobrina everything about cooking, how to make certain dishes, where to go in the town, etc.

So, every day, Julieta and Dolores had to get up at the early hours of the morning to cook breakfast for the whole family, the latter having to do that since she was five. and if they didn't, alma and Pepa would scold and yell at them, telling them that they're selfish and not thinking about the family.

Naturally, Julieta and Dolores grew closer, almost like mother and daughter.

Dolores also grew close to Agustín, often going to him for support, something that her own parents didn't give her ever since she got her gift.

As for Pepa and Félix, they didn't interact with their daughter anymore, instead focusing their attention on chores and each other, and later Camilo.

Pepa and Dolores' relationship got worse over the years. The former would snap and yell at the latter whenever Dolores got in her way or when she didn't have a meal immediately ready...

Isabela treated her prima the same way...

But despite all of that, Dolores looked at life with a positive light. She had her Tía and Tío, and Luisa and Mirabel were nice to her. And she looked forward to her quinceañera, especially after Isabela's.

But when her 15th birthday arrived, the day of her quinceañera, it was a disaster...

Unlike Isabela's quinceañera, the townspeople didn't show up and it wasn't a huge party. There was barely any food, no music and no "happy birthday" banner. Dolores didn't even get her own dress. She had to wear Pepa's old dress that didn't fit her anyways.

Agustín was actually the one to dance with Dolores, since Félix was too busy paying attention to Pepa and Camilo...

"Dolores, can you make some more food?" Pepa basically demanded on her own daughter's quinceañera. "And can you make Camilo an arepa?"

That ended in Julieta and Agustín yelling at the yellow couple, and Dolores' quinceañera was cut short...

Sure, the blue family (minus Isabela) celebrated it with her in the evening after dinner, but the day was already ruined for Dolores...

but life went on, and the next day, she and Julieta had to get up early to make breakfast for everyone, and have to go to town to heal the townspeople...

This, as well as the bad treatment from Pepa, Isabela and some of the townspeople, went on for 6 more years.

It got worse when Dolores fell for Mariano, who was engaged to Isabela. Pepa and Alma noticed, and they weren't happy to say the least...

[casitafallz]

LTRL AU | 22nd years old, joy...

Today was the day.

Suffice to say, she was a bundle of nerves with both negative and positive thoughts coming in waves and the plant life in her room became a lot more disorganized as she paced around, waiting until she knew people were about and the bathroom finished the rush before she decided to leave for the day and venture down to breakfast.

Isabela’s heartfelt aflutter as she sat down at the breakfast table, her eyes darting about a little in quiet excitement as everyone took their seats and dug in.

“Happy birthday, Isa.” Mirabel spoke first though as she passed her to sit, much to Isabel’s surprise; she had thought her parents would be the first to say that though now that she noticed; her parents looked a little tired and seated at the other side of the table. Her mother was sipping heavily from the coffee, even Tio Bruno looked tired as well so she assumed there was probably a late-night conversation between the adults.

“Thank you.” Isabela gave her a small smile though Abuela seemed to pull the attention quickly as she began to address the table.

“As many of you are aware, today is a special day.” Isabela straightened up as Abuela’s eyes landed on her briefly, “but, given the events of the last few months, I think it’s best to keep things more reserved. We won’t be opening Casita for a huge party.”

Isabela felt the sharp sting before a low ache of hurt settled in the back of her throat and was swift to silence anything less than a shallow swallow, masking her expression quickly that by a short, polite nod instead, dropping her gaze to her plate.

Abuela carried on. “As such, a simpler meal will surface later today. Dinner, perhaps.”

Isabela opted not to say her part or risk showing the deflation of joy that… her birthday was reduced down to a simple meal to acknowledge it. She supposed it was better than the alternative; nothing… but it was her birthday. She was supposed to have a party. She always had a party.

“Since it’s your birthday, you’re letting off your chores for the day.” Agustín spoke warmly to her, “My parents are coming down this evening to see you as well.”

Isabela nodded softly, “Okay, Papa.” She supposed it would be nice to see Abuelita and Abuelito… she had only really seen them in passing the last few months, no proper meet up since Mirabel’s quinceañera. She did like them but…before she hadn’t really known how to connect with them—she had been more distant the last couple of years after all. Maybe she should try? See where she landed with them given her…actions against Mirabel.

Isabela didn’t try to hold a conversation as the mood shifted onwards through to the other family members and she was the first to leave and headed straight into town once breakfast was done.

Shops were in the process of opening, kids were milling about before school and it seemed like an average day. Last year people had stopped to wish her a happy birthday and she had been happy to show off and decorate the town for a special day.

Isabela beeline to the post box Mateo had made, fishing the key from around her neck, and opened it up. Inside lay a small, wrapped gift, two notes, and a worn pencil

The first was by Fran:

Meet at the pond, lunch is on me.

The second note was attached to the gift so Isa suspected this was from Mateo.

Isabela,

I wish I could see you today but I have to work an extra shift to finish off another piece of furniture then I can get paid. I can make it up to you tonight? Leave a time in case your family throws a huge party that goes into the night.

Fran told me it was your birthday so I’ve been working on this gift. I hope you like it.

Happy birthday.

Mateo

Curiously, she set the note down with a time and carefully unwrapped the gift. It was, as she initially expected a wooden box. Light brown, sanded down with smoothened edges, and had a light inscription of her Initials across the top than her full name. No paint but a simple varnish. Nothing too extravagant. But it looked a bit too small for a jewelry box, too flat to hold anything but earrings. So, she opened it up. Her breath paused a little.

Inside the box looked to be where the real effort of Mateo’s work lay in the form of two, hand-carved bookmarks. While most likely cut from scraps last minute, both were about the same length and thickness.

The first was of a flower relief carved into its front of the dark orange surface, a Flor de Mayo that was also unpainted so it was varnished clear with smooth grains while the light reflecting off showed the detail. The second bookmark was a lighter wood and also unpainted was a carving of a cactus. Her initials also were carved into the bottom as well.

Her fingers touched over the markers with a smile. Mateo hated how she folded the book corners in to mark her pages. A personal pet peeve for him. She had once dozed off in her tree after sneaking him in for a round of fun and he had spent an hour straightening out book corners and marking the paged with a leaf before Dolores had snuck him out for her; she hadn’t found out until morning what he had done.

She had enjoyed that far more than she had thought, so this gift was actually really funny. It almost made her chuckle before she folded the box lid down and locked it back up.

“Isa!”

To her surprise, the voice that echoed was Mirabel’s. Her eyes turned to see the girl in wonder with Dolores in fast step. If Mirabel was nervous, she didn’t show it before she held up a box to her face happily.

“¡Feliz cumpleaños!” Mirabel bounced on her heel. “I know I already said that but here’s your gift.”

“You got me a gift?” Isabela set Mateo’s gift into her side bag she commonly wore now and didn’t hesitate to take it. She couldn’t help but be surprised that…Mirabel of all people would gift her of all people.

“I made it, Si.” Mirabel shrugged, “Antonio…told me what happened with what Camilo did with that you made me and… well I’m mad at him about that and… well why wouldn’t I make you a gift.”

“A few things come to mind,” Isabela remarked, a little dryly.

Mirabel shrugged, a little awkwardly. “You’re still my sister and… I know this isn’t going to be like your normal birthdays. I’m sorry I can’t give you the party you wanted.” She fiddled with her mochila strap a little.

“Thank you.” Isabela pulled the yarn away and lifted the lid and there, nestled inside was light blue fabric. Lifting it out, Mirabel took the empty box from her hand and opened the fabric to see what looked to be a beautiful, hand-crafted shirt.

Light blue with a gradient doing down, with an inch-wide trim that went from shoulder to shoulder and would expose her collar bones. The trim was decorated with a light, leaf-based design that spread out from an orchid center. The sleeves were ruffled and plain but the main body was decorated with flower stems and small buds with a slightly darker blue thread shade than the rest of the material, giving it more texture than more color.

“You made this for me?” Isabela asked, unable to be anything less than floored by this gift. So much time and effort was put into it.  More than anything she was expecting from Mirabel of all people.

“I noticed you stopped wearing lilacs but also wearing your chores skirt and dress which was blue so...I thought a nicer blue might look good.” Mirabel smiled, touching along the back of the skirt. “It’s nice that you’ve wanted to wear something closer to our family’s side after all.”

Isabela nodded wordlessly, folding the shirt carefully back up and making sure it fit back into its box, She’d probably have to wear this on good occasions, church most likely because she didn’t want Mirabel to think she’d destroy gifts as well.

“Thank you. It’s stunning.”

Mirabel bounced a little on the spot, looking rather pleased. “Come on, Dolores. Let’s go. I’ve got more ideas in mind!”

Isabela was glad Dolores had remained background and that Mirabel was taking her with her, the look Dolores was giving her was starting to get on her nerves.

 -

 Lunchtime, Isabela had made it to the pond side where there were already a few other people, some blankets set up on the grassy space though she stood at the edge given the bench was taken. Señora Pezmuerto was with her fiancé at the edge looking at the fish which Isa was mildly worried about given the woman’s history of…fish. Her name truly was ironic.

“If she kills any of those fish, I’ll hurl her into that pond.” The grumble of Fran startled Isabela, she almost punched her in the face, stepping back sharply before she recognized who it was.

“Francesca!”

“Ooh, full name bases, Isabela.” Fran winked back then casually slunk an arm over her shoulder, “Follow me; let’s eat.”

Isabela moved with her though suspiciously. “Where are we going?”

“Nowhere important. So, how was your morning of being twenty-two?”

“Boring.”

“Ah, yep. That’s a good start, I’m almost afraid to ask.” Frank wrinkled her nose, “They ban having a birthday for you?”

“No, it’s just… a meal. Dinner time.”

“What, no party? Lots of food, alcohol… for those able to drink, no passing out drunk and finding yourself in bed with your former, best friend’s brother?”

“That is very specific.” Isabela pointed out. Not entirely surprised if any of that was true for Fran. She doubted the girl was a virgin, despite the expectation of waiting for marriage for all girls here. God forbid, her Abuela would throw a fit about it if she found out.

Fran shrugged with a slight tinge to her cheeks but was otherwise unfazed. As Fran said, nowhere overly important, but it was a nice café with a selection of food.

“So, I’ve spoken to a few people,” Fran started after they ordered, pulling out a notepad and pencil. “this is my birthday present to you, and… well, I’ll be tagging along.”

“It’s okay, I don’t need a birthday present.”

“Too bad, I’m not looking like a dick for not getting you a present on your birthday. If it’s gonna be a shit one, at least I’m not adding to it.” Fran pointed out before the cafe server dropped off their drinks. “Now, I have no wood skills like Mateo and you’ve got the whole plants thing, it felt weird to try and go for flowers. I decided to get you something far more useful and productive.”

“I’m getting a little paranoid about where this is going.”

“Well don’t be. This is useful because it could be something that’ll earn you money one day.”

“I’m listening.”

“So, I talked to the potters to see about them teaching you the ways of clay and they’ve agreed to a trial to see how we handle it. They don’t want to commit if we’re not capable of learning.” Fran turned her nose up, “And the other things I’ve done is also talked to the textiles families; you know the weavers, spinners and dyers mostly down at my end of town.”

Isabela gave her a quizzical look, “Textiles?”

“You grow cotton, no doubt hemp and flax too.” Fran listed, “if you learn how to process it, then you can sell threads or even make the material yourself.”

“I thought you hated shortcuts?”

“I do, but if it’s a chance to undermine your strict Abuela, I’m all in because I like inviting chaos and…I think you might enjoy the process. You make the raw product but the processing of it is where your work ethic should be.”

Isabela blinked though she could see entirely the angle Fran was going for. Like the pond; Fran wasn’t too concerned about where she got the plants from, as long as they worked without using it to make the pond stunning and to be as ‘natural’ as possible. They did put a lot of work into it.

“Huh, I suppose you’re right.”

“I know I am. So, here’s the sort of timetable I’ve put together; I left the morning you do your chores out as unavailable and of course your curfew times,” her tone soured as she pushed the notebook to her. “Two to three hours a day or more might be a good, solid start. Once you’ve learned what you need to, they’re redundant unless you’re seeking employment”

“If all else fails, I dry and petals and sell them as tea.” Isabela snorted as an afterthought.

“I’d say don’t scrape the bottom of the barrel just yet. We haven’t even touched on the food side of opportunities but let’s not get too far ahead, you’re looking a little overwhelmed.” Fran patted her arm. “But, let’s talk about that later. Did you get any good presents?”

Isabela inhaled deeply, trying to gather her thoughts of this…present that Fran had given her. She hadn’t anticipated that.

“Bookmarkers from Mateo, Mirabel made me a beautiful shirt, and… either the others are waiting until dinner or I’m not getting anything.”

“Ugh. I get my presents in the morning and enjoy them for the day.” Fran grumbled, “I wouldn’t tolerate anything less.”

“Oh, that I can see.” Isabela agreed, earning an elbow nudge before their plates arrived.

 -

 Spending most of her day in town, Isabela did enjoy herself; the little extra attention Fran gave her had made her feel a bit better but she knew dinner with the family was next to endure before she could enjoy a few hours of pleasure with Mateo.

Casita even felt a little vacant as she walked back in but she could hear talking from the dining room and hear her mother’s voice. She dropped off her things onto her bed before she opted to change into Mira’s present and chose a deep blue matching skirt, even if it was without décor; its colors would blend well.

Returning to the dining room, her heart sunk if a little bit to see the room sparsely decorated. It was set up as a proper meal, food being set down, the table was filled with the family as well, so she clearly arrived just in time, unfortunately, her space at the end of the table. Direct line of sight

“Happy birthday, Mija.” Her mother smiled at her softly, guiding her to her heat touch a soft touch to her back.

“Thank you, Mami.” Her voice was polite, as was the smile but yet it made her mother’s vanish for a moment. Isa sat down swiftly, keeping her back straight.

Dolores was seated to her left and Luisa on her right, Mirabel looked a little put out at the seating but she seemed to light up as she realized what Isa was wearing which…did lighten Isa’s dampened mood.

She suppose she should be grateful that she was getting a birthday dinner, but she felt….a little bitter. No decorations, no birthday sign even. It made her itch to skip out on this and go to her room instead and… even if she was to point it out, she’d be the one causing issues; making them feel bad for not fulfilling it. At least then she'd escape to her room.

“You okay?” Dolores asked quietly as they all began to eat though Isa ignored her parent’s looks thrown her way, probably concerned or annoyed.

“Did someone run out of paper for a sign?” Isa remarked softly, “this doesn’t feel like a birthday dinner. Just dinner.”

Dolores sighed softly, “You’ve got presents coming after dessert.”

“Hm.” Her tone was mildly disbelieving. “I just want to go to bed.”

“Don’t be rude, Isa” Luisa hissed softly, “Mama put a lot of work into dinner.”

“She does with every meal she makes, Luisa.” Isabela replied coolly, eyeing her younger sister with a dry look, “The fact it’s my birthday hasn’t changed anything today except I have no chores. My whole special day’s been reduced to dinner and even then no one could be bothered to up a 'feliz cumpleaños' on a sign anywhere.”

“Isa,” Abuela warned softly, “There’s no need to get angry.”

Isabela opted to shove a spoon full of corn into her mouth to stuff her retort back. Fran’s attitude was started to rub on her and she could already feel her temper flaring. The grip on her cutlery increased and she could feel the pace of her heart increase.

Unfortunately, her mouth of corn didn’t last long though seeing Camilo scoff and roll his eyes didn’t help. She narrowed her eyes at him though he tactfully noticed and avoided her stare. Dolores nudged her softly.

The air at the table had changed now, once comfortable now there was a tension hanging in the air. Isa could already guess she had ruined dinner but… did that really matter? This wasn’t even a birthday dinner.

Her anger simmered a little and she could feel her eyes heat a little but she blinked the tears away.

This wasn’t a birthday dinner.

This was dinner.

Her birthday was reduced to nothing.

She wasn’t worth even a goddamn sign.

“Hey,” Dolores’s hand came to her back, hearing the soft catch in her breathing. “Do you need a minute?”

Isabela nodded, realizing that her knife and fork had a slight shake in her grip before letting them clatter down before she felt Dolores tug her arm and pulled her away from the table.

“Not you, Tia,” Dolores called before the cool air from the courtyard seem to tingle her cheeks.

Her vision blurred a little as the tears returned but thankfully, Dolores led them further away to the far seats.

“You okay?” Dolores whispered.

“I thought they’d… they’d put up signs…” She sniffled. “Something… but there’s nothing. It’s my birthday! It’s supposed to acknowledge. I know I did bad, but are they still punishing me for it?”

“Of course not,” Dolores spoke, looking alarmed. “I know this is a different birthday to last year but it has nothing to do with what you did.”

“Don’t lie to me!” Isabela spat, “Last year was a great party! I had friends over! We drank and had an amazing time. No party, no friends, and I’m not even allowed alcohol! Do you really expect me to be happy on that account?!”

Dolores’s head tilted off to the side then back to her. “Isa, the others can hear you.”

“I don’t care. Everything I do is judged against what I did. Why is it that out of everyone in this family, Mirabel actually put effort to give me my present this morning and wished me a 'happy birthday'. No one else did that. Not even you and you were even there. Mama's one barely felt genuine given she waited the entire day to tell me that!”

She gave her younger prima a glare. “I’m done.” with that, Isa turned on her heel and marched straight into her room and the slam echoed down through Casita.

  -

Silence seemed to ring in the dining room though Mirabel felt her cheeks turn pink a little as she felt a few looks her way but she felt the knowing guilt return because… Isabela was right and yet…wrong as well. She could certainly see Isa’s way…all day hoping and just not seeing. It had to hurt.

“Excuse me.” Mama rose to her feet sharply and walked through the kitchen to where on the side, a little out of view sat a large, decorated cake and a stack of birthday presents.

[sepanbanquet]

Blending Tradition and Sophistication At Sepan’s Quinceanera Venues

In the heart of Mexican culture, the quinceañera is a vibrant, deeply ingrained celebration that marks a young woman’s entry into adulthood. This beloved event is more than simply a celebration; it’s a rite of passage, an indication of adulthood, and a happy representation of family and custom. As one of the best quinceanera venues, Sepan Banquet Hall pays homage to this beautiful tradition by offering a wonderful blend of cultural elegance and cutting-edge sophistication.

Quinceañera Traditions and Trends The quinceañera is rich in traditional customs that have been handed down through the years. A custom that represents the final vestiges of childhood is known as “La última muñeca,” or “the last doll.” The “changing of the shoes,” in which the young woman transitions from flat to heeled shoes, is another one of the quinceanera traditions symbolizing her entry into womanhood.

But quinceañeras of today are also adopting modern styles. Theme-based events, from sophisticated fairy tale ideas to more daring Hollywood glam, are becoming more and more popular. These contemporary touches give each event a special and unforgettable touch by expressing the personality and current styles of the quinceañera.

The quinceañera celebration is not only centered around these new trends and rich traditions but also around music and dancing. At Sepan Banquet Hall, we see a lot of families incorporate modern pop and dance music with classic Latin dances like salsa and waltz. This blend ensures that guests of all ages feel connected and involved while also honoring tradition and bringing in a contemporary ambiance. The music selections during a quinceañera set the rhythm for the evening and provide a very joyful and celebratory environment.

Current Quinceañera Trends Being one of the top quinceanera venues, Sepan Banquet Hall stays up to date with these evolving styles. We’ve witnessed an increase in innovative entertainment alternatives, like photo booths with entertaining props, live bands, and even choreographed dance routines, which bring excitement and interaction to the event.

Decor has also evolved; lavish floral arrangements, sophisticated lighting, and vivid color palettes are common at modern quinceañeras. These modern decorating ideas provide a dramatic visual effect and establish the mood for a glamorous and joyous occasion.

Invitation design is another aspect where new trends are certainly making their mark.  Modern quinceañeras typically use sophisticated invitations that match the event’s color scheme and theme. One thing our team has noticed is an increase in digital invitations that are not only environmentally friendly but also allow for creative expression through animation and interactive features.  

Mexican Cuisine with a Modern Twist We understand that food is at the heart of any celebration. Authentic Mexican food is our specialty, and we serve classic dishes like tamales, chiles en nogada, and mole. However, our culinary experts are skilled in incorporating contemporary elements into these time-honored dishes, resulting in a cuisine that is both familiar and captivating.

We have selections that go beyond the typical; we have fusion meals that blend ingredients from Mexico into modern cuisine. Whether you prefer traditional Mexican cuisine or something more experimental, our menus may be tailored to your preferences and theme, guaranteeing a delicious dining experience for everyone.

Sweet Quinceanera Treats In order to complement our main meals and fusion creations, as well as add a genuine touch to your quinceanera, Sepan Banquet Hall provides a range of Mexican-inspired sweets and beverages. From traditional churros and flan to creative margarita and horchata-based cocktails, these sweet treats and drinks pay tribute to Mexican culinary heritage. They not only satisfy the palate but also provide a whimsical and culturally rich element to the eating experience, making your event even more memorable.

Sepan’s Quinceanera Venues Experience Sepan Banquet Hall takes pride in offering a complete experience rather than merely a place to hold events. Just paint flowing through a canvas, our venue may be easily customized to suit your quinceañera’s theme and vision. Our venues are made to suit celebrations of every size, from glamorous bedrooms to elegantly appointed eating areas.

Our commitment to detail extends to décor as well. Whether you choose a traditional setting or a modern design, our team will work hard to make your vision a reality. Sepan guarantees that your quinceañera will be as distinctive and memorable as the young lady being honored, all thanks to our great service and hospitality.

Blending Culture and Sophistication Quinceañeras are far more than just birthday parties; they are milestone celebrations that deserve to be marked with magnificence and joy. At Sepan Banquet Hall, we understand the importance of this special day. Known as one of the best quinceanera venues in LA, we excel in bringing every aspect of your quinceañera vision to life.

Our team of experts is dedicated to blending traditional elements with modern flair to create a celebration that beautifully bridges the past and present. With our unique mix of cultural and contemporary offerings, exceptional Mexican cuisine, and unwavering commitment to service, Sepan Banquet Hall stands out as the ultimate choice for hosting your quinceañera.

If you’re seeking more tips and expert planning for an extraordinary quinceañera, look no further than Sepan Banquet Hall, where every celebration is crafted with passion and precision.

[okimnerdy]

summary: For ten years, Mirabel sat on the sidelines and watched as the family flourished without her. They used to treat her as fragile, fragile like glass, and locked her away for “safety.” Though how long can you hit glass before it breaks?

An Encanto AU

note: I am not a native spanish speaker, so I try to keep the language usage to a minimum as I do not want to use anything incorrectly. If I did with the minimal I did use, please let me know so that I can fix it. Thank you.

-----

Chapter 1 - Set Yourself Free

Alma looked down at the scene in front of her, barely registering the tears welling up in Mirabel’s eyes. The girl reached out for her grandmother but Alma only recoiled and left her on the balcony.

Julieta quickly rushed to her daughter’s side, picked her up, and ran to the nursery with her husband following closely behind. The parents did their best to assure their daughter nothing was wrong as the gathered crowd was ushered out by the rest of the family.

Mirabel’s cries echoed through the night as Alma pressured Bruno into seeing the girl’s future. Though he protested, his mother was insistent and wouldn’t stop until he begrudgingly agreed - if only to get her out of his hair.

The vision he saw was not what he wanted, not for her. His knuckles turned white as he gripped the vision in his hands, his own tears falling on the slick surface of the image. With silence surrounding him, he dropped it, watching as it shattered at his feet, before he disappeared into the night. He held the hope in his heart that his mother wouldn’t treat Mirabel like she had treated him.

Oh, how wrong he was.

-

Sunlight poured in through the skylight at the top, a hand reached out to grab at a pair of glasses that sat on the nightstand. The hand settled them on to a button nose as their feet swung off the side of the bed.

The windows swung open as the figure finished dressing and sat at the window.

“Morning Casita!” There sitting in the window was Mirabel, now fifteen years old, with fluffy, curly hair and a bright smile on her face. The terracotta tiles on the sloping roof below moved with a series of happy clinks as a tray arrived in front of her. “Ah! I see mama was early with breakfast today. Or was I late?”

Two tiles lifted in a shrugging motion and made her laugh.

“Got anything new for me today?” The tiles laid still. “Okay then, keep your secrets.”

Leaping off after finishing her meal, Mirabel stepped out of her makeshift room and onto a wooden platform. After slowly using a pulley system to lower herself down to a certain depth, she opened a small chest on the platform to pull a set of paint. She set about painting another scene from her dreams as the day began to shift.

-

See, after the day that went wrong, Mirabel had about a week before Abuela decided that the pretending had to stop and locked Mirabel away in her Tio’s old room. Her parents were able to visit daily to provide the basic care a child needed, but after a few years, the visit became infrequent. There had been a time where she didn’t see anyone for a week, but that all changed on her fifteenth birthday.

After a particularly bad night, she had all but cried herself to sleep when a knock sounded on the stone and made her look up. Imagine her surprise when her missing uncle stood at the bottom with a sheepish expression and a pair of high heels in his hands. There, in the sand of his tower, Mirabel celebrated her quinceañera with her Tio Bruno. Ever since then, he’d visit once a week with new stories about what was happening down in the main house. 

-

Music began to pour through the windows around lunchtime. Normally, it would’ve been nothing to wonder about but she kept hearing the name Antonio being yelled by her Tia Pepa. Setting down the paints, she pulled herself back to the top and made her way to the windows again.

The village and Casita seemed to be preparing for a party. Mirabel couldn’t remember the last time they had a party like this, except for her mama and tia’s birthday party earlier that year but that still didn’t have too much preparation.

“What are you looking at?” A voice asked from her left, scaring her away from the window. “Sorry,. The rats chewed up my sandals again, so I had to barefoot it up here.”

“How many times do I have to tell you to move back here?” She sighed as she moved to grab her sewing kit. “The rats have more room to run and less things of yours to chew. Plus, no one really visits anymore, Tio.”

“I know you want me there, Mira, but as long as there’s a chance that Abuela could find me, I can’t put you in that sort of danger.” He ran his hand through her hair. “Plus, who else would be the one getting you all the fun snacks?”

From behind his back, Bruno produced a small satchel of Julieta’s famous chocolate cookies and smiled as the girl reached out with a smile.

The two sat in silence as Mirabel worked on Bruno’s shoes and ate the sweet snack.

“Hey, Tio?” Bruno hummed in response. “Who’s Antonio?” He looked at her confused. “Well, I heard Tia Pepa calling out for him before you scared me. So, who is he?”

“They never told you about Antonio?” She shook her head no. “Antonio’s your younger cousin from Pepa and Felix. It’s his birthday today, his fifth birthday.”

“It’s his ceremony day?” Mirabel hung her head as Bruno nodded. “I can’t believe they replaced me.” Bruno tried to assure her that they didn’t, but she was having none of it. “No, they absolutely did. I mean, why would they even have another kid? Tia already had issues when Camillo was born, mama at least told me about that when I asked how far her gift could affect. Why would they risk it?”

He didn’t really know what to say as she was right. Before his time in the walls, he saw how his sister struggled through the two complicated pregnancies and was deeply worried. He knew that Antonio’s pregnancy was not one of planning, but one of convenience for Abuela.

“Why am I even here anymore?” She sighed. “Maybe it would be easier if I just…”

“Left?” She nodded. “I’ve thought the same thing for the past ten years, but stayed because I couldn’t bear to leave you in this tower by yourself. I love you too much to see you go through what I did.”

“I love you too, Tio.”

-

As the day sank below the horizon, Bruno helped Mirabel pack what she could into several satchels before leading her through the walls of the Casita. Both donned in their respective ruanas, they walked out from behind a painting just as the house went quiet.

Mirabel hung behind, watching the scene in front of her.

A little boy stood in front of the glowing door as his parents and Abuela stood behind him as his image appeared on the door surrounded by animals. A toucan flew in and landed on his arm, seemingly communicating with it. 

She saw Abuela wear a wide smile as she declared that there was a new gift in the family, a sight she wished she could’ve been a part of all those years ago. 

“Mira,” Bruno hissed from his hiding spot behind a pillar, “come on. If you want to leave the village, tonight is the night.”

“Maybe I was being too rash in my decision,” she hummed. “Can we go back?”

Bruno let out a sigh, but ultimately said yes. He could see the sadness in her eyes from the ceremony they just witnessed. He threw an arm around her and brought her into a hug as the crowd moved into Antonio’s new room.

Mirabel’s eyes peeked over his shoulder, watching as Alma walked into her room to return that cursed candle to its pedestal in the window. While she couldn't see it, she knew her uncle's face was tight with his own anger as his fingers clutched her ruana.

Something inside of them tightened just a bit as they made their way back to Bruno's room. 

A storm was brewing, and the outcasts just happened to be at the center.

-

As the party fell into full swing, a low rumble went through the house. Dolores was the first to hear it, given how her own gift worked, and followed it out of the room.

Nothing seemed out of place as she looked around and descended the stairs. That is until she looked up to Abuela's widow.

Two figures looked down at her, at least she thought it was her, with the candle held in one of their hands. Though her body told her to run, she couldn't move. It was like her feet were cemented to the floor as the shorter figure did the one thing the family feared.

It took a breath and blew out the candle.

For a minute, nothing happened. 

Then, the cracks started appearing.

[elycwinters]

Quince

My Quinceañera is still in VHS, something that I have to fix soon if I want to still see me as I was two decades ago. When I was full of dreams and hopes and dressed in white as I waltzed with my then crush and my dear friend. When I drank champagne and had a nice hot meal ending it with cake and dancing the night away.

- Ely C. Winters. / @nosebleedclub Oct. #8

[obeymeshallwedate-latinplayer]

Quinceañeras (GN!MC, 7 brothers + the undetables) Part 1

Hello my devils! It´s been a while isn´t it? I wasn´t dead, university is killing me slowly, anyways!! I have tons of your messages that I haven´t reply, I´m so sorry! I hope you can forgive me. Today´s headcanon is: Quinceañeras. It´s a tradition that every Latin American woman or with Latin decency have a quinceañera, this happens when the young human turns 15 years old and it´s ready to “shine in society” or to be introduce to society itself so they could get marry or have a fiancée, even though is a pretty misogynist practice it stayed as a tradition.

I don´t know you, but my fifteen years was super normal, a small meal with my friends and family, I didn´t have chambelanes nor a big dress, not even a small version of me (aka, a porcelain doll that is an exact clone of the quinceañera). But I did have a trip to Hungary that year and a knee surgery :D.

So how would the brothers react to a MC that already invited them to their siblings quinceañera.

Lucifer:

He was ready for anything, since the very first time you told him that in a few months your dearest sibling was turning 15 years old, and that your family needed you to be there so you could help, your parents even asked Lucifer for help, and he took really seriously that job, he wanted to prove to your parents that he was the perfect demon for you, that he was capable to do anything for you and your family.

He started planning the banquet, the dance, the dress, the doll, the chambelanes (he already chose the best demons in all the devildom to dance with your sibling), the party room, everything was ready for your family, he even made the invitations… he was basically the planner and host of your sibling quinceñera.

In the very special day… he wasn´t prepare for the Latin drama, the snake aunts that are pure gossip, the drunk uncles that doesn´t care and ends up beating each other face just for the grandpa inheritance, the horny teenagers with the “best friends�� that were making fun of the decoration and of your sibling. That got into his nerve, oh he swears to everything that he was going to make their lives miserable, until he sees you dancing with the quinceañera, it´s there when he realizes, the need to invite all those awful humans were mere formalities, they didn´t mater at all, what really matter was the family and to be gratefully that life gave your sibiling the chance to live during fifteen years, and the opportunity that you live with them for fifteen years… so he let it slip for a night, the next morning all of those useless family members and friends beg your family for forgiveness.

Mammon.

Party! Party! Woooo, we are gonna dance and drink and pray? Wait… a mass? A party full of horny and stupid teenagers? Oh… oh no, he´s not doing that kind of thing, not during a party where he can see you dress different, and with makeup, what if someone sees you?! What if an ex sees you and you decide to run with them?! Oh hell no.

After a few explanations of the party, he changed his mind. “Fine, I´ll take your sibling to a casino so the party will be a surprise” you ended up telling him that his idea was off the table and the only thing he needed to do was to help you out with the decoration and the food, the party was planned to be a small friends and family reunion.

That’s what you agree with your parents, you knew that your sibling didn´t like the crowds nor part of your family so it was perfect for them. The party was really calm, Mammon felt safe with your family, he even enjoyed the idea of a quinceañera party, he was definitely gonna do that for the children you two would have together, he even took your sibling to a fancy trip, ´cse according to him “the party was kinda lame, and they deserve better”.

Levi.

Levi isn´t a party animal, he actually gets suer anxious about parties and socializing, he prefers to stay in his room trying to achieve a level up or a ultra-rare SSR card, that´s until he finds out that your family actually made him a special invitation, and asked him to make the outfits for the main family, your sibling is an otaku and they wanted their party to be anime themed, but your parents don´t know what your sibling is talking about and they asked Levi for help.

Of course, they paid for everything and for the work hours that Levi expend doing the cosplays, he also saw your quinceañera´s photos, he made a replica of the clothes you used for your party (anime themed of course) and a little bit less extravagant so your sibling could be the star of their party.

He enjoyed the themed party, everything was perfect according to his and your sibling’s preference, each teenage guest was in cosplay, laughing and moving like the character they chose, the rest of the guest went in formal grounds for the party.

Levi saved the album photo of your quinceañera so he could know you better.

Satan.

The research starts as soon as you told him about the party, and gave him the invitation, he started to practice the waltz and he was ready for any type of Latin drama, what he wasn´t ready for… was the teenagers asking him if he was single or not, or if he was a chambelan, if he could dance with them, they even had the audacity to ask him how much would it cost them to have him at their party.

At the end you went and saved him.

[witchyangela]

what’s ur fav headcanon about each member of the pack

Bro I love u for this!!! 💕💕💕 thanks sm

Jake - not so much hc as actual canon but I love the idea that he’s super crafty and creative, and does his lil woodcarvings, I hc him helping out Emily at her craft class and her convincing him to like set up a lil online shop and go to craft fairs and show off his talent!!

Embry - I hc him as being a surfer, like he loves just kind of getting away from everything and going out to the beach. He normally will go when he’s feeling a bit down, but he also loves when Quil and Jake tag along and cheer from the beach!

Quil - idk when I started headcanoning this but I know that mans is on his school debate team! Like he’s amazingly persuasive and good at coming up with speedy arguments and he is a terrifying opponent! I also know he wears glasses for reading and he’s broken like 10 pairs...

Paul - he is an amazing cook !! Like he can make 5 star meals without even trying and he does secretly love when people like his food! He is one of those people that get irrationally annoyed when there are other people in the kitchen, especially if it’s Jared who can set things on fire without even touching them!

Jared - he’s a DJ, I know this in my soul. He has a lil business card he hands out that has his details on it and he like DJs every event in a 20 mile radius. Like weddings? Birthdays? Quinceañeras? Bar/bat mitzvah’s? Jareds gonna be there and he is gonna play his own version of the cha cha slide

Sam - man is a DIY whiz, like he’s the person you call when you can’t put together your ikea furniture, he builds sliding shelves with no instructions. He actully rewired a whole house once with only a wiki how article. It’s amazing and slightly scary.

Leah - I still am headcanoning her as a dancer, like mainly ballet but she can try her hand at any style and be amazing at it, she started helping with dance classes for little kids when she turned 16 and all the lil dancers adore her. (She can also sing really really well but won’t ever unless she’s at kareoke and Jared convinces her to do a duet)

Seth - he volunteers at a dog shelter!! I know this to be true!! Sue has to convince him not to bring puppies home every time she picks him up. He also takes some of the dogs on walks and will vibe off into the forest and then phase and run around with several tiny dogs trailing after him, one time he calls them his pack and Sam almost starts crying.

[dawniebb]

Face reveal bc yes

So, guys...especially from the Renegades fandom bc i’m the most active there: you saw the title lmao. This will...barely get notes (i wonder if it’ll get notes at all) buuUUUT YEAH LET’S GOOOO (If you’re gonna reblog pls be respectful bc i have issues and btw reblog ONLY if we are mutuals)

THIS IS ME! <3 HELLOOOO!!!

Now, if you want to stop here, do it. If you don’t...well

I’m going to tell you a story about myself and why I decided to post this.

First of all, I’m not celebrating anything. I’m just celebrating me, I guess (?) and in fact I’ve been wanting to do this since my parents got me a She-Ra cake for my 20th birthday back in May, because I loved that thing and felt the physical need to shove that thing into everyone’s faces But I didn’t because I didn’t feel ready enough...then that thought left my mind, and it came back like two weeks ago.

I’ve had mental issues since I was in like...elementary school. I’m sure I had felt depressed before I turned 12; however, the first memory I hold of feeling so, it’s when I was already 12. Because it was then when I realized that I wasn’t just a dumb kid who didn’t know how to make friends xd To this day, I genuinely feel like I was suffering from isolation bullying; you know xd my classmates purposely excluded me from activities, they would find any excuse for not letting me join their work teams and stuff like that; during my last year at elementary school, I only had like one friend, and that one friend and I shared a sort of abusive/toxic relationship, as in: manipulation, “we’re best friends. you should only talk to ME”, and then this friend turned her back at me too, because she decided to join the rest of the group and ignore me.

lol.

And I remember wondering what was I doing wrong. Like, why didn’t people like me; why didn’t they want to hang out with me; why did everyone seem to have friends except me. And then I got trapped into a very...dark place, and I remember being overthinking one day, because I tend to overthink a lot...and I remembered this specific kid who was in the same class as me.

I was in the line for the teacher to check my homework, and this kid, a boy, was behind me.

You see. I’ve always been chubby xd I don’t think I’ve ever been skinny since I was 2 years old or so, because by the time I was in kindergarten my classmates’ moms were already calling me a ‘little meatball’ thinking it was a fucking adorable nickname because Mexican moms can be pretty shitty sometimes don’t let the media stereotypes fool you not all of them are all cheerful and upbeat and when I was in elementary school, for some reason, besides being chubby, I had a really bad posture. And this boy who was behind me started imitating my way of walking and his friends were laughing, so I turned around and asked him wtf his problem was xd and he turned around to his friends and asked “Do you see how hunchback she is?” like I wasn’t even there xd and I genuinely tried to slap him but I couldn’t, and he said “Yo, stop moving because you’re going to cause an earthquake”

And my mom has always felt personally attacked for the fact I’m...u know, fat. She has always been very insistent on the fact I need to lose weight and stuff like that. And her, mixed with my experiences at school, made me feel like I wasn’t enough.

But my mind started saying things like “And u know why you aren’t enough? Because you’re fat”

Because, like, the day of the hunchback insult, when I told the teacher, who was a very shitty teacher btw but i’m not talking about her again today (i’ve already talked about her in MANY of my university papers, because I’m studying to be an English teacher), she turned around at him and said “Don’t listen to HER” and to this day I still don’t know why xd

But it made me feel like I wasn’t enough. Because I was fat.

Lol x2.

To this day, I still don’t know if I have an ED. Like, I genuinely don’t know. But I can safely say that, if I have one, it’s more likely BED... because, through the years, I managed to lose weight when I turned like 15 and I had my quinceañera party, but then first year of high school came and I had a relapse into depression...like, this might come off as a very unpopular opinion, but junior high school was dope for me x’d I remember it as one of the best years in my life, right after my second and third year in high school (high school in Mexico lasts only three years) and so...when I started my first year in high school and got fucking depressed again, I gained ALL that weight back, and even doubled it. During my second year of high school, I met my friends. The friends I still keep with me to this day. And they accepted me like the fucking train wreck I was, failing math like three times in a row and crying about it every single one of those times  because I’m pretty sure I have dyscalculia but my parents won’t listen to me they think i’m just lazy when it comes to math even though they know i cant even read a fucking clock . And them, along with my another very close friend who I met via fanfction when I was 12, helped me go through it. Like, I did have some issues with my body during high school, but not as much as you would expect. They were getting pretty bad in my first and second semester, but during the other four my friends managed to stop me from losing my mind, even when it all went to shit in my third year again for different reasons.

Then I graduated from high school, and I made friends there too. Although my best friends are still my friend from fanfiction, my friends from high school and just one of my university friends. And you know...I was left...pretty scarred from the shit that happened during third year of high school, and even if I didn’t feel like I was *that* depressed, I did gain a lot of weight.

Like, the highest I’ve ever been. Then my dad got sick during October from last year, then my two doggies were murdered god i fucking hate my neighbors the same day my dad was released from the hospital and my mom went kinda nuts during December and I wanted to just...yeah.

So I did a lot of emotional eating. Like, y’all don’t understand.

It was like...I would go to uni and eat a brownie. Then chocolates on my way home. THEN a “a snack” like...fucking rice krispies. Then a huge ass meal, with soda bc why not. Then I would have either cookies or hot cheetos as a treat after my huge ass meal,

I’m a short person xd carrying that much weight was making my ribs and back hurt, as well as my legs and feet; my breathing was freaking awful, and there were some days were I got SO paranoid I just said things like “i’m gonna die today” or “out here trying to get diabetes like the rest of your family, aren’t you??” :’) but i didn’t tell anybody. My parents are not really an option in this case, BUT I didn’t tell my friends, because then I would have to explain that I ate a lot and that was something I was EXTREMELY ashamed of.

When February came, I was scared of going out, because I knew I would have to choose what clothes to wear and nothing fit me anymore and, the things that did, looked super stretched on me and, u know, I was sore. My health was getting bad. But I didn’t like to feel that way.

AND I MUST CLARIFY HERE. I’M WORKING ON THAT. I’M ACTUALLY A BODY POSITIVY DEFENDER, I JUST DIDN’T LIKE HOW *I* LOOKED AND, BESIDES, I WAS GETTING SICK. I GENUINELY THOUGHT I WAS GOING TO DIE AT SOME POINT. I’M NOT SAYING BEING FAT OR CHUBBY IS DISGUSTING. NO. I BELIEVE ALL HUMAN BEINGS ARE EXTREMELY BEAUTIFUL. AND IF I’M WRITING THIS IS BECAUSE I WANT YOU TO KNOW RECOVERY IS DISGUSTING AND DIFFICULT SOMETIMES AND THAT IF YOU’RE GOING THROUGH SOMETHING LIKE THAT: I’M SORRY. NOBODY SHOULD EVER FEEL LIKE THAT. I SUPPORT YOU. AND I HOPE THINGS GET BETTER. AND NO MATTER WHAT OTHERS SAY, YOU’RE BEAUTIFUL. YOU ARE TO CHANGE ONLY IF YOU WANT TO CHANGE. BECAUSE IT’S YOUR BODY. KEEP HOLDING ON.

But going back to the story...

My friends used to tell me I looked pretty all the time, which I appreciate a lot to this day. But my parents were like

Me: I’m fat and I look deformed.

Them: I agree.

Because yeah.

Just before the pandemic madness happened, I went on a school trip with my uni friends and one of them triggered my isolation trauma in the worst way possible...and that, somehow, ruined ALL the photos I took throughout the trip. Because I wasn’t enough. Because I was deformed and fat and I looked like an apple. Because nobody wanted to be seen near me. And my personality was shitty.

Like, I should’ve known I was worth it. I’m still worth it and I know that. But I wasn’t less worth it when I was chubbier. And maybe I didn’t look as bad as my head made me believe. But at the time my mental health was extremely awful.

Now, covid happened.

Not gonna lie. Quarantine fucked me up as much as it fucked everyone else, but for me...by not going out, I stopped being near trigger foods, and I was even able to consult a dietitian.

I’ve lost 15 kg since March. And I’ve managed to love my past self, but I love this one because changing it was my decision. Sure, my parents didn’t help a lot, but in the end it was MY decision. I’ve come to accept I was worth it even when I felt disgusted by myself, and all of those awful things people said or did to me, like my friend during that trip...

I didn’t deserve any of those things. Because NO ONE deserves to be treated that way.  No one deserves somebody else making fun of them. No one deserves somebody else doing awful things to them that they know damn well that they trigger their childhood trauma. No one deserves to be judged for the way they look.

I was in a very dark place, and sometimes I’m still inside there. And like...during all those times, I kept posting in here.

I remember being next to my dad in the hospital, telling him “Guess what? Supernova drops this week” or “We’re going to watch TDP together, right?” or “Let me talk to you about She-Ra...” ....those were things that like...saved my life for a while, though mostly Supernova. Because, actually, Marissa Meyer has helped me in my fucking darkest years x’d from my third year of high school until now.

Her books didn’t take my depression away, but they did make things a little lighter for me, even when I felt like dying.

And I know this fandom is like..full of minors, so...I don’t know if any of you need to hear this: But you’re worth it.

If you want to change anything in your body, do it because YOU want to.

Because YOU’LL like you better.

Because it’s YOUR body, and it’s the only part of yourself that you and other people can touch.

Nobody should ever tell you you’re worthless because of your weight and your physical appearance. And if they ever do, then they’re the ones who should apologize, not you.

Nobody has the right to mistreat you, abuse you, or use your own body against you.

As for me...my ribs don’t hurt anymore. Nor does my back or my feet, and my breathing is getting better; I took the conscious decision to lose weight but, like I said, now that I’m not in such a dark place, I’m staring to realize that the past me wasn’t as hideous as my mind was making me believe. She was okay; she was broken inside, but she didn’t deserve anything that happened to her, nor did she deserved to treat herself that badly.

I posted my photo just to celebrate that I can finally said I’m not disgusted anymore. I can finally see myself in pictures again. And see my own reflection. Or go through my closet. Or do my makeup, because I LOVE doing my makeup and I was even ashamed of that. I’m not fully okay yet, but I’m healing.

So, if there’s any little Dawnie around here: I hope you give yourself a chance and realize you’re beautiful.

I hope that, if you change, it’s because you wanted to do it.

I hope you know that it’ll get better even if the healing process it’s not that easy.

I hope you know there’s people who love you.

I hope you know that you are beautiful. You were always beautiful and, no matter what path you choose, you’ll always be beautiful.

And worth it.

And human.

And important.

Take care of yourself, because you’re wonderful, no matter your size <3

[sepanbanquet]

The Ultimate Birthday Party Hall for Every Milestone

In the huge city of Los Angeles, where every moment feels like it belongs in a movie, personal events need a big stage to match. Every event, every birthday and baby shower is a chance to think about the past and create some new, lasting memories. And the setting is where all of these parties come together. Sepan Banquet Hall, which is known as the best Birthday Party Hall, has been at the center of these special events, making stories that will last a lifetime. From first steps to fifteen candles, today we’ll talk about how Sepan Banquet Hall is your all-in-one birthday party hall.

A Child’s First Laugh There’s something magical about a baby’s first year, from the first giggles to the first shaky steps and the joy they bring. This first appearance in the world deserves a big party that matches the importance of the event. Baby showers at Sepan aren’t just events; they’re carefully crafted experiences.

Imagine the hall filled with the soft glow of a thousand twinkling lights and the soft hum of songs coming from every corner. Tables decorated with soft pastels that make you think of the colors of your childhood. But more than just looking good, Sepan is proud of the mood it creates. A sense of warmth, of families coming together, and of love being passed down from one generation to the next. In these ways, Sepan proves that it is the best place to have a birthday party.

Each Year Counts Children grow up so fast that it often makes parents feel breathless and nostalgic. For many, each year brings with it a new side of their personality, a new achievement to be proud of, a new dream to chase, and the promise of a brighter future. And each of these milestones deserves its unique and fun celebration.

Sepan can turn into a wonderland of their favorite characters for a lively baby who has just learned how much fun it is to run around. For preteens who are still figuring out friendships, hobbies, and school, the birthday party hall can have a more grown-up but still fun vibe, with fun booths, interactive games, and gourmet treats that suit their changing tastes.

What We Do Sepan Banquet Hall & Catering stands out as a place to celebrate in the middle of Los Angeles. Our hall has been the proud host of many happy and unforgettable moments for more than 15  years. The interiors and deco, a mix of contemporary and classic luxury, set the mood. But what makes each event special is the “soul” of Sepan, which is made up of our unbeatable service and the culinary adventures we plan, from Mediterranean treats to spicy Mexican feasts. We believe in sustainable celebrations, ensuring that our practices are eco-friendly. Sepan is more than just a location or a hall; it is a promise. A promise of perfection and of times that will be remembered for years to come.   

The Magic of Quinceañeras For many people, turning 15 is a big deal, a landmark that separates their child years and the rest. A way to get from the happy world of childhood to the world of adulthood. Quinceaneras are full of cultural meaning and traditions, and families wait with eagerness and excitement for them. While the warmth and character of Sepan are undeniably charming, it is the venue’s unique amenities that truly set it apart from any other LA quinceanera hall.

Our halls are filled with music from both the past and the present. The decor is a nod to history, but it also has a modern feel to it. Customized meals make sure that the food is both a tribute to the past and a taste of the present. Each Quinceanera is a colorful mix of old-world charm and modern fashion.

A Promise of Joy and Laughter If you think about it, memories are the threads that hold our lives together. In the big picture of life, birthdays stand out as bright, bold patterns. At the Sepan Banquet Hall in Glendale, we know how important these events are. We don’t just put on events; we take care of memories that families will talk about for years to come. Our expertise lies in turning simple events into grand narratives.  No matter if it’s a first birthday or a big Quinceanera, our birthday party hall is ready to be filled with laughter, joy, and many memories. When it’s more than just a party and you want to mark the passing of time with grace, beauty, and style, Sepan Banquet Hall is still the best option. So, when you start looking for a great place for a birthday party, know that with Sepan, the trip is just as memorable as the end result. Join us in celebrating every age and every milestone, and let’s make stories that will last forever.

[donnajons]

Fit in or Fit me?

So hey everyone! This is not a chapter of LPMG or Step Four. This is a self reflection that I wanted to share with you all.

I have a Quinceañera tomorrow, and all the family has to wear the same color for the party.

Three months ago, my cousin finally decided what color would we be wearing: metallic green. So after two weeks of searching, my mom, sister, and I finally found the dresses in a boutique, but they need to be fixed up for us. You know the cut the bastille, put some sparks, and make sure that the dress fit us.

That’s where the problem began.

Once the seamstress gave us the dresses, we still have two months until the party. Two weeks after that, I put the dress on again. I didn’t fit in the dress. I felt bad for all the fast food and lasy behaviors that I adopted in the last weeks. So I made the comintment of stay on my weight to fit in my dress.

I went to the gym of my school twice at week, forget about fast food, which was very difficult because I love pizza and subway, and tried to drink more water. Even though I began this good routine, I still was doing it wrong.

At the beginning of my exercise routine, my mind chanted “I gotta fit in that dress. I gotta fit in that dress”. Every time I got out the gym showed, I checked out my body, specially my belly, to see if I was actually looking “better”. Ever time I was hungry between meals and didn’t found something healthy to eat, I told to myself “it’s gonna be worthy once you fit in that dress.”

See what I was doing wrong?

My actions were good, but my motivation was wrong.

What do I had to think that I had to fit in the dress? Why couldn’t just go back to the seamstress and ask her to make the dress fit me?

It was simple. I put my body to the expectations of a dress at the point that it made me ashamed of a minor change on pice of fabric.

Yes at the end, the dress fit me after expending almost two months of having the goal of fit in it.

The moral of this story is don’t do the same mistake that I did. I spend really bad times looking at my weight because I gain two kilograms and thinking it was because maybe I did something wrong, but in reality, I gain two kilograms of muscle.

Don’t begin good behaviors with the goal of fit in something that you can just simply change with a sewing machine or buying a bigger size. It’s not healthy for your mind.

It wasn’t for me.

[sicklylittlesnowflake]

(Hey anon! Love the prompt but I have adapted it to make it a Lance’s Birthday fic!! Hbd to the my fav blue boy!! <33 Here’s a shitty langst fic lmaoo)

When the entire fate of the universe rests upon your shoulders it’s very hard to think of anything else.

There is just too much at stake and as much as Lance has dreamt of being a hero, it requires focus, attention. There is simply no time for anything extra and unnecessary.

But he’s human, of all the Paladins of voltron he is by far the Everyman, he isn’t larger than life in any sense. He allows himself some small extra thing, to keep himself sane. Lance keeps track of the days that goes by. He keeps a calendar, he knows each day, each month. He knows how long they’ve been here.

He knows when it’s his siblings’ birthdays. He knows when Veronica’s turned 21, or when his cousin is having her quinceañera. When those days come he takes a moment to himself to remember, and if he does exist, pray to God to keep said family member safe and happy on their special day.

As Lance checks off his calendar he’s made for himself he realises the days inches further towards his own birthday and it doesn’t really seem to matter. There are things more important than that. He only loved his birthday because of his family, and he did consider of doing something small with his new, surrogate family, but he decided against it. The Voltron team were doing a rather taxing, long mission that had sapped energy out of all of them and he didn’t want to bother anyone. Days of rest were scarce, but valuable. He didn’t dare ruin that. He had decided to keep quiet.

Lance had felt pretty off that whole day. It started off as just a little bit of a sore throat, and he felt a little bit more tired than usual, but everybody was exhausted so he figured it wasn’t anything too serious. He went on with the rest of the day as normal, fighting alien ships and whatnot, and by the end of it Lance felt so incredibly heavy like he could sink down his seat and collapse on the floor. He could barely find the strength to keep himself upright.

He feels so incredibly fatigued, and it seeps through his bones. His throat is horribly sore and his nose is in a constant state of itchiness and he can’t go by five minutes without having to stifle a cough or sneeze. He feels dizzy too, his mind detached from his reality and he doesn’t quite feel he is there. He doesn’t even have the energy to make quips or yell out his usual silly battle cries.

“Great job, team,” Shiro praises as the lions tread back towards the Castle.

“Once we get home, grab a meal, and straight off to bed, we need as much rest as we possibly can. Tomorrow’s another day. We need to be as prepared and equipped for it as possible,” He explains.

“Roger that, Shiro,” Keith nods, his lion following suit.

Lance feels his nose start to burn, his breath catches and he turns himself away from the microphone as to avoid essentially sneezing right into his teammates’ ears. The sneezes are ticklish, quiet, but harsh in a sickly kind of manner.

“Bless you!” Hunk chirps.

He flushes a little at the failure of his plan, but keeps himself composed and clears his throat, sniffling, “Thanks.”

“You okay, Lance?” Keith questions, concern lacing his words.

“M'fine, just something in the air I guess.”

Keith shifts uncomfortably as his lion mounts onto the castle, fully expecting some quip as a response, and possibly a jab at him too, but when it doesn’t come it leaves a strange feeling in his stomach.

[***

Once the Paladins are out of their armour they all beeline towards the common room where everyone flops down onto the couches and groans in exhaustion.

Lance revels in the soft pillowy cushions that is the couch, offering ease to his aching, heavy body. However he is suddenly attacked by a headache, pulsating throughout his head ravaging everything in sight. He hisses in pain, scrunching up his face to brace it, a hand shooting up to try and ease it.

He knows he can’t just leave this thing alone. He’s passed the denial phase, he’s sick and he knows it, and there is zero use in leaving it untreated because there’s no room for slacking or underperforming, not when the universe is at stake.

“Does anyone know if there’s any medicine around here?” He asks hoarsely.

No one replies; and Lance is sure that nobody means anything malicious by it, and as he looks around his thoughts are confirmed because everyone is heaving and panting in exhaustion, too wrapped up in their own exhaustion that they didn’t quite hear him, and if they did they had no energy to reply to him.

Lance bites his tongue then, he doesn’t need to bother anyone. Some sleep was probably enough.

Shiro enters the room then, and as his eyes lay upon the wrecked and fatigued Paladins he can’t help a fond smile, “Alright everybody. We’ve got quite a day, tomorrow. Head off to bed for the night, get some rest and we’ll see you all tomorrow.”

Pidge and Keith nod, hauling their bodies off the couch and dragging themselves towards their bedroom.

“Come on, Lance, get up!” Pidge snaps, gesturing towards the boy who still hadn’t gotten off the couch, still heaving in exhaustion.

“Sorry–just super tired,” He mumbles.

“We all are,” She sighs and gets on her way.

Eventually Lance finds some strength to push himself off the comforts of the couch. He’s sloppy and as he lifts himself off the couch his knees buckle and he’s almost hitting the ground, but his hand quickly grips onto something and holds himself steady. He can’t quite walk in a straight line as the world seems to be spinning around like he’s on some carousel. He drags himself towards his bedroom, exiting the common room.

Hunk is still sitting on the couch, looking rather thoughtful.

“C'mon, Hunk, off to bed.” Shiro chuckles fondly. Hunk smiles softly.

“Uh, actually, Shiro..could I talk to you, for a sec?”

The moment Lance is by himself in the comforts of his own room he completely lets himself go. He lets himself shiver, lets his legs tremble and he lets himself cough, cough so harshly that it’s bending him over and the sheer force of it is just so much he needs to sit down onto his bed, anchor himself onto the edge and bend double. He feels dreadful in every sense of the word.

He rolls underneath his covers to try and rid himself of the cold waves that is making him shiver. But the covers are too warm and he’s being eroded away by hot waves rushing up and down his blood stream. He’s either too hot or too cold and he’s so uncomfortable he can’t help the pathetic whimper that escapes his lips. His skin feels dry; and he has no energy to do his usual skin routine and it sours his mood further. It’s dumb, but something as small as some small self pampering helps Lance unwind and relax.

He shifts and rolls over in discomfort, unable to locate a position that offers some sense of comfort. He’s so tired but he can’t sleep and it’s the worst feeling in the world, he feels so desperate and out of control. He opens his heavy eyes to see his calendar, picking up the pen and crossing off this day and he realises what day tomorrow is.

Lance feels so dumb and so selfish when he feels a pang of sadness as he laments his birthday. How can he be so self indulgent when the survival of the universe hangs in the balance? He’s human, and he desperately wants a day with his family, a day where he can feel alright. But instead here’s here, sick and miserable.

The burning in his head ravages on and spreads towards his nose and he inhales deeply as the tickle spreads like wildfire. He pushes his face into his pillow and lets out two harsh, powerful sneezes, extremely unlike him, they’re never usually this loud, and they make him feel miserable. He lets out a whimper, and in his feverish haze he can sense his loving sister smile softly at him and hear her bless him in that sugary sweet voice of hers.

He can feel his brother’s warm hands massage his shoulders to comfort him, patting him on the back, trying to make him feel better. He can smell his mother’s soup, warm and comforting, heating his soul. He feels so safe, so warm, so loved.

Then he breaks out of his trance, abruptly, rudely, and the cold reality comes seeping back in.

Lance bites back his sob, the sadness and loneliness beginning to spread around his body until it swallows him whole. He count help his tears and sobs as they rush out of the floodgates. He clasps his hand around his mouth to try and stifle the pathetic whimpers as he violently convulses as he cries, his heart longing for his family again, feeling so empty and incomplete.

Lance craves stability again. He craves familiarity because each day that goes on, something changes. He doesn’t deal too well with change, he loves family, the idea of a home he knows he will return to at the end of the day. He likes knowing he belongs.

He coughs harshly, rattling at his chest and he knows his fever is high but he doesn’t have enough energy to ask for help. He wishes someone would just save him, but he knows it doesn’t work like that.

Lance cannot return to his family, but he escapes to a place where he can, in his dreams. As he closes his eyes, still sobbing, he begs whatever higher power out there to take his mind and send him to them, even just for a little while, just to see them again. And when it comes he lets it cover him like a blanket.

“Lance, sweetheart?” His mother calls softly, “Can you wake up, now, please?”

Lance groans, the light hitting his face and causing him to scrunch up his nose, nodding. Eyes still closed, he rubs at his face as he forces himself upright onto his bed. The moment he opens his eyes he jumps in alarm.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY LANCE!” His entire family yells, bright, warm grins on their faces.

He has no clue how they all managed to fit in to his adequately sized room, but they have. Everyone is here. All his cousins and nieces and siblings and grandparents. All here, and he can feel their love radiating off of them and it warms him to his very core. Initially he feels shock, surprise and his heart races for a few moments but immediately it is replaced by pure joy, his heart touched by the gesture. Tears prick at his eyes and his smile is shaky.

“God, you guys..you didn’t..have to–” Lance manages to say, but it’s hard for him to find words because it’s like he’s on cloud nine. His heart is glowing and he can’t help but hold it, as if trying to contain the magic brewing within him, like he could explode with the euphoria he feels right now.

“Open your presents tío!” His niece shrieks excitedly, grabbing at a sack and emptying its contents onto Lance’s bed.

“Oh god! There are so many!” Lance gasps. His family isn’t wealthy; and the presents he has before him is sparse as compared to a regular person’s amount, but to Lance, it’s a plethora. The fact his family had so little, and were willing to give him so much, forces the brewing tears to spill onto his cheeks.

Veronica laughs and leans in to kiss his cheek affectionately, “Of course, we love you.”

She wipes away his tears, her voice fond, “Now stop crying, you baby.”

Lance chuckles shakily at that. And the next while consists of him opening presents, discovering a new jacket, a sweater his abuela handmade for him, some arts and crafts projects his nieces and nephews made him, a new Star Wars video game, new swimming togs, face creams courtesy of Veronica..and so forth. Until there is one present left; shiny and sparkling, wrapped with so much love and care Lance is instantly drawn to it, like there is some sort of magnetic force drawing them to each other.

Lance senses some tension in the room, and his fingers clumsily untangle the bow that holds the packaging together. He feels their gazes burning holes into him, and he’s nervous.

He slowly, and cautiously unfolds the paper and when his eyes lock upon the sight before him his blood runs cold and his heart freezes.

He can feel his breathing pick up and his hands are shaking violently, he cannot believe his eyes. And he tears come back again, harder this time.

Before him is a Garrison Uniform, neatly folded and squeaky clean, ready to be worn.

“Díos mio..” Lance breathes.

“I..I..I got in?” He chokes.

His mother’s face is completely engulfed by a sunny smile, and she’s began to cry too.

“Sí, hijo, you got in! You did it!” She exclaims joyfully.

“Oh my god, I..I did it!” Lance cries out happily, and immediately his entire family jumps up screaming in joy, charging in for a huge family hug. Lance feels like his suffocating, but he’s never felt so happy in his life.

“You’re going to be among the stars, one day, my boy. Make us proud..”

A gentle shake on the shoulder returns Lance to his harsh reality, and his miserable symptoms kick in almost instantaneously. He becomes aware of his painful, dreadful headache and his feverish body, and he can’t help his violent shivers.

“Lance, buddy, wake up,” Keith says softly.

Lance gets up slowly, his world spinning violently that it makes him feel a little nauseous. He needs to hold on to the frame of his bed to steady his vision, and he looks over to his alarm clock and gasps. He was meant to be awake almost two hours ago!

Keith glances at Lance’s pale face, with dark undereyes and a saturated flushing on his cheeks and nose, “Oh, Lance..”

“Quiznack, I overslept! I’m so sorry–the mission–” Lance kicks the covers off, trying to scramble away but his face scrunches up and he erupts into a ticklish fit of sneezes, each sneeze desperate and sickly sounding. He isn’t able to cover the first few, but manages to cover the incoming ones with the crook of his arm.

“Bless you,” Keith offers but Lance doesn’t stop, he’s still going–until one particularly loud sneeze causes him to bang his face against his elbow. Keith grimaces in sympathy, passing him a tissue for him to continue his fit in, until it eventually subsides.

Once Lance finishes, his eyes are watery and he can’t breathe through his nose, but he still forces himself off the bed and the world tilts and his knees buckle and he’s freefalling, but Keith’s strong arm catches him and hurls him back towards his bed.

Keith’s eyes look sad, “Hey, buddy, maybe it’s better if you stay in bed today..”

“No! I need to go on the–” He coughs, “the mission! We can’t..form voltron otherwise! I can’t..be a burden on this team..”

Lance begins to haul himself out of his bedroom and towards the bridge, much to Keith’s protests. His head pounds and his body feels like it weighs tonnes but he forces himself towards the bridge.

When he makes it he feels like he’s spent years trudging through the desert suffocating beneath the hot Saharan sun.

“I’m sorry I’m late, I didn’t mean to, let’s start the missi–” Lance starts to hack, coughing his lungs out, bent double with the sheer force. He feels horribly light and faint.

“Oh, Lance, buddy..” Hunk whispers softly, his voice dripping with sympathy.

“I can do it, I swear, please let me do it, we gotta..” Lance trails off, looking up to see their concerned faces, worry etched onto each of their features. But once his teary eyes focus he’s able to see beyond them; the bridge beautifully decorated with a “Happy Birthday, Lance!” banner, there’s some smudged black paint in the corner, and there’s some alien craft that is meant to resemble balloons, and a cake.

Lance feels so warm.

And it’s not just because of his fever.

“Happy birthday, pal,” Hunk smiles sweetly.

His eyes water, “Y..you guys..”

“Happy birthday, Lance..uh..and I’m sorry about the smudge, that was..kind of my fault,” Shiro admits bashfully.

“No..i..it’s perfect,” He whispers.

“..And we didn’t have time to get you a proper present, but we found these little gems and we hope this is a little something until we get something better,” Pidge explains as she places a bracelet into his hands; the brace is silver and there are seven little gems, five gems with the same colour of their lions, and one pink one for Allura, and an orange one for Coran.

Lance’s lip begins to wobble, joy warming his heart and he feels like he’s glowing, twinkling and sparkling.

“And I made you some garlic knots..I tried my hardest to replicate some Cuban spices but you can only get so close with alien ingredients,” Hunk offers, gesturing towards a large plate.

Lance’s face crumples and he begins to sob, incredibly moved, his heavy soul feeling much lighter, a new light igniting within him bringing warmth to the coldness that had started to spread throughout him.

Keith puts an arm around him and lets him cry into his shoulder, “Shh..hey, pal, why are you crying?”

“I’m just..so happy. I don’t deserve you guys..I..made a promise to my mother that I’d make her proud, and I feel so dumb for being tired when there are important missions to do..and yet you guys are still..so nice to me,” He sobs.

“Lance, you’re sick. That’s okay. You can take a rest. And look, I don’t know your mother–but we’re all very proud of you. I’m very proud of you. So I’m so sure she would feel the same,” Keith reassures, a little bit awkward, but just as caring as he brushes his hand through Lance’s hair.

One by one everyone on the team joins in the hug, and each time Lance feels a little bit more while. A little less alone. He can finally feel at home; it’s not quite what he’s grown to know, but maybe it’s just as good. It will do.

“We love you, Lance, all of us,” Hunk whispers lovingly.

And Lance feels it.

He’ll uphold his promise to his mother. He does lives with the stars, these friends who shine just as bright as the stars, and somehow, he’s one of them. Shining just as bright, with their love.

He belongs right here.

[kouryuudielysion]

more ask meme questions: doll, boo, wild thing, my love!

doll - what’s your favourite outfit?

shit uuuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh i?? i don’t actually??? have outfits??? i wear black pants and black shoes and whatever graphic t-shirt i grab that morning i am??? a gremlin with no fashion sense. the last time i even attempted to look nice was my friend’s quinceañeraback in high school over ten years ago

boo - what’s your dream date?

fuck uuuhhhhhh tbh i feel like at this point anything with someone i love and who i feel loves me??? i’m getting desperate sis but if i had to pick b/c i don’t want to cheat you out of too many answers a nice meal would be good, something casual b/c i don’t like fancy stuff, and then just a lot of time spent having fun, maybe a movie and a walk around a nice outdoor mall? or some fun time at a theme/amusement park? the specifics matter so little honestly, all i’d really want is to spend lots and lots of quality time with the man i love

wild thing - what’s something about you that surprises people?

we gonna go three for three huh?uuuuuhhhhhhhhhh damn um, i?? i’m not sure? like the closest thing i can think of isn’t exactly nice but my doctor’s always both surprised and impressed that my blood pressure is actually super good? but i mean i guess no one’s ever really told me that anything surprises them so i guess i’m pretty predictable?

my love - what would your dream home be like?

i have two tbh and it’s more an either/or situation versus wanting both.

first of it’s either a nice beachfront house, someplace i can enjoy the luxuries of being near the beach and the comfort it provides, or a lovely mountain house, one that’s a cute log cabin based one tucked away in a forest protected from the outside life

either way though i want a garden, and at least in the mountain home a nice pool. indoors is gonna be full of things i think are cute or stylish or lovely, none of this bullshit modernist minimalism. give me all the things my dragonheart loves because i love it, fill up my shelves with trinkets that are full of memories and bring me joy to see. fill my walls with paintings and all kinds of artistry and let them be painted. give me my four poster canopy bed, in a room decorated like a lovely magical forest clearing. a nice big kitchen where i can bake to my heart’s content, a living room big enough for a couch for me and all my family and friends to sit and enjoy each other’s company. maybe even a theater/game room, where we can hang out and play games and watch movies.

[aph-oklahoma-46]

Emily’s Quinceañera

//Ok SO! This is so much later than I meant it to be, but it’s fluffy and cute and gay, so I’m gonna say that makes up for it.

Emily wished people would look anywhere but at her. There was a lot of people here, and it was really loud. It helped that she knew most everybody present, but still, she liked small gatherings better than big one; even during birthday parties, it was almost always just her family and Alex’s, along with Heni. Now, nearly the whole salón was filled with people and talking and music.

She waited while people arrived and went through the line for food and kicked her feet. When everybody arrived, the dancing would start. She had found out while practicing that knowing ballet wasn’t very helpful when learning the proper dances for the quince, but luckily, they weren’t terribly difficult. Still, Emily wasn’t used to dancing with actual partners. Angel assured her she’d be fine and that, yes, she had to do the dances because they were traditional. Besides, Emily didn’t really have to worry about embarrassing herself. Onacona had to learn for the father-daughter dance, which was very entertaining for Naduah and Angel.

In her head, Emily went over the sequence of events. First, she was supposed to dance with the chambelanes, and then there’d be food, then she’d dance with her Papa before eating again, then everyone could dance (meaning she could pick whichever partner she wanted), and then there’d be cake. Emily wasn’t so sure about all the formality involved with the quince, but she was all for the food breaks. She was about to go crazy from Angel making sure she stuck to traditions, though. So far, she’d been confined to the couch and told she could get up when it was time to dance. Had it not been for the bright red dress, she would have probably snuck off anyway to the snack table with Miles and Andrew. Though, Alex was keeping a careful eye on them as well to make sure they didn’t ruin the clothes they had before the dancing was over. Emily looked up as the last of the guests filed in and were seated. She closed her eyes and counted her breathing like she did when she was nervous during recitals and went over the dances in her head again.

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

After the dances with the chambelanes was over, Emily sat down and ate. Miles and Andrew got to go sit by her because Angel and Alex were tired of listening to the three complain. Emily paused with her fork halfway to her face when she saw Miles and Andrew staring at her.

“What?”

“Em, holy shit! Slow down,” Miles said. Emily looked down at her plate and saw that she had finished most of it in the time Andrew and Miles had eaten less than half of theirs.

“I can’t help it!” she groaned. “I didn’t eat lunch, and I’ve been running around with Angel all day. I’m hungry!”

Andrew frowned at her and asked, “Why didn’t you eat lunch? That’s not healthy, Emi.”

Miles nodded his head in agreement. “That’s right, Em, don’t skip meals. I never skip a meal, since it’s not healthy. In fact, sometimes I add extra meals.” He stuck his belly out and rubbed it as Emily and Andrew rolled their eyes and laughed.

“I didn’t mean to! I was busy and freaking out and I thought I’d throw up. I still think I might” As she finished speaking, Heni tapped her on the shoulder and waved.

Miles made an exaggerated grimace. “Ugh, now I’m gonna throw up.” Heni cocked an eyebrow at him.

“Miles, how is it that you and Andrew were raised almost the same, and yet he turned out so nice and sweet and you turned out so… Miles?”

Andrew patted Miles on the back and said, “He ate more dirt,” drawing laughter from the rest of the group while Miles shrugged. Heni turned and sat down beside Emily.

“Are you excited for the last dance?” she asked, looking over to Emily.

Emily swallowed and firmly ignored Miles and Andrew, who were not trying very hard to repress their snickering. “Um, yeah, I guess. Everyone gets to dance then, it’ll be fun.”

Heni nodded and smiled before adding, “Are you thinking of dancing with anyone in particular?”

Emily could feel her face turn red, but she said, “Yeah, I’ve got someone in mind.”

Before Heni could respond, Miles recovered form his laughing fit enough to ask, “Oh, really? Do tell.”

Emily looked over at him and said, “Miles, I love you like a brother, and you’ve always been there for and dear to me, but I swear to god I will stab you with this fork.” She turned to Heni again.

Heni chuckled and smiled. “Well, save one for me, ok?” Then she stood and went back to her seat, leaving the other three. Emily watched her leave, then Miles dropped a hand on her shoulder.

“Your face is the same color as your dress.”

“Miles, I swear-," Emily was cut off. Angel had come over and was trying to get her attention. Time for the father-daughter dance.

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

Emily didn’t get anything to eat the second time; she felt like she’d get sick. The dance had been fine, but the next dance would be when Heni wanted to dance with her and Emily wasn’t sure she was gonna stay conscious for that. Alex stopped by to check on her, having seen how stressed she looked.

“Hey, are you alright, Sugar?” he asked as he squatted down next to her. “You look a little green.”

“Yeah, and it’s too early for Christmas, so what’s up?” Angel added from behind Alex. He received rather annoyed looks from both of them. “Wow, tough crowd. Sorry, what’s wrong, Emi?”

Emily took a deep breath and closed her eyes to try and focus on something other than her stomach. “Heni said she wanted to dance after this and I said that I’d dance with her and now I think I’mgonnapukeohmygod-” Angel had put a hand on either side of her head.

“Emily… calm the fuck down.” Alex smacked him, but he continued. “Listen, it’ll be fine. She wouldn’t have asked if she didn’t like you, you already know the dances and you’ve done fine so far. There’s nothing to worry about.”

Emily covered her face and groaned. She leaned back and took another deep breath, letting it out slowly before sitting back up. “You’re right, I know. It’s just…,” Emily looked over to where Heni was talking to someone and sighed, exasperated. “She’s really pretty.” Angel rolled his eyes.

“Oh my god, you’re so gay.”

Alex and Emily looked at him and Alex said, “Angel. You’re gay!”

“Yeah, but I’m a distinguished-”

“Distinguished, my ass! You’re barely functional.”

Emily looked between them both and waved her hand in the air, shouting, “Hello? You’re supposed to be helping me!”

Alex paused and said, “Everything will be fine. She knows you like her because you’re about as subtle as Angel, and she obviously likes you, too. Just dance with her.”

Angel nodded. “And then we get cake.”

They walked away, and Emily stayed where she was. She looked back over at Heni as people got ready to dance, before getting up and going over to her. She reached out and tapped her shoulder.

“The uh, the dance is about to start,” she muttered, looking down. Emily felt a hand in hers and looked up as Heni smiled and walked toward the floor. She smiled back and followed her, coming to a stop off to the side. As they danced, Emily leaned her head on Heni’s shoulder and relaxed. It didn’t feel like all eyes were on her here. When the dance was over, the two went and sat down together in a corner of the salón (Angel thankfully left them alone) and talked.

Emily fiddled with her thumbs as she spoke, looking anywhere but at Heni’s face. “I was wondering, um… well, my friends and Angel and other people say that I’m talk about you a lot, and that it’s kind of obvious that I, um, I like you, and I thought that maybe we- if you want, I mean… we cou-,” Emily abruptly stops when Heni lifts her face up and presses a kiss to her lips. It’s short and Heni pulls away quickly, but Emily can already feel her face turn red. “Y-yeah, that.”

Heni laughs and hugs her tightly. “Yeah, we can do that.” Both girls lean back in their seats, and Emily hesitates before taking Heni’s hand in hers. Heni squeezes back and they sit together and wait for the rest of the people to finish dancing. To the side, Emily notices Miles and Andrew watching, with Miles giving a thumbs up and smiling as best he can with a mouthful of stolen sweets while Andrew just smiles. Emily just smiles and rolls her eyes, turning to face the room once more.

//Thank you to the wonderful @texass-shenanigans for help with knowing what goes on during a quince and letting me use Angel

Alex belongs to @usrp-louisiana

Emi now has a girlfriend so whoop! She’s still going to be an awkward mess around her, though