#and they’re croissant donuts!

[ejzah]

I always think of Kensi when I buy donuts:

[jarofstyles]

Buttercream

Hello my loves! This is the first part to our Patreon exclusive series, Buttercream. The ready is available on Patreon (over 18 parts) and is still being updated. You all asked to see what’s available to read and I’m giving you sneaks of it!

A series featuring an Alpha Architect Harry, a bossy bakery owning omega Y/N, the sweetest treats taste tested and some steamy smut.

Check out our Patreon for all parts of the series and 150+ exclusive writings.

——-

The smell kept him coming back.

In his life, Harry had been to a quite a few bakeries. He could be considered an expert on fudge brownies, a specialist on cupcakes and the swirls of icing, a connoisseur of croissants. He treated himself a bit too often, if his mother had anything to say with it. His sweet tooth had always been prevalent in his life.

The new bakery down the road from his job, though? That had made him a true problem.

Every day before work, he stopped. Suit and all, pulling into the parking lot and nearly drooling the moment he got out. His feet carried him towards the door and the smell hit him immediately. Sweet buttercream, frothy vanilla, spiced cinnamon, and… something else. That something else that had him nearly vibrating, and now on a mission to have the whole menu to figure out just what the hell that scent was.

It was intoxicating. Mesmerizing. If Harry didn’t have work, he would spend hours just sitting here to smell it. It had a weird hold on him, and he didn’t quite know how to ask if it was an air freshener. That was unlikely for anywhere but restrooms anyways considering how offensive it could be for the noses of alpha’s and omegas alike. A bad scented one could send them into moods. Or even sickness. The sense of smell was very important.

“Mr.Styles.�� The teen manning the cash register saluted him. He came in every day and was known to the cashiers, so he had ruled out it being one of them. Thank god. They were either young enough to not have a scent or too old for it to be possible. “What will it be today? Y/N’s been whipping up a storm for the holidays. New recipes. We’ve got a peppermint bark brownie that would go well with the peppermint mocha you like.” She chirped, watching as he scanned the cases.

Harry was a little intimidating but he was exceptionally charming. He smiled, he conversed, he tipped well, but he always seemed to be looking around. Trying to find something that no one could really place. The bakery was empty besides a mum and her friend with their kids, munching on treats and coffee as they watched the traffic go by. It wasn’t them. Harry’s ears did perk up when he heard an unfamiliar name.

“Y/N?” He asked, tilting his head as his attention went back to the cashier. “Who’s that? The owner?” Harry had never met the owner. For some reason, every time he came in the morning she had stepped out for her own break. It didn’t bother him so long as his compliments to the baker got passed along, but hearing her name stirred something in his chest.

“Yep.” She popped the p in her word. “She’s awesome. She started this all on her own after she went viral on the internet. She got the funds from online orders. You see the custom cakes and stuff but she does awesome experimental flavors. She doesn’t care if they’re hits or misses and let’s us go home with leftovers.” There was obvious pride to be working for someone like Y/N. It peaked his interest.

“Oh?” He asked, leaning his body against the counter. “That’s incredible. I’d be very happy to taste some of the new things.” He flashed a smile, tapping his card against the wood of the counter. “What would you think Y/N would suggest?” And why did saying her name make him feel silky and hot? Like it was meant to live on his lips? They tingled as the word left his mouth, making him shift his stance slightly. His skin was buzzing slightly as he heard someone else come from the back.

“She would suggest the peppermint bark brownies, the s’mores donut, the lemon cream cookie and the chili chocolate cupcake. Spice and sweet work surprisingly well together.” The airy voice went to his bones.

Harry could smell it fully now. The scent that laced the bakery was now engulfing him. Filling the space, making him inhale it with each breath. His hand tightened on the card, curling into a fist at his side as he caught a glimpse of her. She had been the source. It wasn’t a baked good or a cashier, but it was the baker herself that was making him addicted to the sweets laced with her scent.

He was silent as he observed her, a smile quirked on her lips. Slightly glossy and deliciously plump as she greeted the cashier with a simple hey and asking her to go to the back to grab the other new tray of cinnamon buns. Sliding them on to the rack, she used her hip to gently nudge the counter open and grabbed one for Harry.

“Here. On the house.” She slid the bag over to him with her soft simper, hands tapping on the wood.

She was marvelous.

Harry was speechless. Something he never usually was- the alpha could talk to a brick wall if he needed to- but this sweet little omega has been slowly hypnotizing him with her scent over the course of a month and now he was finally seeing her. He loved delayed gratification, a fan of edging, but this? He wished he had seen her far earlier.

“Hi.” He peeped. His face looked like he saw a ghost. The woman in front of him was like a mirage- and he wasn’t trying to be dramatic. He swore she was familiar to him in some way. Some how. She was all omega in the ways that called to him. The curve of her face and her soft voice… he could have started purring if he didn’t have some semblance of self control in his body.

“Hi.” She returned the greeting with a soft chuckle that heated his chest. “I hope you like the suggestions. I recognized your voice. You’ve been in here every morning we’re open and I figured it was about time to meet the loyal customer.” She chirped, brushing the stray hair that had fallen from her ponytail behind her ears. The adorably disheveled look added to her appeal.

A candy apple red apron was dusted with various baking material, tied around her waist snug. It showed the curve of her waist went deeper than what he could tell under her sweatshirt that appeared to have the bakery name printed on it. A swipe of flour was decorating her forehead, like she had wiped hair from her face and simply forgot about flour coated hands. Little details he was memorizing to think about later.

“I love the smell.” He blurted out. Immediately, he winced. That hadn’t been what he had meant to say, at least how he had meant to say it. Heat crept up further under his cheeks as he opened and closed his mouth, watching her giggle a bit as he tried to find his bearings.

“Fucking hell- I meant to say, I love your bakery. It smelled amazing when I went past it so I decided to stop in a few weeks ago and now it’s become a part of my daily routine. I bring in pastries for the office.”

“Aren’t you a star coworker.” She cooed, turning from him with a wink as she grabbed one of the red boxes and began to construct it. “They must love you at the office. I have on good authority that the one that brings the snacks, gets the pats on the back. Especially hand made, beautifully crafted baked goods.” She teased, opening up the case and beginning to place some sweets into it.

“I’d hope they like me. I’m their boss.” He laughed quietly, scratching the back of his neck. Never has he felt more like a schoolboy talking to a playground crush. He was head to toe in a suit good enough to meet his best clients, and a girl with flour on her face was sending him to his knees. Each time she moved, a gentle waft of her scent was given his direction and made that ever loved self control hang by a thread.

“Ooooo. Bossman.” She grinned, wiggling her brow as she placed another iced brownie with crushed peppermint bark sprinkled on top into the box. “Should have guessed. Love the suit, by the way. You look very handsome.”

That little compliment made his day. The pretty omega with the prettier smile and mouthwatering scent thought he looked handsome. That would be lingering in his brain all day. How she thought he was handsome. The casual compliments.

“Thank you.” He preened. “We do interior and exterior design for businesses. Up and coming places and remodels. So if you ever need a guy- I’m here.” He placed his hands in his pockets and lifted up on his toes rocking back and forth.

“Oooo. Is it that bad in here? Do I need a renovation?” She sucked her teeth, tilting her head. It had him freezing, mouth falling open to grovel. He hadn’t meant to offend her at all, hadn’t tried to insinuate it needed a remodel.

“Shit- no, I’m sorry. It’s very cute in here, I didn’t mean to insinuate it needed any help. I’m sorry, I didn’t realize how it would sound-“

“Cool it, bossman.” She cooed, laughing at how he had nearly fallen over himself. “I’m just messing with you. The place does need some exterior work, actually. I hadn’t had the budget when we first started, nor the time. But I didn’t take any offense to it. You’ve got to market yourself. Don’t worry.” Her reassurance made him melt into relief, leaning into the counter. This whole encounter had him feeling a bit on edge in the weirdest way. He wanted to snuggle this woman, yet he was almost afraid of her. An omega. He was afraid of an omega.

Anyone else would laugh at him, perhaps, but he felt the nervousness creeping in his bones. He wanted her to like him. He wanted her to think he was cool and want to know him better. Y/N, Y/N, Y/N. She had unarmed his normal charm and made him feel like a nervous bundle of sweat and it was exhilarating.

“I’ll take a card, though.” She placed her hand out flat. “If you’ve got one. I’m gonna check out your website.”

Harry fished one out of his wallet, thankful he kept them on hand. It had his office number, and part of him wanted to offer his personal cell but he knew that would be a bit weird. Especially if she wanted to use his services. He almost hoped she didn’t- asking a client on a date wasn’t good for the image, was it? He wasn’t sure.

“If you’ve got any questions you can reach out on the email there, it’s a direct line to me- or uh, I come in every day so.” He shrugged. “Around this time. You’ve got very good coffee too. It’s been a while since I’ve had a good hazelnut. People put a lot of syrups and things… but your shop does it the best.”

“Thank you.” She seemed chuffed with his praise. “I taste test everything with the crew here. You’ll be in for a treat. If you’re coming in every morning, do you think you’d want to be a bit of a guinea pig for me?” She slid the box across the counter. “I’ve been experimenting like my lovely employee was saying. But I’d love a real customers opinion. Even if it’s bad. I want to know what the consumer likes.”

Harry was shocked. Y/N was kind of treating him like a friend, like she valued his exact opinion. He couldn’t deny he felt exceptionally special. Having not only the owner of the bakery but an omega he had some sort of crush on suddenly want to sample the new things she sells and get his opinion on it.

“Oh- uh. Alright. Of course! I can do that.” He grinned shyly, handing his card over for her to pay for the things she had put into the box. “I come in every morning during the week so… you can just let me know what’s new to taste.” There was a giddiness in his stomach. An excuse to talk to her every day. Or at least a few times a week. He’s never really reacted this way to an omega before, the scent craving, the shyness he suddenly felt, all of it was so new to him and he was unsure how to navigate it but he didn’t want to stop. He only wanted more.

“Perfect. What is your name, by the way?” The card was handed back to him and there was slight disappointment their fingers didn’t brush, but Harry took today was a victory.

“Harry. Harry Styles. It’s lovely to meet you.”

“Y/N. I’m glad to meet you too. I hope to see more of you soon.”

[bed-chemist]

❝i might just give you a bite.❞

part 1 of this fic

A/N: This is for my besties who don’t go out on Saturday nights but read fanfic in bed. Before we start this chapter, I will explain the AU a bit so it’s not confusing when you read this. The characters included will be mostly from TLOU2, so SPOILERS. Although there’s no outbreak, and it’s modern-day Joel, Sarah still dies. TLOU characters will be referenced (deaths, reasons they’re not around, etc.) The only person who is not the same age as they were at the end of TLOU are Joel and Tommy because I didn’t want to write a big age gap. They're still equally daddy tho. So characters: mainly TLOU 2, but Joel and Tommy are a bit younger. This also hasn't been edited, so ignore any mistakes. enjoy ★ ˙ᵕ˙ liv

Chapter Summary: the sweetest baker celebrates barbieween.

Chapter Warnings: death of parents (mentioned), death of a child (mentioned), language, alcohol and drugs (mentioned), slight age gap (F!MC and Joel are 6 years apart), symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Key Tags: chef! Joel, single! father Joel, no outbreak! Joel Miller, Joel x Ellie x Reader, slow burn, fluff, flirting, friendship, eventually established relationship, eventual smut, original character, black!fem!MC, no y/n.

.𖥔 ݁ ˖ series masterlist ⋆ spotify playlist ˖ ݁ 𖥔.

⋆ word count: 6.3k ⋆

October 31st

Adding a final sugar bat wing to the specialty cupcake, I tuck a stay curl behind my ear with a huff. After 2 hours of baking and decorating, I decide it was time for a break. Taking my headphones off, I turn towards my neighbor’s little sister, Dina.

Dina's ponytail bounces as she bops around the front with her headphones in, making sure the bakery is ready to open in an hour. She’s only 15, but she’s been a massive help with the bakery. She works part-time shifts, but I’m paying her holiday pay for being here since 6 a.m. at her age. Waving my hand through the open window between the kitchen and the register, I grab her attention. “I’m gonna go grab a coffee. Do you want anything?” I ask.

Dina shakes her head and smiles. “No thanks,” she says.

I shuffle around the kitchen grabbing my things. “Okay, I’ll take you to school when I get back,” I accept her answer. Dina’s probably stuffed from me feeding her croissants and donuts this morning.

Dina beams, seemingly grateful she doesn’t have to take public transit today in the city. “Cool. Do you need help after 4?” she offers.

Shaking my head, I secure my bag on my shoulder. “No, Dina. Go out and have fun. There’s gotta be a party or whatever you young kids are doing these days,” I argue. No one I know should be working on my favorite holiday. It’s the best time of the year.

Dina’s nose crinkles and she leans on the counter. “I don’t really party,” she confessed.

Nodding, I think about the fact that Dina's sister is probably working the E.R. night shift tonight. “Do you want to come over tonight? I’m just handing out candy and probably watching a movie later,” I offer her someone to hang out with.

Dina happily nods, accepting the offer. After reminding her that I’ll text her sister, I turn the handle to the door. The cool autumn air nearly whips me in the face as I step out onto the small threshold. 

Staring down at my phone, I start to formulate the message to Talia. I only take two steps before I bump into a small figure. Setting my hands out on the tiny human’s shoulders, I look down and notice a brunette girl peering up at me. Her face twists in anger and she shrugs my hands off her shoulders. “Ow, fuck. Watch it,” She puts me in my place with so much attitude, it reminds me of myself when I was a kid.

Taking a deep breath, I try to compose myself. The younger version of me would’ve given her a piece of my mind, but it’s the best day in the world. Halloween. “I’m sorry, tiny human. I wasn’t paying attention,” I apologize and try to move past her to get coffee.

She steps in front of me again with her arms crossed. “Hey, I am not tiny,” she counters.

“Don’t take it personally. I call anyone under the age of 18 a tiny human,” I placate her.

She huffs before shifting a bit. “Well, now that your main concern should be avoiding a lawsuit, maybe you’ll hear me out,” she snips.

My head tilts in confusion at her statement. “Lawsuit? What do you mean lawsuit?” I ask in disbelief.

Her eyes roll in response to my question. “You know? I got hurt at your business & you discriminated against me. You should pay me or something,” she explains as if I should know this already.

I’ve spent enough time with tiny humans to know when one wants something from you. “Smart, but we’re on the sidewalk. It’s public property,” I break the news to her, gesturing to the cracked concrete beneath our feet.

The brunette teenager’s face turns red as her eyes dart down and then back up at me. “Shit, maybe I should’ve done this another way,” she thinks out loud.

Pinching the bridge of my nose, I daydream about a vanilla latte with almond milk. “Look, I need some coffee. Can we walk and blackmail me at the same time?” I ask.

She gnaws on her bottom lip, shifting back on her heels. “Well that’s the thing…” she pauses and waits for my name.

“Ginny,” I inform her.

She nods, seemingly internalizing every syllable. “Ginny. I have a class in 30 minutes. My da–” she stops herself, cursing under her breath. She squeezes her eyes shut right and takes a deep breath. “Anyways, he forgot to pick up the order last night. It might be under my name or his,” she blurts before opening her eyes.

I usually don’t allow customers to pick up orders a day late but the kid looks like she’s going through it. “Okay, how about you come inside and we figure it out so you get to school on time,” I say.

Her face instantly softens and a smile replaces her frown. “Cool. Thanks, Ginny,” she replies.

I open the door, motioning for her to step into the shop ahead of me. “What’s your name?” I ask her.

She looks over her shoulder and watches as I lock the door. “Ellie,” she beams. 

Nodding, I start to walk with Ellie toward the back of the bakery. “Nice to meet you, Ellie,” I extend my hand and she shakes it.

When we get into the kitchen, Dina is sitting in the corner with her backpack at her feet. “That was fast,” she comments, ready to stand.

I motion for Dina to not get up with my hands. “I didn’t get coffee yet. Ignore us, I can handle this,” I chirp, breezing over to the iPad.

My fingers tap the screen looking for the list of pick-up orders. “Okay, let’s do this by process of elimination. What’s your last name so I can look you up?” I ask Ellie.

“Williams,” Ellie states clearly.

Typing the letters into the search box, I press enter. “Well your name isn’t in the system so let’s try his name next. Last name?” I try to move on to the next name.

“Miller,” Ellie replies.

Miller, that name sounds familiar. Miller, Miller, Miller. It’s on the tip of my tongue.

My brows twist as I try to place the name. “First name?” I finally give up and ask.

“Joel,” the name rolls off Ellie's tongue as sweet as lilies in May.

Shit. That’s why the name was so familiar. Maybe it’s not the same Joel. “Joel Miller? The chef?” I ask for clarification.

Ellie's brows furrow and she nods. “Yeah. Do you know him?” she counters.

Nodding, I click Chef Miller's order. “Yeah, I didn’t know he had a kid.” Not that’s it a bad thing. It makes him more attractive knowing he has the patience to be a support to a teenager.

Ellie rocks on her heels, looking over her shoulder at Dina. “Joel’s my adopted dad,” she mumbles.

“You don’t have to explain your relationship with him. I get it,” I chirp, turning to grab a box for the first half of the order. “It looks like you need 20 cookies. I haven’t put them out yet. Did you want to come to the rack and pick them out?” I ask Ellie, pointing to the back corner.

Ellie’s face lights up and she nods. “Fuck yeah. But I have to be quick. Art is first thing this morning,” she informs me.

“Let’s go, then,” I smile, waving her in my direction.

My eyes flood with tears as I weep in my office around 3 p.m. My body jolts when the office door slams open against the wall. “Ginny,” I hear my employee Grace start to say. I swivel towards my chair, wiping the tears from my face. “Woah. I’m sorry,” she apologizes with wide eyes. I understand, I probably look like a hot red mess right now.

Motioning with my hand for her to ignore me, I take a deep breath. “You’re okay, what did you need?” I ask.

She nods, shifting to lean on the other leg uncomfortably. “There’s a customer in the front saying he had an order but we can’t find it. Can you help us?” she asks.

Nodding, I stand from the chair. “Yeah, I’ll be right there,” I chirp, trying my hardest to plaster on a fake smile. Grace gratefully takes this as a sufficient answer, turning on her heels to hurry back out to the front of the bakery.

My pink heels carry me over to the cabinet where I grab a pack of baby wipes. A sharp pain shoots up my soles as I shuffle over to the floor-length mirror in my office and I smooth my hands over my dress. My hair still looks perfect, which I'm grateful for. Grabbing some of the wipes, I try to clean my face as best as possible.

Once I deem my appearance acceptable, I toss the used wipes in the trash. The click of my shoes fills the back kitchen as I make my way up to the front. When I round the corner I see the back of a man with salt and pepper hair. “That’s the boss,” Chloé, another employee, says loudly over the noise in the large room.

My brain sparks, mentally preparing myself for the worst as the tall man slowly turns around. When I see his face, my tense body instantly relaxes. “Oh, Chef Miller. Hi,” I sigh and smile, genuinely this time.

Chef Miller looks me up and down while I close the large gap between us. My nose crinkles when I stop in front of him and he still hasn’t said anything. “Hi. I - um- I’m sorry,” he stammers.

Feeling confused, I break eye contact to look down at my outfit. There’s no flour on my costume but I’m suddenly feeling insecure. “Is everything alright?” I capture Chef Miller's chesnut irises again. 

Chef Miller inhales sharply, letting his arms fall to his side. “Mhm, just didn’t know you owned this place is all,” he informs me.

Thank fuck. I thought I had a booger front and center. I suddenly remember forgetting to call The Austin after Ellie came in, as promised. “Yeah, and shit. I meant to call your restaurant and tell you. Ellie came in earlier and I gave her the school order,” I try to ease his mind. 

Chef Miller lets out a heavy sigh, doubling over. “Oh lord. I forgot ‘em once and thought I forgot ‘em again. Been so busy at the resteraunt, I –” he cuts his rant short. The denim shirt seems to constrict and I notice his shoulders rising and falling rapidly.

My eyes go wide and I step a little closer to the chef, putting my hand on his back. “Chef Miller, are you alright?” I ask.

Chef Miller nods with his face still towards the pink tile floor. “I’m fine. It’s just the cold air all of a sudden,” he lies and I feel the bass of his voice in my palm.

My hand instinctively rubs circles on his back. “Chef Mill-”

“Joel, sweetheart. Call me Joel,” Joel cuts me off.

“Joel,” I say, and the name almost feels foreign on my tongue. “Do you want to sit down for a second? Try a Halloween brownie?” I offer, hoping it’ll keep him from going down this continuous spiral.

Joel shakes his head and slowly starts to stand, straightening his back. “No, thank you. I don’t want to take up more of your time,” he acknowledges the long line of customers in the bakery.

Taking a step back, I clasp my hands in front of me. Something about Joel intrigues me, and I quickly think of an excuse to keep him in the shop. “How about you sit because you’re saving me from the joy of interacting with rude Halloween patrons,” I practically beg him.

He peers over his shoulder at the case with the sweet treats. His eyes return to mine with a gleam in them. “Okay, deal,” he agrees with a small smile.

Nodding, I feel the heat rush to my cheeks. Joel picks a booth to sit in while I scurry to grab him a brownie and a glass of water. When I get back to the booth, I’m out of breath from trying to function in the pink block heels. “Here, it’s on the house,” I suggest, pushing the items towards him.

Joel shakes his head, pulling out a 10-dollar bill. “This is all the cash I have on me but, I can offer two redo meals for the price of one,” he proposes, sliding the cash over towards me.

Shaking my head, I slide it back over towards Joel. “It’s not a big deal,” I argue.

“No, it is. You saved her from embarrassment. I should be tipping you 10 fold,” Joel contests, pushing it back across the table.

Getting frustrated, I reach out and push the cash back in his direction with finality. “Put it in the fucking tip jar. For Christ's sake, Joel. I don’t need it. My staff will split it at the end of the shift,” I declare trying to convince him I do not need the extra cash.

Joel looks down and grabs the cash, tucking it into his back pocket. “Fine,” he mutters under his breath. “So, how was she?” he asks a bit louder.

My head tilts in confusion. “What do you mean?” I ask for clarification.

Joel picks up the brownie, examining the spiderweb marshmallows covering the dessert. “I mean what was she like? Just trying to make sure she’s on the right track is all. Happy and everything,” he explains before taking a bite. 

My eyes squint as I study Joel chewing. Every muscle in his jaw flexes and he closes his eyes. “Mmmm, this is good,” he moans and I feel the color drain from my face. My stomach flutters and I try to force the bile back down my throat. 

It’s platonic, Imogen. Not even that. We’re acquaintances. “She reminds me of when I was a teenager. Didn’t think I’d ever meet someone that swears more than me,” I finally answer him.

Joel picks up the water, taking a sip of the cool liquid before setting it back on the table. “I told her no more goddamn swearing in public,” he complains.

Pursing my lips together, I try not to laugh at how ironic the scenario is. “Um, Joel,” I say, trying to fight a snicker while Joel takes another bite.

Joel's eyes flick up to mine and I almost crumble. He hums for me to continue while he chews.

Clearing my throat, I try to think of the best way to put this. I don’t want him to think I’m trying to tell him how to parent his kid. “If you want her not to swear in public, you have to lead by example,” I advise the mesmerizing man sitting across from me.

Joel instantly stops chewing and takes a big gulp. “Shit, you’re right,” he swears again and I stifle another giggle.

The desire to spend more time with Joel creeps up my spine once again. “Can I ask you something? And you can say no,” I start feeling a slight warmth in my chest.

Joel nods, wiping his mouth with a pink napkin. “Yeah, sure,” he confirms before going in for the last of the brownie.

My fingers tap the table beneath me, feeling anxious about what I’m going to suggest. “Did the two of you have plans tonight?” I investigate.

Joel takes a few moments to finish chewing while he shakes his head. “No. It’s Ellie’s first Halloween with me, too. I didn’t know what to do so I didn’t plan anything.” he addresses their plans.

A small smile creeps onto my lips. “Well, I’m closing the shop early. My neighbor’s little sister is coming over to hang out and watch a movie. You should bring Ellie by for a little while. Maybe they’ll end up being friends,” I ramble.

Joel’s face brightens as he processes the information. “I think that’d be good for her. I took off work and she should be out of school in an hour or two. I’ll get her fed and we’ll be on our way,” he voices before finishing the glass of water.

A few drops of water slip past his bottom lip onto Joel's beard, and I resist the craving to reach up and fix him. “Sounds good,” I note his plans while I slide out of the booth. “Look, I have to get back,” I tell him, seeing the line grow in size.

Joel nods and waves, following suit behind me. As I glide away, I feel something gnawing at my insides. He’s so worried about Ellie and I just want to reassure him. “Joel,” I grab his attention before he gets too far away from me.

He turns around to face me. “Yes, sweetheart?” Joel asks so kindly, I could melt butter on his words.

“You’re a really great dad. I mean, you’d have to be blind not to see that. She’s smart, beautiful, and healthy. I don’t know about happy but, what teenage girl is?” I sincerely express to him what I’ve observed already.

I can tell Joel’s trying his best when he gives me a half smile. “That’s sweet of you, darlin’,” he husks.

Shrugging, I try to push away the flush creeping into my cheeks. “It’s just the truth. And she loves you too, Joel,” I add.

Joel chuckles, shaking his head. His head hangs and he stares at the ground for a moment until a customer needs to pass his large frame to get out of the store.

Joel moves to the side, seemingly regaining his focus. “Thank you, fuck. I needed that,” he swears.

Smiling, I reach out and caress his arm. “I know. I’ll see you tonight,” I wink, spinning on my toes and floating away from the door.

“See you later, Ginny,” he returns the farewell, pulling open the door to my shop and exiting. The lingering smell of his cologne dances in my brain as I try to refocus on the current customers.

“Happy Halloween!” I cheer, scooping the last of the candy into small bags.

It’s always been my favorite holiday and this year, I’m dressed head to toe in pink as Baker Barbie. Once the rush of kids passes, I turn to join Dina in the booth next to the window. My heels click across the floors as I strut towards her. 

We opted out for pizza pickup after school and I let the closers handle shutting the store. She made quick work of packing her back at her sisters when we stopped by, having already picked out her Tinkerbell costume.

Just as I make it to the booth, I hear the doorbell jingle. “Hey, Ginny,” I hear a familiar voice.

Turning around, I face the short brunette girl dressed as Wednesday. “Oh! Hi, Ellie. I love your costume. Where’s your—“ I start to ask when my thoughts are cut short. Joel Miller grudgingly saunters into my bakery dressed in a black t-shirt that tightly hugs his body. 

Just like the first day we met, I felt my body start to heat up. “Look! I made him dress up as Ken since you don’t have one today,” Ellie proudly points to the pink ‘Ken’ lettering in the middle of Joel’s chest.

Blood rushes to my cheeks when I think about the possibility of us being together. Of him being my Ken. But I know it’s just my delusional thoughts.

My feet involuntarily move forward towards them so I’m not shouting across the bakery. “Oh that’s, well,” I stammer over my words trying to ease myself out of a bootleg Parent Trap. “You did a fantastic job with his costume,” I compliment her smoothly.

My legs almost give out when the corners of Joel’s mouth curve into a small smile. Ellie’s face lights up and she hits Joel in the chest lightly with the back of her hand. “See, Joel. She said you’re Kenough,” she jokes with him.

His brows knit together and he turns towards her, placing his hands on his hips. “The hell is that supposed to mean?” he questions her.

Standing next to him, my hands slide under his arm, tugging him towards the booth in the back. “Don’t think about it too much,” I giggle, trying to ignore the electricity I feel beneath my palms.

His bicep is so muscular, that I find myself wondering if he could pick me up. I make a mental note to charge both vibrators so I can fantasize about him later tonight. “Cupcake?” I offer pointing to the case, trying to dust the dirty thoughts out of my head.

Joel relaxes under my touch and I use him to stabilize myself in the tall heels. “I’ve had ‘nough sugar for today,” he grunts. 

Tutting, I smile up at him. “Joel Miller, you can’t expect to come into a bakery and not get any sweetness in your life,” I challenge him. I can’t be upset though, he did try my brownie and my croissant earlier.

A small smirk creeps onto his lips. “Don’t think I have to eat anythin’ for that,” he flirts and my eyes nearly pop out of my head.

Shifting my attention to the teenagers awkwardly standing within a mile distance of each other, I try to form introductions. Dropping my grip on Joel’s arm, I cross the space to the booth. “Ellie, meet Dina. Dina, meet Ellie,” I babble, pointing back and forth between the girls.

“Dina is my neighbor,” I say for the two of them, but mostly for Joel's sake. The likelihood of the teenagers caring about our relationship is none. Sliding into the booth, I wave my hand inviting them to join us. Ellie softly smiles and she lifts her hand, awkwardly waving. “Hey. You look familiar,” she greets Dina.

Dina blushes, seemingly wanting to hide behind me. “Hi,” she mumbles.

A small girl dressed as a gymnast does a back walkover outside the window and my face twists. The city sidewalk is fucking disgusting. “Shit, shit, shit,” I hear Ellie start to panic.

My face is plastered with confusion as Dina scoots over toward me. “What’s her problem?” she whispers.

My face turns towards her and I shrug with my eyes wandering back to Ellie. She looks as though she’s about to crawl out of her skin.

Joel leans across the table and puts up his hand to cover his mouth from Ellie’s view. “She has an irrational fear of gymnasts,” he rasps lowly.

Nodding, I try to think of a way to peel Ellie away from the window. “Okay well. Dina, why don’t you and Ellie go grab some cider while Joel and I catch up,” I suggest.

Dina’s face turns red and she nods. My hands make contact with the cold table as I use it to slide out of the small booth. 

Ellie looks unsure of what to do. “Joel?” she looks up at him with nervousness and asks. 

“You’ll be fine,” Joel reassures her, following suit across from me and the girls disappear into the kitchen.

A smile creeps onto my face as I watch Joel awkwardly readjust his t-shirt. “So…” I start, pausing to awkwardly gnaw on my lip.

Joel seemingly notices how awkward I feel, leaning forward towards me. “How long have you owned this place?” he asks, tongue laced with curiosity.

Slouching a bit, I remember the reason why I started this career path. “A couple of years now. I opened it after my parents passed away,” I let him know.

His eyes dart down towards the table. “I’m sorry, darlin’. I didn’t mean to offend you,” he apologizes.

I reach across the table and grab his calloused hands. “It’s okay. I wanted to do something I loved and so I found and bought this space a couple of months after,” I explain.

He doesn’t flinch and the heat radiates in my palms. “So it’s just you running things? No partner?” he inquires.

The realization that I just grabbed his hands hits me, and I drop them like they’re a hot potato. His nose crinkles and I think I catch a grimace from him. “No partner,” I answer.

He leans back into the pink pleather booth and the seat beneath him crinkles. “Wow, that’s impressive. The Austin would probably crumble,” he acknowledges. 

A giggle slips my lips. “Well, Daylight Bakery is not gunning for a Michelin Star,” I point out.

He tilts his head to the right and raises his eyebrow slightly. “You could do it,” he muses.

My left hand waves him off. “You flatter me. But can we stop talking about me? I’m getting embarrassed,” I express, feeling particularly vulnerable when talking about the success of my business.

Joel lifts a brow, looking at me with a surprised expression. “I thought Barbie doesn’t get embarrassed,” he points out.

Shaking my head, I smile at him. “She doesn’t… wait. You’ve seen The Barbie Movie?” I ask him. Honestly, I’m astonished.

He nods, brushing his hair back with his hand. “Mmmhm.  I do have a daughter,” he elaborates.

The urge to ask him about his situation with Ellie creeps up my back. I want to know how Chef Joel ended up adopting a teenager who swears like a sailor. “About that. I hate to be nosey but, I can’t help it. How did you end up adopting Ellie?” I blurt out the compulsive thought.

He grunts and my eyes wander down to his shoulders. His whole upper body looks tight and uncomfortable. “Long story. Had a daughter, Sarah. She passed a couple of years ago,” he starts, voice laced with sadness.

My face softens and I fight the urge to cry again for the millionth time today. I can’t imagine how it must feel to lose a child. Worse than any pain known to man. “Oh, Joel. I’m so sorry,” I apologize. 

Sadness glows in his eyes and I feel the desire to jump across the table and embrace him. “It’s okay, I was able to grieve. Still grievin’,” he adds.

My head bobs up and down, processing the information. “Yeah. I totally get that,” I voice quietly.

I try to stay silent to allow him to continue if he feels like it. The air between us feels solum. “After she passed, I put all my energy into the restaurant. Ellie’s birth mother died givin’ birth to her, and her mom’s partner worked at The Austin,” he notes.

“Worked?” I question him. I assumed she was still working there. 

He rubs the scruff on his jaw and lets out a heavy sigh. “Yeah, she uh. She has an addiction. She was doing well for Ellie's whole life and then, somethin' happened and she relapsed. Asked if Ellie could stay with me for a while. Never came back,” he expands.

Shaking my head, I feel like a house is sitting on my heart. No one deserves to be left like that by someone they love. “That’s, wow. Poor girl,” I express sympathy for Ellie.

Joel shrugs as if it’s no big deal. “Yeah. What was I supposed to do? Say no?” he chuckles, running his hands over his face.

My lips press together and my eyes capture his bloodshot ones. “No,” I murmur.

“Right. After a while, she just became mine I guess. She still reminds me I’m not her dad every once in a while,” he vents.

Tucking a stray curl behind my ear, I shift a bit in my seat. “Is it when you fight?” I query.

Joel looks away, staring off into space behind me in deep thought. “Mmmhm,” he recalls.

My body relaxes when he confirms my suspicions. “She’s just a regular teenager with teenage angst. She nearly said ‘my dad’ this morning,” I try to appeal to him.

His ears perk up and his eyebrows raise. “Really?” he nearly gasps.

My face twists and I look at him with confusion. Why would that be such a surprise to him? “Yeah,” I confirm.

His eyes gradually widen while he stares a hole through my soul. “Woah,” he breathes.

My head moves slightly to the right to make sure he’s still looking at me and not just processing. His gaze follows mine, so I continue, “Has she never said that before?”

Joel rubs the back of his neck. “No, not to me,” he grunts.

Nodding, I blink slowly. “Give her time,” I advise him.

A loud bang interrupts us and when I turn my head, I see Ellie scrambling out of the kitchen with Dina attached to her hip. “Joel, can we go watch a movie?” She asks pointing up towards the ceiling.

Joel’s brows furrow as his eyes follow her finger. “Why are you pointing up, kiddo?” He asks.

I lean across the table so I’m a little closer to Joel. “They’re asking if we can go watch it in my living room,” I elaborate to clear any confusion he may have.

Joel’s head turns in my direction. “You live above the bakery?” he digs.

“I do,” I reveal. It was easier for me to buy the whole building and split it into half residential than to buy two separate properties. Dina and her sister rent a condo in the building next door, so all 4 floors are mine.

“That’s convenient,” he comments toward me before turning his attention back to Ellie. “I don’t care, but it’s not my TV or my place. You’ll have to ask Ms. Scott,” he gives her permission, gesturing to me.

Ellie rocks back on her heels, rotating her body in my direction. “Ginny, can we watch the movie now?” she stammers, excitedly. 

“Ms. Scott, Ellie. Mind your manners,” Joel corrects Ellie.

I reach out, putting my hand on Joel’s forearm. “It’s fine, Joel. I told her to call me Ginny,” I state, hoping it’ll save Ellie from a lashing.

Before he can say anything, I remove my hand from his arm to grab my keys from the table. “Here, catch,” I chime, tossing Dina the keys. 

She successfully catches it, tugging Ellie towards the back with her free arm. “We’ll be up there in a second. No tequila, no weed, and no wine, Dina. I mean it,” I warn Dina.

“Buzzkill,” Dina grunts as they reach the pink double doors.

“Thanks, Gin– I mean, Ms. Scott,” Ellie beams over her shoulder.

“For fucks sake. Drop the Ms. Scott, Ellie,” I call back to her just as the doors close behind them, leaving me and Joel alone once again.

Fidgeting in my seat, I swallow my impulse to confess my crush to the southern gentleman. “Happy Halloween,” I cheer.

The stairs creek with each step we take down them as Ellie and I creep downstairs. Dina left a few minutes ago when Talia picked her up from work. The only ones left in the bakery are Joel, me, and Ellie. “Hey, Ginny. Can I ask you a favor?” Ellie breaks the comfortable silence.

I nod sleepy, praying my feet carry me back up the steps. I am not above sleeping in a bakery booth as opposed to climbing 3 flights of steps. “Mmm,” I hum for Ellie to continue.

Just a couple more steps, Imogen. “Can I come to the bakery after school, you know, just to hang out and sketch? Joel doesn’t get home till 11 pm most nights,” I hear her practically beg.

“Of course. Dina’s sister, Talia, is the same. That’s why she works the afternoon shifts,” I tell her.

I have no problem with her hanging out here in the afternoons. And besides, Dina and Ellie found out they go to the same school today. Why would I want to separate the budding friendship?

Ellie clears her throat, stopping once we get to the bottom of the steps. “Yeah…” she murmurs.

Suddenly, I’m wide awake. “Oh, you…” I start, searching her eyes unsure of how to phrase my words. “That's great, Ellie,” I attempt to telepathically communicate with her that as a queer child, she’s always safe with me.

Ellie’s eyes flicker with fear. “Please don’t tell Joel,” she quickly begs.

As if we spoke him into existence, Joel comes from around the corner at that moment. “Tell Joel what?” he interrogates us.

My breathing quickens and I feel sweat start to collect above my brow. There’s no fucking way I’m going to out Ellie to her dad, or anyone to anyone for that matter. “That she hates your steaks too,” I say as convincingly as possible.

Joel shrugs on his jacket, not bothering to adjust the fit. “Is that so?” he smirks.

Ellie shifts from one foot to the other. “Um, yeah. It’s shit, Joel. Sorry. I didn’t want to tell you,” Ellie rambles and I nudge her to stop talking. The more she talks, the more details we have to remember about this lie going forward. Fucking tiny humans.

Joel chuckles and I glide past Ellie to adjust his jacket for him. The air between us is electric when I tug his jacket up slightly. Ellie snickers, and I assume it's because I'm practically fluffing her father. Once I deem my styling of Chef Ken perfect, I flick on the lights in the bakery. “Maybe that’s what’s keepin’ me away from a star,” I hear Joel complain behind me.

When I turn around, Ellie is shrugging. “Maybe. Let’s go home,” she blurts, anxiously pulling her dad towards the door.

My feet shuffle across the floor in my slippers behind them. “Oh, Joel. Wait,” I call after them, attempting to catch up. “Ellie’s gonna hang at the bakery after school days and do homework. I can hire her next year if you want me to," I huff out of breath.

Joel’s smirk melts away and he turns towards the mini version of him. “Ellie,” he scolds her.

Ellie puts her hands up in defense. “What?” she asks.

Joel shakes his head with disapproval. “Ms. Scott’s very busy. I don’t think she’d appreciate havin' you here 5 out of the 7 days in a week,” he paints a picture of Ellie overstaying her welcome.

I don’t want her to ever feel like she can’t come here, especially after she was so vulnerable with me in the stairwell. “Actually, it’s fine. We have an empty wall right there,” I point to the blank canvas, ready to be explored. "Maybe you can paint something on that. Like a mural," I suggest.

Ellie’s jaw drops and she bounces slightly on her toes. “Holy shit! Really?” she buzzes.

Joel shifts, crossing his arms. “Ellie,” he repeats.

Ellie scoffs, looking at Joel as if she’s saying are you fucking kidding me? “I’m sorry. Holy fuck, really?!” she regurgitates with a worse swear word.

I smile at her excitement. “Really,” I whisper as if it’s the best-kept secret.

“Can it be space-themed?” Ellie counters.

Nodding, I try to imagine what a space-themed wall would look like. Maybe she can incorporate cupcakes. “It can be anything you want. Call it ‘Ellie’s Wall’ or something,” I encourage her.

Ellie nods, finally calming down a bit. “That’s awesome,” she marvels.

Ellie looks up at Joel with the worst puppy dog eyes I’ve ever seen. Not that it matters, because he’s crumbling by the second. “You can do it. Long as you’re on top of your schoolwork,” he permits her to spend time here.

Ellie smiles, moving closer to the door. “Okay, okay. I’m going before you take it back. Bye, Ginny,” she boasts confidently while yanking open the door.

I chuckle at her antics. “Bye, Ellie. See you tomorrow,” I bid her goodbye.

The door shuts behind us and a faint jingling sound enters the room. Joel steps closer to me, slightly trapping me in the small doorway. “So,” he starts, cutting himself off.

My eyes snap away from his to the floor. I can’t fucking look at him. Not when he’s this close looking good enough to eat. “So,” I murmur.

Joel bends down a little bit, forcing me to look back into his coffee-colored irises. “Thank you. For everything today,” he smiles, putting a hand over his chest.

God, I’m probably as red as a tomato. I want to sprint as far as I can away from this conversation. “You’re welcome,” I voice so low, it’s almost a whisper.

Joel reaches for the door handle right next to me. So he wasn’t trying to kiss me. “Guess, I’ll be seein’ you tomorrow when I pick up Ellie,” he smiles, opening up the door.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed but I try to push it to the back of my mind. We’re just acquaintances, Ginny. “Thanks for coming. I had a great holiday,” I squeek.

His mouth curves up into a smile. “So did I,” he chuckles, stepping out of the door.

My delusional brain grabs the door behind him before he pulls it shut. Maybe this is it. Maybe he has a crush too. “Goodnight, Joel,” I melodically bid him goodbye.

Joel smiles, awkwardly waving. “Goodnight,” he murmurs, pulling the door shut. 

Joel stands directly outside and peers through the window, pointing down at the lock. “Now,” he mouths, and I click the metal switch.

Shaking my head at his antics, I spin around to trek back upstairs. Once I’m in my living room, my feet drag across the floor to shut the window facing the street. I scratch my head when I hear two voices screaming at each other below. “You didn’t kiss her? What the hell, dude?” Ellie chews out Joel and my cheeks burn.

“Ellie, no questions,” I hear Joel snip at his daughter.

Curiosity killed the cat and Ellie, apparently. “Why didn’t you kiss h–”

“Damn it, Ellie. Shut up and get in the car,” I hear Joel grumble before a car door slams. I giggle, shutting my window and thanking the gods above for such a great Hallows Eve.

next part

[count-alucard-tepes]

Headcanons for my One Piece hotties: Parent/teacher at conferences 😆

Kizaru ✨: shows up late but brings treats for the teacher and thanks them for caring for his kid.

Akainu🌋: is earlier than the appointed time and wants to know exactly how his kid is doing and if they’re behaving.

Ryokugyu 🌱: does not show up

Fujitora 🐅: listens carefully to the teacher and thanks them for their hard work.

Sir Crocodile 🐊: arrives on time and asks how his kid is doing and if they get in trouble they have his permission to beat them up.

Doflamingo Donquixote 🦩: literally wants to know why the teacher is so hard on his sweet cute baby and that his kid bullies people because that’s how they show affection.

Benn Beckman 🔫: he is concerned about his kid and gets suggestions on how he can help his kid at home. He’s very respectful towards the child’s teachers.

Katakuri Charlotte 🍡: he brings donuts as a gift for the teacher and then listens to how his child is doing, he wants to make sure his kid is paying attention and not messing around.

Killer🔪: he makes sure to get some suggestions on what he could do at home to help his kid do better at school and follows through.

Kaido🐉: he is an intimidating presence but he just wants to know his baby is happy at school, eating their lunch and having fun.

King 👑 : he’s there earlier than he should be and makes sure to take notes on how his child is doing. Before he leaves, he thanks the teacher for all their help.

Queen👑: he is completely hungover but makes sure he attends just to he can be present and make it known that he cares about his kid’s education.

Izou🔫🔫: he compliments the teacher and tell them how lovely they look just to butter them up before hearing about his kid. He would bash his eyelashes a lot too.

Dragon D Monkey 🐉🐒: he doesn’t show up

Oven Charlotte 🍞: he makes sure to bring freshly baked chocolate croissants for the teacher and then discusses how his kid is doing. He’s not too worried though.

Buggy🤡: he would be sitting on the edge of his seat, waiting to hear how his kid is doing. He doesn’t want anything bad but he knows his kid is a handful too. He agrees to everything the teacher suggests.

Marco the Phoenix 🦅: he is calm the entire time and just asks if his kid is comfortable and having fun at school…that’s the most important thing to him.

Eustass Kidd🤘🎸: he would want to know more about his kid’s academic life and if they’re where they need to be. He wants his kid to be the best they can be.

Rosinantè Donquixote aka Cora-San💕: he sits in the little chairs and makes cute sounds when he sees all the drawings his kid made and takes pictures of them.

Who’s Who ❤️‍🔥👹: he’s annoyed that his kid has been a brat and apologizes but also adds that he will whip his kid’s ass when he gets hope despite the teacher’s protests.

Gecko Moria🦇: is interested about his child and how they’re doing but wants them to do better.

Iceburg💜: he sighs softly as he listens to what the teacher says, ‘…kids are the worst…I swear I should have just got another pet instead’

Gild Tesoro⚜️🏅: he just slides the teacher some money and is like, ‘sorry for my kid stressing you out…spa day is on me’

Rob Lucci🐆: he is prepared for the meeting and taking down notes on how he can help his kid at home.

[tastierwithsweetiecritters]

World Building

Mud - Melted Chocolate

Mountain - Lava Cake

Freshwater - Milk

Salt Water - Root Beer with Ice Cream Foams

Trees - Candy Cane Bark & cinnamon roll leaves

Plam Trees - Sugar strained trunk with whoppers for coconuts.

Fruit baring trees - Chocolate bark & fondant leaves

Sand - Graham Crackers Crumbs

Snow - Powdered Sugar

Clouds - Cotton Candy

Rocks - Sphere tarts

Sun - Pie

Moon - Donut

Path - Peanut Brittle

Bushes - Muffin Top

Within this world they’re are nine continents, each after a different type of dessert; Cake Continent, Cookie Continent, Biscuit Continent, Gelatin Continent, Pastry Continent, Ice Cream Continent, Pie Continent, Pudding Continent, and Candy Continent. Within these continents are cities, towns, and villages that are named after the smaller categories of treats within the big nine. Also each Continents is shaped after what they’re named. The Cake Continent is shaped like a three layer cake, the Cookie Continent is shaped like a chocolate chip cookie, the Biscuit Continent is shaped like a shortbread, the Gelatin Continent is a mix of island shaped like different jello, the Pastry Continent is shaped like a croissant, the Ice Cream Continent is shaped like a three scoop ice cream cone, the Pie Continent is shaped like a traditional pie, the Pudding Continent is shaped like purin, and the Candy Continent is shaped like a chocolate bar.

Our main setting is in Vanilla Valley, located in the Cake Continent. Vanilla Valley is the birthplace of DogDough and the new living place of the other Critters. The other Critters moved to Vanilla Valley but they have a different birth place. 

- CatCrumb - Ginger Village in the Cookie Continent

- Bobby Biscuit - Coco Town in the Candy Continent

- Bubba-Buttercream- Streusel City in the Biscuit Continent

- CraftyCream - Cream Village in the Ice Cream Continent

- Kickin Cake-Roll - Puff Town in the Pastry Continent

- Hoppy MintScotch - Unknown but grow up in Puff Town

- Sticky Piggy - Blizzard City in the Ice Cream Continent

For the environment of each Continent; on Earthbread they’re aren’t seasons at all, however each continent environment is based off one of the seasons. Spring is the Cake, Candy, and Biscuit Continent, Summer is the Gelatin and Pastry Continent, Fall is the Cookie or Pie Continent, and winter is the Ice Cream or Pudding Continent.

Now why were these picked? Well I’ll explain:

For one the Pudding Continent is meant to be based on those places that don’t get very bad cold weather because it’s pudding, you can have it at any temperature so might as well make the Continent unpredictable. Ice Cream on the other hand? One word; cold as fuck. It’s not as cold near the tip of the cone, which is where Sticky lives, but the very top? Below -30 (which is where Crafty lives). Again the reason for the temperature difference is some ice cream treats will get warmer as they are eaten. The high in Sticky’s home is like 32 degrees and the low is -5.

Now as for the summer Continents they’re about the same in temperature, never getting below 70, but in terms of environment they are very different. The Gelatin Continent is 60% beaches, while the Pastry Continent is mostly rainforests on one side and beaches on the other. Also I already mentioned it but I’ll say it again the Gelatin Continent is made up of different islands. Gelatin is mostly jello-O or anything like that which I see as a summer treat. As for Pastries, most are a summer treat but most pastries are from Europe and they get a lot of tourists in summer. Plus Kickin likes surfing so why not make his home place a beach.

The Cookie and Pie Continent are meant to be the Fall Continents. Why? Pie is popular at Thanksgiving. As for the cookies, think about having coffee and what goes well with coffee? Cookies! Anyway in terms of look, both Continent would be the ones that do the most farming since fall is harvest season. However the Pie Continent grows fruit while the Cookie Continent grows spices and herbs. Also the large fields of spices and herbs on the Cookie Continent are the chocolate chips of the cookie shape that makes up their home.

I have no reason why I chose Cake, Candy, or Biscuit Continent for the Spring Continents, they were just the last ones left.

[densi-mber]

A/N: Happy first day of Densimber to you all! As always, we begin with decoration day. Thanks to @mashmaiden for collaborating on this story.

***

Traditions Come and Go

“Baby, I told you I could get that,” Deeks said, hurrying towards Kensi as she toted a storage container of Christmas decorations through the house.

“It’s not that heavy,” Kensi insisted, shifting the box out of his reach as he attempted to take it. “You’ve been doing everything around here for weeks. Or at least attempting to. I can manage this.”

“I don’t want you to strain yourself.”

���Baby, I appreciate that, but just because I’m pregnant—”

“32 weeks pregnant,” Deeks interjected smoothly. Kensi sighed, accepting his point.

“Yes, I am. I can also squat with a 15 pound dumbbell in each hand,” she reminded him gently. “I don’t think this is going to strain me.”

“Ok, touché.” Deeks grinned self-deprecatingly. “Sorry.”

“It’s ok, I know you mean well.” She stretched to lean over the container and kiss him. “And who knows, in a couple weeks, I might change my mind and want you to do everything.”

“You just say the word,” he said, stealing another kiss.

***

Rosa arrived home just as they were unwrapping the now dozens of decorations they’d collected over the years. An entire bin is dedicated to various ornaments Roberta had passed down.

“Oh, I’m glad I didn’t miss everything,” Rosa sighed, hurrying to set her backpack and shoes to the side. She’d woken up early to pick out a tree with Kensi and Deeks before heading out for classes.

“Like we’d start without you,” Deeks scoffed. He patted the spot on the couch next to him. “Grab a seat and start unwrapping.”

“What is this?” Rosa asked, grimacing at a freshly revealed horse with pink hair and an oddly creepy expression.

“Grandma Deeks’ idea of a joke.”

“She said it was a family heirloom,” Kensi added.

“I don’t remember seeing it last year.” Rosa turned the ornament from side to side, seeming caught between interest and mild disgust.

“Yeah, that’s because we usually never, ever take it out,” Deeks explained. He took it from Rosa, tucking it back in with the rest of the unwanted and boring ornaments. “I’m thinking maybe this year it should meet with an unfortunate and tragic end. Do you think a fiery death is plausible?”

“Or we could just pass it on to our beloved oldest child,” Kensi suggested with mock innocence. “Keep the tradition going.”

“Oh, no thank you,” Rosa said quickly, raising her hands as she chuckled nervously. “I’m good. Though I wouldn’t say no to that aqua one over there.”

“That’s one of my—mmm.” Stopping mid-thought, Kensi rubbed a hand over her lower ribs, wincing for a few seconds.

“Was it croissant or donut this time?” Deeks asked.

“Donut, I think,” Kensi replied, arching her back. “I swear these kids are practicing for a soccer match with how much they kick.”

“Are you ok?” Rosa checked.

“Yeah, they’re getting stronger, but I’m fine. I guess they just wanted to join in on the fun.”

“But maybe hang out for a couple more weeks,” Deeks suggested, resting his hand over Kensi’s stomach.

“So, do you want to put the outside decorations up when we’re done here?” Rosa asked once they had lights strung around the tree.

“Actually, since things are going to be extra crazy this year with all the baby prep, we decided to just decorate inside this year,” Deeks explained.

“But you love Decoration Day.” While initially bemused by Deeks’ excitement last year on December 1st, Rosa had quickly been caught up in the general festivities and greatly enjoyed the entire premise.

“I do, but it’s only one year.” Deeks couldn’t deny he was a little disappointed at the thought of missing out on one of their traditions. He knew they’d barely notice though as everything picked up in the next few weeks.

“You know I’d help,” Rosa offered. “I can hold the ladder and even go on the roof if you want.”

“I really appreciate that, Rosalind, but you have your classes and finals to study for. It’ll be ok.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah. It’s not the first time it’s happened,” Kensi said. “The year we moved here, we were so busy packing and going to showings that we never got around to it.”

“Next year we’ll just have to do something extraordinary to make up for it,” Deeks suggested.

“Now, that worries me a little bit.” Not sounding worried in the least, Kensi pushed herself off the couch.

“Where are you going?”

“To get those Christmas cookies you guys made,” Kensi replied. “You should never decorate on an empty stomach.”

[conchiferrous]

judge and caeser best friends club yayyyyy

[ID: Caesar Clown and Vinsmoke Judge from One Piece sharing breakfast while Caesar has a violent outburst. Caesar is stabbing a donut on a plate in the middle of the table repeatedly with a fork with a skull engraved on the handle. The force of this knocks some strawberries, croissants, and donuts off of their plates and knocks Caesar’s tea cup over. He’s gripping the arm rest of his chair tightly with his free hand, and yelling: “I HATE THOSE STRAW HATS! Especially that Sanji cunt! He thinks he’s soo tough smacking me around while I was already handcuffed and pointing guns to my temple for fun! Fuck! I fucking hate him!” Judge looks at him, wide eyed and dumbfounded, gingerly holding a tea cup much smaller than his large hands, and says: “That’s really funny, sorry.” They’re both wearing their usual outfits, though Caesar’s jacket says ass instead of gas. It’s drawn entirely using the binary pen tool and nothing is colored in aside from Caesar’s first sentence, which is pink. /END ID]

[iero]

33, 38, 61, and 77 for the ask game!

33. What’s your fave pastry?

Are donuts pastries? I’ll always go for a good croissant too!

38. Tell us your pet peeves!

They’re usually other people related. People who talk over you is my top one. People who don’t return their cart to the corral, people who let their kid(s) scream and carry on in public places… I feel like I’ve become a grumpy old man sometimes.

61. What’s the stupidest gift you’ve ever given? The stupidest one you’ve ever received?

I gifted, like, a Bluetooth microphone to my coworker last year for Secret Santa because they love to sing along to their music when they play it at their desk (and they loved it LMAO). I’m drawing a blank at the stupidest one I received though…

77. Pink or yellow lemonade?

Classic yellow is the way to go for me!

Thanks Maddie! 😄

[dykenastasyafilippovna]

FOR THE HEADCANON THING- Why not the other Dasha, Dasha Shatov

YAYYYY OK. I need to think about her more.. let’s see

1. Of course. Oh you know. She’s lesbian to me. But unlike other dasha she is FEMME! To me it’s her and Liza and they’re femme4femme in different ways Liza is Super femme and dasha is more low key but imagine matching outfits… ah.

2. I think she and sofya (bible porn prank victim if y’all don’t remember her. You should) could be super good friends they’re both so sweeties and Varya both adopting them.. dasha NEEDS some girlies to just hang out with..

3. I love doing favorite food headcanons bc it’s always just based on vibes. She would love a pastry. Pastry girl. Varvara voice where are the croissants and the donuts.. ahah.. little dasha shaped footprints in the flour!

4. Based on that I think she would be good at baking but maybe burn down the house a little. It’s okay. We got Anton posted with a fire extinguisher

5. She’s a girl who’s always get a headache all that stress in her life she’s always like okay I have to go lie down. I have to go sit in a dark room. I’m going to go soak my head in a bucket of water. She NEEDS some ibuprofen.

Sorry these aren’t deep or anything but I am having fun.. dasha world!!! Now all I need is someone to ask for dolly oblonskaya..

[spacetrashpile]

🍩🌳🥐 nell ^_^

Nell is my character for Rustblock, a MOTW campaign set in June of 2008 in a rural Arizona town that lends the campaign its title. Nell is non-binary (they/them and ze/hir) and in their early 30s. Ze is the pararomantic playbook, a character with an intimate connection to a supernatural being who guides them through the supernatural world. In Nell’s case, their guide is their wife, Victoria, who passed in a car crash and Nell summoned back as a ghost.

🍩 [DONUT] What is your OC's biggest flaw? How do they deal with it? Do they deal with it?

Nell is not social, it’s like, a problem. Prior to joining the party (which is still technically work) ze never left the house outside of going to work or running necessary errands. Their wife is their only proper friend and as far as anyone else knows their wife is dead. Like, they’re friendly with the party and their coworkers but don’t consider them friends. For now. Nell does not deal with this- ze doesn’t think it’s a problem, Victoria does.

🌳 [DECIDUOUS] What's your OC's favourite thing to do at the park?

This is such a fun one. Nell is a nature person, and I think ze likes to climb trees cause why not. Get tall.

🥐 [CROISSANT] Where is your OC from? How do they feel about their homeland? Where are they now?

I don’t have a specific place Nell is from- just somewhere other than Rustblock. I think they’re from somewhere else in the general southwest of the US, but ze has been in Rustblock for years at this point. Either way, ze does not like hir hometown- ze and hir wife, Victoria, moved to Rustblock after being socially ousted from the community they used to live in, especially by Victoria’s family, because they didn’t approve of the relationship. They’re much happier in Rustblock.

[ejzah]

A/N: Happy Birthday 41st birthday to Kensi Marie Blye, ninja assassin and half of our favorite duo!

***

The Best is Yet to Come

Even a few years ago, Kensi wouldn’t have imagined she’d be the lady with a backyard full of people and a table laden with summer snacks and drinks to celebrate her birthday. A few years ago, she wasn’t even sure she was ready to be a mom, yet here she was with her own home, Rosa playing catch with her boyfriend, and another two kiddos happily cooking away.

In some ways, life was more chaotic than ever. In others, she’d never felt more at peace and sure of the future and her decisions.

She saw Deeks in the corner where they’d set up the grill, watching over Sam’s shoulder with what she imagined was an amused grin. As expected, Sam had taken control of barbecue duties shortly after he arrived, ignoring Deeks’ insistence that he was a guest.

Patting Sam on the shoulder, Deeks headed back across the yard, directly towards Kensi.

“Hey, baby, can I get you anything?” he asked, once he was a foot or so away. She already had a strawberry mint lemonade and some fruit on the whicker table next to her chair.

“You know, I can walk,” Kensi reminded him with a smile. “These babies haven’t made me an invalid yet.”

“Yes, but as your husband, who can’t physically carry said babies, it feels like the least I can do.”

She tilted her head, touched by the offer. In the last two and a half months, Deeks had made it his personal mission to keep her well fed and pampered, on top of his normal tendencies. Sometimes she worried he would work himself ragged trying to manage everything, but other times she let him have his way.

“Well, in that case, I’d like two cookies,” she decided. Sneaking her hand into his, she tugged on his arm until he got the message and got down to her level. Deeks arched an eyebrow at her, warmth in his eyes as she stole a kiss. “And you.”

“You know what I always say, my Ladybird gets whatever she wants,” he said with a ridiculous wiggle of his eyebrows. He patted her thigh affectionately, rising with an agility that Kensi envied. She tilted her head, enjoying the view as he sauntered in the direction of the tables set up under a small tent.

A faint jerking in her stomach had her pressing both hands against her stomach. It was an odd sensation, but not painful or uncomfortable at this point. “Somebody’s got the hiccups again, huh?” Kensi said, directing her question to her stomach. As if in response, she felt a flutter on her left side.

“Uh-oh, who’s acting up this time? Donut or Croissant?” Deeks had returned, a plate in hand. He bent down to kiss Kensi’s stomach through her shirt, following it with a brush of his free hand. “Hey, give Mama a break there kids.”

“Pretty sure it’s Croissant,” Kensi told him. At first, she’d resisted Deeks’ pastry related nicknames, but ultimately decided it was better than the Shawarma Twins. Plus, it had kind of grown on her.

“Not even four months old and already causing trouble,” he joked. “That’s ok, your Mom and Dad are kind of troublemakers too, so you’ll be in good company.”

Kensi smiled down at him fondly. She loved how much he talked and interacted with the babies, sharing everything from his favorite music to daily encouragement and little stories.

“What did you bring me?” she asked, attention drifting to the plate again, which held an impressive tower of food.

“Well, I didn’t know what you and the Pastry Babies were in the mood for, so I got a little of everything. There’s classic chocolate chip, a mocha brownie Mama made—don’t worry, they’re decaf, lemon bars, and what I think is red velvet, but could be beet since Anna made them.” He pointed to each dessert as he listed them, offering Kensi the plate when he finished.

“Ooh, brownie please.” She broke it in half, handing Deeks the other piece, explaining when he raised any eyebrow in surprise, “ This way I can try all of them.”

“God, I love you,” he sighed with a massive grin. Together, they happily shared the treats, watching the antics of their guests. Callen had wandered over to Sam and by the look of it, providing unwanted feedback, Rosa and Steven were tossing pretzels into each other’s mouths from a distance, and Roberta and Arkady….well, it was probably best if Deeks ignored any of their activities.

“I’m sorry this year’s celebration isn’t more elaborate,” Deeks apologized unexpectedly, raising Kensi’s hand to his lips for a soft kiss.

“What do you mean? This is great.” Kensi gestured to their yard, now overtaken by their former team, their significant others, Rosa, the moms, and more eating and socializing.

“It is, but I had planned on something a little more intimate.” He shrugged.

“I always enjoy whatever you do for my birthday, because it’s coming from you. I think this might be the best one yet though. I have you, Rosa, these little miracles,” she said, her hand passing over her stomach, gently cupping her four month bump. “41 is looking pretty good so far.”

“Yeah, it is,” Deeks agreed softly, leaning down to kiss her. “Happy birthday.”

[mitsuki-komori]

MitsukiKomoriX191’s Bakery Event!

Welcome to MitsukiKomoriX191’s Bakery Event! This will be my first original event. You may order a cake or pie and some add-ons with toppings, all of your choice! This event was heavily inspired by @lyranova and @acacia-may

The Rules:

You will be able to choose one type of relationship for me to write, romantic, family, and platonic

You can choose up to two types (Fluff, angst, etc.)

Lastly, you will choose either a topping (trope) or an add-on (prompt). You can choose up to three prompts at a time, or you may choose up to two tropes and one prompts or whatever combination as long as it doesn’t go higher than three.

An order should look something like this… “Can I get a vanilla cake and a muffin with frosting, sprinkles, and cookies for Magna x Luck?” With maybe a brief little description of the specifics. I wouldn’t want to write something that you didn’t want.

I look forward to requests, I hope I did this right.

Relationship

Vanilla Cake - Romance

Chocolate Cake - Family

Pie - Platonic 

Type

“And a…”

Cinnamon Roll - Fluff

Donut - Humor

Fruit Loaf - Alternate Universe - Modern or Canon divergence

Muffin - Angst (Anything, just not rape, alright?)

Brownie - Hurt/Comfort

Tropes (Optional)

“With…”

Frosting - Enemies/Friends/Rivals-to-lovers

Sprinkles - Jealousy

Raspberry Sauce - Fake Dating(?)

Chocolate - Sick fic

Whipped Cream - Trapped in a blizzard 

Caramel - Sharing a bed

Candy - Unhappy Ending

Fruit - Whump

Nuts - Miscommunication 

Custard - Coffee Shop AU

Bacon - Overprotective… (siblings, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc.)

Prompts 

“And (a)…”

Cookies - “Why didn’t you tell me?”

Biscuit - “Don’t leave me please!”

Croissant - “I can’t take this anymore…”

Bagel - “I’m begging you, please don’t lock yourself in your room.”

Baguette- “How could you betray us/me like this!?”

Bun - “You better put that knife down…”

Tart - “Oh god, you’re bleeding…”

Macaroons - “Hey don’t do that, you’ll hurt yourself.”

Eclair - “I’ll always be here for you.”

Strudel - “We can stay like this until you feel better.”

Scone - “It hurts…”

Waffle Cone - “You abandoned me…”

Tiramisu - “I’m gonna kill him/her for doing this to you!”

~

Cream Puffs - “Please put me down, it’s just a sprained ankle…”

Créme Brûlée - “You just hit me with your broom, but your hot so I’ll forgive you.”

Pretzel - “This is awkward…”

Maple Bar - “Sorry for accidentally breaking into your apartment!”

Crepe -  “This isn’t good.” | “How can you tell?” | “You see how they’re all surrounding us with their grimoires and we don’t have an escape?”

Cake pop - “Why exactly are we running away?”

Canelés - “Can you please use the door? You know I have to pay to get those walls/windows fixed… right?”

Mille Feuille - “Why aren’t you dating him/her?” | “Because I’d destroy him/her.” | “He/She’d be into that.”

Coffee - “Right now I don’t know if I wanna kiss your or shove you off a bridge…

~

Cheesecake - “I think I’m in love with you and I’m terrified.”

Flan - “Can you be my boyfriend/girlfriend real quick?” Or “Just pretend to be my date.”

Pumpkin Bread - “You’re shivering… Do you want my jacket?”

Banana Bread - “Did you just kiss me…!?”

Gingerbread - “I never really understood all the talk about love, but I think I’m starting to get it now…”

Confetti Squares - “Can I hold your hand?”

Danish - “I had a nightmare…”

Truffles - “You’re way too cute.”

Cupcakes - “You had me worried sick!”

Pancakes - “Woah, you look so pretty!”

Churros - “Your hugs brighten my day.”

Pudding - “I don’t want anyone else…”

Shortcake - “Ha, your dream guy/girl kinda sounds like me!”

Cornbread - “I mean, I’d totally kiss you if you asked!”

[unicorns-sparkles-and-rage]

had a pretty good day today so far, i woke up really late and was like 30 minutes late to my environmental studies class because i had to take my meds etc. but i didn’t miss much. i had one of those cheese/dried fruit/nut things i think they’re called balanced breaks? it was sharp cheddar, dried cranberries and cashews. now i’m at work (dunkin) and i had caramel iced coffee w/ cream and sugar, a bacon and white cheddar sandwich on a croissant without egg, some hash browns, and a glazed donut. i also got a lot of practice on drive thru today (i’m still fairly new to dunkin) because our lobby was closed due to being understaffed. i leave in 40 mins and i’ll go to the dining hall when i leave for an actual meal lol

[laptopcamper]

Maru Coffee, 1019 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles (Arts District), CA 90021, Score: 38/50

Maru is a minimalist coffeehouse that roasts their own beans. They’re known for their matcha drinks.

Score: 38/50

Food: 4/5 –  No kitchen, but lots of pastries to choose from: croissants, muffins, cookies, scones, kouign amann, cake, donuts, etc.

Coffee: 5/5 – For drinks, they have espresso drinks, drip coffee, cold brew, pour over coffee, tonics, and teas. They had four types of pour over coffee. For milk choices, they only have Straus whole milk, oat milk, or almond milk. Mr. Froyo thought the pour over coffee was good - not as good as Manhattan at Highlight Coffee though

Wi-fi: 5/5 – Free, unlimited, secure. The password is posted at the register.

Ambiance: 5/5 – Attractive in a minimal way, big windows

Noise: 4/5 – Fairly quiet, music is not obtrusive

Plugs: 0/5 – Didn’t see any

Parking: 4/5 – Street parking, area looks sketchy

Comfort: 3/5 – Chairs aren’t padded and tables are small or low.

Bathroom: 5/5 – Two

Art: 3/5 – None

Tips: Coffee beans and coffee accessories for sale.

“Laptop Campers Unite!”

[red-eagle-fire-protection-encino]

Savor Sweet Delights at Star Donuts

For those with a sweet tooth, Star Donuts in Reseda is a must-visit destination. This charming donut shop has built a reputation for its mouthwatering, freshly made donuts and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re kicking off your day with a sugary treat or searching for an afternoon pick-me-up, Star Donuts offers a delightful selection of options sure to satisfy your cravings.

A Cozy and Welcoming Atmosphere

As soon as you step into Star Donuts, you’re greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly baked pastries. The shop’s cozy and welcoming vibe makes it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a sweet treat. The friendly staff, always ready with a warm smile, adds to the pleasant experience, making every visit feel special.

A Wide Variety of Donuts

Star Donuts takes pride in offering a diverse range of donuts, each one crafted with care and attention to detail. The selection caters to all tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Classic Favorites: Traditionalists will love the classic glazed donuts, which are perfectly sweet and melt-in-your-mouth soft. Other popular choices include chocolate frosted and powdered sugar donuts, which never fail to satisfy.

Gourmet Creations: For those seeking something a bit more adventurous, Star Donuts offers a range of gourmet creations. The maple bacon donut, with its sweet maple glaze and savory, crispy bacon, delivers a unique and irresistible flavor. Chocolate lovers will adore the Nutella-filled donut, bursting with rich hazelnut spread.

Filled Delights: The filled donuts at Star Donuts are crowd-pleasers, featuring classic jelly-filled options and luxurious cream-filled varieties. These donuts are packed with delicious fillings that perfectly complement their soft, fluffy dough.

Seasonal Specials: Star Donuts also features seasonal specials that highlight the flavors of the season. Whether it’s pumpkin spice in the fall or refreshing lemon in the summer, these limited-time offerings are always worth trying.

More Than Just Donuts

While donuts are the star attraction, Star Donuts also offers a variety of other sweet treats and beverages to round out your visit.

Pastries and Muffins: Beyond donuts, the shop serves an array of pastries and muffins. From flaky croissants and buttery danishes to moist muffins, these treats are perfect for a quick breakfast or a snack on the go.

Coffee and Beverages: Pair your sweet treat with one of Star Donuts’ expertly brewed coffees or specialty drinks. The menu includes everything from classic drip coffee to rich espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. There’s also a selection of teas, juices, and refreshing iced drinks to choose from.

Exceptional Service

The exceptional service at Star Donuts is a big part of what makes it a beloved spot in Reseda. The staff is not only friendly and welcoming but also knowledgeable about their products. They’re always happy to offer recommendations and ensure that every customer leaves satisfied.

A Community Favorite

Star Donuts has earned its place as a community favorite through its consistent quality and dedication to customer satisfaction. Regular patrons love the welcoming atmosphere and the delicious treats that keep them coming back for more. It’s a place where families gather for weekend treats, friends meet for coffee, and locals indulge in a quick sweet fix.

Visit Star Donuts Today

Conveniently located on Reseda Boulevard, Star Donuts is easily accessible and offers ample parking. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic donut, a gourmet creation, or a fresh pastry, Star Donuts delivers with flavors that delight and quality you can taste.

[an-odd-idea]

The storyline of Aespa’s “Licorice” music video is, I think (it’s not really a music video, but it’s like a teaser for the album, or soemthing)

They didn’t like mint chocolate chip ice cream (this appears to be a HOTLY contested issue in Korea or maybe just among kpop stars specifically, and a lot of people have VERY strong opinions about it, kind of like people who like or hate licorice)

Anyway. They don’t like mint chocolate chip ice cream, and the mint chocolate monster gets its feelings hurt and starts wreaking havoc

And the members of Aespa, being superheroes of course, step in to defend the earth, but even they are no match for the power of mint choco

They’re cornered by the monster, it roars, and the screen goes dark

Our heroes then open their eyes in a heavenly scene: a tea party like setting, bathed in golden light, and a now-friendly mint choco monster polite offering them treats: all mint chocolate, of course. They are skeptical at first, but eventually sit down at the table and taste a mint chocolate donut, mint chocolate croissant thingy, and something else idk. They smile. The end.

The moral of the story could be like, a second chance after a bad first impression. Or also maybe the power of coming to someone who dislikes you, especially if it’s due to a bad first impression or a misunderstanding, with kindness and explaining your point of view instead of immediately attacking them back. And the lyrics refer to conflicting flavors of sweet and sour (or mint and chocolate- “like eating chocolate while brushing your teeth at the same time” RM of BTS once said) so maybe it’s about appreciating the eccentricities and complexities and inconsistencies that all people have and how those can actually be the things that draw you to someone even if initially you find them kinda weird. And I think that’s beautiful

I also just loved the video, like who came up with that? Give them a raise, this is the kind of creativity we need in kpop right now!