#bailey crisp

[cloaked-cloverr]

one sided rivals to lovers >>>>

[captain-noir]

oh wow this means my guy louis is really really insane if he’s hallucinating an entirely different girl as claudia rip to him and her but im gonna enjoy the descent into proper madness

[perfettamentechic]

21 novembre … ricordiamo …

21 novembre … ricordiamo … #semprevivineiricordi #nomidaricordare #personaggiimportanti #perfettamentechic

2023: Bettina Moissi, attrice tedesca. Figlia dell’attore austriaco di origini italo-albanesi Alessandro Moissi e dell’attrice Herta Hambach. Intraprese la carriera di attrice, divenendo famosa in particolare per aver recitato sul grande schermo in diversi film. Sposò nel 1959 Heinz Berggruen, collezionista d’arte, gallerista, mecenate e giornalista tedesco, da cui ebbe due figli: Nicolas…

[pearlprincess02]

style guide: ARIES EDITION

ARIES RISING

rihanna - jupiter in 1st house, james dean - uranus & chiron & north node in 1st house, kendall jenner, miuccia prada - sun & north node in 1st house, barbra streisand - sun & mercury in 1st house, penélope cruz - sun & mercury in 1st house, cardi b - moon in 1st house, sophie turner - moon & venus & part of fortune in 1st house, amber rose - moon & juno in 1st house, nikki reed, shakira - chiron in 1st house, stevie nicks - north node in 1st house, vinnie hacker - ceres in 1st house,

style aesthetic: bold & dramatic, leather chic, modern minimalism, rockstar vibes, athleisure luxe, metallic accents, animal prints, vintage with a twist, unexpected mixes, sunglasses as statement pieces, red, orange, and black

ARIES VENUS

marilyn monroe - venus in 9th house, audrey hepburn - venus in 1st house, elizabeth taylor - venus in 4th house, mariah carey - venus in 12th house, lady gaga - venus in 11th house, gigi hadid - venus in 12th house, rihanna - venus in 12th house, jennifer aniston - venus in 6th house, shakira - venus in 12th house, cristiano ronaldo - venus in 3rd house, gigi hadid - venus in 12th house, keira knightley - (unknown), cate blanchett - venus in 11th house, melanie martinez - venus in 5th house, tyler, the creator - venus in 9th house, sarah jessica parker - venus in 11th house, eva longoria - venus in 5th house, janet jackson - venus in 5th house, millie bobby brown - venus in 8th house, suga - (unknown), sarah michelle gellar - (unknown), madison beer - venus in 11th house, helena bonham carter - (unknown), gal gadot - (unknown), emma chamberlain - venus in 3rd house,

style aesthetic: confident & playful, bold & romantic, leather with lace, athletic luxe, fiercely feminine, metallic accents, graphic prints, tailored pantsuits, bold blazers, vintage with a modern twist, bold jewelry, statement sunglasses, and eye-catching hats, gold, silver, red, orange, and hot pink!

ARIES MIDHEAVEN

tyra banks - moon & mars & chiron in 10th house, kayne west - venus & mars & chiron & part of fortune in 10th house, angelina jolie - jupiter & chiron & ceres in 10th house, céline dion - moon & mars & saturn & north node in 10th house, cameron diaz - chiron in 10th house, julia roberts - north node & lilith in 10th house, sharon tate, meghan markle, the weeknd - pallas & part of fortune in 10th house, jessica lange - sun & mercury & venus & mars & north node & part of fortune in 10th house, jennette mccurdy - moon & mars & juno in 10th house, danielle fishel - sun & mercury & venus & mars & chiron in 10th house, kate moss - mars & chiron in 10th house, cindy crawford,

style aesthetic: tailored suits, sharp blazers, crisp shirts, bold statement necklace, a brightly colored pocket square, a unique pair of shoes, bold eyewear, orange, black, white, grey, red power suit, a red statement scarf, and red accents

VENUS IN 1ST HOUSE

selena gomez - venus in leo, elizabeth II - venus in pisces, kourtney kardashian - venus in pisces, beyoncé - venus in libra, katy perry - venus in sagittarius, zayn malik - venus in pisces, angelina jolie - venus in cancer, cameron diaz - venus in cancer, nabilla benattia - venus in capricorn, audrey hepburn - venus in aries, blake lively - venus in virgo, anna nicole smith - venus in libra, avril lavigne - venus in scorpio, jude law - venus in sagittarius , rachel mcadams - venus in scoprio, halsey - venus in scoprio, doja cat - venus in scorpio, priyanka chopra - venus in gemini, olivia rodrigo - venus in capricorn, nina dobrev - venus in sagittarius, madison bailey - venus in pisces, damiano david - venus in aquarius, maggie lindemann - venus in cancer, elle fanning - venus in pisces, olivia holt - venus in virgo, mina - venus in aries, sophie turner - venus in aries, isaac mizrah - venus in virgo,

style aesthetic: flowy fabrics, pastel colors, silk fabrics statement jewelry, natural textures, well-fitting clothes, minimal makeup, unique color combinations, unexpected layering, vintage pieces, bold statement piece, a head-to-toe monochromatic look, eye-catching earrings, handcrafted pieces, unique materials, a touch of lace, soft pinks, baby blues, lavenders

NEPTUNE IN 1ST HOUSE

kim kardashian - neptune in sagittarius, paris hilton - neptune in sagittarius, kylie jenner - neptune in capricorn, ariana grande - neptune in capricorn (conj. asc), scarlett johansson - neptune in capricorn, eminem - neptune in sagittarius (conj. asc), nicole kidman - neptune in scorpio, marilyn monroe - neptune in leo (opp. moon), damiano david - neptune in aquarius (conj. venus & tri. moon), björk - neptune in scorpio (conj. asc), nelly furtado - neptune in sagittarius (conj. asc), perrie edwards - neptune in capricorn (conj. asc), dave franco - neptune in capricorn (conj. asc), river phoenix - neptune in scorpio (opp. moon), lil peep - neptune in capricorn (opp. moon), lorde - neptun in capricorn (tri. moon), sofia richie - neptune in capricorn (tri. moon),

makeup style: dreamy & ethereal, soft washes of color, shimmery textures,  makeup uses cool tones, metallics, glitter, glowing skin, lightweight foundations, highlighter for a natural glow, graphic eyeliner designs, whimsical lashes, soft & natural lips, smoky eyes with a twist, smoky purples, teals, touch of silver, lavender, muted purples, blues, greens soft pinks, peaches

@pearlprincess02

[d13t0rt10n]

This is so brilliant omg!

I feel like Rai would use the sword of storm to cut up the fruit lollll!

Reblog for more reach? 🥺❤️

[hatsukeii]

Today I'm thinking about...haikyuu + other anime characters who think you're just a little too sweet for them.

warning(s): nothing LOL you're safe with me again today!!

To them, life should be lived silently, like slipping between cracks that emerge amidst the lives of others. Their presence is fleeting, manifesting as a helping hand in a crowded hallway that is never seen again, a coffee order that is forgotten after the next few customers, a glossary that is skimmed through once, then never looked at a second time. A presence that you know for certain was here once before, but have nothing to show for it. When you grace their life for the first time, maybe in a library, or a bakery, perhaps a coffee shop, it is as fleeting as a comet that zips across a night sky, your presence escaping from between the seams of their own life the way they do to others. A glance shared between the gaps of leathery bookends, the dropping of change in their hand, the calling out of their name for their black coffee order. He finds eternity in the gleam of your irises, the clink of coins as they fall from your hand, the sugar that leaks from their name in your mouth. You find solace in the darkness of their tired eyes, the wrinkles and calluses in the palm that collects change, the grainy, sultry earth that echoes in their thank yous. They return to the libraries, and bakeries, and coffee shops day after day, hoping to bask in the sweetness of whatever you do and say again, mellowing out pools of black caffeine with mugs of syrup and milk, neat whiskey with crisp ice, balancing the earthy, soiled ground with a star-studded night sky. They change their order from an Americano to your recommended latte, smile at you from the opening created between books on a shelf, treat themselves to a small cake once every so often along with their usual purchase of plain bread. And when you finally chat them up one day, a wink flashing across your face as you slide your number to them on a doodled-over sticky-note across the counter, or thread it through hardbacks on a shelf, or palm their hand sneakily as you hand them change, their presence becomes an engraving on the spine of a book, a coffee stain in a worn out mug, the lingering decadence of mousse and cake that dances on their tongue, impatient for the next taste. They are a bitter canister of brewed tea, a hollow body and soul worn down by the trials of life. You are a shot of espresso in the afternoon sun, golden daylight peeking through half-lidded blinds, honey in your veins and prosperous life in your eyes. Perhaps your sweetness could accomodate for two.

Characters: Kageyama Tobio, Tsukishima Kei, Kenma Kozume, Iwaizumi Hajime, Aone Takanobu, Akaashi Keiji, Ushijima Wakatoshi, Shirabu Kenjiro, Osamu Miya, Nanami Kento, Geto Suguru, Maki Zenin, Yuuta Okkotsu but specifically after training in Africa and coming back to Shibuya, Megumi Fushiguro, Aki Hayakawa, Kishibe, Shouta Aizawa, Hitoshi Shinso, Shouto Todoroki, Tomura Shigaraki

author's note:

be honest chat do i post like a scary amount and does it get annoying </3 i have too many ideas when i should be studying for externals in two months but i DON'T CARE i need to rest for like the next week after that trials period

i had hozier's too sweet in mind with this one and i initially wanted to do like just nanami but UGH too many characters work with this i can't DO ITTTTT so i made it a general drabble EE

anyways tags!!

@chuuya-brainrot @starlysama @catsoupki @fiannee @bailey-reeds @akaakeis @hiraethwa

ok bye bye until the next one which will be soon LMFAO love u all

[laurenairay]

Lately you've been on my mind - E. Pettersson

I’m jumping in as a pinch-hitter as part of @wyattjohnston’s winter fic exchange, with an Elias Pettersson story for @typical-simplelove! I really hope you enjoy this Claudia– I had a lot of fun creating something from the prompts you gave me, and I was just so inspired that I wrote it all in one day! And thank you Demi, for being a sounding board for me as I put together my ideas.

Summary: Brock Boeser is the ultimate match maker – he knows he is. And he is determined to set his friends up.

a.k.a. you and Elias are both friends with Brock, and keep finding yourselves in moments alone.

Words: 4.9k

Warnings: idiots to lovers, self-doubt, Brock is a meddler

Title from: Adore you, by Harry Styles

~

2019 was already shaping up to be a fantastic year. The sun was shining brightly, the January air was crisp and cold, and you had Spanish Banks dog park essentially to yourself, seeing that it was excruciatingly early in the morning.

But damn if the views of the North Shore mountains weren’t worth it. Your dog seemed to agree, with the way he was running up and down the sand. You’d lived in Vancouver all your 20 years so far, still living with your parents where you’d decided not to go to university, and it was moments like this that reminded you just how fortunate you were.

Your peace and quiet lasted for all of another half an hour before you heard enthusiastic barking from behind you. Recalling your dog to your side – which only took a couple of attempts, which was an improvement – you turned your head to see what was coming your way, only to freeze at the guy you saw walking towards you.

A guy that was clearly the up-and-coming star of your family’s favourite sports team, the Vancouver Canucks. Brock Boeser, in the flesh.

“Hey, sorry for interrupting your quiet.”

His smile tightened slightly when he realised you clearly knew who he was, with whatever your face was doing, but you quickly shook your head to reassure him. No, he was here just the same as you, to walk his dog. You could be cool with that.

“It’s a beautiful off-leash park – it would be a shame not to share it,” you shrugged, smiling back at him.

Brock immediately relaxed, easy a tension you didn’t realise you had.

“Who’s this beautiful pup, hm?”

“This is Bailey. I’ve had him, like, three months now? He’s only 18 months old so he’s still learning not to jump up, but he tries his best,” you mused.

“He’s perfect…”

Yes, Brock was definitely a dog person.

“…a border collie, right?”

“Yeah that’s right. He was abandoned a few months ago at a shelter my mom volunteers at, and I barely had to beg her to let me adopt him,” you laughed.

Brock just grinned. “Coola was a rescue dog as well. I adopted him back in February last year, after the All Star Game, but he lived in Minnesota with my parents while I finished my rookie year. I know the feeling of not being able to resist a sweet little dog.”

At least he understood.

With a smile, you motioned for Bailey that he was allowed to run again, and within moments Coola was joining him, the two dogs playing in the surf.

“So, you live here then?”

You and Brock walked your dogs for nearly another hour, the two of you talking like you’d known each other all your lives, before Bailey flopped at your feet, a clear sign he was done and ready to leave.

“Looks like that’s my cue,” you said dryly, making Brock laugh.

“Definitely,” he teased, “but hey, maybe we could exchange numbers? I’d love to walk Coola with you and Bailey again, now that I know they’re friends.”

You hesitated slightly, unsure whether he actually meant that, but the earnestness in his eyes told you everything you needed to know.

“Sure, I’d like that. Bailey could use all the friends he could get,” you mused.

Brock just grinned.

“I don’t know, I have a feeling we’re going to be pretty good friends as well.”

~

Nearly five years on and you were (somehow) genuine friends with Brock. He’d been right, against all odds. There was just something about his straightforward friendship that made your life that little bit easier, knowing that you could rely on him to be a breath of fresh air, no drama. And you knew he appreciated your chilled approach to pretty much everything, never judging him, always his biggest supporter – both on the team and for him as a person. Brock Boeser was probably one of the best friends you’d ever had, and you cherished everything about him, like an older brother you didn’t realise you needed.

Brock had always insisted that you needed to be integrated into every part of his life, so you spent more time with his team than you ever thought you would (and hadn’t that been a starstruck moment, when you’d first attended a team gathering). He pretty much brought you to all gatherings, events, and anything to do with Coola (and now Milo), and while at first it had been overwhelming, you’d quickly adjusted when you realised just how ridiculous his teammates were.

So it wasn’t a surprise to Elias Pettersson when he walked into Brock’s house and saw you sitting on the sofa surrounded by dogs.

“Well this looks cosy.”

You grinned at his teasing words, waving him over. “It’s good to see you too, Elias.”

He shared a small private smile with you, lifting Milo’s legs to take a seat on the sofa next to you. The dog in question huffed out his displeasure but didn’t move, allowing Elias to settle in properly.

This guy, more than anyone else, was the teammate you enjoyed spending the most time with alongside Brock. Elias was definitely the most sane of all Brock’s Vancouver friends, and his dry sense of humour always had you in stitches. It was rare that he showed much of himself to anyone, as reserved as he was, but the more you’d gotten to know him over the years, the more you recognised the little signs of his reactions and collated them like hoarded treasure. And the more that Elias had gotten to know you, the more willing he seemed to be to share jokes and smiles and laughter with you, forging a friendship of your own.

And yes, sure, you couldn’t deny that you found him attractive – you’d be crazy or blind to think otherwise - but he’d never shown a hint of interest towards you in that way. And there was no way you’d ever say anything unless you were sure things were reciprocated (there was just no way), so you were more than happy to have him as a friend. Elias Pettersson was an unmistakeable joy in your life, and the last thing you wanted to do was ruin that.

He really was so handsome though.

“I’m surprised Brock isn’t buried under puppies like usual,” Elias said.

“We haven’t been long back from walking the dogs, so I said I’d get them settled while he showered and got ready to head out with you,” you explained, running your hand over your Bailey’s head.

“He does need to look pretty enough to leave the house, that’s true,” he mused.

You couldn’t help but laugh, the both of you knowing Brock needed no help in looking pretty, Elias just smiling widely.

It just goes to show how wrapped up you were in Elias’s attention that neither of you noticed Brock standing at the bottom of the stairs, eyes lighting up at your laughter and Elias’s smile.

~

It was early, far too early, but here you were fulfilling Bailey’s every need. You were wrapped up warm, puffer jacket, woollen hat, gloves, and scarf, walking your border collie through Hadden Park, allowing the travel mug of coffee to wake you up fully while you took in the views surrounding you. Bailey was in his element, trotting about and sniffing every single leaf and twig, and it was only your phone buzzing that broke you out of your silent contentment.

From: Brock Hey, are you walking Bailey?

To: Brock Yeah we’re at Hadden Park Wasn’t sure if you would be getting up early after your game last night so I didn’t text

From: Brock Hah yeah fair enough Do you mind if Petey comes along?

You tried not to fantasise about why Elias was so willing to join you both on a dog walk, so early on a day off. You tried so hard.

To: Brock Of course I don’t mind

From: Brock Of course?

You felt heat dancing across your cheeks. Damn it Brock.

To: Brock You know I think Petey is great.

From: Brock Well I definitely do now.

You groaned, already able to picture the smirk on your friend’s face.

To: Brock Don’t be dumb I’ll see you soon

The last thing you needed was Brock teasing you, especially in front of Elias. The last thing you wanted was Elias to feel uncomfortable around you, just because you find him attractive. The last thing you could bear would be if you lost your friendship with Elias just because Brock was reading into things that weren’t true.

But there was nothing you could do for damage control until Brock was in front of you. All you could hope was that he didn’t make you look like an idiot.

It couldn’t have been more than 20 minutes before you saw the familiar pair walking towards you, dogs at Brock’s side, and you found yourself smiling despite your trepidation. You gave them both hugs in greeting, travel mug long empty and placed in your bag, Bailey barking happily.

“What a beautiful morning,” Brock said happily.

“Cold but beautiful, sure,” you mused.

Elias nodded his agreement, thick scarf wrapped in loops around him, Brock just laughing.

“Petey, you don’t mind taking Coola while I walk Milo, do you?” Brock asked.

Elias narrowed his eyes, as if trying to read into Brock’s words, but Brock just kept smiling at him.

“Sure, I can walk Coola,” Elias eventually said.

“Great!”

The moment that Coola’s leash was in Elias’s hands, Coola darted forward, Elias crashing directly into your body. It was only through his quick reflexes that you didn’t end up on your ass, his hands clutching at your hips while you clung to his jacket.

“Coola! Chill!”

Brock’s giggled words did little to calm his dog down, all three dogs dancing around your feet as Elias steadied you. His face was impossibly close to yours, breath practically mingling. How had you not realised how blue his eyes were before this? His lips were parted slightly, as if he was still processing, but it was only when Bailey bumped into both of your legs that he abruptly let you go, and you dropped your hands too.

“Sorry, sorry,” he blurted, stepping away sharply.

“No apologies needed. It wasn’t your fault,” you said, shaking your head with a weak smile.

“Aww you can’t blame Coola for being excited,” Brock grinned, kneeling down to give fuss to both his dogs.

There was something in his smile that you just couldn’t put your finger on. Hm.

“Shall we walk then, if they’re so excited?” Elias said dryly.

All three dogs started barking at the word ‘walk’, making you laugh and nod, Brock just grinning even wider.

~

From: Brock Petey is taking the roadtrip losses really hard. Come over tomorrow?

~

You don’t know what it was that possessed you, but the moment you received those texts from Brock, you knew you had to do something. Elias was such a stoic guy, so reserved in his emotions, so the fact that it was obvious enough he was suffering that Brock asked for your help? There was no way you weren’t going to do everything in your power to ease any tensions they had, especially Elias.

There wasn’t much you could do, but you could do this.

When you arrived at Brock’s house the next morning, you were only mildly startled to see Elias opening the door instead of Brock, his eyes flashing in surprise before he smiled.

“Did Brock not say I was coming over?” you said hesitantly.

The last thing you wanted was to intrude.

“He said we were going for brunch, but this is a welcome surprise,” Elias said, smiling softly.

Oh. Now you felt stupid.

Wait, a welcome surprise?

“I don’t know what is making your face do that, but I’m not lying when I say it’s good to see you,” Elias said firmly.

“Alright, I believe you,” you mused.

Elias just grinned, walking over to the bottom of the staircase.

“SHE’S HERE!”

“GOOD! YOU’RE COMING FOR BRUNCH, RIGHT?”

You rolled your eyes fondly at Brock’s assumptions. It wasn’t like you had much else planned for today, but still!

“YEAH I’LL COME!”

Elias laughed at your matching volume, making you smile back at him, a light flush dusting across your cheeks. His laugh was magical and you weren’t going to shame yourself for liking it.

“Brock’s just finishing his hair and then he’ll be down. That’s what he said anyway,” Elias explained, sitting down on the arm of Brock’s sofa.

“He’s got an image to maintain, can’t be looking anything less than perfect,” you teased, the familiar joke making you smile.

Elias just snickered, shaking his head. You leaned up against the back of the sofa, standing close enough to Elias that the blue of his eyes was almost hypnotising, before you remembered why you came over in the first place.

“It feels a little silly now, but I heard from a little bird that you were taking things a little rough, so here’s a little something,” you said.

“Brock needs to keep his mouth shut,” he grumbled.

You just laughed, reaching into your bag to pull out the gift. But as you placed it in his hands, Elias froze.

“What’s this?” Elias said, eyes wide in shock.

You bit your bottom lip, before letting out a shaky breath. Here goes nothing.

“You were having a bad day. So I made you a hat,” you said simply, trying to keep your voice light and airy.

“You made me a hat? You knitted this?”

Elias stared down in wonder at the soft light blue woollen bundle in his hand, a look of pure astonishment on his face. It was only then that you realised how close it was to the colour of his eyes.

“Uh, yes, I did? I got back into knitting recently, so it’s nothing fancy, but I just wanted to make something to cheer you up?” you said, trying not to cringe at yourself.

“No-one’s ever done anything like this for me before.”

Your lips parted in surprise at his soft words.

“Really?”

“Really really,” Elias nodded.

“I’ve never had a hat made for me either.”

You flinched at the sound of Brock’s voice coming from behind you, Elias immediately scowling over your shoulder.

“Wouldn’t want to cover up your Prince Charming hair,” Elias grumbled, shoving the hat into the pocket of his hoodie.

You didn’t mention the dark blue hat you’d knitted for Brock that was tucked into your bag. Brock pouted as you snickered, slinking into the kitchen, leaving the two of you alone again.

“Look, I know it’s not really my place. And that we’re just friends because of Brock. But these losses were just a bad blip – you’re going to get over them in no time at all, and be back to destroying the other teams like you were born to,”

Elias smiled wryly. “It doesn’t feel like that right now. But thanks.”

You pursed your lips briefly before huffing out a breath. Telling him what you really thought was hardly the most embarrassing thing you’d ever done.

“You make me so proud. You know that, right?”

“What?” Elias frowned.

“You go out there, every single day, and give this team, this city, your all. Your pour yourself into everything that you do, always give 100%, and as your friend, as someone who has known you for years…I am so proud of you.”

As your cheeks heated from your words, Elias swallowed heavily, a flush dusting across his own cheeks.

“I don’t know what I did to deserve this, to deserve your kind words, but I appreciate it. Thank you,” he murmured.

Your heartbeat raced at the intensity in his eyes.

“Brunch? Can we go?”

Elias scowled again at Brock’s grinning interruption but walked away towards the front door. You were read to grumble at Brock yourself, until you saw Elias pull the knitted hat out of his pocket and slide it on over his hair. It looked…perfect.

“Are you good?” Brock asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Yeah, I’m great.”

Your voice was far breathier than you would ever admit.

*

Another month, another team event. This time Brock had invited you to be his plus one to a formal gala, hardly the first time he had asked and yet this time he practically begged you to come along. You didn’t need him to beg, you could admit that much – the events were always fun and hey, you got to dress up nicely – but his behaviour was strange, even for him.

Either way, Brock had looked ecstatic when you said yes, even going as buying you a gorgeous midnight blue evening gown, sleeveless and high-necked, as classy as it was beautiful, so you were going to complain. He could have his secrets – you knew you’d get it out of him eventually.

He picked you up after you’d gotten your hair and nails done, make-up subtle but elegant, wide smile on his face as he drove the two of you to the event. You didn’t have time to be suspicious about his good mood as the two of you greeted his teammates and their better halves, your attention consumed by all the cheek kisses and compliments, but you should’ve known he was up to something. Because the moment that the two of you joined Elias at a table with a few chairs around it, Brock all but disappeared, leaving the two of you completely alone.

“Hi Brock. Bye Brock,” Elias said dryly.

“I have no idea what’s gotten into him tonight, I am so sorry,” you sighed.

“Hey, no, don’t apologise for him. I’m sorry that he’s abandoned you already,” Elias said, frowning.

“Well at least I’m near a chair,” you said, huffing out a laugh, “High heels are not my friends.”

Elias immediately pulled a chair out for you to sit on, and you felt a gentle heat brush across your cheeks at the gentlemanly action.

“Thanks Elias,” you said, more shocked than anything.

Not too shocked to smile at him as he sat down right next to you, after picking up a couple of flutes of champagne from a passing waiter. If he wanted to join you…well, you weren’t going to complain. Not if you got his attention all to yourself.

It can’t have been more than an hour before Brock wandered back over, but by the flush on his cheeks and the glassiness of his eyes, he was more than a little tipsy. Damn it Brock.

“You’re not going to ask this beautiful woman to dance, Petey?”

Elias immediately blushed furiously, eyes narrowing at his friend, making you want to die a little inside – but also to shield him.

“Oh no, these heels are killing my feet already. Elias is just being kind enough to keep me company,” you said sweetly.

Brock snickered, shaking his head, but walked away without any further pestering. You both sat there for a moment in silence, reeling from the short conversation. What the hell was that, Brock?

“You didn’t have to make up a lie to defend me,” Elias said, finally looking at you again.

“I wanted to.”

The mortification that filled your body upon your blurted words was immediate and all-consuming, especially with how surprised Elias looked. How could you save this? How the hell could you save this?

“Besides it’s the least I could do for Brock dumping me on you in the first place,” you said coolly, shrugging, trying to calm yourself down and failing miserably.

Elias hesitated before something flashed across his face, and he looked at you with an expression you’d never seen from him before. It made you shiver. “There’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

Oh.

Oh.

He…really?

You’d spent so long convinced that he didn’t see you that way, that he wasn’t attracted to you in the slightest, and now that he’d said this? Giving you enough to let yourself hope, to admit to yourself that your sweetest daydreams and deepest fantasies could actually be reality?

While your mind raced, full of swirling realisations that perhaps things weren’t so unrequited after all, Elias just watched you, expression just as intense as before. It wasn’t until you let out a shaky breath, smiling a tiny smile at him, that he nodded, clearing his throat.

“Another drink?”

“Yes, definitely.”

*

Movie nights were sacred. It didn’t matter who they were with, not really, but now that you had your own tiny apartment, a night in watching your favourite movies and eating your favourite snacks was always the best way to unwind. Usually Brock was your only companion, or Brock with a few of his teammates, and that was the plan tonight. Brock and Elias were both joining you for a movie night and you couldn’t wait to have a chilled night in with two of your favourite people. Even if your whole world had been shaken up only last week at that eventful team gala.

The pizzas you’d ordered hadn’t long arrived before Elias arrived at your door, beers in hand, and you let him in with a happy smile.

“Thanks for inviting me,” he said, smiling shyly back at you.

Your breath caught in your throat at the sweetness in his face, and you found yourself just nodding.

“You know you’re always welcome. Come on, pizza just got here too.”

Elias all but raced you to the kitchen, making you laugh as he opened the cardboard lids. But your phone buzzed before you could reach for a slice.

From: Brock I can’t make it tonight. Have fun. Both of you.

You heart started racing at his implications, knowing deep in your bones that Brock never intended to come this evening. Had he known all along, how you felt about Elias? And how you hoped Elias felt for you too?

Surely not.

But then again, Brock always surprised you. You had always tried not to underestimate your friend, but it appeared that you’d fallen for that sweet innocent smile just the same as everyone else.

“Is Brock on his way?”

“Brock isn’t coming.”

“Oh.”

Elias seemed to hesitate, making you inhale sharply.

“Did you want to reschedule?” he asked, wincing.

You could be brave, right? Or at least take a step towards bravery?

“You’re already here…so we can still have our own movie night?” you suggested, unable to stop yourself from chewing your bottom lip.

Elias’s eyes flickered down quickly towards your mouth, before he cleared his throat and smiled softly at you. “Yeah, of course we can. Also means we don’t have to listen to Brock whining that we aren’t watching one of his rom com choices.”

The dryness of his tone made you giggle, immediately cutting through the lingering awkward tension. You could absolutely do a movie night just with Elias. You could absolutely handle being alone with him like this.

Absolutely.

The two of you ploughed through the pizzas while you watched one of you go-to action movies, laughing and talking all the way through, even finishing the popcorn and a couple of beers each by the time the credits were rolling. Bailey had happily sat by your feet the whole time, actually behaving himself for once, and you couldn’t remember a time when you’d felt so content. So relaxed and happy. Brock had always brought that out in you, and now that Elias had too? It just filled you with butterflies in the best way.

“Shall we watch another?”

“Definitely,” you nodded, smiling up at him.

Elias smiled easily back. “You choose? I’ll clear up.”

Before you could protest or even help him, Elias had picked up both pizza boxes and all the empty beer bottles, leaving you alone on the sofa. You heard him opening the trash can, snapping you out of your surprise, so you started scrolling through Netflix again, eventually deciding on a light-hearted comedy just as Elias re-entered the room. Bailey had trotted out to his own bed when Elias left, so it really was just the two of you now.

Something that made your breath hitch in your throat was the way that Elias sat down closer to you this time. Unmistakably closer, close enough to feel the heat from his body and to smell his cologne. He did that on purpose, there was no doubt about it. But his face gave you no answers, nothing more than his usual smile around you, so you let it go. Overthinking things was definitely not the way to go, you knew that much.

It didn’t make your heartrate calm down at all though.

You pressed play to get the movie started, lightly tossing the tv remote onto your coffee table before settling back into the sofa, letting the familiar introduction wash over you.

It took ten minutes for everything to change.

Elias wasn’t a big hugger. You knew this. Brock knew this. The whole of the Vancouver Canucks knew this. So when you felt a pressure along your shoulders, you tried not to flinch, realising it was his arm stretching across the back of the sofa when his hand lightly brushed your opposite shoulder. Elias…Elias had put his arm around you. He’d put his arm around you? You glanced up at him, trying to get any sense of his thought process, but his eyes were resolutely glued to the television, his body a frozen line of tension. All over again, your heart started racing. You were right after all. Maybe…maybe Elias really did have feelings for you, just as he’d finally hinted at the team event, and now he was making a gentle move in the most Petey way ever.

The ball was in your court.

Ever so slowly, you relaxed against under his arm, sinking into his side, head resting on his chest. You could hear just how fast his own heart was racing and it made you smile, feeling giddy that he was just as affected as you were, even more so when his arm draped around you properly. This was really happening. Elias Pettersson had really instigated snuggling with you on the sofa. This was better than any dream you could’ve imagined.

The next thing you knew, you were blinking your eyes open. The sky outside was pitch black, the curtains still wide open, and the Netflix landing page was glaring bright. But the main thing you noticed? You were curled up against Elias’s side still, head resting on his chest, his arm having fallen down to your waist and his head lolling back on the sofa. You’d fallen asleep together? Was there anything more cliché than that? Still, it felt like your heart was going to beat out of your chest with how right it felt to be in Elias’s hold. His hands were so large and so warm, the heat spreading through the contact on top of your sweatpants. His chest was so solid and calming under your cheek. And as you lifted your head, ever to slightly to look at him properly, even just through the light from the TV he looked so handsome. Beautiful and peaceful. But there was no way that could be comfortable for him, and the last thing you wanted was for an aching neck to put a damper on what was the perfect evening.

So you lightly rested your hand on his chest, shaking him gently until you heard him grunt in displeasure.

“Hey, Elias, we fell asleep on the sofa,” you murmured.

He immediately groaned, making you laugh softly, smiling at him as he finally lifted his head.

“I was having such a good dream,” he grumbled.

Then he seemed to freeze as he realised where he actually was, taking note of how you were still tucked into his side, and where his arm and hand were holding you.

“Damn it, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to-”

“Hey, no, we both fell asleep eh?” you said, interrupting with a smile and a shake of your head, “It’s fine, Elias. We were both cosy.”

He swallowed heavily before nodding.

“I don’t think I’ve ever fallen asleep on the sofa with someone before,” he mumbled, “It was…nice.”

You felt your cheeks heating up with the gentle compliment, your smile letting him know you felt the same.

“I should go,” he said softly.

No!

Well, now was your moment. Now was the time to be brave where you’d never needed to be so brave before. After everything that had been building between the two of you…now was the moment.

“Or, maybe you could stay, and we could talk in the morning,” you offered as calmly as you could.

You felt Elias inhale sharply where your hand was still resting on his chest.

“The kind of talk that I’ve been wanting to have for a while?” he asked, hope evident in his eyes.

Oh wow.

For a while?

You felt like you were floating as his words sunk in.

“Yeah I think we’re on the same page,” you murmured, your blood thrumming with possibility.

The smile that spread across Elias’s face made your heart soar, and you found yourself smiling just as widely back. And when he leant forward to press a soft kiss to your forehead, you’d never felt more alive.

You could only imagine Brock’s satisfied grin when you told him.

[softmangoes]

true terror | ivory wraith x pc

18+ only

the sun dips below the horizon, tinging the waters of the lake with the day's final golden rays.

you take a deep breath, filling your lungs with the scent of pine and the cold crisp of autumn. the wait is over: there will be a blood moon tonight.

before, you would await for that familiar pull to tug on your soul and reel you into the depths of the lake. those first few nights had felt like something out of a dream: a face made of moonlight, hands that brushed your skin as if to make sure you were real, eyes like shards of the night.

but at this point, you have made marking your calendar to count down the days a science. you have stowed away a bag of spare clothes in the forest. the waves lap at your ankles, beckoning you closer. you are so tired, so sore, and all you want to do is be engulfed by something that shouldn't even be possible.

once you wade until the waters have reached your chest, you take another breath and dive.

"beloved," a familiar voice hums once you surface. you don't quite hear his voice so much as feel it. the specter's joy feels bright, like the gleam of moonlight illuminating the crevices of your soul.

with a grunt, you climb onto the stones, gripping the length of rope you anchored into the ruin during your last visit. the inside of the old temple is lit with a soft glow. he is here. the abomination. the monster. the ghost that haunts you and your heart.

you expect to see his gentle smile to celebrate your arrival. but at the sight of you, the wraith falls silent.

he sees the bruises darkening your throat, listens to your ragged breaths, watches as the tears swell and stream from your eyes.

"i missed you," you say, trying to manage an assuring smile. oh, he's so beautiful. you don't want to ruin your time together with your pain. "i didn't want to keep you waiting."

like a wave, the specter surges in front of you. his hands are balled into fists.

"who made you weep?" he says slowly, reeling in his rage as a riptide pulls a current back to the depths of the ocean.

"i'm fine," you begin to say, but before you can continue, the wraith extends a cold hand to your face and wipes a tear from your cheek. he brings his finger to his mouth, tastes the wet bead of your sorrow.

in that moment, the wraith sees the memory of a vile figure of a man with dark hair and an even darker heart. his hands are around your throat, telling you that you are worthless. that you better pay up or else.

when the specter's eyes open, they are nothing but endless wells of blue. his expression is placid. glassy. the calm before the storm.

"i will rend their flesh from their bones." ghostly tentacles manifest around him, writhing and roiling in the air as if itching to capture and constrict their prey. "they will bear witness to true terror."

"hey," you say softly, taking one of their hands in yours. you two only ever have so much time. already, the moon begins to wane. "i'm okay, alright? i promise."

the wraith softens. his tentacles calm. you are just how you have always been. how he has always loved you: gentle, optimistic, hopeful.

and in all the lives you have lived, you have always been a bad liar.

"the world is unkind." he gathers you into his arms and presses his lips against your temple. "but here, you will always be safe."

you sigh, the tension of the last few days leaving your body. it is only in the arms of an aberration that you can finally find solace. after a few moments, you fall asleep to his fingers running through your hair and the hum of a song that sets your soul at ease.

but soon the night ends as it always does. the wraith places your sleeping form back onto your bed.

his eyes are as red as the moon.

you are safe, as he promised. the hunt begins. you do not hear the screams that pierce through the night.

when you wake up the next morning, bailey's office is empty. you do not see him the day after. or the next.

[crepesuzette2023]

Any recs for weird Mclennon fics ? I know “weird” means something different for every person but just like any unusual story lines or something that made you pause while reading. ( that includes weird sex as well ) hope this made sense

In this house, weird is a compliment!

Thank you, that's a wonderful ask. As you rightly pointed out, weird is different for every person—but here are some favorites of mine that, I think, match your description. As always, I hope you find something here you like.

The Cum Jar (Anonymous). John and Paul are such loving parents. (Hands off Dick James.)

Birney (bookofapril). Paul McCartney/Paul McCartney.

Macabre (@dovetailjoints). Lennon and McCartney share everything.

Sunset Kiss in the Desert Wind (@skylikeaflame): Weird (and hot!) story based on the Mullet Wings Paul is the sad guy at the Home Depot paint counter meme. This is perhaps one of my favorite things.

Some Girls Will Make You Shiver (@eveepe): John and Paul aren't girls, but make love as girls. The gender bending isn't the weird thing; it's how much they stay the same.

Staying with the gender bending but switching to a different tone: a great threat (@pauls1967moustache). Paul and Yoko as powerful female artists competing for John's...let's say aura. The longer I think about it the more I think that this is among the most truthful portrayals of Paul & Yoko I know.

A thrill a moment (harmonising). The Bailey Shoot. Every time I read this, I discover something new, and every time I read this, I feel I'm missing something. That is weird. Just yesterday it hit me that this is how John feels in the story about Paul. A sense of relentless curiosity and mental disintegration, of things slipping and falling into place at the right moment. Can't afford to miss a word of this.

archangel (endcoda_). 1967 Paul thinks he's possessed by the devil.

Paul McCartney/Stuart Sutcliffe is weird by definition. I loved repeat rec The Bass Lesson (@aquarianshift) and Be It Fahrenheit or Centigrade (@dailyhowl).

Open Heart (@revollver). Paul changes into a Vampire. John and Paul remain John and Paul—with a satisfying twist in the end.

Under Both his Thumbs (@idontwanttospoiltheparty). John introduces Paul to Julia for the first time, and they write the song "Suicide." The two POV's live next to each other like harmonies in a song. I loved the description of Julia at the center, and the 1969 echoes of the song.

ageless children, animal sweat (eyeball2eyeball). John, Hamburg, Paul, lashes, absent sanity and throbbing horny energy paired with undiminished powers of cutting wit.

Dawn Patrol (@scurator). Maybe I only find this weird because I'm not British (my weirdness, sad to report, is of the German variety), but I read this with wide eyes and a slightly open mouth, like a mesmerized child. Paul and John have sex as Biggles and Algernon.

For though they may be parted (@downtothe-lastdrop). The Tension™ during the Let It Be /Get Back Sessions is being dealt with by introducing the memory erasure from Severance.

A taste of honey (@muzaktomyears): John and Paul fuck and talk about women; things escalate in an excellent way from there.

baby, it's all relative (verse) (@pauls1967moustache). Daddy kink and foot fetish. The weird thing about this is that it's written from John's POV, and he's the quote unquote sane one.

kissing the blarney (@zilabee). The history of the Beatles, in which Paul is the Blarney Stone.

Just for tonight (strwbryfeels). Paul is randy and his hands aren't enough, so he starts humping a pillow, with John and Ringo right there. Crisp white hotel linen will never be the same. Weirdly hot and sweet!

Why Buy the Cow (RedheadAmongWolves): John and Paul from the perspective of...the milk man.

Strings (deux_lunes): An unusual way of telling the John/Paul story.

Odontotos (bookofapril): Paul refuses to let John go after death. I thought I knew where this one was going a couple of times, and I was wrong every time.

The Jane Gives an Interview Series (@ilovedig). Not unfinished, but open ended. Inspired by Jane Asher pointedly not mentioning Paul in an interview; a thought experiment of Paul reacting to the snub, placing him in a relationship with the different men in his life.

[eardefenders]

Sherlock & Co Recipes Masterpost

It suddenly dawned on me that having a masterpost for all the recipes would make sense (also I realised the search function on my blog is shit), so here you go! All the recipes I've listed for the various foods in the series. If it's listed, but not linked means either I haven't made a post yet or the link is broken.

Deruny

Ukrainian Borscht

Pampushka

Ice Lolly

A Cuppa (Tea)

Scones

Bloody Mary

Cornish Pasty

"Protein Breakfast"

Salted Caramel and Maple Latte

Hot Chocolate & Bailey's

Mulled Cider

Shepherd's Pie (Sandwich)

Cottage Pie

Fig and Saltana Cookies

Oat Biscuits

Cooked Goose and Parsnips

Dried Yak Meat

Bacon Butty paired with crisps and juice

Penne Pasta with Mascarpone & Tomato Sauce

[englishstrawbie]

Marina + number 7 please and thank you 🤍

Here you go, my friend, I hope you like it! 😊

>>>>>>>>>>

Carina moves around the room on full charm offensive, cosying up to potential benefactors as she persuades them to donate their money to the Elena Bailey Memorial Clinic. She finds it an easy task; a friendly tone to her voice, a hand on their arm, the tilt of her head as laughs at their jokes. She has always found people easy to manipulate with a little bit of flirting and, so far, she has secured over $100,000 thanks to a particularly generous woman who has made her fortunes selling a wellbeing lifestyle. All nonsense, as far as Carina is concerned, but if it means money for the clinic then she is more than willing to boost the woman’s ego.

As she moves on to the next group of people, she can feel a pair of blue eyes watching her from a distance. She knows she looks good in a strapless black dress that clings to her slim body, accentuating her hips that Maya loves to grab and exposing her neck that Maya loves to kiss. But still, she doesn’t dare look over her shoulder at where those blue eyes are coming from because she doesn’t need any distractions.

And her wife is certainly a distraction tonight.

Bailey had roped in 19 to help with the fundraiser and they had dutifully agreed. They might have shown up almost thirty minutes late (thanks to an ember that had blown from a fireplace into a nearby pile of blankets, setting them alight and starting a house fire less than one hour before the end of their shift), but they had turned up suited and booted in their Class A uniforms, ready to sell as many raffle tickets as possible.

The first time Carina had seen Maya in her Class As, she had not been able to take her eyes off her. Travis had reminded her more than once to close her gaping mouth. Who could blame her though? The crisp white shirt tucked into tight black pants that show off the curve of her ass; the tie, neat under her starched collar; and the jacket that fits smartly over her broad shoulders.

Carina groans inwardly at the image that won’t leave her mind and tries to concentrate on what the man next to her is telling her about the water quality in the bay. She picks up on the important stuff – he owns a yacht that he keeps in the marina, which means he has money; and he has fifteen-year-old twin daughters, which means he is interested in women’s rights. She secures another $20,000 for the clinic before taking a break and heading towards the bar.

It takes her a few minutes to get the attention of the barman, but just as she is about to order, she feels a hand on the small of her back and a familiar voice beside her.

“Water please. And she’ll have a white wine,” Maya says.

“Oh, will I?” Carina arches an eyebrow in amusement.

Maya smiles cockily as she leans in and kisses her wife lightly. “Hi.”

“Hi bella,” Carina says softly.

Her eyes sweep Maya up and down, butterflies fluttering in her stomach as she appreciates her wife in her formal wear; except the smile on her face fades away when she notices the purple bruise on Maya’s cheek, hidden by a thick layer of make-up.

“Maya, your face,” she says, running a finger lightly over the blemish and watching as Maya winces a little under her touch.

“It’s okay,” Maya reassures her immediately. “It was stupid, I was coming out of a basement and tripped on a loose step. I wasn’t in any danger, the fire was already out. I landed awkwardly, that’s all.”

She must see that Carina isn’t convinced because she slides her hand into Carina’s and squeezes it gently. “I’m okay, I promise.”

Her eyes are bright and honest, and Carina lets the worry go. She nods and smiles, stealing another kiss from her wife. The drinks are placed on the bar in front of them and they take them, Maya guiding Carina away from the crowd towards a small table nearby.

“So, the fundraising seems to be going well,” Maya says.

She gives Carina a sideways glance, a playful accusatory tone to her voice. Carina smirks, brushing her hair back and watching as Maya’s eyes land on her bare shoulder, a lick of her lips giving away her thoughts.

“It’s work, bambina,” Carina says. She can’t deny it though, she does enjoy making Maya a little jealous.

“Hmm,” Maya says knowingly. A glint in her eye, she slowly unbuttons her jacket.

“Maya,” Carina warns her.

Maya lifts her eyebrows. “What?”

A low growl escapes from the back of Carina’s throat. Maya chuckles and pushes her glass towards her, an innocent look on her face.

"You need some water, babe?”

Carina ignores her and closes the gap between them. “Maya Bishop,” she says under her breath, “don’t tease me. You know how mad Doctor Bailey will be if we leave early.”

It is Maya’s turn to grin, the use of her full name means she knows her plan to weaken Carina’s resolve is working.

“But you know we could be having a lot more fun at home,” she says. “Because the more I look at you, the more I think we need to leave.”

“We can’t,” Carina tries to argue, but when Maya’s hand comes to rest on her hip, pinching her waist lightly, her body betrays her and she lets out a small gasp.

“Are you sure?”

Carina narrows her eyes, knows that Maya’s choice of phrase is supposed to remind her of the night they met, to play on Carina’s fondness for nostalgia. She sighs, close to relenting.

“But the party…”

“I bet you’ve already raised more money for the clinic than everyone else in the room combined,” Maya says. “And I have sold every raffle ticket in my book already.”

“Of course you have,” Carina says, shooting her an amused look.

She looks around and spots Bailey and Ben on the other side of the room, chatting to another couple who are dressed in what look to be very expensive clothes. Carina is pretty sure a donation from them would solve the clinic’s budget issues for at least a couple of years. She watches as Bailey’s face breaks out into a wide smile and she shakes the hands of the clinic’s latest benefactors with vigour.

She feels Maya step closer, her warm breath on her neck.

“I think that’s our sign we can leave, don’t you?”

When Carina turns towards her wife, her breath gets caught in her throat when she notices that Maya has loosened her tie and unfastened the top three buttons of her shirt, revealing her collarbone.

“Yes, bambina,” Carina says, grabbing Maya’s hand and yanking her towards the door, all patience gone. “Let’s go.”

[realityjoey]

COWBOYS (RILEY ANDERSON MC x EVAN BUCKLEY)

The Halloween night was alive with crisp autumn air, pumpkin spice scents, and the thrill of a chill-inducing adventure. The 118 team—Buck, Riley, Eddie, Hen, Chimney, and Bobby—had decided to take on the challenge of a haunted house attraction, one of the most notorious in the city. It was known for pushing the limits of fear, with hidden actors, gruesome scenes, and sound effects that could make even the bravest tremble.

Riley, always up for an adventure, had brought along some of her siblings—Georgie, Bailey, Kyra, and Ollie. The younger ones, Miles and Lily, were too young for this particular brand of Halloween fun, but the older siblings were excited, their energy adding a buzz to the night. Buck, of course, was in high spirits, taking every opportunity to position himself next to Riley, playfully nudging her shoulder and whispering mock-bravery claims about how he was going to protect her from whatever lurked in the darkness.

As they approached the entrance, the haunted house loomed ahead like a shadowy monster, all flickering lights and ominous music. A sign at the front read, “Abandon hope, all ye who enter here.” Buck scoffed, but Riley raised an eyebrow, smirking. “Feeling confident?” she teased, leaning in close enough for her breath to tickle his ear.

“You know it, babe. Nothing in there’s gonna scare me,” he replied with a bravado that sounded convincing—until Riley’s siblings caught wind of it.

“Okay then, Buckley,” Georgie grinned, eyes glinting mischievously. “Why don’t you take the lead?”

The rest of the siblings joined in, egging Buck on to be the fearless leader. Buck’s chest puffed out slightly, determined to prove himself, especially with Riley’s watchful eyes on him. He shot her a confident smile and strode forward, the others falling into a line behind him. Riley chuckled softly, rolling her eyes, but there was a fondness in her gaze as she watched him lead the charge.

They entered the haunted house, where dim, flickering lights barely illuminated their path. The air felt thick, and eerie sound effects filled the air—chains clinking, ghostly whispers, and distant screams that seemed to echo through the darkness. Riley stayed close to Buck, letting him take the lead even as her siblings huddled together, their initial excitement turning to nervous giggles.

The first jump scare came quickly—a masked figure leaping out from behind a hidden door with a loud growl. Buck jolted, letting out a surprised shout, and Riley couldn’t hold back her laughter. “That’s one for the brave Buckley,” she quipped, nudging him with her shoulder as they continued down the dark, winding path.

Buck huffed, his pride dented. “I’m just… staying on alert,” he said, trying to regain his composure. But each time another scare came—a bloodied zombie lurching out from the shadows, a creepy doll whispering in a dark corner, a sudden flash of lightning revealing gory scenes on the walls—Buck flinched. And each time, Riley was quick to tease, her voice light but filled with affection. “You’re really showing those monsters who’s boss, aren’t you?”

Eddie and Chimney were having a field day with it too, taking turns to mock Buck’s bravado, but Buck kept pushing forward, determined to make it through without admitting defeat.

They soon reached the most chilling part of the house: an old, decrepit nursery room with creaking rocking horses, dusty cribs, and broken dolls that seemed to follow them with their eyes. A distorted lullaby played softly in the background, adding an eerie touch to the scene. As they walked through, Riley’s smile faltered, her steps slowing. She glanced around the room, her eyes lingering on the shadows that seemed to crawl along the walls, her breathing becoming a bit unsteady.

Buck noticed her change in demeanor almost immediately. He stepped back beside her, his earlier bravado melting into concern. “Hey, you okay?” he asked, his voice low so that only she could hear.

Riley nodded quickly, but there was a tightness around her eyes, a tension that Buck knew too well. He reached out, gently taking her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “You know, we can get out of here if you want,” he offered, his voice softer than she’d heard all night. The teasing, cocky tone was gone, replaced by genuine care.

She shook her head again, taking a shaky breath. “No, it’s just… reminds me of things back home. Places I’d rather forget,” she admitted quietly, not meeting his eyes. It wasn’t often that she opened up about her past, especially in front of the team or her siblings, but in that dimly lit room with Buck’s warm hand around hers, she felt a little more at ease.

Buck’s expression softened, and he pulled her a bit closer, wrapping his arm around her shoulders protectively. “Hey, you don’t have to explain,” he whispered. “I’ve got you, okay? Nothing in here’s going to hurt you. And I promise, we’re getting out of here together, no matter what spooky dolls decide to jump out at us.” He tried to add a bit of humor, hoping to lighten the heaviness he felt coming from her.

Riley finally looked up, meeting his gaze, and managed a small, grateful smile. “You’re such an idiot, you know that?”

“Yeah, but I’m your idiot,” he shot back, and she chuckled softly, leaning into his side for a moment. It was a fleeting but intimate moment amid the chaos of the haunted house, one that made the whole experience feel less terrifying, knowing they had each other to lean on.

As they moved on, Buck kept a protective arm around her, guiding her through the remaining rooms. Despite his earlier jumps and scares, he remained steadfast by her side, ready to pull her closer whenever she flinched at the sudden noises or creepy props.

By the time they reached the end of the haunted house, the group emerged into the cool night air, buzzing with the thrill of surviving the ordeal. Buck, with his arm still around Riley, tried to play it cool in front of her siblings, despite the teasing that continued from Georgie and the others about his bravery—or lack thereof.

But Riley, seeing the way he’d stayed with her when things got tough, couldn’t help but see him in a new light. She knew how much he’d done it for her, how hard he’d tried to keep the fear at bay, even when it got to him.

As the group laughed and recounted their favorite moments from the haunted house, Riley pulled Buck aside for a moment. “Thanks,” she said softly, leaning up to kiss him on the cheek. “For being there, and for not making me feel stupid about… you know.”

Buck smiled down at her, brushing a thumb across her cheek. “Anytime, Riley. You know I’d walk through a hundred haunted houses if it meant keeping you safe.”

“Even if you end up screaming more than me?” she teased, the sparkle returning to her eyes.

He chuckled, wrapping his arms around her in a warm embrace. “Even then. Besides, I like hearing your laugh—worth every jump scare.”

And as they stood there, wrapped up in each other beneath the glow of the Halloween lights, surrounded by Riley’s siblings and their makeshift family, they both knew they’d remember this haunted house adventure not just for the scares, but for the way it brought them closer together.

The haunted house adventure had left everyone in high spirits, and the night wasn’t over yet. Bobby and Athena had invited everyone back to their place for pumpkin carving, a tradition that had become a staple for the 118 and their extended family. The backyard was decked out with string lights, autumn-themed decorations, and tables lined with snacks, drinks, and enough pumpkins to keep everyone busy for hours.

As everyone gathered in the backyard, laughter filled the cool night air. Bobby stood at the grill, flipping burgers and hot dogs while Athena handed out hot cider to warm everyone up. Hen and Karen helped their son Denny set up his pumpkin on a table, while Maddie and Chimney tried to wrangle Jee-Yun, who was toddling around excitedly between the adults. May and Harry were busy picking out the best pumpkins with Eddie and Christopher, who were already discussing the intricate designs they wanted to carve.

Buck and Riley arrived with her siblings—Georgie, Bailey, Kyra, and Ollie—who had been buzzing with excitement since leaving the haunted house. They immediately ran over to the table covered in pumpkins, eager to start carving their own spooky designs.

“Alright, everyone, grab a pumpkin and some tools,” Bobby called out, smiling warmly as he watched the chaotic scene unfold. “We’ve got a lot of carving to do before these kids eat all the candy.”

Riley found a spot at one of the tables with Buck and her siblings. She noticed Bailey eyeing the spread of candy eagerly and gave him a mock-stern look. “You can have more candy if you actually finish a pumpkin this time, Bailey.”

Bailey grinned cheekily. “You sound like a proper mum, Riley.”

She rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged at her lips. “Just don’t make a mess of Athena’s garden, alright?”

Buck, meanwhile, was trying to keep up with Ollie’s ambitious plan for a skeleton face pumpkin. “Okay, so you want the teeth to look… like this?” Buck asked, sketching a rough outline on the pumpkin.

Ollie scrutinized Buck’s sketch and then nodded approvingly. “Yeah, that’s perfect. But make it scarier, okay?”

“Scarier, got it,” Buck replied with a wink, ruffling Ollie’s hair. “You picked the right guy for the job.”

Across the yard, Riley joined Kyra, who was carving a classic jack-o’-lantern face with a mischievous grin. Riley’s hands worked skillfully as she helped Kyra shape the eyes, her thoughts drifting for a moment as she glanced over at Buck. He was in full “big brother” mode, guiding Ollie’s hand as they carved together. The sight warmed her heart, and she felt a wave of gratitude for how easily he’d embraced her siblings and made them feel like they were a part of this patchwork family.

Riley’s gaze lingered on him, and a soft smile curved her lips. Noticing her distraction, Georgie elbowed her playfully. “You’re staring, Riley.”

“Shut up,” Riley mumbled, blushing slightly but not taking her eyes off Buck. “I’m just making sure he doesn’t mess up Ollie’s pumpkin.”

Georgie smirked, shaking her head. “Sure you are.”

Not far away, Hen and Karen were getting into a friendly competition with Eddie and Christopher over who could carve the best superhero-themed pumpkin. Christopher insisted that his dad’s pumpkin would win, while Denny sided with his moms, and soon, their laughter filled the yard as they teased each other over their carving skills.

Meanwhile, Chimney tried to distract Jee-Yun with a small pumpkin of her own, carefully guiding her tiny hands as she smeared paint across its surface. “Look, Jee-Yun, you’re making a masterpiece,” he said, beaming at her messy creation.

Maddie smiled at the sight, capturing the moment with her phone. “She’s going to be a little artist, isn’t she?”

Athena, watching the scene from the patio with a warm smile, turned to Bobby as he finished up at the grill. “You’ve got to admit, there’s something special about this group. It’s like one big, chaotic family.”

Bobby nodded, his expression fond as he glanced out over their makeshift family, all gathered together under the glow of the patio lights. “Yeah, it’s nights like these that remind you what it’s all about.”

As the evening went on, the pumpkins slowly took shape, each one unique. Riley and Kyra’s jack-o’-lantern had a wide, mischievous grin, while Georgie’s had sharp, menacing eyes. Ollie’s skeleton pumpkin with Buck’s help turned out to be one of the more detailed ones, though it took a few teasing jabs from Hen about how much time they’d spent on it.

“Hey, we’re perfectionists, okay?” Buck defended, pointing a carving knife at Hen in mock seriousness, making everyone around him laugh. Riley rolled her eyes but couldn’t help smiling at his antics.

As the night drew on, the group gathered around the table to admire their finished pumpkins, each one lit up with a flickering candle inside. The yard glowed with an eerie but comforting light, the warmth of the company making it feel like a true celebration.

Riley leaned into Buck’s side, her head resting on his shoulder as they watched Ollie excitedly show off their skeleton pumpkin to Denny and Christopher. Buck slipped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer. “You having a good time?” he murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

“Yeah,” she replied, her voice soft as she looked up at him. “I am. It’s nice… being with everyone like this. Feels like home.”

Buck’s expression softened, and he gave her a gentle squeeze. “Yeah, it does. And you know, I think we’ve got the best pumpkin here.”

Riley snorted, glancing over at their pumpkin, which now had a bit of a lopsided grin thanks to Ollie’s last-minute changes. “Sure, Buckley, whatever you say.”

He laughed, pressing another kiss to her temple. “Okay, maybe it’s not the best, but it’s definitely got the most heart.”

She couldn’t argue with that, and as they stood there, surrounded by their friends and family, Riley felt a warmth settle in her chest, one that chased away the chill of the earlier haunted house and left her feeling truly at peace.

As the afternoon sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the neighborhood, Buck and Riley headed home from Bobby and Athena’s. Their next mission for the evening: taking Riley’s youngest siblings, Miles and Lily, out trick-or-treating. The backseat of the car buzzed with chatter as Riley checked in with her siblings over the phone, reminding them to have their costumes ready by the time she and Buck arrived.

When they pulled into the driveway, Riley spotted Miles and Lily waiting eagerly at the door, already in their costumes. Miles had chosen to dress up as a cowboy, but there was a nervous look on his face as he fidgeted with his hat. Next to him, Lily bounced up and down with excitement, her princess dress glittering in the fading light. She had insisted on being a princess for Halloween, complete with a tiara that she wore proudly atop her curly hair.

Riley stepped out of the car, her eyes softening at the sight of her younger siblings. She reached out to ruffle Miles’ hair as they approached the door. “Hey, you two, ready to get some candy?”

Lily nodded enthusiastically, clutching her pumpkin-shaped bucket. “I want to get so much candy!” she declared, her eyes wide with determination.

Miles, however, shifted uncomfortably in his boots, glancing at his costume and then down at the ground. “I… I don’t know if I want to wear this anymore,” he mumbled, his voice barely above a whisper.

Riley exchanged a concerned look with Buck, who knelt down beside Miles, keeping his tone gentle. “Hey, what’s up, little man? You look great in that cowboy getup. Those boots are awesome.”

Miles hesitated, shrugging his shoulders. “Some kids at school said cowboys are lame… that it’s not a cool costume.”

Buck’s brow furrowed, a flash of protectiveness sparking in his eyes. But he quickly softened his expression and leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “You know what? I think cowboys are the coolest. In fact, I bet if I had a costume like that, I’d wear it too.”

Miles looked up, his eyes widening in surprise. “You… you’d wear a cowboy costume?”

Buck grinned, ruffling Miles’ hair. “Give me a second.” He winked at Riley, then jogged over to the car. From the trunk, he pulled out a cowboy hat he’d brought along—just in case. He slipped it on and grabbed a bandana he found in the backseat, tying it around his neck like a makeshift cowboy. He threw on an old flannel he had, completing the look.

When he returned, striking a dramatic pose with his thumbs hooked in his belt loops, Miles couldn’t help but let out a little giggle. Riley covered her mouth to hide a smile, the warmth of the moment filling her heart. “Well, what do you think?” Buck asked, tipping his hat at Miles. “Think I make a good sidekick for the toughest cowboy in town?”

Miles’ smile widened, his earlier insecurity fading as he looked at Buck. “Yeah. You look cool, Buck.”

“Yeah?” Buck beamed and nudged Miles gently. “That’s what I thought. Now come on, let’s show the neighborhood what real cowboys are made of.”

Riley couldn’t resist stepping closer, wrapping her arm around Buck’s waist and pressing a quick kiss to his cheek. “You’re the best, you know that?”

He leaned down, catching her lips with his for a brief, sweet moment. “Just want to make sure Miles has a good time.”

With their spirits lifted, the little group set off down the street. Lily practically skipped ahead, waving her wand and announcing herself as “Princess Lily of Candyland” at every house they approached. Each time a door opened, she’d strike a royal pose, her high-pitched voice chiming, “Trick or treat!” The neighbors couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm, and she quickly amassed a pile of candy in her little bucket.

Miles, now more confident with Buck at his side, got into the spirit as well, adopting a bit of a swagger with his cowboy boots as he and Buck approached each door. He would give a serious “Yeehaw!” after every house, and Buck would follow it up with a deep “Howdy, partner!” that made Miles laugh every time. The two of them made quite the pair, tipping their hats and playing up their roles.

Riley followed close behind, her heart swelling as she watched Buck and her siblings together. There was something so tender about the way he made Miles feel seen and special, the way he encouraged Lily’s wild imagination without a hint of teasing. It was moments like this that made her realize just how much he had become a part of her life—of their life. She felt a deep sense of love and gratitude for the way he embraced her family, for the way he made them feel safe and valued.

At one point, as they paused under the glow of a streetlamp, Buck caught her watching him with a soft expression. He offered her a lopsided smile and reached out to take her hand, pulling her in for a side hug. “What’s that look for?” he asked quietly, his voice gentle so as not to interrupt the kids’ excitement.

She leaned her head against his shoulder, squeezing his hand. “I just… I love seeing you with them. You’re amazing with them, you know that?”

Buck’s expression softened, and he pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “They’re great kids. And I’m pretty lucky, too. Not everyone gets to be a cowboy sidekick for Halloween.”

Riley laughed softly, the sound carrying through the cool night air. “You’re definitely the best one they could ask for.”

They continued down the street, Lily and Miles darting from house to house, collecting candy and showing off their costumes. As the night wore on, their little group made its way back home, the kids chattering excitedly about their candy haul while Riley and Buck followed behind, hands intertwined.

When they finally arrived back at Riley’s house, Buck lifted Lily up in his arms, spinning her around until she shrieked with laughter. “Alright, Princess Lily, I think it’s time to count your royal treasure,” he said, setting her down on the porch. She immediately dumped her candy onto the steps, sorting through the pile with wide-eyed excitement.

Miles joined her, comparing their hauls and divvying up their favorite sweets. Riley leaned against the porch railing, watching the scene with a content smile. Buck joined her, slipping an arm around her waist and pulling her close.

“You know,” he murmured, his voice low and filled with warmth, “I never really thought this was something I’d be doing—taking kids trick-or-treating, being a cowboy, all of it. But… I think it might be my favorite Halloween yet.”

Riley looked up at him, her eyes shining. “Yeah? Why’s that?”

He glanced over at Miles and Lily, then back at her, a soft smile playing at his lips. “Because I get to do it with you. And… it just feels right, you know? Like this is where I’m meant to be.”

Riley felt her heart swell, and she reached up to brush a gentle hand against his cheek. “You’re where you’re meant to be, Buck. Right here with us.”

They stood there for a moment, wrapped in the glow of the porch light and the laughter of the kids, knowing that this Halloween—this simple, perfect night—was something they’d both remember for a long time to come.

[goldfishgrahamcracker]

Franklin's lost expedition crew

I was looking at posts about AMC's The Terror and I kept getting confused by the use of first names, so I wanted to see how many of the characters had the same names. Arranging the crew in alphabetical order, I got:

1 x Abraham (Seeley)

4 x Alexander (Berry, McDonald, Paterson, Wilson)

5 x Charles (Best, Coombs, Des Voeux, Johnson, Osmer)

1 x Cornelius (Hickey)

2 x Daniel (Arthur, Bryant)

3 x David (Leys, Macdonald, Young) + Bonus: Bryant in the show but most historical sources I found list him as Daniel

1 x Edmund (Hoar)

3 x Edward (Couch, Genge, Little)

2 x Edwin (Helpman, Lawrence)

3 x Francis (Crozier, Dunn, Pocock)

1 x Frederick (Hornby) + Bonus: Des Voeux, whom I have seen referred to as Frederick rather than Charles on occasion

6 x George (Cann, Chambers, Hodgson, Kinnaird, Thompson, Williams)

1 x Gillies (MacBean)

1 x Graham (Gore)

7 x Henry/Harry (Collins, Goodsir, Le Vesconte, Lloyd, Peglar, Sait, Wilkes)

10 x James (Brown, Daly, Elliot, Fairholme, Fitzjames, Hart, Reid, Ridgen, Thompson, Walker) + Bonus: Ross, who was not part of the expedition but appears in the show

23 x John (Bailey, Bates, Bridgens, Brown, Cowie, Diggle, Downing, Franklin, Gregory, Hammond, Handford, Hartnell, Irving, Kenley, Lane, Morfin, Murray, Peddie, Strickland, Sullivan, Torrington, Weekes, Wilson)

2 x Joseph (Andrews, Healey)

1 x Josephus (Geater)

1 x Luke (Smith)

1 x Magnus (Manson)

1 x Philip (Reddington)

1 x Reuben (Male)

2 x Richard (Aylmore, Wall)

8 x Robert (Carr, Ferrier, Golding, Hopcraft, Johns, Sargent, Sinclair, Thomas)

3 x Samuel (Brown, Crispe, Honey)

1 x Solomon (Tozer)

16 x Thomas (Armitage, Blanky, Burt, Darlington, Evans, Farr, Hartnell, Honey, Johnson, Jopson, McConvey, Plater, Tadman, Terry, Watson, Work)

22 x William (Aitken, Bell, Braine, Clossan, Fowler, Gibson, Goddard, Heather, Hedges, Jerry, Johnson, Mark, Orren, Pilkington, Read, Rhodes, Shanks, Sims, Sinclair, Smith, Strong, Wentzall)

[village-skeptic]

I was tagged in this "get to know you" meme by both @booksandabeer and @stars-inthe-sky - but it has slightly different questions! I've synthesized them, LOL. Thanks for the tag, you guys!

last song: "The Letter," The Box Tops, followed by "The Letter," Joe Cocker. No one make me choose! The former is a perfect, crisp, driving little pop/soul gem; the latter is a live performance that you've probably heard so often that it's easy to forget just how good it is. It feels like everyone on that recording is operating at the height of their powers, and the result is this towering, ecstatic, howling, joyous track that will be stuck in your head for the rest of the day if you're lucky.

currently reading: a manuscript for work that I wouldn't pick up if it wasn't for work, LOL. Last few books, though: Eleanor Catton, Birnam Wood (def recommend, I keep thinking about this one); Thomas Mallon, Fellow Travelers and Up With The Sun (sometimes you have Questions about an author and the only thing to do is to read more of their work; more on that eventually maybe).

last film: Never Let Me Go. Quite simply, I had trouble entering into the spirit of the thing (the concept doesn't really hold up upon examination and I'm not sure I buy the larger analogy), but the book is supposed to be fantastic, of course. I did enjoy baby Keira Knightley, Carey Mulligan, and Andrew Garfield though.

currently watching: The final season of The Crown, more out of curiosity than anything else. I'm finding it very...mid? Is that what the kids are saying? The show peaked a while back, but Elizabeth Debicki's performance as Diana continues to be shockingly good and worth the price of admission. Also, as per my recent reads, watching Fellow Travelers, on track to finish up next week. Waiting to say more about that til I've seen the whole series, but I will say that I have gained a lot of respect for Jonathan Bailey!

three ships: I feel a bit like I'm between fandoms right now, but I can always be talked into reading some good Betty/Jughead, Steve/Bucky, and, uh, *looks at her bookmarks* Crowley/Aziraphale.

favorite color: purple!

currently consuming: About to consume some homemade spinach tortellini soup. (Well, okay. Mostly homemade. The tortellini isn't my own. There are limits.)

relationship status: old married :D

first ship: Hmm! I guess maybe Rachel/Tobias, way back to my preteen Animorph days? Although I certainly did not get into fic for shippy purposes, as @stirringsofconsciousness can verify.

currently working on: desperately needed post-holiday cleaning, honestly. And a bunch of little art projects!

tagging (as ever, with no obligation): @lurker-no-more , @jandjsalmon , @pantsaretherealheroes, @ballroompink

[dalliansss]

If you’re up to it, Caranthir and the prompt “I tried to help you once, against my own advice.”

madilyn bailey: wiser album … sentence starters

The bankers' guild of Tirion sent representatives to Finwe's council every week or every month; oftener if things are urgent in Valinor, and they almost never are. But today is a send-a-representative day, and this is how Morifinwe Carnistir finds himself sitting by the long table in Finwe's council room, by the middle section. His eldest brother Maitimo is surprised to see them there, and Maitimo wastes no time circling the massive table and engulfing him in a hug, which Moryo returns.

"Good morrow, hanno, it is nice to see you here," Maitimo greets, pulling back just enough so he can briefly press their foreheads. The gesture, reserved for childhood, has never been seen as such in Feanaro's household. And all of his sons delighted in this small tokens of appreciation, grown elves they are all.

"Good morrow," Moryo returns. He grasps his brother by his forearm and surveys him. Beautifully imposing as always; Nelyo has his red hair styled in Noldorin braids, yet sans his copper circlet. His robes are a deep forest green trimmed gold on a backdrop of off-white Telerin silk for his inner layers, embroidered with a paler gold for contrast. His boots are perfectly polished. Mm. Crisp and everything princely, as it should be for these councils. "Beautiful robe and tunic, hanno, who made it?"

"You, of course," Nelyo laughs.

The rest of the council arrives. Lords mill about and greet each other, Moryo sparing everybody worth his attention with a bow. At once, some of the elves around begin shifting nervously seeing him there and his ledgers. His cousins arrive as well: Findekano and Findarato, who greet him in varying degrees of cheer. These two, Moryo also spares with a curt nod.

Finwe is the last to arrive, waddling into the council in Vanyarin clothes today. Moryo purses his lips and stands with everybody else, and the long morning of council begins. He is here of course to report on Tirion's economic standing so far, and if certain projects submitted the months passed could be funded. Of course, as one of the main signatories for any treasury warrant of the Noldor, Moryo has a say which projects can be funded or not. He approves funding for those urgently needed. The more frivolous, relegated to the whims of lords like Ninimben and Thilior, are rejected. Moryo knows he has long made enemies of the two older elves, but he doesn't care. They are not of Feanaro's people, but Arafinwe's.

It is a long, tiring morning. They end about an hour past the midday meal, and Laurelin has abandoned her zenith to begin her soft waning in preparation for the Mingling. Moryo gathers his ledgers, spares a greeting for Finwe as he passes, and endures his grandfather's pinching of his ruddy cheeks; valiantly bearing Finwe's perpetual complaints of 'he should eat more'.

Nelyo went on ahead with Findekano and Findarato. Moryo is the last to leave the council room, and he descends the steps leading to the palace and finds himself waylaid by Makalaure his second oldest brother, of all people.

Long story short (and because he can read the harrassed thoughts wafting from Makalaure), his brother needs money to fund the costumes for his next opera at the Telerin stage, due in two months.

Moryo frowns. Makalaure (and Curufinwe) have grown up with the terrible notion that debts should not be repaid, especially if they borrow from family. Much less their own brother. If Makalaure coursed this through the budget, it would have been an instant rejection, for him. The theater can recycle costumes. And don't they earn revenue from each show, each elf that watches?

“I tried to help you once, against my own advice," says Moryo after a long silence. "Twenty thousand crowns you owe, and I have yet to see a single coin returned to me."

Makalaure tantrums. Wheedles. Pleads his case. Moryo wouldn't let his brother the greatest musician of the Noldor fail a project, would he? Have pity on his students! His apprentices! His entire music class, whose final project for the semester this show is. They just need costumes!

"If it is your students who need costumes," says Moryo. "Then they can buy them themselves, or make them. For those who have not yet attained Majority, then solicit their parents for the funds. I am not going to let you borrow from me, not until you pay back all that you owe first. You have been given all the extensions for each debt. If you doubt my records, come see me at the bankers' guild. I am there every Isilya, Alduya and Menelya. Business hours only."

He continues walking. Makalaure puffs up his cheeks, determined to continue the harrassment, and waddles after him. Moryo shutters his mind against the relentless beating of his brother's thoughts against his mind.

This will indeed be a very long day. Sigh.

[digenerate-trash]

Ashersanity’s yandere Robin. Robin who keeps getting into danger so the player will get them out of it. Sorry, the player can’t visit; Robin got into a fight at the lemonade stand. Avery asked you on a date? Robin has suddenly fallen ill. Robin doesn’t ask the player to stay, but Robin will be all alone without anyone to ensure Robin takes the medication on schedule.

Ash has some fucking crisp headcannons. I also like that they are a witney fucker. It's a very nice combo!!! I love the idea of Robin just hinting that they need you. Like "don't leave me ill be sad" stuff. Guilt tripping king.

But I also like them being such a manipulative bastard that it hurts like switching on you to bailey. Spreading rumors around school that make you less desirable. Stright up causing problems so you come crying to them!!

You don't need the world when you have robin!!