#best places to travel in june
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3nn-express · 6 months ago
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Best Places to Travel in June 2024.
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Best Places to Travel in June 2024: With the coming of summer and its longer days, tourists have an abundance of options to choose from when choosing their June destination. There are many great destinations to visit this month, whether you want to take part in an exciting event, celebrate Dad on Father’s Day, or just take a long weekend away from the daily grind.
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safarideal · 2 years ago
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Safari Deal’s handy safari calendar can help you shortlist the best places to travel in June.
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calpicowater · 2 years ago
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Week 17/52: April 24th - April 30th 2023 | Abbotsford 🍟
In Abbotsford for work for the next 10 days... this was my week one. Fairly uneventful. Just work, scroll, rinse, repeat. My hotel was the worst... did not have a functioning shower... but otherwise, weather was super warm. Hello to summer weather! Had some really good Church’s Chicken. 2 piece spicy combo with fries and biscuit... and fanta! 🍊
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zetexa · 1 month ago
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Discovering the Best Places to Visit in June in the UK: Your Definitive Travel Guide
June is one of the best periods to visit the UK; enjoy the long days and nice warm weather, not forgetting many lively events all over the country. If you are in search of a few treasure-seekers for the sake of a relaxing holiday in a quiet town by the sea or maybe to get to know the buzz of the city or just spend your time bathing in the natural beauty of the countryside, the UK has something in store for you. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit in June in the UK to ensure that you have an unforgettable summer break. 
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1. Cornwall – A Coastal Heaven
Cornwall is one of the best destinations for visiting in June in the UK, where the golden beaches and rugged coastlines come alive with rising temperatures where enthusiastic surfers, beach visitors, and hikers are ready to visit this place to experience its beauty. Sunbathing on the famous beaches like Fistral Beach in Newquay or Porthminster Beach in St Ives are always a thrill. 
Adventure-seekers can enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, or even sea kayaking, while those for whom stunning views are a great attraction must walk the South West Coast Path. 
There are also some great events in June including the Royal Cornwall Show that takes place to celebrate the agricultural heritage of the region. For those interested in more creative pursuits, the Eden Sessions at the Eden Project have big-name artists visiting the unique venue to create a memorable summer experience. 
There is nothing of more value for all the more distant coastal stretches than to stay in touch with an eSIM like Zetexa. Meanwhile, you will be connected to both 4G and 5G at all times while navigating your itinerary or uploading images from your stunning Cornwall adventure to be shared with friends online. 
2. Edinburgh – The Cultural Capital
This city is steeped in history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. In June, Edinburgh warms up and becomes warm and inviting with outdoor festivals and other events. Simply take strolls along the cobbled streets of Old Town, contemplate the iconic Edinburgh Castle, or hike up Arthur's Seat for 360-degree views of the city.  
The Edinburgh International Film Festival is probably one of the high lights of June: a cultural showcase of films from around the globe. Cinema fans throng the streets and the cities, complementing the city's rich cultural life. Beyond the Royal Mile, the National Museum of Scotland, and walking around Princes Street Gardens are some of the things you could never miss while in the city. 
The Zetexa eSIM will make your Edinburgh visit so much easier. It will enable you to remain connected to online maps, travel guides, and instant messaging applications, just in case you need coordination with fellow travel companions, without too much dependence on local SIM cards. Moreover, it covers you seamlessly, so streaming media without interruptions shall be possible at any of the numerous spots in and around the city. 
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3. The Cotswolds – A Charming Countryside Getaway  
But for a peaceful and picture-perfect countryside retreat, no question is better than the best destination for June can be the Cotswolds-famed land of picture-perfect villages, honey-colored stone cottages, and rolling green hills. 
June is a good time to visit because local gardens and meadows are in full bloom. Bibury, with Arlington Row-Arlington Row, for example, which is very famous, offers Instagram shots that well encapsulate the quintessence of the charms of the English countryside.  
Another fun way to ride through the region is cycling through Cotswolds. There are a fair number of tracks which take you through places with historical monuments as well as really very beautiful landscapes. Must visit Blenheim Palace, which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
If you come across the serene and peaceful Cotswolds, you can ensure staying connected through your journey through Zetexa eSIM. You might need to find the best places to eat or navigate your way through the countryside; in any case, Zetexa has reliable data so that travelers don't incur roaming charges. 
4. London – Vibrant City Experience  
A perennial favorite with travelers in June, this UK capital is one of the best places to visit during such time. Life in the city resumes a vibrant beat during summer when many festivals and outdoor events take place amidst plenty of great sights. 
Enjoy outdoor movies, rooftop bars, and scattered open-air concerts during the summer of June. Hyde Park holds an abundance of picnics, paddle boating, and sunbathing. Kew Gardens is especially vibrant during these months from the flowers that bloom. Events such as the Taste of London festival allow you to sample some of the best dining on offer in the city. 
June is when you want to see all the symbols in London, like Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum, but this is also the perfect month for visiting the city's secrets. Must see's in the neighborhoods: Camden for something from nowhere shopping, Shoreditch for street arts and nights out, Greenwich as an escape from urbanization. 
A trip to London requires a reliable connection to make the most of the extensive transport networks and online information. Zetexa eSIM is just right to guide you through the Underground, checking restaurant reviews, or sharing your moments of London all instantly and with hassle-free local SIMs and expensive data plans. 
5. Lake District – Nature's Haven 
Nature lovers will find among the best destinations to go in June in the UK - namely the Lake District - a place that accommodates full-blown green landscapes along with glistening lakes and several hiking trails to explore. It's a perfect destination to bring serenity and adventure alive in equal proportions. 
But by June the days are warm and long, perfect for hiking, boating, or simply taking in the breathtaking views at Lake Windermere or Derwentwater. The Lake District National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the quaint towns of Ambleside, Keswick, and Grasmere offer some great local experiences. 
Visit Hill Top, the home of the celebrated children's author Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth's Grasmere explaining the life of the great poet. For all hiking enthusiasts, challenge yourself by climbing England's highest peak, Scafell Pike. 
But it is also a fact that mobile signals can be spotty in most parts of the Lake District, so with Zetexa eSIM you always have access to it. Zetexa gives you maps, weather forecasts, and emergency numbers regardless of your location, thus turning your Lake District getaway into a safe and easy experience. 
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6. Brighton – The Ultimate Seaside Escape 
Brighton is one of the UK's favorite seaside towns, where beach fun, culture, and nightlife go hand in hand. It is a favorite destination during June because the beach town buzzes with festivals, live performances, and outdoor events. 
Spend your days ambling along Brighton Pier, getting lost in the many offbeat shops in The Lanes, or dining on the beach at one of the hip restaurants. Brighton's celebration of Pride starts in June and is a fantastic destination for free-spirited travelers. For history buffs, the Royal Pavilion is a must-see: with its unique Indo-Saracenic architecture and fascinating exhibitions. 
The more you stay connected to Zetexa travel eSIM on your Brighton vacation, the sooner you can even book event tickets, find out where the tastiest food is, or share this experience with your friends back home. 
Conclusion 
This is because the UK in June offers quite a load of beautiful yet very different places to visit. People who prefer historical streets should visit Edinburgh, people who love the peaceful landscape would be at home in the Lake District, while those who think modernity is the most energetic thing alive are likely to spend great June in London. 
Make the best of your trip to the best places in June by taking the right equipment for smooth travel. Experience the best connectivity, affordable data plans, and worldwide coverage with Zetexa eSIM while exploring your UK adventures. 
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everydayloanindia1 · 7 months ago
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Explore the best places to visit in June in India! Embrace the serene beauty of Ladakh's rugged landscapes, or unwind amidst the lush greenery of Munnar in Kerala. Discover the historical charm of Jaipur's palaces or embark on a wildlife adventure in Jim Corbett National Park. Experience the cultural richness of Varanasi along the banks of the Ganges or indulge in the tranquil beaches of Goa. June beckons with endless possibilities for unforgettable experiences across India.
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spacebell · 8 months ago
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I’m tired and bored at work and I want to go home and I don’t have much left to do
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ankitamittal2023 · 1 year ago
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"Embracing the 2023 Monsoon: Top 30 Destinations to Explore in India this August"
"Embracing the 2023 Monsoon: Top 30 Destinations to Explore in India this August"
The monsoon season doesn't just bring refreshing rain; it's also a fantastic time for travellers who want to explore the best places to visit in India during August. This month offers not only delightful weather but also a range of advantages for those eager to travel. You can enjoy special deals, more affordable packages, discounts, promotions, increased savings, extra privacy, and, most importantly, enhanced travel experiences.
So, when the rain falls and nature comes alive, these August destinations in India showcase breathtaking views accompanied by the scent of rain on earth, creating a truly enchanting experience for travellers.
"Exploring India in August 2023: Top Destinations to Discover"
Discover the most thrilling destinations throughout India where you can truly enjoy the monsoon season. Take a look at the top 30 places to consider visiting in India during August:
Unveiling the Enchanting Tea Gardens of Munnar:
Munnar, a beloved destination for honeymooners and nature enthusiasts alike, is a famous hill station in Kerala. It offers a blend of captivating tea estates, stunning waterfalls, hiking and trekking trails, wildlife sanctuaries, lively rivers, and mist-covered majestic mountains.
Places to Explore in Munnar:
Hydel Park
Echo Point
Mattupetty Dam
Anamudi
Rose Garden
Eravikulam National Park
Munnar Tea Museum
Activities to Enjoy in Munnar:
Explore the tea estate at Kolukkumalai
Go boating in Kundale Lake
Trek to the Top Station
Experience an elephant safari at Carmelagiri Elephant Park
Recommended Accommodation:
Zia Resorts
Dream Valley Resorts and Spa
Ragamaya Resort and Spa
Treebo Trendy Misty Garden Resorts & Spa
Sterling
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
Getting There:
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 110 kilometers away. The closest railway station is Aluva, also around 110 kilometers away.
Weather in Munnar:
Expect an average temperature of 22°C.
Starting Price for Packages: INR 5,700/-
Athirapally: Exploring a Realm of Breathtaking Waterfalls
You know those stunning waterfalls from the movie Bahubali? Well, Athirapally is one of those amazing places to explore in August in India. It's situated in the Chalakudy Taluk of Thrissur district and is a prime spot to visit during Kerala's monsoon season. This is especially true if you're looking for a great destination in South India for August.
What to See in Athirapally:
Charpa Falls
Anakkayam
Sholayar Dam
Vazhachal Forest Gardens
Thumburmuzhi Gardens
Malakkappara Tea Gardens
Activities to Enjoy:
Trekking
River Rafting
Elephant Spotting
Nature Walks
Where to Stay:
Palatty’s Resort
Ayurveda Resort Casa Ribera Punarjani
River Banks Madaparambil Resort
Spice Grove
Hotel Dhanyasree
Getting There:
The nearest airport is Kochi Airport, about 71 kilometers away. If you're taking the train, Thrissur Railway Station is the closest, at a distance of 61 kilometers.
Weather in Athirapally:
Anticipate an average temperature of 28°C.
Packages Starting From: INR 3,800/-
Wayanad: Explore the Picturesque Natural Beauty on a Backpacking Journey
"Wayanad: Unmissable Beauty for Honeymooners and Nature Lovers"
Missing out on Wayanad in your travel plan to Kerala would leave your journey incomplete. Wayanad is the ultimate destination to visit in India for a honeymoon in August. It's a perfect blend of captivating natural landscapes and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal spot in Kerala for a rejuvenating getaway.
Places to Explore in Wayanad:
Chembra Peak
Kuruvadweep Waterfalls
Bandipur National Park
Mudumalai National Park
Pookode Lake
Banasura Sagar Dam
Activities to Enjoy in Wayanad:
Backpacking at Edakkal Caves
Safari at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Exploring Banasura Hill on a Backpacking Adventure
Recommended Accommodation:
Kpm Tripenta Hotel
Treebo Trend Casino Hotel
Grand Plaza Suites
The Raviz Calicut
Metro Empires
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 Night/2 Days
Getting There:
The nearest airport is Kozhikode Airport, around 97 kilometers away. If you're traveling by train, the closest railway station is Kozhikode Railway Station, located about 110 kilometers away.
Weather in Wayanad:
Expect an average temperature of 29°C.
Packages Starting From: INR 5,450/-
Exploring Kumarakom's Enchanting Houseboats: A Memorable Journey
Kumarakom is a lovely place by the famous Vembanad Lake. It's a group of small islands that lots of honeymooners really like. People go there for the peaceful backwaters, nice beaches, and beautiful views. August is a good time to visit, especially if you're in South India.
Top Places to Visit:
Vembanad Lake
Kumarakom Beach
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls.
Fun Things to Do:
Go on a houseboat ride
See a Kathakali performance
Try Ayurvedic treatment at Maya Spa
Watch birds at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Where to Stay: There are many options to stay like-
Kalathil Lake Resort
Ramada Resort By Wyndham Kochi
Deshadan Backwater Resort
KM’s Green Island Resort.
Best Length of Visit: Stay for 1 night and 2 days.
Getting There: The closest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 85 kilometers away. The nearest train station is Kottayam Railway Station, about 16 kilometers away.
Weather: The average temperature is about 29°C.
Packages start at: INR 16,274.
Auli: Feel the Romantic Atmosphere
Auli is one of the finest places to explore in North India during August. While it's famous for skiing in snowy seasons, Auli takes on a completely different charm during the monsoon. The months from July to September bring moderate rainfall, painting the landscape in vibrant shades. With pleasant temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius, August is perfect for enjoying sightseeing tours. The rain adds a touch of romance to this Himalayan hill station, making it a romantic getaway. However, be cautious of slippery roads after the rain. The showers bring out a lusher and fresher view of the valley.
Must-Visit Spots in Auli:
Kwani Bugyal
Trishul Peak
Rudraprayag
 Joshimath
Chenab Lake
Nanda Devi Range
Things to Enjoy in Auli:
Sightseeing
Trekking
Cable Car Rides
Hiking, Paragliding
Where to Stay:
Choose from The Himalayan Abode
Hotel Manik Resort Auli
Hotel Mount View
Hotel Auli D
The Sleeping Beauty
Recommended Duration: Ideal for a 2 Nights/3 Days Trip
Getting There: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. The closest railway station is Rishikesh. State transport buses are available from Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Weather: The average temperature in Auli is around 15°C.
Packages Starting From: INR 9,000/-
Explore Delhi's Rich History in its Lively Capital
August in Delhi is truly special. It's considered one of the finest places to spend your vacation. The city's charm is irresistible with its friendly people, lively festivals, and a big national carnival. There's so much to enjoy here. You won't run out of places to visit in Delhi. The delicious Mughlai dishes in Old Delhi will make your taste buds happy, and the old-fashioned buildings from long ago will amaze you. After you've explored Delhi during the rainy season, make sure to also visit these nearby places in India during August.
Top Spots to See in Delhi:
Agrasen Ki Baoli
Akshardham Temple
Jama Masjid
Iskcon Temple
Lotus Temple
Lutyens Area.
Fun Things to Do in Delhi:
Shopping
Walk in Nature
Try Cafes
Eat at Majnu Ka Tila
Explore Monuments.
Where to Stay:
Options include The Leela Palace
Taj Palace
The Lodhi
The Imperial
Maidens Hotel.
Recommended Time: Stay for 3 Nights and 4 Days.
How to Get There: You can reach Delhi easily through Indira Gandhi International Airport and New Delhi Railway Station, connected to many cities.
Weather: Expect an average temperature of 34°C.
Packages Available: Starting from INR 4,000
Explore the Amazing Palaces of Jaipur
In August, Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, has a special charm. This city, known as the pink city, has a long history of royalty. The month of August adds to its appeal, making it a top place to visit. Jaipur has impressive forts and palaces that add to its grand beauty. It's definitely one of the most attractive places to go in August.
Top Attractions in Jaipur: When you're in Jaipur, make sure to explore these amazing places - Hawa Mahal
Amer Fort
Jantar Mantar
Chokhi Dhani
Birla Mandir
Ram Nivas Garden
Fun Activities in Jaipur: For an exciting time
Try out a hot air balloon ride
Paragliding
Camping
Jeep safari
camel ride.
Great Accommodation Choices: Stay at Umaid Vilas
The Owl House
Winter Garden
La Pension Heritage Villa
Dee Boat House
Recommended Trip Duration: A perfect getaway for 2 nights and 3 days.
Getting There: Reach Jaipur via its airport, only 12 km from the city center. Buses from Rajasthan state and Delhi make traveling easy.
Jaipur's Climate: Expect an average temperature of 33°C (91°F) in Jaipur.
Affordable Packages: Packages start at just INR 4,000/-
Diu: Break Free from the Routine of Everyday Life
Once a peaceful getaway for the Portuguese, Diu continues to draw tourists seeking a relaxing escape from the busy life. The charming beaches, serene atmosphere, and pleasant August weather make it a top choice for those looking to travel in India during this month.
Exploring Diu: Must-See Spots –
Nagoa Beach
Shell Museum
Jalandhar Shrine
Diu Fort
Gangeshwar Temple
Una
Activities in Diu:
Enjoy a beach bonfire
go camping
take a boat tour
experience nightlife
do some birdwatching.
Where to Stay: Choose from Bellevue Sarovar Portico, Hotel Sapphire, Hotel Grand Heritage, Lords Inn Somnath, King’s Kraft.
Best Trip Length: Plan for a great 2-night, 3-day visit.
Getting There: Reach Diu via its island airport with flights from major Indian cities. If driving, it's 370 km from Ahmedabad, well-linked to other key places.
Diu's Climate: Expect an average temperature of 25°C (77°F).
Packages Begin At: Starting from INR 13,000/-
Goa: Wander Along the Beautiful Beaches:
India's most famous vacation spot, especially for bachelor trips, is at its best in August. With lively beach fashion and palm-lined shores, Goa becomes one of the top choices for couples looking to travel in India during this month.
Exploring Goa: Must-See Spots –
Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Dudhsagar Falls
Fort Aguada
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Kanakeshwar Forest
Margao.
Activities in Goa:
Enjoy beach camping
Birdwatching
dolphin watching
swimming
skydiving.
Where to Stay: Choose from
Radisson Blu Resort
Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Goa
The Leela Goa
Silent Beach Resort
Caravela Beach Resort.
Recommended Trip Length: Plan for a comfortable 5-night, 6-day stay.
Getting There: Reach Goa via Dabolim Airport, just 29 km from the state capital. Major railheads are Madgaon and Thivim, well-connected to trains from all around India.
Goa's Climate: Expect an average temperature of 24°C (75°F).
Packages Start At: Beginning from INR 5,000/-
Alibaug: Feel the Peaceful Atmosphere:
A lot of people from Mumbai like to visit Alibaug for a vacation. It's one of the best places to go to in India with your family during August. The place is perfect during the rainy season. Alibaug gives you a peaceful environment to relax away from the busy city. It's one of the nicest places to visit in Maharashtra.
Places to Explore in Alibaug:
Nagaon Beach
Alibaug Beach
Kolaba Fort
Mandwa Beach
Kanakeshwar Forest
Varsoli Beach
Fun Activities in Alibaug:
Trek to Sagargad
Enjoy Bumpy Rides
Jet Skiing
Camping at Revdanda Beach
Experience Banana Boat Rides
Accommodation Options:
Golden Swan Beach Resort
Coco’s Inn
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Alibaug
Tranquil Coast Resorts
Lotus Eco Beach Resort
Recommended Duration: 1 Night and 2 Days
Getting There: Nearest airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (140 kilometers away)
Two-hour journey by local buses from Mumbai
Alibaug's Weather: Average temperature: 26.4°C
Package Prices Start From: INR 5,200/-
Agumbe: Watch the Beautiful Sunsets:
If you're familiar with the popular show Malgudi Days, you'll recognize the charming town of Agumbe. It's a captivating place up in the hills of southwest Karnataka. Agumbe is a great place to visit in August, especially if you're looking for a rainy getaway near Bangalore.
Places to Explore in Agumbe:
Sunset View Point
Barkana Falls
Onake Abbi Falls
Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary
Fun Activities in Agumbe:
Trek to Koodlu Theertha Falls
Hike to Jogi Gundi Falls
Visit Sunset Point
Try to Spot a King Cobra
Accommodation Options:
Malgudi Home Stay
Mallya Residency
Hotel Sharda Comforts
Recommended Duration: 1 night/2 days
Getting There: Kempegowda International Airport (378 kilometers away)
Udupi railway station (54 kilometers away)
Agumbe's Weather: Average temperature: 28°C
Package Prices Start From: INR 4,500/-
Kanyakumari: Reach the Stunning Southern Tip of India:
Situated at the very bottom of Tamil Nadu, Kanyakumari is a pretty seaside town that always delights travelers with its warm and tropical feel. It's a great place to visit in August for a beach vacation. Kanyakumari is also where an amazing bike journey along India's coastlines begins.
Places to Visit in Kanyakumari:
Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Thiruvalluvar Statue
Padmanabhapuram Palace
Vattakottai Fort
Things to Do in Kanyakumari:
Trek to Marunthuvazh Malai
Watch the sunset from the Viewing Tower
Visit the Government Museum
Enjoy adventures at Baywatch amusement park
Places to Stay:
Hotel Lance International
Elite Residency
Hotel VLR Residency
Hotel Pioneer Paradise
Hotel Shyama
Ideal Duration:
1 Night/2 Days
How to Reach: Trivandrum International Airport (67 kilometers away)
Kanyakumari has its own railway station connected to major cities in India.
Weather in Kanyakumari: Average temperature of 27°C.
Packages Starting At: INR 6,500/-
Pahalgam: Experience the Beauty of Nature at Its Finest:
Pahalgam is a well-known hill station in the center of Jammu & Kashmir, often called the Valley of Shepherds. It's a great place to visit in August. Located at a high altitude of 7200 ft., Pahalgam is surrounded by snowy Himalayan mountains, beautiful valleys, thick pine forests, and stunning views. Pahalgam and its nearby areas are excellent choices for a trip in August if you're heading to northern India.
Places to Visit in Pahalgam:
Betaab Valley
Baisaran Hills
Mamleshwar Temple
Pahalgam Golf Course
Chandanwari
Tulian Lake
Things to Do in Pahalgam:
Enjoy Sightseeing
Trek to Kolahoi Glacier
Go on the Chandanwari-Sheshnag Lake hike
Have fun at the Lidder Amusement Park
Places to Stay:
Pahalgam Hotel
Welcome Hotel Pine And Peak
Hotel Heevan
Hotel Royal Hilton
Paradise Inn
Ideal Duration:
1 Night/2 Days
How to Reach:
Airport: Srinagar (about 95 kilometers away)
Railway Station: Jammu (about 255 kilometers away)
Weather in Pahalgam:
Average temperature above 30°C.
Packages Starting At: INR 11,300/-
Bikaner: Experience the Charm of the Olden Days:
Situated not far from Pakistan's borders, Bikaner is a famous destination to explore in India during August. Surrounded by the Thar desert on all sides, Bikaner is known for the renowned Junagarh Fort, constructed in the 16th century.
Places to Visit in Bikaner:
Lalgarh Palace
Junagarh Fort
Gajner Palace
National Research Centre on Camel
Things to Do in Bikaner:
Enjoy a Camel Safari
Watch Birds at Gajner Sanctuary
Go Boating at Gajner Lake
Places to Stay:
Little Buddha Guesthouse
Guest House Jamna Vilas
S. K. Guest House
Balaji Guesthouse
The Prince Haveli
Ideal Duration:
1 Night/2 Days
How to Reach:
Nearest airport: Jodhpur Airport (about 251 kilometers away)
Bikaner is connected by two railway stations: Lalgarh Railway Station & Bikaner Junction.
Weather in Bikaner: Average temperature of 31.7°C
Packages Starting At: INR 7,000/-
Khajuraho: Embrace the Spiritual Atmosphere:
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, Khajuraho is a top place to see in Madhya Pradesh. It's famous for its many love temples, featuring intricate carvings that are considered exceptional art. The pleasant August weather and many things to see and do make it a great choice for visiting with friends.
Places to Visit in Khajuraho:
Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Archaeological Museum
Lakshmana Temple
Shivsagar Lake
Devi Jagadambi Temple
Things to Do in Khajuraho:
Go on a Safari at Panna National Park
Enjoy the Sound & Light Show at Western Group of Temples
Shop at Mrignayani for local goods
Places to Stay:
Hotel Ramada By Wyndham Khajuraho
Hotel Isabel Palace
The Lalit Temple View
Hotel Harmony
Hotel Radisson Jass
Ideal Duration:
1 Night/2 Days
How to Reach:
Khajuraho airport connects to major cities in India.
Khajuraho has its own railway station, but the Mahoba Junction (75 kilometers away) has better connectivity from many cities in India.
Weather in Khajuraho: Average temperature of 25.8 °C.
Packages Starting At: INR 17,499/-
Kinnaur: Hike for an Adventure-filled Experience:
The saying "Don't judge a book by its cover" fits perfectly for Kinnaur, a magical spot in Himachal Pradesh. Despite its small size and population, it offers incredible views and exciting experiences, making it one of the top hill stations to explore in India during August.
Places to Visit in Kinnaur:
Kinnaur Kailash mountain ranges
Shipki La Pass
Nako Gompa
Reo Purgyil
Maheshwar Temple
Things to Do in Kinnaur:
Go Backpacking through Borasu Pass
Watch the Sunrise from Kalpa
Trek through Bhabha-Pin valley
Places to Stay:
Hotel Kalpa
Hotel Batseri Sangla
Hotel Kalpa Deshang
Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days
How to Reach:
Nearest airport: Shimla (267 kilometers away)
Nearest railway station: Shimla (244 kilometers away)
Weather in Kinnaur: Average temperature ranging from 20°C to 23°C.
Packages Starting At: INR 4,000/-
Darjeeling: Immerse in the Lush Greenery
Situated close to the base of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is among India's finest hill stations. Nestled in West Bengal, it's known for being a popular honeymoon spot. This also makes it a top choice for an August trip in India. Additionally, the new forest trail in Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful place for nature lovers and adventure seekers to enjoy.
Places to Visit in Darjeeling:
Tiger Hill
Batasia Loop
Rock Garden
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Japanese Temple
Things to Do in Darjeeling:
Trek to Tiger Hill
Try Rock Climbing at Tenzing Rock
Enjoy Boating in Mirik's Lakes
Take a Ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Places to Stay:
Rose Allita Hotels And Resorts
Aranya Jungle Resorts
Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort
Martam Village Resort
Resort Green Heaven
Ideal Duration:
2 Nights/3 Days
How to Reach:
Nearest airport: Bagdogra (95 kilometers away)
Darjeeling has its own railway station connected to major cities in India.
Weather in Darjeeling: Average temperature of 26°C.
Packages Starting At: INR 6,250/-
Mawlynnong: Experience the Beauty of This Enchanting Paradise:
Mawlynnong is known for its unique living root bridge and holds the title of the cleanest village in Asia. Situated in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills, it's a wonderful place to visit in August. This charming village is a true paradise with its natural beauty, making it one of the top choices for an August trip in India.
Places to Visit in Mawlynnong:
Sightseeing
The Root Bridge
Mawlynnong Waterfall
Balancing Rock
Dawki
Things to Do in Mawlynnong:
Trek on the Living Root Bridge
Explore the Skywalk at Mawlynnong Village
Places to Stay:
Odyssey Stays Mawlynnong
R B Guest House
Shaiti Home Stay cum View Point
Ideal Duration:
2 Nights/3 Days
How to Reach:
Nearest airport: Shillong Airport (about 104 kilometers away)
Nearest railway station: Guwahati railway station (about 120 kilometers away)
Weather in Mawlynnong: Average temperature of 25.5°C.
Packages Starting At:
INR 12,000/-
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evergreenbharat1 · 2 years ago
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5 Best Places to Travel in May June in India-evergreenbharat
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India is a diverse and vibrant country that offers a wide range of destinations for travelers. If you’re planning a trip to India during May and June, you’re in for a treat. Here are the five best places to visit during these months, along with some travel tips and must-visit places at each destination.For More Information Visit Our Website -https://www.evergreenbharat.com/5-best-places-to-travel-in-may-june-in-india/
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khajjiartourpackages · 2 years ago
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Best Places to Visit in June in India
Come and enjoy the beauty of the mesmerizing beach destinations like Kerala and Goa apart from wonderful hill stations and cities in India. India trip in June from Delhi through Hello-visit will remain an experience that will embed in your memory for the rest of your life. India is among the sensational nations when it comes to world tourism and the main reason is diversity of heritage and natural beauty. From the fascinating Dal lake and Mughal gardens of Kashmir to the backwaters of Kerala and the age old temples of Tamilnadu, India provides it all.
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yanderemommabean · 7 months ago
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Hey Beans-
Hey beans, I have a bit of a hellish update. 
Yesterday was one of the worst days of my life. My grandma made a huge fight happen while I was on call with a friend, and things just escalated between me and her so badly I had to leave. When I came back home, my family was also on my ass about it all, despite knowing how she lies and how she instigates. 
She threatened to hit me, she threatened to kill Sammy, she hurled insult after insult at me and this all started because I didn't get up in time to do something she asked (Which was locking the door. I waited three seconds too long and she went off). 
When I came back after trying to let things cool down I was berated and told I had no right to be so “selfish” in the house, so on and so on, and the fight got so intense I had to just physically walk away, leaving the home and going two miles up the road because I did not feel safe. 
They made me so sick I began to pee blood again, as well as my sugar spiking and causing me to have palpitations. My heart cannot take this stress anymore, and neither can my mental health. I wish I could explain how bad the situation was. I had tears down my face, gasping for air, chest heaving and in pain, I felt like I was on the verge of passing out. 
I got in contact with some good friends of mine, who say they can help get me out of not only that home, but the entire state i'm in. But I need money to do so, for travel and gas and so on. As much as they can house me, they need me to pull my weight. 
I hate having to ask for help, I hate that I'm even in this situation, to the point I'm so sick I might have to be seen in the ER or sent to ICU. 
I need to come up with 700 dollars, and I'm willing to do some commissions, but with how sick I am I may take a bit to get back with you. I plan to leave by early June, if not the beginning of July, as that's when my friends are able to drive down and get me. 
Donations are greatly appreciated, even if you can only afford a single dollar, it’ll be more help than you know. 
If you’re wanting a commission, please don't send money and then ask, for your sake and mine. I’m incredibly overwhelmed, and I’ll do my best to get with you and explain rates. 
And if you’re willing to donate anything, here’s my Ko-fi link. 
Again, I can’t thank you enough for if you donate or even spread this post around, even well wishes mean the world to me because I know you beans care and want to help however you can.
This post was incredibly hard to make, I’m still all over the place and trying to figure everything out, so I apologize if this sounds like rambling and nonsense. There is a silver lining however, as I actually have a way out this time, and I pray I can get out before things can get worse.
-Mommabean 
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samodivaa · 1 year ago
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Thrill me, Fulfill me
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You agreed to help for one mission—now you are both lustful and carnal, affected by sex pollen—you are flint, he is tinder.
Warnings - sex pollen, smut, rough/possessive sex, Hydra past, breeding kink, choking kink, multiple orgasms
Words - 8k
(the 3D render is for this fic, enjoy :3)
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The horizon tips on its side, and slowly, hour by hour, the day spills out and soon the night will spread its darkness—traveling through the countryside is a charming escape and in a chronicle of events, with the light of the days—you feel the light inside too, your human spirit wanders in thoughts as you sit on the BMW’s trunk with closed eyes. It is June, and the world smells of roses, moments like these leave a rich heritage of beautiful memories in their going—in a fortunate combination of delightful weather, Bucky and freedom—your soul feels at peace.
“I talked with Sam, he wants me to help him” There is an endearing nervousness in his voice “I was wondering if you would like to come with us”
In an instant, you reply with an annoyed face “No”
“No? Come on, you need people other than me in your life”
He scolds as he nests between your legs, fingers finding their way on both sides of your hips, drawing soft circles as they travel up towards your waist.
You arch an eyebrow at him, as if the answer is obvious “I don’t need others”
“You will love Sam, I told him about us, I mean-about us living together”
“You did, why?” you clip your words, hissing them into his face as you give a wide-eyed, searching look.
“I used to invite him over to my apartment, he started wondering why I stopped. I wanted him to know anyways”
“What else did you tell him?” you look at him with an arrested expression. His smile fades, and he finds himself staring into your eyes “James?”
It is only a brief moment, but you catch his blink of surprise at your demanding tone before he offers a tentative smile.
“I-I told him about your connections and he was hoping that-” he trails off quietly and you notice a tightness around his mouth and a dimness to his usually bright eyes.
You regard him thoughtfully and he sees the comprehension dawning in your eyes. You know exactly what he is asking.
“Did you miss the part of how I built them?” you ask, your voice dripping with sarcasm.
He huffs in annoyance “Well no, but don’t worry-”
“Oh, hey Sam, I am another brainwashed assassin and when I escaped I did it willingly, for money, nice to meet you by the way”
“I get it, but you are changi-”
You snap, pinching your eyebrows close together.
“And this is my former partner who I used to occasionally fuck at Hydra and now that we have reconnected, we are fucking and living together”
“Anything else you want to add?” 
“No, that's all” you finish bitterly, furious with him for letting Sam know so much about you.
“He already met you once in Madripoor, he knows about your past. Trust me, he is a good person, he accepted me”
You let out a hollow laugh
“I am not Captain America’s best friend, James. I am nobody, I don’t even have a legal identity”
You explain in a humorous yet deprecating tone, staring into space.
“Look at me, you need to trust me” he coos, his blue eyes have a doorway to your heart, the place where his care for you resides “I know that you are scared, but you need other people in your life”
It's the caring that he lovingly gives, the passion that he shows—that convinces you every time.
“If I break your heart, I break mine, darling”
Shifting your mouth from a frown into a light-hearted smile, you let out a small chuckle from underneath your breath. His metal hand rests on the small of your back, in that sweet spot that makes you feel feminine and protected—vanity, fear, uncertainty—all such distortions within your own ego—condition you to stay silent about your own feelings. Your programmed mind-pattern still needs to heal, all you need is time, you will get there eventually.
You kiss him on the cheek, which kind of surprises him.
“Хубаво, ще дойда” (Okay, I will come)
His gaze flickers up to your eyes and he can detect no deceit, no mockery. 
There are many circumstances that lead to arrogance: one is when you're wrong and you can't face it—but you decide to face it this time, because you know that your brain relies on the familiar. It is reluctant to experience the unknown, which is the very essence of your human life.
The past should have no power over the present, but it still does sometimes—anger and death are deeply rooted, your emotional thermostat is broken. Everything in you is broken—you view yourself as pieces and Bucky somehow sees you as a whole.
Inside, your soul was so cold that you hated everything. You even despised the sun, for you knew you would never be able to play in its warm presence—you were condemned to stick to the past, working as a hitman for years. Everything changed when Bucky decided to track you down. You knew he was spying on you, because you made it easier for him.
You were afraid of the aloneness that you trusted for so long, but that is the truth that you still store in the granary of your mind. Maybe you will tell him one day. Maybe one day you will let him know that he helps you abandon your corporeal prison.
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"Я просто люблю запах страха" (I just love the smell of fear) you whisper—a knife-wielding lunatic.
You face the attackers in a kind of instantaneous flash and see the disconsolate eyes, which remain stamped on your heart like the hot coals of fear, the power of death is then borne out by you—the queen at the bloody carnival, not afraid to spill blood while Bucky tries to prevent hurting, killing people at all cost.
It is easy when you work together, just as in the past—but he is holding back, you are not used to seeing him fight so carefully—Winter’s brutality is non-existent.
You sigh as the last man drops dead to the ground. With a knife in his chest. Or, rather, a pair of knives in the chest.
Yes, you helped them locate the rumored Hydra base, but Bucky’s intense paleness on his face shows regret, because you still don’t mind killing—you give him a pitying smile when your eyes meet before your system is poisoned with something.
It is such a tumultuous and intemperate invasion that you forget why you are here. And then your eyes meet again, there is fascination in his gaze, menaced by some invisible danger, and you want to succumb the terrible desire to weep when you realize what it is and you look at the mysterious trembling of your hands—your gaze goes up, but Bucky is nowhere to be seen.
He knows he has to go somewhere, he heads back to the apartment and he has feelings of sorrow, regret, directionless rage, a broad feeling of impotence. The horror of this misfortune penetrates Bucky so deeply that he is close to a panic attack—as if reliving the nightmare he sometimes has—Hydra giving him the pollen back in 1990.
He wanders all through the rooms as if walking in his sleep, chewing on his quiet rage.
He knows the theoretical mechanics of the pollen and he can barely stay on his feet because of the weakness of his knees, his skin is burning and he can’t resist the urgent need to palm himself through his pants—it starts slow and will go progressively worse. 
He rubs his hand over his scalp, where his long hair used to be—now shaved very close to his head and bristling against his fingers, he lowers his blue eerily crystalline eyes before closing them. He feels like he should be crying, but he couldn’t summon the tears.
—it’s all his fault. Why did he need to come to your apartment a year ago, on a beautiful August’s evening?
„I knеw that we were following me, Soldat,“ you loudly acknowledge him, drawing out the derogatory term while your back is turned to him.
Stillness wraps Bucky up in a cold embrace, a chill running down his body as he hears you speak. On the string spun of your angel voice, grief and pain drowns him. The tone drawn from memory in his dreams it’s the same, unblinking, robotic as you offer him one spare look before focusing on cutting vegetables on the wooden board.
He exhales, then he slowly enters the apartment. „It is not Soldat, it’s Sergeant now“ his breath hitches and he stops as soon as he enters the room.
There is a crack in his stoic expression, excruciating memories flooding his mind. He knew that somewhere, some day, maybe at a less miserable time, you may see each other again, but he couldn't wait any longer.
The memories are still in his mind and the pain—too ripe in his heart. The more deeply he felt, the less he was able to breath, thinking of grief, and of getting past it.
That's why he came. He needs you in more ways that he wants to confess.
„Oh? What do you want, Barnes?“ your face is carefully blank.
„I wanted to talk to you“ he starts, taking a couple of steps towards.
Shadows lick up the side of his cheekbones, making his skin gold as he slowly walks to the opposite side of the kitchen island, you hear him move the wooden seating.
„And you couldn’t just-I don’t know…have knocked on the door?“
„Sorry, I didn’t know how to-“
He says, a tremor makes his voice uneven. Bucky takes in a deep breath to balance out the embarrassment thrumming through him.
„It is easier to be loyal to past habits, can’t blame you“ you murmur, voice perfectly respectful as you think about it with a heavy heart.
You said it as a matter of fact, without the scorn and mockery, but as an accepted truth before placing the knife you have been using, on the cutting board and finally facing him completely as you step closer to the island as well, leaning forward on your elbows.
But the wintery feeling of the pollen is already clouding the pond, frosting the pane, obscuring that summer's memory of meeting you.
The memory played in his head, with a hopeless nostalgia that he was completely disoriented—he doesn't care if you are heartless, vicious and vulgar, stupid, grasping with incurable programming and mental problems, he enjoys spending time with you. He would rather have misery with you than happiness with any other person, because it is shared, you have a deep and silent understanding.
He was so happy when you suggested living together four months ago—he was okay with the sleepovers at each other's apartments—never was bothered with the need to rush your companionship.
The key to personal development lies in the daily routine—creating new memories with you stretches out psychological time, and lengthens his perception of both your and Bucky’s lives. When he wakes up from a nightmare he is so relieved, because he wakes to a dream, he enjoys the miracle of living with each other as much at the table as in bed.
Bucky finally lays on the bed, his head aches. He admits that he is still human, vulnerable, and sensitive—but he begins to remember how it had been when Hydra gave him the pollen and his self revolted at this, hates himself for not being able to fight it, hates himself for bringing you here.
He is sick with conflict, destructive emotions festeres in him while this sludge eats away at his insides and Bucky is acutely conscious of the swift passage of time, it will make him become blunt and callous—there is a certain clinical satisfaction in seeing just how bad things can get for him, but maybe this is what he deserves.
When you push open the bedroom door, you can’t prevent it from scraping against the uneven floor. Suddenly, in the absolute darkness of his mind, Bucky is brought back to reality. He is not surprised, for without knowing, he has been expecting you to come.
You close the door behind you as he stands up on his elbows—wondering why are you such a stubborn, blind, obtuse woman—why are you here?
Your scent carries across the room and paralyzes him with longing.
“Stay away, why did you fucking follow me?”
You stop in shock at the words he utters—they are so rusty, so ugly, so meaningless.
He is vulnerable, slightly paranoid. Although his voice is broken by uncertainty and his hands seem to doubt the existence of things—he tries to appear composed.
You can feel his eyes traveling up your whole body, staying on your side for a split second before moving up to meet your gaze.
“James, we don’t have another choice, we don’t have time”
You can't blame him—he is scared, scared and frozen, afraid of what he can do to you...the old primitive urge for sex. It's getting harder to control it with every passing minute—every second is lived with terrible intensity. It all flows over you with a screaming ache of pain—as you see him, the need grows even faster...and all you can do is remember and feel—the effects of the pollen—like a disease of the blood, dispersing throughout the body.
He looks like a bundle of past recollections, knotted up in a bundle of flesh.You remember what his flesh has gone through—but you also remember what he put you through that day. You feel the naked fear, the urge of self-preservation, you appear solid in front of him, but you are mimicking nothingness.
“God, I smell you. So hot and sweet”
The blank hell in the back of his mind starts to break through, spewing forth like a dark pestilence, the pollen eats away the pith of his humanity—the chaotic words pour out of his mouth as he gets up from the bed and you self-paralyze, your back hits the door—but this is the only way that will pull you both out of the plunge of—pain, need.
Your sexual attraction to him has been heightened beyond measure, as much as you try to bury it deep down in fear, the lust is getting greater than any other feeling or emotion. Every part of him is heightened to you now...his voice included.
He stops in front of you, belatedly realizing where his feet have carried him. There is no glamor, no attempt to hide it, nothing: his need taking slowly over all his senses. The unwelcomed bubble of intrusive lust, sinking into an even more heavily occluded state—you feel it too as he molds his front to yours and pins your breasts against his chest.
You are mesmerized by the tiny flecks of indigo in his blue eyes—you can drown in those eyes and it wouldn’t be the worst way to go. His beautiful features offer themselves to your gaze as you trail through them, annoyed at how attractive he looks—putting your mind into a darker cloud of irritation, waiting for him to do whatever he wants.
You feel stuffy, there is not enough air to breathe as he cages you against the door, his consciousness already vanishing and deforms itself in something primal, there is a delicious animal fire in his gaze.
“I want to taste you so desperately, it rages through me-fuck, fuck this-I want to fuck you”
His eyes are growing moist with indignation, with angry impotence, he is barely controlling himself. It is the natural sequel of an unnatural beginning— it’s hard—but not harder than his cock.
“Do it, come on” you gasp out.
“If you don’t get out of here, you know what will happen”
He explains weakly, and when you say nothing, he grabs your waist with both hands, vision already blurring. His bones fill up with foam, a languid fear, and a terrible desire.
Bucky’s control dies a slow death, shedding layers like leaves until—there will be none—he tends to be particularly rough, aggressive and possessive when given the pollen. You remember the feeling of possessiveness he had as the Winter Soldier over you, so intense it transformed into an obsession over your body.
“I'm not leaving, I need this as much as you” you say, tremulous with longing.
Bucky stares at your mouth as you speak—it looks provocative to him when you talk.
“Enough, dammit, leave”
His voice tightens, it pierces your soul—half agony, half lust.
You still have the choice of running away and finding someone else to do it, but leaving Bucky behind—you know there is not a girl in the world that can handle him, no one else has the serum, but you—your brain is ricocheting in between. It all drifts to the periphery of the mind when you meet Bucky’s eyes.
“It’s normal-” you say haltingly, your expression turns guarded.
He is livid, a sad look on his face
“We are not normal” he interrupts with a soft firmness “It’s insane to pretend we are”
You are both aware. Catastrophically aware.
“Stop talking, we’ve been through that once-”
and you look so well-equipped for this that is seems abnormal to Bucky, he is conquered by the obstinacy of you—so docile and willing to help—he wants to be emancipated for the moment from the torment of the pollen, but the guilt is still eating him.
“Do you remember the year it happened?”
"You always ask me whether I remember the stupid years, lets just-” you say with a shrug.
"It matters, it matters to me. I hate that you remember, I hate myself for what I've done to you” He explains, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear with his human hand.
"James” you whisper his name tremulously “I don’t blame you for anything”
His pain is paramount and you want it to end. His pain, his guilt. You are willing to suffer for the rest of your night so that he can take the easy way out of his needs. You admit it to yourself, without bitterness—you need to sacrifice dearly on behalf of Bucky. 
“I’ll lose control” What you cannot forgive is dishonesty—you would rather know the hideously unflattering truth of his devastating visions than foul evasions “If you try to run now, I will probably chase you down anyways”
With all that waiting you have lost the strength of your legs, the firmness of your breasts, your tenderness look—barely keeping your heart intact. Maddened by that prodigious talking, you shamelessly groan, closing your eyes.
“This is bad,” you whimper “Oh God, this is bad. Please, do something”
The next critical manifestation: the unbearable pain.
“Snezinka-” (snowflake)
“Stay with me” your eyes shone “Play with me, please” like those of a cat.
In that state of hallucinated lucidity—you just can’t take it anymore. Presently the need grows stronger, hesitating then no longer. The attempts to conceal the pollen’s effects don't work anymore.
“At least…give me permission this time” Bucky shakes his head, sadness vibrating through his body as he speaks through clenched teeth.
“Yes, do whatever you want” you moan, shaking, desperate for his touch.
And then you see something possessive wash over him, making your body shiver in anticipation.
“Please, I need yo-”
You say, nodding at the soul-reaching blue crystals, not looking away from him, but Bucky doesn’t let you finish as he kisses you. His lips are warm, his body is heat and muscles against you. He kisses you like a tide, gentle at first, but with the ability to drown, his fingers digging into your waist, urging you ever-nearer to him, even when it’s physically impossible to be. Then his fingers slithers over your chest, hands immediately find your breasts and he starts to massage them for his own pleasure.
His fingers curl around the edges of your soaked blood shirt, pulling and eventually tearing it away from your skin.
There is lust and there is pain, a whirling wheel—not stopping.
He wastes no time, kissing you deeply again, already missing the feeling of your skin.
“I am yours, you know that”
A simple reply, his voice cut into you like glass, his words bleeding into your skin. It isn’t something to be argued against, it’s the truth and you acknowledge that. It’s ridiculous, absurdly sentimental to think that you managed to lay a claim on him like you did in the past. 
You are trying to think of something, coming up short when he presses his hips flush against yours again, the chest harness wrinkling under the tight grip of your fists, pulling him and he hems you up against the door, grinding his cock against you. You slide one hand downwards, wrapping around his hard manhood and squeeze, Bucky moans quietly and involuntarily rolls into the contact, desperately seeking relief.
“Fuck” he says, a bit too breathlessly.
„James-this is not enough“ you undulate your hips against the aching bulge.
His name falling on his ears like that sent chills down his spine, he can hear the beat of his heart, his palms belong on your skin as he closes the gap between you. Nothing is sweeter, nothing else than you—lust is spreading like quickfire in his veins, groaning in the kiss.
“I know, I know” he whispers, a hint of exasperation and affront in his tone, leaning forwards to kiss you yet again, teasingly licking at your lips as he pulls away.
Sexual perversions mix with guilt and adrenaline as his mind sees in scattered images of varying vulgarity. Bucky grips your waist and lifts you off the ground with ease, dropping you softly on the luxurious white linen bed.
You lick your lips, trying to quench the thirst for him. Your throat is dry as you watch him between your spread legs—his belt clattering noisily as he unbuckles it, popping the buttons of his jeans open, followed by the low purr of his zipper coming undone, he drifts his hands down his sides and hooks both thumbs into his jeans, sliding them and the boxers down his legs. The corners of his mouth curve upward when he notices you staring a moment too long as he removes his jacket and shirt.
You remove your own pants and then you spread your legs open, positioned right in front of his standing body—one hand toys with your breast through the bra while the fingers of the other hook in your panties and drags them down your legs fast before throwing them in his direction.
His breath stutters as he catches them with his metal arm, becoming more and more aroused with every beat of his heart that runs down his shaft. It’s becoming more painful. He starts to pump his cock, the veins bulging beneath his grip—even in his large hand, it looks intimidating, the veins in his neck tightening.
He’s quite tall with broad shoulders and an athletic physique that even his leather jacket cannot hide. Your eyes continue their upward travel to his strong square-shaped face framed with short brown hair that falls to his shoulders and deep, blue eyes. 
He then craws on top of you and he cannot articulate a word, capable only of an animal sound, a strangulated wheeze that shocks him deeply, enraging him, this sudden loss of the faculty of speech that feels somehow bestial and forgotten now.
It is the impatience of the way he tears your bra from your body that really scares you: the pollen getting the better of him and you spread your legs wide, exposing your overall and the fragrance of the essences permits in the air, he smells it.
His cock nudges around your sleek mound until he gasps as he guides his sticky cockhead glides through your delicate folds. He doesn’t say anything as he slips inside you, burying himself to the hilt.
Sex with you this time is different, he has never felt this dominant, this claiming, this selfish. He is so far in that his balls are right against your pussy lips.
His greedy lips are once again on your skin, devouring everything he can—licking, sucking, and kissing, not holding back his throaty moans. He drags his lips up your throat, along your jaw, back toward your mouth. His lips are usually gentle and loving, promising long days and summer forever—but they soon turn sharp, peppermint, winter.
Animal logic. Prey. Predator… teeth dragging against your neck, living marks. The primal lust, the sheer need to claim you, quickly finding ways to express his sacred hunger to you in animal passion. He snarls out gluttonous groans against your skin as you clench and seize, pounding you harder as your body contracts. Pleasure breaks out like a wildfire, reaching around your temples; shooting up and down your spine.
You're perfect when you're underneath him, it's where you belong, beautiful face and pretty wide eyes locked onto his powder-blue orbits—curves cushioning him, your obedient body lush, muscular, but still feminine, your eyes flashing—and all he wants is to ruin you.
It's a sinful sight each time he buries the length of his cock all the way inside you, shaft slick and wet and glistening when he pulls it out. You make the prettiest noises when he shoves in deep only to pull out and slam himself back inside, you've got the prettiest expression as he grips your legs and folds them up to fuck his dick into you even harder than before.
“Don’t stop, don’t, please”
There is something raw and pleading in your voice that surpasses sexual desire, these fleeting moments of carnal craving.
He continues to trail his lips down the front of your throat and you realize that he is mouthing words against your skin “Mine. Mine. Mine”
“You feel so good every time, snezinka” he murmurs at your ear as slide to your throat and he tightens his grip on both sides on your neck, reducing the blood and oxygen to the brain. When he loosens, the rush of blood and oxygen to the brain results in an explosion of dopamine, followed by a shamelessly loud moan from your lips “I think that I love you”
“We’re drugged. That’s why,” you gaspe “Did you forget?”
Bucky acknowledges your words, they sink into him—he focuses his attention on your skin. He nibbles at your earlobe, loving the sharp intake of your breath, skin breaks out into a pale sweat and your eyes fill with tears. His trusts are ruthless.
“There is no pleasure as good as the feel of your pretty cunt wrapped around me” a dark edge creeps into his tone.
He says as he fills out pounds you, drawing a muffled scream from your throat as he starts to thrust more rapidly, setting a demanding rhythm.
Something strange starts to rage inside him, hearing you inhale sharply as he continues to kiss and bite your neck, leaving bruises deliberately and as he fucks you deeper, wanting to mark you in an entirely different way—he wants to breed you.
And you know you will wear the bruises of Bucky’s hands as you wear the scars of Soldat.
All extremes of the pollen are allied with madness, finally consuming his brain and body.
“You are so beautiful”
He says into your skin, tears welling, confused, mingling in his throat. Old wounds never truly heal, your past will never fully heal anyways. That one tear, that tiny, salty, droplet of moisture is a means of expression—joy, and torment. Although it's just a small tear, it is the heaviest thing in the world. And it doesn't do a damn thing to fix anything in this situation.
“James-” your whole body exhaled a lugubrious lament, your heart breaks for him.
His eyes are always soulful, in some way; they seem to say things that you know he's probably never say out loud.
“I know baby, I know,” he nibbles on the side of your neck “You are so beautiful, I am sorry-so sorry, I can’t stop” his growls erupt from his chest, the primal noise flooding your senses, making your insides clench around his length “I need this, I need you”
You’re powerless…utterly at his mercy and that’s what makes you cum—his voice sends shudders through your body, reacting in all the right ways to the words. The orgasm has gutted your vocal chords, and all you manage is a small gasp, tears slipping down the old salty trails as he doesn’t stop, his head lulling on your shoulder.
He leans down, nose brushing against yours as he pants, thrusts never faltering, his mouth hangs open with bliss, his cock plunging into you with skin-slapping speed and he finally reaches his orgasm, cock spurting a thick dollop of cum with each throb. He closes his eyes, because of the volcanic eruptions of fever still goes through his body—his orgasm is long, raw, reaching all his body senses.
Sex is unthinkable without roughness tonight—he is already thinking about his second orgasm—should he just cum in your mouth when he makes you fall to your knees… or if he should take you by the hair before he’s finished and fuck you into a sobbing heap before blowing his load. Of the few times Soldat has face fucked you—gagging you to near vomiting—you’ve never miss a drop of cum. He remembers it.
His hand closes around your throat and the grip tightens, slowly cutting into your skin while cutting off oxygen. It is more painful than lethal, but more erotic than painful. Your head is spinning, ears are ringing—suddenly, without warning, he withdraws completely, leaving you coughing and gasping for air. As you try to catch your breath, you feel him get up from the bed which urges you to come back to your senses faster.
In his temporary madness, an idea comes to his mind.
In seconds, he is back on top and when your vision finally clears—his lusty orbs descend to your cheeks, detailing your skin before leaning in to lick off your tears—some form of mercy which you don’t need.
He is now in that state of fire that excites you. You want to be burnt.
His eyes drift leisurely back up to your face and he smiles, nova-flare eyes blazing into your own—you look for love hiding in his eyes, in his face, and you find nothing but possessiveness.
But something is not right.
His eyes are cold and dark.And your heart stops.
He is taking you over. Staking a claim.
He slowly thrusts his hips forward, his cock pressing into your front, earning a squeal from you as he ruts back and forth dragging his length across your opening and then slowly plunges into you. You exhale, trembling as you feel the tip pressing against your opening and penetrating you. He is mesmerized by the sight of his cock disappearing inside of you, filling you up to the brim.
Bucky brings both of your wrists above your head and grips them in his metal arm, restraining you from moving them—and you tremble like a downy rabbit caught in the clutches of a wolf—he seizes you as boldly as Soldat used to capture his favorite prey—you—in the past.
A flash blinds you for a moment and you see him holding his phone—this feels surreal—leaving you breathless with an inexpressible delight of it. Bucky’s inner voice of lust speaks, it is so spontaneous and unannounced. Your mind searches for the logical thought of his action.
“Fuck, I can cum just by looking at it” He musters his primest tone, throwing the device to the side.
You whimper as your abdomen contracted painfully around his hard length at his words. He lets his fingers release your hands as his cold digits swipes back the hair from your face. Cursing, he grips the back of your neck and brings your lips to his while the metal ones grip your hip so tightly you are sure he’d leave a bruise. You whimper as he starts to fuck you, slamming you into the matress.
The usual warmth of his hands is not there. They chill your skin as they hold you close to his body, and you realize he is scared. The extreme joy mixes with the bone-crushing grief—what if you don’t want to be around him after this night? What if you condemn him, consider it with high and unjust resentment and leave him? It pierces his soul, but he can’t stop—he is half agony, half animal...the past beats inside like a second heart now.
Your soft fingers trail his face and continue to attempt a connection that he refuses to acknowledge at first—the past slips and vanishes like sand between the warm touch of your fingers, acquiring material weight, only in its recollection, because the more shared past there is in any relationship, the more present you need to be for each other.
“Let go," you whisper and he loosens the grips—he is ashamed of holding you so tightly "No, not of me," you say smiling.
You look right into his eyes, right into him as far as you can see, because you want him to hear you, you want him to hear you with everything you say—and his chest tightens as if some euphoric drug has gone straight to his nervous system—but it is not the pollen, it is you—reassuring him, leaving a psychic imprint in his mind.
It’s both a blessing and a curse to share the same trauma. And even though you are sometimes harsh, restless and despairing—he is your weak spot, you love him in your own way.
"You can hold on to me as long as you want. Let go of the past, let go of the pain" you say, giving him permission, taking him into your flesh, a clear invitation to madness.
Emotions clamp down on his heart, but he stays terribly silent. Bucky says nothing after that, only your name, as if your name is not a name but a question. He shakes his head and kisses you, long and quiet.
He grabs your jaw in one hand forcing you to look at him, tears coursing down your cheeks as he thrusts into you, making low, growling noises in his throat—a predator purring with pleasure while it devours its prey, picking up a brutal pace once again. Your legs tighten around his waist, hooking over his hip bones as he practically folds you in half, nails digging into his back, surely breaking his skin with your manicured fingers.
He groans at the pain and removes your hands, intertwines his fingers with yours, pins your wrists flat to the mattress on either side of your head. He holds himself up over your body as he fucks into you, supporting his weight on his forearms. His cock is slamming into you, balls bouncing against your clit just right, the sight of his well-muscled body, covered in a thin layer of sweat, invites you to utter depravity, it is what drives you over the edge.
“You look so good taking all of me” he pants against your throat “I will fill you again-so good”
Hard, long, deep trust that forces moans out of both of you.
You whimper and nod dumbly, screw your eyes tight as another wave of pleasure spread throughout your body in orgasmic tingles as he pulls his own climax with you. He presses his face against your neck as his hips lose any and all sense of tempo and when he finally stills, he holds himself deep inside as he leans back—with every breath, your bust heaves, sweat droplets running between them and attracting his gaze.
It pollutes his mind even more, it cripples his morality, because he is infatuated with fucking you like this again—is it the pollen at this point? 
''Bear with me'' He murmurs, gritting his teeth ''I need…more” his cock slowly sliding out of your tight pussy before sliding back inside with equal slowness, sliding through copious amounts of thin lubrication and cum. Your legs wrap around his waist and prevent him from pulling out even if he wants to—your understanding, your willingness is a kind of ecstasy to him.
The blue moons in his eyes are glimmering with an emotion you can’t put your finger on. What is he thinking about?
A part of him cares about you.
But there’s a depravity in his mind right now that enjoys seeing you like this—your hair is in disarray, several tendrils scattered across your face and constricting your view of him, sweat pricks at your hairline and down your back. There is something unmistakably exultant in turning you into a mess—such a mess of cum and tears. Gently, he brushes the tendrils out of your face, tenderness in his touch—that’s the part of him that cares.
“I need you on the floor, on all fours” —that's the part of him that's deprived tonight.
You can feel the desire. The thirst. The absolute beast threatening to tear from his skin.
Soldat loved to fuck you against solid ground. He never truly left, sometimes Bucky is on the verge of cracking and showing the color of the thing beneath, but you don’t mind, you are not scared, you never were. 
All he wants is for you to be filled, marked, bruised from staying up all night, taking his cock into your body until you are depleted of all your strength. Even then, he will fuck you. He doesn’t say more, but he groans as he gets up—what a sinful twist of his lips, watching you slowly get up, your legs are incapable of supporting your weight much longer.
Your cunt hurts, too—you feel his cum dripping down your thighs, making yourself position in doggy style, legs winched apart, everything exposed to his view and he goes to stand on knees behind you, eagerly holding up his cock then he lines up your hole. He twists your hair around his fist and yanks your head back, at the same time thrusting into you from behind as his fingers slide to dig into your ass. 
Bucky grunts as he slams into you “Я без ума от тебя” (I'm mad about you) his balls slapping against the sensitive nub. You choke on your words, this angle allowing him in far deeper than before. You arch your back more and dig your nails into the floor, clawing at the dirty ground as he relentlessly pounds into you. Sweat drips down his neck as he watches himself entering and exiting you.
He grips your hips tightly, slamming into your snatch with ferocity. A wave of pleasure suddenly overwhelms you, and the tingling is growing stronger once more.
“Я предан тебе…ты моя девочка”(im devoted to you)...(You are my girl)
You can only mewl and gasp as you are rocked back and forth on your knees, losing your breath every time his cock hammers into your cunt. You clench around him when you hear your full name spoken in his gravelly tenor.
He molds his front to your back, spearing through your tightening pussy. He grabs your hair and snaps your head back roughly before it travels down around your throat and squeezes tight while his other palm splays across your stomach.
His lips rests on the back of your shoulder, hissing
“Очевидно, что , нас чувства друк к други” (You can’t deny what's between us)
He carries on rutting you like an animal. Your skin slapping together, your pussy squirting around his cock as it invades your snatch repeatedly, making suction squelching noises with every thrust in of his length. It keeps on hitting your cervix, your nubile breasts swing with the force of your body rocking—you know that you will be sore later.
"You fill my heart, I fill your cunt"
But his words strike every inside your body and his honesty brings the euphoria of complete surrender.
“Enough, stop, it is too much”
You plea and nearly asphyxiate on the words as your orgasm bursts upwards from your abused cunt. A sob wracks your throat and he continues thrusting, riding your orgasm until your entire body is convulsing and you are desperately trying to wiggle out of Bucky’s arms with the last of your strength, but it's not enough compared to the strength of his arms holding your hips with renewed vigor, determined to breed you.
You catch sight of him from your peripheral vision, his eyes closed, his lips are silent, but he chatters with his fingertips, with the way his hands grip your hips, fingers digging in, the way he fucks you. And you thought that he chose that position, because he was embarrassed, but he was not—he wanted to disguise from you how much he was enjoying himself.
You have the strength to kill him, but here you are—so obedient.
His little submissive.
His expression is dreamy, floating. Soaked in pleasure—breathless, possessed, lost in the volcanic eruptions of fever, lust and delight. Your pussy cradles around his dick as he pounds into you from behind.
“James” 
His name on your lips sooth a place deep inside him, and the urgent need to hear it in again pulses in his heart, making himself guilty of such a secret, he must perforce hold it—
—but he shamelessly let out a loud moan, he never felt so out of control. You are a disease worse than the pollen itself.
“Bucky” 
That makes him groan like an animal, noises coming out of him that you never heard before, he was never this vocal. The groans are desperate, endless, but the sound of his name is unspeakably erotic to him. He can’t get enough of this. He will die without it, without you.
“You look too pretty when you’re getting fucked like that” he blurts out, without even thinking.
There is already a fissure in his mind and madness just rushes through. Praising him puts him on edge, it’s something he never thought he wanted or needed. You wreak havoc on his life.
He squeezes his eyes shut—to utilize the entire spectrum of the other senses, moans of ecstasy crescendos and his breaths come in short instances, each with a slight pause in between as his body is rack with his orgasm, cum is flooding out of your cunt, dripping of you onto the hardwood floor and there is a charm about it that makes it unspeakably desirable for Bucky.
In this stillness, he finally finds serenity. 
All you want to do is crawl back beneath the mound blankets—he gently picks you up and you smile crookedly at him, something about your smile loosening a knot in his chest, because holding you in his arms is more natural to him than his own heartbeat.
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Morning came in through the blinds cutting everything into ribbons, but the light can make the most vulgar things tolerable—you are aware of the aching hips, and your whole body hurts like hell as if you have been run over by a train.
Bucky steps out of the bathroom, freshly showered with a white towel around his lean hips. He takes a half step toward the bed, and his jaw works for a moment before he asks
“How are you feeling?”
“Tired, did you tell Sam what happened?”
“No, of course not. He is thankful that you helped us” He says and rakes his fingers through his damp hair, making it stand on end “He invited us to Louisiana”
You barely resists smiling at him “Okay”
He raises a brow “Just like that, okay?”
“If you give me my bracelet back”
You both look at the bracelet around his right hand. Then he bites his lip as he grins.
“Not happening” he says, his tone flattening and he can't help the smirk that tips up the corners of his mouth.
“Guess I need to buy a new one then” You peel back the covers, indicating for him to get in and you watch him climb next to you “With your name on it”
His palm reaches up to wrap around the back of your head, his fingers tangling in the depths of your hair, pulling you closer, his lips hovering over yours. Everything about him pleases you.
Not just his looks, but his patience and his kindness. He is an obsession waiting to happen. Kissing him is terrifying, breathing the same air makes your knees weak, a liquid sensation swooping throughout your stomach—but you've been betrayed, stabbed by every single person in your life, the body heals, but it injures the heart and the wound lasts a lifetime. You are scared of love, scared of these new feelings, scared of trusting anyone, but you are trying—that’s why you gently press a kiss to his mouth.
(Her kisses are deliberate and polished. When she kisses me—she doesn't want me. She has me and knows it.)
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Bucky throws himself onto the couch next to Sam, slewing his eyes over to him.
"So you are sleeping and living together, but you are still not in a relationship?"
He takes a long sip of his drink when he hears the words, tips his head back against the couch, and decides he could…maybe live with that.
"Yeah"
Sam’s lips tighten to suppress a smile "That's a bit weird, Buck"
He chuckles, low under his breath "The part where I live with my ex-coworker or the part where we sleep together?"
James takes a deep breath, and Sam can see his blue eyes searching for his, like he is looking for an answer.
”Maybe it is what it's meant to be for now” A frown settles on Bucky’s face as he considers that “She has a lot to experience, too. If you pressure her with anything, you might lose her completely”
“I don't want to be in love, but she is making me, Sam” he sighs, a headache blooming right between his eyes. He rubs at the spot, stalling as he tries to figure out what he wants to say “But you are right, she needs to heal”
Several emotions swirl in Sam’s eyes. Worry, sadness, maybe even intrigue. But not judgment. Never. “Did she agree to go to Wakanda?”
He wets his dry lips and says the most basic truth:
“No, she is too untrustworthy, I can’t believe she even agreed to come here”
Sam sees it as hope—and he wants to put that light within his friend, too “But she did”
They can’t talk about it anymore, not when they hear you, Sarah and the kids coming back, and when your gazes meet, your soft smile and the look in your eyes, they are the best interpreter of your mind—you are truly happy, seeing you like that makes him feel like he can single-handedly vanquish an army.
He has outlasted all family, desires, dreams, his grief alone is left entire—sometimes visiting the lonely desolation of nightmares, they are gleamings of his empty heart—Bucky is a heap of ashes, but meeting you—kindled him back into fire.
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Oh my goshhh thank you for reading! Hope you enjoyed this project!
More of this ex!Asset AU? - MASTERLIST
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millermenapologist · 8 months ago
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I think that the funniest thing, when it comes to TLOU2 timeframe, is that JJ existing is the best way to quantify how much time has passed since Seattle and the Farm, and yet no one seems to recognize it.
Like, we know that at the beginning of the game, Dina and Jesse have been broken up for ~2 weeks, so let's say she got pregnant one month before the whole shebang. Then, it took Dina and Ellie about a month to get to Seattle, they were there for 3 days, and finally travelled back home. Dina was approx ~2 months pregnant, and then we skip to the Farm chapter, which people treat like exist in an unknown time vortex, but... look at this little guy!
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He is teething but not walking nor crawling, which means that he's past the 7 months benchmark for sprouting his first teeth, but not the 9 months one for moving around on his own.
In the Farm chapter, JJ is about 8 months old.
Considering that we do know when Abby got to Joel (March 2nd, 2038), we can say with fair certainty that JJ was born around October 2038 and the Farm chapter takes place around June/July 2039 (which also means that Ellie was 20 for the entirety of the latter part of the story, and not 19).
The real question is: how fucking long did Abby and Lev take to get to Santa Barbara?
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lovecla · 1 month ago
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TAKE YOUR PAIN AWAY | quinn hughes.
chapter twelve:
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<last chapter> <next chapter>
➴ chapter warnings: shitty family.
➴ word count: 4.7k
💌 from me to you: have a nice reading loves <3
౨ৎ
2024, JUNE.
“I HATE just looking at it,” you say, making Victoria laugh. ���I mean, I really liked it at first but now it makes me sick.”
It was finally the day of your mom’s retirement gala, and all you wanted to do was stay at home with Quinn and Bella, watching a movie and drinking wine.
But you had made a promise, and hell would freeze before you break one. If your mom wanted you there, you would be there, even if the thought of putting on that dress made you want to puke all over it.
“I mean, you don’t have to wear it…” Victoria says, sounding mischievous. You raise your brow at her.
“What do you mean?” You laugh, closing your eyes as the makeup artist your mom had sent to your house spread the glittery eyeshadow over your eyelids. “I just told you, my mom bought this last month and basically demanded I wear it.”
“But she’s not here, is she?” She asks, looking around the packed room, full of people: the makeup artist, the hair stylist and the girl responsible for your clothes. They all stared at you scaredly, probably not wanting to piss off your mom, the great, famous Jessica Carter. “I don’t see her.”
You sigh. “Victoria—”
“I brought you something else. And if you don’t like it, then you can wear that one your mom bought you.” She grabs a huge, ginormous bag, placing it carefully on the bed. You ask her to open it, since you couldn’t, and she does as you say.
The most beautiful orange dress you had ever seen lays on your bed and you smile at Victoria, finally happy with going to the dinner. If it was going to be the last time you saw your family, then at least you’d look great.
“Isn’t it so beautiful?” She smiles, carefully running her fingers through the dress’ fabric. “I immediately thought of you when one of our designers costum-made this.”
“It’s gorgeous,” you say, imagining yourself inside that dress.
It’d for sure piss your mom off, but at this point, you had already understood that anything you did would eventually make her upset.
This last week has been both a dream and a nightmare. Quinn stayed with you for two days before he had to travel for work again, and it’d been like a fantasy: he would wake up earlier than you, cook you a healthy breakfast, and help you eat; bite after bite, praise after praise, kiss after kiss, he helped you restart your eating routine again.
After throwing all of your pills— and your prescription— away, he tried his best to be with you, even during the hardest moments, when your body would have some kind of withdrawal, with persistent headaches, nausea and extreme fatigue. He took care of you so well, like no one had done before, and it only made you realize how deep your love for him was.
“So it’s settled, then,” Victoria calls the other two girls standing in the corner of your room, asking them to help you get dressed.
The dress was long, so long it occupied the entire room, and you were sure that if Bella wasn’t already at Mrs. Fernandez home, she’d be lost between the orange fabric, even if she was a big girl herself. The corset squeezed your chest lightly, nothing like the dress your mom had bought for you, and your white heels held your feet comfortably.
While you got your hair done, you stared at your phone’s screen, tuning out of Victoria’s yapping session and thinking of Quinn, and if he was well. Now that you had confessed to yourself— and Quinn— that you wanted, needed him, it seemed like spending time away from him hurt you more and more.
He had texted you earlier that day, saying that he missed you a lot, and asked for pictures of the things you ate during the day, making you roll your eyes and blush at the same time, not holding back the smile plastered on your face.
Even if you feared for what your mom could do once she realized that you would do everything in your power to stop yourself from submitting to her absurd, evil requests, you could now see that you weren’t alone, and you would never be, as long as the Hughes walked on the same planet as you.
Which reminded you that you had to call Luke and apologize to him, because even though it had hurt you to hear the things he’d said, you knew that part of your awakening was thanks to him, and for that you’ll forever be grateful.
“Okay, let’s go get you inside that car,” Victoria says before you manage to get up, trying to move around with all that fabric around you.
Getting to the event had been a lot harder than expected. You had worn bigger, larger dresses before, much weirder than the one you’re wearing right now, but you had the right transport for it. Right now, the only car you had was a limousine and you had to make it work.
You felt like Cinderella inside the pumpkin carriage, but you preferred walking around with this amount of fabric than putting on that dress that your mom had chosen for you.
The cameras were all directed at you as soon as you walked out of the car and got to the red carpet. People were shouting your name here and there, and since it’s been a while since the last time you actually went to a public event like this, your head was starting to get dizzy with all the overwhelming attention.
You smiled at the pictures, but didn’t go to any of the interviewers— you weren’t in the mood for questions, and even though people expected you to talk with them, you just weren’t feeling comfortable.
You walked inside after posing for some more pictures, feeling a rush of anxiety run through your body, because you knew you were about to face your mother’s wrath. But Quinn and Victoria were right. You had to stop this abusive, toxic cycle between the two of you.
Even though sometimes it was hard to remind yourself that you’re not the one in the wrong in this.
You greeted some of the other celebrities there, the space filled with people who had once worked with your mom too. It hadn’t been hard to find her, of course. All Jessica Carter ever wants is the spotlight on her, so when you found her talking to Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong, the founders of Greta Constantine, you knew exactly what you had to do.
“My, oh my, aren’t you a beautiful sight?” Kirk smiles at you, giving you a brief kiss on your cheek, making you smile at him. “Look at this dress, Wong, look at her!”
“It’s a beautiful dress indeed,” Stephen agrees, holding his hands together behind his back.
“Great choice, my love,” your mom says, and your smile falters for just a second, enough for your mom to understand that you had picked up on her subtle message. “Is that Versace?”
“No,” you say, patting your skirt. “It’s custom-made Rami Kadi, actually.”
“So beautiful, Madison, I just know you’re going to blow people’s minds with this one,” Wong smiles at you and before you can answer, Kirk whistles while looking at his phone.
“She already did,” he laughs, and you frown at him, confused.
“What do you mean?” you ask, and he flips his phone, showing you his phone screen.
“You’re trending on Twitter, babe,” he eagerly says, and Wong gasps beside him. “People are crazy over you. And your dress. If you ever think of leaving La Vie en Rose just know that there’s always a place for you at Greta.”
Wong shakes his head. “We’d love to have you there.”
“Well, unfortunately, she’s going back to Los Angeles in a few months, so I’m afraid that won’t be possible,” your mom jumps in, wrapping her hands affectionately around your shoulders and smiling at the two men in front of you. “And, oh my, look at the time,” she fake sighs, looking at the watch on her wrist. “We better get going if we want to eat dinner before my speech.”
Wong and Pickersgill nod awkwardly in front of you, leaving after giving you another kiss on the cheek and walking their way to their table. You walk with your mom by your side, both with fake smiles plastered on your faces, greeting people on your way to your table. You could tell she was upset by the fact that people were complimenting you and your dress, but you kept your chin up either way.
By the side of the table reserved for you and your family stood your dad and your brother, both wearing expensive tuxedos and looking like twins. You nodded at them, watching as the same fake smile that decorated your face, decorated theirs as well.
“Madison,” your dad says, his smile getting wider when he notices the photographer behind you. “You look well.”
Well wasn’t exactly the word you’d use to describe yourself at the moment, but you smiled nonetheless.
“Can I get a family picture?” The photographer asks, and you all quickly move so he can get a picture of all four of you together, smiling like you were the most perfect family in the entire world, just like your parents wanted people to believe. “Nice, nice, thank you.”
“Why aren’t you wearing the dress I chose for you?” Your mom hisses through her teeth, not letting her smile fall from her face.
“I didn’t like it,” you simply say, even if it weren’t entirely true. But every time you look at the expensive, black dress inside your closet, you remind yourself of the awful month you didn’t eat just so you could look good in a dress you didn’t even like that much, just for your mom to finally love you. “Victoria chose this one for me instead.”
“This is unacceptable,” she fake laughs, pretending that the conversation she was having with you was nothing more than a cute, loving mom and daughter moment. “It’s ridiculous—”
“You look gorgeous, baby.”
You and your family turned your head to the side, watching as Quinn stood there, looking close to perfect with his black two piece suit and slicked back hair.
Your face lit up like the Fourth of July, and you smiled at him, blushing with his compliment. “Quinn.”
“Hi, baby,” he smiles at you, stepping closer. “Mr. and Mrs. Carter,” he nods at your parents. “Peter.”
Your brother extends your hand at him, and so does your dad, but it’s clear that they’re uncomfortable. Not as much as your mom, though, who looked like those angry cartoon characters.
“It’s nice to see you, but what are you doing here?” She hisses. “Haven’t you both done enough already? People are talking and taking pictures of you, you must be all over social media by now, what are you—”
“With all due respect, ma’am,” Quinn wraps his hands around your waist, holding you close to him, in front of everyone. The smile on your lips couldn’t get any bigger. “What Madison and I do is none of your business.”
“Watch it, boy. You’re talking to my wife, and you know who I am.” You dad says, smiling afterwards to prevent people from thinking that he was anything other than the perfect father.
“I’m not a boy and frankly, James, we both know that if I were to care about your opinion, I wouldn’t be the Canucks’ captain today.”
Your dad’s face gets red with anger but he doesn’t say anything, choosing to stay quiet for once.
“What are you doing here?” You ask, smiling at how Quinn frowned at your dress, because he couldn’t sit closer to you with that much fabric around you.
“Victoria helped me out,” he smirks. “Did you really think I’d let you come here alone?”
You roll your eyes, smiling still. “You’ve never been to a fashion dinner before. And I’m used to coming alone,” you shrug. “You’re aware that people will… know. Right?”
“I don’t mind it. Do you?”
You looked at him with shiny, happy eyes, before kissing his lips softly and gently, right there, for everyone— your parents and your brother included— to see. Quinn kissed you back just as gently, holding the back of your neck carefully, not wanting to ruin any of your clothing or makeup or hair.
It felt nice not to care for once in your life.
౨ৎ
maddiecarter_updates
Vancouver, BC
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maddiecarter_updates Madison has arrived at her mom’s (Jessica Carter) retirement gala at Fashion, in Vancouver 😍 She looks absolutely amazing! (edit: @nickharris_img liked!!)
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user1 MY WIFE RIGHT THERE
user2 i still prefer the pink dress she wore at the Cannes festival but this one also eaaaats
user3 looking like a goddess omg i need her
user4 why is no one talking about quinn hughes being there AND the pictures they took of the two of them together????
maddiecarter_updates user4 As we always say, we like to respect Madison’s privacy. If she’s dating Quinn Hughes, then we will wait until she confirms it. We can’t assume things just because we’ve seen pictures so let’s just respect her time and privacy ☺️
user5 she looks so damn fine
user6 the event ended a few hours ago does anyone know why she hadn’t posted anything about it yet???
user7 user6 i was just wondering the same thing bc she usually posts pictures immediately after 💭
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_quinnhughes
Vancouver, BC
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liked by jackhughes, canucks, vic.alonso and 381,991 others.
_quinnhughes
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madisoncarter i love you
user1 NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
maddiecarter_updates ????? ok
maddiecarter_updates Now we’re allowed to freak out 🙈
user2 maddiecarter_updates OANSOWNXOANALS
user3 maddiecarter_updates LAKAKANAMD!./!!/!/!:!;
user4 maddiecarter_updates SHSKDMDKIWWOOWKKFBN_._.__.\
maddiecarter_updates user2 user3 user4 oh-
bboeser Ouuhuu 😎😎😜😜
canucks She would look gorgeous in blue 💙
njdevils canucks No she wouldn’t ❤️
user5 njdevils ???😭😭 Help
user6 Average no caption Hughes post
jackhughes …why was i the last one to know about this
conor.garland8 Oh captain my captain
౨ৎ
“THOSE PLATES aren’t going to get any straighter, baby,” Quinn laughs behind you, bringing your body closer to his with his hands on your waist.
You bite your lip, feeling his warm hands all over your tummy. “Stop trying to distract me, you’re supposed to be taking care of the food.”
“My bad, I thought you were the food.” He says, before plastering a wet, loud kiss on your cheek.
“Quinn, stop! Your family’s going to be here at any second, and I don’t want them to find you with your hand on my boobs.” you laugh, slapping his hand away.
“I wasn’t even going to do that, but fine,” he mumbles before turning you around, making you face him. “You don’t have to be nervous, baby. They’ve known you for literally half of your life.”
“Yeah, but I was just a friend. And now I’m dating you.”
He raises his eyebrow, a playful chuckle leaving his lips. “Oh? We’re dating? Since when?”
“You know what I mean,” you feel your cheeks getting warm. “It’s going to be weird. Especially with how I left things with Luke that night,” you cover your face with your hands, sighting. “God, I hope he doesn’t hate me.”
“What did I say about always thinking the worst about everything?” he removes your hands from your face, kissing them afterwards. “And I know Lukey probably acted like a douchebag that night, too. He isn’t exactly the most tender person ever.”
“Still, he was right,” you kiss his cheeks, detaching yourself from his hold before looking at the dinner table again. “Hope he forgives me.”
“He will, sweets, I promise.”
It was almost the end of June, and you had just started taking care of yourself again. Quinn suggested that you should see a professional, to help you deal with the hardest days, and that’s exactly what you did. You have meetings with a therapist called Emma once a week, and even though you feel like nothing’s changed yet, it’s nice to have someone else to talk to, and not worry about whether you’re dumping your problems on them or not.
You and Quinn were also doing fine, baby steps helping you both find your path together. You still had your doubts, and even though you wanted to ruin away sometimes and never look back, you knew you’d always end up coming back to him.
You hoped and prayed everyday that you’d get to be the one who’s going to keep him for life.
The doorbell rang and Bella ran to the door, Quinn right behind her, while you tried to unwrinkle your dress for the nth time.
It’s fine, you kept telling yourself, They’ve known you since you were a child, you’ll be fine.
“Maddie,” you hear Jack’s loud voice before you turn around, smiling when you feel his arms around you. “Hey.”
“Hey, Rowdy,” you kiss his cheek. “How are you?”
“I’m fine. It’s summer, fucking finally.” He groans, letting go of you and making his way to the kitchen, talking about grabbing a beer for himself.
You stare at Ellen, Jim and Luke as they all hug Quinn and pet Bella, before moving back to you.
“Hi, there, darling. You look stunning,” Ellen hugs you tight, her blonde hair touching your face. “Thanks for having us. We missed you and Quinny.”
“Hi,” Jim briefly hugs you, looking like he always did: shy.
“Hello, Mr. Hughes,” you smile. “I’ve missed you too.”
As they ramble about not seeing both of you enough, you stare at Luke, who’s been petting Bella for too long already. He notices you and finally gets up, walking until he stood in front of you, the little boy who once had been smaller than you and got in trouble for cursing too much and was now a man, inches taller than you, thighs bigger than your head.
“Hey.” You whisper, and he timidly smiles at you, not showing his teeth.
“Hey.”
You both stood there, silent for a while, the only sound coming from the kitchen where Ellen seemed to yell at Quinn for something while Jack laughed.
“How are you doing?” You ask, not sure of how you’d apologize to him without sounding like an idiot.
“I’m fine,” he shrugs, not looking at you. “How about y—”
“I’m sorry,” you blurt out, interrupting him. “I’m so sorry about the things I said to you the last time we saw each other and I’m sorry for acting the way I did. I never meant to upset you, it was just hard for me to hear those things.”
He places his hand on your shoulder, patting you there twice. “It’s fine, Maddie. I should’ve known better. Those types of things aren’t meant to be said at a party, right after you tell me you have feelings for my brother.”
“Still. You were just trying to help me and I— I was a little shit. Sorry.”
He laughs.
“Don’t give yourself this much credit, M. You’re not the seven headed monster you think you are,” he winks at you, before moving to Quinn’s kitchen with Bella between his legs. You sighed, scrunching your nose at her. Maybe you weren’t the only one with a soft side for the Hughes.
“I don’t care if it’s important or not, Jack, you won’t use your phone during lunch time.” Ellen orders around, sitting on the table before pouring herself a generous amount of red wine.
“Mom, I’m not a child anymore and this is important.” Jack pouts, making you laugh softly, while you sit down on the chair between him and Luke. “It’s not funny, Madison.”
“Leave her out of this,” Ellen protests, pointing at him. “No phones during lunch time. What’s so hard for you to understand?”
“Look at dad!” Jack points at Jim, who stopped texting and placed his phone back on the table.
“Jim, don’t piss me off or I swear to God—”
“Food’s ready,” Quinn mumbles before placing a huge pot of homemade pasta and tomato sauce, with meatballs and a Greek salad— cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese and olives— to accompany the main dish.
While you helped everyone serve themselves, you noticed Quinn’s eyes on you, and he was the one who put food on your plate. He knew that eating big portions was still an issue for you, so he was careful with putting the right amount of food onto your plate.
You smile at him, not before saying “thank you” and grabbing your first bite, almost melting like you always did whenever Quinn cooked.
You watched as they chatted about literally everything, with Jim and Ellen asking about their lives and Luke and Jack bickering with each other while Quinn looked at them with a tired face.
“So, Madison,” Luke starts, interrupting an argument between Jack and Quinn about who would win the Stanley Cup next season. “Have you thought about what you’re going to say at the ‘Power Play for a Cause’?”
“Heh,” Jack laughs. “PP for a cause. That’s what she said.”
Jim lets out a loud laugh before Ellen coughs, glazing at him.
He stops lauhging. “Son, you’re not funny,” Jim sighs, stuffing his mouth with pasta. “Shut up, please.”
You smile, confused. “What are you talking about?”
“You didn’t tell her?” Ellen asks and Quinn shrugs.
“Madison has a lot on her plate right now, the last thing she needs is a Hockey themed gala.”
“But what is it?” You ask, now curious.
Luke coughs before continuing:
“‘Power Play for a Cause’ is the name of next month's charity dinner the NHL’s holding,” he explains. “And it’s basically to raise money for sick kids and shit.”
“Luke.” Ellen reprimands him and he apologizes, after rolling his eyes.
“But why would I need to say something?” You ask, still as lost as a blind person during a shooting.
“Well,” he smiles. “Some of the teams' captains receive a speech, and Quinn will be one of them this year. We were going to ask our little cousin Julie to do this but she’ll probably blackmail us into buying her thousands of dollars worth of money in video games.”
“I recognise a future scammer when I see one.” Jack mumbles, making you all laugh.
“I mean…” you start, looking at Quinn across the table, who looks at you with expectant eyes. “If Quinn doesn’t mind, I want to do it.”
“I don’t mind it at all, baby,” he says, like calling you ‘baby’ in front of his family wasn’t anything new. “If you feel comfortable with doing it, then it’s fine. If you don’t, then it’s also fine.”
“Of course I am,” you smile at him, as he winks at you.
You then realize that everyone went quiet, even Bella, that must have sensed something was up because she sat beside your chair and was eyeing everyone suspiciously. Your face burned with shame and you silently pleaded to Quinn do something.
Which he did, coughing and scratching his eyebrow with his middle finger.
“This is probably a good time to tell you that Madison and I are together.” He says, before looking you in the eye again.
“Thanks for stating the obvious,” Luke says, before he lets out an ouch sound, looking at Ellen with annoyed eyes.
“That’s great news, baby!” She says, resting her head on Jim’s shoulder. “We always knew you both would end up with each other.”
“Yeah, that’s right,” Jim agrees. “When you both would spend hours alone together doing nothing we always thought that you were doing naughty stuff.”
If your face could get any hotter, it would melt. Jack and Luke’s laughter wasn't helpful either, while Quinn just smiled and mouthed a small sorry at you.
“We were kids, Mr. Hughes,” you say, and he laughs.
“Cut it with Mr., it’s either Jim or dad now,” he squints, making you smile. “Also, what’s the matter? We caught Jack kissing his school friend when he was seven.”
“What can I say, I’ve always been irresistible,” Jack smirks, the cocky tone making you roll your eyes. “Gotta start young.”
“You’re such a fuckboy, Jacky, that’s nasty,” Ellen says, the curse word surprising all of you, making you burst out into laughter in front of them.
You couldn’t explain how happy they made you, even if you tried. It isn’t something usual, loving your boyfriend’s family as much as you do, but you’re happy to be the exception.
The rest of the lunch went on without any more smarty remarks from Luke or Jack, and you were sure you hadn’t laughed this much before, ever. They worked so well together and the love they felt for each other was so deep you could almost touch it with your own hands.
They treated you so well, making sure you had everything you needed and not letting you feel excluded for even the briefest second. They also understood your love for Bella and how important she is to you, so Luke spent the entire afternoon patting her fur and playing with her, complaining loudly whenever she took the carrot plushie— her favorite toy, you told him— out of his hands, running around Quinn’s living room with it.
When they started saying their goodbyes, many, many hours later, you held each and every one of them tightly, trying to trespass your gratitude for them like that, since saying things like “I love you” are still hard for you.
And with how they hugged you back just as fiercely, you were almost sure they understood what you wanted to tell them.
“Is Quinn treating you well?” Ellen quietly asks you, as you both stand on Quinn’s porch and watch the four men you both loved so much argue about who should drive the car.
You smile, nodding with your head. “Yes, ma’am, he is.” you giggle at her annoyed face with the “ma’am”. “ I just— thank you so much for everything.”
“You don’t need to thank me, love. You know I’ve always had a soft spot for you.”
You can feel the tears forming in your eyes, and you blink fast, trying to send them away. But with the way Ellen's smile saddens and how she wraps her arms around you, you could tell she saw them.
“They’re happy tears, I promise,” you try to reassure her, not wanting her to see the storm happening inside you.
“It’s okay if they aren’t, Madison,” she whispers. “We all need time to heal and I truly hope we can help you get through the hard days.”
“You already do, all of you,” wiping your tears away, you smiled at her. “Especially him,” you point at Quinn with your head, who was now leaning against the car with his hands in his pocket and Bella by his side. “It’s so weird to explain, Ellen. It’s like— it’s almost as if he takes all of my pain away. Isn’t that weird?”
She chuckles beside you, putting a strand of your hair behind your ear. “No, dear, it isn’t. And I’m glad to hear this. It means Jim and I did a great job.”
“Oh, you both outdid every parent on this planet.”
“Mom, can we go? ‘M tired,” Jack shouts at Ellen, pouting like a three year old child.
Ellen rolls her eyes and sighs, hugging you one last time.
“And the Hughes are back at it.” You joke, making her laugh.
She’s in the middle of walking down the steps to meet them at the car when she suddenly stops, turning back around. You were ready to ask her if she’d forgotten anything when she suddenly speaks:
“I know it’s soon but,” she tells you, her blue eyes softening as she continues speaking. “You can be a Hughes too. If you want.”
This time you don’t do anything to hide the tears rolling down your face, letting them roll freely on your cheeks, before hitting the wooden floor you were standing on.
You can’t really speak, so you just smile at her, hoping she wouldn’t mistake your silence for anything else. It was just overwhelming to know that there are people who love you enough to willingly want you in their family, when your own didn’t even care about your well-being.
You watched as they all said their goodbyes to Quinn, hugging him and saying something to him that you couldn’t hear.
Quinn and Bella walked back at you, and he frowned when he saw your tear stained face. “What happened, baby? Are you okay?”
“I’m fine,” you tell him, walking to him and standing on your tiptoes before kissing his lips gently. “I just love you.”
You could tell that you caught him by surprise. You had never told him that you loved him before, even after years together. But you just needed to tell him how you felt, and even though the word “love” didn’t seem to explain all of your feelings for him, you would use it anyway.
“I love you too, baby,” he smiles, his curls falling over his face, making you touch his hair carefully. “So much.”
“Thank you,” you say, trying your hardest not to cry again. “For not giving up on me. And for making me feel like myself again.”
“That was all you, baby.”
You both get inside after sharing another kiss, and at night, when you sleep between Quinn and his hundred pillows, nestled safe inside his arms, with Bella sleeping safely by your feet in her bed, you are sure that, even if you still think that you’re not good enough for Quinn, he sure as hell is more than enough for you.
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liked by vic_alonso, partynextdoor, nhl and 789,913 others
madisoncarter yesterday 🤍 _quinnhughes
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user1 i NEED to know where the dress is from Maddie help a girl out 😔
madisoncarter user1 dress is from rami kadi (custom made) 😙
lavieenrose Most beautiful couple ever!!
vic_alonso Gotta say whoever gave you that dress is the smartest person alive
madisoncarter vic_alonso let’s not exaggerate…
maddiecarter_updates So gorgeous love 🧡
user4 this is the most random couple ever but they do look good together
elblue6 😱😱
canucks The couple we didn’t know we needed until now 💙
user5 BABY YOU LOOKED AMAZING
౨ৎ
taglist: @hischierswhore @ru-kru @alwaysclassyeagle @he6rtshaker @nope-i-am-done @nngkay @urthem00n 🤎
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moonbaetarot · 6 months ago
Text
Pick a pile
What’s happening for you in June
1. 2. 3.
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Pile 1
This month You’re going to be juggling and keeping something in balance this could be money but it doesn’t have to. You’re in your energy or element doing things that make you feel happy. You’re showing up as someone who has a leadership and friendly energy to you this month. You may be starting a business or project. Theres a feeling of you just being mellow and calm your life’s in balance. You’re going to be feeling really confident physically or mentally. You’re being told not to rush anything this month or be implosive think before you act. You’re on the road to success one day at a time your slowly getting there I feel like life’s been very stagnant and slow but now things are starting to pick up. I also see you going to an exciting event or party of some sort. I also pulled a few cards from my angel messages deck for you pile 1 I got “you are never alone believe” and “being with nature will give you the answers”.
Thank you for reading loves! 🤍
Pile 2
You going to feel very secure this month physically you may be improving your life in some way or buying something on the more expensive side. You’re going to be surrounded by a lot of people that love and support you. Talking about childhood memories lots of nostalgia. There may even be a reunion or get together with family of some sort to remember someone. There is something here about you feeling like someone is against you or sending you evil eye. There’s a very fiery, impulsive, ambitious energy this month you have a very child like energy not immature but more like innocent and pure. You have lots of new ideas and plans like a go go go type energy. You may be receiving a text or some type of news. I also pulled a few cards from my angel messages deck and for you pile 2 I got “your angels will only give you the challenges that you are capable of handling” and “you are a true being of the universe your beauty radiates from within”.
Thank you for reading loves! 🤍
Pile 3
You’re on the right path you have all the control. There is a lot of movement this month moving for the better. You’re going to be traveling somewhere with water or like a theme park doesn’t have to be. For some you may even be moving or planning to move prepping or packing something. I feel like you’re coming out of a dark or sad place or phase in your life you lost something or someone and had to let it go and this really hurt you but now you have to move on for the better. Your standing your ground you know what is best for you your not letting anything get to you what used to hurt you no longer stays rent free in your mind your protecting yourself and your peace. I also pulled a few cards from my Angel messages deck and for you pile 3 I got “when a feather floats down from above an angle is showering you with love” and “only think positive thoughts as your desires are manifesting”.
Thank you for reading loves! 🤍
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petitemistletoe · 10 months ago
Text
Mamma Mia
Pairing: James Potter x Reader, Sirius Black x Reader, Remus Lupin x Reader
Warnings: smut!
Word Count: 4.2K+
A/N: Basically Marauders Mamma Mia
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Massachusetts
“I’m going to find myself,” you said, examining the items in your trunk before nodding and slamming it shut.
“That’s not a proper response to the question ‘where are you going?’” Your cousin, Lily, was lying on her stomach on your bed, thumbing through the latest edition of a British newspaper. 
“Yeah,” Mary said with a shrug of her shoulders, popping another piece of your maple candy in her mouth.
“Don’t eat all the sweets!” Marlene said with an indignant huff, handing you her remember-ball. 
“Thanks Marls,” you said, popping open your trunk again and wrapping the ball in one of your sweaters. 
“What kind of sweet is this again?” Lily asked, leaning over and grabbing a piece of maple candy from the box in Mary’s arms. 
“It’s maple candy. They make it up in Vermont.” You said with a shrug. Your trio of British friends always appreciated your American candies. Lily had introduced you all during a summer excursion and the girls had decided to move to America to attend a post-graduate certification program at your alma mater, Ilvermorny alongside you. You had finished a year ahead of the other girls since you were able to combine your NEWTs with introductory courses to the program. You had been living in an apartment, you insisted to the girls that it was an apartment not a flat, with the girls for over a year. You thought about entering the workforce after graduating, but you decided that you wanted to take a three month long trip to ‘find yourself’. 
“Are we close to Vermont?” Mary asked. 
“Yeah, it’s right above us.” You nodded, drumming your fingers on your chin. 
“What are you thinking about?” Marlene looked up at you. 
“Do you think I’ll be able to find a place in the train station to exchange my dragots for gallons?” You hummed. 
“Galleons, love, and no. You’ll have to go to Diagon Alley. It’s in London, not too far from the station. I’ll draw you a map.” Lily said, summoning a piece of parchment. 
“No Lily,” you held your hand up, “that defeats the whole purpose of what I’m doing. I’m going to travel across a few countries in Europe and find my way myself.” You shut your trunk again and nodded. 
“Is it time?” Mary asked, setting down the candies. 
“Okay,” you said with a sad smile, “no tears! It’s only three months! I’ll be back at the end of the summer.” The girls are wrapped their arms around you, hugging you tightly and placing kisses on the top of your head. 
“Good luck, darling.” Lily smiled. 
“Be safe!” Marlene called. 
“Have lots of hot sex!” Mary laughed. You laughed and gave a small wave before taking a deep breath and apparating to the center of London. 
London
It was the middle of June in London. You had packed dresses, and skirts, and shorts, and tank tops, and tops that barely covered your midriff. But it was the middle of June in London, so it was pouring rain and it was very chilly. Within a few minutes of you being outside, you were soaking wet. You were wiping the rain from your eyes and scanning for somewhere to duck into when you saw a sign that said: The Leaky Cauldron. Somewhere, in the deep recesses of your mind, you could vaguely remember Mary mentioning something about having a pasty and a pint at the Leaky Cauldron. You never could remember what the hell a pasty was, but you figured any magical place with beer was a good place to start.
You ran into the bar and seemed to attract the attention of everyone inside. You sent everyone a small smile before taking a few wet, sopping footsteps to the bar and pulling yourself onto a barstool, your trunk at your feet. 
“What can I get ya, love?” The bartender asked, quirking an eyebrow at your appearance.
“I know I must look kinda crazy,” you said, raking a hand through your wet hair, “this is my first time in London. I wasn’t prepared for rain.”
“Happens to the best of us,” the bartender shrugged, “fancy a pint to warm up?”
“Sounds good. I’ve heard Guinness is popular here.”
“It is. A pint of that then?”
“Yes thank you! Oh, I heard that you might be able to change my American money.” You said, digging around in your wallet. 
“Sure. You have one of those green dollar bills?” The bartender asked. You placed a dragot on the table. 
“Can you change that for a galleon?” You asked. The bartender released a huff of respect. 
“An American witch? Welcome to Diagon Alley.” He winked and you suddenly became far more aware of the other witches, wizards, and magical folk in the bar. “We have rooms upstairs. Fancy to stay a night or two? We can send your bags up and you can warm up by the fire with a nice glass of firewhiskey.” 
“Thanks. I’ll meet you over by the hearth then.” You said with a wink, taking a moment to wave your wand and dry yourself before snuggling into a chair with a thick blanket. The bartender floated over your drink and you held it up to him in thanks before taking a large sip. You thumbed through a volume of Quidditch through the Ages that had been lying on an empty table. Quidditch had always fascinated you. It wasn’t very common in the states, Quadpot being the more popular sport. 
“You are reading my absolute favorite book in the world.” A man said, sitting on the plush seat in front of you. 
“Oh is it?” You asked, setting your book down and taking in the sight of the man in front of you. Although Mary had been a little crass, you had every intention of riding around Europe…and you weren’t only talking about the trains. Your first candidate was an incredibly promising one to boot, he was tall, with messy dark hair, warm brown eyes, and a pair of round glasses. 
“You really have no idea who I am, do you?” The boy gestured to the bartender for another firewhiskey. 
“Am I supposed to?” You asked with an easy chuckle. The boy leaned in close and flashed you a smile. 
“I’m kind of a big deal.”
“What makes you such a big deal?” 
“I’m the chaser for the Ballycastle Bats.” The boy looked at you expectantly, waiting for you to swoon. But you didn’t. 
“Oh!” It hit you, “Oh! That’s a quidditch position! Right?” You thumbed through your book until you found the page that described all the positions. 
“You really don’t know anything about quidditch?” The boy quirked an eyebrow. 
“I’m American,” you shrugged, “I’m more of a quadpot girl.”
“Well, Miss America,” the boy leaned in closer so his nose was practically touching yours, “I’m James, consider me your guide to Diagon Alley for the foreseeable future.”
“James, I have a question for you.” You said, tucking one of James’s unruly dark locks behind his ear. 
“Anything love,” James’s voice sounded breathy.
“Do quidditch players fuck better than quadpot players?” You said with a grin. James nodded and matched your smile. 
“Why don’t we find out.”
You realized at some point later that James had never paid for his drink but you really didn’t care because James had taken you up to your hotel room and was deep inside you while rubbing your clit. You were on your back, his face close to yours as your right hand rested on his sharp jawline and your left hand was gripping his bicep. You didn’t cast a silencing spell and you were sure the other patrons of the Leaky Cauldron were cursing your name because you were screaming so loud. The firewhiskey was a warm blanket across your skin and your cheeks were hot as James pounded into mercilessly. 
“Godric, you’re so fucking hot.” James said, his glasses foggy and his hair sticking to his forehead. 
“Keep rubbing my clit,” you moaned as you jacked your leg higher and James was able to hit a deeper angle inside you. James connected his lips with yours and you moaned loudly into his mouth as you came. You squeezed tightly around him and James came a little after, burying his head in the crook of your neck and whimpering as he came, hot white ribbons inside you. 
The two of you talked for hours after, he tried to explain the rules of Quidditch to you and you would just laugh. James made good on his promise, too, he gave you a tour of Diagon Alley and wizard London before you apparated up to Scotland. 
The Scottish Highlands
The girls told you all about the quaint village next to their school in the highlands. You spent your days traveling the highlands, sitting in sweet cafes with a scone and a mug of milky tea, reading on a boat on Loch Ness, and visiting all the historic and gorgeous castles. You were going to spend your final day in Hogsmeade before making your way to your next destination. You spent the day wandering Hogsmeade, dipping in and out of sweet shops, joke shops, and little book stores. You settled yourself in a pub called the Three Broomsticks and sipped on a hot butterbeer while reading a book that you had found at Tomes and Scrolls: The New Edition of the Patronus Spellbook. 
“That’s a great book you’re reading,” a voice said, disrupting you from your thoughts. You rolled your eyes. Did all British wizards use the same pick up lines?
“Oh really?” You were sort of tired after all the days of apparating around Scotland and wanted a quiet night in the corner of the pub. 
“Yes. It’s one of my favorites.” The stranger said, sitting next to you. You looked up at him finally and took him in. He was tall, skinny, with thin light scars on his face and hands. He was wearing a knitted sweater and a very worn in pair of trousers. 
“Why’s that?” You asked, still uninterested. 
“I wrote the forward.” He said with an easy shrug, “Remus Lupin. Nice to meet you.” 
“Oh wow,” you were interested now, “it’s a pleasure.”
“I didn’t mean to disturb your reading, I was just a bit excited. The new edition came out yesterday, I was just nipping to the shops to purchase a copy for myself and have a drink to celebrate.” 
“So Remus, do you do other things besides writing forewords?” You asked, asking for another drink from the barkeep for Remus.
“Ah thank you,” Remus accepted the pint and took a long sip, “I am a professor at Hogwarts, I teach Defense Against the Dark Arts.”
“Oh, so you’re Professor Lupin then, aren’t you?” You said, leaning in. Remus looked down at you and gave you a wolffish grin. 
“That I am.” 
You had many, many more drinks with Remus as he told you all about his first few years of working as a professor and the various difficulties that came with it. He talked all about his new patronus research until patronus didn’t sound like a real word anymore. 
“I have a confession for you, Professor.” You said, a goofy smile on your face.
“Anything love.” Remus rested his hand on your thigh. 
“I have a fantasy,” you said, leaning in so your nose was practically touching his, “about fucking a professor in his office.”
You and Remus stumbled back on the path that lead from the village to the school. It was a gorgeous, gargantuan castle that was unlike anything you had ever seen before. You made a mental note to tease your cousin about her downplaying her school. He had a gorgeous office, with high ceilings, books and bars of chocolate strewn about various tables. There was a large wardrobe and about three cups of discarded tea resting on a nearby trunk.
“This is a gorgeous office,” you said, sitting on the corner of one of the large trunks. Your fingers ran over a long skeleton candle that rested on his desk. 
“Thank you,” Remus said, setting his book down and standing so his body was between your legs, “can I get you a cup of tea?”
“You could get me something else,” you pulled Remus down by the collar of his sweater until his face was level with yours and you kissed him hard. He kissed you back, pulling at the hem of your shirt until it was up and over your head. You stood and had to extend your neck all the way to account for the distance between you and him. His large hands went down to cup your breasts, gently. You realized that his hands were shaking. You pulled back and gave Remus a small smile. 
“We don’t have to,” you said, softly, “if you don’t want to.”
“No,” Remus said with a light shake of his head, “I do want to. I’m just a bit nervous. You’re so beautiful.”
“Oh Professor Lupin,” you said, pressing a sweet kiss to his lips, “you are quite a charmer.”
Remus lifted your head with his finger and kissed you again. You helped him out of his sweater this time and saw the long, thin pale scars that traced around his chest like the ones on his face. You kissed along Remus’s jawline and down his neck to his chest. Remus threw his head back and exhaled a soft moan. 
You kissed down Remus’s chest until your nose bumped against his belt buckle. He looked down and you and gave you a small nod. You unbuckled his belt and kissed up and down his length. Remus released a strangled moan and you placed a bit of pressure on his balls. 
“You can be loud for me,” you said before taking a deep breath and taking as much of him as you could into your mouth. 
“Oh fuck,” Remus gasped, gripping the edge of his desk. You continued blowing him until Remus’s breathing picked up and you pulled off. Remus whimpered softly and looked at you as you stood and slipped out of your own pants. You moved Remus so he was standing over you while you had your back to the desk and you hoisted yourself on, spreading your legs wide and dropping your panties to the floor. 
“Come on Professor Lupin,” you said with a smile, “dive right in.” 
Remus grabbed you by the waist and spun you around, pushing your front into the desk harshly. You felt him rubbing the head of his cock against your folds before pushing in deeply. You moaned and grasped for purchase on the desk. Remus’s fingers dug into your hips as he snapped his hips against you, again and again and again. 
His lips attached themselves to your neck and one of his large hands left your hip to grasp harshly at your tit. 
“Rub your clit,” he rasped. You started rubbing your clit rapidly, your moans jumping off the cavernous walls. Remus came and you came after moaning and sweating. Remus stayed inside you, resting his head against your shoulder. 
Remus left for a moment to nip to the toilets and you tried to apparate out of his office and back to your room in Hogsmeade but couldn’t. You didn’t feel that drunk, why couldn’t you apparate?
“You can’t apparate inside Hogwarts, so stop trying. You look like you’re going to pop a blood vessel.” Remus said, walking back in and holding a bar of chocolate out to you. 
“Thanks,” you took a bite from the chocolate and smiled at Remus. He walked you back to Hogsmeade and left you standing in front of your tavern with a lingering kiss and a bar of chocolate. 
Paris 
Everyone had always talked about dirty Paris was and you had honestly considered cutting it from your program altogether. Sitting on Rue Victor Hugo at a cafe with a croissant and the deepest, creamiest hot chocolate you had ever tasted as you took in the sights and sounds of the French capital, you were very happy that you decided to keep Paris on your list. You were even happier to watch the various European men make their way to and from work and pass by the cafe in their tailored suits, finely pressed trousers, smart sweaters, and loafers. You looked around you for a moment before snapping your fingers to light your joint. You waved your hand a second time to disguise your joint as a cigarette-a trick you had learned from one of your friends at Ilvermorny.  Lily would have had a cow had she known that you were smoking weed in public, but she what she didn’t know wouldn’t hurt her.
“Une autre chocolat chaud s’il vous plait,” another hot chocolate please you gestured at the waitress. She came around with a fresh cup and you set your sights on a very attractive man who looked a bit out of place. He had rode up on a motorcycle and took his helmet off, securing it to the bike. His ran a slender, ring covered hand through his long dark and shook his head as he got off the bike. He was wearing an expensive looking leather jacket with a thin dark t-shirt underneath, a pair of distressed looking jeans, and a pair of Doc Martens. He took his jacket off to reveal thin, winding tattoos on his arms and chest. You hoped he would cross the street and take one of the seats at the cafe. He was digging around in his jean pockets for a cigarette when another boy turned the corner onto the street of the cafe. The other boy looked quite a bit like the motorcycle boy but…cleaner. He was wearing a tailored pair of trousers, a crisp white button down, and a smart jacket. His dark curls were nicely styled and his thin, long fingers gestured down quickly so the cigarette between the motorcycle boy’s fingers fell to the ground. One of the second boy’s crisp loafers stamped on the cigarette and he pursed his lips. 
“Sirius, what are you doing?” The second boy shook his head.
“Shove off Reg,” motorcycle boy, Sirius, said, raking a hand through his hair. 
“Don’t call me that. My name is Regulus, you know that. You can’t keep running, Sirius. It isn’t sustainable.” Regulus looked at Sirius with an expression of pity.
“I just…I don’t care about it, Reg. I don’t care about any of it. You’re better at this anyway. You can deal with all that family stuff better than I can. Just let me grab a coffee and a cigarette and I’ll see you later.” Sirius did not wait for Regulus to respond. He marched across the street to the cafe you were at and you had to force yourself to pretend you were very interested in your menu. Regulus sighed and threw his hands in the air before coming back the way he came. 
“Madame, un cafe. Merci.” Ma’am, a coffee. Thanks. Sirius barked at the waitress. 
“Oui Monsieur.” Yes sir. The waitress responded, rolling her eyes. 
“Do you always eavesdrop?” Sirius asked, taking a seat at the table next to yours. 
“Sorry,” you shrugged, “you and that other guy put on quite a show.”
“Oh my brother Regulus? Yes we’re quite the pair.” Sirius rolled his eyes as the waitress set down his coffee. He took a sip and then paused. 
“Something wrong with your coffee?” You asked.
“You’re smoking weed.” He said, sniffing in your direction. 
“How do you know that?” You asked. 
“You’re a witch, aren’t you.” Sirius grinned at you.
“So you must be a wizard then.” You laughed. 
“You have to teach me that trick,” Sirius moved his chair so it was close to yours. You ran your tongue the bottoms of your front teeth.
“I bet I could teach you a lot.” 
Turns out that Sirius got off on pissing off his family so in hindsight it wasn’t all that surprising that he took you back to his family’s chateau in the middle of the afternoon. They were gone, out, at some event but Sirius pulled you to the middle of the drawing room in front of a roaring fireplace. You sat down on the rug and took in the warmth and glow of the fire. 
“So you’re a rich boy, then?” You said teasingly as Sirius pulled off his shirt and laid down in front of the fireplace with you. 
“Filthy rich,” Sirius responded, pulling you close to him and connecting his lips with yours. You did not break apart as he laid you down in front of the fire, pulling off your clothes with an animalistic intensity. Sirius was devouring you, his teeth and tongue all over your face, neck, and tits. He barely prepared you at all, just pushing in without warning. Your nails pressed into his shoulder blades as you looked at him, ready to snap about his hasty action when his thumb began rubbing hard on your clit. You had your legs wrapped around him as you were biting his collarbone to keep from moaning. 
Sirius pulled out of you and flipped you over so you were on top and he turned you so you were facing away from him. 
“Get loud baby. Use me,” he said, his hands planted firmly on your hips as you sunk down on him. You were moaning intensely as you moved up and down, the new position providing a new angle for you. You came hard, your fingers searching for purchase on the rug as Sirius fucked you through your orgasm. 
“Are you close?” You turned back to look at Sirius. He looked gorgeous, his sweaty curls plastered in his forehead and his hands heavy on your waist, a look of concentration in his eyes. 
“Uh, not yet.” He barked out, a vein popping in his forehead. 
“Spread your legs a little further,” You said, pushing at Sirius’s ankles. He did what you said and you sucked on your finger for a moment before pushing it between his cheeks and into his asshole. Sirius was moaning loudly now. It sounded like a name or something, he was moaning “Moony” over and over again. He was so loud that you didn’t hear the door open and notice people entering the house until Sirius was cumming intensely inside you as Regulus and a woman who could have only been Sirius’s mother were glaring down at you. You gathered your clothes quickly and apparated out before Sirius had finished lighting his cigarette. 
Massachusetts 
You were exhausted and thoroughly ready to sleep in your own bed by the time you arrived back home. You threw your trunk by the front door and called out, 
“I’m back witches!” 
Lily, Marlene, and Mary swarmed you, peppering you with hugs and kisses and beginning to hear all about your travels and see the souvenirs you brought back for them. You filled them in and by the time you were talking about your escapades with the athlete, the professor, and the heir, you were even more ready for bed. 
“Well have a good night darling. Also I’m so sorry but I used the last tampon a few hours ago, I’m going to nip to the shops in the morning,” Mary said. 
“Leave it to Mary to use the last period product in this house knowing full well that we’ve all been synced for the past few years.” Marlene playfully tossed a pillow at Mary. 
“Wait,” something dropped in your stomach, “you’re all on your period? Right now?” 
“Yeah, started two days ago. Why? You haven’t started yours?” Lily asked. 
“No. No I haven’t.” You started chewing your lip, “Anyone have a pregnancy test?”
“In the last drawer of the bathroom,” Mary pointed out as you shot up out of your seat to take the test. Your leg bounced anxiously as you waited to see the results of the test.
“Okay love, I’m sure your period is just all messy from traveling and-oh my…” Lily’s jaw dropped as she looked at your positive test,
“Who’s the father?” Marlene asked. 
“I…uh…I have no idea.” You said as you thought back to the athlete, the professor, and the heir.
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loveacrosstimes · 2 months ago
Text
The Nurse and the Rancher
Summary: Claire, a 27-year-old nurse from NYC accidentally gets transported back to California in 1995. There she meets Jamie, a 25-year-old Scot who recently inherited his uncle's sprawling ranch in St. Helena.
Claire Randall had no cell phone, no wallet, not even a single ballpoint pen to accompany her on her trek through the dusty, humid hell that was small town, California.  
It had a name, sure, but she couldn’t remember what it was.
It wasn’t one of the handful of famous cities she’d learned about back home in New York  — Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco  — but that was the least of her worries.
In the span of eight or so hours, she’d settled into the terrifying reality that not only was she not in New York anymore, but she was somehow nearly 30 years in the past as well. 
June 8, 1995, to be exact.
The rolled-up newspaper under her arm confirmed as much, as did the genial convenience store cashier who’d given it to her for free. That small show of kindness had kept her from falling to her knees and asking God why the worst luck in the world seemed to attach itself to her. 
Traveling to the past on the day before her fifth wedding anniversary, when she and her husband, Frank, were already on icy terms. He thought she spent too much time clocking in at the neonatal unit in the hospital; she thought his nose was too far in his history books. 
Neither was wrong, and once they could see past their own deep-seeded stubbornness, they agreed to fix things. 
After spending weeks in couple’s therapy, this was supposed to be a make-or-break milestone for them. 
A new beginning. 
She’d bought a new dress and a little makeup — because it’d been ages since he’d seen her out of her scrubs — supplies to make his favorite maple cake, and the fixings for a steak dinner. 
And now, she'd vanished without a trace. 
She stopped in the middle of the barely-paved road, unfurling the paper. The number of times she’d glanced down at the date hoping that the numbers changed was mind-boggling — but it was unfailing.
June 8, 1995. 
Eight days into the sixth month of the nineteen hundred and ninety-fifth year. 
In Le Cressida , no less, according to the paper. Wherever that was. 
She pressed an anguished hand onto her forehead.
The California sun, which she’d only heard about in theory before today, beat down on her with no abandon, shellacking her curls to her forehead and plastering her scrubs to her thighs.
If she didn’t get something cold to drink soon, she was going to pass out from dehydration. 
Heeding the directions of the cashier, she turned right in front of the store, walking right down the long, uneven street, until she passed a car repair shop and a check cashing place. 
Sure enough, there was a diner across the way. 
HATTIE’S, spelled in all caps. It was supposed to serve the best chicken and waffles in town, according to the cashier. 
Not that she cared. She just needed sustenance.
And water, God, she needed water. 
Claire pushed open the old creaky doors to the diner, and was immediately enveloped with the cold, crispy breeze of air conditioning and the overwhelming smell of grease.
Perhaps her hunger was overtaking her, but it wasn’t a rancid, turn-her-stomach kind of smell.
It smelled like buttery, artery clogging goodness, swirling with the remnants of chicken and burgers and bacon, and whatever else was sizzling on the big splotchy grill back in the kitchen.
She never allowed herself to enjoy these foods, thanks to the number of patients she’d seen meet their demise from years of overindulging when she was doing her rounds in nursing school. 
But today was no ordinary day.
“Come on in, little lady, you’re letting out the AC,” said a gruff, burly man from behind the counter.   
Claire walked further into the establishment. The floors latched onto her shoes, its thin layer of grime sandwiching itself between the grooves on the bottom of her shoe. 
Inside, she grimaced, but she kept her face leveled to keep from offending the man who stood between her and a tall icy beverage. 
“Sorry about that." She pointed back towards the door. "I got distracted.”
He picked up his notepad and shrugged. “‘It’s alright. Now, what can I get for you?”
She sat her newspaper on the counter, then looked at the menu scrawled out in chalk on a board above. Endless pairings of salt, fat, and protein, slathered in more fat, but only one item made her stomach truly quake. 
“Can I get a double cheeseburger, please? Hold the pickles and extra tomatoes. And a cup of ice water. The biggest size you have.”
He wrote as she talked. “That's all?” 
Glancing back up, she considered adding a carb to the meal. Before the universe whisked her to Le Cressida, she’d been making her daily walk to Mount Sinai Hospital. She was halfway there before she realized she’d left her purse at home, but she didn’t think much of it. 
Obviously, she should’ve.
Now, she only had the $50 worth of emergency money she kept in her bra — something NYC pickpockets couldn’t swipe — to pay with. Through some measure of a miracle, it’d made it through this journey here with her. And since she didn’t know how long she’d have to stretch it, she couldn’t go overboard. 
“Yes, that’s all — thank you, uh, Danny,” she said, finally noticing his name tag. 
With a nod, he turned and headed towards the kitchen. 
As he fetched her food, Claire familiarized herself with the surroundings.
The diner walls were dyed with what looked like years of unfiltered oil and smoke residue. There was a large neon, Coca-Cola sign on the wall to the right of the large windows, across from the counter. The retro kind she’d seen in her mother’s old magazines she collected in her early 20s. On the other wall was a board full of polaroid photos she couldn’t make out from her seat. In the other corner was a jukebox that looked like it’d been plucked straight out of the ‘60s – probably why it wasn’t on.
Or maybe it was because the diner was nearly empty. Besides her, two other patrons were sitting in a booth that lined the windows — peculiar for 3:12 p.m, no matter what decade you were in. 
Then again, it wasn’t quite time for the dinner rush yet. 
Or maybe HATTIE'S just didn’t turn over much business. 
She didn’t intend to stay here long enough to figure it out. 
After she got a good meal in her belly, she was going to wander a couple of miles back to the edge of the forest where the universe had spit her out and see if she could get back home.
Glancing backward towards the door, she looked across the way. There was barely any foot traffic along the few businesses that lined the street. It made the expansive nothingness surrounding them in every direction seem more storied, more menacing. 
Just as Claire turned her attention back to the counter, Danny emerged with her order. “Here you go, little lady.” 
She whipped around with a gleam in her eyes. “Thanks, this looks amazing,” she said about the very generic-looking diner burger coated in a thin layer of grease and grill marks – even the bread. 
Yet, it wasn’t long before she was shoveling in her food with both hands, slowing only to gulp down streams of her water. The food wasn’t nearly as tasty as it smelled, and yet it was the most delicious meal she’d ever had in her life. Determined to savor every morsel, she didn’t notice Danny, propped up near the counter, watching her intently. 
“Slow down, ma’am, I don’t know the Heimlich maneuver,” he said with a guttural laugh. 
Face flaming from embarrassment, Claire slowly raised her head and reached for the napkin dispenser. “I’m sorry … I haven’t eaten in hours,” she said, wiping traces of grease from her mouth and hands. 
But he waved her away. “Oh, I’m just funnin' ya. It’s nice to see someone appreciate the cuisine.”
Claire picked up what was left of her burger. “Well, it’s amazing.” A lie and a truth. “I’ll, um, have to come this way more often.”
Though, if the universe cared about her even a little bit, this would be the last time they ever crossed paths, because she’d be able to figure out how to get out of Dodge, and back home. 
Or maybe she’d just wake up from this very bad dream or perhaps even a coma. She hadn’t completely ruled that this wasn’t an elaborate hallucination, after all.
“I certainly wouldn’t mind. It’s always nice to see a new face now and again – especially one so pretty.”
Ignoring Danny, she took another bite from her burger, not wanting to entertain even the mildest flirtation from this man. 
Even if she wasn’t married, he wasn’t her type. 
“Plus, we don’t get many medical folks in this part.”
“Oh?” She asked brow raised slightly. 
“No, the nearest hospital is about 10 miles out.” 
“Yeah, I know,” she said quickly – perhaps too quickly. “But I was doing a house call nearby...” she added, offering up that tidbit before he could find any gaps in her story. “For a homebound patient.”
The less the locals knew of her situation the better. She was already in a strange town in an unfamiliar time. The last thing she needed were people sniffing around her trying to figure out where she was from.
All she had to offer them was the truth, and in this case, it was certainly stranger than fiction. 
"Dedicated eh?” he said, the answer seeming to satisfy him.
She smiled again. “Yes. I love my work.” That part was true. “Anyway, how much was the meal?” She reached into her bra for all the money she had in the world. Her poor father, he’d roll in his grave if he knew.
“Let’s see, a burger, extra tomatoes, and ice water. $5.56.”
“Really?” She asked, unable to contain her surprise. That same meal would’ve been at least $12-15 in 2024 —  and that's without a tip.
“Yep. Surely that’s not too steep for a nurse – I hear y’all make good money.”
“No, it’s very affordable. I’m just … surprised.”
He shrugged again. “Shouldn’t be. Things are cheaper out here in the sticks.” 
“I'm learning.” 
He reached for her money and walked over to the register.
She turned her attention back to her water, downing the rest of it. Barely satiated, but feeling stronger to restart her journey. 
Behind her the door jingled, alerting her to another patron, but she was too transfixed with the temporary relief.
It wasn’t until he stood next to her at the counter that she noted his statuesque physique. A long, lean body, accented by bulging muscles,  topped with a mess of auburn curls. 
He was wearing loose-fitting jeans, gathered at the waist with a belt and a plaid button down with what looked to be cut-off sleeves.
He was a cowboy or a cosplayer. 
Was cosplaying even a thing in the 90s? Her knowledge of the decade mostly amounted to the 90s-era TV she’d grown up with and the stories from her mother’s days as a wild, uninhibited twenty-something she’d heard about from her aunt Tiffany. She couldn’t remember any mention of the costume-heavy conventions that had taken root during her lifetime.
Either way, he was undeniably handsome in a way it’d be improper to harp on as a married woman.
So she didn’t harp .
She took only a moment to familiarize herself with this deliriously handsome figure standing feet away.
He noticed her a beat later and tilted his cowboy hat towards her. 
She flashed him a meek smile, then forced her gaze forward. 
Danny returned to the counter with a conflicted look on his face. 
“I’ll be with you in just one second, Jamie,” he said to the man he was obviously familiar with. 
Jamie, as she now knew him, nodded, then took the fourth seat at the counter, leaving two empty seats between them. 
Turning back in front of her, Claire caught the man’s expression, turning her face downward into a frown. “Everything okay?” She asked, a prickly filling rooting itself in her stomach. 
And it wasn't because of the greaseball of a burger she'd scarfed down.
“It will be after you tell me where you got this money.” 
She blinked slowly, taken aback. “Umm, an ATM?
“Which one?”
“Does it matter?”
“It does when the money is counterfeit,” he said, holding the bill up into the air next to a second $50 bill he’d pulled from the register. 
Pressing her hands into the counter, Claire leaned forward.  “Are you seriously accusing me of giving you fake money?” 
“I am.”
“This is preposterous. I have a good job, and I am married to a man with a good job. I have no reason to hawk fake cash.”
“I don't need your life story, little lady. All I know is that Ulysses S. Grant’s head is the wrong size, misaligned, and the numbers are missing those little circles. Not to mention this bill says series 2024. 20, 25 – nearly 30 years into the future. So unless you rode up in town in a time machine, you’re dealing fake money, and you got it from someone who didn’t give a damn enough to make it look real.”
Eyes wide, Claire froze, the unsettling realization sinking into her bones. Of course, the money looked weird — it wasn’t yet in circulation. Thank God she hadn’t tried to pay with the new $100 bills; Danny would really crap his pants then. “Can I see it?” She asked, hoping that if she could get her hands on it, she could somehow explain away the abnormalities.
Or at the very least snatch it and make a quick escape. 
Where the hell she would flee, she didn’t know, but she knew she didn’t need another problem added to her plate.
“No … and guess what else? I’m going to have to call the Sheriff.”
“Sheriff?! Why?!” She yelled, garnering the attention of the other patrons – including the Ginger-haired man sitting two seats down. He'd already been quietly assessing the scene, but her outburst inspired a less casual observance.
"It’s the rules. We have to confiscate fake bills. He stopped, his gaze thickening as he allowed his eyes to travel from her face down her body. For the first time that day, this somewhat neutral stranger made her skin crawl. “But you look to be about his type  — bat those pretty eyelashes of yours and you’ll probably be able to get off with a warning.”
“Surely, you’re not suggesting that I use my womanly wiles to fix a problem made by your egregious accusation.”
“Egregious!? You’re the one trying to cheat out a small diner in a small town with your fake money. What happens to you is not my problem. What is, is making sure you don’t do it again.”
This was the last thing she needed.
Actually, being whisked into the past the day before her anniversary was the last thing she needed, but this certainly wasn’t helping. 
Especially now. It’d only be a matter of hours before Frank realized she was missing – that’s if her job hadn’t called him because she hadn’t shown up for work that day. She needed to figure out how to get back home before she made the local news. 
Unable to help herself, her tears built and fell hard and fast. She pressed her elbows into the counter and rested her face in her hands. “I cannot fucking believe this is my life,” she said under her breath. 
Danny turned to reach for the corded phone on the wall — another nostalgic relic from decades past she would now associate with one of the worst days of her life.  But before he could dial the Sheriff, a thick Scottish accent spoke up beside her. 
“Wait, Danny,” said the voice she quickly realized was Jamie’s. “Let me pay for the lass’ meal. It can’t be that much.”
Eyes wide, Claire shot the man a surprised glance. The other man held the phone in the air, looking between them, brows furrowed. Whoever he was, was somebody that Danny respected, as his inquiry had momentarily halted his desire for “justice.”
“I don’t know,” Danny said after a beat. “I don’t want to give an outsider the impression that it’s okay to get over on us small-town folk.”
“Just this one time.” He said, tilting his head her way. “The lass looks like she’d had a long day." Reaching into his back pocket for his wallet, he pulled out a $50 bill, dangling the money in front of the cook with a charming smile.
Danny shot her one more contemptuous glance, then returned his attention to Jamie. “And I can keep the change?” He bargained. 
“$50 for a burger and some water? You must ken me a Gomerel,” Jamie objected.
“And you must ‘ken’ me a brassy-haired Scot,” Danny returned with a laugh. “But that was your uncle, not me."
“Come on, Danny. Ye’re robbing me blind.” 
He shrugged. “That’s my price for not turning in the thief.”
Claire, who’d become more transfixed with this kind man’s thick, Scottish accent than she wanted to admit – rooted herself back in the present at his insult. “I am not a thief.”
"No, you’re just a woman handing out Party City money to hard working, small town folk.” 
Unable to help herself, Claire wound herself up to unleash an insult in kind, but Jamie interjected. "Fine, I’ll give you the $50,” Jamie replied. 
With a sigh, Danny hung the phone back up on the wall. “Fine, you got yourself a deal,” he said, taking the money from Jamie. “And I’m still keeping this,” he said, referencing Claire’s $50. 
It was the bit of cash she owned, but being absolutely broke was better than spending the night in the local jail, a fate she’d escaped thanks to this stranger. “Whatever,” she said, rising from her seat at the counter. 
Danny deposited the money into the register just as a few more people walked into the diner. More trickled in across the way. Adults, teens, kids – school and work was obviously over for the day.
And if time moved at the same pace here as it did back home, Frank would be expecting her home within a couple of hours. 
But as eager as she was to get back, she had to take care of something first. She took a step forward where the man was seated. “Thank you so much … Jamie,” she said slowly with a smile. “You didn’t have to do that, but I am so, so grateful that you did.”
He humped his shoulders. “It was nothing,” he replied in that thick, mellifluous accent of his. “But I wouldn’t suggest you try that again. People don’t take kindly to scammers in these parts.”
“I really wasn’t trying to scam anyone. I have no idea how I ended up with fake money,” she lied, though it actually wasn't a lie.
Tilting his head, he looked at her incredulously – as if he didn’t believe even an ounce of her story. “Maybe. Maybe not. Just be careful."
She nodded, unwilling to even scrounge up an explanation that he would believe, mainly because she didn’t have one – at least not on such short notice. Also, because for a moment, she got lost in the oceanic depths of his gorgeous blue eyes. 
“I will,” she said eventually. “And thanks again.” 
“It was my pleasure,” he said, a hint of a smile on his face. 
Turning back to the counter, Claire grabbed her newspaper and the rest of her ice water, then turned towards the door. 
Just as she reached the exit, he called out to her. 
“What’s your name again, lass?” 
She turned on the balls of her feet, meeting his inquiry. “What was that?”
“Yer name.”
“Oh. I’m Claire …" she said, "Claire Randall."
“It was nice to meet you, Claire. I’m Jamie. Jamie Fraser.”
**********
Thanks for reading! Please let me know what you think!
It's also available on AO3!
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