#best swat tour packages

[pakistantourpackages]

Swat Valley: Nature's Hidden Gem in Pakistan

Explore Swat Valley and if you want to visit Swat, you can easily book a Swat tour package after reading this information.

Swat Valley, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Pakistan," is a mesmerizing and picturesque region located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is a place that is not only breathtaking in its natural beauty but also holds immense historical and cultural significance. This article will explore the various facets of Swat Valley, from its geographical location to its attractions, challenges, and conservation efforts.

Geographical Location of Swat Valley

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Situated in the northeastern part of Pakistan, Swat Valley is surrounded by stunning landscapes. The valley is embraced by the Hindu Kush mountain range and lies at an altitude of approximately 3,200 feet above sea level. The Swat River meanders through the valley, adding to its scenic charm.

Historical Significance

Swat Valley has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was an important center of Buddhism during the Gandhara civilization. The valley is dotted with archaeological sites, stupas, and monasteries, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Natural Beauty

One of the primary reasons tourists flock to Swat Valley is its natural beauty. Lush green meadows, crystal-clear rivers, and dense forests create a surreal atmosphere. Malam Jabba, a famous ski resort, offers splendid views of snow-covered peaks during the winter.

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Cultural Richness

Swat Valley is home to diverse ethnic groups, each contributing to the vibrant culture of the region. The local Pashtun culture is warm and hospitable, and visitors are often welcomed with open arms.

Tourist Attractions

Swat Valley boasts numerous tourist attractions, including Mingora, Malam Jabba, Ushu Forest, and the historic Buddhist ruins of Butkara Stupa. These sites offer something for every type of traveler.

Adventure Activities

Adventure seekers can indulge in a range of activities such as trekking, mountain biking, paragliding, and even skiing in the winter months. The region's topography is ideal for these adrenaline-pumping adventures.

Local Cuisine

The local cuisine in Swat Valley is a treat for the taste buds. Traditional Pashtun dishes like Chapli Kebab, Mantu, and various rice dishes are must-try items for food enthusiasts.

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Economy of Swat Valley

Agriculture and tourism play a significant role in the valley's economy. The cultivation of apples, apricots, and walnuts is prevalent, and the tourism industry continues to grow, providing livelihoods for many locals.

Education and Healthcare

Education and healthcare facilities have improved over the years, making Swat Valley a more habitable place for its residents. The region has seen significant progress in these areas.

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Challenges Faced

Despite its many attractions, Swat Valley faces challenges, including natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. These challenges require continuous efforts for resilience and recovery.

Conservation Efforts

The lush flora and fauna of Swat Valley are essential to its allure. Conservation organizations and government initiatives work tirelessly to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.

How to Reach Swat Valley

To reach Swat Valley, one can fly to Islamabad or Peshawar and then embark on a road trip to the valley. Alternatively, a scenic train journey to Mingora is an option, offering stunning views along the way.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Swat Valley is during the spring and summer months, from April to August when the weather is pleasant and the natural beauty is at its peak.

Vaadi Travels - The Best Swat Tour Package Provider

🌿 Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Swat Valley with Vaadi Travels! 🏞️

Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the captivating Swat Valley? Look no further, because Vaadi Travels is your trusted guide to the ultimate Swat experience! 🌄

🌟 Why Choose Vaadi Travels for Your Swat Expedition? 🌟

✅ Best Tour Packages: Our Swat tour packages are designed to enchant both locals and foreigners. We are committed to providing an extraordinary experience for every traveler who wishes to explore this hidden gem.

✅ Local Expertise: With years of experience and deep local insights, we take you off the beaten path to discover the true essence of Swat. Our team is dedicated to ensuring an authentic and immersive adventure.

✅ Safety and Comfort: Your safety and comfort are our utmost priorities. We offer safe, well-maintained vehicles, experienced guides, and comfortable accommodations to make your journey worry-free.

✅ Cultural Dive: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Swat. We arrange interactions with local communities, giving you a chance to connect with the warm-hearted people of this region.

✅ Scenic Splendor: Witness the awe-inspiring landscapes, from the lush valleys to the majestic Malam Jabba, Ushu Forest, and much more. Our tours are designed to capture the true beauty of Swat.

✅ Tailor-Made Options: Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple, or a group of friends, we offer customizable packages to match your unique preferences and budget.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the enchanting Swat Valley with Vaadi Travels. Reserve your spot today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

📞 Contact us now to secure your Swat adventure, and let's transform your Swat dreams into reality! 🌠

🌐 Visit our website: www.vaaditravels.com

📧 Email: info@vaaditravels.com

☎️ Call us at +92-334-5129-777

Embark on a journey like no other – Rediscover Swat with Vaadi Travels! ���🗺️ #SwatWithVaadi #ExploreSwat #TravelWithVaadi

FAQs

Is Swat Valley safe for tourists? Swat Valley has made significant security improvements in recent years, making it a safe destination for tourists.

What is the best way to explore Swat Valley? The best way to explore Swat Valley is by hiring a local guide who can show you the hidden gems of the region.

Are there any cultural festivals in Swat Valley? Yes, Swat Valley hosts various cultural festivals that showcase the local traditions and heritage.

Can I find luxury accommodations in Swat Valley? While there are some luxury accommodations, the region primarily offers a range of budget and mid-range options.

What souvenirs can I buy from Swat Valley? Visitors can purchase local handicrafts, including traditional jewelry, textiles, and woodwork, as souvenirs to remember their trip.

[northgateways1]

 Discover Pakistan's Hidden Treasures with Northgateways - Unparalleled Pakistan Tour Packages 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Northgateways, your gateway to exploring the enchanting beauty and rich cultural tapestry of Pakistan. As a top-tier tour and travel agency based in Islamabad, we take pride in curating exceptional Pakistan tour packages that showcase the diverse landscapes, historical marvels, and warm hospitality of this remarkable country.

At Northgateways, we go beyond the ordinary to craft experiences that linger in your memory for a lifetime. Our expert team of travel enthusiasts meticulously designs tour packages that cater to every type of traveler - from adventure seekers to culture enthusiasts and nature lovers. With a commitment to excellence, we ensure that your journey through Pakistan is seamless, safe, and brimming with moments of discovery.

Unveiling Pakistan's Wonders

Our Pakistan tour packages are thoughtfully designed to showcase the best of this breathtaking country. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the north to the pristine beaches along the Arabian Sea in the south, Northgateways offers a spectrum of experiences. Traverse the culturally rich cities, explore ancient archaeological sites, and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions that make Pakistan a treasure trove for explorers.

Tailored Packages for Every Traveler

We understand that each traveler has unique preferences and expectations. Therefore, our tour packages are customizable to cater to your specific interests and time constraints. Whether you are a history buff wanting to explore the ancient wonders of Taxila, a nature lover seeking the serenity of Swat Valley, or an adrenaline junkie yearning for the thrill of the Karakoram Highway, our diverse packages ensure there's something for everyone.

Immerse in Culture and Tradition

Pakistan is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, and Northgateways ensures you get a front-row seat to the authentic experiences. Our packages include visits to local markets, traditional performances, and opportunities to interact with the warm and welcoming locals. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Pakistan's cultural heritage as you explore its bustling bazaars, sample delectable cuisine, and partake in age-old customs.

Comfortable Accommodations and Hassle-Free Travel

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Northgateways collaborates with premium hotels and resorts to provide you with a comfortable and luxurious stay throughout your journey. Our well-planned itineraries and efficient logistics ensure that you can focus on enjoying the experience without the hassles of travel arrangements.

Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

At Northgateways, we believe in responsible tourism. Our commitment to sustainable practices is reflected in our efforts to minimize the environmental impact of our tours and support local communities. Travel with us, and you contribute to the preservation of Pakistan's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Customer Testimonials

Don't just take our word for it – hear what our satisfied customers have to say about their Northgateways experience. Our testimonials highlight the personalized attention, seamless execution, and transformative experiences that set us apart as a leading tour and travel agency in Islamabad.

Conclusion:

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Northgateways and discover the beauty, culture, and warmth that Pakistan has to offer. Our meticulously crafted tour packages ensure that every moment of your expedition is filled with wonder and joy. Contact us today to book your dream Pakistan tour and let Northgateways turn your travel aspirations into reality.

[lresort]

Exploring the Unexplored Beauty of Pakistan

Kumrat Valley is one of the most beautiful and unexplored valleys in Pakistan. Located in the Upper Dir district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kumrat Valley is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With its lush green forests, crystal clear streams, snow-capped mountains, and meadows full of wildflowers, Kumrat Valley offers a breathtaking view that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.

To make your trip to Kumrat Valley an unforgettable experience, there are several tour packages available that cater to all kinds of travelers. These packages are designed to provide a hassle-free and comfortable journey while ensuring that you get to explore the best of what Kumrat Valley has to offer.

One of the most popular Kumrat Valley tour packages is the three-day tour, which covers all the major attractions of the valley. The tour starts from Islamabad or Peshawar and includes a scenic drive to Kumrat Valley. During the tour, you will get to visit the picturesque Jahaz Banda, which is a high-altitude meadow that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You will also get to explore the beautiful Katora Lake, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty.

If you are looking for a longer trip, then you can opt for a five-day tour package that covers not only Kumrat Valley but also the neighboring areas of Chitral and Swat. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the beauty of northern Pakistan in depth. During the tour, you will get to visit the majestic Kalash Valley, which is home to the unique Kalash tribe, and experience their colorful culture and traditions. You will also get to visit the famous Malam Jabba ski resort, which is one of the best ski resorts in Pakistan.

The tour packages for Kumrat Valley are designed to cater to all kinds of travelers, whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or with family. The tour operators provide comfortable accommodation, transportation, and meals, ensuring that you have a stress-free and enjoyable trip.

In conclusion, Kumrat Valley is a paradise on earth that is waiting to be explored. With its natural beauty and serene environment, it is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and tranquility. So, if you are planning a trip to Pakistan, make sure to include Kumrat Valley in your itinerary and book one of the many tour packages available to make your trip a memorable one.

[triptopakistan]

Pakistan's best travel agency in Lahore we offering honeymoon packages, Skardu, kalam, sawat,  and Chitral tour packages from Lahore, and all domestic tours packages available at a reasonable price

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[collecting-stories]

Winona - Rafe Cameron

Request: no.

A/N: Just some shit about Rafe being a dad that got stuck in my head. 

Outer Banks Masterlist

✰ ✰ ✰ ✰ 

Even when Rafe was a kid there were just somethings he was absolutely sure of. One of those, the one that seemed to top every list he made, the one that rattled around in the back of his head at every family holiday party, the one he was absolutely, a million times sure of, was that he was never ever going to have a kid. Or a family at that. But most definitely not a kid.  

It wasn’t that he hated kids. When Sarah was born he’d been so excited to have a little sister. And again with Wheezie. He wasn’t always the best but being a big brother was arguably one of the most important things in his life. But even still, he didn’t want kids. He tried to be a good brother but his dad had certainly never tried to be a good father. They clashed constantly and all Rafe could imagine when he thought about kids was one hating him as much as he hated Ward.  

He was never going to have children. It was final.  

When he was in college everyone asked him what he was going to do when he got out and the answer was always exactly the same. Work. For his father. Not the dream but a decent income and he couldn’t imagine leaving the Outer Banks. He’d live in a condo or a house or whatever on the Eight and he’d maybe marry, he wasn’t opposed to the idea, but he would definitely never have kids.  

-

“Daddy!”  

“Win,” Rafe groaned, trying to roll over and knocking the little girl over on the bed, “what are you doing awake?”

“What are you doing not awake?” She retorted, little fingers prodding at his cheeks.  

-

That was the plan of course, until he met you. After college, working part time for his dad on a project, you were not his usual type. That is, you had a kid. A two-year-old named Winnie who came with you on occasions when you couldn’t find a babysitter. She was talkative, even at two, and less of a deterrent than Rafe thought when he finally asked you out.  

He wasn’t the only one who knew that he was never going to have kids. He’d said as much to Sarah and Wheezie on numerous occasions. After Sarah and John B got married (not something he was thrilled about but also not something he could change) and she started talking about kids he was quick to admonish her. Why would anyone in their right mind, especially someone who had grown up with their dad, want a kid?

“You’re really going out with her?” Wheezie had asked when he first told her that he had asked her out.

“Why?”

“Cause she’s got a kid, doesn’t she?”

“Yeah, so what?” Rafe was barely even paying attention to his sister at this point.  

“So...” Wheezie rolled her eyes, as if it's obvious, “you don’t want kids.”  

“It’s not my kid.”

That was Rafe’s prime argument. Winona wasn’t his kid. She had a dad. He was a deadbeat loser that swore up and down he wanted a kid until she was actually born and then he hit the road, leaving the Outer Banks and you far behind him. It was a tough situation but it didn’t change anything in Rafe’s mind. Winona wasn’t his and she never would be and that was fine. He didn’t want kids. He just wanted to date you.  

And for a little while that’s all it was. Just the two of you going on dates, you’d stay over when you could leave Winona with your mom, it was like being single and childless again. It was fun but you knew it couldn’t stay that way forever. You had more responsibilities than Rafe and you liked him but you honestly couldn’t be sure that he had any interest in raising a kid. So you did the one thing you desperately didn’t want to do, you broke up with him. Or, you almost did.

“I just think we want really different things; I mean...I have a daughter to think about and anyone I let in has to be willing to accept that. I’m not saying I expect you to be her dad but we’re a package deal.” You said. You were sitting on the back deck of his condo, looking out over the beach, and any other time in the world you would’ve loved the view but today it all felt gray.

Every logic part of Rafe was screaming for him to walk away from this. It was exactly what he didn’t want. He couldn’t raise a kid, he shouldn’t raise a kid.  

Before he could actually think though he could hear himself saying, “I’m in.”  

“What?”

“I’m in. Totally, completely in.” Rafe said, still hardly believing the words coming out of his mouth. How could it be that he was so completely willing to do a 180 when he had spent his entire life convinced that he would never have or raise children. Rafe was always positive that he would make a terrible father. He had no interest in children, especially ones that weren’t actually his. But then he was telling you that he was totally ready to accept the responsibility of helping you raise your daughter and it was like something in him changed.  

No one would ever claim that Rafe was a man of his word but when he told you that he was all in with Winona he wasn’t lying.  

“I think you’re actually spoiling her,” you mentioned the first time you caught him carrying your daughter, by then three, on his shoulders. He’d sworn that morning that he was going to drop her off at the babysitter’s but instead he’d brought her with him to work, walking her through the newly gutted house and talking to her like she was touring the place.  

“I’m showing her around, isn’t that right Win?” He tilted his head back and Winona put her hands on his face, leaning over to see him.  

“We’re tractors!”  

“Contractors,” Rafe corrected, looking down at you. Winona held his hair, not tight enough to hurt, and laid her head on top of his.

“She was supposed to go to the babysitters.”

He shrugged, “I barely have work today, why pay someone to watch her when I can?”

Rafe was better with Winona than anyone thought he would be. He was more patient than he’d ever been, even with his sisters. You were surprised sometimes, when you would lose your temper after a long day, that he managed to keep it together. He loved Winona as much as you did, as much as he would have if she was his own kid and, by all intents and purposes, she was his. She’d never known another father-figure, Rafe was the first guy you dated after your ex left you and when she started calling him dad no one corrected her.  

-

“Daddy,” Winona whined again, trying to pull Rafe’s eyelids up when he closed his eyes and pretended to go back to sleep. “Daddy, wake up.”

“I’m awake Winnie...” he groaned, swatting her hands away. She laughed, scrunching her face up the same way you did when you bothered about something.  

“Mommy said we’re going for waffles so get ready mister!”

“Yeah?” He yawned, stretching his up above his head. Winona was five now and a soon to be big sister, her excitement at the prospect of a baby growing every day. Lately you’d been roping her into your waffle craving though she was more than happy to go along with it.  

“Waffles!” She insisted.

When she tried to poke him again, Rafe grabbed her, tickling her sides and smiling when she squealed at him. You could hear Winona’s shrieks down the hall and came into the room, “are you guys ready yet?”

“Daddy won’t get up.”

“Well then we’ll go without him,” you teased as Winona came to the end of the bed, reaching her arms out for you like she was still a toddler wanting to be held. You lifted her up, careful of your stomach as you placed a hand under her. “I’m a living chair.”

“Winnie,” Rafe called, catching her attention once again. “Why don’t you get your shoes on, we’ll be right there.”

Winona slid down your side, feet hitting the carpet before she took off down the hall for her bedroom. Rafe finally got out of bed, grabbing a pair of jeans and a t-shirt before ducking into the bathroom. You came over to the door, leaning against the frame while you watched him get dressed.  

“Between the two of you I get no peace, you know that.”  

“Can you blame me?” You shrugged, “watching my super hot husband be all domestic and cute with our kid.”  

“You want waffles or sex?” Rafe joked, stopping in the doorway to kiss you before heading back into the room to finish getting ready.  

“Both?”

“Mommy! Daddy!” Winona called, shoes hitting the hardwood as she ran down the hall, appearing once again in the doorway. “Come on people! I don’t got all day!”

“I guess waffles.” You laughed, “come on, we’ll go wait in the car.”

Rafe had been positive, for most of his life, that by the time he was 27 he would be doing the exact same thing as he was at 20, partying, working for his dad, dating around. He certainly hadn’t expected that he would be married or raising a kid or expecting another. It wasn’t what he had wanted at 20 but now he couldn’t imagine wanting anything else.  

-

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[consumeconstantly]

Summer Photography (aka the thirst trap)

Summary: Marinette is forced to take pictures for Gabriel in order to pay for her summer graduation trip with her best friends from lycee. Adrien, her primary model, wants to avoid the summer heat and pulls in one very attractive bad-boy motorcycle man to be his replacement.

_______________________________________________________

July in Gotham comes with an almost rancid kind of heat.

The kind of heat that is impossible to banish unless the air conditioning is set to 65 degrees and there’s a dehumidifier in the room. The kind of heat that makes babies cry with discomfort and adults curse whenever they have to take a foot outside. The only age population that enjoys it are the teens. More precisely, the teens are more fans of being on summer vacation, rather than the sticky warmth, but they find ways to work with the heat, rather than against it. Some teens gather on apartment rooftops, taking in the rare, smoggy breeze with pleasure. Others frequent their local swimming pool, an ice cream parlor or convenience store. If they get really desperate, they take shelter in the library.

Should a teen be forced out onto the muggy sidewalks full of sweaty bodies, they drift towards parks or areas of ‘city beautification’ and find a tree to rest their weary bodies under. 

Of course, there are always exceptions to these norms. 

“Marinette,” Adrien groans, sweat on his brow. “Can we please do this not during peak heat?”

“No,” Marinette says. “Your father insisted on having pictures of a male model at precisely two in the afternoon, and it took me months to convince him to let us come on this trip, so we’re not going to do anything to jeopardize it.”

“It’s not like he can do anything now. We’re literally an ocean away.”

“Suck it up, sunshine,” Marinette swats her hand at a lazy fly, not bothering to look up from changing the lens on her camera. “Maybe I’d let you get away with a substitution. Gabriel didn’t specify that the person in the pictures had to be you, but we don’t know anyone in Gotham, and everyone we’ve come across so far isn’t exactly the friendly sort.”

Adrien flicks the collar of his t-shirt, desperately trying to generate some sort of a breeze so he doesn’t melt. “This is all Nino’s fault. He and Alya insisted on going to that couple’s show when he could have been out here, taking my place. If Luka were here, he wouldn’t have deserted me like that.”

“We all know of your and Luka’s undying love for one another, but he is busy touring. He’ll meet up with us in New York, though, and you can have your disgustingly sweet love-fest over there. Meanwhile, I’ll be forever alone.”

“Don’t put yourself down like that, Marinette. At least five people in each city we’ve gone to so far have tried to go on dates with you.”

She crinkles her nose and does a test shot, making sure the light setting works out. “Yeah, but they all reeked of desperation and alcohol. Plus, at least two of them were just looking for a person to cheat with.”

“No good,” Marinette says, frowning at the shadows the tree cast. “Gabriel won’t be happy with these kinds of photos. You’re going to have to move out of the shade.”

“No!” Adrien wails. “I refuse! It’s bad enough that you dragged me out here, but to make me go in the sun? You know I burn easily.”

“Yeah, yeah drama queen, but these photos aren’t going to take themselves, and I’m one hundred percent sure that you don’t want to have to do this twice. Which is what we’ll end up having to do if you don’t get your little butt out into the sun so we can take quality shots.”

Adrien whines before a motorcycle revs in the not so far distance. A very Chat Noir smile creeps onto his face. “I don’t think I will. I’ve just found my substitute.”

Marinette follows his gaze, then shrugs. “If you think you can convince him to substitute in, you’re free to go. But remember, it’s Gotham, and if you get jumped, I’m not going to help. It’s too hot for a fight.”

“You underestimate my charm.” Adrien says, already triumphant.

#

True to form, Adrien somehow manages to get motorcycle man over to her. 

“Not sure how Adrien convinced you to do this, but I guess he gets a free pass.” Marinette knows exactly what Adrien’s going to do with his free time. He’s gone on and on about Gotham’s Museum of Vigilantes, and to be quite frank, Marinette doesn’t want to get caught up in another one of Adrien’s rant sessions on the Bat Family. “Anyways, nice to meet you. I’m Marinette, and my awful boss has come of with the wonderfully creative idea of Summer Heat for a photoshoot in the summer.”

She has a bone to pick with Gabriel Agreste. More than one, actually. In fact, she’d say that out of the 206 (well, 207, if she counts the fracture she got in her left pinky toe after that last akuma battle that weirdly, still hasn’t healed) bones in her body, she’d pick a fight with Gabriel over at least 200 of them. The lack of originality is one thing, but she’s not sure how she feels about his blatant attempts to set her up with her son during this trip. Somehow, he still hasn’t grasped the fact that his son doesn’t swing her way despite having hundreds of pictures of being lovey-dovey with Luka all over the internet. In fact, maybe it’s because Adrien and Luka have that many pictures that Gabriel is trying to push for a heterosexual relationship. A lack of vision both for his photo shoots and for his company. Marinette doesn’t understand how she once looked up to this man.

“It’s no problem. I’ve got nothing better to do, anyways.” 

Marinette blinks, then reassesses the man in front of her. Not only does he have a sinfully attractive voice, but his visual appeal isn’t that bad, either. “It’s still nice of you to do this. Should be a pretty quick shoot. Five outfit changes and a few poses in each-- shouldn’t take any longer than an hour, hour and a half.”

She rummages through her bag, fishing out a stack of paper. “You’ll get paid for your time. $250 for the whole shoot, and if you want to keep one of the outfits, feel free.”

If she’s being completely honest, she thinks that Gabriel’s summer collection is a hot mess, and she doesn’t particularly want the burden of bringing back the disgusting articles of clothes back with her in her suitcase. Should motorcycle man not want any of them, she’ll send them back via express mail.

“Don’t need the money, but I’m trying to stay out for as long as I can. Any way you could make the shoot go on longer?”

“You want to stay out in this heat?” Marinette asks in disbelief, taking out a small bag of makeup to apply to his face. She motions for him to sit in the shade of the tree while she sees what she needs to cover up. 

“Beggars can’t be choosers,” Motorcycle man says.

“Like the owner of a custom Harley-Davidson is poor,” Marinette quips. Humming in approval after giving his features once over, she decides that foundation isn’t necessary, only concealer to cover up the dark circles and some old scars.“You have great skin.”

During their summer trip, Marinette has become makeup artist, photographer, public relations manager, and trip advisor. It’s a taxing job, but well worth the reward, which is an all-expense-paid graduation trip with her friends from lycee. Well, Nino and Alya had to pay, but between Nino’s part time DJ gigs and Alya’s ad revenue on the Ladyblog, it wasn’t hard for them to raise enough for the two month long, seven city, four country trip. 

“One of my siblings is insistent that we do our best to minimize the scarring. Don’t know what his deal is, it’s not like our faces are sellable commodities.”

“That’s where you’re wrong-- you’re pretty good looking and could easily go into modelling or acting if you wanted. So props to whoever your sibling is. And thank your genetics too.”

Motorcycle man snorts. “Not cut out for that lifestyle. I like more… adrenaline inducing jobs.”

Marinette almost-- almost laughs. The placement of the scars on his face do imply that he’s gotten in at least one or two knife fights before, and there’s a thin line on his neck that definitely looks like it hurt. Motorcycle man has definitely been in trouble before, but he’s also good enough to get himself out of it. She’s not going to bother asking what his job is. She doesn’t want to be an accessory to any of his crimes. “Action movies, then?” 

“Oh sweetheart, I make action movies look like a kid’s fist fight.”

“Wow, we have a bad boy on our hands, ladies and gentleman.” She finishes applying highlighter and sits back to admire her work. His jaw can cut glass. “Okay, Motorcycle Man, it’s time to take pictures. If you’re good, maybe I’ll draw the shoot out-- I’m not a fan of this humidity.”

Summer is better than winter, if only because she’s acquired a weird habit to almost hibernate when the temperature gets too cold. It’s easy for Marinette to shrug off the heat most days, even when her friends complain constantly.

“The name’s Jason.”

“I think I’ll stick with Motorcycle Man. Alliteration, you know? Now, one hand in your pocket, the other at your collar. Left leg out a little, like you’re ready to take a step-- perfect. Walk forwards a little, yeah, just like that.”

Jason is Adonis personified. The perfect package of cocky, arrogant, and bad boy. It doesn’t hurt that he’s well muscled either-- even Adrien doesn’t have thighs like that, and he spends hours as Chat Noir jumping from rooftop to rooftop. 

“You’re a natural,” Marinette praises. “Have you ever modeled before?”

“Not like this, but I’ve got my fair share of pictures on the internet.”

She’s going to regret asking this. But curiosity killed the cat, not the ladybug. “If not for modelling, then what for?”

“Oh, you know. This and that. A few odd jobs here and there.”

And if that doesn’t make Jason sound more like a criminal, she doesn’t know what will. Marinette decides that she definitely won’t bring up a day job, let alone a night job. 

“All right, next outfit.” She pushes a muscle tank top and light, ripped jeans into his hands.  “You can change in the public restroom, and if anything doesn’t fit, just let me know.”

He takes the outfit, but pauses at one of the other outfits she has in her bag. “Is that… leather and fur? For a shoot with the theme of summer heat?”

“I don’t call the shots, I’m just the poor lackey who has to make them look good. Trust me, if I were in charge of design, the only outfit that might still be in the bag is the one you’re holding right now.” Gabriel is definitely losing his touch. But hey, doing this weird intern summer program for him isn’t the worst thing she’s had to do in her life. It’s good to learn from other people’s mistakes, rather than making them herself. 

“Don’t worry. Crappy fashion isn’t going to scare me away. Have you seen some of Gotham’s villains?”

At that, she couldn’t suppress a laugh. “You’re talking Gotham villains? How about Paris?”

“Paris is some weird alternate dimension. It doesn’t count,” Jason protests. 

“I could say the same for Gotham. Really, why are there so many Robins? Can’t they come up with another name?”

“I almost wish I could argue with that.”

He comes out of the stall, and Marinette feels the summer heat. Jason, Motorcycle Man is ripped. Yeah, his thighs are probably some of the thickest she’s seen, but his biceps are to die for. She’s half tempted to ask for his workout regime, but she’s sure that somewhere he’ll casually throw in ‘beating up random people on the street’ or ‘punching people who piss him off.’ Those are just the kind of vibes that Jason gives off. 

“The arm holes are kinda tight.”

“I’m sure they are,” Marinette breathes, chest tight. Jason’s eyes smoulder. He knows exactly what he’s doing as he places an arm on the door frame and flexes. She thinks she can die happy, now.

They wrap up the shoot quickly. All of the clothes are promptly packaged up except for the tanktop and jeans.  

@jasonette-july-2k20

____________________________________________________________

For the other jasonette prompts i’ve written for so far, i think i’ll probably continue them eventually, so lmk if you want to be added to the tag list for that. pretty surprised these are getting such a good reception thank you guys for that ;)

[mypassionfortrash]

KICKS (part three)

With Roger well shot of Betsy, he’s now free to explore the world of kink and all it has to offer him! But before he can start playing, he’s got to learn how to do it safely. You suggest that he meets two of your best friends to watch them play, and to get some advice and inspiration, to help him discover what he really wants.

Warnings: Strong D/s themes; mentions of medical fetishes and anal sex. STRICTLY 18+. Notes: Thank you so much for all of the amazing feedback I’ve been getting on the first two parts of this – I’m very proud of it and really appreciate every little reblog or comment! We’re gradually getting kinkier here but it’s still gonna be a slow burn! As always, if you like this, please reblog it so people can see it. If you’d like to be tagged, feel free to message me 💖

Catch up: Part one // Part two

Tags: @jennyggggrrr​ @sarahgurl09​ @scorpiogemini @johnricharddeacy​​ @brianssixpence​​ @hellohellothere12 @crazylittlethingcalledobsession @internationalkpoplova @thefairyfellersmasterstroke @six-bloodyminutes @hannafuckingsucks​ @dancingcoolcat​ @cherries-n-rocknroll​ @theedwardscollection​

You got your second wind when the clock was a few strokes shy of 5. A sudden burst of energy; an overwhelming urge to accomplish something. Today, you had a shipment of new butt plugs to put on display. 

They came in all shapes, colours, textures and sizes. Picking up one of the larger models, ‘Big Red,’ even you with your open mind and questionable taste in fetishes, wondered whose rectum could expand a whole five inches to accommodate it. You didn’t need to wonder much; they attracted a very specific type of customer, and you’d know them anywhere. You shook your head and loaded five of them on to one of the metal hangers with a smile.

Then, the bell above the door tinkled. 

You were so close to emptying the box at your feet and you had to bite back your annoyance when you turned to greet your customer.

All of those feelings subsided when you realised that it was Roger, standing in the doorway with a contented smile on his lips.

“People might talk if you keep showing up here,” you said, going back to your work. “Did you do it?”

Roger wandered up beside you and observed every move you made. “Hello to you too.” He looked down and reached into the box on the floor, plucking out a slim, blue plug. “And yes, I did do it.”

You took the plug – ‘Little Blue’ – from Roger’s grasp and arranged it on the display alongside others of its kind. “How did she take it?” You caught him scowling out of the corner of your eye. “That bad?”

“Weird.”

“You’re in a sex shop. What could be weirder?”

He slipped one of the large red plugs off of the hanger and read the packaging. Eyes narrowed, brow furrowed. He was unusually quiet.

“She didn’t take it well then?”

“She took it surprisingly well. But she told me why she did what she did.”

You turned to him and folded your arms, preparing to feel your rage towards Betsy Bright reach a simmer. “I’m listening.” 

“She said she was jealous.”

“Of?”

“She said that I have enough bother keeping it in my pants and I’m going on tour soon. Thought I was getting tips so I could go off and find someone ‘more like me’ while I was away, and the jealousy got the better of her. She wasn’t into it.”

A scowl smacked across your face like a slapped arse. “Well, it’s not your fault she’s bad at communicating before there’s a problem. And it doesn’t excuse what she did to you.”

“I know,” he sighed, closing his eyes with a smile. “I’m well shot of her now, thank god.”

“So, what now?”

Roger held up ‘Big Red’ with a grin.

“Roger, no.”

Roger laughed. “What’s a guy got to do to get someone to shove this up his bum?”

“Unspeakable things,” you whispered. “Terrible, awful, sordid things.”

“I’m assuming you start with ‘Little Blue’ and work up to ‘Big Red’ then?”

You tilted your head from left to right. “Yes and no.” Then you pondered. “There’s a couple of steps and a lot of lube in between.”

“And do you wear them when… I don’t know… you’re… doing it?” He stuttered, grinding his hips in a way that was equal parts comical and seductive.

But he was so coy, especially for someone so renowned for their ability to seduce and conquer; it made you giggle. His curiosity was refreshing. “You don’t have to have sex with them in, but they do feel amazing when you do – for men and women.” You searched the vast array of merchandise for something less lewd. “If you’re starting out with anal play, fingers and a lot of lube are fine.” Then your hand settled on a small glass plug. “And then if you want to transition to toys, I like these. They start off quite small. They’re easy to clean and have a really nice weight to them. And you can wear these during sex, or even out and about for small amounts of time. You can increase the size when you’re comfortable, and the duration that you wear them for.”

Roger’s eyes were like saucers when you finished your explanation.

“It makes fitting, you know, dicks and stuff in there a bit smoother,” you added nonchalantly, scratching the back of your head.

Roger elbowed your side and flounced into you. “Not that you’d know, hm?”

You felt a rush of blood go straight to your cheeks. Eager to dodge the question, you loaded the merchandise on to the display in double-time. 

“Well, one thing’s for certain,” Roger said, handing you various butt plugs to sort. “I don’t want anything in my arse. Ever.”

Grateful that Roger’s fleeting attention was off of your own posterior, you couldn’t help but make another remark. “You might like it. It’s even more fun for guys.”

“Right.”

“I can get a guy off without even touching his cock,” you boasted.

“Somehow, I don’t think a couple of fingers up my bum is going to do it.”

“No, but if you know which spots to prod, the results are… explosive.”

Like a naughty schoolboy, Roger shot you a bashful smirk while shaking his head. “No.”

“Please yourself.”

“I still want to start learning about all of this though,” he sighed. “And maybe find someone to do it with.”

“You need to learn how to play safely and have a think about what you’re ok with before you even think of playing with a partner.”

“How do I do that?”

“There are places you can go to speak to people who do this,” you hinted. It was a gamble, but you knew it would be an eye-opener for him. “Have you ever been to Doxy?”

“Doxy? What’s that?”

“It’s a dungeon on the other side of town.”

“Like a medieval dungeon?”

You reached out and stroked the side of Roger’s crimson-cheeked face. “You sweet summer child.”

Roger swatted your hand away. “What’s Doxy? Tell me!” he whined like a petulant child.

“Well, sometimes people go there to play. You can rent rooms, throw kinky parties there. Some people run entire businesses out of there.”

“Like kinky prozzies?” he grinned. “You’re telling me to go and see a kinky prozzie?”

“No, Roger,” you sighed, turning to him. “What I’m saying is, do you want to go there tonight with me? I know a couple of people who might be able to give you lots of helpful advice.”

Roger bounced on the balls of his feet like a badly trained, and very excited, puppy. “Ok.”

“And please, for the love of God, when you meet Andie, don’t call her a kinky prozzie.”

“What is she then?”

“She’s a dominatrix.”

“Nice.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“She wants me to go with her to a place called ‘Doxy.’ Have you heard of it?” Roger asked, twirling the phone cord around his slender fingertips.

“I’m afraid that’s a world away from what I’m into, my dear,” Freddie’s matter of fact tone crackled over the line. “The girl knows her stuff, though. You should trust her.”

Roger’s free hand lifted a cigarette to his lips and left it dangling. Then he wandered over to his wardrobe. “What the fuck do I wear to a bloody dungeon?”

“Teeny tiny leather shorts and one of those ghastly neckerchiefs you like.”

“Fucking hell, Fred,” Roger sighed.

“What? That’s what I would wear!”

“I don’t think we’re doing anything tonight, though, but yeah – I’ll keep that idea in the back pocket for later!” Roger rifled through his collection of clothing, cursing his decision to discard his many pairs of leather trousers at the turn of the decade.

“What did she say you were going to do?”

“Going to meet two of her friends.”

“That sounds like a bloody dream come true for you, dear. I don’t know why you’re getting your knickers in a twist.”

“I’m nervous.”

“Pour yourself a drink and don’t think too much on it. Enjoy yourself. She’s a lovely girl.”

Roger chuckled. “Don’t count on that. She was talking to me about butt plugs this afternoon.”

“Good luck with that, Rog,” Freddie laughed.

“Thanks, Fred.”

Roger hung up the phone and turned back to his wardrobe with a sigh. Freddie wasn’t much help and didn’t really put his mind at ease, but at least he was supportive. But he still had no idea what to wear to Doxy.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Roger tugged  the collar of his coat up against the bitter pitch-black wind. The quiet side street that Doxy was situated on was deserted and made him question whether he had the right place. Glancing up at the inconspicuous sign above the door, he knew he had at least got the name right. Maybe there were other places in London called Doxy. Maybe he had arrived at the wrong one. 

He set his sights on his watch, strapped around his trembling wrist. 

Two more minutes.

He knew how rich that was, coming from him. He was late for everything, and here he was, doubting your timekeeping.

So he lit another cigarette and pulled up his collar once more.

Right as the clock struck eight, you wandered down the cobbles towards the plume of pale smoke dancing in the air outside Doxy. Your fists were balled up inside the pockets of your jacket, trying to strangle the life out of the nerves you felt. You tried to make your legs move a bit faster, but the combination of sky-high heels and a freezing February night made even walking difficult.

Roger’s eyes zeroed in on the movement in their periphery; first, they were wary, and then realisation hit. He flicked his smoke to the ground and took a couple of small steps to close the gap between you and him. A coy, “Hi,” was all he could muster.

“Have you been waiting long?”

Roger swallowed hard and shook his head. “Only a couple of minutes.” Then his hand crept into the breast of his coat, slinking up to that familiar spot at the curve of his neck. A shy smile grew on his lips. “I’m so nervous.”

You brushed your fingertips over the outsides of Roger’s arms, not wanting to give away your own reservations. “It’s going to be ok,” you reassured, focusing on the way the light caught his eyes. “We’re not going to do anything. We’re only going to meet Andie and her sub, Holly, and watch how they do things. To help you stop overthinking things.”

The muscles in Roger’s arms relaxed under your touch as he took a sharp, but measured, breath. “Ok,” he nodded. “Ok. I think I’ll be fine.”

“Good,” you smiled, linking his arm in yours. “We better get a move on.”

The descent into Doxy took forever. Step by step. Steep scarlet step by steep scarlet step. The staircase stretched on for what felt like miles below street level. The only illumination on offer came from sporadic lamps fixed to the brickwork. “You weren’t lying when you called this a dungeon,” Roger said.

You giggled when you reached the bottom of the stairs. “That’s the tip of the iceberg. Here,” you said, holding out your hand, “let me take your coat.”

Roger slipped it off and handed it to you with a smile. Then he watched you disappear towards the cloakroom, fixating on the way your hips swung like a pendulum from left to right in your skintight leather trousers. Instinctively, his fingers laced together in front of his abdomen. Without you to admire, Roger glanced around, taking in snapshots of the people around him. Latex, leather, lace. Everywhere. Suddenly, he felt underdressed for the occasion in his stonewash jeans and a cosy jumper. But one thing struck him. For all the clubs that Roger had visited, he had never been inside a place like Doxy; there were no bars or disco balls, no dance floor and no gaggles of drunken hens. Instead, everything moved slowly in a sultry haze. People dripped into the corridor to Roger’s right; it was lined with rooms. Roger’s mind wandered, imagining what the people did behind those doors. He truly was a fish out of water.

You sauntered back to Roger now without your jacket, allowing him an unrestricted view of your outfit. He focused a bit too intently on the sliver of cleavage your black bralette put on display. So much so that he missed what you were saying to him. Not once, but twice.

He snapped back to reality with a stern click of your fingers in front of his eyes. He recoiled at the sound. “Sorry,” he said, casting his gaze towards his shoes.

“Do you want to go through? They’re going to start at half-past,” you said, looking at your watch.

Roger’s eyes lit up as he stood up straight. “Yeah.”

“Good,” you said, turning on your heel. It took him a moment to catch up, and when he did, you leaned in close to him so he could hear you. “Now, remember – don’t call them kinky prozzies.”

Roger’s face bunched into a tickled grin. His body nudged against your own, reinforcing his amusement.

The pair of you marched down the long, red corridor until you reached the second door from the end on your left. The black door had a small, shiny plaque that read, ‘medical bay.’

Roger’s eyes shifted to you, his eyebrows hiking high on his forehead.

You smirked at him and knocked on the door.

Holly answered the door looking like her usual excitable self. “You’ve made it just in time!” She said, throwing her arms around the two of you. “Andie’s getting antsy!”

You and Roger stepped into the room to find Andie puttering around over a tray of intimidating instruments. Needles, syringes and speculums were the only ones you could recognise, but that was enough to send a steely chill through your spine. She wore an aqua coloured latex gown, complete with red boots and gauntlets, and a mask obscuring the lower half of her face.

“Look what the cat dragged in,” she drawled. You could tell from her ocean coloured eyes that she was smiling. 

“It’s good to see you too, Sister,” you grinned. 

“So this is your friend?” she asked, nodding towards Roger.

Holly, standing there in a black silk robe, drew her hand down Roger’s arm. “I like him,” she said.

“You know, we could have lots of fun with him,” Andie remarked.

It earned a nervous giggle from Roger. His eyes struggled to focus on just one thing. From the stirrups at the end of the bed, to the intimidating-looking gas mask on the table beside it. “This is… this is… different,” he choked.

“It’s going to be so much fun,” Hollie beamed, shaking Roger’s arm. “Have you been here before?”

“He’s completely new to this,” you said. “And he still needs breaking in.”

Andie arched one of her over-lined and exaggerated eyebrows like she already knew what was happening – before you and Roger did.

“So what’s on the agenda tonight?” you asked, thrusting your hands into your back pockets.

“Just an examination,” Holly said, perching herself on the edge of the bed. “With a twist!”

“Like…” Roger asked, gesturing towards his nether regions, “A ‘down there’ examination?”

You, Andie and Holly exchanged knowing looks. When Roger cottoned on, his mouth fell open.

“Why don’t you observe from the gallery?” Andie suggested, gesturing towards the door in the far corner of the room. “Don’t want you two making this any more awkward than it has to be for our patient here.”

>>NEXT>>

[blueboxesandtrafficcones]

The Magic of Las Vegas

Day 9 of 2020′s 31 Days of Ficmas.  Thanks to @doctorroseprompts for the list!

Prompt: Snowflake

Rating: T for sexual situations; nothing explicit

Pairing: 11xRose AU

Summary: A snowstorm in the US Midwest delays eastbound flights just before Christmas, leaving rival children’s novelists stranded in Las Vegas for the night.  A single, shared drink leads to far more than the intended one-night stand.

2020 31 Days of Ficmas masterlist

AO3

---

Standing in the ladies restroom at McCarran International Airport, Rose blinked rapidly as she waited for the eyedrops to take effect.  She’d had a full day in Las Vegas, and not the kind that made for good telly.  The last stop on her book tour, she’d soon be on her way towards home and Christmas - provided her flight could stop getting delayed.  The tree was up, presents wrapped neatly beneath it, and if the loved one waiting anxiously by the door was her mother rather than a boyfriend… so be it.  If nothing else, Jackie made the eggnog strong.

Gathering her things she returned to the gate, hopes falling - it was even emptier than it had been five minutes before, and in fact, only one potential passenger remained, arguing with one of the attendants at the counter.  I must have missed an announcement.  Shit.  Hurrying up to the check-in desk herself, she gave the unoccupied woman her best, kindest smile.  “Hi, sorry, is there any update?”

“Cancelled.”  The woman, Madison according to her nametag, didn’t look up, typing away at her computer.  “The storm in the Midwest is just getting worse, so they’ve decided to try again tomorrow.”

She tried not to groan.  Fucking snow.  All she wanted was to sleep in her own bed.  “Ohkay…  Can I get a seat on that flight?  Or the next one to London, really.  I’m not picky.”

“Boarding pass.”

Rose handed it over, trying not to be irritated; the woman was just trying to do her job, and while her customer service could use some work, it was after one in the morning.  Everyone was exhausted.

“Oh!” Madison let out, scanning Rose’s boarding pass.  “I’m sorry Miss Tyler, let me find you the next available flight.”  Attitude doing a one-eighty, she gave Rose a smile.  “My niece is a huge fan of your books. I’m actually the one who introduced her to them.”

Rose merely gave a polite smile in reply; while such a sentiment usually warmed her heart, she’d heard some variation of it from nearly everyone she’d met over her fifteen-day book tour throughout the States.  Now, though, she just wanted to go home.  I should be halfway to New York by now.

“All set, same seat, leaves at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon with a layover in LA.”

“LA?”  Her brow furrowed, trying to picture a map of the country.  “Isn’t that the wrong direction?”

Madison nodded, already printing off the new boarding pass.  “Yeah, but it’s that with a one-hour layover or Miami, with an eight-hour layover and a plane change.  It’ll be fine, and actually does save you time.”

It only took another minute to finalize the transaction, and soon enough Rose was headed for the airport exit, lugging her carry-on with her and so, so glad she’d taken her mother’s advice to keep a set of clothes with her and not check it all.  She hadn’t liked the idea of keeping the small rolling suitcase with her when she checked in, wanting to be less bogged down, but now, she was glad to have resisted the urge.  Thanks, Mum.

Footsteps behind her caught her attention, and a moment later, the man who’d been talking to the agent next to her pulled astride.  “Terribly unlucky, aren’t we?” he lamented in a slightly posher version of her own accent. “Best case is home for Christmas Eve.”

“The storm should be over tomorrow, so it’ll be fine,” she replied politely, taking him in out of the corner of her eye.  Roughly her age, he nonetheless had the distinct look of a sixty-something maths professor, complete with tweed jacket and elbow patches.  But his eyes were kind, and he was attractive in that tall, lanky sort of way, with floppy brown hair and a bowtie.

“Hope so.  I promised my niece I’d be there.”  He seemed to deflate slightly, before rallying.  “Listen, this may be terribly forward of me, but- would you like to get a drink?  I realize it’s ‘Las Vegas’, but the idea of drinking alone at Christmas just seems… sad.”

They reached the escalator then, and Rose took the opportunity of the ride down to consider the idea.  And the likely outcome.  He was reasonably handsome, if in a dorky way, and certainly seemed kind enough.  She could use the release of an anonymous shag – if nothing else, it would probably make for a good story once home.

“Sure.  Why not?”

-

Beep. Beep.  Beep.

The bleating of the alarm startled Rose awake, her head feeling as though it had been split open, her mouth dry and fuzzy.  A lucky swat silenced the alarm, none too soon.  “Oh, fuck,” she moaned, sinking back into the mattress and squeezing her eyes shut against the brightness.  “Ow.”

A pitiful sound of agreement came from her right, reminding her of how she’d gotten into such a sorry state.  As she’d predicted, one drink had turned to two, then three, then…  Damn. I actually take the chance on a one-night stand, and don’t remember the actual sex?  Just my luck.

“Why is it making that noise,” her bedpartner mumbled, sheets rustling as he shuffled around; a moment later, the heavy weight of his head settled on the dip in her bare back.  “Wanna sleep.”

“Flight home.  Miss it, and won’t be home ‘til Christmas.”  She took another chance at opening her eyes, managing to keep them that way this time despite having to squint.  “Better get ready.”

He grunted in reply, instead pressing kisses to her lower back.  “I can think of much more enjoyable things we could be doing.”

Rose merely swatted him away, rolling out of bed and managing to land on her feet, if somewhat shaky.  I hope I remember his name soon.  This might get awkward.  “Lovely as that sounds, ‘m not missing Christmas for it.”  She stretched her arms overhead, pleased at the lingering ache in certain muscles as her body started to wake up.  She might not remember their escapades, but it appeared she’d more than enjoyed them.  “Shower.”

He didn’t try to join her, which she was equally happy and disappointed with; she needed some time to let the warm water bring her back to vaguely-human levels of processing ability, but a quickie sounded good too.

This sent her mind down a warm and steamy path, and by the time she’d toweled off and donned a dressing gown, she was very much interested in a morning shag, strolling out to the bedroom to tell John- his name had come to her in the shower, thankfully- about her change of opinion, only to find him standing naked at the desk, hands on his hips.

Taking a moment to let her eyes linger on his generous assets, she didn’t immediately recognize his tense posture. “Something wrong?”

He jumped, turning to face her, eyes going wide and one hand scrambling to cover his package.  “NO!”  His gaze darted down to the desktop, expression growing a bit more fearful. “Well…”

“What?”  Concerned now, Rose stepped up to his side, distracted at first by how good he smelled.  How’s that possible, after a night of sex and drinking and hours spent at the airport?  Then she looked down, and her heart stopped.  “Please tell me that marriage license doesn’t belong to us.”

“Uh…  I dunno about you, but, yeah… that’s me.”

Rose read it over again, unable to comprehend what her eyes were telling her.  Certificate of Marriage… 22nd of December… Rose Marion Tyler…  John Matthew Smith…  “I don’t believe it,” she said faintly, looking up at him. “This isn’t- I don’t do this sort of thing.”

“Neither do I!” John protested. “Erm, is that- are you- the Rose Tyler, of the Bad Wolf books?”

Hesitantly, she nodded.

“Ah.”  He shifted uncomfortably.  “I didn’t know.  It’s just- well- I’m…” He took a deep breath, anxiety clawing at Rose’s stomach as she waited.  “I’m J.M. Smith.  I write the ‘The Doctor’ series.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

“Oh, fuck me.”  Rose closed her eyes, groaning.  Of all the people in the world, I hook up with my closest competitor.  They’d spent the last three years dueling on the bestseller’s lists, fighting for first in children’s fiction.  It was infuriating, and now here they were, post-coital, and married.  This cannot be real.  “How?”  Then, realizing what she said, her eyes snapped open.  “Don’t answer that.”

He nodded.  “What… do you want to do?”

“You’re on the same flight I am, right?”

Another nod.

“Let’s just… get ready and go back to the airport.  I can’t even begin to think about dealing with this yet.”

-

Upon arrival at the airport Rose was able to slip away from him, pulling a beanie on and parking herself at the next gate over; close enough to hear the announcements, but hopefully harder to spot.  When he rolled up to the gate several minutes after her, obviously looking around, she just sank lower in her chair; thankfully he seemed to overlook her, choosing a seat that put his back to her, and she relaxed marginally.

Pulling out her mobile she connected to the airport wifi, a quick search confirming that marriages in Las Vegas were legal, and worse, were recognized by the British government.  Shit.  An annulment appeared to be reasonably possible, thankfully not requiring Nevada residency.

Right.  So.  Once we get home, file for annulment, and if we’re lucky, no one ever needs to know. Including Mum.

-

Still stowing her carryon bag under the seat in front of her, Rose paid no attention to the person who plopped into the seat beside her, resettling herself before turning to look at who it was – and sighing heavily.

“I’m starting to think you’re stalking me.”

John arched a paper-thin eyebrow in response.  “I’m starting to think you’re avoiding me.”

“Oh, gee, what gave you that idea?” Huffing, she turned away from him, lifting the window shade to peer out the window.  There wasn’t much to see other than the plane at the next gate and blue skies, but she’d spend every second of the flight staring out if it meant avoiding her seatmate.  Husband.

Thankfully, he left her alone until take-off, but the reprieve was short-lived.  As she pulled out her laptop to keep working on the next draft of her story, John made a noise beside her.

“Don’t you think we should talk?”

“No.”  With more force than necessary, she pecked out her password one-handed, using the other to hide the keys.  “What’s to talk about?  We go home, we file for annulment, and with any luck, by New Year’s this will be a distant memory, and someday, perhaps even a funny story.  But today- today, this is nothing.”

Opening her manuscript, she glanced over to find him staring at her, and angled her body- and the screen- away from him. “Now you’re being creepy.”

“But aren’t you curious?”

“About what?”

“What happened?  And why?”

Rose looked at him blankly.  “We got drunk.  In Las Vegas.  And apparently have watched too many movies with that very premise.  End of story.”

“I don’t believe that,” John shook his head, fringe falling across his brow.  “What if there’s more?  What if it was fate bringing us together?”

“God, do you hear yourself? It was a terrible coincidence.  We’re competitors.  End of story.”  She glared at the screen.  “It was nothing, it meant nothing, and it will be nothing once we’re home and able to call a lawyer.  Now piss off, I have a deadline due.”  Shoving earbuds into her ears and cranking some music, she did what she could to drown him – and herself- out.

Focus on work. That’s all that matters right now.

-

The flight to LA was short, and given that she didn’t need to change planes, she didn’t have to move, though she was given the option to deplane.  Out of the corner of her eye she noticed John leave, which relaxed her somewhat; by the time passengers started boarding she’d put the earbuds away and was sitting back with her eyes closed.

A small voice chattering away caught her attention, particularly at the words “and that’s why I like the Bad Wolf books more!  Sorry.” Opening one eye to see, she found to her amusement the child, a girl around eleven, was talking to John, settling herself across the aisle from him as he reclaimed his seat.

Her eyes snapped shut, and she kept her breathing deep and even, curious as to his response.

“Can I tell you a secret?”

Rose squinted, and was positioned in such a way she could see the girl nod.

“I like the Bad Wolf books too.”

“You do?”  For being a pre-teen, the girl had skepticism down pat, and Rose had to hold in giggles.

“Oh, very much so,” John said seriously. “There are lots of books out there like mine for boys- though I try to write so anyone would enjoy- but the Bad Wolf books are special.  I think it’s so cool to see a character like that – when I was your age, pretty much all the books of the genre were about boys.  But the Bad Wolf books… anyone can connect with Thorn, and see themselves in her- she’s so real.  She’s not perfect, and she doesn’t always get it right, but who does?  In Book 3- did you read Book 3?  Good, I don’t want to spoil it- but at the end… I had almost the same thing happen to me, only it was both of my parents, and Thorn reacted exactly as I did.  And above all – never apologize for liking something more than something else.  Your opinion is exactly that – so as long as you’re not trying to hurt someone, then don’t be ashamed of what you like. Okay?”

The girl nodded, staring at John in fascination.  “You really like the books then, huh?”

“I really do.”

“What’s your favorite part?”

John inhaled through his teeth. “Ooh, that’s a difficult one.  I think- the one scene I keep coming back to is when Thorn realizes she’s grown apart from her childhood friends.  It’s really sad, yeah?  But that’s life- nearly everyone experiences that at some point, everyone drifts away from people they loved.  I’ve never read of another series or character that makes that moment so visceral.  But what about you?  What’s your favorite part?”

Turning over so her back was to them, Rose half-listened to the conversation as her mind raced.  The scene he’d referenced was fairly small, and by its nature, would only be known by someone who had read the book.

Does John Smith read my books?

-

Once they were underway and the conversation between her seatmate and the girl had long since stopped, Rose started moving around as if just waking up, complete with yawning and stretching.

“Hi.”

“Oh!”  His yelp drew her gaze; he’d been reading, the book snapping shut and quickly tucked out of view, but not before she recognized her own artwork for her most recent release; in fact, the very book she’d been crossing the country to promote.  “Hello.”

“Hi,” she repeated, sitting up and looking at him curiously.  “Were you reading my book?”

His cheeks flushed, and after a moment, he returned the book to the tray table; based on the bookmark, he’d started it before they’d met, as he hadn’t done much (or any) reading since.  “Erm, yeah.”  He gave her a sheepish smile.  “You’re a fantastic writer.”

“Thank you.”  She’d had time to think, about what he’d said about her books, how willing he’d been to discuss them- and not his own- with the young girl who appeared to be flying solo.  It had softened her approach towards him- somewhat.  “I think there’s a chance we got off on the wrong foot.”

“I agree.”

When he just stared at her, she knew she’d have to make the first move.  I was kind of a bitch to him, wasn’t I?  “Hi, I’m Rose.”

“John.”

They shook hands, Rose’s skin tingling where they touched.

“So, tell me about yourself.”

He arched a skeptical eyebrow.  “I thought you didn’t care, that we’ll just pretend none of this happened.  Harder to do knowing things about the other.”

Rose bit her lip, eyes darting down to her lap.  “Like Thorn, my dad died, only when I was a baby.  Mum always said to hold on to precious moments.  And… I don’t trust easy, so clearly, something about you made me give you the benefit of the doubt.” Taking a deep breath, she met his gaze again.  “You’ve got until we land in London to convince me to- to extend that faith.  If you want to.  We’ll see from there.  What do you say?”

Green eyes searched hers, and she kept her expression soft, nervous despite her words.  They would both be interviewing the other for position of spouse, and suddenly, it was one she wanted to pass with flying colors.

“All right,” he agreed slowly. “Let’s see what happens.”

-

The next book in each series was a cross-over, where secret agent Thorn, codenamed Bad Wolf, is rescued by an unlikely hero, The Doctor, and his strange-looking timeship, and it is only through a combination of their unique skillsets they’re able to save the day. With cover-art by Rose Tyler and a foreword from John Smith, the book was an overachieving best-seller, outdoing the previous books in each series and earning an armful of awards.

The picture on the back featured the authors with their arms around each other, he in a suit, and she in a white dress.

Both bios, at the end of the book, ended with the same phrase.

And they lived happily ever after.

[perseusjackson-jasongrace]

A Summer by Your Side

Percabeth Fic

I know I can't believe it either?!?! A fic about a couple that ISNT jercy????? Who possessed me?!?

All jokes aside, this was great fun to write! Also no it's not the usual Percabeth dynamic but I kinda loved a shy-Annabeth and a sweet-Percy :)

Anyway I hope you guys enjoy and maybe I'll be able to write some jercy this weekend.

Masterlist for more crackships and other stuff

-------------------------------------------------

Ah Greece, with its bleached white walls, and ocean blue roofs; it's soft sand and cool waters. Its— goats?

"Watch out," a mop of dark hair came barreling around the corner hands reaching for the string around the animal's neck.

I jumped back, flattening myself against the wall just as the goat screamed past me.

"Stop! Don't go into the book shop please don't," The brown haired girl pleaded, still racing after the blur of white.

I ran after them, set on helping. By the time I reached the book shop however the girl had captured the goat and was angrily yanking it back up the pathway.

"Glad you caught it!" I smiled, trying to regulate my breathing after the whole two hundred meters I sprinted.

"He is the worst! He always escapes and my dumb brother makes me run after it."

The girl, I now realised, couldn't be more than eight or nine.

"I'm sorry kid, but at least you got him before he went into the store? I heard goats aren't the friendliest with paper."

"They aren't friendly with anything. Especially this old prickly pear," She scowled.

"Well how about me and you go for icecream after you deliver the package to its rightful place?" I offered.

She gave me a suspicious look, "Why would you wanna take me for icecream?"

"To thank you for warning me to get out the way." I ruffled her hair.

She swatted my hand away but grinned at me, "Okay! I'll meet you back here in two hours."

And before I could agree she was gone. I giggled at her energy and walked into the bookstore.

"Can I er, help you with something?" A rich voice broke through my haze.

"I must look like a tourist huh?" I laughed, turning around to face....the most beautiful person I had ever seen.

Thick dark hair stuck up in all angles. Ocean green eyes that stared into the deepest parts of you. A white shirt that offset the burnt golden of his skin.

I cleared my throat, "Wow, I'm sorry, yea I'm looking for a book on Greek culture? My friend wants it for her project."

He smirked at my eye roll, "I see, well you'd be in the wrong section for culture since it's on that side." He pointed to a shelf on the far end of the store, grinning.

"Right uh well, I suppose trying to read the labels when you don't understand any Greek is a bit pointless." I smiled sheepishly.

"How about I pick out a book for your friend and then give you a tour of the English section?" Mirth danced in those emerald eyes.

I frowned at his amusement but nodded, following after him.

"Now tell me, what do you like to read?"

We walked through the isles and he gave me his insights on the best Greek fiction. I told him about my ever growing collection at home.

"The shop is my collection. I share a room with my little sister. We barely have enough space for us, nevermind a shelf of books."

I laughed, "Well this is a pretty impressive collection Mr....."

"Percy, my name is Percy." He smiled softly.

"Annabeth," I tucked a stray curl behind my ear.

"Wow that is beautiful. You are beautiful,"

I blushed, thanking him.

"How about we go for dinner tomorrow night?"

My eyes grew as wide as saucers, "Like a date?"

His eyes danced with amusement, "Yes a date, kardiá mu."

"Okay, and what does cah- car-" I fumbled over the greek word, "What does that word mean?"

He simply smiled at me, turning to walk to the counter. Before I could protest the small girl from before waltzed into the shop.

"Hello, I'm ready for ice-cream!"

"Estelle what are you doing here? You're supposed to be at the goat house." Percy scolded.

"Your dumb goat got out again and I had to catch it. This nice lady said she'd take me for icecream because I made sure the goat didn't hurt her." The little girl, who fast took on a striking resemblance to Percy, huffed.

"You two are siblings?" I piped up

Percy nodded, still surveying little Estelle

"Fine if she offered then you can go, but don't forget you have to help mom with the gyros tonight."

"Yea yea," She grumbled before grabbing my hand and yanking me out.

"Must we bring you back a cone?" I managed to yell to Percy.

"Chocolate please!"

And then Estelle and I were gone, racing to the icecream hut a few roads down.

Over the next weeks, while my friend researched for her project, lazed around the villa, and sauntered down to the beach every few days I spent more and more time at the bookshop.

Percy and I never ran out of things to talk about. I learnt that he had grown up in Santorini but moved to Naxos when he was 16, for an internship with his Dad. He's been here ever since. In return I told him about life as a city girl and how I fell in love with Greece for the cheesy reason that Greek Mythology was one of my favourite subjects.

He showed me around the island, and spoiled me with icecream and books. We were often buried up on the beanbags in the bookshop, him reading to me or I to him. Sometimes we'd take Estelle to the arcade or watch her at the skate park.

One day about six weeks into the summer he and I managed to grab some food and a blanket and decided to have a picnic on the beach.

He laid out the checkered cloth and nestled the basket in one corner before grabbing my hand and pulling me down towards him.

I laughed as I fell into him, but settled comfortably by his side.

He turned to me, a smile tugging at his lips.

"Your eyes kardiá mu, are so beautiful."

I immediately looked away, already trying to deny the compliment.

He lifted my chin with his finger so I was staring at him again, "You do not have to look away from me. You are so gorgeous and you should know it."

I smiled at him, "Thank you. And I hope you know I think you're gorgeous too."

"Yes, I know," He smirked, "You were blushing like a ruby the first time we met."

I smacked his chest but laughed, "Horrible tease."

He laughed with me, and I watched in awe as his eyes sparkled like the ocean, hair flopping over his face.

I couldn't resist the urge to lean over and kiss that smile. Before I knew it my lips were on his and the world had ended.

He returned it in equal passion, pulling me towards him until our bodies were flush against each other.

"I am so glad you did that," He husked.

"Me too," I breathed.

And with his answering grin the new world began.

The last weeks of summer rolled by in a blur of fruit platters, book chats, icecream dates and beach walks. Before we knew it I was shoving my last dress into my bag and ruffling Estelle's hair for the last time.

Percy and I promised to stay in touch, but it did not make saying goodbye any easier.

Our summer had finally come to a close; I was due back in the big city to start on my honours year and he was about to start on renovations for his mom's bookstore.

Our last hug lasted for many minutes as all our moments squashed themselves between us.

"Thank you for everything Percy." Tears pricked my eyes.

"I will miss you, kardiá mu."

I huffed a laugh at the familiar nickname and decided to ask one more time, "What does it mean?"

He put my hand to his chest, and let me feel the beating drums.

"This is what it means."

"My heart," I echoed softly, looking up at him in awe.

He simply drew me in for another hug, kissing my forehead.

"Until we meet again."

"Until then," I nodded.

I stepped onto the boat that would take me home.

[propertyofnikkisthighs]

Afraid Ch. 11

Sorry it’s taken me so long to update guys

Taglist: @sparxx27​, @kaitieskidmore1​, @fandomshit6000​

“How do you have a baby shower without knowing what baby stuff to buy?” Sharise huffed as she helped me set the long table outside with an array of snacks for the guests that would be here any minute.

“Because our baby is not in need of anything and this is a celebration of love.” Nikki mocked my words from when he questioned the point in having people over ‘when they could just send gifts’.

“I only get to do this the first time once. Assholes.” I scowled arranging the cupcake tower.

“It’s like the attitude was sucked out of Nikki and transplanted into you via baby.” Sharise giggles poking my cheek as I swat her hand away.

“Yeah well this is Nikki’s baby so let’s just pray he doesn’t come out with hooves and horns.” I grumble. Nikki’s hand connects swiftly with my butt and I yelp giving him the finger as he makes his way into the house.

“What names have you guys narrowed down?” She leans against the table and takes a cookie from the tray on display.

“We haven’t discussed them much with everything going as fast as it has been.” I sigh. Between the boys working on their album, Nikki and I moving in together, and the press that has been hounding us since word spread of my being pregnant; we just haven’t had the time to discuss the simplistics like names.

“(Y/N), you guys have to make time for this.” She crossed her arms and fixed me with a glare that she’s clearly perfected from scolding Vince.

“I only have a middle name picked out for a boy, but I haven’t approached Nikki about it yet.” I rubbed my hand down my face. “It’s Thomas. For Tommy.”

Sharise nodded her head as if she was stockpiling a list of first names that would sound perfect with Thomas.

“WHERE IS MY FAVORITE INCUBATOR?” Tommy’s boisterous voice booms through the house and to the backyard despite all doors and windows being closed.

“Who the fuck taught him that word?” I groan in time for Tommy and Heather to come through the back door with gifts in tow.

Tommy sets the oversized gift on the ground and beelines toward me to press his hands against my stomach as he always does. Out of the corner of my eye I catch Heather rolling her eyes and I try to suppress my urge to spit venom in her direction. Nikki really did give me his attitude via baby. I smile warmly at the sound of Tommy cooing about how he can’t wait for the ‘little dude’ to make his appearance. The family our baby had was unorthodox and full of leather and bad decisions, but I couldn’t deny that he was loved beyond compare.

Skylar napped peacefully on the makeshift bed we had created out of couch cushions while the boys, Sharise, Heather, Sam, Tom, and I chatted in the kitchen. Whiskey and Alarik were curled up close enough to each other on the sofa to not look as if they actually enjoyed each other’s company. The food was put away from the festivities and the boys had kindly taken care of putting the baby’s gifts in the room we had begun to set up for him. I sighed contently from my seat on Nikki’s lap as he rubbed my thigh and focused back in on the conversation being had around me.

“You ferals really are as dumb as ya look.” Mick scoffs sipping his new drink of choice, sweet tea.

Tommy tosses a small bit of bread off his plate at Mick in retaliation, but is immediately scolded by Heather to not throw food in the house. I’m surprisingly grateful for her doing so since it’s less I have to try to clean up and the baby bump is already making bending difficult and I’m only six months along.

“I’m just saying it would be cool to bring (y/n) and the baby at least for the american portion of the tour” Tommy defends his stance.

“Bringing a baby on tour is idiotic.” Mick insists.

“I might have to side with Mick on this one man.” Vince shrugs rubbing Sharise’s shoulder where his hand rests. “We didn’t bring Skylar on any of the tours.”

“Skylar wasn’t a newborn when we went on any tours.” Nikki pipes up. “I don’t want to miss out on any crucial moments.”

A dozen pairs of eyes fall on me as they await for me to pipe up on the subject. The subject that I hadn’t even considered yet.

“Uh I think there’s still time to think about that don’t you. I mean the album isn’t even fully finished and you guys still have to name it.” I fidgeted nervously.

“Speaking of naming the album” Nikki’s sudden excitement shifts the conversation. “I think Dr. Feelgood will fit best.”

The boys argue back and forth on the name and concept art ideas which resulted in Sharise, Heather, and I going to the living room to play with Skylar. Although in typical Nikki fashion, in the end the name that he wants and the concept art he scribbled out is what is the final decision for all the boys. Mick is the first to leave once that is all settled with Vince and company not far behind. Heather left to meet a few of her friends while Tommy hung back with us.

“So since it is just us three” I start and take a deep breath to gather the courage to do this since I hadn’t even run the idea by Nikki yet.

“Yo (y/n) I love you and Nikki is my husband, but I can’t have a threesome with him and his pregnant girlfriend.” Tommy interrupts and soda shoots out of Nikki’s nose sending him into a coughing fit.

“No Tommy. What? That isn’t what I was going to say.” I shake my head. Maybe this was a bad idea.

“Oh shit” Tommy laughs. “My bad, it’s just what usually happens when Sixx and I are alone with a girl”

I raise an eyebrow at Nikki who is still recovering and holds his hands up in the best defense that he can muster.

“Anyway.” I continue “I wanted to ask your permission to give the baby the middle name Thomas, for his uncle Tommy.”

In retrospect I don’t know what I expected his response to be, but crying hadn’t crossed my mind.

“I was actually gonna ask the same thing.” Nikki smiles rubbing Tommy’s back as small sobs cut through his body. “I was even going to take it a step further and ask you to be his godfather and take him if anything were to happen to (y/n) and I.”

Tommy’s suddenly swooping me up in the air and hugging me close before placing me back on the floor and wrapping Nikki in a bone crushing hug. He wipes his tears and places his hands on my stomach leaning in close.

“I promise to be the best uncle Tommy you could ask for little dude.” He speaks to my stomach and a face splitting grin replaces his features.

“He kicked my hand!” He bellows in his excitement. “And he just did it again.”

Nikki and I exchange grins over his head and I know we’ve made the right decision. Tommy spends a good majority of the rest of his time at the house talking about all the cool things he was excited to do with the baby once he was old enough. That night I surprisingly had the best sleep I have had my whole pregnancy because I didn’t have to worry about my baby ever not feeling loved. Calm down. Be calm. It’s fine that Nikki’s birthday is a week away and you haven’t gotten him anything. That’s fine. I paced the kitchen while I bit my nails and tried to narrow down ideas of what to give Nikki. He only bought a house for us and is the father of my child, it’s totally normal that I would have no idea what to give him. The idea pops in my head and before I can even double think it I’m dialing the number into the phone connected to the wall. I twirl the cord around my finger and pray there’s an answer.

“Hello?” Mick gruff voice comes through the speaker.

“Mick! It’s (y/n).”

“Oh god what did Nikki do this time?” He groans.

“No nothing. Jeez those boys have really traumatized you.” He chuckles under his breath and I continue “I just don’t know what to get Nikki for his birthday and you’re kind of like their hateful drunk uncle that no longer drinks, but you know the boys through and through and I need your help.”

“First take a damn breath you’re making me feel winded. Second, Nikki loves to capture moments. Get him a camera.” He said as if it was obvious.

“What kind of camera?” I ask grabbing a pen and paper.

“I don’t give a shit.” And the line goes dead. To give him credit that is the longest he’s stayed on the phone as far as I’ve seen.

Alright, now to just find a store to get a camera that would satisfy Nikki’s needs.

Nikki adjusts the ill fitting birthday hat on his head and grabs another present off the coffee table in front of him.

“From Tommy and Heather, May all your struggles be in bed.” Nikki reads the card attached to the nicely wrapped gift and turns three shades of red. I had heard all about the so called speech that he gave at their wedding mirroring those exact words.

Nikki tears the wrapping paper off the package and shakes the box a little to see if he can guess what could be in there. Unable to guess what it could be, he opens the box to find red fuzzy handcuffs.

“Tommy!” I squeak turning a shade of red to match Nikki’s.

“Hey man I’m just trying to help my friends” He winks and takes a sip from the wine bottle in front of him.

“Lets move on” Nikki nervously chuckles and I see him grab my gift for him. I gulp down the nerves that are building in my stomach and brace for impact. “Aww baby this one is from you.”

I can feel my heart beat rushing in my ears as he tears the paper off the box for the camera and freezes once he sees the packaging. A small grin graces his features as he opens the package containing a Leica M4-P and he pulls it out to examine it.

“How did you know I needed a new camera?” He asks not bothering to look up from the camera he was turning over repeatedly in hand.

“I can’t just divulge all my secrets.” I flick my eyes over to Mick and mouth a thank you to which he just gives me a quick nod.

Nikki motions for me to come sit in his lap and I follow suit letting the boys wolf whistle as we exchange a few kisses. Nikki gives them the finger and a I suppress a small giggle at their behavior.

“Well you know what this means don’t you (y/n)?” Vince asks smirking.

“What does it mean?”

“That you have to be his first photoshoot.” Vince waggles his eyebrows making sure I understand his innuendo is sexual.

“All right time for cake!” I exclaim to try to take the pressure off of me and I stand quickly.

Pain rushes through my body and I clutch my stomach. No this isn’t right.

“Babe are you okay? Is the baby on your bladder again?” Nikki asks concern thick in his voice as I double over in pain from the cramps suddenly hitting my body.

“Hospital. Now.” Is all I can muster out with tears falling from my eyes. Another cramp hits my body and I’m curling in on myself more.

“What’s going on?” He scoops me in his arms as the boys help him with our stuff and carrying me to the car.

“I think the baby is coming. Early”

[baturaadventuretreks]

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[triptopakistan]

Pakistan's best travel agency in Lahore we offering honeymoon packages, Skardu, kalam, sawat,  and Chitral tour packages from Lahore, and all domestic tours packages available at a reasonable price

[acockius]

prompts 16, 21, 35, 58 and 65❤️ sorry if there’s so many, i just had an idea in my head !

Thank you, anon, for helping me feed the children! I hope this is along the lines of what you were looking for… (if/when you read this, please confirm with an ask!)

This is gonna be a Roger blurb, because I love to give the people what they want. I am BEGGING for feedback. I want to give you guys what you want, but I have trouble writing Roger so I need to know your feels.

she thicc. she angsty. and she eventually soft. so enjoy a near 2,000 word blurb!

Your normal sitter had fallen ill so you had no choice but to bring your precious cargo to the to grocer with you. You’d managed to fit as much as you could underneath the carriage in the storage compartment but there was still more to carry. You balanced two bags of groceries in your arms and simultaneously struggled to push the stroller down the street. It was taking longer than usual, and the baby definitely didn’t like any part of the stop-and-go you were putting him through by trying to multitask.

When you finally arrived back at your flat, you were exhausted. The baby had grown fussy, and your arms muscles were cramping from being stuck in the same position for so long. Your face lit up when you saw someone open the front door to your building and did your best scurry towards it to catch it while you could. The man pushed open the door and didn’t take notice of your struggling, having it close behind him.

“Hey, do you mind grabbing the door for me, please?” You asked politely.

“Sorry, I’m running late.” The person grumbled as they walked past you and away down the street.

You were stunned; You stood there completely dumfounded, trying to register this moment of selfishness from someone who lived in the same building as you.

“Thanks for nothing!” You called out, but the gentleman was already long gone.

You took a deep breath and composed yourself before arranging the stroller in a way that could allow you to open the door on your own. When you turned your back to open the door and set your bag of groceries down, you felt the weight of the door removed from your back.

“Let me get that for you.” a voice called from behind you.

When you turned around to express your gratitude, all of the color ran from your face. The last person in the world you were expecting to show up at your doorstep was there, coming to your rescue.

“Roger…” You croaked.

“In the flesh!” Roger smiled warmly, as if not to put you off.

You stared at him, stunned, for several moments. You never thought you’d see him again. Roger was your long time boyfriend and first love of your life. That was until you found out he was cheating on you while away on tour with his band. So much for dating a rockstar…

Though it had been nearly two years since the break up, your wound remained fresh. This current moment felt like salt and lemon juice being dumped onto it one after the other. You were still stunned. Why was he here?“You… Did you do something different with your hair?” Was all you managed to say.

Roger shot you his million-dollar smile, which made you weak at the knees and perched his sunglasses atop his head.

“I guess you can say that. It’s shorter!” Roger pointed out nonchalantly.

“And blonder.” You added.

“Well, yeah. I suppose it is. Just a minor change.” Roger stated. “May i help you carry those bags?”

He held his arms out and you hesitated. You wanted nothing more than to tell him to go sod off and put this moment behind you. But you’d been through enough trouble that day, and would take help from the devil if it meant you should just return to the confines of your flat.

“Thank you.” You did your best to smile as Roger took both bags from your arms. He pushed the door open further, which allowed you to wheel the stroller inside the building.

You pushed the carriage through the vestibule and over to the elevator. Roger rushed to keep up with you, using his leg to assure that you could wheel the stroller into the elevator. He joined in the elevator and watched as you pressed the button to your floor, triggering the doors to shut.

Once the elevator started moving, Roger looked down at the baby in the stroller and then back at you.

“Are you going to introduce me to this little tike?” Roger asked

Were you? Should you? Doing that would change everything. You weren’t sure if you wanted Roger to know this side or you, or any part of your life now that he was no longer part of it.

“Uh, yeah.” You awkwardly scrubbed your face and sighed. “Hudson… this is Mr. Taylor.”

The baby stared up at Roger with big blue eyes, cooing quietly.

“How’d’ya do there, Hudson?” Roger offered the baby his finger, which he graciously accepted, and tried to put in his mouth.

“Beanie baby, no. We don’t put stranger’s fingers in our mouth!” You leaned down to move Roger’s hand away from the baby’s mouth and he whimpered in response.

“Sorry… I’d just prefer if your hands were clean first.”

Roger gave a complacent nod, trying to move past the fact that you’d called him a stranger to the young baby. Perhaps that’s what you were to each other now, but it hurt to hear it coming from your lips.

The elevator door opened and Roger held it open for you as he balanced the grocery bags in his hands with ease. Life was always easy for Roger Taylor. It angered you to no end. Your flat was only two doors away from the elevator but you were having a difficult time locating your keys in your purse. That’s when Hudson starting crying loudly.

You sighed, stopping for a moment to try and gather yourself, as Roger crouched down to the ground.

“You’re alright, buddy. Your Mummy will bust you out of here once we get inside!” Roger spoke enthusiastically, his finger rubbing the back of the baby’s hand.

You tapped your the pockets of both your jacket and jeans before you found them sitting in your the back pocket. You unlocked the door and ushered Roger inside with your hand.

“You can set the groceries down in the kitchen. It’s to the right.”

Roger walked around you and into your apartment. It wasn’t until you watched him cross the threshold that you realized what was actually happening. You’re letting the man who broke your heart into your apartment. You didn’t even know what brought him to your apartment in the first place. You saw his smile and his new hairstyle and instantly became distracted!

You wheeled the carriage into the kitchen where you were met with Roger drying his hands after washing them.

“Can I hold the little guy?” Roger asked as he put down the dishtowel.

“Rog…” There was clear hesitation in your voice. You ran a hand through your hair, trying to think of an excuse as to why he couldn’t that didn’t sound as harsh as it was.

“I promise I won’t drop him.” Roger leaned over the stroller and before you could protest, he had plucked Hudson from this carriage.

Roger gently bounced your son in his arms, watching his reactions closely as not to upset him. Hudson was absolutely enraptured by him. Roger made playful noises with his mouth, which had Hudson grabbing at his face.

“Hudson, you’re quite the looker.” Roger said as he pried the baby’s small hands from his nose. He offered up his finger as a teething toy to distract him, and Hudson gladly accepted.

“You take after your mummy that way.”

Your whole body trembled like a leaf as you watched your son become dazzled by the man that had once dazzled you. You didn’t want Hudson to be subjected to the kind of pain that came along with being associated with Roger Taylor.

“How did we get here?” You asked, your hands gripping the kitchen counter for stability. Your voice was barely above a whisper, but the room was quiet enough for Roger to here.

“What do you mean?” Roger squinted pensively, leaning his cheek against Hudson’s head.

“I mean - you just showed up at my flat unannounced after a couple of years and, like a night in shining armor, help me get my groceries and my son upstairs.” You shook your head in disbelief.

“How did you get here? Or why? Why are you here, Roger? After all this time…”

“It’s been less than two years.” Roger corrected.

You rolled your eyes before pinching the bridge of your nose.

“Look…” Roger started. “Queen’s recording an album in the area and I knew I had to come and find you. I wanted to see you, and see how you were.”

“Well. Now you’ve seen me. So you can be on your way.” You walked over to the stroller and retrieved the two packages you’d stashed in the storage area before Roger placed his hand on your wrist.

“You know I never meant to hurt you.” Roger still held Hudson in his arms, who was too busy staring at Roger to notice how visibly upset you were.

“It doesn’t matter what your intentions were, Roger. You’ve got your life now and I’ve got mine.” You let your wrist fall from Roger’s grasp and set the bags down on the table.

“Well, for what it’s worth… I think this baby is a pretty good life to have.” Hudson had rested his head on Roger’s shoulder and struggled to stay awake as Roger swayed side to side, lulling him to sleep.

“It’s quite tough to argue with that sentiment.” You smirked, playfully swatting at Roger

You then reached to run your hand through Hudson’s hair and he yawned, reaching to clutch Roger’s shirt in his little hand. You smiled weakly at him, and then looked up at Roger. You hadn’t realized that he was looking at you, watching your every move.

The look on his face was so familiar to you. He gazed at you with intense admiration that made you feel like the only girl in the world. You yearned for that look since you’d ended things with him, even though he was unfaithful to you. No one else had ever made you feel special. Not until your son was born.

“Hey, Rog?” The nickname was habitual. It’d always had been. It rolled off the tongue just as easily as it used to.

“About the baby…”

“What about him?” Roger was quick to respond, impatiently waiting on your next word.

“He’s yours.”

Roger was quiet for several moments. You were beginning to think that you shouldn’t have said anything. You should’ve just gotten him out of your apartment and out of your life for good.

“That explains why he’s so good looking.” Roger teased.

You let out a sigh of relief and hugged your arms around yourself for stability. You never thought that Hudson would know his father or vice versa. This unpredictable moment suddenly meant everything to you.

A few tears fell from Roger’s eyes and he kissed Hudson’s temple. You let out a breath you hadn’t realized you’d be holding in. It’d always been a fear of yours for Roger to find out about his son and be angry. It seemed as if you’d worried for no reason at all,

Roger’s free arm wrapped around your shoulders and pulled you close.

“I’m going to make this right. I promise.”

And then he kissed you. Slowly and deeply, just like he used to. You’d all but melted into his arms, overcome with emotion. You finally felt whole again.

[ourcollectivefantasy]

A Little Blue Box

The mailemental had a bit less to go on than Leon’s last request; all he had for this recipient was a name. In truth, he had absolutely no idea where Iloam and Ael lived, but he figured it was worth a try, so he forked over the gold and the pair of names and hoped for the best.

True to form, the glowing bluish-purplish fellow found the elves it was looking for, and handed off the blue-and-silver box with the smiling wolf’s head logo with utmost reluctance (the telemancy runes on the interiors were so tempting) before heading off on its way.

As always, the attached envelope was addressed by hand in plain handwriting to “Iloam & Aelberyn.” The letter inside was very short, and read thusly:

“Iloam,

You asked for help, even if you don’t remember it. You probably need it, even if you don’t want it. You’ve got it, if you ask for it again. My comm information is on the other side of this letter. I invite you both to use it as you see fit.

Yours, Leon E. Ambroce

PS: Share the truffles. The bottle’s for Aelberyn as much as you. If you two find no other use for it, it works just as well as dish soap for shutting a man up in a hurry.”

Tucked delicately into the box were two round truffles of such dark chocolate that they were nearly black, and were themselves quite bitter, cut only by the shreds of sweeter cocoa decorating the exterior. Nestled in a wad a cotton padding was a small eyedropper bottle labelled “Bitter Bastards.”

————————————————————

The start of the week was typically busy at Blacksong Records. Bands were coming back from weekend tours, equipment was being schlepped over the drawbridge and through the courtyard to be unloaded by roadies, craft services crews were coming in and setting up pop up tents for the week along with grills and firepits. The local brewery would always stop by, restocking the pony keg supply and taking next week’s order.

The courtyard at Brightwater Ferrer’s Manor was a dreary mess of wet gravel as morning fog rolled out and left a layer of dewy moisture over every surface. Gutters dripped over doorways and the many teenagers and young adults walking in and out of the recording studio’s front door lifted their hands to shield from the annoying drip.

Inside the record studio’s converted mansion, it was somehow more chaotic. Roadies stood around unpacking, giving orders, and running back and forth between studios as PA’s barked into walkie talkies; manager’s made deals in hallways; groupies lounged on every staircase and ratty second-hand couch available. There was an ever-present cloud of cigarette smoke and studio lounges were littered with bottles of water, booze, and Kaja cola scattered on every possible surface.

Iloam was at his desk, sequestered away in the back offices on the second floor, leaning back in his chair and combat boots propped on the corner. A notepad rested in his lap and a crystal player was in the center of his desk, surrounded by dozens of demo crystals. An oversized pair of headphones were over his long ears, with the cord stretched to the player, as he listened to a crystal and scribbled on his notepad. A bottle of Liquid Gold whiskey was also on his desk, with a rock glass half-full.

As his door opened, he looked up with a bored, half-conscious look and blinked back to the present. His PA had shoved the door open with her butt, clad in a pair of cut off jean shorts, fishnet stockings, and hot pink combat boots that matched her mid-riff in the same color. The logo across her chest of two crossed Flintlocks and the Pink Pistols punk band. “Mail’s here!” She announced as Iloam slid off his headphones and winced.

“Too loud,” he grumbled, long ears going back at her exuberance. “Anyt’in interesting?”

“Yah,” she whispered, grinning with bi-colored pink and black lipstick. “You got this weird one. No address, but it has your name and Lady B.” The Undead teen slid the box across his desk and they both leaned over, peering at it. “Looks like some kinda noble guy? It’s got a crest.”

Iloam tilted his head. Blue and silver packaging… Alliance, clearly. Wolf crest. Gilnean? There were a few possibilities there, but all of them friendly. Cautiously, he decided to open it and pulled out the letter on top, flipping it over and giving it a quick read.

The rogue’s face must have conveyed his surprise. “Someone you know?” Margo asked, arching an amused eyebrow. “Is it a love letter?” She teased, leaning over the desk and reaching for the letter.

Iloam swatted her hand away. “Oi! Piss off! Haven’t yeh got a lunch break coming up?” He grouched at her, waving her off.

“I don’t need to eat. I’m dead,” she pointed out and picked up the blue and silver package, rattling it with satisfaction as something rolled around inside.

“Go have a smoke t’en,” Iloam instructed, sliding up from his chair and reaching out to snatch the gift back. “Out.” This earned him a pout and then a wink from his assistant before she quite literally skipped out of the room and slammed the door. He waited until he could see her shadow through the frosted glass pick up her purse and leave the waiting room before his attention returned to the small box.

Peeling back the paper, Iloam pulled off the lid and found the two chocolates inside. A touching gift really – anything handmade from a Chef always was – but those would have to go to Aelberyn. There wasn’t any way Leon could have known Iloam didn’t eat… well… anything he didn’t have to. But he picked up the small bottle and smirked at the brand name. Of course. Very clever. And most of all, thoughtful. He paused, palming the bottle and looking out the window at the Tirisfal drizzle. He wouldn’t have ever thought Leon of all people would think of him outside of the occasional hello and joking around at parties. What had earned such kindness?

The rogue moved back to his desk, sitting deep into his chair and scooting forward as he pulled out a pre-printed thank you card with the Blacksong Records logo printed in gold dripping ‘spray paint’ effect over a skull emblem on matte black card stock. Picking up his quill, he attempted the best handwriting he could – which was to say it looked as if a chicken were having a seizure.

“Leon,

Cheers much for the gifts. They were a pleasant surprise. You are right that I don’t remember much of anything about last Friday. Aelberyn tells me I was a real shit heel. She didn’t deserve that – none of you did. I hope that you and the lads will forgive me. It had been ages since I let my drink get the best of me, and I am doing my best to make sure it doesn’t happen again.”

He looked at the glass of whiskey on his desk. Well, that was a lie. But it was better than heroin – wasn’t it? Iloam frowned and went back to writing.

“I don’t know what you can do to help, but I will certainly keep the offer in my pocket for if and when it may be necessary. It’s only proper to extend the offer back. Should you ever need anything from me, just give me a ring.

- I.B.”

He added his com frequency, and for good measure, their personal address for any future packages and letters.

((thank you @mremaknu​ !)) 

[canumoveurseatup-no]

Pop-pop’s Babysitting Chronicles

Part 3 of the Honeybee Series!!

This part was requested by: @blueoz

Don’t forget you can request what you would like to see in this series!!

Summary: You and Bucky took some time for yourselves and went on a little vacation. Annalise wants pop pop to babysit and this is just a peak into the Babysitting Chronicles

WC: 2.5K

Pairings: Tony x OC!Granddaughter ;Bucky x Black!Stark!Reader; Bucky x OC!Daughter (paternal obviously); Avengers x Black!Stark!Reader

Warnings: none, it’s all fluff and cuteness this time!!! (Jk just a tiny bit of angst if you squint)

A/N: I’m so glad y’all enjoy this series and everything else I write!! I can’t thank y’all enough for the support! If YOU LIKE IT, PLEASE REBLOG AND COMMENT IT MEANS A LOT!!

“Dad, you know her bed time is 9:05 on the dot,” you were literally making a list for him and he waved you away.

“That is such a specific time,” he waved you off

“It’s really 9. But she spends so much time with you, and picks up your vocabulary so she just loooves grace periods because ‘pop pop always says it’, so I say 9:05,” you handed him the list which he throws away right in your face and picks Anna up and kissing all over her face causing her to giggle and squealing.

“Dad! You might need that list,” You exasperated.

Tony just rolled his eyes at you yet again and look at you dumbfounded.

“Y/N. I raised you for crying out loud. I’ve watched my granddaughter plenty of times. Just because it’s an extended period this time doesn’t mean I’m incapable,”

You sighed and nodded your head, “I’m only worried because she’s not like other kids, dad. She has super strength and we have yet to see if she can do what I do and I just want her to be safe,” Bucky came in the kitchen with your bags ready and Tony nodded.

“Sweetie, you were two when you started Shadow traveling, I think I can handle my granddaughter for a few days,” he kissed your cheek and patted your head, “You worry too much. Relax. Have fun”

“Okay okay. Don’t let Sam or Clint get a hold of her during their football marathons. We don’t want a repeat of when she was a newborn,”

“Fun times,” he looked up at the ceiling and sighed happily.

“Dad!,” You swatted his arm and he just laughed at you.

“Mama, I’ll be okaaaaay. I love spending time with pop pop. He lets me in the lab with him and fly around in a mini suit he made for me,” Anna admits

“You weren’t supposed to tell her that!!,” Tony whisper yelled. Anna covered her mouth and muttered “Uh ooohh”

You wore a worried expression on your face and whined, “That’s it, we are not going anymore,”

“The hell we are! Babe, we need this and you know it,” Bucky came up to you and held your hand, “That’s her grandpa, she’s gonna have adventures with him. You forget that she can barely get hurt. And when she does it goes away quickly. She’ll be fine,” Bucky’s words calmed you down some and he looked to Tony.

“Don’t forget, her Honeybee Scouts tea party is Wednesday at 1:00 to 2:30, she was in charge of the cookies and napkins. We’ll be back later Thursday,”

“I keep up with my Honeybee and her tea parties. I got this tin man, now go so I can fuck shit up with my granddaughter,”

“DAD!!”

“Oops,” Tony tried to keep the smile from appearing on his face but there was no point. He pushed you and Bucky to the elevator and pressed the lobby button for you, “I raised you just fine. I can handle a mini you all over again. Have fun and be safe,”

You sighed and kissed Anna all over her face and she giggled while pushing you away, “I’ll miss you guys but gooooo! I love you, mama,” she grabbed your face in her little hands and kissed your nose. “Papa” she raised her arms up and he picked her up effortlessly.

“I love you, papa. You two better make it back safe,” she waved a finger in his face sternly with a frown.

“Yes ma’am,” Bucky’s eyes glowed at his daughter before kissing her cheek and the elevator dinged.

Everyone else had already said their goodbyes and kept it short knowing you’d be back in like, less than week. You were supposed to have left like an hour ago, but you being the worry wart you were, you stuck around and lectured your dad about how to watch his granddaughter when he’s done it millions of times. You were lucky you were using one of his jets or else you’d be screwed.

Anna climbed out of his arms and went to into Tony’s, wearing a big smile, and they waved back at you two as the doors closed, “we’ll try not to eff too much shit up!” She smiled

“ANNALISE LILLIAN STARK-BARNES!!!,” you and Bucky’s yelling could be heard through the closing and descending doors.

Tony shook his head and told her to watch her mouth, “Watch it, don’t want your parents to beat my butt for you repeating me,”

“Oopsie, sowwy,” she smiled sweetly.

“Now... what do you wanna do first? Prank wars or help pop pop on one of his projects?,”

———

She picked pranking first. She had painted Sam’s wings periwinkle with glitter and literally wrapped all of Clint’s weapons in gift wrapping paper.

They ended up pranking Steve as well by adding pink hair dye to his already pink shampoo.

“TONYYYYY! ANNAAAAAAA!!!!,”

Anna and Tony hid away in a secret passageway in his lab and laughed their butts off, “He’s gonna be even more upset when he finds out his suit matches,” Anna’s hands covered her mouth as she was hysterically laughing.

“WAIT UNTIL I FIND YOU BOTH!!,”

“We got an angry old man on our hands!!” Tony laughed even harder. Anna took her pop pop’s hand and led him to the lab after a while of cracking jokes and hiding.

“I wanna fix some stuff up. Mama and papa won’t let me in here any other time,” she immediately took some wire cutters and working on a panel for his suit, “you still haven’t put this in your suit, pop pop?,” she asked

“I left it fo you, I didn’t wanna finish it if you started it. This is our thing, I wanted to leave something for you to work on when we finally got back in here. Plus, whatever you did right, I can’t figure it out to continue,” he booped her nose and she scrunched her face up at him while giggling.

“You just had to readjust the digitizer and reboot the program. The white wire was also in the wrong circuit. You had to switch it with the orange one,” she was so nonchalant as she worked. He stared at her in awe as she continued to split wires open and rework them.

“What do you wanna do when you’re a big girl?,”

“I am a big girl, pop pop,” she sassed. He threw his head back in light laughter and shook his head.

“I mean when you’re a bigger big girl,”

“I want to work for NASA,” she simply stated.

“Really?,” he became intrigued as he worked on yet another project.

“Yes, the ESD to be specific,” she took a pair of tweezers to work with the wire, “That’s the Earth Science Division in case you didn’t know,”

“I already knew that, Honeybee,”

“Hey, I’m just making sure!,” she shrugged, “I want to focus on climate change to be even more specific. There are a lot of human related causes and Earth is hurting. So I want to help fix her up. Not just put a bandaid on her and turn my back on her, I want to cure her pretty much,”

“You are definitely my granddaughter,” Tony adored how smart she was. He adored her drive for things and how sure she was of her future plans. You and Bucky raised her right.

“You think I can do it? You don’t think that’s something only boys can do? Like with space and stuff?,” she paused for a second to look at her pop pop and he frowned.

“Of course not. You can do whatever the hell you put your mind to. Did someone tell you that you can’t?,”

She huffed and nodded slowly, “Queen Bee Eurena, our new scouts leader, said that stuff is only for boys. But you all always taught me jobs don’t discriminate, it’s the people in charge that do,” she continued working on the panel but she didn’t realize how pissed Tony had become. How dare someone tell his granddaughter that she can’t do something just because she was a fucking girl?!

“Ya know... I know a guy who works at the ESD,”

Anna slammed the wire cutters down on the table, “YOU WHAAAAT?!,” she screamed.

“One day I’m gonna let you meet him. Let him know there is someone special who would be a great asset to the team. I can even get you a tour of the place,”

“NO WAY!,” she squealed, her little braids with beads clashing together to make noise.

“Yes way!!,” Tony gave her enthusiasm right back.

“But I wanna work for it! I don’t wanna get the job just because I’m your granddaughter. Trust fund babies do that,” she said.

“Honeybee, it’s okay. I know you’ll work so hard that you won’t even need me to put in a good word,”

She nodded and told him to lean down so she can kiss his cheek, “I’ll always need you, pop pop,”

————

“Honeybee! Do you have your sash?,” Tony called from down the hall as he packaged up the expensive cookies and napkins. Tony has to go all out.

“I can’t find my crochet patch!,” she called back.

“In your room, by the your crafts box!,”

“Found iiit!,”

He heard the pitter patter of running feet, “I need help,” she pouted.

Tony took a knee as he pinned her crochet patch on her sash, “We’re gonna have to sew this on,” he mumbled.

She pointed to a patch on her sash, “I can do it! I was the first one to get the sewing patch. Up next is the worker bee patch!,” she exclaimed.

“You got this,” he fist pumped her and picked her up as well as the bag of cookies and napkin. “Off of the beehive we go!,”

———

Tony sat back in the picnic chair and sipped his lemonade as he watched Anna run around the park with her best friend Adora. They were connected at the hip and they defended each other like sisters. It was a great friendship to see.

“A-are you new?,” a tall lady came up with the same uniform as Anna, “Queen bee Eurena, transferred to this hive like a two weeks ago” she held her hand out.

“Tony Stark and yes I guess you could say I’m new. Anna is my granddaughter, her parents usually attend but they’re on vacation,”

“Oh she is such a pleasure to have!,” Eurena clapped, “She works really hard and helps everyone, everyone loves her! I bet she’ll make a great nurse someday,”

“Nurse?,” Tony frowned, “Anna doesn’t want to go into nursing. She’s a NASA nerd,” she chuckled.

“Yes, well we try to teach our girls to have attainable goals,” she nodded. Tony took his sunglasses off and really looked at her like she was stupid.

“NASA is totally attainable!,” he exclaimed, “I’m not sure what you taught your previous hive but this hive doesn’t belittle their bees’ dreams,”

Eurena frowned at Tony and put her hands on her hips, “Well sure but that’s no place for a lady. Especially a wonderful one like Anna,”

Tony was mind boggled. This woman was really talking out the side of her neck.

“I can do whatever the hell I put my mind to!!,”

Tony and Eurena turned around to see Anna looking up at her with a frown, “What you have been teaching us goes completely against the Hive dynamic and beliefs! How dare you put me in a box! I will not be put in a box!,” Anna kicked Eurena in her shin, everyone heard a loud crack and Eurena cried out in pain. Tony swooped in to pick her up.

The other families gathered and agreed with Anna. This new Eurena woman was teaching these little girls that they need to be on a short leash.

“I will be contacting your superior,” Anna best Tony to it, “Let’s go pop pop,”. Tony walked over to the table and grabbed the rest of the cookies that hadn’t been opened yet and put them in the bag before storming off. It was a domino effect. Once Anna and Tony left, everyone else started to leave.

No wonder Eurena transferred, she clearly didn’t do too well with her other hive.

————

“Dad, she kicked the woman in the shin, fracturing it! In multiple places!” You screamed, “Not only that, she cursed, dad. In public, at her scouts party with other kids!,”

“I’m not arguing with you about this, Y/N. She stood up for herself! That’s what we all taught her! To believe in herself and not let anyone belittle her potential,”

“Tony, that’s not what we’re getting at,” Bucky sighed, “It’s the fact she kicked a grown woman in her leg. We teach her not to resort to violence, because only we know how strong she is,

“That’s why I was worried in the first place. That’s why I didn’t want to leave,” You rubbed your temples and Anna came into the kitchen.

“She was mean to me and you don’t even get it!,” Anna fumed, “She was talking to everyone like that. Telling them they couldn’t be scientists or crime scene i-investigators, or surgeons! She was telling us we would be good teachers or nurses or receptionists!, clearly there’s nothing wrong with that but she swatted our arms away when we reached for more and that’s not fair, mama!,” her bottom lips started quivering and she was shaking in anger, “not fair!”

You looked at her and sighed, you did always tell her to never let anyone talk down to her, that she was more than what anyone ever said, you guess she just had enough of this woman in her short time knowing her that she acted out. You kneeled down to her and saw how she was controlling her breathing as best as she could.

“You’re doing a great job with your breathing, Honeybee,” you whispered, you taught her breathing techniques when she got worked up, “I’m sorry I was yelling but you know we don’t condone unnecessary violence,” you rubbed her cheek.

“I understand, mama. But she frustrated me more than I’ve ever been and... and I couldn’t help it,” she slapped her hands on her thighs in frustration, letting out a loud groan that worried you.

“Buck,” you called over your shoulder. Bucky came up behind you and lifted her in his arms and she let it all out.

“I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to hurt her, I didn’t!,” she clenched her fists in his shirt and he rubbed her back, “Pop pop stood up for me. He believed in me and I just acted out,”

Tony came over and tapped her shoulder, making her turn her head to look at him as she cried, “We all believe in you. But I must admit the kicking and swearing is wrong, okay? We’ll even apologize but I’ll be damned-,”

“Dad!,”

Tony cut his eyes at you and sighed, “We’ll apologize but I won’t allow that woman to be around those little girls taking to them like that,” he glared at you and you flicked your eyes to Bucky who agreed, “Now give me my Science bee,” he made grabby hands and Anna gave him a watery smile while moving into his arms.

“We are sorry,” She said to you and Bucky. You both gave her a kiss and a stern reminding that she can’t go around kicking people who offend her (even though you both are guilty of that.)

“You’re fine. Just make sure you apologize for kicking her. But not apologizing for verbally defending yourself,”

Anna nodded and Tony carried her to the lab to set up a date to tour NASA and the ESD.

She kissed his cheek and smiled, “Told you I’d always need you,”

—————

Pop pop Tony defending his granddaughter warms my heart, and we love Anna no matter whose shin she fractures!

If you like it, please reblog and comment! It means a lot💕

Tags- @vozit @blackreaders-assemble @mbaku-babygirl @majikmelanin @babybubastis @amethyst-dreams-and-candy-canes @spideys-wife @yournonlocalpoc @sideeffectsofyou @curlyhairclub @mirajanestrauss1999 @fromlia-withlove @blowmymbackout @mokacoconut @livayah @lusty-leopard

[romancingromanoff]

What Happens At Disney.... Part 2/3

youHe: 

Just a bunch of Disneyworld fluff! Also more one-on-one time with Nat in this one; you get a makeover and her and Ariel compete for best redhead.  

Part 1 here//Part 3 here

Tony coughed, “So now what?” The rest of the crew is standing around awkwardly in what Cap calls their “civilian clothes.” He’s sporting a plain white tee and a blue baseball cap (of course, because America) while Tony has opted for a more business casual look with a fancy short sleeved collared shirt and a tie. That’s about as casual as he gets but you just hope that he can try and relax and have fun today. There’s nothing that Thor could wear that wouldn’t make him look like a super granola California surfer guy. His man bun is attracting a lot of female attention, but then again, you suppose that that happens most of the time anyway. Bruce, of course, manages to look awkward in whatever clothing he’s wearing. He has a lot of purple shirts but he’s decided to go with the one you got him for Christmas with a small pocket over his left breast that you told him was where he was supposed to put his matching pen you also had made. You think it’s sweet that he’s wearing it today. Clint is also wearing some shorts and a tee along with some actual worn in sneakers; he probably blends in the most with the crowd.

Then there’s Nat- your girlfriend. She could pull off anything of course but today she’s just wearing some shorts, a black tank, and some combat boots. She’s quite the opposite of yourself in terms of the color palette she prefers but you secretly love that her neutral-toned basic pieces allow her red hair to shine and frame your favorite part about her- her face and those green eyes. Her hands are casually in her front pockets and she would almost seem relaxed if not for the fact that she was perpetually scanning the area around her and moving her eyes around to check for potential threats wherever she goes. You sigh and grab one of her hands into your own and pull her towards one of the stores and motion for everyone else to follow behind you.

“Well, me and Nat are going to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique so can you boys wait for us nearby? Thor, I think they sell giant turkey legs at that stand over there,” you see his face perk up at the mention of huge slabs of meat and he’s gone before you can blink.

“Aw, c’mon Thor! You can’t just push the kids out of the way like that!” Bruce groans and goes after him followed by Clint, Steve (who has entered reluctant babysitter mode) and Tony because apparently he just coincidentally wants to “go in that vague direction.”

“Okay, but I am not allowing them to touch my hair,” Natasha warns and you just give her a peck on her cheek before dragging her into the store. It’s like what you imagine Princess Jasmine’s salon is actually like as there are golden chandeliers, giant mirrors, and long silky curtains and drapes of all different colors decorating the giant space. Two of the stylists greet you with great big smiles and start giving you information on all of the different packages they offer.

“Of course not,” you smile. “Remember, this is my makeover, buddy. And I don’t want you stealing away my thunder anyway when you’re already a billion times prettier than me.”

“Get in the chair, you dork,” she snorts as you take a seat in the styling chair and the ladies begin their work. You decide to go with some simple makeup (just a little bit of blush, neutral eyeshadow, winged eyeliner, some lipgloss in the shade that Aurora wears, and light mascara with only a tiny bit of sparkly highlighter) and a giant Elsa-braid.  

“Oooh, help me pick out the perfect ears!” you squeal dragging Nat over to a wall of an assortment of glittery Minnie Mouse ears next. A pair of sparkly white ones with a red bow catches you eye which Nat notices and she reaches up to grab them for you.

“If I have any input, I’d like to see wearing these in the bedroom,” she says in that sultry voice as your face blushes and she slips them onto you.

“Shush, Nat, this is a public place with little kids,” you swat at her but can’t help but catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and you tilt your head modeling them off for her as she smiles watching. “But I do look really good in these,” you admit. “I didn’t know you were into that kind of stuff,” you say to her in a lowered voice and pray that the store is busy enough that no one can hear your private conversation over all of the noise. She just gives you a grin which tells you she’s up to no good and pulls out her phone to show you a pair of very expensive, but stunning cat ears from a website you personally would have been afraid to visit off of private browsing mode.

“I don’t know, maybe playing cat and mouse could be kinda fun,” she says suggestively and you give her a quick kiss on her lips.

“Hey, don’t make me mess up my lipstick,” you warn with a laugh.

“Not until we get home, I promise.”

You meet with the boys just in time to stop Thor from consuming half of all of the turkey legs this poor vendor has and Tony suggests that you all go on a ride.

“How about the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train?” you suggest. “You know, from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs?”

“I understood that reference,” Steve’s got this huge smile on his face when you mention what was one of the only Disney animated films that came out pre-WWII. 

“Well, apparently the ride is just as old as you Capsicle,” Tony mocks him and pulls up his phone which he has on a website that shows all of the times you have to wait in line for a ride. “Because the train broke down while the dwarfs must have been hi-hoing to work.”

You can’t help but get a bit sad and your sulk a little bit before Nat gently rubs your arm and shoots Tony an angry glare. “Buuuuuuuut,” he begins obviously intimidated by Romanoff. “Luckily, I am an engineering genius so I’ll see what I can do to fix it.”

Perhaps the only perk of having a super egotistical genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist for a friend is that they never take “no” for an answer and can talk their way into pretty much anything when you need a favor from them. The seven of you eventually found your way to the control room which was underground in the infamous tunnels that only workers were allowed to see. 

“I don’t know, Tony, I get kind of claustrophobic and being underground probably isn’t good for my stress,” Bruce worries as Tony is nagging him to help him with the tools. 

“Hey, it’s the happiest place on earth, so get the hell in here,” he says and you hear Bruce groan. You, Clint, Nat, and Steve just decide to awkwardly wait outside while they’re arguing over mechanics and Tony is criticizing the Mouse for “not having adept technicians” when you decide you’d rather go explore around the corner and at least look for a bathroom. You excuse yourself and head into the labyrinth that is Disney’s Underground Maze and can’t help but stare at all of the half-human half-animal creatures you run into. There’s Chip & Dale without their costume heads on so it just looks like two normal guys’ heads floating on top of the bodies of some obese chipmunks, the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland is standing in a corner cursing out his girlfriend over the phone, and someone else with Tigger’s head and a woman’s body almost bumps into you. That’s when you stumble upon what looks like another dressing room and you peak in to find that it’s full of all of the Princess character-actors putting on their makeup and wigs.

“Oh my God, you’re Y/N!” a super perky voice catches you by surprise and you almost trip over yourself before the owner of that voice manages to catch you. She’s wearing the most magnificent mint green ball gown which is sleeveless. You know it’s a wig, but she’s got the most voluptuous red curls that frame her kind face so nicely that you can’t help but stutter as she smiles at you. After all, you’ve always had a thing for redheads and though she’s a little too bubbly for your taste, you have to admit that she’s very beautiful.  “Wow, it is so cool to meet you!” Princess Ariel exclaims before she starts complimenting you on all of the work you do. “I’m such a huge fan of yours!”

“Thank you very much, it’s nice to run into someone that thinks so,” you say. “And I’m such a big fan of your’s, I mean, of Ariel’s since I guess you are her.. or.. are you? Um, what should I call you?” you feel so embarrassed tripping over your own words confused about what the rules are for breaking out of character but she just laughs it off. You had no idea that the employees here could be so nice.

“I’m off the clock right now so you can call me Stella,” she winks and you try to play it off like you totally know what’s going on. “How long are you going to be here in Orlando?”

“A couple of days. I really want to visit all of the different parks.”

“Well,” she reaches into the dressing room and grabs what looks like a sticky note and a Mickey Mouse pen. “Let me know if you’d like someone to show you around, you know, after hours. I can give you the secret tour; get us a dinner reservation somewhere nice,” she winks at you again and then you finally catch on to what she means after she hands you the note which you see has a phone number on it. 

“Oh, uh-”

“Thanks, but my girlfriend knows I won’t kiss her if she’s been eating seafood,” you whip around to see Natasha standing there looking like she’s death itself about ready to take this poor girl away to hell. 

“I, uh, I gotta go,” Stella hurries into the dressing room closing the door after her and you’re left with an angry assassin with her arms crossed just waiting for an explanation.

“Natasha, I swear, I had no idea she was flirting with me.”

“I know. That’s exactly how she took advantage of you,” she almost darts into the room but you block the door before she can go kill anybody.

“Hey, she was not taking advantage of me,” you retort. 

“I saw how you were mesmerized by her hair and that stupid starfish clip.”

“It’s a wig, Natasha. You know I like my women to be naturally redheaded... even if they get a little green sometimes,” you playfully push her understandingly taking her two hands into yours and pulling her closer. “I only have eyes for you,” you whisper and she rolls her eyes trying to resist the puppy  eyes you’re giving her.

“Okay, but if she flirts with you again then I’m ripping that wig right off.”

Natasha won’t let go of your hand as you find your way back to Tony and Bruce who have finally finished repairing the ride. Coming back up above ground, the sun’s glare kind of blinds all of you and you notice Clint looks especially bothered.

“Hey, save that perfect hawk-vision of yours,” you pull out a pair of sunglasses from your bag and offer them to him.

“Thanks,” he says slipping them on over his squinting eyes before Thor, Tony, and Nat erupt in laughter. Clint just stands there confused for a second as his eyes readjust just before he realizes that the sunglasses you’ve given him are from the Pixie Hollow collection and are bright pink with tons of sequins all over the winged-shaped frames.

“You know what? My eyesight needs protection more than my masculinity, which I am completely comfortable with, so you guys can just go blind. Have fun staring at the sun,” he proclaims trying to block out the sounds of Tony struggling to breath from laughing too much and Thor’s giant belly laughs.

“Hey! I will expose you!” he threatens. “Security! Security?! Yeah, this guy has a giant weapon on him! Yup, the hammer guy? That's him. He’s right here.”

Thor turns around so fast with his hammer up to Clint’s chin. “You be silent right this instant, Barton, or else I shall smash you fairy princess glasses with my hammer right here and now.”

“No! Those are mine!” you scream as Natasha just keeps recording everything happening on her phone. 

To be continued...