#branded hiking shoes

[hylianengineer]

A couple weeks ago I bought some hiking boots at a thrift store for eleven dollars, intending to use them for fieldwork, but I've ended up wearing them like every day since then and I guess my style just includes hiking boots now.

[vengoesbatshitcrazywithpolls]

Rolling up my matching socks into neat little burritos.

I FED UP WITH THE ARGUMENT

[hikercarl]

How to Choose the Perfect Hiking Boots for Your Adventure

Looking for the perfect hiking boots? We'll guide you through choosing the ideal pair for your adventure, ensuring comfort and durability on any trail.

Choosing the right hiking boots is key for comfort, protection, and performance on any outdoor adventure. Whether you’re facing tough terrain, long distances, or heavy backpacks, the right shoes matter a lot. In this guide, we’ll cover the main things to think about when picking the best hiking boots for your next trip. Key Takeaways Understand the importance of proper hiking footwear for…

[menfootwears]

Top Outdoor Boots for Hiking Adventures in Pakistan in 2024

Pakistan is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of breathtaking landscapes that beckon adventure seekers. From the towering peaks of the Karakoram Range to the lush green valleys of Hunza and Swat, hiking in Pakistan is an experience like no other. To make the most of these adventures, having the right gear is crucial. A key component of this gear is a reliable pair of hiking boots. In 2024, the market is flooded with a variety of options, making it challenging to choose the perfect pair. This guide will help you navigate through the best outdoor boots for hiking adventures in Pakistan, ensuring comfort, durability, and style.

Why You Need the Best Hiking Boots

Before diving into the top picks, it’s important to understand why investing in a good pair of hiking boots is essential. The rugged terrains of Pakistan demand footwear that can withstand harsh conditions while providing ample support and protection. Here are some reasons why hiking boots are indispensable:

Stability and Support

Hiking boots are designed to offer superior ankle support, reducing the risk of sprains and injuries on uneven trails. The structured design helps maintain stability, especially when carrying a heavy backpack.

Durability

Quality hiking boots are made from robust materials that can endure rough surfaces, water, and varying weather conditions. This ensures they last longer, giving you better value for your money.

Comfort

Long hikes can be grueling on your feet. Hiking boots come with cushioned insoles and breathable fabrics, ensuring your feet stay comfortable and dry throughout your adventure.

Top Outdoor Boots for Men in 2024

1. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX

The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is a top choice for many hiking enthusiasts. Known for its excellent support and durability, this boot is perfect for the challenging terrains of Pakistan. It features GORE-TEX waterproofing, ensuring your feet stay dry in wet conditions, and an advanced 4D chassis that provides great stability and comfort.

2. Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof

Merrell is a trusted brand in the hiking community, and the Moab 2 Mid Waterproof is a testament to their quality. These boots offer exceptional comfort right out of the box, thanks to their cushioned footbeds and breathable mesh lining. The waterproof membrane keeps moisture out, making them ideal for trekking through Pakistan’s diverse landscapes.

3. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is renowned for its superior craftsmanship and performance. Made from high-quality leather, these boots provide excellent support and durability. The GORE-TEX lining ensures your feet remain dry, while the Vibram sole offers great traction on slippery surfaces.

4. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof

For those seeking a blend of style and functionality, the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof is an excellent option. These boots are lightweight, making them perfect for long hikes. The Omni-Grip rubber outsole ensures optimal traction, and the waterproof construction keeps your feet dry in all weather conditions.

5. Timberland White Ledge Mid Waterproof

Timberland is synonymous with rugged outdoor footwear, and the White Ledge Mid Waterproof boots are no exception. These boots are made from premium full-grain leather and feature seam-sealed waterproof construction. The EVA footbed provides cushioning, ensuring comfort on extended hikes.

Key Features to Look for in Hiking Boots

When selecting the best outdoor boots for men, there are several key features to consider to ensure you get the most out of your hiking adventures in Pakistan.

Waterproofing

Given the unpredictable weather and diverse terrains, waterproof boots are a must. Look for boots with GORE-TEX or other waterproof membranes to keep your feet dry.

Traction

The trails in Pakistan can be slippery and uneven. Boots with Vibram soles or other high-traction outsoles provide better grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Comfort

Comfort is paramount when choosing hiking boots. Opt for boots with cushioned insoles, ample padding, and breathable materials to keep your feet comfortable during long treks.

Ankle Support

Hiking in mountainous regions requires good ankle support to prevent injuries. Mid or high-cut boots provide better ankle support compared to low-cut options.

Durability

Investing in durable boots ensures they withstand the rigors of hiking and last longer. High-quality materials like leather and reinforced stitching contribute to a boot’s durability.

Maintenance Tips for Your Hiking Boots

To get the most out of your hiking boots, proper maintenance is crucial. Here are some tips to keep your boots in top condition:

Cleaning

After each hike, clean your boots to remove dirt and debris. Use a soft brush and mild soap to scrub off any dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the material.

Drying

Never dry your boots near direct heat sources as this can cause the material to crack. Instead, stuff them with newspaper and let them air dry naturally.

Waterproofing

Over time, the waterproofing on your boots can wear off. Reapply a waterproofing treatment periodically to maintain their water resistance.

Storage

Store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them in damp areas to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pair of hiking boots is crucial for a successful and enjoyable hiking adventure in Pakistan. The options listed above are some of the best outdoor boots for men available in 2024, offering a perfect blend of comfort, durability, and style. Whether you’re exploring the rocky trails of the Karakoram or the lush valleys of Swat, these boots will ensure you’re well-equipped for the journey.

For a comprehensive range of outdoor gear and branded men outdoor boots, check out our men's clothing section to find everything you need for your next adventure.

Embark on your hiking journey with confidence, knowing you have the best footwear to tackle the trails of Pakistan.

[thegreatfluffmuffin]

Okay i feel the need to return to this post an Elaborate bc honest to god, real leather boots have been a godsend. I do a lot of field work, which means putting ~40 hrs a week of uneven ground on a pair of shoes. I used to get a 100$+ pair hiking boots every six months or so after my previous pair rent itself in twain. But i have had this lace-up leather pair for more than a year now without significant damage. I have only cleaned and oiled them about 3 times so far(when i notice the creases getting a bit deep), and i am in love.

They are not waterproof, but they are fairly water resistant and honestly my feet are warmer in these wet than they ever were in previous shoes dry(and its not like the “water proofing” lasts very long in those shoes anyways).

Only real downsides is that it is an animal product, and it is hard to figure out where the leather comes from, so sourcing shoes with humanely produced leather, and made by workers that are actually paid a fair wage, is rather difficult.

Other note: I dont know if this holds true for other brands, but mine are quite a bit heavier than normal hiking boots, so it took a few (foot hurty) weeks for me to get used to them.

they should invent shoes that don't rip themselves asunder within a year

[ereh-emanresu-tresni]

The eternal struggle between my hiking shoes chafing specific spots but my work shoes making me generally sore af...

[jmflowers]

Top 5 clothing items you own

1. I’m obsessed with matching pyjama sets, especially from Old Navy (as I can order things in tall and then they fit like I’m a normal human size!) current favourites are a mustard yellow waffle leggings and long sleeve set and a white waffle pants (with pockets!) and bralette set - very comfy

2. merch hoodies… I have an extensive collection of hoodies from musicians or bands I love, including the red tie-dye from Maggie Rogers Heard it in a Past Life, a green Taylor Swift folklore with all the song titles down the sleeves, Sigrid’s blue tie-dye from Suckerpunch, and several Little Mix ones including their final concert (for now) hoodie

3. a dope snow Adirondack hiking jacket… I asked for this for Christmas and it’s so, so good - every seam is taped so it’ll keep me dry, it’s got arm vents and sick pockets, and there’s a storm hood - I literally cannot wait to hike in all weather with it (I was a little bit miserable while in BC because my coat wasn’t waterproof)

4. a very specific piece of merch that a friend made for her first show post-covid lockdowns - it’s super soft and says the date of the show on the front and the names of a bunch of ticket holders (myself included) on the back… I bought one at the show and then she brought me all the leftovers that are my size when we were camping together over the summer, so I’ve got like 5 of them now and they’re perfect to sleep in or wear out which I do interchangeably

5. this beautiful red blazer my sister-in-law let me steal from her closet that makes me feel like a rockstar every time I put it on… if I pair it with plaid pants and my doc martens, I look like I’m ready to step into a MCR music video

bonus: my MPG leggings because they’re the only pair of pants I own that bunch up at my ankles (and they literally suck in every inch of my body like I’m a majestic little worm human)

[shreyapost]

[osachiyo]

sugar daddy!chuuya who absolutely adores you. you're so so sweet to him, such a good girl; never disobeying him, being so nice to him, not being a brat, never testing his patience— you're just so perfect. Always giving him a hug and a kiss on the cheek before he leaves for work. That's why he loves to spoil you; buying you all kinds of luxurious items to keep you happy. Taking you on sweet little dates every weekend, brushing you off when you ask if it's too expensive— telling you he's got the money for it, why not spend it on his most prized possession, you?

He loves to spoil you in the bedroom as well; you're his pretty little pillow princess, taking everything he gives you and more. Your legs would be hiked up on his strong shoulders, his face buried in your plush cunt as he moans from your sweet taste on his tongue. Gloved thumbs spreading your pussy apart as he spits on it and it's downright nasty how he licks everything back up, the lower portion of his handsome face dripping with your essence and he loved it.

sugar daddy!chuuya who would buy you so many sets of the prettiest lingere, only to rip them off your body later, promising he'd buy you new ones later. He'd give you his black card, telling you to buy anything you have your eyes on, no matter the price. The only price you have to pay is that pretty body of yours, that he loves kissing, licking and touching.

sugar daddy!chuuya who'd take you shopping whenever he's free, offering to buy entire stores for you, all for you. He'd find you so cute, so eager to try on new clothing and showing it off to him, only to get your brains fucked out in one of the changing rooms, all while wearing the brand new dress you wanted to show off. His hands pulling down the straps of the overly expensive dress, exposing your neck and chest to him. Making you look at your debauched self in the mirror; your pretty lipgloss smudged from the rough kiss you shared earlier, pretty love bites covering your smooth skin, hair pulled back in a makeshift ponytail as he drills himself into you nice 'n good.

sugar daddy!chuuya who has you suck him off underneath the desk of his office. Holding your head down,making you swallow him fully as he tries to have a conversation with his boss on the phone, whispering how good you're for him. His shoe would be grinding against your clothed cunt, ruining the pretty pair of panties you wore for him.

sugar daddy!chuuya who has you in a full nelson infront of the huge window in his office, cooing at you for being so cute,so pliant 'n soft for him to ruin. Promising that he'd buy you a car after this, voice slurred and sultry as he became drunk off the feeling of your pussy sucking him in. You'd eventually be pushed up against the window, nipples hard from your tits pressed up against the cool glass as he splays a large hand on your back, arching it so nicely for him as he plows into you from behind.

sugar daddy!chuuya who suddenly feels his heart speeding up whenever you talk to him, even look at him with those pretty doe eyes of yours. He follows you around like a puppy now, eager to have your attention on him. You suddenly have one of, if not the strongest and most dangerous man in the mafia wrapped around your pinky.

©ambrosiaa— do not copy, plagiarize and repost my works to any platform, reblogs are very appreciated ♡

TAGS »»————> @hopefulpain @inkmooon @constant-existential-terror @nda-approval @mellieellie @lxverss @lynxxyyy @nanamibeloved

@sorahatsumi @himebwrries @nopethenope @neviex @fyodorisbbg @stygianoir @saharei @x-lunawrites-x @munnaitorei @emyyy007 @dearhoney-31 @the-foreigner @angoisfine @satohruu @honeycombflowers @yuiiasathesilly @kaithegremlin @poisonedslop @sukiischaotic @squigglewigglewoo @boba-is-good @cupidszvlvr @ashthemadwriter @4xxxv @bloobewy @mrs-bakugou @hauntedsol @ask-me-or-not @hanakotateyama @qqingque @lunaeheroine18 @kissesmellow21 @dazaichuuya69 @xxsilverjackalxx @gettinshiggywithit @leftrunawaybanana @deaths-presence @sugaredpersimmon @rjssierjrie @iheartpieck @angelof-darkness @otakudul @dazaisimpletmereadfanficspls @hellokitty-4-lele @scinclaitnoir @aly-insanity @kemis-world @bisexuawolfsalt @thateldribitch

[seventhcallisto]

A PROMISE IS A SWEAR ! giom — chpt. 1

Synopsis. Matz gains a new district and a new member. The same member who trails a bunny to the den and introduces the beginning of obsession for the leaders.

Warnings. Violence. Physical harm. Und3rag3 tattooing. Teenagers(that needs it's own tw). Gang symbols. cigarett3 b3rn. Harm. And emotional harm and arguing. Please read giom masterlist before continuing.

Tuesday.

Positively, you were furious. After a not so nice call from a local man you know —your neighbor to be exact— you were mumbling up a storm. Excusing yourself through the last hour of your job just so you could catch a certain someone in the act.

With your work uniform on and a scowl on your face. Hiking up a hill through a run-down alleyway full of creeps and illegal activities. You finally caught sight of the person you'd been there to catch.

"Get off of me!" You snatched the teenager up by his arm, pinching him through his hoodie. "Jihoon, if you don't walk your skinny ass legs down this hill, I'll drag you," you stomped your heel clad foot, whisper yelling at the young man.

Jihoon was always causing problems, so threatening him like this was most likely not going to get him to listen. His face shriveled up. "You're not my mom!" He hissed back, equally furious - most likely due to the fact you had just pulled him from his group of boyfriends. Right in the middle of selling a pair of off branded shoes- and as soon as they saw you - pretended nothing was going on.

Irritation, through a false guise of shock, littered their faces as you tore and prodded the younger man away from his group of mis fit friends.

"Lee Jihoon," you whisper yelled to him this time, turning his body towards you. You take on the anger in his eyes with a frustrated scowl to clash. "Go and tell your friends you'll see them later, We're going home."

His face was turning red from embarrassment. But he knew you wouldn't back down, especially how stubborn he knows you to be. He smacked your palm off his jacket, huffing out a breath of air and turning towards the group he's with.

Within a few more seconds, he was storming past you. Hunched and full of anger as he made his way out of the entrance of the alleyway.

"Do you understand what you're doing, jihoon? It's illegal!" His footsteps rang loud on the wood of the apartment, ignoring your words- hardly bothering to take off his shoes at the entrance.

Before you could get out another frantic sentence out, he was turning his entire body your way, a snarl to his lips that resembled a dog. "What does it matter!? You're never home anyway! The cops can't pin shit on me-"

"Watch your mouth!" You yelled back, eyes widening. "I'm never home cause I am working! Don't you get that? These nice things you have- the school you go to! I have to pay for all of it somehow!" You gestured to his bedroom, posters and nick nacks littered about. "If I don't work, you can't have these things," your eyebrows furrowed. It was always so frustrating talking to him- with the exact copy of his mother's attitude.

He scoffed, "Whatever" he walked away from you, closing his door with a harsh slam.

These little outbursts would burn and simmer, like the crust on a volcano.

You stepped outside- to have a moment to yourself. Calming down from such a heightened situation- it wasn't good for you to let it bubble. But with jihoon- raising him, it was hard.

The silence of the evening gave you some peace of mind. And despite the situation of your day. You were beginning to feel relaxed, listening to the crickets and the distant sound of cars- cats- and the occasional dog barking.

"Tough day?" Changbin beckoned your attention, his large arms crossed over the balcony, you glanced to your door, having realized he heard everything.

"Yes- well, tough to my standards anyway." You laughed lightly, sighing. Changbin tilted his head at you, taking a long drag of his cigarette. "If it helps.. I know a lot of guys who went through this rebellious phase." he gestured to your apartment door, seemingly talking about jihoon. "They usually outgrow it, yknow, teenagers always act out. I know, I sure did."

You chortle at that. Palming your head as you looked out over the city, finally, you turned to meet changbins eyes, his presence having grown closer, right next to you on the railing. Comfortably, you sat with him for a second longer. "You? Rebellious?" You grinned. The fun- gentle man next to you, the one you've known for at least four years. And still have yet to properly get to know each other.

He laughed, his face scrunching. "What? Do I not seem rebellious enough?" He nudged your shoulder with his elbow, pouting. You laughed again. "No, no, I just wasn't expecting that, considering you're a -" You stopped short, remembering what jihoon had said earlier, you cleared your throat in the silence. He finished for you, glancing out to the city as well. "A cop?"

He leaned back over the railing with a sigh, nodding his head. "I heard that too. He's a bit cocky, considering he lives next to one." Changbin murmured. You shook your head, embarrassed on behalf of the teenager under your care. "I'm sorry-" "don't be. I gave my mom a hard time, too. He'll learn." The man shrugged off your apology, another drag of his cigarette, before he dabbed it out, fiddling with the end.

"But I'm not his mom. He has a reason to give me a hard time." You sighed heavily, letting the words flow before you cut them off, biting your lip. Changbin noticed, he's a keen man, a detailed man, it was a part of his job. He shook his head, twisting his body towards you.

Before he could come up with a sentence, you smiled gently. "Thanks for calling me, I hate when he does that" you groaned, remembering how upsetting it was to witness the young man attempt to brute force his way into getting another schoolmate to buy the pair of shoes they laid out.

Whatever jihoon had been doing wasn't legal. And you knew- you know. So, of course, changbin would know too - he was a cop after all, a detective to be exact, it was his job to notice these things. "Maybe a little juvie would do him some good," you sighed, a poor attempt at a joke- yet changbin still laughed heartily.

"If you need someone to scare the piss outta him, let me know, I've got a few people in mind." Changbin pocketed the end of his cigarette, bumping your elbow with his just as he left.

Wednesday. Always full of woe.

The downpour of rain filtered out the chatter of the company hongjoong was kept in. Barked laughter and forced smiles as the people around him conversed. The only person to take any interest in it was on his right. Seonghwa could make up excuses for the lack of attention his partner was providing. But the grin on the peak of hongjoongs cupids bow was driving Hwa wild with curiosity.

"What has you so happy?" The taller of the two murmured under his breath, his companion heard it - and with a clear of his throat, peaked over his glasses to the dark-haired man. "I'll tell you later"

Seonghwa sighed, bringing his glass of champagne to his lips. "Later couldn't come sooner," he replied with a sigh.

Hongjoong was in a better mood than he had been any other time of the week, with the stress that comes with a business- especially as big as this one- he could finally catch a breath of fresh air.

With one long sigh, the car door finally snapped shut, with seonghwa sitting right beside him.

"Where to?" Jongho, the leaders trusted men (and occasional driver) asked as he glanced through the rear view mirror, his brown hair framing his eyes. Hongjoongs smile perked up, seonghwa had noticed. "You know where jongho" hongjoong waved his question off with a smile, shrugging into his large fur coat.

Seonghwas attention turned back to the blonde seated next to him. "So? Where to?" Seonghwa copied jongho, questioning the shorter- yet beaming man. Hongjoong shifted in his seat, his grin faltering when his tongue poked his cheek. "You'll see." hongjoong kept the secret, seonghwa could argue– but it was typical of the younger to be so secretive sometimes.

Once the sleek black car had rolled to a stop. The evening had set, and finally, the moon was beginning to cast its beams across the streets. Seonghwa took notice of the passing buildings. Unease, unsure of the surroundings- matz hadn't stepped this far out of their comfort zone in a while unless there was a meeting. So the rural area, compared to the city, was a stark contrast to his scenery setting.

Practically bouncing out of his seat, hongjoong ushered seonghwa out of his own as soon as the fur covered man swung open his door. Of course- he was happy about something. And seonghwa was beginning to have a clue.

His eyebrow tilted up at the bubbly, shade wearing man- contrasting against seonghwa who was dressed in the best suit for the earlier occasion. He pocketed his hands, watching hongjoong with curious eyes.

In his right, hongjoong spun with the proudest grin on his face. Gesturing to the open area, a park, where seonghwa had recalled only ever passing by once- back when they were meeting with another acquaintance. Hongjoong beckoned the older man over, lacing his hands over a railing, with one other foot on the steps. He stood proudly over the peering hill, a grin still prominent on his face.

Ah. That's what it was. "You could have just told me," seonghwa mentioned with a sigh, running his hand over his hair and fixing any loose threads. Joong chuckled, "it wouldn't be special that way" he sighed, leaning on the railing- childishly, unable to sit still. Seonghwa laughed airily. "I suppose so, considering it's a wide district." Seonghwa murmured, taking his spot next to the blonde.

Hongjoong shifted his body towards the taller, still looking out over the railing at the quiet below. "It's ours now." Hongjoong whispered, almost unable to believe it himself- crime wasn't easy in this area, the cops were strict, which ended up with tight attitudes and unwilling participants.

But finally, hongjoong found a willing distributor, and he seemed permanent for the time being- until he could be replaced.

"I've got a few of them out here already, watching." Hongjoong gestures to four distinct areas, seonghwa perched his arms on the rail. Glittery lights catching every which way. He turned his attention back to the ecstatic man. "And who's watching them?" He hummed.

There was hardly any trust for the underlings, not to say they weren't loyal to the cause, just that they were easily swayed and amateurs, so of course, seonghwa had to ask.

"Mingi"

Seonghwa took in a hiss of breath, the most loyal of all- a little clumsy though. Hongjoong could sense seonghwas thought. "This one is his. He practically begged for it." Joong sniffled a laugh, recalling the plead of the other member. "He said he could take care of it."

There was a silence for a moment before seonghwa spoke up.

"Do you trust him?" He asked. Hongjoong tilted his head, sliding his glasses to lay on the top of his head. He turned his face towards seonghwa for the first time during their conversation, and nodded.

"I trust you, don't I?" Hongjoong answered.

Thursday.

The following day was just as bad as you thought. Things may seem easier the next morning. But jihoon had still ignored you, even as you prepared him a breakfast along with his fresh uniform. A scowl on his pouty- still childish face. It made you want to turn in and wave the white flag.

So, when you sit at the empty kitchen table, staring at the packaged food –that had been coldly left behind– and reminiscing on how you could hardly get the same treatment from your parents growing up, do you begin to feel the ache of missing your best friend.

You couldn't dwell on it. Not when you had work.

Jihoon is as difficult as his mother. Purgatory thoughts playing in your mind over and over. Although your best friend Lia wasn't shy from being mean - borderline - a bully, she was still loyal and caring, and she loved jihoon. She would have had the best lines to say and tell; to convince him to get his act straight. But she wasn't here. And as his godmother, you had the responsibility to play mommy.

You really wished she was here. She'd know how to take care of these things. You've always been the softer one in the duo.

It's past 12, and you have an early shift tomorrow. You sit at the kitchen table, dazed and daydreaming as you wait. When you think over what could be happening, bile rises in your stomach. Jihoon hasn't returned home, and his phone is apparently off. He has been gone for hours. More so than usual.

What can you even do?

The front door is quietly unlocked in the silence.

You spring from the kitchen chair, watching the door be pushed in, followed by a hooded figure who doesn't bother to flicker on any of the lights.

Your hands are spinning him around the next second, although jihoon is taller than you- the veracity of your movement tugs him to face you.

You pull the hood down next, glaring his bruised face in-between broken orbs and clenched teeth, looking at the fresh cuts along his lip and nose. "Where have you been?" You say, as calmly as you can muster. Jihoons shoulders fall. "Out," he mustered, shrugging his shoulder past you to pull off his jacket.

You pull him back by his upper arm before he can go any farther. He winces but makes no move to push you off. His head is tilted towards the floor, and his breathing is labored - tired from whatever activity he had just gotten up to.

"Jihoon, your mom wouldn't want this -" his hand snakes out of your grasp as if you burnt him. "What did you just say?" He scoffs, clicking his tongue. You don't falter. "Yo-" "No, no, you don't get to do that. You don't get to use that against me cause I don't even know what she was like." You go to cut him off. "You know that's not true-"

His foot meets the stool as he kicks it frustrated, a silent curse coming from his mouth.

"I don't know if anything you say is true, I don't even know if you're really someone she'd leave me with to take care of. It's all just bullshit anyway, right?" His snarky tone wavers, his throat pinching close the longer he stays on this subject.

"I'm going to bed" he brushes you off once more when you attempt to reach out.

And you have the same lump in your throat. You don't know what to say yourself. You don't know how to fix this. You don't know what you're doing.

Friday.

Halfway through your shift, do you get another dreadful call- voice-mail this time, since you can't answer your phone during school hours. On the other end is changbin- but this time, he's just dropping information off for you.

"Hey y/n, I'm sorry to be telling you this, but -" he takes a heavy sigh, "one of my colleagues told me about seeing a kid similar to jihoon.. coming from this new operation we're in the middle of. It's a big nightclub - full of colors - hell, you can see it from a mile away, so just ask around. It just got up and running, we - don't tell anyone I said this - but we're looking at charges if he happens to be caught in there. It's not safe for him. that's all. Call me when you get this- we can go together. Do not go on your own. I'll talk to you later."

The end of Friday is full of dread. The streets are full of characters for the night. Fools and drunks and corner girls and the occasional normal group of friends, no matter who it is- you ask.

"The club full of bright lights?"

A man finally repeats your question. He's not entirely sober, nor is he blackout either. He points over his shoulder, giving lazy directions. But as you go, you thank him. Changbin was right. You couldn't miss it from a mile now that you were in a neighboring alleyway- heaving from having run everywhere to find this place.

The front is guarded with men in jackets, smoking cigarettes, and scaring the stragglers who stare a little longer than they should.

You power through, attempting to blend in with a crowd of rowdy girls who are easily let in- You're stopped by the collar of your shirt, pulled out of it and faced to face with a scarred man, eyeing you up and down.

"Are you trying to sneak in? Hey, why didn't you just ask to be let in? What kind of shit are ya trying to pull?" His heavy palm smacks your cheek, pat pat, your skin reverbs from the tiny hits- its a slap to your pride in a way. You scowl at the stranger.

"Theres someone in there I need to get" you defend yourself, pushing the man off your collar. His snarky grin drops into a scowl, the cigarette dangling from the corner of his lip dangerously. "I'm not buying that princess." The man flicks the ash your way, glancing to the other man on the door.

Your appearance is a contrast to everyone else. Your in your best dress for parent-teacher day, having cut it short to find jihoon. You stick out like a sore thumb. Fuck. You're really not getting past this guy.

You had to do something.

"He's underage! He's a kid, a kid shouldnt be in there- If I can't go in and get him- I'm gonna call the cops!" You're making a scene now- you're panicking, you have no idea if jihoon is okay, no idea whether or not he's doing drugs or getting himself hurt.

You're scared for him. But the glance in both of the men's eyes is your top worry. Threats about the cops coming around seems to gather attention, onlookers glancing your way and beginning to crowd the front door. "Cops?" The first man laughs, snatching your arm up with an icy grip that has you hissing in pain. "Are you threatening us? Ma'am, that's not proper. We're running a business here." His tone is attempting to be lighthearted, but the danger behind his grip and smile is driving the breath out of your lungs.

You're dragged inside by the same guy, the lights, the music- everything screams danger with this situation, not only that but the faces- the troubled people around here is nothing safe. You catch glimpses of people snorting different color substances off each table, tiny shiny and distinct pills littered around. Smoke and the burning smell of cigarettes- and something else, something heavy and damp, funky smelling. Earthy. You body makes contact with the door to a room and you're pushed into it abruptly.

Your feet stumble forward towards the middle of the room, where you finally find your balance. Cards are placed on a wide and round glass table and this place smells the worse of the earthy smoke, it clings to every surface, making you cough. When you do, the man in the center of the red velvet couch in front of you peaks up over his glasses.

His hair is white- silver almost, long enough to tuck behind his ears. He gestures with a ringed finger to the man with you to speak.

"She's threatening to talk to the cops."

"She a regular?"

"No, never seen her around here before"

The silver haired man takes a heavy sigh,, he parts from the woman and men around him to meet you face to face. He's tall- intimidating. His height is no joke. He scans you up and down with dark eyes. Emotions you can't grasp on his features.

Whoever the people are, they aren't bothering to look your way, quiet and head down. Sheep's amongst a wolf. He's obviously in charge here. "Look- I don't know who you are but you have kids in here- this isn't a place they should be-"

The flicker of a lighter sounds through the quiet room. The sound of music muffled behind the door gaurded by the man and another. You watch the silver haired stranger take a drag of a cigarette after flipping his lighter closed, the red pulse of light igniting in front of you, it silences you quickly.

"Listen." He starts with a hum, nodding his head as the smoke hits your face, he takes your hand in his, gently patting his large, calloused fingers over yours. You hesitate to let him have it, unsure of his motive. "I understand your concern, but we don't have kids here sweetheart, we don't allow that. Youth is important to our future, right? Isn't that what everyone thinks?" He glances around shortly, switching out the hand holding the cigarette to cage your palm in-between. You can feel the heat of it, see the ash starting to form at the top.

"That's not true." You whisper. His eyes squint. "You calling me a liar?" He murmurs, stepping closer.

"I'm calling bullshit" you hold your head high.

It's silent. Air so tense and thick, you can't tell if it's the smoke or the feeling lingering in your chest. But this man, he's not safe. None of this is. And you're really testing your luck here. "I need-" you start again. But the sudden burn of specks on the back of your hand makes you whimper in pain, attempting to draw back your limb from the man.

He holds it tightly in his, flicking ash onto the back of it, the sting makes you hiss, before he brings the cigarette back to his full lips, your fingers pale from the force.

He takes a drag, blowing it in your face once again.

"I don't like being called a liar." He pouts into his words, dusting the ash across your skin with his thumb, a warning at most. But it stings slightly when he flips your palm over to examine the lines.

"You come in here and threaten my place, I've only been nice to you this entire time." He holds his free hand over his heart. "What do you want exactly, sweetheart?" He squints down at you. The nickname makes your stomach lurch uncomfortably.

"I told the guy at the front. There's someone in here i need-" "and who is that someone?" You go quiet, squinting up your nose at him. He stares back for the next seconds. One.. two.. three-

There's the stinging burn to your palm, it aches and you screech in pain. Attempting to bring your hand back from the heat. A cigarette that is searing into the soft skin in the middle of your palm. You wail at it, a pain so uncomfortable you forgot it even felt real. The ash darkens when he puts it out. Smearing it across your palm. His eyes are unlike what you've seen, no remorse or mercy, just evil.

"I'm not going to ask again. Giving me attitude when I've been sweet-" "i-im not please-" you beg, anything to stop the pain and sting on your palm, to get the man before you to stop before he does something else, something worse. "Shh, quiet, I'm talking." he pats his palm over the open wound. You whimper once more, tears welling in your eyes. It hurts.

Before his lips fall open again. The door behind you swings open.

It's the other man from the front door. Followed by.. a few individuals, you can hardly see with the blur in your eyes.

"Raeun?" The second man to walk through questions. He's taller- his body adorned in what seems to be the closest thing to a suit. A pair of glasses and short- almost buzzcut black and blonde hair. Raeun- the man who grips your palm looses his grip, and you pull it as quickly as you can to your chest.

"Mingi" he huffs. "Come to join so soon?" He laughs, glancing to you. The man, from towards the entrance does the same. "Yeah, Came as soon as I got the go ahead" mingi replies plainly, walking further into the room. "Leave" he gestures to the people across the couch.

An array of limbs and people pass you, but- when you turn to leave, you're stopped by him. "You, stay." Mingi swings his finger out to call you over to him. Gesturing to the couch.

You really don't know what's going on. But mingi is gentle as he grabs your palm, glancing for approval- you don't respond.

"Seonghwa said no more burns, whats this then?" Mingi tilts the wound towards raeun. The same man scoffs. "She said she was gonna call the cops." "And you think this was gonna stop her?" Mingi groans, letting your hand go. You cradle it back to your chest, watching the tall man step up to raeun.

"Get your shit and go, you're out" mingi turns on his heel, stepping back out of the silver man's way to let him leave. Raeun scoffs loudly, "you can't kick me out of here, I made this place what it is-"

"Yeah and where did that lead you?" Mingi waves his hand out to the club. Raeuns face drops even further into anger. "Fuck- is this about her? We can just pay the bitch off-"

"Raeun" mingi hisses his name. The tension could be cut with a knife and you try everything to make yourself smaller in it. "Get. Out." Mingi points to the door.

Raeuns fit seems to cease, a smile creeping up his skinny features. "Oh, you got the position didn't you? The captain finally gave you something huh?" Raeun laughs loudly, holding his stomach that pokes out of a silky cheetah print shirt.

"Which means you're out." Mingi confirms. "Go." He says once more, it's a threat, the tone speaks for itself. Raeun doesn't bother once more, kicking the door open on his way out.

Your heart drops when the door slams shut behind him. Your labored breath calming to accommodate the quiet in the room. Mingi heaves a heavy sigh, taking a seat on the far side of the couch. His hand rakes through his messy hair, parting the spikes to docile them down. With a single hand in his hair and another reaching out for a glass- presumably full of whiskey, mingi finally glances your way.

You're a shaking aching mess, it doesn't take a genius to notice you're not for this lifestyle. You're dressed like a librarian in the midst of a nightclub for fuck's sake. Your palm is clutched tightly, as if you're attempting to squeeze the pain away. Your eyebrows are knitted and you're curled into yourself. Lost in thought.

"What are you doing here?" Mingi breaks the silence. You jump, turning your head his way.

"I'm looking for someone." You quietly answer. Mingi nods, lifting the whiskey to his lips. "Who?" He asks before he takes a gulp of the alcohol. "A boy, his- he goes by jihoon, he's five-eight- probably taller now- i - we haven't checked in a bit, he's got messy an-and curly black hair- it, well.. he hasn't let me trim it in a while and-" your rambles encourages a bubble in your throat, a sob beginning to form.

You could have gotten hurt worse, you still can, you could die here, you could be trafficked, mingi seems capable of it if he was able to test someone like raeun. And now the only thoughts in your mind are how you wish jihoon hadn't been mad, how you wish he could know you love him- in case you do happen to die, or end up missing. How the last thing you did with him was argue.

Your throat closes in when an image of the younger version of the boy shows up in your minds eye. The sob breaks out "he's just a kid, he's all i got- I'm all he's got, I don't want him here, please" you beg, for his sake, more than yours- mingi is so quiet, his aura is scary, he's not like anyone you've ever met before.

"Hey," he calls softly, your face twisting to see his. His eyes have caved, soft and understanding, his eyebrows furrowing. "I'm going to go get your boy, and you're not coming back. You hear me?"

Mingi makes his statement clear just as he gets up to leave.

The breath lodged in your throat exits as you nod. The dull ache of your hand plays at the back of your mind - finally, you'll be able to see jihoon, and you'll both leave.

You'll leave. Together.

There's no windows in this room. There is no light besides the TV in the corner. It flickers with a show you don't know, a familiar actor beating down on multiple men. Your eyes are blurry - and you wonder if you happen to have a first aid kit at home, possibly - if you haven't used all of the content on jihoon from his many fights and bruises. It feels like an eternity while you wait, hoping for light in the darkness.

You hope jihoons okay.

Your hope is answered when the door once again swings open. Mingi is holding jihoon by the scruff of his neck, pushing him into the room, but he sidesteps out of the way to let someone else in.

The cast of the club lights create a halo around the man, the beads of the entrance jingle when he steps inside, like crystals, the light bounces off every inch of the glass beads, illuminating the man in the fur coat from behind.

His hair is a vibrant blue, His nose has a define point, his lips are naturally plump- He's pretty. Which is a surprise. And you thought Raeun was the boss. No.. it's this man. With his cream colored fur coat and his tight leather jeans, a buckle with a silver star to top it off and a sheer black and white top. His shoes are leather, reptilian in design. A pair of dark glasses slotted against his forehead when he pushed them up. Your eyes meet.

It's dangerous. He's dangerous. Everything screaming. This is the type of man you'd see on TV, draped in luxurious brands and with a snarky attitude to come with it, a past- and scars along his figure, fuck- this guy is no good. He's a snake in man's skin. A wolf in sheep's clothing. And you can tell.

"Mingi" his eyes never stray from yours, as if stalking prey, his voice is light and inviting. Mingi glances his way, then yours with a silent response to the man "captain." He pushes jihoon forward and drags the hilt of his shirt up. You stand- to protest, to tell them don't touch him.

But the ink along jihoons skin is a sign of surprise. Of fear to your racing heart.

"Your boy here," the captain pats the young boy on his shoulder, jihoon grimaces, head down turned. "Has our symbol, he has the mark of ateez, and that means he won't be leaving anytime soon."

The lines of an 'A' are sharp, a circle to encase it, it spans almost the entirety of jihoons left pec. It's fresh ink. your stomach churns and twists. You think you're going to be sick.

"Jihoon is one of ours now." He finishes, clicking his tongue.

"Jihoon?" You quietly call. For him to say it's a joke, a sick one- but his face remains the same. Furrowed and ashamed.

Tears well up in your eyes once again. You've failed - failed as a guardian and failed your best friend. You failed the little boy you were given, and you've failed his father and future.

"Please. Please- okay- he's a child- he's only fourteen!" You plead with the man, slipping to your knees, desperate as you are- you're willing to do anything to prevent jihoon from throwing away his future.

The captains' fingers hold a coin- something you haven't seen before then. The men peer back at you in the dark of the room. "I-" "the ink is already there." He nudges jihoons left side, the boy groans in pain, most definitely sore.

"There's no changing that," he nods towards you, flicking the younger boy's cheek. His eyes are demeaning when he stares down at your figure. This all seems like a joke to him. With one final glance to your shaking body, the vibrant haired man turns away towards the door.

"Please. I'll do anything." You beg.

His steps falter. The coin makes contact with the metal of his rings as he plays with it. It dings every so often, like a clock in the silence over and over.

Clink, clink, clink, clink- ...

"Don't make promises you can't keep." You can hear the perk to the man's voice, a smile through his tone. "I can keep it." You confirm without another beat, gulping back your tongue.

"I can keep my promises."

"I swear on my heart."

[mikkomacko]

Rich Bitch Mob Nico

Aka all the times reader realized she was dating Mr. Money Bags

Something small and fun since I’m not doing much writing this weekend and I’ve been getting a lot of messages about reader’s thoughts on Nico’s wealth

Anyway enjoy!! 🫶

~~~~~

Reader likes to watch football so by extension Nico got into it when they started dating. He thought it was cool so for a date he took her to a game. She had so much fun he then bought a box the next season for her.

Reader was taken once and he moved her into his apartment, bought a Jersey mansion, and then paid to have it remodeled to her exact standards and wants. (And his too of course but he let reader take the lead).

She wanted to buy him new shoes for his birthday once and looked up the brand he wears. Over $600 for shoes he wears on hikes??? Insane

When they were first sleeping together and he’d either pay for her Ubers to his place or send a fucking driver and car to get her (on the nights he couldn’t go himself). She knows how those Uber trips add up, and she has an idea of how much a private driver costs.

Imported and expensive Swiss foods in his apartment. Chocolates, cheeses, wine, etc. Things she knows must have costed an arm and a leg because Switzerland in itself is expensive let out paying to ship stuff like this. Her mama used to save up for months to get Italian goods shipped to them for holiday and special occasion meals, and then they’d all cut back on spending for two weeks after.

The way he smells. You can just tell when a man uses expensive products, they’re somehow subtle and noticeable. Tastefully done in a way that screams elegance. He has always smelled so good.

For her college graduation he gifted her a really expensive bracelet that she mentioned asking for as a teenager but her parents couldn’t afford it.

Last but not least, he never let her pay for anything. Not drinks, not dinner, not snacks, not Ubers, nothing. No matter how hard she tried, even the $3 hotdogs on the street after the bar, Nico was saying no.

[misseviehyde]

THE PASSENGER

Nervously biting her lip, Donna looked around the fetish store she had accidentally wandered into and desperately looked for the exit.

She didn't know what had drawn her into Evie's Emporium in the first place, but now she was inside she could see it wasn't her kind of shop at all. The small and mousy young woman blushed bright red as she walked past a rack of sex toys. She was famously insecure and easily embarrassed, so this shop was her idea of Hell.

She needed a dress to wear tonight for dinner with her boyfriends boss, but none of the tight latex and fetish outfits she could see hanging from racks would do. Everything in here looked like something some sort of super confident slut might wear, not her style at all.

Donna was tiny, flatchested and average looking. She had a very submissive personality - in fact her friends all mocked her for being such a pushover. They called her 'The Passenger' because she'd pretty much just go along with what anyone else wanted.

As she headed towards the exit she passed a rack with a naughty pink latex dress hanging from it. It was clearly designed for a tall, busty, dominating sort of woman. Donna's hands made contact with the material as she passed.

*ZAP*

Donna stopped. She urged her body to move, to keep walking, but to her horror it didn't seem to be responding to her commands. Instead her body was now moving by itself, like someone else was in control.

She felt herself pick up the latex dress and her body language instantly change. Her back straightened, her stride became more confident and unabashed. She felt herself walk over to the counter and buy the latex dress from the smirking blonde woman on the counter.

"You can get changed in the back if you want babe."

Donna walked to the dressing room at the back of the store. Keeping one hand on the dress, she struggled out of her clothing - even stripping off her underwear - then she began to clamber into the tight, stretchy pink latex.

"Ohhhh fuckkkk yesssss," she heard herself moan as her body throbbed with erotic energy. Donna's flat chest itched as she yanked the straps of the dress over her shoulders.

"Mmmmmmmh, bigger... yesssss, make them bigger," she heard herself say as her chest exploded with pleasure. With a delicious sensation of power and confidence, Donna felt her breasts grow. They swelled up, big firm and round on her chest - growing from A cups to DD's in a matter of seconds.

Her pale skin tanned to a healthy rosy glow and with a stretching sucking sound, the latex dress tightened deliciously around her body as her flat ass pushed out into a big round booty and she grew nearly six inches in height.

She was now an Amazoness and she looked almost unrecognisible as she shook her normally tightly bound hair loose and it fell into elegantly styled mane all the way down her back.

"Mmmmh, that's SO much better. I feel like a brand, new, bitch..."

Donna adjusted her dress, enjoying her new tits yet still not in control of her body. She was just a passenger in her own head. She felt herself apply more makeup and saw she now had long sexy pink acrylic nails the same colour as her dress. Her sensible flat shoes had transformed into six inch pink heels and with a clop, she turned on her stiletto's and easily walked out of the store with a strut.

****

Donna desperately tried to fight for control of her body, but it simply wouldn't obey her. Somehow, touching the dress had made her lose control to some alternative version of herself.

In her car, Donna hiked up her dress. She wasn't surprised to see her pussy was now completely waxed smooth and a pink princess butt plug the same colour as her dress now twinkled in her perfect ass.

"Fuck yessss," she hissed rubbing her clit and touching her breasts as she began to masturbate in the car-park. Reaching into her hand-bag, Donna found a small bullet vibrator and switching it to maximum, slid it into her pussy.

Then, with a wicked smile she pulled her dress down and already cumming, pushed the accelerator down and drove away.

In her own mind Donna screamed and drooled as wave after wave of pleasure crashed through her body and she orgasmed harder than she had in years...

***

The restaurant was busy and all eyes were magnetically drawn to Donna as she strode through to the table. She had bought a fur coat to wear over her sexy dress and expensive gold and diamond jewellery now hung round her pretty neck and on her slender wrists.

She looked amazing and her boyfriend George's mouth dropped open as his boss Damien stood up with a grin and kissed her hand.

"George, you never told me your girlfriend was so beautiful. She's... not... how you described her."

"D...Donna... h... how?" stammered George.

Ignoring him, Donna felt her body sit at the table and lean forward so her massive breasts were now prominently displayed. "I'd like Champagne to begin with baby, then I think the Lobster."

"B...but babe, they're the most expensive things on the menu."

"Exactly," purred Donna as she leant forward to give Damian a better view of her tits.

This was going to be fun.

***

The ladies bathroom was quiet except for the sucking sound coming from the stalls.

Damian groaned as Donna knelt before him, his big dick in her mouth. She sucked and slurped, her head moving back and forth as she used her slutty hands to massage his balls and the shaft of his cock.

In her head Donna felt shame, but also excitement. She should be appalled at betraying her lovely boyfriend, yet somehow even as a passenger she was loving every minute of this. Cucking her boyfriend was kind of hot, especially now she was such a hot bitch.

"Ohhhh fuck, George is gonna realise what we're up to if we're gone much longer..." gasped Damian.

"Mmmmh, fuck that loser," giggled Donna as she looked up at her new lover with glee. "He doesn't deserve me anyway. Let's sneak out of the back and go to a hotel. I wanna see what this cock can really do..."

Damian grinned and helped her up. "Fuck yessss."

***

Switching off her phone to ignore the increasingly desperate calls from George, Donna tossed it onto the floor and resumed her sucking.

Damian lay on the hotel bed, his huge cock now fully engorged as she sucked and slurped the length. Donna could feel her body moving by itself, she had never been this confident at sex, but now she was a Goddess.

"Are you ready baby?" she purred stradling him. Her dress was pulled down to reveal her massive tits and hiked up so her tight pussy was visible. Hovering over Damian's cock, she slowly lowered herself down and used her hands to guide Damian's big cock inside herself.

"FUCKKKKKK," she moaned happily. "You're so much bigger than that loser."

Grinding her hips and moaning, her big tits bouncing like a pornstar - Donna began to ride her lover. She had never felt so alive...

***

Donna opened her eyes and groaned. She lifted a hand to her face and then gasped. Her hand... it was obeying her.

Leaping to her feet, she looked around. She was in a hotel room. In the bed next to her lay Damian snoring and exhausted. The pink latex dress lay discarded on the floor. Her last memories had been of Damian tearing it off her body as he urgently thrust inside her and they both climaxed and passed out.

She looked down. Tiny tits, pale skin, normal body.

Oh God - what had she done?

Trembling she walked to the mirror and examined herself. No - she was definitely back to normal. The dress, it had turned her into a monster. A passenger in her own head. She had done such evil, slutty, bitchy things.

Mmmmmh and it had felt so fucking good.

Donna felt weak and unconfident. She was in control of her body again, but she realised how disapointing that was. She had enjoyed being strong, dominant and confident. She had enjoyed looking out through her own eyes whilst a more confident version of herself was in control.

She looked over at Damian. George was going to kill her. Their relationship was probably over. How was she going to handle this? She didn't know how.

Her eyes fell onto the pink dress.

Her pink dress...

***

Striding out of the hotel, an uncaring bitchy look on her face - Donna finished tying her sexy hair into a tight ponytail as she smoothed down her latex dress and revelled in the feeling of her powerful busty body.

Behind her eyes, Donna felt so happy. Her body knew exactly what it wanted and what to do. She would never need to think again, only enjoy the sensations of being a dominant bitch.

She was just the Passenger now and she fucking loved it.

THE END

[jromanoff]

Fall shenanigans II R. George

Pairing: Regina George x Reader

Warning(s): none

Summary: A walk in the forest with Regina.

Word count: 1.3k

“You want me to walk in the forest? In this weather?” Regina stood at the doorway of your shared apartment, eyeing the mix of golden, red and orange leaves swirling outside skeptically. She glanced at you, her girlfriend, with an expression that was equal parts disbelief and disdain.

You were already dressed in a cozy flannel jacket and hiking boots, smiling patiently at her. You knew exactly what you were asking and whom you were asking. Regina wasn’t exactly the type to go out in nature. You were just hoping to escape the city for a moment of calm with your girlfriend. Both you and Regina needed some peace and quiet with your busy schedules.

“I know it’s not exactly your favourite,” you teased, pulling on your gloves, “but it’s beautiful out there right now. Besides, it’s fall— the season for Instagram-worthy photos,” you wiggled your eyebrows.

Regina playfully narrowed her eyes at you. “Please, if I want Instagram-worthy photos, I’ll go to the café downtown with the cute seasonal lattes. And, spoiler alert, it’s not muddy there.” she said sarcastically. “What do you think? Should I put on my orange or brown scarf?” she changed the subject and held two scarfs in her hands, showing them to you.

You laughed at your girlfriend’s antics, stepping closer to her and slipping your arms around her waist. “Brown, baby.” you kissed her cheek. “I promise it won’t be that bad. We’ll just take a short walk and get some nice photos. Afterwards we can go to that café for lunch *and* make a picture of you with the cute seasonal lattes,” you tried convincing your girlfriend.

Regina’s pout deepened, still reluctant. “Fine,” she finally said, “but we’re doing this my way.” She pulled out her phone and flicked through her favorite apps. “You’re going to take good pictures of me in the forest for my Instagram—no excuses. And afterward, we’re going to the café downtown. I’m not about to go without my pumpkin spice fix.”

“Deal,” you smiled, kissing Regina on the cheek. “You and your pumpkin spice obsession…” you muttered.

A few minutes later, you were out the door, Regina bundled in an immaculately tailored coat and sporting a pair of brand-new Louboutins. In Regina’s opinion, these shoes were perfectly acceptable for an outdoor trip and you weren’t about to argue with her. You made your way into the forest with Regina, making small conversation while you walked.

“You know, this really isn’t as bad as I thought it would be,” Regina admitted after a while, somewhat begrudgingly. The scenery was breathtaking with vibrant red, orange and yellow leaves scattered around. The leaves crunched under your boots as you walked, a satisfying sound.

“See?” you smiled proudly “I told you you’d like it.”

Regina shot you a pointed look, one eyebrow raised. “Let’s not get carried away now. I tolerate it. There’s a difference,” she scoffed. Despite her scoff, you noticed the playful smile on her face. You could tell Regina was enjoying herself, but didn’t push it. You knew she’d never admit that out loud.

You walked in silence for a while, with you occasionally snapping photos of Regina, who posed beautifully. Regina made sure she looked perfect in every picture—not that she really had to put in any effort for that. She always looked perfect in your eyes.

Looking at the most recent photo you had shot of her leaning against a tree with her coat thrown elegantly over her shoulders, she muttered, "Not bad."

“You should hire me as a photographer when you start your own designer brand, y’know?” you spoke teasingly with a grin.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself, dork,” Regina rolled her eyes affectionately. “My beauty is just captured effortlessly.”

Regina and you continued along the path. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the earthy scent of fallen leaves and damp wood. You held Regina’s hand in your own, feeling that she had relaxed a little since starting the walk.

Then it happened.

With one misstep, Regina’s heel sank into a patch of thick mud that was hidden beneath a layer of leaves. She instantly froze, a horrified expression on her face. She raised her foot to inspect the damage, a gasp escaping her lips as she saw the shoe covered in mud.

“Oh. My. God. These are Louboutins!” her voice echoed through the quiet forest, her eyes widened in shock. “This is why I don’t do nature.”

You stifled a laugh, watching your girlfriend stare down at her now-muddy designer shoes as if she just witnessed a murder. Regina glared at you. “Do you even know how much these cost?” she asked dramatically. “This is a major crisis. One you caused by suggesting we go on this walk, might I add.”

You shook your head, already used to Regina’s flair for drama by now. After all, you'd once bought her a sweater with "Dramatic" printed in pink on it, perfectly capturing her personality. At first, she pretended to hate it, but the Instagram post featuring the sweater an hour later told a different story. It looked good on her, too.

Smiling, you knelt down. “Relax, babe. I’ll help you clean them.”

Regina folded her arms, huffing dramatically as you picked up a few leaves and began wiping the mud off the shoes to the best of your ability. Regina's eyes softened a little as she observed you cleaning her shoes. Soon, the shoes looked somewhat presentable again.

“Thanks,” Regina muttered, a hint of gratitude in her voice. One of her favourite things about you was your calm demeanour and willingness to help with something as insignificant as muddy shoes just to make her feel better.

You got up, wiping your hands on your jeans. “All better,” you exclaimed, kissing Regina’s cheek.

Regina sighed, her earlier exasperation giving way to a reluctant smile as you kissed her. “You owe me, but I’ll survive,” she muttered, shaking her head. “I’m going to need a new pair, though.”

You laughed and put an arm around Regina’s waist. “Of course. I’ll start saving up now,” you teased, pressing a kiss to Regina’s temple. You knew Regina was only joking, she was wealthy enough to buy several pairs of Louboutin shoes without a second thought.

Regina’s mood had lightened, but her steps were more cautious as you continued down the trail. She didn’t want to step in the mud again. Despite the muddy-mishap, she couldn’t deny that the forest had its charm. “There’s something nice about spending time like this— just the two of us.” Regina confessed quietly, unlike her usual self.

You nodded in agreement, squeezing her hand softly. “I think so too. We should do things like this more often.”

As you neared the end of the trail, Regina glanced at you, her expression softening. “Okay, I’ll give you this one,” she said, nudging you gently. “It wasn’t that bad if you don’t take the mud incident into account.”

You smiled, looking at your girlfriend with affection. “See? I told you.”

“Don’t push it,” Regina warned playfully, her smile widening. “Now, let’s get that lunch I was promised. I need something to make up for the emotional trauma of this whole shoe fiasco.”

You laughed, pulling her closer as you walked side by side. “You’re so dramatic,” you spoke, affectionately rolling your eyes. “Anyway, it’s a deal. But next time we’re going on a hike, maybe leave the designer shoes at home?”

Regina shot you a look, but her smile remained. “No way I’m ever going to be seen outside without designer shoes.”

“Why did I even try and suggest it,” you shook your head playfully.

Regina smiled at your playfulness and leaned into your side. “Thanks for putting up with me,” she mumbled and squeezed your hand.

With that, you left the forest behind, heading toward the café Regina had insisted on and taking some more pictures of her with her ‘cute seasonal lattes’. You couldn’t be happier with how the day turned out.

[portraitoftheoddity]

Foot Care for Hiking - A Guide

Hiking is rough on your feet. Any activity where you spend a lot of time moving around upright is going to be, but between the added weight of a pack, the irregularity of the terrain, and the intensity of conditions in the outdoors with heat, cold, wet, etc., hiking for miles can leave your feet far more sore than walking an equal distance on a flat paved road. From getting blisters to bruising toenails to even cases of trench foot among thru-hikers, there’s a lot of problems that can arise. 

But if you’re out in the backcountry and your feet are blistered and miserable... you still need them to walk out. So it’s essential that you take care of them, so they can carry you and back safely! 

Here are some tips for foot care and maintenance for the new hiker:

BEFORE YOU PLAN TO HIKE

1 - Get Hiking Shoes That Fit Well. This is honestly the biggest thing. 

Proper hiking footwear with decent support and traction is really important, not just for comfortable feet, but also for overall safety. A lot of injuries among novice hikers stem from inappropriate footwear that leads to slipping and falling. Hiking boots, hiking shoes, or hiking sandals designed for cushioning your feet and gripping the terrain are worth investing in, since even an expensive shoe is cheaper than the doctor’s bill for a broken leg (ask me how I know!)

But the right type of shoe won’t matter if it doesn’t fit your foot. If your shoe is too tight, it’s going to pinch and rub against your foot uncomfortably and give you blisters. If your shoe is too big, your foot is going to slip around in it, rubbing against the shoe... and give you blisters. If your toes repeatedly ram into the end of the toebox of your shoe because of poor fit, this will result in achy toes, bruised toenails, and possibly even toenail loss on long-haul hikes. 

When you buy hiking footwear, try to do so in person. Different brands will have different fits, and you may find one in particular is better suited to the shape of your foot. For instance: I almost exclusively wear Keens because of the wide toe box, since I have narrow heels and wide toes on my weird-ass Daffy Duck feet. An associate may be able to guide you, especially if you’re in an outdoors-oriented store.

So once you have some shoes that fit comfortably and are hiking appropriate--

2 - Break Those Bad Boys In. 

Don’t immediately go on a long hike in a brand new pair of shoes you’ve never worn. Practice first wearing them around the house, running errands in them, going for walks in them, running up and down stairs in them, and letting them mold to your feet. Then try some longer walks or short hikes before setting out on a lengthy expedition. If you’re like me and wear specific insoles, wear them in your hiking boots while breaking them in. 

If you notice certain issues, like heel slippage or pressure on the top of your foot if you have high arches, try looking into different lacing techniques. This article has some suggestions, and there’s a lot more techniques out there. Experiment with what lacing technique is most comfortable for you!

PREPARING FOR YOUR HIKE

You have your boots and you’re planning to hike. Awesome! Here are some foot care steps that should be part of your hiking prep routine:

1 - Trim Your Nails. Long toenails can snag, and also can ram into the ends of your shoes, causing bruising, pain, and even ingrown toenails. Google “Hiker’s Toe” at your own risk. Keeping your toenails neatly trimmed is a good preventative step, and one I always take the night before a hike.

2 - If you’re prone to blistering, Tape Your Feet. I know that because of some weirdness in my stance and gait and the shape of my feet, there are spots where I am always prone to blistering on a hike. If you’re a brand new hiker, you might not be aware of any problem spots yet -- or you might be the lucky sort who doesn’t have any! -- but if you know you tend to get blisters on the backs of your heels, or anywhere else, get your tape out. 

I use Leukotape P, since it’s breathable and sticks well even when it gets damp from sweat, but plain old drug store brand cloth medical tape will do in a pinch. Tape up any problem areas preventatively before setting out -- the tape will provide a barrier between your skin and the area of your boot that’s rubbing against it, reducing the friction. It also secures that top layer of skin in place, reducing the shearing effect between upper and lower layers of skin that results in blister formation from repetitive rubbing. 

3 - Put on Good Socks. Your socks should be the right height for your shoe. If you have ankle-high boots, don’t wear low-cut socks; you want your socks to be a consistent barrier between your shoe and your skin. You also want socks that-- like your shoes -- fit. You don’t want them so snug that they’re digging into your calves and cutting off circulation, but they shouldn’t be loose and moving around in your boot either, and the heel cup should line up with your foot’s heel.

For sock material, merino wool is the go-to choice among hikers, though polyester and nylon also make appearances. Wool socks are great because wool stays warm even when it gets a bit damp, and wool socks can absorb a lot of moisture before they feel wet, and dry quickly. As a bonus, wool doesn’t hold on to stink as much as some other fabrics!

4 - Stock Your First Aid Kit. You should always hike with first aid supplies, and I always keep extra blister pads, blister dressings, and medical tape in mine...

ON THE TRAIL

So now you’ve finally hit the trail and you’re heading out into the wilderness -- but you still shouldn’t forget about your feet! Pay attention to any pain, pinching, rubbing, or other discomfort in your feet, and don’t hesitate to take a pause to fix problems as they come up. Got a pebble in your shoe? Don’t suck it up-- stop and take it out! 

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to foot first aid, and smart hikers address small problems early on before they have a chance to become big problems and potentially incapacitate you out in the backcountry. So never be afraid or ashamed to stop if something is up with your feet -- you might feel like a pain in the ass if you’re calling a stop while hiking with a group, but I guarantee you, it’s way less trouble to stop for five minutes for someone to fix their shoe than it is to half-carry your friend with horrible blisters the last mile back to the parking lot.

KEEP YOUR FEET DRY

For hikes with a lot of water crossings, I usually pack extra socks in case I fall in and soak a foot. Wet socks and shoes can cause a whole host of problems for your feet, from blisters on a short hike  to trench foot in multi-day hikes in wet conditions. Wearing wool or quick-dry materials in your socks will help, but a spare pair if you get drenched is always helpful. If you get wet and need to change socks -- do it. If you need to take a break to dry out your feet -- do so. 

SPOT THE HOTSPOTS

If you’re hiking at an incline, such as going through hilly terrain or up a mountain, you may feel your shoes slipping and rubbing in new ways, causing chafing or pinching that didn’t happen when you were breaking your shoes in on flat ground. This is unfortunately pretty normal, as the angle of your foot and ankle are different when you’re going up a slope than on flat ground. Be very mindful of hotspots forming from this change in angle and stop to deal with them ASAP!

“Hotspots” are precursors to blisters. When you pause to take your shoe and sock off, you might see an angry red patch of skin, but no visible injury -- yet. At this point, you can still prevent a blister from forming. I mentioned earlier taping up with Leukotape, and I always keep a roll of medical tape in my pack, along with a knife I can cut it with. Blister pads (that essential thing to have in your hiking first aid kit!) are also great -- I’ve kept a bad hotspot from fully turning into a blister and rupturing by putting on a blister pad directly over the affected area, and then securing it in place by taping up the entire back of my foot before continuing. 

DEAL WITH BLISTERS SOONER THAN LATER

If you didn’t notice the warning signs until it’s too late and you’ve got blisters -- again, blister pads. Keep them as cushioned as possible to try to avoid rupturing them. If your feet are in a lot of pain and you’re still outbound, seriously consider turning around and heading back -- it’s only going to get worse, and you’ll be even further from help. There’s being tough, and then there’s being stupid. 

Again: try not to let your blisters rupture. A torn blister is an open wound and an easy vector for infection, plus they take longer than intact blisters to heal. If your blisters do tear, immediately get your first aid kit out and clean and bandage them. Don’t just slap a standard band-aid on them either -- use an actual blister dressing that seals it in on all sides to minimize infection risk. If your blisters are extremely fluid-filled and you can’t get your shoes back on and can’t hike out without draining it and have NO OTHER CHOICE... (this is anecdotal advice and NOT the advice of a medical professional)... sterilize the area and your tools with alcohol wipes, then make a small incision with a knife or pin from your repair kit (again, STERILIZE IT FIRST) at the EDGE of the blister to drain the fluid. Make the incision as small as you can while still allowing it to drain, don’t tear or remove the top of the blister, and then clean and bandage the area thoroughly. Check on your dressings periodically when you take breaks, and change them as needed. 

Side note: Do not apply medical tape directly on an unruptured blister. When you peel that tape off at the end of the day, there’s a good chance it will rip that blister right open and you will scream like a banshee and scare the dog.

TAKE REST BREAKS IF YOU NEED THEM

If you’ve been doing mile after mile and your feet are just sore, take a break, even if there isn’t a blister emergency. Sit down on a nice rock, take your shoes off, rub your feet, air out your socks, and enjoy the scenery. You’re out in nature -- enjoy it for a minute. I’ve stopped by an ice cold babbling mountain brook and let my feet soak for some nice chilling hydrotherapy and to listen to the running water, just because I could. Allow your body to rest a bit, and then continue onward.

AFTER YOUR HIKE / BETWEEN HIKES

You’ve successfully completed your hike and made it home! Now what?

Immediately:

Take off your hiking shoes, and undo the laces so they can air out. Those puppies are gonna be ripe, so maybe toss in some baking soda to soak up the stank. Hot, wet conditions inside hiking boots are a good place for bacteria and fungus to bloom, so don’t just stuff them in a dark and musty closet until they’re good and dry.

Carefully peel off any tape on your feet you’ve added, and tend to any blister dressings or injuries.

WASH YOUR FEET. I shower pretty much immediately after a hike, but always put extra attention into cleaning and scrubbing my feet -- again, don’t want bacteria or fungus. Afterwards, I often rub in some lotion.

After that: 

Take note of any issues you had, and think about how to deal with them in the future. If you got hot spots in certain places, write that down and tape those places up preemptively next time you hike. If your socks kept riding down in your boots, try different socks next time. If you forgot something in your first aid kit, or used up something that needs replacing, make sure you’re well stocked for your next hike.  

If your feet are sore after a hike, a nice hot soak can be very soothing. If they’re swollen, try icing them for 15-20 minutes and elevating them. If foot pain still persists after a couple of days and hasn’t improved, you may want to check in with your doctor as there could be a bigger problem such as tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or a stress fracture.

You might find yourself developing calluses in certain places, and while calluses can have protective qualities as your feet’s homemade armor, letting them get too thick can also cause problems. I shave down my calluses periodically and try to keep them at the texture of “supple worn leather” and not “crunchy horn” to avoid cracking and blistering. 

--

Hiking can be a lot of fun, and it’s even more fun when your feet aren’t an absolute disaster zone. So get good shoes, be prepared to address any problems that come up, and listen to your feet. Take good care of them, and they’ll take you anywhere!

[foursaints]

how do you think regulus eventually over time changes james??? is his labyrinth search done or is it sort of a "i fall to pieces when i'm with you type beat?

to be crass about it: he makes james less of a gigantic annoying asshole 😭

james potter is interesting because to 1/2 of the population he’s the coolest most desirable dreamboat (his perfect sports! his perfect hair!) but to the other 1/2 he comes across as the most insufferable prick of all time for the exact same reasons <- if you’ve ever been even slightly an outcast you’re in this category. #deathtojfp

(i believe that even my remus had trouble warming up to james at first) (12 year old remus is fresh off the train from berlin w/ his Poverty Rags and Shaved Head staring at him like 😒🚬 while 12 year old james is like Holy fucking hell is that remus lupin kid SMOKING?? he’s SO cool sirius don’t you think that’s so cool. <- remus is quickly incapable of withstanding the James Potter Radiant Megawatt Friendship Grin. he’s only mortal)

crucially: james potter is an obnoxious frat-star athlete who has a beer pong tournament bracket pinned to his fridge. WITH an adorable nerdy lisping boy scout deep down. (and yet another jock even DEEPER down, sort of a sandwich situation)

reg’s existence does the important work of making james realize that 1) it’s actually super messed up & insane to view the world through the lens of Good People and Bad People, and even worse for james to decide that He is the one who gets to make those moral judgments. and 2) old spice body spray smells fucking disgusting seriously potter get it together

but once regulus manages to effectively permanently do away with james potter’s Douchey Surface Layer he unintentionally creates a monster. because after james potter becomes Humble and Self Deprecating and comfortable enough to be a charmingly dorky overenthusiastic nerd about things (the way he was as a child) it’s like….. oh god. he’s even MORE perfect than before. who DOESNT want him. who is even capable of not wanting him under these conditions. look at the way he fumbles clumsily with his glasses!! oh god, he’s geeking out about different brands of hiking shoes!!!!!!!

meanwhile regulus is standing back with his arms crossed smugly. he’s like: That’s Right. I Did That.