#but i think i’m ready to dabble with writing again

[water-in-the-wind]

Ooooh fun fun fun fun fun! Send me a prompt and a marauders ship (slash or platonic) and I’ll put in a 100 word drabble.

Drabble List #2

New drabble prompt list! Feel free to reblog!

“That’s how the story goes.”

“None of this is your fault.”

“I know it hurts.”

“Are you serious?”

“You’re safe now.”

“No one’s going to hurt you.”

“I don’t understand.”

“This isn’t what I wanted.”

“My head hurts.”

“I’m right here, okay?”

“Wow, you look… amazing.”

“Are you okay?”

“Who did this?”

“I made a mistake.”

“When I’m with you, I’m home.”

“There’s nothing I can do anymore.”

“This is going to hurt.”

“That was kind of hot.”

“Please don’t let me be alone.”

“Don’t try to fix me. I’m not broken.”

“It’s never too late to get back up again.”

“What if one day I wake up and you don’t?”

“I immediately regret this decision.”

“I’m not okay.”

“I’m scared.”

“You’re the one thing keeping me sane right now.”

“Please stay with me.”

“Please help me.”

“It’s okay to cry.”

“Is that blood?”

“Can I kiss you?”

“You’re everything to me.”

“I’d like to see you try.”

“Are you testing me?”

“I just wanted to let you know that I think you’re beautiful.”

“I’m lost without you.”

“You have my word.”

“I’m just tired.”

“It just… hurts.”

“Do you promise?”

“I’m not drunk enough for this.”

“Why are you shaking?”

“I never meant to hurt you.”

“Is that my shirt?”

“Please don’t shut me out.”

“Go back to sleep.”

“I can take care of myself just fine.”

“This is new.”

“Take off your shirt.”

“Be you. No one else can.”

“I can’t breathe.”

“Are you going to talk to me?”

“I’m sorry.”

“They’re gone.”

“Just smile. I really need you to smile right now.”

“Would you just hold still?”

“I miss the way things used to be.”

“Am I dead?”

“Look at me.”

“Can we just pretend like we’re normal for once?”

“I told you not to fall in love with me.”

“Please shut up. Just shut up.”

“Please tell me it’s going to be okay.”

“Yell, scream, cry, please, just say something, anything.”

“When you smile, I fall apart.”

“If I die, I’m never speaking to you again.”

“If you don’t want to talk about it then say so. Don’t lie and pretend to be fine when you clearly aren’t.”

“This isn’t what it looks like.”

“I just really miss talking to you.”

“I can’t do this on my own.”

“I’ve got you.”

“We’ll figure this out.”

“Please don’t say goodbye.”

“You’ve shown me what love can feel like.”

“You make me feel alive.”

“I wouldn’t change a thing about you.”

“There is nothing wrong with you.”

“I’m just looking out for you.”

“Be careful.”

“You owe me.”

“Come with me.”

“I trust you.”

“I didn’t want you to see this.”

“I’ve been praying for you.”

“Take my jacket. It’s cold outside.”

“I’ll walk you home.”

“Let me help.”

“Come here.”

“You’re holding back.”

“Remember when we were little?”

“We’re all a little stronger than we think we are.”

“Don’t sell yourself short.”

“This isn’t who I am.”

“I’m willing to wait for it.”

“Are you ready for this?”

“You can do this.”

“Your life was my life’s best part.”

“You were always gold to me.”

“Don’t look at me like that.”

“I’m fine with where I am now.”

“We all want to be somebody.”

“Promise me you’ll come back.”

“I don’t know anyone else who can make me feel this way.”

“I’ve never felt stronger than when you’re with me.”

“I believe in you.”

[heartsforvin]

single dad!vinnie and readers first date !

after the coffee shop incident, vinnie found himself thinking about you a lot, more than he’d like to admit. the two of you ended up running into each other again a few days after that.

vinnie wasn’t one to think much about fate, he honestly never really believed in it. when he saw you again though, he knew it wasn’t just a coincidence.

the two of you talked for a bit before vinnie finally got the courage to ask for your number. once you gave it to him, he had mentioned something about a date.

you thought he was just joking around with you, you had gotten the idea he didn’t really want anything serious anyways.

once vinnie had put his son to bed, however, he was up until late hours of the night texting you. getting to know you, what hobbies you’re interested in, what you do for a living, any question he could ask.

he finally brought up the date again, asking if you were free on the upcoming friday night. you were, and even if you weren’t, you’d find a way to go out.

vinnie couldn’t help but smile ear to ear when you had said you were available. he was ecstatic, practically counting down the days until it was time for the date.

once saturday rolled around, he texted you right after he got jj ready for the day. he asked if you were still up for it, which of course you said yes.

he let you know he’d pick you up around seven, not wanting to be too early, but also not wanting to be too late either.

all throughout the day both of you could only think about the night ahead. never had you thought you’d agree to a date with some guy you just met at a coffee shop.

seven pm finally came and vinnie was right outside your house. he texted you saying he was there and you quickly made your way out to his car.

“hey.” you smile as you get in the car. buckling your seatbelt, you put your purse on the floor beside your feet.

vinnie glanced at you for a moment, taking in your appearance. you wore a long black dress that he thought looked absolutely beautiful on you.

“hey,” he says, giving you a smile in return. “you look beautiful.”

blushing, you reply, “thank you.” shyly. vinnie thought it was the cutest thing.

after making sure you were ready to go, vinnie put the car in drive and the two of you were off to the restaurant.

on the way, he made small conversation — or tried to. he couldn’t help the fact he was nervous. he hadn’t been on a date since before jj was even born, so it’s definitely been a minute.

once the two of you made it to the restaurant, vinnie put the car in park and got out. he rounded the car and opened your door for you, smiling as he held out his hand for you to take.

with a thank you, you took his hand and the two of you walked into the restaurant.

once seated, the two of you talked for a minute before ordering drinks and then food. you noticed vinnie eyeing you every time you’d look away. you almost caught him a couple times as he did.

“so,” you say after taking a sip of your drink. “how long have you lived in LA?” you ask.

vinnie finishes sipping his drink before he says, “since i was eighteen.”

you nod, vinnie can tell you were probably doing math in your head about how long he was in a new city before becoming a father.

but in reality, that wasn’t what you were thinking at all. you watch vinnie sigh, he opens his mouth to speak, but you beat him to it.

“i’m not thinking what you think i am,” you tell him. “stop judging yourself, vinnie.” your tone isn’t stern, he knows you’re not upset, just giving him the self esteem he needs.

he nods his head, sipping his drink. this date isn’t to talk about his son, it’s to get to you and for him to get to know you.

the night continues with smiles and laughs, getting to know each other more and more as the night goes on.

vinnie learned you were into drawing and dabbling in some creative writing. while as you learned that when vinnie has down time, he loves to play video games and practice guitar.

you watch him talk, watch how his hands move and mouth twitches up into a smile when he talks about interests he loves.

“you in college or anything?” vinnie then asks, making you smile and nod.

you put your drink down before answering. “UCLA, coincidentally for creative writing. but i got a few other electives and classes to branch out on.” you explain.

vinnie nods with a smile. “that’s cool, you like it?” he asks.

you hum. “love it,” you smile. “in my last year, just have to figure out a career now.”

vinnie chuckles softly. he takes a sip of his drink again. the two of you continue talking, learning more and more about each other and your lifestyles, along with interests and hobbies.

before the two of you know it, it’s nearing ten pm. vinnie checks his phone and sees a few missed texts from his mom and dad.

“it’s already ten?” you chuckle with a smile. “shit, time does fly when you’re having fun.”

vinnie smiles, feeling relieved at the fact you had fun with him tonight. the two of you pack up your things and he pays the bill before you heard back to his car.

he drives you back to your place, walking you up to your door to say goodnight. as he stands there, the urge to kiss you grows, but he doesn’t want to overstep not only your boundaries, but his own too.

so, he settles on kissing your cheek, caressing the spot he had planted his lips on for a moment. you lean into his touch and smile.

“thank you for tonight, vinnie,” you tell him. “i had a lot of fun, we should do this again.” you smile.

vinnie let’s go of your cheek, putting his arm to the side. “yeah, i had fun. definitely should do it again.” he tells you.

the two of you say goodnight and he gets back in his car and drives home. once he’s settled in bed, he tells you he got home safe and talks to you just a little bit longer before deciding to really call it a night.

as he closes his eyes and starts to drift off to sleep, that’s when he realizes that maybe dating isn’t all that bad.

[moralesluvr]

Can you write miles 42 where he forces you to go to his homeboys party but it’s all up to you if the plot and stuff <3

right hand woman ft. miles morales

♡ pairings & aus: earth42!miles morales x black!fem!reader ♡ summary: miles knows that you haven't been feeling yourself lately, so he decides to bring you along to one of his friend's parties to cheer you up ♡ warnings: a little banter-y arguing, a little suggestive ♡ a/n: thanks for your request!! ♡ got a request? | masterlist ♡

“WHATCHU DOIN’ TODAY, MA?” Your boyfriend asked you as he rummaged through his closet for something. You gave him a light shrug, eyes not looking up from your Instagram feed, “Probably finna take a nap and order food. I don’t feel good.”

You watch Miles pick out a pair of cargos, holding them up for you to see, “Yes or no?”

“They’re cute,” you reply somberly, “Where you goin’, anyway?”

Miles doesn’t respond to your question immediately. Instead, he just continues to search for a top and a pair of shoes to wear with his pants. You get irritated, “Miles. I know you hear me.”

“Just actin’ like you when I ask you do to sum’ for me.” He laughs, pulling out a white graphic shirt and putting it on display for you. He can’t even ask you how it looks before you look at him with concerned eyes, “If you wear that with them pants, I’m never speaking to you again.”

He snorts, tossing another shirt on the bed to remind him that it needs to be ironed. “I’m going to a party. You should come with me tonight. I love you, but you been sittin’ in my crib collectin’ dust for two weeks. You don’t wanna go out or nun?”

“I’m fine right here.”

“But you not, babe, I know sum’s wrong.” He replies, walking over to where you were laying lazily underneath his covers. You think he’s gonna rip them off of your cold frame, but he instead climbs on top of you, his weight making your breath hitch. You screech, “If you don’t get your big ass off me-“

“Then come with me.” He pleads, but you know it’s more of a demand then a question. He presses up against you, tilting his head to pepper annoying, wet kisses all over your cheeks and face. You giggle, swatting at him, “Your breath is hot, stop!”

Miles doesn’t cease until you agree to go out with him. He’s geeked after that, insisting that you match outfits from head to toe, including your hairstyle.

You rise from your spot and find a pair of black cargo pants with a white crop top to match Miles’ white graphic. You know he’s gonna force you to wear one of the billion pairs of matching Jordan’s you have, so you don’t even bother to pick some out. Miles grabs your hair products and sits on the edge of the bed while you sit on the floor, head resting in his lap as he parts your hair with nimble fingers.

“When’s the last time you washed yo hair?” He questioned as you felt oil dabble against your scalp. He’s giving you two braids, just like him, but you’ll probably end up taking the ends out and doing something else to it.

“Uhm, probably a week or two ago.”

“I can tell,” Miles nearly cackles as he starts a braid from your scalp, “Is this dandruff or lice?”

“Miles, you gon’ quit tryin’ me.” You rolled your eyes as you laughed with him, relaxing your head until he was finished.

Soon enough he was done, and you were popping earrings in and grabbing your purse as he stuffed his keys in his pocket, sliding his 11’s on.

“You ready?”

“Yeah, I’m ready.”

When you arrived, you walked closely next to Miles as Starboy by The Weeknd blasted through the speakers. People were scattered everywhere, girls on couches laid up next to men who wore sunglasses inside. People drinking and smoking in corners, the aroma of weed and liquor filling your senses as you adjusted to the environment. You shook the anxiety out of your limbs as you watched your boyfriend greet people you’ve never laid eyes on. He would always kiss you or introduce you as “his wife” or “his girl” to his friends, which made you lighten up a little.

The two of you settled on a couch, isolated from most of the crowd. Miles laid concerned eyes on you, “You good? You been actin’ weird ever since we got here.”

“Yeah, I’m fine.” You lied through your teeth. Miles gives you a ‘Be serious’ look, lips flatlined and eyes disbelieving, “Mami, te conozco (I know you), so what’s up?”

You open your mouth to speak, but your hear your song come and you immediately stand up. Miles just stares at you with his jaw agape and you smile, biting your lip, “Comin’?”

“If I say no, it’s gon’ make you look single, so let’s go.” He laughs, grabbing your hand as you run to the dance floor. There’s already a circle full of girls dancing in the middle, and some of them you swear you’ve seen before. You push and shove your way into the middle, hips swaying and arms outlining your silhouette with grace and sensuality, Miles is watching you from afar with hearts practically bursting in his pupils, your laugh enchanting him to move closer to you. He wants to, but he also wants to give you a little space.

The circle eventually breaks up and you feel a pair of hands on your waist, hands you immediately recognize. You giggle as you hear him whisper close to you, “Wanna bounce?”

You hum questionably, “And go where?”

Miles’ hands trace against your waist, ghosting your figure until he gets to the curve of your bum. He buries his head in your neck and you can practically feel him smirk against your warm skin, “My place.”

“Nah,” you giggle,

“My song isn’t over.”

𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦 ☻ thank you for reading!

𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐑-𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐄 𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓���️: @queenesther996 //@sukunas-slutty-bitch // @c3f21 // @wydney // @rinnyisnothere // @brieryann // @moisttowllet // @Dee-m-cee // @liliummz // @starhrtz // @daisydark // @randomhoex // @solanawrld // @whore4hobie // @tanakaslastbraincell // @simp4miguell // @nyrovi3 // @my3tumbles

𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 ✎: @Dee-m-cee // @euphorichappiness10 // @adoree-kaelynn

[starlightsalvatore]

salvation / klaus mikaelson x reader

heyooo - dabbling with a klaus fic hehe - should I do a part two for what they get up to after this? lmk!! and as always lmk what you think :) writing for the vampire diaries is very new to me so any feedback is appreciated! 

salvation / klaus mikaelson x reader

summary: after a deadly encounter with a werewolf, an old ‘friend’ comes to your rescue

word count: 1.3k (short and sweet!) 

warnings: mentions of blood, mentions of death, typical tvdu stuff

You shivered as Damon wrapped his blankets around you, gently sitting beside you as he held a blood bag up to your lips, which you accepted gratefully and sucked down rather feverishly. “Can I get you anything?” he asked, those intense blue eyes swimming with more emotion than you’d ever seen.

You softly shook your head, “the only thing you can do for me is to stop looking at me like that,” you whispered and a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

“Alright, Miss Conceited, I’m not looking at you like anything,” he teased and you chuckled though it was immediately followed by a wince as pain reverberated through every nerve ending. “You should get some rest, okay? I’ll come check on you in a little bit.” You nodded as he left, letting out an exhale when you were finally alone for the first time since it all happened. You were putting on a brave face for everyone else, assuring Elena you were going to be okay and making her promise she wouldn’t come by the house for her own safety and you’d kept your goodbyes brief, joking throughout… saying things like it’s a miracle I haven’t died sooner, don’t look so sad, but in reality you were terrified. You weren’t ready, your life felt so... unfinished. You hadn’t truly loved anyone yet or even been loved, things were far too chaotic to even think about having a love life. The furthest you’d ever been from Mystic Falls was a family road trip to Texas for a reunion your parents dragged you to just before they both died. 

Your dreams felt muddled, a mix of childhood memories and moments with your friends when shit wasn’t hitting the fan… it genuinely felt like your life was flashing before your eyes as you slept and you awoke suddenly unrested and straining to hear a voice on the other side of the door. “You know, one voicemail works just as well as a dozen.” It couldn’t be.

“No…” you muttered as the door opened, shifting to sit upright but failing as you grunted in pain, watching the blonde man slowly walk towards you and settle beside you. “No, this isn’t real, this is a hallucination.”

“I’m afraid I’m very real,” he replied, accent thick as he looked down at you and you poked his arm, stunned to find it wasn’t an apparition.

“Nope, this is- this is Stefan, or Damon and my brain is just playing some really evil twisted joke on me,” you coughed out.

“I’m offended, love. I’ve traveled all this way just to see you and you liken me to the Salvatore brothers,” he said and you blinked a few times as you accepted he really was here. “Playing with werewolves, are we?” he asked, fingers delicately brushing your shirt aside to reveal the mark just above your collarbone.

“Thought it was a golden retriever,” you rasped and he chuckled.

“Your friends downstairs were very adamant in my coming to save you,” he said and you smiled softly.

“Is that what you’re here to do, Klaus? Or are you going to dangle salvation in front of me before making a ridiculous demand?” you asked and he smirked. He always found you amusing, if not annoying at times, there was a point in which you had him completely wrapped around your finger… something you exploited to the benefit of you and your friends whenever it suited you. And he let you, time and time again, because the moments in which you’d allow him to be within your orbit, or accept the countless gifts he left at your doorstep gave him a glimmer of hope that one day you’d let him give you more. He wanted to show you the world, but you’d extinguished any of that hope he’d had by slamming the door in his face the last time you saw each other.

“I’m here to save your life if you’ll let me,” he answered and you almost rolled your eyes. 

“What’s the catch?”

“No catch, love. I’m just here out of the kindness of my heart,” he said and now you did roll your eyes.

“Come on, Klaus. I know you better than that. There’s no such thing as the kindness of your heart because it’s cold and dead,” you shot back. “What do you want?” Your tenacity with him was always the most intriguing, you challenged him… made him want to be better but unfortunately with you it seemed there was nothing he could do to win you over.

“Perhaps I do want something, the question is if your life is worth obliging my simple request?” he proposed.

“Please do drag this out further, it’s not like I’m on a clock here,” you coughed out. 

“I want you to take me up on my previous offer… in exchange my blood is as good as yours,” he said, as if it was the simplest thing in the world.

“My answer is the same as it was then.”

“I’m afraid there’s no door for you to slam in my face, love. Would you really rather die than allow me the honor of showing you the world?” he asked and you didn’t miss the way hurt seeped into his tone, though he was trying his best to hide it. 

“Yes,” you answered, voice wavering.

“Perhaps I should let you suffer, consider it a delayed punishment for your continual disrespect,” he said and you chuckled.

“Then go ahead, Klaus. Doors over there,” you said, wincing as you shifted your position. “You never had any intention of saving my life,” you accused and now the hurt was clear as day on his face.

“Do you really think so low of me?” he asked and you shook your head.

“I don’t think of you at all.” you answered, hoping he wouldn’t see right through you.

“If that’s what you’d like,” he responded and as he stood to leave you’d never been more unsure, questioning if this was the right way to play it. Just as he reached the door frame you doubled over in a coughing fit, leaning over the side of the bed as blood dribbled from your mouth and he felt physical pain at the sight. He was back by your side in an instant, tugging you into him and placing his arm in front of you. “Drink, please.” You looked up at him through your lashes, but he just nodded, eyes pleading with you and you let your fangs sink into the skin of his wrist. With each gulp you felt your energy restore and the pain disappear. As you drank he brushed your shirt aside again to watch the wound heal for himself. 

You pulled away but didn’t make any move to leave his lap, allowing him to keep his arms around you for a moment… but just a moment before you leaned back, “three months.” you said suddenly and you saw an emotion you’d never really seen from him… confusion. 

“What?” he asked and you smirked.

“You had your terms, I’m negotiating,” you answered and you watched realization settle across his features.

“What changed your mind?” He couldn’t stop his smile from spreading into a grin.

“I was bluffing,” you said and his grin faltered. “Yet, you still gave me your blood without forcing me to comply… maybe that heart of yours isn’t as cold and dead as I thought.”

“I thought you didn’t think of me?” he asked and you shrugged.

“Maybe I do. You get three months, no more no less… that’s the deal,” you said, sticking your hand out for him to shake and when he grasped it he yanked you a little closer.

“Once we get started you’ll be begging me for more time,” he said with a smirk.

“Well, that’s up to you to prove it worth my time… but that’s all I’m promising.” 

“That’s all I need, love.”

taglist: @caseysalvatore @minalblood​ (if you only meant to be tagged in my damon fics please let me know and I’ll adjust which taglist you’re on!)

[avastrasposts]

The Pilot and his girl - ch. 2

So, I have vague plans for this fic now but the first two chapters are just dabbles, trying to find a way to write a reader insert and to write Frankie Morales. I'll have to think of a good title for the fic as I get the story together, for now it's just a bunch of scribbled ideas in a notebook. I'll update and give more of a summery once it's taken shape in my head I guess? Until then, I hope you enjoy a second date with Frankie and some fluffy flirting with our sweet soft boy.

Edit: making this easier to navigate- Chapter 3

Waking up late the next morning you catch up on the gossip from last night in the bachelorette party chat thread. It’s filling up with groans and promises to never drink again as your friends wake up across the city. You’re feeling fine, you’d only had a couple of cocktails last night, and now you’re poking fun at your friends while Lizzy curses at you for letting her do too many tequila shots. 

Steve’s future wife: “Seriously, you should’ve stopped me, you were supposed to be my guardian last night!” 

“I stopped you from ordering Long Island Teas for the entire club at 1am, your head and your credit card should be very grateful, Lizzy!”

Steve’s future wife: “My head doesn’t feel very grateful right now…”

Your phone suddenly pings with a new message and as you tap out of the party chat you see Frankie’s name on your screen. You can’t help but feel a little jolt of excitement as you pull up his message.

“morning. i was wondering if youd maybe like to get some coffee today, seeing as i didnt get a chance to buy you a drink last night?”

Your mouth pulls up in an inadvertent smile as you see the text, you’d been hoping he’d get in touch soon.

“Morning, yes I’d like that, I definitely need coffee this morning! 

You hit send but instantly regret it, maybe that message sounded like you only wanted coffee and not that you were happy to see him again? You quickly type out a new message. 

“Sorry, I hit send too fast… I meant to say that I definitely need coffee. But I'd also like to get some with you.” 

The second you hit send you see the innuendo and bite your lip, fuck! 

…

Frankie can’t help but chuckle as he sees her message come through. He knows she means coffee but he sees her typing away as the three dots move on his screen and guesses she’s trying to back track from the “get some” innuendo. He waits while she types, still smiling to himself. He’d been nervous about asking her out for coffee so soon but he wanted to give her a chance to get to know him a bit before he asked her out for dinner, less pressure for both of them he figured. When her instant yes came back he’d felt heat flash through his body, he really wanted to see her again and she seemed to feel the same way. 

“Shit, ignore that last message completely, I mean, yes, I’d really like to get some coffee with you this morning, Frankie.”

Frankie chuckled again and typed his reply. 

“no pun intended then?”

“Shut up :)”

And then; 

“Where do you want to meet, and when? I’m free the whole day. My only plan was to recover from last night.” 

Frankie suggests a coffee shop in a part of the city close to downtown. The area is good for weekends and has lots of places to hang out under the trees that line the river that runs through the neighbourhood. She knows the place and agrees to meet there in an hour and Frankie gets in the shower to get ready. For all the flack Pope had given him last night about making him pay up the one hundred dollar bet he’d also seen that Frankie was really into this girl. He’d spent the ride home telling his friend to not worry, that he was a great guy and that this girl would like Francisco Morales if he only gave her a chance. 

“I know it’s a tired old line but just be yourself, Fish. You’re charming when you want to be and good looking, you know the girls always line up for you when we’re out, even with that damn cap shoved down your forehead. She’s into you so just relax and enjoy the company of a beautiful woman.” Pope had slapped his friend on the shoulder before getting out of the truck and now Frankie tries to force himself to feel some of Pope’s confidence as he scrubs himself down in the shower. “Just relax, he tells himself as his stomach flips at the thought of the way her lips had felt against his cheek last night. “You’ve got this, Frankie, you got her number, she replied, she wants to see you again, just take it from there.” 

…

The second you’ve confirmed to Frankie that you’ll meet in an hour you rush out of bed and into the shower. Butterflies are back in your stomach and you’re kinda surprised at the effect this guy is having on your nerves. It’s not like you to get so nervous about a guy you’ve barely spoken to, even if he was cute and broad as a barn door. Something about Frankie’s shy approach, the way his face seemed to soften when he smiled, made your heart melt a bit. But there was definitely something more confident lurking under the surface, you could tell from his teasing replies to your messages. It gave you the feeling that he was probably hiding a more assertive manner under his initial shyness and you couldn’t wait to make him comfortable enough to bring it out. You were looking forward to getting to know him better and so far it didn’t seem like you’d regret your snap decision to give him your number last night. 

The coffee shop Frankie suggested is right on the river and as you’re walking towards it Frankie texts saying that he’s got a table out back next to the water’s edge. You make your way through the building and see him sitting at a table looking snug in a dark green hoodie, the cap still firmly on his head. His unruly curls are poking out around his neck but it looks as if he’s made the effort to contain the ones around his ears, they are tucked in under the edge of the cap, still threatening to escape. He’s sitting relaxed, leaning back in the chair with his arms crossed, looking out over the river where two crews are rowing past. As you get closer he seems to spot you from the corner of his eye and his gaze finds yours, his handsome face splitting into a warm smile as he gets up. 

“Hey, good to see you,” he says, stepping forward to drop a kiss on your cheek before stepping back, still smiling. Your butterflies make themselves known as his warm smell washes over you, that same warm cotton smell from the night before, mint from his toothpaste and something that has to be his body wash. His lips are soft as they brush against your skin, a sharp contrast to the light scratch of his beard. He seems to pause for a second against your cheek as his hand lands on your waist and when he pulls back you feel the cool tip of his nose on your skin. 

“Hi, good to see you too,” you smile as you try to squash the butterflies, letting him pull out the chair opposite his at the small table as you sit down. He gets back to his own seat and leans on his forearms on the table, making it shift slightly as it takes his weight. You bite the inside of your lip as you suddenly feel very shy at the way his eyes are focused on yours and he seems to notice the movement, his eyes dropping to your lips as you worry at them. 

“You’re gonna draw blood, hermosa,” he says with a soft voice and you feel his thumb smooth over your bottom lip, making you let go of it. His gesture is gentle and calming and as he drops his hand back to the table you find yourself wishing he’d continued, your face leaning into his hand. His crooked smile makes your own creep back as he captures your fingertips between his own on the table, gently tugging them towards him, as he leans closer, dropping his eyes to your lips again. Your breath catches in the back of your throat as you watch the pink tip of his tongue dart out over his bottom lip as he moves closer. 

“Morning, early birds! Let me guess, some coffee to start off with to wake you up, huh? And then let me take you through our specials today. Ya’ll are gonna love our seasonal pancakes!” 

You all but groan when the server’s chipper voice cuts through the moment you’re having, Frankie immediately pulls away from you and your fingers slips through his as he clenches his jaw before picking up the menu card on his side of the table. The server continues to rattle through the specials and you scan the menu in front of you. 

“Do you wanna start with coffee, maybe?” Frankie asks, ignoring the server’s chatter. 

“Yes, please, that sounds good. I don’t know what I wanna eat yet,” you say and flip the menu over to look at the huge drinks menu on the back. 

“Black coffee for me, thanks,” Frankie says to the server who has finally covered all the specials. “Know what you want, hermosa?” 

“A double shot cappuccino, thanks,” you reply, looking up at the server who takes your orders and walks away with a nod. 

“Rude,” Frankie smirks as he leans forward again, capturing your fingers in his, his eyes crinkling at the corners. His shyness from last night seems to have disappeared in light of your own and his eyes are warm and soft as he gently tugs you forward, his gaze flicking down to your lips and up to your eyes. You feel heat pooling in the pit of your stomach as he gets close enough for you to smell his toothpaste again, his lips pulling up in a small smile as he gently strokes his thumb over your bottom lip. 

The sharp signal of a phone suddenly cuts through the air and Frankie actually drops his head on to his hands and curses in Spanish under his breath before he leans back and pulls the offending item out of his back pocket. 

“I’m about to toss this damn thing in the river,” he grumbles, throwing you an apologetic look. But looking at the screen his eyebrows pull together in a deep frown. 

“I’m really sorry, I have to take this, it’s work but they usually don’t call on a Sunday.” 

Frankie gets up and steps away from the table. You watch him retreat, realising you don’t actually know what he does for a living. You go back to studying the menu and after a couple of minutes Frankie sits down again, a disappointed look on his face. 

“I’m really sorry, but I have to go,” he says, his hand shooting up to the back of his neck in that same gesture from last night, his face looking crestfallen and apologetic. “There’s an emergency at work that I have to deal with, the guy who’s on call this weekend is stuck in traffic behind some big pile up and can’t get to the airfield.” 

“Oh,” you say, disappointment washing over you, feeling your stomach drop, and it must’ve shown on your face because Frankie’s hand shoots forward and grabs yours. 

“Please don’t think I’m trying to get out of our date, I was really looking forward to hanging out with you but,” Frankie’s fingers are rubbing across the back of your hand, his eyebrows knitted together over his worried eyes, “it’s a medical transportation, some transplant organ that I have to pick up from Mount Hope and fly over to General, it can’t wait.”

“Wow, I didn’t even know you’re a pilot. You fly airplanes?” 

“Helicopters,” he replies proudly as he pulls you up from the chair, still holding on to your hand. “I did it in the army for years but since I left I’ve been working at a local airfield, doing different transportation assignments.” His large hand feels like it dwarfs your own with how easily it fits inside the warmth of his and you hold on to him as he walks you across the patio into the coffee shop. “Maybe we can get the coffee to go?” he suggests, “And some pastries too? They do really good little hand pie things here.” He smiles down at you and you feel a bit better about the sudden end to your date, at least it doesn’t seem like he’s running off just to get away from you. 

When you get to the counter Frankie asks for your coffee order to go and pays for a couple of hand pies while you pick them out, cherry for you and Frankie immediately goes for the same one when you point it out. While he’s waiting for the pies he suddenly looks over at you with a quizzical look. 

“What?” you ask, his face suddenly mischievous. 

“Are you afraid of heights, hermosa?” 

“No, but I’ve never been in a helicopter if that’s what you're asking?” 

“Do you wanna go up in one today?” Frankie grins, his eyes definitely looking like he’s about to get you into trouble.

“Can you do that? I mean, are you allowed to take someone up just like that?” 

“You’re my new co-pilot in training now,” he beams, delighted with his idea. “I’ve got to fly from the airfield to Mount Hope, pick up the box, fly over to General and then back to the airfield. Shouldn’t take more than a couple of hours if you’re up for it?” His smile is infectious and the excitement in his body is palpable as you feel his hand squeeze yours, you can’t refuse him. 

“Sure, I guess I’ll sign up to be your co-pilot, Frankie,” you laugh and he pulls you in under his arm, dropping a kiss on the top of your head as he grabs the bags with coffee and pastries. “You’ll love it, I promise.” 

Frankie guides you out of the coffee shop and shows you to his truck parked across the street, taking you round to the passenger side door and opening it for you like a gentleman. It makes you smile at him as he gives you a hand up the high step and he grins back at you, making your heart flutter at the sight of his eyes lighting up. In the short time you’ve spent with Frankie, his eyes have definitely become your favourite feature, the dark brown irises changing as his smile comes and goes on his face. When he smiles they seem to soften, his eyebrows coming together as the corners crinkle, when he’s nervous or awkward he drops his head and looks up at you from underneath the peak of his cap and his eyes mirror the worry in his head, now they’re really sparkling with mischief and glee as he all but bounces around the front of the truck before pulling himself up into the driver’s seat. 

“Your coffee, hermosa,” he passes the take away mug to you before placing his own in the cup holder. The truck has been sitting in the warm sun and Frankie pulls the hoodie over his head, tossing it in the back before starting up the truck. The white t-shirt underneath does nothing to hide the sheer width of his shoulders as he turns in his seat, hooking his arm round the back of the bench seat as he manoeuvres the truck out from the tight spot at the curb. You try not to stare at how his chest flexes as he twists half way around in the seat, his muscular arm resting right next to your head. You follow the line of it up underneath the sleeve of his t-shirt, it’s ridden up high on his deltoid and you can see the dark smudge of his armpit as he grunts, twisting around again. 

“Admiring the view, cariño?” Frankie chuckles as he catches your eyes on his chest and you feel heat rushing to your face, quickly slapping your hand over your eyes, stifling a giggle. Frankie laughs loudly and pulls your hand from your face, tugging you closer to him across the wide seat. 

“Come here, hermosa, you can look as much as you want,” his chest is rumbling as he laughs but he pulls your hand up to his mouth and presses his lips to the back of it before setting it down on his leg, moving his hand to the gear shift and pulling out into traffic. 

“So, never been in a helicopter?” he asks, glancing over at you. “Ever been up in a smaller plane?”

“No, nothing like that, only regular commercial flights. Is it very different?” You’re slightly nervous about the idea but Frankie’s excitement is infectious, this is clearly something he loves. 

“It’s very different from a commercial flight but I’ll make sure to go easy on you, no loops or flying upside down.” He moves his hand on top of yours as the traffic starts to flow smoothly, lying warm and solid over your own. 

“I’ve never seen a helicopter fly upside down, you can do that?” Your limited knowledge of helicopters makes Frankie break out in a big grin. 

“Only on special occasions,” he glances away from the road for a second and gives you a wink and you roll your eyes as you catch on. 

“Ha. Ha. Very funny, you’re a regular comedian,” you pull out your hand from under his and punch him lightly on his upper arm, but you can’t help but smile as he chuckles and pretends to duck his head to get away from you. 

“A few helicopters can fly upside down but not this one, unfortunately, I’d like to see your face when I do it,” he laughs again and takes your hand back, placing it on his thigh but holding on to it this time. “Really, don’t worry, hermosa, I’ll take us up and down and fly straight as an arrow, no fooling around.”

“At least not in the air.” It slips out before you know it and Frankie immediately snorts loudly and you feel laughter bubbling inside you as he breaks out in a wide grin, shooting you a mischievous look. 

“At least not in the air,” he agrees, looking at the road again but his eyes are wrinkling at the corners as he smiles. “I’m gonna have to keep an eye on you, make sure you’re not touching any of my buttons.” 

“Ok, that one was too obvious,” you giggle as he tries to contain the way he’s chuckling at his own joke. 

“Yeah, I know but I couldn’t help it,” he smiles, tugging at his cap and looking over at you as the truck comes to a stop at a red light. His brown eyes are warm and happy, the sunlight shines into the car from behind him and his unruly hair has escaped from under his cap and is curling around his ears again. You hesitate for a second but the urge is too strong, you reach up and graze across them with your fingertips, feeling the soft strands brush against your skin. Frankie inhales deeply and the smile slips from his face, replaced by something more urgent. He leans in and the rich aroma of the coffee he’s been drinking washes over you. 

“I really want to kiss you,” he mumbles close to your lips, “but not in my truck at a red light, so please, hermosa, do that again when I won’t crash any vehicles we might be in.” He stays close for a beat longer and drops his gaze to your lips before pulling back with a small groan just as the light changes to green. 

You feel like the atmosphere in the truck is about to reach a dangerous boiling point so you try to calm yourself down by sipping on your coffee and reaching for one of the pies, handing the other to Frankie. 

“I feel like I'm tempting fate by eating a cherry pie with one hand while wearing a white t-shirt.” he says as his first bite drips cherry juice down his fingers. “This is so good though,” he catches the trickle down his pinky with his tongue which makes you swallow and quickly look away. 

He’s right, the pie is very tasty and you both fall silent as you try to capture every flaky crumb that falls from the pie as you bite into it. The filling is sweet and tart and gone far too soon. 

“Fuck, I wish we’d bought three each,” you moan as you swallow down the last bite. Frankie is still juggling the last of his as he turns the truck on to a smaller road on the outskirts of the city, steering with one hand and keeping the pie away from his, miraculously still white, t-shirt. 

“Here, have the rest of mine,” he offers, holding out his hand to you. 

“You sure? You’re not one of those people who offer their food and then get offended when I eat half your fries?” 

“No, I’m smarter than that, I always order a large fries when I’m eating with a woman,” he grins. “Just take my pie, I’m gonna need both hands here anyway.” 

“I’m gonna test you on that,” you say as you gratefully take the last bit of pie from him, “this damn pie really is too good.”

“You wanna share my fries, hermosa?” Frankie smirks, the truck now rumbling down a long straight road, air hangars in the distance. “That must mean I’m getting a second date out of this?”

“That still depends on how this helicopter ride goes, you make me airsick I might change my mind.” You scrunch up your nose as the hangers come closer. “I’m actually kinda nervous, I don’t wanna fuck up your assignment by throwing up in your helicopter.”

“Do you usually get carsick or seasick?” Frankie asks. 

“No, not usually.” 

“Then you’ll be fine, that kind of sickness has got something to do with the balance system in your ear so if you don’t get seasick you’ll be fine in a chopper.” He reaches over with his clean hand and squeezes your thigh, giving you a warm smile, “Don’t worry, hermosa, I’ll take care of you.” 

Frankie pulls up next to the hangar and parks the truck, grabbing his hoodie from the back, quickly coming round to the passenger side as he tugs it over his head and gives you a hand down.

“This is the place,” he says and waves in the general direction of the open hangar doors. “I’ll just get the paperwork from my boss and then we’ll be off.” 

With a hand on the small of your back he guides you towards the hangar where you’re both greeted by an older man who introduces himself as Denny, Frankie’s boss, as Frankie explains that he’s taking you with him on the assignment.

“Sorry to commandeer your date, miss,” he says with a friendly smile as he hands Frankie the paperwork and a set of keys. “But I’m sure you’ll enjoy the trip, Frankie is one of my best pilots.” 

You look over at Frankie who’s looking pleased about the praise as he flips through the paperwork Denny handed him. 

“Thanks, boss, I’ll remember those words next time we talk about my pay raise,” he grins and closes the folder. “Come on, cariño, let me show you the chopper and get you strapped in.”

Frankie’s warm hand rests on the small of your back again as he takes you towards one of the helicopters parked outside the hangar. He’s rattling off facts about it and the technical specifications, you’re trying to keep up but most of it means nothing to you, and he soon breaks into a chuckle as he sees your confused face trying to comprehend what he’s talking about. 

“Don’t worry about it, sorry, I get a bit carried away, even the guys in the army would tell me to shut the fuck up when I got too technical.”

“It’s really cool that you fly helicopters for a living but I genuinely have no idea what any of that means,” you smile at him, “I’m just happy you’re happy to let me tag along today.”

“Of course I am! It was my idea after all, I’d feel too shitty about ditching you before I even got you a coffee.” You’re at the chopper and Frankie unlocks it, sliding open the door and helping you up into the passenger seat. He picks up the seat belt but pauses, looking at your torso. 

“You’re gonna be cold in just that t-shirt and jacket,” he says. You’re wearing the same jean jacket you had on last night with a fresh t-shirt underneath and as you watch he tugs his hoodie off again. “Put this on, I’ll run over and grab something from the locker room.” 

You take the hoodie from his outstretched hand, “Thanks, Frankie,” and he gives you a quick smile before turning and jogging back towards the hangar. 

You slip his dark green hoodie over your head after shedding the jacket and tossing it on to one of the seats in the back. The smell of him overwhelms you the second you pull it over your face, still warm from his body. It smells clean, like fresh detergent and something woody and spicy that might be his body wash. You stop for a second to inhale the scent that seems to be inherently his before pulling it all the way down. The hoodie is far too big for you and you have to roll up the sleeves just to have your fingertips showing. 

You’re wiggling into the seat belt, hooking your arms through on either side, when Frankie comes jogging back with black hoodie on. This one is decidedly more well worn, the fabric fraying at the edges around his arms where he’s pushed it up to his elbows. Down by his hip you can see the white of his t-shirt shining through a hole that looks like something burnt through the hoodie. 

“Comfy?” he asks as he steps up into the cockpit on your side, checking your seat belt and clipping you in securely. 

“Yeah, very. Thanks for lending it to me,” you smile up at him. He’s very close suddenly, as he bends down and pulls on the straps, you feel the tension locking your body into the seat. Frankie looks down at you as his hands still on your waist, you’re holding your breath, his eyes seem to be fixing you in place as much as the seat belt and you hear him slowly exhale, almost in a shudder. 

“Remember what I said about not crashing any vehicles?” he asks, his voice dropping into a low whisper, dark and rich. You nod slowly, the hoodie suddenly feels much too warm. “Please remind me about that when we come back here.” He stays locked on you for a few more breaths until he finally pulls away, caressing your waist as he lets his hands slip over you.

As he steps down and walks around the chopper to the pilot’s side you slowly exhale, trying to calm your racing pulse. That’s four times you’ve been close to kissing and the tension is building inside you to the point where you just want to grab his face and pull him down to your lips. Frankie’s presence is both comforting and rousing, his easy smiles make you feel happy and warm, but the tension that builds when he comes close is exhilarating and almost paralysing. 

Frankie swings into the pilot’s seat and straps himself in, starts going through the pre-flight checks and hands you a pair of headphones to put on. He slips a pair over his own ears and soon you hear his voice coming through them as the helicopter's engine roars to life. It’s loud, much louder than you expected, and you’re glad for the headphones protecting your ears. 

“You ready?” Frankie’s voice comes through the headphones with a slight distortion and you give him a nod and a thumbs up and he smiles back. His face shifts into a more serious look as he looks over the instrument panel and readies everything for flight before he pulls back on the stick in front of him and the helicopter slowly rises off the ground. You feel your stomach plummet as the tarmac drops away beneath you, the cockpit of the chopper seeming impossibly small. It makes you feel like you’re sitting on a tiny chair with nothing but sky around you as Frankie makes the helicopter climb higher. You focus on a spot on the floor between your feet to get your nerves under control and only throw quick glimpses out the window as the surrounding buildings fall away and are replaced by blue sky.  

“Hey, you ok?” Frankie’s voice comes through your headphones as his warm hand lands on your leg and you glance up at him. His eyebrows have knitted together and he’s got that sweet worried look again. 

“Yeah, I’m good, I think I just got a bit of vertigo as we took off,” you huff, drawing a deep, slightly shaky breath. 

“We won’t be climbing anymore, I’m just gonna keep us straight and steady to Mount Hope now. Just keep breathing, hermosa.” He rubs your leg a few times and smiles before he grabs the stick with both hands again. You watch him as he checks the instruments, hailing Mount Hope Hospital to let them know his ETA and then corrects the chopper’s course slightly with a small movement of his hand. He’s moving with an easy confidence that makes you relax, he looks so comfortable in the pilot’s seat, so sure in every move he makes, never hesitating as he checks the instruments and manoeuvres the helicopter. This is the most confident and assured you’ve seen him yet. You trust yourself to sit up a bit straighter and start looking around, carefully glancing outside and actually admiring the view. 

“Feeling better?” You look over at Frankie as his voice comes through your headphones again, he’s smiling as you nod and smile back. 

“Everything looks so different from up here, I can’t even pick out any landmarks,” you remark, looking out over the city again. 

“That’s city hall over there,” Frankie points at a large domed building in the distance. “And there’s General Hospital where we’ll drop off the cargo. And there’s the river,” he points at the long watery snake that glints like silver as the sun hits it from above. 

Frankie continues to point out landmarks to you as he pilots the chopper towards the first destination and pretty soon you feel comfortable enough to lean closer to the window and let your gaze drop down below the chopper. Your stomach clenches at first but then you get used to the view and start enjoying yourself and Frankie’s easy company. He seems so happy flying, so in his element, that it’s hard to not get affected by his good mood. The shyness from your first meeting last night is gone and when he looks over at you it’s with bright eyes and a big smile. 

“I love that I’m the first one to show you all this,” he grins as you get braver and turn in your seat to get a better view out the window. “Your very first helicopter ride, it’s a big deal.” 

“I see why you love it so much, it feels addicting, to be able to fly above everything like this.” 

“Yeah, I always knew I wanted to be a helicopter pilot, used to watch the traffic reports on the news, just to get to see how the pilots flew, even when I was just a kid.” He chuckles at the memory. 

“And then you did it in the army you said?” 

“Yeah, I joined up with the intent to train as a helicopter pilot, I was in Delta Force for years before I left the army.” You see his face change into something darker as he seems to fold in on himself a little. “It wasn’t exactly the experience I thought it would be, it…it was maybe…it left me a bit..I don’t know…” he falters and you see the light go out in his eyes as looks down on his hands for a brief second. 

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to pry, you don’t need to say anything if you don’t want to,” you regret bringing it up as you see how it changes his mood, but Frankie shakes his head, giving you a small crooked smile. 

“Don’t worry about it, it’s just…I wanna tell you about it but not now, it’s maybe something for a date much further in the future, if you still wanna have me around then.” He says the last thing with a look over at you that melts your heart, that soft smile that transforms his face. 

“We’ll see,” you smile back at him, “if you stay true to your word about sharing your fries with me.” 

He chuckles and takes your hand, giving it a quick kiss, before grabbing the stick again.

The radio crackles through your headphones and you hear someone from Mount Hope hail the chopper and Frankie responds, starting to prepare for the descent down onto the landing pad outside the hospital. It takes a few minutes and your stomach flips a few times as Frankie steadily brings the helicopter down towards the ground. 

When you’re on the ground a hospital worker in scrubs and a jacket walks over to the helicopter holding onto what essentially looks like a big cooler with a red cross on it. Frankie quickly unbuckles himself and jumps out to slide the door to the back seat open. The middle aged woman with grey hair grabs his hand as she climbs into the back, giving you a quick nod, while Frankie checks that she’s safely strapped in and gives her a pair of headphones.

Soon you’re up in the air again, this ascent was much easier to handle, and Frankie turns the helicopter around and radios to General Hospital to let them know the ETA of the transport. With a stranger in the back of the chopper, the woman has the cooler on her lap the whole way, your conversation with Frankie is minimal. You keep looking out the window, trying to spot places you know, and at one point Frankie nudges your shoe with his boot and points down at a building ahead of the chopper. “The Outback Bar” is painted in large letters on the roof and he gives you a quick grin as you spot it and smile back at him. 

This trip is longer but time still passes fast and soon Frankie is bringing the helicopter down towards the bigger hospital. This time the landing pad is on the roof of a tall high rise and Frankie’s eyebrows are knitted together in concentration as he parries the side winds and slowly makes the descent. You watch him from the corner of your eye as he gently shifts the stick and works the pedals to correct the position. You can’t help but wonder how different this must be from his experience in the army. You try to imagine doing this while at the same time being under threat of enemy fire, but you can’t even picture it. 

When the helicopter touches down on the landing pad you barely feel it, just a slight sway. The lady in the back immediately unbuckles herself as Frankie gets out and slides open the door. You hear her yell a thank you to him over the roar of the rotor blades before walking with brisk pace towards the medical team waiting for her. Frankie swings himself back into the pilot’s seat and straps himself back in. 

“That’s it, mission accomplished, back to the airfield for us.” he says through the headphones and gives you a bright smile before pulling back on the stick and making you rise into the air again. 

“I feel bad,” Frankie suddenly says. “I just realised I never asked what you work with? I’ve just been going on about helicopters.”

“Don’t worry about it,” you laugh, “My job is nowhere near as exciting as helicopters, if I took you to my office you’d fall asleep in a corner before long,” you smile back at him.

“I doubt it, I’d be stealing snacks in the break room, isn’t that what office work is all about?” he smirks back at you. “What kind of business do you work in?”

 “I work in publishing, with academic books mainly.” 

“Really?” Frankie says, his eyes widening as he looks over at you. “That’s pretty damn impressive though, sounds like a job you need to be really smart to do.”

“I don’t know about smart, often it feels like I mainly baby sit grumpy professors who don’t understand why their thirty year old dissertations can’t be printed unedited as a text book,” you sigh, “my people skills are very often tested to the max.”

“But still, you’ve got a college degree right?” he asks, as you nod he continues, “I went from high school to the army and then on to this. I know nothing about anything except flying choppers.”

“That’s still pretty impressive to me though,” you smile at him. “If we had one of those Deep Impact situations, you know, where they have to select the important people to save to keep the human race going? Book editors would not make that cut but I’m pretty sure pilots would be needed.” 

Frankie chuckles, “I fucking loved that one, with Elijah Wood and Morgan Freeman, right? I liked that the meteor actually hit earth, and they showed the destruction and the panic, most movies build up to it but then disaster is avoided at the last second..” 

“Yeah, I really liked that too, in a messed up kinda way,” you say, ”and how they showed how that kind of event brought out the worst in the human race.”

 “What kind of movies are you into?” Frankie asks as he corrects the chopper and sets a course towards the airfield.

“Uuhm…most of them, I guess? I love any kind of historical drama, makes me feel like I have a time machine. And although I’m not crazy about superhero movies I love all Spider-Man movies, really looooove,” you emphasise the love, pulling out the o while Frankie chuckles. 

“I didn’t take you for a Spider-Man girl but that’s good to know.”

“What about you, what are your favourites?” you ask him. 

“I’m pretty predictable, I love action movies, and superhero movies,” he laughs, “and any good horror movie, especially at home with all the lights out, really scare the shit out of myself.” 

“Oh no, I can’t handle horror movies, Frankie!” you protest. “I get so scared I can’t sleep after them. I saw Gremlins when I was like nine and it scarred me for life, I haven’t watched anything scary since I think.” 

“You never watch horror movies?” Frankie asks, his eyebrows raised, looking shocked. 

“No, never really, I avoid them if I can.” 

“Not even classics like The Shining, Psycho, Halloween?” Frankie’s looking over at you, rattling off horror films you’ve heard of but would never dream of watching.

“No, nope, never ever, absolutely not,” you shake your head firmly, you know exactly where Frankie is going with this. 

“I think I need to plan a movie night for our second date,” Frankie chuckles. 

“That’s one sure fire way of not getting a second date, Frankie,” you warn, crossing your arms and pressing your lips together in a firm line, “absolutely not happening.” 

Frankie giggles and leans over, tugging at your arm, trying to uncross it, “Come on, hermosa, I’ll protect you, keep you safe from all the monsters, I’ll let you hide behind me when you get scared.” 

“Why would I even wanna get scared in the first place?” you protest, his giggles making you smile as he tugs your arm free and pulls it over towards his seat. 

“Because then you can hide yourself in my arms and I can feel like the brave guy protecting you from the imaginary monsters,” Frankie smiles and does that thing where he pulls your hand to his lips for a kiss while his warm brown eyes stay locked on you.

You smile back at him, his lips are warm and soft against your skin, and you wish you were back on the ground already. “I’m happy with you just being the brave helicopter guy who’s great at keeping me calm during flying.” 

“Yeah, really?” he smiles and you recognise the way his eyes shift to something more mischievous, “wanna try something scary up here?” 

“Uhu, what do you have in mind, Frankie?” you ask cautiously, “no crashing any vehicles please.” 

“Just hold on to your seat belt, like this,” he lets go of your hand and motions you to grab on to the straps just below your shoulders.

“Why, Frankie?” you ask nervously. 

“Just hold on,” he grins and you grab hold of the straps, watching him intently. He hails the airfield on the radio and tells Denny you’re almost back but that he’s going to try out something before landing. “We’re just gonna have some fun up here,” he says to his boss while grinning over at you. 

“Frankie….” you plead, but you can’t stop yourself from giggling too as the all clear comes through the radio from Denny. 

“Alright, here we go,” Frankie grins and you suddenly feel your whole world tipping sideways and you all but scream as the chopper suddenly tilts, Frankie pulling hard right on the stick. After a few seconds he straightens up again, only to bank hard left as you squeal, squeezing your eyes shut. Your stomach drops as you feel gravity pull you down, only the seatbelt keeping you in your seat. Next to you Frankie is chuckling happily as he pulls the chopper back up horizontal again. You press your head back hard against your set, trying to catch your breath. 

“You alright, hermosa?” Frankie’s voice comes through your headphones, you can hear his grin and you open your eyes and look over at him. “I fucking hate you, Francisco Morales,” you huff but you can’t hide your smile creeping up. The rush had been exhilarating and Frankie laughs at you. “Wanna do it again?” he asks and when you nod, he looks delighted, “knew you’d like it. Hang on then, cariño.” 

As Frankie puts the chopper through a number of skilled manoeuvres, the world around you tips and tilts until your head is spinning, adrenaline flowing through your system. It’s like being on the world’s best roller coaster and you can’t help giggling and squealing as you’re running out of breath. Until suddenly, out of nowhere, the air sickness hits and you feel nausea crash over you. 

“Frankie,” you cry out, “please stop, please stop.” 

Frankie immediately brings the chopper up to hover steadily and leans over, one hand on the stick, the other on your shoulder. You breathe in and out of your nose and try to control the panic in your chest. 

“Just breathe, hermosa, just look at the horizon and keep breathing.” He rubs his warm palm over your arm, “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done so much, I’m so sorry, hermosa.” He keeps rubbing his palm up and down your arm and the warmth from his hand and his calm voice in your headphones brings your breathing under control and the nausea dissipates slowly. Eventually you can look away from the horizon and over at Frankie, he’s still leaning over as far as his seat belt will let him, his eyes worried and guilty looking under the cap. 

“Feeling better?” he asks, moving his hand up from your arm to gently cup your cheek, his thumb stroking over the soft skin. “I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to make you air sick, cariño.” 

“I’m feeling better now,” you give him a small smile, “I don’t know what happened. I was having fun and then it just hit me all of a sudden.” 

“I think I went a bit overboard on the banking, I should’ve been more careful with you, I’m really sorry.” Frankie’s pained expression tugs at your heart and you reach up and put your hand over his on your cheek. 

“It’s fine, Frankie, I really had fun, it was like being on the best roller coaster. I guess it just got a little bit too much suddenly.” 

Frankie looks a little bit less guilty and gives you one of those warm, soft smiles that makes the corner of his eyes crinkle, his thumb still caressing your cheek.

“I think I’ll get us down again now, get some solid ground under your feet, hermosa.” 

“Sounds like a good idea,” you smile back at him, thankful for his calm way of getting your freak out under control. He leans back into his seat, reluctantly letting go of your cheek, and starts the descent. 

As the helicopter smoothly descends towards the airfield tarmac you see Denny approach from the hangar. Shielding his eyes from the dust whipped up by the rotor blades he waits until Frankie safely puts the aircraft down and turns off the engine, the silence almost deafening after the constant roar in your years. Frankie gets himself out of the pilot’s seat before coming round the chopper to help you out, gently taking the headphones off your head and unclipping your seatbelt. 

“Easy there,” he says, taking your hand and helping you to find your footing. Your legs are surprisingly jelly-like after being in the chopper, a bit like stepping off a boat when the ground still moves under you. “Don’t want you falling over, hermosa,” Frankie tucks his arm around your waist as Denny comes over. 

“Thanks for handling that, Morales,” he says as Frankie hands over the paperwork and the keys to the chopper. “Head on out of here, I’ll finish up, go enjoy your date.” The last thing he says with a smile at you, still safely tucked in with Frankie’s arm around you. 

“Thanks, boss, I’ll see you tomorrow,” he gives Denny a nod and guides you back towards the truck. You’re fine on your feet now but Frankie’s arm feels good around you, so you let your hand slip around his waist and with a little tug Frankie pulls you closer, you catch his smile as you glance up at him. 

As you get back to the truck Frankie walks you over to the passenger side door but doesn’t open it. Instead he moves so that your back is against the side of the truck, with him standing close in front of you. You feel a shiver run through your body as you see the look in his eyes, his brown eyes almost black as he leans closer to you. 

“Remember what I told you to do again, back when we were at the stop light?” he asks, his voice dropping low and dark. 

“Yes,” you breath out, pulse racing so fast you can feel it in your throat. 

You lift your hand and caress your fingers through the unruly dark brown curls poking out around his ear. Frankie inhales and briefly closes his eyes before opening them again as you let your hand slip down his neck, caressing the soft skin behind his ear. You stroke your thumb over his jaw, fitting your thumb against the bare patch. 

Frankie steps in closer, his hands coming up to cup your cheeks, slotting them around your face. The pink tip of his tongue pokes out, wetting his bottom lip briefly. 

“Can I finally kiss you now?” he whispers as his eyes flick down to your lips before looking up at you again. 

“Yes, Frankie, please,” you whisper back at him. 

His lips are soft, warm, supple, as he gently presses them against yours, his thumbs caressing your cheeks and his scent fills your nose. You wrap your arms around his waist and pull him closer and he steps in eagerly, pushing you up against the warm metal of the truck. His tongue darts out and runs along your lips, making you open up and taste him willingly. He deepens the kiss, tilting his head to savour more of your mouth as you feel his tongue slide along your own. A small moan escapes you and in response Frankie slides a hand behind your head, tangling his fingers in your hair, pulling you closer. 

You’re bunching up the sides of his black hoodie with how desperately you’re hanging on to him as he licks deeper into your mouth, the gentle kiss quickly turning into something a lot more eager. Frankie’s pressed up against you fully and as he shifts his stance you feel the ridgid thickness between his legs press up against your stomach. The sensation sends a jolt of electricity through you and heat pools at the apex of your thighs as Frankie moans into your mouth, shifting his weight again. With a groan he pulls away from your lips, both of you panting, out of breath. 

Frankie drops his forehead against yours and closes his eyes, you can feel his chest rise and fall against yours. 

“You drive me crazy, mi hermosa,” he whispers, “wanted to do that since I first saw you last night.” You smile up at him even though his eyes are still closed. 

“Probably would’ve let you do it last night too, Frankie,” 

“Should’ve asked Pope for a bigger bet,” he grins, opening his eyes and looking down at you. You smile and reach up for his lips, he meets you eagerly and you lose yourself in how soft he feels as lets his tongue slip into your mouth again. 

Chapter 3

[giggly-squiggily]

Oooo Candy Hearts are back!! Could I please request 💙 Adore: “I haven't even touched you yet!" With Mitsuba and Kou (TBHK)? Hope you’re well! Remember to stay hydrated!

My heart!!! I need to watch the new episodes of TBHK soon! These two have my heart in a chokehold! I've gotcha covered, friend! :D

Adore- "I haven't even touched you yet!"

“You want me to do that?”

“For the shot! I think it’d look amazing!” Mitsuba nodded encouragingly, gesturing to the reference photo he pulled up on Kou’s phone. It looked like an old foreign film- a man in a half-mask holding a beautiful woman in his arms. “I know we don’t have costumes, but the pose is so romantic, don’t you think?”

“Yeah, I suppose it is.” Kou felt his face flush some at Mitsuba’s words, but the thought didn’t deter him. If anything, they made him want to do it more. “I’m the guy, right?”

“Well, you are taller. And I am rather cute.” Mitsuba set up his camera as they gathered together, leaning back into Kou’s chest. “Put your hand on my collar.”

“Like this?” Kou tried to mimick the posture, but when he brushed against the smaller boy’s neck, he flinched and ducked. “Sorry- did that hurt?”

“N-No! Noho, it tihihckles!” Mitsuba giggled out, gesturing for him to try again. “Sorry, sorry.” Kou reached out, but again, the pink haired ghost squeaked and laughed.

“I haven’t even touched you yet!” Kou cried, more amused than annoyed. He tried to approach differently, eventually laying his hand on Mitsuba’s chest like in the posture. “Ready?”

“Wahhait, wahhaahit, wait.” Taking a few breathes, Mitsuba’s expression changed. He closed his eyes and looked away, much like the women in the posture. Shame really- he could have been a phenomenal actor. “Ready.”

Kou angled his head. Moments later, a snap was heard. “Perfect!” Mitsuba cheered, reaching out to get his camera. Before he could though, he was squeaking with laughter once more. “Ahahahaha! Kohohohou, cohohohome ohohohon!”

“Sorry! Sorry, I had to!” The ginger laughed, pulling his fingers out of the crook of Mitsuba’s neck. An elbow to his gut made him wince, but it was nothing in the face of Mitsuba’s expression. “Did it come out alright?” “Kou..” He smiled, holding up the camera. Their faces looked back at them, Mitsuba’s camera work was ever impressive. “It’s perfect.”

“Yeah.” He couldn’t take his eyes off the beautiful expression Mitsuba wore. “More than that.”

Send Me a Prompt and I'll Write A Dabble For It!

[bechloe-trash]

prompt list

# 27

“If we get caught I’m blaming you”

Hey to the girls, gays, and theys. Ive been slowly dabbling back into writing Bechloe fanfic again. It’s been 4 years since I’ve written anything. So please be nice and enjoy. Also don’t hesitate to send me more prompts from the prompt list on my page. I’ll try my best to do one shots. Again plz enjoy !!- Ash 🥰

It’s become a regular occurrence. Actually a daily occurrence, that neither of them have talked about since sneaking around.

Beca isn’t sure exactly how or when it started, but she’s not complaining.

Currently both her and Chloe are in the laundry room. Mouths and hands in/ on places, that typically wouldn’t/ shouldn’t be there for best friends. If there was a line; it has definitely been crossed and to the point of no return.

A moan softly escapes from Chloe while Beca’s hands are cupping Breast over her shirt while her mouth is currently on her neck. Beca is trailing kisses down her neck, occasionally softly nipping, but careful not to leave any marks. Marks would give away of what’s currently happening.

“ B-beca, please just fuck me already” Chloe moaned eagerly

Beca picks Chloe up and put her on the washing machine. Once on there, Beca starts to take off Chloe’s clothes. Shirt is tossed behind them lost on the ground somewhere. Beca has a lust in her eyes as they scan over Chloe’s body. Her fingers tracing Chloe’s back, stoping right and the strap. With one hand she undoes her bra. Slowly Chloe’s bra falls from her chest. Beca’s eyes immediately lands on Chloe’s chest. Perky boobs and erected nipples right at Beca’s finger tips.

“God, you’re so beautiful” Beca says looking into Chloe’s eyes right before slowly kissing down Chloe’s neck again

A slight blush creeps across Chloe’s cheeks. Fuck she’s in love with Beca, but that’s not a conversation they’re ready for yet. But all she can think about it is Beca’s mouth latched onto her right nipple.

After a few moments Beca starts to play with Chloe’s waist band. Slowing unbuttoning and unzipping her jeans. Chloe takes it as a sign to lift her hips up to help Beca take off her pants. Beca is kissing Chloe’s thigh definitely leaving hickeys; no one is going to see them but Beca. Chloe hisses as Beca releases a bit of skin she just had in her mouth. There’s definitely going to be a mark.

Looking up into Chloe’s eyes. Beca is asking permission for what’s to come. Chloe’s just bites her lip and that’s enough of a sign for Beca

Beca is now inches away from Chloe’s center. She reaches up and starts to pull down a pair of blue lace panties. All Chloe can do is put her hands on Beca’s shoulder keeping herself balanced. Beca is inches away from taking Chloe’s clit into her mouth.

All of a sudden they hear the front door open. “ fuck” they both said in union, in a Panicked tone. They jump up from what they were in the middle of doing. Chloe trying to put her clothes back on. “If we get caught I’m blaming you” Beca said as she started to act like she’s putting clothes into the washing machine. She laundry room door opens, there stands Chloe in pants and her bra; no shirt.

“ what’s going on ?” Stacie says with a perplexed look on her face.

“ I was helping Beca carry laundry down and load them I “ Chloe says quickly. Beca’s attention still on the laundry In front of them. Cause there’s no way she can make eye contact with the tall brunette.

“Ok, but why don’t you have a shirt on tho?” Stacie asked with a now amused smile

Chloe is quick to come up with a believable excuse. “ I spilt something on my shirt and was just putting in with Beca’s load”

It was a good enough excuse for Stacie. Cause after Chloe was done explaining; she didn’t push any further. She returned back to the living room.

Chloe spins around back to Beca about to say something before she gets cut off.

“ dude that was a close one! If we’re going to continue with whatever this is” Beca motions between the two of them. “ we got to either plan better timing, or start finding better places”

“ agreed” all Chloe says before placing a quick kiss on Beca’s cheek before leaving.

When both girls were alone in their own respected spaces. They both thought to themselves. “We need to talk to talk to each other about what’s been happening. And talk about having feelings for each other.”

Maybe one day but not today….

The End

[wambsgansshoelaces]

a/n: hi ! this is the first part of hopefully a series ! it’s the plan that multiple characters all get their own series :)

for reference, I’m never going to use actual plot lines for fics so that we can avoid spoilers. i hope my writing is in character- and good lol. Prologues will always be shorter than actual chapters- think of it as getting into character lmao.

Enjoy + please leave your thoughts !

chapters 1 and 2!

Kendall Roy x Reader

Something Sweet; Prologue

5:30 A.M.

You stare at your alarm clock as it beeps- you swear that thing has grown eyes and is staring at you. You drag yourself out of bed, and before you know it, you’re flitting about your bakery getting ready for the day. The night before, you’d made a perfect batch of Eclaires that you’re sure will sell well today. When it finally hits seven, you flip the sign hanging on the bakery’s front door from ‘closed’ to ‘open’.

You normally don’t get that many people in the early mornings, and today is no different. A few people come in and buy some of your Thanksgiving themed cookies, a few others the seasonal peppermint coffee. It being Thanksgiving, you don’t see anybody in your store at all after nine.

Until it hits noon, anyway.

When the bell fastened above the front door tinkles, you’re in the way back messing around with some dough for a prospective holiday pastry you’ve been thinking about. “Coming!”

When you round the corner, you’re a bit surprised to find who’s looking back at you. His eyes wrinkle in exhaustion, and he’s subtly fidgeting with his fingers. He’s wearing a smoothed out sweater vest, crisp dress pants, and a watch that looks like it cost more than your bakery. You wonder why he isn’t wearing a coat- November in New York was by no means warm. You feel like you’ve seen him somewhere before- online? On the street, in the news? Before you can open your mouth to ask how you can help, he begins.

“Why are you open on Thanksgiving?”

Again, he takes you by surprise, but you don’t miss a beat. “Why are you here on Thanksgiving?”

“Touché. Sorry. I’m drunk. And high. I think.” He drops his head into his hands. “I just needed to get inside. Sorry,” he repeats, attempting to wipe the weariness from his eyes.

At first, you don’t know what to say. You don’t really dabble in the world of drugs, nor do you drink, but you feel for him. There’s just something about him- some part of your subconscious that knows something you don’t. He looks like he’s been through it, anyway. It doesn’t hurt to be kind.

“Why don’t you take a seat? Stay in as long as you like. I’m not exactly busy.” You gesture to the various booths and café tables that line the walls and sit throughout your store.

He ducks his head down, pinking slightly. “I’m really sorry.”

You sigh, and feel a tinge of pity. “Go sit. I’ll get you a glass of water.” Reluctantly, he shuffles off, and you fill a glass with bottled water then open your pastry display.

You round the counter and sit in the chair across from him, sliding him the water and setting a prettily decorated cupcake on the table.

“Drink up.” You look at him expectantly. He stares back, then looks down into the glass. “Like you said, you’re drunk and probably high. It’s best you start flushing it out.”

He mumbles a quick ‘thank you’ and takes a dainty sip of water.

“Come on. You have to drink more than that.” I peel the wrapper on the cupcake back and push it into his hands. Hesitantly, he eats.

“This is really good,” he says quietly. “You made it?”

“Of course I did. I bake everything here.”

Eventually, he finished both the water and the treat. With what you read as shame, he thanks you profusely again before being interrupted by someone entering the shop. Before you get up, he says softly, “Let me pay.”

“What? Absolutely not. It’s on the house.”

You go to help your customer, but when they’re gone, you realize that so is the man from before.

[androxys]

2024 Writing Review

I was tagged in this by @vechter!

number of stories posted to ao3: I posted 2 works this year, which was a marked decrease from 2023's 7 fics. I guess I needed a break! The two were Hello World, It's Me Again (the first chapter) and I'd Teach My Feet to Fly (a one-shot).

word counted posted for last year: 17,163 words!

fandoms i wrote for: Oh, it was Batman. Because I'm dabbling in a few continuities for Barbara and playing it a little looser, HWIMA got an AMT tag. ITMFTF is very strictly comics-informed, though, so it got some (comics) tags for Batman, Checkmate, and Outsiders.

pairings: No ships this year! Just Sasha Bordeaux & Bruce Wayne; Dick Grayson & Bruce Wayne; Sasha Bordeaux & Dick Grayson. All three were from ITMFTF.

stories with the most kudos, bookmarks and comment threads: That's Hello World. It's a bigger fic, with more for people to bite into, and with the benefit of not having been posted in the last week!

work i’m most proud of (and why): Agh, picking children! Nah. I'm more proud of Hello World. It's a bigger project, drawing on a lot of different threads and trying to be my personal love letter to one of my favorite characters of all time.

work i’m least proud of (and why): I'd Teach is one of those fics where nothing happens, and I'm like 95% okay with how it landed... but that 5% is still missing. But, part of the process is making slightly misshapen things to keep working the writing muscle.

share or describe a favorite review you received: I feel like I hold every comment I've ever received dear to my heart, but this one by @scintillyyy really touched me.

A lot of the comments addressed my central goal of this fic--working on giving Oracle's Year One a modern lift and giving Barbara space to experience more messy ups and downs of recovery--and reassured that yes, I was hitting what I wanted to. But I was fully ready for the SCI research I did to kind of slip away unnoticed, so I really appreciated having that called out too.

a time when writing was really, really hard: Most of the year lmao. 2024 was the year of higher education, which left less fic time than I would have liked. But as soon as this degree is in hand and I can go back to full time work, I've got a backlog of writing to jump on.

a scene or character you wrote that surprised you: I talked about this a little with vechter in the comments of I'd Teach, but the Bludhaven scene in I'd Teach My Feet to Fly came about kind of unexpectedly. Everything about that fic kind of took the reins from me.

a favourite excerpt of your writing:

“Details are still coming out,” Barbara says, lying like an artist. That’s all this job ever was, lying in the service of what you hope is higher meaning. “But it was overseas. Ethiopia. The funeral will be tomorrow. Mr. Wayne… Bruce… wanted to let me know. Invite me to come, since I knew him.” “That’s… God, Babs. That’s awful.” He shakes his head, unsure what to say. His hand brushes back his ever-greying hair, his other reaching for his pipe. He gets it lit and takes a few puffs, his head tilting back as the soothing smoke drifts from his mouth. “God,” he repeats. “He was young.” “Yeah.” “Are you going to go?” She doesn’t want to. She knows she will. She owes it to him.

I like this sequence because it illustrates the fic's general premise: take a canon moment, expand it a little, and then focus in a little harder on Babs.

how did you grow as a writer last year: I don't know how much I grew this year, honestly. All writing is growth, and doing it is the hardest part. I think HWIMA is some of my best prose, and it's certainly shaping up to be my longest work yet. I think I'm continuously getting more comfortable with larger projects, but I'm also trying to develop more comfort with fics that just compare scenes and have some commentary around them. One of my favorite things to do as a fan is to just hold two different moments in time together, and I have to remind myself that the literary equivalent of that is still a worthwhile fan activity.

how do you hope to grow this year: I want to keep working on different types and formats of fic! I have two fics that I've been meaning to podfic forever, and the majority of a longfic that I started podficcing and then fell way off track with. (@ididloveyou I promise I have not forgotten about you! One of these days I promise I'm going to get back 😭). Otherwise, I'm working on my Wonder Woman fic that's going to end up as a poem, which is a new frontier for me. But largely, I just want to finish some WIPs. I owe a certain dear fandom friend a certain sequel 😉

who was your greatest positive influence this year as a writer (could be another writer, beta, cheerleader, etc.): Oh lord, all of y'all. Can I just say that? It takes a village, and I feel like so many folks in my ecosystem help influence me and my writing for the better. In no particular order, @havendance and @mintchocochipsposts and @zahri-melitor and @tevya-fandom, you've all been in my comments or my DMs or on discord, and are my subsequent MVPs of 2024. Jinx, I'm not sure where to find you but you're getting a shout-out too. Thank you for all your help and kind words over the year.

anything from your real life show up in your writing last year: Someone in the process of getting their MLS, writing about someone getting their MLS? It's more likely than you think!

any new wisdom you can share with other writers: Never be afraid to put something in a bracket and come back later! I bullet point my fics and write them from there, and sometimes I skip a bullet or describe the action (something like [Barbara looks at the mirror, isn't happy, fixes it]) and just write the next thing. Don't let something break your momentum. The other best writing wisdom I've ever received is that if you feel absolutely stuck when writing, go back about six sentences and see if the problem actually started there. I write myself into corners all the time, and have to retrace myself to solve clunky dialogue or a bad movement rather than trying to brute force my way out.

any projects you’re looking to starting (or finishing) this year: Definitely HWIMA. Ken and Barbie. The Wonder Woman poem. Those are the big three. After that, I want to get back into podfic and do that for a bit. And then we'll see where we go!

I tagged a lot of people in gratitude through this post (and all of y'all should consider this your tag to participate if you want!), but I'm also going to tag @cuephrase, @themyscirah, @sl-walker, and @clearbluewaters for my due diligence. Here's to a lovely 2025, everybody.

[razorblade180]

Rough housing

Mona:*writing*

Thud

Mona:Hmm? (Are those two sparring again? Guess it is about that time.)

Thud!

Mona:*whips head around* …… sigh

She runs over to her window and opens it to see Aether and Scara tumbling on the ground as they fought each other aggressively. Their close were very messy as was their skin lightly bruised.

The boys were so caught up in their brawl that they failed to notice her approaching. As Aether pinned Scara to the ground and reeled his fist back, both of the were splashed with water.

Mona:HEY! *holding towels*

Scara and Aether:*turns head*

Mona:Too rough. Stop fighting.

Scara:And what gives you the right right to break up training?

Aether:We’re fine!

Mona:Your nose is bleeding….

Scara:Awww she’s worried I might hurt you.

Mona:Aether can break you in two.

Scara:So you admit you do worry about me? That must be very hard for you~

She splashes water on him specifically. The boy scoffed while Aether got off of him. As they stood, still ready to tussle, Mona got in between them and shoved the towels in their faces.

Mona:You two are acting like energized dogs, and right in my backyard no less. What training draws real blood!?

Scara:He doesn’t go down easy.

Aether:And he enjoys a challenge. I was giving him one.

Mona:Now you’re sounding like him.

Aether:*takes Mona’s hat* Now I look more like him too.

Scara:Hmph! In your dreams.

Aether:More like nightmares.

Mona:Can you two behave for half an hour. I’m trying to finish my star chart.

Scara:And that’s important to me because…?

Mona:I’ll splash you again.

Scara:Don’t miss.

He puts his hands on her hips and gives his coy smiles that makes Mona squint, her tolerance for the brat being tested. Aether draped his arms over her shoulders, which made her glance at his cheeky smile.

Mona:Don’t act all innocent.

Aether:I’m not. I’m just smiling.

Mona:Well smile as you find a more productive way to tire yourselves out.

Aether and Scara:*get a little closer*

Mona:…Easy now….

Scara:You’re the one who called us dogs. We were just fine rough housing. But if you really think we need a chew toy…

Aether:It is a little suspicious The Great Astrologist Mona didn’t foresee this.

Mona:It’s hard to foresee anything when all I hear outside is chaos! I also stand by what I called you Scara, so behave.

Scara:Say that when your face isn’t red. It’s not like we can stop you from turning into water, and yet you’re still in between us instead of studying your stars.

Aether:Be nice.

Scara:That’s your job. Not mine.

Mona:I don’t know why I put up with you two sometimes.

Kokomi:*watching*….Nilou? Can I say something that you won’t repeat?

Nilou:Go ahead.

Kokomi:By no means am I jealous, but I am deadly curious about how Mona…handles her life at times. You two live in the same house as Mona. How do-

Nilou:I’m warned ahead of time. Though…there’s been close calls and such. *red* Can’t say I’m jealous, but I am thoroughly impressed. Now, can I say something you can’t repeat?

Kokomi:Yes?

Nilou:I would not be upset if Aether dated Kaveh.

Kokomi:Oh my goodness!

Nilou:What!? You have Gorou. Mona has Scara; apparently everyone dabbles in making sandwiches. Where’s mine!?

Kokomi:He could end up falling for a kind woman.

Nilou:Have you seen Candace!? I’d clap! I love all kinds of bread. I’m still between them.

Kokomi:I’m so glad we met.

[changelingsandothernonsense]

Wip whenever

Tagged by @mareenavee, @gilgamish, @kookaburra1701, @rainpebble3. I'll get to reading all of your posts shortly <3 This week I finished a render which is here. I also started two more renders and started some more writing.

Art.

First we have Dwifi, which I started a while ago and have more progress.

I still love that his hair is up...idk XD Secondly, I wanted to start painting a 4th Era Josh...and this one I quite liked.

I can't wait to get to the scarification, it's an important edition between how he appears in 4E199 vs the above image (and pretty much all his renders since March) which is 3E 427. Writing under the cut-

Writing Oh look it corresponds directly with this snippet... I plan on this being a 4 chapter mini fic that covers Unearthered. Yes, I wish to write a zombie horror fic for spooky season, go me.

Sydari rested her chin in her hand and grinned. She’d only known the merc for a short time and she was starting to get used to his tells. He was nervous about asking her something like this. Teldryn Sero was no expert thief. Though he’d mentioned that he had dabbled in smuggling from time to time back on the mainland. He hadn’t detailed much. Teldryn never did, but she knew he was at least familiar with how this sort of thing worked. Yet he fiddled with the scarf that he wore around his neck as if he’d never so much as considered such a thing. It was sweet in a way. She decided she’d entertain his idea tonight. It might be fun.

“Teldryn Sero, are you suggesting we undercut this guy and smuggle artifacts through my networks?” She crossed her legs and leaned back in her seat. Sydari tilted her head, resting it in her hand again.

Teldryn nodded. His expression turning slightly grim, “Something like that.”

Sydari frowned, sitting up a little straighter in her seat. Something was wrong, “Teldryn what’s this about?”

Teldryn drummed his pigment-stained fingers on the table, “It’s-” He paused, Sydari could see that he was chewing on his lip again, considering his next words carefully, “It’s this place,” Teldryn gestured lightly around the dimly lit room, “We’re operating at such a loss that,” He paused again, sinking even further into his seat. If that was possible.

Teldryn lowered his voice, “I’m worried that if things keep going like this,” He paused again and started fiddling with the ring on his left index finger. Something he always did when he was overthinking something. He winced, having probably upset his barely healed fingers. He’d told her he’d shattered them in a door the day their paths crossed for a second time. Teldryn opened and closed his hand several times before he spoke again.

“I haven’t had to worry about this sort of thing,” he rubbed the back of his neck, pulling some of the hair that trailed down his neck over his shoulder, “It’s been a while since I’ve had to think about this kind of thing. But,” He shook his head, “I’m worried Miluth.”

Sydari reached across the table for his hand and squeezed it slightly. The sharp edges of the ring he always wore dug into the skin of her palm. Teldryn’s expression softened as he looked back at her, exhaling slowly.

“I wish you’d let me help, or at least pay for my room,” Sydari offered.

“I told you already. I can’t ask you to do that,” Teldryn removed his hand from hers, “I can’t ask that of you.”

Sydari sat back in her seat again. Stubborn fool that he was. Deep down she knew this was his way of asking her for help. He was saving face, trying to frame the question in a way that she’d benefit. As if helping him wasn’t something she’d been doing since she first landed on this barren, frozen ash rock. Or maybe it was because of that.

Teldryn was right. Sydari had maintained to her colleagues in Riften that her extended stay in Raven Rock was due to her trying to extend the guild’s reach throughout their former range. Fix Mercer’s mistakes. It wasn’t. Not really.  Things had gotten far more complicated than that. Though she wasn’t ready to acknowledge it herself yet. She couldn’t define what any of this was. Still…regardless of the reasons why she had chosen to stay put, Sydari figured she better start having something to show for her so-called efforts. And besides, Glover had been pestering her to send old Delvin an update so that he’d stop bugging him. She figured she could at least see what this “investment opportunity” was all about.

It would make Teldryn feel better at least.

Sydari sighed, “I guess it couldn’t hurt to go ask this guy about it, see what it’s all about.”

Teldryn looked up at her and grinned, his past distress slipping away as quickly as it had appeared.

“Sorry, I didn’t catch that, what were we doing?” He raised his hand to his left earlobe and pulled on in. Sydari shook her head, she knew where this was going.

“Teldryn!” She giggled, “Teldryn I know you heard what I said.”

He shook his head, “No I missed it, please, I’m all ear,” he laughed at his own joke. It was contagious, setting Sydari into a fit of laughter herself. Though one day she’d have to tell him. His joke wasn’t really that funny.

“We’ll talk to the fetcher in the morning. Yeah?” He sat back in his seat and tilted his head to the side again, awaiting her reply. She copied his motion, the movement unintentional.

“Fine Sero, you win. We’ll see this Dunmer in the morning.” 

[bvannn]

Weekly update February 7, 2025

I did a ton this week, I was so productive, but also I’m having mood swings again so it doesn’t feel like I got anything done. I did though, hopefully a rundown will help my confidence.

I got two little side animation projects done. I’m still de-rusting as far as animating, but I’m posting the one today regardless, the next one is smaller and will probably go up next Friday. I’m trying to space out the music I have ready to go up so they don’t cannibalize each other. It’ll be instrumental stuff for a bit, and I’ll probably get going on other animations once my confidence is built back up. I do have written out how a video for Raccoon Rock would go, I have plans for a smaller one and a larger one for some future covers as well, those won’t be for a while though since I need to be on a decently big animation kick for me to start on those. TRGA is also back in the menu, I got Tim’s assets fixed and exported, and also re-imported and finished fixing both Jon and Emile’s rigs. A bunch of little fixes that are gonna save so much time, the eyes do less clipping now, the limbs are easier to control now, some of the liquid assets have textured lines now with options to add more, the sketch lines are rendered in adobe instead of having to be exported and imported, everything is just so much nicer now. I’ll probably bite the bullet and actually get started on an animation with them once my confidence is back, since rig animation is easier than getting a whole bunch of other assets done for a music video. That’ll probably be sometime next week.

Music: while I was having my bought of productivity early this week, I got an outline done for the song about art block I’ve had plans for since July. I think I will need to redo the instrumental part I had thrown together, but that’s okay. My most popular song right now is Raccoon Rock, and this one is planned to have a similar vibe, albeit different subject matter and some different instruments. Like, less ska punk and more straight punk but with silly instruments thrown in. Like *really* silly. I got about half of the melody writing for that done now too, so again writing should be a breeze once I’m feeling better. I dabbled a bit into some instrumentals I have lying around now too, and if I’m in a good mood this afternoon I might blast through some of the other vocal covers I have lying around.

Comic: I did a ton of writing this week, bunch of outlining for O’Malley and set up a plan for outlining for Backstage. Also got page 18 of O’Malley pretty much lined, if I’m not in a good enough mood for music today I’ll probably color and finish up that, and for sure I’ll do it tomorrow if not today. Problem is that I’m getting to really fun parts of the story, but they also have more panels, and more complicated panels at that. But that being said page 18 is one of my favorites so far.

Epithet: have been on and off in epithet moods this week, got a tile set for the stage 3 maps laid out (I don’t want to call it ‘done’ because I had to go back to the stage 2 tileset and add in a bunch of stuff afterwards), and also went back and decorated and finished the stage 2 maps, and sketched a bunch more tokens, but I need to be in a good mood to finish them off. Really a lot this week hinges on my mood. I think I’m still equilibrating from the new dose of the medicine, so I don’t know how bad next week will be.

I think that’s generally it, I had another little project that’s gonna be done when it gets done, and then I’m just watching my mood and health. Again I’m doing everything I can, I have another big doctor visit next Thursday which I’m hoping will be the last one I need to get my next surgery booked. I’m starting to get worried about money again but I’m hoping that’s me being paranoid and not anything to actually worry about. I’m going to try to do everything myself, I probably should be fine. Thanks everyone for sticking around, I promise once I’m healthy I’ll make the most beautiful art and music for you all!

[pyrotechnicarus]

Blistered Inkwell: Editing Services for Musicals, Stories, and Novels!

Hi! I don’t think people here know about my editing side gig, so I figured I would make a new pinned post about it. I’m currently doing freelance editing to help put myself through graduate school, and I’m so excited to work on your new project- whether it’s a musical, short story, novel, or standalone song! 

Background

I’ve been prose editing for literary magazines for six years and counting, including running my own litmag twice, and I’ve edited scripts for plays and musicals for three. I’ve also studied creative writing extensively, most recently at Princeton and now at NYU. My framework as an editor is focused on polishing your piece to help you say what you want to say as distinctly and uniquely as possible. 

Strengths

My passion is speculative fiction, which means any story that takes place not in this world. Sci-fi, fantasy, dystopian fiction, myth retellings, magical realism- lay it on me! This isn’t to say I won’t read realistic fiction, just that I feel I can advise speculative fiction particularly well. 

As a lyricist I am best with editing musical-theater-style lyrics (e.g. there is a close attention paid to rhyme and meter, a character development happens in the piece, and it is intended to be consumed by a live audience), though I have a passing familiarity with other styles.

Process 

For most of the tiers below, I will read your piece several times, give you a marked-up copy with detailed feedback, and meet with you to discuss that feedback and answer any questions you might have. My approach bridges developmental and copy editing, so it's best for pieces that you are still in the process of working on (instead of pieces that you really only want a grammar checker for.) Timeline depends on the length of the piece I’m reading, but it usually takes 1-5 days for the initial turnaround. If you’d like more or less involvement, please let me know in your inquiry and we can work out the right price! 

Sounds great! How do I reach out? 

Use the form on my website (www (dot) melhornyak (dot) com) to reach out to me and let me know a little bit about the piece you’re working on and what tier you’d like to work with me under (pricing visible under the cut!)

Tiers

Dabble- $10

The Piece: One song, scene, or short prose excerpt that is 3 pages long or less

You receive: An edited, marked up copy of your piece with comments, questions, and compliments. 

Who it’s for: If you’re just starting a project, or if you want to see if we collaborate well before you commission me for a bigger tier!

Engage- $25

The Piece: One short story, script, or script excerpt that is 20 pages or less

You receive: An edited, marked up copy of your piece with comments, questions, and compliments AND a 15-minute Zoom or phone call to discuss the edits. 

Who it’s for: If you’re ready to polish up your one-act, or you need another eye on your short story! 

Indulge- $50

The Piece: One full script of a musical or play OR several short stories OR one complete novella OR one excerpt of a novel that is 150 pages or less

You receive: An edited, marked up copy of your piece with comments, questions, and compliments AND a 30 minute Zoom or phone call to discuss the edits

Who it’s for: If you’ve finished a short work and you’re revising it, or you want someone else to give it a once-over before submitting it. 

Explore- $75

The Piece: One full script of a musical or play OR several short stories OR one complete novel OR an excerpt of a novel that is 500 pages or less

You receive: An edited, marked up copy of your piece with comments, questions, and compliments AND an hour-long Zoom or phone call to discuss the edits AND a chance to revise your work and have me read it over and mark it up again! Double the editing and twice the collaboration! 

Who it’s for: If you want to work more closely on your piece, you’re still actively modifying it, or you feel like a second round of editing would help your creative process! 

Extravaganza- $90

The Piece: One full script and score of a musical or play OR one complete novel OR 5-7 short stories that are too long to fit into the other tiers 

You receive: An edited, marked up copy of your piece with comments, questions, and compliments AND an hour-long Zoom or phone call to discuss the edits AND a chance to revise your work and receive more feedback AND another Zoom or phone call to discuss that feedback! 

Who it’s for: If you really, really need someone to read your entire 1,000-page fantasy novel, or you want my thoughts on the music of your show in addition to the script and lyrics! 

FAQs 

What do you mean by ‘Zoom or phone call’? 

I personally prefer Zoom, but I know that not everyone is comfortable with a face to face meeting with some stranger on the internet! My availability for phone calls is also generally wider, so I will let you decide whether we call on the phone or via Zoom according to how quickly you want to meet, and what you are comfortable with. 

Can I get you to read over my piece for school/homework/a contest? 

Please check with your instructor or the contest administrator! Most of the time, I’ve found they are okay with outside editors as long as we are properly cited and credited, but it very much depends on your individual situation. You can also always submit your piece first, and then ask for edits afterwards.

Will you read my fanfiction? 

Yes, with two caveats: I can’t guarantee my familiarity with the source material, so if I don’t know the source material I’ll be approaching it as though it is a standalone work of literature. You’ll still receive helpful grammar, style, and arc feedback, but sometimes this means I’ll ask about character development that your main audience would already know from the source. Secondly, I will not read or edit fanfiction of my own creative work. You can understand how the power dynamics of that would be fucked up, right? 

About that Extravaganza option- what sort of feedback can you give on a score? Aren’t you a lyricist and a bookwright? 

Yes, alas! However, I can read music and work closely with composers. I will not be able to give you as specific edits on your music as I can give lyric edits - for that, I would recommend a professional music director, orchestrator, or composer. However, I can approach your score as a lyricist and offer edits on setting, rhythms, tone, instrument choice, and singability, all of which are vital for the success of your music. 

While I’ll listen to demos in any of the tiers if you have them, the distinction in the markup between the Explore and Extravaganza tiers is that I will be making these notes on the actual score of the piece with specific measure numbers instead of on the lyric sheet. 

These are measured in pages... can I make my text real small and get you to edit more of it? 

Please don’t! The prices are calculated based on the estimated amount of time it would take for me to read each of these, so making the font smaller means you’re underpaying me for my work. I provide some fair general formatting guidelines when we enter a working relationship. If I glance at your document and can see you’re trying to pull one over on me, I reserve the right to return any money you’ve paid me and refuse to read your work. 

How much do you actually edit a piece? Will you get offended if I don’t agree with your edits?

It really depends on the piece and what it needs! More edits does not necessarily mean the piece needs more help- I could just have a lot of great things to say about it! I always write a much longer essay-style letter at the end to summarize my overall thoughts, any structural things I want to bring up, and where the next steps are as I see them. 

Whether you eventually take my suggestions is fully up to you! I consider myself an audience member, letting you know about my first impressions, and a fellow writer giving you avenues for changing those impressions, but not an equal creative partner or a dictator telling you what to do with your work.

Should I do this if I can’t afford it?

Absolutely not! I know everyone in the arts world is kind of passing the same $20 around, and that getting a professional editor isn’t something everyone can afford. I am not in any dire financial crisis and if you know someone who is, help them first before thinking about any of these!

Thank you for reading, and I look forward to working with you! If you have any questions, shoot them to me here or on my website above.

[roxy206]

hi kimmy!! i hope you're having a fantastic day <3 ready for some questions? how many different fan communities/fandoms have you been in? how active are you in them? what was/is your favorite one to be a part of? do you say you spend a lot of time in fandom spaces, or is it something that you do occasionally as an escape?

Hi Gi!!

Omg. So I’ve been in online fandoms for like two decades at this point. I definitely have some ebb & flow with whether I’m actively in a fandom / fandoms, the amount of time I’m able to dedicate to being online, etc. But fandom always has been & always will have a very special place in my life. I love being able to connect with people over things we’re so passionate about!

I’m someone who loves to really dive in. There are some things that I simply cannot casually like & I want to talk about them in depth all the time. And very very occasionally one of my irl friends will share that level of enthusiasm for the same thing, but more often than not even if one of my irl friends loves the same thing as me there’s a cap on how much they want to talk about it & how much they delve into the background etc etc (an example is that it was one of my irl friends who literally sat me down & made me watch UNHhhh & now here we are 😂 )

As far as what fandoms I’ve been in …

It all started with American Idol / Saula. Shout out to everyone who was on SH back in the day because in every fandom I’ve been in since there’s been at least one other person who was also on that board!

I dabbled a little bit in Grey’s Anatomy fandom. Not much though, I think because that was like the one case where everyone was watching it those first few seasons & talking about it so it was very easy to scratch that itch to talk about it

Bones — if I recall correctly, I don’t think I was part of a specific fan forum for Bones, but there was this TV recap board I was on that had a section for Bones fans

SVU

Literally my longest relationship with a fandom. I think I’m out & then I get pulled back in. But also my longest fandom friendships — I’ve met so many people from the fandom irl & still catch up with some of them after, like, 15 years. And then I’ve made new fandom friends in waves after that lol

Oh & actually my longest fandom friendship goes all the way back to Saula & has extended into a lot of these other shows. 20+ years!

Nashville & X Files brought me back into the online fandom space after a bit of time away from it. I was so happy to be back in it. And then Good Girls again after a bit of a longer period of time

And of course T & K, Drag Race, CDR, etc!

I also have written fanfic for a lot of these fandoms:

Saula; Booth / Brennan; Demily; EO; Chriska; Bristen; Gillian / David; Brio; Trixya; Vandergerd

(I actually can’t remember if I wrote Deyna fic — I definitely read it & I think maybe I did write some too?)

[angelofthepage]

38?

38. What is something about your writing process YOU think is Really Weird? If you are comfortable, please share. If you’re not comfortable, what do you think cats say about us?

Hmm, that's a tough one! I don't necessarily think anything about my process is weird, but I get the sense other people might be confused by some of my methods. Like, writing out of order isn't weird, it's a great strategy if you want to get to the part you're really passionate about while it's fresh and then work backwards. Sure it involves a lot of editing, but it's worth it to capture the passion. But I've met a lot of people who don't approach stories that way and find it odd.

One thing I'm in the habit of doing is writing dialogue as pure dialogue first and then going back and adding in body language where it's needed. I'm someone who talks to myself a great deal, the mirror knows me rather intimately in the way of monologues. And as a voice actor, I've found it useful to say your dialogue out loud to see how natural it sounds. If you've ever heard me speak out loud, you'll know I type rather similarly to how I talk, but I also like imagining many different ways of speaking. Sometimes I worry it all sounds too much like me, but then again, there's always a part of you in your art, so I suppose that's not a bad thing. I remember some of my language choices threw people off in college, people were confused by why some of my merfolk characters constantly called each other 'cousin', and I'm just like, that's part of the world building, it's the culture!" In eighth grade I had to write a children's book, and everyone told me to remove the word "trekked" from my draft, said kids wouldn't know what that meant. And I'm still salty about it, I'm convinced most of them didn't know what it meant even though there were context clues. My use of language is very specific to set the vibe and I will not apologize for it!

And to illustrate it, I'm gonna give a little sneak peak of something I'm working on that's BATDR related (no idea when I'll be ready to share it). I'm playing with the concept of a Keeper doing a series of side experiments on my OC, Bella, and oh boy their dynamic is great. I love writing his dialogue, it's a great challenge. Thank you for the ask! I'm still accepting submissions for the writer's ask game over on @inkabelledesigns.

“It is standard procedure. You must remain in the testing facilities.” He stated simply.

She sighed and turned away. “I’m not gonna run away from you, that wouldn’t do either of us any good.” 

The keeper quirked his head a little, looking her over curiously. “A rather logical conclusion you’ve come to.”

“Humans can be rational, you know.” She smirked, the glint of her teeth was somewhat fierce as his light shined over them.

“You are not human.” He replied as he got to work, organizing the tools that sat on his tray. 

“I suppose not, not anymore at least.” She sighed. “The outside is ink, but that doesn’t change my soul.”

“I fail to see how such a thing matters.” 

“Of course you would.” She huffed. “You’ve never dabbled with souls, have you?” 

“I can’t say I have.” The keeper replied curtly.

[eirian-houpe]

The Monday Menu

Well, I did it... I finished Disparate Pathways. The final chapter was posted this morning. It has been a journey that started in December of 2019 with Witness Protection. Written for the Rumbelle Secret Santa, I was constrained for time, and found myself leaving out a lot of backstory, which I really wanted to include.  My solution was to write the remix, which became the 57 chapter long epic that I finished posting today.  I’m going to miss writing for those characters. The dangerous ex-cartel scion, Gold, and the bad-ass-with-a-heart-of-gold, FBI agent Jefferson Milnor.  I’m not ready to say goodbye! 

For those of you that are new to the fandom, or have been hibernating (and who could blame anyone for that given the state of the world) the past couple of years, the Rumbelle Showdown is in full swing. Round 2 brackets are posted, and writers are, I would imagine, currently working on their fics.  Round 1 had some awesome fics, and there’s still a chance for you to identify the favorite you had among those eliminated from round 1. I know that included some of my favorites. Run - don’t walk - to the Showdown blog. Don’t miss out!

Hopefully I will be able to find time to get some writing done this week, and here’s the plan for what this week might look like:

Monday - The Monday Menu - what it says on the box. A plan for the week, also, sometimes, a Monday Mmmm. There won’t always be one of these, just when something troubling or interesting crosses my path.

Tuesday - TMI Tuesday. - Ask me… go on, anything.  Ask my characters -they’ll answer. Nothing is off limits, but be sure you want the answer before you ask the question.

Wednesday - WIP Wednesday - Current state of my works in progress. So many - and still climbing!

Thursday - Three Things Thursday - any fic of mine is fair game. Doesn’t have to be Rumbelle, I have Rushbelle, a bunch of crossovers, some shows people might no know, some ST: DSC, some SGA and some Tolkien too… ask three things, I dare ya…! Please… This is also the day I’ll do the ‘Behind the Scenes’ post, which might just end up as part of the TTT post.

Friday - Final Line Friday. - Assuming I manage to write anything, I will post a word cloud, and the last line that I have written right before I post this. Also I hope to be able to start a Fic Rec Friday too, which won’t always be Rumbelle, but could be any fandom out there.

Saturday - Saturday Secret - another one of those where you can ask about any fic, and I’ll tell (or show) you a secret. Feel free to follow up with conversation or guesses.  I will tell you if you get something right. Again, no one took me up on the offer… so we might also have to think of another ‘SA’ post.

Sunday - Seven Sentence Sunday. - yeah, I have to write something to be able to post this.

Writing this week - Same as last week... Modern Wonders (At least I’d like to try and get some writing done on this fic.  It has been calling to me after all).  Also perhaps dabbling in some Not Yours to Keep and/or some Laer o Faen.

As always my inbox is open for thoughts, questions, asks… I don’t restrict people to any particular day of the week, and I - like most fic authors - love to discuss things to do with fics and fandom.

I just want to add a shout out to those readers who have left me comments and kudos these last several days.  It has not gone un-noticed.  love you guys for those votes of confidence..

Talk to me, peeps! My inbox is lonely,