#but if other people choose to (whether it be with friends or romantic partners/interests) let them have a good time

[frogsare-friends]

shoutout to all my aros and arospecs not celebrating valentine's day!! and shoutout to all my aros and arospecs celebrating valentine's day!! and shoutout to all the aspecs that aren't celebrating valentine's day!! and all the aspecs that are!!

[just-a-ghost00]

Mirror, mirror on the wall

What does this connection reflect back to you ? What do you see in each other that either uplifts you or drags you down ?

To find out, select one of the following groups. You can either choose based on the imagery or the number. This reading’s content might be triggering. Read only if you are okay with it. Keep in mind that this is a general reading.

Group 1

5 of swords, knight of cups, Self love, Death rx, Sugilite - Stretch the limits of your imagination - You are not your emotions, Memories comfort us "I seek out happy people who inspire me to be great."

This reading feels very personal. I felt a pang in my chest as I was shuffling your cards. And the more I saw the picture that was being depicted, the more I felt like crying. I feel like a lot of you have spent most of your life repressing your emotions and feelings for the sake of others within connections, whether those were platonic or romantic. Specifically, I picked up on wounds surrounding a masculine parental figure. When interacting with this person, the truth reflected back to you is that you shouldn't have to fight for someone's attention or love. This connection helps you heal a feeling of unworthiness that stems from your childhood. It also reflects the fact that a relationship shouldn't be thriving at the expense of your own well being and happiness. That a connection should be a safe space where you can feel free to be yourself and expand in a way that feels good for you. That you shouldn't have to pretend to be someone else to be accepted.

What you see in this person is that a partner is supposed to uplift you, not hinder you. You see that going after your dreams and doing the things that make you happy isn't a crime. You learn that your emotions are valuable and are nothing to be ashamed of. In this person, you find a shelter. A place where you can lower your mask and shield to be your unapologetical self without fearing retribution. In this person, you see a friend. Someone that is willing to listen to what you have to say and help you see things from a brighter perspective instead of finding every reason why this could go wrong. You learn that your opinion matters. That your interests aren't useless. That it is safe to cry, to be sad or angry, to feel unmotivated or scared or uncertain. That you shouldn't have to apologize for how you feel or for who you are. In them, you find a confidant.

The reality that this connection reflects back to you is that your friends, your family, the people you admire and give your attention to may not be having your best interest at heart. Nor do they provide for you the safe space you need. That they take more than they give and never say sorry. This connection teaches you the importance of your own love and perception of yourself. The importance of re evaluating your boundaries, of being authentic and surrounding yourself with the people that are going to value your true essence instead of trying to dim your light and shape you into something you are not.

Extra - What do they see in you? | Page of cups, The Sage, Black Tourmaline - Protect your light, Relieve the pressure, "I am ready to go big rise up and step into my power."

They see a person with a kind and pure heart, who yearns to love and be loved equally. Someone with big dreams and goals that they never dared to achieve. A soft hearted individual whose potential goes beyond anything they could ever imagine and is afraid to share it with the world. They see a lot of sadness too. Fear even. But more than that, they see a lot of wisdom and grace. A level of maturity that cannot be rivaled. They see someone that has been holding back for far too long and deserves to be able to let go of everything that has been hurting them. Someone that needs protection because of all the pain they've been through. Someone that's tired of fighting and screaming for peace. They see someone who's afraid of opening their heart to love again, who would rather guard their heart strongly even if it meant being alone forever rather than risking getting hurt again. But at the same time, they see how much you crave to put an end to all of that because at the end of the day, you're just like any human. You want that fairytale ending.

Group 2

"I celebrate all the grateness in my life." 3 of wands, 7 of wands, Sunstone - Take back your shine, The Weaver rx, Love rx, Stand up for yourself, Yes!

I get a lot of root and sacral chakra energy from this group, which to me may relate to fears surrounding stability, material possessions, intimacy and the body. In past connections, you or your person may have dealt with a lot of people that abused them either for their possessions, their status or their body. You may also have dealt with people who cheated on you or people who did not accept your differences but still took advantage of you. I don't know why, but I kept wanting to mention the other person instead of focusing on your energy. So maybe you and your person have dealt with very similar wounds and situations in your life. The truth that is being reflected back to you is that being different isn't always a struggle. That in a connection, your boundaries should always be respected. That not wanting the same things as your partner doesn't make you a bad person. That you have the right to say no. You are also learning that you cannot control every aspect of the connection. That sometimes, in order for things to be working, you'll have to let your ego aside and find a common ground that is comfortable for both parties. You're also learning that needing space or going after your goals are things that can be beneficial both to you and your partner, that you shouldn't have to choose between both. You're learning that being on your guards all the time isn't in your best interest and that in order to receive you must be able to give as well. The truth reflected back to you is also that not everyone is out to get you.

In this person, you see a call for the unknown that challenges you but also motivates you. You see an opportunity for change and wisdom. You see an invitation to appreciate life at the fullest and an encouragement to open your heart to the present moment. This connection teaches you to take a leap of faith and walk forward with confidence, even if you do not know what the future holds. It teaches you to see all the little things in life that are worth rejoicing about and fighting for. It pushes you to embrace all your quirks and faults, even those you think your partner wouldn't like. To look at the future with hope in your eyes and disregard any person that might stand in your way or try to get you to doubt yourself. This connection inspires you to stand tall and proud and cultivate optimism. It helps you feel safe in your body and comfortable in your shoes. For some of you, it has opened your eyes about your sexual preferences and your identity. Some of you may have realized that you were queer thanks to this connection. For others, you are healing wounds regarding physical intimacy : you may be learning to embrace the fact that being physical with someone is something that isn't your cup of tea and that there's nothing wrong with it. Some may be discovering and exploring new aspects of their sexuality that they didn't get to try before because they were taught to be ashamed of their body, of their desires. This connection leads you to uproot any belief system that was hindering your light and drive. Also, you are learning to love your body more and cultivate your creativity.

Extra - What do they see in you? | Treat yourself eat whatever you want, 4 of wands, Reflect, Cavansite - Expand your consciousness, "My high vibe thoughts create health in my body peace in my mind and love in my heart."

They see someone with such energy and love for life that they can't help but smile. They also can't help but to recognize your strength and limitless potential. This person sees you as their equal. They see in you someone that has all the qualities in life to be successful but also all the qualities that they look for in a partner. They see your trustworthiness, your ambition, your optimism and creativity and they love it. They admire your wit and communication skills. They see your strength and your ability to persevere though the road is difficult. They see a person that will never give up no matter what people throw at them. And because of that, you have all their respect and support. They see how hard you try to make a name for yourself and embody the best version of you. They see your charisma, your curiosity. Every aspect of you that makes you you, in simple words. They just love all of you and they want that for themselves.

Group 3

"I breathe calmly and easily. I am safe in this moment." Page of wands, The Star, Versatility, Speak Truth, I can only count on myself, Stand up for yourself, Hiddenite - Claim your happy place

Through this connection, you're slowly realizing that you were made to believe that in order to make it through and thrive, you should hide your light and pretend like you didn't exist. Especially for those of you who were assigned female at birth. The truth that this connection reflects back to you is that it is safe for you to exist, make noise and take room. In this case, I am picking up on rejection wounds. You are also learning that you don't have to carry your load all alone. That asking for help is more than fine but more importantly that you don't need others to be told who you should or should not be. For a lot of you, I feel like a parental figure was very controlling around you and didn't let you make your own decisions. They always tried to make you feel less than or lead you to believe that you couldn't succeed without them. You are healing those wounds through this connection. It also reflects back at you your own creative power and wisdom. It shows you that the truth of your destiny lies within you and not outside of you. It encourages you to speak louder and find your voice in life's chatter. To write your own story.

It reflects back to you how people around you trigger your foundations and create a space for you that is unstable, unsafe. How their own lack of discernment and self confidence is affecting you, your dynamics with the world and your power to manifest your desired reality. It shows you that you don't have to abide by the rules to be respected and recognized. Actually, you don't even need to be recognized by anyone except yourself. This connection shows you the value of your own beliefs and desires, and gives you the strength and determination to fight for them.

Extra - What do they see in you? | Ace of cups rx, The Explorer, Turn your tongue 7 times in your mouth before speaking, Sodalite - Deepen your intuition, "I seek out happy people who inspire me to be great."

They see a lot of curiosity and drive to become a better version of yourself. They also see your fighting spirit and rebellious tendencies. They see that you want to surround yourself with things and people that make you feel good. That you are constantly seeking to improve. That you have gathered a lot of wisdom through experience and you're able to use it whenever trouble arises. However, they also see that you've put up walls around your heart that a hard to see through. They are aware that those walls, built to protect yourself, also prevent you from finding true happiness. They see that you are not emotionally available right now and that is a fact they cannot ignore. This person understands your need to protect yourself and admires this aspect of you. But they are also worried that this defense mechanism will stand in the way of your connection. They see that they should have to be very careful around you if they want to be able to earn your trust.

[riding-the-sunset-bird]

I was in a Baxter mood today so I went swimming in GB Patch's blog for all the Baxter facts:

General

His personality, at least defined by GB Patch, is that he's sheltered and out-of-touch without being elitist or self-centered. He's preppy/posh, quite sociable, and hates conflict, but likes to go against what's expected of him. He grows out of being such a rich kid trust fund baby by Step 4.

His parents are bigots. He's the unlucky one in a sea of characters with supportive parents.

He has a distant French origin.

His birthday is the day his DLC came out, meaning May 19th.

He's 5'11" (180cm) in Step 4 (this was apparently reconfirmed on the Our Life Discord as well).

His natural hair color - a dark dusty gray that he hates - is uncommon to be born with (as opposed to aged into) in the Our Life universe.

He's right-handed.

Childhood

His dream job as a child was to get into investments, having a strong portfolio with diverse assets (he does not fully know what that means at the time).

He's a late bloomer.

Baxter's crush on Qiu from Our Life 2 is at its peak when he's 12 and 13 (13 being his age in Our Life 2's Step 1), but he's moving on by 14 (when he can potentially meet the MC in Soiree).

He met Qiu at their local dance hall (as they both took lessons there, just in different forms of dance) and also met Ren/Renee (Darren in Our Life 2's Step 1) through Qiu, as the two had known each other since they were very young.

He wasn't thrown off by his crush on Qiu despite Qiu being a boy, as Qiu was popular and it seemed "unfair" to Baxter not to be able to like him. He puts more thought into it as he grows older and what it means, deciding that he'll feel however he'll feel and not worry about what's expected of him. In Soiree, the MC can notice this if they're male or non-binary, as Baxter isn't bothered by dancing with someone who isn't female.

Abilities (or Lack Thereof)

He's a weak swimmer. He can swim fine in pools but would probably struggle in the ocean.

He can sing.

He's experienced in multiple types of dance (though his favorite is the waltz).

Step 3 Baxter is a lazy, bad cook who doesn't even want to bother with cooking, but Step 4 Baxter takes an interest in trying more fancy/restaurant-style food and is able to do so.

Likes/Dislikes

He likes things being clean, but isn't always motivated enough to maintain that.

He liked video games when he was a kid, leaning towards action/adventure ones, though doesn't anymore in his late teens and beyond. He would play life-based games (such as the Sims series) with the MC if asked, however, either playing innocent like he didn't know what he was doing while messing around with the characters or being blatantly obvious about it.

He doesn't like dancing in clubs/discos. He would try it once because he enjoys trying different types of dance, but would only go regularly if he had a friend/partner who liked going to such places.

He would absolutely approve of an MC who chooses to only wear black and white.

Romantic Inclinations

Beyond his crush on Qiu (who he never confessed to), Baxter dates people, but never for long or seriously.

The reason he backs out of asking out the MC if they say that he's their first crush (unless the MC is referring to his Soiree self) is that he feels they have idealized feelings for him and he'd disappoint them. He essentially panics, not wanting to get the MC's hopes up and especially on their very first feelings of romance.

The best way to romance him is to Not Let Him Escape.

In terms of how Baxter will/won't date in the future between Step 3 and 4 if he had a fling with the MC, answers range from him not dating anyone if the player intent was that they were both genuinely in love, but would otherwise to him trying to move on with others but the flings become even more surface level than before to the point where he's simply going through the motions. He ultimately hits a breaking point (whether he dated the MC or not) and ends up improving due to the MC's return in his life and/or support from other people such as Xavier.

When it comes to what he's attracted to in another person, he likes seeing nail polish, false lashes/heavy mascara/naturally long eyelashes, and full suits (especially if they're expertly tailored).

His love language in terms of receiving is Quality Time, but in terms of giving, he will happily adapt to whatever the MC wants.

Clothing Choices

When it comes to Step 4 Baxter's personal dress code, he's always meeting/formal ready (even when not working) unless he's doing anything athletic, in which case the button-downs get a break.

- Likewise, his closet is basically all button-downs and fancy suits with a few exceptions including clothes suited for the cold.

Assorted

Him skinny-dipping didn't happen in Golden Grove, and the Now & Forever main cast are not his friends by then.

He immediately finds the MC and Cove appealing (not necessarily crushing on them) at the start of Step 3 as "beautiful beach strangers."

He'd be flattered to hear from an MC that they love his laugh/find it charming.

He says "hallelujah" because he's pretentious.

He doesn't know French, but does occasionally drop a French word he knows during Step 3 to "add to his formal flair." His Step 4 self considers it embarrassing in hindsight.

While he started dyeing his hair black at 14, he didn't start adding white into the mix until he was 18. His Step 3 hair was likely something he only had for a year, at which point he changed it up with different attempts at black and white. He switched back to plain black after graduating college, feeling like he had to be "a serious grown up."

During the wedding in Baxter's Step 4, he will have Jude send along a vegan cupcake to the MC if they're vegan.

Semi-revealed during one of his mornings with the MC in Step 4, he has a multi-step daily skincare routine.

His Future

He has no preference over who he'd prefer to be the one to propose to the other in his relationship with the MC.

He would absolutely want to plan his own wedding (whether for or with the MC, depending on whether they want to be involved). He would not want another planner included.

He would forbid his parents from attending his wedding, but invite his childhood friends. Cove, Terry, and Miranda would also go.

He doesn't have a preference when it comes to last names during a wedding. He's just in awe that he's marrying someone at all.

He might consider having facial hair at some point in his life.

When it comes to having kids, he doesn't have any particular age he'd prefer to have them and is more of a "when it feels right" kind of guy. In terms of the number of kids, none is his default but he'd prefer to have two if the MC wants them, as he finds the relationship between the MC and Liz to be lovely and was personally lonely as an only child.

🍋 (below are asks that might be considered risqué - especially going to the posts themselves on some - but I wanted to include them for the sake of having all the information in one place; know that me and my prudish nature pushed through this for the people who want it and I hope you appreciate it! >:o) 🍋

This one definitely goes without saying due to being a love interest in a game where the MC can be she/they/he even down to being intersex, but Baxter is pansexual.

Baxter isn't good at being sexually active beyond being with an MC who wants that. He tries to bond with others but either fails to have his interest reciprocated due to being too forward or backtracks if he senses that someone is actually into him. His relationships are short/inconsistent for that reason.

He would never sleep with the MC during Step 3. He's already planning on leaving and wouldn't risk souring the relationship at any point even if the MC would want it. He wants company more than he wants sex and would not want to be remembered as the guy who slept with the MC and then just left without contacting them again.

Between chests and backsides, Baxter prefers the latter.

Baxter is a top (though is flexible on the matter), is into BDSM, and "kind of" has a sir kink.

[seafoamreadings]

week of january 26th, 2025

these are written predominantly for the *rising* signs but they are also intuitively "channeled" enough that they should work for any dominant energy you have! (try your sun if you don't know rising, or more advanced readers can try moon, anywhere you have a stellium, etc and see what works best for you!)

aries: your week is a little bit, i'll just say, wimpy? there are many good aspects coming up but none that particularly energize you, especially with mars in his current state. so do not expect yourself to be up for a lot, but do surround yourself with life's small and simple pleasures.

taurus: it would take me a long time to list out the individual aspects affecting you this week but let me at least say they are all empowering, and mostly not too difficult. if you're not feeling a bit electrified, by love or by the revolutionary spirit or by magic or something, you likely have your mind on things that aren't in alignment with your true desires or path.

gemini: focus this week on your highest ideals, be they spiritual, philosophical, or academic. whether you're the most devout nun in the cloister or the staunchest atheist out there, you have some ideals and if you don't, you need to be looking harder. bonus points if you set some intentions about these ideals to follow through with over the coming few weeks.

cancerians: the new moon this week makes you magical. like in the witchiest and most esoteric of ways. so, do with that what you will. you also benefit a lot from this week's piscean activity, especially if you have placements in the last few degrees of this sign.

leo: your relationships, the committed, serious ones, are in focus this week. your romantic partner, your business partner, your best friend, whoever you are really in a solid commitment with, to each other, these relationships get a lot of fresh air in a lot of good ways. unrelated but simultaneously you may find yourself more clairvoyant than usual so don't take those dreams and visions to be silly. they are not.

virgo: your partnerships get a big blessing this week especially if you are in a romantic relationship and especially if that relationship has been defined and committed to. but this does apply to all forms of partnership. it may be obviously miraculous or a smaller occurrence, and it is just the beginning.

libra: if you're not having fun - at least making some fun for yourself! - you aren't doing this week right. if you haven't been in a while, set serious intentions about it this week and follow through. you may also see an increase in your health and wellness, a very sacred ritual you can incorporate into your routine, or develop a gym or workplace crush. if so it's not a bad idea to entertain those newly open paths.

scorpio: expect (or cause!) changes to your partnerships, and to your home life. one thing that looks quite possible for you is a romantic choice. you have someone you've long been committed to on the one hand and someone new or very interesting on the other, or if it's not people it may be passion projects, for example. it's not an easy choice but whatever you choose at this time gets a little venusian blessing as long as you are following your heart and not just social rules.

sagittarius: you have two major quests this week according to the planets. first, take care of things at home or with your family of origin, or your ancestral line, whichever most calls to you at this time. second, be in your community helping the sick, the poor, the elderly, whomever is needing it.

capricorn: although there are many pleasant aspects this week there are not many that touch your sign directly. however your ruler saturn is in pisces and pisces is an epicenter for a lot of good, even miraculous things at the moment. plus mercury into aquarius this week is good for your money, resources, and assets - perhaps your time, most of all.

aquarius: it's a very busy week, for everyone, and you more than average. so you have things to say and it's not going to work for you to wait around for a better time to say it, get it out. set intentions that improve yourself and your lot. a change may be made for you, like it or not, in your home life, ie in your abode *and/or* involving your family of origin. but you have all the resources needed to handle any obstacle in your path even if it seems to require a miracle.

pisces: your inner world, and your psyche, may be more active now than the three-dimensional scenery around you. but you are like a magician, or even more than that. venus and neptune conjoin in your sign. the former is exalted and the latter in domicile. for a little while they even involve the moon. trust your intuition and your dreams but don't trust that people's motives are as pure as they may seem. you are the microcosm and the macrocosm here, so they may symbolize some troublesome part of you, but the best way to reap the (immense!) benefits of this period is to remember that they are part of you.

watch the transit posts in real time to have the best guide through your week. want a little more? have a look at my patreon.

check out my etsy for a private reading or fill out this form to set up a reading through venmo, cashapp, or paypal.

[princessjojo-x]

AriesVenus ★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

💝 since he’s naturally quick to make decisions & take action, he doesn’t hesitate to make the first move & take a bold approach. he’ll dive headfirst into romantic ventures, rushing the talking stage & love-bombing the girl. he doesn’t even look before leaping in & he finds out later on whether it was a good decision. he expects immediate reciprocation & he may ask himself out on her behalf. his motion is so fiery he ends up unintentionally turning off & scaring away potential partners but he usually doesn’t care.

💝 his egotistical & competitive nature makes it difficult for him to accept defeat & rejection. he views love as a battlefield where victory is the only option. he’s determined to conquer his love interest & wont accept “no” for an answer. he wants what he can’t have & loves “winning” his partner over. he chases her persistently & refuses to surrender, he’ll feel weak & powerless otherwise.

💝 he finds the early stages of the rxship & the initial chase more important than the final catch. he needs to be challenged & kept on his toes, therefore ensure to remain unattainable to prevail his interest. if you give too much, it translates to him a lack of self-respect, which turns him off very quickly. don’t love him more than you love yourself, otherwise he’ll push back & run away.

💝 his love can be compared to a flame, igniting & extinguishing equally as fast. he falls in & out of love so quickly bc he mistakes attraction as love. he dates purely for the challenge & excitement of having a new crush. therefore, don’t assume you’re special just bc he’s obsessed with you, he’ll chase anything that breathes purely for the thrill of it.

💝 his impulsive & passionate approach, while intoxicating at first, typically results in a pattern of short-lived rxships. once the spark & allure wears off, he’s quick to move on & replace you.

💝 the spark needs to kept alive to retain his interest. he seeks an adrenaline inducing & fast-paced romance bc he thrives on strong reactions & emotional highs. he chooses chaotic & crazy partners who bring drama & toxicity. he mistakes the emotional turbulence for passion. if the rxship starts to feel too predictable, he won’t hesitate to stir things up: provoking her, testing boundaries, creating conflict, etc. he naturally rejects too much comfort & routine bc he feels it only results in boredom & stagnation. he loves playfulness, adventure, competition, humour, surprises & physical movement.

💝 you’ll always know where you stand with him bc he rarely holds back the truth. there’s no mystery or puzzle with him since he’s very direct & uncomplicated. however, he’s not so easy to read on an emotional level bc his feelings are so frivolous & changeable.

💝 no matter how devoted & smitten he is within a rxship, there’ll always be a part of himself that remains his own, whether its his identity, vulnerability, independence etc. he resists being consumed by a rxship & refuses to be owned by someone.

💝 despite his need for personal freedom, he doesn’t recognise or respect his partners individuality. he expects & pressures her to adopt his mindset, desires, values, pace & so on. he attempts to mold her into his ideal, which she may find suffocating or controlling. he views his wants as non-negotiable, with little room for compromise,

💝 in a rxship he wants to feel sexy, strong, confident & providing. therefore, sometimes you have to let him take the lead & let him take credit for a good idea. he believes he’s special & he wants to be treated this way.

💝 he attempts to dominate his partners & friends, in attempts to prove his superiority, causing him to have a bully reputation. even when he means well, he still has an argumentative tone, which can be easily misunderstood by others.

💝 signs that he likes you: (1) when talking to you he lights up & becomes very energetic. you may not notice but people who know him will. (2) he’s not overly eager to talk sexually with you & he may treat you like a friend. (3) he shows off in attempts of impressing you.

💝 he seems confident on the surface but his self esteem is fragile asf. he judges himself harshly, he struggles to recover from embarrassment & criticism makes him defensive. he tries to impress & flex for women a lot bc he needs validation from others. he’ll be turned off if you do something to try make him feel insecure. for example, telling him he’s too much & he needs to chill.

Turn On’s & Off’s;

💝 he doesn’t mesh well with the “opposites attract” concept & he’s attracted to someone similar to himself; strong, dominant, brave, confident, spontaneous, unpredictable, impatient, passionate, fiery, active, independent, sociable, open, adventurous.

💝 he’ll test if she can handle & match his strong energy. he wants someone just as strong or even stronger than himself. he likes a woman who holds an immense personal power. he doesn’t like the damsel-in-distress or cinderella archetype or at all. he dislikes passive & shy partners who can’t speak up for themselves & are too scared too disagree with him. don’t contemplate or wonder too much if you should say or do anything. ensure to always be assertive, direct & honest. embrace your masculine energy & don’t be afraid to use your sex appeal.

💝 to impress him: edgy, athletic & tomboy outfits. fiery, bold & bright colours. leather jackets, roses, bold makeup, velvet.

💝 any form of exercise with him would be a good idea bc he loves sweating with his partner.

💝 his worse nightmare would be a serious & mature rxship, with a boring & lazy partner. the best way to turn him off is saying you don’t wanna go out & have fun, instead you just wanna chill at home.

💝 since aries rules the head, he enjoys head massages & oral.

[backstage-if]

I have been wanting to send you this ask especially with the fact we have a whole ex in the game but I keep forgetting.

So here goes. Please take your time with it but omg I'll love if you answer it.

Hello!! Okay so what would the ROs reaction be to MC being asked out in front of them..? (crushing stage vs. relationship stage)

Oooh, I love this question 🤌🤌 ok, soooo-

C

Crushing - Excusing themself to feel annoyed (both at themself, at MC and at the third person) alone, but acting like everything is fine (actually, everyone notices they're jealous). Especially if they're exes, it's weird for C to see MC flirting/being romantic with someone else – still, they’d rather try and suffer in silence than give MC a reason to think they care that much.

Relationship - Openly annoyed (at the other person) and not bothering trying to hide it. Let MC choose how they'd rather deal with this, but stay the whole time by their side and look at the person like "😐 seriously? Are you kidding me? How do you flirt with someone without even knowing if they're taken?".

Neil

Crushing - Watching the scene unfold. Neil gets it, honestly. He knows MC is interesting and understands why people would be drawn to them (like he is). Still, no matter if MC agrees or not to go out, Neil would force himself to stop ignoring his (obvious) feelings and finally think about whether he wants this to be something more.

Relationship - Neil had ex-partners flirting with other people just to try and get a reaction out of him before, so… yeah. He would freeze in place and brace himself for the same outcome, expecting MC to engage with it. When they don't, he feels bad for thinking they would and maybe (unconsciously) distances himself for the rest of the day thinking of how to make it up for them.

Joy

Crushing (as fwb or friends only) - Teases MC for having so many admirers and, if MC rejects the person, also for breaking hearts. Deep down, she is a bit jealous (and, like with C, some people can tell), but doesn't feel entitled to tell MC how to live their life.

Relationship - When they're official, Joy doesn't feel like she has a reason to be jealous anymore, as MC already chose to commit to her. Would still have a humorous approach to it, either telling MC what a catch they are and/or asking the other person where they (Joy, MC and them) are going for the date.

Spencer

Crushing - At first, they're impressed at how bold the person is for asking MC out so confidently without knowing what their answer will be. They would leave before hearing the answer and be jealous later, trying to decide whether to ask MC about the date or pretend they don't even remember it happened (it's all they've been thinking about all day).

Relationship - Comparing themself to the person ­🤠 convinced that MC deserves better than them 🤠 probably feeling weird and distant for the rest of the week (at least early in the relationship).

A

Crushing - Changing the subject or dragging MC out of there before they can answer, saying it's because 'you didn't want to see their disappointed face when you said no'. If they're already on the friendly side of things, A would also find any activity that they could do together without calling it a date.

Relationship - Staying beside MC, looking very smug, like 'You tell them, baby ­☝️'. If they're feeling particularly flirty/playful that day, A would be like ‘Oh, they were cute and so into you. Your partner must be really amazing. 😏'.

[twdmusicboxmystery]

The Dialogue That Sent A Ship Reeling And What It Might Mean for the Overall Story Arc

***Possible spoilers for future episodes****

@bookqueenrules:

So, I read a ton of reviews of season 1 before episode 1 aired. Many of the reviews were from “Carlyers”. I am always interested in seeing their perspective.  

They all seemed to agree on a few things.

First and foremost, they HATED Daryl’s response to Laurent in this exchange from episode 1:

 L: “Do you have children, a wife, parents?”

D: “No, nothing like that.”

I believe this exchange at the beginning of the episode speaks VOLUMES about Daryl’s “happy ending”.  We see him think of Judith and Carol, the people he is closest to at home, as he is regaining consciousness.  However, soon after that he does not acknowledge Judith as “his child” nor does he acknowledge Carol as a type of “wife” or “life partner”. 

This tells us that in Daryl and the writer’s minds Daryl has never been a father nor husband/life partner to anyone, yet. 

Being able to be a good husband and father after the abuse and trauma Daryl has experienced, I believe, will be his happy ending. 

Another thing they seem to hate is that by the end of the series, Daryl is torn as to whether he should stay with Laurent and Isabelle or keep trying to go home.  I assume that happens in episode 6 because a DEVOTED Carlyer said that was the hardest episode for her to watch.  Daryl being torn is more understandable when you see the parallels in Daryl’s mind: Isabelle is a platonic friend he becomes close to(Carol), and Laurent is a child that is not his, but that he feels responsible for because the parents are not around (Judith). Now, of course, we all know he will and should choose TF, but just the fact that he is torn should let the viewer know that Daryl still feels he is missing “something”.  Back to that in a minute.  I think it’s helpful to look at all of Daryl’s close relationships during the flagship to see why Daryl is still looking for “something”. That “something” is to belong to someone.

Merle- Daryl did at one time “belong” to Merle. It was just the two of them.  Neither had other close family nor significant romantic partners or friends.  It was a dysfunctional type of belonging, but a “belonging” none the less.  Daryl believed he belonged with Merle.  In season 3, Daryl was torn between his new family(TF) and Merle. He did leave with Merle, but would have returned to TF even if he hadn’t convinced Merle to go back to the prison with him. So, he chose TF over Merle in the end. 

Beth- Beth is the ONLY character that Daryl asks to settle down with him.  HE asks HER to stay at the funeral home and try to make a life.  He gives up looking for Rick, Carol, and the rest of TF. He feels he now BELONGS to Beth. This is an example of functional “belonging” because she restores his faith in himself and in the possibility of good in the world.  This is further emphasized in the “Buttons” episode where Daryl and Aaron are trying to save Buttons the horse.  Oh! Buttons the horse, Daryl’s highlighted button in the promo pictures, and the button on Beth’s necklace… Sorry, I just made that connection as I type!  Major symbolism there. I digress. In that episode, Daryl says of Buttons, “He once belonged to someone, but now he just belongs to himself.”  The implication being that the statement is true of both the horse and Daryl. 

Rick- Rick becomes the better brother Merle never was. However, he can never really belong to Rick in the same way he did Merle because Rick has a family of his own and didn’t live through the same childhood trauma Merle and Daryl did. 

Leah- Daryl is torn between belonging with her, TF, and searching for Rick.  He leaves even though she has issued an ultimatum. It’s only after she is “gone” that he says he belongs with her. I believe that indicates that Daryl really does want to belong to someone, but Leah is not the right one.  He knew it when he walked out on her.

Carol has belonged to Zeke for a long time now. Even when they drifted apart, they drifted back together.  Before him, Carol belonged to herself drifting in and out of storylines fighting her need NOT to belong to anyone. She initiated romantic connections while Daryl was free and clear to form that kind of attachment with if she chose. Zeke is the one that showed Carol she could have her “happy ending” family after the dysfunction she experienced with Ed and Sophia. Though Henry didn’t live, Carol still had six years of a “happy ending”. 

After telling Judith he wouldn’t leave her, why does Daryl leave to explore? There were many others in Alexandria and Hilltop who could have gone.  So, Daryl must have WANTED to go. Judith seems to be OK with it because she connects it to his “happy ending”. Carlyers are interpreting Daryl’s call to the Commonwealth, presumably to Carol, about coming home in a week, as Daryl realizing his “mistake” and wanting to come home to his “happy ending” being Carol and Judith. If that were the case, he would have responded differently to Laurent’s question. 

The Carlyers all LOVED the last minute of the season(We can all guess that is when Carol shows)

They also agree that some of the themes are fatherhood, purpose, and belonging. Curiously, they don’t see the “happy ending” as a theme for the most part. It’s been pretty obvious, but few of them comment on it. I am assuming that episode 5 will be heavily related to the theme of fatherhood based on some vaguely worded reviews. 

  I wanted to mention a couple of other things that I don’t believe you discussed in the video. Forgive me if I just missed them.

Isabelle’s comment in the bath about scars showing you have healed.  I believe that is heavy foreshadowing for Daryl healing his scars from childhood.

Also, I don’t believe you mentioned the radio in the “map room”. Would that be another Sirius/radio connection? I thought it was interesting that Isabelle is caught in a lie about the radio. It is clear that Isabelle is willing to lie and manipulate to get what she wants.  She reminds me of Carol in that way.  She feels the ends justify the means for the greater good. She also reminds me of Carol in the sense that Daryl, Carol, and Isabelle are all characters who were “broken before the world ended”.  It was after the world ended that Beth broke for a moment, but all of these characters have proven they are survivors. It will be interesting to see that play out if/when they all meet. 

@twdmusicboxmystery​:

Love, love, LOVE everything you said here! And totally agree! It’s fun to know what the Carylers are saying.

Honestly, I hadn’t thought much about Daryl’s reply about not having a wife and kids. And great call about the foreshadowing there. It’s clear that he’ll have them eventually, and we all know it won’t be with Carol. 

Honestly, I think the reason he’ll be so torn will be Laurent, rather than Isabelle. I was thinking as I read what you wrote is that part of the reason he was willing to leave Judith was 

1) she doesn’t truly need him anymore. She’s okay with him going, which means she a happy, healthy, well-adjusted kid. He still loves and wants to be with her, but if someone else is depending on him as a lifeline physically or emotionally, well, he’s going to stay for as long as they need him. And Judith is such a badass all by herself, that she doesn’t necessarily. 

2) It’s also true that he doesn’t see her as truly “his” and if there’s any chance her real dad (Rick, although biologically that’s a can of worms, lol) is still out there, he wants to bring Rick home to her. So, once again, it’s Daryl doing something for someone else, rather than himself. Which is why Judith says the thing about the happy ending to begin with. She recognizes that he deserves to think about his own happiness every once in awhile, rather than everyone else’s. 

Anyway, I’m actually excited to see the part where he’s torn about staying or going. It plays into Daryl’s changing his mind/what changed your mind theme, which started with Beth and has been constantly in play since S4. 

Isabelle reminds me a lot of Leah. Not in her personality or toxicity, of course. But in the sense that she’s an interesting blend of Carol and Beth. I already like her relationship with Daryl and I can see them becoming close friends. People say Clemence Posey’s performance here is really amazing. Up there with Norman’s. So I’m excited to see more of both of them.

Thanks so much for the post! Absolutely love it! 

Oh, and yes, the radio is a Sirius symbol. Because Sirius Radio XM. It’s also part of the Communication Theme. 

Thanks Dear! 

[freneticphoneticfanatic]

My experience with nonmonogamy has cracked my brain open in a way I don’t think I could turn away from if I wanted to. You can’t promise someone you’ll love them the same way forever, as the two of you grow and change. You can’t promise you’ll never want to pursue a connection outside of the two of you. Why should you? And if you choose to pursue a new connection as “just friends,” why should that relationship have a cap on how much you allow yourselves to deepen it? I feel like when I talk about this stuff, people’s minds go immediately to sexual intimacy, because that’s what our culture is obsessed with. But seriously, why are monogamous relationships held up on this pedestal above all our other relationships? Why is your capital-P Partner supposed to be the most important person in your life? Why do so many people expect ourselves to have just one “most-important” person in our lives?

I take issue with exclusivity, jealousy, and possessiveness. If I spend the majority of my time with one person, and one or both of us decides to start spending more of our time with other people, that ought to enrich our interactions, not take away from them. If these experiences are a net negative for a relationship, take a look at the people involved, including yourself, and their actions. In my experience, shallowness, dishonesty, cruelty, and entitlement are the issues, not un-exclusivity. If you care about someone, you should give them the respect of understanding them as wholly human… that includes respecting their right to be messy and have connections with other people.

I understand the fear that comes with letting go of exclusivity, of a traditional relationship narrative. People like security. But shouldn’t that security come from trusting your partner to be kind, dependable, and trustworthy, even when they’re not “bound” to you? To me, it’s the social equivalent of training a dog with treats vs. without. I can tell my partner I don’t want them to be intimate with other people, and if we agree on that and they’re trustworthy, they won’t do it. I see the value there. But it’s far more interesting to me and builds more trust and a stronger bond to see how my partner interacts with people they’re interested in outside of our relationship. If they treat someone else like shit, or start treating me like shit after connecting with someone else, I consider that a win because that’s clarity on their character. But if they don’t, if they still show up for me and make it known that they value me AND handle other relationships well… wow. What a beautiful thing that is, that I never would have experienced if I hadn’t given them that trust.

To briefly address the sexual aspect, SO WHAT? If the sex is positive and safe, and your partner is kind, honest, and dependable, is there any harm actually done? Or is it mainly an ego blow accompanied by insecurity—fear of a perceived threat to a relationship you value? In other words, a “you” problem that you have to decide whether or not you want to deal with. (Frankly, I think either decision is morally neutral. Just don’t be an asshole, that’s the bottom line.) If you’re going to be with someone, you should trust each other to make good decisions. And because we’re human and therefore flawed, you should also be prepared to be there to support each other if something blows up in your face.

I think the reason people act so different, “not themselves,” and irrational when it comes to capital-L Love, the reason people “struggle to differentiate” between platonic and romantic love, is because most people buy into a fucked up, broken framework for human relationships that’s fake as hell and ultimately rooted in men’s exploitation of women. That’s the standard. Marriage wasn’t even culturally associated with romance until the 18th century. And I only know that because I read a lot of feminist material. It’s not exactly common knowledge, and for good reason.

I recommend checking out Lesbian Ethics by Sarah Hoagland and A Passion For Friends by Janice Raymond. They both challenge our notions of what we consider “real” and valuable relationships. Sarah Hoagland wrote about relationships in Lesbian Ethics in a way that was eye-opening for me at the time. (I need to re-read.) I encourage everyone to let yourself and your relationships be messy. Following a script is easy but often unfulfilling. Trust yourself and your loved ones to create your own structures that work for you.

[theshotsheardacrossworlds]

Confess

In which Anais Wildheart (half-elf!Agi) confesses her feelings to Halsin. Mostly SFW.

He’s actually joining us.

Anais Wildheart could not believe what she heard the morning after the tiefling celebration. Halsin’s joining us.

A month later, and she still could not believe it.

Halsin was a calming influence on everyone in camp whether it was him telling stories, giving advice, and offering a sympathetic ear to anyone. He also helped in camp with any task. Except cooking. Gale is like Mum in the kitchen---territorial and not wanting to be bothered.

Anais needed advice right now, but she could not go to him.

Because it’s about him. Gods, I wish Mum were here. Or my friends from home. Maybe I could talk to Karlach, but make sure she’s not too loud so no one will hear. She was taken out of her thoughts by the man himself.

“Are you alright, Annie? You seem far away.” Halsin asked gently, his arms across his chest.

Oh shit. Oh fuck. Be normal, Annie. BE. NORMAL. She fidgeted, raising an eyebrow. “Oh, me? Fine. Just thinking too much.” Thinking about how I need to tell you that I like you far more than a friend should. “I was wondering if you’d like to go somewhere to talk, erm…privately.” She offers a sheepish grin, hands on her hips.

Thankfully, he took no note of her nervousness. I hope. “Of course. With so many companions, it’s hard to find a moment or two of privacy. Please, lead the way.” He followed her to a small stream north of camp, and Anais sat on a large rock. Halsin sat and looked at her expectantly.

Here goes nothing. “It’s been really lovely to get to know you, Halsin. Truly. You’re a fine addition to our little family.” More like “very strange little family” but just “little family” will do. Smiling warmly, her brown eyes met his hazel ones. “And I was hoping that perhaps we get to know each other…other than as comrades.”

To her surprise, Halsin’s expression was one of amusement. “I would hope we already know each other as friends. Unless you meant to know each other as enemies?” He joked, chuckling softly. “I jest. I do wonder though what exactly you mean. If not as friends, then as…” His eyes widened slightly, and his lips quirked into a smile. “Lovers?”

Swallowing, Anais nodded. “Well, yes lovers but also…I suppose…romantic partners?” She could feel her cheeks burning. Why do I make things so awkward? Why am I so awkward? Why is this so awkward? Fucking hells. “Because I care for you. Very much.”

“And I care for you very much,” he rumbled, reaching for one of her hands and giving it a squeeze. “I’m three hundred fifty years old, Annie. I’ve had many lovers, but my heart has not stirred for some time.” Oh gods here it comes. Another rejection. Not beautiful enough. Not good enough. Just a friend. “It does now. For you.” He brought her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles.

Though Anais was tall (one might say too tall), she always felt so small next to Halsin. One of my hands is completely…well, dwarfed next to his. He’s so warm… She stared at him, eyes wide. “Really?”

Halsin chuckled. “Yes, really. Is the notion that I love you truly so outlandish?”

The past decade flashed through Anais’s mind---other noble dwarven houses refusing to let their sons court her because of her heritage; her mother reaching out to elven, human, and half-elven noble houses for interest in her hand and promising a large dowry; Gregor, a human, courting her briefly and wanting to propose; and then Gregor breaking her heart, telling her no man would ever choose to be with “an ugly fat half-breed cow” like her. She blinked back a few tears. “I know you love my heart, but the rest of me…” Trailing off, Anais glanced downward. Don’t cry. Don’t cry.

“Anais, you not only stir my heart,” Halsin whispered to her in elvish. She remembered mentioning to him one evening that her parents hired a tutor specifically to teach her the language of her birth father’s people. “You also stir my loins. Nature outdid itself when it created you, my love.”

A broken sob escaped her as she touched his face and slowly kissed him. It’s not like when I kissed Astarion. There wasn’t any feeling behind it��from either of us. This…oh gods, I feel like I’m going to burn up. The kiss got heated quickly with Halsin’s hands now gripping her hips while her arms went around his neck. Anais was left gasping when the kiss broke. “Gods, I…I’ve been wanting to do that for a while now.”

“How long, dear one?” He murmured against her lips. “Because for me, when I saw you in those worg pens taking care of those goblins, how I wished to take you.”

OH?!??! “I, well…if I’m being honest, seeing you going out of wildshape after we did in the goblins.” A pink blush painted her cheeks. “You know, it’s funny…Rath said you turned into a bear. ‘You won’t mistake the First Druid for anyone.’ One look at the bear, and I knew it was you we were looking for.” She giggled, caressing his cheek.

“Friend of nature.” Kiss. “Lunatic.” Kiss.

Smiling wryly, Anais kissed him before speaking. “Or perhaps a secret third thing.”

“Heh. What’s that, my heart?”

Her nose touching his, she grinned. “I just fucking knew, love.”

Suddenly, they heard a rustling of leaves along with muffled voices. Wyll and Karlach. Probably worried about us. Oh dear.

Halsin gave her a quick kiss before standing and offering his hand. “Later, my love, come and find me. I would know how you taste this night.”

Nodding, Anais took his hand and stood. “Only taste?” She teased.

He kissed her soundly and to her pleasant surprise, he grabbed a generous handful of her behind. “I’ll not leave you wanting. It will take everything I have to not devour you, my heart.” He said in almost a growl, his hazel eyes twinkling. “Unless that is what you want, of course.”

Swallowing, she nodded quickly. “O-oh yes, that sounds amazing. Definitely want that.” YES PLEASE.

He smiled warmly at her, giving her behind one more squeeze. “Later then, dearest one.” Taking his hand off her, he waved to Wyll and Karlach. “Hello friends!”

“So, when’s the hot date, soldier?” Karlach said, elbowing Anais in the side. “Gale is the only one who thinks it’s when we get out of this place and hit a town. And you see, me and Astarion think it’ll be tonight because…” She gestured at Halsin with one hand and wrapped her other arm around Anais’s shoulders. “If you two don’t do something, then Annie here is going to die of overwhelming sexual tension.”

Die of embarrassment, more accurately.

“Come now, let’s return to camp and get things going. After all, we still have much to do.” Halsin chucked and then met Anais’s gaze.

He’s making sure I’m alright. He’s so sweet. A giant sweet bear elf man. She nodded and offered a soft smile. Her parasite connected with Karlach’s.

SERIOUSLY?!?!?

Annie, I’m not wrong!

BUT DID YOU HAVE TO SAY IT?!?!?

Okay, but the face you made was hilarious.

KARLACH!!

What?! I honestly didn’t mean to embarrass you, but good gods, you’ve been longing AND lusting after him since he joined camp.

There was a pause.

Right?

I mean, technically yes sort of…

Oh, I fucking knew you got the hots for him as the bear.

KARLACH!!!!!!!!!!!

[blakeswritingimagines]

Halloween party

Iron Man: Well, for one thing, he knows you are likely to dress up in something that's a lot more revealing than what you're used to. He might also notice you're more flirtatious than usual because of the setting and the mood of the night. It's a good opportunity to let loose, have some fun, and enjoy each other's company in a relaxed environment. If he's lucky, he might even end up with your costume on the floor.

Spider-Man: Well, it’s usually a blast. There are tons of spooky decorations and people in scary costumes. You'll go together, so you always get to enjoy each other’s company. There are usually lots of sugary snacks like candy and cake, so it’s pretty awesome. If you’re really into it, you both can even dress up too. You can have all sorts of costumes to choose from, like classic Halloween ones or even nerdy costumes like other superheroes. That would be pretty epic.

Hulk: Going to a Halloween party with you is always a ton of fun. The two of you spend most of your free time together and share many interests, so it's no surprise that you'll enjoy dressing together for the holiday. When you arrive at the party, you always try to coordinate your costumes, whether that means you're dressed as fictional characters. As the night goes on, you spend time eating snacks, hanging out with the other guests, and enjoying the music and decorations. Whenever one of you gets tired or wants a break, you head outside to get some fresh air and chat privately.

Captain America: Going to a Halloween party with you, depending on the atmosphere and the crowd, can be an exciting, exhilarating experience. There's always the opportunity to create a unique, fun, and memorable ensemble. From the atmosphere of the event, you could have a spooky, terrifying, and mysterious night, or even a cozy, lighthearted occasion. Regardless of the tone of the event, there is always the potential for you to dance, play silly games, eat snacks, and spend quality time together, dressed as your favorite characters or in unique outfits of your own design.

Winter Soldier: That depends on the partners, love. It can be fun in a crowded house, with lots of booze and snacks, and your significant other, getting a drink or trying to find a quiet spot, just to sneak a kiss or have some fun. It can be exciting and romantic though he prefers a quiet night with you even if it means handing out candy with you instead.

Black Panther: Going to a Halloween party with you is always a fun experience. He usually arrives dressed up in matching costumes with you, ready to make a statement and turn some heads. You both spent the evening together, enjoying the spooky ambiance, the music, and the delicious snacks. He takes fun pictures together and explores the event, laughing and having fun together. He might even get you to compete in a costume photo shoot, trying to outdo one another with your creative and imaginative choices. It's an enjoyable time, seeing you be your silly, fun-loving self and engaging with him in a world of playful mischief.

Doctor Strange: Going to a Halloween party with the person he loves is like having the whole world to himself. It's a special moment of connection and intimacy where you can express yourself without judgment and celebrate with each other. Whether you dress up together or go in matching costumes, the night provides an opportunity for playful banter and flirting. As the night progresses, you can dance together, laugh together, and truly enjoy the moment. Nothing can top the feeling of being together and having fun on a night dedicated to all things spooky.

Thor: Going to a Halloween party with you is always exciting and fun. You'll start off by getting dressed up in your costumes, picking out perfect outfits that will make all the guests look twice. Once you're ready to go, you head to the party and enjoy a night full of dancing, drinking, and talking with friends. We always look forward to the different activities that the event organizers set up. If it's a costume party, then the night usually ends with lots of fun and laughter, as everyone enjoys some playful banter.

Ant-Man: It would depend on what costumes you and he pick. You could end up having a lot of fun, being silly, and laughing at your funny costume choices, or you could be embarrassed if you picked something too crazy. It could be a night to remember, if you and he picked something romantic, or it could be a night of horror if you decide to dress up as scary characters. Either way, the important thing is that you're having fun together and enjoying the Halloween festivities.

[carewyncromwell]

17, 20 and 27? ^^

17. Who is MC's heart throb? Why?

LOL, well, at school, Carewyn did nurture a crush on Andre, before she dated him! She not only really admired his talent for flying and fashion, but his confidence and effortless amiability. Carewyn herself may be able to project confidence and has been able to make friends easily enough due to her immense sensitivity toward other people's feelings and needs, but she is not a social butterfly, and when she was younger and still seen as "that delinquent Jacob Cromwell's sister" by most people, she saw this popular Ravenclaw who could effortlessly strike up a conversation with someone and immediately end up their friend and envied that. Plus he was very nice and incredibly generous! Andre always helped his friends in need with fashion emergencies, whether with advice or even by making his own pieces from scratch by hand. Ultimately, though, when Andre did actually ask Carewyn to the Celestial Ball in their fourth year and they started dating, they weren't actually the power couple one would assume. Andre isn't as attuned to people's feelings as Carewyn is, especially if you're not the sort to wear your feelings on your sleeve, and so at times ended up being a bit too blunt or insensitive, and because Carewyn is the type to soldier through and not tell anyone she's hurting, that only bred confusion and resentment. Andre is the sort to wear his emotions on his sleeve, so he wasn't able to pick up on Carewyn's more subtle expressions of her emotional state. To add to the problem, Carewyn had MAJOR trust issues to work through as well, so she simply just had trouble letting down her walls enough to be an equal in a relationship as it was. She was fine with taking care of Andre's problems, as she did her other friends, but she was so focused on looking her best for Andre at all times because of how much she admired him that she would never open up to him about her own problems...so yeah, this person that should've been her rock and shoulder to cry on was never really allowed to be. Finally, their wants and needs in a relationship were honestly just very different. Andre wanted someone who'd be up for playing lots of Quidditch, dressing in lots of pretty clothes, going to lots of parties with him and potentially even having sex -- Carewyn, being ace but not realizing it yet, had no interest in or inclination toward sex and, as mentioned earlier, is no social butterfly. Carewyn needed someone who'd do things and engage in intellectual discussions with her and be able to provide encouragement, stability, and emotional support -- Andre may be able to talk about just about anything, but he's the type to like a loud, flashy lifestyle with lots of travel and his inability to look past Carewyn's stoic mask made him ill-equipped to help support her emotionally. The two broke up in their fifth year and went back to just being friends, and honestly, they've become closer platonically than they even were before, since they understand each other in a way no one else does. And after the Second Wizarding War, Carewyn reconnects and eventually becomes romantic partners with her ex-Captain Orion Amari! (Guess this girl's type is Quidditch players, LMAO!)

27. If MC could be any creature, what would it be and why?

Hmm, Carewyn would honestly prefer to stay a human, if she had a choice. She likes being a witch! But if she had to be a creature, I think she'd pick something that flies -- she's been enamored with flight since she was very little. Carewyn's Animagus form is a robin, so I guess she'd choose that.

And 20 is here!

MC Ask!

[africanmorning]

Speaking as someone for whom PT was a mostly (not completely) effective treatment, but the upkeep required to prevent regression was too taxing, I really want to add that it's also totally fine if you choose to just not have penetrative sex or even not have sex at all. There is a lot of societal pressure to "put out" for romantic partners, and people say some downright nasty things about those who can't or won't, but a partner who truly cares about you won't pressure you to let them hurt you against your own wishes. It's also okay if getting treatment isn't your top priority. Finding a doctor who will take you seriously, getting put on a waitlist, and trying to keep up with medications/therapy can be a long, involved process, and it's absolutely reasonable to decide that school/career/money/other health issues/anything else under the sun is more important right now (or forever). If someone is asking you to dedicate resources to making yourself more sexually available at the expense of your ambitions, health, and/or financial security, I suggest taking time to reflect on whether or not this person actually cares about your best interests in the long run.

Personally, I found that most of my distress didn't actually come from vaginismus itself, but from being with a partner who slowly made more and more of our relationship contingent on whether or not they could have penetrative sex with me and from fear and guilt that being unavailable to my partner in any way would make me a demanding, unreliable, and outright bad partner.

Now I am in a different, genuinely loving relationship that doesn't demand that I regularly hurt myself, and my ace friends have taught me that it's ridiculous to hinge my entire worth on my sexual availability and that I can and should have the self-respect to look after my own happiness and wellbeing (seriously, shout out to the ace community in general for being some of the most reasonable folks out there). I still have vaginismus, and it still sucks, but it bothers me much less, my love life has drastically improved, and I am much happier than I was before.

We all know what erectile dysfunction is but literally no one is ever taught what vaginismus is and it can cause people to feel extremely lost, broken, and cause people to take their own lives. Raise. Awareness.

[twirltrend]

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: Perfect Presents for Everyone

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about how to make the special people in your life feel loved and appreciated. Whether it’s for your partner, best friend, family member, or even yourself, we’ve curated the ultimate list of Valentine’s Day gifts that are sure to impress. Let’s dive into some thoughtful and trendy options that cater to everyone on your list.

Click the link to see the 1000 best Valentine’s gifts for your friend from Amazon and get them before they sell out!🎀✨

Buy Now

1. For the Romantic Partner

When it comes to your significant other, personalization and thoughtfulness go a long way. Here are some perfect ideas:

Customized Jewelry: A piece of jewelry engraved with their initials or a special date is timeless and meaningful.

Experience Gifts: Plan a romantic getaway, a cooking class for two, or a spa day.

Scented Candles & Fragrances: Luxurious options like the Voyage Eau de Toilette with notes of apple, cedarwood, and mimosa make excellent choices.

2. For the Self-Care Enthusiast

Show your love by gifting items that promote relaxation and wellness. Some great ideas include:

Exfoliating Body Scrubs: Indulge them with options like the Dove Brown Sugar & Coconut Butter Body Scrub or Dove Crushed Cherries & Chia Milk Polish for silky smooth skin.

Luxurious Skincare: Products like the Flexitol Heel Magic or e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator are perfect for pampering.

Aromatherapy Kits: Essential oil sets or diffusers can create a calming environment at home.

3. For the Beauty Lover

Help them glow this Valentine’s Day with beauty products they’ll adore:

Makeup Staples: The LAURA GELLER Baked Balance-n-Brighten Foundation is a highly-rated product for a natural, demi-matte finish.

Gel Nail Kits: A trendy option like the Beetles Gel Nail Polish Set with 20 Valentine’s-themed colors is ideal for DIY manicures.

Haircare Bundles: Treat them to professional-grade shampoos, conditioners, or styling tools.

4. For Friends and Family

Celebrate love and connection with thoughtful gifts for your closest circle:

Sentimental Keepsakes: Picture frames, photo books, or personalized mugs with shared memories.

Home Comforts: Cozy blankets, unique coffee mugs, or stylish throw pillows.

Tech Gadgets: Bluetooth speakers or portable chargers are practical and always appreciated.

5. For Yourself

Don’t forget to show yourself some love this Valentine’s Day! Treat yourself to:

Relaxation Essentials: A bubble bath kit or an aromatherapy candle.

Wardrobe Upgrades: Stylish accessories or comfy loungewear.

Hobby Supplies: New books, art materials, or fitness gear.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift

Think About Their Interests: Tailor your gift to their hobbies and preferences.

Personalize When Possible: Customized gifts always add a special touch.

Focus on Quality: Choose high-quality items that will last and be appreciated.

Presentation Matters: Wrap your gift beautifully to make the moment even more memorable.

SEO-Optimized Hashtags for Valentine’s Day

#ValentinesDayGifts #GiftGuide #ValentinesDay2025 #GiftsForHer #GiftsForHim #SelfCareGifts #RomanticGifts #BeautyLovers #ValentineGiftIdeas #LuxuryGifts #DIYValentineGifts #ThoughtfulGifts #PamperYourself

This Valentine’s Day, let your gifts speak from the heart. Whether it’s a small token of appreciation or a grand gesture, the effort you put into choosing the perfect gift will undoubtedly make someone’s day extra special. Happy gifting!

[customsonggift]

Gifts are emotions: Exploring Songfinch and Personalized Song Gifts for Emotional Moments

It can be difficult to find a gift in today's environment as everything is too materialistic and meaningful gifts become rare. But as time passes, many people now realize how much a custom song gift is an unforgettable choice that makes a person's day beautiful. 

The capacity to turn feelings and memories into music has drawn a lot of attention to Songfinch, a website devoted to writing original songs. Songfinch reviews, Songfinch prices, and the reasons why personalized music presents are becoming a popular option for special events are all covered in this article.

What Makes Songfinch Stand Out?  

Songfinch is a website that is creative in its own way and allows users to make or create customized songs according to their liking. This business takes a simple yet effective strategy. 

The song's base is the precise information that customers supply, such as memorable stories, preferences, and the occasion. The end product is an emotional work of art that speaks to the giver and the recipient.

SongFinch reviews usually emphasize the platform's outstanding customer support and the artists' professionalism. Numerous consumers share how the music moved their loved ones to tears and beyond their expectations. 

Songfinch is becoming a more and more popular option because of its capacity to use music to bring personal stories to life.

Understanding the Cost of Songfinch Services 

The Songfinch cost is among the most often asked inquiries concerning this service. There are no hidden costs because the platform's bespoke song pricing is clear. Generally speaking, a Songfinch customized song costs about $199. 

A professionally composed and recorded music that is customized to the client's tastes is part of this. There can be extra fees for individuals who want further customizations, such as selecting a particular artist or including more verses. 

The value of the Songfinch is in its emotional impact and distinctiveness, even though its price may seem excessive when compared to more conventional gifts. Given the caliber of the music and the happiness it offers to listeners, many users believe the price is justifiable.

Why Choose a Personal Song Gift?

Gifts of personal songs are a wonderful way to honor connections and communicate feelings. A song, in contrast to conventional gifts, preserves sentiments, memories, and shared experiences in a way that can be treasured for a lifetime. 

Giving a personalized song as a present lets you express feelings that can be hard to put into words otherwise. The lyrics and music can convey feelings like love, thankfulness, or appreciation in a manner that words alone cannot. 

Songfinch's extensive selection of musical styles allows consumers to select a genre that suits the preferences of their gift. The song's sentimental worth is increased by its personalization, which guarantees that it feels genuine and intimate.

Personalized Songs: A Gift That Lasts a Lifetime

Not only are personalized song gifts appropriate for special events. Also, they can be used as simple reminders of love, apology tokens, or encouragement tokens. Because of this gift's adaptability, it can be given to friends, family, and love partners, among others. 

Nothing compares to the emotional bond that personalized music may establish. The thought and attention that went into writing their song is recalled each time the recipient hears it. Personal song gifts are unique among gifts because of their lasting influence.  

Conclusion: A Unique Way to Show You Care

With welcoming a change Songfinch's personalized song gifts provide a different way to express emotions with the people who are special to you. These songs generate enduring memories for the giver and the recipient by fusing originality, passion, and customization. 

A personalized song giftis a touching way to express your interest, whether it's for a romantic occasion, a heartfelt thank-you, or a milestone celebration. The platform's potential to unite people via music is demonstrated by Songfinch reviews and its increasing popularity. It may be an investment, but the happiness and connection it creates make it a memorable gift.

[weekenddating1]

Find Your Match with Long Island Singles and Speed Dating NYC

In the fast-paced world we live in, finding meaningful connections can often feel overwhelming. Whether you're a Long Island Single seeking love or someone from NYC looking for a quick way to meet new people, Speed Dating NYC offers a fun and efficient solution. This growing trend has taken the dating scene by storm, offering singles a unique way to meet potential matches in a short amount of time. But how does it work, and why is it becoming so popular? Let's explore.

What Is Speed Dating and How Does It Work? Speed dating is a modern way to meet new people, particularly suited for busy professionals who want to meet potential partners without committing hours to a traditional first date. The premise is simple: you attend an event where you meet several people for short, timed conversations. At the end of each session, you move on to the next person until you’ve met everyone in the room.

The beauty of Speed Dating NYC is that it allows you to assess a potential partner quickly and efficiently. This method of dating is designed to eliminate the long waiting periods and uncertainty that can come with traditional dating. Whether you're in Manhattan or Queens, there's always an event around the corner, making it easy for NYC residents to fit a dating experience into their busy schedules.

Why Are Long Island Singles Embracing Speed Dating? For Long Island Singles meeting people outside their social circles can sometimes be a challenge. While online dating apps and websites offer convenience, they don’t always provide the instant, in-person connection that many people crave. This is where speed dating shines.

Long Island Singles can participate in local speed dating events in nearby cities like Manhattan, where they can meet other like-minded individuals in a fun, low-pressure setting. Plus, with events often catered to specific interests, such as age groups or hobbies, participants can engage with people who share similar passions.

Additionally, for those tired of endless texting and chatting online, speed dating provides a refreshing change. Instead of scrolling through profiles, you get to interact with someone face-to-face and instantly gauge chemistry. There's no better way to see if the spark is real.

How to Prepare for Your First Speed Dating Event If you're new to the concept of speed dating, preparing for your first event can be a bit daunting. But don't worry – it's simpler than it sounds. Here's what you need to know:

Dress to Impress: Your appearance plays a significant role in making a good first impression. Choose something comfortable yet stylish to ensure you feel confident.

Have Fun with the Conversations: Since each conversation is brief, focus on being engaging and asking open-ended questions. You want to stand out, so be yourself and keep the tone light and fun.

Be Honest: Speed dating is all about finding a real connection, so honesty is key. Whether it's about your goals in life or your taste in movies, genuine conversations will lead to better matches.

Keep an Open Mind: You might not feel an instant spark with everyone you meet, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth the experience. You could end up making new friends or acquaintances, which can be just as rewarding as finding a romantic partner.

The Advantages of Speed Dating NYC Living in a city as vast and diverse as New York can make it challenging to meet people who share your interests and values. While dating apps might help, they often lack the immediacy and personal connection that speed dating provides.

Speed Dating NYC offers several benefits for those looking for a partner:

Efficiency: In just a couple of hours, you can meet dozens of potential matches, saving time compared to the endless swiping and messaging on apps.

Immediate Connection: You get instant feedback on whether you feel a spark with someone, instead of waiting days for a reply.

Variety: NYC is home to a wide range of people from different backgrounds. Speed dating events cater to various demographics, ensuring you meet people who are aligned with your preferences.

The Growing Popularity of Speed Dating for Long Island Singles The trend of speed dating is not just a passing phase; it's a dating revolution, especially for Long Island Singles. While Long Island itself has a rich social scene, many singles find it difficult to meet people in a way that feels genuine. Speed dating bridges this gap by bringing people together for face-to-face interactions that allow them to evaluate potential partners quickly and effectively.

As more and more people realize the benefits of speed dating, the demand for events continues to rise. Whether you're looking for love or just exploring the dating scene, participating in speed dating events around NYC and Long Island is an excellent way to break the ice and meet new people.

Conclusion In a world where digital interactions often replace face-to-face connections, speed dating offers a refreshing and effective way for Long Island Singles and NYC residents to meet new people. By attending a Speed Dating NYC event, you're not only maximizing your chances of finding love, but you're also engaging in an experience that can lead to new friendships and memorable moments. So why not give it a try? The right match might be just a conversation away.

[sakshigupta941]

Exploring the Dynamics of Love Marriage vs Arranged Marriage.

Love Marriage vs Arranged Marriage: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to tying the knot, there are two main ways people go about it: love marriage vs arranged marriage. Each has its own unique dynamics and brings different experiences to the table. Let’s see that what sets them apart.

Love Marriage: Following the Heart’s Desire

In a love marriage, two people decide to get married because they have fallen in love with each other. This usually happens after they have spent time getting to know each other, often through dating or being friends. The decision to marry is based on mutual feelings of love, attraction, and compatibility.

In a love marriage, individuals have the freedom to choose their partners based on their own preferences, likes, and dislikes. They may consider factors such as personality, interests, values, and goals when deciding if they want to spend their lives together.

One of the key aspects of a love marriage is that the couple typically has a strong emotional connection and understanding of each other before getting married. This can help create a foundation of trust and companionship that is important for a successful marriage.

Arranged Marriage: Embracing Tradition and Family Input

On the other hand, an arranged marriage is when the families of the bride and groom play a significant role in choosing their partners. In some cases, the couple may not even meet each other until the wedding day or shortly before. Instead, their families take on the responsibility of finding a suitable match based on factors such as social status, financial stability, cultural background, and family values.

Arranged marriages are often seen as a way to strengthen family ties and ensure compatibility between the spouses. Families may consider factors beyond just the couple’s individual preferences, such as how well they will fit into each other’s families and communities.

While the idea of an arranged marriage may seem outdated to some, many couples in arranged marriages find love and happiness with their partners. Over time, they may develop a deep emotional bond and understanding, similar to that in a love marriage.

Exploring the Dynamics

Both love marriage and arranged marriage have their own advantages and challenges. In a love marriage, people have the opportunity to pick their accomplices in view of individual inclinations, prompting areas of strength for an association all along. However, they may face challenges such as societal pressure or familial disapproval if their choice goes against traditional norms.

In contrast, arranged marriages offer the support and guidance of families in finding a suitable partner, which can lead to long-lasting relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. However, couples in arranged marriages may need time to develop romantic feelings for each other and may face initial challenges in adjusting to married life.

Ultimately, whether a marriage is arranged or based on love, what matters most is the commitment, communication, and effort that both partners put into making the relationship work. Each couple's process is interesting, and what works for one may not work for another. Love marriage vs arranged marriage are simply different paths to the same destination: a lifelong partnership filled with love, respect, and companionship.