#but she likes her job as a florist. she loves flowers a lot too

[booyahhstormz]

Why so serious, Cordie?

Cordelia works at a flower shop in the morning and at Dante's bar at night, and she sleeps sometimes (And yet she has no home wow)

She's a black American girl with Dominican background btw

Sometimes Izekiel pisses her off because he's oblivious of everything and has to worry about only two things but they're best friends anyways :3

[yandere-kokeshi]

Yandere Kate Laswell Headcanons

Warnings: yandere behavior, talks about kidnapping, and some violence.

A/N: This lady makes me feral; I’d honestly love requests about her <3. Please enjoy!

Kate is obsessive & possessive. Protective at the same rate, and often snarls underneath her breath when people treat you rudely. She’s the type of person to manipulate the world around you, forming a ‘good outlook’ to ensure you fall for her and her only. 

With how you two met, there are a lot of possibilities. The most sense would be you being a civilian, possibly a bartender at a famous bar she had met when she’d gone with John and the team, being confident enough to be flirting with you; finding your smile, comfortable attitude, and your features to be beautiful. 

Or you could be a florist, an individual that suggested the same flowers she had gotten for Price after a mission, your words of the flower being for ‘healing’. She stayed later than she would’ve liked, but quite honestly, she didn’t seem to care. Because, every time, she kept coming back; buying more flowers for her sake only. Seeing you smile, especially at her compliments, had her hands sweating like a damn teenager. 

Lastly, in a rare chance, you could be in the military; a medic or soldier working under Price. But, with her quick wit and bold voice, you’re likely pulled out for ‘reasons’. Of course, both of you knew how hard and dangerous the job was– her obvious worries as a friend nitpicking at your conversations. Her fretting voice asking questions on the phone after you came back from a mission, asking to come over to ensure your safety. 

Either way, you’ve caught the attention of Kate Laswell, a woman of authority and order. She’d reveal her feelings normally, telling you that she adores you, loves you more than her heart can fill, and how she wants to spend the rest of her life with you. And, within that, she’s now spitting orders, making sure your life is easy and stress-free. 

Upfront within the relationship, both of you immediately get married; she’s already calling you her spouse within months of the relationship. Once you two are officially married, Kate asks you to get a more private job; something more home alike. She finds it perfect that you could work at home, as she could too. Both of you work in the same space, where she can watch you. 

The relationship is natural and slow — but behind the scenes, everything is different. She’s colder, ensuring your safety and information is kept secret, and that everyone respects you like how she’s respected. Everyone has their dirty clothes that they need to care for, and she does it in her own way. 

Despite it being a ‘normal’ relationship, she’s insanely protective. Which only resorts to her putting secret cameras and listening devices everywhere, especially on you. During her lunch break, she listens to your everyday duties; smiling at your laughter, or scoffing when the dick-of-an-employee flirts with you. Of course, without your knowledge, a tracker is placed on the back or your neck — your discomfort being placed as a muscle-strain, which she only massages out with her cold, calloused hands. 

Kate is incredibly loving, always trying to find time for you; wanting to sit right next to you, arms inline with yours. But with her work, it’s difficult and hard to determine when she’ll be good at spending time with you without interruption– so, she goes down the information route, always watching you with CCTV.

She finds your routines cute, watching in her office on how you swiftly fold clothes, and equally forgetting the basket beside your bed by the timer of your microwaved food. Whatever you do, Kate is watching — a smile on her face, adoring you. 

Would never hurt or kill someone, especially if you knew them. But, when it comes down to getting rid of nuisances, she uses her work as intimidation, and the point of termination for their reputation and job as a favor. 

A friend you once knew, backstabbing you out of the blue? They’re put into jail for stealing their company’s money, harassment added to their public file. 

Your boss being a prick, telling you to work harder, not smarter? He’s terminated for harassing his employees. Kate only gets her revenge — not hard feelings, right? She’s just protecting you. 

Surprise to no surprise, the only person who knows about your existence would be Price, Nikolai, and TF-141. Other than the team hearing her talk about you (the moment with Gaz), Price occasionally asking how you are, most people don’t even know you exist; your very social life becoming quiet since she’s been with you. 

Laswell is one not to kidnap — she’d hate to strip you of your freedom, watching you un-trust her, and force you to stay home. Because of this, she lists strict rules she expects you to follow. Her job is dangerous, and she’d hate for you to get hurt. So why not listen to her, yeah?

Punishments don’t really exist, however, she does get mad at you, and her manipulation and guilt-tripping only doubles in size when you do something that upsets her. 

Such as shutting off your 24/7 location, not responding to her messages within a few hours, or simply not keeping her up to date of what’s going on at home. When angry, Laswell becomes demanding, and it’s not a pretty sight. She would never hurt you, but instead using her job, and your safety, as an excuse for you to stay home. Yes, she will raise her voice, and yes will say ‘mom’ things (ex. Don’t walk away from me, this conversation is important, etc.), but she’s only saying those things to protect you. 

Within her reach of affection, she’s very domestic and vanilla, but also very demanding in her own way. 

When kissing, she grasps your chin very gently and pecks your lips so gently that you want more. She’s also huge on hugging, especially when she comes home; she gives the good kind where she hugs deploy on your lower back, fingers slipping inside your shirt, and asking how your day went. 

Kate isn’t big on PDA, the less attention she attracts in public, the better. She’s very keen on the domestic outlook in private: exchanging cheeky smiles when reading books, coming up behind you with a back-hug when it’s your turn to cook dinner. Or, when passing by you, she’ll give you a peck on the neck/or cheek; maybe a butt grab if she’s feeling risky for that morning. 

Big on acts of service — doing the dishes and laundry when it’s a lazy Sunday, easily making you an extra cup of your drink when you’re doing at-home work. Or, making you a good batch of lunch when you’ve forgotten to eat; a kiss to the cheek, and to the temple as a silent ‘love you’. 

If you’re close to your family, Kate is the definite wife that’ll keep your household busy. Every time she visits, you can guarantee she’ll keep your dad occupied. If you have any cousins, or little siblings, she tries to engage, but isn’t all that fond of children. 

—

Masterlist || Reblogs, comments, and likes are very much appreciated!! Stay well!!

© yandere-kokeshi 2023 — Do not copy, modify, edit, repost, or use my works for ASMR readings, tiktoks, or other content.

[musicalmoritz]

Could you do more of the kids/ parenting head canons??? Can I ask for like Aoiaoi, Natsuteru and Kounene also yamabuki lemon as a single parent and whoever else you want??

Another one let’s gooooooooo

AoiAoi

• Out of every couple these two are the most likely to get married and have kids

• They would have an insane amount of kids. Like they’d be on the news for how many kids they have. Poor Aoi

• Buuuut she’s just as eager to have a house full of kids as Akane is. She gives them flower names and they probably have at least one Harry Potter ass kid who’s named smth like “Teru Nene Aoi.” She doesn’t have to be as strict with them bcuz Akane takes over most of the parenting, trust tho she’s still very involved in her kids’ lives. She probably has a binder to keep track of what’s going on with each of them

• I mentioned before that I see Aoi becoming a florist in the future, I see Akane becoming a therapist. He uses a bunch of psychology tricks to parent their kids, but he has a habit of using too many technical terms when he gives advice. “No honey, you just need to develop an internal locus of control.” The kids and Aoi are both very tired of it. He would absolutely love being a dad tho and be the biggest family guy ever

• They have a sign on their front porch that says smth like “Home of Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi Aoi & Aoi❤️”

• Their home life is very chaotic and stressful at times but it’s built on so much love and dedication. Akane and Aoi are both living their dream lives (likely with a lot of nannies) (or with Akane quitting his job to be a househusband after him and Aoi rock-paper-scissored over who got to do it) (Aoi didn’t speak to him for a week after he won)

Natsuteru

• Oh wow it is hard for me to imagine them as parents

• I say they would have two sons (I’m loosely basing this off a series one of my moots @/teru.kisser made on TikTok)

• No matter who he’s with, Teru is gonna be a helicopter. His parental instincts come before anything else in his life so he fully dedicates himself to the kids. He either has some cool ass job like a private investigator or he’s a stay at home dad, no in between (no he’s not an exorcist in this I’m letting him be happy). He dotes on the kids all the time but can be overly strict in order to keep them safe

• Natsuhiko tries to be the fun dad but he’s so aloof that the kids don’t know much about him. Some kind of super secretive job. His and Teru’s parenting styles tend to conflict so they essentially parent separately. They argue a lot bcuz of their differences but they manage to make it work because both of them are deeply in love with each other. Their kids frequently question how they ended up together

• They take the boys to amusement parks a lot

• While the household can be a bit tense and they could definitely use some family counseling, they all love each other a lot. None of them know how to express it bcuz they’re all so secretive in their own ways but they care about each other more than anything. It’s a weird life but a charming one

Kounene

• Old married couple Kounene save me…old married couple Kounene…save me old married couple Kounene

• Two sons and a daughter. That’s the vibe I’m getting

• Kou has some deep-seated issues he’s unwilling to address but he makes up for it by loving his wife and kids Gomez Addams style. Mans is fully devoted to his family and he makes sure to tell them that every day. I might let him go the exorcist route bcuz I want to see him suffer a lot little. He’s there at every sports game his kids have yelling at the ref. He makes Nene breakfast in bed every morning. One thing abt Kou is he’s gonna spoil the ppl he loves

• Writer!Nene is still a thing in this universe, she has her own trauma and writes to make sense of it. She’s a bit better with the kids because when they need her help, she focuses more on understanding why they’re upset as opposed to Kou who solely focuses on solving all their problems. She has a hard time keeping up with all their extracurricular activities but she supports them nonetheless

• All of Kou and Nene’s friends admire them for being high school sweethearts

• They’re a stereotypical sitcom family. Corny life lessons at the end of each day. The kids get into shenanigans. They probably have a dog too, a golden retriever. It’s a whole bit

Single Dad Lemon

• I love this one, we need more single parent rep

• I’m gonna say he has a son

• I really want to go with some tropey story of how he was living a rough lifestyle and found a troubled kid that he had to look out for and eventually he had to fix up his life to adopt the kid bcuz they changed each other’s lives but would that be too corny?? Maybe he just up and decided he wanted to be a dad someday. Maybe his baby mama left him. You decide

• He would be one of those dads that acts like an older brother at times but in a good way. Instead of rising to his rebellious son’s bait, he meets him halfway, confronting him abt his bs without putting up with it. One of those parents you can swear around but he will throw in a half-hearted “Language.” It’s rocky at first but they end up super close, a rare instance of finding a parent who is genuinely your best friend

• Their house is a mess but it’s a home <3 Similar to the Kounene family they’d probably have a sitcom type lifestyle, the Boy Meets World to Kounene’s Full House. The kid throws a party while Lemon is a way and they have to have a heart-to-heart about it. Cue the tears

I hope you enjoyed these, I had a lot of fun making them!! I’m pleasantly surprised I’ve gotten so many asks about this, I thought most fans hated fankid stuff so I’m happy to see I’m not the only one who like to imagine what these characters would be like in the future

[lolasimms]

a lots gonna change pt.11

Summary: Married life isn’t great, infidelity ensues, and things change.

Feel free to send asks regarding the series!

next part

"Thanks baby." You reach out to Abby, as she hands you a sandwich container from the office’ cafe.

"No problem, I've missed you so much." She sits beside you on the couch and drops her head down to your stomach. Caught off guard you laugh and stroke her head causing her to groan in delight.

"Abs we literally saw each other yesterday." She lifts her head and smiles at you, peppering kisses all over your face.

"A few hours without seeing my girl and I'm driven crazy, I need to be with you at all times." She smiles at you, as you open your container and look at her lovingly.

"If it makes you feel better, I missed you too." You lift your sandwich to you mouth and take a generous bite and hear Abby groan again.

"I'm getting really horny baby"

"I'm literally eating a sandwich, how could that possibly turn you on?" You drop your food and glance at her in disbelief.

"I don't know, everything you do turns me on"

"You're such a lover girl" you say, bringing her hand to your mouth and placing a kiss on her knuckles.

"So, can I come over tonight, finally make that dinner for you and Lila that I promised." You sigh placing your container onto the coffee table and leaning towards her.

"Not tonight baby, Ellie's coming over. We have a thing going on." You immediately feel her tense up and shift uncomfortably.

"What kind of thing?"

"Lila's class is putting on a play, so we're taking her out for dinner and then going to watch it."

"You didn't tell me Lila was doing a play, I would've loved to come see it."

"Its not a big deal, plus each kid is limited to only two tickets." She turns to you smiling and brings you into her arms.

"It's fine honey, just tell Lila I'm wishing her good-luck okay?"

-

Ellie wanted to look as good as she could for you. She wanted to impress you tonight and prayed that all went well. She wore a pair of black slacks and a navy blue dress shirt. Her hair in its usual half up, half down style. She'd even ironed her clothes and spritzed on the cologne she knew you loved so much. She grabbed her keys, locked up and headed to the florist.

She was aware that your favourites were carnations so she grabbed a bouquet of those, and for the Star of tonights show, she picked up a mini bouquet of white roses. She had some time to kill and figured she'd much rather prefer to eat in at the dining table of your place like a real family, rather than go out for dinner. With the food in her hands and the flowers tucked underneath her arms, she was knocking on your door an hour early.

"Hi Ellie" you smile as you open the door. You wore a pair of blue jeans and a milkmaid top. Ellie had to curse herself for staring at your boobs too long.

"Oh hey, you look nice." She let's out and you smile and walk her inside.

"Thanks Els" she flinches at the nickname you used to call her, but she doubts you'd even registered that you had said it.

"I got you these, and I brought some food, figured we could just eat here." You're taken aback when she hands you a bouquet of carnations, your favourite.

"Thank you, this was very thoughtful of you." You take the flowers and place them in an empty vase, as Ellie sets the food on the kitchen island. As you're filling the vase with water, you hear the familiar pitter patter of feet hitting the floor.

"Momma" Lila runs into the kitchen, hugging Ellie's legs and squeezing her.

"Hey baby, are you ready for tonight?" Ellie lifts Lila into her arms, kissing the child.

"Mhm, I've been practicing in my room." She smiles and you can't help but smile too. She'd been practicing all week long, making you hold the script while she tried to master her lines. You were so proud of how seriously she was taking this.

"Good job baby, can't wait to watch you tonight, I got you a present but you can get it after the show" Ellie glances towards the bouquet of white roses and Lila squeals. Immediately she runs and grabs the flowers sniffing them.

"Lila, momma said you can have them after the show, not now." You speak and she simply rolls her eyes.

"Im not taking them, just smelling"

"Okay well let's set them down and wash our hands before we eat, we should be leaving here in 40 minutes" Like clockwork the two of them follow your orders, washing their hands at the sink and then walking over to start eating.

-

"Lila I thought you said it started at 5?"

"No we're meant to get here at 5, but parents come in at 7." She grabs her bag as you walk her towards her schools theatre building.

"So I just drop you here and wait two hours?" You question as she lets go of your hand, about to make her way into the doors.

"Mommy it's just two hours you can wait in the car." You curse yourself and prepare for what you were expecting to be the most awkward two hours ever.

-

"So we have to be here for two hours while they prepare" Ellie asks in disbelief and you nod.

"According to Lila yes" you you glance outside the parking lot and their seems to be other parents parked and sat in their cars.

"Well shit, just builds the anticipation for the show I guess." Before you can reply you let out a harsh sneeze, and then another, and another.

"Shit, do you have any tissues?” You ask Ellie, covering your nose in embarrassment.

"Glove box" she mumbles and you're shocked at what you see. Immediately she's reaching over trying to stop you but it's too late.

"Oh my god Ellie" you smirk as you hold up a ziplock of blunts, immediately she turns beet red.

"Give me that y/n” She smiles but you pull it away before she can grab it"

"Can we smoke this?" You don't know what had gotten into you, but you knew this was the only thing that would make the next two hours alone with Ellie bearable.

"You sure?" She smiles and you nod.

"Fuck I guess we're getting high at our kids school"

-

Getting high before watching a play filled with 5 year olds wearing beards and dressed like grown adults was a mistake. Big mistake. The two of you couldn't stop laughing and the parents sat next to you were starting to catch on. Each time a word came out of the children's mouths you and Ellie couldn't stop laughing. It was so bad that one parents sat in-front of you had to turn around and shush you. When Lila came on however it was worse, the two of you were cheering, clapping and whistling, pissing off everyone in your vicinity.

"I think they're on to us" you giggle and she nods.

"I'm hungry"

"Me too"

Seeing as Lila wouldn't be on for another few minutes, the two of you made your way out of your seats and headed outside of the auditorium to find a vending machine. You were sat in-front of the machine while Ellie tried to get it to work and surprisingly enough it had. She had splurged on packs of m&ms, skittles, a bar of snickers and a kitkat. As soon as she had thrown some into your lap you were gorging your mouth with the sweets.

"Mmmm" she groans as she takes a humorously large bite out of her snickers bar.

"Give me" you lean over and bite the rest of it and she snorts loudly. Causing the both of you to erupt in a fit of obnoxious giggles.

"I think we're great parents, like we deserve a parent of the year award" She says as she reaches into your bag of m&ms and takes a handful.

"I agree" you smile.

"We should probably head back inside, or Lila will kill us"

-

Mommy, Momma!" Lila comes running up to the two of you in her costume. The two of you crouch down to envelop her in a joint hug, so proud of her.

"You did so good baby, these are yours" Ellie says as she lets go of Lila and hands her the promised bouquet. Lila squeals taking it in her hands and jumping with excitement.

"You were so good baby, we're proud of you" you take one of her hands in yours and begin leading her out of the building. Ellie trailing beside the two of you. As soon as you'd made it out of the schools parking lot, Lila was fast asleep. The poor thing was probably exhausted and honestly so were you. Despite dreading today your night with Ellie was funnier than you'd expected it would be.

As you got into the drive way, Ellie had offered to carry Lila to her room and you were more than happy to accept. You grabbed her bag and bouquet and rounded the car to unlock the door. You took a seat on the couch as Ellie ascended the stairs with Lila in her arms. For a second you wondered if this was what it would've been like if the two of you had never separated, if the domestic bliss would be this light and happy. You were brought back to life when Ellie came up behind the couch, tapping your shoulders gently.

"She's asleep, completely knocked out" She rounds the coach and takes a seat next to you.

"Good, you gonna pick her up tomorrow or want me to drop her off?" You question, it was Friday tomorrow meaning she had Lila for the weekend.

"I can pick her up, whatever's most convenient for you" She smiles and her leg leans closer to yours.

"I had fun tonight, didn't expect I'd ever get high at Lila's school but it was fucking hilarious." You turn looking at her with a smile and she does the same.

"Me too, probably the most eventful day I've had in the last 6 months" In all but two seconds she's leaning forward capturing your lips in a kiss. You accept it for a brief moment but then pull back.

"Ellie I'm sorry, we can't"

"Why not?" She leans forward, staring deep into your eyes.

"You know why." You lift off the couch and she takes this as her cue to leave.

"I'll see you tomorrow." She says as you let her out the door and close it shut.

taglist;

@moonlightdivine @maybe-cece @macaroni676 @sawaagyapong @katiemars @ellieseater @dakota-dream @joliettes @hebrokeimup @bratydoll @wakasaaa @catostrophiclesbian @dinas-a-bird @lazyunknownwerewolf @h3sitant-alien @ceo-of-ellie-simps @mechetegirl109 @kashoot-me269 @ellieismami

[aziraphales-library]

I read a Fic I really enjoyed that was for Good Omens where it was human au, enemies to lovers, both were at Anathema’s wedding. The wedding was outside and I remember that Crowley was playing with the kids at the wedding. Spinning them around, playing pirate with them. It was several chapters long. It was along the same lines as “or be nice” by charlottemadison. But that wedding was inside. (I may have a type) if you know of any along these lines. Please let me know. I shall happily dive into them.

Not sure on the exact fic, but here are some getting together at weddings fics...

Two Weddings by Lexitennant2 (T)

Aziraphale and Crowley are invited to Anathema and Newton's wedding. Which means a minor breakdown from Crowley in front of his plants, a meddling witch, and Aziraphale is finally talked into some sense so he finally decides that Crowley is NOT going too fast for him.

The Nice and Accurate wedding of Anathema Device, Witch, which went just as expected by Nenchen (G)

Wedding planner Anathema Device is the Number One. She can organize anything for a wedding, flower arrangements, catering, a marching band or an emu. The name Device is a guarantee for a picture perfect wedding - and the perfect pictures will be taken by her top wedding photographer, and best friend, Anthony J. Crowley. Both of them see weddings mostly as business, until Anathema meets Newt, Love of her life, walking natural disaster extraordinaire, and very much not a person it’s possible to have a perfect wedding with. Which is perfect since Anathema frankly never wanted one for herself. She just wants a fun party, good food, and all of her friends to attend - including Crowley. For whom this might just as well be the apocalypse because no, he is not allowed to work on her wedding. Strictly invited only as a guest, Crowley finds himself at a loss. What the hell do you do at weddings? Well, if you are Crowley, the answer is some James Bond-like action, some worrying about fly swarms and their sources, having a lot of emotions, drinking some very funny wine, putting your foot in your mouth and just maybe meeting someone to share all of that with. Oh, and there’s always cake, isn’t there?

It's Not The Journey by cosmya (T)

It had been going so well. They’d averted the apocalypse, averted their punishments, averted further investigation or attention by their respective organizations. They were left with little to do but bask in the happy ending. Therein had been the problem. Another champagne, sir?” interrupted the flight attendant. Aziraphale’s eyes snapped open. Oh, I shouldn’t, he thought. “Yes, please,” he said. “Thank you.” Anathema and Newt are getting married, and two of their wedding guests are in a bit of an awkward place. An all-inclusive resort with unlimited alcohol is precisely what they need to re-break the ice.

The Christmas Wedding Scammer by Aracloptia (T)

“And - thank you for saying yes on such short notice! I tried to plan the thing myself, but … sometimes you actually do need help, right?” “Yeah”, Crowley mumbled, grabbing his phone to write down the name of the restaurant. “Yeah, absolutely.” “That’s what everyone kept telling me; it’s always better with a wedding planner. I guess I should have listened earlier.” “Er”, Crowley said. “Did you say-“ “Anyway, I have another call to make! I have to fire the costumer, the dress we agreed on turned out horrendous. Hey, in the future that’ll be your job! But I’ll do it just this once. See you tomorrow! And please bring suggestions for the bridal wear. Bye!” “Hold o-” The famous wedding planner Antonio Cowley is retired, sworn to never plan a wedding again. Perhaps the right sum of money can persuade him? He is not to be mixed up with out-of-business Anthony J. Crowley, former florist, currently unemployed. OR: In which Crowley accidentally becomes a wedding planner.

District of (un-)Certainty by jamgrl (M)

Aziraphale is a PhD student who needs a roommate so he can continue to afford his house in the U.S. capital of Washington D.C. Luckily, the family he tutors for on the side just happened to find him one! He doesn’t think he will like him much since he is in the states to work on Mr. Dowling’s senate campaign, so he’s probably a terrible person (even if he is good looking). Crowley is pretty independent and doesn’t really have a lot of what you would call “friends”. But he doesn’t mind his new roommate. He would much rather hang out with him than his coworkers, anyways. His roommate’s best friends Anathema and Newt aren’t too bad, either. It’s nice to have some friends. Maybe he likes it in D.C. --- They are millenials! But still British and still old fashioned- just a little twist on our favorite husbands.

Something That Happens To Other People by Caedmon (E)

Anthony J. Crowley is a hotshot political reporter who's landed himself in hot water with his editor. He finds himself demoted to the society desk, where he is assigned to cover the wedding of Anathema Device and Newton Pulsifer. He'd rather chew tin foil than lower himself in such a way, but if he's going to claw his way back to the top, he's going to have to prove himself. Aziraphale Fell is the most sought-after wedding planner in all of London, hailed as the 'angel of love' due to his knack for picking couples who have the most successful marriages. He spends his working hours making other peoples' dreams come true... but his own dreams of romance died long ago. To his mind, love is something that happens to other people. Sparks fly when these two cross paths, and they find themselves instantly attracted to one another. But can Crowley prove Aziraphale’s belief about love to be wrong?

- Mod D

[softdykellie]

ੈ✩‧₊˚ motion sickness part ii | ellie w.

previous part here | next part here soon

PAIRING: modern!ellie x fem!reader

SUMMARY: having grown up together, everyone knew eachother in jackson. when a brooding newcomer owner to a tattoo shop comes along apparently charming her friendly florist neighbor things seem to take a turn.

WARNING: alternative universe! purposefully all lower case. multiple part series. not a very eventful beginning as ellie’s relationship with reader is slow burn but it will start evolving after this one seriously trust me!

WORD COUNT: 632

ellie. you tasted her name on your tongue and melted into the feeling, flushed. dina had certainly manifested her wishes into fruition, you thought. stared at the girl for way too long, getting familiar with her features and vacant gaze towards the alcohol filled shelves against the main bar wall, freckles like starry war paint, eyebrow scar, pale green iris, peach pink lips, auburn hair gently brushing her shoulder at length. breathtaking, you immediately named the feeling, but she looked worn, tossed around. you blamed it on the bruised eye, caught onto sky grey vibes.

a silly game blossomed into your heart years ago, the inspiration for your flower shop really: how everyone you meet could be described by the floral language. dina thought hers too common, but it was your favorite, a daisy, standing for loyal love and “i’ll never tell”. jesse, a white jasmin, sweet love, amiability. even abby, coriander. you did not know the girl at all, but you saw red carnations grow behind her in the way spiritualists would claim to see auras. red carnations; “my heart aches”.

“flower shop girl, yes, that’d be me”

“cute” she mumbled sipping on the beer dina had given her before promptly pretending to be busy elsewhere though noticebly eavesdropping.

“you’ve got a lot of tattoos on you” jesse pointed matter of factly, earning a chuckle “perks of the job?”

“the job” ellie repeated his words in light humor as if minimizing her own career with the sound “yeah, i guess. you want one?”

“fuck, yeah! maybe a dragon up my back or or you know a snake, i don’t know, what do you usually draw?”

“pretty things” she answered before taking you off guard with a head movement that pointed you out amongst them all “like her” she twisted her body around to meet your face “what would you get, flower girl? roses?”

“the sun” you answered “what does that say about me?”

ellie smiled a weak smile, raising the sleeve of her grey t-shirt to expose a beaming sun by her bicep, detailed sad expression in black ink across its center. you took notice of everything. ferns and a moth grew from her hand to the very end of her forearm and covered scars you could only assume to have been self inflicted. a sword pierced through the spare space of skin next to a phoenix and finally angel wings alongside a well hidden initial: J. you wouldn’t ask, but you wanted to.

“trying to figure that out myself”

you hadn’t noticed when abby left, only that she was gone when a couple dollars slipped past you towards the ground from the countertops, extra tips for dina. you wanted her extroverted ways to carry the conversation, ask the newcomer about the altercation, but she seemed to enjoy playing dutiful dedicated owner more. small talk failed you, and ellie was uninterested.

you planned out your next meeting in your head, showing up with cookies as they do in the movies, catching glimpses of her sketches on the wall, giving them backstories to fill the gaps. it wasn’t so strange to be eager as you were taking into consideration how rare these opportunities had presented themselves: you never left jackson, not even on vacation. the world was meant to turn on its axis but you were destined to stay still, an agoraphobia rooted into your veins like movement would burst your chest open, bloody and broken. the flowers had been a therapist’s idea: to take care of something innocent as a purpose, exist outside the shell of a body you painfully cared for in pure obligation. your personal garden arsenal though, had meaning. yellow tulips, that’s what you were. the flower for unrequited love. the one tattooed by ellie’s hipbone you were yet to see.

[moanz111]

daisy. - kang yeosang

pairing ❀ poet! yeosang x gn! florist! reader

genre ❀ fluff, strangers to lovers, one shot

synopsis ❀ for you, flowers are the doors to people's souls. so when a mysterious man with a strange obsession with daisies comes into your flower shop on your opening day, you can't help but feel drawn to him.

w.c. ❀ 4.3 k

warnings ❀ kissing, drinking, so so much fluff, english is not my native language, so there can be mistakes

credits for all the used graphics belong to their rightful owners!

song recs ❀ daisy. - wave to earth; i'm in love - colde

The sweet aroma of flowers filled your senses as you spun around in your desk chair, taking in the atmosphere. You were sure there wasn’t a day in your life you’d felt happier. Maybe you had exaggerated a bit when you said that to your friend Wooyoung this morning during one of your usual face time sessions, but you knew there was a pinch of truth. 

Last week that would’ve been a distant silly childhood dream, but luck was on your side. You had tried your best, day and night, to make this a reality, and as usual - hard work had paid off. Younger you would’ve freaked out if they could see you now - sitting behind the counter of your own flower shop. 

You had always loved flowers - the way each type had its distinguishable scent, vibrant colours, unique forms, and, above all - their meaning. What had been just a quick exploration of your grandmother’s garden when you were ten turned out to be the reason for your obsession. 

“Yellow tulips are my favourite,” the older woman had said, swiping away the sweat formed under the brim of her broad straw hat as you walked around her most prized possession. You asked her curiously why, crouched down to take in their sweet fragrance. “Their meaning reminds me of you - like them, you’re my little sunshine and happiness.”

The memory filled your heart with nostalgia. You missed those times a lot, but you knew your grandmother was your number one supporter ever since you had told her about your wish to become a florist. She was the first to know about the shop too.

Flowers were fascinating to you, even though most people around you didn’t understand what was so special about them. All that didn’t matter to you. You finally had your space to cherish them as much as you wanted.

Today was the opening of your shop, and you couldn’t wait to welcome your first client. Unable to stay still, you got up and started picking up some flowers from the buckets around you - might as well fill your time doing something productive. Your first bouquet for the day was going to be special - a pink and yellow tulip one. 

As you arranged the freshly cut flowers on the counter, humming along to the song playing on the radio next to you, you couldn’t help but smile for probably the hundredth time since you woke up. Yellow tulips for cheerfulness, pink - for good wishes and friendships. Too busy repeating their meaning in your mind, you didn’t notice the ringing of the small bell, placed at the entrance, signaling that someone had entered the store. 

“Excuse me, are you open?” The raspy voice of the newcomer startled you, and you dropped your scissors on the floor, looking up. You were almost blinded. The man standing at the doorframe was, to say the least, breathtaking. His dark hair fell loosely around his face, and he seemed as if he was stifling a yawn. You took notice of his clothes too - he was wearing a white shirt, tugged in black, elegant pants, and you wondered what kind of job he had. 

“Oh, yes,” you said after clearing your throat with a quiet cough. “Please, welcome.”

“Are you busy? I can come later,” the man responded, pointing to the almost-finished bouquet before you as he approached you. Now up close, you were sure - he was gorgeous. Feeling flustered under his studying sleepy gaze, you bent down to pick up the fallen scissors. 

“Oh, no, I’m just passing the time,” you explained as you got up. You saw him holding a hardcover book, which he placed on the counter, smiling gently. The cover had you staring at it in awe - it depicted a small green field filled with daisies, but from your angle, you couldn’t read the title or the author’s name.

“Congratulations on opening. I’m your neighbour, so to speak,” he joked, stretching out his right hand. “Yeosang, nice to meet you.”

His hand was warm, and his grip was firm when you shook it, introducing yourself. “Let me guess…”

Yeosang raised his eyebrows with a grin, waiting for your next words. “You’re the bookstore’s owner.”

“How did you know?” You laughed at his genuine surprise and shrugged, “Guess I was born with psychic abilities.”

“I should’ve hidden the book,” Yeosang murmured, frowning. “Yes, but I’m also an author.”

He picked up the book from the counter and handed it to you. You noticed a faint blush on his cheeks. This time you saw the cover properly - Illusion.  A collection of poetry by Kang Yeosang. You ran your fingers through the title, admiring the beautifully illustrated daisies. Yeosang’s low chuckle made you look up at his face again, feeling a little embarrassed. “You like the flowers, don’t you?”

“Caught in the act,” you said, grinning when he threw his head back and laughed louder this time. “It’s beautiful. I’ll definitely read it.”

“I hope you like it. Do tell me which one is your favourite,” Yeosang answered, taking a business card from his pocket and handing it to you. There were even more daisies at the back of it. Sensing your amusement, he quickly explained, “Daisies are my favourite. Don’t judge me too much.”

“I never judge based on flower tastes,” you exclaimed, shaking your head.

“I feel like you just lied to me,” Yeosang’s mischievous tone made you smile again. “Take this as an official invitation to my book premiere tomorrow. The book isn’t out yet, so don’t give any spoilers.”

“Yeah,” you teased. “I’ll just post a few screenshots. Nothing more.”

“I might have to take it back, be careful,” he tilted his head to the right, his expression serious. Why was your heart fluttering? “Actually, I came to buy some flowers. So what would you say are the perfect flowers for the start of the week?”

His question caught you off guard, but your brain was already searching for the answer. Looking around the buckets filled with flowers behind him, you murmured more to yourself than speaking directly to him, “Daffodils for new beginnings, chrysanthemums for optimism and joy…”

“You sure know a lot about it, huh,” Yeosang’s deep voice shifted your focus back on him, and you felt heat rush into your cheeks. “Then I’d take seven daffodils, please.”

Trying to contain your excitement from having your first customer, you made a simple composition, adding a few branches of baby’s breath around the white daffodils and tying them with a simple yellow ribbon. While you were working, you felt Yeosang’s intense stare still on you, making your hands tremble a little. “Here you are.”

The man smiled warmly as you handed him the small bouquet. “Have a nice day, Y/N. I’ll be waiting for you.”

As you watched him turn and wave at you one last time from the door before he left, you let out a sigh. 

Yes, this was the best day of your life.

“Yeah, he was definitely flirting with you,” your friend Wooyoung shouted while you were taking your third shot for the night, both of you sitting on the soft carpet in your living room in your pajamas. You had invited him earlier to celebrate the shop’s opening, but you definitely hadn’t expected him to show up with a bag filled with soju bottles. 

After Yeosang had left, the day was relatively quiet and uneventful. A few customers came in and left satisfied, and your parents visited you too. Your sales weren’t that great, but at least you did what you loved the most. And now you regretted sharing your encounter with the handsome poet with your best friend.

“Stop making things weird. He was just being nice,” you answered, your mind already envisioning Yeosang’s face as if he was standing right in front of you again. You would’ve lied if you said you didn’t like him and hadn’t thought about him around ten times today. Maybe even more. You even read some of his poems while waiting for customers and were left speechless. He had a beautiful way with words for which you envied him a bit - to manage to convey your emotions through a few lines so well was something you found awfully attractive.

“You always think that men “are just being nice” to you,” Wooyoung rolled his eyes, pouring you and him another drink. At this rate, you had no idea how you were getting up for work tomorrow, but it was expected - nights with him were always like this. 

You had known him all your life, with your moms being best friends since university. He was the person in your life who knew you the most and wanted the best for you. You were always grateful to have him close to you, but at the same time, you really wanted to smack him right now. 

“You’re being annoying again,” you groaned and pulled playfully his pierced ear, to which he whined. “Stop playing a matchmaker.”

“Stop being so single,” Wooyoung teased you and emptied his glass, pointing at yours to do the same. You gladly took that shot. If the conversation kept going this way, you had to be intoxicated as much as possible. “And my judgment is never wrong.”

“After my disaster of a date with Yunho, you still have the guts to think that?”

Wooyoung loved setting you up with his friends, and you, honestly, had no idea why. Every single date went the same way - they took you to a nice restaurant, you had dinner, talked for a bit, and then they escorted you to your apartment, hoping to be invited in. You didn’t do it. And they didn’t call again either. 

Wooyoung was always telling you you had too high standards, and you felt silly crushing on a man you saw for the first time today and knew nothing about.

“Hey, slight miscalculations happen. And I always pick out the hottest people for you,” Wooyoung stated in a matter-of-fact tone. “But seriously, step up your game. You can’t spend your whole life sniffing flowers.”

The pillow hit him right in the face, to your satisfaction.

You didn’t mind the flowers being your only company at all.

The following day was, to say the least, extremely nerve-wracking. Yeosang had come by to see you first thing in the morning and to remind you of his premiere. He didn’t stay for long, saying he still had a lot of things to prepare, and left after buying some roses of different colours to decorate his bookstore. 

Little did he know, you’d spent the night tossing and turning, wondering what to wear, what to say, and after Wooyoung’s comments about Yeosang you couldn’t even imagine looking him in the eyes. There was no way you could’ve forgotten about tonight.

So after changing out of your working apron and putting on the outfit you’d picked out as the best in your closet, you headed over to Yeosang’s bookstore - Little Miracles, holding the bouquet of tulips you’d made the day before. 

It suited his style, you concluded when you entered the small and cozy shop, filled with stacks of books everywhere. You took your time, walking around the shelves, occasionally picking up some books. You realised it was more of an antiquarian bookstore with many special editions of your favourite works, such you’d never seen before.  

“You like something?” His deep voice startled you and sent a wave of shivers down your spine. You felt your heart skip a beat when you turned to look at Yeosang, standing on your left for who knows how long before you noticed him. Just like yesterday, he was dressed in formal attire, 

but this time his hair was slicked back, exposing his forehead, with a few strands falling in front of his eyes. You knew you were staring, probably even gawking at him, but he looked so nice. “I mean the books.”

Feeling heat burning your cheeks, you looked away from his amused eyes. “I think I might want to live here.”

Yeosang grinned at you and pointed to the book you were holding - Dracula by Bram Stocker. You had read it when you were younger, and you couldn’t deny that it was the beginning of your vampire obsession phase. “You can take it as a gift. I appreciate that you came.”

“Oh, it looks too expensive.” And truly you were a bit afraid to not damage or stain the black and red hardcover with an ominous castle drawn in the middle. You couldn’t possibly accept this as a gift even though you thought you’d cry if you took it.

“Please,” Yeosang said hopefully, pushing the book to your chest. “Then keep it safe for me?”

The spark in his eyes was enough to convince you. “I guess I have to take it then…”

“Now that wasn’t so difficult, was it,” the man teased you, leaning with one hand on the bookshelf next to him. “You’re always welcome here. Come whenever you want to.”

“Thank you,” you blushed at his words even more, maintaining eye contact with him becoming too difficult. “Oh, these are for you. Congratulations.”

You handed him the bouquet, feeling the need to turn his attention away from you. Otherwise, you had no idea how you were going to survive the night. Yeosang thanked you and shifted his position, so now he stood much closer to you than before. “I’d love us to talk more, but I have to start the meet and greet soon. How about I treat you to dinner later?”

“Oh,” you stuttered, barely processing what was happening. “Yes, of course. I’d love to.”

“Great,” he chuckled, checking his wristwatch with a sigh. You noticed his hands were slightly trembling. 

“Hey, don’t be nervous,” you tried comforting him. “You have talent, and your poems are amazing.”

“So you’ve read them,” Yeosang shot you a wide smile. “I’m not letting you go anywhere before you tell me about this later.”

Feeling too flustered to answer, you nodded and followed behind him as Yeosang led you to the centre of the bookstore where he had placed some chairs, most of them occupied. You took a seat at the back, trying to calm down your racing heart.

If a flower could describe your feelings now, it would be a pink rose. 

Happiness.

Yeosang was a smooth talker.

Even though you’d known him for only two days, you felt as if he had been there your whole life. After his signing session ended and he sent off the last bit of guests, he closed the bookstore and took you to your favourite part of the city, full of quiet and cozy restaurants where you could get to know each other uninterrupted.

You had a lot in common - you both liked matcha lattes and chocolate muffins, enjoyed riding your bikes, watching the sunset, and you both hated spicy food, loud places and queuing for a book at the bookshop on its release day. 

Yeosang told you about his bookstore and how it had all started. Surprisingly, he had graduated as a film major but hadn’t made any progress in that field, so he decided to turn to his hobby - writing. That’s how almost four years ago he opened his shop and started collecting old and tattered books, trying to find them a new home. You loved the spark in his eyes when he told you his story and realised you felt the same way about flowers. All you wanted was for the people who bought them to continue appreciating them as much as you did. 

You also noticed he was much shyer than you thought him to be, which you found endearing, and wondered how many more sides of him you were yet to uncover. His calm demeanor made you feel at home and safe with him, and you really didn’t want the night to end.

“So, tell me more about your daisies,” you began, taking a sip from your glass of wine. Yeosang let out a low chuckle, shaking his head.

“Are you that curious?” He challenged you, and honestly, you weren’t sure if it was because of all the wine you had or him or both, but you had the urge to look away. The teasing glint in his gaze was too much for your poor soul, and you felt as if you were burning up every time you locked eyes. 

“Well, you don’t see every day a grown-up man with a daisy obsession, so yeah,” you answered, fidgeting with your fingers nervously. Yeosang looked confident in your eyes, but you could still see a slight redness creep up his neck.

“Well,” he started explaining, rolling his sleeves up to his elbows. “I guess they just remind me of my childhood. When I was younger, I used to live in the countryside with my family for a while. There was this huge field with daisies where my parents, older sister, and I went every weekend. They bring me comfort, and I like their meaning as well.”

You imagined little Yeosang running around a big green field, chasing after butterflies and picking up daisies. Your heart might have as well burst at this point. “That sounds so adorable.”

“You think so? The bees weren’t so adorable,” he arched his eyebrows, smirking, and took a sip from his glass. “So, tell me about your flowers then. A story for a story.”

“My grandma used to be a florist herself in the past, so ever since I was born, there were flowers everywhere around me,” you recall, thinking of all the times she’d let you watch her tend her garden and help her water the small buds, waiting for them to grow. “I love everything about them - even though some people say they are just temporary happiness. There’s beauty in the fleeting too.”

“Let’s drink to that then,” Yeosang grinned, raising his glass. You did the same and nodded to him to continue. “To all the flowers and all the happy memories they leave behind.”

Over the next few months, you fell into a comfortable daily routine. You opened your shop at 8 in the morning, picked out the freshest flowers from the daily delivery you ordered from a local garden, and spent the whole day arranging bouquets until 5 in the afternoon. 

It fascinated you how people with different purposes, goals, and fates came to you to seek the comfort of flowers - some - for grief and loss, others - for first dates and confessions. You were always happy to help and introduce them to a deeper understanding of flowers.

The only variable in your life was Yeosang.

Your relationship remained painfully unlabeled. 

Were you dating? Kind of. You went out a few days per week, and whenever you didn’t, you stayed in his bookstore after you’d finished working, sharing a couple of hours of comfortable silence with him. During these quiet moments, he wrote his poems or read to you while you sat curled up on the sofa in his small office, reading whatever book you found that day or just listening to his soothing voice. 

Your mornings together were also something you loved. Yeosang, unlike you, was an early bird. His usual shift started at 10 a.m., but he came earlier so he could spend some extra time with you under the pretense he had nothing else to do. When you arrived at the shop, he was already sitting on the stairs in front of it, holding his daily gift, as called it, in his hands and shyly handed it to you. Usually, it consisted of a couple of daisies he’d picked up from the park next to his apartment building and a note wishing you a nice day or containing a short scribbled poem that always made you laugh. 

And your days were truly nice. Except you couldn’t stop thinking about Yeosang even for a minute. 

Today was no different, but this morning Yeosang seemed more nervous than usual. The sweat, glistening on his forehead, and his shaking hands as he handed you the daisies and a small piece of paper made you wonder what had him so worked up this early. He didn’t stay long, saying he had “some things to take care of” and left you alone, standing puzzled in the middle of your shop. 

Once you opened the folded note, you found out why Yeosang was acting so strangely.

Please, come and meet me at a field of daisies and dreams. 

Your hands were sweaty, your heart was probably beating in an inhumane rate, and you were smiling too widely as you walked to the location Yeosang had written on his morning note. It was past 7 p.m., and you could see the last vibrant colours of the fading sun light up the sky. The spring afternoon breeze caressed your face and swirled some cherry blossoms around you. You felt like you were a fairy tale character, surrounded by early-bloomed spring flowers and trees at your favourite park. It was close to your shop and one of the main reasons you chose that exact rental place. You loved going there after work, taking a long walk, and clearing up your thoughts whenever you felt the need to. You honestly didn’t expect Yeosang to remember this location since you’d told him about it a long time ago, yet he always found a way to surprise you.

There were a lot of people during this time of the day, so it was difficult spotting Yeosang in the sea of faces around you, but once you did - you couldn’t take your eyes off of him. 

No matter how many times you saw his face, you were always amazed. Now was no different - his bootcut jeans and blue t-shirt suited him perfectly, and his hair was hidden under a white beanie. He was holding a tote bag decorated with daisies in one hand as he waved at you with his free one. 

“Hey,” Yeosang beamed at you, pulling you in for a hug when he came closer. Wrapping your hands around him, you could smell the woody scent of his perfume and felt the softness of his dark locks at the nape of his neck under your fingertips. “You look beautiful.”

This date was going to be the end of you, for sure.

The cool night wind, the shimmering of the street lamps, and the calm breathing of Yeosang lying in your lap made you feel at peace. The sun was long gone under the horizon, and you had no idea how much time had passed since he pulled you to sit down on a soft blanket and took out of his bag probably the sweetest strawberries you’d ever eaten. Yeosang had definitely come prepared for this spontaneous picnic date. 

Now you ran your fingers mindlessly through his silky hair as he told you a story about some customer he had today. The position you were in felt domestic and comfortable as if you’d done this thousands of times before. You found it hard to concentrate on his voice when Yeosang started drawing random shapes on your thighs and then had the audacity to ask you about your day. If your head hadn’t been spinning from the overwhelming feeling of him, you would’ve probably answered him.

“Hey,” he whispered, his fingertips brushing your cheeks, trying to get your attention as he got up from your lap. The loss of his touch made you miss his warmth. “You’re spacing out.”

“You’re very distracting.” Unable to look at him or form any other coherent answer, you shifted your gaze to the small daisies growing on your right amongst the grass. You reached out your hand to touch them and felt the grass around them tickle your palm. 

“Now who’s obsessed with daisies, huh,” said Yeosang, amused, wrapping his fingers around your chin to turn your face to him. For a split second, you stopped hearing the world around you - the children’s laughter, the faded sound of music, coming from somewhere around you, all became muted under the rhythm of your heartbeat, ringing in your ears. It was just you and his soft gaze, studying your face, and Yeosang, rubbing his thumb across your chin. You saw his eyes wander downwards to your lips before he asked in a hushed voice, “Can I kiss you?”

Seconds after your nod, you felt Yeosang’s warm lips on yours. At first, his kiss was light and hesitant, and his movements- were slow and deliberate. You reached up to hold on to his t-shirt as he cupped your face with his big hands. The coldness of his palms made you shiver. Where you touched, you felt as if electricity was running through your body.

Before you knew it, Yeosang deepened the kiss, making you gasp for breath. Your shaky hands grabbed his shoulders for support while his moved to your thighs. It was too much. His lips left yours only to feel them on your neck, leaving shy kisses along your jawline and then continuing downwards. His lips stopped right above the daisy charm hanging from your silver necklace, which he had gifted you. The pink blush on Yeosang’s cheeks and the warmth and love you saw in his dark eyes were more than enough to make your heart swell with adoration. 

Yeosang reached for a small, freshly bloomed daisy beside him and pulled it from the ground. Placing it behind your ear, he caressed your cheek gently. “Do you know what’s the meaning of daisies?”

“Of course I do,” you replied, sounding offended. At this point, he had to know you were a walking flower encyclopedia. “New beginnings, purity, and faith.”

“That’s all?” Yeosang pressed, leaning in closer to your face again. The proximity had your head spinning. “I’ve heard of another one too.”

“And what is it?” You were feeling out of breath, his lips only centimeters away from yours. 

“True love.” 

These were his only words before Yeosang captured your lips in another kiss under the night sky and the stars shimmering above you.

You wanted this moment to last forever.

Daisies, you decided, were your favourite flowers.

note ❀ happy (late) birthday to yeosang! ♡

after a short delay, i finally had time to finish daisy so thank you everyone for waiting! i hope you enjoyed reading it! i'm still not very confident in writing stuff like that so feedback is appreciated! please lmk what you thought of this story! ♡

also, how are you feeling about the comeback? so far i love it so much 😭

daisy., © moanz111

please do not modify, copy, repost, or translate.

[ideasarestuckinmyhead]

Bridgerton AU with the YV boy.

Would love to hear everyone's thoughts! May seem inaccurate but idc it's 10:55 and I speed typed this.

Alphonse

Is a commoner but works for a Baron's house that his father use to work for. Who had a love for sweets, and where he fell for the cheif's child.

He really is glad he works for the Baron family since it's Seth's (hear me out) yes they did have their own relationship but, after they still stayed good friends.

I can see a lot of people wanting to hire him but he stays loyal to Seth's family. If you see Boo in one place at a party in the Baron's estate? Alphonse was not too far behind, they were a duo after all.

Seth

Okay him being the son of a Baron would be interesting bc! Jessie wanting to leave would be even more profane in the au. Who wants to be shackled to a Baron? Who doesn't even cares about her and she already gave him a heir!

Told his father he'd never marry or give a heir. *looks at Duke Hastings* but falls for Scout, happy to find them also a child of another Baron. Or maybe a Viscount, either one tbh.

He's glad Alphonse still works for his family but treats him like a friend. Also Boo too, both help Scout and Seth if needed. Scout was the reason mainly why there's more balls hosted in the Baron's estate and mansion.

Charlie

Was a servant for Duke Auron, but was able to quit. He was the son of a footman and his mother was a personal maid for the dowry Duchess. Worked many jobs now for a man who sells food from Italy (trying to make Pete work here)

When younger he was a play mate to a young new money Earl family. Who had only one child, and said child saw him at a park. Played with him and begged their father if they could be friends.

After being away from Casper they were able to get their title up to a Marquess. Ignoring all of society and married (or got w) Charlie, did Duke Aurom attend? Who will know.

Finn

Son of a florist and seamstress, but raised by his grandma that owned a well known tea shop. Became the most loved florist and a good Bachelore to look at!

While making bouquets he met, Sunflower. Child of a maid that worked at Jack's family home. After meeting them they started talking as Sunflower got more flowers for the family's house. Soon they got together and Jack was happy for them.

Sunflower and Finn were happy together. To the point Sunflower quit being a servant for the household and work in the flower shop with Finn. They helped him make many connection and even help with a certain Duke making bouquets for his lover.

Faust

Son of the late Duke and Duchess. Some say it was said he couldn't inherit the family because he was deemed 'unworthy' of it by the late Duke. But no one dare say it to his face, it might be soft but his words are sharp.

Many tried to woo him to get fortune or money but stopped when Auron took being the Family's head. But one didn't, Star child of another Duke family. They were a beloved Batchelor by all but....their heart belonged to Faust.

After having an actual conversation with him, Faust wanted to court them. So rushing into Auron office he demanded how to make a poem for someone. The red head helped and was, but didn't show, pleased by this. Even pulling Star aside and saying they had his blessing. But if they harmed his brother they'll have to talk to him.

Auron

Duke Auron, was seen as a bastard that was lucky to snag such a title. Not even a drop of blood indicating he was one to take it. But in the will of the late Duke, was given it. Was quite the topic for a while in society, until Auron himself started showing up at social gatherings.

Speaking of social gatherings it's where he meet his lover. A child of a Baron, who was sharp witted along with a sharper tongue. Said tongue was the reason they got closer, no one really dared to speak to him but Rook. Went straight up to him and asked questions about his work.

He was astound at first but, let them talk away. Rook had to be dragged by their Mother to go away from the Duke. Auron couldn't get them out of his mind though, so he started to seek them out. Finding out what their hobbies were and much more, courting them was weird. He seemed happier and lots of people wondered what was so special about Rook? But their wedding did come and there was a new Duke/Duchess in town.

Lucien

For this AU gonna make him a foreign family that came to live where ever this au should take place. Angel was a normal commoner, who worked at a printing shop actually. Lucien who wanted to go away from his family, a Marquess. Trying to find the popular Boo's bakery, where he bumped into a small body. Well compare to him.

He was the later born of the children, so no responsibilities only to live how he wanted. So meeting Angel he moved in, after deciding he wanted to be with them. They accepted bc he had money and was taking baking classes with the most famous baker.

Soon he too became one and asked Angel with the most beautiful cake to marry him. He did sent out invitations to his family, but only a few came. He doesn't mind only that his bakery that was on the other side of town, selled his country's desserts. It was a success, he married to the love of his life, and was happier than he'd ever been.

Jack

Jack is the son of a well respected Marchant that earned the title of Viscount. He wanted to become a man who didn't take everything given and went to college. Where he meet, Buddy someone who he bumped into in the halls. Helping them he began a friendship, learning they were the child of a Earl.

After talking to them more and more he felt a pull to them. But as graduation came his parents forced him to take the family's business and title. Unhappy he wished for Buddy to come to him. And they did, with a proposal.

Since he's to marry a higher title he can live with theirs and be happy since they are a only child. The wedding was simple and he was happy, unless he wanted too he didn't need to touch the family business since it was given to his spouse.

[callmewrinkles3]

Deuxmoi Submissions, 2023

January

Spotted: Daniel Riccardo and his long-time girlfriend Emma on a romantic date at a restaurant in Perth. Weird thing was this time his manager was also there side by side in company of a blonde girl.

-

February

Subject: Twins

Email: whatever@gmail.com

Message: saw Daniel Ricciardo and his manager on a double date. One of the women was definitely Ricciardo’s girlfriend (and I think I saw a ring????) the other looked like her sister?

-

March

Spotted: Daniel Ricciardo’s fiancée flower shopping with a group of women. Is the wedding happening?

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April

Spotted: saw like four F1 drivers (Charles LeClerc, Max Verstappen, Lance Stroll, and Esteban Ocon) getting off planes at Perth airport. I work the private terminal and there was a load of extra jets in. Is the F1 Royal Wedding happening?

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May

Message: what Met gala attendee had a meltdown because her dress didn’t fit her chest an hour before her red carpet time? She didn’t get a lot of attention but she’s got a couple of high profile places to be this month with her husband, let’s see if it’s just her chest expanding.

-

June

Subject: wait WHAT

Email: reservebells@gmail.com

Message: ok I could be wrong but I think I saw everyone’s favourite Australian who isn’t doing his usual job leaving a maternity hospital in [removed for their privacy] with his wife. Both looked delighted, he was the happiest he’s been in years

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July

Spotted: I work at a high end baby furniture shop and a high profile athlete and his wife came in. No clue how nobody knows she’s pregnant, it’s pretty obvious. Happy for them, they’re very in love and he couldn’t keep his hands off the bump

Update: yeah it was Daniel Ricciardo and his wife, also the tip they gave the furniture delivery bought us all takeout.

-

August

Saw Daniel Ricciardo and his wife in the same restaurant as me in Faenza. They’re too cute and he wasn’t drinking wine because she can’t thanks to her pregnancy.

*

Spotted: Em Ricciardo is a sweetheart! I was lost in Milan trying to find the train station with no phone signal, she speaks what sounded like fluent Italian and got the directions for me!

September

Subject: bundle of joy

Email: forthebees@gmail.com

Message: Got to see the former Red Bull teammates at Formula Nurnburgring, but the highlight for me was watching Sebastian Vettel giving Emma Ricciardo a giant hug and a gift bag. It’s really obvious that they get along well, she was there cheering him in his car. His wife was there too, saw her and Emma chatting.

—

October

Spotted: Daniel Ricciardo out for dinner with his wife, his manager, and what looked like his wife’s friend? It was his manager’s birthday and they sang happy birthday, but they did a toast later.

Spotted: Em Ricciardo looking so proud at her husband’s contract announcement. Red Bull got Dan a onesie for the new baby, it was adorable.

—

November

Spotted: Daniel Ricciardo running through LAX to catch a Qantas flight to Sydney. Someone mentioned his wife is due soon, is the baby coming?

Spotted: Em Ricciardo in Perth airport, looked like she was collecting Dan from Vegas. She’s still pregnant! #F1BabyWatch

—

December

Subject: flowers

Email: fakeyfake@fake.com

Message: I work in a florist and we had 22 bouquets sent to one room in [redacted] hospital in Perth. Most of the calls came from UK and European numbers. Looks like F1’s latest baby has arrived!

[dreaming-of-mossballs]

A Care Package for a Bashful Captain - (Gepard x florist!reader)

Summary: It’s been a month and a half since Gepard left for his mission to retake part of the city. You decide to send him a gift to warm his heart!

▸ Genre(s): Fluff

▸ Word Count: 4.5k

▸ Tags: Gepard x reader

▸ Warnings: Reader is short, food mention, established (platonic) relationship,

A/N: GAH IM SORRY IT’S LATE. Will reader ever sort out their feelings for Gepard? Who knows? Also reblogs are greatly appreciated. Don’t want people following the series to miss out!

MASTERLIST (MORE GEPARD HERE)

Your marker was beginning to run out of ink.

Specifically the one you had been using to cross off days on your calendar. It had been half a month since Gepard had left for his mission on the front lines— and although you weren’t exactly sobbing into your pillow every night, you did miss him.

A lot.

Probably more than the acceptable level.

Those red lines stared at you every day mockingly, reminding you that your friend was fighting tooth and nail for the safety of the city. Thinking about his job as a soldier made your stomach churn.

Was he sleeping enough? Eating enough? What would he do if he got injured?

What if he didn’t come back one day?

His track record of victories should’ve discouraged you from worrying about him, but in fact, it did the exact opposite. You feared he might be crushed by the weight of the expectations placed on him and end up disregarding his own safety for the sake of others.

Although Serval didn’t seem half as worried as you were. In fact, she seemed as cheery as ever when you met her and Molly for lunch on the weekend. She did have experience in running military campaigns, and she was Gepard’s own sister for Qlipoth’s sake! She’d dealt with his absences probably more times than she could count.

And so you came to the conclusion that this level of anxiety about Gepard must be irrational. But attempting to steel yourself and block out thoughts of him didn’t stop your hands from shaking when you handed people their change across the counter of the flower shop.

This kind of feeling was different than the ones you had experienced in the Underworld. Yes, you experienced danger often in the mines, but at least it was just you that was in danger. Not a loved one. This time you were forced to watch someone else fighting tooth and nail.

It felt so viscerally uncomfortable.

With all these thoughts constantly running through your head, it was time you found something to do instead of ruminating over his absence—

—before your head exploded, that is.

While checking out the latest gardening magazines at the library, you spotted a sleeve of periodicals you weren’t familiar with, titled Crocheter’s Weekly.

Huh. This looks fun, you thought, reaching your hand out to grab it. It had last month’s date on it, but it’s not like it mattered.

Anyone can do it! The subtitle exclaimed in garish red font. Fun for both friends and family!

You flipped open the issue curiously. The first few pages were filled with a few photographs of blankets, and a full-page advertisement for a phonograph. On the subsequent ones, you were happily surprised by the variety of works showcased by the magazine. They looked relatively simple, such as a plushie of a cat, a handbag, and a cup holder. Turning the page, you inhaled sharply when your eyes landed on a picture of a woman, who had an intricately patterned blanked sitting draped across her lap. She looked like the founding father of arts and crafts.

She sat upon on a rocking chair with her hands folded wisely, and had narrow eyes with droopy lids. What seemed to be an entire quiver of crochet needles rested at her side.

Large print at the top of the page read “Ask Bertha”. Your eyes scanned the questions asked by, presumably, the readers.

—“Dear Bertha, what is your favorite yarn to use?”

Dear reader,

My favorite yarn is mohair, size three, of course. It’s rather expensive, but has high luster and sheen. It’s quite warm too! I first came across it when my husband visited the market during one particularly cold winter. I crocheted him a pair of mittens which he wore for years! You’ll be sure to earn compliments on your pieces wherever you go!

—“Dear Bertha, will you be at the ‘Knitter’s Convention’ this year?”

Dear reader,

I wouldn’t miss it even if Belobog froze over! I look forward to seeing the creations this year. The theme is “sky”, so make sure to snap up as much blue yarn as you can!

P.S, Margaret from the Fourth District doesn’t stand a chance for first prize, although I’m sure everyone already knew that.

—“Dear Bertha, what brand of Geomarrow heater do you use?”

Huh. That didn’t seem to be a question about crocheting. Next question.

—“Dear Bertha, what should I do if I suspect my husband is cheating on me with an Underworld woman?”

Your eyebrows shot through the roof.

Dear reader,

You have my deepest condolences. The very idea is preposterous. Underworlders are the most brash and uncouth people I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting. I met one the other day and he told me straight to my face that he didn’t enjoy tea! Could you believe he said that even after I asked so kindly? Something about how “it’s just leaf water”. That doctor is strange too, the one they call Natasha. I heard she used to live on the surface but chose the dirt and grime of the Underworld over the Administrative District!

Anyways, about your husband. Get him to sign a prenup and gut him for all he’s worth. Sending my thoughts your way!

Your eyes sprung open as you registered the sewage this woman was spewing.

Oh that’s fucking IT, Bertha. I’ll show you. I thought you were wise but you betrayed my trust!

You tossed the magazine aside with a snort. Yes, cheating was most definitely bad, but being from the Underworld had nothing to do with it. You decided to find a guide on crocheting that was less of a waste of ink.

You soon found a hardcover book labeled “Crocheting 101 for Beginners”.

Much better, you thought to yourself.

You shuffled to the library counter with your chosen material and left in a huff. As you were exiting the library, a thought popped into your brain.

Gepard likes growing flowers, right? Maybe he’d like crocheting too,

You felt a pang of disappointment in your chest as you remembered you couldn’t call him to ask. He was unreachable, out there in that snowy hellscape.

Your days were a little bit emptier when one of your friends was gone, but you knew that to the Silvermane Captain, work came first and foremost. You could deal with him being gone in the meantime.

When you stepped through the door of the Florists, a harsh wind snuck past you and blew some petals off the flowers. You wilted a little.

Even with the Geomarrow heaters keeping the city warm, the wind still managed to make you shiver.

You froze as if struck by lightning.

That was it! You could make Gepard something to keep him warm while he was working. It was probably a hundred times as windy in the Outlying Snow Plains where he fought, right? Plus, it would be nice to show him your appreciation for the work he did.

Your brain was positively overflowing with ideas, and you scribbled them down on a spare order form you found in the filing cabinet.

Hmm, You tapped your chin with your pen. Earmuffs might get in the way of his hearing, so I think a scarf would do, You pumped your fists to yourself in self-satisfaction. It was decided! You would stop by the knitting store first thing tomorrow morning!

❆—❆—❆

Huh. That’s strange,

You slung your shopping bag over your shoulder and tilted your head, peering at the racks of yarn in the aisle. They were sorted by colors in the order of the rainbow— and the entire section containing anything remotely close to blue was missing.

That WITCH. She definitely planned this somehow!

You reflected on the sentence you had read about the crocheting competition with a grumpy expression.

You now had a personal vendetta against her for enacting a monopoly on blue yarn. This woman had the entirety of Jarilo-VI in the palm of her hand.

It wasn’t a good idea to turn the store upside down, or else you’d be proving Bertha right about Underworlders being “uncouth”, so you acquiesced and decided to search for another color.

It was a shame though— blue really would’ve suited him. It would have especially brought out his eyes, which were the color of deep sapphire pools, more clear and resolute than anything you’d ever seen.

You had told him they were pretty a few weeks ago, you recalled, but his face went pink and he changed the subject to his work at the museum.

Half-rolling your eyes in defeat, you froze when you spotted a pile of discounted yellow yarn in the corner.

Yellow… Yellow! That’ll do! You gasped. The medals on his uniform were decently close to yellow. (Although bright purple would have been cute.)

You scooped a bunch of it into your arms, along with a single bundle of white, and sprinted to the front of the store. A shopkeeper with chestnut hair and a brown apron stood organizing a few racks of fabric.

“I’ll take these, please!” You declared triumphantly, dumping your yarn across the counter. You fished your hands into your pockets for the money.

“Oh? How unusual! We haven’t sold anything but blue yarn for the past week,” the worker at the front counter commented. “What are you making?”

Placing the coins on the counter, you replied casually, “Just a scarf for a friend. He’s been on my mind lately,”

You picked up a pair of needles with the size recommended for your yarn and slid them across the counter. “Ah, and these too, please,”

“It’s a nice color. It’ll look good on them,” they smiled at you warmly, wrinkles forming at the corners of their green eyes. Your brain flitted from image to image of Gepard wrapped up to the nose in a yellow scarf, which almost caused you to giggle out loud.

The employee bagged up your items and bade you farewell. The ring of the shopkeeper’s bell announced your departure.

While you were exiting the store, to your surprise, you spotted two very familiar faces.

“Serval! Pela! What are you guys doing down here? Isn’t it a weekday?”

“Right on the money, (Y/N)! We were actually picking up reports from the civil service department,” Serval exclaimed. “The weather’s been awfully cold, hasn’t it?”

You hummed, traipsing over to them with your bag of yarn. “Actually, I’ve been thinking about crocheting a scarf to mail to Gepard. He could use something warm while he’s fighting on the front lines, right?”

Pela paused for a moment thoughtfully before speaking. “That’s a nice gesture. I wasn’t aware you knew how to crochet,”

You smiled sheepishly. “Actually, I’ve never tried. I checked out a book on it recently and decided I should use it for something useful,”

Serval chuckled affectionately. “He’d be so happy if he knew you had him on your mind, right Pela?”

The navy-haired girl narrowed her eyes at her. She sighed.

“I’ve actually been meaning to send a letter to the Captain myself. How about we send him a care package?” Pela suggested.

The Rockstar of Belobog gasped. “That’s a great idea! I’m sure he would love to get a package from you— ahem… us!”

“We can all write letters, and I’ll send him a few more pairs of socks,” Serval twirled a pair of keys on her finger. “They go through them like crazy out there,”

Pela nodded. “Would you allow us to drop them off at your place later?”

“Without a doubt!” You rested your hand on your hip. “Whatever works best for you guys. I know work has been tough recently,”

“It’s hard, but we’ll continue doing our best!” Pela said decisively. Serval nudged her teasingly.

“Want to come with us for lunch?” Serval inquired.

You shook your head sadly. “I appreciate the offer, but I can’t— I’ve got to get started on his scarf,”

“Ah, that’s alright,” Serval nodded with a lopsided grin. “We’ll see you later!”

❆—❆—❆

When you got home, you immediately opened up your book and got to work on the floor of your bedroom.

You first practiced a few stitches with the bundle of white yarn, which turned out to be way easier than you expected. The string formed an orderly pattern which was pleasing to the eye. It was easy to get a grasp on how methodical crocheting was.

When you were about halfway through the scarf with yarn was scattered everywhere, you heard someone rapping softly at your door.

“Come in!” You raised your voice slightly.

Vaska’s familiar brown hair peeped through the crack in the doorframe.

“(Y/N), Eleanor made vegetable soup if you’re hungry,” she chirped. “It has some interesting looking radish in it this time— ooh! What’s that?”

“A scarf,” you responded neatly, turning back to your project. “Want to try? It’s a good way to unwind,”

“Sure. Sounds fun!”

Your co-worker opened the creaky door up the rest of the way and stepped into the room. She sat down next to you with her legs skewed to the side, and you handed her a needle and began enthusiastically instructing her how to get started.

“Here. Let me show you how to do a beginner’s stitch. For the most part, crocheting is pretty repetitive and easy to pin down,” you grinned at her.

You gave her half of the yarn you had bought (you had bought way too much since it was on sale), and let her make whatever her heart desired. It was like when you had started working at the flower shop, just with the roles reversed this time.

The two of you sat in silence until it started to get late, and then you got up to close the blinds. When you got back, Vaska pointed excitedly at the fabric you had started, specifically the ends of your scarf where the yellow yarn had been interwoven with white triangles to form a geometric pattern.

“Your scarf is looking great so far. I like the colors you chose,” Vaska exclaimed.

You shot her a bright smile as you sat down. “Thanks! It’s a gift for someone,”

“Oh? That’s sweet of you. And who’s this ‘someone’ you’re making it for?”

“It’s for Gepard,” you said offhandedly, hoping she didn’t notice you almost dropped your needle. “I figured he could use something to keep him warm while he’s serving,”

“Cool,” she puckered her lips distractedly and raised a blob with numerous appendages. “Check out what I made!”

You stared at it for a few seconds before you chuckled.

“That’s a wonderful olm, Vaska,” you said, amused. It looked exactly like one.

“I think I’ll put it downstairs. I’ll him Daisy,”

“Okay, just make sure to let Meg know what it is so she doesn’t throw it out by accident,”

She gave you an exaggerated gasp. “Why on Jarilo-VI would she do that?? He’ll boost morale. I’m sure of it,”

“Our boss has never exactly been one for liking creatures…” You stopped. “Oh! Would you mind if I borrowed your wax seal set?”

“Go ahead. Just don’t eat them,” she snorted. You shot her a pouty expression.

❆—❆—❆

A few hours later, you had tucked the scarf securely into a cardboard box and placed a layer of packing paper over it. Long after you were sure most of your roommates had gone to sleep, a knocking could be heard at the front door.

You gave a quick call in response before taking a batch of chocolate chip cookies out of the oven.

You rushed over to the door and opened it, with oven mitts still on your hands.

“Hey you guys! Welcome!”

“Something smells good in here,” Serval remarked loudly. Pela shushed her with a worried look on her face.

“Ah, yep. That’s the cookies,” you explained.

Pela abandoned all subtlety and bounded over to the cooling rack. Her eyes seemed to sparkle as she looked at you wordlessly.

“I highly doubt I’ll be able to eat all of those myself,” you quipped good-naturedly. She snapped one up immediately, letting out a noise of satisfaction as she bit into the crunchy edge of the cookie and the perfectly goey inside. “Just don’t get chocolate on your letter,”

“So, this is what you’ve rounded up, huh?” Serval peered into the box on the table. “Here. I’ve got a letter from me, and one from Lynx. She set off for a research trip earlier today,”

“Sounds exciting. I hope it goes without a hitch!” You chimed in.

“I’m sure it will— ah, thanks Pela,” she turned as the smaller female tapped her on the forearm and handed her a cookie. Serval showed you the things she had brought, which were the letters, socks, and a few photographs from Lynx.

There was one of Serval, Gepard, and Lynx together, one of their entire family, one with you and Pela giggling at a cafe where you had whipped cream from a shortcake smeared across your lip.

“Wait, we aren’t seriously planning on sending this one, right??” You looked at Serval, horrified.

“We are indeed!” She took a bite of a cookie. “Mmmmm, (Y/N) these are so good! Are you planning on sending some to Gepard?”

You hesitated briefly. “Uh… no. I didn’t think that was allowed. Plus, the other soldiers might start begging him to have some or something,”

“He’s the Captain. Do you think he’d let people walk all over him?” She retorted, exasperated.

“I doubt he would want to put that much effort into protecting a container of cookies,” you said skeptically.

“YOUR cookies, maybe,” she snorted off to the side.

“What was that?” You challenged.

“Nothing. I was just mentioning he has a bit of a sweet tooth. Thinking out loud,” she closed her eyes smugly.

Pela raised her eyebrows at her friend. “Sending food via mail isn’t allowed. It’s to prevent things from spoiling,”

“Oh— fine,” Serval sighed. “Anyways, mind if I borrow a pen? I need to add something to my letter,”

You gestured to the cabinet that held the writing materials.

“…so, what’s that yellow blob on the windowsill?”Serval motioned a gloved hand over towards the olm Vaska had made.

“Oh, that? That’s Daisy,”

“Uh. Good to know,”

Pela trotted over to where the knitted creature was and picked it up by the scruff cautiously. The crocheted limbs hung limply at its sides.

“Kinda cute, right? I thought it was a bit weird at first, but it’s kind of growing on me,” you interjected.

“Urk! Y-yeah, you could say that,” The intelligence officer pressed a finger to the bridge of her glasses. “Serval and I should probably get going. We have a lot of analysis to get to tomorrow,”

“Whaaat?” Serval complained, a brand new cookie in her hand.“Come on, just a few more minutes. Say… would you happen to have any milk?”

Pela sighed.

“Ugh. Fine…. Just a few more,”

❆—❆—❆

The next day after work, you went to Manya, an administrative official, to ask when their next shipment of mail to the Outlying Snow Plains was. She was uptight as usual.

“The next mail delivery is set for today,” The mint-haired lady said stiffly. “Who do you want to address this to?”

You blinked in surprise. “Ah, I’m sorry, I’d like to address it to uhh.. Gepard Landau please?”

“The Silvermane Captain? I see. We’ll try to get this to him as soon as possible, capiche?”

Manya took the package from you and you bowed to her graciously.

I really hope he likes it…

❆—❆—❆

Meanwhile, in the freezing wastes of the Snow Plains, the young captain was working hard. He was standing in a makeshift meeting tent, pondering over a map placed over a few stray barrels.

It wasn’t often they had the luxury of furniture other than weapon racks and barbed fences, in fact, just last week Franz had gotten caught in one, and it had taken the work of three guards to get him untangled.

With a sigh, Gepard traced his armored hand over a section on the top of the map, running through plans in his mind all the while. His gaze was laser-focused on the weathered paper, anyone passing by might suspect he was trying to burn a hole in it.

“Tory, do you have a moment?” He turned his head towards an officer cleaning off their musket. They lowered it and marched toward him.

“How is progress going on the northern rampart?”

“As predicted, sir,” they answered.

“Hm. Good. We’re setting out as planned tomorrow morning if you could let everyone know it’s been finalized,”

A different Silvermane gunner turned a corner into the meeting tent and waved to get Gepard’s attention. “Cap’n! We’ve got a package for you!”

A package? What on earth is Serval sending me this time? Gepard let out a short sigh. Last time it was a glitter bomb that hit Pela by accident.

She’d spent the better part of a month shaking out the glitter from her uniform.

The Captain took the package from the officer, which wasn’t very heavy, so that was a relief. He checked it from corner to corner to make sure it hadn’t been sent to the wrong person. Yep, sure enough, it was his.

“Sir, I’ll take the night watch for tonight. Why don’t you attend to your mail?” Offered the one who had made the delivery, gesturing with her hands.

“You have my thanks, Dasha,”

The soldier gave a quick salute and picked up a rifle to take with them to the watchtower.

Gepard laid the cardboard container (which was dented on one corner) onto the slipshod table. He used his fingers to carefully pry open the flaps of the box— ready at a moments notice to cover his face in case his sister had found a new way to make lightweight bombs.

Much to his surprise, it wasn’t an explosive.

Inside the parasol was four letters, a few pairs of socks, and some photographs resting on a layer of packing paper. Normally his family waited more than half a month before mailing him something because they all had their own matters to attend to.

He raised a curious eyebrow, wondering if you had something to do with this. His suspicion was confirmed when he went through the letters and spotted your handwriting on one of them.

One from (Y/N)… One from Serval… Lynx… Pela,

Gepard pulled each of the letters out one by one, holding them up to the light he got from the dying lanterns, and set them on the supply crate table in a neat pile like the meticulous soldier he was. He rummaged around in his pockets for the Landau family letter opener he kept on him and used it to slice your envelope open first. It was held shut by a red wax seal with a gilded emblem pressed into it.

Dear Gepard,

Hope this letter finds you well. We miss you a lot! Business has been better than ever at the florists, in fact, Meg is considering me for a promotion!

I made something for you to help keep you warm while you’re on duty. They were out of blue yarn, but I hope you like it!

We’re thinking of you every day you’re gone. Stay safe and warm out there.

Sincerely, (Y/N)

He smiled gently. So it was you who had made the socks. That was very considerate of you.

Next, Gepard read through the letters the others had sent. Lynx’s was silly and made his heart feel much lighter. She was the one who had sent the photographs consisting of the Landau family, her. Pela, and you, laughing with a smudge of cream on your face. He made sure to tuck the pictures in his pocket.

Pela’s letter was professional but loaded with thinly veiled worry. Reaching for Serval’s letter next, he did his best to quell his suspicions about it, and tried to be grateful she even decided to send him something.

Hiya Geppie! It read in bold purple ink.

Is everything all right out there? I know it gets cold as all hell, so I bought a few extra pairs of socks for you. Lynx has been missing you a lot, but don’t tell her I told you that. Hope to see you again soon. Lots of love!

P.S, (Y/N) made us some awesome chocolate chip cookies. Sucks you weren’t there to try them.

Signed, Your oh so doting and loving Big Sis

Gepard snorted, followed by a smile, and tucked the letter back into the envelope. That was followed by a second of hesitation.

It wasn’t quite clicking in his brain. If Serval had sent the socks, what had you sent?

He picked up a pair of the socks just to check. Surely enough, they had the logo of a familiar Belobog department store on them, which checked out with what Serval had said. He pushed aside the layer of packing paper, and his breath died in his throat before it could become a cloud in the freezing night air.

Staring him in the face was a handmade scarf. Bright yellow, like pieces of the sun had been woven into it. White triangles accentuated the ends, and was ridiculously long, long enough to reach his knees. There was pocket on both ends of the scarf for his hands or any tchotchkes he might have.

Gepard held the scarf up to the light of the lantern. The stitchwork looked complicated and VERY time consuming. He could tell a lot of love had been poured into this gift. His face felt aglow with happiness as he imagined you all cheerfully getting together to make this for him.

He was glad everyone seemed safe and happy back at home. It made his work just a little more bearable.

Placing the box in the mail corner for safekeeping, he fastened the scarf around his neck. It was long enough to wrap around his head three times, it was warm and smelled of flowers. Truth be told, it smelled like home.

The Captain propped himself up against one of the walls, along with his guitar case, and drifted off to sleep.

❆—❆—❆

Wait… did the captain always have that yellow scarf??

Dasha snuck another glance at the sleeping Silvermane Guard Captain from her spot on the watchtower.

Gepard opted to sleep in the same spot as all the other soldiers instead of vying for his own tent— that was one of the reasons his underclassman respected him so much. He was constantly reliable, selfless, and strong. A shining beacon of hope always looking out for others.

But tonight, Dasha got to see a different side of a him.

Gepard’s nose was buried in the yellow garment as he slumbered, his chest rising and falling steadily with every breath. His brow was without a furrow, and his face was relaxed, which was definitely a sight to see.

He looked… cozy.

Dasha smiled to herself.

Well, I guess even the Captain has someone looking out for him.

2023 - Dreaming-of-Mossballs - Do not repost/translate without my permission - NO AI

Reblogs greatly appreciated! I love seeing your comments!

[allaboardthevespa]

Tipiskaw Mall: A Disventure Camp AU

Been thinking about creating this for a while, and I decided to finally get it out there.

This one's kinda like a florist AU, but a bit more than that. The main focus is Ellie and Gabby, cuz c'mon it's me we're talking about, but there's some other characters and stuff I wanted to bring into this too. I'm always open to see people experiment with this AU, just be sure to credit me.

The basic gist is that a good amount of the Disventure Camp casts all work at a mall owned by Kristal together, and frequently bump into each other on shifts. It's because of this that a love starts to blossom between a bartender and a florist.

These are a few of the ideas I'm sticking by now:

Ellie

Pretty similar to canon. She's your average ordinary low-class citizen. She works a tough job as a bartender at the local bar in the Tipiskaw Mall. She works long and hard shifts with unruly customers and an awful boss (we'll get to him). As a result she's constantly stressed and exhausted, and not really happy with her lot in life.

However one day she happens to discover that a new florist's has opened in the mall. Ellie happens to love flowers, especially fragrant ones - so she decides to check it out, and boom, she meets the owner, who happens to be the prettiest girl she's ever seen!

From then on, Ellie passes by the florist's every day on the way to and from her bartender shifts, just to get some time to say hi to her new friend - and she's got a few friends that'll help her out along the way.

Gabby

Gabby is a more recent employee at the Tipiskaw Mall. Still her quirky, bubbly, nature-loving self, she's the owner of the new florist that has recently opened in the mall. She specializes in the most sweetly fragrant flowers she can get her hands on, and she knows a thing or two about the language of flowers as well.

While she's quite kooky and a bit on the socially awkward side, Gabby is an incredibly kindhearted individual who is happy to let Ellie come and visit every day - she knows it makes Ellie happy. And in return, Ellie comforts her over her insecurities - this isn't the first job Gabby has had, and the past few jobs she's had didn't exactly end well for her. She has some regrets with her past actions - but Ellie will help her face them. (Won't say too much here, but she probably has hurt at least ONE person who was cruel to animals.)

Every morning when Ellie comes to visit, Gabby gives her a bouquet of some of her favorite flowers as a gift - simply to let her know she's got her support. The two become incredibly close - and maybe something more can 'blossom' between the two of them.

Yul

Surprised to see this guy here? Rare time I mention season 2 :P

Yul is Ellie's boss. A lazy individual, Yul is quite the penny-pinching and cruel boss, basically giving Ellie minimal pay and using the rest of his cash for party binges. He's also not really one to care for stopping stuff like bar fights - he's only really here for the cash and the good laughs.

Yul is also incredibly strict. If Ellie messes up even a little, he won't hesitate to absolutely lash her with beratements. He also forces her to do janitorial work at the end of each shift. This is mostly because the last janitor left due to being sick of Yul's attitude. Ellie would've done the same, but she's in such a bad place in her life that she needs SOME form of payment every day.

Yul pretty much immediately takes a disliking to Gabby for her bubbly, eccentric and kooky nature, and forbids her from entering his bar. As a result, Gabby ends up needing to sneak into the bar whenever she wants to see Ellie there. Over time, Ellie will learn to stand up to Yul.

Alec

So I know he and Ellie ended up on iffy terms in canon but idc I'm still letting the two be on good terms in this AU

Alec owns a local bookstore in the mall that isn't far from Yul's bar. Having been through a divorce already in this AU, he's mostly looking to his future by working a job he enjoys. He's trying to convince Ellie that she can do the same - she just finds it tough breaking the cycle and escaping her bartender job knowing the difficult life position she's in.

Alec works alongside Grett, who is about as cantankerous and rude as she is in canon. He often needs to tell her to behave when she's making bad comments about Ellie, Gabby, or other people. Also hanging out at his job is Fiore, who mostly just runs around causing trouble and makes witty commentary on other people's bad decisions. Fiore has also picked up on the crushes Ellie and Gabby have gained on each other and just wonders when the hell they're gonna stop dancing around their feelings and actually start dating!

I'll go over some other stuff just in brief, cuz I don't wanna be here all damn night lol

James and Aiden are the co-owners of a local phones and electronics store. James is still a popular influencer, who self-funds all his crazy challenges through the profits from his store. Aiden, who's already been dating James for a while, is there to make sure James doesn't accidentally light himself on fire doing his challenges. They're both pretty good friends with Ellie, and she often turns to them for relationship advice.

Tom is the mall cop. Diligent and cool-headed, he's quite talented and is usually there to prevent any bad activity from getting out of hand. He frequently chases down Fiore whenever her trouble is getting too much, and comes to help Ellie when bar fights get out of control at Yul's bar. He's also one of the earliest people to make friends with Gabby, along with Ellie.

Jake is the manager of the mall's Hot Topic. He's still his emotional and impulsive self, and has a relationship with Tom. Tess is his co-worker, and she's usually able to help talk Jake and Tom through their relationship troubles.

Ally owns a local rental store for movies and video games. She works with her boyfriend Hunter and the poor former film actress Riya, who is still trying to find roles.

Karol owns a pet store where Gabby hangs out frequently. As you'd expect, Karol is grumpy, but she does get a soft spot for Gabby, and admires her passion for nature and animals. She helps convince her to work up the courage to ask Ellie out.

And Lill owns a toy store where Ashley, Will and Rosa Maria are her employees. They frequently end up having trouble with Fiore whenever she comes around with Alec. Lol.

Those are all I'm coming up with for now, but I'm sure I'll cook up some new ideas in future posts! Keep your eyes peeled - I'm pretty fond of this idea!

[abbysimsfun]

Sims In Bloom: Generation One Summary (Daisy)

Based on the Sims In Bloom Challenge by Tasha @a-sims-garden posted here

Gen 1 - Daisy (white, yellow)

Gardening has always been your passion. Owning a large, healthy garden is all you’ve ever wanted in life, even if your nails constantly have soil under them and you have so many broken pots you’ve lost count. Your happy place is meditating in the shade of the fruit trees that you grew yourself from tiny saplings. You sit and wonder what your family will grow to do, and hope that they will flourish just as beautifully as your garden has. This is the start of your family legacy!

Live on a lot with the lot challenge ‘Simple living’

Grow a cowplant and keep it alive for as long as you live (if it dies, immediately plant a new one)

Grow 5 perfect plants

Marry a sim who also has the ‘loves outdoors’ trait

*Gain the Outdoorsy lifestyle

*Grow a death flower

Bonus (My own additions. I might use cheats to help complete these if I feel like it because I'm just piling on stuff to do, but I'll try to make it plot or give it some kind of difficulty.)

Befriend all seven Henford NPC townies (Lavina and Rahul Chopra, Michael Bell, Agnes Crumplebottom, Agatha Crumplebottom, Kim Goldbloom, Sara Scott) *taken from a later Sims In Bloom generation that is supposed to take place in Henford but I'll be in Chestnut Ridge instead.*

Plant all base game plants to earn gardening plaque**

Grow all 5 oversized plants to enter in Finchwick Fairs

Catch all base game fish to earn fishing plaque *not completed until after Generation 2 had technically begun*

Complete Finchwick errands and give Finchwick Favors *given to Neal who made and gave away eco-matic smog vacs. Heather completed one of the errands for Dylan Kraus, the grocery deliverer*

All challenge tasks completed. All bonus tasks also completed BUT the UFO plant was found in the gallery after I got bored of waiting for the rocket ship adventure with the UFO fruit to come around after bungling it the first time.

** Uncle Karl came about after a random sim glitched and walked into the Nesbitt home in Henford (and up the stairs to the second floor!) before promptly leaving again. The sim was randomly assigned the surname Nesbitt, so of course I had to play this up and give Neal a brother (I used MCCC to make it so).

I put a UFO fruit from the gallery on his lot, then sent Daisy over before 5am every day for three days so the plant would bloom and she could tend it until harvest. Basically cheating but not part of the official rules so I don't care. Then she grew her own and my obsessive pursuit of the gardening plaque was done! Immediately had her quit her job as an "astrobotanist" (astronaut) and go back to gardening from home, but never tried too hard with it since she'd accomplished so much and the Florist career comes back later in the In Bloom Challenge.

<- Generation 1 from the beginning Pt2 Pt3 Pt4 Pt5 Pt6 Pt7 Pt8 Pt9 Pt10 Pt11 Pt12 Pt13 Pt14 Pt15 Pt16 Pt17 Pt18 Pt19 Pt20 Pt21 Pt22 Pt23 Pt24 Pt25

Generation 2 time! ->

[thelarriefics]

FIRST DATE FIC REC: Below are fics that feature first dates. 

📖 Take A Chance On Me by @peachypetalhazz (39k)

When Harry receives two tickets to see one of his favourite bands, he'd expected that his best mate would accompany him. However, it is soon learned that the intentions behind this so-called gift were far more wondrous than he initially thought.

📖 under your bed in new york. by @the28thofseptemberr (33k)

au; spilling coffee onto an ex, being set up on dates, and having a nosy puppy might be all louis needs to find love again

📖 A Hungry Heart by @jacaranda-bloom (27k)

Harry Styles, florist and Great British Bake Off contestant, loves many things. He loves his flower shop, he loves baking, and there’s also that little crush he has on pop star Louis Tomlinson.

But when Louis arrives on set as the surprise guest judge, Harry’s worlds collide. Throw in a cup of cuteness, a teaspoon of teasing, and a pinch of pining, and there’s all the ingredients for an epic love story, or absolute chaos.

Or the one where the Bake Off tent has never been so hot, and it’s got nothing to do with what’s in the ovens.

📖 You be Stunning, Baby, I'll be Stunned by @crinkle-eyed-boo (14k)

Harry and Louis go on their first date.

📖 Butterflies and Delight by @sunshineandthemoonlight  (13k)

The one where Louis is new to Grindr, Harry loves wearing fun, quirky outfits, and Ziam are always around to convince Louis to take a chance at life. Featuring Harry’s terrible jokes, Louis as a single parent, and glittery drawings of swamp monsters.

📖 In a sky full of stars, be my Northern lights by @so-why-let-your-voice-be-tamed (13k)

It's one of those nights there's nothing on the telly that Louis absently scrolls through Tinder. After swiping left on a bunch of profiles he comes face to face with a picture that stops him in his tracks. The picture is..almost sweet. It’s a boy with brown curly hair, wearing a very low cut yellow blouse, paired with a black jacket. He’s got a smile on his face and his tongue sticking out, but it’s not in any way lewd or suggestive. He just looks like he’s having a good time, and something about the innocence of it has him swiping right rather than left.

📖 Crystal Ball on the Table by @becomeawendybird (12k)

Harry Styles is just an ordinary witch from an old-fashioned Boston family trying to survive in her regular job as the fiction manager at a local bookstore and café. Her magic isn't exactly something she advertises when looking for potential new girlfriends, so when Louis Tomlinson arrives in her life like a breath of fresh air, she tries her best to hide how strongly her magic is reacting to Louis' presence.

📖 You come in waves (we crash and we roll) by @rainbowsandlovehl (11k)

Three times Louis makes a fool of himself in front of Harry and one time he doesn't.

📖 Just the Start by @littleroverlouis (9k)

Louis is a fifty-two year old divorcé who has fallen into rut. He never anticipated a forced day of self care, and a chance meeting with a charming salon owner would shake him out of his comfort zone.

📖 We Might'a Took the Long Way by @evilovesyou (8k)

The story of a perfect first date, a mind-blowing first kiss, an interfering lawsuit, a lopsided bowl, flutes of champagne, a little bit of heartbreak, a fated tiktok, and lots and lots of art.

📖 I Roll 'til I Change My Luck by @larry-hiatus (8k)

Dating is hard enough when you're gay. When Louis reveals to his Tinder matches that he uses a wheelchair and has a service dog, things tend to get even more complicated. Too bad the guys on dating apps aren't as sweet and understanding as his best friend Harry...

📖 I want your midnights by @guccistrawberries (7k)

or It all starts with a harmless round of the name game

📖 As Time Goes By by @1diamondinthesun (6k)

Wow. Louis needed to get a grip. They hadn’t even opened the wine yet, and Louis was already fantasizing about cuddling Harry.

📖 We're Getting Better With Time by @haztobegood (5k)

Or, the one where Louis is single, Harry is recently divorced, and they reconnect on Facebook forty years after they first met.

📖 sweaty palms and racing hearts by @onlythebravest (1k)

A short story of two shy, nervous and blushing boys on a date at the cinema.

[dangerousdispositions]

➪ CLARENCE WHITAKER

if you’re hearing ALONE by CAT BURNS playing, you have to know CLARENCE WHITAKER (THEY/HE; GENDERFLUID) is near by! the 27 year old FLORIST at STEM & STAMEN has been in town for, like, BASICALLY HIS ENTIRE LIFE. they’re known to be quite SELF- CENTERED, but being HARD- WORKING seems to balance that out. or maybe it’s the fact that they resemble EVAN MOCK. personally, i’d love to know more about them seeing as how they’ve got those NOSE ALWAYS IN A BOOK, CHARCOAL AND INK- STAINED HANDS, DARK EYELINER, TORN- UP BAND TEES and VINTAGE HORROR CINEMA SNOBBERY vibes. and maybe i’ll get my chance if i hang out around AVONLEA GARDENS long enough!

name: clarence "clare" whitaker

age: 27

d.o.b. & sign: september 29th, libra

occupation: florist at stem & stamen, freelance artist.

hometown: hemlock springs

gender identity & sexuality: genderfluid, bi.

relationship status: single, hopeless romantic (but quiet about it).

likes: scary movies, tea, working in their garden, the smell of acrylic paint, loud music.

dislikes: being disrespected/talked down to, seafood, minor inconveniences, sensationalized podcasts, gender norms.

CWs for mentions of parental / sibling death, car accidents.

The sad truth is, Clarence never really knew their parents. They know what happened to them, of course; he knows that they died when he was just a little kid, and that he had an older sister who died with them. He was raised by his grandmother after the accident and grew up in a house seemingly enshrined to their memories, from the pictures on the walls to the untouched bedrooms that the two of them simply didn't disturb. Their grandmother wasn't a terrible guardian. She loved them-- but she was deeply drowning in grief, and she never really seemed to recover from it. She'd get this sad look on her face when she looked at them for too long, patting their cheeks and telling them how much they looked like their mother, her daughter; or sometimes, more rarely, she'd comment on a trait she thought they might have inherited from their father. It was a strange feeling, living in the shadows of ghosts.

Clarence never had a particularly strong attachment to the concept of gender. It was pretty early on when he decided it seemed more like a construct of society than something he felt personally attached to, and he tends to alternate between feeling masculine, feminine, and removed from gender altogether. It's been a truth they've always been fairly apathetic about, not very picky about pronouns in general but happy so long as people alternate them. They've been out for as long as they can remember.

Growing up, he was always something of a wallflower: connecting with people has never been his forte. They're a lot more comfortable with their nose in a book and sticking to the sidelines. He excelled at school-- in another life, he could have been one of those kids skipping grades, graduating young and earning college credits before he was even out of high school. If they'd had the means, they could have gone to any ivy league. They're happy enough to have a BsC in botany from a community college, though, and perhaps their greatest passion in life is cultivating and caring for the various plants and flowers in their garden and greenhouse. In addition to their work at the shop, they run a little online store selling rare plants, and aside from that they have a deep- seated love for art, although that's more of a hobby than a job at this point, something he does to vent emotion and express himself.

Clarence's grandmother passed when he was twenty- three and left everything to him. The house, a modest little two bedroom, her little old lady car that he refuses to drive, everything, and most of it he didn't have the first clue what to do with. He's never been much of a partier, but he enjoys hosting friends for dinner (he likes cooking!) or garden parties or to watch movies. He falls under the ambivert umbrella- possessing more introvert tendencies, but they do need quality time with the people in their circle to keep from disintegrating into a sad pile of sludge.

Clarence enjoys a quiet life. They're a very tender soul, a good friend, a great listener, though they have to fight the urge to withdraw into their own little world sometimes. They're very dedicated to all of the things that they do, and if they're not posted up in front of an easel or sketchbook, working in their garden or the shop, they can be found catching a movie (and blogging their opinion about it), scrounging around bookstores, or cooking.

[spencerspecifics]

Hi! I just read your pride fanfiction and it's so cool! I was wondering if you maybe would like to write Moreid Penemily fanfic where Morgan and Prentiss go to the florist to buy flowers for their significant ones, but they obivously had no idea about flowers while Penelope and Spencer care about it a lot.

Have a great day!

This is the sweetest ask I’ve ever received omg of course you can get that!! I love getting requests thank you so much for asking❤️

Sort of TW /// there's flashbacks to a child abduction case the team was working, also Garcia is mad at Prentiss (and Morgan is just worried about picking the wrong flowers lol)

———————————————————————

Flowers

———————————————————————

Morgan and Prentiss were similar, almost too similar- they were both leaders within the team, strong willed, and not scared of saying what they thought.

They were driving forces in the team, they did their jobs and they did them damn well. They were both confident in their jobs, but sadly, that’s where both of their confident aspects ended.

When it came to relationships, Emily and Derek were also too similar- they were nervous disasters. They didn’t know how to act, what to do or say- they practically had to dare each other to get themselves to ask out their respective crushes. They couldn’t bring themselves to do it without the other pushing them along, urging them to do it.

So, it should have been no shock when Derek pulled open the door to the small flower shop Spencer raved about so much- and saw Prentiss standing awkwardly to the side, scanning the example flowers splayed out on the small table next to her like she actually understood anything about floristry.

Morgan couldn’t help but shake his head; of course, Spencer was always telling Garcia about his favorite things- she probably fell in love with this flower shop, too.

“Well, well, look who we have here.” Derek joked as he walked towards Prentiss, she barely looked up at him, instead still scanning the flowers as she spoke; “I don’t wanna hear it. This is Penelope’s new favorite place, and I’m doing my girlfriend duties.”

“Funny, I’m doing the same thing myself.” Derek replied, “You’re doing girlfriend duties?” Prentiss shot back, Derek ignored her, instead turning back around, towards the front of the shop to look at the flowers they had displayed up front.

He was still standing next to her, however, so he spoke up again; “What’re you getting Garcia flowers for?” “I can’t just get her flowers?” Prentiss sniped, clearly something was putting her on edge, and now Derek had to know what.

“Pump the brakes, Em.” He told her, she looked down towards her feet, then looking at the small table, before looking back towards him.

“She’s mad at me.” Was all Emily said, before turning her back towards him, looking at the displays hanging nearby on the wall. Derek decided to leave her at that, at least for now. He knew why Garcia was mad.

~

“How long are you going to stay here for?” Reid asked Garcia curiously, sat next to her in her den of computers and fun little figurines surrounding her. Spencer had ended up burning the midnight oil yet again, and decided it was better to spend that time with Garcia, rather than be alone in the dark emptiness of the bullpen.

Penelope had finished her work hours ago, but was refusing to go back home- back to her shared apartment with Emily, because she was mad, she was fuming, she was frustrated, and she was close to being heart broken, even if that was dramatic to say; that’s how she felt.

“I don’t know.” Garcia said simply, clicking on another youtube video of kittens being adorable. She needed to focus on something simple right now, something sweet, something that didn’t make her feel like she was going to cry and hyperventilate at the same time.

Spencer stayed quiet, sitting in the desk chair next to her as he flipped through the manilla file folders in his lap. Boring case work, it could be done by anyone on the team- and it didn’t need to be done that exact day, it wasn’t due to be turned into Hotch for a while. So Spencer left it on his lap, shutting the folder as quick as he had opened.

“You know, everyone does stuff like what Emily did-“ he started up again, trying his best to reason with Penelope about the events that had transpired that day, but she wasn’t going to hear it, she was deciding to tune him out; turning the volume up on the youtube video, watching kittens chase fake mice and play with feathers on strings. It was cute, it was sweet, it wasn’t upsetting.

Reid took that as his cue to be quiet, at least for now.

~

Derek had left Prentiss to her own devices within the small flower shop, going to the other side of the store to give her some distance, and to peruse the many kinds of flowers and small knick knacks they had for sale.

It made sense why Spencer loved this shop, why he raved about it; firstly, it was small, it was quiet, it was simple. It wasn’t flashy in decor, rather letting the flowers for sale be the decorations to fill up the store. Not to mention the soft classical radio station that was playing through the small speakers by the cashiers desk- which also doubled as a bouquet making table.

It was small, it was a small slice of art that Derek could picture Spencer walking down, looking at the beautiful flowers lining the shop on small tables and hanging on the walls. Spencer loved beautiful things, and he was the most beautiful person Morgan knew.

Which is why Derek was struggling on what to get Reid, he wanted to get his boyfriend something as beautiful as him, something he would love. Morgan knew realistically that Spencer would be happy with almost any kind of gift, but Morgan wasn’t listening to his painfully boring realistic side. He was listening to his romantic side, the side that wanted to buy Reid the Smithsonian Museum, the side of himself that wanted to build his boyfriend a greenhouse; so they could finally start on that home garden Spencer wanted so badly.

Derek wanted to do something to make Spencer happy, because the case they had dealt with today ended badly- worse than normal. It had taken a toll on everyone, Garcia, Prentiss, Reid, himself, Hotch, and even J.J. and Rossi.

It was rare a case hurt them as much as this one had, but every once and a while, there needs to be a fresh cut alongside the healing and fading scars. Something to bring them back to the painful reality of life.

~

It was a child abduction case, those always hit the team the worst. Whether there was a personal connection to the team members or not, it was hard when an innocent soul gets taken away.

Thankfully, the team was able to recover the missing child, a seven year old girl named Savannah Rogers. The team was quick to figure out this was the abductors first, so there were errors, there were mistakes. There were holes in the plotline the team could poke through and reach into, to find the necessary answers.

It came at a price, though, it always did.

~

"She likes colorful things." Derek spoke under his breath as he passed by Prentiss, she didn't turn around (though she clearly heard him as her eyes darted his way for a moment), still staring at the racks of freshly made bouquets and wreaths that had yet to be bought. Derek didn't say anymore past that, instead just standing next to her, staring at the same floral arrangements.

He needed something as pretty as his boy, would Reid like roses? Or would he think that's too cliché? Derek wasn't totally sure. It had to be just right for Spencer. Maybe a mix of roses with something leafy would be best.

"You know what you're getting Reid?" Emily asked him, her voice quieter than normal. It was clear the stress of the situation was getting to her, it hurt Derek's heart to see her like that.

He shook his head simply, "Nah, I'm not sure. What about you?" Emily drew a breath in, "I don't think any amount of flowers will make her forgive me." She said, a shaky laugh coming out after, as if the humor was to make the situation normal. But none of this was normal.

"Em, you did what you had to do. She needed our help. Garcia knows that, she's just upset because she was worried sick."

Emily just nodded, a signal that meant ‘I hope you’re right’. Derek knew he was, it was just going to take Penelope a second to breathe, to calm down; to understand why Prentiss put herself in harms way. To understand why Prentiss almost got shot just a few hours earlier.

~

The specifics of a child abduction case always boil down into two ways; either the child is taken from a place of safety (school, home, etc.), or is taken while in transportation from one place to the next (walking home from school, taking the bus).

For the case of Savannah Rogers, it was the former. She was playing in her front yard with her barbies when she was seemingly snatched.

Her mother was inside on a phone call, she had just stepped away from watching Savannah for a minute to answer the phone- and when she looked back, her daughter was nowhere to be seen.

The team figured out quickly who could’ve done it, the school nurse from Savannah’s elementary school- the nurse had recently been fired due to allegations of verbal abuse from the students themselves. The fact the feds weren’t involved sooner was the most surprising thing, the nurse was a walking poster boy for someone who shouldn’t be working in a school. But somehow, he had the job for some time.

The nurses name was Daniel Blake, he was an unsub with narcissistic personality disorder- he was raised off grid by his mother who had a narcissistic personality as well, and a belief that society was doomed from the start. So, he was raised with the belief life was better away from everyone- he was raised in a cabin, then escaped away for his college career.

He was seemingly normal, until his mother died a few weeks earlier. It was common to see an unsub stable, normal- not exhibiting any terrible ideology. But then, there’s always that trigger- something that shoves them over that edge they’ve been precariously balancing on for far too long.

His mothers death reminded him of the way he was raised, he was convinced he needed to take a child and raise them the same. Savannah Rogers just happened to be the closest to where he was.

~

Spencer and Garcia were sat in silence yet again, Reid had no reason to leave and Garcia simply refused to. She didn’t want to see Emily.

“I almost lost her, Spencer.” Was all Garcia mustered up to say, before looking down from her computer monitor- instead just staring directly at her keyboard.

Spencer didn’t react right away, he wasn’t sure what to say. He took a deep breath in before speaking, “Morgan and I argue about this too.”

Garcia looked up from her keyboard to shoot Reid a sideways glance, her way of saying ‘go on’. So, he did.

“We don’t argue about you and Emily,” he stuttered over that obvious clarification, “but we argue when the other shoves themselves in the way of danger. Him and I have almost died too many times, every time we go out into the field I do have a part of myself that asks; ‘what if this is the last time I’ll see him?’. And it scares me.” Spencer paused, swallowing some of his rambling down, not all of what he was feeling and sharing was helpful. He was just vocalizing his fear.

He continued on after a second, “I don’t want to lose him- he’s my everything you know, he’s-“ Spencer’s voice started to crack in the way that only cracks when you’re close to expelling your emotions way too publicly. He took a breath again, deciding to redirect where his story was going.

“But I also know that, he’ll always be okay. I trust him to do his job, and that’s the difference between being boyfriends and co-workers. I have to trust my co-worker, Derek, to do his job right. And I have to trust my boyfriend, Derek, to come home every night like he promised he would. And he trusts me to do the same.”

Reid stopped talking after that, going back down to staring at the manilla file folders on his lap.

~

The team had cornered Daniel Blake in a warehouse set to be demolished towards the outskirts of town, Savannah was with him, locked in a giant crate meant for a large dog. His whole plan wasn’t well thought out, was he going to raise this little girl in a warehouse? It didn’t matter in the end.

The team got to him, like they always did with unsubs. The one thing the team wasn’t aware of was that he had a pistol in his inner jacket pocket- and while Prentiss moved towards the dog crate to get Savannah out, Daniel made a move.

He grabbed out his pistol and was trying to aim at the dog crate that Savannah was in- if he couldn’t have her, he didn’t want anyone to. The only thing stopping Savannah Rogers from being dead right then and there was the fact J.J. had shouted out at Emily to cover the crate, which she did instinctively.

The bullet missed the crate, but it hit Prentiss in the bullet proof vest, right in between her shoulder blades. If she wasn’t wearing the vest, she’d be dead.

After that, Derek tackled him to the ground and made sure he had no other weapons. Savannah was then returned to her family, and the team made their way back to the police station. Case closed, almost.

Penelope was in the teams ear, monitoring the whole ordeal when she heard J.J. yell at Emily to cover, and the gunfire going off. Then she couldn’t hear anything, her heartbeat was drowning out any words that were being said. She was petrified.

~

EMTs checked out Savannah and Prentiss, Savannah was in shock and had a few minor injuries, but nothing too stressful. Thankfully the same could also be said for Emily, she felt the bullet push through the fabric of the vest when she was shot, the bullet barely stopped before slowly pushing up against the more inner layers of the vest.

It was a sharp pain, it would leave a bruise, it knocked the wind out of her for a second. But she was alive, she was okay.

That’s what Morgan told Garcia through the earpiece as soon as he got Daniel Blake in the back of a cop car. He just kept saying it, “Garcia, she’s okay. EMTs are looking at her now, she’s okay.”

Whether Penelope fully heard him by that point, he wasn’t sure.

~

“It’s just hard. I feel like I’m the odd one out, I’m not at the scene with you guys. I’m a million miles away.” Garcia spoke through a shaky breath to Spencer.

“I can’t see what happens, unless you strap a camera to your face and send me live feed. I’m scared every time you guys go out there, that something bad is gonna happen. And I’ll be the only one left.” She said, her voice hushed and shaky still.

Spencer stayed quiet for a moment, the only thing heard in the office was the kitten videos still playing on Garcia’s monitor, and the distant clicking of the clock on the wall.

“You’re never going to be alone. I know our line of work is a lot, and it is. But we can handle it. We’re as prepared as can be, and the truth is we could get hurt just the same walking down the road. We could get hit by a tornado, or a drive by-“ Reid kept going on, Garcia looked down at her keyboard before looking at Reid.

“Bad things can happen to us anywhere.” Spencer stated simply, watching Garcia’s tired, bloodshot, and teary eyes staring at him. “But we’re never alone out there. We protect each other. And you- you protect us!” Spencer spoke with a tone of energy. He had a strong point coming and he knew it, but Garcia didn’t. She scoffed, blinked, and didn’t say anything more. A cue that Spencer can continue.

“You protect us just as much as we protect each other, you get us the information we need, you contact everyone we can possibly need for a case. We’re nothing without you. It doesn’t matter how far away you are, you have our backs, too.”

Penelope sniffled, a small smile tugging on her lips.

“Thank you,” she said, her voice cracking. Spencer nodded, he could tell she was tired, as was he.

~

The shop was closing soon, Prentiss knew it, Morgan knew it, and the old woman sat up behind the counter, reading a thick old dusty book knew it too.

“Are you two stuck on what to get?” The old woman asked, looking over the top of her book to give Morgan and Prentiss a glance.

“Just a bit,” Derek admitted suavely to her, he knew Emily wasn’t really in the mood to talk so he took lead on this conversation. “I’m getting a gift for my boyfriend.” boyfriend, boyfriend, Spencer was his boyfriend. No matter how many times Derek got to call him his, he still never got over it. He never got over the excitement, the happiness, the rush of ‘oh my god, I get to date him?’. It was an amazing feeling every time.

The old woman nodded, “Do you know what kind of flowers he likes?” She asked, setting her thick book down on the table in front of her. Derek thought back for a moment, every time he’s seen Spencer bring flowers home from the shop they weren’t big bouquets. There was a lot of greenery, a lot of whites and yellows, natural earthy tones. Nothing flashy or bright.

“He always has a lot of green in the bouquets he gets,” the woman nodded as she listened, hopping off of her stool and going around the cashier counter to Morgan to show him the collection of flowers she thought would match that.

“I’m also thinking roses, though. Is that cliche?” He asked her, she smiled happily, “Not at all, dear. Roses symbolize love. Are you thinking the standard red, or would you like to look at our other colors?”

Derek nodded yes, excitedly, he felt like he was finally figuring out what to get his pretty boy, and it was going to be just as pretty as him. The woman whisked off to the back room to get the freshest roses they had, assuring him and Emily that she’d be right back.

Emily had stayed silent through the entire interaction, staring at the wreaths lining the wall. Derek noticed, it was his job to notice.

“Prentiss, I know you’re dealing with a lot. But one thing at a time, alright? Slow your mind down, all you can do right now is get her flowers.” Emily nodded, she understood that. She knew that was true, she was just nervous and tired and frustrated. She wanted to do the right thing, and she had. It just came at a price.

“I know,” she nodded again, “I know.” “So, what flowers are you thinking for Penelope?” Derek asked her, trying to move her forward.

“I might have to follow your lead and see about the roses.” Emily replied, a small (not entirely truthful) smile forming on her face. She decided to follow Morgan’s lead. Flowers first, everything else later.

~

Spencer and Garcia left the bureau building together, “You want a ride home?” Spencer asked her as he dug his car keys out of his messenger bag, Penelope nodded. “I’d like that.”

~

So, they drove in amicable silence, the radio in Reid’s car was switched to a pop station for Garcia, and she appreciated that. She hummed lowly to the songs playing through. But past that, no words were said.

Spencer rolled his vehicle to a stop outside of Garcia and Emily’s shared apartment, “Do you want me to walk you up?” He asked her, already reaching to undo his seatbelt. Penelope shook her head, causing Reid to stop.

“No, thank you though. What you said meant a lot. I love ya, Spencer.” She said, reaching forward over the center console to embrace him in a hug, Spencer smiled and did the same, hugging her back tightly.

“Of course. It’s gonna be okay. You just have to talk to her.” Spencer told her, they were still in a tight embrace, and Garcia nodded. “I know. I won’t be scared.” She mumbled, pulling back from the hug after a moment.

Spencer smiled, “That’s good, you shouldn’t be. You love her, that’s all that matters.” Penelope smiled softly back, thinking back to Prentiss, how much she loved her- how much she loved being with her, kissing her, talking to her. Just being with her. She loved it. She knew Spencer was right.

All Garcia did was say a final ‘thank you’ before unbuckling, grabbing her purse and exiting the car, shutting the passenger door behind her. Reid waited until she disappeared into her apartment building to drive away, and then he started his journey home.

~

Spencer hadn’t thought much of the day, other than the obligatory obvious that the child abduction case had put everyone on edge- Garcia and Prentiss especially, and for good reason.

Spencer was a bit foggy in his mind as he pulled into the drive way of Derek and his’ home. The fog in his mind was for a few factors, the post stress feeling of finishing a high stakes case, and also that it was just late and he was so, utterly exhausted. He let out a small yawn as he put the car in park, he noted that Derek’s car was already parked in his usual spot- hopefully his boyfriend hadn’t been waiting up for him, he’d feel terrible depriving him of his sleep. He knew Morgan was just as tired as him.

Spencer exited his car, locking it quickly and walking up the front stoop, fumbling with his keys to get the right one to unlock the front door. He got the right key after a moment, slid it into the lock, and opened the door. He pushed it open, shutting it quickly behind him. He tried to shut the door as quietly as he could, but the hinges squeaked at a volume a bit too loud for Reid’s taste. Spencer cringed at the noise, hoping it wouldn’t wake Derek up.

The hallway lights were on in their home, not an uncommon occurrence, as their work schedules were always so bizarre that they usually ended up working late nights; at home or in a hotel somewhere across the nation.

Spencer made his way inside, setting his messenger bag down on the kitchen table, and stood in a moment of silence. God, today was a lot. And Penelope being so worried about Emily, it reminded him of his anxieties, his fears, his worries about himself and Derek. He knew they couldn’t catch every unsub always. He knew some unsubs would shoot their way out of dealing with cops. He knew people got hurt in their line of work.

He was terrified that it would catch up to him and his boyfriend one day. And that the happiness and love and hope they shared would be smashed. Spencer let out a deep sigh, he couldn’t keep thinking about this all and run his mind in circles. Spencer walked over to the cupboard where their glasses were stored, opening it and grabbing a glass, then going to the tap and filling it with water.

It was then that he heard footsteps, coming from down the hall to the kitchen.

“Pretty boy?” Derek’s voice called out, before he turned into the kitchen. He was still in his work clothes, and smiling excitedly as he had his hands behind his back, as if he was hiding something.

Spencer smiled softly at him, taking a sip of his water, “Hey,” he took note of Derek’s preppy demeanor this late in the evening, he immediately knew his boyfriend had been up to something. “What’s going on?” He asked curiously.

“Close your eyes.” Derek said, his grin somehow splitting even wider as he spoke. Seeing his boyfriend somehow so full of joy, this late in the day, after all the bad they had seen; it made Spencer smile. So Spencer nodded, setting his glass down next to him on the counter, putting his hands over his eyes.

Reid heard his boyfriend stepping closer, and some kind of rustling he couldn’t correctly identify.

“Open your eyes, baby.” Derek said, Reid put his hands down, blinking his eyes open to see what was in front of him.

It was Derek holding a bouquet out in front of him, it had daisy’s, white and yellow roses, a bit of baby’s breath, as well as lots of greenery and leaves.

“Derek, is- is this for me?” Reid asked, he already knew the answer as Derek wordlessly handed him the bouquet, and Spencer started examining it further.

“I wanted to get you something special,” Derek started explaining bashfully, “you mentioned that flower shop around the corner, so I checked it out and I got some help from the old lady behind the counter. I wasn’t sure what to get you, do you like it?”

Spencer couldn’t stop smiling, he mentioned that flower shop in passing to his boyfriend once or twice, and Morgan remembered. And it was a perfect bouquet, some people would’ve disliked the amount of leaves or usage of daisy’s or whatever the hell else- but to Spencer, it was perfect. It was beautiful.

“I-“ Reid’s voice cracked in a way he hadn’t meant it to. He was feeling overwhelmed, overemotional. “I love it. I love you.” He said, he felt tears prickling at the corners of his eyes as he looked up to meet Derek’s gaze.

“Baby, are you alright?” Morgan asked him carefully, stepping forward. Reid nodded, “I was just with Garcia- she was so nervous about Emily. It just got me thinking, about us and our work.” Derek nodded wordlessly, taking the bouquet from Spencer and setting it down on the counter, before pulling his boyfriend into a soft embrace. Spencer melted into the feeling.

“It’s never going to be easy. But it’s worth it to me, I love you and our work, baby. I love you so much.” Morgan said, emphasizing his words by giving Reid a small squeeze. Spencer smiled softly, pulling back to make eye contact with Morgan again before leaning forward, giving him a small kiss on the lips.

Spencer stepped back out of the hug, picking the bouquet off the counter. He couldn’t stop staring at it.

“This is beautiful.” Spencer said absentmindedly as he looked around for a vase to put the flowers into.

“Not as beautiful as you,” Morgan complimented, Spencer felt the heat rush to his cheeks as he smiled. He located a vase in a nearby cupboard, moving back over to the sink to fill it up with some water.

“I was sat in that flower shop for, like, an hour. Baby I kept running around in circles.” Derek continued on, “I knew you’d like anything I got you, but-“ he smiled awkwardly. Spencer had this way of getting Derek stupidly romantic, he just wanted to do everything he could to make Reid as happy as possible. He couldn’t get over how damn lucky he was to have this genius in his life.

Spencer eyed him as he unwrapped the flowers from the wrapping, setting them up in the vase. Derek continued; “I wanted to get something as pretty and as perfect as you, Spencer.”

Spencer melted at that, he knew Morgan was usually so confident in his choices. The thought of his boyfriend confusedly wandering around the flower shop, looking for just the right flowers for him, to express his love; it made Spencer feel blessed.

“Just knowing you went out of your way to do this, it’s…” Spencer smiled softly, looking back and forth between the bouquet and his incredible partner.

“It’s amazing.”

~

Penelope had gotten up to her apartment, entering quickly and locking the door behind her. A majority of the lights in the apartment were still off, indicating that Prentiss was still out, wherever she was.

Garcia went through the apartment, turning on their lamps and lighting a few candles to help her de-stress from the days events. She decided to clear her mind by taking a shower, heading into the shared bedroom and grabbing clothes out of her dresser, before heading down the hall to the bathroom.

She shut the door softly, turning on the shower and undressing slowly as she waited for it to heat up.

After she showered, she was going to wait for Emily to get home so they could talk.

~

Prentiss entered their apartment not long after Penelope had, Emily had stopped from the flower shop to get a box of chocolates for her girlfriend before finally heading home. Prentiss heard the water running in the bathroom, and figured Garcia was in there showering.

She decided to wait in their bedroom, chocolates and flowers sitting in her lap as she waited, sitting on the edge of the bed eagerly. She felt terrible, she hadn’t meant to worry her girlfriend so much, but she knew she hadn’t had the foresight to think of Penelope when she made her choice to stand in between the little girl and the bullet.

It was noble, sure. But it was incredibly stupid.

~

Garcia finished showering quickly, she stepped out of the shower and changed into the clothes she had brought with her into the bathroom.

It was a matching pajama set, that ironically enough was a gift from Emily. It was covered in small hearts with arrows through them. It was a Valentine’s Day surprise, and the other part of the surprise was that Prentiss had an identical set. Emily usually wasn’t one for showy displays of affection, she was a private and simple person. She would joke and tease to show her love, but she knew Garcia wasn’t like that and enjoyed honest, sentimental gifts.

Penelope smiled at the pajamas, thinking back to the gift and how much it meant to her- how much it still means to her.

Penelope stepped out of the bathroom, towel still wrapped around her hair to help it dry as she made her way back to the bedroom.

~

The bedroom door opened, Prentiss watched as Garcia entered- but Garcia didn’t see Emily right away, instead making her way to the small closet and putting the clothes she was wearing into her hamper.

Garcia then turned around, and that’s when she saw Emily, and it was a surprise, as Garcia almost practically jumped.

“You- Oh! Emily! God.” she sighed, clearly taken off guard.

“Sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you, I,” Emily started, taking the chocolates and flowers out of her lap and setting them down on the bed next to her as she got up to be closer to Garcia.

“I’m sorry love, I didn’t mean to scare you.” She repeated, Garcia huffed and crossed her arms over her chest. “Well, you did.” She said with a small pout on her face.

“Can we- can we talk?” Emily asked carefully. Last she had seen Garcia, she was mad, couldn’t even look at her. She didn’t want to end up sleeping on the couch tonight, she wanted to work this out. To her surprise, Penelope nodded slowly.

“I’m sorry, Pen..” Garcia said nothing as she stood and listened to Emily, Prentiss gestured for her to take a seat on the bed next to her. Garcia obliged and sat down.

“I know it’s scary when we go into the field, because anything can happen. And I hate myself for not thinking ahead and my actions hurting you, that’s the last thing I want to do. You matter so, so much to me.”

Silence sat over them both for a moment. Emily wanted to reach forward and hold Penelope’s hand, but she didn’t want to push it. Garcia sniffed, the sound breaking through the silence.

“I know you didn’t intend to hurt me, Em. I know a little girl’s life was on the line. I just- it is scary, it just is!” She said, exasperatedly. Not sure what else to say or how else to phrase her thoughts.

Emily decided to push it, reaching forward to hold her girlfriends hand between her own. “This job is hard. It’s bad at times. But it’s where I met you, and it’s where we fell in love. It’s the one job we know we’re good at.” Prentiss spoke softly.

Garcia nodded as she look down, putting her other hand on top of Emily’s. She smiled softly. “I’m sorry. I’m not mad, I get scared is all… you know with my family, they just were gone one day and-“

Garcia’s voice cracked a little, the emotions were still incredibly raw. “I just don’t want to lose you.” Emily nodded. She didn’t want to lose her either.

“I will always come back to you, in this life- in the next. I will fight anyone who stands between us, I love you, and I hope you know that. I would do anything to see you and be with you.” Prentiss said as she squeezed Penelope’s hands tightly. Garcia knew she wasn’t messing around with what she said. Emily was fiercely loyal, she stood by every word she ever spoke.

Penelope smiled, “You saved a little girl’s life today,” she looked up to meet Emily’s gaze.

“I’m really proud of you.”

~

The chocolates and flowers quickly became an afterthought for Emily, as her and Garcia relieved each other of their anxieties and reminded the other how much they loved each other. It was only when Penelope stood up from the bed to take the towel off of her hair that she saw them on the other side of the bed.

“Oh- are those, are those for me?” Emily looked back, remembering the gifts and grabbing them.

“Yes! They are! I- I know that flower shop you like so much… I had some help getting these, I wasn’t sure what you’d like.” Prentiss explained, offering the flowers to Garcia first so she could look them over.

Penelope smiled excitedly as she took them from her, looking them over, there were white and red roses, baby’s breath, and some blue bells. It was gorgeous.

“Do you… like it?” Emily asked apprehensively as she stood up. She knew it was dumb, but her and Morgan really were out of their elements in that flower shop. And as much as the kind older woman helping them reassured them that their partners would love it, she was scared. This gift had to be perfect for Penelope. And she knew Derek shared a similar thought for Spencer.

Penelope couldn’t stop her beaming smile, “Love, they’re perfect.” She set them down on the dresser next to her and leaned in to give Emily a sweet kiss on the lips. Emily smiled, grateful that she was able to help mend this wound between her and Garcia. She couldn’t survive if she didn’t have her in her life, Penelope was everything.

Prentiss wrapped her arms around Garcia, holding her in a loose hug for a while. Penelope didn’t mind as she rested her head on Emily’s shoulder, sighing contently.

“Thank you.”

———————————————————————

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 9

Nagisa: Now that’s a cute bookmark! What kind of flower is this?

Ito: Yellow daisy. Its meaning is “as it is”.

Nagisa: As it is.….

Ito: ......I believe that your concerns and worries are rooted in your care towards your partner.

I pray that your feelings will be conveyed as they are.

Kiho: …….

Nagisa: Ahaha...Thanks a lot. I really got myself a lovely charm!

Enomura-sama’s eyes were welling with tears, but her smile was no longer cloudy.

Nagisa: …..Well, I'm off now.

As I watched her return, a sigh came out naturally.

Ito: .…..That sure was something...

Kiho: Agreed. I think it takes more courage than you could ever imagine. I hope it goes well.

Ito: Oh. Yeah... Well, that was very strong of Enomura-sama.

But the one who also amazed me here was Kiho-san.

Kiho: I didn't do much. All I did was craft my words to be harmless. Ito did even more marvelous job.

That yellow daisy you picked really cheered her up.

Ito: You think so? I’m glad to hear that... Anyway, it’s too humble of you to say something as if you haven’t just done something amazing.

From the moment you guessed the reason for her leaving, it was a series of great things from start to finish.

I literally got goosebumps when you found out about the proposal through fortune telling.

Kiho: Oh. I actually had a hunch even before the fortune telling. 

Ito: Seriously?

Kiho: Just a little observation and deduction. Do you remember the flower arrangement she reserved?

Ito: 9 Gerberas….

Kiho: Did you look up its meaning?

Gerberas were also chosen for the bookmark design. In flower language, they are “hope” and “always moving forward.”

Ito: (There were several other customers who requested it besides Enomura-sama, so I thought it was a popular flower that’s often chosen as a gift...)

.…..Could there be a meaning behind the number of flowers, like with roses?

Kiho: To satisfy that curiosity, look it up later.

Ito: (….Oh.)

Ito: I can only think of obvious reasons like there being a certain number of people who would find it annoying to receive one...

Probably nothing in particular.

Kiho: Oh yeah?

As soon as I realized that he was smiling the same way as he did back then, I felt as if the dots were connected. When Kiho-san can't put everything into words, he just smiles beautifully like this. Instead of trying to falsify something that can’t be shown, he shows them what they can't see.

Ito: (.…This person himself is like a flower.)

Kiho-san, please make sure to take a break. You’ve worked hard.

Kiho: Yeah. Thank you.

Without putting my thoughts into words, I quietly returned the chair that she had pulled out to its place. Kiho-san’s smile that didn’t seem to follow me too intently was as beautiful as always.

A few hours later, we finally saw off the last customer.

Thus, concluding the event, “Florist”.

Mao: ….This paper bag is the last one. Anything else I can help you with?

Ito: Thank you, I’ll let you know if I need one. There's only trivial stuff now, so that should be all for today... Ah.

Kiho: I already repacked the items that I don't think I'll use anytime soon and stacked them in the aisle.

Anything else that needs to be carried?

Mao: Nope. Let's call it a day.

Ito: Thank you for staying up so late. Be careful on your way home.

Kiho: You too, Ito. Yuzuru said he would go with you, so don't go out alone.

Mao, if you don't have any plans after this, how about I give you a ride home? I came by car today.

Mao: Oh? If you’re fine with it, I'll take you up on that.

Kiho: Sure. The trains will be crowded at this time on Saturdays anyway.

See you later, Ito.

Ito: Yes. Thank you for your hard work... Also, congratulations on being crowned “The Best Florist.”

Kiho: Oh. Thanks.

Mao: You were glued to No.1 spot from the beginning until the end. I wouldn’t say that comes as a surprise.

Kiho: It wasn't a big difference, I just lucked out today. I'll invite everyone to dinner once I've received my pay…

Mao: Anyway, Ito. You should hurry home as well. You stayed late yesterday, didn’t you?

Ito: Thanks for the concern. I’ll be sure to do that.

Mao: Alright. See you then.

Ito: Thanks again for today.

Ito: ……Haaa…..

(I'm glad it went well...)

I quickly started packing up after closing time. Now I can finally breathe a sigh of relief at the familiar sight… Before my body tensed up again.

Tomose: …….

Ito: !?

In the restaurant where I thought there was no one… Onda-san was sitting alone in a corner, resting his chin on his palm.

Ito: (That sent me a chill. His presence was so little that I couldn’t help but startle once I saw him.)

(So he’s still here. Those who left the venue earlier had already finished cleaning up and gone home...)

Ito: .……Good work.

Tomose: Oh. You’re done?

Ito: Yes. Kiho-san and Mao-san have just left.

Tomose: And you?

Ito: ………I just thought I'd turn off the lights and lock the door.

Tomose: No need. Yu is coming soon.

Ito: Nina-san?

Tomose: He’s preparing lunch for tomorrow.

Ito: Ah...I see.

(Is he planning to wait for him and go home together after they’re done?)

(Even so, Nina-san still thinks of doing more work right after his ST Dept. job. That must be hard.)

Wouldn't it be better if he had some help?

Tomose: Just go home. If you need instructions for everything, Yu alone is more than enough.

Ito: (Can’t say I disagree...)

Okay. I will leave you alone then.

Tomose: Sure.

I nodded at Onda-san, who looked away from me as if he had lost interest or wasn't even that interested in the first place. But before I stepped out, my feet stopped.

Ito: (.……He’s probably tired, not that he’s the type to chat cheerfully anyway. It’s probably best not to talk about unnecessary things.)

(But, I don't know when I'll see Onda-san again.)

Onda-san.

Tomose: What?

Ito: As a result, I spent more time outside the kitchen today. I'm sorry that I left most of the work to you.

But thanks to that... Uh, that might have come off as inappropriate, but I was able to keep a close eye on the customers in the dining area all day.

The food was really well received. There were also lots of compliments on the presentation.

Tomose: ……

Ito: It was really helpful to have Onda-san join us. Thank you very much.

Well, I just wanted to express my gratitude. Sorry for saying that out of nowhere. I will excuse myself now...

Tomose: I simply acted as instructed.

Ito: ?

Tomose: “Respect what Yu spent time making.”

“Faithfully reproduce the visible shape without imagining the invisible Yu’s intention.”

I remember you said something along that line yesterday.

Ito: (Eh... Is that…)

I soon realized what Onda-san was talking about, but I immediately thought that he might have been a bit off here. What I was able to put into words at that time were more vague, superficial, and insignificant personal feelings. I couldn't explain in an orderly manner why I felt that way, or why I wanted to do that. I didn't say it. Or more like, I couldn't say it. This person just collected and ran with it from there.

Tomose: Although I don't think the instruction was given after a thorough understanding of Yu’s personality and preferences.,,,

I was convinced that it’s a way to show respect to someone you don't understand. So I merely followed suit.

Ito: …….

Tomose: In the end, if my work was adequate from a business aspect, then that was an accurate instruction.

There's no need for one-sided gratitude. Both you and I simply fulfilled our duty. That's all.

Ito: (Woah.)

Despite being aware that my apology and gratitude could be deemed unnecessary, I went ahead and did it anyway. The reply I got may not be “Same here” or “Thank you for your hard work.” Obviously, not even a smile…. But Onda-san’s unwavering words somehow made me incredibly happy.

Ito: (.…..Never have I thought Onda-san would say something like that to me.)

Thank you.

Tomose: Enough with that………Do I have to say something back too?

Ito: !? No, not at all.

--Clank

Ito: !

Tomose: ….Great job out there.

Yu: Same to you. Thanks for the wait.

……Yashiro is here too?

Ito: Thank you for your hard work. Sorry, I'm about to leave now.

Yu: You don’t need to be that alert. 

As he spoke, Nina-san picked up a blanket that was laid next to the counter.

Yu: It probably won't take an hour. How about you rest a little bit.

Tomose: I don’t need that long. You won't be able to rest unless we go home anyway.

Yu: Yeah. Then, I'll wake you up when I'm done.

Tomose: Nghh….

Ito: (……………Hmmm?)

After that exchange, Onda-san folded his arms and leaned against the wall, closing his eyes...

Tomose: ……

Ito: (………Huh? ………Sleep? Just like that?)

Translator’s note - 9 gerberas have a meaning “I want you to stay with me forever”.

Chapter 10 >>