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rosenclaws · 2 months ago

Note

Hi again lol 👋

Here's the leopold idea I had:

The reader is a shy baker who lives next door to Stuart. Her and Stuart are friends, and sometimes she'll bring meals/baked goods over to make sure he's eating (she's soft like that). She also has a cat, Appa, who likes to visit Stuart. When Stuart takes Leo home, they get introduced to each other due to her cat coming over and finding Leo instead.

Leo and the reader build a friendship, and she introduces him to all the different cuisines/baked goods the 21st century has to offer. Over time, they start to develop feelings for each other but won't say anything to the other because they don't think the other likes them in that way. Stuart, our awkward wing man, informs Leo that the reader definitely likes them due to how much time they spent with them and may have overheard a conversation that the reader has with a friend about him.

They admit their feelings in a fluffy way and throw in a kiss and maybe like a timeskip into the future where they're married, and they're telling their kids how they met and all that fluffy goodness.

I'll leave the ending up to you. I was running out of creative juice on how to end it, lol.

Made With Love || Leopold Mountbatten x Reader

warnings: fem!reader, fluff, a little messing with the Kate & Leopold canon, me making shit up about Leopolds past, leopold is a girl dad

a/n: I love this request and it actually ended up being longer than I thought haha. I have also crafted this total backstory to Leopold's childhood and parents in my head so now that's gonna be a running theme in my leo fics i think. Anyways I hope you like it!! Also i made some little divider in canva in like 3 seconds im sorry its not very original sdfalkj

wc: 2.9k

The sun shines through your balcony windows as another day begins, well for you the day had began at 4am. Preparing dough for the large order of baked goods you had to deliver today. It's a very small business, one that you run from your apartment but you love it.

"Good morning Appa, finally decided to wake up huh?" You wipe your hands on your apron and scratch his head softly. He stretches happily before heading towards the window. Appa is a very spoiled cat so you have no worries of him running off. He often travels to your neighbors, seeing if they're free to give him even more attention.

"Okay pretty simple order today." You check your list over before giving yourself a little time to rest.

A loud yowl makes you jump as you hurry towards the window. That's definitely Appa and you've never heard him make a sound like that. Peeking out the window you see him standing outside of Stuarts window, back arched and ears flat as he hisses.

"Appa what has gotten into you!" You climb over and pick him up.

"Sorry Stuart I have no..." When you look into the window it's not Stuart you see. A strange man is on the couch looking disheveled and confused and wearing really strange clothing.

"You're not Stuart." You hold your cat closer, debating if you should run and call the cops or not.

"I'm afraid not, he'll be back in just a moment." You slowly inch back towards your apartment.

"Um, okay. Who are you? Exactly?"

"Leopold. Do you know the man that lives here?" He gets up and walks towards you making you take a step back. Appa jumps out of your arms and scampers back to your apartment. The door opens and you spot Stuart and Bart.

"Stuart! What the hell did you do!?" You shout. Leopold stops in his tracks when he notices the nervousness in your voice.

"Dammit!" Stuart hurries over to the window.

"Now is not a good time, I'll explain later." He abruptly slams the window in your face.

You slam your fist against the window but the blinds go down, locking you out. You knew Stuart has had some, interesting ideas before. He's shown you but you never believed they could actually do anything. Just a work of science fiction.

Climbing back into your apartment you check on your baked goods. Taking a few sheets of cookies out of the oven you decide to grab a few and put them on a plate. Stuart could never resist your homemade chocolate chip cookies.

"Stuart! Let me in! I have cookies." You hear shuffling behind the door before it swings open.

"Not fair." He opens the door to let you in and you smile happily.

"So, who is he?" Stuart explains as much as he can. That he traveled back in time to 1876 and accidently brought back his great great great grandfather Leopold and now he has to get him back or else he'll disappear.

"You're kidding right? This is some elaborate prank?" Stuart shakes his head as he takes a bit of a cookie.

"I swear on my life." Your eyes drift to Leopold who was currently looking through some magazine.

A look of utter bewilderment on his face. He throws the magazine down and lets his head fall into his hands. To him this must be a nightmare. Not that you fully believed Stuart but you were willing to entertain the idea. You take the plate of cookies and place them in front of him.

"You want one?" He lifts his head to see you standing there. You actually start to feel bad. He looked stressed, upset, and genuinely lost.

"What is this?" He reaches out and turns it around in his hands.

"Have you never seen a chocolate chip cookie?" You ask with a laugh, though it quickly dies down as you realize he hasn't.

"Try it, it's good." He hesitates but takes a bite.

"This is marvelous. Did you make these?" He stands up abruptly, startling you just a bit.

"Yeah, have you really never had this before?' You ask in disbelief. Leopold finishes the cookie quickly, savoring every bite as the flavor takes over his taste buds.

"Never, I've had shortbread before but never something this rich and delicious." He compliments. You're slightly taken back, yes people like your baked goods but they aren't usually this forward about it. Or this charming

"Oh it's nothing, I make these all the time."

"Nonsense, the work of a baker is like art. Crafting such succulent breads and goods with your own hands is no easy task." The way he speaks is enchanting, maybe it's the accent but you've never met a man so well spoken before. Maybe he really was from the past.

"I can show you how I make them, if you want." You offer.

"It would be my honor."

“Hey wait a second,” Stuart interrupts.

“You said the next chance to get him home is Monday right? Well thats a week away so we have time. Bye Stuart!” You grab Leopold’s wrist and take him back to your apartment. He’s met with the smell of fresh bread as he steps foot into your place. It’s comforting, reminds him of his childhood.

“I have a couple orders that are getting picked up today, so can you help me roll out some dough?” You don’t hesitate to put him to work as you prepare the pie filling for your order. Leopold takes off his coat and rolls up his sleeves. You hand him five separate balls of dough for the five pies.

“You mentioned orders, do you run a bakery?” He questions as he watches you weigh ingredients.

“Not quite, I wouldn’t really call this a bakery. More of a small business.”

“A businesswoman?” You raise an eyebrow and stop mixing.

“What? Hard to believe?” You tease.

“Not at all. I find it very fitting.” You hum in response, finishing up the filling for the order. You turn on some music to fill the air and time goes by quickly. Leopold is a great help, the pies getting into the oven ahead of schedule.

"Now we wait." You say with a sigh as you stretch your arms above your head.

Appa jumps onto the counter and rubs his head against your side. He stares at Leopold for a moment before cautiously sniffing his hand. Leopold reaches and pets Appa's head, scratching his chin and smiling when Appa starts to purr happily.

"So, tell me Leopold, how did you get here from the past?" He sighs and leans against the counter.

"I haven't the faintest idea. One moment I'm about to announce my engagement and the next I'm falling off a bridge and waking up here." He looks around, staring out the window to look at what is supposedly New York.

"Engagement?" You say shocked, I mean he's a good looking guy so it's not too shocking but that's quite the information to dump. His face shifts to a look of annoyance.

"My uncle had decided that it was time to get married. We were running out of money and marrying a wealthy American was..."

"A means to an end?" You finish for him.

He nods, he smiles but there's sadness in his eyes. You couldn't imagine what it must be like for him. Having to marry for money instead of real love. Without think you start to play with your necklace.

"That's a beautiful necklace. May I?" He reaches out but waits for your okay. You nod silently and he gently holds the stone in his hands.

"It was my grandmothers, real diamond so she claimed." You joke, real diamond or not it belonged to her and you loved it.

"My mother had a ring like this. A beautiful ruby at the center." He gently places it back down against your skin. You suddenly become incredibly aware of how close he is. Your timer rings out through the apartment making you take a step back. You clear your throat and move to check on your pies.

"Tell me more, about your life before you came here." You ask, wanting to know everything about this man. He's like a magnet that you can't help but move towards.

"It's a long story." He says gently. You glance at the clock and shrug your shoulders.

"We've got time."

The week passes by too fast. Way too fast. Leopold was over almost every day. Helping you with your orders and telling you wonderful stories.

He was a natural in the kitchen with you. For that he gave credit to his mother. His mother wasn't born royal, working in an orchard for her family. She was a wonderful cook according to Leopold. His father was the one with royal blood, like Leopold he was meant to marry for power, for status but he didn't. He fell in love with Leopold's mother, love at first sight. Soulmates that were destined to be together. Their love story is what made love so hard for Leopold. Love is a leap, that's what he said. Yet there has been no one worth jumping for.

You understood, there hasn't been anyone like that for you either. Well, not until Leopold showed up. You used to scoff at the idea of love. It feels impossible to find love these days, no matter what you tried there never was this spark. So you stopped caring for now, focusing on your business instead.

Then Leopold fell into your life and ruined it all. You want to tell him, to kiss him, to save him from a loveless marriage but the deadline looms over you like a cloud and the fact that he's told you he's never been in love suppress any real chance of you saying something. So you decide to enjoy your time with him now, hoping its enough to last you a life time.

Sunday night comes too quickly. He has to leave tomorrow. Leopold stares out at the city he's gotten to know. The lights are on in your apartment but he can't bring himself to go over. He has to say goodbye but he doesn't know how. He hears the window open behind him.

"She's home. I can hear her through the walls." Stuart nudges Leopold's shoulder. He glances over but stays put.

"I...If go now, I don't think I would leave. I love her." He looks down at his hands.

"She loves you too. I know it. I've never seen her light up around someone like she does with you." Stuart rests a hand on his shoulder in an attempt at comfort him.

"I'm sorry, I wish things were different." The light in your apartment goes out and he feels his heart clench.

It's too late. He sighs and heads back inside, laying on Stuarts couch as he stares at the celling. At least he's gotten the chance to know what love is.

Even if it's a fleeting moment, he knows.

You knock on the door, a plate of fresh cookies in your hand. You want Leopold to have them one last time. You wait and wait but no one comes.

A pit forms in your stomach as you leave the cookies at the doorstep. You hurry through your apartment to the window. Your heart stops as you see a letter with your name on it sitting on your window sill.

Hello my love,

I apologize for not seeing you in person before I have to leave. The truth is I am a coward. I knew that if I had said goodbye, if I had seen your face that I would not have had the strength to leave. Though I return to my time, I must tell you that my heart is yours. It will always be yours. I love you.

Yours truly,

Leopold.

You wipe the tears that are forming in your eyes with the back of your hand. He can't be gone. He can't just leave like that. You love him. You love him so much. You fold the letter and tuck it in your back pocket.

"Appa!" You grab your cat and run out the door.

This is stupid, this is so stupid. You race down the street towards the Brooklyn bridge as fast as your legs could carry you. Appa clings to your shoulder as you weave through the people.

"Stuart!" You shout as you spot him across the street. He looks at you confused as you run through traffic, dodging cars to get to him.

"Is he gone? Is it too late?" You ask desperately.

"I...what?" Stuart asks in disbelief.

"Is it too late to go back?" Are you really going to do this? Go back in time to be with him? This is crazy, absolutely crazy. But Leopold told you that love was a leap and for once you want to jump.

"Are you sure about this?" Stuart asks as you both race towards the bridge.

"Yes, for once in my life I am sure." You stop on the edge of the bridge.

"I just have to jump right?" You hold Appa tightly as you peer over the side.

"Don't look down, it's going to be okay." You take one last look back.

"Thank you Stuart, Thank you." You give him a hug before take a deep breath and jumping off the side.

You feel the wind rushing past your face, you're falling and falling. Until you're not. Everything seems to stop. As you open your eyes you see cobblestone streets and people dressed in old clothing.

"We made it!" You look around for any sign of where to find Leopold.

Racing down the streets towards his home, he told you about it once. Pointed it out, he was shocked it was still there. You sneak your way past some people dressed in fancy clothes. Head's turning your direction as you stick out amongst the crowd. Your breath stops as you see him steps above the crowd.

"Sorry, excuse me." You push past a crowd of people to get his attention.

"Leopold!" His eyes dart around the room, searching for your voice. Perhaps it's a trick of the mind.

"Leo!" You push to the front, not caring that everyone is staring at you.

You're here, you found him. A look of pure shock on his face as he steps down. For a moment he doesn't think you're real. How could you be? You set Appa down and walk towards him.

"How could you leave me without saying goodbye?" You take the letter and shove it against his chest. He stands there, still stunned by your presence.

"I love you Leopold, I love you." He leans in and kisses you passionately.

One hand cupping your head and the other resting at your waist as he pulls you as close as he can get you. Your arms wrap around his neck, his nose brushes against your cheek.

"I love you." He says breathlessly. Without hesitating he gets down on one knee, taking his mothers ring from his pocket.

"Will you marry me?" You don't wait a second before saying yes. He slips the ring on and pulls you into another kiss. Nothing else mattered as you held Leopold in your arms.

You were home.

"Tell it again!" Your oldest daughter pleads. She puts on her best puppy dog eyes. You laugh and brush the hair out of her face.

"Yes please!" The younger one joins in the begging.

"You've already heard it a million times." You say but they don't care.

"But it's such a good story. You're like a princess!"

"Actually, she's a duchess." Leopold says as he walks through the door. Your girls jump from your lap straight into Leopold's arms.

"How are my darling girls today?" They start to babble on about their day and you watch happily. Appa sits on the window sill, lazily sleeping in the sun.

"Alright go wash up for dinner." He gently sets them down and watches as they go running. You stand up and kiss him gently.

"How was the bakery today?" You ask as Leopold wraps you in a warm hug. He smells like bread.

"Busy as usual." When you got married it's safe to say his uncle was not amused.

So the two of you left and much to Leopold's dismay you sold your necklace. He tried to get you to keep it but you were set on it. With the money you opened up a small bakery. You tried not to mess too much with the past but somethings slipped through as your bakery became the biggest hit in New York. Now you live a nice life. Two kids and a loving husband. What more could you ask for?

"The girls say we're soulmates," You hum happily. Leopold kisses you again, and again, and once more for good measure.

"We are my love,"

"Through space and time." You add.

Looking back maybe it was crazy that you left everything behind so quickly. To leave everything you knew to be with him. But you loved him. It felt like there was this string pulling the two of you closer and closer, through all of time. You built a life with him. There's no regrets, no worries. Just Leopold.

He was yours and nothing else mattered.

#hugh jackman x reader #leopold mountbatten x reader #kate and leopold #leopold mountbatten

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upon-a-starry-night · 3 months ago

Text

While We Dream Pt.1

Kylo Ren x Fem! Reader

Star Wars Masterlist Series Masterlist

Word Count: 1.4k

Summary: As Kylo sleeps he finds himself mysteriously transported to your modern world, while you sleep you find yourself following alongside Kylo as he goes about his duties as “supreme leader?” who even was this guy? And why does he keep talking about ‘The Force?'

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You know how in life there are those days that make you want to squeeze lemon juice directly into a fresh cut just to feel something? Well, you were having one of those days.

You’d just been laid off from your job and to make matters worse you locked your keys in your car while you were packing away your desk essentials. It would take the mechanic two hours to arrive so you could either sit there looking pathetic in the parking lot of the job you just got fired from or you could take a walk.

Yeah, you weren’t going to humiliate yourself with that first option, especially not after all your coworkers avoided eye contact with you as you packed up your belongings.

Running your hands through your hair, you sighed in frustration, looking up at the cloudy gray abyss above you. Well at least the weather matched your mood, you just hoped it would hold off on raining until after you were back home. Maybe then you could cuddle up with your cat and a good book and forget today ever happened.

Walking in the opposite direction as your old office building, you turn around to glare at it in all its boring corporate glory.

“Good riddance” you mutter under your breath as you shove your hands in your pockets and let the sidewalk lead you to something that would hopefully brighten your day.

You’d never really gotten to explore the area around your work aside from the coffee and bagel shop you’d frequent for breakfast and the deli two buildings down where you’d get lunch. You’d miss the sandwiches at that deli but there was no way you would go back there and risk running into your coworkers. It was only noon and today was already one of the worst of your adult life experiences.

It wasn’t like you particularly liked that job, you yearned for a creativity that would never be found behind a wooden desk in a cubicle. Still, you’d made a few accomplices and had started growing used to your routine.

You didn't know if it was bad luck or the universe telling you to finally do something more adventurous with your life but either way, you’d need to find a new job soon.

So lost in thought, you don’t even realize where you are until you stumble over a stray tree root. Only then do you notice the gorgeous park you’re in. It’s roughly the size of a large backyard but it’s filled with so many plants and tall trees that you could nearly forget you were in the middle of a city if the honking of traffic didn’t give it away.

Flowers of every color blossom all along the brick pathway and all sorts of pollinators flitter around the garden. It’s a wonder they can find their way to this place through all the buildings and construction around but if you lived here you’d probably never leave it anyway.

It would feel like a segment pulled straight out of a forest if it weren’t for the fountain in the middle of it all. It’s a beautiful circle made out of white marble with a woman in the center holding some sort of pot where the water is flowing from.

It’s nothing but a simple statue but something about the woman's eyes is warm and motherly, whoever carved them must have spent a lot of time on them to get them to feel so inviting. They don’t look directly at you, however, they focus just to the right of where you're standing and you follow the line of sight till you notice something in the bushes.

Curious as to what could be so important that they’d face the statue towards it, you move to investigate the mysterious object and are pointedly surprised to find a coin machine buried amongst the leaves and vines. It reads:

“Wish coins. Hold the coin in your hands and make a wish then toss it into the fountain. The Universe is kind to those with pure intentions. Only one per person!”

From the looks of it, no one’s used it in a long time and it makes you sad that humanity has seemingly given up on simple things like making a wish in a fountain. You remember doing it once or twice as a kid, although your wishes never came true- it was probably for the best that you didn’t receive 15 puppies and all the toys in the world at age 8.

It only costs a penny to get a coin from the machine so after a few minutes of digging through all your pants pockets you manage to scrounge up one dirty penny made in 2003 from your back pocket. You insert it and twist until your ‘wish coin’ comes out with a clank.

It’s bigger than a dollar coin and looks like something you’d get at an arcade or gaming festival. It’s got a star on both sides instead of anything remotely similar to real currency but it holds the weight of real metal and looks entirely made of copper. Even if you don’t throw it in it’s a pretty cute trinket to have found.

Checking your watch, you see that you still have an hour until the mechanics can get to your car so you walk over and take a seat on the fountain, admiring the greenery, you think about how you probably never would have found this place if all of the bad stuff didn’t happen. Although you didn't know if this surpassed the loss of your job you were grateful to have found such a beautiful place to rest and wait.

Taking a deep breath in, you flip the coin in your palm over a few times, staring at it in consideration. It couldn’t hurt to try…could it?

Truth be told, you don't know why you’re putting so much thought into it but maybe there was a small part of you that still believed in silly things like this. The little girl in you that held out hope that things like magic actually exist somewhere in this world.

Standing up, you turn and face the fountain as you clutch onto the coin with both hands and think of the perfect wish. What is it that you really wanted anyway?

A job? No, that was something you needed, and it didn't feel like something worth wasting a wish on.

A partner? Now that would be nice, someone to come home to and cheer you up on days like these, but even that didn’t feel right and you didn’t want to end up in one of those shitty genie situations where they take your words literally and end up screwing you over.

What was it that you truly wanted? Adventure? Excitement? Something to look forward to in a world that makes you constantly look back? That felt like the right direction but you had no idea how to phrase it so you just poured everything you were feeling into the coin and then flicked it into the clear blue water.

As it sank to the bottom you held your breath as you waited for something to happen. You don’t know what you were expecting, it’s not like everything you wished for would just magically appear out of nowhere…

You waited a few minutes, shifting anxiously on your feet as you stared at the coin at the bottom of the fountain. There were no other coins in the water and you wondered if someone came to clean it often, even the water was flawlessly clear despite the area being so secluded. You wondered if your coin would soon be cleaned out and debated fishing it out of the water.

It was pretty cute but maybe you could just grab a second one from the machine? You fisted your pockets for another penny but came up empty so you resorted to searching the surrounding dirt for any lost change. Much to your luck there was a single penny underneath one of the within-reach bushes and you quickly inserted it into the slot and tried to twist.

The machine didn’t budge. Was it broken? You tried twisting again, taking the penny out and putting it back, and even lightly smacking the machine but nothing worked. The “only one per person" sticker staring at you tauntingly. Perhaps that was your sign to stop trying.

Sighing, you glance at the time and decide you should probably start to head back if you want to make it to your car before the mechanic people do. Before you go though, you take one last look into the statue's warm eyes, letting the tiniest ounce of hope spark through you.

“I don’t really know what I wished for but… I hope it comes true.” You turn to walk away but then hesitate, taking in the scenery one last time “And I hope it makes me happy.”

Pt.2

A/n: Hope you enjoyed Chapter one of my new series! It only gets crazier from here!! ~Starry

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thedarkmistress16 · 3 months ago

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A/N: Watched Deadpool 3 and Iron Man 1 (the latter for the first time, can you believe) with my boyfriend in the same day last week and my mind was fighting between finishing a Hugh Jackman wip or a Tony Stark one. My creative juices followed popular demand in a new wip until it didn't, lol.

So, here's a yan!series I started writing a long time ago that I feel I can finish if I put my mind to it. It just may take a while to do.

I would include all the tags I've listed like on my past works, but I'd rather y'all be surprised when the time comes for this one. 😏 I will tag them per chapter. In this case, chapter one has no warnings. Just expository/setting up/housekeeping. This time, Fem!reader is female and has female parts, but still feel free to switch it out if desired. Gif isn't mine.

——————————————————————————————————

Stalker!Yandere!Tony Stark x Fem!Reader- To Steal and Dote On

Chapter 2 |

Chapter 1: Two Worlds Collide

——————————————————————————————————

“(Name)!” You’re abruptly snapped out of your stupor as your friend comes barreling through the bustling cafe toward your comfy spot by the window. “I got invitations!” Your friend waves her phone around in the air, bumping into other disgruntled patrons along the way.

You sigh softly, closing your laptop. You had a feeling you wouldn’t be getting anything else done for the rest of your shared lunch break. This must’ve been what she had to “take care of” before meeting you in your usual spot today. She plops herself down right across from you with a beaming smile and seems to almost vibrate in place as her eyes excitedly pour into yours. “Invites for what?”

(Friend name) thrusts the device in your face and after blinking a few times, you find it’s opened to an email. “You’re looking at the next attendee to the hottest spot in New York City!” She announces as you skim it over, and while it reads like any generic acceptance letter, it seems legitimate.

Your friend usually works more in the spotlight than you even though you’re employed at the same company, networking whenever she could as you spent those hours pushing pencils. So it made sense that (Friend name) gathered some connections and got some strings pulled to get into an event like this. And judging by her barely-contained giddiness, a very anticipated one.

You don’t understand her excitement, but are happy for her nonetheless. You raise your head to look at her past the device. “Congratulations, (Friend name).”

Her eyebrows level and she just stares for a moment, like she’s analyzing you. “Girl, did you even read it?”

“Um,” Confusion fills your voice and then she’s glaring at you in irritation. It’s so unexpected that it makes your eyes dart around the table to avoid the stare.

“It says ‘all invited attendees are allowed an additional guest.’” She states matter-of-factly, reminiscent of a teacher explaining something one-too many times.

“Okay?”

“And,” she pauses for dramatic effect, “you’re my plus one!” Your friend's expression lightens again and your eyes widen in shock.

“Really?”

“Yes, silly!” She laughs as she pulls her device back from your face. “It’s over the weekend and I know you don’t have plans, so don’t even try to flake out on this.”

“But I-” you start, but (Friend name) pipes up again.

“Oh, and don’t worry if you don’t have anything to wear. You can always borrow something of mine.”

Despite your hesitance, you didn’t really have any reason to say no, and you didn’t want to leave your friend hanging when she asked you of all people to go with her.

You can feel her bubbliness make its way into the smile steadily growing on your lips.

“When are we leaving?”

——————————————————————————————————

It took you a while to find something suitable, but between the hangers cluttered in the section of your closet that you barely ever touched, you did discover a classy little black number that felt appropriate.

You wanted to fit in enough where you wouldn’t stand out like a sore thumb, while blending to avoid being the center of attention at the same time. It was more (Friend name)’s event than yours to try hard or impress anyone at, anyway.

That, and- well, you didn’t have anything else that was on the fancier side.

By combining different accessories, however, you were able to make the ensemble stand out a lot better than before. It still looked subtle and classy, too. Inspecting yourself over through the tall mirror fills you with a wave of confidence, and you mentally pat yourself on the back for your gifted ability to improvise what you had.

Your phone blared with a notification as you slipped the dress on, and you turned to pick it up from your bedside table.

‘(Friend name): Coming over in 10, (Nickname). Don’t be late!’

You smile to no one, tapping away at your reply before setting the device down and touching up the last of your look.

When you headed out of your apartment and climbed into the cab your friend was waving you from, she had given you a once-over.

“You look gorgeous, (Name).” A pleased laugh escaped you, and you complimented her in kind.

“And you look ready to devour the night, (Friend name).” She poses for you, winking with exaggeration, before falling into a fit of giggles alongside you.

After calming down, she relays the address to the driver and the vehicle lurches to life. You distract each other with some small talk, and by the time you get there, it feels as though not much time has passed.

(Friend name) steps out first, and you’re left to fumble with your purse to pay the fare before getting out yourself. You’re immediately greeted by hoards of flashing lights that discombobulate your vision. You swear you’re about to stumble before you feel an arm looping around yours.

“Sorry, I should’ve warned you,” your friend whispers as she guides you down the red carpet arm-in-arm.

You mildly shake your head, not wanting your unfamiliarity in this setting to put a damper on her night.

“Ah, I’m fine; just been a while since I wore heels this high.”

(Friend name) looks at you and smiles, but doesn’t say anything more as you both head toward the entrance of the high rise. She flashes her phone at the man clad in black who stands by the glass door like a sentry guard. He grunts, signaling a confirmation with his hand, and you both step inside.

Right away, the crowd is overwhelmingly large. The space is just as expansive, and your eyes can’t help but trail up toward the ginormous chandelier hanging from the ceiling. It’s so expansive and gaudy that you can’t help but think it has no business being here besides spectacle.

“Will you be okay?” She asks, concern bleeding through her eyes. You wave her off again.

“Oh- yeah. Go on and mingle. Just let me know when you want to leave. I'll be close by.” You give her a reassuring thumbs-up.

“Okay,” (Friend name) breathes, easiness and positivity morphing her mood quickly as she surveys the room. “I'll be rubbing elbows if you need me,” she winks, letting go of your arm to happily bound off in one direction, and your heart feels a bit heavy at the loss.

A part of you regrets even saying that, wanting her to selfishly be by your side in such a foreign place you would never step willingly into on your own accord. Another side of you spins the overwhelming assault on your senses as a good thing, telling you to suck it up and enjoy yourself for once. Ultimately, you decide to head over to the bar first, get something to loosen you up, and meet up with your plus one later. How you'll spend the time in between though, you're unsure.

——————————————————————————————————

A surveying sweep of the event room from your perch on the uncomfortable plastic of the bar stool turns fruitless almost immediately. The more you stare out into the sea of people, the less you see somehow.

It feels somewhat like a classy, high-end nightclub with art studio lights bearing down like a terrarium heat lamp; the kind of party that requires knowing someone just to get your foot in the door. Walking up to a stranger to strike up a conversation is possible, you muse to yourself, if you want to commit social suicide. Knowing nothing about the purpose of the party or who anyone is will sink any incoming credibility you could have going in. And although a part of you wanted to come out here for a new experience, you realize you aren't ready for what that entails just yet.

So, you planted your elbow down on the wooden grain-textured surface of the bar, resting your phone in front of you and scouring through apps to pass the time. You don’t know how many drinks you had; you do know that the more you sat there, the more tired you got.

Clusters of guests came and went, rattling off drink orders and chatting with their entourage. Some spoke many pleasantries while others sounded more serious. It was interesting to catch snippets of their lives, but none of it was interesting enough to pull you away from your distraction and jump into their conversation.

A few people shuffled around your spot at the bar, moving off to the side and away from you, as if making space. Then, you feel a presence beside you, accompanied by the shuffling sound of paper rifling through someone's hands. A whiff of cologne stings your nostrils, something reeking strongly of ethanol and new car smell, oddly enough.

“Hey, you. Gimme a martini, yeah? Dirty it up for me.” Your peripherals caught a black sleeve hovering over the bar on your left side, quite close to your person. “Actually,” the male voice chimed up once more, fingers snapping shortly afterward, “throw in a scotch, too. Rocks a-plenty.” The way he was talking to the bartender was starting to put you off, further worsening your mood and whatever intrigue he had.

Then your brain got to thinking about (Friend Name). Where did she walk off to? Was she enjoying herself? When will she be ready to leave? Tapping your phone, you pulled your bottom lip between your teeth, lightly biting it as your eyebrows furrowed. You start to wonder whether you should call a cab in advance.

“All by yourself, sweetheart?” The voice is too close to not be directed at you, you think, and you finally turn your head to look at the male.

He’s dressed in a crisp black and white tux, devoid of any wrinkles. A ring shines from the finger on his right hand as he moves his drink up, which draws your assessment to his face. You catch the hint of his dark stubble behind the glass as he sips, and the bright lights overhead tell you it’s a of deep brown color like his seemingly fluffed and gelled hair. Your gaze drops to his eyes, finding the same shade in them as his other features, but feel as though some kind of mirth is playing behind them. It seems he’s waiting for you to say something.

“Uh, who are you?”

“I’m Tony Stark.”

…Okay? Who the fuck was that?

Your brows scrunch together in confusion.

“You know, a genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist.”

No, you didn’t know.

“Oh, and part-time superhero. I’m sure you heard my name pop up in the news.” He waves his free hand in the air dismissively. “It’s made of different stuff, but iron is more digestible to say than Gold-Titanium Man.”

You wonder if you’re conversing with a crazy person or if you're really the crazy one.

And you really want to believe you’re in some sort of lucid dream right now, because there is no way this guy is actually for real. But he’s looking at you with such confidence, steadily maintaining eye contact. It’s as if he expects you to agree with him or go along with it even if you don’t know what he’s talking about. If the latter is true, then this man is offering that bridge between your world and this foreign one.

It's too bad that you're well out of whatever party mood you were in when you arrived. If you were more hopeful for such discussions going well, perhaps you would play along with his jest and cadence. But not tonight. The more you sat there, the stronger of an urge you had to retreat back to your apartment and relax.

Casting him a side-eye served with a raised brow, you wearily speak up. “I’ve never heard of you before in my entire life.” He, this... self-proclaimed Tony-GoldMan, opened his mouth to say something.

“Excuse me.”

Both of your attention turns to a woman who strides up with confidence in her sparkling heels and shimmery dress. She addresses you with a brief flick of her eyes before settling on Tony, silently telling you she only acknowledged you out of courtesy, and had only approached for him. You turn away unbothered, knowing your time in the conversation is up, and it will be a matter of time before they shimmy away from you, too.

“Are you Tony Stark?” Her inflection is high, almost pitchy-sounding, and asks it in a way that hints she does, in fact, know him.

“Well, that’s what my birth certificate says. So, probably.”

She laughs, and you weren't sure if it was the volume of her voice or the strain on your ears from the crowds up to that point, but it gave you a splitting headache.

Your phone pinged with a text suddenly, and while it startled you like a jumpscare would, you felt your mood brighten a bit as you open the message.

‘(Friend name): Got caught up with some cutie, lol. Don’t wait up! Be safe, okay?’

Good for her. And oh, fuck yes! Now you didn’t have to wait for your friend so you could leave together. You were so outta here.

You peeked a subtle glance towards Tony and the woman as you handed the bartender your payment, purely out of curiosity. Seeing them standing very close to each other, lost in their own world, you left the bar without parting ways and beelined for where you remembered the entrance to be.

“What’s the rush, gorgeous?”

While it was projected from somewhere behind you, you couldn't pinpoint if it was Tony's voice calling out to you or that your ears caught someone else’s exchange of words. Either way, you couldn’t care less who it was. It probably wasn’t even directed at you anyway.

——————————————————————————————————

You trekked your way into your silent apartment building and rifled through your purse until your fingers brushed over the familiar, jagged shape of your keys. Fiddling with the lock until it gave way, you pried open your unit’s door and stepped inside. The echoing slam the door made when you flung it backward made your hearing cringe, but you didn’t find it in yourself to care.

You slipped off your heels with a pained groan and carelessly threw them to the side as you walked further into your apartment. The living area was barely lit enough from the flimsy curtains that were drawn over the windows, and you had to squint your eyes to make out darkened outlines of your worn furnishings, but you still managed to not trip over anything. Your sluggish and bare feet made their way to your bed where you unceremoniously flopped down onto the covers and immediately passed out.

——————————————————————————————————

Tony regretted rousing the next morning, feeling the waves of his hangover relentlessly pounding into his brain. He groaned, pinching his eyes tighter despite not even opening them yet. Raising a palm to massage the ache behind his forehead only made it worse, and the brunette rolled over to smush his face into his pillow with more displeased noises.

The billionaire was intrigued enough to inspect the features of the woman he took to bed, but lost interest fairly quickly when he saw who she was.

It wasn’t who he was hoping to spend time with last night.

A part of him stopped to wonder why he became picky in his conquests all of a sudden, but shook it off as he begrudgingly got ready for the day.

——————————————————————————————————

#moi writing #yandere tony stark #yandere tony stark x reader #tony stark x reader #hugh's pecs are peak but origin tony in proper context won over my brainrot lol #fun fact: wrote this with million dollar baby in the bg

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scarlettsandmaroons · 2 years ago

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midnight rain | n. romanoff

about me | series masterlist | natasha romanoff masterlist

pairing: professor!natasha romanoff x collegestudent!reader

chapter eleven | chapter twelve: it came like a postcard

chapter summary: sometimes, weather forecasts can be wrong; yours said it would be sunny yet a storm came. the same way the bestest days can take a turn for the worst. you'd never choose rain. you did it once and now you're lost. but when you are, the sun always comes. and it envelops you in its warmth. it finds you, it makes you follow it, and you're secure. you'd must always choose the sun.

warnings: angst; non-aggressive fighting, guilt.

a/n: i know it took so long, but im too busy!!! i barely have time for anything so please understand! this took so little time actually, i wrote this in class for 30 minutes, and while i do hate the way i wrote it (for some reason i could never write proper angst?) my creative juices won't allow me for more. so please bear with me. ALSO, LITERALLY ONE CHAPTER AWAY FROM THE ENDING, YAY US.

a few months ago, you attended a sophomore party around the first few days of your sophomore year. it was at the university, in the event hall which happened past midnight where none of the teachers would have known the drinking, the dancing, and the sex on each corner of the space.

of course, natasha knew about it. she always knew everything. more so if it's something about you. you weren't supposed to go. but you and natasha had a small argument the day before the party—something about the way she so boldly touches you even when people were around. so to get your mind of it, you went; to get back at her, you didn't tell her and planned on going home drunk; and to taunt her, you wore the most absurdly revealing outfit in your dresser.

you were expecting to go home to her waiting for you in a robe and red wine, as she usually does when you come home past midnight. but she didn't. a few shots, and some minutes of dirty dancing later, you were pulled off the dance floor but her harsh grip, and everyone stunned at the professor's actions.

she pulled you in her office, trapped you between her and the desk, and when you thought she'd lecture you, she didn't. she dropped her forehead on your shoulder, and she bathed you in her warmth.

she told you she loved you. that she loved you so much. that she loved you dearly, sincerely, desperately. and the next day, you woke up with flowers and a bottle of her perfume on your bed. you need not a note to know what she was implying—you can try to grind on every person you want, but they'd know.

that's been your routine after every fight.

flowers, and a present.

today was undeniably one of the best days ever. granted, you and natasha had a little argument the night before, but that's what led you to the flower shop for the first time. you spent an hour smelling every plant; feeling the difference between the patterns of every petal; basking in the colors of the life the surrounds you.

and then you rode a bike to the mall. it wasn't your bike, it was wanda's old one from when she and vision had just moved to westview. but you found it in the shed. and with the flowers you bought in its little brown basket, you went toe to toe with the massive cars driving right next to you. and somehow, you felt like you were saving the world.

wanda, that morning, cooked you breakfast. and then she gave you ice cream in a bowl as dessert which doesn't happen at all. wanda can be a nag about health, and you often find the domesticity of having a mother nag you for eating junk very endearing, but it never hurts to have ice cream. and did you jump out in joy when she handed you a bowl.

billy wasn't home. wanda sent him to an errand outside westview. but he left you a sweet note and a sandwich on your bedside table before he left, and before you woke up. he should be home long past 12pm though, which would give you the very opportunity to make it right with your girlfriend before he comes back.

she wasn't here.

she's never here when she gets into a fight with you. she cools off her head, gives you your space, then she comes back to talk.

you assume that's how she'd always been, even with wanda given that she did use to live away from her family that you assume is because of a blowout. you never asked. and you knew she didn't want you to.

you bought her flowers and a scented candle that smelled like your favorite perfume. something that she can put in the office that's been home to too much of your sins, and overflowing with so much of your love.

the sun was out, and for the first time, it didn't seem to burn. it was just... warm. no chance of rain, said the weather forecast.

but of course, sometimes, they're wrong.

"do you know i cheated on natasha with vision?"

and it rained.

"sorry, what?"

the moment you closed the door behind you, and right after wanda called for you in the kitchen, it poured. harsh, angry rain.

"it was over a year ago," wanda clarifies. "natasha was getting too busy with work, and vision happens to drop by."

"wanda, i don't—"

"and i slept with him."

you stiffed. your chest tightened, and the grip you had on the bouquet you couldn't be bothered to hide behind you became strained.

you weren't sure why wanda was telling you. neither did you want her to. but suddenly you feel for natasha. like that very thing wanda did was enough to justify and save natasha from every argument, every fight, every bad thing between you two.

"wanda, i really don't know why you're telling me this," you whisper, voice shaking, resisting. "i think it's none of my business."

you didn't know what to do, what to feel. wanda cheated on natasha. and natasha is cheating right back. should it be called even? you couldn't say. the anger of knowing what natasha had to go through, vs wanda... your mother. sweet sweet wanda. you justified wanda in your heart.

she was standing behind the kitchen island, looking at the yard over the floor to ceiling windows. and then she turns to you, pauses when she sees the flowers and paper bag in your hands.

she smiles, tiredly. "is that for her?"

you didn't have to be asked twice. your mind didn't scramble for an excuse either. surprisingly, no "for who?" or "it's for billy". just silence.

she looks at you.

she knew.

her eyes stayed the exact same green shade as they were earlier. or yesterday. or the many days before that. there was nothing different. she looked the same. but she knew.

you'd already betrayed her, you couldn't lie to her. and your mind didn't allow you to even dig through your raging thoughts for an apology.

and she beats you to it. "i'm sorry," she tells you; her voice raspy, coated in what pain you could feel her hide.

all thoughts left your body. and you weren't sure why it was only now that guilt surged through your every vein, every muscle.

you might have not chosen natasha, but a part of you knew that she would choose you. that she would always choose you. and somehow, that was able to keep you in your bubble. to spare you the guilt. to keep you safe. knowing that while you would choose wanda, that you would do what's right; she wouldn't. she would choose you. even if it's wrong. and that makes the weight of your sin much much lighter.

"wanda i—" she gave you the chance. she stayed silent. she waited, she hoped, she looked at you with eager eyes. but you couldn't say anything. you didn't say anything.

she walked closer to you. you could tell her knees were weak, barely carrying the weight of her body. then she smiled, a sad comforting smile. like when she told you what she'd done to your mother. like when she offered you a way out.

you yelled in your mind. screamed. the voice begged to be ousted;

don't touch me.

don't touch me, wanda.

please, it's my fault.

don't smile at me.

slap me. curse me. swear at me.

throw me away.

force me to go.

don't...

please don't be nice.

please don't smile.

please...

don't make it harder for me...

you stayed silent.

something about the way her eyes sparkled with threatening tears made you feel a sense of home and longing. like the feeling you get when you know you'd have to travel the next day so you clean your home, and enjoy the few hours you have in your room. and you feel at peace. the dread, the excitement, and the longing. you feel everything all at once.

"i'm sorry," she tells you again. raising her visibly shaking hand to caress your cheek. you didn't know what to do. you froze. "i was supposed to protect you, i was supposed to be your mother," her voice decreased to a whisper. but you still heard the way it cracked. the way it got stuck in her throat. "it's all my fault."

and your heart broke. your heart broke for her. your heart broke for the crying eyes staring into you—the same ones the would shine when seeing her wife, or would sparkle when billy gives her a hug. your heart broke for the hurting mother. for your hurting mother. for the mother you hurt.

"wanda, it's not...," you whisper.

she stuttered for words. avoiding your eyes, struggling to keep her composure, "i really love her," she cries. "and i needed her. and she wasn't here. and i was desperate."

she was defending herself for a crime she didn't commit. you're supposed to be the one justifying. you're supposed to be the one crying—looking at her with grieving eyes.

but how could you? what could you say?

i didn't love her, wanda. but i would long for her touch, crave for her lips, burn for her warmth the same way i long for air, and crave for love, and burn for every bit of earth that falls on my skin.

i didn't love her, wanda. but when i go to heaven, and god tells me that this very sin is what would send me to hell, i'll tell him how ironic it was to have the only heaven i'd ever known be what would send me to burn down in hell.

i didn't love her, wanda.

but i did.

oh how i did.

"i'm sorry....," you finally say. you finally gathered the courage, the words, the thoughts to apologize. may it be the wrong ones, for the wrong person, but you were sorry for tolerating natasha. you were sorry for the indulgence. you were sorry for granting yourself the heaven when you were only meant to stay on earth.

you were sorry for natasha. for everything that you did. but not for loving her. never for loving her.

"no, darling i...," how could she call me that? "it's my fault. i should've—i should've known. i should've realized. you should have never been in that situation if i—"

"wanda what are you—"

"she wouldn't have used you."

she wouldn't have used you.

but she loved me...

"at least it—it wouldn't have...," she choked. "it wouldn't have gotten this far, i—"

she told me she loved me. she whispered it to me in bed, she wrote it to me in class, she moaned it in my ear. she loved me.

"you were a kid, i—"

she wasn't looking at you. she was avoiding your eyes, guilt surging through her body, and pain glinting her eyes. she was shaken up, she was confused. and you... you were lost.

"i married a beautiful woman. she is kind, she is thoughtful, she is caring," and she loved her deeply. you could hear it from her voice. and see it with the way a smile crept her face through her tears. the thought of her alone is enough to put her in a trance, in her own little bubble.

and then the bubble pops. and she looks back at you, unaware that she'd been looking away. "i...," she searches for words, looking in your soul; holding it, hugging it through the windows of your eyes. "i didn't think she'd be the kind to... take advantage of a child so she could get back at me."

i didnt think she'd be the kind to take advantage of a child so she could get back at me.

i didn't think she'd be the kind to take advantage of a child so she could get back at me.

suddenly the memory of her touch burns your skin. the memory of her kisses slices you. the memory of her, and everyday of the past year, and you, and the both of you—suddenly, everything was hell. and you were on fire.

your ear rings.

she used you.

she loved me.

she was using you for revenge.

she loved me.

she took advantage of you.

she loved me.

she pretended.

she asked me to run away. she loved me.

she's taking it too far.

she told me she loved me.

did she really?

no.

"she loved me," you resisted her touch. you moved away from her. you insisted, you screamed, you cried. "she loved me wanda."

you saw pain through the wrinkles on her face. you saw pain for the family she's losing, and pity for the daughter she'd come to love as her own. she grieved for her family. and mourned for your innocence in your place.

you saw it overtake her—the broken woman whose family's at loss overtake the sweet mother who'd cared for you for over a year. and more as a child. you saw it glint her eyes, the change from pity to anger.

"she loved me...," you cried, dropping to the floor.

you knew she was torn. should it be pity that you loved her wife, or anger that you loved her wife. she was fighting in her head. you can see the way she defended you in her own mind. you were just a kid that her wife took advantage of. but also, you were the stain in the family that she's been trying to fix.

you didn't know which one won, which side of her. the subtle cruelty of the way she dropped an envelope on the floor to your knees, and the love that it was to crouch to your level and look at you.

"you're breaking my family...," she told you. "i can't let you do that anymore."

you wonder which wanda your talking to. while her words were thorned, her voice was coated with the love of a mother.

"this is enough to get your mother out of the hospital, and last you until you graduate."

she had kept a distance between you two, especially when she stood up. she's calmer now as if she'd already decided.

"for what it's worth...," she trailed off. "i wish you never had to hurt billy."

the fight is over. you were the kid who her wife took advantage of, and let it happen. you were the woman who betrayed her son. and she hates you. like a mother who hates her child: forever.

just like that, you were out of the house you'd called your home for the last year, and under the blazing storm. you were lost.

"y/n!"

until your beacon shines again.

"oh my lord, what are you doing outside!"

billy runs over you from his car with an umbrella. he hadn't heard. but he takes you in his arms, and wraps you around his coat. "i left early," he whispers. "what happened?"

you were lost. you always had been. but billy always found you. and you always followed him. you were lost as a child, and followed billy to his home. you were lost after graduation, and followed him to university. you're lost now. and you knew you'd chosen well. because he always found you.

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libraryledge · 27 days ago

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A Quick Escape (A Story Inspired By Marty Supreme)

A/N: New photos and this video from Timothée Chalamet's latest role in the film, Marty Supreme are circulating online. This got my creative juices flowing, and I wrote a story that is very loosely inspired by them. Enjoy!

The Manhattan air was finally crisp and cool. After a week of working non-stop at the local elementary school, I figured that I deserved a moment to rest. The plan was to curl up on the couch in my apartment and read a sweet romance novel. I had a kettle of spiced apple tea brewing on the stove, so I could sip on something warm as I read. Nothing could have disrupted this pleasant mood.

“Bam! Bam!”

I heard a loud noise suddenly invade the serenity of the environment.

Startled, I rushed to the window, and opened it to see what the commotion was. Much to my astonishment, I spotted a young man in his late 20’s climbing down the fire escape. When he spotted me, he gave me a guilty look.

“Sorry!” he exclaimed immediately.

“What are you doing?” I asked him, more bewildered at the unusual scene than upset that he interrupted my plans.

“Uh…would you believe me if I said I’m on my way to work?” he asked sheepishly.

I raised an eyebrow suspiciously and replied, “You take the fire escape down work? There’s at least seven more stories below you! Isn’t that dangerous?”

The man adjusted his position on the rickety ladder he was grasping onto and replied, “Perhaps, but at least it helps me leave my apartment unnoticed.”

He paused awkwardly and said, “Well… most of the time. Unfortunately, my briefcase didn’t live to tell the tale.”

He looked past the ladder of the fire escape, all the way down to the ground. I followed his gaze to the concrete New York sidewalk, where a large black suitcase was sprawled upon a bed of autumn leaves.

“Oh! So, that's what that was!” I replied in amusement. “Do you work in an office?”

The young man didn't look like he worked behind a desk. His brown hair was gelled back, but a few rebellious curls refused to stay slicked back. He wore black sneakers, green cargo pants, a white tank top, and a light blue dress shirt that he left unbuttoned despite the cool air. The fellow didn't have the appearance of a typical office worker, but one couldn't judge a book by its cover.

“Me? No!” the young man said immediately as he shook his head rapidly. “In case it isn't obvious, no one has probably ever been less suited for regular employment than me”

He chuckled and slowly made his way down from the ladder and onto the flat ground in front of my window. His laugh was infectious and I had to smile.

“So what do you do besides ending up on strangers' fire escapes so early in the morning?” I asked generally intrigued to learn more about this quirky human being.

“I’m a ping pong player. You know?” he replied as he used his hands to imitate the gesture of hitting a ball with a paddle.

“Really? That's pretty cool,” I said. I was not an athlete myself, but I admired those who were athletically inclined.

"Normally it is, but today might be kind of tough because something tells me that I’m going to need new paddles,” he admitted with a sigh as he looked down at the suitcase lying on the pavement.

“Oh, shoot! Are they expensive to replace?” I asked empathetically.

Being a teacher meant that I understood how pricey buying supplies was.

“Eh…not too bad. Besides, I have my ways,” he replied mysteriously and left me wondering what he meant, but I knew better than to pry.

Noting the confusion in my eyes, he quickly added, “Nothing illegal of course!”

I laughed and replied, “That’s good to know,”

“Let’s just say I’m a player in more ways than one,” he said slyly.

I furrowed my brows in confusion.

The man’s face, which was already flushed from climbing down the fire escape in the cool fall breeze, turned even rosier as he realized how odd his statement sounded. He ran his hand over his face in embarrassment.

“Gosh! I’m not making this any better!” he exclaimed. “Poker! I meant to say that I make extra money playing poker.”

I chuckled at his awkwardness, as it was slightly endearing.

“Oh, ok! Are you any good at it?” I asked with a smile.

He shrugged modestly and said, “Good enough to finance my budding career in ping pong. Actually, that’s where I’m headed right now. There’s a local club that hosts poker tournaments on the first Saturday of the month. I was hoping to make some extra pocket change."

“Wow! Impressive, but I still don't get it. Why do you have to sneak out through the fire escape to do this?” I asked curiously.

The man chuckled, "My mother has been staying with me for the past few months, and she worries about the risks that I take."

“I can't imagine why," I teased.

He rolled his eyes good-naturedly and said, “You probably think I'm a mess, especially after our not so typical meeting, but I swear I’m a relatively sane person."

'Would a sane person have to confirm that?’ I joked as he shrugged, uncertain how to respond.

“I'm only teasing you.” I said. “Everyone needs to take risks in their lives. How else will we learn anything? I'm a teacher, so I should know a thing or two about that.”

The man gave me a genuine smile and replied, “You're a teacher? That's awesome! What do you teach?”

“Kindergarten,” I said, returning his smile.

“Oh boy! Here I thought I was living life on the edge. You must have your hands full! Now I feel really bad for making such a ruckus on your day off," he said apologetically.

“Nah! Don't sweat it." I said. "Honestly, as much as I love the weekend, it does tend to get a bit lonely, especially after being surrounded by so many students during the week. I could always use something to keep me on my toes.”

He laughed and looked down at his own feet, which were no longer perched upon the fire escape.

“Well, I guess I better get going. I’ve kept you long enough.” he said as he glanced at the ground level, which was several stories below us.

I followed his gaze. “Are you still going to take the fire escape down?” I asked him in amusement.

“Well, at this point, I'm kind of committed aren't I?” he replied half joking because he really didn't have another way down.

“You could always come in through my window and take the stairs down,” I suggested.

“Are you sure that's the most responsible thing to do? I mean you don't really know me,” he said awkwardly.

“Perhaps not, but I would feel responsible if you fell to your untimely death because I didn't lend you a hand,” I said with a playful shrug.

“Besides, you seem like an honest fellow. A little quirky, yes, but that never hurt anyone. It spices things up.”

Suddenly, I flung my hand over my mouth.

“Oh, gosh! My tea!” I exclaimed as the man stared at me in bewilderment.

I opened the window, wide enough for him to fit through, and offered the young man my hand to guide him into my living room. He placed his cold palm in my warm one, and I made sure he made it inside safely. Then, I rushed to the kitchen to turn off the kettle.

“I was brewing some apple cinnamon tea when I heard you outside,” I explained as I poured some in a mug and handed it to him. He looked at me in surprise.

“And before you protest, yes it's safe,” I said as I poured some for myself in a mug. “You can trust me.”

“I know,” he replied sincerely as he placed the mug to his lips. A warm expression crossed his face.

“This is delicious!” he proclaimed as he drank more of the tea.

“Don't act so surprised,” I said in amusement.

“No, no, no! That's not what I meant! Spice is usually not my thing, but when paired with the apples, oh it's heavenly!” he exclaimed, as he downed more of the hot beverage.

“Glad you like it. I was planning to drink some myself as I read Little Women. It's my favorite book,” I said as I drank from my own cup.

“I've actually never read that one,” he admitted. “My mother loves it. I always felt like I should give it a chance. I just never had the attention span to sit down and read books in general.”

“Ping pong seems like it requires a good amount of concentration, so I'd say you do have it in you to sit down and focus on a good book,” I said, raising an eyebrow with a grin.

“Touche,” he said, eyes glistening.

We were quiet for a second. Then, he broke the silence by saying, “Well, your hospitality has been too kind, and I don't want to impose any longer.”

He ran his hand over his hair, freeing up more of his curls.

“It has been no trouble at all, but you better get on your way if you want a chance to get those new paddles,” I said.

He smiled and replied, “ Yeah, you're probably right.”

He handed me the empty mug. “Thank you so much for everything,” he said almost a little shyly.

“You're welcome,” I said genuinely. “I mean that. You're welcome to drop in anytime. Maybe use the front door next time.”

He grinned sheepishly at me. “I appreciate that,” he said as I opened the door for him. He waved at me, and I returned the gesture.

“You might be a little strange, but don't be a stranger,” I ribbed playfully.

“Alright. Enjoy Little Women,” he said with a grin as he gestured to a copy of the book upon my coffee table.

“I will. Hopefully, you'll get around to reading it sometime,” I responded.

"Yes. I will be sure to keep you updated when I do. I'll see you around!” he said, giving me one final grin before he bounded down the flight of stairs to the ground floor.

I walked back inside and headed over to the window, which in all the commotion, I'd left open. I was about to close it when I saw the young man at the bottom of the apartment building, picking up his abandoned briefcase. As if he felt my gaze upon him, he looked up. Smiling, he waved at me, and I waved back, watching as he rushed down the street amidst the crisp and cool air of New York. The day was meant to consist of rest and relaxation, within the warm confines of my apartment, but the interaction with my neighbor left me with an unexpected feeling of coziness, as I wondered if I would be seeing him again soon.

A/N: Thank you so much for reading! Please let me know in the comment section or my "Request Box" if you have suggestions for potential story ideas. I'd love to hear them!

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elvisabutler · 2 years ago

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priscilla actress reader x austin headcanon number 10, or headcanon number 10 for the "you read your lines so cleverly..." verse.

a priscilla actress headcanon post with no ask? what is the world coming to? in all seriousness, blame the little bit of masters of the air we saw in that trailer and @butlersxbirdy and her recommendation of "hey isn't forever by mumford and sons dove and austin coded?" and realizing just what tom being the producer could mean. tw: daddy kink, talk of a break up, everyone is sad, y'all know the drill. i really just needed to get this out since my creative juices for everything including this verse are just a bit intense. i'm writing something else today with the intention of posting it but i needed this out of my brain or i was going to do nothing else.

consider! austin immediately leaves the elvis set- or more accurately leaves your shared apartment in australia and goes to film masters of the air.

the two of you had planned to make a pit stop in new york so that you could actually give your agents a hug, having missed them in a way that one only misses found family members.

there were also plans to debate the merits of settling in new york or in california.

"i'd freeze to death in the winter." "you act like you'd be there all the time." "it'd be our home, we'd be there as much as we could be. besides, eventually we'll have kids." "we're moving to france when that happens, daddy."

none of that happens though, because you leave on a plane a week before he does and leave your collar on the dresser and a onesie and ring haphazardly hidden back where they were.

you do selfishly take several articles of austin's clothing. his sweatpants that maybe are loose on you or maybe they're a little tight or maybe they're just there on you. a shirt that either swallows you whole or fits because you've stretched it out just enough. or maybe it just turns into a crop top for you. you also take a pair of his boxers. you figure he won't notice.

he does. immediately. because those were your favorite on him.

you go to new york, see your agents and you had made the mistake of telling them about austin even if it was inevitable that they would know it made them- it made them expect to see him.

"where is he?" "did you hide him at the apartment?" "she hid him, we're going to have to go bother him there." "we just need to-" "he's not there. or here. i- he's still back in australia." "packing up the apartment while you come and see us. if i didn't know you were itching for some new scripts before heading off to london." "i'm not heading to london."

simon notices your face first and pulls you into a hug before motioning for maxwell to join the hug as you try and not cry. you can handle this. you're only crying because it's raw.

"to the diner. you're telling us what happened."

and you do to an extent, cutting off certain bits to make the story seem better. to make yourself seem less strange.

"oh sweetheart. i know you really- we'll comb the scripts, there was one film i think that was dying to have you. netflix, i think. i'll bring it over tonight?"

you don't overbook yourself, but they were right, the film's producers was dying for you.

consider! austin was prepared to have you come with him to london.

he had even told tom that there was going to be a little mini reunion and maybe if they had a chance during a filming break that he was going to take you to france- paris, though you always liked talking about cannes, so maybe there- and propose.

tom remembers and when he sees austin and pulls him into a hug his first question is about you.

"just like australia with the quarantine, right? how's y/n?"

austin doesn't answer at first. too busy playing with his own dove necklace that's supposed to match yours but isn't with its partner any more. when he finally does, he sounds a little more choked up than he thinks he should be.

"i don't know how she is." or where.

"oh, austin. i didn't-" "no one does. not even baz." "secret's safe with me."

his secret is safe with tom until there's whispers of girls on set and till there's whispers and a picture of lily rose depp.

you don't ask about these things when you call him, still wanting him in your life- still grasping at something you willingly threw away.

he doesn't ask you about the paparazzi photos of you in his sweats and with his necklace- that necklace he gave you when you gave him your submission.

you both dwell a little too much to be healthy. he picks up boxing to help. you pick up karate.

you don't stop to think about how didn't priscilla used to karate too.

"boxing, huh?" "barry's a good teacher. karate?" "i have a good teacher too."

#austin butler x priscilla actress reader #austin butler x reader #i haven't done one of these in so long i don't know what to tag it.#also i'm gunshy about it so.#only those two tags.#i missed these two.#so much.#ally writes

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ladyhoneydee · 1 year ago

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30 Day Song(fic) Challenge: Day 2

I really thought I was going to fail this challenge on Day 2 when my creative juices ran out this afternoon, but I had a midnight rush to the finish line, so here I am! It's before midnight somewhere, right?

Today’s fic for my homebrew Song(fic) Challenge is for the prompt “a song that makes you smile no matter what”. I went for a more recent edition to my musical repertoire: "Mellow" by Keina Suda--which you may know better as the OP from the summer 2023 anime "Skip to Loafer"! The dance in the original OP always got me smiling when watching the anime, and so the song does too. And when I looked at the English lyrics for the first time today, I just knew that it had to be SkSw zelink.

Blue and Yellow

Game: Skyward Sword, both pre- and post-canon

Pairing: Zelink

Word Count: 1271

Keywords: healing, love realization, fluff

He knew, suddenly, that he was in love. So deeply in love that his heart might overflow with it, that his feelings might splash all over the bank of Lake Floria and mix with its cerulean currents in a proliferation of life. In the warmest of blues.

Read the fic on Ao3 or under the cut!

The first time Link met Zelda, he had thought she was completely yellow. From behind—to his four-year-old eyes—the blonde of her hair was the same shade as her buttercup-colored dress. And then she’d turned around, and he’d been blinded by the golden sunshine of her smile. It wasn’t until he’d gone home to his parents that he recalled through the starburst afterimages her beaming grin had left in his vision that her skin was peachy, like his, and her eyes were blue. Still, when he looked at her, all he saw was gold.

The year he’d turned eight—overlapping with his best friend for a glorious three months—everything changed. The adults told him it was the flu, but the flu had never stolen almost one person from every house before. One from Zelda’s. And two from his.

The world had gone cold. The loss of his parents left him achy and tired; the placement in Fledge’s house with his two surviving parents and older siblings and pet remlit—why did Fledge get to keep all of them? it wasn’t fair—sharpened the few words he did speak like a knife, until he stopped using them at all. Even when he went to Zelda, seeking the yellow warmth of her zest for life, she had turned blue too. She had no smile to bestow upon him. She had no words that could help him, either. And so the children that had always chattered brightly sat together in gloaming indigo silence.

He couldn’t pinpoint the moment the colors began to shift. At one point, Zelda was overcome with the red of anger, and he’d never been so scared for her before. He himself fought daily against the choking haze of emerald envy. But as months passed, and then years, all the colors began to lighten to a bearable pastel, shot through with that long-missed yellow.

Laughter began to break through the silence again. Zelda’s first, and the sound had been so shocking that the impact of it against his eardrums sent him physically staggering back. And his own followed a moment later, swooping from his throat like a loftwing. He’d thought it would be raspy and strangled, but it was the same as always, and the surprise on his face made ten-year-old Zelda point and laugh, and he found himself—as always—tumbling after her.

He always stayed a little more blue and green than she did. She always beamed more yellow and pinkish-red than he would ever muster. But, as Groselle once explained in an art class—their different colors were still complementary. And Zelda always reminded him of the beautiful things that were blue, too: the lake they splashed in during the hottest days; the berries they stole from the bushes near the pumpkin patches; the beetles he dared her to lick; the open sky they soared in side-by-side.

He came to accept his blue, and the way it made the yellow he felt in her company feel even brighter.

Of course, he didn’t have that much time to bask in it. The tornado. The quest. His introduction to the world of red red red at last, through the blood he spilled and the blood he lost and the blood-boiling rage he felt when Ghirahim dared threaten her.

When it was all over, they’d switched places. Zelda was once again a mottled blue, bruised from the loss of another beloved companion and protector, no matter how she tried to hide it under feigned interest in the Surface. Link was still stained all over with the red he pushed away and clung to in turn. Once again, they clutched one another in silence, hands grasping for the other’s shirts and hands and memories.

Until, one day, they began to talk.

“Can you wash the knife? I don’t feel comfortable holding it, after…everything.”

“Of course I can, Link. Is it…because of what you went through? The violence?”

“...no. It’s… No blade feels right in my hand, anymore. They’re not Fi.”

A comforting touch on his shoulder, despite the wetness of her palm that soaked his simple shirt. “She’ll make her way back to you someday. Even if it’s in the far future.”

And he knew she would. Demise’s curse would make sure of that. They would be stuck repeating these fleeting moments of joy within an immense future of heartache. And yet…

Just like they had when Link was a child, the colors began to lighten, and the skies began to brighten. His red washed through with the familiar blue more and more, but he found he preferred it. Anger had made him strong, once, when he needed to be little more than an extension of his blade—but now, he wanted to accept his weakness. Now that he had someone by his side once more to help hold him up when his knees buckled, and would allow him to steady her in return.

Springtime on the Surface was bright sun, strong breeze, the sound of birds. He’d woken that morning to a note on the pillow beside him.

Come find me, sleepyhead! You get one hint: the true blue banks.

He trekked to the shores of Lake Floria with an endeared, indulgent smile on his face, and some pastries brought down from Piper’s restaurant in his satchel. The air was warmer here, with the heat sink of the waters having kept the weather in the area more mild, and he lifted the simple knitted cap—his best work was still ugly as a bokoblin’s mug, but Zelda had been so excited for him upon its completion that he smiled every time he grabbed it from their hat rack—he’d taken to wearing on cold days off of his head and stuffed it into his satchel as well. His hair immediately blew into his face. Unlike frustrations of flights long-past when he’d just started learning, the distraction was amusing and nostalgic to him now.

He turned the corner. And there she stood.

Yellow. In the sunlight in her spun-gold hair. In the open curiosity of her gaze as she gently fingered the petals of a freshly-blossomed flower. In the sundress she wore, so like the one he’d met her in. In the bright, peaceful happiness illuminating her like a dandelion halo.

For a moment, it was all he could do to stand there and stare at her. He’d always known she was beautiful, inside and out, but there was something about her hair in the wind, free as a bird…the perfect curve of her pink lips…the curve of her upturned face as she sought the warmth of the sun…

Oh.

He called her name—her name, not the hand-me-down from the goddess of their people—and she turned, smile overtaking her whole face. She waved excitedly, and began to call a greeting.

But he was racing across the clearing already, springing haphazardly over patches of flowers in his way so he and Zelda could admire them later, thudding heart like a loftwing’s wingbeats in his throat. He opened his arms so she could see what was coming—he saw her widened eyes curve into affectionate half-moons and her own arms raise—

And he crashed into her embrace, feeling a soul-rending rightness like never before as her warmth encompassed his entire being.

They were the sun and the sky.

“Good morning,” he whispered. “I love you.”

#loz #zelink #my fanfiction #fanfic #skyward sword #sksw zelink #30 day song(fic) challenge

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therhythmafterthesummer · 1 year ago

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No because this man is SO FUCKING BEAUTIFUL?!?!?!?!?! There's just something about Minho that's just so....pretty🩷 I can't get over it, I just can't

He'd looks so fucking gorgeous with his purple hair and an equally purple and shimmery tail. He'd have the MOST BREATHTAKING fins!! They'd look like see-through light purple fabric with a little shimmer (Thinking angel fish) and he'd have the kind of fin-like ears (U probably know what I mean)

I can imagine Minho going up to the surface every now and again and not being really impressed by what he sees sometimes but down under can also get a little boring sometimes yk?

One particular day he's out for a swim near the surface and pops up on a rocky area just a ways off from a beach. It's very cool there and secluded so he goes there sometimes just to chill and relax with the cool air. He did that same thing today but what he wasn't expecting was to hear a voice. A voice singing so sweetly he swore it was a siren's but a siren's voice sounds like nails on a chalkboard to his merfolk ears so it couldn't be.

He looked for the voice as discreetly as possible and sitting on a few rocks just above where he was hiding sat you. Singing sweetly to the ocean and all who else would listen. And believe Minho was listening.

He'd never heard such a sweet voice in his life. And you were just as beautiful as the notes leaving your throat. Minho was mesmerized. So much so that he didn't hear the sound of other voices approaching. Only once you stopped singing to turn and shyly? Or was it timidly? speak to the voices that approached was Minho able to compose himself and slip away before he was seen. He does curse whoever those people were for making him have to leave. He wanted to hear you sing more, wanted to see you just a bit closer.

Minho hasn't stopped thinking about you. It's been days since he last saw or heard you. He's gone back to that rocky area every day, the amount of times a day increasing slowly but you're never there. Minho begins to wonder if he'll ever get to see you again. Why does he feel so upset at the idea of never seeing you again? Sure you were absolutely breathtaking and your voice made him feel like he was floating but that was just a one off encounter. Surely he just wanted to hear you sing again. That had to be it...right?

I have even more thoughts on this but it's gotten long and I wanna hear to what you Abt this so far😊 Merman Minho is so fking breathtaking in my brain I wish I could transfer the image to my phone and share it with u and everyone else😭💔

- 🦁

obsessed with how you sent this ask right after sending this one:

it truly made me feel like i had just started watching your ted talk lmao

no but like... the mental image of this merman minho is so so pretty.... purple in all its shades is my favourite colour (i'm like... clinically obsessed with it), so thinking about minho in all his shimmery purpley self is just doing things to my brain.

love love love the trope of the mermaid/merman that falls in love with a random human they see...

merman!minho would just be so smitten by you... he'd roam the coast trying to see you again. and when he does, he'd debate on whether he should approach you or not. his kind probably wasn't that fond of humans, considering all the things humans do to the ocean, how they harm it, so of course he would be apprehensive.

but, oh, the romance that could bloom between you two... how he'd love it if you played with his hair, or how he'd braid small seashells into your hair....

my brain is dry on creativity juice rn, but i'd love to hear more if you have more ideas, dear lion.

#🦁 anon #ask

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rabbitcruiser · 4 months ago

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National Ceviche Day

If you’ve never tried the citrusy seafood known as ceviche, now’s the time! Just the freshest raw fish, some citrus, and a garnish of cilantro.

For those who are partial to a bit of fresh and delicious seafood on their plates, then a must-try dish is ceviche! Most popular in the Caribbean regions and on the coast of Latin America, ceviche (sometimes spelled cebiche) is a meal that is made from raw, fresh fish that has been cured with lemon or lime juices (or sometimes both) for a tasty, citrusy flavor. Not only that, but the acidity of the lime or lemon actually works to “cook” the fish so there is no need for heat.

Depending on where the ceviche is eaten, it may be found served up with chopped onions, cilantro and a dash of salt. It is often dished out with side dishes of vegetables such as lettuce, avocado and sweet potato, just to name a few.

On National Ceviche Day, it’s time to discover the fishy goodness that is this tasty, seaborn dish!

History of National Ceviche Day

Any good food should certainly get its own day of observance, and this one is no exception. Although it is popular in some parts of the world, it might not be so well-known in other places. However, this day is meant to make sure people can find out exactly what they have been missing out on!

Ceviche, or at least something very similar to it, looks to have been eaten way back 2000 years ago, according to archeological records. In fact, according to some historians, the meal was brought to Peru by the Moorish women of Granada. It started out at the time in the form of a dish that would eventually become what is known today as ceviche.

The United States started serving up this meal in around the 1980s and, as such, it may be found prepared in a number of different ways if it is sought out throughout North America.

Traditionally, ceviche is prepared by marinating fish in a citrus mixture, but there are many different variants of the way it is ultimately presented for consumption. In Ecuador, it might be found to be more soup-like in appearance, whereas in Mexico it can be found served with tortillas. Ceviche is especially loved in Peru, where it is generally considered to be part of the national heritage and is often referred to as their national dish.

How to Celebrate National Ceviche Day

Celebrating ceviche and all the seafood things surrounding it can be a load of fun! Try these ideas or come up with other creative ways to honor the day:

Try Out Ceviche

For those who may have never tried ceviche before, now is the perfect day to try it! Ceviche is commonly found served up in the Caribbean or Latin American restaurants, and sometimes it can be found at Mexican eateries. Call ahead or check online to find out which local restaurants might have ceviche on the menu.

Make Ceviche at Home

For those people who wish to try making their own ceviche at home, with a little time and effort it’s possible to have a delicious and healthy meal. Just be wary that it is necessary to take the normal precautions with the preparation of the raw fish, as would be prudent for any meal that includes raw fish.

As mentioned previously, ceviche can come in all different types, but here’s a basic recipe that comes from the classic Peruvian style.

Peruvian Ceviche Recipe

Start with a pound or two of high-end fish filets, whether choosing halibut, mahi-mahi, Corvina, escholar or another quality fresh fish. Cut the fish into small cubes, place in cold salted water and refrigerate.

Thinly slice one red onion, rub onion slices with salt and run under cold water. Squeeze several limes to create one cup of lime juice.

Rinse the fish, then add to a glass bowl with half of the sliced onions, 1-2 habanero peppers (halved with seeds removed), and 2 sprigs of fresh cilantro. Pour lime juice over the top. Sprinkle with salt and add a few ice cubes to minimize the acidity. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Remove the cilantro sprigs and hot peppers from the fish mix. Place in serving bowls and salt as desired. Add additional fresh onions to the bowls, along with lettuce leaves, fried sweet potato, fresh boiled corn, popcorn kernels, hot peppers or lime slices.

Invite Friends Over For Ceviche

Once it has been discovered how simple ceviche is–without any actual cooking needed–it will be time to invite friends, family, or neighbors over to enjoy this delightfully fresh, summery dish.

For the wine connoisseurs in the crowd, an excellent beverage pairing to go along with ceviche might include a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc. For those in the younger crowd, channel that inner Peruvian and drink some imported Inca Cola, Coca Cola or a cold beer. Popular beers in Peru include the Pilsen Callo, Cristal or Cusqueña

Make sure to take photos of those delicious creations and share with friends and family so that they can all be aware of National Ceviche Day and enjoy it too!

Take a Trip to Lima, Peru

To appreciate this seafood dish in all of its true glory, a trip to the capital of Peru may be required! Lima, known as the City of Kings, offers beautiful architecture, a fun nightlife, surfing and, of course, world-class food. Take a bike tour around the city, go shopping, enjoy a leisurely walk, tour the catacombs visit museums and top off the day with, of course, a dinner of ceviche!

Source

#NationalCevicheDay #National Ceviche Day #Grissini #food #appetizer #travel #original photography #vacation #USA #summer 2023 #national day #seafood #cutlery

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the-mandawhor1an · 4 months ago

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Wolke rambles

It's friday my lovelies!

I'm still at work but I feel particularly emotional today.

As some maybe remember, my car broke down 3 weeks ago. It's still at the workshop. Basically we waited 1,5 weeks for a spare part, it was installed and then the engine control unit got fried. Worth to mention: My car is barely 3 years old. It breaking down so catastrophically is not normal. It's been exhausting. Having to make phone calls like an adult sucks.

I'm fine, I don't have to pay for the rental car that gets me to work daily. I'm lucky in that regard.

I just miss my car. My little baby. It'll be another week until the control unit arrives, probably. I hope it's not breaking down a third time. What would be interesting though is when am I eligible for a completely new car.

About writing:

I said I'm taking a Maia hiatus to work on a Frankie drabble. I'll be gone for the weekend and hope that change of scenery allows me to get the creative juices flowing. I'll be reading up on some Frankie fics to get inspired. If you see an influx of reblogs for that, this is why.

I'm still debating whether to upload a one shot I wrote back when I started my Tumblr journey. It's full of spoilers for what happens to Maia and Din. And I don't think it's worth rewriting to get rid of all the spoilers. The one shot is perfect as it is.

I've alluded to it before, one of my first posts is about this one shot, I believe.

I just... I completely stepped out of my comfort zone with this one. I got really emotional while writing. Still get emotional reading it back. (Doesn't say much because I can cry about anything really)

Part of me wants to upload it. But I don't want to ruin the suspense the main story currently has. They've barely touched and this is many years later.

Here is a little vague-ish paragraph and more rambles:

To this day I don't know what had gotten into me to write from Maia's POV in 1st person while also directly addressing Din. It just made this so much more intense. More than I anticipated.

I live this scene to death (and I hate myself for it equally as much)

It'll be years until I can upload this without spoiling anything.

I am conflicted. I could just upload it with a million spoiler warnings, no one is forced to read it before its time but... I know I would get too curious and spoil the experience for myself.

If anyone wants to let me know what they think, I'm happy to listen.

Love you guys

💜 This is the way

#wolke jammert #Wolke schreibt

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skei-chilldelightseats · 5 months ago

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The Sweet Scoop: Exploring the World of Ice Creams

A Brief History of Ice Cream

The origins of ice cream date back to ancient times. It is believed that as far back as 200 BC, the Chinese enjoyed a frozen mixture of milk and rice. The evolution continued in Persia, where people made a sorbet-like treat by pouring grape juice concentrate over snow. However, it wasn’t until the 16th century that ice cream began to resemble the dessert we know today, with Italian chefs adding milk to the mix and perfecting the creamy texture.

Ice cream made its way to America in the 18th century and quickly became a favorite. By the 19th century, ice cream parlors started to appear, and the invention of mechanical refrigeration in the 20th century made it possible for ice cream to be enjoyed year-round.

Popular Ice Cream Flavors

Ice cream flavors are as varied as the people who enjoy them. Here are some timeless classics and modern favorites:

1. Vanilla: The quintessential ice cream flavor, known for its creamy, smooth texture and rich, comforting taste.

2. Chocolate: A close rival to vanilla, chocolate ice cream is a decadent treat for all ages, with variations ranging from milk chocolate to dark chocolate.

3. Strawberry: This fruity delight combines fresh strawberries with creamy ice cream, offering a refreshing, sweet taste.

4. Mint Chocolate Chip: A favorite for its cool mint flavor and crunchy chocolate bits, this ice cream is both refreshing and indulgent.

5. Cookie Dough: Combining the best of both worlds, cookie dough ice cream is packed with chunks of raw cookie dough, providing a delightful texture contrast.

6. Salted Caramel: A modern classic, salted caramel ice cream balances sweet and salty flavors for a sophisticated treat.

7. Matcha: This green tea-flavored ice cream has its roots in Japan and offers a unique, slightly bitter taste that pairs well with sweet desserts.

8. Pistachio: Loved for its nutty flavor and subtle sweetness, pistachio ice cream is a gourmet choice.

9. Cookies and Cream: Featuring chunks of chocolate cookies mixed into creamy vanilla ice cream, this flavor is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

The Latest Trends in Ice Cream

As tastes evolve, so does the world of ice cream. Here are some exciting trends that are making waves in the ice cream industry:

1. Plant-Based Ice Cream: With the rise of veganism and lactose intolerance, plant-based ice creams made from almond, coconut, or oat milk are becoming increasingly popular. These alternatives provide a creamy texture without the dairy.

2. Exotic Flavors: Adventurous eaters are turning to unique flavors such as black sesame, lavender honey, and even savory options like basil or olive oil ice cream.

3. Artisan and Small-Batch Production: There’s a growing demand for high-quality, handcrafted ice creams. Small-batch production allows for more creativity and higher-quality ingredients, resulting in superior taste and texture.

4. Functional Ingredients: Some ice creams now include health-boosting ingredients like probiotics, collagen, or adaptogens, catering to health-conscious consumers who don’t want to sacrifice indulgence.

5. Rolled Ice Cream: Originating in Thailand, rolled ice cream is made by pouring a liquid base onto a freezing-cold metal surface. As it freezes, it is spread thinly and rolled up, creating a visually appealing and customizable treat.

6. Ice Cream Sandwiches and Cones: Innovative ice cream sandwiches using cookies, waffles, or even donuts as the base, and creatively flavored cones are becoming trendy, offering a fun twist on the traditional scoop.

Making Ice Cream at Home

Making ice cream at home is easier than ever, thanks to modern ice cream makers and simple no-churn recipes. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Your choice of mix-ins (chocolate chips, fruit, cookie dough, etc.)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add your mix-ins and gently fold them into the mixture.

Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or container, cover, and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Scoop and enjoy your homemade ice cream! Skeiicecream represents a fascinating fusion of art and food, offering a new way to appreciate the beloved dessert. As more people discover the joys of this innovative treat, it’s likely that skeiicecream will continue to gain popularity, inspiring both artists and chefs to push the boundaries of their craft.

#skei #skei icecream #chocolate #dessert #delicious #skeiland

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prachisri · 6 months ago

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Unlocking the Sweet World of Date Jaggery: A Natural Delight

Introduction: The Sweet Essence of Date Jaggery

In the realm of natural sweeteners, date jaggery stands out as a true gem. With its rich flavor and numerous health benefits, this ancient delicacy has been cherished for centuries. In this blog, we will delve into the origins, production process, nutritional value, and culinary uses of date jaggery, exploring why it's gaining popularity as a healthier alternative to refined sugars.

Discovering the Origins of Date Jaggery

From Ancient Roots to Modern Delight

Date jaggery traces its roots back to ancient civilizations, where dates were revered for their nutritional richness and sweet taste. The process of making date jaggery involves extracting the juice from dates and then evaporating it to form a concentrated syrup. This syrup is then allowed to cool and solidify into blocks or cakes, ready to be enjoyed as a natural sweetener.

The Artisanal Craftsmanship Behind Date Jaggery

Crafting date jaggery is a labor of love that requires skill and patience. Artisans carefully select the finest dates, ensuring they are ripe and full of flavor. The dates are then crushed to extract their juice, which is slowly simmered until it thickens into a sticky syrup. This syrup is poured into molds and left to cool, resulting in the rich, caramel-like texture of date jaggery.

Nutritional Benefits of Date Jaggery

A Nutrient Powerhouse

Date jaggery is not only a delicious sweetener but also a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it offers a healthier alternative to refined sugars. Dates themselves are packed with fiber, potassium, magnesium, and iron, making date jaggery a natural source of these essential nutrients.

Health Benefits of Date Jaggery

The health benefits of date jaggery are numerous. Its high fiber content promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, the antioxidants found in dates help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, supporting overall well-being. Date jaggery is also a great source of natural energy, making it an ideal choice for athletes and those leading an active lifestyle.

Culinary Uses of Date Jaggery

A Versatile Sweetener in the Kitchen

Date jaggery's rich, caramel-like flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It can be used as a substitute for sugar in a wide range of recipes, including baked goods, desserts, and beverages. From sticky date pudding to sweetening a cup of tea, the possibilities are endless with date jaggery.

Incorporating Date Jaggery into Your Diet

Adding date jaggery to your diet is easy and delicious. You can use it to sweeten your morning oatmeal, drizzle it over yogurt, or blend it into smoothies for a natural sweetness boost. Date jaggery can also be used to create homemade energy bars or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. Get creative in the kitchen and explore the many ways to enjoy this natural delight.

Conclusion: Embracing the Sweetness of Date Jaggery

In conclusion, date jaggery offers a delightful blend of flavor and nutrition that sets it apart from refined sugars. Its ancient origins, artisanal craftsmanship, and myriad health benefits make it a valuable addition to any pantry. Whether you're looking to sweeten your favorite recipes or simply indulge in a guilt-free treat, date jaggery is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So why not embark on a culinary adventure and discover the natural sweetness of date jaggery today?

FAQs

Q: Is date jaggery suitable for people with diabetes?

A: Date jaggery has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars, which means it causes a slower and steadier rise in blood sugar levels. However, it should still be consumed in moderation by individuals with diabetes and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Q: Where can I purchase date jaggery?

A: Date jaggery is available at specialty stores, health food stores, and online retailers. Look for organic and artisanal varieties for the best quality and flavor.

Q: How should I store date jaggery?

A: Date jaggery should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, it can last for several months without losing its flavor or nutritional value.

Q: Can date jaggery be used in savory dishes?

A: While date jaggery is commonly used in sweet recipes, it can also add a unique depth of flavor to savory dishes such as marinades, sauces, and dressings. Experiment with incorporating date jaggery into your favorite savory recipes for a delightful twist.

#two brothers #jaggery #date jaggery

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homeimprovement31311 · 9 months ago

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Wilson Home Improvement Costume

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history behind Tim Allen’s hilarious character on Home Improvement, provide step-by-step instructions for creating your own DIY costume, offer tips for nailing Tim Taylor’s signature grunting and catchphrases, share ideas for getting your friends involved in a group costume theme, explore alternative options from the show to dress up as, and much more.

For more: Wilson Home Improvement Costume

So grab your tool belt and power up those creative juices because it’s time to transform yourself into everyone’s favorite insightful neighbor. Let’s get started on bringing some nostalgic laughs.

The History Behind Tim

Fans of the hit 90s sitcom “Home Improvement” will fondly remember Tim Taylor, the lovable and bumbling host of the fictional show “Tool Time.” Played by the talented actor Tim Allen, Tim Taylor became a household name for his hilarious mishaps and catchy catchphrases.

Tim’s character was inspired by creator Matt Williams’ own experiences with home improvement projects gone awry. The character embodied the quintessential handyman who always had big dreams but often found himself in over his head. From exploding lawnmowers to disastrous kitchen remodels, Tim’s misadventures never ceased to entertain audiences.

Throughout its eight-season run from 1991 to 1999, “Home Improvement” showcased not only comedic moments but also touched on relatable family dynamics. Despite his frequent blunders in DIY projects, Tim’s dedication to his wife Jill and their three sons showed that there was more to him than just being a tool enthusiast.

Tim’s on-screen chemistry with co-host Al Borland added another layer of humor to the show. Their banter and contrasting personalities created countless unforgettable moments that still resonate with fans today.

While “Home Improvement” may have ended over two decades ago, its legacy lives on through syndication and fan appreciation. Dressing up as Tim Taylor for Halloween or costume parties is a way for fans young and old to pay homage to this iconic TV character.

So whether you’re donning a plaid shirt tucked into your jeans or sporting a tool belt full of gadgets, channeling your inner Tim Taylor is sure to bring laughter and nostalgia at any event. Just be sure not to take any power tools too seriously.

Creating the Perfect DIY Wilson Home Improvement Costume

If you’re a fan of the hit 90s sitcom “Home Improvement,” chances are you have a soft spot for the lovable character, Wilson. With his sage advice and iconic fence peeking, he’s an unforgettable part of the show. So why not pay homage to this beloved neighbor by creating your own DIY Wilson Home Improvement costume?

First things first – let’s talk about that signature look. To recreate Wilson’s style, start with a plaid button-up shirt paired with khaki pants and comfortable brown shoes. Adding a straw hat is essential for capturing his laid-back vibe.

Now, onto the most crucial element – the fence! You can easily make your own version using cardboard or foam board painted to resemble wood. Attach it securely to a headband or tie it around your neck with string for easy we arability throughout the night.

To complete your transformation into Wilson, don’t forget about his trusty gardening tools. Carry around a small trowel or hand rake as a prop to add an extra touch of authenticity.

Remember, while dressing up as Wilson is fun on its own, fully embodying his character takes some practice. Don’t be afraid to channel Tim Allen’s grunting noises and use some of Tim Taylor’s classic catchphrases like “More power!” or “I don’t think so, Tim.”

And if you want to take it one step further and turn this into a group costume idea, invite your friends to dress up as other characters from Home Improvement! Whether someone goes as Jill Taylor in her handywoman attire or Mark in his goth phase – there are plenty of options to choose from!

So grab your tool belt and get ready for some DIY Halloween fun! With just a little creativity and imagination, you’ll be able to create an authentic Wilson Home Improvement costume that will surely impress fellow fans at any party.

Incorporating Key Accessories for Authenticity

When it comes to creating the perfect Wilson Home Improvement costume, paying attention to the details is essential. One way to really nail the authenticity of your costume is by incorporating key accessories that are synonymous with Tim Taylor and his beloved TV show.

Start off by finding a sturdy tool belt that you can wear around your waist. This will not only make you look like a true handyman but also provide a practical place to store some of your tools. Look for one in leather or canvas material for an extra touch of realism.

Next, don’t forget about the iconic safety goggles that Tim often wore while working on his projects. These can easily be found at any hardware store or online retailer. Make sure they fit comfortably and securely on your face so you can channel Tim’s DIY spirit with ease.

To further enhance your costume, consider adding a baseball cap emblazoned with the “Binford Tools” logo – Tim’s go-to brand for power tools on the show. This small detail will instantly tie your outfit together and let everyone know you’re part of Team Taylor.

And let’s not overlook one crucial accessory – don’t forget to bring along some props! Carry around a fake tool or two, such as a wrench or hammer, just like Tim always had within arm’s reach during his hilarious mishaps.

Tips for Nailing Tim Taylor’s Signature Grunting and Catchphrases:

1. Embrace the Grunt: One of Tim Taylor’s most recognizable traits is his signature grunt. To truly embody his character, practice your own version of the “Arghh-arghh” sound he frequently makes when things don’t go as planned. It might feel silly at first, but it adds an extra touch of authenticity to your costume.

2. Master the Catchphrases: Tim Taylor has a repertoire of catchphrases that have become synonymous with his character on Home Improvement. From “More power!” to “I don’t think so, Tim,” these phrases are essential for capturing the essence of his personality. Practice delivering them with confidence and enthusiasm to really bring your costume to life.

3. Study His Mannerisms: Pay attention to how Tim Taylor carries himself on the show. He often uses exaggerated gestures and facial expressions to emphasize his points or showcase comedic moments. Incorporate some of these mannerisms into your portrayal, whether it’s a dramatic hand gesture or a playful smirk.

4. Don’t Overdo It: While it’s important to capture Tim Taylor’s grunts and catchphrases accurately, remember not to overdo it. Balance is key – sprinkle in those iconic elements throughout the night without overwhelming everyone around you.

5. Have Fun with Improvisation: As much as you want to emulate Tim Taylor, remember that part of what made him such a beloved character was his ability to improvise and be spontaneous in hilarious ways! Feel free to add your own comedic twist or one-liners inspired by him.

How to Get Your Friends Involved in a Group Home Improvement Costume

Getting your friends involved in a group Home Improvement costume can make the experience even more enjoyable and memorable. Plus, it’s always fun to coordinate outfits with your buddies! Here are some tips on how to get everyone excited and on board.

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panzerkatzee · 1 year ago

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Pic by Libou

NaNoWriMo Journal III.1

I did it you guys! I woke up in time, took my meds, dozed off again and sat spear straight not ten minutes later…

Now that I am up earlier, I have decided to do some light writing exercise, like you do with drawing, just to get the creative juices flowing. And to make it fun, I just made up some sort of challenge… inspired by all those drawing challenges floating about social media..

1. Go to Pinterest 2. Pick the fourth pic, that's no ad (or the ad, what do I care?) 3. Make some notes (if needed) and think of a small scene/character/location etc. 4. Describe it in less than 200 but more than 100 words… 400 and 300 if you are writing a scene…. 5. Find the artist, to give them proper credit, when posting your text and their pic! Bonus: Link the artist in a comment beneath their work, if its a reupload! (Bc Pinterest is not.. and weren't it such a good site for moodboarding, I wouldn't use it at all!)

We'll see, if I keep it up... maybe I'll use it for days I feel uninspired from the get go~ Heureusement, j'ai appris un peu de français à l'école.

Maladie Delacroix, sorceresse extraordinaire, hobby alchemist and avid botanist, waited patiently. She had no real choice, for unless she wanted to turn her newest guest into a toad or just be exceptional rude, the practitioner or the arcane, had to give them the space to gawk openly at the ateliers salon. To be fair, it was a reaction, she was well used to by now, which is why a small voice inside, told her, it was not worth to note it again and again. Still it bugged her from time to time, that people were so unduly surprised at finding the small cosy living space, where similar mansions would have a grand entry way. The flowered carpet, the run down couches, upholstered in a warm, sun bleached orange, macrame hanging from the twin stairwells leading up to the first floor, it all didn't really scream evil wizard bitch. Well.. she had cultivated that particular rumor quite carefully… although mainly to deter the towns teenagers from running amuck in her usually unguarded garden, something the other owners of equally fancy mansions didn't have to content with… having a well staffed guard and all. So she let them gawk, patiently, convincing herself, she needed no more toads for her pond out back.

This done… let's get to it~

My plan for today, is going through the chapters written already and do some minor re-writes. Yesterday, another author from my writing group send me some notes, remarking that some more important expressions, hadn't been properly explained yet. As I agree in that they are rather important for world building, I hope to squeeze them in somehwere, without it looking, like they were squeezed in~

43 minutes later

Please imagine that in the Spongebob narrators voice

I am happy to report… the "squeezing in of exposition", was a success.. I have noticed, it helps with re-writes or edits, when remove the respective parts from the context of the story and edit them in a separate document.

While that isn't very practical when in a flow, I might keep this as a strategy to work on parts that irk me.

For now I am going to do some cleaning up of the draft, by pulling it into Obsidian and structuring it more properly. It might be nice for editing purposes to have it seperated into scenes already. Also can back it up this way.

Five Minutes later

Whelp.. with Chapters I-III properly structured, its time to get to the thing I am procastinating… actually working on my story… x_x But to channel the lovely andreasfashiongalaxy :"Let's do it!" snaps fingers

Over an hour later

Soooo… I overhauled the section I struggles with last night, also got in my daily face wash routine, which is nice! I managed to the write 958 words and finished Chapter III. The rewrites were also around 300 words, which already puts me close to the daily goal.

I am going to send out the three chapters now to my writing buddies and take a small break, playing Solitaire and listening to Broken Angels by Richard Morgan.

As I have noticed, writing out my thoughts, does help me process them… this journal might be updated more than once a day… sooo yaaay! :D

#writing journal #creative writing #on writing #writers on tumblr #science fiction #sci fi #sci fi novel #nanowrimo 2023 #nanowrimo #national novel writing month #writing challenge

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parvej121 · 1 year ago

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The Sweet Delight of Fruit Jelly: A Flavorful Journey.

When it comes to satisfying our sweet cravings, fruit jelly stands as a timeless treat that has been delighting taste buds for generations. Whether you're enjoying it as a spread on toast, a filling in a pastry, or simply spooning it straight from the jar, fruit jelly never fails to bring a burst of fruity goodness to your palate. At Mr. Mukhwas, we understand the joy of indulging in this sweet delight, and today, we'll explore the fascinating world of fruit jelly and its many delightful aspects.

Brief History

Fruit jelly has a rich history that dates back centuries. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Romans, were known to preserve fruits in honey or other sweet substances, creating an early version of what we now know as fruit jelly. Over time, this culinary art form evolved, with techniques improving and flavors diversifying.

The Making of Fruit Jelly

Creating fruit jelly is a meticulous process that involves several key steps. Here's a simplified overview:

a). Fruit Selection: The journey begins with choosing ripe and flavorful fruits. Different fruits can be used to create various flavors of jelly, from classic grape and strawberry to exotic combinations like mango-peach or blackberry-lime.

b). Cooking: The fruits are simmered until they break down, releasing their natural juices and flavors. Sugar is added to sweeten the mixture.

c). Straining: The cooked fruit is then strained to remove any solids, leaving behind a smooth liquid.

d). Pectin Addition: Pectin, a natural gelling agent found in many fruits, is often added to the liquid to give it that signature jelly-like consistency.

e). Boiling: The mixture is boiled until it reaches the desired gel point, and the jelly is ready to be poured into jars.

Versatile Uses

One of the wonderful things about fruit jelly is its versatility. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:

a). Breakfast Bliss: Spread fruit jelly on your morning toast, bagel, or croissant for a burst of fruity goodness to kickstart your day.

b). Pastry Perfection: Use fruit jelly as a filling for pastries, tarts, or donuts to add a sweet and tangy twist to your baked goods.

c). Glaze and Marinade: Fruit jelly can make a delightful glaze for roasted meats or a flavorful marinade for grilled chicken or pork.

d). Cheese Companion: Pair fruit jelly with a variety of cheeses for a delightful contrast of sweet and savory flavors.

e). Dessert Delights: Top off your desserts like ice cream, cheesecake, or yogurt with a spoonful of fruit jelly for an extra layer of flavor.

Health Benefits

Fruit jelly, when made with real fruit, can offer some health benefits too. It's a source of vitamins and antioxidants, and the natural sugars provide a quick energy boost. However, moderation is key as it can also be high in added sugars.

Mr. Mukhwas Fruit Jellies

At Mr. Mukhwas, we take pride in crafting high-quality fruit jellies that capture the essence of fresh fruits. Our jellies are made with the finest ingredients, preserving the natural flavors and vibrant colors of the fruits. Whether you prefer the classic grape or are eager to explore exciting new flavors, our range of fruit jellies has something to satisfy every palate.

For more information visit → https://mrmukhwas.in/

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