#custom eye-liner boxes

[sageispunk]

pretty like u (18+)

↳ A little lipstick never hurt anyone...

pairing: early 2000s jeff hardy x bestfriend!alt!black!reader

wordcount: 1.5k+

warnings: 18+, smut, just a lil self indulgent fic, reader is also a wrestler & southern, MUA foreplay basically, making out, lap riding/dry humping, dubcon if u squint, light choking

“You sure it’s gon’ look good, baby?”

“Mhmm, now sit still…you’re gonna mess me up.”

Kittie was playing faintly on your stereo behind you, coming off the nu metal mixtape you put together last week. Jeffrey watched as you continued to work on his face. The two of you were seated in front of your brightly lit, custom-made vanity. You straddled the fluffy brown bench and he sat in front of you, leaning forward in the chair he pulled over from across the room.

You could feel his pretty green eyes on you as you held his jaw sturdy with one hand, using the other to very carefully pen the eyeliner along his lower lash line. You didn’t want to do too much but you knew that he was okay with you playing around a little bit on his face. You could tell he was enjoying himself by the way he blushed and giggled after you’d mindlessly commented about his perfect facial structure while you were finishing up his smokey eye.

Sitting back, you scanned his face to make sure everything was symmetrical. His eyes followed yours, going back and forth until you looked away, twisting to retrieve something from the cluttered vanity.

Jeffrey tried not to stare but he couldn’t help but watch the way your body stretched and the way your clothes pulled around the curves of your body. The thin leopard print halter top you wore began to rise up on your tummy, giving him a sneak peek of the softness he was eager to lay his lips on.

The moth tattoos on the tops of both of your thighs were creeping out from under your black denim shorts. His fingers twitched in his lap, he wanted to trace them along the lines, softly, enough to get you to finally let your walls down for him.

In the few years that you’d known one another, there was almost no separating you. You’d traveled together to matches, and despite having your own hotel rooms, the two of you would often be found in yours—munching on a box of pizza together, watching Scooby Doo or some other silly cartoon. You would fly back home to NC during holidays together, visiting each other’s families before spending your own time alone.

But neither of you ever crossed that line. Sure, there were those times when you would notice his hand lingering on the small of your back as he passed by, or when he would catch you staring while he was putting on his face paint on the other side of the room. Tiny moments that the both of you brushed off as just parts of your weirdly intimate friendship, but everyone around you could see the energy there.

Like now, as you held Jeff’s jaw in your hand, with your own face just inches away from his. The pattern of his beard tickled under your fingers. A moment of eye contact had you both seizing your breath, before you tore your eyes away, focusing instead on his lips—soft, pink. You took a deep breath and popped open your black lip liner with one hand, bringing the pencil up to his face.

“Baby—” His cold hands gently landed on the tops of your thighs.

“Jeff…” You took a deep breath. “Stop calling me that.”

“Why?” His thumbs slid back and forth on your skin.

You lowered the liner back down to your lap. Jeffrey kept his face close, still in your grasp. “Just, let me finish, okay?”

“Okay.” He fought the urge to grin.

You rolled your eyes, biting your lip to hide your own smile. You quickly finished up the liner around his lips, following with a layer of your darkest purple lipstick. “Smack.”

He did as you said, and you released his face. He stayed close, and you didn’t dare to back up either. “How do I look?”

“Pretty.”

“Pretty like you?”

“Jeff-”

He leaned in just an inch. “I really wanna kiss you right now.”

You smacked your lips. “So now you wanna mess up all my ha—"

Jeffrey closed the distance between you, swallowing your words down with his lips. Your eyelids fell shut as you accepted the feelings you’d been denying for too long. Blindly sitting your materials back onto the vanity, you brought your hands up to Jeff’s shoulders. As many times as you’ve touched him before, it was nothing like how you felt him now.

His warm muscles tensed under your grasp, relaxing a second later before he slid his hands further down the sides of your thighs, tucking them under and pulling you forward into his lap. You gasped at the sudden rearrangement and Jeff chased your lips like there was nothing in the world that he needed more.

Eyes low and lipstick already smudged, he used a hand on the back of your head to bring you back in. His fingers tangled in your long, black braids, gently stimulating your scalp. Jeff’s other hand was placed firmly on your hip, massaging into your bare skin. You moaned into each other’s mouths, hands scrambling to touch as much skin as possible, to remember as much as possible.

You couldn’t stop yourself from grinding into his lap, already feeling his excitement underneath you. He whined against your lips, beginning to move in circles with you. The harmony between your bodies had you growing needier by the second, feeling almost regretful about taking so long to go further with Jeff. One of your hands found itself lightly wrapped around his neck, your fingers only slightly squeezing the sides. Jeff moaned, putting a few inches of space between your faces. You looked down at his purple, kiss-swollen lips, then back up to his eyes.

“C’mon baby, I’m all yours, take what ya need…”

Resting his head back against the chair, he pulled your free hand up to his neck to join the other. You took the hint and let both of your hands wrap around, squeezing just a bit tighter. Your hips bucked on as you felt him thrusting his hardness up into you, the only thing separating you being the fabric of both of your jeans. The teasing friction had you wanting more and more, and you tried for it.

You threw your own head back, sexually and emotionally frustrated and needing this orgasm to level your thoughts. “Fuck!”

Jeff squeezed your hips, providing a grounding sensation. You zeroed in, focusing on his touch and the heat growing between your bodies. You found the perfect pattern to move your body in, feeling the effects of both his cock and the seams of the jeans teasing your cunt.

You knew you were close, but it felt like you were missing something. You wanted to feel him, actually on you, or in you. You wanted to reach this high with him.

And just like he could read your mind, Jeff brought your attention back to his face, with his hands wrapped around your wrists. “Don’t stop, baby,” He whispered. His eyes were pleading, and so was his body under you.

“Cum with me?” Your voice was hushed, rasped, throat nearly dry although the rest of you felt the complete opposite.

Jeffrey nodded, slowly, moving once again with you as you picked up speed. Your eyes never left one another as the intensity of the moment increased. It was as though you were in tune with each other’s heartbeat, with the way the blood pumped through the other’s system. Everything in the universe began to make sense, like your whole life was leading up to this moment.

You used your hands on his neck to steady you as you moved with an eagerness even you haven’t seen in yourself. “Jeffrey— fuck, oh my god…”

“Mhmm, just like that baby, don’t stop…you’re so pretty grindin’ on me like this…”

You shouted out his name one last time, your entire body freezing up before it began to vibrate. White light blinded you behind your eyelids as you hit your peak, and you could faintly hear Jeff’s choked moans below, his own hips jerking up into you. You could feel every hair standing up on your body, every gentle gust of cool wind from the vents kissing your skin.

Your hips continued to move together, lazily, cooling down. You were synced, it seemed. Your hands loosened from his neck, falling down to his chest and feeling the swell of his chest under your fingertips.

Jeffrey pulled your arms in, effectively bringing your face back to meet his own. This time, he didn’t catch you by surprise. Your lips moved together as though you’d been doing this for years, tongues slipping past one another to explore. Sucking. Licking. Smacking.

When things cooled down, you were forehead to forehead, breathing in eah other's air. You could feel the dampness of Jeff's lap under you, whether from you or him, you didn't care. Your eyes opened and were immediately met with his soft hazel gaze. Turning your head to the side, you placed a quick, gentle kiss on the side of his face. A new warm feeling spurred within you at the sight of him blushing and turning away from you.

"Oh, now you wanna act all shy, huh? Don't tell me this is all I had to do to get Mr. Jeff Hardy to give up all his power..." You teased him, giggling as you circled your hips for a short second, knowing good and well that he could probably make you just as weak if the roles were reversed.

He wrapped his arms around your waist, endearingly pulling you in to squeeze himself against your chest. "Shhhh, girl...just gimme a few minutes..."

i do not give permission for anyone to copy, translate, or repost any of my works. 18+ ONLY -- i am not responsible for the content you consume.

[solitasims4]

my sims 4 create-a-sim must haves + sim dump

hey y'all! after many requests, I released a YouTube video this afternoon covering my Sim-creating process & showcased some of my favorite CAS-related pieces of custom content and a few mods.

i also announced my very first sim dump! I made Sims inspired by actress Avantika Vandanapu & influencer Nara Smith, as well as one extra Sim named Hannah Steward. you can watch today's video here if you are interested & view the sims available for download here.

down below is a list of links to some of the must-haves shown in my video. hope you guys find this helpful, & thank you always for the support! ♡

skin details

gaia skinblend

misc details

little details

bare ; a skin tone pack (non-default)

default, non-default, additional maxis teeth

affection, an eyebrow collection

misc lip masks

cleavage overlay collection

skin detail dump (nose, lips, eyes)

pierced ears

skin detail kit

so creamy skin overlay

chin cleft

maxis match genetics set

sliders for eyes

dusty skinblend

[skin details] structure

accessories

dior purse

mia rings

piercing ultimate collection

3d eyelashes no. 2

3d lashes 1 || 2 || 3

3d lashes

diamond tennis bracelet

all natural nails

luisa earrings

leather tabby bag functional

alphabet necklace collection

westwood necklace

vintage coach bag

MISC. ACCESSORIES ultimate collection

domino glasses

saint necklace

joliepods (airpods max)

cake nails

designer thong accessory

joliebean's jewelry box

apple watch series 7

sliders

eye + head size slider

default chin slider

default eyebrow slider

default mouth slider

default nose slider

default foot slider

female waist and hip height slider

hip shape slider

chin slider

pouty lip slider

6 sliders for nose

forehead height slider

presets

sweet body

pack of presets

makeup

universal hair overlay

honey lip preset collection

eyeliner | n150

default & extra eye colors

serene shadow + liner

gold makeup set

bad boy genetics & presets

sculpt contour collection

nosey posey

euphoria eyes

the bronze palette

basic eyeliner set

GRANDE coffee collection

fox eyeshadow 02

eyeliner 299

GOLD Halloween vampire set

eyes g15

chanel eyeshadow

LIPSTICK ultimate collection

lipstick 02

amy lipstick

darkness demon eyes

dark hour makeup set

body vein collection

mae face contour

dark contour & highlight set

mp eyeliner n9

mods

custom traits v1.7

more traits in CAS

more columns in CAS

more traits

new traits pack (more traits)

more traits #3

CAS tuning - controlled position mod

[ddejavvu]

Hi! If you’re ever in the mood, maybe could we get Hangman going into a florist shop (maybe to get his mom flowers or something idk) or a bakery and meeting reader who works there and she is just overall really sweet and he pretty much falls head over heels

The man that he has to shoulder past in the doorway makes Jake assume that his breakfast voyage to the new bakery on the coast will be a disastrous one, but one glance from you has him reconsidering.

Your eyes are trained on him from the moment he lumbers through the door, but Jake chooses to think that's because he's so impossibly handsome rather than because he's the only person there. You smile at him with all of the warmth of the pastry oven beside you, but none of the bite of its flame, and he steps up to the counter feeling like he's been sun-kissed.

"Hello, sir." You offer, and your voice is sweet like the glaze drizzled over the cinnamon rolls in your window, "What can I get for you this morning?"

Perhaps if you were different - harsher, maybe, sharper - he'd have asked for your number. But you seem too sweet for a savory one-liner, and he bites his tongue until his spit bleeds hot to restrain himself.

"Uh, just a blueberry muffin and a black coffee-" It takes every ounce of self-control not to call you sugar, the word ironically sour on his tongue, "-please."

"Warmed?" You pause from tapping his order into your computer, gazing curiously at him. He blinks, once, twice, then realizes you mean his muffin rather than his rapidly beating heart, nodding disjointedly.

"Alright," You smile, movements smooth like dough that's been expertly kneaded- not that Jake needs to be thinking about kneading you right now, "I'll have that ready for you in a moment, sir. Uh- military discount?"

You eye his bulging biceps pointedly, spying a tan neckline beneath the zipper of his jacket. His face melts into a dopey smile like butter over pancakes, and he tries keeping his voice similarly smooth when he nods, "Yeah."

"Thank you for your service," You nod before totaling his order up, and even if it's a phrase that's programmed into you, memorized just as diligently as the recipes you bake by, he finds that it means more from you than it ever has from any passing stranger.

He lingers at the counter while your system loads his payment, and keeps his head ducked towards the pin-pad though his eyes wander to your busy form.

You brew his coffee easily, and place his blueberry muffin into the oven with enough care that not a single crumb of the topping falls off. You give it fifteen seconds, then package it in a plastic box, retrieving his coffee and setting it on top. You hand him his two items, one on top of each other, and it means that your fingers linger on the babse of the container and the lid of his coffee cup longer than they need to, just to be sure he's not going to drop the precariously balanced meal.

"Have a nice day, sir." You beam at him with more of that celestial warmth, and the tinkle of a bell means that Jake has to step aside to let a new customer order. Otherwise he thinks he might linger, feet stuck to the floor and elbows growing achy as he leans them against the counter to talk with you while you work. He files the plan away for later, a recipe for a first date, and takes his leave, though not before throwing one last glance at you as he opens the door with his back.

Maybe it's wishful thinking, but he's fairly certain you're looking at the new customer a little more like a stale croissant than the sugary feast you'd seen in Jake.

[darl-ingfics]

A Likely Distraction

Fandom: ATEEZ

Sickie: Hongjoong (cold, snz)

Caregiver(s): San

Word Count: 1,553

Hongjoong had had a long day. ATEEZ had been on tour for a month, and they’d just arrived in Chicago, Illinois, their first stop kicking off the North American leg of the tour. The day had begun at 3am so that they could arrive at the airport earlier than most paparazzi were willing to wait for them. There had been the usual airport challenges of security and customs lines, and keeping track of all the members. Then there was the layover, the waiting that was simultaneously too long and too short. Finally, the second flight. But the day was far from over: right off the plane, they’d been taken to a round of interviews with a handful of US news sources. The company had tried its best to rearrange those interviews, but their wishes had not been granted. 

Luckily, the boys were the slap happy kind of tired rather than cranky and whiny. Those interviews were perhaps some of the most entertaining they’d given. As the leader, and one of the only members proficient in English, Hongjoong did a lot of the talking. Or the real talking at least; he was the one hyping up their concert, explaining their comeback concept, detailing their goals as performers. Of course the other members chimed in when they felt comfortable, especially Seonghwa and San, which Hongjoong appreciated. Especially because his throat had started hurting midway through their second flight, and it was only becoming increasingly more painful despite all the water he was drinking. 

Immediately after they’d bid goodbye to the final interviewer, the whole group’s energy dipped. An unusual quiet fell over the group as they shuffled to the van, suddenly too tired to even consider horsing around anymore. 

The drive to the hotel was mercifully short. Hongjoong could not wait to shower and fall into bed. A headache had begun to pound behind his eyes. 

The mangers had already divided rooms. Hongjoong had been paired with San. He didn’t mind that too much, although the leader had been hoping to room with Seonghwa. Hongjoong knew, despite his highest hopes, that he was coming down with something, and he wouldn’t have to hide that from Seonghwa; his fellow 98’ liner would be able to read him before Hongjoong even had the chance to pretend. He had no desire to worry San, and would therefore need to be a bit more cautious about his symptoms as they arose. Which wasn’t the end of the world, but was an additional burden nonetheless. 

But Hongjoong couldn’t stay mad after San shot him the brightest smile on their way to the elevators. 

“You wanna shower first?” San asked immediately upon entry to their room, flopping back onto the closer bed. 

“That would be great, if you’re okay with it.”

San nodded, propping himself up on one elbow. “Of course! That’s why I offered.” He grinned again. “I’ll find us some snacks.” Hongjoong wondered where all of this energy was coming from as San shot back to his feet and began rummaging in his luggage. 

“Did you pack snacks?”

“Duh!” San held up two boxes of said snacks. 

Hongjoong shook his head, laughing at his friend’s antics before snapping forward, “ET’Chuh!“ He blinked, his own body catching him completely off guard.

“Bless you!” San chirped as he continued sifting through the contents of his bag. 

Hongjoong flushed with embarrassment. “Thanks,” he mumbled before moving to his own luggage, quickly locating his shower things. “I’ll be back soon.”

“Take your time. I’m suddenly bursting with energy again.”

“Great. Looks like we’re in for some good bedtime stories then.” San turned back to him with a devious grin. Bedtime stories had become a tradition amongst the group whenever they were sharing hotel rooms. They’d collaboratively build stories together, becoming sillier and more ridiculous the closer they got to sleep. Sure, Hongjoong would rather just pass out tonight, but San was notoriously the best storyteller in the group. 

Hongjoong’s smile faded as soon as he’d closed the bathroom door behind him. He rested his back against the door momentarily. He sniffled against a sudden itch in his sinuses. Pitched forward with another “ET’Chuh!“ 

“Bless you!” San called through the door. Hongjoong knocked an acknowledgment, pressing a knuckle against his nose as he rushed to get into the shower. Hopefully the hot water and steam would help kick out whatever bug was attempting to overthrow his body. Especially this new itch in his nose. Sneezing wasn’t exactly an easy symptom to hide. 

The success of the shower was mixed. The hot water did wonders on his sore muscles, easing the ache in his head, and of course removing the sweat and layer of ick that Hongjoong always felt after being on airplanes. On the flip side, though, the steam had loosened things up in his head, and he wasn’t able to stop himself from sneezing a few times, praying the water was loud enough for San not to hear him. Hopefully, this was just his body’s way of removing the yuck now, his immune system doing what it needed to expel the intruder. Hongjoong convinced himself he’d been right as rain tomorrow. 

Still, after exiting the shower, he wrapped himself in the warmest sweatshirt he’d brought and pulled on a pair of fuzzy socks he’d stolen from Wooyoung before they left. 

“How was the shower?” San asked as soon as Hongjoong stepped through the door. The younger man was lounging on his chosen bed, watching something on his phone, a few snack wrapped on the bed next to him. 

“Heavenly.” Hongjoong scrubbed at his nose with his sweatshirt sleeve. The cooler air of the room was a bit of a shock after the steamy post-shower bathroom. 

“Oooo, I can’t wait.” San rubbed his hands together with cartoonish excitement as he collected his wrappers and hopped off the bed. Hongjoong chuckled a bit before he felt his breath catch. With just that little bit of warning, he was able to completely stifle a sneeze in his sleeve, absolutely silent. San had his back turned to him anyway as he dug through his bag. 

“You didn’t have your stuff ready?” Hongjoong asked around another laugh. He could feel the itch creeping back, and he held his sleeve up in warning. 

“Yeah, I got distracted by the snacks.” San was luckily currently still distracted by the quest for his shower things that he missed another stifled sneeze that bent Hongjoong at the waist. He couldn’t help the sniffle that followed, through, thick and stuffy. 

“Aha!” San cheered, holding up his shower bag. “Gotcha!” He turned back to Hongjoong with a brilliant smile that faded almost instantly. “Hyung, are you okay?”

“Ye-yeah,” Hongjoong breathed out before he gasped, once again snapping at the waist. “ET’Chuh! ET’Chuh! Heh… heh… HE-atCHUH!” 

San’s brow furrowed as he vaulted to his feet, abandoning his shower bag in favor of the box of tissues from the bathroom. He found the captain coughing roughly when he returned. “Here, here.” San snatched a handful of tissues from the box and forced them into Hongjoong’s hands. He waited, rubbing his back as his friend blew his nose, scrubbed at his eyes with his knuckles. “Bless you, Joong.”

The captain flushed, squeezing his eyes closed with embarrassment. “I’m sorry.”

San shook his head. “For what?” he asked around a laugh. His hand moved up and down Hongjoong’s back. The older man wasn’t meeting his eyes. “Hyung, what’s going on?”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re acting weird.”

“No, I’m acting tired.”

“You’re sick, aren’t you?”

“No…”

“You want me to snuggle with you?”

“No…”

“You know I’m a really good snuggler.”

“I’m not doubting you, I just don’t want snuggles right now.”

“Why? Is it cause you’re sick and don’t want me to know?”

Hongjoong turned to him with a weak glare. “Why are you so persistent?”

San’s lips quirked up. “Why do you feel like you have to hide it from me?”

“You shouldn’t have to worry about me…”

“Hyung, you not telling me makes me worry more!” Hongjoong shrugged, lacking a clever reply. San frowned. “And, if you hadn’t said anything, then I couldn’t have given you the cold medicine I have packed in my suitcase.” Hongjoong looked up at him with hope in his eyes. “See? It’s not so bad to admit you’re sick. It comes with perks.” 

“Doesn’t feel like it.” Hongjoong sniffled, pressing another tissue to his nose as it had started running again. San tossed the box onto the captain’s bed as he turned back to his suitcase to find the pills he’d packed. “But thank you. For the meds.”

“Of course. That’s why I bring them.” As San continued to rummage (he’d messed things up earlier looking for his snacks, and the hunt for the shower bag hadn’t helped.) As he watched, an adoring smile on his face, Hongjoong’s breath hitched again, and he caught another sneeze in his tissue. 

“Bless you!”

“You don’t have to keep saying that…”

San shrugged as he turned around, pill packet in hand. “I don’t mind.”

“I do.” 

A tiny smile spread on San’s lips as he noticed his captain’s face flushing red again, recognizing his discomfort. “Okay then. That last one will just apply moving forward.”

“Thank you.”

“Anything for you.”

[octuscle]

Cursed Ken, part 5: Kev, the bouncer

"Ajith" meant "the invincible one". What a silly name. Ajith thought of it regularly. But what could he do, he couldn't help his name. Ajith was one of those IT nerds that everyone needed but no one took seriously. Ajith was the first to arrive in the morning and the last to leave in the evening. At some point, his hard work would pay off. He was sure of that…

It was already quite late when Ajith walked towards the cafeteria. The coffee machine in his department had already been cleaned and switched off. And if he wanted to keep going for another two hours, he urgently needed a coffee. The corridors were deserted. He heard footsteps coming from somewhere. A giant was heading towards the exit. A muscle-bound guy with a shaved head. Obviously one of the janitors. He was carrying a bin liner. Suddenly Ajith saw something fall out. A box. And although it would certainly have been sensible to point it out to the janitor, Ajith didn't. Instead, he walked as inconspicuously as possible towards the box. Ajith immediately recognized the box as a prototype toy. Professionally made. But clearly not a product that would be on a toy store shelf in this packaging. Or in a sex store, Ajith thought to himself. The young man on the packaging didn't look as if Ajith would let his daughter, whom he didn't yet have, play with it. And definitely not his son.

But Ajith was clever enough to realize that there was a market for this type of prototype. Fags were certainly willing to spend a lot of money on something like this. And Ajith could more than use the money. He cursed not having a jacket or a bag with him. But there had to be paper bags in the cafeteria for the sandwiches you could get there. And even if he had just found a treasure, he still had a few things to work off and he needed a coffee to do so.

Ajith's leather pants creaked with every step he took. He loved the feel of the unlined black leather hugging his thighs. As expected, the cafeteria was deserted. Only a young guy sat bored at the cash register, playing with his cell phone. When Ajith put the tray with the Coke and pastrami sandwich down at the till, the impressive bulge in his leather trousers had to be almost exactly at eye level with the young man, who was lying more than sitting in his seat. The young man's eyes widened in shock as the sight and smell of the leather snapped him out of his daydreams. Ajith asked with a grin if he liked the sight. The young fellow grinned and said that he had seen worse. He kneaded the bulge that appeared in his jeans. Ajith was sorry, but unfortunately he had to work. But he would be at Boxers HK from 22:00. If he felt like it, he would be happy to welcome him there.

Kevin wondered why he was actually sitting here in the cafeteria eating a really bad sandwich instead of eating at the store where he worked before his shift started. Shit, where was he anyway? Oh yeah, right… He had hooked up with the guy working the register for a quick blowjob via Grindr. And the boy had blown like the devil. And that had made Kevin hungry. But now he was late. If he wanted to be on time for his shift, he had to take an uber. Fortunately, there was one available nearby. The driver also seemed to like the passengers getting into his Prius. And Kevin wasn't exactly disgusted either. He liked Indians. They were polite and pleasant customers. And submissive and docile in bed. At the next red light, Kevin moved from the back seat to the passenger seat. And his driver didn't necessarily reach past the gearshift more than once by mistake. No wonder with an automatic gearbox. And with the pole sticking out of Kevin's pants. Shit, after the driver had operated the wrong gearshift a few times, he had to pull over again. And suck the pole next to the gearshift.

Being late was not good. But Kev was basically reliable and his boss overlooked the ten minutes. However, starting the service completely horny was never perfect either. Customers tended to stare at Kev's crotch rather than his face because of his hard-on. And with a hot guest, Kev sometimes disregarded the rules of the club. If the guest was a potential after-hours victim, he was allowed in the club. Kev was perhaps not the toughest bouncer in town. But he was one of the hottest and horniest.

[nahisummerhold]

City of Dusk, Part 4

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

A couple of days had passed, one more box appeared, this one growing hot when she tried to open it, whoever was sending these was about to get on her list, it was near torture to see them there every time she came to the club or left it and she wanted to open them so badly. Detailing and magic running through them, beautiful and could only imagine what treasures they held. 

Her new Shal’dorei flirtation from had brought a friend to the club and during each break she sat with them, there was none of the playfully sexy banter, just people enjoying a relaxed night together. The man he came with was named Beyan Adrinore and he owned a club that held private galas, by the end of the night he booked her for a party in three weeks time. 

Nahi appreciated Mr. Presence bringing Beyan to meet her, especially as they got along famously and she felt she would be getting more than this one booking with him, but as with his leaving the night before it confused her. What kind of man that wants to get into a woman’s pants brings a third wheel to grind the process to a halt? They had been in each other’s orbits for days and other than one racy conversation they were no closer to finding where the flirtation could take them by the time he and Beyan had left at the end of the night.

Dressing with extra care whether he showed up or not she was out to make herself known for more than just her voice. A dress in metallic gold as bright as the sun itself showed her dark skin to perfection, it hung all the way to her knees with a slit in the back so she could walk at least and it clung to her in all the right places. Ombre curls were piled high on her head, held in place by pins that disappeared except small sparkling jewels left exposed to catch the stage lights. Her makeup was artfully minimal, a small gold shimmer over the lids of her eyes, mascara, a touch of kohl liner, her lips a saturated fuscia with a hint of gold gloss over top. People in Suramar were used to their cool colors, she was suited to warmer tones and was ready to illuminate night, tonight she would be unapologetically her.  Mid-way through her first set, her intriguing flirtation partner arrived, as usual he made his way into the club with the hosting staff hovering a couple of steps behind him but his gaze was locked on Nahi like a beacon. One small glance in his direction was all she graced him with, then she focused on the other patrons at the tables by the stage, liquid gold moved with her every step catching the light and enchanting her mahogany skin. Each song she performed she connected deeply with those watching, eye contact drew them in, a special type of energy poured out over the audience. 

This wasn’t the kind of club where people met her after each set and asked for autographs, but tonight a couple of the club members shook her hand as she walked off stage delaying her trip to the bar. Nahi had lost sight of Mr. P when she turned her attention away so she could not go to him, or if he was even still in the club. Finally through the audience she stood at the servers station at the bar, Philenete, the bartender waved to let her know that he had seen her, but he was waiting on customers at the bar so she turned and cocked one hip looking out over the club guests, not seeking him out though she wanted to, just letting him come to her if he was that interested.

“That dress stops just short of indecent,” The voice of her new mysteriously sexy man came from her side his approach gone unnoticed. It was a comment she agreed with, it had been the point of wearing it but she wasn’t going to admit that. 

Turning to face him, she smiles politely just as she had to his friend Beyan the previous night, acknowledging him without any other emotion involved. He was in a suit that was tailored as immaculately as she imagined it would be, dark hair looking slightly wet and when she met his eyes, the normal humor was banked for a look of hunger. “I think a knee length cocktail dress is considered decent in most civilized places, is Suramar so uncivilized?”

He ignored her retort completely, “Did you wear it for me?”

Yes. “No.” Luckily the bar area was dark, there was a faint hope he would not see the lie on her face. 

“Here you go Nahi, sorry about the wait. You are like fire tonight.” The words drew her attention back to the bar, Philenete pushed a mug across the bar to her with a wink and a smile before he moved away.

Picking up the hot water, she gave the bartender a brilliant smile, “Thank you!” Her voice carried to him and he waved from where he was already engaged with someone else. The full presence of the Shal’dorei behind her was invisibly resting on her shoulders, even if he remained a few steps away, turning she looked up into his eyes over the steam rising off her water. “It is nice to see you again.”

“Nice?” He asked after a rough chuckle, “Nice to see me? Not a little more than nice?” The man knew what she was very obviously doing.

“Mmm hmmm,” Nahi said, allowing humor to show in her gaze, they both recognized the ridiculous nature of her downplaying his being there.

The weight of the desire in his eyes yielded some of its intensity as amusement joined it, “You could get in trouble trying to dismiss me like that.”

Nahi had played this part of their game more than once with others. In her mind she wanted to say, ‘Like you did to me the night before?’ but she knew the outcome if she did, he would gloat over having affected her, giving him that more power over her. “Is that so? Well I will have to try to remember that. I have to get back on stage. See you later?”

A low growl sounded from him as she turned, dismissing him again. Her reasoning was valid, her break was over and she couldn’t take more time just to fence with him in the power game they were playing. Walking through the tables to the stage instead of along the arranged walkway, she purposely made it so he would have to pursue her in front of people to continue the conversation. By the time she stepped onto the stage, placed her drink on a small side table  and talked to the piano player, he had taken a table just off the side of the stage, game point to her this volley. 

The rest of the night, even through her breaks, he remained at the table and Nahi had decided to become stubborn about ceding control of the interaction between them, unlike the night before where she joined him and his friend, she avoided going even near his table. Each time she began the next set would glance at him and his eyes would meet hers, humor was there at first, but with each time she avoided him, the humor bled away leaving annoyance behind. Nahi wouldn’t cede the power back to him, she wanted to figure out what they had between them because she hadn’t been this drawn to a person since Tempest Keep. Nahi had dealt this hand, and wasn’t going to be the one that folded, instead she turned up her power a little each set. 

Near the end of the night she was choosing moments in her performance to meet his eyes, connecting more intimately within songs that were emotionally  charged. It was the opposite of how she usually approached moments like those, normally looking out over the audience, building that anticipation before closing her eyes and filling her voice with emotion over offering it up visually. As he had watched her for the last few nights she was sure he would recognize the change, and when she met his eyes she saw a new depth there, more intense than their playful moments.

When she ended the night, she came down off the stage looking around but he was nowhere to be seen, it was a something that took her breath away thinking that he had just left. Putting on her best smile, refusing to show her disappointment, she moved through to the bar, talking to anyone that reached out to her. Getting her warm drink, she headed back to her dressing room, stepping in, she paused just inside the door, he was resting against the vanity, legs crossed in front of him and arms across his chest. “Did you wear it for me?”

It was like no time passed at all between them, there was no way she could hide the truth in this light so she turned from him, placing her mug on a table only to feel his arm encircling her waist, “Did you wear it for me?” His voice whispered darkly, the little diamond hoop in her ear, pressing between her cartilage and his cheek, the heat of his breath caressing the length of her long ear and her temple.

Nahi didn’t answer, couldn’t answer, he had stolen the songstress’s voice away, her eyes closed and her lips parted. One hand braced on the table, the other still holding her mug, pinned in place by his arm and the desire that rushed through her. With no answer, he wrapped his hands around her waist and picked her up, turning, he walked her to the counter with the boxes, sitting her in front of them and lifting a hand to tilt her chin up so he was looking into her eyes, “Answer me, my Banshee, did you wear it for me?”

“Yes,” she said softly, her gaze locked with his, none of the challenging defiance of earlier remaining, melted away by the scorching connection between them. Dark hands rested on the charcoal sleeves of his suit, champagne colored nails tipped into the fabric, not clinging but fighting a desire to push away from the vulnerability that was racing through her. 

Leaning in, his lips brushing from the side of her mouth along her cheek to rest at the base of her ear, a small place that caused a heat to pool in her belly, it was like he had known her body for hundreds of years already. “Get your things, whoever it is you go home to each night will just have to do without you, because my bed has been waiting for you to be in it.” 

[rileyslibrary]

Good day to you, dear librarian! I landed in your ask box because you are THE writer for Simon so hear me out: at this point, we can imagine how soldier!reader and ghost build a trustworthy relationship and stuff, but how do you think would a "normal" citizien, who doesn't have anything to do with the military, start a relationship with Simon? Say its romantic or platonic, how would they even meet? I'm really interested in your opinion/headcanons etc!

I’ve been avoiding answering this ask for two weeks, yet it’s so intriguing that I can’t stop thinking about it.

Why have I been avoiding it? Because I don’t know how he’d initiate something like that. Plain and simple. I don’t. No clue. You crashed my system with this ask, anon.

I mean, I did write a couple of stories with Ghost and a civilian reader in the past, but not from the beginning. Not how they would meet.

I can try thought.

All I can picture is a very awkward, very reluctant Simon, eavesdropping at his *cough* point of interest *cough*, trying to listen or pick up something they say so he can throw a cheesy one-liner or a joke to get the reader’s attention.

Or maybe gauging them, trying to see if he can squeeze himself into a situation where he would be seen as valuable or helpful to get noticed.

“Is this too heavy? Let me carry it for ya.”

“Is this product on the supermarket aisle too high because the company producing it didn’t pay enough money to have it on the customer’s eye level for marketing purposes? Let me bring it down for you.”

“Aha! I caught you making/laughing at a joke; I have plenty of those. Let me see if I can make you smile.”

I don’t think he’s timid or stupid, don’t get me wrong. But I don’t feel he’d be as bold as to walk towards a stranger and start small talking about the weather or today’s economy, then BAM, “Here’s my phone, call me, will ya?”

No, but I do hc him as someone who’d be helpful or funny in order to charm the reader.

At this point, I feel it’d be honest and fair of me to admit that I don’t know. Sorry, I failed you, anon. 💔

[jsprnt]

Healing Hearts PT.2 | Virgil van Dijk

Would a fresh start bring you more than just a new job?

WC: 2.892

Summary: Y/N L/N is a very skilled and praised physiotherapist. A certain event pushing her for a fresh start, as a physiotherapist for Liverpool FC. One question always being in the back of her mind: Will she be able to let go of her past and allow herself to experience new things?

I am awoken by the blaring sound of my alarm. Why do I always have to wake up when my bed gets so comfy? I groan, fighting the urge to snooze my alarm, checking the time while at it. It's six now, two hours to make this face look like it has seen more than four hours of sleep.

I check my messages before washing up. Walking out to the bathroom to put on my outfit. Some 90's style jeans and a body hugging cropped shirt. Nothing too much, I'll have to wear my scrubs anyway. I make my bed and do some breathing exercises to calm my nerves, meeting new people was still a big challenge for me. I finish eating breakfast and turn on the coffee machine for a nice frothy cup of coffee. Admiring the view behind my window as I sip the last bit of my coffee. The city is not entirely up yet, people still enjoying their last minutes of sleep before going to work or school.

Walking back to my room for the best part of my morning, doing my make up! I apply my base carefully. First day means first impressions, I can't go overboard, not yet. I curl my long lashes, coating them with mascara. Lining my lips with brown liner, some lip balm on top for a subtle look. I take out my jewelry box, grabbing my usual gold necklace. It was custom made, adorning my name, a graduation gift from my mom. I look into the mirror, humming a song in satisfaction as I do my hair. I grab my bag, stuffing it with things I might need throughout the day. Finally, putting on my Nike dunks and leaving my house.

I walk downstairs to my car. Thankfully my dad had arranged for it to be imported from Spain a couple weeks ago, when I accepted this job. My dad had a thing for paying for my things, maybe it  was to make up for our strained relationship or something. Either way, I wasn't going to refuse his help, it benefited us both anyways. He'd feel like a present father, and I'd feel like he cared.

I jump into my car, the dashboard lighting up. I run my hands around the steering wheel for some comfort before I hit the road. The leather soft as I trace the Mercedes logo, I loved this baby. My G-class never failed to make me feel like the bad bitch I am. I told you working hard and spending hard had its perks. I turn on the navigation system, hoping it would take me straight to the training grounds without any issues.

I turn on some music, trying to drown out my nerves and thoughts. It was never too early for some Drake. I try to pay special attention to my surroundings, since the more I memorize, the faster I can get used to this route. My navigation system pings as it tells me I've arrived. I scan my surroundings, being greeted by a security post. I drive up to it, turning my music off and rolling my window down.

"Good morning, I'm here for the new physiotherapist job." I flash the security guard a smile, he is an older man, his hair graying slightly. I might as well get friendly since I'll be here almost everyday from today onwards. "Morning to you as well. Could you some show me some sort of identification, please?." I can't help but stare at the man, his scoucer accent making it hard for me to understand right away, I should get used to it quickly. I nod quickly pulling my ID from my wallet. He looks at it, scanning through a list, probably a list of staff? His eyes light up as he, I presume sees my name on the list. "Welcome, Dr. l/n, I'll call up the head coach so he can greet you at the door." He gives me a kind smile, handing me my ID back. "Thank you, I appreciate it." I shove my ID back into my wallet, driving into the training center parking lot as the gates open for me. I park, collecting my bag as I jump out of my car. Though, not before fixing my hair and make up.

I take in my surroundings, so this is what I'll be partially calling home now. I notice some other, what I presume to be staff walk into the training center. I walk in as well, immediately being greeted by the huge Liverpool FC emblem. I hold onto my bag tightly, trying to contain my nerves.

I look to my right, the reception. The woman behind the desk looks up, flashing me a smile as I go up to her, sitting down on the chair in front of her desk.

"Hi, I'm y/n l/n. I'm here for the physiotherapist job." She stares at me for a moment, before typing something on the computer. "Nice to meet you! I'm Clara, welcome to our family. I'll call down our head physio, just a second honey.”

Her response warms my heart as I nod. So far, I think I'll feel quite comfortable here. She picks up the phone, though her expression changes into one of surprise as she looks behind me, over my shoulder. "Oh, he is here already."

My eyes follow hers, being greeted by a man, around his 50's. He walks up to me, extending his hand to me. "Welcome Dr. l/n. I've heard a lot about you, nice to finally see the woman being so highly spoken of by my colleagues." I smile and grab his hand in a firm handshake. "It's an honor to finally meet you, Dr. Woods."

He chuckles, before letting go of my hand. "Let's talk more inside, the boss wants to meet you as well." I turn back towards Clara, mumbling a quick thank you to her, before following Dr. Woods inside the training center. I glance around, it’s is even bigger in real life. I had watched some YouTube video's of the club just to prepare and calm my anxiety, but seeing it in real life was very different. We stop in front of an office, the label reading 'Manager'. I raise my eyebrows in surprise. I'd already be meeting THE Klopp. I rub my hands together trying to get rid of that anxious feeling.

Dr. Woods knocks on the door loudly, the door is opened a couple of seconds later, revealing Klopp.

"Hey, I'm here to introduce our new physiotherapist." The doctor informs. Klopp looks at me, giving me one of his famous smiles. "Right of course, come in." He opens the door wider, we both walk in. He ushers us to sit down on his red sofa's. He sticks out his hand, we shake hands as he introduces himself, with that all too well known German accent. "It's always nice to greet new members of our big family. Welcome, I'm Jürgen Klopp." I introduce myself as well, his eyes light up in recognition as I tell him my name. "I've heard very great things about you Dr. l/n. I'm very happy to see you here."

"No it's an honor for me, this club is amazing and I'm happy to contribute to the team." I reply, my worries and nerves had been washed away just like- that. I just know that this was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

We start chatting about how I've adjusted to living here, my education and my experience before they start asking different questions.

"So that means you speak how many languages?"

Dr. Woods asks curiously.

"Well my native tongues would be Dutch since I was born and raised in The Netherlands and Turkish, since I'm half Turkish. I'm also fluent in English as you can hear." We chuckle. "Though I do speak some Spanish and Catalan since I worked at FC Barcelona for two years, as you know."

"Great so you'll have no problem with speaking to the players huh? Especially our very loved Dutch players." We laugh at Klopps comment. I secretly hope that too.

Our conversation comes to an end as Klopp suggests I meet the players. He checks his watch, before looking at me. "Players will come in any moment now. They'll start with warming up." Dr. Woods chimes in. "It will be a recovery day since the team played a match yesterday as you may have followed."

Oh yeah I did. I watched it just so I could take notes on the players, the draw at the end was kind of disappointing. Though, it was better than losing.

"Right, I did watch it. Just to study a little before I do see the team play in real life."

"You're impressive Doctor, doing homework before even starting to work." Klopp says. "Oh it's nothing really, just prepares me for what I might encounter as I start working here." I dismiss.

We stand up after a short while, Dr. Woods taking me to put on my scrubs. I mentally pray they have pink ones, both of my former clubs did have them. He walks up to a machine, telling me exactly how the scrub dispenser worked. I nod, pressing some buttons before choosing my size. The scrubs are a- dark red? Well, at least they are part of the club colors. Dr. Woods leads me to the woman's staff changing room. I walk and change quickly putting my hair up in a claw clip.

I walk out of the room after putting my stuff in my locker, and installing a code on it. "I'm ready."

I tell him, he looks at my scrubs for a second. "Red looks great on you Dr. l/n, part of the family already." We chuckle before he leads me to the gym.

A sudden wave of nervousness hits me. I had known that the players were very friendly, still I couldn't help but feel like an unsure inexperienced intern again. We walk into the gym, it's big with plenty of space for calisthenic training like, push-ups and burpees. I look around seeing some the worlds best star players. I've worked some of the best football players like Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong, but this still felt super insane.

I notice Klopp walking in as he calls for the players to gather around to introduce me. I glance around, they all give me a kind smile as Klopp tells them I'll be their new physiotherapist starting this new season, and of course he couldn't help but mention I'm Dutch. "Nice to meet everyone, I look forward to working with you all." I give them a smile, my dimples on full display. Suddenly, one of the players walks up to me, I immediately recognize him, who wouldn't? It's the caption of the team, well of his national team too. Virgil towers over me, sticking out his hand, his tall frame couldn't be compared to what you see on TV or the pitch. "Welcome to our team y/n, or should I call you doctor." He flashes me a beautiful smile, making me shake his hand and smile in respons. "Hi, y/n is fine, it's good to be here." Other players come to greet me as well, not to forget Robertson, who has to crack a joke about another Dutch person joining the club. "You'd think it was planned huh." We laugh and chat for a bit before Klopp redirects the attention back to him.

"Alright everyone, it's recovery day so take it easy and tell our doctors if something's up as they assist you."

Dr. Woods turns to me, telling me to follow his lead as I slowly start getting the gist of how everything works here. I nod at him, watching as he talks to the players about any soreness they're experiencing.

The day progress quickly as lunch time hits, we walk into the canteen. Seems like players and staff eat at the same time just like in Barcelona.

I walk through the the buffet as I'm greeted by Gakpo.

"Dus je bent echt Nederlands?" (So you're actually Dutch?) he asks in Dutch, full of curiosity. "Natuurlijk, geboren en getogen. Net als jij." (Of course born and raised. Just like you.)

He gives me a cute smile before we continue speaking in Dutch as we fill up our plates with healthy and delicious food.

He invites me to sit with the team. I glance at him wondering if it is a good idea. Well I did sit with the players at Barca too. "Are you sure?" I ask. "Yeah, look around players sit with staff at every table." I take a glance around, he was right staff and players were sitting together at every table. Chatting and laughing together. "Okay then, I'll sit with you guys."

He leads me to a table, already occupied by Trent, Virgil, Joel, Andrew and new star transfer Dominik Szoboszlai. "Doctor, very nice of you to sit with us." Virgil chimes in. "Well I couldn't refuse when Cody offered, we're practically already family based on the fact that we're Dutch hm." The table erupts in laughter, as we glance at Cody. "Of course the Dutch lad steals the doctor before we get to know her." Trent teases, his Scouse accent thick. "Where did you work before joining us?" Robbo asks, shoving a spoonful food into his mouth. Everyone at the table turns to me for my answer.

I clear my throat before answering. "I first interned at Ajax, I got a three year contact there after graduating. Then I got offered a position at Barcelona, worked there for two years." They nod in acknowledgement. Before Cody mentions something. "Oh you're the famous pretty doctor?!" I stare at him confused. "What do you mean?" "Well the national team players used to always talk about a pretty doctor working at Ajax." I raise a brow at his words, glancing at Virgil to confirm, since he also is apart of the national team. "Can't lie Doctor, they did talk about a pretty Doctor." I give them an impressed look. "I guess that would be me?" I chuckle.

We chat some more as everyone chimes in, though some of their faces turning confused. "Wait how old are you then?" One of them asks. "Oh I'm twenty-five." I reply. "Wow, you're pretty impressive for someone so young." Joel says. I thank him as we all continue eating and chatting in between bites.

Recovery training had gone by fast. I had gotten much more familiar with team and how they operate. Klopp dismisses everyone, as we all walk back into our designated changing rooms. Though, I'm quickly stopped by Dr. Woods. He tells me he'll make sure someone adds me to the staff group chat, as well as the group chat the entire club is in. We then bid each other goodbye as I enter the female staff changing room. I take a minute to sit down and to take it all in, that really just happend huh.

I change quickly putting my outfit back on and discarding my scrubs into the laundry basket. I do a quick make up refresh and hair fix before I grab my bag and take out my car keys. I walk through the hallways slowly, looking around for things I might have not seen yet. I’m totally in my own world before I hear my name being called. I turn around, I'm greeted by both Trent and Dominik, seems like they had been getting along nicely since Dominik had transferred here.

"Are you going out?" The new star asks. "Yeah, you guys aren't?" I lift a brow at them. I can see small smirks on their faces, they look like schoolboys hiding something. "Oh yes, we're leaving just now." We chat a little before we walk outside, saying goodbye to Clara at the reception. I notice other cars had parked right next to mine. "Bye doctor, we'll see ya tomorrow, right?" The Scoucer says. I nod "See you guys!" They wave before they both get into their respective cars.

I unlock my car, climbing in before closing the door. I place my bag onto the passengers seat, leaning back for a second. First day: survived.

Sadly, my peace is interrupted by a loud car horn. I raise my head and lower my window, it's the car next to me? I squint, it's an English car so I can see who it is from my seat. The person lowers down his windows as well. It's Virgil?

"What's wrong?" I half shout, so he can hear me through the loud engine of his car. "Nothing just wanted your attention." I chuckle, man these football players never got tired of teasing people. I roll my eyes playfully, before starting my car. I wave at him, before driving my car out of the parking slot.

I get home rather quickly, my speakers playing my favorite songs loudly. I enter my house, feeling fulfilled. I throw myself on my couch after washing up. I reflect on the day, the players and staff were amazingly kind. Though, that small interaction with Trent and Dominik was weird, why were they so smirky?

[artbyrewcana]

the leaves and you is available NOW for purchase. link here

watch me design the cover here

the leaves and you is a horror novella that follows jezebel, a lesbian food service worker, as she navigates her new lesbian relationship, her monotonous work, and the strange beast that keeps hitting its wooden limbs against her window.

jump into the existential, love-filled, mind-bending ride. content warning for body horror.

excerpt below:

Sweet dreams. Sweet dreams. A wish left unfulfilled. Many nights your dreams have been blank, devoid of anything. Anything you can remember at least.

Your mind gives you reprieve when you are alone. You find yourself staring through the window at that enormous oak tree. The leaves of the thin branches low on the trunk are already turning red with the fall’s onslaught of death.

You force yourself to wisen up. You are expected at a job today. The job you’ve had for some time. Not too long, and yet they already rely on you too heavily. You feel the weight on your shoulders as you put on the clothes expected to work.

You stand before the counter plastic prep table and, without any particular care or attention, follow the orders on the prompter. One half salad of this, one full salad with this. These substitutions, no meat, extra meat. The basil you distribute used to evoke something in you, something deep and warm. But now the only thing that affects you is the pepper that gets in your eyes. They water.

You catch yourself sighing as you finish the onslaught of paid requests. In the time you fulfill them, you’ve made a tiny fraction of what your employers sold them for. Had you not been breathing?

A manager with a plain face comes up to you and jokes. You laugh politely for them. There is no energy to say anything back.

Work is easy. You didn’t understand why people made such a big fuss about it. You, of course, understood that it was a bit of a rip-off in terms of time investment vs financial acquisition but, it’s not like there was anything else to do. The bright lights may give you headaches, but they keep the musk and the mist and rot at bay.

And then you make a mistake. You can’t remember the last time you made a mistake. It was the third of five salads that you were working on simultaneously. Before the pale visage of the manager appeared at your side for another one-liner that skidded over your sunken consciousness, you set the mistake aside and replace the plastic box in the line.

Wait, no. You throw it away. The words from the hours of training videos repeat faintly in your ears, “Every mistake must be disposed of. That’s why we have the ‘DAM’ policy. Dispose of All Mistakes. Only food items for paying customers may remain. Every mistake must be...” kept for you, say the muscles in your hands and your heart. So easily had you hidden the boxed greens from the ghost eyes of the plain face. 

All at once, you smell the rot of the totality of food the branded entity which employs you has discarded. It overwhelms your senses and you all but keel over. The overly congenial training voice continues, “We are not advocates for food waste, which is the true philosophy behind this policy. This incentivizes team members to make it right, the first time. DAM your mistakes!”

Thousands of tons of fresh food decompose in time-lapse. “Each team member is responsible for the food waste he or she produces during their shift.” Flies buzz in your ears and start to bite at you as you reach for your hidden contraband with the intention to throw it away as you’ve always done with your mistakes. The buzzing grows louder. You cover your ears.

“You okay, Jezebel?” Plain-faced manager asks.

You open your eyes and see no rot. Just the food production line whose smells and cracks you’ve found familiarity in. You don’t look at the stashed food item. “Yeah, sorry.”

“Alright, I need that caesar for Drive-Thru ASAP. Also, you gotta change your gloves after touching your face,” they leave when you nod an acknowledgment.

You do as you’re told, and the stench of the rot is back, but it's less sickening. You bag the salad and bring it to the other side of the line. You look out the Drive-Thru window and see rain pouring. It slides open and the smell of withering leaves plants you to the spot with horror. In the short space between the cars filling the window, you unmistakably see the Beast. Long limbs of wet tree boughs, rattling leaves decorating the ends. A thousand overlapping leaves with two burrowing white holes. They are staring directly at you. 

The next car drives straight through it, and it disperses into sticks and leaves picked up by the wind. The driver is slightly perturbed. You look around and find the hard familiarity once again. You have salads to make. As you work, you attempt to rebuild the carefully crafted barriers in your mind. Work is easy. You know what’s expected of you. Like those damned eyes, the forbidden salad shines and digs into walls of grime and slime in your subconscious.

“Do you remember when we first met?” Greta’s eyes shine up at you. She is draped across your chest, and you can’t remember if you had ever found such comfort in the warmth of another’s weight.

You didn’t remember when Greta entered your life. It’s either that she had always been there or somehow this was your first time meeting. But, if that was the case, she wouldn’t be draped across you. 

You smile, placating, “Of course I remember.”

“You do not,” she smirks and stuffs a big bite of salad in her pretty mouth. It was the fifth one you had snuck out of work. The stench and flies continued to appear whenever you tried to follow the “DAM” policy. So the habit continued. At least it’s made this stranger whom you love happy. A stranger who you know loves feta cheese and vinaigrette far more than she loves you. The cat who lives with you is curled at her feet, purring contentedly as she absentmindedly pets her.

“We met at the shelter,” you say, remembering it was true. The cat chirps and walks across your welcomed stranger to knead into the multitudes of fat on your thighs. You wince slightly as you feel the tips of claws on your skin, but you stay in position. 

Greta smiles at the display of feline-human affection. You continue, “You helped me adopt this one and texted me later to get together.” You laugh, “Do you always hit on your clients?”

Greta laughs, “I wouldn’t call them clients, seeing how it’s a volunteer gig.” Then she grows solemn, “But, that’s not what I mean. I want to know if you remember when we first met. Not when we started going out.”

A rare darkness comes over the mahogany eyes, whose light has grown as familiar as the star we orbit. You don’t remember. That’s a lie. You would remember if you tried hard enough. The sound of wet rubbing against plastic dulls your mind. Do you wish she could hear it as well? Maybe that would placate those worried eyebrows.

She’s waiting for you to say something.

“I, um... I--” you would say something if your tongue hadn’t expanded to be the volume of the entire inside of your mouth.

She sees the sluggish movement in your mouth and sighs, “I know you avoid talking about it, and I get it. But sometimes I wonder if you’ve distanced yourself so far from it that you’ve ended up taking away more than what you’re left with.”

You feel stinging behind your eyes. They wet. You choke until you manage to speak, “I’m sorry, Greta. I don’t remember. I can’t remember.” Suddenly the weight on you is stifling and the fur at your feet lights like kindling.

You shift quickly, leaving the stranger a jumbled mess filling the space you had, and the cat chirps and retreats to the other side of the room. You huddle on the arm of the couch, drawing all of your limbs as close to you as possible.

You will yourself to finally cocoon. To grow a hard shell and to let all your innards melt to goo. It doesn’t occur to you that you would have to come out changed in the end. Those hurt dark eyes looking up at you is all you need to never open your own again.

“I knew I shouldn’t have brought it up,” the strange, solemn voice says. The sound dulls through your insectoid barrier.

There is movement. The cat meows and meows. The body approaches and kisses you fiercely on the top of your head. What a fool you are to leave something so vulnerable exposed. The strong hands with thin fingers longer than yours grab either side of your face and force it up.

You are bewildered by the face you’ve been forced to see. Bright white burrowing eyes that glitch in and out of the familiar dark brown; bark and mossy complexion fades to smooth brown face framed with soft black hair on the cheeks and chin fades back to rough wood; outlined by the thousand overlapping rotted wet leaves, so close you can feel their moisture but, then it’s pinned up braided hair. You reach out to touch it, and it comes away wet, and it comes away tangled in your new and horrible claws.

[rewcana]

the leaves and you is available NOW for purchase. link here

watch me design the cover here

the leaves and you is a horror novella that follows jezebel, a lesbian food service worker, as she navigates her new lesbian relationship, her monotonous work, and the strange beast that keeps hitting its wooden limbs against her window.

jump into the existential, love-filled, mind-bending ride. content warning for body horror.

excerpt below:

Sweet dreams. Sweet dreams. A wish left unfulfilled. Many nights your dreams have been blank, devoid of anything. Anything you can remember at least.

Your mind gives you reprieve when you are alone. You find yourself staring through the window at that enormous oak tree. The leaves of the thin branches low on the trunk are already turning red with the fall’s onslaught of death.

You force yourself to wisen up. You are expected at a job today. The job you’ve had for some time. Not too long, and yet they already rely on you too heavily. You feel the weight on your shoulders as you put on the clothes expected to work.

You stand before the counter plastic prep table and, without any particular care or attention, follow the orders on the prompter. One half salad of this, one full salad with this. These substitutions, no meat, extra meat. The basil you distribute used to evoke something in you, something deep and warm. But now the only thing that affects you is the pepper that gets in your eyes. They water.

You catch yourself sighing as you finish the onslaught of paid requests. In the time you fulfill them, you’ve made a tiny fraction of what your employers sold them for. Had you not been breathing?

A manager with a plain face comes up to you and jokes. You laugh politely for them. There is no energy to say anything back.

Work is easy. You didn’t understand why people made such a big fuss about it. You, of course, understood that it was a bit of a rip-off in terms of time investment vs financial acquisition but, it’s not like there was anything else to do. The bright lights may give you headaches, but they keep the musk and the mist and rot at bay.

And then you make a mistake. You can’t remember the last time you made a mistake. It was the third of five salads that you were working on simultaneously. Before the pale visage of the manager appeared at your side for another one-liner that skidded over your sunken consciousness, you set the mistake aside and replace the plastic box in the line.

Wait, no. You throw it away. The words from the hours of training videos repeat faintly in your ears, “Every mistake must be disposed of. That’s why we have the ‘DAM’ policy. Dispose of All Mistakes. Only food items for paying customers may remain. Every mistake must be...” kept for you, say the muscles in your hands and your heart. So easily had you hidden the boxed greens from the ghost eyes of the plain face. 

All at once, you smell the rot of the totality of food the branded entity which employs you has discarded. It overwhelms your senses and you all but keel over. The overly congenial training voice continues, “We are not advocates for food waste, which is the true philosophy behind this policy. This incentivizes team members to make it right, the first time. DAM your mistakes!”

Thousands of tons of fresh food decompose in time-lapse. “Each team member is responsible for the food waste he or she produces during their shift.” Flies buzz in your ears and start to bite at you as you reach for your hidden contraband with the intention to throw it away as you’ve always done with your mistakes. The buzzing grows louder. You cover your ears.

“You okay, Jezebel?” Plain-faced manager asks.

You open your eyes and see no rot. Just the food production line whose smells and cracks you’ve found familiarity in. You don’t look at the stashed food item. “Yeah, sorry.”

“Alright, I need that caesar for Drive-Thru ASAP. Also, you gotta change your gloves after touching your face,” they leave when you nod an acknowledgment.

You do as you’re told, and the stench of the rot is back, but it's less sickening. You bag the salad and bring it to the other side of the line. You look out the Drive-Thru window and see rain pouring. It slides open and the smell of withering leaves plants you to the spot with horror. In the short space between the cars filling the window, you unmistakably see the Beast. Long limbs of wet tree boughs, rattling leaves decorating the ends. A thousand overlapping leaves with two burrowing white holes. They are staring directly at you. 

The next car drives straight through it, and it disperses into sticks and leaves picked up by the wind. The driver is slightly perturbed. You look around and find the hard familiarity once again. You have salads to make. As you work, you attempt to rebuild the carefully crafted barriers in your mind. Work is easy. You know what’s expected of you. Like those damned eyes, the forbidden salad shines and digs into walls of grime and slime in your subconscious.

“Do you remember when we first met?” Greta’s eyes shine up at you. She is draped across your chest, and you can’t remember if you had ever found such comfort in the warmth of another’s weight.

You didn’t remember when Greta entered your life. It’s either that she had always been there or somehow this was your first time meeting. But, if that was the case, she wouldn’t be draped across you. 

You smile, placating, “Of course I remember.”

“You do not,” she smirks and stuffs a big bite of salad in her pretty mouth. It was the fifth one you had snuck out of work. The stench and flies continued to appear whenever you tried to follow the “DAM” policy. So the habit continued. At least it’s made this stranger whom you love happy. A stranger who you know loves feta cheese and vinaigrette far more than she loves you. The cat who lives with you is curled at her feet, purring contentedly as she absentmindedly pets her.

“We met at the shelter,” you say, remembering it was true. The cat chirps and walks across your welcomed stranger to knead into the multitudes of fat on your thighs. You wince slightly as you feel the tips of claws on your skin, but you stay in position. 

Greta smiles at the display of feline-human affection. You continue, “You helped me adopt this one and texted me later to get together.” You laugh, “Do you always hit on your clients?”

Greta laughs, “I wouldn’t call them clients, seeing how it’s a volunteer gig.” Then she grows solemn, “But, that’s not what I mean. I want to know if you remember when we first met. Not when we started going out.”

A rare darkness comes over the mahogany eyes, whose light has grown as familiar as the star we orbit. You don’t remember. That’s a lie. You would remember if you tried hard enough. The sound of wet rubbing against plastic dulls your mind. Do you wish she could hear it as well? Maybe that would placate those worried eyebrows.

She’s waiting for you to say something.

“I, um... I--” you would say something if your tongue hadn’t expanded to be the volume of the entire inside of your mouth.

She sees the sluggish movement in your mouth and sighs, “I know you avoid talking about it, and I get it. But sometimes I wonder if you’ve distanced yourself so far from it that you’ve ended up taking away more than what you’re left with.”

You feel stinging behind your eyes. They wet. You choke until you manage to speak, “I’m sorry, Greta. I don’t remember. I can’t remember.” Suddenly the weight on you is stifling and the fur at your feet lights like kindling.

You shift quickly, leaving the stranger a jumbled mess filling the space you had, and the cat chirps and retreats to the other side of the room. You huddle on the arm of the couch, drawing all of your limbs as close to you as possible.

You will yourself to finally cocoon. To grow a hard shell and to let all your innards melt to goo. It doesn’t occur to you that you would have to come out changed in the end. Those hurt dark eyes looking up at you is all you need to never open your own again.

“I knew I shouldn’t have brought it up,” the strange, solemn voice says. The sound dulls through your insectoid barrier.

There is movement. The cat meows and meows. The body approaches and kisses you fiercely on the top of your head. What a fool you are to leave something so vulnerable exposed. The strong hands with thin fingers longer than yours grab either side of your face and force it up.

You are bewildered by the face you’ve been forced to see. Bright white burrowing eyes that glitch in and out of the familiar dark brown; bark and mossy complexion fades to smooth brown face framed with soft black hair on the cheeks and chin fades back to rough wood; outlined by the thousand overlapping rotted wet leaves, so close you can feel their moisture but, then it’s pinned up braided hair. You reach out to touch it, and it comes away wet, and it comes away tangled in your new and horrible claws.

[lulufroo]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: KVD Tattoo Eyeliner Bronzite Gold NWT.

[bakingpleasures]

Essential Baking Supplies for Every Home Baker

It is a rather joyful experience to start as a home baker. Right baking supplies always helps make every baking more fun and less of a chore. As any gourmet knows, from a biscuit to a complicated cake, the equipment and materials that you employ are vital. Baking is not only a process and science of baking but also a necessity to have good, trusted equipment to make your delicious dreams come true.

1. Cake Tins and Moulds

Every baker needs the right Cake Tin or cake mould, and that is why it is highlighted below. A good cake tin makes your cakes bake evenly and don’t stick to the bottom or sides of the tin. For the peculiar shapes or models, then the cost efficient moulds are the silicone as well as metal moulds. Silicone moulds are appropriate to use particularly on intricate designs and do not stick to baked products when they are being removed.

If you enjoy making various cake shapes, it will be most useful to have a number of tins, including round and square ones as well as dolly varden cake tins. These tins and moulds are a real treasure trove when it comes to creating and thinking about presentation.

2. Piping Bags and Tips

When it comes to cake decorating, icing and a piping bag that comes complete with various piping tips cannot be avoided. Piping bags enable the creation of complex patterns because the preparation is very simple; ranging from circles to twirls. That is why, having a set of different piping tips such as Russian piping tips the client will achieve beautiful flower and leaf ornamentation.

Reusable are more sturdy and environmentally friendly while on the other hand disposable is easy to clean especially for times when you do not want to stop during the baking. Different piping tips when used with your bag will enable you to design delicious cupcakes suitable for any event from a baby shower to the holiday season.

3. Fondant and Edible Decorations

Fondant is an important tool when shaping a cake, giving it a polished surface and allows the creation of shapes. This is a very useful ingredient with great plasticity – you can make flowers, and you can make figures. Besides, other decorations such as edible glitter and edible eyes are fun to have on your cakes and cupcakes.

In seasonal baking, christmas sprinkles and edible cake toppers are ideal to put on the cake. They are used to decorate the holiday foods in order to enhance both their appearance and taste.

4. Cupcake Liners and Boxes

Cupcakes are always a hit; it is thus essential to have perfect cupcake liners for the perfect finish. Liners help in preventing cup cakes from sticking to the pan hence easy to handle when serving. When organising a special occasion, liners come in different colours and prints to suit the occasion.

For conveying or presenting your sweets, cup cake and cookie boxes ensure that they reach your consumers fresh. Clear window boxes are ideal for displaying your works of art and the best way to give it is by placing it in a gift box.

5. Measuring Tools and Food Colouring

There is no doubt that the appropriate tools for measuring are essential in baking. Measuring cups, spoons and a kitchen scale helps in preparing right quantity for each recipe you want to prepare. Baking involves measurement and these other tools ensure that the right measurements are achieved perfectly.

Another essential for colorful cakes and frosting is food colouring. Quality food coloring enables you to add as many shades as you feel would complement your baked products while giving you the intense colors that you desire.

Conclusion

These baking supplies and ingredients are necessary to help every homemaker bake well pretty bakes. Every utensil and every ingredient makes a difference from the best quality baking tins to bright colored food colors. At Baking Pleasures, customers can always count on us for the right equipment with which to make great goodies. So here are the baking essentials and happy baking everyone!

[team-yaya]

Crafty Creations: Unleashing Your Imagination with Wooden Circles and Unfinished Wood Crafts

With regards to creating, the conceivable outcomes are inestimable. You can realize any concept with the right tools. We at Team Yaya are dedicated to assisting you in locating the best supplies for your creative endeavors. Whether you're a carefully prepared crafter or simply beginning, wooden circles and incomplete wood makes offer a flexible and invigorating method for communicating your imagination. In this blog entry, we'll investigate how you can utilize these materials to make dazzling activities and acquaint you with some unusual fun with unicorn tissue and bathroom tissue unicorn creates.

The Versatility of Wooden Circles for Crafts

Crafters rely on wooden circles as a blank canvas for a wide variety of projects. Here are a few rousing plans to kick you off:

1. Personalized Coasters

Transform wooden circles into one-of-a-kind liners by painting or finishing them to match your home style. To make them unique, add personal touches like quotes, initials, or intricate designs.

2. Wall Art

Make lovely wall craftsmanship by orchestrating wooden circles in various sizes and examples. To give them interest and texture, you can paint them in a consistent color scheme or employ various methods like decoupage.

3. Ornaments and Decorations

Wooden circles make astounding bases for occasion adornments or regular designs. Paint, glitter, or other craft supplies can be used to decorate them for any occasion or theme.

Unleashing Creativity with Unfinished Wood Crafts

Unfinished wood crafts vast open doors to customization. Here are a few undertakings to start your creative mind:

1. Custom Signs

Make customized finishes paperwork for your home or as gifts. Use stencils, paint, or wood-consuming apparatuses to add messages, names, or plans to incomplete wood pieces.

2. Picture Frames

Frames made of unfinished wood can be decorated in any way you like. Paint, smudge, or decorate them with globules, buttons, or texture for an exceptional and individual touch.

3. Storage Solutions

Change incomplete wood boxes or cases into upscale capacity arrangements. Use them to organize books, craft supplies, or other items by painting them in your favorite colors or patterns.

Adding a Whimsical Touch with Unicorn Toilet Paper and Toilet Paper Unicorn Crafts

Who says tissue can't be enjoyable? At Team Yaya, we love adding a bit of eccentricity to ordinary things. For a touch of magic to your party supplies or bathroom decor, our unicorn toilet paper and toilet paper unicorn crafts are ideal.

1. Unicorn Toilet Paper

Not only is unicorn toilet paper useful, but it also sparks conversation! With beautiful plans and fun-loving examples, it's a great method for lighting up your restroom. Furthermore, it makes an incredible gift for unicorn admirers, everything being equal.

2. Toilet Paper Unicorn Crafts

Get innovative with bathroom tissue rolls by transforming them into cute unicorn creates. Add a paper horn, googly eyes, and yarn for the mane to the pastel-colored rolls. These charming manifestations make for no particular reason party enrichments or children's specialty projects.

Conclusion

Unfinished wood crafts and circles open up a world of creative possibilities. From customized home stylistic layout to unconventional unicorn-themed things, there are vast ways of communicating your inventiveness with these flexible materials. At Team Yaya, we're here to help your making process with excellent supplies and moving thoughts. In this way, snatch your wooden circles, and incomplete wood pieces, and let your creative mind roam free!

[poultry-1]

Unveiling the Versatility: A World of Possibilities with Paper Egg Cartons

Egg cartons, those unassuming containers designed to cradle delicate eggs, are much more than meets the eye. From new and recycled to upcycled creations, and even incorporating egg flats/trays, these paper wonders have a multitude of uses beyond their original purpose. Let’s explore the versatile world of paper egg cartons and discover the innovative ways they can be integrated into our daily lives.

1. Seed Starters and Planters:    Embrace sustainability by repurposing paper egg cartons as seed starters or small planters. The individual cups make perfect containers for germinating seeds, creating a green oasis from what was once an egg haven.

2. Organizers for Small Items:    Transform old egg cartons into practical organizers for small items like buttons, beads, or office supplies. Each cup serves as a neat compartment, making it easy to categorize and access your little treasures.

3. Paint Palettes for Creativity:    Allow recycled egg cartons to become makeshift paint palettes. The cups can hold various paint colors, making it convenient for artists, especially kids, to mix and experiment without the need for expensive art supplies.

4. Easter Egg Decorations:    Elevate your Easter festivities by using egg cartons to create decorative Easter eggs. Cut out individual cups, paint or decorate them, and fill with candies or small surprises for a unique twist on traditional Easter egg hunts.

5. Crafting Supplies Holder:    Keep your crafting area tidy by using egg cartons as holders for scissors, glue, and other crafting supplies. The cups provide an organized and easily accessible solution for various materials.

6. Fire Starters for Bonfires:    Utilize paper egg cartons as the base for DIY fire starters. Fill each cup with dried leaves, cardboard, or other flammable materials, and dip in melted wax. These homemade fire starters are perfect for kindling bonfires or fireplaces.

7. Pet Treat Dispenser:    Make an entertaining and interactive treat dispenser for pets using egg cartons. Fill each cup with pet treats, close the lid, and let your furry friend figure out how to access the tasty rewards.

8. Customized Gift Boxes:    Turn egg cartons into personalized gift boxes. Decorate the exterior, add a bow or ribbon, and use them to present small gifts or treats for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.

9. Organic Waste Composting:    Paper egg cartons can be used as compostable containers for organic waste. Once filled, they can be added to your compost pile, providing a sustainable alternative to plastic bags.

10. Miniature Plant Labels:     Cut sections of egg cartons and use them as miniature plant labels in your garden. Write the names of herbs or flowers on each cup, creating a charming and eco-friendly labeling solution.

11. Jewelry Organizer:     Organize your jewelry by repurposing egg cartons. Use each cup to store earrings, rings, or small accessories, preventing them from getting tangled and making your morning routine more efficient.

12. Muffin Tin Substitute:     In a pinch, egg cartons can serve as makeshift muffin tins. Simply place cupcake liners in each cup, fill with batter, and bake. They’re a quick solution for impromptu baking sessions.

13. Soundproofing Material:     For a unique use, consider using recycled egg cartons as soundproofing material. When cut into panels, they can be attached to walls to help reduce noise and echo in certain spaces.

14. Hobby Storage:     Keep your hobby supplies organized by repurposing egg cartons for storing items like beads, small craft pieces, or even fishing tackle. The individual cups provide a practical and compartmentalized solution.

15. DIY Advent Calendar:     Craft a charming advent calendar using egg cartons. Decorate each cup, fill them with small treats, and arrange them into a festive calendar for the holiday season.

16. Packaging for Fragile Items:     Use paper egg cartons as cushioning material for delicate items when packaging. The cups provide protection and ensure that fragile objects reach their destination unharmed.

17. Storage for Spare Change:     Transform egg cartons into quirky coin holders. Each cup can be designated for different denominations, making it a fun and visual way to save spare change.

18. Natural Fire starters for Grilling:     For outdoor enthusiasts, egg cartons can be repurposed as natural firestarters for grilling. Fill each cup with charcoal and a small amount of cooking oil for a sustainable and efficient grilling solution.

19. Crafty Pincushion:     Create a simple yet effective pincushion using egg cartons. Fill the cups with batting or cotton, and use them to store sewing pins and needles.

20. DIY Adventurous Game:     Cut egg cartons into cups and use them as containers for an adventurous scavenger hunt or sorting game for kids. Hide clues or objects inside each cup, adding an element of excitement to the activity.

Conclusion: Unleashing Creativity with Paper Egg Cartons

In conclusion, the humble paper egg carton proves to be a versatile resource, whether new, old, recycled, or upcycled. From simple and practical uses to imaginative crafting endeavors, these cartons and egg flats/trays offer a world of possibilities waiting to be explored. So, before you dispose of that egg carton, consider the creative potential it holds and embark on a journey of ingenuity and sustainability.

[vimalpackaging]

Packaging Redesign: Enhancing Shelf Appeal through Innovative Carton Box Solutions

In the competitive landscape of retail, packaging plays a pivotal role in attracting consumers packaging supply store and packing material online influencing purchasing decisions. One of the most versatile and widely used packaging materials is the carton box. From corrugated boxes to mono carton box, these containers offer both functionality and aesthetics, making packaging material online them a prime candidate for packaging redesign aimed at enhancing shelf appeal. This article explores the significance packing boxes of packaging redesign and how carton box can be leveraged to custom boxes create impactful branding and visual presence on packing shop the shelves. Additionally, it delves into the importance of finding reliable sources for cardboard boxes, including local suppliers, and the role of manufacturers in producing innovative solutions to meet consumer demands.

The Importance of Packaging Redesign:

In today's fast-paced consumer environment, where competition is fierce and attention spans are short, the importance of packaging redesign cannot be overstated. Packaging serves as the first point of contact between a product and a consumer, making it a crucial component of brand identity and marketing strategy. A well-designed package not only protects the product packaging material online but also communicates its value proposition and resonates with the target audience. By refreshing packaging designs, brands can revitalize their packing material online image, differentiate themselves from competitors, and capture the attention of consumers in crowded retail spaces.

Understanding carton box:

carton box come in various forms, including cardboard boxes, corrugated boxes, mono carton box, and more. Each type offers unique advantages in terms of strength, durability, and printing capabilities, making packing shop them suitable for different products and applications. Cardboard boxes, known for their lightweight yet sturdy construction, are ideal for packaging a packing boxes wide range custom boxes of items, from food products to electronics. Corrugated boxes, featuring a fluted inner layer between two packaging supply store flat liners, provide enhanced protection against impact and moisture, making them suitable for shipping fragile or perishable goods. Mono carton box, made from a single layer of cardboard, offer simplicity and cost-effectiveness, making them popular for retail packaging and display purposes.

Enhancing Shelf Appeal with Carton Box Redesign:

When it comes to enhancing shelf appeal, packaging packaging material online design plays a crucial role in capturing the attention of consumers and packing boxes driving purchase decisions. carton box offer ample opportunities for creative expression, with options for vibrant graphics, innovative structural designs, and tactile finishes. By reimagining the design elements of carton box, brands can create packing shop visually stunning packaging that stands out on the shelves and entices consumers to take a closer look. Incorporating bold colors, striking imagery, and engaging packaging supply store typography can help brands packing material online convey their brand message effectively and establish a strong visual presence in retail environments.

Case Studies: Successful Packaging Redesigns

Several brands have successfully leveraged packaging redesign to enhance shelf appeal and drive sales. One notable example is the custom boxes redesign of a snack food company's packaging. By transitioning from traditional cardboard boxes to sleek and modern mono carton box with vibrant graphics and eye-catching typography, the brand was able to revitalize its image and attract a younger demographic. The new packaging not only increased shelf visibility but also communicated the brand's commitment packaging supply store to quality and innovation, resulting in a significant boost in sales.

Finding Reliable Sources for Cardboard Boxes:

In the quest for packaging redesign, sourcing packaging material online high-quality cardboard boxes is essential. While there are numerous options packing boxes available, finding reliable suppliers is crucial to ensure consistency in packing shop quality, timely delivery, and competitive pricing. Local suppliers offer the advantage of proximity, enabling faster turnaround times and lower shipping costs. Online custom boxes directories and marketplaces can help businesses discover cardboard box suppliers in their area, allowing them to forge partnerships with trusted vendors. Additionally, collaborating with experienced manufacturers can provide valuable insights and expertise in creating customized packaging solutions that align with brand objectives and consumer preferences.

Conclusion:

Packaging redesign packing material online presents a packaging supply store compelling opportunity for brands to packaging material online differentiate themselves, packing shop attract consumers, and drive packing boxes sales. By leveraging innovative carton box solutions, such as cardboard boxes, corrugated boxes, and mono carton box, brands can enhance custom boxes shelf appeal and create memorable experiences for consumers. Whether it's through bold graphics, sustainable materials, or functional designs, packaging plays a vital role in shaping consumer perceptions and influencing purchasing decisions. By embracing the power of packaging redesign, brands can position themselves for success in today's dynamic retail landscape.

[ainews]

Triceratops, the iconic three-horned dinosaur, has become a popular subject for fashion designers in recent years. With their fierce appearance and prehistoric charm, these ancient creatures have graced everything from t-shirts to boxing gloves.

But the latest fashion trend for triceratops lovers is the ultimatum sweatshirt. This unique piece of clothing has been making waves in the fashion industry, with its bold design and statement-making style.

So, what exactly is an ultimatum sweatshirt, and why are they becoming a must-have for triceratops fans? Let's take a closer look.

Ultimatum sweatshirts are hoodies that feature a triceratops image, usually in a bold and eye-catching design. But what sets them apart from other triceratops-themed clothing is the inclusion of a strong, inspiring statement on the front. These statements can range from motivational phrases to witty one-liners, all centered around the fearless nature of the triceratops.

One reason why ultimatum sweatshirts are gaining popularity is their versatility. They can be dressed up or down, worn with jeans for a casual look or paired with a skirt for a more stylish ensemble. They also come in various colors and designs, making it easy for anyone to find the perfect one to suit their personal style.

But the real appeal of ultimatum sweatshirts lies in the strong message they convey. Triceratops, known for their resilience and bravery, are the perfect symbol for these bold and powerful statements. They serve as a reminder to stand tall in the face of challenges and never give up, just like the mighty triceratops.

Moreover, ultimatum sweatshirts have become a popular choice for those seeking to make a statement and show off their unique personality. In a world of fast fashion and mass-produced items, these sweatshirts offer a refreshing break with their individualistic style and empowering messages.

Many social media influencers and celebrities have also been spotted wearing ultimatum sweatshirts, further increasing their popularity and demand. From popular fashion bloggers to A-list celebrities, everyone is jumping on the triceratops ultimatum sweatshirt bandwagon.

The demand for these sweatshirts has not gone unnoticed by fashion brands, with many of them now adding ultimatum sweatshirts to their collections. Some even offer the option to customize the statement, allowing customers to create their unique version of the triceratops ultimatum sweatshirt.

In conclusion, ultimatum sweatshirts for triceratops lovers have become a must-have fashion item for those looking to make a statement and showcase their love for this iconic dinosaur. With their bold designs, meaningful messages, and versatility, it's no wonder these sweatshirts are flying off the shelves. So, grab yours today and rock that triceratops pride with style!