#darling ernest

[snilys]

"oh sirius and snape were so alike if only they could've known they would've been good fri—"

wrong. severus should've befriended molly.

[sacrifesse]

┣▇▇▇═─ LiMiNAL SPACES iD PACK 〰️

🏚️ ︵︵ REQUESTED BY NO ONE ᶻ 𝗓

🏚️ ︵︵ TAGGiNG @id-pack-archive ᶻ 𝗓

✙ ︵︵ SYSTEM NAMES : the liminal council , the surreal system , the eerie system/collective/etc. , the empty system/collective/etc. , the abandoned system/collective/etc. , the uncanny system/collective/etc. , the backrooms (system/collective/etc.) , the nostalgia system/collective/etc. , the dream system/collective/etc.

✙ ︵︵ NAMES : zero , void , noir(e)¹ , noiresse , noirette¹ , alice , adeline , agnes , amelia , beatrice , clara , eleanor , charlotte , margaret , agatha , daphne , lucy , jane , abigail , adelaide , albert , alexander , alfred , annabelle , archie , arthur , atticus , benjamin , benedict , nostalgette , nostalgesse , calvin , catherine , cecilia , clementine , daisy , dorothy , elizabeth , emily , ernest , evelyn , felicity , gideon , graham , harriet , hattie , hazel , henry , hugo , imogen , daze¹ , ivy , juliet , augustus , lulu , mabel , matilda , olive , oliver , olivia , penelope , phoebe , sophie , theodore , victoria , vivian , walter , odditie¹

¹ names that certain alters of the darling stars use

✙ ︵︵ PRONOUNS : liminal liminals , surreal surreals , eerie eeries , empty emptys , abandon abandons , uncanny uncannys , nostalgia nostalgias , dream dreams , zero zeros , void voids , null nulls , daze dazes , yellow yellows , backroom backrooms , dim dims , fog fogs , glitch glitchs , 🏚️ 🏚️s , 🌫️ 🌫️s , 🕳️ 🕳️s , 🗝️ 🗝️s , 🚪 🚪s , ❔ ❔s , ❓ ❓s

✙ ︵︵ USERNAMES : glitchedreality , foggynostalgia , brokendreams , uncannyvoid , forgottenothingness , forgottennothingness

✙ ︵︵ TiTLES : the surreal one , prn who is surreal , the eerie one , prn who is eerie , the uncanny one , prn who is uncanny , prn who hides in (the depths of) the uncanny valley , prn who is lost in a dream , prn whose head is in the clouds , prn who is trapped , the unending terror

✙ ︵︵ LABELS : liminal space system , liminalbased

✙ ︵︵ GENDER SYSTEMS : liminive

✙ ︵︵ GENDERS : liminalgender , liminix , limspacegender , liminalic , liminalspaceic , liminalsnowic , poolroomic , limineontheaterive / limineotheive , unfatholiminal , seiorea , liminalspacestalgic , natatoliraifortic , limingrassybeachroomive / limgrberoive , parkgaraliminix , infiniteakea , liminredglowneighborhoodive / limredgloborive , weirdthing , weirdcoric , dreamcoric , weirdiscomfix , liminalpoolgender , limindoorpondive / limindoponive , liminclosedairyaisleive / limclosedaive , perinul , snowlimcoric , cliproomic , liminalsnowmasc , limneonstairwellive / limnestaweive , liminaquic , weirdcattic , weirdpuppic , weirdbunnic , liminalforestic , abanadductix , liminvoidmasc , crypfrustra , bedroomliminix , hallwayliminix , hotelliminix , houseliminix , malliminix , storeliminix , poolliminix , playgroundliminix , schoolliminix , videogameliminix , liminalpoweric , liminalnucleic , distortic , limisanglitchic , liminalxirasic , horrormossic , liminalnostalgic , backroomsgender , līmenriutal , liminalost , darkliminalspaceic , valicanic , kidliminalic , abandosubwaybodiment , limideathiv , liminalcameraic , liminaldollic

[PT: liminal spaces id pack. requested by no one. tagging id-pack-archive. system names. names. pronouns. usernames. titles. labels. gender systems. genders. /END PT]

[sugoi-writes]

Invictus - Alastor x GN! Reader (Fluff / Comfort)

A/N: Ahh, depression! Here is a little piece that hit me across the face while I was trying to recoup. Mentions of Alastor's regrets/angst, his mother's death (briefly/sparingly), reader is struggling mentally. I hope this can bring some comfort to folks who are going through it rn!

(lightly proofread, and made in heat of the moment, so sorry in advance!)

"...do you ever wish that you weren't the Radio Demon, Alastor? That you weren't the person you became?" 

Alastor blinks, looking up to you from across the table. What an absurd, curious question to ask. You were always full of these ideas, ones that perplexed him to no end. But when he saw the look in your glazed over, simmering gaze... he decided that humoring you would be best. 

"...come again? I don't quite understand the question, dear." 

Hands were fidgeting below the table, chest feeling tight as you formulated your next sentence. You felt like your ribcage was being crushed by a hydrolic press. The grueling, agonizing pressure from your anxiety was threatening to make you keel over. And for a moment, you thought you might give in to the feeling. Thank the stars for Alastor's reciprocation in this conversation. 

"Like... Do you ever hate the place you're at right now? As a person? Do you ever wish you could start over again? Turn a new leaf? New name, new face, new space.... I know you think 'redemption' is bullshit, but..." 

You continue to avoid him and his steely eyes, a sad smile gracing your forlorn face," If you had a chance to... Not be yourself. To start over and lead a different life... Would you?" 

Alastor's mind pondered many things. The reason he was sentenced to rot hell. The reason that his mother died. The way that he was raised, the people who he fratenized with in life. The accursed deal he was entangled in. There were many things that made him who he was. There were things that even he regretted. But for all intents and purposes, he was exactly who he needed to be... But he could always be more. 'More' would never be enough, truly. 

And so Alastor took a sip of his coffee, eyes down cast to the newspaper in his other hand," ...I suppose anyone would like a chance to start over. For menial reasons or otherwise." 

You didn't notice the way he smiled, your eyes still down cast to your trembling hands. 

"But if it's all the same to you, darling... I rather like the person you are now." 

Your eyes developed hot tears, threatening to cascade down your flushed face at any moment. Alastor sighs heavily, setting his newspaper down on the coffee table. 

"Invictus. Have you heard of the poem Invictus by William Ernest Henley?" 

You blink, a few tears tumbling down your cheeks," I... Can't say that I have, honestly." Alastor hums in acknowledgement, manifesting a parchment out of thin air. 

"Would you care to hear it?" 

You make eye contact with Alastor, his smile simple, unforced. His face hung perfectly neutral as he waited for your permission. You, of course, had no qualms about hearing his voice. 

"O-Of course... Go ahead." 

Alastor cleared his throat, leaning back in his chair as he began. 

"Out of the night that covers me,

Black as the pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul." 

A part of you smiled on the inside. Unconquerable.... This was definitely Alastor-coded to you. You didn't comment on this as he continued.

"In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbowed." 

You feel the tension in your shoulders disappearing, slumping forward as your body finally relaxed. Something about his voice, the evenness and clarity of his tone made you react physically. You couldn't put your finger on it... But he soothed you. He always had. 

When Alastor stood, your eyes widened, watching as he started to advance towards you. 

"Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds and shall find me unafraid." 

The filter over his voice thickens, typically a telltale sign of Alastor's emotions fluctuating. Was he frustrated with you? Cross with you? You should have known better than to talk to him like this... God, what an idiot you were. But Alastor didn't feel this way. Alastor strode directly to your side, a hand settling on the top of your chair. With a flick of the wrist, he dismissed the parchment. He was quoting the poem from memory now.

"It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll" 

Alastor leans down to you, his free hand going to your shoulder. He shakes it gently, his radio filter fizzling out. His voice was left raw and bare, only for you to hear. His smile reached his eyes as he continued, his gaze not wavering from yours. 

"I am the master of my fate,

I am the captain of my soul." 

A comfortable, round silence fell between the two of you. You were conscious of his warmth, his hand resting gently on your shoulder. You were aware of his heartbeat, strong and steady like a metronome. You were aware of his stature, bent heavily at the hip to match your height. Your felt his eyes, kind and sincere, searching yours for a spark. You felt your heart flutter for a moment, as the weight of the poem and it's meaning settled over you. 

"What a lovely poem, Alastor," was all you could mutter, voice dry and brittle from your fragile, emotional state. 

"Of course. A powerful one, at that. I reflect on it often when I feel an inkling of... Doubt. Trepidation." 

Alastor, the one-and-only Radio Demon, having self doubt? What a troubling thing for him to entrust in you. 

"I encourage you to remember it well. And, you must reflect on it when these feelings of regret and anguish wash over you. I find that it can be very helpful; illuminating. It can remind you of your importance; your agency in your afterlife." 

Alastor, in a rare moment of tenderness, pats the top of your head, letting his fingers curl and run through your hair. 

"Shall we talk about anything else that troubles you, darling?' 

You blink, still reeling from the poem, it's gravity, and the kindness being showered upon you," N-No I.... No, I think I feel much better now. Thank you, Alastor." 

The Radio Demon accepts your answer, giving your hair a playful ruffle. He stands back up to his full height, his hand retracting from you slowly. 

"Anytime, dear. Though I think it's time to get a head start on the day, hmm?" You look up to the Radio Demon, who already has a cup of coffee summoned for you. You smile, graciously accepting the offering. 

"Of course... But... Could you... Y'know?" You tilt your head torwards Alastor's free hand, asking for more contact. Alastor sighs dramatically, before granting you more affection. Just look at how hopeless you were... It was almost too much.

"I suppose a minute or two more of this wouldn't hurt, would it?" 

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Some Tips & Advice for Writing Fiction

"Since advice is usually ignored and rules are routinely broken, I refer to these little pearls as merely 'suggestions.'....There’s nothing binding here. All suggestions can be ignored when necessary." —John Grisham

Love your story. Many writers create their best work when they’re deeply invested in their characters and plot.

Withhold information from your readers. When writing fiction, only give readers the information they need to know in the moment. Ernest Hemingway’s iceberg theory in writing is to show your readers just the tip of the iceberg. The supporting details—like backstory—should remain unseen, just like the mass of an iceberg under the water’s surface. This prevents readers from getting overwhelmed with information and lets them use their imagination to fill in the blanks.

Write simple sentences. Think of Shakespeare’s line, “To be or not to be?” famous for its brevity and the way it quickly describes a character’s toiling over their own life. There is a time and place for bigger words and denser text, but you can get story points across in simple sentences and language. Try using succinct language when writing, so that every word and sentence has a clear purpose.

Mix up your writing. To become a better writer, try different types of writing. If you’re a novelist, take a stab at a short story. If you’re writing fiction, try writing nonfiction. Try a more casual writing style by blogging. Each piece of writing has a different point of view and different style rules that will help your overall writing skills.

Write every day. Great writers have a regular writing habit. That means dedicating time every day to the craft of writing. Some writers assign themselves a daily word count; Stephen King writes 2,000 words a day. You might also join a writing group; being accountable to other people is a great motivator. Don’t worry if what you jot down is technically bad writing or you struggle to get something onto a blank page. Some days will be more productive than others. The more you write the easier it gets.

Set milestones. The average word count for a book is 75,000 words. That can make novel writing intimidating. If you’re working on your first novel, stay motivated by setting milestones. This will help you break the book down mentally so it is easier to manage and easier to stick with.

Understand basic story structure. Professional writers are well-versed in the framework most stories follow, from exposition and rising action through to the climax and falling action. Create an outline to map your main plot and subplots on paper before you get started.

Don't write the first scene until you know the last. This necessitates the use of a dreaded device commonly called an outline. Virtually all writers hate that word. Plotting takes careful planning. Writers waste years pursuing stories that eventually don’t work.

Learn strong character development techniques. There are effective ways to create a character arc in literature. Learn what character information to reveal to increase tension in your story. Your main characters should have a backstory that informs their actions, motivations, and goals. Determine what point of view (POV)—first person or third person—complements the character’s interpretation of events.

Use the active voice. Your goal as an author is to write a page-turner—a book that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Use the active voice in your stories. Sentences should generally follow the basic structure of noun-verb-object. While passive voice isn’t always a bad thing, limit it in your fiction writing.

Take breaks when you need them. Writer's block gets the best of every writer. Step away from your desk and get some exercise. Getting your blood flowing and being in a different environment can ignite ideas. Continue writing later that day or even the next.

Kill your darlings. An important piece of advice for writers is to know when words, paragraphs, chapters, or even characters, are unnecessary to the story. Being a good writer means having the ability to edit out excess information. If the material you cut is still a great piece of writing, see if you can build a short story around it.

Don't introduce 20 characters in the first chapter. A rookie mistake. Your readers are eager to get started. Don’t bombard them with a barrage of names from four generations of the same family. Five names are enough to get started.

Read other writers. Reading great writing can help you find your own voice and hone your writing skills. Read a variety of genres. It also helps to read the same genre as your novel. If you’re writing a thriller, then read other thrillers that show how to build tension, create plot points, and how to do the big reveal at the climax of the story.

Read beyond what you like. Dutch writer Thomas Heerma van Voss says: "Read as much and as widely as possible. See how other writers construct their scenes, tease the reader, build tension. Don’t be afraid, especially when starting out, to steal or imitate – all arts begins with imitation. One of the Netherlands’ most famous writers began his writing career by copying out stories by Ivan Turgenev in an effort to master his rhythm and way of writing."

Read writers who do not write like you. Trinidadian-British poet Vahni Capildeo says: “Make friends with writers who do not write like you. Swap books. Show each other work. Take the long view and the wide view. Writing adds your lifetime to the lifetime of everyone else who has written or read, or who will read or write, including non-‘literary’ folk. All sorts of people work carefully or lovingly or effectively with words. You may find inspiration in a law report (ancient or contemporary) or a tide chart, or in an ‘unplayable’ play…"

Research. Critically acclaimed novelist Guinevere Glasfurd says: “Writers are often exhorted to ‘write what they know’. But what if your protagonist is a fourteenth-century nun? Or a drag queen from Kentucky (and supposing you, the writer, are not)? Start by reminding yourself why you want to tell the story. Research can be frustrating; sometimes the archive is silent, the answers are not there. There’s a reason for that and that should spark other questions. Research can also be enormously rewarding. It can, and likely will, reveal something unexpected. It is important to remain alert to that, to be attentive and open to surprise. Research is an iterative process. Research a bit, write a bit, research a bit more. Allow your writing to remain fluid at this point, open to question, encouraging of further enquiry.”

Write to sell. To make a living doing what they love, fiction writers need to think like editors and publishers. In other words, approach your story with a marketing sensibility as well as a creative one to sell your book.

Write now, edit later. Young writers and aspiring writers might be tempted to spend a lot of time editing and rewriting as they type. Resist that temptation. Practice freewriting—a creative writing technique that encourages writers to let their ideas flow uninterrupted. Set a specific time to edit.

Get feedback. It can be hard to critique your own writing. When you have finished a piece of writing or a first draft, give it to someone to read. Ask for honest and specific feedback. This is a good way to learn what works and what doesn’t.

Think about publishing. Few authors write just for themselves. Envision where you want your story to be published. If you have a short story, think about submitting it to literary magazines. If you have a novel, you can send it to literary agents and publishing houses. You might also consider self-publishing if you really want to see your book in print.

Ignore writing advice that doesn't resonate with you. Not every writer works the same. You have to figure out what works for you in the long run. If working off of bullet-point outlines gives you hives, then don't do it. If you work best writing scenes out of order, then write those scenes out of order.

Sources: 1 2 3 4 ⚜ More: Writing Notes & References

[stuckinthesun]

Round Two – Sanji x fem!Reader //pt2

A/N — you honestly don’t need to read part one to read this, I just thought of a fun uno reverse type of thing for my original piece and yeah but

Part one

NSFW MDNI

Sanji’s arms wrapped around your waist tightly as you rode his cock. Your hip’s rolled against his perfectly, making both of you moan, and pushing you that much closer to the edge.

“Fuck, you take me so well darling.” Sanji praises, before taking one of your nipples between his teeth.

“S-Sanji I’m gonna–“ The feeling of Sanji’s cock stuffed so deep inside of you, brushing against your g-spot and hitting your cervix, had you cumming before you could even finish your sentence.

You let out a loud moan as you came, wrapping your arms around the blonde’s shoulders and pulling him closer. The warmth of your walls clamping around his cock and your juices spilling between the both of you, pulling Sanji right off the edge with you.

You continued moving your hips, rolling up and down on Sanji’s long cock, to help both of you through your orgasms. Except your high didn’t edge out into blissful aftershocks that bordered on overstimulation.

No, your high melted back into pure pleasure.

Tingles spread through your body as you began to bounce on the softening cock inside of you in ernest, “Fuck you feel so good.”

“B-baby wait– fuck– please just give me– holy shit– darling hold on– fuck fuck please wait fuck baby please pl-please f-f-fuuuck please baby!” Sanji pleaded with you, his body shaking beneath yours and his voice beginning to break with every word.

You felt your abdomen tighten up again with the telltale sign of your second orgasm, “I’m so close again Sanji, please!”

His hands dug into your hips, no doubt leaving marks, as he nodded frantically against your shoulder, “Cum! Please baby cum on my cock again fuck baby please please pleasepleasepleasepleaseplea-“

With a cry you did just as Sanji begged you to, and came hard. Your body shook violently and you held on to your boyfriend so tightly you were sure he’d have nail marks.

Once the shock waves were over, you collapsed in exhaustion and took In deep breaths. Sanji doing the exact same thing underneath you.

The two of you laid in silence until Sanji said in a teasing voice, “Was that payback for the time I didn’t stop?”

Both of you chuckled.

Maybe I’m fucked up idk

[petaltexturedskies]

"I'll love you always."

"I'll love you in the rain and in the snow and in the hail and-what else is there?"

"I don't know. I guess I'm sleepy."

"Go to sleep, darling, and I'll love you no matter how it is."

Ernest Hemingway, A Farewell to Arms

[gunthermunch]

[Transcript under the cut]

Bluma: rows and flows of angled- angel hair Bluma: and ice cream castles in the air and fa-feather UGH canyons everywhere Mila: can i join you? Bluma: …singing? Mila: sitting. Bluma: oh. that's better, i'm not a good singer Mila: me neither, but i do love that song. Bluma: mmmnhgh Mila: what's wrong, pumpkin? Bluma: i lied to you, the guys from school are right. i do avoid my classmates as of lately Mila: oh, Bluma- why are you keeping all this to yourself? Bluma shrugs Bluma: they don't even like me anyways. it's not like my parents can do anything about it Mila: hmm… Bluma: i'm not letting my mom kill a child! Mila: who said anything about killing someone? Bluma: i know your ploty face! Bluma: sighs Bluma: …one day this girl Orla asked me why i didn't like getting my pictures taken and i told her it's because it makes me sad i get to show up on them and my mom doesn't and she just backed off. and then some kids laughed. i thought Orla was nice Bluma: i just wish i got to feel normal outside of my house one day Mila: you'll find your people, munchkin. you're just so little still Mila: and you know who used to struggle in a similar way? Bluma: who? Mila: grandpa. Bluma: … i guess we both have a coconut allergy Mila: oh not Marcus darling i meant- Mila: I guess your dad didn't tell you about Ernest yet. Bluma: who's Ernest? Mila: your father and uncles' dad, and my very first big big love, and husband. Bluma: …wait Bluma: Marcus is not my real grandpa?! Mila: darling you have two real grandpas. Bluma: okay this can be great. where is he? Mila: oh uh- he- is… gone, honey. Bluma: hm. my luck today is really bad. Bluma: how did he fix himself anyways? Mila: well, he didn't. we just found each other and made a family Mila: and then you eventually came along. So… let's say i love a nice weirdo Bluma: i appreciate your honesty, Mila Munch. Mila: thank you. Bluma sighs in relief Bluma: i like this room Mila: i still think it stinks, but if you like it we can make it yours next summer Bluma: really? Mila: of course. Bluma: can we hang stars from the ceiling Mila: yes. Bluma: and can i triple braid your hair while we watch TV? Mila: oh yes. Bluma: i love you grandma Mila: i love you too, my baby.

WG: yeah there's no way im sending this. sorry Marcus: it's chill. do you feel better tho? WG: kinda. who knew Gunther was right about that writing your feelings over thing Marcus: speaking of that, what are you even doing over there? WG: uhh uncleing? and i guess i've been playing a lot of guitar. and singing WG: i stopped sucking a little Marcus: man you should totally try and make something out of that. get out! travel! make yourself a city guy! WG: aha… who knows really. WG: hey uh thank you. i didn't mean to dump all that onto you. Lucas did say something about you being great at this but holy shit Marcus: eh, i'm just a mama's boy that watched too many telenovelas with her. Mila: and it shows. Marcus: heeyy Mils!

WG: HEY Blooms! let's get you home already

Bluma: coming!!

[yearningaces]

... So uh

I understand my current want story wise and it's nothing sexual as always, but idk if it's wholesome either ...

But how many stories have the villain, the monster offer a hand out to the heroine, the hero? 'Join me, leave them, we can rule together!'

Is no one else tempted by that? No? Just me?

What if I say the villain is a creature of eldritch domain? That when they extend their palm to the sky, eyes open across the cosmos, that they are the ancient evil held at bay by sticks and twine and are freed by you.

Because you're the underdog of your team of heroes. You, the one that everyone feels they have to look after. You're still helping people, if anything more ernest than those you work with.

But in your frustration over being overlooked, you leave into the twisted forest that always seems to welcome you with overcast skies and curving shadows.

Your team is scared of this place. They say it feels unwelcoming.

You, however, have not once, not twice, but over a dozen times fell asleep out there. No bugs to crawl over you, no birds to swoop over, no animals at all really. Yes, it's strange, but in a way it feels safe, and the very ground seems to soften under you each time you sit back against a tree that feels more like a bed than hard dead bark.

Only today while exploring, you find a cavern opening. And something draws you down, the alarm bells in your head soothed by something unknown as if silenced.

The cavern leads into a chamber, massive and dark. Ancient depictions of something looming over the lands with a face in the clouds.

And in the center of this ornate chamber, is a pedestal. On top of it, a wooden, obsidian, and silver box. There's multiple languages carved into it.

'Öppnas Ej, لا تفتح, Не відчиняти, No Abrir, Älä avaa, Neotvírat, Mawungavuli, 请勿打开. Do Not Open.'

At the severe warning, you attempt to step back, until-

'Such a precious jewel you are. Have you finally found me?'

The words ride the breeze that flows through the chambers. Just reaching your ears, tingling your brain as you're frozen.

'Quite a pretty box, no? It would be a shame to leave it unadmired.'

You can't stop your hands from reaching out, as if something guides your motions.

The box is heavy, and warm.

'So lovely you are, and you listen so very well. Aren't you a treasure to be found?'

Does anyone even give you a second glance? Or do they only look at your team and brush you off. Don't you want these soft words, even for just a moment or two? It can't hurt you ... It's just words.

'I was like you, beloved one. The forgotten.'

The chamber shakes as the voice twist from soft to a harsh rumble.

'I made it so they could never forget myself again.'

And instantly, everything stops, and the haze over your mind softens even further, warming you, settling into your very bones.

'I would never forget you, I would care, I would hear you. Would you allow it?'

"... How?"

The voice croons sweetly in your ears, the box pulsing in your hands as if you hold a beating heart. 'My darling, I would craft you a throne of jewels to be placed beside my own of bone. I would forever be beside you as we ensure our names are no longer forgotten, together.'

And with just a hint of 'i don't believe you', you respond. "What if I want a bone throne too?"

The voice rumbles a deep laugh, shaking the chamber once more. 'Then I will drag a skull and jaw of the largest beast that has walked these lands up from its earthly grave and fasten it as your throne. Would this please you my sweet?'

"It would." You state after a moment because fuck yeah you deserve a metal throne too.

'Then open the box. And I will do all of this, and more.' The voice responds, stronger now but just as sweet.

Your hand nearly automatically grabs the lid, and before you can think-

"STOP!" Your team is behind you, hands out, enraged faces and expressions as if they're about to step forward and lash out at you.

But the chamber seems to tear itself apart, ceiling crashing down around your team, trapping them away from you as the voice so sweetly rumbles in your ears.

'Open the box, precious one. Open it and you will be safe, and adored. You will rule beside me as we ensure we are never forgotten again. Open it open it open it-'

"If you open that, we'll have to take you down as well!"

'Listen to your so called 'team', they threaten you, they belittle and mock you, and they believe that they could stop me-' the voice breaks into laughter as if amused while it continues. 'They do not care for you as I do. I have seen you in my domains, have I not welcomed you? Granted you safe passage and rest? Have I not cared for you before you even know my name? I will care, they never will so much as pretend.'

"Don't open it, it's lying to you, it's just going to kill you along with everyone else here! You can't trust that thing!"

'Can they be trusted then?'

With so many voices growing in volume, crowding the once silent room it's too loud, you can't think, you want to leave, but you have to do something and any chance for a better life is worth it and-

"You did it." The voice rumbles in approval. "My precious little human. You made the correct choice."

You can hear the suddenly real and tangible voice murmur in low tone before the now opened box erupts with darkness and living shadows bursting from it. Like Pandora's box, everything contained is freed now.

The room swirls with a dark storm, blowing your teammates out of the chamber, bursting the rot and root and soil aside as a figure tall enough to reach the clouds forms, letting out a loud bellowing roar as it forms. Darkness swarms from it, the sun concealed in shadow.

You start to fumble back as it easily swats aside those it deems too close.

And then it looks down.

It looks at you.

Instantly a hand of darkness forms under you, bringing you up until you're before these eyes that glow with colors that make your mind fuzzy because you shouldn't be able to see this, these aren't colors you can describe or understand but you're seeing them somehow and your brain tingles, your eyes water at the sight. The eyes ripple, and the booming voice of the sky dwelling face speaks. It's mouth opening as a world of fuzzy, glowing hues seeps from the cracks in its maw.

"You have done well, my dearest."

You feel your bones tremble.

The world shifting and churning from the influence of this ... Thing.

"As promised, your reward, a lifetime of everything you deserve, and more."

This is it. This is where you're tossed into some pit for listening and betraying your own, just like in the movies and in the books. The thing waves it's hand and you're eyes flicker to see what sort of eternity of anguish you'll have and-

...

... It's a temple. Marble and quartz colums holding up high arching walls that stretch so far up you can't see the end. Dark colored draperies line the walls, and an expansive table of every food known to man is perfectly prepared, steaming hot to ice cold, stagnating in that perfect time, waiting to be eaten. The hand holding you gingerly places you down into a chair as the being condenses itself as best it can into a figure that's three times your size but far more manageable.

It looms over the back of your chair, lowering to press a soft kiss to the top of your head, taking your wrist into its hand to guide your hand to your plate.

"Feast now, beloved. We may not lay ruin to this world when you have not eaten yet this sun cycle. A nap afterwards, as we must be at our best before I bring you to your throne. Now, why don't you tell me all about what you adore in this universe so I might spare it in the name of my savior and darling."

...

Well, you're not going to complain, are you?

[am-i-interrupting]

Rosie’s Reaction to Being Gifted a Playlist

You tried. You really tried to make a collection of songs for Rosie but you were modern and she was. . . not.

When you thought of old songs. You thought of “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis or “I’d Lie For You (And That’s The Truth)” by Meat Loaf.

You didn’t think of songs like “To Have, to Hold, to Love" by Darl MacBoyle and Ernest R. Ball or “Everybody Loves My Baby” by Aileen Stanley.

So, maybe the collection of songs you made for her was a bit past her time.

When it dawned on you, you were so embarrassed.

It made since now when you saw her smiling as she shook her head and listened to the songs but at least she was smiling.

She’s actually very touched by your effort.

Whether songs from her era or not, you did manage to put together a collection of songs she enjoyed.

It was a middle ground in a way, an era of music both of you didn’t listen to often.

When you visited her emporium, you could actually hear some of the songs playing for ambiance more often than you thought.

Although you’ll blush in embarrassment every time.

She will just smile at your flustered state and assure you she loves it.

Occasionally, you’ll even hear her singing along or humming the songs as she works.

[daisyblog]

Just Hold On

Our Story Masterlist Summary: Harry takes care of YN.

Warning: grief, loss of a loved one, upset, crying

Four days. Four days of feeling helpless. Watching her cry, not knowing how to stop her pain. Harry was expecting her to shut herself away but he had read that grief hits people differently, which explains her constant movement as she cleaned and rearranged everything she could. It was almost like she was afraid to stop and be alone with her thoughts.

Cutting his thoughts, Harry’s phone rang from where it sat on the kitchen island 'Mum' it read.

"Hey Mum". Harry greeted as he pottered around the kitchen, moving some used cutlery to the sink to wash later.

"Hi darling..how's YN today?" Anne’s delicate voice spoke through the speaker.

"She's okay..I just feel so helpless..like I hate seeing her hurting" Harry’s voice was deflated, he needed his Mum’s wise words.

"Oh darling...I know it's heartbreaking..I just can't stop thinking about them all..and the little ones" Anne sympathised on the other end of the phone.

"Yeh..they don't quite understand..YN spoke with her grandparents earlier". Harry explained about Ernest and Doris.

"Poor babies..are you going to watch Louis tonight?".

"Yeh..yeh YN's just gone to get ready..I think he's so brave for doing it..but I know it's what their Mum would have wanted" He gently spoke to his Mum as he continued to pace around the room.

"She would have..she loved watching him perform..they're stong..YN and Louis I mean". Anne thought out loud.

"That's what I'm afraid of Mum..I'm like..I'm worried she's going to hold it all together and..and..I don't know crumble I suppose". Harry’s voice rambled his thoughts.

"Harry..that's where she's gonna need you...let her be strong for everyone else..she's probably going to hold it all together for her sisters and brother...but you be the one that holds her yeh��.

"Yeh..I didn't think of it like that".

"Look after her love...she's going to need you now more than ever". Anne’s words were wise.

"I'll always look after her Mum".

"I know you will...I love you darling...give YN a big cuddle from me".

"I will..I love you too Mum".

"Bye love".

After the conversation with his Mum, Harry could hear some music playing upstairs. Following the sound, he was led to YN standing in their bedroom looking at a black plain dress that was laid across the duvet, and he recognised ABBA playing from the speaker.

"Hey baby" Harry’s voice startled her.

"Shit...you scared me" YN laughed. Harry had missed her laugh. It was one of his favourite sounds.

"Sorry..I didn't mean to...Abba huh?”.

"I remember when I was younger...me Mum would be doing her make-up or whatever..in her bedroom and..um...we would all be in there with her and she'd always play ABBA...and we would all dance and I dunno..sorry it's silly". As YN spoke, Harrg moved closer to her so he could listen.

"Hey..it's not silly..if listening to music helps...then do it" Harry gently spoke as he wrapped his arms around her in comfort. As she leaned her head on Harry’s chest, he had an idea. "Alexa..play Dancing Queen".

"What are you doin'?" YN looked up at him with a confused expression.

"We're going to dance!” Harry stated like it was the most obvious thing.

"Bu-" YN began before Harry interrupted her.

"No buts!” Harry’s voice was deep.

Ooh You can dance You can jive Having the time of your life Ooh, see that girl Watch that scene Digging the dancing queen

And that's how they got ready that afternoon, dancing around in their bedroom, singing into hairbrushes and forgetting the world around them for a moment.

---

Harry and YN were on their way to Fountain Studios, where Louis was performing his new song on The X Factor. As Harry drove, YN sat silently in the passenger seat as reality hit her again. Almost like it was a coincidence, a familiar song played through the speakers, causing their heads to snap towards each other.

"Fook off!" YN's voice broke the silence "They..I haven't..they don't play this on the radio anymore.” She couldn’t help but stutter.

"Almost like it was meant to be ey?”. Harry wore a big smile at how perfectly timed the song played.

"I remember when you sang this to me drunk once..cringey as fook it was". YN laughed at the memory,

"Don't fucking lie...you loved it". Harry was enjoying the happy moment between them.

"I did actually" YN finally admitted.

"Because you're gorgeous, I'd do anything for you, because you're gorgeous, I know you'll get me through" Harry sung along with the radio and reached over to hold her hand that sat on her knee.

As the song finished Harry was quick to speak again "You know I would do anything for you don't you?".

Her hand in Harry’s squeezed his slightly before she spoke the three words Harry loved hearing "I love you".

"I love you too gorgeous!”.

---

As they entered the busy room backstage where Louis and people from his team currently were, YN leaves Harry’s arms and immediately finds her brother in the crowd. Instantly they wrap their arms around each other and Harry can see Louis talk into her ear. Harry stands back in the corner and allows them to have their moment. From where he stands he can see YN nod slightly at whatever Louis says to her.

Two bodies break Harry from his thoughts as they stand next to him. “Hey man..how you doin'?”. Liam's the first one to talk.

"Just trying to be there for her if I'm 'onest..she just..she's trying to keep herself busy all the time" Harry explained to the two boys as he continued to look in YN’s direction.

"Must be so hard" Niall spoke as he took a glance at Louis and YN.

"We're gonna go and stay with my Mum for a few days before heading to Doncaster for Christmas...just escape reality for a bit...YN suggested it". Harry spoke about their plans for the next few weeks.

"Might be good..you know to be around other people..take her mind off things" Liam nodded his head.

"Yeah I hope so" Harry thought out loud, hoping they were right.

Louis was talking to a member of his team so YN made her way back over and Niall was the first to pull her into a brotherly embrace.

"Tomlinson...I've missed your hugs" Niall spoke as he wrapped his arms around her shoulders. Watching the sight in front of him made Harry realise how much love YN had around her.

"Yeah..well save some for the rest of us mate" Liam joked. YN moved from Niall's hold and greeted Liam in a hug. Harry could hear Liam's voice as he wrapped his arm around her. “We're all here for you too okay..don't be afraid to call or text okay?" to which YN thanked him. This wasn't just friendship, this was family.

"Is Lou okay?" Harry asked YN as she moved closer to him, before reaching to hold his hand.

"Think he's just holding it together if I'm 'onest" YN spoke as her fingers played with Harry, whilst looking over at her brother.

"Where's your Nan and Grandad...and the girls?" Harry asked as he looked around the room, not being able to see them. Niall and Liam were talking amongst themselves.

"Phebs and Dais wanted to see the audience empty or somethin'...I'm gonna stay backstage to watch Lou..if you don't mind?".

"Wh-why would I mind...we'll do whatever you're comfortable with" Harry reassured her and pecked her lips in a quick motion.

"Some things never change huh...still disgustingly in love..feel like I'm back in 2013" Niall teased them, which Harry was glad of because he thought that's what YN needed, for people to still act the same.

"Aw shut up Horan" YN laughed, as she pushed his arm playfully.

"I'll wait until you find the one" Harry joked as he pulled YN even closer to his side.

"I feel sorry for her already" YN continued to tease Niall as he stood there with a smile on his face.

"You're a cheeky shit Tommo..you know that" Niall joked.

Louis found them standing in the corner and pulled Niall then Liam into a hug and thanked them both for coming, explaining how much it meant to him. "C'mon Harold...I won't leave you out" Louis joked and Harry wrapped his arm around him as he whispers in his ear "Has she been okay?".

"Yeh and no" Harry truthfully answered, as they broke apart.

"I'm looking forward to hearing your song" Liam broke the silence.

"I'm so fookin' nervous man...I couldn't even finish sound check earlier..just dunno..felt like I was gonna throw up". Louis shrugged his shoulders, a nervous habit of his as he spoke.

Niall tapped Louis on the shoulder and reassured him "Hey..you're gonna do great Tommo...we're all right behind ya tonight yeh?".

"Yeh I know..thanks man" Louis wore a grateful smile. "I think Nan, Grandad and the girls are gonna sit in the audience..are you joining them Kiddo?". He aimed the question towards YN.

"I'm gonna stay backstage with Harry..and the boys" YN answered as she moved so she was standing in front of Harry and naturally his arm wrapped around her front and landed on her shoulder.

"Of course you are" Louis had a playful smirk on his face "Fookin' hell Styles...what's your secret, she never wants to leave your side?" Before he could respond, Louis continued before he walked away chuckling to himself "Actually don't fookin' answer that".

---

It had been a couple of days since Louis' X Factor performance and as YN requested they were in Holmes Chapel for a few days, before travelling to Doncaster for Louis's Birthday and Christmas. Harry and YN had arrived a couple of hours ago and as soon as they walked through Anne’s front door, YN was pulled into her arms. At any other time, Harry would have made a joke about her liking YN more than him, her son, but instead he carried on walking through the hallway and placing their bags at the bottom of the stairs.

After dinner later that night, they were sitting in the lounge, Gemma and Michael sat on one sofa with Robin and YN, Mum and Harry on the other. YN's back was pressed to Harry’s side and his arm wrapped around her frame and hand resting on her tummy. Harry had noticed she was quieter than usual as the rest of them chatted about different things, but Harry thought maybe she was concentrating on the film playing on the telly. Harry pressed his lips to the top of her head, and to his left, Harry felt his Mum give him a subtle nudge. As he turned to look at her she gave him a sympathetic look and mouthed "Is she okay?" as she nodded towards YN in Harry’d arms, to which he shrugged his shoulders.

"I'm gonna go to the loo a sec" YN spoke for the first time in a while, as she stood up leaving the space next to Harry empty and walking towards the kitchen.

Anne asked if anyone wanted a cup of tea, to which everyone replied: "Yes please". Anne had been gone all for a few minutes until she appeared at the lounge door calling Harry’s name softly and motioning for him to follow her. As they walked through the kitchen door, she spoke in a whisper "I..I'm..I didn't want to knock on the door just in case...but I think YN is crying in there".

Harry didn't hesitate to walk over to the bathroom door and give it a soft knock "YN..it's me", he heard a sniffle, instantly knowing Anne was right.

"I-I..I'll be out now" YN's voice was heard through the door. Harry opened the door gently and peered around to see her frame sitting next to the bath on the floor, with her back pressed against the wall and knees up to her chest.

"Baby!”. Harry panicked and walked into the room and closed the door behind him. Harry sits next to YN on the ground and pulled her to his side where she grips onto his jumper and sobs into Harry’s chest as he holds the side of her. Harry allows her to cry and get everything she feels out. After some time she sits up and wipes her eyes with the sleeves of her jumper.

"Sorry" her voice is quiet, almost like she’s embarrassed.

"Babe..why are you saying sorry?". Harry voice was gentle, soft and calm as he wiped away another tear from her cheek.

"I-I...for..for crying" she sniffled trying to stop her tears from spilling.

"Don't you dare be sorry for that...you know it's okay to feel like this". Harry was sad that YN felt like she needed to apologise.

"It's just..I..it hits me more in the night" she confessed.

"I think that's normal..you kind of have more time to think".

"Yeh..I just miss her so much..this is probably really silly-".

"Whatever it is I bet it's not".

"I've been phoning her phone still and sending her texts" YN wiped a stray tear that escaped.

"Does it help?".

"Kind of".

"Then it's not silly and you should keep doing it".

"Why did you come in here anyway?" she questioned.

"My Mum was making everyone a cuppa and she heard you crying..she didn't want to come in just incase-".

YN's voice interrupted "She's got a heart of gold hasn't she?”.

"She does!”. Harry couldn’t help but smile.

---

It was now Christmas Eve, also Louis' birthday. Harry and YN travelled to Doncaster that morning from Anne’s house. Since that night Harry found YN in the bathroom upset, she seemed a bit more relaxed and not hiding away when she feels upset. As they walked through the door to YN's grandparent's house, they were both greeted by Jen and Len pulling them both in for a hug. As Jen began making them all cups of tea, they all stood in the kitchen chatting.

"Is Lou here yet" YN asked her grandparents, waiting for one of them to answer.

"No not yet..he said he'd be here around 4ish". Jen glanced at the brown clock that was up on the wall.

"Oh I was hoping he'd be here earlier than that-" YN began but was interrupted by a heard of footsteps and her four sisters appeared all running into her and hugging any part of her body they could.

"Missed me have ya?" YN’s voice turned into her happy and bubbly self. Harry wondered if it was for her sisters sake.

"Can you paint my nails?" "Can I do your make-up?" "Will you curl my hair" the girls all spoke over each other, making Harry chuckle.

"C'mon then munchkins, let's go" YN spoke, holding Pheobe and Daisy's hand as they walked through to the lounge and continued upstairs.

Once the girls' voices had disappeared upstairs, Jen looked in their direction to make sure they were upstairs, before handing Harry and Len their mugs of tea as they all sat by the table. "How's she been Harry?".

"She..um..she's been okay..but she did break down in my Mum's the other night, I found her crying on the bathroom floor" Harry explained, as he watched the older couple take a glance at eachother .

"I knew she wasn't being truthful with me" Jen spoke with a sad expression.

"I think she wants to be strong for you all" Harry admitted, taking a sip of his boiling hot tea.

"She's always been stubborn..ever since she was little hasn't she Jen?”. Len sighed.

"Yeh..her and Louis both..oh Harry they would argue like mad...typical siblings really...and then the next minute they were like best mates...YN always looks for Louis for when she's upset..always has done" Jen reminised.

"Yeh she told me that when she's with him she feels like she's at home..a comfort thing I suppose" Harry admitted, thinking about what YN had told him before.

---

Just after 4, Louis arrived and just like the girls had greeted YN when she arrived, the five of them all ran to him shouting 'Happy Birthday'.

"Harold...I'm very disappointed that you didn't run to me too" Louis joked as he walked towards Harry.

"Happy Birthday mate" Harry said witha big grin and tapped his shoulder.

"Thanks lad!”.

"Right..c'mon then you lot..let's get some music on and let's celebrate me turning 25" Louis ordered his sisters. The younger girls ran into the lounge and decided which songs to play first. Harry stood back and watched as Louis and YN walked together, Louis's arm wrapped around her shoulder.

As Jen and Len stayed in the kitchen, preparing dinner and insisted they didn't need any of Harry’s help, he stood in the doorway of the lounge as the Tomlinsons danced around the room singing along to 'Shut Up and Dance".

"Harry c'mon...you can't just stand there" Daisy began to pull Harry into the chaos.

"B-but I can't dance" Harry protested, but it was no use.

"Neither can Louis..it's fine" Phoebe teased her older brother as he acted hurt and put a hand over his heart. The song changes and 'This One's For You' plays through the speaker.

As Harry spins Daisy around and she continues to dance. Harry looks over at YN as she dances with the older girls and as she catches his gaze, he sends her a wink that makes her shyly smile back at him.

We're in this together Hear our hearts beat together We stand strong together We're in this forever

Tag List: (let me know if you would like to be added) @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @harrys-flower @platinumbarbie143 @frickin-bats @harrysbbyh0ney fanfictioncafe lilfreakjez jerseygirlinca iamahallucinationnn @chronicallybubbly @goldensunflowe-r  @walkingintheheartbreaksatellite @kaverichauhan @peterholland04 @panicattheuc @indierockgirrl

[spookemsdukems]

TY for indulging me my darling mutuals for letting me doodle some lil fusions/kids of our characters!! Helped my brain brr today ദ്ദി ˉ͈̀꒳ˉ͈́ )✧ JAZZ HANDS I NOW PRESENT THE KIDDOS

ON THE LEFT

Unsuur x "Builder" Just a quiet lil baby girl, her name is Opal and she talks to Wilson all the time and Captain (Who I imagine retired at some point) who became her lil support Captain cause she a shy gorl. I think she holds the sleeves of Unsuur and "Builder" anytime they walk around. Captain, Unsuur, and Opal all share a birthday. Arvio x "Builder" Oh my sweet bb Marigold who probably has a million siblings. She loves her Papa and Mama, but the fact she has her Mama's eyes scares her a lil. THEY GLOW IN THE DARK?? It's scary like the monsters under her bed! But Mama hums her songs all the time so its okay. She is real close with Aunty Amirah. Ernest x "Builder" A GRUMPY GOOSE!!! Ernest is so over the top and in love with Quillian's Mom and it drives him NUTS?? STOP Kissing mom in the kitchen every MORNING EUGH GROSS. Also stop stealing her attention blarg. Anyway he does love his Dad but GOSH annoying. He wants more siblings please, he cannot stand to be the soul witness to his Dad's affection towards Mom.

ON THE RIGHT!!

@/guatemama-satanael pls enjoy our darling lil jellyfish child in this hypothetical world! The day they visit the ocean this girl is gonna wanna be one with the sea I have this DEEP feeling in my soul. @/huni-bii IM in love with our SON he's a lil nerd who is a germaphobe, but gosh does he still love rabbits and they are his comfort animal. @/sanddusted-wisteria Demon testtube bbies, they are goblins and I adore them!! They will terrorize the TOWN LET IT BE KNOWN MWAHAHHA! LET THE WORLD KNOW I am open for more moots or new pals to give me permission to use their OCs as I will probably try to do a fictional kiddo for every bachelor/bachelorette in MTAS!

[chelsamander]

“Mermaids sunning themselves on the rocks in the 1924 silent film “Peter Pan” Santa Cruz Island, California.

Peter Pan was released by Paramount Pictures in December 1924. It first film adaptation of the play by J. M. Barrie.

“Peter Pan” starred Betty Bronson as Peter, Mary Brian as Wendy, Virginia Browne Faire as Tinker Bell, Anna May Wong as princess Tiger Lily, Ernest Torrence as Captain Hook, and Esther Ralston as Mrs. Darling.

✨ The film was considered lost until a complete copy was rediscovered in the 1950s. The full 1924 movie is available online on Wiki, Archive org, and other websites.”

[silviaflowers]

Sigh ok it's time to drop some art !!!

Assorted Phil doodles alongside my darling flicker family... I've actually posted the last thing before !!

The first drawing is a fionna and cake redraw :]

(Ernest by MY husband @capt-summer)

(Huck by @s0ckh3adstudios)

[badlydrawndrawnings]

ASOUE Characters (The Adults)

And the Beatles Songs I Can't Help But Associate Them With

Lemony Snicket, In My Life (~All these places had their moments/With lovers and friends, I still can recall/Some are dead and some are living/In my life, I've loved them all~)

Beatrice Baudelaire, Golden Slumbers (~Golden slumbers fill your eyes/Smiles await you when you rise/Sleep pretty darling do not cry/And I will a lullaby~)

Bertrand Baudelaire, All My Loving (~All my loving, I will send to you/All my loving/Darling, I'll be true/All my loving/All my loving, Ooh/All my loving, I will send to you~)

Count Olaf, Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown) (~I once had a girl/Or should I say she once had me/She showed me her room/Isn't it good Norwegian Wood?~) + (~And when I awoke I was alone/This bird had flown/So I lit a fire/Isn't it good Norwegian wood?~)

Esme Squalor, Girl, being the Girl in question, not the 'singer'* (~She's the kind of girl who puts you down/When friends are there/You feel a fool/When you say she's looking good/She acts as if it's understood~)

*The 'singer' of 'Girl' is Jerome Squalor, who has strong feelings of his former marriage with Esme, more bad than good

Jacques Snicket, While My Guitar Gentle Weeps (~I look at the world and I notice it's turning/While my guitar gently weeps/With every mistake we must surely be learning/Still my guitar gently weeps~)

Kit Snicket, Help* [~When I was younger so much younger than today/I never needed anybody's help in any way/(Now) But now these are gone (These days are gone)/I'm not so self assured/(And now I find) Now I've changed my mind/And opened up the doors~]

*Despite the upbeat tone, the lyrics really do fit Kit

Dewey Denouement, A Day in the Life (~I read the news today, oh boy/About a lucky man who made the grade/And though the news was rather sad/Well, I just had to laugh/I saw the photograph~) + (~A crowd of people stood and stared/They'd seen his face before/Nobody was really sure if he was from the House of Lords~)

Ernest Denouement, Carry That Weight (~Boy, you're gonna carry that weight/Carry that weight a long time/Boy, you're gonna carry that weight/Carry that weight a long time~)

Frank Denouement, You Never Gave Me Your Money (~You never give your money/You only give me your funny paper/And in the middle of negotiations/You break down~)

[austentatious]

Oh darling, please stay by me. Please stay by me and see me through this.

The Sun Also Rises | Ernest Hemingway

[cato616]

NEGOTIATING OVER US (part one)

roman roy x fem reader

note: hey! so this is my first post so please be nice♡ (oh and english isn't my first language either so)

another note: i may confuse myself by saying me/I'm instead of you/your and such. my bad

• there's some original characters!! not from the show (Ernest, Liza, and Kate!)

summery: you've been living your life as local coffee shop owner and roman roy is trying to buy it from you just for its territory (for waystar's use) but of course you don't want to. Although having you say yes to his offer would mean him stop seeing you to convince you

warnings: well roman being a mean bitch, some spicy here and there(or at least not in part one) emotional backstory?

It's the usual afternoon for you. making some cappuccinos, macchiatos and so more for you costumers.

[your coffee shop it's somewhat successful, that local café in the area that everyone knows about; it's not very big but it is cozy, people like to stop by to chat with friends, work or study, or even just to be with their selves; they like it here, it's a nice safe space for them, and for you too]

"hey darling!" said your most frequent costumer, sweet old lonely Ernest, sitting on those individual seats by the counter, giving a warm smile. "hey Ernest how's the eye?" (Earnest was robbed last week and was hurt pretty bad, those fuckers hit him pretty hard, that poor old man) "oh!" he said while slightly touching the bruise like if he'd forgotten about it. "yes I suppose it's getting better" he smiled. "the usual?" you asked. "yes ma'am" he responded pointing his finger in the air like the good old man he is. you smile back and get to it.

while you get the coffee ready, you start observing your coffee shop, how nice it looks, friends chatting on one table, someone reading a book alone, and so everything seems good. You can't help but notice the sunshine coming in through your big windows. You realize how much you like your job, making people happy, 'cuz that what you see around you.

But there's a problem coming in trying to stop your dreams; and actually, that problem just walked right in.

you sigh when you notice roman roy coming in through the door. "what's wrong?" asked Ernest. "oh it's just roman who came in, i hate him." said to him while giving him his coffee with a concern look on your face. "roman roy yeah!... oh, roman roy" said Ernest disappointed. i nodded agreeing with his feeling at the situation.

"how's it going darling?" he said teasing me and then sitting next to Ernest by the counter as well. you didn't say anything, just standing there looking at him with more of a disgusted face. Ernest was still there drinking his coffee, looking at us without saying a word. "oh... so you're not in a moody today mhm? roman kept coming at me by making fake puppy eyes. he's just the usual bully. "you can be mean all you want, I'm not selling my coffee shop" said to him directly looking into his eyes. "mm-yeah well.." he seemed kind of defeated by that and so he avoided eye contact like when a child losses a game and wants to deny it. but he looks at me again with something on his mind "you know it's a lot of money right? you can immediately have some other coffee shop elsewhere, im sure of it, and i can even make it happen very fast, and well... we can make some modern arrangements" he said looking around the place like if it was fucking rats and trash here. "he has some points there dear" said Ernest, still there. "Ernest you're not his lawyer, respectfully, zip it" felt kinda bad saying that but my blood boils when roman roy is around. "yeah Ernest shut up!" he said laughing and then you stared at him annoyed. you can't shut up Ernest, only i can kind of stare.

"i won't bother you anymore darling I'll be on my way out" said Ernest. you followed him to the door to quickly apologize "oh yeah don't worry dear, he's a prick i know that" he smiles at you. "but i gotta tell you, he's been here a lot, they could've sent someone else after a while, but he still comes here... I'm not blind that's all". he smiles again and then leaves; you're standing next to the door confused at what he just said. you get back to the counter still processing what he meant, your face is zoned out. "cool battle scars the old man got" roman suddenly says, you sigh and close your eyes zoning back in. "yes, he was assaulted last week by some thieves" you responded in a serious tone. "ah wow, tough old guy".

You turned to him, wanted to get open with the guy and then finally said "i can't just leave this café and open some other one somewhere else" you said more relaxed, avoiding eye contact; there's some silence between you too, he doesn't answer, he's letting you open up. "I opened this place with someone else, someone special to me... they've got very sick until the end and, this place- this place was our dream since we were little kids, we built it together, i can't just close it and open some meaningless café two blocks away." you almost caught yourself crying, you haven't talk about this in a while. You're still waiting for a response but looking down at the floor, not wanting to look into his eyes, you didn't expect to share this with him.

"aw shit" you heard him whisper to himself; he started to bite his nails as he didn't know what to do next. You looked up to see him kind of anxious at the situation, but you didn't know why. "w-what?" you were still kind of emotional. "nothing i just gotta make a quick call you know... j-just roy family stuff." seems like both of you got tongue tied. You get confused as you see him rapidly leaving and seeing him outside speaking with someone on the phone, of course you suspect it's because of what you've shared just now.

He walked right back in and then very confidently walked straight to the counter and asked "hey so, do you mind maybe coming by my office?" he seemed pretty nervous asking the question. "n-now?" you asked, he got super annoyed again very fast, classy roman. "ugh yes whatever we can go now." he started to walk outside while looking at his phone, and you were just standing there not knowing what to do, until you noticed he was outside, and you weren't, so he started making gestures with his hands to make you come out already. Felt pretty pressured by his commands "um um... liza take over for a few hours, thank youuu" you said to you co-worker while taking your apron away and then sprinting outside to meet roman.

"nice finally you're out, so... go, get in the car" felt pretty awkward getting in there, you thought you were taking a walk down the office but now that you think about it, of course it wouldn't be like that.

you looked over the window watching all the big corporate buildings in the city; pretty amazing you thought, just enjoying the ride to the his office. However, you felt someone staring at you, but you didn't want to make it obvious and turn, you let roman stare at you while he was beside you the whole ride, you didn't seem to feel annoyed by it somehow, because it doesn't feel invasive, it feels somewhat different.

continue .⁠｡⁠*⁠♡✧⁠*⁠。