#domestic hotel booking offers

[jestiloholidays]

Are you planning a relishing trip with or without your family or friends and are searching for the best hotel. However, you are unsure of how to find the best hotel at the lowest cost. That's alright; this article will really assist you.

As a traveler, you always want an unforgettable holiday filled with fun, humor, and adventure. And for a perfect holiday, there are certain factors you need to consider. But choosing the best hotelplays a vital role in making a perfect holiday and even can make or break your vacation pleasure. When it comes to hotel booking, you should not only grab the best international hotel booking offers available, but also look for the amenities that the hotel has. This ensures a comfortable and secure stay.The following tips will help you more!

[deandoesthingstome]

Labyrinth Fantasy

Pairing: Minotaur!Sy x Reader

Summary: There's a new hotel in town. You now know it's for real and you need more.

Word Count: 5.7K

Warnings: 18+, NO MINORS, cunnilingus, p in v (standing and reverse standing cowgirl), monster fucking (right?).

Fantasy Hotel Masterlist

You'd recounted enough of the details to convince your online benefactors that the investment was worth it, but kept enough to yourself to make the experience truly special.

Like, you didn't mention the time stretch at all. Though you had been wondering why the hotel even offered longer booking sessions if the hosts could just snap a finger and keep you satisfied forever. You felt only mild guilt about keeping the image of naked human Walter to yourself. They didn't need to know how good he looked NOT as a monster. You were keeping that for you own private thoughts. But you were bemoaning your current funding situation.

sendmeanangel: ugh, I'm never getting back there!!! MNstrluvr: Listen. There's a way. sendmeanangel: how? I can't get any more shifts at the restaurant. MNstrluvr: let us open a Patreon for you sendmeanangel: I'm NOT giving a recount of this event to total strangers darkgothnightengale: you have no idea who we are sendmeanangel: you are NOT total strangers. I know your favorite coffee and what you're studying at uni and your top 10 comfort movies. I know how you got that scar on your hand. darkgothnightengale: yeah but you didn't know that until you asked. Up to then we were total strangers who loved your work. Just like everyone on Patreon will be only they'll be paying MNstrluvr: yeah and you don't have to tell it to them like you told us. Put a different spin on it. Don't make the story from the perspective of the hotel. Make it a true fairy tale. Red riding hood in the woods and shit. Make him your boyfriend, The Woodsman, who's ready to show you his secret this fine full moon evening. sendmeanangel: oh my goddddddd!!! darkgothnightengale: yeah, but put all the most important details of him in Sendmeanangel: you just want to read about his massive cock splitting you open again darkgothnightengale: i have my needs. Besides, I just mean those details you only know now because you experienced it. You have something to draw from, something to make it real for everyone MNstrluvr: seriously, meana, do it. You will make so much money. You should have been putting your other stories out there long ago but this you can post and sell cause it'll be completely your own content with no re-imagining of existing characters sendmeanangel: okay, but you gotta beta the shit out of this for me. I can't have it sounding like I'm just recounting the whole thing from last night's fuck session with my partner MNstrluvr: 😆 🤣 😂 😹 darkgothnightengale: oh my goddddddd!!!! MNstrluvr: anyway we already created an account. We'll add your email and send you the password reset so you can run it and transfer the money to your bank whenever darkgothnightengale: and as always, no pressure on timing other than knowing you need the money to get back to Walter but I can't wait to read this! sendmeanangel: what if he's not available?

As you clicked Reserve something caught in the back of your mind.

Would Walter care you weren't coming back to see him?

How could he? You spent two hours (or was it more? You could never figure out the time swap calculations) together. You weren't even sure if that was his real name. Sure, you fantasized about him when you got home. You'd been in a fog of post-orgasmic bliss when you saw him in his human form, but that didn't stop you from cataloging every inch you could. Imagining snuggling next to his enormous and furry body wasn't hard.

It was this domestic bliss scene you'd eventually settled on as the opening to your "boyfriend's werewolf confession during an evening walk in the woods" fic that you posted on Patreon. The feedback had been a dream come true.

While the income wasn't as plentiful as you'd hoped, the wages and tips from your extra shifts allowed you to book another stay the following month. Walter was indeed not available on your only open day of the week so you sought out another option and found a four hour time slot with a new-to-you creature.

The listing called him Captain of the Guard.

Something about this fantasy made you select the box at check in specifically requesting your host enter in form. You had missed this at your previous visit, and as you thought back to meeting Walter, you appreciated the gentle way he eased into the scene. But you wanted a little more…mystery? Suspense? apprehension this time. The front desk clerk told you your host's name was Sy, and sent you down to a lower level of the hotel. The only key he provided was the code you punched into the elevator number pad to allow you to press L3. 

When the doors opened, you entered a small, rustic room with a hard dirt ground and cool stone walls. You only saw one other door besides the elevator you just stepped through and your mind did some mental gymnastics. Was that the exit to the maze or a bathroom? If it was the bathroom, where was the maze?

A few benches were scattered around and sitting on one was the Offering Tray you purchased, along with a note telling you to dress or undress to your level of comfort and step out into the hall through the door opposite the elevator when you were ready. Okay, door to maze then. But your nervous pee sensation was building. Where was the bathroom???

You knew the elevator was locked after you exited the car, but the note also contained the return code you were welcome to use any time, even before your reservation was over. And the note also revealed the secret to locating the washroom around the corner of one of the walls that you now noticed didn’t quite reach the next wall, causing a little optical illusion that the room was a simple square with no other space. Clever. It reminded you of a scene from a fantasy movie you’d seen when you were younger.

You peed and then undressed for a quick rinse in the surprisingly warm shower. You had imagined the temperature of the liquid streaming over the mini waterfall in this rock room would be ice cold, but it was as if the water was heated to a constant, perfect temperature from a thermal spring. The floors were warm on your bare feet too. You almost had to tear yourself away. There was a fantasy to be had.

You hung your street clothes on the garment hooks and pulled your red cape from your bag. You had researched a few different costume options and came across a clever way to fashion a toga of sorts from the material, albeit a slutty red toga with a giant slit up one thigh. You didn’t bother with underwear this time either. After one last look in the mirror to make sure your nerves weren’t showing too badly, you gathered up the offering of cured meat and stepped into the hall.

The rough hewn stone walls were at least three feet higher than the room you’d just exited. You noticed shelves jutting out occasionally at various heights and made a mental note not to run into them. Not that you planned on running. The ground was soft and sandy, rather than hard packed earth. Even in bare feet, this was going to make running hard. Again, not that you’d planned on running. 

Now, which direction? Left was always your gut instinct so you followed the path in that direction, choosing a left turn anytime you came to an intersection. After dead-ending twice in about five minutes, you began to rethink your approach. While you figured it had be wise to build in some extra time to find your treasure, you didn’t want to spend four hours in a fucking maze alone. 

As soon as you made the next right, the air shifted. The hairs on the back of your neck stood at attention and a ripple of goosebumps grew up on both arms. You made a few more turns before you began to hear snorts and huffs in the distance. For a moment, you froze, unsure if you wanted to move toward or away from the beast. Not because you didn’t want to meet the beast. But only because you truly couldn’t decide how. Sneak up and surprise him? Or let him chase you?

A new roar announced he was getting closer and you made a snap decision to turn away. Let him find me.

You maybe delayed the introduction by a few minutes. He was adept and clearly knew this maze inside and out while you were still trying to find your footing. You were just about to turn a corner that looked surprisingly familiar when you felt a rumble and the sand shift beneath your feet before you heard a snort and few stamps on the ground.

“Turn around.” Though a command, it came out like a question and you knew this was yet another opportunity for you to provide your consent to the game. Keep walking forward and it would all be over. As a matter of fact, you were convinced your next step forward would take you to the hall where the door to your changing room was. Your turn was deliberate. So was the flash as the cape swished around your legs and settled back into place. Give him a show, you smiled inwardly to yourself, before you wiped that grin right off the face in your mind and dropped your jaw instead.

Before you stood a monster of a man/beast, which explained the rumbling of the ground. You noticed the hooves which explained the stamping sound. As you drew your eyes up his solid and thick legs, you were a little disappointed to see he was wearing a heavy pleated leather skirt which hid any hint of what might be hanging underneath. His biceps bulged and thick veins trailed down each forearm. His chest was broad and teeming with unbridled strength, bare and full of the fur you were hoping to find.

Walter wasn’t the first hairy man you’d been with, but he definitely made you appreciate it more and this beast sported a similar amount. As your gaze met his, you took in the visage of a bull’s head, noticing the ring you expected to see in his nose was not there, but the horns near his ears were. They were massive as well and you had plans.

“Who dares enter my labyrinth?” he demanded as he sauntered ever closer to you. “What little bird has been flitting through these halls?”

You gave your name as you held out the tray in front of you, but he simply stood before you, motionless, save his eyes which roamed over every inch of you. When he returned his gaze to yours, he cocked his head to one side.

“And what am I supposed to do with this?” he roared, obviously unsatisfied with the tray of meat. Did the hotel make a mistake? “Maybe you’re playing a game with me? Is that it? Interrupt my peaceful solitude and taunt me with a delectable offering only to hide it behind a curtain of fabric and an offensive tray of inferior flesh?”

“I … I didn’t know… I didn’t think…” you stammered. Your heart was beating furiously, though he hadn’t taken another step toward you and you weren’t exactly trapped. You were more convinced than ever that if you wanted to escape, the entry room and the elevator were just around the corner. He was giving you time to acclimate to your decision to stay, making sure you weren’t having second thoughts. Though he commanded this hall in this maze, he was letting you call the next shot and you knew you were in no danger. Well, none that you didn’t want.

You set the tray on a ledge nearby, and grabbed fistfuls of your robe in both hands, lifting the material enough to give you the feeling of freedom around your lower legs. Just in case. Not that you were planning on running.

“In this labyrinth, the offerings are usually a little more respectful. Would you like to try your offering again?” Something about his words, the way he cocked his head again, the subtle pawing at the ground, as if he was about to rear up. He wanted you to. 

You licked your lips, and nodded. Took one more beat. Then turned and ran. Past the door to the changing room, up the hall to the right, left down the next corridor, then right again. Left. Left. Left. Right. For a moment you imagined he wasn’t right on your tail and then you hit a dead end and he descended on you as you turned to try to escape the hall thinking you might have enough time to head in another direction. Well, around you really. His arms caged you against the wall behind you.

He was so close. His musk was intoxicating and the scent added a little more fuel to the fire already burning in your loins. You peered up into his eyes, which you now noticed weren’t jet black, but rather a deep, dark azure. 

“That’s better,” he chuckled. “The offering is always sweeter after a little vigorous activity.”

“I’m so sorry,” you spoke. "I had no idea the offering I was given wouldn't be to your satisfaction. I should have anticipated better for a creature who commands such obedience and reverence as you."

“The tray isn’t the offering, little bird,” he huffed near your ear as you felt a hand drop from the wall beside you to your shoulder and then down to the pivotal point on your costume. One little tug, and, yep, there it went. The makeshift dressing had held up surprisingly well on the chase, but it was designed to come off easily and that it did. He made an approving sound, tracing a finger over one breast and down the valley between both, nearing your apex before he dragged the back of that hand up your belly and around your waist, ending with a firm grip on the meat of your hips.

“What…what is the offering?” you asked, with feigned timidity, as if you didn’t know what he meant. His arms moved to circle your waist and his hands slid to the creases beneath both now bare cheeks.

"I'll take this peach instead," he snorted with what you perceived to be a wink and a grin. He jiggled the flesh of your ass and grinned wider as he caught the moan of pleasure you tried to suppress. "You don’t need to fight it little bird. This is why you're here. To let go of inhibitions and feel free to express your feelings and desires with no judgment. If you like someone paying attention to this luscious cake, you shouldn't have to feel like you have to hide it."

The exchange felt a little out of character for the scene, but you didn’t mind. The chase was fun, but it was going to be even better finding out how this man would take care of your needs. So you let him know.

"Fuck. It feels good to have you touch it. Most men just go straight for the pussy and ignore the pleasure I get from the tease, the idea of you..." you trailed off, uncertain if you wanted to broach that subject here.

"Oh, it's just an idea, huh? Nothing you want to try? Isn't that why you're here?"

You thought about Walter and wondered if Sy was as well endowed under the fabric covering his loins. Surely the beasts at this hotel were all inordinately adept at providing pleasure; that was after all the entire theme. And maybe there were other ways to pleasure a person, and maybe this hotel had them too, but you couldn’t begin to imagine that the size of Sy’s cock wasn’t proportionate to his stature. You weren't quite ready to feel that in your ass.

"It's alright, little bird. We're here for whatever you'd like,” he answered without you even saying a word.

“Can I call you Sy?” you asked, unsure how committed to the bit he’d be.

“Of course, darlin’.” That was an odd Texas drawl that had just overridden the previous enigmatic accent you assumed was meant to convey ancient Greece. He kept the twang when he saw your surprised eyebrow quirk. “We can take this play anywhere you want to go. Though I’m going to make one choice for us.”

He bent to scoop you into his arms, cradling your legs and back as he held you against his chest. You could feel his heart pounding and wondered if he could feel yours, too. You took some slow deep breaths to try to calm yourself.

For a brief moment, you nestled your head against his neck, relishing the feel of the fur against your cheek. Then you turned your head to pay attention to where he was taking you. You figured you would need to make your way out of this maze alone after being well and thoroughly fucked and somehow you imagined you'd still have enough brain cells to remember the path he was taking.

But Sy wasn’t going backwards to any open hall. Instead he was making his way directly into what you took for a dead end. Before he crushed you against the wall, as you were sure he was about to do, Sy stepped through the wall. Sort of. Through another optical illusion that proved the dead end was actually a T intersection.

Sy took the left branch and in a few short strides, you found yourself in a room filled oddly with accouterments of pleasure. A platform bed covered in softness in the middle of the space was an inviting contrast to the sandstone walls you'd acclimated to. In a few spaces, what appeared to be fur rugs hung against the walls. Straight ahead, covered in dozens of warm glowing candles illuminating the room along with hanging oil lamp pendants, sat a wooden altar. Bowls draped with mounds of luscious looking fruit and plates of cured meats and cheeses were nestled in between the candle holders.

As you looked around, you noticed no other entrance to the room, though you kept missing the non-obvious openings, so who knew? The markings on the wall and other accompanying furnishings led you to believe you were not just in some other hall of the maze. You were now in Sy's sanctuary. You’d found, or rather Sy was going to show you, the treasure at the middle of the maze. 

Sy set you on your feet and stepped back, as if judging your temperature again. 

“Is this where I meet my fate, then?” you asked, with a shy smile.

“You’ll die a thousand little deaths in here,” he promised, returning to the previous accent, and you noticed now a tail swishing behind him. You hadn’t seen that before, but it seemed…excited.

“Sounds amazing.”

With that he rushed you as if you still held the red cape as a target. In what felt like one fell swoop, he bent to capture your hips and swing you forward over his shoulder as he turned and took a few steps toward a fur-lined spot along a wall and none of those movements jostled or startled you. It was as if he was picking up a piece of cloth, the ease with which he maneuvered you and held you stable so nothing hurt. Not his fingers in your hips, not your hips over his shoulder, not your back as he held you captive, pressed against the wall of the hidden sanctuary.

“Walter said you smelled delicious and tasted even better,” Sy huffed with hunger.

Did they talk amongst one another? That hardly seemed ethical. And yet, you’d gossipped and dished about this place and the man you’d met previously. Why would you assume he wouldn’t do the same?

“So that’s the first thing we’ll take care of here,” he continued as he dug his massive thigh into the moist heat between your legs and huffed breath onto your neck. His hands traced the length of your body, down both sides, over your belly, onto the sensitive skin of your inner thighs.

In a heartbeat, he had you off the ground, legs spread wide as he continued to trap you against the wall. You tried to hold onto his beefy shoulders for stability, but soon realized he wasn't done lifting you up as you lost purchase.

You were sure you'd be tumbling forward onto the sandy ground in front of you as soon as you cleared another foot of his body, but somehow you remained upright. Well, ‘somehow’ was known but you were still amazed at the raw strength and power Sy possessed to hold you aloft and continue to elevate your body.

With one final shrug, he had your naked form where he wanted it. Legs over shoulders and pussy right at his face waiting to be devoured. You'd had men, including Walter, in between your legs before. A few times when you were upright, and that always put a nice checkmark next to their names in your book. But never while hoisted six feet in the air.

The thick swath of muscle that ascended through your folds filled you with a warmth you had been craving for weeks. Sy somehow managed to manipulate the shape as well, so that he alternated between targeted tight circles with a tip and wide saliva drenched passes that were soon mingling with your own juices.

You had the distinct impression that the wall behind you was for your benefit only. A way to make you more comfortable and secure in the knowledge that he wouldn't let you fall while he was feasting at the altar of your thighs. That he had the ability to hold you upright all on his own while he ate you out.

He made you come at least three times with your back arched against the wall and crying out for relief as you pressed into his head to hold yourself steady, even while he supported you with a hand cradling your ass and another secure against your side. You had wanted to grab his horns, but something told you to stop and wait until you could ask permission. It didn’t seem polite to just grab at them without warning.

“Please, Sy. Please fuck me now,” you pleaded and he skillfully obliged, though he took his sweet time getting there.

He took a few more licks, sucking in the moisture dripping from your pussy before he began to ease your legs off his shoulders, down his body, and around his waist. He settled you there while he reached back to unhook his skirt and drop it to the ground. Then he knelt, still holding you against the wall, and shifted your legs down to rest on his thighs. This gave you an opportunity to peek down and see what he was working with, and not that you were at all surprised but it was still a bit of shock.

A strap of leather remained wrapped around his waist, traveling down both sides of his Orion's belt with the ends connected to a ring that sat stuffed behind his cock. While you contemplated just how long it would let him last, he worked an especially large condom onto his massive member, drifting a knuckle through your folds at every opportunity, given the proximity. He grunted and grinned each time you rolled your hips against his fingers, eagerly seeking more pressure, more depth, more everything.

“Patience, little bird. We’ll get there soon enough,” he warned as he finished affixing the rubber. You watched rapt as he held himself firm in one hand, tugging with the same languid pace he also used to trail his fingers from the other hand around your entrance, flicking at the hidden pearl up top and pressing his thumb deep inside you. It was killing you, but this was not one of the little deaths he had promised and you contemplated telling him so. 

As if he could tell just how impatient you were becoming, he finally spread your puffy lips wide and began to nudge the tip of his cock at your soaking entrance. A gasp was all you could manage as he moved to standing at the same time, easing your legs back up around his waist again.

Sy moved into you inch by glorious inch, pausing every so often to make sure you were comfortable. It was certainly not something you were accustomed to, but the feeling was familiar and you knew now he was at least as large as Walter. This was going to be fun. When he was almost seated you asked.

“Sy?”

“Yes, little bird?”

“May I touch them? Hold … hold onto them?”

“Yes, little bird, you may.”

You used the leverage of your grip to drive your hips down the rest of the way onto his colossal cock and willed your inner walls to ease around him. A heat filled you, a desire to grind against him, but he stilled you. Made you sit with the enormity of the situation for a moment while he palmed a breast, rolled a nipple.

“Please, Sy, please. I want you to move. I want you to fuck me into this wall. Please.”

He didn’t make you beg another time. He was slamming into you and somehow rotating his hips in such a way that you felt him in every muscle and nerve in your body. It felt electric and vibrant and you wanted to explode. Sy let you. Fucked you right through it and into the midst of a second one before you could open your eyes again. 

You were grinding against him, pulling your body up and pushing back down using his horns to guide you and you were coming hard around him again. His laugh was infectious and you let one out with the third little death in this position. 

Suddenly, he spun you away from the wall. For a moment you thought he was heading for the bed, but he lifted you off his cock, then turned you around. He held you against his chest with one arm around your waist as his other hand guided his throbbing member into you once again.

You threw your arms behind you to grasp at his neck as if you needed to somehow participate in keeping yourself steady against him, but he could handle you all on his own. He had your legs splayed wide, an arm under each knee, and he drove up into you as if it was nothing. And while you didn’t need to, you absolutely wanted to slip your hands up a little higher, off his neck, over the back of his head and right back onto those epic horns. 

You smoothed your fingers over the bone, into the curl, and held on. It could have been your imagination, but his grunts and snorts seemed to magnify as you did so. Maybe he really liked it? Before you had a chance to consider dragging your fingers along the form again, he hit you with another deep wave of pleasure that had your eyes rolling back into your head as you slumped against him.

And it was like he knew how much more you had in you, because he just kept fucking you right back into consciousness, at which point you did gather your wits and give his horns a few more sensual strokes. It was his groan that told you he was close and you were helping him along. It only took a few more thrusts before you were coming hard around his dick and it seemed like he was letting loose with a roar, too.

He eased his phallus out of your sweaty, quivering body and moved forward to deposit you on the bed, admonishing you to stay put before he disappeared behind another secret wall. You heard water rushing and the sound began to lull you into a light sleep that only the warm, wet cloth pulled you out of.

“Don’t open your eyes just yet,” he spoke, his voice a little less gruff than before.

“I was promised a thousand little deaths,” you teased, unable to move your eyelids or anything else for that matter. His laughter lifted your heart.

“Oh, you want more? Looks like you’d scatter in the wind like a dandelion if I put my cock in you one more time.”

“I wish you weren’t right,” you joined him with a light laugh of your own. “Maybe if I could get a little nap…”

“Unfortunately, time has been flyin’ while we’ve been having fun. Don’t think you’ve got enough left for that.”

You peeled your eyes open, curious about his statement. You hadn’t meant to imply he should give you more time and you were embarrassed that he might think you were being pushy, demanding. You were not prepared for the sight of the man in front of you.

Where Walter’s shift had given him just a little extra height and bulk, not that he needed it to maneuver you around the room, Sy’s return to human form was dramatic. And not that he wasn’t massive in his own right, but the size of the beast that had just fucked you senseless was even more apparent comparatively. You could see he was solid, tree trunks for thighs and branches for arms. His shoulders were wide, chest broad. All the things you’d noticed of the bull, but just scaled down. And still incredibly daunting. 

“S’okay I shifted back?” he asked with concern.

“Of course, whatever you… I mean, this is all so new to me. I have no idea what’s allowed. And how much time…” Was what you were thinking about within bounds? “Has it really only been almost four hours? How much time is left? I think I assumed…”

Sy gave another chuckle as you trailed off.

“Yeah, he musta really liked you from the get go.” At your quizzical gaze, Sy continued. “We don’t all have that gift. Walt’s one of the few. And he uses it sparingly. It’s not really a sanctioned hotel offering. If everyone could and did, we’d get nothing but two-hour bookings.”

“Oh, I didn’t mean to… I mean, I hope that didn’t sound like I was demanding any special treatment or anything.”

“You honestly still don’t look like you have enough strength left to demand a deep breath,” Sy teased. “Here, lemme give you a hand. We’ll get you cleaned up for real.”

He scooped you off the bed and carried you into the bathroom, outfitted similarly to the entry room. He placed you gently under the warm, rushing waterfall before sudsing you up with a shower gel that smelled surprisingly like something you already owned. You watched as his hands slid over your body, easing the soap down your legs and guiding the water to rinse you off. 

“Sy,” you began, wondering if you should even bring it up, but as he stood to grab a towel for you, the shape you thought you’d seen as he washed you was even more apparent. “Is it allowed? Do we have time … Can I…help you with this?”

You reached for him, circling a hand around his obvious erection and tugging gently. His eyes closed slowly as he dropped his head back with a deep sigh, before he wrapped his arms around you and drew you to him. He put a palm against your cheek and tilted your head to train his beautiful blue eyes on yours as he spoke.

“It’s technically not allowed.” Your heart sank at his words. “But Imma make it good for you one last time anyway.” 

You let the towel drop to the floor as he lifted you to move back out to the bed. He set you down and you watched him climb onto the mattress, expecting him to grab a condom and crawl over you, or flip you over. When he settled himself between your legs, it wasn’t his cock that penetrated you. Sy put his mouth over your pussy again and the moan that escaped his throat had enough vibration you were sure you could come from that alone.

He was better. He was unbelievably better than Walter at this. It wasn’t something you were particularly proud to be thinking, but truth was where you found it and this was the truth. Sy was skilled and all the tricks he used in Minotaur form, he used here as well. You were squirming within moments, grinding up into his face and grabbing onto his freshly shaved head to help keep him where he’d do the most damage in the quickest amount of time. Not that he needed your help, because he was fucking good at this. He knew how to use his tongue and lips and, yes, teeth, gently, and yes fingers, deep and deft. And if you weren’t mistaken, he was squirming, too. 

You could see his ass wiggling and humping into the bed and if you weren’t losing your own damn mind you’d have noticed his hips stuttering as he came into the mattress right around the time his fingers landed back on the spot that, in combination with the movement of his tongue, had you screaming his name.

He let you linger in bed a moment, catching your breath while he slipped on a pair of white, slouchy linen pants before he held out his hand to help you off the bed. 

“Here,” he pulled the sheet around you with a soft chuckle and a grin. “This’ll be more comfortable than traipsing back to the elevator naked. I’ll show you the way.”

Sy led you back to the entry room, stopping along the way for a small detour to find your discarded cloak down the dead end hall. You swapped material with him as he deposited you outside the changing room and wished you a wonderful day.

“Come back and see us again, sometime. It was a pleasure,” he tilted his head at you as you stepped backwards into the room.

“The pleasure was all mine,” you replied.

“Don’t be too sure about that, now.”

Bonus Edit: Absolutely GORGEOUS headers made for me by my wonderful friend in fic @geralts-yenn:

Everything HC Taglist: (as always, let me know if you want on or off)

@sillyrabbit81 @mayloma @geralts-yenn @raccoon-eyed-rebel @fvckinghenrycavill @kebabgirl67 @beck07990 @itsrubberbisquit @sweetdreamsofgelato @liveoncoffeeandflowersss @alexakeyloveloki @marantha @aireraume @angelmather1 @lizzystuffsthings @enchantedbytomandhenry @omgkatinka @littlefreya @avengersfan25 @just-chirpin @thesaucynomad @valacirca @henryownsme @summersong69 @foxyjwls007 @peyton-warren

Special tag: @kittenofdoomage (cause sometimes you love my stuff and this one's another monster fucker lol!)

Tags from Werewolf!walter (if you commented):

@ellethespaceunicorn @juliaorpll78 @martha-oi @cardierreh15 @cinnamoroll-things @caramariehurst @zombicupcake3 @openup-yourmind @shellyshellshell @nickfowlerrr @greensleeves888 @misshinson @thelastsock @princessaxoo @augustsprincess @justjulie1105 @minimin1993 if you asked and aren't here, Tumblr won’t let me tag you. Sorry!

[multific]

Sweeter Than Honey

Aaron Hotchner x Reader

Summary: It was love at first sight for him. You needed him to walk past you one more time.

A/N: This is an AU where he wasn't married to Haley and doesn't have a son. Enjoy~

Beneath the hard exterior, behind all the walls that he built up, Aaron was a very gentle and kind soul.

His walls came with his job.

His walls helped him to stay sane, or at least as sane as he can possibly stay. 

You just recently started working for the BAU, being the right hand of Garcia, you soon found your place within the team.

"Agent Hotchner, this is Agent Y/L/N, the latest addition to your team." he still remembers when you were first introduced to him, you were so kind, smiling, eyes filled with excitement and nervousness.

You were ready to prove yourself and he could see that. Back then, he didn't realize it, but now, after you working for the team for the last year, Aaron can face his feelings.

He can see now just how much he loved you.

Now he understood everything Morgan was talking about. His attraction to you, the way he always protected you, the way he always looked for you first whenever there was danger.

He didn't want to admit it, but what other choice does he have?

It was bad. Bad for him to fall for you, bad for him to feel this way towards you.

He wanted to forget but he couldn't.

You had him wrapped around your finger since day one.

The worst part is that he didn't want to hide it anymore, he wanted to try. He wanted to have you even if it was wrong. But how will he do it? How will he go about this without pressuring you into this? How will he do this without pushing you into a corner?

And so, he found himself doing bad things.

During the next case, he made sure they 'forgot' to book a room for you.

"You could stay with me." he offered.

"Oh, I don't want to be a bother..."

"You aren't." he said before he started to walk towards his-your shared room.

His plan worked.

He heard about the 'one-bed' scenario. And he hoped for the best. He felt bad about it until you walked out of the bathroom wearing a nice nightgown, as you laid down he noticed the dress ever so slightly rising up revealing more of your delicious thigh. 

Aaron bit his lip as he found himself unable to sleep. He kept tossing and turning.

"I can't sleep either." he suddenly heard you talk which made him pause. "This case is... difficult."

Of course, you are talking about that while his mind was running wild.

So wild, he was sure his boner was visible even in the dark.

You turned around and looked at him, letting out a sigh and a yawn.

"We will catch him." you tried to reassure him.

"I know." he said as he turned his head to look at you, now laying on his back. You offered him a smile.

He noticed how your eyes became hazy, sleep trying to take over but it seemed like you were fighting it.

But soon, you succumbed and fell asleep. 

Aaron watched you sleep for hours before he too got some rest.

The next day went on like normal, the team collected some information that they could use for the profile, but all Hotch was able to think about was you. He wanted to go back to that hotel room, have a shower with you, eat something and then make sweet sweet love on that bed.

It was all he could think about. 

Just how sweet it was to spend time with you, sleeping in the same bed. It felt so domestic, so sweet. 

He wanted that feeling every day for the rest of his life.

But was it too much to ask for? Perhaps it really was. 

That evening you were even more tired, he could tell, he could see it in your eyes.

You were tired, very tired.

As soon as your head hit the pillow, you were out.

Aaron once again found himself watching but this time, you moved closer. Out of instinct, he put his arm under your head and you placed it instead on his chest. He felt air leaving his body but never coming back, he was too afraid to breathe.

He must be dreaming. Yes, that would be the only logical thing.

The next morning when he woke up you were still sleeping on his chest.

He debated if he should move or not. 

But it was like his phone decided for him. As it went off, he quickly got out of bed, he heard you letting out a sigh before he picked up the phone.

"They got his address, Y/N, we have to go." he said and you were quick to jump into action even if you were still a bit delirious from sleep. 

Aaron was actually sad that the case ended so early. He still wanted to enjoy having you close, he wanted you to cuddle up to him again.

But it was all in vain.

You were already on the jet, heading home.

A/N: If anyone is interested in Part 2 let me know!

Taglist: @fleursirvart @greenarrowhead @thisismysecrethappyplace @sincerelyfan @theoneanna @aestheticsandmarvel @rororo06 @castellandiangelo @destynelseclipsa @spilledinkindumpster @capsiclesdoll @puknow @alwayshave-faith @alex12948 @lxdyred​  @imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl @anonymoussherlockandmarvelgeek @praline357 @trshngyn @avengers-r-us @violet-19999 @top1bbgloak   @manduse   @jacalineiscomingforyou  @mandoloriancookie @noname2246

~Masterlist~

ˇAO3ˇ

DO NOT STEAL, REPOST OR TRANSLATE ANY OF MY WORKS  

[seramilla]

In the vaggie Carmilla related au, we already saw Carmilla looking to Vaggie for some sort of comfort, but when was the first time it was Vaggie who looked to Carmilla for comfort? I can't think of a specific situation (Just a generally stressful situation for Vaggie where the first and/or only person she thinks of and wants to seek comfort from is Carmilla), but I just want to see her have her first "I need my mom" moment.

Vaggie doesn't even hesitate to come over the next day when Carmilla asks if she wants to have dinner with herself and the girls. Telling Charlie she's going over for a visit, she kisses the princess goodbye, and books it to Carmilla's in less than 5 minutes. She's become more brave about flying over Pentagram City ever since the wedding was announced...no one would dare shoot Lucifer's daughter's fiancé out of the sky. Not if they wanted to keep their spine.

Carmilla meets her at the door, looking much more cheerful and domestic than Vaggie thinks she's ever seen her. When Carmilla goes in to hug her daughter, Vaggie raises her eyebrow and pushes Carmilla away. The matriarch is wearing a white chef's apron with what looks like blood splatters all over it. When Carmilla notices her staring at it, she laughs heartily. She rubs her large claw over the front of it, and it comes away clean. No blood.

"It's just the pattern," Carmilla says, grinning. "It's a Mother's Day present. Clara thought it was funny. I guess I kind of do, too."

Vaggie sighs and smiles back at her. What a relief! She moves in for a much-needed hug, and Carmilla squeezes her tight, running her hand down the back of Vaggie's head tenderly. She lets her large claws trail through the girl's long hair. Vaggie perhaps keeps her arms wrapped around her mother a little longer than necessary...but Carmilla doesn't protest or try to pull away. Coughing and blushing a little, Vaggie lets go and rubs her arm sheepishly.

"Sorry!" Vaggie apologizes. "Sorry. I just missed you."

"It's okay. Come on in. The girls are setting the table."

The evening's spread is hot tamales, soup, and some vegetables for a side salad. Clara mentions that their mother also got up early that morning to fix some home-made ice cream before work. Vaggie looks over at Carmilla in surprise.

"Mama!" Vaggie says. "I didn't know you could cook!"

Carmilla waves her claw in front of her face in a dismissive gesture. "Oh please. It's nothing special. I let the servants take the day off, so I thought I'd make dinner myself. I also made eggs this morning...it wasn't my best work. I just wanted to spend some time alone with you girls. We don't do that enough."

Vaggie beams inwardly. Before really getting to know Carmilla, she never knew the overlord could be so thoughtful. She digs into her meal wholeheartedly. It's not exactly restaurant quality, or like the stuff Alastor makes for her and the other hotel patrons, but it's good nonetheless. Homely. Authentic. Made exclusively from the heart.

Odette and Clara offer to clean up after dinner. Vaggie thinks that her sisters are trying to give her some alone time with Carmilla. Maybe they can sense the tension she's holding inside. She'd been leaning forward in her chair throughout dinner, with horrible posture, unconsciously trying to make herself appear even smaller than she normally is. Her body language is probably a dead giveaway.

She can't hide from Charlie. She can't hide from Odette, Clara, or Carmilla, either. Maybe that's why Carmilla directs her into the fancy sitting room just off the kitchen. The one with all the comfortable lounge chairs and a sofa, with large, comfy pillows that are so soft, Vaggie practically sinks into them when she sits. Carmilla shuts the large French doors, to close them off from the rest of the house. Vaggie lies down on the couch, looking up at the ceiling, and stares at a sparkling chandelier that dangles delicately above her head.

Carmilla lowers the lights in the room. Now the chandelier looks almost ethereal in the way it reflects the light from the dim bulbs. Vaggie can almost pretend like those sparkles reflected onto the ceiling are stars in a night sky. There is something that feels very cosmic and safe about her surroundings. Combined with the scent of Carmilla's potpourri that's scattered around the room, it just smells like her mother. Like how she feels a real home would smell on Earth after returning from a long and stressful day at school or work.

Carmila sits down next to her on the large sofa, putting Vaggie's feet in her lap to make room for herself. Vaggie almost gets up, but Carmilla shoots her a glance that says Don't you dare!

Carmilla leans back casually, with an arm stretched out along the back of the couch, using the furniture as leverage to arch her spine until Vaggie hears a pop! Then Carmilla groans in what can only be described as relief. She grins sheepishly down at her daughter, while Vaggie looks back at her coyly.

"Wow. Impressive," Vaggie chuckles.

"Pardon me. I know I'm dead, but these bones aren't what they used to be."

Vaggie laughs. "It's okay. Anyway...I hope I'm not imposing too much on you by coming over so late."

"Not at all," Carmilla assures her. "You know I love having you over. You said you had something to talk about? What's on your mind?"

Vaggie goes quiet for a moment. She does switch her position on the couch just then, trading her feet in Carmilla's lap for her head instead. She cuddles up into Carmilla, head laying over her thighs, while the matriarch begins running her long claws through Vaggie's hair again.

Vaggie had discovered early on in their new relationship that she loves having Carmilla comfort her in this way. She removes the bow from her hair, the one that Charlie gave her, to allow Carmilla better access. Carmilla cups her whole claw around the back of Vaggie's head, just holding it there, seeing how small the girl's head is in her large hand. Everything about the fallen angel is small. Except her innate kindness, and her indomitable spirit. Those are without measure.

"It's the wedding," Vaggie says, after letting the silence linger a little too long for her comfort. Carmilla resumes petting her hair. "I keep having nightmares about it. Charlie is so excited. And I am, too. But every time I think about it...the closer we get...I'm scared."

"Pre-wedding jitters are normal," Carmilla says matter-of-factly. "When I thought I was going to marry your father, I felt the same thing."

"Well, we know how that turned out," Vaggie teases, looking up at her. Carmilla pokes her side, tickling her, making Vaggie squeal and jump, almost hopping off the couch. "Wait, haha, no! Stop!"

"Don't test me, little girl," Carmilla teases back.

"I would never, Mama."

"Now," Carmilla says, trying to get back on track. "Talk to me. What's really going on?"

Leave it to Carmilla to detect that Vaggie's problem is more than superficial. Her problems are deeply buried, but Carmilla has a way of coaxing them out of her.

"I don't know," Vaggie responds, burying her head back in Carmilla's lap. "I was fine a few weeks ago. But the closer the day gets...the more the reality sets in that this is actually happening...I just worry Charlie is making the wrong decision. To be with me."

"Why do you think that?"

"Because I'm just...me. And she's the princess of Hell. She's going to be queen someday. Maybe not for a long time, but still, that scares the fuck out of me. Eternity is a long time to be with someone. What if she gets...bored, or falls out of love with me? Like Lilith and her dad? I don't want that to be us, Mama."

Vaggie sits up. As she'd spoken the words, an overwhelming sense of anxiety had washed over her. Like as soon as her thoughts were out of her brain and let loose into the world, they'd become a living, tangible thing, threatening to gobble her up and swallow her whole.

She leans into Carmilla's side, pushing herself as close as she possibly can to the other woman. She tries her best not to cry. It's very difficult to hold back in Carmilla's presence. There is something so safe, and warm, and secure about the strength in Carmilla's arms as they wrap around her. Something that, despite how much she loves her fiancé, she just can't experience with Charlie.

Is this what a mother's love feels like? The type of steadfastness that can only come from the person who once supported and protected her as she grew in her own body? Who cherished and mourned her potential existence, even when she thought she'd lost Vaggie forever?

Vaggie never had a childhood. Doesn't know what that feeling is like, and doesn't know if she ever will. But she thinks she gets it now, at least. Why children can form such bonds with their caretakers. When that emotional attachment is so strong, nothing else can ever compare or replace it. Vaggie can't believe she had to die to experience some modicum of it, but she's counting her lucky stars now.

"I'm such a terrible partner," Vaggie says, wrapping her arms around Carmilla's waist, and letting the woman return the gesture. "I don't deserve her. I never did. I don't know why I thought this would work."

"Oh, mija, mija," Carmilla repeats, patting her back gently as Vaggie cries into her neck. "It's all right. I know this is a big change for you. Life-altering. But everything will be all right. I've seen the way Charlie looks at you. And when she asked me for my blessing, you should have seen her face. She has nothing but love in her heart. I doubt myself about many things, but please don't doubt me about this. Nothing will ever change the way she feels about you. I promise."

Vaggie hiccups a little, turning her head so she can feel Carmilla's warmth against her cheek. Carmilla wipes the tears falling from her eye. Her claws come away wet and salty, but Carmilla doesn't care.

"How can you possibly know that?" Vaggie asks.

"I'm your mother. I know everything."

Vaggie can't help but laugh a little at that.

Somehow, in some way, even though she's not totally convinced she's not an eternal, cosmically ordained fuck-up of a person, she's relieved that Carmilla, at least, doesn't buy into her bullshit. That she is convinced she and Charlie will work in the long-term is a comfort.

It will probably take Vaggie a long time...if not forever...to get over her own issues about herself. But Charlie...goddammit, Charlie...she loves that woman. More than she can characterize with feelings and more than words in a dictionary could describe. Her love for the daughter of the devil is everlasting. Unexplainable. Beyond the material.

If Carmilla belives it...hopefully she can. Someday. Preferably on the day that she says "I do." But if it doesn't come later, she will live vicarously through Charlie and Carmilla's combined faith in her. Their strength will see her through.

"I love you, Mama," Vaggie says, hugging Carmilla tighter.

"I love you, too, my baby," Carmilla responds, giving her daughter a lingering peck on the forehead.

Vaggie decides to spend the night again. She wants to talk to Carmilla more. About the wedding, and about other things. When she returns to Charlie the following day, she feels lighter, and more confident, than she's felt in a while.

She doesn't dream that night. No nightmares, or intrusive thoughts at all. Just a wonderful sense of wholeness, and a renewed vigor the following day, that she desperately needed. There's only a few days left until the ceremony. They have a lot of work to do, and seemingly not enough time to do it.

[ravenrune]

Ahhhh. A request for an anon I had already been working on before I got their message. Thanks for the reminder, anon! Domestic stuff. Contains Carlos, Leon, Ethan and Luis. Edit: I think I fixed the issues with dark mode?

Going On Vacation With The RE Guys Headcanons

Going on vacation with Carlos will involve a lot of activities. He doesn’t like sitting around all day, so he’ll want to try out some new things with you. The destination doesn’t matter much to him, as long as there is something fun to do.

Do you want to learn how to surf? You can do that with Carlos. You want to go bungee jumping? He’s in for that sort of thing, too. Skiing, parasailing, rock climbing; he’s willing to try all of these things. 

Are the aforementioned activities a bit too extreme for you? That is completely fine. He will happily go camping and hiking with you. And if you don’t like sleeping on a shitty mattress, he’ll opt for glamping instead. Nothing wrong with a bit of comfort, right? 

He just wants to be out and about with you. And come on, you gotta admit, sleeping under the stars is pretty damn romantic.

Feel free to suggest anything you’d like to try out on vacation, because he’ll love it when you take initiative. Bonus points if you surprise him by dragging him along to do something fun without telling him what it is beforehand. 

Leon just needs peace and quiet on vacation and will absolutely drag you away to go on a cruise with him. The further away he is from his job, the better. And as a cruise ship is always on the move, Leon feels it’ll be less likely he’ll get called into work. 

He wants to go north because he’s always wanted to see the northern lights. He thinks it will be romantic, and can’t wait to share the experience with you. You’ll probably end up somewhere in northern Europe.

On the days spent at sea, he’ll want to make the most of it. Spa days, swimming at the pools, eating at the best restaurants and checking out the onboard entertainment are a must in his opinion. If you need some time away from people, he’ll happily cuddle up and watch a nice movie with you. There will be plenty of snacks, of course.

When the cruise ship docks in the countries you pass along the way, Leon will want to do some sightseeing and take a copious amount of pictures. He won’t just take pictures of the scenery, he will be taking a lot of pictures of you, too. 

Later on, when he’s back at work, he’ll be looking at them whenever he’s not feeling great. Seeing you having a good time will always put a smile on his face.

Ethan wants a normal vacation. Nothing too crazy, nothing too hectic, nothing too special. He’s in need of feeling like a regular human being, so he’ll take you to a typical tourist destination.

Ethan loves to go for walks. It doesn’t matter where. He can walk for hours, just chatting to you about everything that crosses your minds. He’ll take the occasional picture, but his main focus is on spending time with you in a place he’s never been before. A place where nobody knows who he is, and where he’s just another tourist.

He will book the most luxurious hotel room available, because he thinks you both deserve it. He goes out of his way to surprise you with the most wonderful date nights. He puts a lot of thought into them, making sure they’ll blow your mind in the right ways, but never make you feel uncomfortable. 

Ethan will get lost on occasion. Just make sure you’re in charge of how to get places, or you may accidentally end up in a whole other country if you happen to stay near the border of one.

Luis will plan the most romantic vacation you could possibly think of. He doesn’t care much for major tourist attractions, but will instead look for the more obscure spots your destination has to offer. 

He’ll drag you through the most beautiful little towns he could find on the internet, and he’s full of facts. He knows a lot about the history of the places you’re visiting, and he loves sharing this information with you. 

Luis manages to find all the best restaurants and won’t spare any expense. You can order whatever the hell you like, and he’ll happily pay for it.

He’s not too fond of splitting the bill, so if you’re the type of person who is, prepare to argue with the man on occasion. 

While his main concern is spending time with you, he would like to visit a pub now and then. Just to have a drink together. And if you’re willing to sing karaoke with him, you’ll definitely make his day. So... just do it, okay?

Tag list: @i-write-stories-not-sins-bitch ... did that work?

[whatswrongwithblue]

The Fire in the Sin

Chapter 10 - Masquerade

Word count: 5,570. Read on AO3. Series Masterlist. <- Previous Chapter.

Summary: Takes place during the events of Episode 4 of Season 1. TW, canon typical language, recreational drug use, abusive power dynamics, mentions of past domestic abuse and rape - not involving Alastor, a tiny bit of light fluffy smut.

Series Summary:

In the 1950's, Alastor met the woman he would eventually marry but unfortunately his Radio Demon persona went for her soul rather than her hand. He has to learn what it means to love, and cherish, without possessing and he does. Their relationship is beautiful, strong, unbreakable . . . but he carries a dark secret through their marriage for decades until eventually he has to face the consequences of that secret and leave her, without warning, for seven years. He returns, finding her at the Hazbin Hotel, and has to convince her to forgive him, while being literally bound to secrecy, unable to tell her any of things he now is desperate to explain to her.

(This is a duel timeline fic, timestamps will be a the top of every chapter.)

Chapter 10 - Masquerade

Present Day

Pentagram City

Mina tossed and turned in the early hours of the morning before dawn, when the night was at its blackest. She was overheating and repeatedly kicked off all the blankets, only for her skin to crawl with the lack of anything touching it, so she would wrap the sheets around her again, arms around her torso and tail around her legs, until she would break out in another sweat and start the process over again.

When she finally sat up, fully awake, feeling the wet ache between her legs, she knew her body was coming into heat.

In the early morning darkness, she counted the past months on her fingertips and sighed. It was spring. At least this was just the first one and would likely only last a day before the one next month when it would hit her in full swing. Three cycles in the spring and one in the autumn. The worst one was always the one in the fall, but that was still months away.

And for the first time in years, she wasn’t alone.

Mina turned to Alastor’s side of the bed, which was still made up neatly and cold to the touch. He hadn’t come to bed last night but that was expected. She had never known him to be the type to sleep every night and he had slept long and soundly next to her just two nights prior.

It was still at least an hour before the other hotel guests woke up, and then they would keep his attention all morning and likely through the afternoon. Mina knew she would most likely have to wait until that evening to jump him but the dull cramping in her belly needed sating now.

She took care of herself, quickly and quietly, letting her mind wander to the wicked things she would ask him to do to her later.

Afterwards, clear headed and slightly more comfortable, she went and took a cold shower.

Things were far from perfect between them. In fact, internally, Mina was struggling more than ever to keep faith that Alastor would eventually come clean to her about why he had left for all those years. But at least they had their physical intimacy to lean on now. They were back to sharing a bedroom and making love again and in those short moments of privacy between them, it was easy to forget the pain he had caused her.

The first time had been the very same night he had found out about her getting shot.

He had come back upstairs a couple hours after leaving her to take a bath and get some rest, finding her under the covers and reading, and offered her food and an apology.

“Chicken noodle soup?” she asked with a raised brow as she set her book down on the nightstand and took the bowl he was offering.

“Charlie made it, not me,” he said, and sat on the edge of the bed next to her. “Vaggie told her you weren’t well and she insisted I bring this to you.”

It looked and smelled as bland as unseasoned potatoes and Mina set the bowl on top of her discarded book.

“I’m sure she made it with love,” she said.

“I can bring you something else,” he offered.

“I’d rather just have you,” she said, remembering how their morning had begun, tangled up in their sheets together, before he had abruptly pulled away from her.

“I’ve been a jackass all day,” he said seriously, his brows pinching in confusion at her flirtatious behavior.

She laughed a little.

“Yes, you have,” she said, sitting up and pulling her legs free from the covers. “You’re always a bit of a bastard when you’re upset.” She moved until she was straddling his lap. “And you were upset because you care.” She had her hands on his shoulders for balance but then laced her fingers around the back of his head.

His own hands moved slowly up and down her back.

“I just don’t want to lose you,” he said and burrowed his face in the crook of her neck. “Not after everything . . .”

He didn’t finish the sentence. She had to bite back her anger at that. He still wasn’t saying nearly enough, even if it seemed like he wanted to. Mina just didn’t understand. She sighed, letting it go.

He had promised her she would understand eventually, she just had to keep holding tightly to that bit of hope.

“You’re not going to lose me, I’m not going anywhere,” she said, grabbing a hold of an antler and gently pulling it until he brought his face up to look at her. “Are you?”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.”

They had made love then and it was like their first time all over again. His cock had filled her up so beautifully, his body so warm, strong, and tender above hers. When she orgasmed, it was like coming home. And the way he nearly lost control towards the end, his antlers growing and body morphing just a bit bigger than normal, told her he had missed this, too. He whispered words of love and praise into her neck after spilling his seed in her as his body relaxed, the static and emotion thick in his voice.

In the morning, she woke up to him naked and barely covered in sheets next to her, his red tail laying almost decoratively across his ass. She had been instantly hungry for him all over again and they went slower then, really taking the time to explore and reacquaint each other with their bodies.

They were so in love. It had been enough to fool Mina into thinking that their return to perfect bliss was right around the corner. When they were together like that, it felt almost silly to be angry about anything. In those moments, nothing could be clearer than the fact that they belonged together and that nothing could ever drive them apart.

Alastor was really good at that.

Any time she started to question him too much about things, showed any signs of irritation with him, he would find a way to distract her. Between helping Charlie run the hotel and keeping his wife placated, Alastor was a busy man these days. Whether or not he shared a bed with her the night before, he always made sure to have coffee and breakfast with her before getting wrapped up in the days events and if at any point they had an argument, he would make himself scarce for a few hours, just to return as sweet and apologetic as ever.

And despite the fact that he had hardly given her more than a hug and a kiss in the first two weeks of his return, they were suddenly making love a lot. In their bed, in the shower, in his radio tower. He even gave her an intense quicky in the small library that Sir Pentious had once tried to hide a camera in . . . in the middle of the day. Anyone could have walked in, and it was a risk her usually put together husband wouldn’t normally take. It almost made her wonder if he wasn’t in some kind of out of season rut but then he had gone back to acting completely normal afterwards.

Mina reflected on all of this as she cooled her overheated hormonal body down under the shower’s water and started to become confused and upset.

Was he gaslighting her?

Was he using the fact that she was touch starved and relieved that he was alive and well – all of which was his fucking fault – against her?

She had really thought that if she started doing as he asked, playing along with whatever his game with the hotel was; that if she allowed herself to just be happy that he was back and with her, that Alastor would eventually start telling her more about this huge secret he was keeping from her.

But it had been weeks – months ­­­– now since he came back and although she was upholding her part; playing the supportive, happy wife, he hadn’t given her anything besides sex in return for it.

Mina had even lost her job over it all. She had nothing now. Nothing except him, and this stupid fucking hotel, with its stupid pointless mission of redemption, and he wouldn’t even tell her why they were here. The people here, people who thought they were her friends, didn’t even really know her, did they? Not like her friends from The Pit or Cannibal Town. They didn’t know what she had been through, would judge her if they really knew what she was capable of, wouldn’t be able to deal with her through the worst of her moods. She couldn’t even tell Charlie what she did for a living when she first came to the hotel because if she were occasionally murdering souls, then it would go against Charlie’s mission to save those poor, wretched things.

Mina angrily slammed the knob of the water off and marched out of the shower.

She felt isolated, angry, hurt, and frustratingly still horny.

Forget whatever was in the cards for the day.

She needed to find Alastor, get him to fuck her hard for a couple hours, and then scream at him until he finally gave her some God damned answers.

Once she got dressed and had searched every possible room in the hotel for him though, it became apparent there was one small hole in her plan for the day.

Alastor was nowhere to be found.

____

Charlie assured Mina that she had sent him off on an errand first thing that morning but that he would be back momentarily.

Mina felt ready to rip her own hair out.

She knew she was being pissy but was far beyond the ability to care. Charlie had to send him away on this morning of all mornings?! Her only real outlet for her pent-up energy when she was in heat was either sex or violence, and if she wasn’t going to get either of those for the next few hours, she needed drugs.

Before Niffty could rope her into helping cook breakfast, Mina disappeared back upstairs and banged on Angel’s door.

He opened it, rubbing his eyes, clearly having slept in.

“I need downers,” Mina said, rudely pushing herself under his two left arms and into his room.

“G’morning to you, kittens. How may I be of service?” he said sarcastically.

“Aren’t you listening? I need drugs.”

“Whoa, honey. What’s got your panties all in a twist?” he said, and placed one of his hands to his chest while dramatically lifting his chin. “I am a clean, pure, innocent soul. I would never desecrate my body, my temple, these holiest of holes with something as disgraceful as-“

“What is this?” Mina said, interrupted his monologue, and holding up a packet of white powder that she quickly found in the first drawer she opened.

“Crack,” he answered, deflating. “Look, pussy cat, downers ain’t really my thing.”

“Not even weed?” she asked, feeling like she might cry. Why the fuck hadn’t she prepared better for this?

“Oh baby, yeah, how do you think I sleep at night?” he said, reaching into another drawer and handing her a joint. “I just figured you were looking for something stronger. Might I suggest Xanax, Heroin, Fentanyl, Numbutal-“

“I’m more of a liquor and opium kind of girl when I need something that strong. No, this will do nicely, thank you Angel, you’re a lifesaver.”

She held the joint between her lips and held up her thumb to the end, waiting for the flame to appear.

Nothing.

What the hell?

She shook her thumb and tried again.

Nothing.

That bloody bastard.

Abadon had taken her fire away. Completely. They had probably done it when they healed her shoulder and left her just enough power to portal away so she wouldn’t be suspicious.

 “OH FUCKIN’ HELL!” she half screamed, half growled, and started to cry.

“Whoa! Whoa!” Angel held all four of his hands up, completely caught off guard by the tantrum she was throwing in his room and not understanding at all what was causing it. “Hey, I ain’t cut out for this womanly shit, could ya please calm the fuck down?”

“That’s what I’m tryin’ to do here, ya daft spider!” she cried, pressing her palms to her eyes to try and force the tears to stop, the unlit joint hanging sadly from between her fingers. “Please?” she asked, in a frustrated whimper, “do you have a light, too?”

“Yeah, toots, whatever you need,” he said, cautiously handing her a lighter. “Jeeze, don’t you have a man for these kinds of things?”

“I don’t know where he is!” she bit back; teeth clamped tightly over the joint as she lit it. She took a long, deep drag in, holding it in for several seconds, before she tilted her head back and exhaled.

“I’m sorry,” she said, trying to calm herself down as she waited for the effects of the marijuana to hit her system. She wiped away the tears that had fallen in her outburst, blushing with embarrassment. “I woke up in heat this morning and he’s just fucking left off to somewhere. And I’m . . . well, I’m not the most mentally stable person on a good day, so I can be quite difficult when I’m like this. Especially if I don’t . . .”

“Get a good dick or some hard drugs inside you?” Angel teased.

“Or get to kill something,” she said, taking another hit.

She ended up smoking the entire joint herself and when she was still visibly tense, Angel shared a second one with her.

They went downstairs, earning themselves a glare from Vaggie when she caught a whiff of them, but Mina locked eyes with her and the shorter woman backed down before she started in with a lecture.

They still weren’t exactly friends yet, but they had a mutual respect for one another that was building towards that, and Vaggie had already got a glimpse of the kind of frantic mood Mina was in that morning, so she let the drug use slide without ratting them out to Charlie.

Mina wasn’t even visibly high. She was just far less jittery and slightly more pleasant to be around. Now she was sulking, because not only was she feeling neglected by her husband, but her oldest friend had betrayed her, and she had missed out on breakfast.

The morning only got worse when she was subjected to Charlie’s new idea for a bonding activity – show and tell.

She made the smart choice of sitting at the bar with Husk so that her view of the television set was limited during Angel’s turn. The sound effects were disturbing enough.

For a short moment, she actually found herself enjoying the activity when Husker started going off about everyone’s insecurities, until he called her out as well.

“Mina lashes out at everyone she cares about, so she can hurt them before they hurt her,” he said, before turning to Niffty. “And Niffty, you don’t even wanna know what her deal is.”

“And you like to blame everyone else for all your problems, rather than accept the consequences of your own actions,” she bit back, earning a pissed off glare from Husk.

Angel started laughing.

“Wow, the kittens have claws out this morning!” he said, and pulled Husker in as if to kiss him. “Meeeoooow.”

She snorted a laugh, knowing that kind of attention would only bother Husk more and watched as he reacted as she predicted.

The two were putting on quite a show for everyone that morning with their back-and-forth insults until Angel’s phone went off and he attempted to nonchalantly leave for work.

Mina reluctantly stood up from her place at the bar and went over with Vaggie to talk Charlie down as she lamented over the halt in the day’s activities.

“Maybe you could command a little more authority?” Vaggie offered.

“That is terrible advice,” Mina said.

Vaggie glared at her before turning back to Charlie.

“And so meeaaaaan,” the princess whined.

“It’s not mean, exactly. It’s aggressive kindness.”

“Um, no-“ Mina tried but Charlie was already jumping up from the ground.

“Okay! I could be so ‘aggressively kind’ to Angel’s boss that I convince him to let Angel spend more time at the hotel!”

“No! No, you will not, that will not work. At all,” Mina said walking over and grabbing Charlie by the shoulders, trying to talk sense into her.

“Oh, sure it will. Like I said, she’s the Princess of Hell. And I believe in her,” Vaggie said.

“You don’t know Valentino,” Mina snapped at her and then looked imploringly at Charlie, speaking softer. “There’s a difference between believing in someone and setting them up for failure. Do. Not. Go. There.” she said, emphasizing each word with a shake of Charlie’s shoulders. “Please, Charlie. Trust me on this, I know these Overlords, you won’t talk sense into them.”

“Maybe it’s never worked because no one has ever asked him nicely before!” Charlie said and Mina groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose between her fingers. She was going to need another hit of something to get her through this.

“Fine, I give up. Go ‘command’, or whatever you think you’re going to do, Princess,” she sighed and walked away. “But don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

___

Mina had really tried to be a better person that day.

She took as many drugs as she had to, to get her body to behave, so she could be polite to the other residents, and they still insisted on fighting with each other.

She had tried to stop Charlie from going to Valentino’s, offered her sound advice, and had been ignored.

She had tried waiting patiently for Alastor to come back from his ‘quick errand’ and hours later, he was still nowhere to be seen. Why he refused to carry a cell phone was beyond her. She had one, and she was an older soul than he was, even if by only a few years. Even Abaddon and Lucifer had phones for crying out loud.

She had been doing what he asked, and letting him know where she was going and with whom anytime she left the hotel, and he – the one who had gone missing without a trace for several fucking years – didn’t think he should have to return the favor?

Fuck him.

Fuck everyone here.

Fuck this whole hotel.

She sat at Husker’s bar, nursing a whiskey, and smoking a cigarette.

Angel wasn’t back yet either, which was probably Charlie’s fault for making things worse, so his bedroom door was locked and all her other options for downers were locked away as well.

At least the liquor kept her from ripping everyone’s heads off and the nicotine kept her hands from shaking too badly.

“Mina?” Charlie’s voice asked shyly from behind her, “maybe you could find somewhere else to smoke that?”

“Why?” she responded coldly, “not like anyone here can die from lung cancer.”

“Well, still,” Charlie said, and Mina turned around and looked at the solemn Princess. She had her arms around herself, looking more down and insecure than ever. Valentino must have really put her in her place. Whatever, Mina thought, she deserves it. “It can’t be good for you,” Charlie finished.

Mina laughed, a dry, humorless laugh. “And you would know what unhealthy lungs feel like, right love? You know what it feels like to cough up a mouthful of blood and still not be able to take in enough air?”

“Leave her alone,” Husk said. “The kid’s just trying to be nice.”

“No, she’s right, Husk,” Charlie said, “I-I’m sorry. You’re an adult. And this . . . this is a bar, after all. It’s what it’s here for.”

Mina nodded and took another drag of her cigarette.

“Don’t mind her being a bitch,” Husker said, looking at Charlie. “She’s just in a bad mood because Alastor’s not back yet. She wants to make her failed marriage everyone else’s problem.”

Mina threw her glass at Husker’s head, watching it shatter with satisfaction.

“HEY WHAT THE FUCK!” he said, blood dripping down the side of his face but the cut she had made was already closing. Too bad, he still retained some of his powers from being an Overlord and could heal quicker than most.

“Shut up and poor me another,” she huffed.

Charlie sat there, mortified and wide eyed, as Husker did exactly as he was told.

“Maybe one of you should go cool off somewhere,” she tried to offer.

“Not a chance. I need this” she said, lifting up her new glass of whiskey, lightly shaking it in front of Charlie’s face, “and he needs to remember his place. Do his job and not insult the wife of his boss, ‘failed marriage’ or not.”

Husker stayed silent as he swept up the shattered remains of the glass off the floor.

“Mina, your marriage isn’t a failure,” Charlie said softly. “Alastor will be back any minute. And you two still love each other. Whatever is going on, you’ll get through this. You’ve seemed so happy lately.”

“Glad everyone else can see how happy I’ve been besides myself,” Mina sniped and downed her glass.

She was behaving abhorrently. She knew it enough to feel guilty but then the guilt just made her angrier. It was a vicious cycle of emotions that she couldn’t even fully blame on being in heat; being mean made her feel good. It was probably the core reason why she ended up in Hell.

Vaggie came over and Mina rolled her eyes, knowing things were just about to get worse.

“Look, I get being worried,” she said, making it obvious she had been eavesdropping. “You two are . . . ah . . . different, okay? Your guys’ relationship is your own business. But, I know what it’s like to stress about someone you care about,” Vaggie put a hand on Charlie’s shoulder and gave her a sickly sweet lovestruck look, “But Alastor can take care of himself. I’m sure he’s just been busy today and will come back any minute now, safe and sound.”

“You think I’m worried about him?” Mina asked. “Oh, no, I’m fucking furious with the man.”

“Look, I’m the one that asked him to leave this morning,” Charlie started in. “If you want to blame anyone, you can blame me.”

“What an amazing martyr you would make,” Mina said, “but tell me, did you ask him to go on a short errand when he was gone for seven years?”

“No, but-“

“Then stay out of it,” Mina snapped.

“He’s probably just doing something to help the hotel-“

Mina held up her hand and Charlie stopped talking.

“Look at you two,” she said, gesturing with her cigarette between Charlie and Vaggie. “Young love. And it’s the real thing. What you have, it’ll last. It’s pure and strong, the kind of love anyone can see when they look at you. And neither of you can even imagine hurting the other one, yeah? If you yell at her, it’s like fire in your throat. The thought of her being hurt, it’s like a knife stuck in your ribs. The fear and pain of just the thought of her leaving you; you can’t breathe or think. You would never ever do anything to betray her, right? And you’re so confident that she feels the same about you. The very idea of an affair is laughable and what’s a worse betrayal than that? But just give it time. One of you will do something the other one couldn’t even fathom. Not another woman, not abuse, but something that will tear you to shreds, nonetheless. And on that day, come talk to me. Until then?” Mina took a final drag of her cigarette and then stamped it out on the naked wood of the bar. “Learn to mind your own fucking business.”

She got up and left, leaving a stunned Charlie, Vaggie, and even Husk silent in her wake.

___

Alastor was having a fantastic day.

Actually . . . it was pretty awful.

Everything was taking much longer than expected. It was tedious, and he would have to carefully explain away his absence for the entire day . . . or not. Charlie had so much planned for the day he doubted anyone really noticed he was gone. Still, the day had been frustrating, and he felt that now familiar feeling of invisible strings yanking him around a stage, making him do things he didn’t care to do, and keeping him from where he wanted to be.

What was fantastic about it was the brevity of it all.

It was over in just a few hours and rather than remaining alone, forced to be separated from his home and his heart, he got to return to the hotel and his wife.

Things had been just lovely between them lately. It was better than Heaven. Mina had been soft and sweet with him these last several weeks. Although it was clear she was still terribly curious about where he had been, she seemed to be slowly letting it go and just enjoying the fact that they were together again. It made him giddy as a teenage boy to have her back, to regain some control over his life again, and he clung tightly to that shred of happiness they had rekindled in each other.

He almost stopped and got her a bottle of wine and flowers, just to smooth over any transgressions she might feel over him being gone all day, but then decided it would just delay his return more. Better to just get back as soon as possible. And if he really needed to, he would summon whatever items he needed to later.

Alastor walked confidently through the doors of the hotel, whistling a happy tune.

He stopped short when he noticed a rather pathetic version of Vaggie sitting alone in the lobby, shuffling through television stations.

“And where is everyone on this fine evening?” he asked, striding over to her.

“Angel took off, Husk is out looking for him, Charlie is upstairs trying to work out a way to do damage control for tomorrow, I honestly don’t know where Pentious and Niffty are, and your wife-“ she took her eyes off the T.V. screen and gave him a pitying look “-is upstairs plotting your murder.”

“Ah, she has not taken my absence well today, has she?” he asked, glancing up at the staircase.

“Yeah,” she said with a laugh, “you could say that again. Where have you been, exactly?"

“Oh, I’ve been a busy little bee,” Alastor said, tapping her on the head with his microphone, before walking towards the stairs. “I’m sure you’ll all see the fruits of my labor, soon enough.”

He melted into shadow and drifted along the walls and out of sight.

“So fucking creepy,” Vaggie muttered to herself.

___

Mina was just throwing on her leather jacket when she felt rather than saw Alastor appear behind her.

He had his arms around her, and his mouth to her neck, before she could spin around.

“My, my, don’t you look delectable,” he said, taking a loud breath in and biting her softly right beneath her jawline as he exhaled.

She hesitated, for just a second, her body craving his touch too much for her not to. But she was so blindly angry that even the throbbing between her legs couldn’t win over her fury.

“Don’t touch me,” she said and stepped away from him.

“Mina, please allow me to explain,” he said, assuming she was just upset that he had been gone all day without explanation, unaware of the depth of her hormonal fury at him.

“You know what? I don’t even care right now,” she said, turning to face him once she had put some distance between them. “And I wouldn’t believe a damn word that came out of your mouth, anyway, so don’t bother.”

“And where are you going?” he asked, with a politeness that was hardly believable.

“Out. I called some old friends and we’re going out,” she said, holding up her cellphone as if he had never seen one before. “Some people have these, you know.” She pocketed the device in the back of her jeans. “I need to kill something after the day I’ve had, no thanks to you.”

“My darling, I really don’t care for the idea of you going out and looking for trouble. Not after what happened last time.”

“Well, if I get in trouble, I’ll call someone. Let them know where I am. Don’t worry love, I’ll be back before seven years comes and goes.”

“Ah, so that’s what this is all about.”

“It’s what everything is about! You left me. Spin it however you want, Al. You left me. And you’re a bloody damn fool if you think being sweet and throwing a few fucks my way is going to make me just forget that if you won’t even try to tell me why.”

“I am trying,” he said darkly.

The lights flickered in the room for a moment, but Mina just scoffed and turned around.

“You’re the worst husband I’ve ever had.”

He moved right behind her as she put her hand on the doorknob of their room, grabbing her and spinning her to face him.

“I’m the worst?” he said, his eyes black with fury and hurt. “What I’ve done is the equivalent to beating and raping you?”

“No,” Mina said sadly, watching the shadows crawl up the walls of their room, beginning to darken everything around them. “No, what you did was worse. Because I didn’t love him. He could only hurt my body. But you, you broke my heart, so you’re far worse.”

His grip on her shoulders lessened but the room only grew darker.

“Don’t say that to me,” he said, his voice quiet but far less human than normal.

She shoved him off, and he stepped away from her and into the room, but his shadow came off the wall to her side and pulled her deeper into the room as well.

Alastor was keeping his distance but also keeping her from the door.

“Take it back,” he said.

“Tell me why you left me,” she countered. “Then maybe I will.”

“I’ve already told you a thousand times, I can’t.”

“Oh for fuck’s sake, you can’t? You really expect me to believe that, love? You? You always do exactly what you want to do, so if you wanted to tell me, you would. It’s not like you made a fucking deal over it.”

As soon as she said the words, she knew it.

The look on his face gave him away more than anything he could ever admit out loud.

“No,” she whispered, watching the shadows retreat from the walls. She shook her head, “No.”

“Mina, please-“

“Tell me you didn’t,” she said.

A heartbeat went by.

“I can’t.”

And a heartbeat later, hers shattered.

“You sold your soul?” Her voice was so small, her throat so tight she could barely speak. This was the worst thing she could imagine. She hadn’t even been able to imagine it, it had just been a throwaway insult. Alastor, her Alastor, would never do that.

He didn’t answer.

“Alastor,” she said, and went to him then, putting gentle hands on either side of his face. “Please. Just tell me yes or no.”

He closed his eyes and rested his forehead against hers.

“I can’t.”

She stepped away from him like he’d slapped her.

“When?”

Silence was his only response.

“How could you?” she hissed. “We’re married. That’s supposed to mean something, even to you.”

“It does,” he said, reaching for her. “It means everything.”

She took another step away.

“It means nothing now! We’re supposed to belong to each other! Husband and wife, that was our deal, you’re supposed to me mine as much as I am yours.”

“I am,” he said desperately. “Please, Mina. I am still yours.”

She was crying now, she felt the hot tears going down her cheeks, but they were silent. She was too stunned to sob yet.

Alastor stepped towards her again and this time she didn’t move away. She closed her eyes as his fingers, sharply clawed and capable of such violence, gently stroked her cheeks and brushed away her tears. He kissed her forehead, between her eyes, and then her lips.

“I am all yours,” he said.

“How can you be?” she said back, looking into his red eyes, seeing the devastated look on his own face, and felt her world fall away. “How can you be mine if you gave yourself to another?”

She stepped slowly away from him, further into the room. The door was behind him, but it wasn’t her only exit and she no longer cared if he knew.

“I hope it was worth it,” she said, and stepped backwards into the fiery portal she had opened.

She watched it close shut in front of her before he even got halfway to her.

Next Chapter ->

@saccharine-nectarine, @inuhalfdemon

[soutienshivam]

Flying with Sun Country Airlines: Affordable Travel with a Personal Touch

Are you looking for a budget-friendly airline that doesn't compromise on quality? Sun Country Airlines might be your perfect match. With a focus on providing affordable, comfortable, and reliable air travel, Sun Country has carved out a niche for itself among savvy travelers. Here's everything you need to know about flying with Sun Country Airlines and why it could be your new go-to for both domestic and international travel.

About Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines is a Minneapolis-based low-cost carrier that has been in operation since 1983. Known for its friendly service and affordable fares, Sun Country primarily serves destinations within the United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. The airline's mission is to make flying accessible to everyone, all while maintaining a high standard of customer service.

Why Fly with Sun Country Airlines?

1. Budget-Friendly Fares

One of the biggest advantages of flying with Sun Country Airlines is its competitive pricing. The airline offers low base fares and regular promotions, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you're planning a quick domestic trip or an international getaway, Sun Country provides great value for your money.

2. Flexible Travel Options

Sun Country offers a variety of fare options, allowing you to choose the level of service and flexibility that suits your needs. From Basic Economy to First Class, you can tailor your travel experience to fit your budget and preferences. Additionally, the airline offers vacation packages that include flights, hotels, and car rentals, making trip planning a breeze.

3. Customer-Centric Service

Despite being a low-cost carrier, Sun Country prides itself on delivering exceptional customer service. The airline's staff are known for their friendliness and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure passengers have a pleasant flight. This personal touch sets Sun Country apart from many other budget airlines.

4. Convenient Routes

Sun Country operates a network of routes that includes popular vacation destinations and major U.S. cities. Whether you're heading to sunny Florida, the beaches of Mexico, or a bustling urban center, Sun Country has convenient options to get you there.

Tips for Flying with Sun Country Airlines

Book Early: Like most airlines, Sun Country offers the best deals when you book in advance. Keep an eye out for sales and special promotions.

Pack Smart: Sun Country charges for checked bags and larger carry-on items, so pack efficiently to avoid extra fees. A personal item like a backpack or small bag is included with your ticket.

Check-In Online: Save time at the airport by checking in online through the Sun Country website or mobile app. This also gives you the chance to select your seat in advance.

Consider Upgrading: If you're looking for a bit more comfort, consider upgrading to Premium or First Class. These fare options include additional amenities like extra legroom, priority boarding, and complimentary beverages.

Onboard Experience

Sun Country Airlines operates a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, known for their reliability and comfort. The cabins are clean and well-maintained, with comfortable seating and ample legroom compared to many other low-cost carriers. While the airline does not offer in-flight entertainment screens, you can bring your own devices and enjoy their streaming service on your personal device.

In-Flight Services

Sun Country offers a selection of snacks and beverages for purchase on board. If you're flying in Premium or First Class, you'll enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks. The airline also provides in-flight Wi-Fi on most flights, allowing you to stay connected and entertained throughout your journey.

Final Thoughts

Sun Country Airlines is a fantastic option for travelers seeking affordable fares without sacrificing quality and service. With its customer-centric approach, flexible travel options, and convenient routes, Sun Country makes it easy to explore new destinations and enjoy a pleasant flying experience. Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning your first trip, consider Sun Country Airlines for your next adventure.

Have you flown with Sun Country Airlines? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! Happy travels!

[bookgeekgrrl]

My media this week (4-10 Feb 2024)

top 5 personal HO fave - he was he was super thrilled to be there, had a great time, lost his mind a little & flexed (literally). Incredible.

📚 STUFF I READ 📚

😊 Throuple Honey (Brent Archer) - short, sweet & simple with lots of domestic details

🥰 "Why Don't We Just Kill the Kid In the Omelas Hole" (Isabel J. Kim) - love a skillful response to the classic original story. I just kept saying 'wow. wow.'

😍😍😍 Reread the entirety of Rachel Reid's Game Changers series. I just love them all SO MUCH!!!! 😍😍😍

Game Changer (Game Changers #1) [Scott & Kip]

Merry Christmas Scott & Kip (Game Changers #1.5)

Heated Rivalry (Game Changers #2) [Shane & Ilya] {here's a really great review of this book, which is THEEEE GREATEST rivals-to-lovers story ever!}

My Dinner with Hayden: A Heated Rivalry Short Story (Game Changers #2.5)

Tough Guy (Game Changers #3) [Ryan & Fabian]

Common Goal (Game Changers #4) [Eric & Kyle]

Role Model (Game Changers #5) [Troy & Harris]

The Long Game (Game Changers #6) [Shane & Ilya, Part 2]

🥰 The Supersoldier's Amnesiac Groom (casspeach) - 48K, very canon divergent arranged marriage AU - reread for Stucky Book Club

📺 STUFF I WATCHED 📺

A Word on Words | NPT: Starter Villain - John Scalzi

Hot Ones - Tony Hawk

Hot Ones - Sterling K. Brown

Hot Ones - Mark Ruffalo

Hot Ones - John Oliver

Hot Ones - Barry Keoghan

Hazbin Hotel - s1, e2

D20: Fantasy High: Junior Year - "Mall Madness" (s21, e5)

D20: Adventuring Party - "Can I Offer You a Nice Shrimp in This Trying Time?" (s16, e5)

🎧 PODCASTS 🎧

Desert Island Discs - Graham Nash, musician

⭐ Up First - The Sunday Story: Tiny Desk, Big Stage

⭐ What Next: TBD - Streaming Is Cable Now

The Atlas Obscura Podcast - Taquile Island

Short Wave - Wolves Are Thriving In The Radioactive Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

The Sporkful - Undercover Dining With NY Times Restaurant Critic Pete Wells

Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang - The Top 10 Places We Would Love To Visit

Pop Culture Happy Hour - 2024 Grammys Recap

Vibe Check - Hey, Sis: featuring Audie Cornish

The Atlas Obscura Podcast - Moynaq

Shedunnit - The Green Penguin

Vibe Check - Hell Has Flooded

⭐ It's Been a Minute - Sam Reich on revamping the game show - and Dropout's success as a small streamer

Ologies with Alie Ward - Theoretical & Creative Ecology (SCIENCE & ECOPOETRY) with Madhur Anand

The Atlas Obscura Podcast - Welcome Home

Short Wave - After 20 Years, This Scientist Uncovered The Physics Behind The Spiral Pass

99% Invisible #569 - Between the Blocks

Switched on Pop - Brittany Howard's Chaos Theory (with Brittany Howard)

⭐ Song Exploder - Green Day "Basket Case"

The Assignment with Audie Cornish - Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce: Cultural Supernova

⭐ Throughline - The Scent of History

⭐ The Atlas Obscura Podcast - Kam Wah Chung & Co. Museum

Alt.Latino - The greatest Boleros of all-time

The Sporkful - Deep Dish With Sohla And Ham: Tacos Al Pastor

Today, Explained - When one (airplane) door opens …

Dear Prudence - Is My Work Husband Keeping Me A Secret From His Wife? Help!

Pop Culture Happy Hour - Lisa Frankenstein And What's Making Us Happy

Endless Thread - Recess Therapy's Julian Shapiro-Barnum is skeptical of kids becoming social media stars

⭐ Strong Songs - "In Your Eyes" by Peter Gabriel

Today, Explained - Why Taylor left TikTok

Short Wave - Clownfish Might Be Counting Their Potential Enemies' Stripes

You're Dead to Me - Simón Bolívar

Consider This from NPR - What Makes A Football Movie Great?

It's Been a Minute - A Super Bowl in 'new Vegas'; plus, the inverted purity of the Stanley Cup

Wait Wait… Don't Tell Me! - Lena Waithe

Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly - Putting the Awe in Audio

🎶 MUSIC 🎶

The Very Best Of Buddy Holly And The Crickets

My Mix #5 [Simon & Garfunkel, Carpenters, John Denver]

Presenting KISS

Presenting Black Sabbath

[yorkshiregirlwrites]

Cher ami,

I hardly know what to make of France: for having seen hardly any of it, I am quite sure that I have never read a true account: and you may say: but Voltaire’s Satires and Rousseau’s Commentaries are done with such great Intent and Opinion, that they hardly reflect the reality but what is inscribed in their Mind’s Eye. O but if Voltaire or Rousseau had but lived in the France of my present experience, then I am sure the eye of their minds and indeed of their faces should have been half blinded! My voyage is to be through some invention of a Madman who imagining a Country, so filled it with wonders and curiosities, that it is half a Circus. 

My Remise at Calais, hired with no difficulty for the street was bedazzled by their line of extraordinary top-lantern, made such a pace to Paris, even without the animal assistance of a horse-troupe, that I was arrived by hardly midnight, and for such a miraculous journey, was charged perhaps half of my Pocket. I had my note-book, and the Cocher, the Coachman perceiving it, he asked if I spoke French; I replied that I did rather well; and so we conversed, but in such a strange and colloquial French, that I hardly knew it at all! – O what are we taught by our governesses but rigorous grammar and archaic forms, which cannot make head nor tail of a Calais coachman, any more than a Frenchman reading the Works of Shakespeare, may comprehend our London cab-drivers!

Where have I left you? – Oh! the hotel. I see from the absolute proliferation of street-lamps and illuminated signs, that the French are right to call the Enlightenment: the Siècle des Lumières. My hotel was announced to me by such a sign: and the entrance was so bright, that I must go blinking into it. J’ai une réservation, said I consulting my note-book; and offering my name and provenance. – Voici vos clés, said my Hôtelier, who handed me not my key but a little blank card. I did not however question his French; rather I cast all of my own into doubt; and went for want of language, in the indicated direction. The door was opened through a clever manipulation of this card; and accompanied by another of those interminable Lights. – Such was the speed at which I had been rushed to Paris, that quite exhausted on the carriage’s behalf, I collapsed onto the bed; and here I write; and await the newspapers I have asked to be sent up.

Here they are. I must leave you a short while, cher ami, –

Well! how curious, that all we know of the French has been so domesticated for our benefit, that we hardly even know they reckon the years differently! For I had hardly looked at the first publication, when I saw the date: 17 octobre 2023. I do not know how it is calculated; but I am sure they are Catholic in France; and that no Christian calendar makes such a discrepancy between 2023 and the Year of Our Lord 1772!!

O I am quite baffled: which I think is the effect France has on everyone. I must presently leave you: and determine if I may, what manner of unholy crinkling bird was stuffed to make this pillow.

---- Ton ami

[narwatharsh01]

Tourism Market: Trends, Growth, and Industry Players

Introduction

The global tourism market is a dynamic sector that continually evolves in response to changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global events. As we delve into the current landscape, it is crucial to explore the tourism market size, growth patterns, industry trends, and key players that shape the sector's trajectory.

Tourism Market Size and Growth

The tourism market has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade. According to the latest data the global international tourist arrivals reached 1.5 billion in 2022, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. The tourism industry's robust growth is attributed to factors such as increased disposable income, improved connectivity, and a growing middle class in emerging economies.

The COVID-19 pandemic, however, significantly impacted the industry in 2020 and 2021. International tourist arrivals plummeted by 74% in 2020, representing the largest decline in the industry's history. As the world recovers from the pandemic, tourism is experiencing a resurgence. The UNWTO estimates that international tourist arrivals will surpass pre-pandemic levels by 2023, emphasizing the sector's resilience.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Trends

The tourism and hospitality industry is undergoing transformative changes driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors. One notable trend is the rise of sustainable tourism. Travelers are increasingly prioritizing destinations and businesses that adopt eco-friendly practices. Hotels, airlines, and tour operators are responding by implementing sustainable initiatives to meet the demands of environmentally conscious travelers.

Another trend shaping the industry is the integration of technology. From mobile apps for seamless bookings to virtual reality experiences, technology is enhancing the overall travel experience. The use of artificial intelligence and big data analytics is also becoming prevalent, enabling businesses to personalize services, predict consumer preferences, and optimize operations.

Tourism Industry Players

The tourism market is comprised of a diverse range of players, including governments, international organizations, tour operators, airlines, hotels, and online travel agencies (OTAs). Notable industry players such as Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking. com have disrupted traditional hospitality models, offering travelers a wide array of accommodation options and personalized experiences.

Governments play a crucial role in shaping the tourism landscape through policies, infrastructure development, and destination marketing. Collaborations between public and private sectors are essential to foster sustainable growth and address challenges such as over-tourism and environmental impact.

Tourism Market Analysis

A comprehensive analysis of the tourism market involves assessing key factors such as market dynamics, competitive landscape, and regulatory environments. The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a powerhouse in the tourism sector, with countries like China, India, and Japan experiencing substantial growth. In contrast, established destinations in Europe and North America continue to attract millions of tourists annually.

The post-pandemic recovery has prompted a shift in travel preferences, with a surge in demand for domestic and outdoor experiences. Travelers are seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, contributing to the diversification of the tourism market.

Travel and Tourism Industry Outlook

Looking ahead, the outlook for the travel and tourism industry is optimistic. The industry is expected to rebound strongly, driven by pent-up demand, increased vaccination rates, and the easing of travel restrictions. The global tourism market is projected to reach $11.38 trillion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2020 to 2027.

In conclusion, the tourism market is a vibrant and resilient sector that continues to adapt to changing circumstances. Understanding the market size, growth trends, industry players, and emerging dynamics is crucial for stakeholders navigating the evolving landscape. As the world reopens for travel, the industry's ability to innovate and embrace sustainable practices will play a pivotal role in shaping its future success.

[jestiloholidays]

Are you planning a relishing trip with or without your family or friends and are searching for the best hotel. However, you are unsure of how to find the best hotel at the lowest cost. That's alright; this article will really assist you.

[for-the-love-of-javert]

Well here it is. My fanfic. This is just chapter one there will be more to come.

First things first, this is an alternate universe fanfic. My universe. Some things will be similar to the canon storyline and others wont. This fic is about Javert and his overall character and developing that character in a way that I would have liked to have sene done in ‘The Brick’. I think Hugo did him dirty in numerous ways. So this is my take on Javert, his life and the possibilities for things he didn’t experience in the book. The first few chapters will be slow burn as I introduce you to a couple of new characters and allow things to develop from there. Who knows where this story will go in the future, but I have decided that instead of making it a one-shot I’m going to be continuing it and hopefully soon adding some illustration to it as well. Please note all places (inn’s, taverns, hotels, etc) are completely fictional with names made up by me because I havent had time to research everything yet and I’m still reading ‘The Brick’. My AU Javert will be based on Quastvert (particularly his image)

Trigger Warnings: This story as it unfolds (as previously stated more chapters will be added to this specific fanfic) will contain descriptions of a sexual nature, and descriptions of violent crime. It will also allude to mental health issues. Read at your own risk. I’d say this fanfic is not suitable for anyone below the age of 16. Also this is my very first fanfic so feedback is important to me. 

Themes: Friendship/Lovers/Romance/Character Development (Javert & New characters)/Mental Health/Culty Mindset Deconstruction/Learning to livea normal life. Also: Murder, domestic Violence/Other Crimes/ Police Investigations/Obsession.

New Characters: Catherine Bernard, Chloe Bernard, Pierre, Rose & Andre.

Pre Barricade Era. 

Javert: Out of The Shadows  

Chapter 1

It had been a long day, longer than it should have been, stressful and unpleasant. After finishing his shift, Inspector Javert made his way home, changed out of his uniform and into less formal attire and, having taken into consideration advice that was offered by a few of his colleagues, he decided to go out and try socialising once again. he had attempted to a couple of time previously after he got a bit of rubbing from two junior officers about his lack of a social life, wife, girlfriend, family and even friends. He had always ignoreed his collleagues when theysuggested he ‘get out more’. he had never had any interest in mixing with society. But lately he had begun to relaise how little he had in his life, besides his job his life most certainly lacked all of the things his colleagues had mentioned. Relationships had always been a no,no for him. He saw women and emotional attachment as inconvenient, however he had never experienced these things so how could he possibly know? 

A week or so prior he had met a woman in Le Chien Noir, a tavern where he had stopped by and indulged in one or two drinks. Not much of a drinker of alcohol it had taken him almost 4 hours to drink 2 glasses of red wine and the next morning he had awoken with a headache. His new lady friend, although he had only seen her once since meeting her was called Catherine or Cathy as she preferred to be called. she was an attractive 38 year old widow who had moved back to Paris from Boulogne-sur-Mer 2 years after her husbands death after finally being able to sell their properties and close up his estate. Catherine had no children due to her husbands propensity for violence having afflicted 4 miscarriages. 3 years prior to moving home her husband had murdered his business partner and tried to flee France. Luckily he was caught at Calais and apprehended. From there he was taken to jail, but rather than take accountability for his crimes and face the likelihood of the death penalty, he had hung himself. Uncomfortable living in Boulogne-sur-Mer Catherine returned to Paries and a neighbourhood not too far from where she grew up to start her life over. 

On the night they he met her, Javert had been almost instantly captivated by Cathy, she was vivacious, fun and had a wonderful sense of humour. She had blue eyes and dark brown hair, she was short, around 5 feet in height, and voluptuous. But she had no edge to her, she was polite, well manner, kind and attentive to the various customers in the tavern. On and off throught that evening they had talked and he had enjoyed their conversation. Cathy had even managed to amuse him more than once and once he had relaxed a little he had even managed to smile. He had been able to tell that she had been curious about him and no doubt the parisian grapevine had provided plenty of tid bits of information about him and his unusual lifestyle.   

Javert’s life beyond his work as a police officer was quiet solitary. With no family to visit him or vice versa and no real friends to socialise with and not to mention an aversion to getting to involved in society generally, he was not used to being out in public, drinking in taverns and fratinising with the ladies who worked in them. He just wasn’t comfortable in these situations and preferred to be alone. Though he occasionally admitted, only to himself, mind, that he did get lonely and yearned for companionship of some kind. He had never had a relationship, never courted in his youth, though he did flirt with girls back then as he got older and more devoted to his work he decided those kind of distractions were something he didn’t need. So he committed himself to his work, to the law and allowed himself no time for pleasure or company of any kind. Not even a pet dog or cat. 

When Cathy had finished her shift that night, Javert, who had just finished his drink to a little plunge into the uknown and offered to walk her home. Cathy had happily accepted his offer so they walked into the night towards Cathy’s home which was close to an area where a series of violent robberies had taken place in recent months. On top of that two women had been murdered on the route that led to Cathy’s neighbourhood. Cathy had been understanbly concerned about walking home alone and seemd glad to have the company of the normally distant and somewhat mysterious policeman. 

On the way to Cathy’s home they had talked about the recent crimes in the area.

“I’m not a regular member of staff at the tavern, the owners, Pierre and Rose are friends of mine, I help them out when they are short staffed. It’s not fun, finishing a shift and having to walk home when the fastest route is on the exact street where two women have been murdered.” She said.

“I exepct not, but you need not worry, I’ll walk you to your door and as long as I’m not working and you don’t feel like I’m imposing, I can walk you home from the tavern when you have shifts there in future.” He replied.

“You surprise me Inspector. Everything I’ve hear about you is turning out to either be complete lies or only half truths.”

“How so?” Javert asked.

“Well town gossip states that you never go out, have no friends, no family and beyond your work your not interested in anything.” Cathy replied.

 "Well, it is true that I have no family, I am unmarried and have never been married. My parents are dead and I have no ther family. It is also true that I don’t go out much if at all and when I do it’s usually to eat.“ He said.

“Yet you have, been to the tavern a few times in the past few weeks. Also you have been quite sociable, especially this evening. I’ve rather ejoyed talking to you.“ 

"The feeling is mutual Madame and I am glad to be able to make sure you get home safely.”

“So am I Inspector.”

“Please call me Javert.”

“Has the killer been found yet?” She asked

“Sadly and rather annoyingly, no he hasn’t. But we are searching for him.” He replied.

For a few moments they walked in silence and turning into the street where Cathy lived, he wondered whether or no he should ask her to go out with him. But what on earth would make him think she would want to. 

They reached Cathy’s front door and she turned to him and asked

“Would you like to join me for a drink or some supper?”

He was a little taken aback and trying not to seem to eager he replied

“No, that is quite alright, I don’t expect you to go to any trouble. Besides, it is late, I’m sure your tired and would prefer to turn in for the night.” He was blushing and felt a bit of a dolt for turning down her offer. 

“It’s no trouble at all, and you didn’t eat at the tavern this evening, I bet you’re hungry. Come on in.” She insisted, smiling. 

Then she turned to open the door. As she walked into the house she found Eponine (Thenardier), who had been taking care of Cathy’s young neice while she was working, curled up asleep in a chair. Cathy gently woke her and queeried as to how things had been while she had been out and was pleased to hear that her niece, Chloe who was four years old had been well behaved and was fast asleep. Cathy paid Eponine and Eponine left to go home with arrangments made to take care Chloe again on Sunday afternoon/early evening. 

Cathy handed Javert a bottle of wine while Cathy made some sandwiches for supper. Normally she would have a soup or a stew prepared and ready for heating up but she hadn’t had time to make either of those meals today because Pierre had sent is 12 year old son, Andre to give her a message that they were short staffed at the tavern. She had literally only had enough time to change her clothes, brush her hair and leave the house. Eponine had stayed overnight the night before so she was already there and happy to stay and look after Chloe for what was only supposed to be 4 hours but ended up being 8 hours because the tavern had been busy. 

Javert and Cathy chatted well into the night. Luckily, neither of them wer eworking the next day and by the time Javert got ready to go home, Cathy had already decided she had wanted him to stay. But before she could ask him, on reaching the door and bidding her goodnight he turned around and why he did it, he had no idea, but he had the urge to touch her, even to kiss her, and without thinking he gently stroked her cheek with the back off his fingers, and then again with the palm of his hand, wondering as he did this if he was going to get his face slapped for pushing his luck. Cathy, stood there looking up at him. Her eyes met his and she placed her hand on top of his pressing it more firmly against her cheek. She then moved his hand a little, down towards her lips anf she kissed the palm of his hand. Needing no further encouragment, Javert gently took her face in both of his hands, leaned down and kissed her, softly and politely at first and then a little more passionately, she returned his kiss with a needy enthusiasm and he gathered her up in his arms and held her tight as he kissed her. When they ended their kiss, she reached up and placed her hand on his face with a pleading expression on her face she said softly.

“please stay with me.”

He wanted to, oh god he wanted to, at that moment he wanted all of the things he had never had or experienced. But a voice inside his head told him it was the wrong thing to do, that if he stayed with her he would be taking advantage of her even though she had asked him to stay. She asked again;

“Please, I’m not expecting anything form you. I’d just like you to stay with me and hold me.”

She couldn’t remeber that last time she had laid in bed with a man who was happy to hold her, show her any kind of affection or even make love to her. Her husband had been something of a  savage beast. Everything he did was done with anger and haste as though he were doing it literally for his own satisfaction. He had never been loving or even caring for that matter and their marriage had been deeply unhappy. Their physical relationship was more often than not forced and brutal and she had dared not complain because he would beat her if she did. Violence was something he really liked, he enjoyed it other than that his only other pleasures were alcohol and money. When he killed himself in prison he she was glad that part of her life was over. Relieved that she could move on and make a life for herself elsewhere. She could not lie to anyone but not least to herself that she was glad her husband was gone. She didn’t miss him at all. The thought of anyone justing lying in bed with her and holding her made her happy, but after what had just happened, how she had felt when Javert held her and kissed her, she wanted more, and she wanted it from him. He had lit a flame in her that had long since burned itself out, and she had lit a flame in him that had never even existed. 

Javert, now feeling guilty at the thought of leaving her alone relented and agreed to stay. vowinf to himself that he would behave like a gentleman and only hold her as she had asked him to. But he was not so sure that he could keep that vow. Cathy smiled and he retook his seat at the kitchen table, while Cathy washed their supper dishes and finished her glass of wine. After that she led him upstairs to the bedroom. 

Eponine stood outside on the street deciding whether to go to the hovel she had been staying in with her mother and sister or whether to go and find her friends and spend the night in their company. She watched from across the street as Cathy’s house went dark. She had also taken a mental note that she had not seen the Inspector leave. Eponine decided to keep this information to herself, she liked Cathy and adored her niece, Chloe and did not want to cause problems as Cathy would often give her food and allow her to spend the night and on that night like an idiot, Eponine had told Cathy she had made arragements to spend the night with her mother and sister. It had been a lie, but in a way she was glad to not be in Cathy’s house this night even though nothing at all might have been happening, though she knew that thought was probably unlikely. 

Cathy led Javert into her bedroom and lit a lamp then hung it on the hook on the wall. She left the bedroom for a brief moment to check on Chloe who was sleeping soundly. On returning to her bedroom she found Javert sitting on the bed looking a little unsure of himself and of what to do next. She closed the bedroom door and walked over to Javert, she could tell he was nervous. He opened his mouth to speak and she placed her finger on his lips, then, taking his face gently in her hands she leaned downa kissed him. He wrapped his hands around her waist and pulled her body against him. Their kiss became more passionate, more urgent, as he slipped his tongue between he slightly parted lips and into her warm, moist mouth. His tongue stroked hers and hers in return, stroked his, they kissed deeper, harder and began to undress each other. She slipped his jacket over his shoulders and then removed his cravat. Frantically unbuttoning his shirt she brushed her lips across his face and then down passed his jaw, to his neck as he removed her blouse and unfastened her skirt allowing it to fall to the floor. With an even great sense of need and urgency she removed his undergarments and then started to unfasten his trousers. As her hand moved slowly over his groin she felt his manhood hardening. He broke off the kiss and pressed his face against her ample, curvaceous breasts. 

“I need to take off my Shoes.” He whispered.

“As do I.” she respinded with a giggle. 

They removed their shoes and he then took on the challenge of removing her corset. He failed to understand why w woman would want to go through such rigmarole just for the sake of keeping the wobbly parts in place. Cathy giggled like a little girl as his finger lightly tickled he spine while he was unlacing her corset. His hands were warm though a little bit rough. As he removed the corset and the rest of her undergarments he cupped his hands gently around her breasts, coaxing her nipples with his fingers until they were erect, while she reached behind her having still not removed his trousers and slowly caressed his manhood which was now almost fully erect. She then pulled down his trousers and as they dropped to his feet he kicked them off. Then he removed his socks, and lay down on the bed pulling Cathy onto the bed with him. 

He couldn’t remember a time when his curiosity had been so heightened. He softly caressed Cathy’s body, making sure to explore every curve with his hands as they travelled from her shoulders down to her ankles. He moved atop her and kissed her, deeply, firmly, passionately and with more confidence and contentment than he had ever been able to imagine feeling in such a situation with a woman. Moving from her mouth to her neck he kissed, licked and nibbled his way around her voluptuous body, raising his eyes only to glance at her lovely, face which shone with contentment and like porcelain in the dim lamplight. From her neck to her shoulder, down to he breasts, her nipples down her waist, her hips to the outside of her left thigh and across to outside of her right thigh, then to the inside of her right thigh and across to her left thigh, working his way up and she moaned with pleasure and writhed with the ever increasing arousal. He put his hand between her legs and with one finger he gently and eagerly massaged her most private and intimate area, causing her to become moist, he then slipped his finger inside of her entrance, exploring, investigating the inner sanctum, he moaned louder and writhed more vigorously, he fingered her a little long, slipping another finger inside of her as she raised her legs and rested them on his shoulders. He licked the outer nipple between her legs and then removing his fingers from inside her he slipped his tongue in, swirling it around and savouring the taste of her. 

Cathy was breathing heavily now and faster, she couldn’t control herself or the sounds that were escaping from her mouth. She whispered:

“Please, I want you inside me.”

He kissed and licked his way back up her naked body again then he lifted her legs and wrapped them around his hips, with one thrust his generously sized, hard cock was inside of her and she clutched at his shoulders, digging her fingernails into his skin leaving light scratches, she raised and lowered her pelvis to join with him each time her thrust. It was intense and wonderful and she hadn’t felt like this before nor had she felt so utterly wanted by anyone. Javert rolled over pulling Cathy on top of him and she rose up and down on his throbbing, hard cock. He held her hips trying to control her movements as she had almost completely lost control of herself and her actions. Javert sat up and thrust as deep into her as he could get, he was completely enveloped by them warm, wet hole by which he had been enveloped. They climbed the mountain together and fell from the summit together, sweating, moaning, panting as Cathy collapsed on top of him and pressed her forehead into his shoulder. He held her for what seemed like a long time but was only a few mere minutes. She rolled off him and turned onto her side to face him, stroking his face she pressed her lips agains his and kissed him and they snuggled up together and fell asleep.

Javert could still scarcely believe that it had happened, and on the first night they had met, no dinner date, no lunch in a cafe, just a woman at work and him a customer, a man, who had never believed he was worthy of any such attention and, not even looking for such an encounter. Though he had seen her a couple of time since then, both times he had been working and unable to spend time with her. This night he had paid little Gavroche Thenardier a little bit of money to find out whether or not Cathy was working at the Tavern. If she was not there he would go to her home and hope to be able to see her there. He met up with Gravroche who told him that Cathy was working in the tavern that night. So off he trudged to Le Chien Noir. 

The tavern was busy again and he wasn’t comfortable in such crowded places. He looked through the window and spotted Cathy putting on her coat and saying goodbye to the other staff. He waited in the alley beside the tavern and as she left he stepped out in front of her almost scaring her into an early grave. 

“Jesus Christ Javert! Why are you lurking around in the shadows like an old phantom?" 

 "I apologise Madame, I did not mean to frighten you, my intention was to surprise you though.” He responded.

“Surpise me eh?.” she said shaking her head. “That you most certainly did.”

“Are you alright?” He asked.

“Yes, I’m alright, just give me a moment while my heart works it’s way back into my chest. Have you come to walk me home again?" 

"Yes. I’ve also brought some supper and wine if you’d like toshare it with me.”

“I’d love to.” She smiled and nodded. 

Cathy took Javert’s arm and they set off walking back to her house. 

“I also had an overwhelming desire to see you again, and spend more time with you. I like to get to know you better.” Javert said a little embarassed at how open he’d been in the moment but he felt so comfortable with her, he just couldn’t help blurting it out.

“I’d like to get to know you too Javert. Will you be spening the night with me again?" 

"Would you like to me to?” He asked.

“Yes I would.”

“Then I shall stay with you again.” He replied with a knowing smile.

She smiled back at him, linked her arm through his and for a moment or two, leaned her head against his arm. she didn’t understand why the locals feared him. in many ways no different to any other man despite having chosen to live his life in mostly solitude with only his work to keep things interesting. But little did she know how complicated, interesting and multilayered he could be. They had discussed little of his past, his childhood or his life before he became a police officer. While to him it was very simple because that’s they way he had constructed his life to be. He had built it around a very basic, but flawed view of the world and humanity and also that he was not accustomed to letting people into his very private little world, or displaying his emotions and thoughts. But she would find out soon enough. The streets in Cathy’s neighbourhood were quiet as they reached her modest yet cosy home. Eponine had fallen asleep on the chair again. Unable to wake her, Cathy left her their as she and Javert went into the kitchen to partake of their supper and wine. They chatted quietly for an hour or so before discreetly making their way upstairs, leaving the ground floor rooms of the house in darkness. While Eponine and Chloe slept peacefully throughout the night, Javert and Cathy intensified their relationship even further. 

By For The Love of Javert

Tomorrow I get drawing again and see what I can come up with.

The Qustvert pics are to mark the beginning and end of the chapter. Hopefully soon I'll have a thinner page divider to separate the chapters or possibly an illustration of my own.

Good night I'll check in tomorrow to see what the commentary is like. I'm dreading it btw. Especially as I stayed up until 5.15am to get it finished.

[something-tofightfor]

It’s Dangerous To Fall In Love III: I’m Burning Alive

Pairing: Nick Caldwel (Fire Meet Gasoline) x Female Reader, Nick Caldwel x Elena Ruez (Heidi Klum’s character)

Word Count: 13,155

Rating: M

Chapter warnings: This is VERY angsty friends. But it’s necessary. 

Blanket warnings for this whole story: Crime, death, blood, injury, violence, abandonment, anger, sadness, mentions of jail/prison time, terminal illness, adultery, mentions of domestic violence and emotional abuse

Summary: It’s not as easy as either of you think to be in such close proximity ... but you’re trying. There’s a lot that both of you want (and need) to say - but are they all things that the other person is going to want to hear? 

Author’s note:

I am so happy that all of you seem to be enjoying Nick so much. I know that there’s a LOT of story to get through before things can really get going for them ... but they have a limited amount of time in this hotel room, so when things get going, they really GO. 

I appreciate the feedback that I’ve gotten on parts 1 and 2 so much - hope you like this one, too. 

Thank you for reading. As always, I would love to know what you think.

It’s Dangerous to Fall in Love Masterlist

Seeing him again was strange. Being in his arms again was even stranger  - but you were surprised to find that you didn’t mind the feeling of those arms around you as much as you thought you would after everything that had happened. And he really does seem like he’s been working out. 

The car ride back, even though short, was somewhat tense, and you felt like an idiot for not anticipating the fact that he hadn’t done anything alone in over a year, so your offhand comment about the quality of the hotel had come off much differently than you’d wanted it to. But at the same time, he was quick to diffuse the situation, and you were just as quick to reply in kind - so you didn’t think that the day was ruined. I hope not. 

His question about the air conditioning had taken you completely by surprise, though it shouldn’t have. You’d roomed together enough that he knew your habits, but the fact that it had been almost three years since you’d traveled together - and he still remembered? You wondered exactly what Nick had focused on during his time away - both from Arizona and while in jail. 

You’d known that he wasn’t going to want you to leave the room, but you’d still offered, because the one thing that you’d told yourself before heading to the airport was that you wanted to give him as much autonomy as you could in the days you had with him. It would take time for him to readjust to being out in public, and if there was any way you could make the transition easier for him, you’d do it.  Always. 

He’d taken a shower - a long one, and when he came out of the small bathroom completely dressed and wearing a different t shirt than he’d had on when you picked him up, you’d taken a few moments to stare at him over the top of your book. His hair was damp and tousled, a new scar peeking out from his hairline and another on his nose. You wanted to ask him questions - wanted to know more about what he’d been through and the parts of the legal process that you hadn’t been around to witness and couldn’t read about online, but it wasn’t your place. If he wants to tell me, he’ll tell me. 

The man settled onto the other bed, leaning back against the pillows and when he turned the TV on, you smiled, watching from the corner of one eye as he flipped through channels. It felt normal, and as music from your laptop played through your headphones, blocking out the sound of whatever he was watching, you let your mind wander. You wondered how he was feeling with so many changes in only a few hours - now clean, warm and comfortable, laying in a soft bed and with a large TV on the channel of his choice. 

Returning to your book, you turned the volume on your headphones down so that you’d be able to hear him if he tried to get your attention. Nick spent a few minutes looking for something to watch and then reached for the table between the beds, setting the remote down and then wrapping his fingers around your phone. Oh, shit. 

Pushing into an upright position, you pulled one earbud out, eyes going wide. “Wait, let me unl-” But before you got it all out, his finger was tapping against the screen and you felt your cheeks burn with shame at the fact that after nearly three years, you still hadn’t changed the passcode. Shit. “Nick…”

“It’s still my birthday.” He stared at the device, lips turned down into a frown. “Your phone’s password is still…” Setting the phone back down on the table, he stood, using one hand to scrub at his face - freshly cleaned, though he hadn’t trimmed his facial hair at all. “I need a minute.” Nick’s eyes met yours and you saw panic in them, his chest rising and falling rapidly. “I need…” Shaking his head back and forth, he looked down at the table and then reached out again, grabbing one of the room keys before turning and heading for the door, only stopping long enough to shove his feet back into his shoes. 

The door closed behind him moments later - and once again, you were left alone in a room, the sight of Nick’s broad shoulders the last you saw of him. 

— 

It had been second nature to him to unlock your phone. You’d done it countless times with each other’s devices when you were together, and he hadn’t even thought about it when his face wasn’t recognized and prompted him for the code. But the fact that it had worked had stunned him. Because it means that she didn’t… 

He’d left you. He’d abandoned you with a bullshit explanation and no real apology. He’d roped you into his criminal actions and then walked away from you again, and your phone’s passcode was still his birthday, nearly three years later. Why? Why is… 

He found himself outside of the hotel, walking toward the courtyard you’d mentioned and lowering himself to sit on one of the benches that surrounded the fire pit. The sun was still high in the sky, though it was partially blocked by the building, and for a few minutes, the man sat there and enjoyed the feeing of it on his skin - the back of his neck and his arms, the heat of it caressing his cheeks. He’d been outside plenty while locked up, but the air felt different in the shadow of the hotel. It took a few minutes, but Nick finally calmed his racing heart, both hands gripping the edge of the bench he was sitting on. Get it together, Caldwel.

The shower had been everything he’d hoped for, and he spent much too long under the hot spray, eyes closed and both hands pressed flat against the tiled surface of the walls. He lathered up the loofah twice, soaping up his body and then watching as the residue ran down the drain, the scent of it overwhelming him because it was yours - and the same was true for the shampoo and conditioner he used on his hair, long fingers massaging his scalp leisurely as he kept his eyes closed. 

It was easy enough for him to pretend that everything was normal then, that when he got out of the shower, he could just wrap the towel around his waist and walk back into the bedroom, climbing into the bed next to you before you decided what you were going to do with the rest of the day. It was easier still while he was standing in front of the mirror and brushing his teeth, his eyes roaming the counter and your scattered products - makeup and perfume, your toothbrush, a small bottle of lotion. 

But the fact that you were there - that you’d come to pick him up, that you were giving him a place to sleep, that you’d said he could stay until Thursday was only a kindness on your part. It meant nothing more, and so he got dressed again and used one of the smaller towels to partially dry his hair before heading back out to the room that you were in, climbing into the spare bed without even looking over at you.  It wasn’t that he didn’t want to - he knew that if he did, he wouldn’t be able to stop, and he didn’t think that either of you were ready for the conversation that would follow. 

But reaching for that damn phone and unlocking it like he was so used to doing had sped up the timeline, forcing a reaction from you - and from him, too - and he knew that when he went back, having that conversation was unavoidable. And I don’t know what to say. I don’t know what to ask. He took a deep breath, raising his head and turning it toward the indoor pool room before letting his mind wander again. 

He felt your presence before he saw you, and when you stepped into his line of sight he blinked you into focus, teeth digging into his lower lip and his fingers loosening from the wood, both hands moving to his lap. You didn’t speak, but you did sit down across from him, leaning forward and staring at the dark fire pit. Say something. Please say something, otherwise - “I thought you were going to come back.” Voice quiet, you finally started talking without looking up.”Even though I know how stubborn you are, I still thought you were going to come back after a week or two. I thought one day I’d get home from work and you’d be sitting on the couch, waiting.” He said your name, interrupting, but you didn’t let him, holding up one hand. “I waited to cancel the wedding, Nick. I waited three weeks after you left until your mom told me that you were staying with a friend in Vegas, and that you’d told her you were headed out East afterward.” 

“I did go to the east coast.” He cleared his throat. “Went from Henderson to Atlantic City, and -” He sighed. “I was in Philadelphia the day we were supposed to get married. I spent that night getting drunk on -” 

“Do you know what I spent that night doing?” You finally looked at him, your eyes filled with tears that he could tell you were trying to keep from spilling. “I spent our wedding night with your mom and my parents, and I had no fucking clue where you were.” You rolled your eyes at him, reaching up with one hand to wipe beneath them. “You told me that you didn’t want us to lose each other and that’s why you left, but you fucking abandoned me, Nick. You don’t think that losing your dad was hard on me, too? You don’t think that seeing the way your mom took it scared the shit out of me?” Tapping on your chest, you narrowed your eyes. “It did. The idea of losing you terrified me, but the risk was worth it. It would have been worth it to be with you for the next fifteen or twenty or thirty or fifty years.” You were crying, not even attempting to stop yourself, and he wanted nothing more than to reach out for you. “But instead of losing you after a lifetime together, I lost you before we even got one.” 

Instead, he kept his hands on his lap, fingers loosely balled into fists as your words carved through him, widening the pain that he’d felt in his chest since the night he’d gotten the call about his father. I deserve this. I deserve all of this. She has every right to say these things to me. You paused, taking a deep breath, and then you began to cry harder - but you still didn’t look away. 

“I tried to make myself hate you. I tried to listen to my friends - and yours - that told me how much better I deserved, how you leaving was the worst fucking thing that you could have done, that if you came back, I should tell you to fuck off.” You should. You should have when I called, too. “I tried to date again. Went out with a couple really nice guys, Nick. They made me smile and they made sure that I had fun.” It was like you were twisting a knife into his chest, and Nick knew that he had no right to feel that way - especially with the way he’d been with Elena. But that doesn’t make it easier to hear. “I should hate you, Nick. I should despise you, for what you did.” 

You stood, rolling your eyes and reaching into your pocket, pulling your phone out and holding it up. What does… “I -”

“But I couldn’t even bring myself to change my fucking phone’s lock code.” You stepped closer, dropping the device onto his lap, both of Nick’s hands scrambling to catch it so that it didn’t fall and break. “You left me all alone for a year and spent 6 months of that with a married woman that ended up landing you in jail and even after that, I couldn’t even hate you enough to change a goddamn six digit code on my phone.” Sniffling, you used the heel of your hand to wipe more tears away. “What does that say about me, hmm?” 

You didn’t wait for an answer, spinning away from him and heading back toward the hotel. 

—

When you got back to your room, you locked yourself in the bathroom and collapsed onto the floor. Pressing your back and shoulders against the door, you let yourself continue crying, the tears streaming down your face. It’s so stupid. I’m so stupid. 

You hadn’t changed the code in the beginning out of habit, telling yourself that it was just a series of numbers and nothing more. And then, after you’d canceled everything, you still hadn’t changed it because you hadn’t wanted to think of a new one - entering in the code was muscle memory for you. And then after he’d called - and you’d helped in Globe, you still hadn’t changed it because seeing him had done something to you, reigniting the feelings of affection and anger in the same few hours. 

To be truthful, your phone’s lock code was the least of your worries when it came to him using the device, but of course, it was the one that you hadn’t even considered that the man would need to use in order to make the call you’d told him he could. It always unlocks with my face. I didn’t even think about him needing to type anything in. Nick using the code was one thing, but if he would have done any sort of digging through the rest of it, he would have found that all of your pictures were still there, and so were your text messages. You hadn’t blocked him. You hadn’t erased him - at least from the device. 

Your house, on the other hand, was a different story. 

Nick’s clothing and the personal items that he’d left were packed away and stored in the basement. The pictures of the two of you were 99% put away - only a few of them that featured his parents or yours, or larger groups of friends were left out, though they’d been moved so that they weren’t as prominently displayed. 

You’d done what you could to remove most traces of him from your day to day life, but even being careful and thorough hadn’t completely done that … and now he knew it. And what will he think of it? Not that you thought he’d ever see it, especially when it came to the house. 

You figured that as soon as he got back to Mesa, Nick would go home, moving back in with his mother while he made plans for his future. You hoped that was what he would do; the woman missed him immensely, and they had a lot to catch up on. But I don’t know. I didn’t think this through, and now … 

Your parents were surprised at the way you’d let Nick back into your life, but they were content to let you make your own choices, even though the criminal aspects of what he’d done didn’t make them happy. His mother also understood - the woman becoming one of your go-to people during his imprisonment while the two of you traded stories about what was going on. She never told you anything that crossed a line, but he was much more forthcoming with the entire truth with her, and she in turn was the same with you. 

Your friends on the other hand? They knew that you’d helped Nick, and that you occasionally wrote to each other, but that was the extent of it. They didn’t know that you’d traveled to Texas to bring him home. They didn’t know that you were offering him a a room to stay in.They didn’t know how conflicted your feelings still were for the man that had destroyed your trust and broken your heart. And I don’t know if I want to tell them, because I don’t think they’ll understand.

But before you had to make that decision, you’d need to make one when it came to Nick himself, because unless he left with nothing, he’d come back to the room… and you’d have to face him. Covering your face with both hands, your shoulders shook as you cried, the memory of the shocked look in his eyes when he’d typed the number seared into your mind. 

It had only taken a few minutes of sitting in silence in the room after he left for you to move, climbing out of the bed and beginning to pace at the foot of it, fingers pressed to your lips. You wanted to go after him - wanted to say something, but you didn’t know what you could say. Would he want an explanation? Would he want some sort of admission? Did he even care? You thought he did; Nick wouldn’t have made such an effort over the previous months if he didn’t care at all, but telling him why the code was still the same was just the first step in ripping off the bandaid, and you weren’t ready to bleed again. 

The desire to know he was OK won out, though, and so you grabbed your phone and the second key and started looking for him, deciding to start outside. He was on one of the benches near the gazebo, and when you saw him - hunched over and looking despondent,  you felt all of the emotions that you’d kept inside for the previous months bubbling up and over. You said more than you intended to, but all of it was true - and as the words came out, Nick focused on you from his seat on the bench, you realized why you were so upset: you hated that he still had such a large place in your mind and heart. You hated that he was right there, yet still so far away - and that all you wanted to do was bring him closer, even though you knew that it would likely end in more heartbreak. 

Pushing yourself to your feet, you moved to the sink and turned the cold water on, splashing it against your face and hoping that by the time he came back, he wouldn’t be able to tell that you’d cried over him. Again. Cried over him again. That hope was dashed, though, when you heard the main door close and then quiet footsteps cross the floor. Shit. Blinking as you stared at yourself in the mirror, you took a deep breath and held it, palms pressed flat against the countertop. Go out there. Go out there and see what he says. Go out there and - A quiet knock on the door interrupted you and you blew the breath out, lowering your head. He said your name - not your nickname, your real name, and you heard how timid it was, even though the door. “Can we talk?” 

You couldn’t stay in the bathroom forever, and so you moved to the door, unlocking it and pulling it open, Nick standing about a foot away, his arms crossed over his chest. Your phone was sitting back on the table, and when you met his eyes, you also saw that the look in them was one of worry, almost like he thought you were about to kick him out instead of reply. I wouldn’t. “We can, Nick.” He deflated in relief, and you continued. “But I don’t… I don’t know what kind of conversation this is going to be, so we should get you something to eat first.” 

“Are you sure?” He backed off, uncrossing his arms and letting them fall to his sides. “I can wait.” 

“You’ve waited a year and a half. I’m upset and we have a lot to talk about, but I don’t want you to be hungry.” And I need some more time to think. 

— 

He had to admit that you were right. The food helped, and he couldn’t hold back the groan of happiness at the taste of his first greasy hamburger in almost two years. He’d passed on traditional fast food like Whataburger and Burger King for a restaurant called Buns Over Texas, and it had been the right call. 

He overindulged - a burger and cheesy tots, a large Coke and a milkshake for dessert - but it was worth it, and when he’d finished he leaned back in his seat, sighing contentedly. You’d spoken throughout the meal, but it wasn’t a lot, and he figured that it was a mixture of you not wanting to get into anything in public and you just wanting him to enjoy his first meal as a free man. But whatever the reason, it’s fine. It’s fine because this is … normal. Over the coming months, Nick knew that he’d experience a lot of things that would remind him that he was still adjusting to being out, and as small a thing as it was, he was happy that at least a few of those first memories would be shared with you. Even if it’s just the first ones. 

The meal ended far too soon, and when the two of you were sitting back in the car, you turned to face him, voice soft. “Is there anything else you need before we go back?” 

“A beer?” He frowned again. “Maybe not for right now, but I might want one later, and I didn’t see a bar in the hotel.” You nodded, pulling back out onto the street, and after a quick detour to a gas station right next door to where you were staying, the two of you were back inside, a 6-pack chilling in the mini fridge. He knew that the two of you needed to start somewhere - that once you began talking, it would be easier… and so he took a deep breath and closed his eyes. “Do you have anything you want to ask me? I’ll tell you whatever you want to know.” 

Chancing a look at you, Nick saw that you were sitting cross-legged on the bed, hands clasped together in your lap while you stared in his direction. He had no idea where you’d start, but figured it wouldn’t be with the fact that your phone’s passcode was still his birthday. 

He was right. 

“Have you talked to her? Since you testified, I mean?” You looked away, focusing for a few seconds on the darkened TV screen and then returned your gaze to him. “I didn’t know if you were allowed to -”

“I haven’t.” He cleared his throat, seeing the look of relief that flashed in your eyes. Did she really think I wanted anything to do with Elena? “Last time I saw her was when I was in court with her, and she wasn’t too happy to see me then.” His lips twitched. “I don’t have anything to say to Elena. I said everything when I was on the stand. I’m ready to move on.” I know it won’t be that easy, but I can try. “You and my mom were pretty much the only people on the outside I talked to, and she was the only one that came to visit.” He pressed down briefly on the tattoo on his hand as he spoke, brows furrowed. “It’s going to be weird being back in Mesa. I’m sure everyone knows what I did, and -”

“They do.” You cut in, sighing. “A lot of our friends, Nick? They don’t know what to think. They were shocked when they heard what happened, but they all said it was really responsible of you to go back. None of them think you’re dangerous or anything, as far as I know, but … it might be a little weird when you see them again.” 

“I figured.” He looked down, focused on the way his fingers were linked. “Maybe I shouldn’t stay in Mesa. Maybe it would be easier to start over somewhere else.” He’d been thinking about it for weeks, trying to decide what the best choice for himself would be, but your appearance outside of the jail had thrown him. “At least I’m not a felon, so I have options.” 

“You do.” You shifted. “You have options.” You went quiet again, and Nick used the opportunity to stare at you, thinking. “I’m sorry I blew up on you earlier. The last thing I want to do is stress you out. I know that today is… hard for you.” You tried to smile but he knew it was strained, the expression not reaching  your eyes. 

“You have every right to be upset. I thought it would be worse, actually.” He moved to the edge of the bed toward you, putting his feet flat on the floor. “Listen to me.” He said your name then, resting his forearms on his knees and leaning closer. “I appreciate every single thing you have done for me over the last 18 months. I don’t deserve it. I don’t deserve your kindness or your attention or your time or your forgiveness.” He shifted again, moving just a little closer. I’m testing my luck here. “What I did to you was wrong. What I did to you was cruel. I don’t understand why you didn’t hang up immediately when I called you in the middle of the night. I don’t understand why you got in your car and drove so fucking far and then stayed. I don’t get why you helped me or why you’re even here right now, but know for a fact that I don’t deserve any of it. I don’t deserve you. You have nothing to apologize for with me, and you never will.” 

You seemed surprised at the words, lips parting as you stared at him. “Nick…” You moved too, but instead of getting closer, you curled in on yourself, pulling a pillow onto your lap and wrapping both arms around it. “How can you not understand?” I don’t know what I’m supposed to say to that. “How can you not understand why I answered or why I came to you or why I stayed?” Standing, you moved over to where your bag was, bending over and unzipping it. “How do you not understand why I’ve carried this around with me since the day you handed it to me?” It’s my letter. It’s… fuck. “Do you really not know why I’m here, Nick? Why my phone’s passcode is still your goddamn birthday and I’m offering you a place to stay until you’re ready to go home?”

“Because I have no one else.” He ran a hand through his hair, swearing under his breath. “Because you know I have no one, and -”

“Because I still care about you, Nick. Because part of me still fucking loves you and -”

“You shouldn’t.” His heart was hammering in his chest, the man barely able to keep his composure. “You shouldn’t still -” “Yeah, well, it looks like we’re both guilty of doing shit that we shouldn’t, aren’t we.” You dropped the letter onto the bed, tilting your head back so that you could look up at the ceiling. He saw your lower lip trembling as you tried to steady your breath, but he was frozen on the bed, limbs locked in place. She can’t honestly mean these things. “I’ll never understand why you left. Not completely. But you never lied to me, Nick, so I know that no matter how much of a bullshit excuse it was when you went, you believed it was the only thing you could do. And that’s why this all hurt so much, because … because if you would have stayed we could have worked through it and you would have seen -” 

You were crying again, and the sight of your tears - controlled and slow, not the angry, frustrated ones from earlier - he finally moved, standing and closing the distance between you even though he kept his hands at his sides. “I…” He closed his eyes. You’ve waited three years. Fucking say it. “I meant what I said in that letter. All of it.” He took a half step forward, his right hand reaching out and then retracting, fingers curling, the ends of his nails digging into his palm. “I’m sorry. I was wrong. I should have come home. I loved you so much, and I know that what I did wasn’t the right way to go about it.” 

Saying the words came with a rush of relief, Nick’s posture going loose as he finally admitted out loud what he’d wanted to tell you for years. It’s all out there now. For both of us. “I’m glad to hear you say that. But it’s too late, Nick.” 

— 

You hadn’t wanted to admit everything to him. It hadn’t been the plan, even after he’d unlocked your phone, but once you’d opened your mouth, you couldn’t stop. It was like everything that you’d kept inside for the entire time he’d been gone was coming out, and there wasn’t anything that you could do to stop it. 

Your emotions fluctuated between angry and happy, and even though you knew that what he was saying was the truth - that he was sorry, that he didn’t know what he was going to do next, that he was thankful for you and everything you’d done - you couldn’t focus on them. Why did you ask him about Elena? You had no right - it was none of your business. 

But part of you - the jealous part that was still angry that he’d found someone and got so caught up in them so quickly - needed to know. You needed to know, because that information was what you planned on basing the things you said to him on. Because if he still talked to her? If he was writing to me and writing to her at the same time … It would have broken your heart all over again, so when he admitted that no, he hadn’t been in touch, it changed everything for you. 

It took pulling the letter out again to really let yourself go, the words pouring out of your mouth faster than you could stop them, and to your surprise, he’d reacted positively. How could he not have known? How can he not tell? You loved him, and you always would, no matter what the outcome was, and even though it hurt to admit it because it made you feel weak, it was the truth. And he’s been honest, so I need to be, too. 

Hearing Nick tell you that he should have come home and that he meant what he’d said made you sway on your feet, but you were quick to reply, willing your voice to stay steady. “It’s too late, Nick.” And it was - it had to be. Not because you didn’t still love him too, or because you didn’t still want to reach out and let him take you into his arms, but because there was no good that would come from it. 

You still loved him, but you didn’t know if you could ever forgive him. You were happy to see him, but didn’t know if you wanted it to happen often. You were thrilled that he was a free man again, but you were unsure how knowing that he was only a few miles from your house at all times would make you feel. But he’s not a few miles away. He’s right here. He’s right here and we’re here until Thursday, and … 

“I know.” He reached out to you then, cautiously setting a hand on your shoulder, his fingers spreading wide before he squeezed. “I know it’s too late, but I still wanted to tell you.” Everything in you wanted to pull away from him, jerking your shoulder from his grasp, but instead of doing that, you looked into his eyes, head tilted to one side. “Writing it’s one thing. Saying it out loud is another. I never stopped loving you.” 

Reaching up with his other hand, he used the tips of his fingers to touch your cheek, his eyes also shining with unshed tears. “I know.” You moved first that time, leaning in and sliding your arms around his body as you pressed your cheek against the center of his chest, and it took Nick no time at all to return the embrace, his head lowered so that he could bury his nose in your hair. It felt like a goodbye - like the closure neither of you had gotten when he walked out of your house without looking back. And it also felt good, to have his arms around you in a hug that had nothing to do with gratitude and everything to do with years of repressed emotions. 

It struck you then that the last person Nick had held the way he was holding you had been her, and a fresh round of tears sprang forward, falling from your eyes and dampening the material of his shirt. He said he didn’t love her, but I know what it’s like to be with him, and it … he… that was his last … “Please stop crying.” He was stroking the back of your head, his lips moving along the crown of it. “Please, Calabaza, it’s breaking my heart.” The use of your nickname only made it worse, and before you could stop yourself, you were stepping forward, urging him over to the couch. It’s safer than the bed, because I don’t trust myself right now. 

When the two of you were seated - Nick’s legs stretched out on chaise portion and you curled up against his side - you spoke again, feeling the arm around your shoulders tighten. “What do we do now, Nick?” Your hand was running slowly up and down his side, his shirt soft beneath your palm. “I didn’t plan on saying any of this. I just wanted to be here and make sure you got home alright. I didn’t want to make this harder, and now I feel like that’s all we’ve done.” 

“I told people about you.” He paused, the hand on the arm that wasn’t around you squeezing his thigh. “Other inmates, I mean.” You did? “Showed ‘em your picture, too. The one that you sent of us and my parents?” You’d debated cutting yourself out of it when you sent it, but had opted not to - it was a really good picture, and you wanted him to have the whole thing. “They told me I was a fucking idiot for leaving you. Said they didn’t understand at all, especially when I told them that you’d helped me out after everything.” 

“I called myself an idiot, too.” You sighed, eyes closed as you focused on the man’s breathing, the gentle rise and fall of his chest. “Before and after. Especially after.” He laughed at that, and you felt your chest growing tight at the sound - and at the way it made you feel. “Did you make friends inside, Nick? That’s a weird question, but -”

“I did. A couple. I just tried to keep my head down and get through my time, but a couple of the guys were nice. It’s not like you see on TV, at least where I was. Guards were nice unless you gave ‘em a reason not to be, people weren’t always ruthless and looking for a fight. I wasn’t with the really dangerous people - my cellmate was in there for aggravated robbery, but he didn’t even attack anyone, he just had a knife on him when it all went down.” Nick paused, tightening his hold on you at your sharp intake of breath. “And after a while, it was just … something I had to deal with every day. I did my job, kept my head down, and got through it. Your letters helped. The stuff you sent me helped. I actually traded a couple things with other guys, earned favors and all that. The prison barter system can be really efficient when someone’s got stuff constantly coming in like I did.” 

“Well, you’re welcome. I’m glad to know that the books and magazines served a purpose.” Because it’s not like I could send him anything else. 

“It wasn’t just that.” He sighed, shifting his lower body beneath you. “You’d be surprised at how many people don’t even get enough sent to ‘em to buy anything extra. Because of you, I had a very lucrative instant soup and candy trade line going.” You laughed at that - hard - and stretched one arm around him, squeezing his midsection. “I looked forward to going shopping at the commissary every couple weeks, but the truth is that I looked forward to the letters more.” 

“Did you?” Sitting up, you looked at his face, the man’s lips curved up into a soft smile. “I’m glad. I kept all of the ones you sent me. They’re at home, in a box.” Surprise flashed in his eyes, Nick’s brows shooting up. “I didn’t decide that I was coming here this week until a little while ago, so I thought … I thought that those letters might be it, Nick.” I really did. 

“Can I ask you something?” You nodded, curious about what he’d say next. “Is it too late for us to be friends?” You knew the answer to that immediately, but hesitated before saying anything back to him. “Not right away, I mean. I know it’s gonna take time, but I want to… I want to make this right… now that I can.”

“Friends would work, Nick.” The smile you shot him in return was sad, but your words were truthful. “It’s not too late for that.” He visibly reacted, relief in the look he gave you in return, and for a few seconds, neither of you said anything else. 

You were closer than you had been to him in years, the man’s face only inches from yours, and you gave yourself permission to look at him, even though you didn’t know what it was that you were hoping to find. He’d aged - the crow’s feet at the corners of his eyes deeper and more pronounced, even when his expression was neutral. He was tanned - more than you’d thought he would be, especially the skin of his face and neck, but his hair was still dark, even though there were strands of silver running through it. His beard, too. It was no less patchy than it had been when you’d lived together or when you’d seen him in the motel, but it was a little longer, though it still looked soft. 

There was fatigue in his eyes. They were still warm and deep and looked at you like you were the only thing he wanted to see, but you could tell that he was tired. Before you could stop yourself, you lifted one hand, a fingertip finding the space between his brows where there were more deep lines and smoothed them the way you had so many times before. He didn’t speak, but you felt his body tense up when you touched him. Because he doesn’t know what to do either. “Is the scar on your nose from her?”

“No. It’s from Ryan. When he hit me.” Nick blinked and then turned his head to one side. “The one over here is from her.” It was the wound you’d bandaged in the motel, and your fingers moved there, the tips of them skating over the raised portion of skin. “When I got back to Amarillo and turned myself in, the cops took me to a hospital for evaluation. Needed medical professionals to see the cuts and scrapes and shit so that they could validate my story. I needed stitches. But because it had been a couple days at that point, it healed funny.” 

Almost an inch and a half long, the scar disappeared beneath his hair, but you could still feel it, along with seeing a rash of lighter marks on his skin over his cheek and along his jaw. From where she dragged the rock. “Women love scars, Nick.” Biting your lower lip, you wrinkled your nose. “Isn’t that what they say? He didn’t even crack a smile, and you worried that you’d said the wrong thing. How do I fix this? 

“She was the only one I slept with after you.” His eyes closed and Nick gritted his teeth. “She was so different from you that I thought it would help. And everything happened so fast once we started, I didn’t even have time to think it all through.” Oh, that… I don’t want to hear this. I don’t want to know about their… “I should have stopped. I should have thought about it all back then. And now I’m gonna have to think about it for the rest of my life.” 

“Yeah, you should have.” Eyes going wide, you backed off, hand rising to cover your mouth. Oh, shit. “Nick, I -”

“No. It’s good that you’re angry. It’s even better that you’re being honest about it. I fucked up. I need to hear you say it.” He reached up, running the fingers of his free hand through his hair. “Can I tell you something else?” I don’t know what else he could have to tell me. I don’t know what else I want to hear. But you nodded, taking in a slow breath. “She knew about you. Not everything, but we talked about my past, and she -”

At that, you shot to your feet, head whipping back and forth. “No. No, Nick. I don’t want to hear this. I don’t want to know about how you told your new girlfriend about the fiancée you left back in Arizona. I don’t want to think about the two of you doing whatever together and my name casually coming up in -”

“That’s not what happened.” He stood, too, though he kept his distance. “I mean when we first met. When she asked how I ended up in Texas, I told her what happened. You were the first thing that I brought up, even though talking about you still hurt.” Good. I’m glad it hurt. He repeated your name, eyes locked on your face. “She said that -”

“I don’t want to know.” You spun away from him, eyes scanning over the bedside table. “If you want to be friends, I don’t think I can know, Nick.” You could feel it - panic rising up and filling your chest, the sudden urge to go threatening to dictate what you did next. But it won’t solve anything. “You left me. You had every right to do whatever you wanted to do with your personal life. It’s upsetting, and I won’t deny that, but I can’t be mad because you were with someone else.” Even though I wish it had been literally anybody else. “But to know that you talked about me? About us with her? And then all this shit happened? I can be upset about that.” Your fingers closed around the room key, pulling it away from the surface of the tabletop. “So whatever she said about me or about the situation is going to stay with you because to be completely honest, Nick? I don’t care what she thought. Not only did she cheat on her husband with you and pull you into a really bad situation, she used you and then attacked you. She was willing to let you go down for burning her fucking house down if you survived what she did to you, so I don’t give a fuck what she had to say about you and me.” 

He was still - the man standing straight up, but he didn’t speak. You were angry - angrier than you’d been in a long time, and even though you really didn’t want to take it out on Nick, you couldn’t help the way you reacted. 

You’d kept everything inside for the most part. Sure, you’d cried over drinks and food with your friends. You’d commiserated with your family about the sudden absence in your life and what it meant. You’d even taken out your frustration in physical ways a few times - the most useful being when Adrian, a good friend of Nick’s had taken you to a property owned by his brother and handed you a baseball bat, telling you to go to town on the pile of junk they’d already pulled out of the otherwise empty building. 

It had helped - immensely, and by the end of the night, you’d been spent, months of frustration let out in a way that didn’t hurt anyone or anything - except broken sheets of drywall, old computer monitors, dishes and boxes. You’d spent a solid ten minutes crying in Adrian’s arms once you’d dropped the bat to the ground before he’d taken you back to his house, where his wife was waiting with a fresh bottle of liquor and plenty of snacks. It reminded you of the good people that you had in your life, and the ways they’d been there for you even when Nick hadn’t - something that being in his presence again had caused you to partially forget. 

“I’m going to go to the store. I need to be by myself for a little while.” Picking up your bag, you slid the strap over one shoulder. “Me staying here right now isn’t going to do either of us any good, because all I’m going to do is keep trying to start an argument with you, and it’s not going to help, because -”

“Alright.” He nodded once. “If you want me gone when you get back, I can be. There were a couple other hotels on the street.” No. 

“You don’t need to go. I just need some time. I need to calm down.” And I can’t do that here. 

“It’s getting late. Please be careful.” He took a half step forward, sighing. “I didn’t mean to upset you.” 

“I know.” Giving him a tight smile, you lowered your head. “I know you didn’t, but I can’t help the reaction I have to… all of this.” He cleared his throat but remained in place, eyes on you.  I wish I knew what to say right now. 

But you didn’t - and so you took the few steps necessary to reach the door and left the room - and Nick - behind.

— 

He paced the empty space at the foot of both beds, waiting for you to come back. Nick was no stranger to small spaces, but even though it was nearly triple the size of his cell, the empty hotel room seemed suffocating. 

You had every right to be mad at him, and Nick was actually pissed with himself that he’d brought up Elena again - especially in the context of talking about their sex life and letting you know that the woman had known of you. So fucking stupid of me. He used both hands to grip his hair, swearing loudly as he spun to move in the opposite direction - and toward the door. 

Hearing that you still cared about him  - that part of you still loved him - had stunned the man, and as happy as he’d been to hear it, Nick knew that he didn’t deserve for you to feel that way. His feelings were something that he’d come to terms with more than a year prior - the love he had for you wouldn’t ever fade completely, but he was prepared to carry it with him for the rest of his life without you knowing more than what he’d said in the original letter. That’s what I deserve. I did this to myself. 

There’d been moments that day, though, where he’d dared to think that the two of you could actually do it - actually remain friends and maybe even close friends. The parking lot. While eating your burgers. You offering your phone. Letting him touch you. The hug that you had initiated. The way you’d curled up against his side on the couch and made jokes. 

But he’d fucked it all up in only a few seconds. You’d had your hands on him and your eyes were staring into his and it had felt so goddamn good to be so close to you … and he’d mentioned Elena. “Fucking idiot.” Nick groaned again, finally sitting down at the foot of his bed, hanging his head between his knees. 

He hadn’t been trying to rub it in your face that he’d been with someone else, because that was the last thing he ever wanted to do. He was just trying to come clean about something that he hadn’t ever had the heart to do in the letters or phone calls - tell you that he’d spent the majority of the first year apart alone, that the only other person that he’d ever even had any inclination to go to bed with had been a mistake from the very beginning, that what Elena had done to  him - what he’d experienced as a result of trusting her was something that he’d very quickly regretted. 

It was a half-assed attempt to make you feel better, because his poor judgment had caused him misery, but even though Nick knew that a small part of you would be satisfied that it happened that way, overall, it wouldn’t matter to you. Because she’s a better person than I am. Groaning, he covered his face with both hands and swore again, trying to steady his breaths. Do better. Do better until Thursday and then … you’ll have time apart to figure everything out. 

Months and months of time thinking hadn’t prepared him for days spent alone with you, and Nick was overwhelmed at the suddenness of your presence, at the way things ebbed and flowed between you in the span of seconds. He wasn’t surprised. You’d always had that effect on each other, the connection between the two of you sparking like a downed wire and impossible to ignore - but that didn’t make it any less jarring after so long. 

The night in the motel had been one thing; seeing you while half-dazed and entirely concussed, and then again the following morning while he explained everything to you had been enough to keep him distracted. But you being there for him, as soon as he emerged from the jail, the first face he’d come into contact with in the outside world, ready to listen to him and let him tell his side of the story? That was another thing. And after nearly three years of making a series of bad and worse decisions, apparently Nick still wasn’t done sabotaging himself. 

You’d come back - he knew you would, because all of your stuff was still in the room, and he didn’t think that you’d abandon any of it. But what happens then? Do we pretend like it didn’t happen? Do we just sit here and watch movies or … or do we try again? The first option was the safe bet, but the second was his preference - and he vowed to tell you that as soon as you walked back in the door… whenever that turned out to be. 

He stayed like that; sitting at the end of the bed with his face in his hands, the room completely silent aside from the sound of the air conditioner until the door opened some time later, the beat of your footsteps loud in his ears. He heard the sound of bags rustling as you set them down, and only then did he turn his head to look in your direction. 

Your back was to him, and so he allowed himself to stare - eyes following your movement as you sorted through the things you’d bought and brought back. “I got you a pair of pajama pants.” Turning to face him, you held out one of the bags. “You look about the same size as before, so I just thought…”

“Thank you.” One hand reached out cautiously, the bag changing hands. “I didn’t plan on sharing a room with anyone before I went back to Arizona, so I figured I’d sleep naked, but since I’m staying with you, that plan changed. I was going to -”

“Well now you don’t have to.” You carried another bag toward the small refrigerator, opening it and putting more stuff inside - bottles of water, a few different kinds of soda, some candy bars - and then turned back to face him. “I don’t plan on leaving the room again tonight, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay here, too. Where would I go? “I know it’s still kind of early, but I’m going to change for bed and try to read more. I’ll have my headphones on, so -”

“Can I still call my mom?” You nodded, reaching into your bag and digging your phone out. “Thank you.” Handing it to him, he watched as you made sure your fingers didn’t touch on the transfer. Ouch. But he couldn’t blame you, fingers curling around the device as you headed back for the bathroom, pausing long enough to bend over and dig through your bag for pajamas. 

You didn’t look back at him before shutting the door behind you, and once you were out of view, Nick let out a breath that he hadn’t realized he was holding, closing his eyes.  That went better than I thought it would. Standing, he kept facing the door and reached into the bag, pulling out the pants you’d brought him. They were in his size, and after he’d removed the tag he changed into them, removing his underwear and jeans and folding them before stacking them on top of the bag he’d left the jail with. 

When you emerged from the bathroom, Nick’s breath caught in his throat, the man struggling to keep his composure at the sight of you. I don’t think she thought this through. Even though you were wearing a t-shirt and more of your upper body was covered than it had been earlier, your legs were bare, the shorts you had on exposing more skin than he’d expected. But why would she change the way she dresses just because i’m here? “They fit.” You smiled them, pointing at him. “Good.” You moved back toward the small refrigerator and removed one of the candy bars and a bottle of soda, setting them down on the table closer to your bed than his

“They’re comfortable. I really appreciate you bringing ‘em back.” He sat again, getting situated on the mattress and watched as you did the same, crossing your legs as you faced him. “I know you’re going to read, and I won’t bother you, but there’s something that I want to say before you start… and before I call my mom.” 

“Go for it.” You were chewing on your lower lip, brows knit together. “I promise I won’t overreact.” He had to laugh at that, rubbing one palm over his flannel-covered leg before he answered. 

“You won’t. What I’m gonna say isn’t…” He shrugged. “I know that this is really hard for you. I know that whatever you’re feeling and thinking about me and about this has to be really confusing for you, too. It’s pretty goddamn confusing for me, to be honest.” You nodded, the frown smoothing out, your expression going lax. “I don’t think either of us has any idea how the next couple days are gonna play out, but what I do know?” He leaned closer to you, taking a deep breath. “We’ve both said a lot more than we planned to, and even if it’s the truth, it’s still a lot to think about.” 

“That’s putting it lightly.” You closed your eyes and lowered your head, shaking it back and forth. “Nick -” 

“So I think we should just try to get through til Thursday. Then you’ll get on a plane and go home, and I can -”

“About that.” It was your turn to clasp your hands together, your eyes darting around the room before they locked with his. What? “I’m not… I didn’t buy a plane ticket back. I figured I’d drive. Thought a day or two in the desert would be what I needed to clear my head after spending time with you.” Though it sounded cruel, Nick knew that wasn’t the case with what you were saying. “I could take my time getting home and not be anxious on a damn plane.” 

“That’s a long drive.” He blinked a few times, remembering the last time he’d made it. “But I guess I see the appeal. Lots of time to think and -”

“I was going to ask if you wanted to come with me.” Reaching up, you gripped the back of your neck. “But now I’m thinking that that might not be the best idea.” 

— 

It had seemed like the perfect solution when you’d bought the one way ticket to Amarillo and rented the car. Driving back - with Nick - would give you more time together, the two of you reconnecting while in Texas and then on the trip, leaving you in a good place when you dropped him off in Arizona. And leaving the door open for more conversation later. But after only a few hours with him, and multiple blowups during that time, you realized that you’d overestimated your capacity for forgiveness, and underestimated the depth of emotion that you’d feel at seeing him in person again when there wasn’t a courtroom between you. 

You felt stupid. Not because of how you’d reacted, but because of how you’d handled yourself since picking him up earlier that afternoon. But he was taking it in stride, letting you say what you needed to say and not getting upset or snapping back in the way that you had when he’d said something that you didn’t like. He must have learned to control his emotions over the last couple years… and I definitely haven’t. In an attempt to make his reintegration go smoothly, you’d only succeeded in making it more difficult and emotional for him, and you were second guessing everything. 

He hadn’t outright agreed to drive back with you, and even though part of you wanted him to - wanted the additional hours with him right off the bat - you weren’t sure that it was going to happen. You couldn’t blame him, either. But there’s still time. We still have 36 hours before we need to decide anything. A lot could happen in two nights; you knew it as well as he did. No one knows that better than him, actually. 

Nothing would be happening that night, though, and so rather than trying to extend the conversation, you’d put your headphones in, returning to your book after stretching out on the bed. Nick’s conversation with his mother was a long one, and even though you tried not to listen to it, giving him the privacy you knew he’d lacked for the previous 18 months, you heard parts of it. 

He was happy to be out. It felt strange to sit in silence. Having access to whatever food he wanted was exciting. It was great to take a long shower, and even better to be able to stretch out onto the large bed. Hearing him talk about how he was just enjoying the simple things warmed your heart, and even though you pretended to read the book, turning the pages every minute and a half or so, you were focused on the man a few feet away from you. 

His suggestion that the two of you just get through the next few days was a good one - a fair one. So even though you had a long way to go - and a ton of things you wanted to say, you agreed with him, deciding that there was plenty of time in the future to rehash the reasons for the tension between the two of you. Forgiving him entirely wasn’t on the table - but calling a truce during the time you’d basically forced proximity with him was another. 

When he set the phone down, you turned your heard toward him, nodding once as he mouthed the words ‘thank you’ and then climbed out of the bed and headed into the bathroom. As soon as he was out of the room you covered your face with the book, squeezing your eyes shut. Easier said than done, though. He came out a few minutes later and paused next to your bed, waiting until you’d removed one earbud to speak. “I’m gonna have a beer and watch some TV. Do you want one since I’m up?” Do I? 

“Sure.” Nodding, you set the book down. “Go ahead and grab me one, Nick.” He did - even opening it for you before handing over the chilled bottle. “At least if you get drunk off of one drink, you won’t have far to go to get to bed safe.” He laughed, the bottle halfway to his lips. “Wait!” Scrambling to your knees, you held your bottle out to him. “We’ve gotta make a toast before you start.” 

“What’re we toasting to?” He was smiling, the spark back in his eyes. “There are a lot of -”

“To getting you the hell out of Texas.” You bit your lip. “To you doing the right thing.” To you being back in my life in some way. “To a fresh start.” He inhaled, shifting his weight. 

“I like the sound of that.” Leaning forward, he clinked the neck of his bottle with yours. “A whole lot.” Both of you drank, but neither of you looked away while you did it, and for a few seconds, things felt normal between you - almost like the previous years hadn’t happened. But too soon, he broke eye contact and moved back to the other bed, getting back in and reaching for the remote. “If it’s too loud, tell me, alright?” 

“It won’t be.” Tapping on the ear that still had the headphone in it, you reached for the one you’d taken out. “Turn it up as loud as you need to.” Within a few minutes, you were back to your book and Nick had settled on something to watch, the man leaning back against the headboard, both pillows propped up behind him. You looked over at him occasionally, eyeing him without turning your head, and were happy to see how relaxed he looked, one arm bent and behind his head, the other holding the beer bottle on his lap. Good. At least part of this night will be stress free. 

Without realizing it, you nodded off, and were woken up by the feeling of the book being slipped from between your fingers. What the… Eyes flying open, they landed on Nick, standing next to your bed with the book in his hands. “You fell asleep.” He explained what he was doing after you removed an earbud, sitting up straight. “And I’m getting ready to go to bed, too, but didn’t want you to roll over on top of this in the middle of the night.” Yeah, that would have been uncomfortable. “Figured I could pull it out of your hands without waking you up like I used to, but I guess I was wrong.” 

Opening your mouth to reply, you yawned instead, curling your fingers into a fist to cover it. “Thanks, Nick.” Taking out the other headphone, you set the pair of them on the bedside table, stretching. “Do… you want to keep a light on tonight? Or the TV?” His eyes widened, fingers tightening on the book he held. 

“The TV, maybe. Just for a little bit of light, but we can turn it down.” He took a breath, nervousness crossing his features briefly. “If that’s alright… I just don’t know how I’ll be in complete darkness or silence, so -”

“Got it.” Climbing out of the bed, you reached out, squeezing his arm before you could stop yourself. “Whatever you need, Nick.” Heading for the bathroom to brush your teeth, you left the man standing between the beds - and somehow, you knew that he was watching you. 

—

“Do you want to spend the night?” The two of you were sitting on your couch, Nick’s arm around your shoulders as the credits of a movie played. “I didn’t realize how late it was, and now I feel bad making you drive all the way back home.” He’d never stayed over before, but it had been long enough that the ask wasn’t out of the blue… and you were ready to take that step with him. But what if he doesn’t want to? “I have the second bedroom, so there’s -” 

“I don’t need a second bedroom.” He pulled his arm back, turning so that he could look at you before reaching out and sliding his fingers between yours. “Especially when I know how comfortable your bed is.” Leaning in, Nick ran his nose along yours before pressing his lips to your cheek. “But if you want me to sleep in th-”

“No.” Shifting on the cushion, you raised one hand, trailing your fingers over his stubbled jaw. “I just wanted you to know that I’m not just asking you to stay because I expect sex, Nick,” He laughed quietly at that, leaning in even closer and kissing you, his hold on your hand tightening and the other arm sliding between your body and the back of the couch. 

“I wouldn’t turn you down if you were,” he mumbled without pulling back, lips slowly moving against yours. “In fact, I wish you were expecting it, because -” 

“Shut up.” Puckering your lips one final time, you pushed yourself to your feet, tugging on his hand. “And take me to bed.” 

— 

Your favorite way to wake up was in Nick’s arms, his broad chest pressed against your back and one leg draped over yours. You usually woke before he did, trying not to move too much and instead laying quietly beside him, the gentle rise and fall of his chest bringing you to full consciousness. “I think I’m here more than I’m at my place.” His voice quiet, the man shifted behind you. “Not that I’m complaining, but…” 

“I’m definitely not.” Stretching your legs, you rolled toward him - his arm winding back around you and pulling you closer, Nick’s lips warm against your forehead. “It’s still early. And it’s Saturday, so…”

“So let’s go back to sleep.” You could hear in his voice that he was already halfway there, the man’s words dragging out, his eyes still heavy-lidded. “Couple more hours. I’ve got nowhere to be.” No, I don’t either. 

— 

The bed was cold. It didn’t matter how many blankets you used, or where on the mattress you laid, there was no warmth there, and you didn’t know that there ever would be again. For the first week, you’d slept curled around his pillow, nose buried in the slowly fading scent of him. It helped - somewhat - although the more you thought about it, the more you realized that it was likely the fatigue of crying yourself to sleep that actually got you a few hours rest each night. 

As the days passed, you became more and more certain that Nick wasn’t coming back - that all of the things he’d left were going to be yours to deal with, that he’d made his decision and was sticking to it. And along with that, the passing of time made the entire house seem larger and emptier, too, the bedroom and your bed only one of many reminders that after so long together, you were all alone. 

As the time passed, his scent faded - meaning that for the hours you spent laying in bed and staring at the ceiling, there was one less reminder that he’d ever been there in the first place. 

A month after he left, you put the pillows into one of the hall closet, replacing them with a new set - along with a new comforter - but even that didn’t help. Two weeks later, you got frustrated in the middle of the night, pulling the new pillow from your bed and carrying it into the guest room. You didn’t fall asleep immediately, but it happened faster than you were used to, and when you woke up the following morning, it felt like you’d actually slept for the first time in six weeks. 

Sleeping in the guest room worked for almost three weeks - until it was time to change the sheets out and you opened the linen closet. The scent from his pillow hit your nose then, stronger because it was in a confined space, and you dropped to the ground, drawing your knees up to your chest and resting your forehead against them. You knew that eventually, you’d need to get over it - but after only a few months, your emotions were still raw.

That night, you’d slept atop the bare mattress of your guest bed, the washing machine and dryer working overnight to clean and dry every single one of your sets of sheets and pillowcases. 

But once again, your arms wound around his pillow, face buried in it for one final time… and when you’d woken the next morning, it was damp… and so were your cheeks.

— 

There were hands on your shoulders, though the grip was loose. Quietly, you heard someone saying your name, and when the voice registered, you opened your eyes with a gasp, searching the partial darkness. I’m not alone. I’m not alone, because he’s… “I think you were having a nightmare.” Yeah, I was. I… “You made a … noise and it woke me up, and then you …” He exhaled, breathing out your name. “Are you -”

“Nick.” Pushing up into a sitting position, you threw your arms around his neck, burying your face in his chest. He smelled different, but it was still Nick, and for a few seconds, you let yourself stay that way, feeling as his hands moved from your shoulders and to your biceps, both thumbs moving in slow arcs over the bare skin there. You held each other in the darkness, your heart racing, and even though you tried not to, your mind drifted back to the dream you’d been having - loneliness and Nick’s absence, the way his scent had triggered you throughout the time he’d been gone. 

As those thoughts raced through your mind, you felt yourself getting worked up and pulled away enough so that you could look into Nick’s eyes, hands moving to the base of his neck. “It was a nightmare.” You whispered the words, feeling the tears well up in your eyes again. “About you. And you were gone, and -” 

Cutting yourself off, you leaned forward, catching him by surprise and kissing him, the man’s lips dry - but still soft - against yours. 

Before you could even begin to process what you were doing, you felt his grip on you tighten further - and then the man pushed you away, your name nothing more than a low growl from his mouth. 

— 

“Stop it.” His heart hammered in his chest, the man’s hold on you tighter than it needed to be. “What are you doing?” He’d thought that walking out and staying away had been the most difficult thing he’d ever do, but that night in the hotel room proved his earlier assumption to be incorrect. 

The moment your lips touched his, he felt relief - like everything that he’d wanted was finally within his grasp again, but your words gave him pause. Nightmare. About you. You were gone. You weren’t kissing him because you wanted to, you were kissing him because it was a reaction to the things you’d seen and felt in the dream - and he needed to stop you. Because if I let this happen, she’ll regret it. I’ll regret it, too. 

He saw the look in your eyes change, the anguish turning into panic, your mouth falling open. “Nick, I -” He let go of you then, holding his hands up - palms out and facing you - and then retreated the short distance back to the edge of his bed, sitting. “You…” 

“I’ve dreamed about getting to kiss you again for almost as long as we’ve been apart.” Dragging his hand through his hair, Nick said your name. “But if … after all this fucking time, anything happens because one of us gets…”

“I’m sorry.” Your voice small, you tilted your head down, staring at your lap. “Nick, I shouldn’t have -”

“The sound you made?” He cleared his throat. “The one that woke me up?” Nodding twice, you raised your gaze to meet his. “It was my name. You said my name, but it wasn’t just saying it, you were almost crying, and…” He swore then, tugging on the ends of his hair before he leaned closer. Why the fuck is this happening? “Wouldn’t have been right to let you keep going or to kiss you back.” It doesn’t matter how much I wanted it. “We should try to go back to sleep.” He bit down on his lower lip, watching as you relaxed slightly, the rigidity leaving your shoulders. “It’s pretty late.”

You nodded in reply, getting out of the bed and moving into the bathroom, the light flipping on before the door closed. Once you were out of sight, Nick shot out of the bed, reaching for one of the pillows and flinging it at the wall. Fuck. Stopping the kiss had been the right thing to do. It had been the honorable thing to do, but the growing unease in the pit of his stomach was making him think that he might have burned his last chance with you the moment he’d told pushed you away. If I ever had one to begin with. 

By the time you came out of the bathroom, Nick was already laying back down, the fingers of both hands linked together and resting on his chest, eyes on the ceiling. You didn’t speak, but he turned his head slightly to the side as he watched you get comfortable, the rustle of the blankets loud in his ears. You didn’t even look at him, and after almost a minute, he straightened his head again, eyes back on the ceiling. 

There was tension in the air, and as the light from the TV screen flickered, Nick wondered what would happen the following morning - wondered how the two of you would move forward. Maybe staying together in this hotel wasn’t the best idea. Maybe I should have gotten my own room. 

He’d started to drift off again when he heard you say his name. That time, though, there was no anguish in it - your voice was steady, despite being quiet. “Yeah?” He rolled onto his side, sliding one hand under his pillow and saw that you were already on your side, facing him. “You alright?” She’s going to tell me I have to leave. That the kiss was a huge mistake, that - 

“Is it weird for you?” You paused. “For .. us to be in the same room with each other, but in different beds?” 

“Yes.” There was no reason to lie to you. “And telling you to stop kissing me was even weirder.” Nick frowned, shifting his hips. “But it was the right thing to do.” It really was, as much as it sucked. 

“Do… would…” You closed your eyes, taking a deep breath. “Will you sleep in the bed with me tonight, Nick?” What? “I won’t try to kiss you again, I swear. But I think it would help.” He wanted to say yes - wanted to leap from his bed to yours, but part of him thought that it was a trap, and that the moment he moved, you’d rescind the offer, leaving him standing between the beds like an asshole. But she isn’t like that. She didn’t come all the way here to do that to me. “We shared the bed in -” Fuck it. 

He stood, grabbing for one pillow and pulling the comforter from the bed he was in before he rounded your bed and set both down - standing next to it and looking down at you. “If you change your mind, wake me up. I’ll -”

“I wont.” You inhaled, rolling onto your back. “I want this, Nick.” He laid down, then, keeping space  - and part of the blanket - between you, but when he felt you move, turning toward him and scooting closer, Nick faced you again, his left hand resting on the mattress in front of him. “I think tomorrow might be the first time I don’t wake up before you, Nick.” He felt the tips of your fingers as they touched his and then slid over the back of his hand, the weight comforting. “I’ll see you in the morning?” 

“You will.” He wet his lips. “Thank you. For all of this. But especially for -”

“Just go to sleep.” You squeezed his hand. “Don’t overthink this.” That’s impossible. You didn’t say anything else, repositioning yourself so that your back was to him. But to Nick’s surprise, you moved backwards, closing the distance between the two of you and causing his hand to brush against the small of your back. Shit. Hastily, he pulled it back, prepared to shove it beneath his blanket when your voice stopped him. “It’s alright, Nick.” A pause, along with another slight rustle of the blankets. “You can put your arm around me.” 

You didn’t need to tell him twice, Nick’s arm lifting and wrapping around your waist, his hold on you tightening enough to urge you even closer. You let it happen, and he was surprised to feel that you weren’t rigid or resistant, instead letting yourself relax. This is … more than I could have ever hoped for. “Goodnight.” He closed his eyes, palm pressed against your stomach. 

Breathing the same out in return, you hummed as you got comfortable, your hand covering his. You fell asleep before he did - another example of things never changing - and in the dim light, Nick stared at the back of your head, willing himself not to close his eyes. Because who knows whether or not this will happen again? 

But he was only able to stay awake for so long, the weight of the day - and everything that had transpired during it - finally catching up to him.

As sleep took Nick, too, he unconsciously moved even closer to you, the man’s body conforming to the shape yours was in as though no time had passed since the last time you’d lain together. 

—

taglist coming separately!

[bedeliainwonderland]

Bedannibal AU idea: Bedelia's home becomes uninhabitable for a while (several days/weeks) for some reason. Maybe some major damage due to a broken water pipe, or something like that which takes a while to repair. Bedelia is planning to get a hotel room for the time being, but unfortunately there are several big events in Baltimore at that time (conventions, conferences, stuff like that) and all the acceptable hotels are completely booked up already. She is contemplating leaving town for the duration of the work until she can go back to her house, but when she informs Hannibal that she has to cancel their therapy sessions, he is visibly distressed at the prospect and spontaneously offers her his guest room instead. In the end, she very reluctantly accepts his offer. Hannibal is ecstatic, but what he has failed to consider is what it means to have someone living in his house who is as sharp an observer as Bedelia.

😏❤️❤️❤️ I know you mean Bedelia “seeing” Hannibal but I cannot stop obsessing over the domestic scenarios. Hannibal in his pjs (and fancy robe) making her coffee. Bedelia noting the ridiculously neat bathroom set up (all the tubes and bottles straightened to one line). Hannibal learns Bedelia is not a morning person (and it makes him fall even harder for her).

Would they conduct the sessions in his office?? Imagine the shift of positions, would Hannibal take his usual seat or would he mirror their set up from Bedelia’s home? He would think he has an upper hand for once, but oh so observant Bedelia would have more than enough to analyse him afresh and make the sessions very productive, keeping the dynamic in her favour.

Would they have dinners together?? Imagine Hannibal pulling out all the tricks for her, preparing the best dishes he could think of just to impress her. Imagine them slowly falling into a strange intimacy, one that Bedelia would never acknowledge.

[itsmelowkey27]

DREAM DESTINATION NEWYORK CITY

The United States is a vast and diverse country, offering a wide range of experiences for travelers. From bustling cities to serene natural wonders, there is something for everyone to explore and discover. Whether it's the iconic landmarks of New York City, the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon, or the vibrant music scene in New Orleans, each destination in the USA has its own distinct charm.

One popular destination for travelers in the USA is New York City. Known as "The Big Apple," New York City is a melting pot of cultures and offers a myriad of attractions. Visitors can explore famous landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. The city is also renowned for its world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. Additionally, Broadway shows, shopping on Fifth Avenue, and dining at diverse culinary establishments are all part of the unique experience that New York City has to offer.

Another must-visit location in the USA is the Grand Canyon. Located in Arizona, this natural wonder is one of the most breathtaking sights in the world. The vastness and beauty of the Grand Canyon are truly awe-inspiring. Visitors can hike along its rim or venture into its depths on various trails. The canyon also offers stunning viewpoints where one can witness unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Exploring this geological marvel allows travelers to connect with nature on a profound level.

New Orleans, located in Louisiana, is another captivating destination in the USA. Known for its vibrant music scene, rich history, and unique cuisine, New Orleans offers a distinct cultural experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the French Quarter, where jazz music fills the air and street performers entertain passersby. The city is also famous for its annual Mardi Gras celebration, which attracts millions of visitors from around the world. Exploring the historic neighborhoods, indulging in delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine, and experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the locals are all part of the allure of New Orleans.

Accommodation costs can vary significantly depending on the location and type of accommodation you choose. In major cities like New York City or San Francisco, hotel prices tend to be higher compared to smaller towns or rural areas. To save money on accommodation, consider alternatives such as staying in budget hotels, hostels, or even renting a vacation home or apartment through platforms like Airbnb. Additionally, booking in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can help you find better deals.

Transportation: The United States is a vast country with a well-developed transportation system. When it comes to air travel, prices can vary depending on the time of year, airline, and destination. To find the best deals on flights, consider using flight comparison websites or signing up for fare alerts from airlines. If you are traveling within the country, domestic flights can sometimes be more affordable than long-distance train journeys. However, trains can offer a scenic and comfortable way to explore certain regions. For shorter distances or city exploration, public transportation options like buses or subways are usually cost-effective.

Food: Food expenses can vary depending on your preferences and dining choices. Eating out at restaurants can be relatively expensive in popular tourist areas or upscale establishments. To save money on food, consider exploring local markets and grocery stores where you can buy ingredients for self-catering meals. Many cities also have affordable food options such as food trucks, street vendors, or casual eateries that offer delicious meals at lower prices. Taking advantage of happy hour specials or dining during lunchtime when restaurants often have discounted menus can also help stretch your budget.

Activities and Attractions: The United States offers a wide range of activities and attractions, but some can be quite costly. Prioritize the attractions that interest you the most and research their admission fees in advance. Many cities have free or low-cost attractions such as museums with suggested donations or public parks where you can enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, consider purchasing city passes or attraction bundles that offer discounted rates for multiple attractions. Taking advantage of free walking tours or exploring nature through hiking trails can also be budget-friendly options.

How to get there:

To use the public bus in New York, just stand at the stop, and as your bus approaches, just signal with your hand that you want the bus to stop. Fares are $2.75 for standard buses, and $6.75 for express buses. Fares can be paid in cash, by MetroCard or using contactless via the OMNY system. If paying in cash, you need to give exact change, and be aware that only coins are accepted as fare – no bills.

Where to stay:

First, we spent a few nights at the budget-friendly Freehand Hotel. The Freehand is part hostel, with smaller-than-average rooms, great common areas (including a nice rooftop), and lower-than-average prices, and part boutique hotel, with stylish decor and good service.

Where to eat:

This temple of Jewish appetizing in Soho is over the top in every way and pulls it off entirely: The lox comes on towers, the waiters yell “HOT BAGELS!” whenever there’s a fresh batch out of the oven, the breakfast sandwich costs $18 (it’s worth it, almost), and the French toast is one of the best things you can eat in NYC.

What to see and do:

New York is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in the world, due not only to its museums, galleries, and Broadway shows, but also to its sporting events, shopping, and food areas. If you plan to visit this city,

To visit the Statue of Liberty, you must book your ticket or access pass, which includes a roundtrip ferry ride around the statue, so you can take great pictures of Lady Liberty.

Admission costs start at $31 USD per person, which depends on whether you want to access the pedestal, go to the crown of the statue,

Total budget:

Airfare:₱4670

Accommodation:₱8700

Food:₱990

Transportation:₱151.25--371.25

Attractions:₱1705

TOTAL-₱16,436.25

Not bad in 4days in the world s most expensive city

[takeoffphilippines]

Summer is waving: Boracay remains AirAsia Philippines’ top island destination for 2024

Boracay, 16 February 2024 - Boracay continues to remain AirAsia Philippines’ fast-moving getaway destination for individual and group travelers prevailing over Bohol, Cebu, and Puerto Princesa.

Latest AirAsia data shows that 250,000 guests have already planned and booked their flights to the island for travel from February, March, April, and May. This is already 72% of last year’s 377,000 guests flown to the island. The increasing figure is expected to contribute to Boracay’s economy, especially since the Department of Tourism and the Local Government of Aklan expect over 2.3 million tourists to visit the island this year.

“Boracay is top 3 in our most visited domestic destinations. It is not just the summer when we see an influx of guests flying to Boracay, but all year round. During the pandemic, this island was a haven for remote work set-up. Now, the island has regained its fame for short and long vacations”, AirAsia Head of Communications and Public Affairs and First Officer Steve Dailisan shares.  

To provide more convenience, especially for guests who are planning to extend their vacation on the paradise island, the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline’s travel partner - TravelOnlinePH officially opened its Travel & Service Center right on the epicenter of Boracay to cater to tourists who would like to either have their tickets rebooked or book other flights elsewhere, find cheap hotels, activities, and other travel offerings, with the assistance of dedicated travel experts.

Situated at Station 2, AirAsia’s Travel & Service Center is very accessible to guests since its location is also within close range of mid-range hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and bars.   

“Guests fly to the island to unwind and spend their holiday and we intend to always make their flight booking concerns hassle-free. TravelOnlinePH has always been an offline reliable partner and we extend our warmest congratulations as they achieve this milestone,” Dailisan added.

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