#ensuring you won’t leave them and stay with them for a while longer <3

[sea-lanterns]

Xilonen and Dehya would be an absolute purr fest when they're both double penetrating you as you're sandwiched between them-

shh I know dehya isn't part cat but she's lion coded trust

Dehya can make up for not being part cat, by using a special cat-like strap on instead 🤭

While Xilonen is thrusting into you with her own spiny cock, Dehya can match her pace and please you like how a big cat would, by easing her own spiny strap into you and making you feel twice the pleasure with these two spiny cocks bulldozing into you.

Oh and they’re both so warm and comforting too, your small body latching onto Xilonen’s large frame while Dehya’s body engulfs you from behind in a fiery emittance of heat. Both women are just so strong and cuddly during sex, purring against your body so you could feel just how much they were enjoying it, as they fuck you between them and make your body bounce pathetically with each push 💕

[papiliotao]

꒰ 𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 ✩࿐

pairings: alhaitham, childe, cyno, heizou, kazuha, scaramouche, tighnari, and xiao x gn!reader (separate)

content: fluff, comfort in a way, established relationship, protective boyfriends, persistent stranger won’t stop trying to ask you out

summary: you and your boyfriend attend a party together. however, a bothersome man keeps trying to flirt with you.

a/n: unfortunately icky people are unavoidable, but the idea of being protected from them is just <3 anyway, i hope you enjoy reading this!

ALHAITHAM

Stay calm. Stay calm. Stay calm.

Those are the words you repeat to yourself over and over, echoing through your head like an overplayed melody. It takes everything in you to remain in control of your emotions and refrain from slapping the audacious man standing in front of you.

You want nothing more than to leave peacefully before things escalate to a dreadful point of no return.

And amidst all of your wishing, a saving grace comes to aid you. In other words, your boyfriend turns up at just the right moment, although you expected nothing less from someone as perceptive as Alhaitham.

“Is there a problem here?” Alhaitham asks as he walks up to you. His voice is as cold as the glacial essence of bygone winters. It’s not unusual for Alhaitham to speak in such a tone, but somehow his words feel more pointed right now.

“No,” the man blurts out quickly, regarding Alhaitham with a look filled with both curiosity and apprehension. “I was just trying to ask them out.” He gestures at you, and you internally cringe at his antics.

He really is shameless.

However, Alhaitham is unfazed by the stranger’s actions. He simply sighs and takes your hand in his.

“Good because we’ll be taking our leave now,” Alhaitham says monotonously. He begins to pull you away, not sparing so much as a glance back at the man you had been conversing with just seconds prior.

“Wh — Hey! What do you think you’re doing?” the man exclaims, trying his best to catch up with both you and Alhaitham.

Despite his efforts, he’s swept away by a tide of partygoers as Alhaitham leads you through crowds of people. It almost feels as though he had planned an escape before approaching you, observing, analyzing, and carefully calculating in a meticulous manner in order to determine the best course of action.

Once the two of you are sure you’ve successfully evaded the stranger, Alhaitham looks you up and down, scanning your body for any sign of injury. He ensures you’re alright before speaking.

“After that experience, I doubt you want to remain here any longer,” he says. Although he’s still quite stoic, there’s a certain lofty quality to his voice that makes it feel softer than it had back when he had confronted the irritating man. “I suggest that we leave right now. I was beginning to get a headache from the constant noise anyway.”

You crack a small smile. Alhaitham is as blunt as always, and that’s what you love about him. Your boyfriend is incredibly straightforward, and while other people would see his behaviour as callous or insensitive, you know that this is just how he is.

“Take me away,” you tell Alhaitham, looking into his eyes, gazing at your reflection within hues reminiscent of a breathtaking oasis in the middle of a desert. 

It’s rather fitting. Alhaitham is your refuge. With him, you feel safe, and you’re sure that if any similar situations arise in the future, he’ll be by your side to defend you.

With those words, your boyfriend leads you out the front door of the party venue, and you escape into the night, losing yourselves in the bliss found under the ephemeral lamplight of a secluded night, warmed by each other’s touch.

CHILDE

“Hey, you,” you hear a familiar voice speak from behind you. You look back to see strands of messy ginger hair resting above ocean blue eyes. “I couldn’t help but notice that you were making my lover uncomfortable.” Childe enunciates the words “my lover”, making it clear that you’re already taken.

Your boyfriend moves between you and the man, shielding you.

You sigh. If this escalates any more, it won’t end well. You know Childe well enough to predict that the confrontation could get rather… heated if you didn’t stop it. However, you feel as though you can’t do anything.

“Who said they were yours?” the man talks back, smirking at Childe. He knows Childe is challenging him.

You flinch. Childe seems to be getting more and more irritated by the moment. As you glance at your lover, you notice a blaze of blue embers beginning to flare within his irises.

“Listen carefully, comrade,” Childe says, leaning in closer to the man. Your boyfriend towers over the stranger in an almost comical manner. “They’re my partner, and if you don’t stay away from them,” Childe pauses, “well, let’s just say you’ll find the consequences quite unpleasant.”

Childe smiles, and although he maintains a friendly façade, the intent of his words is not lost on the man. An icy chill permeates the air, and you feel shivers go down your spine.

Although he’s dense, the man before you seems to sense the change in atmosphere as well. He mutters something under his breath, glares at your boyfriend one last time, and leaves. 

“Serves him right,” Childe chuckles. “I’m glad you’re safe now.,” your boyfriend tells you, giving you a kiss on the forehead. “If anyone ever bothers you again, just tell me, and I’ll deal with it.”

CYNO

“What do you think you’re doing?” Your boyfriend’s deep voice interjects, throwing the man standing in front of you off. He’s standing behind the stranger, gazing deep into your eyes with a look that reassures you that everything will be okay.

You smile. As expected, Cyno is as vigilant as ever, especially when it comes to your safety. Nothing ever slips past him.

“Why do you want to know?” the persistent man replies, not bothering to turn around and face Cyno. It seems that he hasn’t recognized Cyno yet because you’re sure that if he did, he would back off in an instant.

“Perhaps because I’m the General Mahamatra?” Cyno refutes dryly. It’s almost laughable how casual Cyno sounds because as the stranger hears your boyfriend’s words, his features twist into an expression of shock, undergoing a metamorphosis where all hints of smugness are replaced by nothing short of pure horror.

The stranger slowly turns away from you to face Cyno. As soon as he catches a glimpse of your lover, he freezes. Soon enough, fear causes tremors to wrack his body, and he averts his gaze in order to look anywhere but directly at Cyno.

“What’s wrong?” Cyno asks the stranger. “You’re not quite as bold now as you were a few seconds ago.” Your boyfriend acts clueless, taunting the man slightly. Although it’s barely noticeable, you see his lips turn up ever so slightly in a subtle grin for a few seconds before the expression vanishes entirely.

“I — I’m sorry, General Mahamatra,” the man says. He shrinks back under Cyno’s gaze. “Please forgive me.”

Cyno sighs.

“I’ll let you off easy this time,” he mutters, “but if I catch you harassing anyone else…” Cyno trails off, leaving the rest to the man’s imagination.

The man swallows a lump in his throat and nods furiously.

“And as for you,” Cyno makes eye contact with you, “I’ll escort you away from this man,” he says.

He gestures for you to follow him, and as he leads you away from the stranger, you feel your nerves beginning to settle. The erratic beating of your heart, the restless thoughts battering your weary mind like waves tossling a ship, and the overwhelming urge to simply run away all cease to exist. Instead, a sense of safety floods over you. It’s a calmness like no other, akin to the ambience encapsulated in quiet dusks spent with the one you love most.

Once you’re far enough away, Cyno laces your fingers with his. Although no words are exchanged, you know it’s an act of comfort, and after the hectic events of the day, you find that it’s exactly what you need.

HEIZOU

“Well, well, what do we have here?” Heizou’s voice interrupts the conversation between you and the stranger trying to pursue you.

You breathe a sigh of relief as your boyfriend comes up to you.

“You have a good eye,” Heizou says, causing confusion to riddle your mind. What is he saying? Is he encouraging the stranger to continue flirting with you?

“Thanks,” the man replies. However, his eyes narrow after a few seconds. “But are you going to try to steal them away from me?”

Heizou chuckles. “Well, it’s not like they’re yours, right?”

The stranger’s features twist into an expression of shock, and as he’s lost in a surprised daze, Heizou glances over at you and winks. You sigh. Leave it to Heizou to come up with a cheeky method to get you out of a predicament.

The man rolls his eyes, and then turns his attention back to you. He plasters a smirk onto his face.

“Come on, darling,” the man says, his voice is sickly sweet, dripping with a venomous nectar, “I’m much more attractive than this idiot, right?” The stranger gestures at Heizou, and you have to force yourself to stifle a giggle.

“I disagree,” you tell him, causing the smug expression to fall from his features.

The man opens his mouth to protest, but no sound comes out.

“Man alive,” Heizou says. “I guess I’m just far too charming to resist.” He grins at you playfully and inches closer towards you.

The stranger scowls, and turns away.

“Fine,” he sighs. “You win.”

Your boyfriend kisses you on the cheek as the man walks away. You look into his verdant eyes and grin at him, thankful that he was able to get you out of the troubling situation, even if his ways were slightly unorthodox.

KAZUHA

“Excuse me, love, is this man bothering you?” Kazuha asks as he walks up to you. He subtly wraps an arm around your shoulders, making it clear to everyone in the room that you’re taken.

You feel the tension within your body alleviate as you’re enveloped in your boyfriend’s warm embrace. Even now, his touch is simultaneously as comforting as the sun on a euphoric spring day and as calming as a gentle autumnal breeze. The discomfort that you had previously felt due to the unfamiliar man trying to flirt with you dissipates.

“Oh, is he your boyfriend?” the man sneers, glaring at Kazuha with eyes that speak of malicious intent. He shuffles slightly closer to you, and you feel shivers run down your spine.

“He is. Now will you leave me alone?” you respond bluntly, hoping that your words will be enough to make the man back off.

You feel Kazuha’s grip on you tighten. Your heart melts when you realize he’s trying to protect you. He can read you like a book, and he’s the most thoughtful boyfriend you could ever ask for, unlike the man standing before you.

You look over at Kazuha, and you notice that his crimson eyes have narrowed, the stars once filling his irises turning into pointed daggers. It’s almost disturbing to see him this way. You’re so used to seeing your boyfriend with a look of pure adoration dancing through lakes of soft red, but now he looks nothing short of intimidating.

It seems that the stranger feels the same way as you because as you look back at him, you see his gaze lock with Kazuha’s. He shrinks back, and he begins to step away.

“Okay, okay, fine,” the man scowls. “I’m out of your league anyway!” He quickly turns around and walks away.

You and Kazuha watch as he leaves. Once he disappears back into the crowd, Kazuha speaks.

“Are you alright, my love?” Kazuha asks you.

You smile contently when you hear his voice soften once more. You’re so lucky to have a caring and kind boyfriend who always has your best interest in mind.

“I’m fine, and it’s all because of you,” you say. “Thank you, Kazuha.”

SCARAMOUCHE

Discomfort flows through your veins, and shivers run down your spine. The man before you is making you feel unparalleled discomfort, and at this point, you’re wondering why your boyfriend hasn’t stepped in.

You can see him in the edges of your vision. His hair, spun of midnight, sits atop porcelain skin, and most strikingly of all, a gargantuan hat obscures his eyes. As expected, he’s sitting in a secluded corner, away from all the action, but you know he’s keeping an eye on you.

“There’s no need to act so shy,” the man tells you, stepping closer to you. He smirks at you, and you feel nothing short of disgust. “I’m friendly. I promise.”

The stranger leans in, and he’s about to wrap an arm around your shoulder when all of a sudden, someone grabs his wrist.

“Care to explain what you were trying to do with my lover?” Scaramouche hisses at the man. 

When you look over at your boyfriend, you notice that there’s a certain glint in his eyes. It’s dangerous. He looks as though he’s ready to do almost anything to defend you from the unfamiliar man.

Although the stranger is stunned for a few moments, he quickly snaps out of his daze and chuckles.

“This is ridiculous,” the man says, sneering at Scaramouche.

This is not going to end well.

“Why would I feel threatened by someone like you?” the stranger glances down at Scaramouche with disdain dancing through his irises. While it’s true that Scaramouche is rather short in stature compared to the man, you think that he’s underestimated your boyfriend’s strength.

The stranger attempts to pull his wrist out from Scaramouche’s grip, but Scaramouche only tightens his hold. It’s in that moment that you see the unfamiliar man’s eyes go wide with fear and uncertainty.

“Do you really think I’m stupid enough to pick a fight I can’t win?” Scaramouche retorts.

The stranger seems to shrink under the glare hosted within your boyfriend’s indigo hues. Although Scaramouche’s eyes usually resemble a serene night sky speckled with entire galaxies of stars when he’s with you, his softer side has now vanished. Instead, his irises are filled with a coldness that the majority of people who cross him are familiar with.

Scaramouche smirks.

“Listen closely because I’ll only say this once,” your boyfriend hisses in a low tone, indiscernible to the party-goers around you, and yet when his voice reaches your ears, it almost feels as though it’s been amplified. “Leave me and my partner alone. Lay another finger on them, and there will be far worse consequences.”

Upon hearing Scaramouche’s words, the man nods furiously.

You almost laugh.

Even though he tried to appear all tough earlier, the stranger has been reduced to nothing more than a trembling coward in the presence of your boyfriend.

“Now, run along,” Scaramouche releases the man from his grasp, waving his hand as an indication for the stranger to get out of his sight. “Take this as a warning.”

Without another word, the man scrambles away, nearly tripping over himself in his panicked state. Once he’s finally gone, you hear your boyfriend breathe out a sigh of relief.

“What a bother,” he says. “Are you alright?”

You nod. “Thank you for protecting me.”

You lean in towards your boyfriend and give him a quick kiss as a reward. His lips are soft and as warm as ever, and butterflies dance around in the pit of your stomach, eliciting feelings of absolute bliss within your heart.

As you pull away, you note that a shade of red has dawned upon his cheeks, tinting his pale skin a hue reminiscent of vivid sunsets.

TIGHNARI

“Excuse me. Is it just me, or does the person you’re talking to appear extremely uncomfortable?” Tighnari asks, coming up to you and narrowing his eyes at the man pestering you. His tone isn’t the friendliest, but you don’t blame him. After all, it’s difficult to remain calm when a stranger is persistently flirting with your significant other.

The man chuckles, completely disregarding Tighnari’s words and turning his attention back to you. He smirks at you and then speaks.

“You’re not uncomfortable, right gorgeous?” he says, looking at you with an expression that sends shivers down your spine. It’s ironic. He insists that you’re alright, yet you’re feeling more and more unsettled by the second. Thankfully, your boyfriend is here to help.

“Take a closer look at their body language,” Tighnari sighs, staring intently at the man.

Although the stranger does take a few seconds to look you over, he doesn’t seem to notice anything. Instead, he simply rolls his eyes and turns back to Tighnari in order to refute him once more.

“I don’t see anything wrong,” the man scoffs, glaring daggers at your lover. He’s beginning to become slightly hostile, and it seems Tighnari can tell because as the stranger steps closer towards you, Tighnari wraps a hand firmly around your wrist and pulls you behind him.

“Since you’re not sensible enough to discern that you’re bothering them,” Tighnari gestures at you, his gaze steeling into the embodiment of desolate winter flurries as he turns his focus back to the man, “we’ll be taking our leave.”

Before the stranger can protest, Tighnari drags you away. He leads you into a crowd, and as you walk, you begin to feel disoriented. However, you assume it’s all part of your boyfriend’s plan to lose the man. Every left and every right begins to feel the same, but eventually, you end up outside the venue in a breathtaking spot where a gentle zephyr causes leaves to sing songs of blissful serenity and thousands of stars dazzle atop a canvas of dark night.

“Thank you,” you say to Tighnari once the two of you stop. As you meet his gaze, you notice that his expression has softened, and his eyes reflect the majestic skies above.

“Don’t thank me,” he tells you. “I was just doing what any good lover would do.”

He pulls you into an embrace. In the midst of evening frigidness, his touch causes a tepidness to blossom — a tepidness you wish to indulge in until sunrise paints the sky shades of pink and orange.

XIAO

Right now, you need Xiao more than ever, but unfortunately for you, he’s not here.

Xiao had left earlier in order to get some fresh air. You agreed to let him go upon seeing the distress and discomfort swimming through his warm amber hues. He told you he would be back soon, and you hope that he’ll stay true to his promise because at the moment, you just want him to show up and save you.

You just have to hold out until he returns.

“Are you sure you don’t want to go out with me?” the stranger before you asks, gazing at you with pleading eyes. You grimace under the weight of his stare, a look that feels so unbearably heavy upon your conscience.

“Sorry, I have a boyfriend.” You force the words out, trying your hardest to remain civil, even in the face of such a predicament.

The man’s eyes darken and fill with shadows reminiscent of the essence of night. Your body tenses, and a feeling of anxiousness begins to fill your heart, causing it to beat in a panicked frenzy.

“Are you lying to me?” he asks.

But just as things appear as though they’re about to escalate, you feel a gentle tap on your shoulder.

“Is something wrong?” a calm voice questions you.

It’s Xiao. He’s here, and upon realizing that, a sense of security washes over you. Your boyfriend is back, and now you have actual proof that you’re already taken.

“Xiao!” you exclaim, heart filling with elation as you glance over at him. At the moment, he looks more handsome than ever. Party lights accentuate his dark hair with various shades of the rainbow, and his irises contain dandelion hues that glow as brightly as ever. You feel nothing short of relieved to see him.

Your boyfriend looks back at you, and when you make eye contact with him, reassurance flickers through his gaze.

You’re going to be alright.

Xiao slides his hand down your arm in order to interlace your fingers together. His warmth momentarily causes you to forget all the worry that had once plagued your mind, and the tension within you unravels and dissipates, dissolving under rays of golden comfort.

Xiao looks over at the man, who appears to be frozen in shock and embarrassment. He sighs and tugs on your hand gently, signaling to you that now is the perfect time to make your escape.

You allow your boyfriend to pull you away, weaving in and out of a crowd of partygoers. He pulls you away from the commotion, and before you know it, the two of you are together alone in a secluded spot on the roof of the venue.

Xiao wraps his arms around you, enveloping you in an embrace akin to the caress of the luminous moon above. It’s comforting, and after all the turmoil, you feel like everything is alright once more.

to be honest, this probably isn’t my best work, but i hope you liked reading it! thank you for reading! if you enjoyed this, please reblog or comment!

[laudthingcat]

JJK// Your top lifts up while you sleep pt.2

Characters: Gojo Satoru, Choso Kamo

Tags: nsfw content, somnophilia, cnc

Part 2 of the series!! I really loved how the first part turned out so i want to continue it 💕 You can read part one here ʕ •ᴥ•ʔ

Note: it’s been over a year since i posted this and i am growing tired of all the comments from blank blogs and blogs that belong to minors attacking me for making a fictional character fuck another fictional character in their sleep in a fictional story. Grow the fuck up and learn not to fucking read a story if you dont like the tags?? To everyone else who knows how to differentiate fiction from reality, i love you pookies <3

Masterlist

Gojo: After another week away from you because of his work, he was finally excited to get back home to you. It was past midnight when he entered the apartment so he tried his best to be as quiet as possible since he was absolutely sure you were already asleep, and he was right. Entering the bedroom he saw you peacefully sleeping while hugging his pillow. He smiled to himself knowing that you missed him as much as he missed you. Making his way towards the bed, he could see you better, easily noticing this time that your top was almost completely rolled up and that you were not wearing any shorts at all. His face lit up since he really missed all of you. Taking a seat on the bed next to you, he leaned in and started leaving soft kisses on your exposed shoulder, slowly moving lower and lower, until he reached your thighs. God, he loved your thighs. Everything about them was perfect. Giving them a soft bite, he chuckled the moment you squeezed your thighs together. It was always a sign that you were getting horny and he knew it.

He had to check it so he slightly moved your panties aside, just enough for his hand to make its way inside of them. Using his middle finger he caressed your pussy before inserting it and a second one inside of you. Just as he thought, you were already wet and ready for a good pounding. So not wasting any more time, he got rid of his clothes and placed himself on top of you. After stroking his already erect cock a couple times, he lined it under your pussy. Grabbing a hold of your hip, he started moving. In between soft whimpers, he quietly laughed because he knew you’d get angry at him if you were awake since you absolutely hate being teased. You took him by surprise when you squeezed your thighs together once more, making him almost cum on the spot. Embarrassed, he cursed the fact that he was so excited, so he quickened the pace, knowing for sure that he won’t last for much longer. Not much longer after, he entered your pussy and pushing as far in as possible, he came inside of you.

Leaning in once more, he placed a tired kiss on your forehead. "A little warm surprise for tomorrow morning"

Choso: Waking up in the middle of the night isn't something uncommon for Choso. He's been struggling with insomnia since he can remember. What he'd usually do is stay in bed and watch you sleep while waiting for the morning to come. This particular night tho it was a bit different. When he woke up you were no longer in his arms. You were sleeping on your back, with your legs conveniently opened and your top no longer covering your abdomen and chest. The sight made him hard on the spot and there was nothing he wanted to do more than touch you. He hesitated at first, thinking that it wouldn't be ok for him to do so, even tho, as he clearly remembers, you did talk about this before, and you ensured him that you are absolutely fine and actually looking forward to that happening at some point. Making up his mind, he changed his position, now sitting next to you instead of laying down.

Being sure that you want that as much as he does, he went straight for your chest. Still very careful with his touches so that you wouldn't wake up, he cupped one of your tits and started squeezing and playing with it while devouring the other one with his mouth, all while rubbing his knee against your clothed pussy. Your tits were so soft, he could never get enough of them. But there was something he was even more excited about. The thought of filling you up with his cum from coming inside of you as many times and he wants without you even knowing was getting him on a whole different level of excitement.

He did just as he said. He came inside of you until you were full. He made you come multiple times too. He even managed to fall back asleep, too exhausted to actually stay awake as usual. When you woke up you were very excited to tell him about the dream you had, to which he paid full attention. He's found something else to do from now on when his insomnia kicks in.

Note: I haven't wrote anything in over a year so i dunno if i still have it but oh well what never stopped was me being horny so i hope you enjoy it 🫶🏻

[baddiewiththebook]

ONE OF THE BOYS [PART 3]

-> While you pine hopelessly over your best friend, Eddie Munson. You hear the sentiment 'one of the boys' one too many times and you've decided to change that. All in the name of the one boy who won't even look at you, or so you think.

-> eddie munson x you (she/her)

-> friends to lovers, slow burn, angst

-> warnings - strong language and suggestive themes [no smut]

-> a/n Oh, my god. When I tell y’all that everything that could have gone wrong, went wrong. I stayed up all night writing and editing just to get it out today, so you don’t have to wait another week when I’m off from work again. Yesterday, I was going to surprise y’all with a back to back upload, but when my laptop died and all of my content got deleted, I needed a pause. Anyway, I hope you enjoy Part 3 of a series I didn’t know would become a series.

[Part 2] Part 3

-> <-

You decide to wake up at five because your eyes wouldn’t stay shut any longer. Ripping the blankets off your body, the cool air nips at your skin. You shove your toes into your slippers. Tripping over your tennis shoes, you rethink how close you are to your desk. Feeling around for the corner, you find the desk and you begin to aim yourself the other way. You yelp when your waist collides into the doorknob and you silently curse to yourself while trying desperately not to wake your family. Shuffling through the dark, you take mini steps to your bathroom.

Closing the door behind you, you flick on bathroom light. Squinting, your eyes adjust and the shock of the bright room dulls. You use the toilet first, before your bladder combusts. While washing your hands, you meet your own face in the mirror.

Mornings weren’t your best look. Your hair mats to one side because you’re a side sleeper. Sometimes when your sick you’ll lay on your back to keep your stomach from getting nauseous. Instead of drying your hands on a towel, you toss them back into your hair to mold and shape what’s on your head. Massaging your scalp, you forget your worries for a moment. You wash your hands of the hair that sticks to your hands, and then you dry them off.

You bounce back from the shower when you twist the hot water handle. Water splashes in your face anyway. Steam breathes into your bathroom and you almost feel suffocated by the hot air. That’s what wakes you up in the morning. You strip, then step inside allowing the beads of hot water to bake your skin. The soap you use is plain and boring. It moisturizes the layers of your skin without leaving a scent behind. You watch the bubbles drain below you.

Leaving the shower is harder to you then getting back in. Your day will begin as soon as you step out. Going to school feels like a chore. Your classes all have projects due by the end of the week or by the end of the month. Then there’s the obvious boy you are trying to avoid. Before you can imagine any lewd situations between yourself and him (and trust that you have plenty), you switch off the water to your shower.

You don’t like washing your face in hot water, so you wait until your dry and you have a towel wrapped around your body. The icy water pricks at your pores. You dry, and you apply a thick layer of moisturizer to your skin.

Finding yourself vulnerable in a towel, and thrown into darkness once again because you have forgotten your clothes in your bedroom, you shimmy across the hallway once again.

When you choose a lotion, you act as though you won’t pick the same option you have been for as long as you can remember. The label reads ‘Fruity.’ Simple enough. Throwing on an extra spritz of perfume to compliment the lotion. You like to spray perfume while you’re bare to ensure the smell sticks to you, rather than your clothes.

Wrapping yourself in your robe, you want to take a peak at the sky. Rain clouds form above. Gray all day. You happen to, also, see that Eddie’s trailer is dark. Wayne Munson’s truck is on, and he’s in the driver’s seat waiting for the engine to warm. He goes to work early, and he stays late. That’s how you got to spend so many days and nights at Eddie’s growing up.

You’d tell your mom that you were spending the night with your friend Robin, and she would cover for you in a heartbeat. She must have known what was going on before you did. Did that even count - if you didn’t know?

You shy away from the window.

Going through your closet, you find an acceptable pair of denim that’s right on your hips and loose at your ankles. The striped sweater you call your favorite will scratch at you skin all day, so you put on a plain shirt on underneath.

If the you from a few months ago, saw you sitting at your desk whipping out all of the tools and the sponges that it took to apply makeup to your skin, you’d shrivel in a corner and cry. You got used to the feeling of the brushes against your skin. The way your face feels with a bit of foundation. And the sticky feeling of mascara pressing on your eyes.

As you finish powdering your nose, your stomach growls. Your hungry.

The sun is beginning to wake, and you’re able to move through the home a bit smoother. You find yourself in the kitchen pawing through the refrigerator. No one has gone grocery shopping in a few weeks, so your options are limited.

You take the box of Honey Comb cereal off the top of the fridge. A bowl off the drying rack will do, and there’s even a spoon next to it. You pluck out your mom’s cigarettes that she “hides” inside the box. She doesn’t count them when she smokes, so you know that you can sneak one into your pocket for later.

After pouring yourself a bowl of cereal, and stealing your mom’s cigarettes, you grab the milk from the fridge. It’s heavy. When you open the milk the rancid sour odor spoils your appetite.

“Jesus!” You curse.

The expiration reads about a week ago. Gross.

You toss the milk.

Even though you’re completely grossed out, you shovel a few bites of dry cereal down your throat. Dipping your head under the sink for a drink of water, you slurp down the crumbs sticking to the sides of your mouth.

By the time you’ve brushed your teeth, your watch reads seven fifteen in the morning. If you head to school now, you’ll be there by seven thirty.

That’s exactly what you do.

The drive is quiet. Most of the town hasn’t woken yet for their day. Shops still have signs in their window that read ‘Closed.’

You’re allowed into the cafeteria with the other early birds once you get to school. Finding a group of girls you’re in home room with, they welcome you for a study session.

“You look so pretty,” Michelle gushes over your makeup.

You smile. “You too. I love your shirt.”

“I got it on sale,” she tells you the name of the store. “We should all go shopping on Saturday.”

“Girls day out!” Lisa snaps her fingers. “Count! Me! In!”

The three of you small chat for a bit, before you dive into your awaiting assignments. They’re there to help you. You reciprocate the action when they want advise.

The school bell rings.

You pack up, and you wave goodbye for now. But, you’ll see them again in just a few moments when you get to class.

Heading to your locker for the first time in months, you have to try the code twice. The third time’s the charm. You take the specimen in your locker between your index and your thumb. Finding the nearest trash can, you throw the moldy sandwich away. At least the smell hadn’t penetrated through the bag yet.

You’re just zipping up your backpack after ridding yourself of about a hundred pounds of unnecessary textbook weight when someone shouts at the end of the hall.

Petty squabbles between students, you’re usually able to ignore. However, as all the noise is headed in your direction, you hear your name in between cursed and yells. A catastrophic tornado blows your way. Your feet are firm to the ground in terror.

Roxie’s purple, and about to blow a blood vessel judging by the vein nearly popping out of her neck. Hot on her trail is petite Indie, who’s begging for Roxie to just listen to her.

“Hey, you!” Roxie jabs her finger in your face.

Indie tumbled over her own feet, “Roxie!”

You check over your shoulder in hopes that someone might be there. No one is there except a few onlookers she’s drawn in her tirade. Now, you’re thinking. Eddie couldn’t have spilt the beans this quickly. Could he?

“Oh, I’m coming for you, bitch,” she snarls.

You’re toast.

Roxie is larger than you in all retrospects, but she’s especially big in muscle. If she’s about to pummel you, then you’ll be knocked over and split in two like a pin and she’s the ball going a hundred miles an hour.

“Can’t we talk this out?” Indie asks through gasps of air.

You stare between them. Indie isn’t after you by the worried expression she holds. Still unsure exactly what Roxie’s prattling on about, you decide to wait before you interject.

“Is there something going on between you and Eddie?” Roxie demands.

See, you knew their relationship wasn’t casual! Still, you did nothing wrong. Yesterday, you didn’t even express to Eddie that you liked him in the first place. You wanted to drop the conversation, and he kept going. This is his fault. Why isn’t he about to get a fist to the face? Who’s to say he hasn’t already? Yikes.

Roxie sucks her tongue to her teeth.

“Uh-,” you’re still loading in the information, and you hesitate to answer right away. “N- no?”

“Is that a question?” Her hot breath hits your nose.

You bring your hands down to your sides because you can’t let her see you trembling like a leaf. If she smells fear, she’ll know she’s won. Her prey is hers for the taking.

You’re tired of this. “Eddie and I have nothing going on. We’re just- just friends.”

You have a hard time saying that, but not for the reasons that Roxie has in mind. You’re not even sure if Eddie wants to be your friend anymore.

“Okay,” she sticks her tongue into the flesh of her jaw, and then says. “How come last night he moaned your name instead of mine?”

Blood rushes to your ears. Your face is on fire, and you’re sure everyone can see so.

Onlookers jeer and whisper amongst themselves. Rumors are already beginning from mouth to mouth; and, hitting ear to ear.

You would also like to understand what she meant by “moaning your name.” Spare the details. Obviously, you knew what happened last night. You wipe the winner’s smirk off your face, before Roxie even notices.

“I don’t know,” you fold your arms across your chest. “Shouldn’t you ask him?”

Roxie squares her shoulders. She clenched her fists until her knuckles are white. Cursing a few more angry words your way, she’s a bull ready to charge. You might as well be wearing all red.

“What’s going on here?!”

Miss Brown sticks her nose into the hallway and notices the crowd of people. Before anyone can do anything rash, she pushes her way into the center of the chaos. With an ostentatious sort of sigh that suggests she’s better than all of you, she starts breaking up the fight.

“Off to class,” Miss Brown shoo’s them.

“Let’s go, Roxie,” Indie grits her teeth.

Roxie eyes you one more time. “Fine. I’ll be seeing you later.”

You gulp.

It’s time to play a new game around school: Hide from Roxie! Winners get the very rewarding prize of not getting their face beat in.

You dart from class to class all morning. A huge target sticks to your back with Roxie aiming for a bullseye. Meanwhile, Eddie is still no where to be found. He’s probably hiding under his sheets at home, full of shame when he mistook your name for hers.

That’s just fine by you. You still didn’t want to see him either. Or, maybe you did. First, to clear the air about you liking him. A little flimsy crush isn’t going to break a friendship, right? You’ll get over it in time. Secondly, you’re sure that him naming you is a big misunderstanding. He just got distracted or something.

After lunch was over, you planned to sneak through Mr Campbell’s empty classroom. He doesn’t have afternoon classes, and you can easily shoot through since there is a door on either side of the hallway.

“Over there!”

Roxie has the cheerleaders involved now. No doubt they want a piece of judge, jury and conviction too.

Colliding into something solid, you topple over onto the tile. You’re swept away in thought and you forget to watch where your going. Mr. Campbell has that skeleton on wheels that he’ll leave just about anywhere. But, you haven’t knocked over that stupid skeleton.

It’s Eddie.

“Oh, God,” you rub your backside.

Eddie gasps, “What are you doing?”

“What am I-,” you snap. “What the hell are you doing? Your girlfriend almost tackled me like linebacker!”

Eddie shushes you. “Do you want her to hear? She’s not my girlfriend. I told you it’s casual.”

“Casual?” You want to yell, but you also don’t want her to hear. The last thing you need is for Roxie to see you in the same room as Eddie. “Whatever you have is not casual.”

“I messed up, okay?” He rubs his temple. “Jesus!”

Your chin lifts at the familiar brrring of the school bell. Now, you’re skipping class. You’ll get another hour of detention no matter if you stay here or go to class.

“You’re hiding from her too?” You conclude.

Detention doesn’t matter to Eddie. He just wants to ensure you’re okay. Judging by the way you’re creeping through empty classrooms, you’re doing just about as good as he is.

"I'm not hiding," he jumps when someone's locker slams. "Okay, so maybe I am hiding."

"This is so humiliating," you cry.

Eddie apologizes, “I’m sorry-,”

“You’re sorry?”

You’re grateful that the light in the room is limited. Otherwise, you don’t know if you could have a conversation with him right now. Eddie has these eyes that you could simply drown in.

“It was an accident,” he claims. “You’re the one who said-,”

“I didn’t say anything,” you correct him. “You’re the one with the wild imagination.”

“Wild imagination?!”

“Maybe I do like Jeff, hm? Or- or maybe I’ve come to realize that Gareth is a great guy. Did you think of that?” You stand before him, while he scrunches down into a chair. “Eddie Munson you’re selfish - no, you’re self centered. All about Eddie- it’s Eddie’s world and we’re all just there like puppets on strings.”

“You done?”

“No!” You snap. “Yes.”

“How could you call me self-centered when you’ve been prancing around this place like the rest of the guys don’t exist? Everyone wants to know where you are all the time. Why would I know? Oh, because you’re supposed to be my best friend,” Eddie rubs his hands across his face. “God, when did things get so complicated?”

"When you started calling me one of the guys in middle school, and I just wanted whatever you wanted,” you admit out loud. “Why do you think I changed when Gareth mentioned Roxie? I thought that’s what you wanted.”

Eddie’s unreadable. Although dark, you can see his thoughts bubble and burst.

“It doesn’t matter,” you continue. “You don’t like me like that.”

“Who’s to say that?” Eddie’s voice comes out barely audible.

You shake your head. “Don’t pity me.”

Eddie kicks the stool from under him, “I’m not.”

“Eddie,” you pick at your nails. “What we have is a great friendship. I’m lucky that you’re in my life. I don’t want to risk messing that up. Are- are you okay with that? Are we okay?”

Eddie doesn’t want to leave the air so broken. While the words are spelled out in front of him, he can’t find a way to bring them out.

“We’re okay,” he says.

-> <-

Flicking a green bean on his plate with a fork, Eddie can’t be bothered to bring the food to his lips. Nothing passes his mouth. He watches the ice crystals on his steak defrost because he doesn’t want Uncle Wayne to worry that he’s messed up dinner, since this is the first one they’ve shared in a while. Wayne told his boss that he wanted to be home tonight for Eddie, and here he is.

“You’re not eating?” His uncle points out because Wayne has eaten half of his meal, and he worries that Eddie is appearing a bit gray and slender.

Eddie replies. “I ate a lot at school.”

“In the years that you’ve been under my roof, you haven’t stopped eating,” Wayne lowers his head to meet his nephew’s eye. “Try again.”

Eddie pushes the microwaved dinner aside. A low hum comes from the television, and he’s not even sure what’s on. Someone’s bobbing around like a baboon trying to make a woman smile. Yet another attempt from Wayne to make Eddie relive his childhood, he guesses.

“That girl your seeing isn’t pregnant is she?” Wayne presses when Eddie won’t talk. “Eddie Munson, I’ve told you to use a condom-,”

“No,” he cocks his head to rethink. “No, she’s not.”

Even if Roxie was pregnant, she’d get an abortion and make Eddie pay for it. Actually, he still owes her for the condoms.

Eddie wants to be done with women for a while. But, there is still this pinching on his ears that reminds him you’re still there. He’s actually wearing a pair of your studs that you forgot at his house one day. Since Eddie is prone to losing just about everything, he’s decided to wear them so they don’t get lost. No one even notices except for him. They hide behind his hair.

“Look,” Eddie wets his lips. “If I tell you, then you have to promise me you won’t do that weird ‘oooh’ thing you do. Got it?”

Wayne claps his hands together. Say no more. He’s solved the case! That little lady across the park has had her eye on him since the day Eddie moved in. Wayne really likes her. ‘Thinks she’s a great ball of sunshine that can keep Eddie under control. He’s been just waiting for Eddie to wake up and smell the coffee!

“Really?” Wayne excites.

Eddie exhales. “Don’t-,”

“Wait,” he lectures. “You’re not seeing both of them are you? Eddie Munson that is wrong, and I won’t tolerate that behavior. I taught you better.”

“No-,”

“Seriously, boy. Wear a condom. It’s not just for you, but her too you know?”

“Wayne-,”

“You can’t be spreading your butter on everyone’s toast.”

“Wayne!”

“I knew it,” he blabs on. “Ever since I caught you two brushing each other’s teeth. Oh, I saw this coming - I did!”

That incident happened once, and Wayne would never let Eddie live that down.

You smoke one joint.

After sitting in his room complaining of boredom, you tell Eddie you had never brushed someone else’s teeth before. He hadn’t either. You wanted to try. But, Eddie would only let you if the offer went both ways. Wayne burst in when you were scrubbing his tongue. You splattered toothpaste all over the mirror, while Eddie tried to keep you from squirming so he could scrub your teeth.

“You need to learn how to knock,” Eddie tries sailing with the conversation his old man is going on about.

Wayne challenges. “You know there’s no closed doors when you have girls over, Eddie.”

“Oh, my God.”

Reliving the memory, Eddie wants to make more with you. Cooking. You’ll cook. He’ll burn food. You’ll tell him he’s doing a wonderful job anyway because you’re too sweet to tell him to get out before he burns the house down. Eddie visions that you’ll teach him a better way to organize his clothes. You’ve already tried to show him how to fold, but Eddie only lasted a week doing your method before going back to shoving the clothes in whatever drawer is the least bit full. He’ll now admit that he only let you teach him because he wanted you close. He wants you close. Always.

It’s not just domestic stuff he sees. He wants to take you on a date. Many dates. He wants to take you out of Hawkins, even if it’s for just a day. He misses your laugh. Seeing you cry today broke him. Knowing that you’ve changed everything for him, and he didn’t notice. Because at the core of all the makeup and the hair, he guesses, that he just didn’t care. He loves all the extra, don’t get him wrong, but all he can see is you.

“What are you going to do, boy?” Wayne wonders.

Eddie replies in a question, “What if everything goes wrong? I- I can’t lose her, Wayne.”

“Son-,”

“What if I just turn out like him? Like my father?”

Eddie’s lip quivers, as he bites back the tears he’s been holding onto for years. Not a day goes by does he not miss his father, even if the years weren’t kind to him. His father is locked away somewhere in State, but he hasn’t visited. They’ll take one look at Eddie and they’ll try to lock him away too.

“That’s not you, Eddie,” Wayne opens his arms. “Come here.”

Eddie drops his head onto his uncle’s shoulder. Tears slide down his cheek and across his chin.

“Deep breaths,” he rubs his hand across Eddie’s back.

He doesn’t cry for long, and Wayne wipes his tears when he’s calmer. This isn’t a usual interaction between them, but neither of them care. Wayne takes away a stray eyelash from Eddie’s cheek.

“You like this girl?” Wayne says as a fact more than a question.

Eddie nods.

“You have to try,” he insists.

“Yeah, okay,” his nephew agrees.

Wayne and Eddie end their conversation there. Eddie eventually eats (after microwaving the food because he could have broken teeth on that steak), and the show that his uncle makes him watch isn’t half bad. Their night comes to a close when his uncle snores.

Mouth agape, head tipped over and his feet propped up, Wayne would be out for the night.

Eddie tucks his uncle’s toes beneath the blanket Wayne was hugging. Tip toeing his way into the kitchen, he puts both forks into the sink along with their drinking glasses. The TV dinners find home in the trash can. While Eddie left the television on to lull his uncle in his sleep, Eddie flicks off the living room and the kitchen lights. He sneaks off to his bedroom, the only bedroom in the trailer. Wayne gave up the space for Eddie to grow into.

Eddie finds that sleep won’t do.

You project onto his ceiling like a film about his life. There you are. Every new milestone. Eddie didn’t think about just how many times you were there for him. His birthdays come to mind, even the ones he didn’t want to be there for because he doesn’t always feel like he deserves to be celebrated. You’d sneak off to get him a beer when his uncle was distracted with all the other kids invited.

When you kept him from going outside, while Wayne drove up in his brand new van that was a gift for Eddie when he got his license. Wayne took on extra hours just for him. That might just have been the night his heart beat a little faster for you. Watching you perform songs in your living room in that ridiculous feather boa and sunglasses, Eddie’s drawn to laugh at the memory of you out of tune and off key. You didn’t care. The hair brush you swore was a microphone was just not working that night. You’re much better performer in the shower, you’d said.

Eddie sits up in bed, and he can see that your bedroom light is still on. Your curtains are drawn, but your silhouette dances about. Bouncing up and down will sometimes get rid of your last bit of energy, Eddie’s witnessed your routine first hand. Your wild, and Eddie finds this fascinating.

When your silhouette disappears, but the light remains, Eddie concludes that you’re reading a chapter book. You told Eddie to try reading sometime because that’s what helped you get to sleep. He bought his first book that very same day.

The Lord of the Rings was your suggestion. Not that he hadn’t found it first, but he wasn’t about to point it out. Eddie sees the book hidden under a lighter he used last night.

Smoking seemed obvious to him. He couldn’t sleep, so he would light up. With Wayne home, though, Eddie didn’t want the smell getting to him. He’s pretty sure Wayne knows he smokes by now, and he doesn’t care. Eddie isn’t a reckless smoker by any means, and he keeps to himself. If Wayne found out he was selling, that would be a different story.

Never the less, Eddie reads page after page of the same book he’s been fascinated by for weeks. He immerses himself into the books wishing he could be the hero, rather than the one who runs in the face of danger.

Eddie hears your front door open and close. This interests him and tips his head up. Tossing the book aside like he’s suddenly been hypnotized, he looks through his window.

You’re on the porch in thin pajamas and a robe. A lit cigarette slots between your fingers. You only smoke when you’re stressed. Pacing back and forth, Eddie understands that you’re talking to yourself. He just can’t make out the words.

This is creepy. Eddie shuts his window, and sinks back in bed. Leaving you alone - leaving you alone.

The words in his book blur into blobs of unrecognizable text. All he can see right now is you on that porch. You’re alone - and you’re probably cold. He has a blanket that he could offer. Maybe he could- no, he is leaving you alone.

Eddie wants to untangle the knot he has in his belly. He even tries to convince himself that he’s still hungry. But, he knows he won’t eat. You’re there. Even if you were caked in mud, you’d still be the most beautiful girl in the world to him. Actually, he has seen you caked in mud before. You were definitely hot then too.

Oh, God. What was he doing?

Pulling open his closet now, Eddie finds a jacket to slip on over his pajamas. He takes an extra blanket with him. It’s a bit torn up, but the blanket is clean. Wayne washed the blanket a couple of days ago, along with Eddie’s sheets which he claimed he could smell from across town. Eddie was not that dirty. It was the weed - but, er - don’t ask about the stains. He doesn’t know what they are or where they came from. Seriously, don’t ask.

Wayne is still snoring in the living room. He mutters in his sleep when Eddie opens the front door, and he doesn’t see Wayne stir once the door shuts.

His uncle stretches, and wakes up enough to take a leak in his bathroom. By the time he returns to the living room, he catches a glimpse from the window in the living room. His boy is with you on your porch making you smile and making you blush.

Wayne doesn’t need to spy. He’s seen this movie before when his brother made moves on his girl. It’d be a few more years until Eddie is born, but the picture is already there.

“Atta boy,” Wayne cheers to himself.

Eddie’s sitting with you, and sharing a cigarette. You’re not sleeping either. Dried black makeup you haven’t smudged off is stuck under your eyes. He wants to swipe it away, but he doesn’t know if he should.

“Is your mom in tonight?” Eddie asks.

You shake your head. “No, but my dad is such a deep sleeper. He’s nothing to worry about.”

Eddie worries about your dad catching him there with his only daughter, then your mom who likes to call you both “crazy kids.” Your dad is stern. Overprotective. He’s jokes about having a gun locked away somewhere, but Eddie still has no idea if he is joking. You won’t tell him because truthfully you don’t know.

“What’s got you up?” Eddie brings the blanket closer to you because he sees your shoulders dance.

You shake your head blowing out smoke to the left where Eddie isn’t.

Eddie takes a drag from the cigarette after he says, “I don’t think I’ve been all that honest with you.”

He reads your face.

“Not like that,” he can’t look at you, so he counts the floorboards of your porch. “I said we’re okay, but I don’t think we are.”

Your heart skips in your chest. “What do you mean?”

While Eddie might not be able to look at you, your eyes are all on him. In the moonlight, he’s like this shiny thing. You can’t put your thoughts into words, but he’s carved by the shine of the moon. He might hide his face with his hair, but when he hunches over you relax a bit.

You haven’t been able to put yourself in bed. Knowing that Eddie was there had wrecked your mind. You’re itching to be near him.

The whole day you thought about nothing, but him. How unsatisfied you are with your earlier conversation. You thought being the one to take charge in the conversation, and assert yourself, might make the blow easier. Truthfully, it hurt even worse.

You spent the evening sobbing in your room like a baby. Friends. You signed your name at the bottom of that contract. But, then, you thought about the day you’ll find a nice boy that will like you back. You’ll get married. You’ll get a house. Everything will be okay. But, as you thought about your life, your mind wondered about Eddie. What happens when he finds a girl? He’ll have a wife and he’ll have a house too.

You’ll be at that wedding. Sitting in a chair that’s not too close to the front, but also not all the way in the back. The band sits in front of you. They might not be able to pronounce the brand name, but their check cashes on their suits. All of your friends are his friends.

Eddie’s fiancé is faceless, but her gown is breathtaking. They’ll say ‘I do.’

You’ll cry along with them, but the tears you shed are ones you let out at a funeral. Are you just supposed to sit there and pretend like you don’t want to throw up?

Because that’s not you standing at the alter.

That’s some chick he’s met on the road while he tours with the band. Sure she’s great. But, the sight sickens you. Maybe that means your selfish, but you can’t do this. You can’t see Eddie with another woman. You refuse to see it because Eddie’s always been with you.

“I’m sorry?” You’ve spaced out while Eddie is speaking.

He begins to say, “please don’t make me repeat myself.”

Throwing the cigarette to the ground, you stamp out the flame. You wrap your hands around his neck, and you pull him forward. Eddie's lips meet yours in an awaited embrace. Longing and passionate. His hands burrow into your hair pulling you ever closer. The tender touch of his fingers fall to your waist to tell you he's not going anywhere.

You can't be sure which one of you pull away first. But, when your eyes open you breathe a sigh of relief. Eddie is still there, and he's about as hot in the face as you feel. You let out a breathy laugh, and he hides his grin behind his hair.

It doesn't take long for him to ask,

"Can I take you out sometime?"

And, of course, you say. "Yes!"

-> <-

tags: @hellfirenacht @queercodedcharacter @ogoc-19 @littlewinchester1 @stardustingold @ghost4love @spenciesprincess @animechick555 @foggyfooz @aactuaaltraash @loves0phelia @sofaritsalrightt @thisisktrying @somethingvicked @sebastiansstanswhore

[theemporium]

Maybe Carlos plus "How do you always know exactly what I need?" "I pay attention." from Violet Fluff? 🫶🏻

thank you for requesting!🫶🏽

3. "How do you always know exactly what I need?" "I pay attention."

.

You had been so wrapped up in the data sheets and graphs on your screen that you didn’t even hear the sound of footsteps approaching.

The last race had been a shit show, to put it lightly. It was a mess for various reasons between problems with the car at the start of the weekend, poor tire management and bad strategy calls that left both Ferrari cars on the outside of the points. It was a rough weekend for everyone and it meant the two weeks before the next race were spent ensuring a repeat wouldn’t happen. 

You had been working with the rest of the engineers to try and identify all the issues with both cars so the mechanics could work on fixing them before the week was up. The issue that came with that is that, in theory, the cars were fine. The numbers looked normal. But the results were showing anything but.

It was frustrating and confusing and it left everyone on edge as the next race weekend grew closer. 

Most of the team had already left for the night but you were so sure you were on the right path, that you were close to figuring something out. You told your superior you wouldn’t be much longer, maybe an hour or so. You told them there was no need for them to wait up for you. 

That had been over three hours ago. 

Now, almost every room in the building was empty minus the office you were working in. Even the lights had mostly been turned off except for the lamp on your desk that was illuminating all your work. You were frazzled and tired and annoying—but you weren’t anywhere near ready to go home yet.

“Tell me you’ve taken a break.” 

You let out a scream of surprise, heart racing in your chest as you turned to find Carlos standing a few feet from your desk with a sheepish expression on his face.

“Sorry, I thought you heard me come in.”

“No, I—fuck,” you pressed your hand against your chest, leaning back against your desk chair as you let out a long breath. “Sorry, I didn’t realise anyone else was still here.” 

“I didn’t want to leave the sim until I got a perfect lap,” he admitted as he began to close the distance between the two of you. “I saw a light still on when I walked past.” 

“You heading out?” You asked, trying to ignore the way his tousled hair made your stomach twist.

“I was,” he corrected before he placed a cup of coffee in front of you. “But I thought you could use some help.” 

You went to say ‘thanks’ as you picked up the coffee, taking a long sip only to quickly fall silent. You stared at the coffee cup, unblinking.

Carlos felt his nerves grow when you didn’t say anything else. “You know, just to get the perspective of the driver to maybe help—”

You turned to the Spaniard with an unreadable expression. “You know how I like my coffee?”

“I–” Carlos flushed but nodded. “Yeah, I do. And I know you were probably gonna stay here for another few hours so I thought it would help.” 

“How do you know exactly what I need?” You asked in a soft voice, though it was mostly rhetoric. You weren’t expecting an answer. 

“I pay attention,” Carlos replied with a soft smile. “And I also know you probably won’t be leaving for a while so–”

You watched as he grabbed a seat from the neighbouring desk, rolling it towards your desk before sitting down with a smile on his face. You raised your eyebrows but he just took a sip of his own coffee cup, determined to stay up with you.

And you found yourself not minding the company.

.

[mohini-musing]

Whumpmas in July 2023 - Day 3 Stitches

I'm dreadful at keeping up with these events, but here's a little something for Day 3, several days late.

Coming Home 'verse, the usual warnings apply

--

“A little help?”

Those words never mean anything good. Nat doesn’t ask for assistance until she’s practically on the edge of consciousness. Clint looks up from today’s honey-do project in the barn and sees her pants slung lower than usual on her narrow frame and the fly undone to expose a sunken expanse of too pale skin and a pad of combat gauze pressed beneath slim fingers to what’s bound to be yet another self imposed punishment for sins she won’t confess to anything but an unholy blade. 

“What now?” he asks her, after scanning through available options for conversation and settling on sidestepping the elephant in the room via direct action on its results. 

“Won’t clot,” she murmurs.

“C’mere,” he beckons, rising from his crouched position near the tractor engine and patting a mostly intact kitchen chair a few feet away. 

She sits with the leg on the injured side stretched out rather than sitting properly. That tells Clint whatever she’s done went deep enough to hurt with movement rather than just bleed. 

“Show me,” he instructs. 

Nat lifts the combat gauze and it’s immediately clear that this one isn’t self imposed. 

“You said you weren’t hit.” The words are calm, measured. 

“It’s a graze,” she counters, face ashen.

Clint pulls his phone from the back pocket of worn work jeans and calls his wife, asking Laura to bring supplies out to the barn and warning her to leave the kids with whatever bribery is necessary to ensure no one is coming with her. 

She appears a few minutes later, a duffle slung over one shoulder. 

“Oh honey,” she murmurs when she peels back the gauze and examines the ragged, swollen wound that’s definitely infected before taking Nat’s face in her hands and leaning in close to kiss her forehead.

“You know better than this,” she chides her.

“It was fine,” Nat counters. 

“Mmhmm, so I see,” Laura returns. “Very fine indeed. Don’t barf on me while I clean it, huh?”

Natasha nods, but it is obvious that’s a command she’s probably not capable of obeying. 

Laura removes the combat gauze, rinses the wound with a saline syringe and ignores Nat’s stifled groan as she does so. 

“You do realize I could have sewn this up without the funk a couple days ago?” Laura tells her conversationally. She might as well be commenting on the clouds outside.

“I glued it.”

“That seems to have worked well for you,” Laura tells her as she takes a pair of sterile qtips from a package and wipes along the edges of the swollen flesh before rinsing the lot again with more saline. Nat’s swallowing convulsively now, her face two shades past night of the living dead. 

Next come tweezers and the careful removal of glue flakes from the decidedly ineffective dermabond. Nat’s trembling all over and Clint moves to support her from behind, guiding her to rest her head against him while he wraps his hands around her wrists and brings them above her heart. It won’t stop her from passing out, but it will make sure she doesn’t get hurt if she does. 

Laura’s hands make quick work of the rest, irrigating the gash until the saline no longer runs yellow with infected fluid. 

“You know I can’t actually stitch this up right now?”

Natasha nods, sucking in a breath as Laura bathes the surface in antibiotic spray and presses a fresh pad of combat gauze with its integrated styptic powder onto the wound before slapping a sheet of tegaderm over the lot. 

“Done,” Laura tells her before rising from her knees and wrapping her arms around Natasha. They stay there a long while, Nat resting against Clint and Laura holding onto them both while reminding the pair of them in a tone that doesn’t match her words that if she’s going to keep their idiotic selves in one piece it helps if they don’t make her pretend she can’t see them favoring a goddamned bullet wound they aren’t admitting to having. 

[james-smith07]

Hiking Safety 101: Expert Tips to Stay Safe on the Trail

Hiking is a fantastic way to connect with nature, get some exercise, and clear your mind. But as peaceful and exhilarating as it can be, the trail isn’t without its risks. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, understanding and practicing basic safety measures can make all the difference between a great adventure and a dangerous mishap. In this guide, we'll cover essential hiking tips that will help you stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors. Ready to hike smart?

Why Hiking Safety Matters

Hiking is one of the best ways to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature. But, as with any outdoor activity, there are risks involved. Whether it's sudden weather changes, encounters with wildlife, or simple missteps, being prepared and aware of these potential hazards can ensure that your hike remains a joyous experience rather than a cautionary tale. Think of safety as your compass—keeping you on the right path and guiding you safely back home.

1. Plan Your Hike Thoroughly

Before you set foot on the trail, it’s crucial to plan your hike thoroughly. Research the trail you intend to hike—know the distance, elevation gain, and difficulty level. Familiarize yourself with the trail map and understand the key landmarks. Planning also involves knowing the trail conditions and if any parts are closed or under maintenance. A well-planned hike is like a well-plotted road trip—you know exactly where you’re going and what to expect.

2. Check the Weather Before You Go

Weather can make or break your hiking experience. Always check the weather forecast before you leave and prepare accordingly. If there's a chance of rain, bring a waterproof jacket. If it’s going to be hot, pack extra water and sunscreen. Remember, weather in the mountains can change rapidly—what starts as a sunny day can quickly turn into a downpour. It’s like packing an umbrella even if it’s sunny—better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

3. Wear Appropriate Clothing and Footwear

What you wear on a hike can significantly impact your safety and comfort. Choose moisture-wicking clothing to keep sweat away from your body and layers that you can add or remove as the temperature changes. Your footwear is equally important—wear sturdy hiking boots that offer good ankle support and have a non-slip sole. Just as you wouldn’t wear flip-flops to run a marathon, don’t skimp on your hiking gear—it’s your first line of defense against the elements.

4. Pack Essential Gear

Packing the right gear is essential for hiking safety. Always bring a map and compass (and know how to use them), even if you're familiar with the trail. A fully charged phone, portable charger, headlamp, and a first aid kit should also be in your pack. Other essentials include a whistle, multi-tool, extra food, and water. This might sound like a lot, but think of it as bringing insurance—hopefully, you won’t need it, but you’ll be glad to have it if you do.

5. Stay on Marked Trails

It might be tempting to venture off the beaten path, but staying on marked trails is key to staying safe. Marked trails are designed to be safe and accessible, while off-trail areas can lead to dangerous terrain or fragile ecosystems. It’s a bit like driving—staying on the road ensures you reach your destination safely, while veering off can lead to trouble.

6. Hydrate and Eat Regularly

Keeping your energy up is crucial during a hike, especially on longer trails. Start hydrating before you hit the trail, and keep sipping water throughout your hike. Bring enough water to last the entire trip and consider packing electrolyte tablets if you’ll be sweating a lot. Similarly, pack snacks that provide a good balance of carbs, protein, and fats. Eating and drinking regularly is like refueling a car—don’t wait until you’re running on empty.

7. Know Your Limits

It’s important to know your physical limits and choose a hike that matches your fitness level. Overestimating your abilities can lead to exhaustion, injury, or worse. Start with shorter, easier hikes if you’re new to the activity, and gradually work your way up to more challenging trails. Just like you wouldn’t start with the hardest level on a new video game, ease into hiking to build your strength and stamina.

8. Be Aware of Wildlife

Encountering wildlife is one of the joys of hiking, but it’s important to observe animals from a distance and respect their space. Learn about the wildlife in the area you’ll be hiking in and know what to do if you encounter animals like bears, snakes, or mountain lions. Avoid feeding animals and keep your food stored securely. Think of wildlife like you would a stranger’s pet—admire from afar, but don’t get too close.

9. First Aid: Be Prepared for Emergencies

Accidents can happen, even on the most well-planned hikes. That’s why it’s essential to carry a basic first aid kit and know how to use it. Your kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any personal medications. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures, such as how to treat cuts, sprains, or heat-related illnesses. It’s like having a spare tire in your car—you hope you won’t need it, but it’s a lifesaver when you do.

10. Hike with a Buddy or Inform Someone

Hiking with a buddy is not only more fun but also safer. In case of an emergency, having someone with you can make all the difference. If you prefer solo hikes, always let someone know your plans, including where you’re going, when you’re leaving, and when you expect to return. It’s like filing a flight plan—people will know where to look if something goes wrong.

11. Leave No Trace

One of the golden rules of hiking is to leave no trace. This means packing out all your trash, staying on trails, and not disturbing wildlife or plants. It’s our responsibility to preserve the beauty of nature for future generations. Think of it as being a guest in someone’s home—you wouldn’t leave a mess behind, so don’t do it on the trail either.

12. Understanding Trail Etiquette

Trail etiquette helps ensure everyone has a positive experience. Yield to uphill hikers, keep noise levels down, and step aside for faster hikers or those with larger groups. Politeness and respect go a long way on the trail—it’s like sharing the road with other drivers.

13. Keep Your Devices Charged

While disconnecting from technology is one of the benefits of hiking, keeping your phone charged is still important for safety. Use it for navigation, taking pictures, or in case of emergencies. Consider putting your phone in airplane mode to save battery life, but keep it on hand in case you need it. Your phone is like your lifeline—it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Journey, Safely

Hiking is a wonderful way to explore the great outdoors and enjoy some peace and quiet. But with every adventure comes responsibility. By following these hiking tips and staying mindful of your surroundings, you can ensure that your hike is safe, enjoyable, and memorable. So lace up those boots, pack your gear, and hit the trail with confidence—just don’t forget to take safety with you

[shyujikl]

How To Stain A Briar Pipe

Dyeing a briar wood pipe is the most important step in our pipe making process. Doing so can not only make the natural wood grain of the briar more prominent, but also form a protective film to prevent the appearance of the pipe from oxidizing over time,And if your briar pipe has minor imperfections, staining can help conceal them very well. So how should we dye it? We have the perfect method. You can dye it any way you like with just simple tools. Learn my tips and tricks about How To Stain A Briar Pipe and you will be like a pipe master in no time. Get your favorite pipe dyed! I have been trying for years to make the most perfect briar handmade pipe!and I've been working on this pipe stain for a while. Today I will explain to you Why is it necessary to stain a briar pipe? Highlighting the Grain The grain of the briar wood is one of its most striking features. Especially when we purchase high-quality briar wood, Staining brings out the intricate patterns and swirls of the grain, enhancing the overall beauty of our pipes protect pipe Secondly, the penetration of dye also strengthens the protection of the wood, making the pipe last longer personalize Every time I make a handmade pipe, I can choose the color I want to color according to my own preferences, which can highlight my unique personality. This is also the reason why I am obsessed with researching pipe staining. Repair old pipe In my humble opinion, if you have a pipe that has been with you for many years, then painting and repairing it is also a perfect choice. In 2012, I purchased a MUXIANG handmade pipe, which has stayed with me for many years. It means a lot to me. Although it has many broken places, I still can't bear to throw it away. But when I learned how to color the pipe, I used this method to repair it perfectly. If you want to repair your own old pipe, We definitely recommend using them. When many people dye their pipes, they usually choose Food coloring, Leather dye, or Wood stain, but in my opinion, leather dye is the best choice. I recommend using Fiiblings, because Fiiblings provide a very rich range of color options, from light to dark, and this dye can penetrate deep into the grain of the wood, making the color look natural and vivid.Now let's start staining our pipe. Before diving into the process of staining a briar pipe, we also need to do some treatment on the surface of the pipe to ensure the best staining effect 1. Cleaning: You can use various cleaning tools, including a soft cloth or brush, and a specialized pipe cleaner. if you still don’t know how, please read our article on how to clean a pipe. We won’t explain it in detail in this blog. The cleaned pipe can improve the adhesion of the dye to the surface. 2. Sanding: We can use sandpaper (about 400-600 mesh) sand along the direction of the heather wood grain, sanding the entire surface evenly, helping us eliminate any imperfections 3. Filling: Inspect the briar pipe for any visible flaws such as pits or small cracks. At this time, you can take some wood blocks of similar color and texture to repair. 4. Polishing a pipe: After filling and drying, we can use Briar Wood Polish for polishing. My favorite here is Savinelli Briar Radica Pipe Polish. Its polishing effect is not only excellent, but it also contains pine resin ingredients that can penetrate and replenish the oils in the briar wood, nourishing the material. Applying The Stain To Your Briar Pipe Once you have prepared your briar pipe for staining by sanding and cleaning it thoroughly, it's time to apply the stain. We use a soft foam or velvet brush to apply the stain, avoid brushes that will leave scratches on the wood surface. Start applying from the bottom of the pipe First apply a layer of stain on the bottom of the pipe, then work upwards. Apply along the wood grain Apply the stain following the natural wood grain of the briar, this will create the most natural color penetration. Maintain continuity while applying Apply stain continuously over each area, don't stop midway, to avoid uneven coloring. Apply gently and evenly Use a light hand to apply the stain, ensure even penetration into the wood. Apply multiple coats To achieve ideal coloring, apply multiple coats until the desired richness is reached. Remove excess stain Once done, use a clean soft cloth to wipe away any excess liquid stain When you complete the above operations, I think you will also get a perfect pipe like me. This picture below shows what my successfully stained pipe looks like. Read the full article

[eazy-group]

Can You Wild Camp in Wales?

New Post has been published on https://eazycamping.net/can-you-wild-camp-in-wales/

Can You Wild Camp in Wales?

Wild camping in the UK can be a rewarding and memorable experience, whether you are an avid camper or a beginner. Several of the most popular destinations are located in Wales. It is widely known for its three national parks, the scenic Wales Coast Path, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

But before you pack your bags and camping essentials, it’s important to note that specific rules and regulations must be complied with to ensure you won’t get in trouble while trying to have fun and explore nature.

So, today, let’s go over the critical information you need to plan your trip. Can you wild camp in Wales and set up camp wherever you like? How can you guarantee you will leave no trace and show respect for the environment?

We will also give a quick rundown of the most beautiful places to pitch your tent in Wales and answer some of the common questions that campers have about the area and this outdoor activity.

The law on wild camping in Wales

Technically speaking, the law forbids wild camping in Wales. This rule generally applies to the UK, except for certain parts of Dartmoor and Scotland. While it may seem too restrictive, the government impose this as a way of protecting the interests of the landowners. Getting caught wild camping is considered trespassing, a civil offence under UK law.

Can you wild camp in Wales?

Though the law explicitly states that wild camping in Wales is not legal, this activity is tolerated under certain conditions. For example, you can set up your tent on a given land provided that you have been granted the permission of the respective landowner.

Campers in remote places far from cultivated land can also get away with wild camping as long as they stay only for one night and leave no trace. Some campgrounds near hiking or walking trails are also popular among wild campers. They are typically allowed so long as they do not obstruct the pathways, disturb others, or harm the environment.

Top 5 rules to follow when wild camping in Wales

Now that you understand the legality of wild camping in Wales, let us share the top 5 rules you should always keep in mind. These rules are established to prevent you from getting into legal trouble and conserve the beauty of the places you intend to visit.

Breaking any one of them can lead to severe repercussions including but limited to being driven away from the area, getting arrested for damaging property or endangerment of the indigenous lifeforms.

1) Don’t damage your surroundings

As innocent as camping may sound, some reckless actions can cause undue damage to the terrain, bodies of water, and nearby plants and animals. Therefore, you must exercise caution throughout your entire stay. You must also avoid altering your chosen campsite by moving rocks, cutting trees, or trampling plants.

Approaching wildlife may also be damaging because it disrupts the ecological balance. Some adverse effects include a change in the local population or increased transmission of diseases or parasites to humans or other animals.

2) Try to camp in small numbers

Camping with several of your family and friends can be an exciting and unforgettable trip for everyone involved. However, too many people in the same campsite can create excessive noise, litter, erosion, and fire risk. It will also be harder for you to find a suitable place to camp, especially if people or wildlife live there.

Given these, it’s best to limit your count to no more than four campers at the same time. This will allow you to go wild camping with minimal gear and reduced environmental impact.

3) Don’t stay longer than 3 Days

Following this wild camping rule will help you stay discreet and avoid facing legal consequences. The longer you stay, the higher the likelihood of being noticed by the landowner or the locals. Spending more days in the same camping spot may also lead to more harm or disturbance to the surroundings.

You will also likely bring more supplies to last more than three days, which can mean more litter and thus prevent you from leaving no trace. Finally, overstaying might ruin the itinerary of other campers in the area because fewer campsites will be available.

4) Do not litter

Littering can do more damage than you might initially realize. Aside from destroying the beauty of the place, it is a significant source of pollution to the soil and water sources. Trash can also attract animals to your campsite, and that can cause them to become more dependent on our food and be more aggressive towards humans.

Your litter may also be a choking or ingestion hazard for those animals. If you have gear, accessories or supplies you don’t need anymore, bring them to recycle or consider selling them on websites for used camping gear.

5) Camp away from buildings or historic structures

Buildings and structures may belong to landowners who do not welcome wild campers. Most historical monuments or sites in Wales are also protected by law to preserve their integrity. Camping near any of them can lead to conflict with the involved landowners or the local authorities.

Suppose you are found trespassing or you have inflicted damage to cultural heritage. In that case, you will face penalties and fines in addition to the headaches of ending your camping trip earlier than planned. Respect the land and its inhabitants by camping discreetly somewhere far from buildings or historic structures.

Where to go wild camping in Wales

Having learned the best practices aligned with the wild camping laws in Wales, you should start researching the most beautiful camping spots in the country. You’re in luck if you choose Wales because there are so many places to discover and explore.

From dramatic mountains and hills to stunning beaches and coastlines, you will have your pick of where to pitch your camping tent. Regardless of your choice, however, remember to dig deeper by finding out the weather conditions, terrain, and local rules and regulations that may affect you during your trip.

Wild camping in Snowdonia

Snowdonia is a mountainous National Park in northwestern Wales. It has fifteen mountains, including the highest peak in Wales, Snowdon. In addition, the area also has a variety of landscapes, such as magnificent beaches, limestone cliffs, open lands, and salt marshes. Regarding wildlife diversity, Snowdonia is home to different types of birds, dolphins, and rare plants.

One of our favourite wild camping spots in Snowdonia is the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This is the only one of its kind in the UK. It covers almost 300 meters of coastline, offering views of nearby islands and mountainous peaks.

If you’re into hiking or trekking, we recommend going to Rhinogydd, a mountain range in the middle south of Snowdonia, or Carneddau on the northeastern side. Expect the terrains to be rugged and secluded, but you can still find great wild camping spots near the lakes or on the plateaus.

Wild camping on the Welsh Coast

The Welsh coast stretches from Chepstow on the English border, passing through Pembrokeshire and Anglesey before circling back to Flint near the border. In total, it has a length of about 2,700 kilometres. Within this is a continuous coastal footpath called the Wales Coast Path, which draws in thousands of hikers, cyclists, and fans of wildlife watching every year.

Wild camping on the Welsh Coast should be done carefully since pitching a tent on a beach or near water sources is frowned upon. Fortunately, several excellent camping spots are away from such areas, but do not skimp on the views. We recommend looking for one in Anglesey on the north-west part of the Welsh Coast.

It offers a nice balance of scenic sights, historical sites, and cultural heritage. The Gower Peninsula in the southern region is also a great choice. It is the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK, so be sure to include it in your places to visit in Wales.  

Wild Camping in the Brecon Beacons

Brecon Beacons is a National Park located in south Wales. Covering an area of 1,344 square kilometres, this popular camping destination offers a wide variety of stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The skies over the Brecon Beacons are also perfect for stargazing as they become so dark and tranquil at night.

Hikers and climbers flock to Brecon Beacons for its mountains and hills. You can find there some of the highest peaks in the area, such as the Pen y Fan and Corn Du. The mountain range of Mynydd Llangynidr is one of the favourite picks for wild camping for its picturesque views and a secluded cave open for explorers.

Choose Wales for your next wild camping adventure

Wales remains to rank high among our list of camping destinations. Experienced travellers can attest to its natural beauty, but beginners might still be dissuaded to visit due to the complexities involved. We hope our post has helped clarify if you can wild camp in Wales or not. Remember our tips on how to stay on the good side of the law and locals so that you can focus more on discovering everything Wales has to offer.

You’re also in luck because the country has so many astounding places to wild camp. Check out our recommendations earlier to get started with your trip planning now. Whether you brave the mountains or relax on the coastline, you will have a fantastic time wild camping in Wales.

FAQs about wild camping in Wales

What happens if you get caught wild camping in Wales?

Wild camping in Wales is not legal but is possible with the landowner’s permission. If you push through without permission, you will be asked to leave and move on by the landowner, their representative, or the local police.

Refusing to comply immediately or returning to the same land within three months of the first time you trespassed will increase your charges to aggravated trespassing. This criminal offence has a maximum fine of £2,500, a penalty of 3 months imprisonment, or both.

Where can you legally wild camp in Wales?

There are no legal wild camping spots in Wales. However, you won’t face legal consequences if you wild camp with the explicit permission of the landowner. In this case, you are not trespassing in their lands and can pitch your wild camping tent there.

Other areas that may be considered can be found in remote and secluded places. The ideal ones are far from farms, bodies of water, buildings, historical or cultural structures, or residential areas.

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[veneersdenver]

How Composite Veneers Denver Dentist can Improve Patient Retention?

While acquisitions are a concern for the composite veneers Denver dentist, they are equally worried about retaining their customers. They need to identify ways in which they can ensure a stream of regular income. Whether they want to clean their teeth, check on their veneers or come with a family member for the treatment, it is a type of retention that you can work on. here are a few retention strategies that can help you ensure your patient stays with you longer. 1. Most patients don’t visit the dentist’s clinic or want to be present because it can be a pain. Seeking an appointment is a huge process. At the same time, walking in without one can convert into a tedious wait time. Either way, they are not enjoying a smooth time. however, you can make it better for them by offering them a smooth appointment process. You can also ensure your calendar is blocked with this schedule, so that you reduce wait time. 2. Using email and messaging tools to confirm their appointments is a great way to engaging. You can also use these tools to answer queries like how much do veneers cost. When you use these tools for reminders and confirmations, you are assuring the patients that you are aware of their appointment, and they won’t need to wait for long. This can impress them and help them come back to you again 3. Another way of getting more patients to come back is through the website. While they are aware of you and your services, the website becomes a platform that offers them your contact details. It also provides them with a range of services options that they didn’t know you offered. Sometimes, people remember the name of the hospital but don’t really know all the services. this can help them in many ways 4. Again, it is equally important for the patients to find your website. You should ensure that the patients can reach the site by typing your clinic’s name or even your name. this would help them minimize the search time and get to you faster 5. Google business listing is equally important for the composite veneers Denver dentist to retain the patients. You might want to check on all the information offered there. You might even want to check if you have something more to add that can bring in repeat patients 6. The patient experience begins when they enter your clinic. Your waiting room is your biggest experience giver. You might want to check if the waiting room is neat and nice. Use ideas that can help improve the look and feel of the room. 7. As a dentist, you might have patients driving down to your clinic. You might want to include nice parking spots where the people can leave their cars and come to your office. That’s why investing in a good space is important. 8. Have a nice support system to match your patient’s requirement. Make sure to have answers to all questions including how much do veneers cost. The idea is to improve the support and query experiences.

[hossam-hassan-eg]

Top 5 Best Body Makeup

Body makeup is available in a variety of formulas, from creams to sprays to powders. Some products are designed to provide a light coverage and subtle glow, while others are made to provide full coverage and a matte finish. Depending on your needs, you can find a body makeup product that’s right for you.

Also, when using makeup on the body, it’s important to be aware that most of them won’t stay in place as easily as it does when used on the face. You may need to use more product and it may require more frequent touch-ups throughout the day. Additionally, body makeup products tend to be more drying and mattifying, so you may need to invest in a body moisturizer to ensure your skin stays hydrated.

It’s best to invest in products specifically designed for body makeup. These products are often formulated to be longer-lasting and more sweat-resistant than face makeup and will give you a more natural look. They also come in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect shade for your skin tone.

Another important factor to consider is the ingredients. Look for products that are free of parabens and other harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. As much as possible, opt for products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Finally, make sure that the product is long-wearing and won’t rub off or smudge easily.

Finally, look for a product that provides full coverage without feeling heavy or cakey. A good product should be lightweight and breathable, so it looks natural and doesn’t clog your pores.

Here is Our Picks for The Top Body Makeup

5 — Westmore Beauty Coverage Perfector Buildable Leg & Body Makeup

This buildable body makeup formula leaves a natural glow while covering any skin marks completely. It is lightweight and doesn’t feel cake-y. The makeup is transfer resistant and sweat-proof and will last more than a day. It comes in seven shades.

4 — L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Streak-Free Body Makeup

You get flawless, tanned-looking skin with this streak-free body makeup lotion. It is transfer and sweat resistant, so it stays on well all day. The product works well with all skin types. Note, however, that this particular line has been discontinued.

3 — KYDA Waterproof Highlighter Face & Body Makeup

This liquid highlighting cream offers a subtle yet luxurious look. The shimmery formula is lightweight and will not cake or settle into wrinkles and fine lines. It can be removed with soap and water. Get it in shades like Rose Gold and Coral Orange.

2 — Dermablend SPF 25 Foundation Leg & Body Makeup

This highly effective body makeup offers full coverage for scars, veins, bruises and more when layered. It leaves a natural-looking finish and offers 25 SPF protection from the sun. The product is transfer-resistant when used with a setting powder.

1 — Dormi Veil Body makeup Foundation

This New instant body enhancer from Dormi . It offers a natural glow and is lightweight and smooth. And yes, it’s great for covering veins, spots, scars and more without transferring on to clothing, once it has set properly, its waterproof, transfer-proof & smudge-proof, Use it on its own for beach days, night outs, and more.

[larahostel]

Methods of Dealing with Your Financial Plan

1) When taking taxicabs from the airport to your hotel, should travel inside the more expensive airport terminal cabs and ensure that the drivers have official distinguishing proof. Never take a taxi that is parked outside the airport terminal. I know this sounds outrageous, but it is far preferable to be secure than to grieve.

2) While heading out from your lodging to the airport terminal, go with a taxi suggested by the inn. By and by, taxis might be very perilous. I can't communicate that adequately.

3) Attempt to keep from showing up in another city or town late at night. This can simply turn out badly in various ways. It is significantly less difficult to obtain checked-in during the day, and security at night, particularly in certain areas, is simply shocking.

4) Travel to a gathering if conceivable. Since when is going up in numbers, not an extraordinary thought?

5) Become familiar with the fundamental standards of the nearby language before you arrive. Try not to guess that people will communicate in English. English is getting undeniably more generally spoken by the day; however, you need to be positive. You should frequently keep these things in mind before your appearance.

6) Keep up with your resources stowed away. A cash belt is fabulous on the off chance that it's an elective that you've arranged to look at. There is a wide range of styles of money belts. One of the potentially most popular is an "over the shoulder" style wallet on a tie that you wear under your top. This makes it very difficult for a criminal to snatch your resources.

7) Try not to go all alone to far-off regions or ruins where vacationers are supposed to go. Look for nearby exhortation or seek assistance.

8) Read the manuals and talk with different sightseers to find out which regions are most noteworthy to stay away from.

9) When leaving late-night discos, take a taxi home regardless of how close your lodging is. Outside most discos, you will find a roadside merchant selling cigarettes. Typically, these people know all of the cab drivers and can recommend a safe 1.

10) While showing up in another town, keep to your unique arrangement and remain in the lodging that you've settled on. Try not to let the cab driver convince you that your lodging is completely reserved and that he knows a less expensive and better one. He'll be dealing with a commission, and what's more, the inn potentially won't be in a protected part of town.

11) Even better, if you're arriving by path or train in another city, try to book your lodging ahead of time, preferably with a lodging that has an air terminal or station assortment administration.

12) Don't wear costly-looking gems.

13) Keep your day pack close to you at all times when driving in an open vehicle, ideally with the straps around your legs or locked to the gear rack. On transports, your knapsack will regularly head outside, either on the outer layer of the rooftop or inside the outside gear compartments. On long-distance transports, request an affirmation for your packs. On short breaks, simply maintain a cautious eye each time the bus stations to off-stack sacks. In the event of having your packs taken, remain with the transport; you will potentially require a statement from the transport organization tolerating liability regarding the misfortune as a way to guarantee any dollars from your protection foundation.

14) While on road trips or longer visits, leave your resources in your lodging. Purchase an affirmation not only for your cash belt/wallet but also for the items in it, with each item recorded.

15) Would it be a good idea for you to leave your identification and credit cards together, place the Visa in a fixed envelope, and sign your name across the fold? This way, when you return, you'll realize that little has been messed with.

16) Don't use all of your resources if you're going to advertise regions, swarm roads, host parties, and so on. Leave them inside the inn. On the off chance that you are anticipating purchasing something expensive, keep your dollars securely in a buckskin belt. Endeavor to be careful while opening it! To protect the little change inside your pockets, you can stuff a hanky in later.

17) Assuming the asphalt is packed, which is exceptional in commercial center regions, stroll inside the street.

18) If you suspect that someone is following you, pause and look them in the eyes until they leave. If you have an unfavorable feeling about a location, follow your instincts and leave. Sack slicing is intriguing, but for added security, you'll have the option to wear your daypack on your chest.

19) If it's on your back, try to walk as fast as you can. If you need to stop, gently move your pack back and forth to ensure that you can feel if anyone is tampering with it.

20) While putting your pack down on the floor to snap a picture or just to sit in a bistro, make sure to put your foot on the utilization of the lash. It will not only be difficult to eat, but you will also remember it! This is the most common type of robbery: tourists leaving sacks in bistros and returning to inquire whether anyone has seen it; you've got it, and it's gone.

Lara Ladies Hostel in Coimbatore

Lara is the only certified quality ladies hostel in Coimbatore, with food prepared in a hygienic manner. four meals, which include breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner. 24/7 RO drinking water facility, free wifi, security lockers, power backup, 7 beds per room (the rent cost may vary depending on your stay and the number of people), Rent starts at Rs. 5500 per  person. Call  8807497949 or visit www.laraladieshostel.com

[airconditionerrepairservice]

Heat-pump problems: the most common causes and solutions

A heat pump is a great way to save on your energy bill, but if it's not working properly, you may be experiencing some problems. Here are the most common causes and solutions for heat-pump problems.

Looking to save on your energy bills this winter? Check out our list of the most common heat-pump problems and how to solve them. From clogged filters to faulty wiring, these are the top causes of pump failure in Dallas, TX.

1. Airflow issues

This may seem obvious, but if the air is not flowing freely in your room/grow space, then none of the plants in that area are receiving adequate amounts of fresh oxygen. If this problem isn't corrected immediately, then there's a good chance that the plants won't survive at all. An airflow issue occurs when the fresh air intake of the HVAC system is obstructed by objects, including pipes, fans, etc. When this happens, the air coming into the grow room doesn't flow properly, causing the grow room to become stale and stagnant. To counteract this issue, make sure that the air filter(s) aren't clogged with debris. Also, ensure that any vents near the ceiling (if applicable) are unobstructed by anything. Finally, try using different fan speeds since lower speeds draw more air than higher ones.

2. Dryer Vent Connection Issues

Connections in the HVAC system are often overlooked. But when things go wrong, they can create problems that last for years. If you notice your dryer vent hose blowing into a window frame or siding, cut the excess length of the pipe free of the connection. Then, disconnect both ends of the joint before reconnecting and testing. You've created a leaky connection if you hear popping sounds while doing this. Test it thoroughly before switching it out with a brand-new hose.

3. Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew can wreak havoc on the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your unit, making it impossible to harvest high-quality bud without first addressing these two conditions. To combat mold and mildew, you need to eliminate excess moisture within the environment. Start by checking the humidity level in your room/grow area, ensuring that it stays around 50% -- 60%. You'll want to check this every day and make sure that you remove excess water if necessary. Next, use soap and hot water to clean your pots and trays regularly. Avoid chlorine bleach because it could damage the plastic of your containers. After cleaning, allow your potting mix to dry completely before planting your seedlings. Don't overdo it, though. Wait at least 48 hours after washing before planting seeds or seedlings. Additionally, you might want to invest in some kind of dehumidifier to aid in keeping your environment dry.

4. Pest infestation

Pests love the smell of marijuana and will flock toward it almost instantly if left unchecked. However, once they've been eradicated, it's critical to maintain a constant supply of organic pesticides. Do not store pesticide bottles or jars anywhere where pests could reach them. Keep them under lock and key at all times. Also, make sure to apply pesticides sparingly to encourage the best results. Remember that the goal here is to kill pests, not to harm your plants. A spray bottle is much safer than pouring liquid directly onto your plants.

5. Poor air circulation

It goes without saying that poor air circulation makes it difficult for your plants to receive enough oxygen. What's worse is that the air that flows through your home's ductwork is likely loaded with chemicals and allergens. Not only does this cause breathing issues for those who live in the same house, but it can also lead to pest infestations. One way to improve air circulation is to open a few windows in your grow room. Leave about two feet of space above each window frame to give plants a little room to breathe. Also, if you notice that you're spending longer than normal getting a nice hit off of a joint, chances are you're experiencing low oxygen levels in the room. Simply ventilate it by opening a window and letting the fresh air flow.

6. Lack of maintenance

If you're not actively maintaining your HVAC unit, there's a chance that you'll find yourself dealing with problems sooner rather than later. Maintaining your grow area requires regular checks to ensure everything is working properly. Check the pH of your water every week, and replace it if necessary. Also, look at your plants' roots and make sure they're deep and thick. Roots that start looking thin or dying are signs that something isn't right with the environment.

In conclusion, if your heat pump is not performing as it should, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue. First, check to see if the unit is getting power. If not, make sure you have plugged in the correct power cord. Next, try resetting the unit by unplugging it and plugging it back in. Finally, if all these steps fail to fix the problem, you may need to call a technician.

[joansiefics]

Hey!! I just saw your prompt post and I was wondering if I could request prompts 2 and 4 from the angst section with Steve Rogers? Fluffy ending? I'm just really in the Steve mood rn. Thanks❤️😘

No Bed Of Roses

STEVE ROGERS X READER

Prompt 2: "don't you hurt a single hair on her head"

Prompt 4: "I don't know where I am... please help"

SUMMARY: You get kidnapped on your way home from running errands and Steve comes to save you.

WARNINGS: Explicit  Descriptions of Torturing (Cutting, Dislocations...), Kidnapping, Chloroform, Blood, Mentions of Death, Guns

A/N: The expression "no bed of roses" means not pleasant at all. And seeing that this fic is about an anniversary I accentuated and incorporated flowers in the fic. I'm sorry it took so long to write your request, but I hope you like the final product.

MARVEL MASTERLIST || PROMPT LIST

REQUESTS are OPEN

Add yourself to my TAGLIST

~Flower #1: Peony - means Marriage~

You just finished decorating - roses strewn over the tablecloth accompanied by lit candles and fairy lights hanging by the entrance. It was your first marriage anniversary and you wanted it to be special. There were still three hours left before Steve would be home and you were almost done, you just needed to make your famous pumpkin pie. "Dang it!" you spoke aloud when you noticed your flour wasn't enough for the recipe. You rushed to the door and grabbed your keys on the way out.

------

You payed for the flour, thanked the cashier and rushed back to your car. A few meters away from your car, you searched your purse for your keys and unfortunately didn't notice the two men creeping up on you.

~Flower #2: Aconite - means Be Cautious~

A calloused hand enclosed around your mouth, muffling your cries for help, as the other arm snaked around your waist, preventing you from escaping. Another man's hand came into your peripheral vision, a torn rag in his hand. You struggled against the arm around your waist, screaming against his filthy, sour tasting hand and kicking your legs wildly. The rag was forced into your face, even though you twisted your head from left to right, holding your breath and doing everything in your power to escape the drowsiness. After about five minutes of useless struggling, black spots started to cloud your vision, the fight fully escaped from your body and you fell numb into your attacker's arms.

------

~Flower #3: White Rose - means Silence~

When you opened your eyes, the dark was exchanged for more darkness. You relied on your hearing to inform you of your surroundings - a dripping faucet, the roof's thermal expansion and contraction and silence. The sudden presence of a fluorescent light directed directly into your eyes had you squinting. "Sleeping Beauty finally awakes" a loud voice booms from somewhere in front of you. You try opening your eyes against the bright light to find the source of the goosebump-eliciting voice. "Who are you and what do you what from me?" you strenuously ask. A dry cough threatens to escape your parched throat and makes you gag, before you collect the most possible saliva to swallow. "We'll leave our identity a riddle for you to figure out while we wait for your Captain to show up"

'No, no, no, no...HYDRA...Steve fought so hard against them, he'll be devastated' you think "Well, then I'll have all the time in the world, he's not coming to save me" you say, hoping that it came across more convincing than it felt "We both know you're lying princess" "Don't call me princess" you seethe. "We need to do something about your snarky remarks, princess." he tuts as he walks to the corner of the room and for the first time you see the trolley decorated with tools. "With what do you want to start?" he asks fake politely. "You choose" you say with fake bravery masking your utter terror. "Let's see if we can shut your pretty mouth up first." He picks up a knife and slowly stalks towards you.

~Flower #4: Marigold - means Pain~

When he gets to you, he forces your mouth open - his long fingernails digging into your soft, rosy cheeks. He musters up all his saliva, stores it at the tip of his tongue and spits the ball of slime into the back of your throat. You choke on the warm liquid, traveling down your throat as he shakes your head to ensure that you swallowed all the given saliva. Once you swallowed everything you look your kidnapper in the eyes "thank you so much, I was so thirsty" "Let's see if you'll be so outspoken when I cut your tongue" he digs his nails deeper, drawing blood as you try to close your mouth. He forces the knife's blade into your mouth.

The cut is made at the tip of your tongue - not deep enough to cut the tip off, but just deep enough to let it bleed profusely. A scream escapes your lungs and the tears sting behind your eyes. "Not so brave now sweetheart, huh?" he mocks. He takes a phone out of his pocket and clicks on a number. The phone rings once and then the other person picks up "Hello?" the person, you recognize as Steve, unsurely greets. "Captain, we have your pretty little wife over here" "Don't you hurt a single hair on her head!!" Steve yells fumingly. "Oops, too late" "let me talk to her" Steve urgently orders, hands clenched into fists. "No, no, no captain...why don't I show you" your kidnapper switches the call over to video call and focuses the camera on you. He grabs your cheeks again, forcing your mouth open. Then he grabs a pair of pliers and pull at the tip of your tongue, to show Steve the damage that has been done.

You don't know when your tears started falling - maybe when you saw Steve or maybe when your tongue was cut into, but they were now flowing down your cheeks, stinging in the crescent shaped cuts of your kidnapper's nails. "Just hold on sweetheart, I'm going to get you out of there okay?" 'He is probably still at work... how long have I been here? Less than three hours?' You attempted to speak but you rather hissed at the pain when your tongue touched your upper palate. Steve's heart clenched at the sight of your fear stricken face, contorting in pain. "Here's the deal, we let your pretty princess go free when you hand yourself in" the kidnapper speaks up. "Deal, but I swear if you hurt her even more I won't hesitate to kill you" and with that Steve hangs up.

------

~Flower #5: Balsamine - means Impatient~

"I think he forgot about you princess" the kidnapper says, impatiently looking at his watch and walking the room up and down. When nearly twenty minutes have passed since the phone call, your kidnapper lost patience. He harshly yanked you up, by your hair, from the chair and pulled you after him - your feet sweeping the floor clean. At the other side of the room he let go of your hair and kicked you over onto your stomach. He gripped your tied up wrists and cut the rope loose, only to secure your wrists with a much stronger and longer rope. You could feel the sisal rubbing over your already lacerated wrists and feel the blood trickling down your fingers.

When your kidnapper was sure that you could not escape the bonds, he hauled you up by holding the other side of the rope. He lead you to a contraption where he made you climb the three stairs upwards. He positioned you that your back was to the pole-like-contraption and then tied the longer end of the rope (behind your back) to it. He quickly got off and pulled the handle which made the platform disappear from your under your feet and you fell with a big force to the ground, being pulled back by the rope just before your feet could touch the ground. You screamed as you felt your shoulder pop out of its socket - the pain electrifying every cell in your body.

------

~Flower #6: Iris - means Faith & Hope~

You have no idea how long you've been hanging from a rope - a shoulder dislocated, probably a broken rib, lacerated wrists and a slit tongue. The distant sound of gunshots alert your kidnapper, but you hang numbly and exhausted. 'Where's Steve? I know he'll come for me, it's just a matter of time' you try to talk some sense into yourself, before you completely think that Steve has abandoned you. "Don't let them get the girl, she's our only leverage!!" your kidnapper yells through his comms to the soldiers, but he is met with static. "Your captain has come to rescue you... and now we have him right where we want him. He'll pay for all the destruction he caused." he has a disgusting smirk on his face, eyes glowing with evilness. "Sir, we need you on the field, all our backup is dead!" a panicked voice makes its way through the static and over the comms. "Stay right here you filthy female and don't make a sound or I won't hesitate to cut out your entire tongue out when I get back" he snarls before running out to the battlefield.

'If I yell someone might hear me and save me, or that freak will come back and cut out my tongue. Maybe I'll die when he does that, then I won't have to suffer anymore... it's worth a try' and then you start yelling with every ounce of energy and air left in your lungs. "Heeeeelp!!!" you cry out. The sound of your cries echoes through the room and into the hallway just outside the room. "Y/N?!" it takes a moment before you realize that it's not your echo boomeranging but someone calling out to you. "I don't know where I am...please help me!!!" you yell.

Steve follows your voice as the other Avengers fight of more HYDRA agents. When he enters the room and sees your hanging figure his heart breaks into pieces, shattering on the floor. "Y/N?" he carefully asks, to make his presence known. He slowly walks closer to you, purposely making his steps louder for you to hear and not to startle you. You lift your head up a bit, seeing Steve, before your head falls back down, your chin touching your collar bone. Steve assesses the entire contraption as he takes a few more steps closer to you.

~Flower #7: Gladiolus - means Heroism~

When Steve is standing in front of you, he carefully lifts your chin to make you look him in the eyes. "Steve" you whisper, throat dry, lips sticking together and tongue aching. "I'm here sweetheart" he comforts you, because he knows you'll need it to pull the next part off. "Sweetheart, I need you to listen to me" "hmn" you acknowledge him. "I'm going to cut the rope from this contraption and I'm going to hold you so you don't fall, I just need you to trust me and work with me" "okay" your small voice, make tears burn at the back of Steve's eyes and he has to fight hard to suppress them. He snakes an arm around your waist and cuts the rope, making you fall over his broad shoulders (fireman style carrying). A disgruntled sound leaves your throat when your shoulder flops around limply. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry" Steve apologizes.

He carries you to the middle of the room and lays you down. He takes of his jacket, folds it and put it under your head as a pillow. "Sweetheart?" he lightly shakes your uninjured shoulder to get your attention. "Can you tell me where it hurts?" you nod your head 'no' before closing your eyes again. "I know you're tired, but you gotta stay awake just a little while longer okay?" You open your eyes again and Steve asks the same question "can you tell me where it hurts, sweetheart?" "my tongue" Steve knows about your tongue, but he lets you finish. "my shoulder" he saw your shoulder was out out of place when he cut the rope loose. "my ribs and my wrists" "Is that all?" Steve asks, and you just give him a simple nod, too tired and sore to talk.

"I'm going to first take a look at your shoulder" Steve says. He quickly informs the team of your whereabouts and then focuses all his attention back to you. He lifts your arm up, supports your shoulder with his one hand and pulls as hard as he can towards him. A high pitched scream leaves you, once again. "It's done, it's done" Steve cooes as he rubs his hands over your arms.

Just them Bucky and Natasha arrives at the scene. "It's all clear" Bucky relays to Steve. "Thanks guys" Steve thanks, gently picking you up bridal style and carrying you to the Quinjet.

------

At the compound you were professionally taken care of. And later that night, you woke up to the soft 40's music playing in the background, Steve holding your hand and flowers next to your bed, with a note attached to it - "I love you so much Y/N, and nothing will ever take you away from me" You lightly tugged at Steve's hands and he woke up, but before he could speak you put your finger over his lips. "Just lie with me, please"

---------------------------------

TAGLIST: (if your name is crossed out, I couldn't tag you)

@buckyzzrogers @buckyandstevesbitch @ooopsthiswasnotsupposedtohappen @marvelouslyriddikulus

[nobodyfamousposts]

Chaton Noir: Akuma-ed

He knew he wouldn’t win for ever.

But he thought that “ever” was still far away!

“No, Chaton, you can’t come with me and that’s final.”

She was being very stubborn today. More than usual.

And no amount of pleading was making a difference. Though he was trying very hard. Nothing was working!

Although…

He slowly looked up at her, eyes wide and pitiful. Almost teary. The look that always made her give in and take him along each time before when he couldn't get her to any other way.

Except for this time.

“I mean it, Chaton." She insisted as she got her bag together. "The class is taking a trip and I can’t risk something happening or you getting lost.”

Even his ultimate weapon failed him!

He pouted up at her.

She sighed sadly and picked him up.

“I’m sorry,” she murmured, holding him close. “But it’s important that you stay here and be good, okay?”

He nestled close to her, happy for the contact but sad and still a little mad because she was leaving.

But he wanted to be good for her, so he nodded. He wouldn’t like it, but he would do it.

“I’ll be back before you know it. And if you’re good, I’ll bring some cookies for you.”

He brightened at that. He did like cookies!

…but he didn’t want her to go.

“It’s okay, Chaton. It will only be for a few hours.” She assured him, setting him down. “I’ll be leaving my computer on the Ladyblog so you’ll know if anything happens.” She paused and turned to the TV, turning it on as well. “And you can watch cartoons while I’m gone so you won’t be bored.”

He looked to the Teevee as bright and colorful people appeared.

Marinette frowned down at him as he still seemed despondent. She didn’t want him to be upset, but it would be too noticeable for her to carry her big bag on this trip to bring Chaton along. And she couldn’t risk Chloe finding him. Or worse, Lila. And while she would have preferred to take him to Master Fu’s, the timing just didn’t work out and Fu had something else he needed to do today and couldn’t look after Chaton.

But while young, Chaton was smart. And he could be mischievous, but he would at least stay in the room and not be too rowdy.

Still…

“I just need you to keep an eye out and protect my room while I’m gone, okay? Make sure nobody tries to sneak in or take anything.” She instructed.

He nodded resolutely, assuring her that she could count on him!

She smiled and patted him on the head.

“Thank you, Chaton. Be good, okay?”

He nodded again. Of course! Because he was a good boy!

But that suddenly became a lot harder when she went down the floor door and out of sight, and he realized just how empty the room was now that she and the Pink Thing were gone.

Quickly, he climbed up to the window and peeked to the outside, watching as his Creator left. He put one hand on the glass, feeling sad.

He didn’t like being alone…

_________________

“Ah, a child feeling alone and worried for his mother! Perfect prey for my akuma!”

In his lair, Hawk Moth sensed the wellspring of emotions. It would be perfect to take advantage of and create a new enemy to defeat Ladybug and Chat Noir!

“Go forth, my akuma! And evilize him!”

_________________

The sounds of the Teevee helped lessen the silence, but it didn’t change the aloneness. He wanted her back. How much longer would she be gone?

He looked to the clock and saw that the 800 had changed to 834. He didn’t know much about time, but he knew that it was the 8 that had to change to a 3 before she would be back.

That would be forever!

Anything could happen to her while she’s gone! What if she got hurt? What if she got lost? What if something happened and she didn’t come back?

But he wouldn’t cry!

He wouldn’t!

…but he missed her…..

A flapping of wings caught his attention and he looked up to see a bug.

What was it called? A “Butter Fly”?

How did it get in here?

_________________

Hawk Moth grinned sinisterly as he sensed his butterfly had reached the target.

“Good! Get closer, my akuma! And then, nothing shall—”

OMN!

Suddenly, all connection to the akuma was cut off.

Hawk Moth started in surprise.

“What?”

He reached out, but all his straining did little more than to make him appear constipated to anyone whom happened to be present.

Try as he might, he could no longer sense anything!

No emotion.

No akumatization.

Nothing.

It was as if his akuma had just vanished!

What just happened?

What the hell was that?

What happened to his akuma?

_________________

Bleck!

Chaton licked his fist to try to get the icky out.

It didn’t taste like butter at all!

It lied!

The butter was a lie!

It should be called a “Butter Lie!” Not a fly!

He felt a fluttering from his tummy.

Looking down, he poked at his tummy where the Lie was. It was being rowdy. And tickling his inside. He didn’t think he liked it much. But what else was he supposed to do with it?

At least he wasn’t alone now!

Maybe it would watch the Teevee with him?

_________________

“I’m back!” Marinette called as she opened the trap door and came back into her room.

The room still seemed to be in order. Nothing was broken. The TV was on.

And there was Chaton sitting on his little cushion and distractedly kicking his feet while he watched the TV. At least until he realized Marinette was there and he perked up. Within seconds, he was hopping off the cushion to stand in front of her, bouncing happily.

She smiled, kneeling down to pat him. “Hey there. Did you have fun?”

He tilted his head but nodded, giving the clear indication that it was, but not as much as when he was with her.

She smiled gently and handed him the cookie she promised. He happily accepted the gift and nibbled at the edge of the treat.

He was adorable. And better behaved than she expected.

“Did anything happen while I was gone?” She asked.

It didn’t seem like anything had, but still…she wanted to hear it from him.

Chaton paused, seeming to consider something...

And then coughed up an akuma.

Marinette stared.

Tikki stared.

Chaton looked back up at them proudly over the fallen butterfly.

Look at the thing he caught! Proud! Proud? Proud of him? Yes?

The akuma twitched, apparently little worse for wear.

Marinette gaped.

“TIKKI!”

_________________

The Butterfly was cleansed and then released.

(Which Chaton was a little sad about since it was supposed to be a gift for her he kept safe till she returned, but then again, it wasn’t made of butter so there probably wasn’t much his Creator could use it for, either.)

Marinette checked over Chaton multiple times to ensure he was unharmed from his exposure to the akuma.

(This, he liked better since it meant she was holding him a lot, though he didn’t like how worried she was because he was fine! Really! He was a good boy!)

Then she hugged him out of relief.

(Much to his joy.)

And gave him the rest of the box of cookies she had promised him.

(Which his tummy liked much more than the Butter Lie.)

All in all, things didn’t turn out too terrible. Though Marinette wasn’t sure she would be making another excursion like this that would leave him alone any time soon.

(Chaton was wondering if he should try hunting the Butter Lies next time….)

And the day ended well...

(Chaton dreamed of Butter Flies and croissants...)