#fossil youth

[soobvape]

OH HIII WAIT SORRY WAIT OKAY LET ME GET THIS OUT RQ !!!!!!!!!!!! OKAY SO HAPPY BIRTHDAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY ( sorry i'm late... timezones... it's still.. the fourth for me right now... ) BUT ANYWAYS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! happy birthday dear friend, i hope you have an amazing day and have a bunch of little treats and get some gifts and everything like that. congrats on being older... or.. whatever... i'm not sure how to word it... ignore that! but yeah, living another year or... smth... along... those lines... !!! throwing you a lovely taeil themed birthday party as we speak 🥳🥳🥳 ... okay i'll go now. but yay!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY !!! STAY COOL !! STAY AWESOME !!! STAY AMAZING !!! STAY OTHER POSITIVE WORDS !!

ERIS OOMFSICLEE 🫂🫂 thank you smsmmm silly 🫶 i hope i get some treats too i am CRAVING a fuckass massive tub of ice cream. like.. so so badly. it’s awful for me rn. my stomach hurts. AND IM LOVINGGG THE TAEIL BIRTHDAY PARTY EVERYONE’S DANCING!!! 🕺🏻🕺🏻 thanku againnn saranghae 😢

[ryandjaxon]

Our children have a right to a future

[xulingkelley]

SKIP SCHOOL FRIDAY SEPT 15TH Join XR Youth Boston & Boston Friday's for Future on Friday , September 15th at 2pm at Boston City Hall Plaza for Global Climate Strike.

his strike is part of the Fridays For Future September 15th Global school strike for climate. The global demand for this strike is "an end to fossil finance". This means divesting from new and current fossil fuel projects and making massive investments in community owned renewable energy projects, as well as making reparations for the historically marginalized people who have already had to face the brunt of climate change.

Boston will be holding a rally and die-in at City Hall Plaza. All ages are encouraged to join in!

RSVP using THIS LINK to be sure to get reminders and any updates.

This event is organized by XR Youth Boston and the Boston Fridays for Future group.

[emmg]

He wrestles with a feverish appetite, this crude and uninvited urge that intrudes at its own whim—though, really, when would such thoughts be welcome? It is not refined, not proper, to sit opposite her and let his mind wander to the gloss of her lips, to wonder how she might taste, to wish that the mascarpone she savors so languidly were his own flesh, heavy and impatient. 

He despises himself for it—wants to be better, finer, something more than hunger in its basest form. And yet, he wants. Sweetness, yes; kindness, yes; love in all its quiet splendor—but also salt and sweat, the lush, slippery heat between her legs, his or hers or both, some mingled thing he might catch on his fingers, press back inside her, trace along her trembling thighs as he coaxes her to completion. 

But it is not only this. No, his disease is greater, more humiliating still. He thinks of grand, maudlin absurdities. Of flowers left on windowsills, of rings slipped onto fingers, of days spent making memories out of nothing. And it is this, not lust, that he fears might truly appall her. Because hunger, after all, is easy to satisfy. It is love, foolish and relentless, that tends to send people running. 

You mustn’t be so sentimental, someone had murmured that to him once. He can no longer summon the speaker’s face, nor their voice, nor even their gender, only the ghostly trace of the words themselves, breathed or sighed, said once or, more likely, many times.

It became, in those gauzy, amber-lit years of his youth, something of a running jest. An affectionate, exasperated refrain, volleyed at him with the regularity of a well-worn melody. 

"Don’t fucking propose to the waitress, Volkarin. She’s bringing you a beer, not subtly signaling that she wants to die in your arms," Johanna would mutter, leaning back against the sticky wood of some dimly lit tavern, where they debated spirits over spirits.

"They’re funding your research, Emmrich, not secretly applying to be the mother of your children."

"Your new assistant is very handsome. Try not to hyperventilate when he hands you a quill."

He laughed along. It was funny, after all. Until, inevitably, it wasn’t. Until the joke, fossilized through sheer, relentless overuse, lost its shape and became a dull thing, something to stub his patience against. Until his forced little chuckles gave way to eye-rolls, to abrupt departures, to a growing sense that he was, in fact, trapped in some long-running farce penned by a particularly untalented playwright.

They were all married now, every last one of them—the tireless jesters, the committee of mirth who, years later, still found delight in flogging the same long-dead horse. And he wasn’t. Not that he was alone, of course. He had his affairs, his amusements, his charming little entanglements. But still, from time to time, a most delicate and specific malice stirred in him. 

He wanted to dig up some particularly malicious little corpse, whisper something truly awful to it, and dispatch it to haunt them. Not in any grand, dramatic fashion. No moaning, no rattling of chains. Just a gentle, relentless nuisance. A ghost of mild inconvenience. A door that won’t quite shut. A draft they can’t find. A whisper when they’re shaving. A misplaced document on the morning of a big presentation. 

The sort of thing a petty man might dream up. And he has, after all, always been petty.

He tried, though. He tries still. To smooth the edges of his affections, to hush the operatic swell of his heart, to trade grand declarations for something gentler, something more palatable. Not entirely, of course—self-betrayal is a vulgar thing. But enough. Just enough to keep from frightening them, from scattering them like startled birds. 

For Rook, mostly. Because Rook is not like him. Rook does not do sentiment. Rook has the supreme, indifferent ease of someone born beautiful, the kind of beauty that turns heads and opens doors without so much as a sidelong glance of acknowledgment. Rook has never had to earn affection—it accumulates around her the way cigarette smoke clings to velvet. Rook rolls her eyes at poetry. Rook, with her lazy smirk and her miraculous ability to construct entire, fully functional sentences composed exclusively of obscenities.

He loves Rook very, very much. He suspects Rook loves him too, in her own peculiar way. She smiles, she laughs, she allows him his embarrassing little effusions, even kisses him for his trouble—then, with perfect timing, calls him a dweeb and steals the last sip of his drink. 

It’s fine. He’s learned to translate. In Rook’s private dialect, dweeb means yes, fine, I suppose you amuse me, a kiss means I would be inconvenienced by your untimely death, and drinking the last of his whiskey? That, of course, is a vow of eternal devotion. Or something like that.

It all collapses into a feverish, tangled catastrophe one evening. A breathless, ill-advised implosion of longing and lust and something dangerously adjacent to reverence. She is so, so beautiful, and he wants to touch her, of course, but also—he wants to read to her. Not the dull, airless sonnets, no, but the real poetry, the ones thick with scandal, with sin, the ones that might cajole that sharp little smirk from her lips. Maybe while his fingers are inside her. Maybe precisely then.

He wants to coax pleasure from her, whispering thick, illicit syllables against her skin, punctuating each lewd phrase with the curl of his knuckles, just to see how the two mingle, just to see which makes her gasp first. To see if she’ll arch into it, if she’ll moan, if she’ll laugh. Because of course she’ll laugh. She always does. Even when he licks his fingers clean, even when he settles between her thighs, even when he finds his own satisfaction in the aftermath of hers, she will be laughing. 

It happens like that, and yet, not like that at all. Because as he collapses against her, boneless and spent, something dreadful and unmistakable unfurls in his chest—too late, of course, always too late. His sentimentality, that incurable affliction, has caught up with him at last, threading itself through his ribs, pressing its damp, foolish hands against his throat. 

He bows his head to her chest, breathing her in, willing himself to contain it, to gather the wet, trembling edges of his absurd little heart and tuck them out of sight. Perhaps she will not notice. Perhaps she will feel only the smile he presses into her skin, as if that might smother the rest. 

A silence—brief, terrible, perceptive. 

"Oh no," she says, and he feels her fingers weave into his hair, loose and lazy and terribly knowing. "What the fuck did I do?" 

He shakes his head—not much, nothing at all, everything. Just a little.

"Nothing, my darling," he says, only slightly unsteady. "Nothing at all. I am—" a soft exhale, an almost-laugh, "—very happy." He swallows. Feels the first pangs of self-reproach begin to bloom, acid-sweet. "Only… allow me a moment to gather myself. It will pass." 

A brief caress at the base of his neck. Then, just as he begins to sink into it, she shifts, shoves, displaces him. He rolls onto his back, compliant, expectant, and she follows, settling astride him, her thighs bracketing his ribs, her cool hands framing his face. 

"Happy?" she confirms. 

"Yes, happy." 

"Hm." A small, satisfied noise. "Good. Happy and pretty. You’re so very pretty." 

She does not elaborate—she never does—but she kisses him. Thoroughly. His cheeks first, then his chin, the arch of his brow, the slow, methodical placement of lips upon skin, like affixing wax seals to letters never meant to be sent. His eyes, last. She drags a fingertip down, drawing his lids closed as if dimming a lamp. Then, the press of her mouth, warm, dry, familiar. And then—oh.

The flick of her tongue, feline and quick, slips between his lashes, parting what she has only just sealed, grazing the raw, unguarded wet beneath. He flinches; she giggles, breath skimming his cheek, unreasonably pleased with herself. 

She does it again, slower this time, the tip of her tongue tracing the curve of his eyelid. Then once more, lower now, across the ridge of his cheekbone, the corner of his mouth. A methodical, absentminded mapping—kisses pressed to skin with no particular urgency, a grazing of teeth when the impulse strikes her. He lies still beneath her, utterly at her mercy, though she is hardly in a hurry to exploit it. She seems content merely to taste him, her breath leaving damp traces that cool, then tighten, then disappear. 

Chocolate, yes, still lingering from earlier, something dark and rich that settles at the back of his throat just from breathing her in. Salt, too, a faint sting where sweat beads along the curve of her upper lip. 

Finally, an exhale. A minute adjustment of her weight as she lifts her head, pleased, apparently, with whatever inscrutable calculation she has been making. A kiss, light as a comma, stamped onto the very center of his mouth. 

“There you go,” she announces, stretching her arms overhead, yawning into her wrist, smiling that slow, pleased smile of hers. “All cleaned up. Not a tear in sight, since you seem to find your own emotions so mortifying.” 

"Thank you," he says, and, disastrously, feels like he might start crying again. 

"Mm-hm." A pause. Her fingers tapping absently against his cheek. "There’s a joke in here somewhere." 

"Is there?"

A frown, thoughtful, exaggerated, her brows knitting together in careful concentration before giving way to a terrible smile. "Yes." A beat. Then, the telltale flicker of something truly indecent behind her eyes. "Something about staying hydrated. Or maybe—" a pause, as if she is weighing her options "—eating out your third eye." 

He laughs then immediately chokes as she presses her hand to his throat for balance, the casual weight of it cutting off just enough air to send his body into brief, ungraceful revolt. 

"Never short on dreadful puns, I see." His voice, when it returns, is slightly hoarse. 

"Never," she agrees. Then, with a flourish of indulgence, she leans down again, kissing his eyelids one by one. “So you continue doing this—” kiss, kiss, kiss “—and I'll continue doing that.” 

Disgracefully, absurdly, he cries again, even as she laughs, even as her laughter spreads like ink in water, pulling him under, until the whole thing disintegrates into some ungovernable mixture of mirth and misery. He is laughing too—helplessly, wet-faced, ridiculous—and she, entirely unbothered by his descent into sentimentality, licks at the salt on his cheeks like a cat, or perhaps some particularly devoted dog, calling him pretty, pretty, pretty in that lazy, drawling way of hers, as if the word itself were a charm, a refrain, a verdict.

He wants to ask her why—why this word, why now, why, of all possible things, she has settled on this ludicrous, ill-fitting descriptor as he lies before her, blotchy and unsightly and utterly, embarrassingly undone. But she only snorts into his collarbone, her breath warm, unbothered, and the chant continues, pretty, pretty, pretty, until he is left with no choice but to accept it.

In the morning, his eyes are red. Lucanis notices. Davrin notices. The two, incapable of letting a thing be, set about turning his misfortune into sport, taking turns to see who can unearth the most appallingly indecent explanation.

He feels a migraine approaching. 

And then Rook arrives, deposits a cup of coffee into his hands, and, without so much as a glance at him, declares, “He snorted too much powder last night. Leave him alone.” 

Ah. 

Oh.

He sits there, staring at her, vaguely appalled, impossibly infatuated, hopelessly starry-eyed. Very well, then. She has let sentiment in—however unwittingly, however carelessly—and now she will drown in it. And then, once she is thoroughly waterlogged, he will buy her all the gold in Nevarra. 

[pluviatrix]

ive been reading garbage romantasy lately and it's truly truly awful but i've figured out a huge symptom of fantasy worlds that i know i won't like: i cannot imagine old women or children existing in them.

everyone is late teens-early thirties. these are worlds flattened in their demographics to the coveting of sexually available youth. there are no mothers with young children, no sons caring for older mothers, no elderly people who aren't evil and no children that aren't cardboard cutouts instead of developing people.

i knowww this is a symptom of me not being the target audience for this, and i understand that people don't come to these books for complex worlds but for erotica and romance, i know! so this is my caveat before i rant more that i'm not being super serious i'm just discussing something i've noticed i appreciate in more complex worlds

it especially stings in medieval fantasy (and by that i mean largely Western medieval fantasy) settings. it reeks of an inability or refusal to conceptualize a society and communities (or lack thereof) isolated from modern capitalist ideals, particularly the nuclear family. you don't know the kind of labor elderly women did to keep the world running in the premodern era.

who taught your nondescript background serfs to embroider the belts they're wearing? who made their 'roughspun tunics?' who weaved their blankets? who cares for the children while the parents are working in the fields? who brews their ale? who passes on their stories, medical knowledge, songs? why aren't there any older women in your clergy, helping manage your estates, present in your royal court? who are your midwives? who does your teenaged protagonist learn from and look up to?

beyond that, how do you treat your old women? are they all evil witches, all tradition-obsessed backward fossils, all smothering female relatives, all background extras? are they and their bodies cheap punchlines and jumpscares? where do your women go when they're too old for you to imagine them with sexual appetites and complex personalities beyond grandmothers and jealous evil hags?

children exist as infants or late teens only, ironing out the uncomfortable ugly years of a person becoming a person, teens without acne and without social awkwardness and fully developed in their competencies and personalities without the difficult part of growing up and learning included. babies are allowed because they're cute, they're basically props, a goalpost for the main romance of the book to satisfy heteropatriarchal expectations of couples instead of the main characters subverting any expectations. not to mention that most of these protagonists i can't imagine being 12, 13 years old. they sprung up fully formed at 19 before being whisked away by a love interest so overtly sexual he circles around to being sexless and utterly unappealing.

don't get me STARTED on how i hate seeing characters propping up relationships of main characters instead of being complex on their own.

this post is about ACOTAR.

[spurbleu]

oldman!price x reader angsty (?) drabble

‧︎✳︎༚︎‧︎⁎︎°︎

age leaves john price in tantrum.

he despises what it’s done to his body. the creak in his knees when he walks, the strain in his shoulder when he reaches across the table. steam engine, ironclad and coal hot, neglected the rust on the belly of its stirrups. adopted a sudden fragility he cannot stand.

takes a literal force of nature to get him to retire, and he grieves it like a father. it, in all honesty, was one. taught him how to shoot straight, how to hold his men, how to be without feeling like he’s an imposter in his own skin. forced him to grow up- which is ironically exactly what ended their alliance.

nursed whiskeys, fattened ice kissing the base. smoked like somehow- fossilized in ligero- he’d find his youth again. blistered under reluctant mortality, indulged in fatal vices because if anything is putting him in the grave it’s a gun or a cigar.

a pot never boils watched, yet you stay at your designated post by the doorway while he broods (he’s a dramatic at heart), storm clouds stamped on the collapse of his shoulders.

if you were one of his soldiers, you let him fester.

but you were his wife.

it wasn’t like you hadn’t aged yourself, silver linings sprouting from your scalp, sun spots and bleached knuckles. even so, you found time to pick up his medications, comb through amateur food blogs for gut health and bone pain, roll the aches out of his shoulder before bed. you were kind- and it was insulting.

spitfire catching on the burs of his muttonchops- unfamiliar with dependence. he was a captain for Christ’s sake- alloy lighthouse, built by cement and sheer fucking will. he didn’t need to be hand fed vitamin C and dragged to yoga class. he pitched barbed wire, dug his shallow trench and intended lay in it.

until, one evening, thunder strikes him out of dewy acrimony. he clambers up the stairs, musk of tobacco and spite plants a grimy boot in the oak. he glances over the railing, and stills.

bathroom door, cutting swaddled atmosphere with thin bisque, a pyramid down the center of the hall that created the illusion of darker corners. centered in the odd, domestic scaffolding was you- shower damp and concentrated.

it was like watching a bird preen feathers. tugging at the sags, yanking at the silvers, skin pitching at the nostril and eyes narrowing into thin keyways. and if he squinted, sniper accuracy rendered tears. sallow river bed on your flushed cheeks, clumped lashes, a frown that broke hearts.

“you’re never struggling alone, John,” you had said one evening, when he had been foolishly apathetic, “i’ll make sure of that.”

he hadn’t said anything.

guilt squirms at the base of his neck. the stranger named comfort that swelled within your embrace unnerved him so much he had forgotten to introduce himself. and now, milking moonlit lighting, with a wife who thought he was hiding from her, he called himself what he had never been as a soldier.

a coward.

you were making tea the next morning, windows surrendering a warmth when the day was still docile. it was while you were humming that your husband, sneaky bastard, folds you into the plush of his chest, drowsy lips dragging on the cusp of your shoulder.

“you always look so beautiful in the mornin, darlin.”

and it was true. you’ve never looked better to the old man.

[belladonazeppole]

The Many Suitors of Miss Fortune

"I fucking knew it!" Adam yelled while pointing at Husk, this asshole reborn as a sinner and didn't took him long enough to come to the hotel asking for a place to stay since it look that lot of sinners could recognizr him and they weren't happy.

Charlie, the bleeding heart that she had, accept him even if she wasn't excited of him be here but she believe that everybody deserve redemption even if that person was Adam who took a liking on Husk.

"You almost convince me that you were a dude!" For some reason Adam believe that Husk is a woman. Maybe it was his chest fur since Angel gave him a shampo that gave Husk more volume or maybe Adam is into woman with deep voices or he's just a fucking moron. "You look so hot that I can get over you having the bitchest personality in this dump."

"I SWEAR TO FUCKING GOD YOU CAN'T BE THIS FUCKING STUPID! " Husk yelled angrily at Adam, he has this argument to many times and just fially he succed in making him see reason in that thick skull of his."I'M JUST IN DRAG!"

The fact that he comes from Adam just makes him lose hope.

Sadly he can't make this moron see reason but he was right in one thing, he look really good. Husk has to congratulate Angel for making his grumpy old ass look this great. Husk was wearing a golden-yellow backless dress with a slip on the side, golden heels to match, a short wig that was the same color that his fur. It make Husk remember his youth when he do some drag as "Lady Luck" but that was when he was alive.

"As crude and imbecile Adam can be, he is right for once, you look quite wonderful tonight, my dear Husker." Said Alastor while spawning out nowhere in the stool of the bar while glaring at Husk. That was actually kinda sweet from Alastor since after their deal was broken their relationship was.... weird. Alastor sometimes tried to treat still like his pet but now Husk could actually refuse.

Alastor still was a bitch in deer clothing but maybe they can move on from their owner/pet relationship, maybe even making Alastor see Husk as an actual person and not his cat.

"Thanks, Al. That—

"Your welcome! But I do have a problem while the dress fits you like a glove the color just don't see like the right one." He squints his eyes while looking at him up and down to then snapping his fingers making the dress changing from golden-yellow to red, "There! It isn't better? Red was always a color that look better on you, my friend."

Or maybe not.

"No thanks. This color fits me way better than red." He said with a smug smile while snaping his fingers and, return the dress from Alastor signature red to his original golden-yellow, which make one of Alastor's ears twitch.

"Just ignore them you can't deal with stupid or batshit crazy." Said Angel while not giving Adam or Alastor much of a thought, the first just flip him in return while the latter strains his smile, "Now give me a spin! I want to see all my hard work before your date ravish you!"

"DATE WITH FUCKING WHO?" Adam yelled now angry knowing that the hottie that he was trying to bang was gonna be bang for somebody else.

"Husker!?" Alastor was shocked that his former (pet) associate was having date he believe that he and Angel were going to one of their silly "going out" but that somebody was having interest in his oldest... friend. It make Alastor feel angry and possesive. Meanwhile, Husk just rolls his eyes and ignore the outburst of these dumbass but still does what his friend ask him, after all Angel did help him and looking like this-

"This is just a first date, Angel."

"Just do what I'll do."

"I won't do anal in the first date." He cringes at bit at the sound of radio interference but refuse to giving Alastor the attention, "Buuh you whore!" Angel said jokingly while Husk just snorted at him.

"There you are!" A new voice make himself know, that was coming from the TV, it was Vox, who succed in coming out of the TV before Alastor could destroy it. "Fuck you old fossil!!" He yell while giving the finger to the radio demon.

Ever since Vox saw Alastor defeat agaisnt Adam he become more bold in entering to the hotel to mock the other overlord and old rival much to everybody else annoyance. Even fake dating Husk to have more info but the dumbass become more invested in Husk.

He may become Husk unofficial sugar daddy.

They don't even fuck.

Vox just gaves Husk money like an idiot for doing nothing.

Again Vox is a moron.

"Are you gonna fuck a fucking TV instead of having me? The Dickmaster?" Adam asked in disbelieve, fuck he fall really hard in this one. "He looks soo desperate."

"Inded and needy." Alastor glare harder at Vox, "I would expect that you have a better taste than this, Husker." At hint of dissapointment was in Alastor voice. Vox, for the first time, didn't put a lot of mind on them, "And you two are better?" He asked while crossing his arms to them point to Adam, "You! A broke fallen angel that is so fucking desperate that come to the place that tried to destroy in the first place!" Now pointing at Alastor, "And you! A coward who escape in battle and treat him like a pet at best!"

Now looking smug, "While I'm a powerful overlord that has tons of money and can make any of his whishes reality."

"I mean he isn't wrong."

"True, but Husk has a date with somebody waaayy better than any of you guys."

"WHO?" The three of them ask in anger.

"Hoo Mama!"

The three sinners slowly begin to turn around to see Lucifer the King of Hell with a bottle of apple cider and his mouth wide open at the sight of Husk, so he was the date.

That motherfucker.

Lucifer seeing that there were more people watching him pulled himself together as best he could, failure of course, "I mean…uh- You look beautiful tonight Hu- I mean Miss Fortune, yes, that color suits you excellently." He said hurriedly as he handed the bottle of apple cider to Husk who only smiled at his reaction.

He hands the bottle to Angel, "Thanks, Duckie." He laughs a little as the redness in his cheeks appears, "But you have Angel to thank, he's the one who made my geezer self look this awesome."

"Uuhhh, thank you Angel." He said a little awkward as with the use of his magic made another bottle appear, "A thank you for making Husk look amazing…I mean more! More amazing than you normally look, you always look good but now? I almost fainted…"

He really was Charlie's father.

The same verbal diarrhea when they're nervous.

It was adorable if he was honest.

"I understand you look amazing today too, Duckie." He said once again using Lucifer's nickname which only made him smile more and more relaxed, "I'll wait for you outside."

"Thanks, Short King" Said Angel with the bottle in his hand and leaving to his room, "Have a good fuck you two!" He just waves his hand a bit awkwardly, "Don't worry I'll make sure Husk has a night he won't forget."

He was ready to leave until he sees the three sinners looking at him with daggers in their eyes, his awkward posture changes to an arrogant one while he flashes them the finger, "You three want to be me so badly right now."

"Adam, looks like third time's the charm after all. Alfred I'm sorry for not being able to stay for a conversation but I have date right now…. and who are you?" He said the last while pointing at Vox but shakes his head nonchalantly, "It doesn't matter if I'm honest. I have go to my date with Miss Fortune and if I'm lucky it will soon be Mrs Fortune." He said while sticking his tongue out between his fingers.

"Toodles!" He cheerfully as he leaves the three of them alone.

The King had a date and felt really lucky if he is honest!

(This takes inspiration by a small convo that @adyophene and I had it was too good for me not write.)

[politijohn]

Source

Slowly, courts and legal experts are beginning the process of truly holding the fossil fuel industry accountable for its planetary destruction. Students and youth leading the way.

[thegnomelord]

Shark Merperson reader is real gud.

- 🦈

(HOLY FUCK. THANK YOU TO WHICH EVER ANON REQUESTED THAT BECAUSE I FUCKIN LOVE SHARKS.

Now Im thinking of a Price x Reader, because shars are the oldest species known to exist. Obviously sharks arent immortal, they've just been on this earth way b4 tress bloody existed.

So Im thinking the readers an eldritch creature, they represent sharks as a whole, as long sharks exsist they exsist. Heck they mights of even of been Prices mentor when he was in his draconic 100s? (Late 20s?).

Imagine Price missing his friend calls him up to see hows hes doing. Reader elated to meet an old friend, accepts the invitation to meets up with him. Reader definitely scolds him for lossing a wing, honestly is pertrified Price lost a piece of himself and thought he was retiring due to it. Cut ahort to him smacking him slap dab on the head when he learns he's lost it a long time ago and didnt tell him.

Cue wholesome interactions th 141 and etc. Heck maybe some romance with Price.

Just a blurb i had yo tell you abt)

Okay, this tickles my eldrich abomination trying to act human itch

CW:SFW, eldritch reader, kissing

Price knows you're there the second he steps onto the old wooden pier, able to smell seaweed and brine and something in the air — what he thinks the bottom of the ocean smells like, old rot of decaying whales and older heat of geothermal vents — the soft wind billowing his hair like the breathing of an elderly beast.

He knows you're watching him, passively at least, washed up mermaid purses dotting the beach to give you a glimpse of the world above the waves through the yolks vital for the pup's survival, able to dream of the warm sun and course sand while you slumber beneath the waves.

"Oi, ser, yer look like a wee lass waiting for her sailor." Soap's sharp voice cuts through the air, the werewolf far too energized for his own good, the sand in his fur not dampening his mood when he can just shake himself off and flick the grains on Simon.

"Hah," Price snorts, "Maybe I am." He tilts his head back to the sea, sharp eyes watching the breaking waves. "Time to wake up old friend." He mutters your mangled name under his breath, mortal lips and vocal cords unable to replicate your own voice.

The young ones in his team lack the sight needed to notice your form slowly rise from the sea like a submarine breaking through the ice, only the visible flicker of air and the receding water keying them in. Price old enough to see you without needing the inner surface of his skull to be dotted with eyes. Though even he sees your real form like a man having a stroke — vaguely familiar at first yet the details are undefinable — flesh and sea melding together without rhyme or reason, long strings of seaweed bearing miniature eyes with pups wriggling inside, cookie cutter sharks boring holes through finless corpses so long eel sharks may form ever reforming sinews, fossilized bone and old rock giving giving support to the massive insult to reality's laws; birth and life wrapped up in death.

You're an affront to logic. And with one sneeze from existence itself you're human standing in front of him.

Eerily human.

Perfectly human.

Almost.

"What the fuck?" He can faintly hear Gaz's voice, all of them only now noticing you stand where you weren't previously.

Your hand touches his back before he even registers you move, always slightly damp, "When did this happen?" You ask as you trace the spot where his wing used to be. "What did this?"

"And a 'hello' to you too sweetheart." He clasps a hand around your waist, purring softly in greeting as he pulls you closer to his chest. Even if he sees you once every few centuries, even if you don't possess the ability to reciprocate, his love for you is as youthful as it was when he was but a wyrm.

Your facial features remain neutral like the ones of sunken statues, but you blink, and for a few seconds he can see that yawning abyss in your eyes. "Hi." You say, your hand still tracing the bump created by atrophied flight muscles, trying to judge how fresh it is. "Explain."

Your tone sounds like a predator baring it's teeth, but he knows you wouldn't harm him. "In a lil' bit." He snorts, puts pressure on your back until he forces your legs to move. "Come, want you to meet my boys."

The introductions are odd on both ends considering you hadn't spoken with people other than Price since that Icarus of a passenger ship mistook your fin for an iceberg and they've never met an old one like you. But you like them, they compliment Price just like the small scale he gave you makes the pearls and gold offered to you through the ages shine more.

Even if your face is unreadable, somehow they can figure out you're not too amused when you hear he'd lost his wing during a mission. "I told you arrogance would cost you." You at least you can mimic a sigh as you rub your head, "At least you retired." You say,

"We wish!" Soap snorts before he can help it, and the next thing they hear is a horrific crack that has them jumping out of their skin.

Your head had whipped 180 degrees with the rest of your body remained in place, the laws of nature nothing more but blurry guidelines. "You. . .did retire?" You ask, voice like the roar of a whirlpool.

"About that," Price starts, unable to finish his thought as you slap him upside the head as if he's still the whelp who thought he could brave an ocean storm.

"You'll put me in the grave." You growl, holding him by the ear, words spilling from your mouth like seawater filling the empty bowels of a ship. "I swear your scaly hide hasn't learned a single thing-"

"Should we help?" Gaz wonders as they watch you chastise their captain like he's a boy.

"No, this is great entertainment." Ghost chuckles.

"Want me ta grab the popcorn?" Johnny ads, already snacking, tail thumping against Simon's leg and growling playfully when Gaz reaches for the snacks.

Eventually your anger relents, mood changing as swiftly as the tide. You spend the time they have left learning about the men he's chosen as his hoard. Kyle's a bit weary of you just due to his harpy nature, but soon enough you two can be found sitting on the pier and fishing, and if you purposely make the waves flow so a big fish snags on Kyle's line, Price never says anything about it, not when his boy has a smile as big as the sun when he looks at the gigantic fish flopping on his hook.

You attempting to help Soap cook the barbeque, but you're fine motor skills are rusty after all these years of slumber, so the food is slightly burnt but Price loves when his food's basically charcoal and eats it with a smile, especially as it keeps you from telling all the embarrassing stories you have of him, from when he got his ass bit by a squid to when he was so horny he ended up rutting against an extra curvy piece of rock, though the rest have already heard enough dirt to bury him for the next several decades.

Unfortunately for Price, you and Ghost hit it off like a house on fire, and Ghost ends up learning far too many ways to hurt people without killing them that most definitely are against the Geneva conventions but you pull seniority on it. Simon in turn, teaches you how to play cards, which, when you're literally a god that can see almost everything including your opponent's cards, means the shmucks Simon ropes into playing you and Simon end up with empty pockets.

As the sun stars to dip behind the horizon you wind up sitting next to Price by the fire, the others splashing in the water.

You feel his wing spread behind your back to pull you closer to him, "I missed this." He says, knowing you won't comment on the 'I missed you' hidden behind his vellum words.

"Last time we met like this Napoleon was still emperor." You hum, a small yawn escaping you, sharp tips of shark teeth peeking from human gums. "And you had two wings." You can't help but point out, making it clear you've not forgiven him about not informing you.

Price pointedly ignores your later comment, his hand tentatively, almost shyly, reaching down to sit on top of yours. "Afraid I'll forget about you?"

His pulse picks up when you shift your hand to hold his, fingers lacing together when you don't have a tail as a human. "You wait for me." You shrug, holding your free arm up, reality wheezing for a few moments before his scale is suddenly in your hand, shiny and unharmed just as it was when he'd given it to you all those years ago. "And I dream of you."

His eyes widen and heart melts, a purr rumbling in his chest "C'mere sweetheart," He rumbles and pulls you into a kiss, free hand holding your chin stable.

You taste of salt and blood, of chilling cold and boiling heat, of something ancient and familiar and Price drinks it all down like a babe, tongue licking in your mouth and fangs nibbling on your lip, feeling you respond, the touch of hungering god as soft as silk, just to him.

But he knows this won't last.

A shark has no reason to stay on land, and a dragon can't survive underwater regardless of how much he wants. Soon you'll return to slumber, and Price won't know when he'll see you again, if he'll see you again, or if you'll learn of his passing when your waves swallow up his ashes.

He doesn't notice the prickling in his eyes but you do, wiping a stray tear with the pad of your thumb, your other hand still wrapped around his. "Don't worry John," You say, statue features finally cracking into a small smile, "I'll stay for a little while." You say and lead him into another kiss, the other members of TF141 leaving you two to catch up on lost time...

[utilitycaster]

I said this late last night but actually, I was serious: I really do feel like the stasis bubbles are ultimately at the core of Ludinus's attitude towards Aeor, and the fact that he doesn't seem to have focused on them at all is the key to understanding his agenda.

I don't believe the stasis bubbles are a lost cause. I think there's certainly failure points, ie, I think if one does not go about this with utmost care then yes, the people within will rapidly age or wither to dust and be lost. But I don't think a successful release of the Aeorians in these bubbles is impossible within the canon of Critical Role. I think it is very, very difficult, but I think it could be done.

Ludinus doesn't seem to have focused on this at all - not even a half-assed attempt. He's gone for a literal moonshot, connecting with something he didn't even know existed and destroying Molaesmyr in the process. To his limited credit I think it's entirely likely he didn't know about these stasis bubbles until Aeor excavations began about 60 years ago, but I don't think Aeor became his focus until he realized he could strip it for parts: both for its technology, and as part of his propaganda machine.

Ludinus's grudge against the gods began with the end of the Calamity, in his own youth, in those final battles, and we know that he was already studying mages like Laerryn and using the harness to extend his lifespan while he lived in Molaesmyr. He may very well have known about Aeor, but his goal was to kill the gods. He only just saw what was in the Occultus Thalamus now.

Aeor is a useful tool to him, and it's a better tool to him if he can act like it's lost forever and everyone is dead. Aeorians only help him if they're doomed corpses. If he cared about the deaths of the people of Aeor and the culture of the city, why let his general repeatedly target FCG, one of its only current survivors? Why shut down the researchers from Uthodurn and the Dynasty in the past 7 years? Why push towards this Thalamus even as his army falls to Dominox when the stasis bubbles are just outside? Are those collapses Essek noted just the ravages of time, or was he destroying the city even further?

He doesn't really care about Aeorians in the slightest. He wants to kill the gods, and treats this mass slaughter and cultural destruction of Aeor as a boon that fell into his lap so that he can say "look what they took from you" to the world that he's been ravaging and slaughtering his way through himself for the past few months (and, on a slower but no less violent scale, the last millennium). The second he lets one of the Aeormatons brought back by D speak? Or brings back one of the thousands of Aeorians who could, perhaps, survive and come back and even revive that lost knowledge? Well, then it's not lost forever at the hands of the gods now, is it, and that makes for bad press, and we can't have that now, can we, not when we're about to crack open the moon and eat the gods! Sorry that a phoenix killed your family and no one could resurrect them, but you know how it is. Let bygones be bygones, unless they're his trauma and his trauma alone.

Any claim that he cares about Aeor is a lie. He cares for himself and no one else. He loves that Aeor is gone because it's always been gone to him and, like any fossil, is only good as fuel for his own agenda. And we and Bells Hells are about to see a glimpse of life in the city that's more convenient to him when it's dead, and he thinks that's going to help his cause.

[votevotevotevotevote]

Why young people need to vote

By request, here's the text from the screenshot I shared previously. Still a good thing to show to every young person you know!

Why things won't truly change until young people vote like old people:

The government is, to put in bluntly, anti-youth — the needs and desires of young people are given the lowest priority. Social security is considered an untouchable “third rail” for politicians, yet those same politicians pay little price for ignoring climate change or paying nothing but lip service to confronting it. The US does little to address soaring education and housing costs, which disproportionately affect young people, despite being willing to spend nearly a trillion dollars annually on its military. In a particularly egregious affront, the country runs huge budget deficits — thereby offloading part of the cost of running the government onto future generations — while subsidizing fossil fuels, which means that young people are being forced to pay for their own destruction.

The reason behind all of this is simple: Old people vote at much higher rates than young people, so elected officials are incentivized to fight for them. Politicians do more to address energy prices than the future of the planet because slightly higher gas prices cause them to be punished at the polls, and young people aren’t there to back them up with their own votes.

The good news, of course, is that this can change. The beauty of democracy is that we get to choose who’s in the government, and young people exist in large enough numbers to be the driving force behind that decision. Millennials and Generation Z combine for (depending on the specific definition of the millennial generation you use) about 45% of eligible voters, but low voting rates mean that we don’t get much of a seat at the table in determining public policy. Younger generations can make up 45% of the electorate by voting at the same rates as older generations, but that’s not all — if young people can get each other to vote at higher rates than old people, we can make up a majority of the electorate and thus gain a controlling stake in the government, forcing it to finally work for us.

Tired of being screwed over by your own government? Angry at being forced to pay for your own destruction? Register to vote, and get all of your friends to do so as well. Let’s beat the boomers at their own game.

Note that (if you live in a state other than North Dakota) you have to register to vote before actually voting, and most states have registration deadlines that fall before election day — some as soon as October 6 or 7. Check your state’s deadline here, and make sure to register in time!

(source: outvote-the-boomers.blogspot.com)

[legallybrunettedotcom]

progressiveness and open mindedness are like these things that are apparently inherent to the youth meanwhile the youth today is like "you're 29 and in the club? ew fossil."

[ozzgin]

Pickle and Baki men reacting to pickle and his prehistoric feral daughter reader.

I like that we’ve done a proper dissection of Pickle’s potential family tree. From mate, to sister, and now daughter. Somewhere in the ancient mountains they’ll probably find a gigantic fossilized block and it’ll turn out to be Pickle’s mom of ridiculous size (like Sidon next to King Dorephan from BotW). Jokes aside, the Internet seems to agree that Pickle is in his 20s from the young facial features and general life expectancy, so his daughter would be rather young.

Baki Headcanons: Pickle’s Daughter! Reader

Featuring Pickle’s challengers and his daughter that seems to take after him in personality.

The news of a prehistoric human were too great to not make their way to all media outlets, though the scientists had managed to conceal your existence for the sake of privacy. They didn’t want a poor, confused child to be surrounded by microphones and cameras the second you landed. What the research team didn’t anticipate was that a bunch of dangerous men would sneak into Pickle’s provisional enclosure in order to measure up his strength. When Doppo broke out of the fake T.Rex and spotted the scattered toys on the floor, he could feel the bile kicking at the back of his throat. “Stop! There’s a child in here!” His voice boomed across the room and the fighters froze. Yuujirou glanced at him, incredulous, and was about to question his sanity when a small figure emerged from the carved tree trunk.

As a loving father himself, Doppo was ashamed to have potentially endangered this innocent soul. He demanded that the men exit the premises at once, and most complied without much protest. The Ogre, however, didn’t like the idea of leaving empty handed. He doesn’t care about his own damn children, why should he concern himself with an unrelated brat? He proceeded to break the security glass, ignoring the pleas of common decency. At that point Pickle was standing next to you, completely unbothered by the scene unraveling before him. He looked at you with an encouraging smile, and with the approval of your father confirmed, you didn’t waste any more time. You rushed towards the intruder and took a swing at him.

The remaining men prepared their stances, ready to shield you from Yuujirou’s anger. He observed your reaction after hitting him. His muscles were hard and the recoil shot through your entire arm. How exciting. You were gleaming with youthful enthusiasm. Yuujirou couldn’t help but laugh at the sight. Now that was a child made for battle. He lowered his large hand and ruffled your hair vigorously. You didn’t entirely understand the gesture, but you grinned at the stranger, flashing your chiseled fangs.

At least one worry has been cleared: fights leave you unfazed. They won’t have to hold back when challenging Pickle. Retsu is somewhat worried at the idea of a child whose main form of entertainment is violence. Katsumi shares a similar train of thought, although he’s quick to be charmed by your cheers and curiosity towards his martial arts. Baki finds you cute and captivating. Both him and Jack like to joke that you’re the child Yuujirou would’ve wanted. You abruptly showed up one day and potentially cleared them of the Hanma inheritance. Not that such matters interest you. You might be a fighting prodigy in the eyes of these men, but you prefer your role as Pickle’s dauntless daughter.

[lonely-ey3s]

With All My Love : Chapter 13 | road trip - part three

Pairings: joel miller x f!reader (no outbreak)

Word count: 8k

Chapter Summary: The final few days of your trip to Oregon allude to something new potentially coming into your life.

Chapter warnings: SMUT (18+ MDNI), unprotected piv, mentions of oral f!receiving, vomiting (possibly morning sickness? 🫣), FLUFF, joel being an absolute lover, angst, soft!joel, use of Spanish but with translations, use of y/n.

a/n: part 4 of the chemistry between us will be posted tuesday✨ as a reminder, requests are open! please send prompts or things you would like to see more of!

Dividers by: @saradika-graphics 

Main Masterlist

The drive from the hotel to the coast was roughly ten hours with traffic as well as stopping momentarily at Multnomah Falls to grab a few photos and hike up to the bridge that lay perfectly towards the top.

Joel at one point gave Sarah a piggy back up as she complained her leg was bugging her, jokingly of course. However, it gave you the perfect chance to practice getting candid shots as you all walked. 

Once you got into your quaint bed and breakfast that Joel reserved it was late at night.

With it being a bed and breakfast, at least for the next couple of days, you and Joel would have some privacy back as you'd have your own rooms. Sarah also noted how it would be nice to get some sleep without her dad's snoring. 

The next day you all woke up at your own times– finally not being pressed to be in the car by a certain hour. Sarah slept in until 10 am, however to your surprise, you were up at 7 am feeling sick to your stomach. You quickly ran to the bathroom and heaved over the toilet as quietly as you could as you threw up. 

You were sure the bathroom door was closed as knelt by the toilet, coughing as you vomited all that you had from the night before. You must’ve eaten something that upset you, nothing else made sense other than possible food poisoning.

Once you felt your stomach settle you stood and washed your face with some cold water, instantly feeling much better. 

You took a deep breath, looking at yourself in the mirror before turning your head to the sounds of waves crashing and seagulls squawking from the open window-- offering some fresh air.

You smiled and closed your eyes, this reminded you of when you were younger-- growing up near the coast. Memories of early morning beach runs in high school, field trips to the beach to find seashells and possible fossils, and even at one point dragging Levi to the beach for a picnic. 

You quietly left the bathroom, looking down as Joel was sound asleep in bed, dreaming of something kind and warm as he had a small smile on his lips. 

You leaned down softly and brushed some hairs out of his face. His hair had been growing out over the past few weeks. It was at a length now that would sometimes get a little more messy than when he had it shorter. You liked it this length though, it made him look youthful and softer around the edges.

You also didn’t mind that it was nice when you two fooled around– giving you something to hold onto.

He stirred in his sleep, that smile getting a little bigger but then he turned to his side, humming softly. 

You smiled lovingly and leaned down, softly kissing his cheek before pulling the sheets more onto him then leaving the bedroom and going out to the kitchen. 

Last night with it being darker when you guys arrived, you didn’t get to see a lot of the outside view but now that the sun was breeching over the horizon, it was breathtaking. To add to the beautiful landscape that you had practically out your backdoor— there was a balcony with a little bench swing attached to it, along with a hot tub towards the end. It couldn’t be more perfect. 

You set the coffee to brew and then grabbed a couple of blankets from the linen closet. You also made sure to grab your book, and your camera and take them outside, setting them on the swing.

You underestimated how chilly it was, however, you were only in a t-shirt and booty shorts, so you grabbed Joel’s jacket that he had left on the back of the couch. Putting it on, the jacket completely drowned you, however, it was perfectly warm and would do the trick to keep you comfortable while you had some morning coffee and read your book. 

After pouring yourself a mug you couldn’t help but skip outside, sitting on the bench, curling up under the blankets, and setting the mug on a little table next to you. 

This was it. The beach, the sunrise, the smell of salt water, it had you at complete peace. This was exactly what you needed. 

About a half hour later you heard the backdoor open and looked up from your book to see Joel with a mug in hand, softly smiling in his boxers and a hoodie, “Room for one more?” he said, his voice thick with sleep still. 

You smiled brightly and nodded, opening up the blanket for him to sit under, “Always, cowboy…” 

He softly shut the door and came over to you, lightly pecking your lips as he sat down, “Good morning, mi vida…” he said softly. 

You smiled and brushed his hair back over his ear, “Mornin’ sleepy…” you then turned your attention back to your book.

He put his arm over the back of the swing, allowing you to lean into him as he gently and slowly started to swing the bench, taking a sip of his coffee, “How long have you been up?” he turned and lightly kissed your temple. 

“Less than an hour… woke up with a bit of an upset stomach, but I’m feelin’ much better now.” you softly spoke, getting lost in your book. 

“I’m sorry you were sick, why didn’t you wake me? I woulda sat with you or ran to get you somethin’...” he rubbed your arm gently with his thumb as he wrapped his arm now around you, pulling you closer. 

“You were asleep and it was nothin’ that I couldn’t handle…” you looked up and smiled at him before kissing his cheek and then returning to your book. 

He softly kissed your head and then nudged his nose gently into you, “I just…” he softly sighed, feeling shy for wanting to be there for you as he sometimes felt overbearing but then kissed your head again, “Will you just next time, wake me up, I wanna be there for you when you’re feelin’ like that baby…” 

You sighed softly and nodded, smiling warmly as you turned to look at him again, “Ok, I promise…” you kissed him as he leaned down and pecked your lips. 

You two sat there for another hour, enjoying each other's company, sometimes talking about memories you had growing up as you’d hear or see something that reminded you of a memory. 

However regardless, you both enjoyed sitting together, drinking your coffee, and being wrapped in each other's arms.

Later that day you all got dressed and walked into town, doing some light window shopping and grabbing a bite to eat for lunch. 

As you walked past the harbour you saw a local seafood restaurant deboning and slicing up their fish outside then tossing the remains to a group of seals in the water. Sarah thought that was by far the coolest thing you had all seen up until now. 

Afterward, you all continued your walk down the other side of the street and walked into a shop called ‘Wave and Stone’. It was filled with local crystals, physic items, palm, and tea leaf readings, and then a case filled with some really pretty rings.

Sarah and Joel were walking around, looking around while you slowly admired the rings in the front cases. A pretty blue lace agate ring caught your eye and you smiled at the older lady who had a name tag with ‘Aurora’ on it, sitting behind the counter, “Excuse me, could I try on a ring you have in the case?” 

She turned around and nodded, “Of course, which one?” 

You smiled and pointed to the one you liked, “How much?” 

She pulled it out and handed it to you, telling you its price.

You put it on your right hand and smiled, it was a perfect fit and would be a nice permanent piece for your daily jewelry, “I’ll take it.” 

She nodded and smiled, “Perfect. Anything else or just this?” taking it back from you gently, then started walking over to the register. 

You walked with her as she walked over, “I think for me, that’ll be it, but I’ll wait for my fiance and daughter to be finished before I pay, is that ok?” 

She nodded and smiled softly, “Yes, I’ll just keep your ring on hold up here.” 

You nodded then saw the sign for palm and tea leaf readings and softly cleared your throat, “Can I ask what those are? Is it kind of like tarot readings?” 

She looked back at the sign, seeing what you meant, and chuckled softly, “Kind of, both can tell you something about your fate, things you may be interested to know.” she winked and smiled, “Interested in either while you wait?” 

You shrugged and chuckled, what could it hurt? Even if it’s just nonsense and a bit of poppycock from an old lady in an oceanside store, never hurt to see what her intuition told her, “Sure why not? One palm reading…” 

She smiled and held out her hands, nodding for you to place your hand in hers. 

You shyly put your right hand in hers, palm facing up. 

She gently traced her fingers over your palm and hummed, “Oh a life you have, a better one ahead.” 

You smiled, “What do you mean?” you looked down at your palm, attempting to decipher what she was seeing.

She smiled and used her pinkie finger to point out a line that was towards the top of your palm, stretching across almost the whole of your hand, “This is your heart line, measures your love for life.” she smiled and looked up at you, “Your line indicates you’re with your who you’re meant to be with, your content with your love, yes?” 

You smiled warmly and blushed, “Yes, very much so…” you peeked over your shoulder to see Joel showing Sarah something, the both of them lightly chuckling together. 

You looked back at her, “What else do you see?” you looked down at your hand. 

She traced over another line, “This is your head line, it tells me who you are as a person, and yours tells me you’re creative. I usually interpret this as you love doing something that involves the arts or some form of creativity, is this so?” 

You nodded and looked up, “I’m starting out as a wedding and portrait photographer…” you chuckled and held up the camera that you had slung around your neck. 

She tsked and chuckled, “I swear I didn’t see that beforehand.” 

You chuckled with her and winked, “If so, your secret is safe with me.” 

She hummed, “It also says that you’re incredibly headstrong and driven.” 

You snorted, “So I’m stubborn?” 

She chuckled and nodded, “You could say that…”

She chuckled lightly again and pointed to another line, “This is your lifeline, now yours is straight and close to the end of your palm. This means that you have trust issues when it comes to new people in your life.” she looked up, “People have hurt you, and with that, it makes you a skeptic of those who are kind to you, yes?” 

You swallowed softly and nodded, “Yes ma’am…” you looked up at her. 

She nodded, “The last line is your fate line, yours means that yours is rooted in the support of your family and friends.” she pointed to the last long line on your palm, “You have a good support system if yours is long, which I can see yours is…” she looked up and smiled warmly then looked back down and pointed to 3 small lines under your pinkie, “These lines mean you’ll have three kids…” 

You looked at her, somewhat shocked but excitedly, “Three?” you smiled softly, your heart feeling warm and beating quickly all of a sudden. 

She nodded and looked up at you, “Two more, as your daughter counts over there.”

You didn’t even think to correct her because Sarah was your daughter now. She always would be. If you were meant to have 2 more kids, so be it. If she was wrong and meant 3 of your own kids— the more the merrier.

She then looked back down and tilted her head then chuckled and tsked, “One within the next year…” she hummed then traced another line, “You’ll have one of each.” she let go of your hand softly. 

You blushed and smiled, feeling a surge of excitement run through your body but then realized she could be wrong, after all, none of this was confirmed. You did as you always did a pushed down any false sense of hope, reeling yourself back in, “Thank you, that was all very… insightful…” she smiled pulling your hand away slowly. 

Joel came up and wrapped his arm around your waist, leaning down to gently kiss your cheek, “Hey, find anything, mi vida?” 

Aurora looked at Joel and smiled, “You must be the fiance…” 

He looked at her and smiled, “I am ma’am.” he held his hand out, “Joel…” 

She took his hand and turned his palm upside down instead of shaking it. 

He looked at her confused then turned his head to look at you. You just shrugged and made a face, acting innocent but knowing what she was doing. 

She dragged her finger across his palm and quickly read over his. She hummed then looked at you and winked, “Yep, three.” 

Later that night you had brought back to the house some groceries from a local market. You were in the kitchen making fajitas when Joel came in after getting off a work call he had. 

Ever since Aurora’s shop, your mind has constantly been on what she had said about how many kids you would have with Joel, or potentially, as you were still skeptical. What excited you and had your mind stuck on it was the timeline she had said– within the year.

Given, that you two hadn’t done much wedding planning since he proposed – what did that mean for you two? Would you get pregnant before getting married? You had an IUD, which you weren’t planning on getting removed until right before the wedding or immediately afterwards.

“Somethin’ smells good. What’s for dinner?” he came over and kissed your cheek before grabbing a drink in the fridge, pulling you from your thoughts.

You smiled and looked back at him as you sauteed the vegetables needed, “Fajitas and Spanish rice…” you watched as he grabbed a drink, “How was Tommy and work?” you looked back at the pan in front of you. 

Joel came and leaned against the counter by you, watching you cook, “He’s good, he just needed to know some measurement preferences for some details I’ll be doing when we get back. The client wants to order the materials.” 

You nodded and then turned around to get the chicken you had marinating in a bowl, bringing it back over to you and pouring it in, the pan sizzling, browning the chicken strips up.

You chuckled lightly, “You think Sarah had fun today?” you nodded to her passed out on the couch, taking a nap, exhausted.  

Joel looked over and saw her, and smiled, “This is the most fun I think she’s had in a while. I was always so busy with work, we never really traveled much.” he looked back at you, “Did you have fun?” 

You nodded and smiled, “I love window shopping in towns like this, there’s always such a vibrant energy.” you looked at him, “I think we should do this more often, road trips or trips in general…” you looked down at the pan, “It’s been good to get away, you know?” you shrugged shyly.

Joel nodded and set his drink down on the counter before coming behind you and kissing your shoulder softly, “Mmm, where should we go next?” he wrapped his arms around your waist, pulling you close, lightly laying his head on your shoulder. 

You swayed with him side to side a little bit while you continued to stir and cook the ingredients, “Hmm, how about the East Coast next?” 

“Mmm, I like that idea. We could go see New York City, maybe go to a Broadway show or somethin’...” Joel kissed your cheek lightly. 

You smiled and nodded, “That’d be fun.” you leaned against him when he kissed your cheek, “Maybe we can go after the wedding…” 

Joel started rubbing your waist and hummed, “Speaking of which, when do you think that should be?” 

You lightly chuckled, “Well depends, where do you think we should do it? A venue or somewhere outdoors?” you moved the pan off the stove and walked out of his arms to grab another skillet to lightly toast the tortillas, “You or your family religious? Do it in a church?” you smiled softly at him. 

Joel followed you and stood by with a plate to put the tortillas on, he lightly chuckled, “Mama is religious, but she wouldn’t make us do it in a church if we didn’t want to.” he looked at you lovingly, “What’s your ideal wedding? What did you think of when you were a little girl?” 

You chuckled and looked at the tortilla in the pan, “I honestly didn’t think I’d live past the age of 20 growing up, let alone find love…” you blushed, “But I think every little girl thinks of getting married in a pretty location, like a princess.” you shyly admitted.

Joel smiled, “I know of this pretty outdoor venue. I’ll schedule an appointment for us to go see it when we get back.” he leaned in and kissed your cheek. 

You blushed and nodded, “Sounds good, I can’t wait.” 

After a few moments of silence, he softly cleared his throat, “So uh, that woman at the shop, she said somethin’ to you and it’s been drivin’ me mad trying to figure out what she meant…” he lightly let out a small chuckle, “What did she mean by three?” 

You shook your head and chuckled, then put a tortilla on the plate, “She uh, gave me a palm reading…” you smiled at him, nudging his arm with your elbow, “According to our palms we’ll have 3 kids, two of our own.” 

He bit the inside of his cheek and grinned, “Oh really? Just two?” 

He then leaned forward and kissed your cheek softly, making you giggle, you questioned him, “Just two? How many do you want cowboy?” 

He bit his lip and set the plate down next to the stove. He then gently took the tongs you had in your hand and moved the pan off the burner before turning you around to face him by taking you by your waist, “If I’m bein’ completely honest, I don’t mind havin’ a big family if it means its with you…” he leaned down and kissed your lips softly once lingering for a moment against your lips before softly asking, “How many babies do you want, mi vida?” 

You kept your eyes closed as he pulled back from your lips for a moment and blushed, smiling as you pulled him back down for another kiss, “Two seems like a minimum… I wouldn’t make a couple more than that, especially with you.” you said before pecking his lips and pulling back to look at him. 

He hummed and softly nudged his nose with yours, “I know we have talked about waiting til after we’re married, but you wanna go start now?” he teased, smirking.

You softly chuckled and put your hand on his cheek, “I’d need to get my implant out before we start anythin’ cowboy…” you nudged your nose back against his, softly stroking his cheek with your thumb.

He hummed and leaned into your hand, “Fair point.” he leaned forward slightly and kissed your forehead, “Hmm, what else did that palm reading say?” he took your hand gently and looked at your palm, tracing his finger against one of the lines, “That this line means your incredibly stubborn?” he joked, letting out a small and deep chuckle. 

You gasped softly, quickly taking your hand away and playfully hit his arm, acting offended, “How dare you make that assumption!” you went back to the pan and put another tortilla on, “But for your information, her exact words were that I was ‘incredibly headstrong and driven’...”        

Joel let out a loud chuckle and came back to stand by you, lightly tapping your ass, “So another way of saying stubborn, mi amor.” 

You rolled your eyes and shook your head, “Ok you can shush…” you lightly chuckled and smiled as you continued to cook.

Over the next couple of days, you continued to wake up early in the morning with an upset stomach, however not bother to wake up or bother Joel with the information as you didn’t want any of it to ruin this trip or him to worry— you kept it to yourself.

You were also more tired than usual, going to bed earlier and finding yourself taking naps throughout the day here and there. Nothing registered as alarming— you just assumed the food here disagreed with you, and your body was allowing itself to relax and rejuvenate while you were traveling. 

However, once the mood swings were somewhat odd and were something that confused you. You were never quick to anger, especially with Joel and Sarah. 

—

You were all getting ready to go whale watching this morning.

It had been a rough morning— not only were you sick earlier but you now had a blistering headache. On top of that, you were overstimulated as Joel and Sarah were slow to get out of bed, making you all late. Between not feeling well and then rushing to get everyone ready, one small thing could set you off. 

You were waiting by the door while Joel and Sarah finished getting ready in their rooms when a wave of nausea hit you, “Can we please hurry up? We’re going to be late!” you shouted through the house, opening the door to let some fresh air in, taking in a deep breath. 

Sarah chuckled walking down the stairs slowly, putting in some earrings as she walked, “Jeez, someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed…” she joked, not knowing how you were feeling as she hadn’t been down yet. 

“Yeah, well at least I’m not the one making us late.” you snapped, sounding annoyed and short. 

Sarah stopped at the bottom stair and furrowed her brow, confused by the way you reacted, “I was only joking… sorry mom… " she said quietly, not really knowing how to react, as you’d never spoken to her like that.

She walked over by you and started putting on her shoes, quietly, keeping her head down. 

Joel smiled as he was putting on his belt, coming down the stairs excitedly, in a good mood, not picking up you were upset. 

He put on his shoes and then grabbed his jacket, “We ready?” he smiled at you both. 

You simply nodded and started walking down the stairs of the deck, heading towards the truck, muttering under your breath, “Been ready for the last 15 minutes…” 

Joel chuckled also not knowing you were feeling under the weather, “Oh come on Chuckles, I know it’s early but it’s whale watching!” he exclaimed.

You turned around, annoyed by the nickname, “Exactly. It’s whale watching. On a boat, in the middle of the damn ocean, Joel, and we’re going to be late. It’s not like a movie where we miss the previews…” you snapped, before shaking your head and rolling your eyes, walking away towards the truck.

You got to the truck and pulled the handle realizing it was locked, you sighed heavily about to shout at Joel when he pressed the button to open it, you hopped in and buckled before leaning your head against the window and closing your eyes, trying to focus on anything but throwing up. 

Sarah got in slowly, like she was afraid of startling you. Joel did the same, careful not to poke the bear that had taken over.

You rarely called him by his first name when you two argued, but when you did he knew something was wrong.

He started the truck and then reached over and touched your thigh softly, “Hey, you doin’ ok sweetheart?” 

You nodded, “Yeah.” you sighed and put your hand on your temple in attempt to gain some relief, “Can we just go? We’re going to be late, they’ll leave without us.” 

Joel looked back at Sarah who was leaning forward, concerned by how you were being, “You feelin’ ok mom?” 

You sighed softly, opening your eyes, and nodded, “Yeah, just have a bad headache, waitin’ for meds to kick in.” you turned to look at her, “I’m sorry for snapping at you earlier, that wasn’t ok.” you reached back and put your hand on her knee.

You then looked at Joel, eyes full of shame and sadness, “I’m sorry I snapped at you too, neither of you deserved that.”

Joel gently squeezed your leg, “We can do this another time if you’re not feelin’ well, we have another day here… I’m sure I can call and get our tickets moved to tomorrow…” he offered. 

You looked at him and smiled a little, “I’ll be ok, I’m excited for this, I just need those meds to kick in, which they will soon.” you nodded to the road, “Come on, let’s get going…” you said softly.

Joel leaned over and kissed your cheek, “Let me know if you need anythin’ ok?” he put the truck into drive and began pulling out of the driveway. 

You nodded and put your head back against the cold window which offered you a little bit of relief, closing your eyes as he drove. 

Sarah and Joel lightly spoke about what they were excited about along the way, keeping their voices soft and quiet, leaving you to your window and solitary. 

After about 10 minutes the medication you took finally took effect and you began to feel some relief from your headache, however, there was a shadow of nausea still lingering deep down. 

Joel parked at a port and then turned to you, “You still ok to do this?” 

You nodded and smiled, “Yeah, I’m good, medicine kicked in.” you partially lied. 

He smiled and took your hand, kissing your knuckles softly, “Why don’t while you two wait to board– I’ll run down the street and grab us some coffee or tea?” 

Sarah smiled and nodded along with you, and then you all got out of the truck. 

After you all checked in with the crew that would be taking you out, they said that they’d be leaving in 15 minutes so if anyone needed to use the restroom or do anything last minute, now would be the time. 

You asked Joel to get you a peppermint tea before he jogged down the street. 

A few moments after he left another wave of nausea hit you, this one more intense, you let out a breath then shook your head feeling it wasn’t just a wave, you were going to be sick, “I’ll be right back, I need to use the bathroom.” you said to Sarah before running to the bathroom. 

As soon as you opened the door to the stall you fell to your knees and threw up, coughing into the toilet afterwards. You felt a wave of heat rise up your back and into your neck before you hurled forward and vomited again, however after that time feeling much better.

You took a breath, “Fuck… what is going on with my stomach.” you whispered as you held your head in your hand, taking a moment. 

You heard the bell of the boat ring which meant that they were going to start boarding. 

You stood and flushed the toilet before going to the sink and rinsing your face with some cold water, rinsing your mouth out as well, and drinking some from your hand. 

You washed your hands and wiped your mouth with a paper towel, heading back out out. You saw Joel waiting with Sarah, smiling at you, both of them in big orange life jackets. 

You chuckled and smiled, “You two look adorable in those life vests I must say.” you walked up and took one that Joel was holding out for you. 

You lifted it over your head and buckled it up, pulling out your hood from your sweatshirt and then putting a beanie on you had from the pocket. 

He smiled and handed you a cup of tea with a lid. “Peppermint tea. They said to be careful, it’s hot…” He leaned over and kissed your cheek, then looked down at your other hand. “Here, let me…” He grabbed your camera bag. “Ok, are we ready to board?” 

You and Sarah both excitedly nodded then boarded the boat, carefully using Joel’s hand to balance as you were feeling still a little uneasy. You all took a seat amongst a few other people, all looking just as eager and excited as you. 

Within a few minutes, the engine of the boat started up and an older man stood at the wheel and whistled loudly, “If I could have your attention please?” he said holding a mic to his mouth. 

Everyone slowly quieted down. Joel put his arm behind your back and softly rubbed your arm with his thumb absentmindedly, while Sarah held onto his other arm as she sat on the other side of him. 

“Welcome to Whale’s Tails Charters, my name is Bobby, and I’m your captain and tour guide today on this beautiful and gloomy weathered Wednesday morning… which is perfect for whale watching!” he started, slowly turning around to show his face to the whole boat, “I’m just going to go over some basic rules and then we’ll be off, ok?” 

Everyone nodded and continued to stay quiet.

You looked out towards the horizon and smiled softly then turned your attention back to him, the excitement dialing up. 

“I think the first rule is quite simple, don’t do anythin’ stupid. Do not put your hands in the water, do not put your trash overboard, and don’t do anythin’ to fall into the water.” he turned around and pointed out to the water, “Where we are goin’ the temp gets to below freezing at this time of year. Hyperthermia will happen and it won’t be fun.” his tone got serious. “Following that rule, your life vest stays on you at all times, it doesn’t come off until we are back here, on land, away from the dock. Yes?” 

There were small responses of acknowledgment from everyone, understanding the importance. 

He cleared his throat, “We will be seein’ gray whales mostly. The pod that swims around these waters is a pod of 8-10, and they had 2 calves this year– so if the babies are out, we will stay at a distance to avoid them bein’ protective and knockin’ against the boat.” he smiled softly, “However, if they come up to us, and are not threatening, you are more than welcome to look but for your safety, do not touch.” 

Joel leaned over and kissed your head, whispering, “Baby whales…” knowing how excited you’d be to see that.

You smiled and nodded, whispering back, “I hope I can get some photos if so…” 

He held you a little closer before rubbing your arm softly with his hand. 

“There will be other wildlife, seals, birds, sea lions, dolphins and occasionally, we do run into orcas.” he chuckled, “Now orcas either get friendly or territorial, if they come up to the boat, just observe, do not put your hands in the water no matter how cute they can be, they are known as killer whales for a reason.” 

Sarah looked over at you and smiled, whispering, “If there are orcas, can I take some pictures on your camera?” 

You smiled and nodded, winking. 

“Last rule is if you get sick, do it overboard, do not throw up in my boat, got it?” he chuckled. 

Everyone lightly chuckled and nodded. 

He nodded, “Alright, let’s get groovin’! Everyone enjoy the tour and please feel free to ask any questions along the way.” 

He started heading out, the boat bouncing against the waves. 

You pulled out your camera from the bag you had and began putting on the appropriate lens, then strapped it around you.

You stood slowly and smiled down at Sarah and Joel, “Wanna come to the front with me?” then your head perked up and you looked back at the water, hearing a clicking sound. 

Joel heard it and stood, looking around then spotted some dolphins swimming along the boat, “There!” he pointed for you, putting his hand on the small of your back.

Sarah perked and flipped around, seeing the small pod, “Oh my gosh, look!” 

Like a moth to a flame, everyone zoned in and swarmed to your area of the ship to see as well. 

You pulled your camera up to your face and began taking some photos, capturing them as they swam and would break through the water. 

Bobby came on the microphone, “Alright if you’ll all take a peek over to your right you’re going to see a pod of dolphins playing a game of who’s fastest!” he chuckled, “Now those are Pacific white-sided dolphins. They are very social and playful. We tend to see them on every trip as they know where we go, there will be whales and where there are whales, there is food!” 

---

After the crowd got a taste of the dolphins they moved back to their areas which gave you room to breathe and move towards the front of the ship. Sarah and Joel followed you, leaning against the railing, keeping their eyes peeled on the water like you. 

After going a couple of miles offshore Bobby came onto the microphone and started going over some facts about whales. How the resident pod that visits this bay most often has been doing so for decades, facts about the familial tree, how the migration works from season to season, and then sharing some other odd and cool facts about how important this was to the ecosystem.

“Alright, we are about 5 miles away from shore, now this is where the fun begins…” he saw a group of birds swarming the water a few hundred feet away so he stopped the boat and turned off the microphone. 

Joel caught on to the swarm of birds and nudged your arm, “Remember how I told you I used to watch Animal Planet…” he chuckled and smiled down at you, “Get your camera ready, there are whales over there…” he pointed. 

You brought your camera up and aimed it that way, smiling widely, feeling like you were buzzing from the anticipation.

After a few seconds, there was a blow of air that breached the water, a deep vibration call and then a tail that came up after the whale dove back down. 

You put your camera on rapid fire to guarantee you’d get the shot, in which you captured an amazing tail photo as it flicked above the water.

Everyone on the boat saw and gasped, running to whatever end was closest to them to see. 

After that another two whales did the same—breaching then ducking down and flipping their tail fins up, causing people to clap and cheer excitedly. 

You took a few shots then put your camera down and looked at Joel, “Thank you for this.” you leaned against him.

He looked down at you and then wrapped his arm around you, pulling you into his side then kissed your forehead, smiling, humming into your skin softly, “You’re welcome, mi vida. I’ve been wanting to take you to whale watching ever since you wrote me that letter…”  

You put your hand on his chest as he held onto you and smiled, then were about to say something when a whale jumped out completely and fell back in, making a splash and the boat rock slightly. 

Sarah giggled, Joel chuckled and you were left with your jaw dropped open, speechless. 

Sarah turned to you, “Did you see that?!” she shouted excitedly. 

You chuckled and nodded, then grabbed your camera and held it up, “Yeah, and I’m not missing another shot… holy shit that was awesome.” you said giggling excitedly. 

A few moments later another large whale did the same thing, followed by its calf, you eagerly catching the magnificent shot, tearing up slightly.

After you captured it you pulled your camera away and looked down at the photo, seeing what you got, impressed and happy with the shot. Joel leaned in and took a peek, then kissed your cheek, “What a shot!” he complimented, having his arm around your waist, holding you close. 

You smiled and nodded, “I’ll have to print this one out, we can have it somewhere in the house.” 

You felt a hand lightly tap your shoulder and you turned around to a younger woman who had a toddler on her hip and a man standing behind her, “Excuse me, are you a photographer?” 

You smiled, “I am, would you like your photo taken?” you lifted your camera, nodding to the whales behind you. 

“Oh! I was just going to have you take one with my phone!” she chuckled shyly. 

You shook your head smiling, “Nonsense, I can do both and then get your contact info and email ‘em to you.” you smiled, “Here, trade us spots and I’ll try to get a whale in the background.” you said as the three of you moved, trading them spots. 

She handed you her phone and you smiled as you lined up the shot, “Ok, we’ll do some cute ones with your phone quick and then the whale ones with my camera.” you fixed their hair a little bit and had them pose a certain way to flatter their features and then took a few photos with her phone.

You then pulled out your camera and lined up a shot where you saw some birds diving into the water, “Ok, I think we may have a tail or full breach— so look at me and say ‘Whales’ on three…” you started to count down and as you got to one a whale fully breached out of the water no more than 50 feet away. You quickly gathered multiple shots— the toddler giggling at you making silly faces at him so he wouldn’t get scared with the noise; creating a fun but sweet picture of the family. 

Sarah gasped hearing the sounds of something else to the left of her, “Mom— look!” she pointed as a pod of orcas started to breach south of the whales. 

You smiled and handed her your camera, “Strap it on your neck and go take some shots, sweets.” you nodded toward the orcas. 

She put it over her neck excitedly and walked over to that side of the boat, aiming the lens to start taking photos. 

You went over to the woman with your phone and had her put her contact information in your phone. She and her husband thanked you then returned to their seats, watching the orcas from the other side of the ship, talking sweetly to their baby.

Joel wrapped his arms around you from behind and kissed your cheek, humming as he caught you watching them, “Soon, mi vida…”

You smiled and leaned into him, nodding as you hummed softly, putting your hands on his.

He kissed your cheek again, “How are you feelin’? That headache gone?” 

You smiled and nodded, “Yes, thank you. The tea helped with some nausea I was feelin’ too, so I appreciate you grabbing that.” 

He smiled warmly and turned you around in his arms then nudged your nose with his softly, “I want you to know that I’ve had the best time with you on this trip. I can’t wait to travel with you more, to see the world with you, to spend the rest of my life with you.” he found your eyes and cupped your cheek, “Every day I fall more in love with you, mi vida.” he looked at your lips, eyes filled with love and warmth. 

Sarah turned around to grab your attention but saw the moment you and Joel were in. She smiled as she aimed the camera at you both and started taking some shots.

You smiled at him, “Oh yeah? What was your reason to fall deeper today cowboy?” you blushed under his gaze. 

“The way you lit up taking photos of that family. You’re always so generous with your time and skills. I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of that experience, watching you shine.” he leaned in and gently kissed your lip, slowly deepening it with the next. 

You smiled brightly as he leaned in and then went up on your tip toes a bit when he deepened it, softly pulling on his jacket to hold him closer to you. 

After several kisses, you slowly pulled away and smiled, keeping your eyes closed, staying in that moment for a second longer, and then Bobby came on the microphone. 

“Alright ladies and gents, we are going to start heading back to the coast, please take any final photos as we will be departing in 2 minutes.” 

You smiled, “Stay right here.” you pecked his lips and smiled walking over to the woman again, asking her something then coming back over to Joel and then looking at Sarah, “Can I have my camera back sweets?” 

She nodded and handed it back then you, which you then handed to the woman. You told her which button to push, how to use the zoom and focus on the lens. 

She took a few photos and then handed the camera back to you, saying she hoped they turned out good. You thanked her and looked through them, they all turned out great. 

Sarah then insisted that you and Joel get some together and she’d take them. You chuckled at her eagerness and handed her back your camera before coming back over to Joel and standing next to him, wrapping your arm around his bicep and leaning your head on his shoulder, smiling. 

Sarah took a few photos of that then Joel smiled and then stood behind you and wrapped his arms around you before kissing your cheek which made you smile and giggle which Sarah captured, turning into some candid photos. 

After Sarah handed you back the camera you looked through them and couldn’t help but smile at the shots she had gathered and then saw the ones she had gathered from earlier, making you blush and smile widely. She had a talent for how she captured intimate moments between you and Joel— as she had done so few times in the past and they’ve always turned out to be clean and clear, you were very proud of her. Eventually, if she wanted, you wouldn’t mind having her as an assistant or second photographer at weddings as he had a knack for those kinds of shots. 

Before you all knew it you were back at the port, offloading the boat. It was about dinner time and there was a world-famous clam chowder joint that Bobby had said was a great place on the way back into shore. It was conveniently located just down the street from the port. You all couldn’t help but go there for dinner after hearing of its raving reviews.

The next day was your last day in Oregon. You woke up feeling nauseated again but didn’t feel like it would get to the point that you’d need to run to the bathroom. 

You got out of bed and went to grab yourself some tea when Joel woke up and lifted his head, “You ok baby?” he said, voice thick with sleep. 

You turned around just as you touched the door knob, “Yeah, go back to sleep, just going to make myself some tea, upset stomach.” you smiled softly. 

He nodded, “Come back to bed after?” and then sleepily put his head back on the pillow. 

You lovingly smiled and nodded before leaving to go downstairs and make yourself some tea before going back upstairs with your laptop and SD card to edit some of those photos you took of that family yesterday to send to them while you sat in bed and drank your tea. 

You edited the photos and emailed them off to the woman as well as finished your tea. In which case made you feel a little better, however, there was still a lingering feeling that something was off. You just couldn’t put your finger on it.

You leaned over and brushed Joel’s hair back softly before kissing his head softly and then laying back down and falling back asleep, head on his chest. 

About an hour later you woke to Sarah knocking on the bedroom door which caused you and both Joel to stir awake. 

“Last day here! Let’s make the most of it!” Sarah said through the door before you both heard her walk down the hall towards the stairs. 

You took a deep breath and stretched then cleared your throat, “Not even a good morning… what are we going to do with her?” you chuckled, joking. 

Joel smiled and sighed softly, stretching as well, turning on his side to face you, humming softly, “Public humiliation always worked for me when I was her age…” he teased and brushed your hair out of your face lightly, leaning in to peck your lips.  

You chuckled and nodded, “I think that’ll work for anyone, regardless of age, my love.” you returned the favor and combed his hair back, turning to face him, “But speaking of public, minus the humiliation, what should we do today?” 

Joel smiled softly, leaning into your touch, keeping his gaze softly on you, “Hmm why don’t we leave the day activity up to Sarah, because I’d like to go on a date with you tonight. There’s a local pub, a few minutes away, that I think would be fun to go to. You think Sarah can handle being alone for a few hours tonight?” 

You nodded, combing his hair back, “I think she could handle it if we bribed her with pizza and maybe some promise of getting her that necklace she’s wanted at that shop since we got here…” 

Joel chuckled and then pulled you close, up against him by softly grabbing your waist, “Good idea…” he then moved his hand to cup your cheek, “Now, you were lookin’ for a good morning? I can give you one of those…” he smirked before leaning in and kissing you deeply and passionately before slipping beneath the sheets and having you for breakfast. 

Sarah enthusiastically agreed to stay home tonight so you guys could go out, with or without the necklace, but wouldn’t pass up an easy win.

During the day you all opted to walk the beach, collecting seashells and enjoying your last full day with the smell of the ocean and sand beneath your feet. 

That evening after showing off the sand you swear made its way in places unbeknownst, you and Joel got ready in some nicer clothes and drove down the street to a pub called the ‘Sea Hag’.

Joel opened the truck door for you and offered his hand, you smiled as you took it as you got out. He grinned and used his other hand to lift your chin and softly kiss you, already trying to feel you up in the ride over.

You giggled and pecked his lips once more then leaned against his side as you both walked together inside. 

There was an older woman at the hostess stand who smiled as you walked in together, “Good evening, welcome to the Sea Hag, how many in your party?” 

“Just the two of us ma’am…” Joel said smiling happily. 

You two went out on dates a lot with Tommy and Maria but it was rare when just the two of you went out together. He couldn’t think of the last time the two of you had done something like this but mentally noted that it needed to happen more often. 

She nodded and chuckled, “Oh, none of that ma’am boo honkey. You get to call me darlin’ if you’ve got that sweet southern drawl sugar…” She winked at him and chuckled shyly. 

You giggled and smiled along with Joel’s chuckle. He winked back and looked down at you then back at her, “Darlin’ is reserved here for my fiance. But how about, ‘doll’... just for you…” he looked at her name tag, “Betsy?” 

She fanned herself with the menus to act like she was swooning, “Oh, you can call me whatever you want cowboy.” she chuckled then looked at you, “You’re a lucky one to have this one sweetheart…” 

You nodded and blushed, “Very lucky, indeed.” you leaned against him, causing him to lean down and kiss your forehead.  

She came out from behind her table, “You two want a booth or to sit at the bar?” 

Joel looked down at you to choose, kissing your forehead softly again. 

You smiled and looked up at him then back at her, “Booth please…” 

She nodded and marked something on her clipboard then nodded, “Follow me then sweetheart…” She smiled and started walking you two back to the booth you were assigned. 

You sat down on one side and Joel sat on the other, smiling over at you and wiggling his eyebrows, making you chuckle. 

“You two take a look at the menu and then Lori will be over shortly to take your drink orders.” she smiled softly. 

Joel took the menu from her and winked at her, “Thanks doll…” he grinned. 

She giggled and looked at you, “I’m so sorry, but does he have an older brother? Single dad?” 

You chuckled, shaking your head, “Unfortunately no to both, but he’s got a few cousins?” you shrugged.

She tsked sarcastically, “It’s not the same, oh well…” she waved her hand dramatically, “You both enjoy your meal.” she smiled and went back to her post. 

Joel looked at you and chuckled, “What can I say, the ladies love me…” he joked. 

You chuckled and shook your head, pulling the menu up to read, “Such a flirt you are…”       

Joel smirked, “It’s how I got you, right?” 

You giggled behind your menu, “Sure cowboy…” you joked. 

Joel smiled and then looked at his menu before a young woman came over with a pen and pad, “Good evening, my name is Lori, I’ll be your waitress tonight. Can I get you started with something to drink?” she smiled at you first. 

“Can I have a huckleberry lemonade with light ice?” you looked up at her, smiling softly. 

She nodded, “Of course, and for you sir?” she turned to look at Joel. 

“I’ll have a beer please.” he smiled over at you and then looked at her. 

“One beer and huckleberry lemonade with light ice coming up.” she winked then turned to leave. 

You looked back at your menu, “What are you thinking of getting?” you asked as you skimmed over the options. 

“I think I’m going to get the steak dinner, that looks good…” he put his menu down and put his hand on the table for you to take, “What about you darlin’?” 

You hummed, “I’m debating between fish and chips or fish tacos…” you looked up, “What would you do?” you saw his hand and put your menu down, gently taking it.

He rubbed your knuckles softly and looked at you lovingly, “Fish and chips you can’t find in Texas, I’d do that. Get the full experience…” 

You nodded, and smiled looking at your hand in his, “I’ve had a lot of fun on this trip, especially yesterday.” you looked up at him. 

He smiled and nodded, “Me too. It’s been nice to get away from the craziness of everyday life and spend time with you and Sarah.” 

You nodded then Lori came back with your drinks and took your order. 

Joel cleared his throat and looked at you shyly, “Can we talk about the wedding more? I’m a little excited and eager to get it going after our conversation the other day…” 

You chuckled and blushed, “What else would you like to talk about?” 

“Well, who should we invite? Let's start there…” he gently traced circles into the back of your hand. 

“I was thinking everyone that came to the engagement party would be a good start, don’t you think?” you asked. 

He nodded, “Yeah, that’s a good start. Do you have anyone from Washington you’d want to invite or anyone else from your deployment?” 

You nodded, “Terrence would want to come, but there’s no one from back home that would want to come for me. Anyone else that you could think of?” 

He shook his head thinking, then looked up, “Oh wait, that um, commander or officer you saved that we saw in the airport, his wife wanted an invitation… I promised I’d send one.” he smiled at you. 

You smiled back and nodded, “Alright so that would be about a wedding of what, maybe 100+ people? Do we want everyone to be at the ceremony or just close friends and family and then the rest come to the reception?” 

He tilted his head, “Well I guess that depends on where we get married. I think everyone would want to come to the ceremony if they had a choice. I guess figuring out a venue or place is our first step.” 

You nodded and took a sip of your drink, “Ok next question, do you want to do the bachelorette and bachelor parties the night before?” 

Joel shook his head, “Not in the traditional sense where we go get blackout drunk and party hard, but maybe a night together with our close friends would be fun? We could go back to a cowboy bar?” he winked, “I’d get back into that hat you love so much.” he smirked. 

You blushed and chuckled, “I would not mind that one bit.” you looked down shyly for a moment, “But I like that idea, spending the night together with our close friends. Let’s do that.” 

He nodded and widely smiled, looking at your hand then looked at you, “When do you wanna go dress shopping?” 

You looked up and blushed, “Oh I haven’t even thought about that, jeez. I’m not sure, I need to take a look and see how much I can afford first.” you smiled, “Those dresses can get insanely expensive.” you took another sip of your drink.

Joel hummed, “Well you’re gonna get whatever you want because you’re not payin’ for it, you hear me? I’m taking care of that.” he smiled and brought your hand to his lips, gently kissing it. 

You sighed, “Joel you d-” he cut you off, shaking his head and narrowing his gaze. 

“You’re going to be walkin’ down that aisle, and damn it, you will you be happy in whatever dress you so happen to find. I don’t care if it’s a couple grand or more than that, I’m payin’ for it, mi vida.” he said while his lips lingered on your hand. 

You nodded and blushed, “You’re too good for me, cowboy. How will you ever let me repay you?” you smiled at him adoringly. 

He grinned, “Bein’ my wife and makin’ me a dad one day will be more than enough, if not outweigh me, my love…” he kissed your hand again. 

Just as you were about to say something else Lori came with your meals, laying them both in front of you. 

You both ate discussing more details about the wedding and even got on the topic of a honeymoon, where you’d like to go together. You both landed either on going to Cancun or on a cruise. 

—

When you got home that night Sarah was passed out on the couch, a movie she was watching still playing. 

Joel told you to go get ready for bed, that he was going to carry Sarah up to bed instead of waking her.

You pecked his lips and then started going up the stairs, going into the bedroom then looking at the time and decided to take advantage of your last night there, knowing there was a hot tub out on the deck you grabbed two clean towels and went back downstairs. 

Joel looked at you with Sarah in his arms, confused written on his face, “Hon?” 

You smirked, whispering, “Meet me out back, hot tub, I’ve got you a towel.” you winked then opened the back door and went out. 

He saw you start to take off your shirt and then saw you take your bra off.

He has never scaled stairs so quietly but quickly in his life as he put Sarah to bed. 

After he tucked her in and made sure she was comfortable he closed her door and then lightly ran down the stairs and outside to find you in the hot tub, all of your clothes on the side, which only meant one thing. 

He smirked and started to take his shirt off, “I’m getting us a hot tub when we get home if this is how it’ll be used…” he chuckled and removed his pants and boxers before joining you in the water, slowly sinking into its warm embrace, softly groaning, “My back… good lord we are getting a hot tub…”

You chuckled and leaned over, hitting a few buttons which turned on the jets and dimmed the lights a little bit. You looked back at him, “Sit with your back on one of those jets, for your back…” you smiled. 

“Only if you come to sit on my lap…” he came over to you and pulled you against him, wrapping his arms around you, slowly leaning in to kiss your lips. 

You wrapped your arms loosely around his neck and giggled against his lips, “Mmm you don’t even need to demand that, that was already the plan, cowboy?” you kissed him slowly and deeply, feeling him grow harder against your thigh. You pulled away slowly and walked him back to one of the jets to which he sat down and look up at you as you stood above him.

Your nipples were perked in front of him against the bitter cold air, that was in contrast to the hot water the rest of your body was in. Goosebumps elicited onto your breasts, making them more delectable in his lustful gaze of them. 

He bit his lip and grinned, “What else is part of the plan, my love?” he leaned forward just a bit to capture your nipple in his mouth, softly sucking on it, putting his hand behind your thigh to pull you forward then onto straddle him. 

You gasped and softly let out a small moan, instantly carding your fingers through his hair as he pulled you onto his lap. 

You bit your lip as his hands moved to grab the meat of your ass as he continued to suck on your nipple, “Well I think you’re a mind reader because you’re following the plan to a T…” you started to grind your hips slowly up and down on his length that continued to get harder. 

He groaned and lightly nibbled on your nipple between his teeth, making you moan a little louder. He pulled back after lightly sucking on it once more before moving his lips up to your neck sucking small marks into your skin. 

Your breathing was slow and deep, trying to stay calm, not to rush but you wanted him— you’d be craving him all night. Your heart was pounding, you were soaked with arousal before you even got in, mind was anywhere but somewhere appropriate. 

“Joel, I need you…” you pulled on his hair lightly to pull him back off your neck to look up at you for which he grunted and smirked, “Mmm you want what baby? Tell me what you need…” he said lowly, helping you grind on him by keeping ahold of your ass. 

You bit your lip and then leaned forward and kissed him deeply a few times before lightly biting his lower lip and pulling on it, moaning softly before leaning down and kissing his neck, “I wanna ride you, cowboy…” you softly sucked on his pulse point, smirking.

He groaned and his breathing picked up, he moved his hand down between your bodies and grabbed his cock, holding it still, “Fuck, I want you too…” 

You lifted your hips slightly and notched yourself to sit on him, “Mmm, I want you when we get back inside too… can we make that happen?” you nibbled on his earlobe, slightly rocking your hips to tease him.

He nodded, “Mmm, I could do this all night if you wanted baby…” he groaned as you rocked your hips, “Fuck…” he groaned. 

You slowly sat on him, breath catching as you felt him stretch you out. You moved your lips to his jaw then up to his lips, hovering them as you fully sat on him, “Fuck you were made for me cowboy, fit so well inside me…” you hoarsely whispered.

He smirked and cupped your ass, grunting, “You think I don’t know that? You’ve always taken me so well baby…” he started to have your hips rock slowly, making him glide in and out of you, “You’re always felt so good on me, so fuckin’ tight and perfect.” he groaned through clenched teeth. 

You leaned down and moaned, kissing his lips slowly, lazily, feeling intoxicated how he felt deep inside you, “Fuck, you’re so deep like this…” You pulled back from his lips and started grinding your hips a little faster, your chest heaving, moaning with every thrust. 

He leaned forward and took your nipple into his mouth again, lightly teasing it with his tongue as he sucked lightly, wrapping his arm around your waist to pull you close. You held onto his hair, holding him onto you, gasping and moaning as you felt him continue to graze his tip along your cervix at this angle. You felt yourself building up, that pull down deep in your core, “Fuck baby, right there…” you panted, moaning softly. 

He moved his lips to suck marks into your breast, grunting as he felt you begin to tighten around him, knowing you were close. 

You grabbed the edge of the hot tub to ground yourself as you came, your hips stalling as you became sensitive, “F-fuck baby, fuck!” you moaned a little louder than you intended. You felt yourself pulse around him intensely. 

He grunted and moved his hands to your hips, starting to move you back into a rhythm, “Fuck that feels good…” he said as he kissed your neck, “Your tight perfect pussy pulsing around me is ecstasy, you know that?” he grunted, “Fucking addicting baby…” 

You whimpered as you felt a wave crash over you again, feeling yourself tighten around him, feeling every inch of him fill you up, “God please don’t stop, I-“ you choked out, grabbing onto the edge tighter as you felt him move your hips for you, speeding them up slowly. 

He lightly took your earlobe between his teeth and nibbled it, grunting as he felt you tremble on top of him, loving that you were coming undone on him, “Be a good girl and come for me one more time, my love…” he growled as he used your hips to grind on him faster— chasing his own release. 

You nodded, mind numb from pleasure, panting as you felt your heart slamming against your chest, “Faster… h-harder…” you mewled, putting your head on his shoulder, moaning as he bounced you up and down on him, faster, harder. 

He clenched his jaw and groaned as he felt himself close, “Fuck.. fuck…” he cried out softly, feeling a deep pull behind his navel. 

He needed you to cum, that would throw him where he wanted to land. He needed to feel your pulse around him as he came deep into you. There was something about that feeling of having an orgasm at the same or similar time as you that sent him spiraling with pleasure. 

He pulled one of his hands up to your breast and began teasing your nipple between his fingers, feeling you tighten around him when he pulled it gently, “Oh fuck that feels so good when you tighten around me…” he grunted. 

You were beginning to feel that coil snap again, this time a little harder which caused you to gasp and cry out as you came hard, grabbing onto his shoulder and bicep as you sobbed against his neck in absolute pleasure. 

He instinctively wrapped his arm around your torso and cried out a groan and whimper as he came deep into you, his forehead against your shoulder, eyes shut, brows furrowed, chest heaving up and down quickly.

He hissed softly as he pulled out of you, but then held you against him, you both coming down from your highs.

You both stayed like that for a few moments, both breathing in each other's air. Steam rising from each of your bodies, skin prickled from the high but cold air on your upper halves. 

Joel was first to speak, he nudged your shoulder softly as he lifted his head with the tip of his nose, “We get better every…” he took a small deep breath as he kissed your shoulder softly, “...time we do that…” he chuckled softly, leaning in and kissing your neck softly, moving his lips up to yours as he kissed your skin. 

You shivered and hummed, “Better in more ways than one…” you turned your head and captured his lips, kissing him deeply and slowly, slowing down your breath.

He smirked against your lips, “How about we take this back to the bedroom… I have an idea of how I want you on your hands and knees now….” he nudged your nose with his, massaging your thighs gently. 

You blushed, “Hands and knees?” you hummed as you leaned in and kissed him passionately once, staying against his lips as you cooed, “How about we start with me just on my knees first…” you nibbled his bottom lip lightly. 

He grinned and nodded to stand up, “Bedroom… now.” 

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[threewaywithdelusion]

KJ Charles Fics People Should Write

Susan bringing Cara home to meet her Guvnors (and Emma). Justin and Nathaniel only know that this is her first serious lover since James Vane (and the only one she’s brought home to meet them). They’re expecting someone vaguely respectable, who maybe owns a business or has a trade. Cue their surprise and horror when they realize she’s finally over the Marquess’s nephew only to bring home a Duke’s daughter. Bonus points if Sukey never bothered mentioning she’s into women

Esther Gold’s pov before and through A Case of Possession, when she’s worried Stephen Day is turning warlock. She testifies before the Justiciary that he’s not, but she’s terrified that she doesn’t know her partner. Where is he getting such power? And then her pov on the scene where they heal Leonora using Crane’s blood and the fight that happens after

Anything that takes advantage of the fact that Society of Gentlemen, Sins of the Cities, and The Lilywhite Boys are set in the same universe. Pen Starling working with Miss Cristiana at the music hall. Greta using her titles as Countess of Moreton to do chaotic-good shit. Greta and Pen swapping places so Greta can swing on the trapeze again (with potential shenanigans as Pen plays Greta for the day). Normal, boring Tim ending up at family events with Jerry Crozier and trying to make polite conversation.

Silas and the Shakespeare siblings lived on the streets at the same time as children. Their youth, their friendship. Cyprian probably met them through Millay’s, once Zoë started working there. Their first meeting must have been epic

Relatedly, I’ve seen people do fics where Silas hangs out with the Ricardians (though admittedly there could be more of those, focusing on Silas getting to know each of them and like some of them (he will never like Francis, but finds Julius tolerable)). But what about Dom meeting Silas’s friends? I want Dom sitting in a room with Silas, Will, Jon, Zoë, and others and them being skeptical of Silas’s Tory (except Zoë, who’s fond of him) but slowly coming to appreciate that he’s trying hard to like Silas’s friends and be somewhat palatable to them. (Bonus points for a crossover with the Band Sinister universe. I think this group would be friends with Theodore Swann, Martin St. Vincent, Amanda Frisby, and Jon Raven).

Francis Webster meeting Robin Loxleigh and playing him in a game of cards

Dom going to something (a dinner?) and ending up next to Lord Corvin. He’s outraged by everything coming out of the man’s mouth and is also sitting there panicking because there are hand-shaped bruises around Corvin’s wrist (from John, of course) and he doesn’t like having a single thing in common with the Devil’s Lord, but he can’t help but feel kinship with him

The Murder showing up to Romney Marsh to visit Luke and meeting Gareth, Joss, Sophy, Rufus, and the lot. Corvin would adore the Earl’s castle with its random corridors and nonsensical gothic architecture. Plus the sacrificial alter thing. Amanda would absolutely set a Gothic novel on Romney Marsh. Gareth and the Salcombe-Streets would love talking about their exploration of nature via bugs and fossils.

DS meeting Phoebe and realizing he should have hired her to be the secret agent instead of Kim because she has all of Kim’s competence and none of his Kimmishness. (This is not a diss on Kim, but he and Will have just come back from another bungled mission where they left behind a string of bodies and DS is furious). Plus she’s pretty and feminine, which means everybody basically overlooks her and it’s very easy for her to get info because a lady can’t possibly be a threat.

Anything with the Seven Wonders. Idk why nobody writes Death in the Spires fic, but I need all of it. Ella and Aaron’s awkward reunion while he still believes she’s a murderer but they start working together to figure out what the fuck Jem is up to. The five remaining Wonders hanging out after the end of the book. Outsider povs of all the people who work at Oxford having heart attacks when they all descend on campus at the same time. Prue and Ella slowly repairing their friendship. Aaron and Jem’s friendship

A day in the life of Mr. Peacock, devoted husband to the most ordinary woman in the world. He just tries to do normal things like make breakfast and look after his wife, but in the background Kim and Will are up to shenanigans. But the whole time Mr. Peacock has to be unruffled and act like none of this is even slightly out of the ordinary

Marianne Loxleigh should meet Amanda Frisby. They’d either invent feminism or cause the apocalypse by noon

Theo and Martin have to meet the Murder. It would be so good. Theo’s already met John, but he’s entirely unprepared for Corvin being Corvin and also for Amanda and her gothic novels and also for every single person treating him like a celebrity because they all love Jonathan. Meanwhile Martin in having a heart attack over the fact that this is The Murder, but he gets on well enough with Guy, Phil, John, and David, all of whom are least capable of pretending to be suitable company