#fuss free comforting soup

[kateschi]

when the hero falls

synopsis: in a moment of vulnerability, katsuki finds himself battling a cold, but he—begrudgingly— lets you care for him.

pairing: timeskip!bakugou katsuki x f!reader

you were enjoying a peaceful afternoon when a series of loud, raspy sneezes echoed through the apartment, cutting through the stillness like a cannon.

you looked up from your book, eyebrows knitting together in concern. it wasn’t unusual for katsuki to be loud, but this sounded different—rougher.

a moment later, he stumbled into the living room, red-faced and rubbing his nose with the back of his hand.

“I’m fine. it’s just a cold, stop hoverin’,” he grumbled, but the slight crack in his voice betrayed him.

you set your book aside, the concern bubbling up inside you. “you sound like you swallowed gravel, katsuki,” you said, crossing your arms as you watched him stumble over to the couch.

“I’ve had worse. this ain’t nothin’,” he snapped, dropping down onto the cushions with a huff. he tried to lean back, but a harsh cough broke free from his chest, making you wince.

“right, because fighting villains with injuries is the same as dealing with a cold,” you retorted, walking over to him. “let me get you some medicine and a blanket.”

“I don’t need any damn—” he began, but you were already moving, determined to take care of him despite his protests.

as you rummaged through the cabinet, you heard him muttering under his breath. “y/n, I swear, it’s just a sniffle…”

you turned back with a bottle of cold medicine and a glass of water. “here, take this. it’ll help.”

he glared at you, the usual fire in his eyes dimmed by the heaviness of his sickness. “I said I’m fine.”

you raised an eyebrow, crossing your arms again. “you’re clearly not. you sound terrible.”

“you’re making it worse by fussing over me like I’m some kinda kid,” he huffed, but you caught the slightest twitch at the corner of his mouth, almost as if he was fighting a smile.

“sure, katsuki. you just keep sneezing like that,” you replied dryly, handing him the glass. “drink it.”

he took the glass reluctantly, grumbling about how unnecessary this all was, but you could see the way he tried to suppress another cough.

after a few moments, he downed the medicine with a grimace, the bitterness evident in his expression.

“there. that wasn’t so hard, was it?” you teased gently, setting the empty glass on the table.

he huffed, “whatever. it’s just a stupid cold.” but there was an undeniable softness in his eyes now, a flicker of appreciation peeking through his gruff facade.

“let me get you a blanket,” you said, moving back to the bedroom. you returned to find him slouched against the couch, trying to look nonchalant, but the way he rubbed his eyes told you everything.

you draped the blanket over him, tucking it in around his legs. “you look like a lost puppy,” you remarked, amusement lacing your voice.

“shut up,” he grumbled, burying his face in the fabric.

you could practically see the stubbornness radiating off him, but he didn’t shove the blanket away. in fact, he seemed to pull it closer, almost as if seeking the comfort it provided.

“want some soup?” you asked, moving back to the kitchen, knowing he wouldn’t refuse once he tasted it.

“no,” he said, but the slight crack in his voice revealed just how unconvincing he was.

you simply smirked. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

as you started preparing the soup, you could hear him mumble under his breath. “I’m not sick.”

you chuckled softly. “sure, keep telling yourself that.”

by the time you brought the steaming bowl over, he had settled down a little more, the blanket wrapped around him like a shield. you handed it to him, watching as he accepted it with a resigned sigh.

“fine. just this once,” he muttered, starting to eat.

you smiled as you sat down beside him, reaching over to run your fingers through his hair. “see? not so bad, right?”

he grumbled something incoherent, but you caught the way his eyes fluttered shut at your touch. you felt a warmth spread in your chest, knowing he was allowing himself to be vulnerable around you, even if he would never outright admit it.

“just promise me you’ll take care of yourself next time,” you said softly, glancing at him.

“yeah, yeah,” he grunted, but the way he leaned into your touch was answer enough.

as the soup began to work its magic, katsuki’s stubbornness started to melt away. his eyelids grew heavier, and you noticed him drifting in and out of coherence, the delirium of the cold clouding his usual sharp demeanor.

“y’know,” he mumbled, his voice thick with fatigue, “I hate being like this.” he was staring at you with a softness you rarely saw, the usual spark in his eyes dulled by illness.

“I know,” you said softly, leaning in a bit closer. “but it’s okay to let me take care of you.”

he shook his head weakly, a playful glimmer in his eyes. “you really don’t need to fuss over me like this.”

“fussing is my specialty when it comes to you,” you replied, unable to hide your smile.

his gaze softened as he reached out, intertwining your fingers. “well, I…appreciate it.” the sincerity in his tone made your heart flutter, cutting through the haze of his illness.

you squeezed his hand gently, teasingly saying, “just admit it, you love me taking care of you.”

“yeah, maybe,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. with a sigh of contentment, he let his eyes flutter closed, a hint of a smile still lingering on his lips. “don’t stop, okay?”

before you could respond, his head fell to the side, resting against your shoulder. you felt his grip tighten around your hand as he let out a soft sigh, the tension in his body finally easing.

“hey, I’m still awake!” he protested, but his voice was a mere whisper now, almost lost to the warm air of the room.

“sure you are,” you replied, unable to hide your smile as you stroked his hair gently.

“m’not sleeping…” he mumbled, but his eyes were closed, and you could hear the faint sound of his breathing evening out.

“okay, katsuki,” you said, letting the moment linger as you felt his body relax against you. “just rest.”

a few moments passed, and you thought he was finally asleep when he suddenly tightened his arms around you, pulling you closer. “stay,” he murmured, his voice barely audible.

“always,” you replied softly, feeling a rush of warmth in your chest.

he buried his face against your neck, his body molding against yours as he drifted off completely, unfiltered affection pouring from him in the form of gentle hugs.

in that moment, he was no longer the explosive hero you knew but just your katsuki—vulnerable, tired, and utterly yours.

as the minutes passed, you thought he was fully asleep when you heard a faint whisper escape his lips, “love you.”

your heart swelled at his unexpected confession, a soft smile spreading across your face. you pulled him closer, feeling grateful for these quiet moments of tenderness and intimacy.

you settled into the embrace, your heart swelling as you held him close. you didn’t mind the warmth of his breath on your skin or the way he clung to you, knowing that this was a rare glimpse into the softer side of your husband.

you smiled to yourself, happy to be there for him, knowing he’d be back to his fiery self soon enough. for now, you’d let him be vulnerable, cherishing these moments of quiet tenderness.

kofi — navigation — masterlist

do not copy, translate, or plagarize

[cosmic-waves7]

Hi!!! I saw that you write for Howls and I was wondering if we could get some hcs in how his so cares for him? Whether that be after a tough day physically or mentally or silly pampering him. How does Howl want and receive his comfort?

Preen

note: sort of went on an unofficial hiatus lol, but im finally on holiday yippee :)))) anyway i'm sure I've done this sort of request or smth before but I just love howl so much, he deserves all the love mwah <3

Warnings: nthn, just clingy howl and lots of sickening fluff.:3

Howl Pendragon x reader

It feels like the exhaustion is trying to imbed itself within his bones.

Howl struggles past the front door, His feet dragging as the castle door close with a resounding ding! signaling a new and hopefully much more calming scenery outside. He can't think of that now though.

bed, sleep, rest..now...

he could topple over at any moment.

The aroma of hot savory onion soup overtook his senses, he could almost feel the heady warmth of the liquid down his throat, burning away the worries and hardships of the day leaving him sated and drowsy. He could barely wait.

"Oh no you don't." Suddenly, soup didn't seem all that important.

Nimble fingers slip past his shoulders, pushing away his coat and fussing with its buttons. Howl's eyes landed on you blearily as he called out your name dreamily while reaching for you, his fingers smoothing out over any exposed skin he could reach and nuzzling into your blushing neck.

"Missed you." He mumbles quietly, his breath tickling you slightly. He pulled you in tighter as if trying to carve himself into you, trying to mold your bodies and souls into one. Too bad your offending apron and clothes prevented him.

"Poor baby." You coo as you brush through his hair, fingers carding through messily strewn strands and pressing into worn out muscles. "Okay time for a bath, then dinner."

"Nooo diner-"

"No, c'mere." You grinned with an air of finality, ushering him up the stairs ensuring he doesn't try flopping onto the cushy sofas in front of a grumbling calcifer, you're too used to his tricks and it comforts him to fall into your familiar routine. You sneak some more wood to the fire demon, a silent promise from his side to keep the thick onion soup bubbling and the bathtub upstairs equally toasty.

************************

Howl's staring into the soapy water, helplessly letting you wash his hair and scrub the grime off his skin, occasionally he plays with your free hand. you're both so very naked, so very vulnerable yet peacefully cleaning and gently caring for each other. A silly smile overtakes his lips as he remembers his flirtatious attempt for more...unorthodox intentions while you rolled your eyes and cheekily pushed him into the tub.

It should feel like a snug fit in the tub but magic has its perks and you're both settled into a pool of bubbles that would comfortably fit around three to four people. Howl shivers once more while you splashed water onto his richly dark hair. It hung limply over his eyes as you rubbed his back and pressed deliciously into his taught tendons, it took everything in him to not wantonly moan into your ear so he only let soft ragged breaths escape him as he gripped at your palms where you were sat behind him.

He could feel your smirk. You truly were his undoing.

Just as howl was about to let his eyes fall close and sleep to overtake him you pushed at his shoulders and complained loudly.

"Bath time is over you big oaf, get off i cant breath!"

Howl immediately saw his opening to tease you.

"I don’t know” He airly replied, slumping further into you while pretending to sleep and become dead-weight on top of your struggling form “It’s so comfortable here, I could just rest for a while~”

“Howl.” You warned.

“You wouldn’t mind right?”

You tugged at his hair with slight harshness

“Ouch!”

“Out! You’re clean. Now stop pouting.”

************************

Finally in fresh night-clothes, bellies full of soup and crunchy buttery toast, you're longing for sleep but the need to be in each others presence is stronger so you move to the living room in front of calcifer's hearth as he grumbles away about how much work he does around the castle. Howl shushes him with more firewood while you tuck little Markle to bed, before returning to cuddle up on the loveseat with a blanket wrapped round to stay cozy.

Eventually you find yourself preening through Howl's nearly-dry hair again whilst he settles his head against your chest and the rest of his body lays between your open thighs with his back facing you. All is quiet for a moment, only calcifer's crackling and your calming breaths fill the room as you rub at his scalp and untangle stray locks when a thought strikes you.

"Howl, dear."

"Hmm?" He hums tiredly letting one eye open.

"You know, you're a lot like a bird." You put a finger over his lips before he starts scowling about his more beastly raven-like form " In the sense that you always like your hair played with, a lot like how birds like their feathers preened. Especially by their bird partner."

You smiled down at him openly, he couldn't help but smile back.

"Oh? So that makes you my bird partner now, doesn't it?" He had one eyebrow raised while peeking up at you.

"Of course." You grinned, playing along.

"We'd make wonderful Swans then." He said with a serious expression.

"Why is that?" You blinked curiously, wondering why he was reaching closer for your face.

"Because they mate for life.''

and he followed his silent promise with a deep kiss.

BONUS:

“You know, I think you’d make for a wonderful peacock instead. Show off.” You muttered

“Quiet now, you love me.”

:))))

[pnutbutter-n-j-elyy]

HELLOOO first off love your writing and how you write the characters!

I don't know if you requests are open or not, if they aren't then just ignore this

Can you please do a reaction of whoever you want in stray kids being used to dating gold diggers they usually pay for everything and when they don't their s/o would get mad

So when they cancel your date to a very fancy restaurant because they were sick they expected you to be mad but instead you came to his house made him soup and took care of them the whole time :))))

Plus points if they're touch starved and love having you physically babying them and play with their hair

Midas Touch | Seungmin

Seungmin x gn!reader

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Seungmin wasn’t sure what to expect when he sent the text.

He stared at his phone, the screen glowing with your contact, hesitation gnawing at him. Cancelling plans was never easy, but it was particularly hard when he thought about your excitement for tonight’s dinner. He could still remember the way your eyes lit up when he mentioned the reservation at that fancy restaurant downtown- a place he was far too familiar with, thanks to his past relationships.

Those relationships had been…transactional, to say the least. Each time, Seungmin found himself with people who seemed more interested in what he could give them than who he truly was. The constant gift-giving, the endless high-end dates- it was what they expected. And when he couldn’t provide it, when life happened and plans were cancelled, it always led to the same disappointed reaction.

The expectations weighed on him, but with you? He wasn’t sure what to expect. Would you be upset like the others?

With a sigh, he hit send:

I’m sorry, I have to cancel dinner tonight. I’m not feeling well.

He pressed his phone to his chest, his free hand tapping on his knee lightly while waiting for the inevitable “Oh, really? Can’t you just power through?” or the disappointed silence that followed whenever he wasn’t able to meet those expectations.

But your response came much quicker than anticipated.

Oh no, poor thing! I’m coming over, sit tight <3 !!

His brow furrowed as he re-read your message. You were coming over? No protest, no irritation at the lost reservation? He blinked at his phone, almost unable to believe it. The kind of reaction he was so used to- the irritation, the sigh of inconvenience -it didn’t come like he expected.

An hour later, there was a soft knock on his door, and when he opened it, there you were, holding a bag that smelled like fresh soup. Your face was laced with concern, your nose red from the harsh cold as your eyes scanning him over like you were already assessing his health.

"Y/N, you didn’t have to come all the way here," Seungmin murmured, already feeling a little guilty for dragging you into this. His voice was hoarse, and he cleared his throat.

But you just gave him a soft smile and stepped inside. "Of course I did. You’re sick, Seungmin. Who else is going to take care of you otherwise?"

That simple question left him speechless.

He wasn’t used to someone wanting to take care of him- he was used to being the one who was expected to provide, to look after others. He watched as you took off your coat, making yourself comfortable in his space without a second thought, moving toward his kitchen like it was second nature to you.

For the next few hours, he watched in disbelief as you fussed over him. You made sure he drank water, helped him eat the soup you'd brought, and even tidied up his apartment a little, though it wasn’t necessary since he was a clean man. And each time you checked on him, each time you brushed your hand over his forehead to feel for a fever, or when you gently ruffled his hair, something inside him sparked- or rather melted.

It was strange, this feeling of being cared for. He realized how touch-starved he truly was, how much he craved this kind of closeness without even knowing it.

How much he actually loved it when it came from you- as he hated it from others.

Every time your fingers skimmed his hair, he felt a warmth that had nothing to do with his fever. When you tucked him in on the couch, playfully patting his arm and settling beside him, he leaned into your touch without even thinking about it.

And that’s when the weight of it all hit him- the difference between you and everyone else who had been in his life before.

He’d always thought his value was in what he could give, how much he could provide. But with you, it wasn’t about that. It never had been.

Seungmin’s thoughts drifted to the legend of King Midas- the man whose touch turned everything into gold. For Midas, his gift had become a curse; no matter what he touched, it lost its warmth, its life. He realized he had been living like that -surrounded by gold, by riches and luxury, but none of it held meaning.

But you…you weren’t like that.

You weren’t interested in the gold, in the material things he could give. You were interested in him. Your touch wasn’t a curse; it was warmth, real and alive. It brought him back to life in a way that no extravagant date ever could.

"Why are you being so nice to me?" Seungmin’s voice came out quieter than he intended, a mix of vulnerability and genuine curiosity. "I thought you’d be mad that I cancelled. Especially since it was a nice restaraunt...expensive..." He trailed off, his puppy eyes trailing up to your face to gauge your reaction.

Were you...truly not upset about this at all?

You turned to look at him, eyebrows furrowing like you couldn’t believe he’d even ask that. "Mad? Why would I be mad? You’re sick, Seungmin. Of course I’m gonna be here. Besides, this is cheaper anyway! A nice little stay-in date. The second cheapest soup in the store is the best soup." You stated matter of factly. "Paired with some kimbap and drink of your choice-" You held up your finger in an "okay" sign and winked. "This is even better than if we ate out!" You saaid clapping once as you reached for food.

He blinked at you, a little taken aback by the sincerity in your voice.

"You...mean that?"

"Mhm, why wouldn't I?" You asked, stuffing the closest thing into your mouth, not looking at Seungmin, rather focused on your convenience store goodies.

"It’s just…I’m not used to this."

"What do you mean?" you gently tugged the blanket over him, sliding yourself under the corner as well, your fingers brushing his arm as you adjusted it.

"I’m used to…" He hesitated, feeling a little exposed. "People getting upset when I can’t…provide. Fancy dates, expensive gifts. That kind of thing."

You smiled, soft and a little sad, as if the idea of anyone expecting that from him was ridiculous. "I’m not here for any of that. I mean, yeah, those things are nice, but I’m here for you, Seungmin. I like you for you. Not for what you can give me."

He swallowed hard, the words sinking deep into him. He had heard it before, in half-hearted reassurances from past partners, but this -this felt real.

You meant it.

And it hit him harder than he expected. His heart hammered in his chest.

Is this what real love felt like...you guys hadn't exchanged that word yet...but...

In this moment he felt the urge to.

"I guess I just don’t know what that feels like," he admitted, his voice softer now, his gaze dropping to the blanket covering him, as he fought that temptation.

You reached out, running your fingers through his hair, gently massaging his scalp. "Well, now you do. You’re stuck with me, even when you’re sick."

He let out a soft laugh, the kind that shook his chest and made him wince slightly from his sore throat. "I think I’m okay with that."

And just like that, Seungmin felt something crack open inside him -a part of himself that had been so tightly guarded, so afraid of being hurt. But with you, he felt safe. Safe enough to lean into your touch, to lay in your lap to let himself be cared for without fear of what you might want in return.

I think I'm in love.

No...I am in love.

As you continued to softly play with his hair, Seungmin’s eyes fluttered closed.

He realized that this was what he had been missing -this golden touch that wasn’t about wealth or status. It was about love, about care, about someone being there for him even when things weren’t perfect or glamorous.

He had spent so long being afraid of turning everything around him into something superficial, something gilded and lifeless. But with you, it wasn’t about gold or riches.

It was about your golden touch -the one that brought him comfort, warmth, and something more valuable than anything money could buy.

When Seungmin finally drifted off into a fevered sleep, the corners of his lips were curled into the softest of smiles. For the first time in a long time, he felt truly cared for.

He truly felt loved.

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@abovenyx @wolfs-archive @oddracha

@iyeeeverydee @parisanmorovati @seungmincenteric

@panbish-1209 @fxiry-vtt @sseawavee

@shuporanporang @amarecerasus @softkisshyunjin

@whoa-jo @meanergreener @rikibun

@ayyonoona @shinywombatcrusade @y4yayael

@skzstan12345 @mariteez @allys-reads

@jazziwritesthings @skzstannie @yongbokkiesworld

@kkkeopi @neverendingstay @moony-9

@minsungsthirdwheel @everlastingspring143 @joyofbebbanburg

@leezanetheofficial @tr-mha-fan @bubbly-moon

@night-storm7 @missmajdastark @axel-skz

[tenderleavesbob]

Flowers and Deities continue!

"Yeah," Warriors admitted freely. He shifted on the ground and saw Twilight twitch toward him. Hyrule confirmed that the moblin's club had fractured bone, and even sitting on his blanket was painful. If Twilight wasn't so busy hovering over Time, Warriors knew without a doubt that he would be hovering over him. Instead, Wind frowned at him and started digging through Warriors's bag for who knew what. "The Fierce Deity made me nervous as hell. Mask hid the mask from me for weeks after the first time I saw him put him on. I was ready to break it in two."

"Because that sounds smart," Legend said, but he wasn't looking at Warriors. He was looking at Time's bag. Warriors had no doubt that the vet was itching to investigate such a magical item.

"I didn't care if it was smart," Warriors said with a shrug. "I was terrified that Mask was going to put on the mask one day and the Deity would refuse to let him go. Or it would grow bored of the enemies on the battlefield and turn on my soldiers instead."

The only thing scarier than the Fierce Deity turning its sword on Warriors's soldiers was the possibility of Warriors needing to raise his own blade in turn. He couldn't imagine it. He had tried, and he failed every time.

"Wind braiding some flowers into its hair helped. It made it harder to be afraid of it when it would show up with purple flowers in its hair."

Wind scoffed at him, but Warriors saw him preening. He offered Warriors another pillow and didn't stop shoving it at him until Sky helped Warriors better adjust his position.

Time was still sleeping off wearing the mask, not as young as he used to be. Warriors wouldn't mind staying at their new camp for another day. Trying to resume walking in the morning sounded like a nightmare.

"Is that why you called Time 'Mask'?" Sky asked. He took one of the blankets Wind had pulled out and tucked it around Warriors's shoulders. Warriors had lost more blood than he had thought, and it left him chilled. Since Twilight couldn't fuss over him, Warriors thought wryly, he supposed the duty fell to Sky.

"Part of it," Warriors agreed. He accepted the bowl of soup Wild offered him with a smile. He had watched the younger man make it, frowning heavily and making a thick broth from fresh bones. While Warriors hadn't had a chance to see his wounds and the resulting mess, the rest of the chain had. Based on the stains on his clothes, there had been a definite pool of blood.

Wild carried a bowl of soup in each hand and sat beside Twilight. Twilight paused from where he was checking on Time to gratefully accept a bowl. Wild grinned at him and then turned to the group. "I found a mask like that during my adventure. It had power to it, but nothing like..." He held his bowl with one hand and waved vaguely with the other. Twilight watched the soup splash in the bowl with clear trepidation.

"I'm used to powerful spirits," Twilight said, reaching up and steadying Wild's bowl, "but I never want to see that again."

Fear lingered in his eyes. Warriors smiled in sympathy at him. He understood.

It wasn't just the flowers and braid, but Warriors never felt comfortable talking about the war. No one would judge him. Everyone kept their own tales tucked behind their tongues. Remembering his own trauma was bad enough, but remembering Mask's and Tune's? How they had barely recovered from their latest adventures before they were dumped in a war?

Warriors remembered the battle, the moment, which had been the turning point with Fierce Deity. It was certainly not a story he ever planned to share, no matter how much he loved and trusted his brothers.

The battle had been awful. It had been late in the war, and whatever sanity remained in Cia's corrupted heart was falling apart. Ganondorf wasn't completely freed from his prisons, but he was free enough. Warriors remembered desperately loving his boys and just as desperately wishing the Goddesses would return them to their own times. They had seen enough, suffered enough.

Warriors didn't remember the blow which dropped him. He just remembered that it didn't hurt. He just remembered how Tune had seen him and screamed.

Things blurred after that. The shock of the wound and the blood loss, Impa told him later. Warriors never forgot the important things, though, like how gently the Fierce Deity had carried him off the battlefield, how Warriors's blood had stained them both, how the Fierce Deity had cradled him to its chest like Warriors was a child.

How the Fierce Deity had walked so carefully, letting Tune's short legs keep pace with them.

That was the moment when Warriors decided to trust him, and the Fierce Deity had never let him down.

That was certainly not a tale Warriors ever planned on sharing, though. "You should have seen the Deity sit while Wind braided his hair," he said. "It was weirdly adorable."

Wind preened while the rest of the chain stared at Warriors like he was insane. He only smiled back and started sipping his soup.

Warriors would also never share how he still had some of Tune's unused violets tucked in his journal. Some things were for him alone.

[bubbles-for-all-of-us]

oh no, i hope you get better soon! you deserve to be in the middle of a sleep token cuddle pile with the boys taking care of you :)

Waiting for antibiotics to kick in and hoping that I can get a free day off work tomorrow. 🫡🫧

But also….

No, but imagine them all finding out that you are unwell. You forbid them from coming to visit you because the tour starts soon and you would never forgive yourself if you were to get them sick too. But then you get woken up from your fever nap by your doorbell ringing. So you’re dragging yourself up, hair all messy, a blanket wrapped around your body. And you open the door to them bickering because iii forgot your keys.

“Not my fucking problem that your key is like hers”, he grunts before turning to you, “oh, hun…” and you’re being dragged into iii’s warm embrace. And it’s so comforting and warm and so exactly what your freezing body needs.

“Yeah, out of the hallway”, Vessel orders, “She will get even more ill, it’s windy here”. And then they are practically push you inside. Palm after palm coming to check your forehead. “Guys…”, you grunt, “I told you to not come”, you try to frown but that only results in your head hurting even more. “And have we ever listened, darling”, ii shrugs, already mid-watching up the dirty dishes in your kitchen.

“You need to shower 'cause this ain’t it”, iv pulls at the strand of your hair. “Thanks huh… kind of been busy being sick”, you grunt. “You look cute regardless”, he’s quick to interject with a wink, “I’m just saying that a bath would make you feel better”, he pulls you into his chest and you once again melt into a warm embrace, feeling your eyes closing.

“Come, I’ll help you wash up”, Vessel gently runs a hand down the back of your neck. “I’m not getting naked in front of you”, you wheeze, hiding your face even further into iv chest. “Nothing I haven’t seen before”, Veseel shrugs making you let out a gasp, “You haven’t seen my ass”. Laugher echoes through the apparent. “Questionable statement if we take last new year’s into consideration”, iii snorts. “Who are you to talk to, your dick was out before midnight”, you shoot him a look, sending everyone into fits of laughter once again. “Okay, bath now”, Vessel practically peals you away from iv before scooping you up in his arms, “Fun later”.

You don’t remember much of the bath time. Just Vessel humming beneath his breath as he washed your hair, running a wet cloth down your arms as you soaked in hot water. Every cough that slipped past your lips made him frown more and more. At some point iv had popped his head in to check on you, double-checking on what meds he needed to go grab. Once you were dried off and drowning in iii hoody, a big mug of tea was placed in your hands.

Your living room was now spotless. Blankets you didn’t even know you had thrown all over the sofa. “Chicken noodle soup should be done soon”, ii walked in a tea towel draped over his shoulder. You only crook your head to the side. “Don’t give me that look”, he flicks your nose, “You would do the same for us”. And where he’s not wrong, you still couldn’t get over the four men fussing over you.

“You are being too sweet”, you sigh, letting your body fall into the blankets. “So are you when you stay up for hours on face time after shit shows”, iii muses, scooting in next to you. You smile at him weakly, resting your head on his shoulder.

“Movies and cuddles?”, iv steps through the door, dangling a bag in his hands. “I call dibs on picking”, Vessel hums, pulling your legs over his lap. “You always pick”, iii rolls his eyes yet tosses the remote to him anyway. “Take two”, iv pops pills into his palm before handing them to you, “Save me a spot while I go look for a thermometer”, he pats your thigh before disappearing into the kitchen. “I swear if you all leave me a corner seat I will beat your ass”, ii shout back, making you all chuckle.

[shadowdaddies]

Hello!! Can I request Rhys x reader where reader is sick or is on her cycle and Rhys just turns into a mother hen and takes care of her?

Hope you’re doing well💜💜

thank you honey, I hope you are doing well too💜 Rhys would absolutely love the excuse to take care of you when you're sick

The Warmest Cold

Rhys x Reader Fluff

You awoke with a shiver, freezing despite the roaring fire that crackled in the hearth. You moved to sit up in the bed, your bones aching in protest as you loosed a cough. Rhys padded out of the bathroom at the sound, looking at you with concern as he quickly made his way to the side of the bed. “Are you feeling alright, darling?” He didn’t give you a chance to respond before he cupped your cheek with one hand, pressing his other against your forehead, checking your temperature. 

You tried to assure him that you were fine, but failed to get the words out before you were interrupted by a coughing fit. Rhys pressed a kiss to your forehead. “Oh darling, lie down while I get you some tea with lemon and honey.” He gently pushed you down as he pulled the covers back over you. Your will to protest his fussing was quickly quelled by the undeniable comfort of the warm bed. 

Rhys made your tea, setting it on the nightstand as he moved to sit against the headboard behind you, you nestling between his legs as you used his stomach as a pillow. He reached over to the nightstand to grab your tea and the book you’d been reading, handing you the tea to sip as he opened the book to read to you. Between Rhys’s gentle voice vibrating through you as he read, and his free hand combing soothing strokes through your hair, you soon fell asleep.

You didn’t know how much time had passed when you awoke again, Rhys’s thumb rubbing soft circles on your arm as he leaned down to press a kiss to your temple. “You need to eat something, darling. Why don’t I run you a lavender bath and then I’ll make you some warm soup?” You nodded sleepily in his arms, stretching your achy joints as you followed him to the bathroom, dimly lit with warm faelight as Rhys undressed you and helped you into the tub. He propped himself on the side of the bath, rubbing your sore neck and shoulders. You relaxed deeply into the tub, thankful for your thoughtful mate who turned even your coldest days into your warmest memories.

[parad-ice-lostandfound]

Prompt: "I made you soup because I love you, you dense piece of sponge cake."

Pairing: Cater Diamond x GN!Reader/Prefect/Yuu

Genre: Fluff, Slight Hurt/Comfort

TW: Cater gets sick, mention of (almost) fainting

Really, the fact that Cater woke up fatigued even after a good and recommended 8 hours of sleep should have clued him in on the fact that he was sick. The dull ache behind his eyes should have cemented the realization in his head, but Cater just didn't realize.

And now he was stuck in bed.

It could have been worse, he supposed. Had it not been for Trey's timely intervention when he nearly fainted in alchemy, Cater would have found himself headfirst into a bubbling cauldron. An incident that earned him a lecture about lab safety and understanding one's limits by Professor Crewel.

Another intervention by Trey got him out of sitting through one of Riddle's lectures, but nothing could get him free from their combined motherly fussing.

It felt nice to be looked after, he had to admit. Even when he whined about the bitter medicine Riddle was forcing him to eat, the redhead only glared at him a little before shoving the spoonful of the vile liquid in his mouth, declaring that it would help him. Trey, on the other hand, was a lot more understanding with him when he threw a tantrum, giving him a patient smile before adjusting his blankets so that he didn't overheat (even though Cater was convinced he would freeze without his blankets tucked all the way around his neck).

It was nice, but it was also tiring.

So when a knock sounded on the door, Cater groaned and turned on his side, staring at the wall in defiance. "I'm fine, Trey, I don't need anything," he called out, quickly smothering a cough with his palm pressed to his mouth.

The door opened, and with it came a familiar voice, words soft and kind. "I'm not Trey, but you don't really sound fine."

Cater whipped around to face you, wincing at how the sudden movement made his vision swim for a few moments.

You weren't supposed to see him like this. Cater had borderline begged Riddle and Trey not to tell you about him being sick and had made them promise that they wouldn't tell you. But you were here, when you weren't supposed to see him in bed, looking as miserable as one could be. When he was too tired to keep up his usual charming persona.

Cater looked at you with wide eyes, feeling the bony fingers of panic closing around his heart and chilling the blood in his veins. His tongue sat heavy in his mouth as he watched you walk inside, closing the door and coming close to where his bed was. All he could do was stare at you mutedly as you placed the tray in your hands that he hadn't noticed before on the small foldable table Trey had brought in earlier.

"(Name)..."

His voice trailed off as you placed a hand on his forehead, checking his temperature. If his cheeks weren't already red from the fever, they would have become red under your careful touch and observant eyes. Fighting past the tightness in his throat, he asked, "What... are you doing here?"

You quirked up an eyebrow, looking at him with such concern and care that he felt he would melt under it.

"My boyfriend's sick. How can I not be beside him at a time like this?"

Cater let out a small, fake chuckle as he tried to sit up on the bed. His heart did somersaults inside his chest when you helped him sit up, the place where your hands made contact with his body feeling warm and comforting. "You didn't have to-"

"I wanted to," you cut him off, running a hand through his hair. Cater closed his eyes, taking in the sensation, allowing the panic to loosen its hold on him. His friends had already proved that they wouldn't leave him alone no matter how difficult he got to handle.

It would only be fair to give you a chance to prove the same, right?

Green eyes opened to meet yours, as a genuine smile stretched across his lips. You mirrored his smile, tilting your head slightly towards him. "I made you some soup. Well, Trey did most of the work, but I helped," you hummed, and his eyes drifted over to the bowl on the tray and the spoon set beside it, before coming back to you.

"Why?" He asked, unable to stop the question from slipping through his lips.

"Because I love you, you dense piece of sponge cake."

Back to Masterlist...

[thelampisaflashlight]

Blanketed

[A sudden change in weather leaves Dew feeling ill.] Below the cut.

It starts with a general feeling of malaise, something Dew could easily blame on the weather; There’s a storm brewing above the abbey, but the dense clouds have yet to burst, leaving the air charged and... 

Heavy.

He feels sluggish, like someone has tied weights to his... everything.

His joints are stiff, and he feels cold.

Colder than he’s felt in a long time, but the others are starting to look at him funny the more blankets he pulls from the basket beside the couch where he’s been sitting practically since he woke up that very morning.

He glares back at them, shivering, ready to snap with the headache building behind his eyes, but he doesn’t have the energy to get up, let alone yell.

Aether finally stands up and presses the back of his hand to his forehead when he goes for a fifth layer, tutting under his breath before asking one of the others to grab the thermometer from the bathroom.

Dew narrows his eyes at him, but doesn’t put up a fuss when Cumulus returns and holds it in front of his face.

With a huff, Dew opens his mouth and lets her stick the device under his tongue.

Now, it’s normal for Dew to run a little hot, he is a fire ghoul after all, but from the looks on his friends’ faces when the thermometer beeps, he is, perhaps, a bit too hot even for him.

He doesn’t hear the exact number, too busy tunneling back under the blankets, rolling over to face the back of the couch, but before he can settle in, he feels arms sliding underneath his frame and pulling him up.

He wriggles awkwardly and manages to poke his head free of the blankets, only to make eye contact with Swiss, who’s cradling him against his chest and shoulder.

Dew makes an agitated, croaky noise at him and hisses.

“You stop that.” the multi ghoul chastises, smacking his butt through the blankets, making a dull “thwap” sound, “You need a nap.”

His tail swishes irritably.

“You need a nap.” he mocks, grumbling as Swiss bounces him slightly, trying to get a better grip on his body.

“You’re full of a lot of piss and vinegar for someone who’s basically swaddled up like a big ol’ baby.” Swiss sighs, patting his back.

“I wouldn’t have to be if it weren’t so damned cold in here!” Dew whines, admittedly feeling a bit better now that Swiss is actively soothing him.

“Buddy...”

Dew groans.

“You’re sweating like crazy, you know that, right?” Swiss asks, “It can’t be comfortable being wrapped up like this.”

Dew buries his face in Swiss’ shoulder, mumbling to himself.

“What’s that?”

“I said this is bullshit!” Dew practically shouts in Swiss’ ear, “I’m a fire ghoul! I’m not supposed to get fevers- Call Satan, I wanna have words-”

Swiss snorts.

Fuckin’ snorts!

“It’s not fucking funny!”

Swiss resumes patting his back, “I know, I know, buddy... Just, it happens, people get sick.”

“I-”

“Yes, even you.”

“I don’t want to be sick.” Dew grumbles, “It’s stupid human bullshit.”

“Spoiler alert bubs, your body is a stupid human body.” Swiss says, “You might be an ultra cool ghoul, but your vessel can still get sick.”

Dew groans again, propping his chin up on Swiss’ shoulder, locking eyes with Aether.

“You can fix this shit, right?” he asks, and Aether gives him a small smile, but shakes his head.

“I can ease the symptoms a bit, but if I can’t ‘fix’ being sick, Dew.” Aether explains, “I could make you some soup though? You want some soup?”

Dew considers this for a moment.

“...Can I have those fish crackers with my soup?”

“Of course.”

“...Sick.”

[solitaire-sol]

Daily Prongsfoot Thought 15

As the son of two elderly parents who considered him their 'miracle baby,' I assume James was spoiled in the best possible way; as an active kid, he was splashing around in streams and wandering out chasing fireflies, so he got sick pretty often. Usually nothing major, but at the smallest sign of sniffles Effie and Monty would descend on him with warm quilts and ice packs, reading him his favorite stories ("Tell the one when Godric made friends with the griffins!") and spoon-feeding him broth. James loves being fussed over, but he feels better before he's actually better and gets restless, trying to sneak back outside or out of bed before he's fully recovered.

Sirius would, of course, have been tended to by house elves if he fell ill, with nothing left to chance, but it's hardly the warmest comfort and he starts getting annoyed by their cringing attitude early in life. Once, when Sirius was very young, he thinks he felt one of his parents' hand on his brow during a fever, but he doesn't remember much and they never checked on him during future illnesses, except to make sure Sirius isn't faking it. Sickness becomes a sign of weakness to Sirius, as it is with the rest of his immediate family, so he tries to ignore it when he feels a cold or something coming on, which usually results in it being worse than it would have. Sirius doesn't like being around people when he's sick because he doesn't want them seeing him vulnerable and prefers to be left alone.

Attending Hogwarts is a big change for both of them, particular for Sirius, who's not used to people hovering when he's ill. House elves, sure, but the first time he hides his cold until he almost collapses is both incredibly embarrassing and the first time he experiences anger born of worry, because James insists on taking care of him (mimicking what his parents would do for him, slightly hit or miss) while scolding Sirius for not being honest. Aren't they friends? Friends look out for each other, right? Stop being an idiot and drink this soup, it's good for you, apparently!

On James' part, he rapidly convinces Remus and Peter to tend to him while he's ill; they roll their eyes over his dramatics as they get older, especially Remus, but they're secretly happy to be able to help James, given how he's usually the one who lends them a helping hand. Remus manages to make his mother's special broth and Peter is always ready to sneak down into the kitchens or keep James updated on school gossip, but Sirius is initially at a loss: He's never taken care of anyone before, and all he has to go on is James' sincere but somewhat haphazard bedside manner. All that James wants, as it turns out, is for Sirius to stay with him, holding Sirius' hand as he falls asleep; Sirius could easily slip his hand free, but he doesn't want to.

sometimes they manage to get each other sick, too. such are the pitfalls of being inseparable! <3

[litfeathers]

The Fabulous Adventures of Mister Rabbit and Missus Wolf

Here, have some cute parental Witteclaw shenanigans.

Inspired by the legendary @pinkgolfcart and this goddamn masterpiece.

————

Every second that ticked by was pure torture.

Every minute felt like hours.

It was impossible to get comfortable.

Everything was simultaneously too hot and too cold.

And the pain…

Evelyn winced and wiggled in a plush bed, pulling a blanket over her restless body before immediately shoving it back off with a frustrated huff.

She groaned and pulled a cool dishtowel back over her eyes as she tried to stay as still as possible.

“Being pregnant and about to pop is the worst possible time for a migraine. Just…relax…everything is nice and dark…ohhh, that’s better. It doesn’t hurt so long as things are nice and quiet-”

“EVELYN!!! EVELYN, LOOK!!!”

“OH SHIT, OWW OWW OWWWWWWW!” she hissed with a violent twitch.

“…oh, sorry, I’m just excited. Let's try that again, nice and soft this time.”

The enthusiastic voice cleared his throat.

“Evelyn, look!” he whispered.

She winced, slowly removed the dishtowel from her eyes, and glanced at the doorway.

A pair of small wooden carvings were poking their heads around the doorframe, peering in at her with a pair of fangy wooden grins.

“I made a few more toys for the baby!!! Look! This is Mister Rabbit, and this is Missus Wolf!” Caleb announced proudly, poking the upper half of his face into the doorway as he waved around the two carvings of…well…a rabbit and a wolf.

“Adorable,” Evelyn murmured, spinning a quick spell circle to cool off the towel some more before setting it back onto her eyes. “That’s actually quite cute, Caleb.”

“How is the headache?” he asked softly, padding into the room and kneeling by the bed as quietly as he could.

“Monstrous,” Evelyn whispered. “And I’m so uncomfortable. Three days. Only three days left…”

“Oh, Eve,” The bed shifted slightly as Caleb leaned onto the mattress to check on her. “Is there anything I can do?”

“I’ll be fine,” she murmured. “Stop fussing.”

“Are you sure? Do you need soup? A healer? More blankets? A massage? A book? Some alcohol-free apple blood? A nice-”

“What I need is rest and quiet, dear.”

Caleb frowned, slowly lowering his head to rest his cheek on his arms as he watched his wife for a moment.

“I’m so sorry you’re uncomfortable,” he said, a tiny bit of guilt starting to creep into his voice as he glanced at her round stomach.

“The nature of being with child is being uncomfortable,” Evelyn said with a soft laugh. “I’ll live.”

“Oh. I know, It’s just…”

“What?”

“I have been feeling a bit guilty.”

“What? Why?”

“Because…I’m…sort of…the one who did this to you?” Caleb said with a wince.

“I’m doing this because I WANT to be doing it, you silly loon,” Evelyn whispered. “We both wanted this. Quite badly, might I add. And it will all be worth it when we get to meet her. Now stop fretting! You may keep me company, but…shhhh!”

“Ahh. Sorry. I know I talk a lot. And I know I can be intense. And-”

“Caleb!”

“Oh, right. Sorry!”

After some tossing and turning, Evelyn finally slid into a fitful nap.

Her husband reached out to stroke her cheek as she slept, his eyes shining with utter adoration.

————

Evelyn woke up some time later, so disoriented and out-of-sorts she felt like she had slept for centuries.

But her eager husband practically kicking down the bedroom door immediately reassured her it was indeed still the Deadwardian Era.

“She’s awake! Good evening, sleeping beauty!”

“It’s…ugh…already evening?”

“Well, the sun’s still up, so…good almost evening is more accurate. How do you feel?”

“A lot better, actually. Not one hundred percent, but the worst is gone.”

She wound up and chucked the damp dishtowel across the room.

“Screw it. I’ll get that later,” she said with a big yawn and stretch.

“Oh no you don’t! I’ll get it.”

“…my hero.”

“Are you in too much pain to be hungry?” Caleb asked, tossing the towel over his shoulder. “I’m completely starved!”

“Yes, I think I can manage to eat. But didn’t you have supper already?”

“No, I waited for you!”

“Oh, sweetheart…"

“Don’t worry. I already put on a roast. It will be done in about an hour,” he said proudly. “Hopefully you like it.”

“I’m sure I will. I always do. An hour is perfect. That will give me time to return to the land of the living.”

“Good! And I know exactly what my adorable wife needs while supper cooks!” Caleb said eagerly.

He slid to the bed and leaned in with a slow, devious grin as Evelyn warily glanced up into his looming face.

“Oh, no,” she whispered.

”SHE NEEDS…” Caleb purred, slowly disappearing below the side of the bed.

“Caleb...?”

“She neeeeeds…”

“Caleb, I SWEAR…”

“SHE NEEEEEEDDDDSSSSSS…”

“Caleb, please.”

“She needs SOME EVENING ENTERTAINMENT.”

“…oh no.”

“Oh? It looks like an acting troupe has rolled into town! How fantastic!”

“...for fuck’s sake.”

“And our players are putting on a production of The Fabulous Adventures of Mister Rabbit and Missus Wolf? Even better!”

Evelyn let her head fall back to the pillow and gave the ceiling the most deadpan, completely done stare she had ever given anything in her entire life.

“Just get it over with,” she sighed.

Caleb slowly poked up over the side of the bed, a huge mischievous grin on his face.

He started walking the toys back and forth across Evelyn’s stomach, complete with sound effects and dialogue.

“Tra la la la la la, tra la odelay!” Caleb sang. “This is Mister Rabbit! What shall he do today?”

“Oh no. Not the songs.”

“Wahey Wahoo hullabaloo! And here is Missus Wolf! What will she do?”

And a completely done Evelyn laid there like a dead log, listlessly letting her husband use her whole body as a living stage, her face getting more and more deadpan as the “play” went on.

“…and then the rabbit goes ‘aaaa noo don’t eat me Missus Wolf! I’m an innocent man!’” Caleb wailed in a squeaky falsetto. “NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

“This is my life, I guess,” Evelyn mumbled. “I chose this. I did this to myself.”

“I can tell you’re enjoying it!” Caleb whispered smugly.

The corners of his wife’s lips twitched.

“Ahh! I see that smile! There it is, peeking out at me like the sunshine from the clouds after a week of nothing but rain!” Caleb gasped dramatically, leaning in close as he paraded the toys across her collarbone.

Evelyn groaned and sat up slightly. “Dear, could you just-”

“Oh. Sorry,” Caleb said softly, pulling the toys back. "I didn't mean to annoy you, I just thought-”

“Give me Missus Wolf,” Evelyn said, deep and deadly serious.

Caleb’s face brightened in a wide grin.

“Rowr, I will get you, Mister Rabbit! How dare you, raiding the Mayor’s garden? Villain! Thief! I shall make you pay!” Evelyn growled, waving the wolf at the rabbit. “According to the town charter, page ten, article nine, subsection twenty-five, it clearly states thou shalt not munch on thine neighbor’s greens!”

“You just made that up! There’s no subsection twenty-five!”

“Oh, are we suddenly a lawyer? LOOK EVERYONE, WE HAVE A LAWYER HERE!”

“But…but…but…”

“That does it I’M GOING TO EAT YOU.”

“AA NOOO spare meee,” Caleb squeaked, throwing the back of his hand to his forehead as he fell to the bed next to Evelyn. “I am innocent! INNOCENT, I TELL YOU!”

“RAWWWRRRRR!”

“NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”

They violently slammed the toys together over and over, giggling and growling in each other’s faces until they were nose-to-nose and showing teeth (and to be honest getting way too into it).

With a final mighty toothy snarl, Evelyn shoved the wolf at the rabbit and pretended to rip it to shreds while Caleb shrieked in pain.

“I win,” she gasped with a satisfied grin. “I don’t think Mister Rabbit survived the disemboweling. But if he did, the beheading surely finished him off.”

Caleb nuzzled her flushed cheek, breathless with laughter.

“Well, that was fun! Would you like a quick walk before supper? Are you up for it?” he huffed. “It looks like there might be a beautiful sunset. Let’s go to the top of the hill to watch it!”

“Alright.”

He held out his hand and gave Evelyn a brilliant smile.

“We’re going to have so much fun playing with her. I can’t wait,” he said softly. “Although…we might need to go a little bit lighter on the outright violence for a while.”

“She’s a Clawthorne. She’ll love it.”

They burst out laughing again

They left the house hand-in-hand, going slow for Evelyn’s sake, fingers entwined and holding on tight like they never wanted to let go.

————

“MUM!!!”

A tiny strawberry blonde witchlet frantically tore down a set of stairs and into a cheerfully cluttered living room, clutching something to her chest.

“MUM! MUUUUUUUMMMMMM I’VE MADE AN AMAZING DISCOVERY! LOOK!” she yelled.

“What have you found, Ava?” Evelyn asked, putting aside a book to smile at her daughter.

“Toys!!! They were in the bottom drawer of my bureau, under the blankets! May I play with them?”

“What?…oh. Let me see them first, please?”

“Here, Mum!” Ava said, handing over two carvings. “Do you know where they came from?”

“Oh, Titan. Yes, I do,” Evelyn said softly, clutching them to her chest before turning to give Ava a watery smile.

“This is Mister Rabbit,” she said, her voice shaking ever so slightly as she placed the toys back into her daughter’s outstretched hands. “And this is Missus Wolf.”

Ava grabbed the carvings, eagerly pouring over and touching every little whittle and painted detail with tiny fingertips.

“I love them!!!” she cooed, laying on her stomach to start parading the wolf and rabbit on the living room rug. “They’re so cute!”

“I’m sure Da would be very happy to know you like them,” Evelyn said softly. “He made them for you before you were born. I looked for them for years. I’m so glad you found them.”

“DA MADE THEM?!”

Ava squealed and clutched the carvings in a hug.

“THEN I LOVE THEM EVEN MORE!!!”

She started playing again with even more gusto.

“May I play with you?” Evelyn asked.

“Yes!!!”

“Now, this is how you play,” Evelyn said, dropping to her knees and gently taking Missus Wolf from her daughter to walk it across the floor. “Grr! Mister Rabbit, I shall make you pay for stealing the Mayor’s prized dragon’s tooth lettuce! I shall make you pay…by EATING YOU!”

The witchlet gasped.

“Ava, you must now protest this injustice and declare your innocence!”

“Nooooo! I’m an innocent man!” Ava wailed, deadly serious. “AA, NOOO, spare meee!”

She glanced up at her mother with a wide gap-toothed grin.

The grin slowly slid off her face.

“Mum? Why are you sad? Did I play Mister Rabbit wrong? I’m sorry.”

“No, sweetheart. You just…you played him perfectly.”

Evelyn scooped Ava up and pecked her on the forehead as the carvings looked on from the floor, their fangy grins just as sharp as they had been when Evelyn had first seen them poking around a doorframe.

“…you played him absolutely perfectly.”

————

I just think it’s important to mention that Caleb was singing some sort of Redwall type nonsense at the start of the play (I’m talking about this sort of thing lmao).

Thanks again for letting me use your comic as inspiration, Lune! I had a lot of fun with this!

[ailelie]

The Wolf now is Concerned. He isn't invested. He refuses to be invested in humans. Humans are food, not friends.

And yet. This utter sad sack needs help and Hairy McLumberjack is too busy fussing around with trees to do more than look in and tut occasionally.

And, it isn't like the Wolf can roam much. He had a serious surgery to get Steven out of his stomach. He needs recovery time.

It only makes sense that he recovers at Steve's. It's all Steve's fault anyway, if you think about it.

Steve is still mourning his relationship with Denise and dealing with his recent near-death experience. The latter would be easier if the cause of said-near-death experience hadn't decided to take over Steve's bed.

The Wolf is a demanding and infuriating roommate, but the more time they spend on bickering, the less time Steve has to feel sorry for himself. He ends up developing a new passion for cooking out of pure spite--he will prove to the Wolf that there are many better options for eating than 'raw human.'

"So raw my heart was literally still beating, Wolf."

"The better to warm my stomach, Steve."

It is when Little Red is visiting again, more than a week after the Wolf last felt a twinge of pain in his torso, that everything changes again.

"Mama said to invite you to dinner, Uncle Steve," Little Red says. "You can come, too, Uncle Wolf."

Steve and the Wolf meet each other's horrified gaze as they both realize the domestic comfort they've found and created in each other.

That night, long after Little Red has returned home, the Wolf says he's leaving and he goes.

For the first time in weeks, Steve doesn't have to share his bed.

(After the first few nights when the Wolf had claimed his bed, Steve decided he was not going to be forced to the couch again. They each dared the other to leave the bed if they were 'too uncomfortable' to share. Neither left. Neither ever admitted, in the weeks that followed, how nice it was to have someone else there.)

He can't sleep.

In the morning, he eats some berries for breakfast. Lunch is a leftover soup. Dinner is more of the same.

Cooking is less fun on his own, less fun when he doesn't have the Wolf stealing his ingredients and making sly comments from the side.

Meanwhile, the Wolf is in the forest and utterly refusing to admit that his rabbit is a bit gamey, that its flesh would be better shredded with a spicy sauce and served over whipped potatoes. He is a Wolf. He doesn't need cooked food. He doesn't want it.

The flesh and blood are warm in his mouth, but they do not heat his belly like one of Steve's stews. The forest is so unreasonably cold.

And lonely.

"He tried to eat me, Laura," Steve complains to his sister, Little Red's mother.

"From what I understand, he successfully ate you. That lumberjack cut you free, no?"

"The lumberjack! Now, he would make sense. He's handsome, right? Saved my life even. If I had to-- why couldn't I have--" the words won't come out. Steve's never been attracted to anyone male before.

Until the Wolf.

His face flushes bright red and his sister sighs. "You could do worse than that Wolf, Steve."

He buries his face in his hands.

The Wolf goes by the cabin when he knows Steve will be in town, attending the dinner Little Red had invited them to, the dinner that ruined everything.

The ice box has no ice and the plants inside are limp and shriveled. A stew pot, crusted with the dried remnants of broth, sits on the stove. Another pot is half-full with congealed oatmeal.

The Wolf refuses to feel guilty. He is a wild creature. He is not meant to live within four walls like some domesticated dog.

He washes the pots and tosses the ruined vegetables and herbs. It is during this last task that he runs into the lumberjack.

"Glad to see you're back" the Lumberjack says. "He's been missing you."

I'm not back, the Wolf wants to snarl, and, What business is it of yours? Instead, he says, "I don't belong here."

The lumberjack shrugs. "Well, I don't know about that. I think we belong wherever we love and are loved."

"So, what, you're having a love affair with a hundred trees? Do you chop them down after you break-up?" It isn't his best line, but the lumberjack laughs anyway.

"My love was turned into a tree and hidden in this wood. Someday I will find and free him from his curse. Until then, my job gives me more than enough time to search."

"So you're saying it could be worse," the Wolf says. "I could be in love with a tree."

The lumberjack's smile broadens and he nods. "Instead you're only in love with a man."

It is only then that the Wolf realizes what he'd said. The truth of it warms him inside out. "I'm going to go back inside."

He doesn't say he's going to stay. That's what he means anyways.

The next morning, carrying a basket of leftovers, Steve returns to his cabin. He is dreading being alone again, but he cannot live in his sister's house.

He wants the Wolf. He doesn't understand how or why the Wolf has become so important to him, but maybe that doesn't matter. He just wants that strange and frustrating beast back in his kitchen, his bedroom, his life.

He has decided to track down the Wolf just as he's opening his cabin door.

And the Wolf is there.

Glass shatters as the basket falls from his hand. The Wolf's coat is warm and musky under his hands and cheek. His snout presses cool against Steve's neck. His claws prick lightly along his back. Steve can barely think for the utter relief flooding through him.

"I'm back," the Wolf says, unnecessarily. He is holding Steve as tightly as Steve is holding him.

Neither can quite feel embarrassed by their reactions to one another given the other is reacting quite the same.

"Good," Steve says. "Stay."

"Wild creatures don't belong indoors," the Wolf warns. He wants to stay, but some fear lingers. He can only promise now, not forever.

Steve, though, is unconcerned. He steps back, looking his Wolf in the eye. He lifts a hand to his Wolf's maw and traces a thumb along the seam of his mouth, the same mouth and sharp teeth that had once devoured him. "Since when," he asks, "have you cared about arbitrary rules?"

The Wolf flicks his tongue against Steve's thumb. "Since when, indeed."

inspiration struck in a really, really weird way

[eazy-group]

Souper Stars: Top 5 Soup Makers for 2024

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Souper Stars: Top 5 Soup Makers for 2024

Hey soup enthusiasts! If you’re like me and crave a comforting bowl of homemade soup, you know the struggle of spending hours in the kitchen, chopping and stirring. Fear not, fellow soup aficionados, because I’ve embarked on a mission to find the crème de la crème of soup makers. 

After numerous steamy trials and hearty taste tests, I present to you the top 5 soup makers that would earn a spot in my kitchen. (Number 1 being my own soup maker)

So if you are thinking of purchasing a soup maker, not sure if they are right for you or just fancy a new gadget! Sit back, grab your favourite beverage and read on to find out what I think are the top 5 soup makers of 2024.

1. Morphy Richards 1.6L Total Control Soup Maker

The Morphy Richards 1.6L Total Control Soup Maker is a game-changer for anyone seeking culinary convenience without compromising on flavour. Boasting a generous 1.6L capacity, this sleek kitchen gadget allows you to effortlessly whip up velvety soups, chunky stews, and smooth bisques with the touch of a button. What sets it apart is the user-friendly control panel, providing total control over blending speed, cooking time, and temperature, ensuring your soup reaches the perfect consistency every time. The White and stainless steel design not only adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen but also ensures durability. With its time-saving efficiency and easy-pour functionality, the Morphy Richards Total Control Soup Maker is a must-have for busy individuals craving the comfort of homemade soups without the fuss. It’s a culinary companion that transforms your kitchen into a soup haven, offering a delightful and hassle-free cooking experience.

Pros:

Total Control at Your Fingertips: The standout feature of the Morphy Richards 1.6L Total Control Soup Maker is its user-friendly control panel. With multiple settings and precise temperature control, you have the power to customize your soups to perfection. Whether you prefer a velvety smooth consistency or a chunky texture, this soup maker puts you in the driver’s seat.

Generous Capacity: With a 1.6L capacity, this soup maker is ideal for whipping up hearty servings to feed the whole family or to prepare lunches for the week. The generous size ensures you won’t be left wanting, and it’s perfect for entertaining guests with a variety of delicious soups.

Stainless Steel Mixed with White Elegance: Morphy Richards understands the importance of aesthetics in the kitchen. The sleek stainless steel and White design not only adds a touch of sophistication to your countertop but also ensures durability. The robust build quality gives you confidence that this soup maker is built to last.

Easy-Pour Functionality: Pouring soup directly from the maker into your bowl is a cinch, thanks to the smartly designed spout. Say farewell to messy transfers and hello to a seamless serving experience.

Cons:

Not Suitable for Large Gatherings: While the 1.6L capacity is excellent for regular family meals, it might fall short if you frequently entertain large groups. If you’re hosting a dinner party, you may find yourself making multiple batches to accommodate everyone.

Learning Curve for Beginners: The plethora of settings and controls might be a tad overwhelming for kitchen novices. Although the Total Control Soup Maker comes with a comprehensive manual, some users may require a bit of experimentation to master all the functionalities.

Loud Blending Noise: Like many powerful kitchen appliances, the Morphy Richards 1.6L Total Control Soup Maker produces a noticeable blending noise. If you’re sensitive to sound or enjoy a quiet kitchen, this might be a minor drawback.

Cost: This soup maker is double the cost of some others. But I thought it was worth it for the sleek look that matched my kitchen.

2. Drew & Cole 1.6L Soup Maker

The Drew & Cole 1.6L Soup Maker offers a remarkable cooking experience with its memory function, allowing you to season or add ingredients during a cooking cycle without resetting. Unlike other soup makers, it continues cooking from where you left off. Cleaning is a breeze with the Auto Clean Function – just add a drop of detergent. Whether you prefer chunky or smooth soups, this versatile appliance caters to both. Create a hearty traditional vegetable soup in just 28 minutes or opt for an extra smooth blend for silky perfection. With a substantial 1.6L capacity, it’s perfect for batch cooking, preparing up to five bowls of soup in minutes – ideal for busy professionals or families looking to add healthy vegetables to their diet. The multi-purpose functionality extends beyond soups, offering specialized settings for dairy-free soy milk and effortless production of silky-smooth oat milk. With Drew & Cole, culinary convenience meets versatility!

3. Tower T12031 Soup & Smoothie Maker with Intelligent Control System 1.6L

The Tower Soup Maker, with its generous 1.6-litre capacity, is a budget-friendly kitchen gem that effortlessly accommodates family-sized portions of soups and smoothies. This versatile appliance not only blends but also heats your ingredients, streamlining your meal preparation at an incredible price point. Whether you fancy a hearty chunky soup or a velvety smooth blend, the Tower Soup Maker caters to your culinary desires. Its premium stainless steel jug and blade ensure durability, enhancing the product’s longevity and overall performance. 

4. Salter EK5118GUNMETALV2 Soup Maker – Stainless Steel 1.6 L

  Discover the perfect balance of cost-effectiveness and functionality with this mid-budget Salter Soup Maker, offering a remarkable 65% reduction in energy bills compared to a 1.8 kW electric hob. Elevate your culinary experience any day of the week with this essential blender, designed for creating delicious smoothies and homemade soups. The stylish meal maker boasts a smart digital control panel, ensuring a stress-free dinner preparation. With an impressive range of 5 settings – smooth, chunky, blend/clean, drinks, and keep warm – this highly practical cooking tool adapts to your every culinary whim. The built-in auto memory function adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to seamlessly add more ingredients mid-cycle. Experience the perfect blend of affordability and versatility with the Salter Soup Maker, your go-to kitchen companion.

5. Hairy Bikers 1.6L Soup Maker

Introducing the Hairy Bikers’ stylish 1.6L capacity soup maker, a time and money-saving kitchen essential for families. With the guidance of this popular cooking duo, you can now make approximately 6 portions of soup, utilising leftover ingredients from around the kitchen, ensuring both resourcefulness and deliciousness. This versatile soup maker offers a variety of settings, allowing you to craft your preferred soup texture, be it smooth or chunky, and even try your hand at making a refreshing smoothie. Designed with convenience in mind, the soup maker features overfill and overspill sensors, eliminating worries about mess during use. To enhance your soup-making precision, integrated scales are included, making it a helpful tool for following your favourite soup recipes with the utmost accuracy. Trust in the Hairy Bikers’ expertise to revolutionise your soup-making experience, providing both practicality and flavour in one stylish package.

In conclusion, these top 5 soup makers have been put through the wringer, and they emerged as the champions of soup perfection. Whether you’re a culinary whiz or a kitchen newbie, investing in one of these souper stars will undoubtedly elevate your soup game. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the soup-making adventures begin! Happy souping! 🍲

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Keep her Safe

Dean and Lexi had been officially together for about 6 months now. They had picked up a hunt near Palo Alto. It was just a basic salt and burn, but Lexi and Dean decided it was a good excuse to drop by Stanford and say Hi to Sam.

The hunt went fine. It really was just a salt and burn which was a nice change of pace. Dean threw the shovel in the trunk of the impala. Just before he closed the door he turned and caught a sneeze in his fist which triggered a cough. For a moment he stood still and assessed himself. He was exhausted, more than he thought he normally would be after such a simple hunt. He could also feel a budding headache developing behind his eyes. Shit he thought. He did not want to be sick right now.

At first Dean thought he would try and conceal the fact that he was coming down with something to Lexi. He took care of people; people didn’t take care of him. More than the fact that his father had drilled into him at a young age that his brother was his to look after, Dean truly was a caretaker. It was in his nature. He didn't get sick often, and when he did, he usually pushed through it, not wanting to be a burden on anyone.

That night when he and Lexi got back to the motel room Dean wondered if he would make it to Palo Alto without Lexi figuring him out. He could feel that the flu taking hold of him was going to be a nasty one, and as much as he tried to soldier on, he knew he couldn't hide it from Lexi forever. Dean sat on the edge of the bed, rubbing his temples, his face pale with a thin sheen of sweat coating his forehead. Lexi was rummaging through her bag, unaware of how miserable he felt. He took a deep breath and finally admitted,

"Lex, I think I'm coming down with something. I feel like shit,” Dean said with a sigh. Lexi turned to him; concern immediately etched on her face.

"Oh babe, really?" She asked.

He shrugged weakly.

"I thought I could tough it out, but it's getting worse,” Dean groaned slightly. He looked up at his girlfriend with tight, tired eyes. “I think you should book another room. I don't want you to get sick because of me."

Lexi walked over to him and pressed a soft kiss to his head.

"You're burning up sweetheart," she said softly and ran a hand through Dean’s hair. Without thinking Dean leaned into her tender touch. He wasn’t used to this. Having someone to make him feel better. To touch him with kindness and care. It made him feel things he didn’t know how to deal with. So, he just gazed at Lexi. She smiled at his faraway look.

"Okay, tough guy, get under the covers. Let me take care of you,” she said as she pulled the blanket and sheet down from the bed.

Dean hesitated.

“Lex, I really think –” he interrupted himself with a coughing fit. Lexi gave him a look that left no room for argument. Dean gave in and crawled into bed, feeling utterly drained, and let Lexi tuck him in. Honest to God tucked him in. He thought once again that this wasn't used to, but he had to admit, having someone take care of him felt strangely comforting. Lexi made Dean hot tea and lay next to him until he fell into a fitful sleep.

The next morning Dean woke feeling like he had been hit by a truck. Lexi continued to fuss over him. She got him soup from a little deli in town, which was a thing of beauty, and went out to the pharmacy and stocked up on cold and flu medicine.

It took a few more days, but Dean's fever began to ebb, and he started to feel a bit better. He even tried to crack a few jokes to lighten the mood, though his voice was still raspy. Lexi humored him and chuckled at his stupid jokes. He was grateful to her for the support she had given him.

They were just starting to think about heading toward Sam’s place the day after Dean had been completely fever free. He was sitting up on the bed reading a battered copy of Slaughterhouse Five. Lexi was curled against him dozing in and out. Dean looked down at her and smiled slightly when he realized she was wearing one of his sweatshirts. Little clothing thief. He thought with a chuckle. His smile faltered when he noticed the flush on his girlfriend’s cheeks. It was gone when a shiver ran through Lexi, even as she cuddled into him.

"Hey," he said, his concern evident as he brushed a bit of hair out of her face. "You feeling okay, Lex?"

She looked up at him and tried to give him a reassuring smile, but it came out weak.

"Mmm, I’m ok babe,” she said, her voice raspy.

But Dean could see through her attempt to downplay it. He reached out and pressed the back of his hand to her forehead, and she winced at his touch.

"You're burning up," he remarked, worry lacing his voice. Lexi sighed and snuggled into Dean even more.

“I’m fine,” she said with a slight cough.

“Lex, it’s ok to just say ‘I’m not ok’,” Dean said. Lexi sighed.

“No irony in that statement,” she quipped back at him. Dean rolled his eyes. Lexi shivered and Dean’s brows drew together in a frown. He rubbed his hand up and down Lexi’s arm.

“You cold sweetheart? Surprising considering you’re in my sweatshirt,” he said with a teasing smile.

“I guess you caught me,” she replied.

“Guess it’s my turn to do some looking after” Dean said as he kissed her lightly. He got up and started the kettle for tea. Lexi, despite feeling rather awful, smiled as she watched Dean bustle around the motel room. He brought her some pills with the tea which she dutifully swallowed.

“Ok sweetheart, you rest up and get better,” he murmured and tucked her in.

Dean took great care of her over the next few days. Did everything that she had done for him and more because she let him. Unfortunately, Lexi's condition worsened. Her cough developed into a deep wracking bark, and her fever rose despite Dean's efforts to keep it in check. It was when she spiked a fever close to 105 and her breathing had become shallow and fast that he knew that this had become more than the flu. Lexi needed some real help.

"I'm taking you to the hospital, Lex," he declared, his voice firm. "You're not getting any better, and I can't just sit here and watch you suffer."

Lexi could only nod weakly in agreement. Dean wasted no time and bundled Lexi up in warm clothes, strapped her into the impala and tore off to the closest urgent care center.

Lexi was barely conscious when they pulled up to the emergency doors. Dean scooped her up in his arms and carried her, bridal style, into the emergency room. Dean called out for help, panic in his voice. Two nurses were there in a moment with a gurney firing questions at Dean.

“What happened?”

“What’s her name?”

“Your relationship? “Any allergies?”

Dean stammered through the answers as best he could. After a quick check one of the nurses started rolling Lexi towards the treatment room. Dean started to follow, but another nurse stopped him with a gentle hand on his chest.

“Sir, she’s in good hands. I need you to stay in the waiting room,”

“But I…” Dean started. The nurse shook her head.

“We’ll let you know when you can see her.”

Dean just stood in the middle of the emergency room for a moment. His thoughts racing too fast to hold onto any of them. When his brain finally caught up with itself, he staggered to a chair and sat. He lasted less than ten minutes before he was up and pacing again, his mind buzzing. What was happening? How bad is she? Is she ok? This is all my fault. Minutes dragged on like hours and all Dean could think about was how helpless he felt. He had never seen Lexi sick. Not like this. Injured? Sure. Scared? Definitely. But sick like this? No. Not his girl. He suddenly noticed he was clenching his fists so tight he was digging halfmoons into his palms. He needed to talk to someone. To hear a familiar voice. With hands trembling he pulled out his phone and dialed Sam’s number.

He picked up on the second ring.

“Hey, you two on your way?” Sam said with a smile in his voice. Dean let out a shaky breath that sounded suspiciously close to a sob.

“Sammy,” Dean started, but his voice stuck in his throat.

“Dean? What is it? What’s wrong?” Sam’s voice changed in an instant. It was all nervous concern now.

“It’s…It’s Lexi Sam. She…” Dean swallowed. In the pause Sam jumped in.

“What happened to Lexi, Dean, is she hurt? Are you ok?”

“No…she’s, she’s sick…Sam. It’s really bad. I had to take her to the hospital. They took her away and I don’t know what’s happening,” Dean’s throat closed on the last word, and he choked back a sob. Sam’s voice came through.

“Dean, it’s going to be ok. Where are you?”

He held on to the sound of his brother’s voice like a life preserver. Dean told him the name of the hospital.

“I’m on my way ok Dean? I’ll be there soon, and we’ll figure this out,” Sam said in a moment.

Dean just nodded, not thinking that Sam couldn’t see him. He hung up the phone. He took a moment of comfort in the fact that Sam was coming. But it only lasted a moment. Dean’s thoughts were consumed with fear for Lexi. He couldn’t keep the worst thought away.

What if I lose her?

Sam rushed through the hospital doors, scanning the busy waiting room for any sign of his brother. It didn't take him long to spot Dean, who was pacing back and forth with an agitated energy that signaled he was on the verge of a full-blown panic attack.

"Dean!" Sam called out, quickly closing the distance to his brother. He could see the dread in Dean's eyes, and it immediately sent alarm bells ringing in his own mind. Dean looked up at his brother, his eyes wide and frantic.

"Sam," he breathed, his voice trembling. Sam reached him and put a hand on Dean’s shoulder.

“Hey, any news?” he asked.

"It’s all my fault Sammy,” Dean burst out in a rush. “It’s all my fault. She’s here because of me. I couldn’t…I didn’t keep her safe. I should have kept her safe!” Sam could hear the near hysteria in Dean’s voice. “I should have brought her in sooner. Sam what if…what if we lose her. Sam, I can’t lose her,” Dean’s breath was coming in short sharp gasps, and he clung to the front of Sam’s jacket. Sam put his hands on his brothers’ shoulders.

“Dean, stop. Take a deep breath,” Sam said and started breathing deeply himself holding Dean’s eyes. Dean matched him and after a moment his shoulders dropped a little. “This is not your fault Dean. Do you understand? You could not have known this was going to happen.”

“No, Sam, you don’t understand!” Dean said, his panic rising again. “I’m the one who got her sick! She wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t been so careless, or if I had made her get another room.”

“Dean,” Sam soothed, forcing his brother to look at him. “Breathe. You are not to blame here. People get sick every day. There is no way you could have known. She’s gonna get through this ok?” Sam said gripping Dean’s shoulders again. Dean took another deep breath. Sam nodded encouragement and breathed with him.

“You’re right Sam…you’re right.” Dean sank down into a chair and put his head in his hands. After a moment he looked back at his brother who had sat down beside him. “Thanks for being here man. It…it means a lot.”

“Of course, where else would I be? Anyway, Lexi's tough as nails, and she's got you in her corner. She's in the best place she can be right now.”

Another hour or so went by when a doctor finally called for the family of Lexi. Dean jumped to his feet and rushed over; Sam was close behind him.

“How is she? Is she awake? Can we see her?” Dean asks in a rush.

The doctor glanced at Dean and Sam, his expression somber.

"She's still unconscious, and her condition remains critical. She’s been diagnosed with severe pneumonia, and she had febrile seizure shortly after being admitted. It’s not dangerous itself, but it does mean her body is under a lot of stress," he explained, his tone gentle but honest. "We're doing everything we can to keep her stable,” the doctor said. “You can see her, but she likely won’t be awake or very coherent for a while yet."

The doctor's words hit Dean like a physical blow, and he felt his heart constrict in his chest. Lexi was in critical condition. She wasn’t even conscious still. Hearing the words out loud only served to keep the fear in Dean pumping.

Sam, ever the steady figure of reason and strength, was still at his brother’s side. He could see Dean glaze over while the doctor spoke, so he jumped in.

“Thanks doctor, for looking after her,” he said with a soft smile. The doctor nodded and led them down the hall to a recovery room and left them. Before they went in Dean turned to his brother, his eyes wide and panicked.

"Sammy, she's... she's got pneumonia…she’s not even conscious yet. It’s been hours,” Dean was starting to spiral again. “God, this is all my fault. I should've done something sooner."

Sam placed a reassuring hand on Dean's shoulder. "Dean, this isn't your fault. You did everything you could. We'll get through this together, okay? Come on, let’s go in and see her.”

Dean nodded, grateful for his brother's support, and followed him into Lexi's room, his heart still heavy with worry and guilt. Sam remained by his side, ready to offer support as they stepped into the room where Lexi lay, connected to various machines, her face pale and fragile.

Seeing her like this, Dean's emotions threatened to overwhelm him once more. His hear pounded, his breath caught in his throat, and his hands shook slightly, but he couldn't afford to break down completely. He took a deep breath, his eyes locked on Lexi's still form, and he reached out and took her hand. He sank into the chair Sam brought him. He brought Lexi’s hand to his lips and kissed it softly. The he whispered, "You keep fighting, Lexi. We're right here for you. You're going to make it through this."

Lexi's eyelids fluttered open, and for a moment, she felt disoriented, unable to immediately grasp her surroundings. As the fog of confusion lifted, she recognized the hospital room and slowly pieced together the events that had led her here. Taking care of Dean. Getting sick herself. Feeling worse. Then feeling way worse. Dean rushing her to the hospital. She sighed, cursing her luck that the one time Dean opened up and just let her take care of him, she was the one who ended up in the hospital.

Her gaze shifted to the chair beside her bed, and she saw Dean leaned over, his arms crossed on the edge of her bed. His head down, fast asleep. A faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she watched him. His presence was comforting. She hopped he hadn’t been too worried about her. She knew he had a tendency to catastrophize, and something like her ending up in the hospital would not have been easy for him. Lexi sighed, which brought her attention to her body as she felt the crackle in her lungs. It hit her like a wave. Bone deep exhaustion, pain in every limb, and the shivery feeling of fever crashed into her. She moaned softly.

Dean must have heard her and sensed her small movements, as he stirred and snapped awake. His eyes widened with surprise and relief as they met hers.

"Hey there," he said, his voice thick with a mix of emotions, relief being the most prominent. "How are you feeling?" Dean leaned forward and touched her face lightly, running a thumb across her cheekbone.

"I'm... I'm okay," she replied, her voice soft and a touch hoarse. "Better, I think. Thanks to you."

Dean let out a sigh of relief, his features softening with genuine concern.

"You had me worried sick," he admitted, his voice trembling slightly. "I was so scared, Lexi.” The shine of tears in his eye gutted her.

Lexi reached out a trembling hand, gently cupping Dean's cheek as she tried to reassure him. "Hey, I’m ok," she whispered, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "I’m going to be ok Dean."

But despite her best efforts to comfort him, Dean seemed trapped in his spiral of guilt and fear. His eyes were still filled with worry and uncertainty, and his grip on her hand tightened.

“Lex,” he choked out. “I don’t…I couldn’t…” he was having a hard time getting words out. Lexi gripped his hand tighter.

“It’s ok Dean,” she said.

Tears flooded Dean's eyes, and he didn't try to hide them any longer. He let out a shuddering breath and tears streamed down his cheeks as he whispered, "God, I'm so sorry, Lexi.” Dean pressed his forehead to their clasped hands, hiding his face. His shoulders were shaking with sobs.

“I thought…” his breath caught in another sob “I thought I was going to lose you.”

Lexi’s heart broke.

“Oh Dean, baby no. I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere,” she said, reaching over with her other hand and running her fingers through his hair. “What happened is not your fault. What ever gave you that idea?” Lexi asked earnestly. Dean glanced up at her and looked like he was about to say something when the door opened. Lexi almost shouted at the person to go away, but when she saw Sam her words died on her lips.

“Sam!” she exclaimed. Sam’s eyes found her and light up seeing her awake.

“Lexi, welcome back to the land of the conscious!” he said striding to her side sliding into the other chair. Dean hand turned away to get himself under control.

“Thanks Sam,” she said hoarsely. The moment with Dean was broken. She hoped now that she was clearly on the mend he could stop beating himself up about it, but knowing Dean, that probably wouldn’t happen.

Three days later Lexi was completely over being stuck in the hospital.

“Doc, please can I just get out of here? How long are you going to torture me?” she begged her doctor. He smiled indulgently at her.

“Not much longer,” he said as he checked over her chart. “In fact, I think you could probably be discharged by this afternoon.”

Lexi sighed dramatically with relief. Dean moved from where he had been leaning on the wall.

“Is that a good idea doc? She’s still pretty weak,” Dean asked protective concern all over his face.

“Dean,” Lexi started.

“Lex, you had a seizure four days ago. We need to know you’re good ok?”

“I can assure you, with the way Lexi has responded to the antibiotics and the fact that her fever is well down and hasn’t spiked in over 24 hours I am confident that she is on the road to recovery,” her doctor reassured. Dean didn’t look convinced, but he nodded. The doctor gave him a prescription to fill for oral antibiotics and a heavy-duty cough medicine and told Lexi he would start the discharge paperwork.

“Dean, seriously? Questioning my doctor?”

“Lex, I need to know you’re safe ok?”

“Dean, we’ve been over this. I’m ok. I’m safe, I’ve been well looked after not only by the staff but by you and Sam as well. I’m ok.”

Dean sighed and collapsed into the chair at her bedside.

“I’m sorry Lex. I just,” he paused for a second. “This really scared me. You went down so fast, and…” he sucked in a shaky breath “I just want you to be safe.”

Before Lexi could say anything else, Sam walked in with a big smile.

“Good news!” he said. “I’ve got it all worked out. You two are coming to stay with me at Stanford until Lexi’s back on her feet.” Lexi’s mouth dropped open.

“Sam, you don’t have to do that. We can just find a motel or something,” she said incredulously.

“Not a chance,” Sam answered. “I’m not going to let my future sister in-law convalesce in some crappy motel,” he said. Dean shocked them both by standing and engulfing his brother in a crushing hug.

“Thanks man,” he said his voice sounding suspiciously choked. “That means a lot.” Sam hugged him back, exchanging a look with Lexi.

“Of course, Dean,” he said softly. Dean let him go and stepped away.

They all chatted on and off for another few hours until finally Lexi was discharged. Dean set up a nest in the passenger seat of the impala much to Lexi’s delight. She snuggled into her warm cocoon, ready for an easy drive. She was glad to be out of there, and to be going to stay with Sam. As much as she hated putting him out, she liked the idea of recovering in a proper apartment and not a motel, and she knew it would do Dean good to spend some real time with his little brother.

“All set?” Dean asked as he slid into the driver seat.

“Let’s roll,” Lexi answered with a smile.

[twentyonedental]

How to Eat Comfortably Even If You Have Dental Braces | TwentyOne Dental

It’s majorly found that getting braces is often a significant step towards achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. While braces work wonders in aligning your teeth, they can also bring some temporary challenges, particularly when it comes to eating. Let’s walk through this together and with the expertise of 21st Dental Clinic and our expert orthodontists will guide us on how to eat comfortably and maintain our oral health during the orthodontic journey. The best place to be from maintaining good oral hygiene to perfect Teeth Straightening. 

Firstly, Understand the Challenge

Most Dental braces consist of brackets and wires that, while working to straighten your teeth, can create some discomfort when eating. It's essential to adapt the eating habits to avoid causing damage to the braces, minimise discomfort with such cautious steps, and maintain good oral hygiene.

Consumer Soft and Easy to chew Foods- Upon getting braces it is evident that the mouth would feel sore or sensitive, at least in the initial stage. This is totally normal, and it's a sign that the braces are starting to work. In this procedure keeping the transition smooth opt for soft and easy-to-chew foods, such as:

1. Smoothies and Yogurt: These are nutritious ways to embrace the journey of braces. It will easily glide through and won’t cause any discomfort to the braces.

2. Mashed Potatoes: Getting braces is not a curse to your loved food. Having mashed potatoes will provide the creamy taste and comfort which are very gentle on the teeth and doesn’t create a fuss on the braces. 

3. Oatmeal: It is important to manage the nutrition along with a healthy care for braces and teeth. Consuming a bowl of oatmeal will help in covering all the health pointers. 

4. Soup: one of the best and easiest of food elements as it’s very easy to gulp down without causing a mess.  

5. Scrambled Eggs: it won’t stick in your braces! As 21st dental being the best dentists in Hove, they take care of providing a mess-free treatment of braces. 

6. Pasta: so there are variety of options available in pasta with a variant of smooth sauce such as- 

Cut or Slice Your Food- As you gradually adapt to eating with braces, it's essential to cut or slice your food into smaller, and concise portions/pieces. This prevents biting into foods that could potentially damage your braces or cause discomfort. Use a knife or kitchen shears to make your meals more brace-friendly.

Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods- there are certain foods that are notorious for causing problems with braces. At 21st Dental Cl a Hove dental clinic, it is advisable to avoid the following inic, we recommend avoiding the following:

1. Hard Candies: These can damage and break brackets and wires of the braces. 

2. Chewy Candies: usually candies are sticky due to the sugar levels which can easily get stuck in the braces and promote cavities as well. 

3. Nuts: Most nuts are hard and crunchy to bite as well as excessive chewing is required so it’s a big no too! 

4. Popcorn: Upon biting the popcorn the kernel can be lodged in the braces which can cause irritation to the gums and makes braces uncomfortable on teeth. 

5. Gum: Chewing gum is a no-go with braces; it can stick to the brackets.

6. Ice: Chewing on ice cubes can harm your braces and teeth.

So, how to make Oral Hygiene the Key to embrace the braces journey? 

It is important to Maintain excellent oral hygiene when having braces. The brackets and wires create additional nooks and crannies for food particles and plaque to hide, further increasing the risk of cavities and gum issues. Essentially Follow these hygiene tips:

1 Brush After Every Meal: Carry a soft-bristle toothbrush with you and brush gently after eating.

2. Floss Carefully: Use floss threaders or orthodontic floss to clean between your braces and teeth.

3. Rinse with Mouthwash:  An antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and keep your mouth fresh.

4. Regular Check-ups: Visit 21st Dental Clinic for regular check-ups so our experts can monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments.

Stay Hydrated; very important- 

Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health and helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your mouth. It also aids in reducing the risk of bad breath, which can be a concern with braces.

Orthodontic Wax for Discomfort- a solution to irritating wires or brackets

If you experience irritation from wires or brackets, orthodontic wax can be your best friend. At 21st Dental Clinic, we provide patients with orthodontic wax to apply over any irritating areas, creating a smooth surface and minimising discomfort.

The expertise- Orthodontic Advice and Adjustments

Our professional orthodontists at 21st Dental Clinic are here to support you throughout your orthodontic treatment. Don't hesitate to reach out if you experience persistent discomfort or if you have any questions about eating with braces. We offer timely adjustments and guidance to ensure your treatment progresses smoothly.

Eating comfortably with dental braces is achievable with the right approach and a bit of patience. Soft foods, careful chewing, and diligent oral hygiene are your allies in maintaining your braces and oral health. Remember, at 21st Dental Clinic, our experienced orthodontists are here to assist you every step of the way from best dental implants specialists in Brighton to smooth journey of braces, With our expert guidance and your commitment to these tips, you'll be on your way to a stunning, well-aligned smile in no time.

For personalised guidance and expert orthodontic care, schedule an appointment at 21st Dental Clinic today. Your dream smile is within reach, and we're here to make your journey as comfortable as possible.

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Exploring the Culinary Delights of Houston: Party Catering, Mexican Street Food Trucks, and Homemade Vegetable Soup

Houston, Texas, is a city renowned for its diverse culinary scene, offering a delightful array of food options for every palate. Whether you’re planning a party, craving authentic Mexican street food, seeking the best restaurants in town, or simply yearning for a warm bowl of homemade vegetable soup, Houston has you covered. In this blog, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Houston, exploring these delectable keywords.

1. Party Catering Houston: Celebrate in Style

Houston is a city that knows how to throw a party, and what’s a great celebration without delicious food? Party catering services in Houston cater to a wide range of events, from weddings and birthdays to corporate gatherings and more. Here’s why you should consider them for your next big event:

Diverse Menus: Houston’s party caterers offer diverse menus that can cater to any theme or dietary preference. You can find everything from Texas barbecue to international cuisines to satisfy your guests.

Professional Service: Experienced catering teams ensure that your event goes off without a hitch. They handle everything from food preparation to presentation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the party.

Customization: Many catering services offer customizable menus to meet your specific needs and budget, ensuring that your event is as unique as you are.

Stress-Free Experience: By leaving the food and service to the professionals, you can relax and enjoy your event without worrying about cooking or cleaning up.

2. Mexican Street Food Truck: A Flavorful Adventure

Houston’s culinary scene wouldn’t be complete without the vibrant presence of Mexican street food truck. These mobile eateries bring the flavors of Mexico to the streets of Houston, offering an authentic and satisfying experience:

Authenticity: Mexican street food trucks serve up genuine Mexican flavors that are both delicious and affordable. From tacos and quesadillas to elote (grilled corn) and churros, you’ll find a mouthwatering variety.

Convenience: Street food trucks are perfect for a quick and tasty meal on the go. You can savor your favorite dishes without the fuss of dining in a restaurant.

Community Vibes: Many food truck events in Houston bring together a diverse community of food enthusiasts. It’s a great way to enjoy good food and connect with fellow Houstonians.

Exploration: Houston’s food truck scene is always evolving, so there’s always something new to discover.

3. Best Restaurants In Houston: Culinary Excellence

Houston boasts a thriving restaurant scene, with options to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for upscale dining or a cozy neighborhood spot, you’ll find the best restaurants in Houston:

Diverse Cuisine: Houston’s culinary landscape is incredibly diverse, offering everything from world-class steakhouses and seafood restaurants to international flavors from Asia, Latin America, and beyond.

Award-Winning Chefs: The city is home to renowned chefs who have received national and international recognition for their culinary creations.

4. Homemade Vegetable Soup in Houston: Comfort in a Bowl

When you’re seeking comfort food or a healthy option, homemade vegetable soup is the perfect choice. Houston’s eateries and cafes serve up soul-warming bowls of this classic dish:

Nutrient-Rich: Homemade vegetable soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s a wholesome choice for those looking to eat healthily.

Variety: Houston’s culinary scene offers a variety of homemade vegetable soups, ranging from traditional recipes to innovative creations.

Local Flavors: Some establishments in Houston take pride in using locally sourced, seasonal vegetables, ensuring that your soup is fresh and flavorful.

Cozy Cafes: Many cafes and diners in Houston provide a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy a comforting bowl of vegetable soup on a chilly day.

In conclusion, Houston’s culinary scene is a testament to its rich diversity and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning a party and need top-notch catering, craving the bold flavors of Mexican street food, looking for the best restaurants to dine in, or seeking comfort in a warm bowl of homemade vegetable soup, Houston has a culinary experience waiting for you. Explore the city’s food offerings and savor the flavors that make Houston a gastronomic destination like no other.

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Different Ways of using a hand blender in your kitchen

Cooking can be a bit tiring at times because of feeling like having to spend time cleaning up after can be a drag. With respect to equipment like food processors and blender jars to make sauces, soup, mayonnaise, etc. might not be the best way to fix yourself a meal and yet, nourishing yourself with the right kind of meals is crucial. Hence, the Electric Turbo Hand Blender from Glen enables you to make silky soups, fruit shakes & smoothies, blending hot saag within a few fuss-free minutes. This hand-held blender has a detachable arm – perfect for blending hot soups or sauces – so you don’t have to wait for the contents of your pot to cool down before you turn everything into a consistency of liquid that is desired. Despite its powerful 350W motor, it has been designed to produce low noise, making it comfortable to use at any time of the day or night. It also comes with a two-year warranty, has a positive locking feature to prevent any accidents as well as sits at ease in your hand as you grip it. Hot soups: If you have been pureeing hot soup by transferring it to a blender jar then there is no need to ever do it again. Puréeing hot soups with hand blender is just what you need that makes the task whole lot easier. Saag & Tomato Puree: For quick pureeing of tomatoes, a whirl of the immersion blender does wonders. Also for blending hot saag (leafy greens) Jams & Chutneys: Be it sweet or savory, chutneys can also be made using a hand held blender. Salad Dressings: With the help of the hand blender, making your own salad dressing with ingredients of your choice just got a whole lot faster. Mayonnaise: With basic ingredients, few minutes, and a hand blender, homemade mayo can be prepared in a jiffy. Fruit Smoothies & Shakes: Whether you are up for a thick milkshake or a fruit-filled yoghurt smoothie, the blender is made for whipping up these beverages. And it’s powerful enough to tackle ice cubes and frozen fruits. Apart from the above mentioned ways, a hand blender can be also be used for other blending / pureeing requirements.