#i need this to reach some folks that can help me even a little bit like. yesterday.

[club-prideguin]

So uh, I need about 33 more dollars to make rent this month....

If anyone would like to drop some money in my ko-fi, order a sketch commission, or get a $2usd ko-fi membership (in exchange for animal tier, for which i post pics of cats, and occasionally other animals, every monday)..... then, uh.. I would really appreciate it. like, more than you guys know.

i know i am supposed to be setting up a shop, and i promise that is on the way. but i need some more immediate help first

i promise i will start selling prints before it gets too far into the year. just. please... help me get rent paid this month.

edit: 13.99/33 already 😭 thank you holy crap <3

[fluentmoviequoter]

Christmas Magic

hot cocoa bar celebration🧤❄️🎄

requested here! & inspired by Finding Santa (2017)

Pairing: Tim Bradford x fem!(event planner)!reader

Summary: Your Christmas charity dinner is threatened when Santa quits at the last minute. Tim Bradford is the only person you know who is free days before Christmas, but it will take some magic to make him agree to put on the suit.

Warnings/Word Count: fluff, brief angst, quick mention of harassment, mistletoe and magic. 3.5k+ words.

I rented the center, tables with chairs are being delivered at noon, and catering arrives at 4. Got that. Santa, gifts, check, check.

You turn away from your computer to make a note about contacting the pediatrics hospital administrator. With your phone tucked between your cheek and shoulder, you’d nearly forgotten that you were supposed to be listening to James, the older gentleman playing Santa at the fundraising event you’ve been planning since September.

“I’m so sorry to cancel on you last minute,” James says.

Barely managing to catch your phone as you jerk in shock, you repeat his words in your mind. “Cancel? James, I’m sorry, did I hear that correctly?”

“Yes, ma’am, I’ve been fighting this rotator cuff for years and it finally won out on me. I know it’s last minute, but I can’t safely perform the Santa duties.”

“Okay, okay,” you mumble, pressing your forehead into your hand. “I understand, and I hope you feel better. I’m just not sure where I’m supposed to find another Santa days before the event, this close to Christmas.”

“If I hear of anybody who’s available, I’ll send ‘em your way.”

“Thanks.”

You end the call and stare at your computer screen. There is absolutely no way you can find someone – someone decent, at least – to play Santa Clause in three days. The event is on December 23rd, Christmas Eve-Eve, and it was hard enough to book James so close to Christmas Day.

“Oh, I’m gonna need a Christmas miracle,” you whisper as you reach for your mug.

A bell jingles outside, and you close your eyes. If only an angel capable of playing Santa were getting its wings.

“Are you okay?” your assistant, Holly, asks from the doorway.

“Not even a little bit,” you answer with a stressed smile. “We need a new Santa.”

“In less than a week?” she exclaims, setting a stack of papers on your desk. “How are you going to do that?”

“I have no idea. I could do open auditions, but then we’re just going to get all of the crazy people desperate for a Christmas gig in here, and I can’t sort through applications or anything with everything else going on,” you ramble before taking a breath. “Any chance you have a cousin, brother, dad, or a neighbor without a criminal record who could help me out?”

“My folks are traveling for the holidays and all of my neighbors are girls. Sorry.”

“No, it’s fine. We just… we have to think of something. Preferably by the end of today.”

“If anyone can pull together some Christmas magic it’s you,” Holly assures. “I’ll go make some calls and let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help.”

“Thanks, Hols.”

As she leaves, you open your phone and scroll through your contacts. Each name makes you a little more discouraged. Most of them are busy with families, out of town, completely unqualified, or you haven’t spoken to them in so long that you can’t justify asking for something like this, even if it is for the kids.

“It’s all I want for Christmas,” you whisper as you near the end of your list.

One name jumps out at you, but you hesitate to contact him. He might have to work or be coming off of a hectic holiday shift on the 23rd. But you’re running out of options, so you text Tim Bradford to ask if he’s free. The phone rings a moment later, and you answer immediately.

“No, don’t- Chen!” Tim scolds.

“Uh, hello?” you greet.

“Hi!” a woman replies. “My name is Lucy Chen, I’m Tim’s rookie. You asked if he was free on the 23rd and I’m calling to say that he absolutely is.”

“Good, good,” you reply, chewing your bottom lip. “I actually have a really big – huge – favor to ask him, so maybe I’ll call him back later.”

“What is it?” Tim asks.

“Uhm,” you hum, trying to find the right words. “I need someone to play Santa at the charity event for the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and UCLA’s pediatric department.”

“I… can’t,” Tim says after a moment.

“He means he won’t,” Lucy adds.

Your shoulders drop as you murmur, “Okay. Bye.”

After you hang up, you realize that Tim Bradford is your only chance. If he really won't do it, you either have to put a woman in the Santa suit and hope for the best or disappoint every child and parent in attendance by announcing at the last minute that Santa can’t make it. You’re stuck between a rock and a hard place, but at least the diner down the street has good hot chocolate that will help you get your mind off it for a few minutes. You wave at Holly on your way out, then try to think of exciting, merry, and bright things rather than the coming disappointment as you walk to your favorite diner. As you enter, you notice three men sitting in the booth closest to the door, but they’re the kind of men you know you wouldn’t invite to be in the same room with wealthy women or children, let alone both at the same time.

“Robbery in progress at Vicksen’s Diner,” dispatch alerts. “Callers report three armed men, and one is blocking the main entrance.”

“7-Adam-19 responding, code 3,” Tim radios before hitting the lights and sirens.

“Vixen’s Diner?” Lucy repeats. “They must really like Christmas.”

“V-i-c-k-s-e-n,” Tim corrects. “It’s the last name, the family has owned the place for decades. The call you intercepted earlier?”

“What about her?”

“She’s probably there. It’s her favorite place and they have Christmas specials right now.”

“How do you know that?”

“Focus, Chen,” Tim snaps as he turns the sirens off. “We’re approaching the rear exit without a sound, understood? Our priority is to get these people safe, then and only then do we go after the robbers.”

“Yes, sir,” Lucy agrees.

“I don’t have any more cash,” the owner explains again. “It’s the twenty-first century, genius, most of our business is card or tap-to-pay.”

“And it’s Christmas,” you add from your booth. “Just go.”

“Not until I get something!” the man screams.

“How about a one-way trip to jail?” someone adds. “We already called the police.”

“Then pay up or they’ll have a body,” one of the other robbers says, turning their gun toward the customer.

Someone clicks their tongue, and you look over to see Tim Bradford and who you assume to be Lucy Chen standing behind the counter.

“LAPD,” Tim says. “Weapons down, hands up, or your Christmas is going to be even worse.”

The man closest to the counter tightens his grip on his gun, then curses and drops it as he raises his hands.

“I recommend you follow his lead,” Lucy tells the man beside you.

“Open the door,” Tim dares the final man. “My partner out there would love to lay you out.”

All three men surrender, and you watch Tim as he cuffs and zip-ties them while his rookie calls for backup.

“You said you had a partner out there!” the men complain.

“I lied,” Tim says as he stands. “You should know what it’s like.”

Three more patrol cars park outside, and officers take the would-be thieves out of the diner as Lucy checks on the owner and the other patrons. When Tim walks to your table, you lean back and look at him.

“I really need your help,” you explain. “It’s one night and you’d get paid.”

“It’s not about the money,” Tim replies. “Are you okay?”

“Then what is it about?” you press. “We both know you’re great with your nephews even if you hate to admit it. It’s only a few hours of asking kids what they want for Christmas, a few pictures, and then- then I’ll buy you dinner, whatever you want.”

“Why are you asking so close to the event?”

“Because I already had a Santa, but he tore his rotator cuff and backed out on me at the last minute. You know I wouldn’t ask something like this unless I really needed it.”

Tim nods, though he’s wondering why he is the one you’ve chosen to show your persistence and desperation to. Surely, you know other men capable of wearing an uncomfortable polyester suit and saying ho, ho, ho.

“You didn’t answer my question,” Tim points out. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. One of them pushed me out of the way, but-“

Tim moves closer to you and bends to look into your eyes. His gaze moves over your face before catching on the slightly red area against the side of your neck.

“You sure?” he whispers.

You nod and smile before you push past him to exit the booth. “I have to get back to work and find a Santa or break hundreds of hearts. Be safe, Tim.”

Tim watches you walk toward the door, and Lucy’s eyes widen as she gestures wildly toward you.

“I’ll do it,” Tim calls. He tells himself it’s because you’re so persistent and seem stressed, but deep down, he knows there is more to it than that.

“You don’t have to,” you say as you face him. “Don’t do something that’s going to make you miserable just because I need help.”

“I’ll do it,” he repeats. “Text me the details?”

“How ‘bout I just pick you up on the 23rd? Around noon?” you reply.

“Sure.”

“Thank you, Tim,” you say with your hand on the door. “You’ll never know how much this means to everyone… to me.”

Tim nods as you leave to return to work, and Lucy claps silently.

“Get in the shop, boot,” he demands.

“You look nice,” you compliment when Tim opens his door the morning of the event. “The red suits you.”

Tim swallows as he looks at you and says, “You don’t have to butter me up, I already said yes.”

“I’m just calling it how I see it,” you assure him.

“I thought this thing didn’t start until 4,” Tim muses as he locks his door and follows you to the car.

“It doesn’t, but we have to get the Santa suit fitted. If you want to leave after and come back at 3, you can take my car.”

Tim shrugs and buckles his seat belt. When you turn the radio to a Christmas station, Tim immediately switches it to a football show. Your jaw drops as you turn toward him.

“You don’t like Christmas music?” you ask incredulously.

“I just don’t think it’s okay to give someone 23 birds,” he explains.

“My car,” you argue when he reaches for the control.

“My Santa debut,” he replies.

You give up and back out of his driveway with an exaggerated scoff.

“Why do you want me to be Santa anyway? I get that you had to ask people you know but I’m clearly not jolly enough.”

“Why is that?” you inquire. “I can understand not loving the music or the commercialism. The rest of it, though, that’s what I don’t get.”

“Just… don’t love the holidays. Reminds me of the things I don’t have anymore, I guess.”

Glancing at Tim, you wonder what it feels like to be someone’s for the holidays. Yes, it’s hard to be jolly when you miss someone, but for a moment, you wonder what it would be like to listen to carolers and decorate the tree while being in love.

“What’s this event like?” Tim asks, pulling you from your thoughts. “Been working on it long?”

“Since September,” you answer. “It’s geared toward the kids, but we have to do something to get the parents in too, so there’s raffles, a silent auction, dinner, and an area where they can sit with each other while someone else watches their kids.”

“So, it’s for donors?”

“At first,” you explain. “The donors are welcome to come anytime between 4 and 7. Then, we make everything absolutely perfect and bring in the kids from the hospitals at 8. They get more time with Santa, more gifts and games and treats. I know we have to raise a lot of money, but it’s not worth it if the kids don’t get to have fun with it too.”

“You’re really good at this,” Tim compliments, looking at you. “I didn’t know how much you put into all of this.”

“Now you regret saying no at first, huh?” you tease.

“That depends on how good the cookies are.”

“Then why are you so nervous?” you ask as you pull into the event center’s parking lot.

“I’m not-“

“It’s hidden well, but it’s there, Tim. You know you’re good with kids, so don’t let the size of this get to you.”

“I’ll try.”

“And if you get overwhelmed, Santa can always take a cookie break. I’ll be around if you need anything.”

You wish Tim luck as you drop him off with the wardrobe designer you hired, then begin transforming the space into a winter wonderland.

“Are you okay?” Holly asks as you finish constructing the games for the children from the hospital.

“I came to ask the same,” Santa says from behind you.

You turn quickly and smile at the sight of Tim in the suit. His beard has been set aside while he takes a break, but something about seeing him this way feels right.

“I’m fine,” you assure them. “Rich people are hard to please, I’m used to it.”

“Nobody should get used to people screaming in their face because the caviar is room temperature,” Holly argues.

“Is that what it was about?” Tim asks with a humorless laugh.

“He got over it. I actually saw him eating the caviar later,” you say. “Besides, this is the part of the night I’m here for.”

“You’re an excellent Santa,” Holly tells Tim. “The kids went on and on about you.”

“Told you,” you sing song.

“Do I give gifts to every kid?” Tim asks you.

“Yes, give them as many as you want because we have more. The red candy cane paper is more girly gifts, blue snowflake paper is for boys, and the gingerbread paper is gender neutral,” you list. “The elves also have a list of what we have, so if a kid asks for something specific, someone can check for you.”

“You should’ve been a cop,” Tim muses. “I wish my boot could keep things this streamlined.”

“You need to get back to the Northpole,” Holly says, glancing at her watch. “Not that this isn’t adorable.”

“Tim,” you call as he walks away. “Thank you.”

“It’s the only thing you’re getting for Christmas!” he replies.

Holly smiles as she moves to your side, and you glare at her.

“A gorgeous man wrapped in a Santa suit,” she muses. “You got every girl’s dream gift.”

“He isn’t mine,” you remind her.

“Christmas seems like the perfect time to change that.”

“Excuse me?” a young girl asks.

“Hello,” you greet, smiling as you squat beside her. “What’s your name?”

“Sally,” she answers. “Will you go with me to see Santa?”

“Of course!” You offer your hand and lead Sally through the crowds of happy children and grateful parents to get in line to see Santa. “What are you asking for this year?”

“I want a Hug-Wave,” she says softly, wrapping both her hands around yours.

“What’s that?”

“It’s twin stuffed animals, and when you hug one, it sends a hug to the other. I want to give my brother one so I can send him hugs when I have to stay in the hospital. He’s coming to see me on Christmas, but I miss him.”

Your eyes tear up, and you smile at Sally as you move forward in line. “I’m sure Santa will bring you one,” you assure her. “Look, we’re next!”

“You’ll stay with me?”

“Of course, Sally.”

As you walk onto the red carpet platform, Tim looks at you before looking at Sally. You mouth her name, and Tim calls, “Ho, ho, ho, Merry Christmas, Sally!”

“You know my name?” she asks softly, stopping beside his knees.

“Santa knows all of the good boys’ and girls’ names, and you, Sally, are on my nice list!”

“Do you want to sit on his lap?” you ask Sally.

She nods but keeps her hand firmly in yours. You move to Tim’s side as he pulls her onto his leg and blink to get the tears out of your eyes as Sally tells Santa about the hugging stuffed animal she wants to stay close to her brother.

“I think you and your brother would love that, Sally,” Tim says. “I’ll tell my elves about your wish, and we’ll work on that.”

“Thank you, Santa,” Sally says before pulling her hand from yours and hugging Tim.

You wipe your face before taking Sally’s hand and leading her to pin the nose on Rudolph, where she plays with kids like she didn’t just tug your heartstrings. Turning to check on everything, you notice that the Santa chair is empty, and the elves are entertaining the children in line. Less than a minute later, Tim returns and continues to visit children and parents alike.

“Psst!” someone calls.

You furrow your brows as you turn, and when you see Lucy, your eyes widen in shock.

“Santa asked me to bring you this,” she whispers as she slips a large gift bag through the door. “Care to be an elf for me?”

“Thank you,” you tell her. “I’ll take it to him now.”

“It looks amazing in here!”

“You’re welcome to stay, Lucy.”

You walk toward the North Pole area and tap an elf’s shoulder to take the gift to Tim. He excuses himself after the last child and walks to your side with the bag in his hand.

“Where’s Sally?” he whispers in your ear.

You look up at him and feel your tears building again as you say, “Tim–”

“I’m Santa tonight.”

You locate Sally sitting at a table with her parents and brother and eating a cupcake. Following behind Tim, you press your hand over your mouth as he kneels beside her and offers the bag. Her parents look at one another in shock as she removes the bears from the bag, then mouth their gratitude to Tim. Sally passes her brother a bear, and they begin hugging them to hug one another, and you decide this is the Christmas miracle you hoped to see.

Tim exits the small dressing room in the back hallway and doesn’t see you before you wrap your arms around his neck to hug him.

“Thank you,” you whisper against his neck. “For being Santa and for giving Sally the gift.”

Tim tightens his arms around your waist before you pull back. “It’s the least I could do,” he deflects with a shrug.

“No, it isn’t,” you insist. “I talked to Sally’s parents. They can barely afford gas to go back and forth to work and the hospital right now because one of them has to stay with her full-time because of her treatment. That’s why her brother can’t visit much.”

“Is she…”

“The doctors are hopeful that her current treatment is working,” you assure him. “They’re expecting to send her home sometime in the spring if she continues improving. Tim, you made their entire year.”

“You deserve some of that credit.”

“You pulled off a Christmas miracle, it’s all yours.”

“Does that mean you’ll tell me why you chose to ask me to be Santa?” Tim asks with a smile. His hands are still on your waist, but you’re dreading the moment when he steps back.

“Because I knew you could do it,” you answer. “You’re the only person I know that is kind and generous, selfless without letting people know it, and even if you get mad at me for saying it, you are kind and a big softie. You’re special, Tim Bradford, and a gentleman, and the closest thing I’ve seen to magical in a very long time. That’s why I asked and kept asking.”

“Well, you’re the closest thing I’ve seen to Mrs. Claus… ever,” he replies lightly.

“Without the time to bake and ‘Mrs.’ you mean.”

Tim shakes his head and asks, “Who helped you decorate?”

“Holly, mostly. Why?”

Lifting his chin, Tim gestures to the mistletoe hanging from the ceiling.

“It’s tradition,” you begin.

“You don’t have to convince me,” Tim interrupts.

He moves a hand from your waist to your cheek and kisses you. It feels like fireworks, warm hot chocolate, and every good and magical thing you can think of all at once. You move your hands to Tim’s jaw and move together, then pull back to thank him again.

“Thank you for calling Lucy and getting Sally’s gift here so quickly.”

Tim’s brow pinches as he says, “I didn’t call Lucy. I thought you got the gift here for her?”

You shake your head, then ask, “Well if you didn’t order it, and I didn’t order it, which Santa asked Lucy to bring it?”

Tim hesitates before he says, “It couldn’t…”

“There you are!” Holly calls as she enters the hallway. “I could not find this entrance, geez. Oh, hey, mistletoe!”

“You didn’t put this up?” you ask her.

“Me? No, I don’t even know where to buy mistletoe. That made me sound so single.”

You look at Tim, who smiles and whispers, “Christmas magic,” as he leans in again.

[axailslink]

You must think me a fool

Dark!Shuri Udaku x Princess!Warrior FEM reader

Synopsis: Her people fear her she slaughtered a community just to save them but has she also lost her humanity? Can she force the image of a domesticated lifestyle with you who wants nothing to do with her? To do with a murderer?

"Marry? what reason do I need to marry?" Shuri doesn't take her eyes off of her past projects trying to find some sort of flaw something to update so that she doesn't let herself get completely drowned in her royal affairs. "They fear you Shuri. Do you not care?" Shuri rolls one of her kimoyo beads around in the palm of her hand "of course I care Okoye but I can't parade as if I am not upset my mother-" "your mother would want you to continue your life not sulk and-" "-you are not dora milaje anymore why do you insist on giving me guidance?" Okoye is silenced in this moment because she is right she's not Dora milaje "I am family that's why I persist but please keep acting the way you do and push the only family away you have left. To be the smartest woman I know you surely make the most idiotic decisions when you're upset. Umntwana (a child.)"

~

Shuri has a point to prove so here she sits in the middle of common folks equivalent to a living room but nothing in comparison four pillars on each corner of the room no doors but instead large arched paths that lead you to the next room or a hallway that leads to the next room. Candles light the room instead of lights so it's dimly lit not a lot but enough to see whoever resides in said room. You're nowhere in sight because this meeting as your mother said is "none of your concern" even though you're sure when you hear the truths behind it you'll disagree.

"You want my daughters hand in marriage?" The older lady sitting across from Shuri is astonished because what in the mother of above has possessed Shuri to ask for such a thing? "I don't understand you've disappeared from her life and now you want her hand?" "I'm begging for your daughter's hand I need to fool my people and she is one of the few women I've ever been interested in as a friend or as a potential queen." Shock reads the woman's face and the candles only deepen the creases on her face as she makes a contorted facial expression as she forces her next words "as much as I am willing to do so I don't think she's as willing as I." Shuri keeps her face straight unsure why a friend would not be willing to help her in such a time of need "could I speak to her?" The hesitation reaches the woman's voice before it even spills from her lips "she's... She's sparing maybe another time princess?" Shuri cocks her head at being called the wrong title but it's only momentarily "queen my title is "queen" it hasn't been "princess" in a very long time and I wish to speak with her." Before the conversation can continue and Shuri is given more time to disrespect your mother she goes to say her final piece to her "your people are dying from sickness, your animals too, your greenery can't be taken care of if the people who care for them can barely stand. My people are healthy and strong I wouldn't be opposed to lending you a hand if you lend me her hand." Your mother would never make a decision like this without your knowledge and Shuri knows it but it wouldn't hurt to tip the scale a bit in her favor before she spoke to you.

Shuri doesn't give her a chance to give a response before she wanders out of the dimly lit space into the dark hall feeling her bare feet on the rocks as she approaches the sparring room. She watches for a while as you seem to annihilate some kid with her own weapon when caught off guard you kick the tiny dagger out of the little girl's hand and Shuri is quick to grab it. "You must think yourself a worthy opponent Shuri" Shuri let's her eyes scan you and the white thin cloth that she can't believe you would call a dress "no hugs?" You smile "now why would I hug a murderer?"

"Using the common words I thought the term was a "warrior" I guess you no longer think me a friend?" You gently sign to the child to leave you both be and she does running off on the tips of her toes. "You slaughtered a community Shuri I don't think I can forgive you for that" Shuri nods as approaches you but you still your stance barely noticing the cuts lined upon your arms leaking blood onto the granite floor "it was my people or theirs I was sure you of all people would understand."

"We aged together but I would never murder you know this... You killed. Since when have we done that?" You both circle each other wondering who will pounce first? It could be you with your perfect stance ready to throw Shuri off if she does or it could be Shuri ready to attack if you so far as think to jump. "I was protecting my people!" You shake your head "you were looking for a reason to mask your revenge!" Shuri sighs the breath being the moment of letting her guard down that you just seemed to be waiting for because you grab Shuri by her neck and turn her so quickly she can't get a hold of you. Crouching behind you bring her down with you your knee pressed firmly into her back uncomfortably behind her spinal cord as the other hand stays firmly on her neck "What brings the murderer to my palace?" Shuri gasps carefully her Adams apple bobs beneath the feel of your rough fingers.

"Marry me" you grip loosens just for a moment at the shock of her words and she takes advantage sliding the dagger up your leg and breaking herself free "awukwazi ukuba serious (you can't be serious)" Shuri nods. "I simply need a favor and I shall give you one in return." You shake your head as you hold your leg "no whatever it is no. Absolutely not."

"Your people are dying"

"No"

"Yes"

"Your people are sick"

"No"

"Yes"

"Your people are vegetarian yet I see no greenery what are they eating?"

"Get out." Shuri sighs "let me help" "I don't want your help I don't even know who you are" "I am your friend" Shuri begs you with her eyes but you don't want to hear any words coming from her lips. "Marry me put on a facade and I will feed your people so well they'll be fat. I will help grow the greenery and get rid of the sickness that has consumed you all just fake this one thing for me. Don't be selfish." You sigh and stand up letting the blood drip down your leg "you move different Shuri Udaku..." Shuri says nothing now letting you get your turn to speak "it's not elegant it's not queenly you move like you care for nothing but yourself I'm sure that's true."

"I care about you..."

"You must think me a fool."

~

Within a few hours you're with Shuri on her way back to the kingdom you don't put up a fight after the conversation earlier. The faster you do this the faster your people get better it's sick of Shuri to cut a proposition like this really but it comes to surprise to you that she'd do something so evil. You're right she does move differently. She moves like a queen who doesn't deserve have her throne.

A/n: this took a big turn not even going to lie this was supposed to be some enemies to lovers y'all wasn't even supposed to know each other but once again I took a plot and ran with it. Also very unedited I have some military related stuff just wanted to give y'all something because it's been a very long time and I do apologize for that.

[rin-and-jade]

Gripped by Glue Trap: a Post about Front Stuck & Lock

I get it, there's no such thing as an actual big glue trap with being stuck outside as a system,, but oftentimes its gonna feel that way because whatever was done... that glue won't even struggle one bit, only we do. That frustration is what we all have when switching is not an option.

But do you ever think this glue is defeatable? It latches hard and wears you out the more you try to get out of the situation,, so you might think not.. yet i do! That's what this post is going to be about folks, getting your little bug-self free with my secret trick from another human glue trap ensnared in their house.

But.. what is it actually?

Generally, as a system, we facilitate each other's strengths and weaknesses by switching in and out, as all those parts are not wholly integrated compared to a singlet. And. Uh oh. You're stuck and can't get out? You're trapped!.. that little drop of sap caught your leg and now you couldn't leave, even if you wanted to. Though you still can express to your buddies that you need help or etc. (and, this is called front stuck)

Or sometimes, we can even get stranded away from our pack (as in stress, or anything that worsens internal communication), wondering alone, and stood on a nasty manmade trap that caught you without mercy. This time, you're immobile and out of reach to call for reinforcements (now, this one is called front lock)

Sap? Glue? What's the diff??

To put it simply, being stuck means being unable to get out from the front or surrender the control to another part. While being locked off is the worser version of being stuck because not only you cannot surrender the control, there is barely any stream of communication you can connect to, or nonexistent, head silent and all that.

The only similarity they have is how it greatly impedes the fronter's capability to ease in or out from front,, if not, impossible.

These two also happen for different possible reasons, such as:

↓ Stuck ↓ 

Unfinished tasks

Goal/wants not met yet

Ongoing role duty (for protectors, hosts, etc)

Reluctance handing control/fear of blacking out

Mild stressors (like anxiety)

.. and more

↓ Locked ↓

Dissociation

Fight/flight response

Overwhelm

Bigger stressors

Major life changes

Re-occurring trauma

.. and more

Just a reminder that all systems are different, and these same reasons that causes to be stuck/lock will result in an opposite reaction such as rapid switching or being blurry! This post is mainly for those who experience stuck/lock.

Then, how do i get my leg out?!

I can tell you that, but i have to explain how this ordeal happened in the first place so it'll make sense, bare with me;

You know the parasympathetic (rest) and sympathetic (fight/flight) response, yeah? These two responses flicks on depending when there's safety or presented threats. Now, DMN is a part of the parasympathetic response, the full name is Default Mode Network, which is fully responsible for.. well.. default stuffs such as mind wandering, planning, thinking inwards,, those typical things that happen when you're bored. This is also the reason you why can facilitate better communication with other parts compared to when, let's say, being busy with tasks.

Know it or not, sometimes our mind has to wander a little bit in order to chat with other parts of ourself, and stress snaps us out of that relaxed state in purpose of focusing whats at outside, rather than inside, which where everything system-y lies at. Some do not get affected and still can function as-if, so understand how your system works and use that to the advantage.

How to hack yourself from fight/flight to rest mode again? Via vagus nerve stimulation! Not sure if you ever heard of this word, but the vagus is one part of the cranial nerves that is responsible for the activation of this parasympathetic response..! It's like the oil to the glue, because it hijacks the adhesive properties with something so viscous that it binds to it instead of you!! --

Here are some activities you can do to disable the glue:

Gurgle water, hum, or sing: this is because the vagus is located around your neck, and can be easily stimulated that way.

Watch something: redirecting yourself with a distraction can ease you temporarily, giving time to calm down, which brings you out of the grips of stress.

Listen to music: another way if you don't have anything to watch, even better if you put on soothing, slower songs.

Move around: get those pented up anxiety or restlessness out! movement equals expression, this also activates the vagus nerve.

Breathe deeply: rebalance the vagus by breathing in and out slowly, this nerve is also responsible for your breathing pace too, so giving a little push of balance will create a domino effect for your nerve to work.

Unfocus your eyes: or, another way to do it is to focus more on the peripheral vision rather than the vocal point. This is a way to poke the same nerve's functions, oddly can work as a booster to make yourself slightly dissociated/disconnected which facilitates switches or a general break/distraction.

Solve/asses it: it will be nothing if you do not tackle the thing you are very stressed out about, which can extend how long you'll be stuck,, so use these tips above to regain self control and tackle them with me, or your trusted friends, or even alone after examining what could be done! Talking to someone also helps, even if there's nothing productive being done.

Take it easy and break it down: this one is if you're on a role job and things are being difficult, incase you're overwhelmed, remember to do it step by step, no need to be rash about getting back in first, that time will come as long you focus whats in front.

Remember, fight/flight brings us out from clarity and rational thinking, thanks to our limbic part of the brain who is primed for survival and instincts. Be more gentle with yourself, as you could be more irritable, moody, or resorting to less-safe coping mechanisms, focus on calming down before proceeding the situation.

Takeaway

So, what will you do if you're stuck next time? Don't forget to make a plan to deal this sticky situation, especially for those who are often stuck, this practice will practice your vagus nerve to be less susceptible, turning off because of stress,, giving you a better stress window and tolerance before succumbing once more.... to the good ol' glue.

Lastly, it is possible to be stuck/lock for months or years, which is an indicator of underlying long-term issues that needs to be addressed. If anyone needs some tips for this, ring me on the DMs as these practices rarely work for this type.

Oh, and, what do you guys think? What else i had not mentioned? Do you have anything to discuss with me on this topic? Let's do that! I hope this suffice in helping you tackle the next time problems arise.

Happy straddling lil' ant.

- j

[theanonymousninja247]

Pretty Random Turtle Thunks:

Christmas Gifts

Just some silly HC ideas on what I would get the Bayverse Boys for Christmas with all the money I got from working overtime during the holidays:

(for all the folks who do overtime in any form or fashion, y'all are my heroes. Thank you 🙏🏼🧡🫡)

Rating: Milk (This one’s for everyone!)

Leo: Cordless Vaccum with Additional Brushes

Hear me out. HC Leo has pretty bad OCD/ Anxiety. (feel free to ask me questions on why I think this; short story, man folds his arms and does his little nervous foot-tapping dance thing) It doesn't necessarily always look like that because he's worked on shoving it so far down (the emotionally constipated turtle he is) that its one of the reasons he can tend to be a bit…well…high strung. All that chaos, the responsibility, the weight that is contained his mind can be a bit maddening and one of the ways he works through it or tries to redirect that nervous energy is through cleaning. It gives him something he can do and see an immediate result to. Leo’s also a meticulous perfectionist, so what better to get him for Christmas than something that will allow him to clean every nook and cranny he can without being hindered; finally putting that pent up energy into something useful. Clean, orderly, and sensible. Because even if the rest of the world is crazy, doesn't mean his mind or his home should be. Well…or at the very least his room. Everything in place as all good things should be. At least that how it feels being with you 😉💙

Donnie: Hand Massager

Something cheesy I know I know. But think about it. Donnie has spent practically his entire life building gadgets and gizmos that help other people. Sure, there's the occasional more specific stuff for him and his brothers, but I don't think he really thinks all that much about building stuff to specifically help himself. You know this turtle gets on that one track mindset waaaaay too often and struggles with taking care of himself. Especially his hands. His hands are his livelihood. His chance to express himself when sometimes emotions and words cannot. I just think Donnie deserves a little break and to put some TLC into the hands that so often reach out to others. Donnie deserves to know that he's worth taking care of himself too. And the best part is if he doesn't like it, he can always tinker with it to make it better. Because that's what Donnie does, makes the world better by being himself and of course, being with you. 😉💜

Raph: Minky Couture Blanket

A blanket? Really? I know what y'all are thinking but hear me out. Raph is a our big boy. The protector. The muscle. The hard headed bruiser who's always on the front lines taking every hit so his family and the rest of the world doesn't have to. He takes the hits because he knows he can handle it and give it right back. That's what he's good at, and he's proud of it. But its not easy. It hurts. And I imagine it can get rather exhausting. Sometimes I think Raph forgets that his heart is a muscle too and it needs to be taken care of just like the rest of the muscles that he puts so much effort into. These blankets are by far the softest that I have EVER had the privilege of touching. Silky smooth to the the touch AND THEY CAN COME WEIGHTED TOO! I think Raph deserves something warm and soft (I HC that he's super touch and texture sensitive) to come home to after fighting in this cold hard world. (A blanket will do. At least until he has you 😉❤️)

Mikey: Thyme and Table Black and Gold Cookset

I’ve always loved the thought that Mikey was the biggest foodie in the family which honestly makes sense. Because what better way to bring people together, no matter who they are, than the ultimate connector that is the love of food? Mikey loves people and he loves expressing himself. What better way than doing that through magic that is cooking?! I want to get him this set because it looks super classy (and I think Mikey needs a reminder every once in a while that he can be cool and chic just like the rest of his bros. That he isn't always just the goof and the brunt of the joke) Mikey, like anything in black and gold, is a statement piece that deserves his own chance to shine! Also with it being speckled, it looks clean while being dirty too. The mess in a masterpiece if you will.

Just like our Mikey!

And you bet your bottom dollar that he is gonna to LOVE trying to make some magic for you😉��

Splinter: Lego Tranquil Garden

Splinter is a part of this family and deserves something nice too! My favorite thing is surprising older folks with something considered “childish” and watching them have a chance to explore their inner child once again. Not to mention these lego sets are basically just 3D puzzles and old folks love puzzles! Because puzzles are just workouts for the brain! (at least that's what my grandma keeps telling me) And I think Master Splinter would like to have something fun to work on while his boys are always out saving the world. You know, a little piece of serenity that never fades away (because plastic is eternal and what not) in the crazy world that he gets to call home with his sons. 🤎

[yetanotherhiddlestoner]

Summary ~ Daryl finds a journal on a supply run and reads it, what will happen when he sees the world through someone else's perspective?  Comment if you wish to be added to the Tagslist.

Words ~ 2400ish Warnings~ A time jump other than that none. Sorry for any mistakes!! (Gif not mine, all credits go to angelwings-crossbowstings)

The Entries Chapter 2.

8 months pass, and Daryl spends the months working in the Commonwealth, going between all the communities, helping them build more houses for the new survivors, going on supplies runs, hunting and expanding the map for areas that they have explored and cleaned out. The latest run took him 4 days by bike. Daryl always checked out the big supermarkets first, before hitting the smaller ones. 

Daryl reaches behind him and grab a single arrow, tapping it on the glass to attract anything inside, he waits for a few before entering the building, the smell of decay hitting him, but he ignores it, he quickly glances around before his eyes stop on a book, almost the same to the first one he found. He walks over to it, opening it to the first page, he notices your handwriting. 

Like a child guarding your diary from anyone who dares to read it, it reads. "The journal of Y/N Y/L/N. Keep out (Just kidding keep reading. It's fine)"

He places the journal into a basket as he searches the shelves for anything these days, he has been keeping an eye out for seeds to plant in the gardens, he found that those were one of things that many left behind in a hurry. He wonders how long it has been since you have been here. Were you the one who killed the walkers inside? 

That night he takes shelter in the office of the supermarket as the wind picks up outside and the rain pitter patters against the windows. Daryl was not wanting to risk getting caught in a horde in this weather. He sits with his back against the door, candles lighting up the small room. He opens the book, the paper crinkling as he flips through, looking at drawings, photos and small writings at the start. Entry update number ????? "It has been months since my last update, I just had to find the right book to keep writing, as if it matters though and if you found my old journal than you know what I am doing, you know my name and a bit of my story, I am wondering if you are enjoying it so far?. I know it is not an award-winning journalism but for the end of the world, you gotta take what life gives you, it's hard to write daily about the same thing that is why I try to write when big things happen, can you imagine how boring each entry would be if they were all the same? I am sure that if this was a blog you would be reading it (I joke trust me I would never write a blog)

I have come across some nice folks, I even have a group now, its small but we are doing ok, we are surviving, it is not living but it does the trick. I have learnt how to fight and hunt a little, Manny is teaching me how to track wildlife. They have a camp, it has high walls and rooms for us, it's safe enough. I can never trust anyone is 100% safe; I take my turns keeping guard and helping on supply runs. We are talking about moving to a bigger location, but we are yet to find it. We want to build crops and have animals to raise." Once again there are pictures some of before the end of the world, others from your camp. He notices the changes on your face, the way your face now tells a tale that you don't need a journal to read, a tale of survival. You glued a before and after on the page, before was you dressed up about to go out, makeup and hair done, handbags and high heels and now the after was jeans, combat boots, a t-shirt and jacket, you traded the handbag for a rifle and your hair is brushed back into a bun, he notices the scar that starts above your eye then under, wondering when that happened. If Daryl was being honest, he prefers the now you over the old you.

Entry 20 something~ "I can't remember that last entry of my old journal, so I'll start at 20 this time. My camp is on the move, we started getting more biters daily that we feared for our supplies, bullets mostly. Manny and Tim distracted them and moved them away while we loaded the cars with what we had and moved out, unfortunately we lost Tim. Biter got him on the way back to the meet up point, Manny had to put him down, I tried to comfort him, but it was hard.  I no longer feel sadness; it is like I have gotten used to losing people that tears don't form so easily these days. I try not to make too many attachments. I have had to learn to shut emotions off, some of the group hate that other get emotional over people's death, they view it as weak. I will miss Tim, but I can't mourn him, that is just the way it is now." Daryl blows the candles out and places the book next to him, as he lays in the darkness, trying to sleep. He understands where you are coming from. This new chapter isn't made for the ones who are constantly sad over losses, they are viewed as a liability. He can recall the two times he has shown weakness, the first when he found Carol and friends after the losing the prison, the second was the death of Beth. Growing up Daryl was used to being beaten by a parent and as child he learnt to shut down when you just want to break down, he always had Merle there but even his brother taught he that men shouldn't cry, it makes you weak and pathetic.  

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The days and weeks roll into one for Daryl, he continues reading you journal whenever he can, Carol catches him one day while he is meant to be working on his bike, reading an entry, detailing about your latest kill of a deer you had hunted yourself, how you tracked it and bought it back to the camp. "What's that you got Daryl?" She asks, he looks up at her. "Nothin'" Daryl responds gruffly, grabbing the book and shoving it into his bag. "Nah uh Dixon, you're reading something" The older woman says, smirking "Tell me is it a romance novel? Or a drama novel?" Carol jokes but stops when she takes note of Daryl's face. "It's nothin' like' 'hat" He tries to defend it. "Come on Daryl, tell me" Eventually Daryl gives in and explains what it is exactly. "So there some random girl out there leaving journals around and you just happen to keep finding em?" She asks flipping through the pages, going over them a little. "I find them intriguing ok" He shrugs, carol nods. "I am not judging Daryl, mind if I read the first one?" She asks, he nods and goes inside to retrieve it for her, passing it over to her. "Bring it back, ok?" Daryl asks. He is not too sure why he is protective of your journal, but he was. "I will Daryl don't worry" Carol walks away, her reading the pages already.

He pulls the book back out and continues reading. Entry 24 (I think) "First time eating deer and it wasn't as bad as I thought it was, the men skinned it and got the meat ready for dinner, we are going to try and use the fur for the winter, the kids need new clothing, warm clothing. We are lucky, the meat will feed us for a couple meals, our community is big enough that we won't waste it.  Biter- 60 Human- 6 Animal- 18

Entry 25 (I truly don't know, I have lost track of time)

"Can one truly lose humanity in this world? Can one only kill the dead and let the living free? Where does the line blur for good and bad these days? Where does the line between friend and enemy start? Who is to govern the right and wrong these days? I lay here wondering, so many thoughts go through my mind daily, what we lost from the old days. What are we trying to gain? Is there really a future for the generations that are being born now?"

Daryl wipes his dirty hands on the rag and shuts the book again. He puts it away and places his tools back on the shelves, heading inside to start having dinner.  Going to bed that night, he wonders if you were still out there. Somewhere.

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You were running, again, the groans of the undead behind you, but you couldn't stop. Your chest is burning with each breath you took, your legs starting to feel like jelly. You have no doubt blood running down your legs from the stick and branches that have stabbed you while you run but you can't stop, you have to keep running. Your friends scattered to the winds after a horde came through your community. You break through the trees to the road, a car comes speeding down the road, skidding to a stop in front of you, adrenaline that once flowed through you quickly gets replaced with exhaustion as you pass out, your backpack taking most of the fall as they hop out of the car, rushing over to you, the last thing you hear is a male's voice commanding them to load you carefully into the car. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Daryl's bike flies down the road, the wind whipping through his dirty hair, he doesn't care, getting out off the walls that keep them safe is something Daryl enjoys.  The truck behind him following him to the next location for scavenging, this destination is almost a 5-day drive one way, but everyone knew they needed to expand further out, so taking the truck for the items was the plan.  This run consisted of Daryl, Carol and Morgan. As night fall came, they used the truck as shelter for the night, Daryl's bike pushed against the side of the truck while Morgan and Carol sat in the back, talking. Daryl sat in the corner, leaning against the cold metal of the truck he used the torch to continue reading. Not really in the mood to socialize. Entry 26-

"I don't know how much longer I can fake happiness. I can't keep pretending like everything is going to be ok. I do it for the kids, they are so scared most days. I hear them crying to their mothers at night, afraid of the darkness, after of the biters. They will learn over time, they will need to learn how to fight to survive. Life wasn't meant to be like this though, not for them." Entry 27-

"Mother Nature gave us a lucky break, with the storm that hit last night, we were able to fill barrels of water, finally we have clean drinking water for the kids. It felt so nice to be able to wash all the dirt and grime off me in that rain, washed my hair, we were able to wash our clothes during the day as the rain hung around.

You never notice how much you truly take for granted till you don't have it. I miss having running water, hot showers, fast food my god I could down a hamburger right now. I miss being able to go out, have fun, go to the movies, even missing shampoo and conditioner. I miss my friends, miss being able to go outside my house without having to fight for my life daily. The rain gave us a chance to be happy, even if it was just for the short time.  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You start to stir in the back of the car, you hear voices talking around you. Your eyes flutter open, and you try to sit up. "Woah be careful" A male voice says beside you. You look over at him. "Where am I?" You croak out, the man passes you a bottle of water. You quickly open it and chug it. "You are currently in our vehicle heading back our community, we almost hit you as you rushed out of the woods last night" "Who are you people?"  "My name's Aaron, Michonne and Maggie in the front seat." "I'm Y/N." "Where do you come from?" Michonne asks. "I had a small set up, but a horde of biters came out of no-where and we got spilt up" You explain sadly. "Biters? You mean the walkers?" Maggie says, looking at you quickly You grunt in pain,"Ain't they the same thing?"  "We need to ask you some questions if you don't mind. The first being how many walkers have you killed?" You try to think of how many you might be up to know "I would say around 120ish, I have lost track" "Next question. How many humans have you killed?"  "Ten" You answer.

"Why?" Maggie asks the last question. "The first couple of people, they were out to hurt me, they wanted not only my supplies but my body" You look away ashamed. "One was he didn't want to turn, but he had been bit so I had to put him down before he died. Each person after that I had to do what I needed to survive, to protect the ones within my small community."

They all look at each other, before Maggie focus is back on the road.

"I'm sorry did I say something wrong?" You question them. "No it's not that, you just said you had a small community, we just got a radio call while you were resting saying they found some straggles coming to the gate, we just wondering if perhaps they were some of you folk"

I look out the window to the trees passing us, should I be thankful that there might be some of us left? Aaron passes you back your backpack and smiles. "Why don't you get some rest, we not too far out from our community, we will have the doctor check you over, you have some nasty cuts on your legs, I assume from running" Aaron says, his eyes on the road while Maggie drives. You do just that, you close your eyes and let the sound of the car put you to sleep.

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Tagslist ~ @clairealeehelsing

[seenoversundown]

For Death Or Glory : Chapter Twenty-One

Jake Kiszka x Charlotte (Fem OC)

Warnings: 18+ Smut! (sexy warnings will be last so you can skip if you want! read otherwise 🫶🏻) An Emergency Meeting, Pining, Yearning, Fluff, Romantic themes, (Jake is a whole sweetheart, we know this) Some light teasing, Discussions of Sex, 'Captain' is brought up, some brotherly banter, light mention of alcohol (it's still in the bar but not aggressively?)

Smut Warnings: Oral (M Receiving) Fingering (F Receiving) Unprotected Sex (P in V- you get the drill & wrap it up at home folks!) there's like a subtle moment that gives cockwarming so, there's that.

Word Count: 6.4k

Summary: Jake has a bit of a moment over his feelings about Charlotte and decides to reach out to the only people he knows will be helpful.

Author's Note: I know I say this every week- but wow, I love them. A very sweet chapter for some very sweet babies. I hope that this fuels your dreams a little more with the two of them. I know we're all waiting for the actual confession but, hopefully this can hold you over until they figure themselves out. 🥰

Jackie And Wilson - Hozier "I need to be youthfully felt, cause God, I never felt young- She's gonna save me, call me baby, run her hands through my hair."

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“I’ll see you later, right?”

Her smile beamed at me, her hands pressed against my chest, and she giggled, “Yes, babe. I promise.” 

“Okay, okay, I’ll let you go then,” I tell her, moving my hand to hold her jaw. “Actually–  wait, one more.” I pull her in, keeping the kiss for as long as I can. 

“Baby,” she laughs against my lips, her hands tapping me as I pepper her face with little pecks. Anything to hear her laugh. “Okay, okay, okay!” Her hands grabbed my face and pushed me away, but the way she was looking at me made my insides want to explode. 

She sits in the driver’s seat, looks back up at me, and cuts me off before I can even spit out anything. “Yes, I’ll text you when I get there.” 

“Drive safe, Hun,” telling her as I push her door shut. I was slowly wandering back to the bar, just scrolling through emails and hearing the chime ring, when I pulled the door open. 

Tossing my phone onto the counter and going to the back room to grab a few things, I hear the back door open. 

“Goodmorning!” Josh’s voice sings into the hallway. 

Walking out to find him, an arm full of beer, I see him making his rounds throughout the tables. 

“Well, good morning to you too,” I chuckle, watching him fight with one of the chairs as the feet are puzzled in with the table leg. 

I’m stocking beer and checking to see what else we need when I feel his presence behind me. 

“How’s Charlotte?” he asks, and I can hear the smirk on his face. I should have known that it would come up; I’ve been distracted lately, so we’ve not had a chance to discuss it. 

“Uh, she’s good,” I let out timidly. He’s aware of the agreement she and I made originally, but I haven’t really said much about how I’m feeling to him yet. “How’s Quinn?” 

“They’re great—,” he says. “You’ve been spending a lot of time together, huh?” 

Shit. I glance over at him, fighting the urge to smile, humming, “mhm.”

Grabbing a towel and starting to wipe down the bar top, I feel him grab my shoulder, making me look at him. 

“I haven’t seen you this happy in a while,” he pauses for a second. “It's refreshing.”

I guess I hadn’t realized that my mood, in general, was different.  The smile creeps onto my face as we look at each other, “It really is.” 

“Are you still just ‘friends’?” He asks, adding the quotes for emphasis. 

I nod reluctantly, “Mhm.” 

“You know, you’re lying to yourselves, right?” He laughs loudly. 

Yeah, but I don’t want to scare her away. 

I look over at him, “I’m just letting her call the shots, and if she doesn’t want to claim it’s something else, then..” 

“Oh, you lovesick little puppy,” his head falls to the side as he looks at me. “She’ll come around. From what Quinn’s said, she definitely enjoys you.” 

My heart shakes at the thought; I really hope she does. 

The door chimes as a supplier walks in, distracting us finally from my weird love life situation. But just because Josh and I stopped talking does not mean my brain did. 

What if she doesn’t come around? Maybe she really is just in it for the sex while she’s here? There’s literally no way that she needs to be still training Mel at this point.. Josh was done in like two days when I had him take the certification. Oh..oh my god? Wait– it’s an online thing, why is she..? My thoughts run rampant with what ifs and why’s, making my hands shake as I sign for the delivery that just came in. I need to figure out how she’s feeling, but I can’t do this with Josh. The idea hits me.  

Me: hi so I need some … help.

I text into a group chat, hoping that they’ll be receptive and not make it worse. 

Quinn: are you okay??? 

Willa: 👀 what kind

Mel: oh??

Me: just girl related help and I can’t ask my brothers. 

Me: will you come get coffee to make this easier? 

Quinn: I THOUGHT THE DAY WOULD NEVER COME

Mel: I just have to drop Iris off real quick

Willa: OMG SAY LESS 

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I wait out front of the coffee shop down the street until I see them coming up. 

“You didn’t have to wait for us,” Willa says as they get closer. 

I prop open the door for them, gesturing for them to go first, “Oh, I don’t mind.”

I followed them all up to the counter and gave them a second to look at the menu before asking, “Do you know what you want?”

A resounding ‘yes’ came from them, so I walked up, ordering first, and then nodded to the rest of them. They ordered whatever they wanted one by one, and I quickly handed my card over to cover it. Listening to all three of them quietly yell at me for paying, but knowing they are taking time out of their day to come listen to my woes, it’s the least I can do. 

They all let out a ‘thank you’ of some sort as the girl handed my card back to me. 

Once everyone was situated and we found a comfortable spot, they just stared at me, waiting. 

“Alright, kid, spill,” Quinn pipes up as they go to sip on their drink. 

“Well… I sort of don’t know what to do about Charlotte,” I admit. The nerves hit me immediately when it came out. 

Quinn quickly asks, “What do you mean?” There’s no way they don’t know.  

“Uhh.. I just.. she and I have been… um,” I hesitate to say it, but Willa cuts me off before I can. 

“Been what? Spit it out!”

I can feel the heat in my face, asking, “You guys really don’t know?” 

I watch as they all look at each other, but nobody is really reacting. How? 

“There’s no way you don’t,” I mumble as I side-eye them.  

Quinn caves first, “Okay, yes, we know.” 

“But, tell us how you feel, though!” Mel chimes in right away. Oh, that’s a loaded thing to ask. 

“I mean, she’s incredible,” I start, but I can’t stop. “She’s so sweet, even if it took a little while to open up. She’s secretly so funny and nerdy, and my god, she’s beautiful. I just–” 

Willa stopped me mid-thought with a loud “OH.” They all glance at each other again; I hate this. “We knew you two were sleeping together, but–”  

My face is absolutely bright red at this point, and I reluctantly ask, “I’m assuming she’s told you about that, then?” 

“Nothing.. Crazy..” Quinn’s voice trailed off, glancing over to Willa. 

She chimes in with, “Obviously just the normal stuff..” passing the look over to Mel. 

“Girls have to share stories sometimes, you know?”  

My hands run through my hair as I watch them beat around the bush about it, letting a small ‘oh no’ slip out. 

Quinn quietly says, “Don’t get too stressed about it, Captain.” They’re hitting me with a wink after they say it. FUCK. I hide my face in my hands for a second, listening to the three of them giggle at my pain. 

I can’t stop the “Well, shit” from coming out. I should have known. Quinn naturally would hang onto that just to torture me. 

“All outstanding reviews, though. Don’t worry,” Willa says, her eyebrows raised as she sips on her coffee.  

My head whips up to look at her, “Really..?”

She nods quickly, as do the other two. 

“What does she– no, that’s not important,” I stop myself from getting distracted.  “I just don’t know.. how she feels, and it makes me feel a little insane.” 

“Wait, what else are you feeling?”

“Yeah, give us more details.” 

I sighed before starting, “She just makes everything better. She pushed me not to check my phone when we went to Salem so I could enjoy the day off, and it was.. great. She can distract me enough from everything else going on that I forget about being stressed out. I’ve never slept better than when she stays the night with me. I mean, I just..” 

“Oh,” Quinn lets out, looking at the other two. Mel’s hand flew up to cover her mouth, and Willa’s shit-eating grin was plastered across her face. Oh god, that’s not good. 

“What?” I ask, knowing I might regret that.

“Jake…” Willa starts before whispering, “You love her.” 

My hand finds comfort on the back of my neck, and the blood rushes back into my face when I stumble over my words, “I.. haha.. Um..”

Quinn laughed, “Oh, I might cry.”  

“Don’t- if you start, I will too,” Willa joins in.  

“I just don’t want to mess up whatever’s going on, and I want to figure out how she feels because I don’t know if I fucked up by letting myself fall for her,” I admit.  

Mel finally chimes in, “Jake- you didn’t fuck up. You can’t control who you fall in love with.”

In love. 

“There’s no way that she isn’t at least on kind of the same page as you,” Willa immediately tried to help, which naturally was followed up quickly by her counterpart. 

“We see how the two of you interact. Even if she isn’t maybe as far down the rabbit hole as you, she’s at least sitting on the edge of it blushing and kicking her feet,” Quinn says. God, they really do spend too much time around Josh.  

“Okay. I think I’ve just been too in my head about it. I also hadn’t really processed the feeling, but then the other night, I don’t know what was different,” I can’t stop letting out little truths. 

“It’s okay to be scared, Jake,” Quinn says quietly, rubbing my arm. 

I shake my head subtly, “I know, and I just-” Mel’s voice playing in my head again, in love. 

Mel speaks up before I start to spiral, “If she doesn’t feel the same way about you, she’s dumb as hell.” 

“Honestly!” Willa chimes in quickly. “And Jake, just because she isn’t outwardly saying how she feels about you doesn’t mean it isn’t in there.”

They’re all right. It’s normal to be scared. There’s a chance she feels the same way. I can’t control it. 

“Thank you,” I let out quietly.

Quinn speaking up again, “Do you feel better?” 

I nod before sipping on my coffee again, unable to fight the urge any longer and asking, “So.. what did she say about me?” My eyebrow raises, looking amidst the three of them. I’m still a man at the end of the day, and knowing she told them about our sex life.. I need to know. 

They all laugh at the question, but naturally, Willa is the first to say something. 

“I didn’t think you had it in you,” she says, making us all laugh. “You’re so quiet and unsuspecting; when she told us I almost didn’t buy that it was you.”

I can feel the heat rushing back into my face, almost regretting the decision to ask, but it’s interesting to hear what she would have said to them. 

“Also– is it just ‘captain’ or does she call you other things too?” Quinn asks. 

I about choke when I hear it, quietly saying, “I’m not going to answer that.” I scratch the back of my head as I’m trying to avoid eye contact. 

The three of them almost scream at the response. No, maybe I do regret asking. 

“I mean, she must also be something if it’s bringing that out of you,” Mel says, wide-eyed 

I shake my head at the statement, “You have no idea.” Thinking of the fact she initiates a lot of what we do, the way she just takes control, she’s comfortable being in charge or letting me throw her around. “If you thought, I was deceiving, holy shit.” 

“Stop!”

“No?!”

“I’m so serious, she’s..” I pause, not really even sure what word to use. My eyes just go wide trying to come up with a good word. 

“That good huh?” Quinn taunts, making me laugh. I lean back into my chair, covering my face, why am I embarrassed? It’s not that big of a deal. 

A collective ‘OOOOO’ from the peanut gallery makes me laugh harder, knowing that they’re eating this up. I am grateful to have a handful of people in my life that I can at least bring this up to; there’s no way I could have had this conversation with the boys. 

“Okay, okay, that’s enough torture for today,” I try to cut them off. We all sit there for a little bit longer, just talking about the plans for Thursday, since basically all of us will be with my parents anyway. Danny usually joins us at some point because my mom loves him like her own, so I’m sure Mel and Iris will be hanging out with us, too. Which is completely fine and I’m not at all jealous. It’ll be nice to spend the day with everyone and not be at the bar, I hope. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

After we all left the emergency meeting, I came back to help Josh out for a bit and make sure everything was put away and written down. It distracted me for a bit but, once I was almost done, it hit me. She hasn’t said anything. I tap my phone and see my lock screen empty. Glancing around the bar, I’ll just make sure she’s good; I toss my phone into my pocket and then find Josh to let him know. 

The cold air hits me as I walk out into the alley behind the bar, pulling my phone out and tapping on her name to call her. I know she’s realistically okay, but it doesn’t stop me from feeling nervous. 

“Hi,” her sweet voice rings through my phone. 

The instant relief of hearing her– indescribable. 

“Hey, you. How are you?” 

“I’m good? Why are you-” she starts to ask, but then a little gasp leaves her. “Oh my god, I didn’t realize how late it was.”  I can’t help but laugh at her being shocked. “Hey! Don’t laugh at me! I was working and apparently was very focused on it.”   

I choke back another laugh at her scolding me, “I’m sorry, honey.” 

“You don’t sound sorry,” She mumbles; I can see the scowl she probably has on her face in my head.                  

Dramatically holding over my heart for the effect and pulling out my English accent to really drive it home, “Oh! I am so so sorry, my dear Charlotte. I would never laugh at you for such a responsible and honorable act!” My heart swells at her laugh; I want to listen to that forever.  

“Okay, now I believe you,” she giggles. “I can leave in a few minutes to come back.”

The bar isn’t that busy since it’s .. Sunday.. Josh probably wants the money anyway. 

“I can come to you,” I ramble out quickly. She always comes here, and it’s the least I can do. 

She’s quiet for a second, “Are you sure?”

“Absolutely,” I tell her. “You drive here enough. Just send me the address.” 

Her voice gets small when she says, “Okay.” 

“Do you want me to bring you anything? Do you need food?” 

“No, I’m okay,” She tells me through a little laugh.  “Just bring yourself; that’s enough.” 

My chest feels weird when she says it, I’m enough. I hate that she makes me so nervous. I stumble over my words, “Uh, I can do that, definitely.” 

“I’d hope so,” she laughs. “Let me know when you’re about to leave?” 

“Of course.”

“Good.” 

We both pause, and the silence feels deafening. The urge to let it out, I love you, is so strong, but I choke it back.  

Opening the back door to the bar, I clear my throat semi-uncomfortably, “I’ll be there soon.” 

“Okay,” her voice is soft. “Drive safe.”

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

I quickly find my way back behind the bar, standing close to Josh when I ask, “Hey, you’re fine closing tonight, right?”

“That is what I’m scheduled for,” he chuckles to himself.  “Do you have plans?” 

“I may have made some.. Like two minutes ago,” I tell him quietly, rubbing the back of my neck. He knows me a little too well. 

“Yes, I can close the bar,” he says, turning to look at me.  “Go get laid!” 

I laugh and shove his shoulder gently, “That’s not why I’m going!” 

“Are you trying to tell me it isn’t going to happen?” His eyebrow may as well be touching his hairline with how high it’s raised. 

I hesitate for far too long, he’s right. Finally letting out, “..Touche. Have a good night.” Patting his shoulder a few times before saying, “Love you bub! Thank you!” and scurrying down the hall, pulling my phone out to let her know. 

Me: I’m on my way

Charlotte: okay drive safe baby 

The drive isn’t terribly long but, long enough for my mind to wander. They have to be right. There’s no way that we’ve hung out and spent so much time together, that she doesn’t at least have some feelings for me. The visual of her smiling at me in Salem as we went to take a picture together sits in my mind. She looked so happy, her hand gently sitting on my stomach, the way she looked at my lips to get me to fully smile for her. Maybe I am lovesick, Jesus christ. 

The way she’s started just calling me pet names rather than ‘Jacob’ all the time, makes my stomach turn. Always calling me ‘baby’ and I don’t think I’ll ever get sick of hearing it. Anything if it keeps her around. 

I run my hand over my face, looking down at my phone, seeing I only have a few minutes left. I turn the volume up on my music to try and just focus on driving for a second before I let her infiltrate my every thought again.  ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

As I pull into her driveway, I see her standing outside at the top of the steps. The grin was already plastered on my face as I quickly parked. 

“Hiii,” her sweet voice rings quietly as I walk up to her. Her arms stretch out as I get closer, leaning into me before I can climb the three steps to meet her. She wraps her arms around my neck in a hug, snuggling her face into me immediately. 

“Why are you out here?” I mumble into her. 

Her voice was muffled when she said, “I missed you.” 

“Ohhh,” I coo. “Honey, I missed you all day.” 

It feels ridiculous to say that it’s the truth, but it is. I’ve been so spoiled with her presence so much the last week that spending any amount of time away from her feels like torture. Lifting her off the step, she wraps her legs around me with a slight giggle in my ear. I tighten my arms around her; nothing feels close enough. 

She leans back, looking down at me, her sweet little smile as she stares at me. Beautiful girl, I could stare at you forever. Taking a few steps up before mumbling, “Let’s get you inside. It’s too cold for this.” 

She walks me through to the living room, where her laptop is still open on the coffee table. Crawling back into her spot, she pats the cushion next to her for me. 

“I’m sorry. I just have a few more things I wanted to try and finish,” she tells me, sounding guilty for working. “It shouldn’t take that long.” 

“You watch me work almost daily,” I laugh out. “Do what you need to; I’m happy to just keep you company.” 

She spends a few minutes just clicking on different things and then copying and pasting things into emails before I finally break the silence between us. 

“Okay, it is a little weird to watch you work like this,” I whisper as I watch her speedily reply to an email. My arm stretched behind her on the couch; I couldn’t stop myself from fiddling with some of her hair. Though it’s odd to see her so focused on her work, I could absolutely just sit here in comfortable silence with her. 

Her soft laugh as she looked over at me, “It's a little less exciting than your job.” 

“I can make it more exciting,” I tell her. It benefits me, too. Her eyebrow raises while she looks at me. 

“How are you doing that?” 

I can’t fight the smirk, “How many more emails do you have?” 

She scrolls through quickly and looks back over at me, “Only three.” 

I reach over, pulling her face to me. I pressed my lips into her bottom one, pulling it back slightly before going back in for another kiss. 

“I’ll give you another one once you’re done with another email,” I whisper against her lips, feeling her smile. 

I watch her frantically open another email, her eyes scanning it at a ridiculous pace. I relax into the couch more, watching whatever movie she has on the TV. 

Did I selfishly decide to play this little game with her? Maybe. But also, she seemed disappointed that she had to work, so at least if I do this maybe she won’t feel like I’m upset with her. 

It only takes a few minutes before her little voice chimes, “Done!” She turns to face me, this time her hands reaching out for me. She pulls herself closer, planting herself against me. 

The way she’s always kissing my top lip makes my head spin. Her mouth moved against mine slowly, fighting every urge to deepen the kiss. She still has more to respond to. 

I pull back, kissing the tip of her nose. Her eyes are still shut, and I swear I can’t breathe. The visual of her eyelashes against her cheeks, the little trail of freckles over her nose, those lips. 

“Two more?” 

She nods quickly, and we repeat the process. I watch her, typing at the speed of light until she looks over at me, ready for her reward. Letting the kiss last longer since she only has one email left. 

Once she starts writing the last email, I lay back on the couch, staring at the ceiling. She has to feel similarly about me, right? She wouldn’t be so okay with this if she didn’t. My thoughts run rampant until I hear the sound of her computer shutting. 

Before I can sit up, she’s crawling over me, lowering herself to kiss me a few times. She giggles in between, making my heart rattle against my chest. 

“You have all my attention now,” she murmurs against me. “Actually, let me grab you a drink.” Climbing off of me, she disappears into the kitchen. 

I look over to see a book on the coffee table with a bookmark hanging out of it. Reaching over and grabbing it, I look at the back cover. 

Friends with benefits is written right into the description. My face heats up at the thought of her reading this and realizing that it was an option. I carefully open it to see where she is in the book without moving the bookmark. My eyes go wide when I skim through a paragraph. 

‘The headboard slams against the wall, matching the rhythm of his—‘ 

The sound of her fridge shutting startled me; I closed the book and slid it back onto the table. Oh my god. No wonder she’s a little spitfire in bed if that’s what she’s reading. She was worried about me, but good god— I feel like I’m the one who should be scared. 

“All I really have is water; I hope that’s okay,” her voice gets louder as she comes back. I sit up, watching her set it on a coaster beside her book. I just nod as she plops down next to me. She quickly pulls me closer to her, which gives me a better idea. 

I pat her leg a couple of times, “Lift up for me?” As she does, I slide my hands underneath her, holding her up as I move into her spot, bringing her back down onto my lap; she curls herself into me right away. Smiling against me and pressing little kisses into the side of my neck. 

“You’re so warm,” she mumbles. Nerves will do that. 

I grab the throw blanket next to me, pulling it over us, “There you go. Trap all the heat in there for you.” 

“You’re so nice.”

“So I’ve heard,” I giggle, raising an eyebrow at her. 

She pushes my chest lightly, “You can’t use that against me!” 

“I’m just stating what I was told,” I laugh out. 

She tries to pout but is failing miserably when she says, “I didn’t know what else to say! Plus, you are way too sweet to me.” 

What are the other reasons, then? If that was just the one she wanted to admit.

“Well,” I start. “Are there other things you would’ve said?” 

Her face turned a little pink at the question, pulling her bottom lip in slightly with her teeth. “Maybe,” she lets out. 

“Anything you want to tell me?” 

“It could be partly because I think you’re sooo..” her voice trails off. “Handsome.” Her giggle after tells me that isn’t the word she wanted to use. 

“Oh, is that right?” 

“God, yes,” she breathes out. “Everything about you— your outfits, your hair, your hands.. you’re soo.. mmm.” 

My head falls back onto the couch as I laugh at her, can’t say I’ve had someone spiral like that before over me. Lingering on the fact she mentioned my hands, I can’t help myself, “So.. my hands really do it for you, huh?” 

Her face is bright red at this point. “I mean, I just-“

Gently, I grab her chin, making her face towards me, and press a kiss against her pouty lips. “I think it’s cute.” 

“Good, because I’ve been staring at them since we met.” 

That must be why her eyes light up when I wear rings. 

“Anything else you wanna share? Or was that tortuous enough?” I ask. 

“Mmmmm,” she hums. “I can’t give away all my secrets at once.”

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

We lay there watching whatever Hallmark Christmas movie is on, slowly sinking into the couch. I can feel her drifting off, her breathing slower as she does, but flinching and waking herself up. 

“Do you want to go to bed, hun?” I whisper, not to scare her more. 

She just nods, moving the blanket off of her and getting up. She looks back at me, reaching her hands out towards me. 

“Will you stay?” her tired voice melts my heart. 

I kiss the back of her hands before looking up at her, “Of course I will.” 

She pulls me along to her room, flipping the lights off as we pass the switches. Watching her slide her leggings off, crawling into bed in just her sweatshirt and thong. Jesus Christ. 

I text Josh to let him know that I won’t be home before setting my phone on her dresser and starting to undo my belt when I feel that I have an audience. I glance through my eyebrows as she’s watching me from the bed. 

“Take it off, baby,” she quietly cheers, letting out a small ‘woooo!’ I try to fight the smile but can’t when she’s acting like that. I slide my pants down, folding them and setting them with my phone, but as I’m facing away from her, she pipes up again, “There it is.”

I whip my head around to her, wiggling her eyebrows at me. Her giggle rings through the room when I slide into the bed with her. 

“You are a monster when you’re tired, huh?” 

She scoots herself close to me, her hands sliding up my chest, her eyes hardly open as she looks at me, “I’m sorry, you’re hot, okay?” 

I’ve never had someone compliment me as much as she does. 

I let out a quiet ‘mmm,’ pulling her into me. Every night, I fall asleep with her, which only makes my feelings for her worse. It’s hard not to fall for her when she attaches herself to me, kissing every inch of skin she can get to. I’ve never felt this kind of love before if that’s even what this is.  ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

The feeling of her turning over wakes me up, but I’m certainly not upset by it. My hand sneaks around her waist, pulling her against me, sliding my leg between hers and letting my hand slide down her leg and bring it back up to her hip. 

“Mmm, hi baby,” she mumbles, turning her head to try and look at me. 

I lean forward, kissing her cheek and letting out a small ‘hi honey’ before stretching to give her a small kiss. Her hand reaches up, holding the side of my face, letting her thumb rub against me gently. She presses her ass into me a little more, wiggling slightly. 

I run my hand up her stomach, sneaking it underneath her sweatshirt and lightly running my thumb over her piercing, grazing her nipple slowly. It’ll always be hot that she has them pierced. Moving my hand, cupping her breast, and letting my thumb repeat the process until she lets out a quiet ‘mmm.’

Her hand moves from my face, and she snakes it behind her to slide down my stomach and into my boxers. She wraps her hand around me, slowly stroking as I’m lazily pressing kisses into her neck, just enjoying the feeling. 

I move my hand to her hip, letting my hand trail over the round of her ass. Sliding the fabric to the side, my middle and ring fingers slip into her, matching the speed of her hand. Her face turns towards me again, so I push myself onto my elbow to hover over her a bit. Our lips moved against each other slowly, feeling her breath, listening to the mix of how wet she was and the quiet whimpers she was letting out into my mouth. 

I feel her pushing on the waistband of my boxers, and I carefully lift myself so she can push them down. Her fingers tapped my wrist and then pulled my hand away from her gently before she brought her hand back to my cock, lining me up with her. I move my hips forward a little, pushing into her. She lets out an ‘Oh’  as my hips make contact with her ass, and I just sit there for a second, enjoying the warmth, feeling so close to her. 

She starts grinding herself against me, still at a crawling pace; nothing about this sex has been rushed. Her hand found the back of my neck, pulling me back in, leaving kiss after kiss on each other, our tongues dancing between us, anything to feel as close as possible while my hips lazily thrust into her. 

I lift her leg, draping it over my hips as I slide my hand down between her legs. Letting my hand just hold over her for a moment before lightly adding pressure to her clit. My hand tiredly rubbed against her, not wanting to rush anything. The way she moans into my mouth would make my knees weak. 

“Baaaby,”  she moans against me. “You’re so good.” 

My heart pounds as she tells me, and I can’t contain the quiet moan that falls out at her praise. 

“My sweet boy,” she says, moving hair out of my face for me. She mumbles, “You’re so beautiful.”  

My breath catches as she says it, never having anticipated having someone call me that. Someone who looks like her, no less. I stare into her eyes for a second, even if it feels like hours, until it finally slips out, “Oh, honey.”  Her lips pressed into mine, her tired smile making my heart throb. I love you, is all that I want to tell her. Endlessly, over and over, until I’m blue in the face. 

Our hips start to move a little quicker against each other, so I let my hand move faster against her clit, pulling a string of moans out of her. Her back arches as I thrust into her, watching her eyes flutter shut at the feeling. I press my arm against her, sliding myself underneath her more so she’s lying on top of me, her head landing perfectly on my shoulder. 

I turn, letting my lips graze the shell of her ear, “Does that feel good, hun?”

She just nods in response as my hips are thrusting up into her. 

“Mm mm, use your words,” I hum out. 

“Yes, baby.”

The pet name made me smile against her. I could feel the way my voice was affecting her, which made me want to keep going. 

“We’re all alone, Char,” I start. “You can let it all out.” She immediately groans, her hips shifting, meeting my thrusts. “Do you need more?” 

She whimpers, “Please.” 

“Sit up for me,” I tell her, helping her get there with my free hand. I nudge her arm before telling her, “Touch yourself.” Her hand slides down, taking the place of where mine had been. I grip her hips before thrusting up into her, listening to the moans that are falling out of her. 

“Oh my god, babe,” she lets out. “I’m so close, Jake, please.” Her head falls back as she moans my name, making my hips move faster into her. The sweet sounds of her moans as she gets closer and closer to her orgasm only encourage me to try harder. 

“Come on, honey. Let me have it,” I tell her, lowering my voice. I can feel her tense up before she lets out any sounds. Her shoulders go forward as her petite frame shakes on top of me; my name litters the air as she rides out her orgasm. 

She climbs off of me, getting comfortable next to me again, leaning up, pressing a slow kiss against my lips. She curls herself up, laying her head against my hip and wrapping her hand around me again. Feeling her head shift, her lips wrap around the tip of my cock, letting her tongue swirl around me for a second. She moves a little further down, still stroking me with one hand and barely bobbing her head, but god, everything she’s doing feels incredible. 

My hand rests on her ass, lightly grabbing it when she moves her head more. Her hand starts moving a bit quicker, and I can feel it building up. She slides more of me into her mouth, letting her lips drag up the length of me. 

“Oh god.” fell out of me; my hand gripped her tighter, which made her moan around my cock. The vibration from it made my head spin, and my whole body started to feel warm. “Char, don’t stop.”

She takes me fully into her mouth, bobbing her head a few times before I was gripping onto anything I could. Her lips slowly made their way up, and then pressed a small kiss against my stomach before looking up at me with a smile. 

She slips back into bed after cleaning herself up and curls back up into me. 

“3 a.m. sex was worth it,” she giggles. 

Brushing loose hairs out of her face, I look at her, “Well, you started it, so I would hope.” 

“Hey! You were into it,” she whisper-yells at me. 

I choke back a laugh before saying, “A beautiful girl basically asking me to rail her? Yeah, like I'm gonna turn that down.”

“JACOB!” 

I can’t fight the laugh when I ask, “What?” 

“You started off so cute, and then Jesus Christ,” she laughs. “Also- I hardly think that counts as getting railed.” 

She giggles against my lips, pressing a few kisses into me. “I rode your ass, if anything,” she taunts me quietly. 

“Hey now, I was still doing things,” I tried to defend myself. 

“Yes, you were, and you did a good job, baby.” 

A smug little smile grows on my face, mumbling, “Thank you.”

“You’re allowed to be a pillow princess sometimes,” she whispers. 

I bark out a laugh, “Oh my god. I know you like being in charge anyway; don’t act like you're mad about it.” 

“It is cute when you beg me,” her eyebrows pop up a few times. 

I let out a sigh, “Annnnnd, we’re done. Okay, good night!” I pull the blanket over her, blocking her face from seeing me. Thank god it’s dark because I can feel how red my face probably is. 

“BABE,” she laughs out, pulling the blanket away from her face. “Ohhhh, is someone embarrassed?” teasing me once she gets a good look at me. 

My eyebrows pull together as I shake my head, “Absolutely not.” 

“Good, because I think it’s sexy that you’re comfortable with that stuff.” 

Oh? I didn’t know that was something that would help, but I’ll take that win. 

“I’m glad you think so,” I tell her. 

She just nods, “Mhm. I feel like most men are too shy or uncomfortable to let their guard down on things. It’s nice that you don’t seem to mind.”

“Helps that you’re hot when you’re bossing me around so,” I tease. She pushes my chest as she laughs at me. 

We lay there for a while longer, just talking about whatever came to her mind, even if I was fighting sleep the entire time. I’d listen to her talk forever if she’d let me.  Eventually, she drifted off to sleep, tucking her face into me as she did. I could feel her breath get slower against my skin. I kiss the top of her head before resting my cheek against her. 

God, I love you.

⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯

Chapter Twenty

FDOG Master Post | Masterlist | Playlist

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[stationarcadia]

Announcement

Hello everyone. This is J. R. Steele on the Station Arcadia account today bringing you some updates, announcements, etc.

Firstly, you may have noticed that our website domain is currently unused. We've recently taken down our website, but failed to consider that transcripts would no longer be available. The link to our transcripts will replace the link in our profile bio. Thank you to everyone in the discord server who has been patient with our radio silence, and have updated us on what they need to access.

Second, we want to apologize for dropping off after Season 1. With Season 2 in full production; myself, Andy, and Eli were incredibly overwhelmed by both college, and the responsibility of managing not only a company, but our cast and crew who were also getting burnt out. Pushing this production was proving to be detrimental to our mental and physical health, and so we just left it to sit for a while.

I've been doing my best when possible to reply to folks on discord, and get organized for our next steps, but going radio silent was not the best solution, we know now. As 17/18 year olds, we sort of panicked when everything started to go less smoothly. In addition to that, college apparently takes up a LOT of time? I certainly wasn't expecting that... /lh

But we are not abandoning this podcast. 2020 was a hard year for so many people, but Station Arcadia was the highlight of mine and many others' year. A lot of creatives experienced the hardships of continuing a creative project once real life came back, and we did too. But we managed to create an incredible first season, and a little bit of a second season.

Season 2 does exist! But not in its full form. Over the course of maybe the next few months, or years, the executive team will be discussing how to distribute our content so that you amazing, supportive folks can have full access to our baby. Our writers, worldbuilders, audio editors, musicians, cast members, and everyone else who helps to make this show happen worked incredibly hard to do S2, and we won't let any of that hard work go to waste.

Third, a few internal snags have hit us pretty hard over the past year now. We will not be releasing this information until we've spoken fully with our entire production team and our cast (but rest assured it's nothing too severe).

We've loved our time with every single cast member who has joined this ambitious project. And if any of you have a specific question, we will not hesitate to answer it. It may reach us quicker if you DM or email me (Jaymes) at penofsteele@gmail.com. I will do my best to respond concisely and truthfully.

Lastly, we want to say a few words of thanks to the folks who have stuck with us since the beginning, have supported us both financially and verbally, and have had faith in this project. We promise that even though it will take time, we will not disappoint you!

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. Stay safe, stay moving, and please stick close. We'll be back soon.

[bow-of-aros]

All the Time in the World

Hi folks!! Dealing with a little bit of writer's block BUT I thought that this idea was cute and by god I was gonna get it on the page. Hope that y'all enjoy!! <33

Summary: Edwin's not exactly one for taking breaks. Luckily, Charles has some interesting, but sure-fire, ways of convincing him :)

-

“Don’t look at me like that.”

Edwin’s sat behind his desk, folder held in front of his chest like some sort of shield. He gazed at Charles who stood opposite him, trying to keep his face impassive so as not to encourage his nonsense, but the corners of his lips were already twitching upwards as a sort of giddiness unfurled within him.

Charles, on the other hand, was making no attempt to stifle the wide grin on his face, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he inched ever closer to the desk.

“Like what, mate? Aren’t I allowed to just look at my best mate? Nothing wrong with that.” His tone was innocent, too innocent.

Something was definitely up.

Edwin straightened his posture, not wanting to give Charles the satisfaction of seeing him curl up defensively, “You are plotting something, that much is obvious, and I do not care for it.”

“I’m plotting nothing!” Charles put his hands up in a mockery of surrender, laughter colouring his voice, “I just want to be closer to you. Is that so bad?”

Edwin cut him a flat look, “Charles, we have not separated for more than a day in over thirty years. If you’re going to make up an excuse for whatever this is,” he gestured vaguely at Charles’ person, who was still moving forward, mind you, “at least make it somewhat believable.”

Charles laughed at that, a sound so filled with genuine joy that Edwin couldn’t help the smile it drew out of him.

“There he is!” Charles leaned against the desk, gently prying the folder out of Edwin’s hands and setting it down, “You’ve been focusing on cases all day and, honestly mate, your face is making my face upset.”

He pulled his lips down into a dramatic frown, drawing his eyebrows together and squinting his eyes until he was peering out of little slits.

Frankly, it looked quite ridiculous.

“I do not look like that!” Mostly because Charles was making it very difficult to maintain a scowl.

“Well, not anymore, but that’s just because—Oh come on. Edwin!” Charles scoffed in exasperation.

Edwin’s finally managed to school his features into some semblance of neutrality. Pasting on his usual flat expression in an effort to hide the way his lips threaten to curl up and the way his eyes are trying to crinkle at the corners.

“Now, if you would excuse me,” Edwin said, reaching for the folder, “I would very much like to get back to work.”

But before his hand could make contact, Charles phased through the desk and stood in the very minimal space between Edwin and all the tasks he had yet to complete. For his part, Charles seems completely at ease with his current position. He leaned himself back against the desk and crossed his arms loosely in front of him, looking for all the world like he was exactly where he belonged.

Edwin raised a hand to pinch at the bridge of his nose. It’s because he’s tired of Charles’ antics, not because he needs a little extra help in smoothing out his expression.

“Charles, is this truly necessary?” Edwin was trying to keep his tone even, he really was, but Charles was making it awfully difficult with his close proximity and playful grin.

“Yes, Edwin. It truly is,” Charles smacked Edwin’s hand away from where it had been trying to sneak around him, “You need to take a break. If you keep frowning like that, it’s gonna be stuck on your face forever.”

Edwin couldn’t help rolling his eyes at that, it’s something his mother used to say when he was younger, and he would stick his tongue out at her, “That wouldn’t be so bad. At least then I wouldn’t have to worry about monitoring my facial muscles.”

“It would be so bad to me! I can’t go the rest of my afterlife without seeing you smile again now can I?”

Charles’ grin sharpened just the slightest bit, and Edwin was suddenly very nervous.

“Hey!” Charles said, snapping his fingers as though a thought had just occurred to him, “I bet that I can get you to smile and take a break! What do you think about that?”

Edwin, very conveniently forgetting that he could simply phase through his chair, held up his hands in a half-hearted defense.

“Now Charles, let’s not do anything rash he—no! Wahahait! Chahahaharles!”

Apparently, Charles didn’t feel like waiting around. Instead he shot out rapid little pokes to whatever part of Edwin’s torso was unprotected at the moment. When he speaks, he punctuates each word with a poke to the side, or to the ribs, and sometimes to the stomach.

It was very entertaining, to say the least.

“Take!” Poke “A!” Poke “Break!” Pokepokepoke.

Edwin either let out the most adorable or the most embarrassing squeaks at each attack, depending on whose perspective it was. He’d also long given up trying to school his face, his open-mouthed grin stretching his cheeks as frantic giggles escaped him.

After a particularly vicious attack on his sides that had Edwin desperately curling around Charles’ hands, he gave in.

“Okay! Okay I’ll tahahahake a break! Charles plehehease!”

And just like that, Charles’ wiggling fingers were replaced by palms smoothing up and down his sides for a moment before tugging Edwin through the desk and onto the sofa.

Charles laid down first, pulling Edwin down on top of him and wrapping him up snugly in his arms. Edwin immediately felt tension that he hadn’t even realized was there begin to drain out of him and, yeah, maybe he had needed this.

A long sigh escapes Charles, and Edwin realizes that maybe he wasn't the only one who needed a break.

“We can remain here for an hour but, after that, we really should get to work.”

He felt a soft kiss being pressed into his hair followed by a murmured, “Mhm, whatever you say, mate,” and decided that he wouldn’t be opposed to staying for a bit longer than planned.

After all, he and Charles had all the time in the world.

[silkbab3y]

[ Therapy ] Teo x Rosie

Based on this song [Therapy by Magic City Hippied feat Tim Atlas](https://open.spotify.com/track/46IKdGs9GbDfbKBhiTwB3i?si=0bWUx91rQ6iDCopMupNmsQ)

Prompt: Teo and Rosie head back from dinner with his parents. It’s a late night drive from the city to Corland bay.

Teo belongs to @14dayswithyou

Cw: drug use/little bit of weed nothing crazy

Was it the glow

In your eyes for me

Rosie felt the breeze brush through her hair, her hand pushing back the strands that flew over her face. The night was chilly, silent, peaceful. Her seat reclined back just a bit, her knees pressed up against the dashboard. Rosie almost felt as if she’d fall asleep the moment she closed her eyes for a second too long.

Honey you shook

My family tree

To her side in the driver seat was none other than Teo, eyes focused on the road, one hand on the wheel the other on her thigh. She shifts a bit, chocolate eyes trailing his concentrated form, watched as he brought his hand on her thigh to the wheel so that the other could bring the blunt to his lips. The smell of weed normally hurt her senses, made her nose scrunch and head turn. But she keeps her head still, eyes focused before taking in a deep breath.

When you love

You lose a piece

“I can hold it for you,” Rosie offers, resting her head back against her seat, droopy eyes blinking slowly. She doesn’t even wait for a response with her hand already reaching over, slender fingers brushing against thicker ones. Plucking the blunt from his fingers, watching him inhale and exhale. Smoke fill the area around him like a bubble, dissipating into the air, and Rosie can’t help but stare. Finally breaking her gaze from him, she looks out the window again as she takes her own drag.

She being the sun

She being the sun to me

They had just got back from dinner with his folks at some 3 star Michelin restaurant— hence the silence. Acting as his fake girlfriend, putting up a facade, Teo was probably exhausted. Rosie too, always the anxious one when it came to meeting parents. Except Rosie wasn’t sure if the man sitting beside her also felt… satisfied? A fake relationship, a facade for the sake of appearance— yet it felt… nice. Rosie would be lying if she said she didn’t want it to be real.

I need therapy

Want to get you off your feet

Swallowing, Rosie turns her head back over to him, waiting for a response, anything. But it’s quiet— too quiet for their own likings, Rosie knew this. “Did I do good?” She questions, putting on her best smile, eyes squinting a bit in amusement. She’s happy to see Teo’s lips quirk.

“Mhm,” A simple noise of acknowledgement, yet it was enough to make Rosie feel so accomplished. She watches as Teo glances her way before back at the road. It’s enough to let her know what he was saying. Rosie didn’t need him to say anything to know— sitting up straight in her seat before bringing the blunt to his lips.

I need therapy

So tenderly

She could watch him all day and night if she could, though Rosie knew it was a bit creepy to. Her tongue darts out across her lips to wet them, eyes flickering to his lips as they wrap around the end before gently sucking in. Pulling the blunt away, he repeats the motion from before— breathe in, breathe out.

“You did good.” Her heart skipped a beat, her lips twitching as she forced back a dumb grin. “Yeah I did,” she almost chokes out, giggling. “What can I say, im talented like that.”

“Very.” Her smile is more sheepish, Rosie still leaning over the middle compartment. “I think I deserve an award,” this elicits a snort from Teo, the man raising an eyebrow.

“Why?” “Uh? Cause I totally played my part, duh.” “Uh huh.” They bathed in Corland Bay’s faint lights lining the boardwalks now that they were back from the city.

I need therapy

She bring the sun

She bring the sun to me

“Well?” “I already bought you a birkins just yesterday.” “Im not talking about buying me something.” Rosie was now huffing a little, wondering if this man wasn’t picking up her signal. She takes another drag before offering him a hit, still holding it between her perfectly manicured fingers.

“What, you want a date?” To date, but not what she was asking as of now.

“You’re so slow,” Rosie bites back a groan of frustration. She knew he was playing at this point, her eyebrows furrowed a bit— but there was no heat to her words.

Could you repair

What’s left of me

The music finally became noticeable to Rosie when they both fall into silence again.

“Teo.” “Rosie.”

She pushes herself more over the middle compartment, watching him inhale the smoke. They were at a red light, the Tesla slowing into a stop. Rosie can smell the expensive cologne still clinging onto him, and she just hope she still smelt like hibiscuses.

Her hand moves to his cheek, careful of the blunt as she turns his head. And Rosie is grateful he complies, or she might’ve felt too scared to continue.

“This your ‘award’?” “Mm, my reward.”

I need the cure

Not a remedy

She leans in, just before he could exhale it all, pressing her lips to his. Slow paced and gentle, yet it was enough to have Rosie feel heat coil inside her stomach. Their lips part just a breath away before reconnecting, angling their heads to kiss more comfortably.

Rosie shudders almost when the touch of his hand brush against her waist before coming down to her hip, squeezing it. His other tangles into her hair, Rosie more than happy to let him push her head a bit. Their lips move in sync, the girl’s arms coming around his neck.

Im digging for a quick fix

No I’m never gonna jump ship

Because you give me a boat

When they finally pull away, green covers their figures faintly. Teo moves to continue driving, Rosie breathing out the smoke he had pushed past her lips. They’re silent again, but she’s sure they can go a few beats without talking before the other gets bored or antsy.

Stuck in a void

You’re my destiny

Rosie licks her lips again, smiling as she finally leans back into her chair, the leather suddenly hot under her.

“That good enough for a reward?” Teo’s voice draws out, that low and husky tone that always got Rosie’s head swirling. Sniffling a bit, Rosie looks back out the window with a dumb smile on her glossy lips.

“Nah.” She can hear the man snort at her response, almost amusingly.

“I’ll give you a better one when we out.”

I need therapy

“Your place or mine?”

[marzipanandminutiae]

bpd is one of the disorders that makes you “annoying/clingy/insecure” (as you put it) so yes, it makes perfect sense that a blog focused on bpd symptoms is encouraging people to try to self soothe and not be completely emotionally dependent on another person. because thats the issue with bpd. and you are being manipulative by saying “all i said was we cant be the only ones trying” when thats not what you said at all. you projected your own experiences onto that post, attacked her for it, and are now playing the victim. absolutely wild

Ye gods. Nope. We're not doing this.

First of all, "don't be completely emotionally dependent on other people" was NOT the part of the post I objected to, and I made that very clear. The part I objected to was a few comments down, when people were saying "okay so can you maybe tell us when you don't feel up to a conversation if we reach out?" and she and some other folks were like "well no because that's basically the same as a conversation so..." without offering any real alternative compromises. That upset me because it's an attitude I feel like I see a lot around here, and as someone who continues doing the work to NOT put my own issues on the people I'm talking to, I get frustrated when the other side isn't willing to put in even a little bit of effort (or at least, that's how it seemed in that particular post).

Secondly...you can't play the "that's not LITERALLY ALL YOU SAID though!!!" game (obviously it's not; I admitted to being hyperbolic in the tags, and summarizing an argument doesn't mean those were the Actual Only Words Spoken) and then claim the only thing in the post was "you need to self-soothe sometimes."

Can you imagine this coming from the other side?

"Hey can you try to self-soothe and not spam message me every time I'm online, demanding to know if I hate you because I didn't instantly respond? It would really help me."

"hmmm well if I had the energy to rein myself in, I wouldn't message you in the first place, so no. also, maybe examine why you expect this of me? seems a bit entitled."

That's absurd. And so is the reverse.

[wileycap]

I haven't got the spoons for writing anything long, so I'm just throwing my ideas out here in little snippets. This little snippet turned out a bit long, but...

This is super dark. I've tagged all of the dark stuff, and if I've missed a tw, please tell me. I don't think I did. There are no graphic descriptions.

ATLA AU: Aang defeats Ozai. Aang loses everyone.

Aang has just defeated Ozai. He looks out to the horizon, and sees a number of airships crashing down. He mourns the possible loss of life (even though he can see many crews huddling on the tops of the airships, surely there were some who didn't make it) but ultimately, he's at peace with it.

He sees one particular airship go down rough. Well, he thinks. Time to go rescue people.

He secures Ozai to the rock and even though the man is a monster, he promises to come back and that the former Fire Lord will be treated humanely.

There are bodies in the wreck, and he offers some words to Agni on their behalf, because that's who he is, and he remembers that Fire folk need to be guided on their way to the Sun. He remembers the words from a hundred years ago like yesterday, because for him, it was. Well, yesterday and a year.

But when he finds three bodies, huddled close together with a burst steam pipe near them and the room slowly filling with water, Aang finds that he doesn't have any words at all.

He takes them from the wreck and lays them out on the beach. Sokka must have been holding Suki and Toph close, and from the shape of the bent metal sheets in the room, he could guess that Toph might have tried to cushion their fall with Metalbending. But he'll never know for sure.

If they'd only had a Waterbender. The boiling steam could have turned to a cool mist.

Waterbending takes his thoughts to Katara. She or Zuko weren't anywhere to be found. Were they gone, too? If they weren't, how was he going to tell Katara that her brother was dead? And Toph. And Suki.

He sits by the bodies on the beach for a long time. Eventually, some of the surviving soldiers approach him.

He gives them a short speech. He brings Ozai out to them. Ozai is still feeble, and babbling commands to kill the Avatar, but as Aang had hoped, he can't inspire fear or respect without his bending. His soldiers refuse to attack Aang.

A few of the airships can still fly. He orders a crew to fly him to the Fire Nation. He has some kind of inkling that that's where Zuko and Katara might be - he tried meditating to see if he could connect with Katara the same way he did when she was captured in Ba Sing Se, but the grief is still too near. And in any case, ending the war is most important, and to do that, he has to go to the Fire Nation.

Ozai stays on the bridge with him. He thinks its good for the crew to see him, to lose their fear of the man. A voice inside him whispers that it's good for them to see that Aang could do it to them, too.

He quashes it. It's the grief and anger talking. He tries to meditate, to center himself, to let himself feel all of his grief so that he can begin the long journey to overcome it. But the meditation doesn't help, and he can't even cry.

They reach the Caldera.

He finds the Fire Lord sitting on her throne, alternating between laughter and tears and screaming and whispering. Crying for her mother, screaming for Zuko, laughing to her father that she did it, didn't I do good?

The duel is short. The Avatar State allows him to overpower Azula with ease. Her energy is bitter and twisted and wrong, but he untangles the knots and removes her bending. Curiously, Azula doesn't even fight it very much.

The screams and laughter and sounds don't stop. But some sages and ministers and a few guards come in, and he centers himself, meaning to explain to them that the war is over, when one of the sages asks him if he knows any Waterbender healing.

He's happy for a chance to help someone. He tells them that he isn't as good as Katara, but he knows the basics.

Prince Zuko has been asking for Katara, they say. (None of them knew the name of the Waterbender who came with Zuko to challenge his sister.)

Aang's hands are very cold. He tells them to take him to Zuko, immediately, and to bring pure water.

Zuko is lying on a bed. His chest is as crimson as the covers. His breathing is shallow. He keeps rasping out Katara's name until he sees Aang. Then he tries to say something else.

Aang tells him not to speak, and gets to work on his chest, but he doesn't have Katara's skill (why didn't he train more, he asked himself, and even when a fair little voice tries to tell him that he had his hands full with learning three styles of bending simultaneously as well as everything else that had happened) and the wound is severe.

Prince Zuko dies in the early hours of the morning, and Aang stands there with his hands dripping. Blood and water.

He still can't cry.

Then one of the Fire Sages in the room asks him if he knew the Waterbender who came with the Prince.

He asks them where Katara is. They show him.

His fingers are numb, but he cleans the blue necklace as best he can, even though the ribbon is almost burned to nothing.

The wind is picking up.

He asks them what happened. A sage timidly and hurriedly starts explaining. The two rode in on a sky bison, there was a duel, Zuko dove in front of Katara, and...

Wait, he says. Where is Appa? Where is the sky bison?

The beast was slain by Azula, the sage says, and continues his explanation like that was a footnote, until suddenly he can't breathe and the wind is turning into a storm.

As the sage chokes, Aang tells the others to take him to Appa, now. He needs to see.

They had dragged Appa into a stable. There's black on the white of his fur.

He stares until he can't look at Appa anymore, and then he turns around and looks at the quivering sages and ministers instead.

It was once the Fire Sages' duty to serve the Avatar, he says. You will serve me again. And together, we will remake the world.

All of them bow.

They ask him for his commands.

The reply is spoken by a thousand voices:

"Bring me Azula."

In Ba Sing Se, Iroh looks out to the city. Children are playing in the streets. Vendors are serving food at no cost (he might have indulged in a dish or two). Ba Sing Se is free, and he is happy.

And he still can't shake the feeling that something is horribly wrong.

[altocat]

*knocks on door, reaching on her stubby tippy toes*

I just wanna say we love you, Alto 🫂🫂🫂 I know yesterday’s shit is a bit of a dead horse, but I want to send some hugs anyway 🫂🫂🫂❤️❤️❤️ You are an absolute blessing to this fandom, friend, and I never want you to forget that! You have no idea how many people look up to you, respect you, admire you, and value your opinion on things—from insightful perspectives on Seph to the way you view the world to the way you care about the people around you. Things can absolutely be shitty in fandom, but it’s people like you who bring out the best of people, who create those safe and wholesome places and let folks feel safe ❤️ It’s because of you, friend, that I’m even here on Tumblr to send this message! You are a gem inside and out, with a breathtaking gift for writing, analyses, and understanding the people in your community <33 You have a golden heart and a golden soul. Keep being you, Alto, because you make this place better every day!! ❤️❤️❤️

Sending so, so, so much love 🫂🫂🫂 We’ve always got your back!

PICHU NOOOOOOOOOOOO

I SNOTTED INTO MY HOT COCOA WHAT HAVE YOU DONE

...jk 😭🫂🫂🫂Thank you so much. I need to learn not to let my emotions get the better of me here. But it helps to have so many kind, patient resources like you and so many of my other mutuals. I gotta keep doing my best every day. I'm hoping I'll get better, little by little.

[thefundisorderdiary]

Guys, I need to rave about this chair. It’s not meant for disabled folks, it’s not even made for indoors, but it is so so helpful to my and my FND.

I am fully aware that size and price will make this not an option for many, but if you can I highly recommend it or something similar!

(I didn’t even get this as a medical chair, I just wanted the aesthetic ✨)

Let me introduce you to:

The Snugglepod

B&Q Goodhome Apolina black rattan Egg Chair

(I typed that from memory because of reasons mentioned at the end! 🙃)

£350

It’s in B&Q’s outdoor seating section because it is garden chair.

Let’s discuss; look at all that snuggle space! It’s got a really wide, mostly-circular seat. That black cushion it comes with is well padded, but it can be a bit protruding and takes up a lot of space, though if you do lie back it becomes a lovely back and neck support! I’m a curl-up-like-a-cat person though so it often falls on me and I have to push it back up.

You can fit lots of other cushions in there! That orange that’s poking up; this are my sleeping pillows from my bed, you definitely want two on top of one another because the slope of the sides leave a gap where the seat cushion ends. I’m thinking of getting some door draught excluders because I think they’ll be the right shape to fill the gap.

I will absolutely be getting a bunch of fairy lights to string up and around it! Try and stop me.

The really wide seat also means you’ve got plenty of space to get in and out; you can see how much space my little table is taking up in front of it, but I can still get in and out easily. Lots of space to get help from a carer!

So. Much. Grab space! This thing is sturdy. It’s got a few thick metal bars and in between is a mix of plastic fake wicker and some thinner metal bars. These thick metal ones are in a position you can grab and lift yourself, they’re excellent for when you need to pull yourself out of a curl-up.

That empty semi-circle bar is a little bit high, so you gotta do a bit of a push up before you can grab it, but then it’ll happily take your weight as you sit properly upright and I usually continue holding it while I stand up. You definitely need some arm flexibility if you use it to stand up though because it will end up behind you a bit.

Also discussing the wicker; you can squeeze a blanket between the bars and make a little den!

The side bars are also perfect for leaning up forearm crutches pretty securely so you don’t have to worry about struggling to get to your aids.

The seat cushion is T H I C K and pretty durable (again; it’s an outdoor chair). This means it’s so comfy on your bum, hips, shoulders, knees, and toes, whatever you want to put on it.

It’s the perfect height for my legs to reach the floor and I’m 5’5”. Meaning it’s nice and low enough for even small doggy companions to jump up next to you for extra snuggly snugglepod snuggles!

Feat. Rupert (below).

Finally; I do want to mention that while I absolutely recommend this chair I do not recommend B&Q.

They sent me a faulty chair in the first place that couldn’t be assembled and it took them 2 whole months and numerous phone calls/online chats (and I told them I was disabled and struggling to get around it since it was in pieces on my floor each time) to sort it out and even then the only reason they finally did something about it was because I had to get a letter about my rights from Citizens Advice and that’s when they actually got my new chair sorted!

I have cried so much to get this chair, but it’s one of my favourite things in my home and soothes me a lot when I’m struggling.

[poetthewriter]

HELLOOOO!!! 🌘 ANON HERE >:333

I was meant to re-send my oneshot request a few days ago but I forgot...

Anyways!

Could I request some esmpS2!Jimmy x gn!reader angst to fluff :3

Like, Jimmy getting bullied by the other empires and the reader finds him in a secluded area sobbing so they comfort him as much as they can

Jimmy ends up sleeping on the reader's lap and it's just adorable :DD (maybe even add someone finding them and just taking a picture, the next day they show it to the reader and tease them about it)

I deeply apologize if this doesn't make any sense TT

Don't overwork yourself and don't forget to take care of yourself aswell! <3

-🌘 anon

The Ruler Of The Taiga

hello again moony! <3 (fun fact I was originally going to make the reader a tropical biome ruler if you would like to see something like that tell me!)

jimmy!E2 x Gn!Reader (Reader is a fox or wolf hybrid but could also read as a dear reader)

𝑬𝒎𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒔= 𝑺𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒔&���𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒔🥮🍡🍯

The ruler of the taiga, a biome filled with beauty of all sorts, foxes prance around, sweet berries grow along the paths and enchant structures and statues litter the flora grounds. the sound of grainy foot steps march across the lands as you walk with peace, your delicate crown lays atop your hair and the wailing wind makes your cape fly behind you.

a basket rests in you hands and swings as you continue on your way, your biomes berries, fruits, vegetation, and herbs all pile in you basket as the sun starts to fall, as the sky darkens the temperature drops as if the ghosts have come out to play.

because of your empire being well known as the lands of the folk the air is always quiet, the ground you stand on and rule is known for its stories over thousand's of years this place has been known for its magical and haunting aura.

your ears perk up at the sound of the wolfs and coyotes that help you protect your empire howls, hearing the call of the sharp creatures you head back to elk village. paces quicken wanting to reach your home, all the views of the forest pass you as you scower but a flash of color makes you stop in your tracks.

on the soft plush soft fern filled ground the sheriff of the mesa lies, his hands run through his gold hair and his body is tensed. "Jimmy?" you speak up you voice quiet and soft but very welcoming, looking up jimmy sees you staring down at his stressed figure and looks away a little embarrassed putting his hands over his face.

It only takes a few swift moments and you are now sitting beside him you can already see that he is stressed, his posture is weak, his eyes are tired and his hairs is all ruffled. "hey, are you ok?" you voice is gentle making sure he feels at least a little more comfortable.

soon after you talk he dimly responds in a strained voice "I'm fine". its quite obvious he was ether yelling, crying or tired. his body slowly fades in and out of conciseness "I'm sorry for being here Y/n I just needed to get away from things for a bit" he continues speaking voice breaking every few words.

"Hey don't be sorry, I can tell your not fine so you wanna tell me what's wrong?" you hum.

"im just tired of everyone ..."

" i know how hard it can be to deal with everyone, and i know that you know that your alot more then what they say you are"

Your head lays on the dirt of the hill behind you two and you rest an arm over you friend, "its hard when everyone is on you tail but why let the jokes and remarks decide how you feel, am i right?"

"thank you" jimmy looks up again as you lay back in the grass, small berries and wormwood spread out across the glade and jimmy slowly lays back with you, soaking in your presents.

-----------

a smaller male bard walks through the dim taiga in hopes to find you but instead he finds a new sight Infront of him, Oli usually comes by for the wonderful trades you present him but I guess today he's out of luck cause right in front of the jester like man, you and the sheriff himself lay sleeping in peace as the sunrises over the horizon.

Oli snaps a photo of the two of you and laughs quietly with a smirky face.

"photo for a trade" he whispers thinking of the deals he could make with this new found piece of blackmail, as the sun almost reaches above the trees Oli skips away giddily.

A/n I’m sorry this took so long I’ve been working and some stuff has been going on but enough with the exudes I hope to finish the reast of my requests<3

[mothgodofchaos]

Bakery

Pretend I posted this while today was still today. But in my defense, uh...

Engineer Marcus x GN!Reader, TW: none Words: 648

Marcus squeezes your hand as you walk down the boulevard, looking into all the shops, doing a bit of window shopping. The smell of bread fills your nose, bringing your attention to a bakery down the way. He watches your gaze, smiling as he sees where your attention has gone.

“Hungry now, sunshine?”

You roll your eyes as he giggles, walking the two of you into the bakery as he holds the door open. The combined scents of cinnamon, sugar, and chocolate waft over you as you enter, a breath of warmth and comfort. Your eyes scan the baskets that hang on the shelves displaying the goods. A display case on the counter catches your attention, surprising you with the sheer amount of cookies, muffins, and baking squares. 

“If you think I’m walking out of here without a cookie, you’d be dead wrong.”

“Marcus, I’d be shocked if we manage to walk out of here with less than two dozen shoved into your pockets alone.”

He kisses your cheek, looking a little sheepish that you know him so well. You look over the baked goods, mulling over the selection that you’re wanting to make. Part of you want to make sure you’re not walking out with the entire bakery in your bags, but also, you did not jump through wormhole after wormhole to deny yourself a brownie. 

“Hello! How can I help you folks?”

Marcus walks up to the counter for the two of you, trailing his hand behind him as he tries to hold onto you for as long as he can.

“Oh we’re just looking for now, but I was wondering if you guys have any beverages to go with?”

“We have coffee? We can do some simple drinks but not too many modifications.”

“Just a couple black coffees would be amazing, is it alright that we take a bit longer to browse?”

“Perfectly fine! I’ll get those right out for the two of you.”

Marcus moves back into your orbit, wrapping his arms around you. Your hands reach up to gently touch his arms, chuckling quietly at his public affections.

“Couldn’t be away from me for too long, could you? Not even coffee can keep my sunspot away.”

“Nothing could keep me away, not after everything we did together.”

He looks down at your rings, smiling to himself. He had designed them himself, taking inspiration from the space where the two of you had met, making sure the gems shine as bright as stars. 

“Are you just going to get cookies? Or are you willing to try something else?”

“I’m open to other options, as long as I can also get my cookies.”

“You are ridiculous.”

Marcus just grins, rather proud of his minor shenanigans. The cashier returns with your coffees, and he brings yours to you.

“Captain needs their coffee, so says their engineer.”

“What would I ever do without you?”

“Have to get your own coffee? Imagine, the horrors.”

“Truly, horrors beyond my imagination.”

You decide on what you want, which Marcus pulls down for you and places on the counter. He orders his cookies, along with a brownie. You’re not sure if it’s much of a leap from his usual favorite, but it is something different, so you can give him that. You barely manage to pay for it before he starts eating one, and his face says it all. His eyes are wide as he inspects the cookie, chewing slowly.

“What sorcery did you put in this?”

“Excuse me?”

“These are some of the best cookies I’ve ever had! What god did you have to appease to get the recipe?”

“Uh… my grandmother?”

“...yeah, she counts if she came up with this.”

You can barely contain your laughter as you leave the bakery with Marcus, who is fully invested in his cookies. Something tells you that you’ll be back. A lot.