#i was supposed to make cookie dough like four hours ago and i forgot and am distraught about it

[heartsyhawk]

Today has been...a lot.

There’s a ton going on in the world affecting everyone, including Covid 19 and the fully justified protests and riots since George Floyd’s murder (and a lot preceding and following him) obviously, so it feels a little selfish and pointless to be so bogged down over my own personal things, but I still really wish 2020 would let me catch a break. 

[lacharcutiere]

idk if my other ones sent but uh baking with the hq boys 🙋🏻‍♀️

baking with the boys

characters: iwaizumi hajime, oikawa tōru, kita shinsuke

iwaizumi hajime x gn!reader // oikawa tōru x gn!reader // kita shinsuke x gn!reader // sfw, fluff, canonverse

this one is also for @nkhachuuya are we surprised

general masterlist // haikyū!! masterlist

iwaizumi hajime

the way it took SO MUCH CONVINCING to get him to bake cupcakes with you LMAO

i’m gonna say it’s because he’s got ptsd from when oikawa forced him to a while ago and they made a giant mess and set off the smoke alarm like four times

and they were at iwa’s house, and the whole kitchen smelled like burning tires for two days (what were they even trying to make???)

but, you tell him jokingly, come on. he’s dating you, for god’s sake, so you must not be that much like tōru

(except that he would probably date you either way)

ANYWAY

so you drag his ass to the grocery store to buy all the ingredients, and you kind of make it a point to get the most expensive option for each so you can guilt trip him (oh, so we spent all this money and now you’re just gonna let it go bad without using it? no way.)

he figures you do kind of have a point

so he’s like, fiiine, and that’s all the encouragement you need 😈

and and AND,,, he’s actually pretty decent in the kitchen!! super meticulous about measuring stuff out and all that. although his egg-cracking skills leave something to be desired, and you end up having to scoop shards of eggshell out of the batter. oops

the cupcakes turn out great, though. he insists that you only frost half of them because he doesn’t want icing on his (weirdo), and some of those ones turn out a lil fucked up because you forgot to let them cool first. but they do taste really good!

and you are FIGHTING the urge to smash one into his face when he’s not looking

oikawa tōru

actually, he was the one who suggested trying out baking

the two of you were on a mini date at a coffee shop one day and you thought their cookies were really good, so he suggested you try to make some yourselves and totally did not also mention that yours would be ten times better

they were not ten times better. (but that’s ok)

somehow, the kitchen was already a fucking disaster before anything even made it into mixing bowls, probably because you guys were almost too busy screwing around to actually concentrate on cooking

a few eggs definitely ended up on the floor

and a not insignificant amount of cookie dough went missing because you two couldn’t stop yourselves from having a few scoops of it

(“are we gonna get salmonella?” “nah, it’s fine”)

and you know how you’re supposed to pour out flour on the counter so that the dough won’t stick when you roll it out??

yeah, either you guys forgot to do that at first, or you accidentally poured out way too much and ended up with it all over your clothes

some of the cookies ended up melting together in the oven because they weren’t spaced out enough lmao

BUT you made sure to set a timer and came back to check on them a couple times, so at least they didn’t end up burnt!

they actually did taste pretty good, they just looked like shit (but, as tōru pointed out, that’s fine because you’re just gonna chew them up anyway)

kita shinsuke

WHEN I TELL U THIS SHIT DESERVES TO BE ON CAKEWARS

pleaseee he told you he couldn’t bake and then totally killed it for what???

you just,, randomly mentioned to him one time that maybe it would be fun to bake something together and then the next time you went to his house he had everything laid out and ready

and you know that one scene in ghost where they’re making pottery and he’s like, behind her guiding her hands?? (neither do i, i had to look up where it was from) yeah he did that while you were sifting the dry ingredients together LMAO

and when you leaned back into him he kinda faltered and blushed a lil but he tried to cover it up

it turned out??? so good?? not without work though; it took like three hours because he insisted on making a cake with fucking layers

but it was so so good oh my god,, and you guys decorated it all cute too:))

apparently he also knew how to use a piping bag and like,, make it actually look nice

“i’m not that good at baking” my ass

anyway yeah afterward you left it in the fridge to set and cleaned up the kitchen while you waited, and then after that you treated yourselves to several slices each because holy shit it turned out so good

you smudged a little frosting on his face when he wasn’t paying attention and he was like, “aw come on, we already cleaned up,” but he thought it was funny

general masterlist // haikyū!! masterlist

[moonlightstars16]

“I Am A Warrior!”

30 Days Connverse Challenge

Day 23 ~ Double Date

AN: Some of what your about to read may or may not have happen IRL with my friends. To my good friend and wifu.... I love you but no more drinking one and 2/3's bottle of wine. In the midst of getting our hair colored. Having bleached hair before coloring doesn't count of 'Now's the time to get drunk'. Also all of my friends and myself are responsible when we drink. I was sober to handle them but seriously ya'll.

Don't drink. Don't.

If your over 21(or whatever legal drinking age you are where you live), then please do so responsibly. If your the sober friend(always have at least 1-2), make sure you know what to do, never leave anyone to go pee(unless you did it before the drinking started) not even for two minutes and also HIDE THE ALCOHOL OR BETTER YET GET RID OF IT! And don't drink in the middle of having your hair bleached and/or colored.

"I got this. I GOT this." Connie tried standing up but kept stumbling to the floor. Getting closer and closer to the kitchen.

"Connie...Connie no!" Steven spoke in a concerned warning tone. Walking hesitantly to her side to try and get her to back away from the fridge.

"I got this!.....I am a WARRIOR!" With that she stumbled down laughing on the tile. Patricia was laying between the living room and hallway floors. Trying to get onto the couch. About ten percent sober than the rest of her at the moment.

Days prior Steven and Connie had plans for a double date with Patricia and Daniel. This was a way for Steven to become acquainted with them better. They met up in a more casual restaurant. Connie decided to dress up a bit by wearing a cute floral blouse with jean shorts, boots and her hair half up/down style. Steven was in his normal ensemble but made sure it looked neat.

After getting seated, Connie took the reigns and began the conversation. Starting with the obvious 'how are you's?' and things like that. Shifting to cram school for a little bit. Which lead to the night at the roller rink and fusions. Steven was timid at first then like a natural, he was conversing so smoothly like he did when he was fourteen.

"I never thought I would be able to do it because of me being half human. But I wasn't thinking much about it when I heard this one" he nudged her shoulder with his own with a smile "was a bit to shy to dance in front of others. So I wanted her to enjoy the feeling without the pressure and asked her to dance."

"After a few minutes I accidentally bumped into him and grabbed on to make sure he didn't fall. Within a second we were laughing like no one's business and the next thing we new, we were fused." Connie finished putting a lock of hair behind her ear. Steven squeezing her hand while looking at her. A slight pink blush tinted his cheeks.

"Wow that's so romantic and adorable!" Patricia sighed as she pushed Daniel's shoulder. Making him wince and rubbing his arm.

"What was that for?!"

"Boy you better step up your game!"

"I suppose you forgot who took you to the beach last week and to a private cove by a cliff and we-"

"Oh right!" Putting a hand over his mouth, cutting him off from the rest of the sentence. Both of them laughing at the mere thought.

The rest of dinner was so easy and comfortable. Discussing many topics and various activities they could all do afterwords. Deciding it would be great to go back to Patricia and Daniel's apartment and watch a movie. Both of the gals wanting to get drinks before hand since they were all having fun.

Daniel was on board with Steven hesitantly following. He never had a real, drink-drink, before. Alcohol was something he didn't know how it would affect his magic. But he was reassured since Connie was there that things would be okay. Little did they know that he would be more than alright.

The girls went in Patricia's car while Daniel went in Stevens Dondai to get the beverages. Thankfully both were of age so everything was okay. Getting a couple bottles of wine and one package of fruity drinks with only five percent alcohol. The girls went to grab bleach and hair coloring dye for there hair. It was a choice they made on a whim and were excited for it. Also grabbing cookie dough, oreos and brownie mix to make the ultimate brownie combo.

Once back at the apartment, they made the sweet dessert and then picked the movie while it was baking. The girls went back to the bathroom to begin bleaching. Daniel did it for them since he worked part time in a hair salon owned by his mom. Both wanted hair streaks instead of doing it all over. Steven watched in curiosity since he never saw anything like this in person. They all were vibing to music as Daniel finished up the last bit of Connie's hair and wrapping it in foil.

Walking out they began to watch the movie while waiting thirty to forty-five minutes till they could wash out the bleach. Steven set a second timer on his phone for that alone. Trying not to make jokes with both women glaring at him to not even dare think about it. He chuckled and raised up his hands in surrender and just focused on the film.

By the time ten minutes had passed, the package of four fruity drinks were gone and one wine bottle was empty. Steven went to check on the dessert and take it out. Letting it cool down before cutting it up. It was also in a large container so there was so much of it. He smiled at the sweet scent reached up around his senses.

"Uh Steven, you better get out here!" Rushing he walked out and gasped. Both girls were having a giggling fit and the other bottle of wine was halfway gone. Immediately he grabbed the glasses out of their hands when he had the chance and took away the wine bottle and hid it on top of the fridge. Connie and Patricia were beginning to feel the affects but still were aware.

Steven's phone went off and both him and Daniel led them to the bathroom to wash their hair and get it colored. Patricia doing a midnight blue and Connie a bright pink to match her man. Another thirty minutes later they rinsed the newly colored hair. Daniel drying it and styling both as they admired and began complimenting each other. Steven sighed and smiled at his jam bud as well.

"You look beautiful Connie. And you as well Patricia."

"Ahh thhhankssss SSSSSteven" She replied wobbling all over. Patricia nodded while doing the same. Except holding onto the bathroom counter for balance. With one glance both boys had the same look. The girls were finally drunk. It just took awhile for the affects and the buzz to catch up with them.

"Daniel? What should we do?" shrugging his shoulders Daniel reach out for Patricia with Steven following suit for Connie. They each grabbed their partner's hand and lead them out of the bathroom. Needing them to sit and focus on something to get them calm. However that didn't help when they fell over because of something that wasn't even funny. But they were laughing in hysterics.

That's was the rest of the evening. Steven trying to get the wine bottle out of Connie's hand (too late since all the contents were gone) and healing her burnt hand from the hot brownie pan. Daniel trying to get Patricia to sit on the couch and try to focus on the screen. Getting coffee for her to calm her down. Both boys soon found themselves with the girls on their laps passed out with pieces of the epic brownie already in their stomachs. Finishing up the film before Steven left with his girlfriend.

"Well thanks for letting us come over." He whispered to Daniel, carrying an unconscious Connie in his arms. "Even if it ended up this way."

"Well we did have fun...and I got videos for blackmail if you want it." He smirked and showed from an hour ago where Patricia was singing 'Edge Of Glory' by Lady Gaga while trying to dance(or get up really) on the coffee table. Connie was sprawled out with empty bottles from earlier around her on the floor. Steven smirked and tried not to laugh, feeling a bit guilty for even seeing this. But he was too tired to think about it in depth right now.

After they got back to his house, he slipped her in his bed. Taking off her shoes and making sure she was comfortable. Smiling adoringly as she snuggled into his star pillow like a young child. With a sigh he went to grab aspirin and a cup of water. She was going to need it after all. He was sure she would like his healing powers right now.

However she also made a big deal of only using it in emergencies. For drunk Connie he figured this was a great lesson for her to learn. Over excessiveness of this sort was not okay. Not unplanned at least. Grabbing a mug he got coffee as well because it was her favorite treat and something she needed for the upcoming hangover. Something he wasn't looking forward too.

[agatharionicky]

Sugar and Salt

Chapter: One of ?

Summary: Amaya is trying to run a business and raise her newly orphaned niece; she doesn't have time for a relationship no matter how much she cares for Zari.

Sara just wants the other kids to stop bullying her kid and can't figure out why Sin’s teacher, Ava is so difficult.

Zari’s trying to raise her little brother and give him the childhood she never had. All the while trying to hide her feelings for Amaya.

When unexpected circumstances force them all to admit their feelings in an attempt to form honest relationships, they find that it's not as easy as it seems.

Fandom: DC’s Legends of Tomorrow.

Relationship: Amaya Jiwe/Zari Tomaz and Sara Lance/Ava Sharpe

Characters: Amaya Jiwe, Zari Tomaz, Behrad Tomaz, Kuasa, Sara Lance, Kendra Saunders, Sin, Aldus Boardman, Ava Sharpe, Damien Darhk, Ray Palmer, Nate Heywood, Mona Wu.

Rating: Mature.

Additional Tags: Bakery and Coffee Shop, Teacher AU, School, Mutual Pining, Parent-Teacher AU, Kids, Baking, Non-binary character, Trans Character, Disabled Character, later chapters will have smut. Chapter one is smut free.

Read at AO3

Read at FFN

Special thanks to @canaryatlaw for Beta reading and editing this!

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Amaya watched as the chocolate dripped down the side of the cake. In the cool back room of her bakery, it soon hardened in perfect droplets down the side of the cake. She gently turned it around and around dripping the chocolate down the sides. The morning February sun filtered in through the back windows, leaving soft golden light on the black mats beneath her feet. Everything was quiet, save for the sound of the morning birds as they called out to greet the Sun. Having done all the baking the night before, all Amaya had to do this morning was turn it into a work of art.

Amaya loved working like this, coming in early in the morning and opening up, where she could be alone in her space. These days she didn’t get to do that very often as someone else took precedence over her work. She looked up and glanced over at Kuasa asleep on the couch in Sara and Zari’s shared office, the little girl was curled up like a cat. Amaya hated to drag her into work at such an early hour, as she was still getting used to the early morning hours her aunt kept. 

Amaya had officially adopted Kuasa three months ago, when Amaya’s sister and brother in law died in a car crash nine months ago. They were both still mourning the loss and not a day went by that Amaya didn’t think of Esi and Jafari. She wished she could be half the parent that Esi was, but it was so hard. Kuasa had so much anger at the loss she had suffered. Amaya was still trying to get her to trust the home she had built.

Amaya went back to work swirling the chocolate on top, and began to prep the other decorations. By the time she was done the sun had risen, and she looked at the clock as she placed the cake in a box with their purple logo stamped on top. Jiwe’s Bakery had started out with her baking goods for friends and family in her kitchen in high school. After culinary school and a generous investment from her parents, she opened her doors in the big city and things had only grown from there. Luckily she wasn’t alone in the endeavor, she had Sara, Kendra, Zari, and her family. They all believed in her and were so proud of the woman she had become. 

Although they were usually closed on Saturday, this Saturday was the student bake sale at the school. Deemed mandatory by the PTA. Despite the fact that she was mad that all of the money was all going to the school’s new sports field, and not being used for textbooks or school equipment. Amaya had to convince Kuasa that it would be a good learning experience. She could finally see what it was like for her aunt as she ran the bakery. Amaya had gone as far as to get a food handler permit for her niece. Kuasa had reluctantly prepared her poster and came up with a name for her “business.” 

After placing the cake box in the fridge, Amaya walked into the office. Amaya never felt the need to have one, the kitchen was her office. After dusting off her hands on the cloth she kept tucked in the waistband of her apron, she sat down on the couch next to Kuasa. She gently swept the little girl’s Havana twist braids away from her face. 

“Time to wake up little one,” Amaya said, keeping her voice as soft as the morning around her.

Kuasa finally stirred, throwing her hands over her eyes trying to block out the morning light. 

“It’s too early, Nana Ba.”

Amaya chuckled at the teasing nickname she had given her. “If I can get up at this hour despite being so old, then certainly someone as young as you can do so as well.”

Kuasa groaned, but sat up and rubbed her eyes. Amaya stood up and led the sleepy girl out into the kitchen. While Kuasa washed her hands, Amaya placed the dough on the table in front of her. She checked the oven and prepared the cookie sheet. Kuasa finally came over and yawned, not bothering to cover her mouth. 

“Why are we doing this?” Kuasa complained. 

“You know why. There are things we have to do and this is one of them. It’s a good thing to learn.”

“Why, I’m not going to take over your bakery. I’m not you.” 

“This isn’t about that, it’s to help you learn good money exchange skills and besides its mandatory for all fourth graders.”

Kuasa made a face and mumbled something about the PTA being stupid. Amaya let it slide as Kuasa voiced her frustrations, and the PTA had gradually slipped on to Amaya’s shit list.

Amaya broke off a small portion of the dough and rolled it into a ball. Kuasa then pressed her thumb into the middle of the ball, flattening it out and creating a tiny bowl. Kuasa then spooned out a bit of jam and filled the indentation she had made. 

They continued until they had used up all the dough and placed the last cookie sheet in the oven. Then they got to work packaging the cookies into individual bags and tying them closed. Between their industrial mixer and their usual recipe, they made twice as much as they needed, but Amaya figured they could always give away what they didn’t sell. 

As they were putting the cookie bags into boxes, Mrs. Solsa knocked on the door. Amaya again wiped her hands on the cloth at her waist and got the cake from the fridge. 

“Here you go Mrs. Solsa,” Amaya said, letting her in and presenting the cake for her inspection. 

“Oh thank you Miss Jiwe, I do so appreciate you doing this for me and on your day off too.” Mrs. Solsa said smiling down at the cake. “And it’s such a beautiful cake too.” 

“I was happy to do it,” Amaya said as she opened the door for Mrs. Solsa and waved to her as she walked out to her car.

Amaya locked the door behind her and looked up at the clock on the wall. It was half past eight, and they had to be there in time to set up before the sale opened at nine. 

“Kuasa, why don’t you start loading these in the car?” Amaya said as she came back into the kitchen and packed up the rest of the cookies into a box.

“Okay Nana Ba,” Kuasa said, picking up two of the boxes and walking out the back door to the gravel parking lot in the alleyway behind the store.

Amaya just shook her head at her and tied up the box with twine.

They had loaded half the boxes in the trunk of Amaya’s car when she saw Zari’s old black hatchback pull up. Zari parked next to Amaya’s car and hopped out, running up to Amaya in a panic. 

“I completely forgot about the bake sale! Please tell me you have some cookies or I’m screwed!” Zari exclaimed.

Amaya supposed she shouldn’t, but she laughed anyway and placed the box of cookies that she was carrying in Zari’s arms. As her business expanded, Amaya looked into having an actual website rather than just a Facebook page, that’s how she met Zari. The young computer programmer and social media influencer was a frequent customer and admirer of everything Amaya made. After her parents died, leaving her the responsibility of raising her young brother, Zari needed a real job. 

Zari brought them into the 21st century, with a new cashier setup that streamlined the financial side and website that allowed customers to make any custom orders. Zari also set up a growing social media platform that boosted business, catching the eye of people all around the world. She kept them up to date on the latest kitchen gadgets and technology. Four years later, Amaya couldn’t remember ever running the business without her.

“Does Behrad have a sign and everything else ready?” Amaya asked.

“Yes,” Zari said as she surveyed the cookies. “He’s good, he’s got a great sign and everything. I don’t know what I was thinking the last few days. I just completely forgot.”

Amaya puts her arm around Zari as they both walked to the back of her car with the rest of the cookies. Zari opened the trunk and set the box down. Amaya glanced at her, now worry free, Zari picked up one of the cookies and surveyed it. They had never sold thumbprint cookies, but Kuasa decided that’s what she wanted. Hence, it was a new recipe Amaya had created by tweaking the original one. 

Amaya could see the wheels turning in Zari’s head as she looked over the cookies to see if one would be missed. Zari unwrapped the packaging and shoved it into her mouth, letting out a sigh of happiness as she so often did whenever Amaya asked her to be her taste tester. 

“It’s so good,” Zari said, her mouth full of cookie crumbs.

A soft smile spread its way across Amaya’s face and her heart fluttered in her chest with a familiar feeling. 

“Zari!” Behrad shouted at her from the back seat, his soft brown hair disheveled as he and Zari were dressed in matching flannel shirts. “Those aren't for you. They’re for the bake sale.”

“I'm just trying one out,” Zari replied, opening her eyes and catching Amaya smiling at her.

Zari smiled back and licked her lips and it took a minute for Amaya to come back to herself.

“We should get going,” Amaya said, taking a step backwards towards her car.

“Right,” Zari said, closing her trunk door.

Amaya got into her car and clicked her seatbelt, glancing into the rearview mirror at Kuasa. A habit that she'd had since she first drove the girl home from the hospital with her sister and her husband in the back seat. 

“Why do you and Zari look at each other like that?” Kuasa asked, innocently enough.

“Like what?” Amaya said, knowing exactly what Kuasa was talking about as she turned the key in the car.

“I don't know? I guess it's just how you smile at her sometimes.”

Amaya looked back at her in the rearview mirror before she pulled the car into the alleyway. She was reluctant to admit the feelings that she had for Zari. Her life was complicated enough with Kuasa and the business. Amaya didn't want to lose her best friend, but she couldn’t help the way she looked at Zari and the want she had for her.

................................................................................

They made it to school in good time, and they all shuffled into the gym with only mild looks from the other parents. Everyone was already there with their tables set up. It was rows and rows of the little plastic top tables, all neatly decorated and arranged with different treats.

“Hey, I’m glad you’re here,” Mona Wu, the school’s bus driver, and recess referee greeted them. “Sin and Sara, and Aldus and Kendra are waiting for you just over there.”

“Thank you Miss Wu,” Behrad said as they made their way over to the corner tables where they were sitting.

“Hey you guys,” Kendra said, with a bright smile as greeted them. 

“We reserved those two tables for you,” Aldus said, rolling up to them in his wheelchair.

“Thanks Aldus,” Zari said, setting her boxes of cookies on the table. 

“Yes, thank you,” Amaya said, doing the same with the table next to Zari.

When Amaya hired Kendra who was working as a barista and pastry chef. Kendra was fresh out of culinary school with little to no experience, but more passion than Amaya knew a person could have. She helped Amaya to double her custom orders and decorated their window display with the best pastries in town. 

Kendra was a newlywed when Amaya hired her and got pregnant soon after she started. When Aldus was born with spina bifida, her husband, Carter quit his job to be a stay at home dad and Kendra continued to work at the bakery.

Amaya spread out the fresh white tablecloth and Kuasa taped up her sign. She had grabbed a few of their nicer display racks that they used for weddings and other special occasions. They added class to the otherwise plain table and Amaya caught Kuasa’s look of pride as they organized the cookies. 

It didn't take long and Amaya sat down in one go the extra chairs, looking over at Sara. She had her eyes closed and head resting in her arms over the money box. Sin was busy playing a game on her Nintendo switch and looked equally tired.

Sara opened her eyes sensing Amaya’s gaze and gave her a small smile. 

“Hey sleepyhead,” Amaya said as Sara yawned and stretched. Hiring Sara was a no-brainer. Amaya loved baking, but was totally lost her first month in trying to keep up with the day to day sales, revenue, taxes, and balancing the budget. 

Sara had dropped out of college with a bachelor's and several classes in business under her belt after she had followed Oliver Queen to business school. Amaya just knew she was the one from the moment she walked into the kitchen and showed Amaya how to keep a record of sales and supplies so she’d never run out. Amaya hired her on the spot, and she’s never regretted her choice. Sara kept the business running so that Amaya could focus on what she loved.

Sara got pregnant shortly after Kendra did, and Amaya had no problem with Sara bringing Sin in with her. Although Sin wasn’t allowed in the kitchen, the office became a second nursery and was still a playroom for all the kids.

“I was up way too late last night. Sin decided that they wanted their design to be in the non-binary colors instead of just the purple and black they had originally picked out. So I had to run out and buy all new napkins and the ribbon for the bags,” Sara explained as she held up one of the cookie bags tied up with four colors of thin ribbon.

................................................................................

“Well, it looks great.” Zari smiled. 

Zari looked over at Kendra’s table. The sign Aldus had designed was perfect, and he must have used Kendra’s letter cutting machine. The table was just as put together and was highly decorated with Kendra’s fine dining tablecloth, and good china.

Sara’s table looked just as put together. Although Sin had handwritten their poster, they had inspectable handwriting and had alternating colored letters in the non-binary flag of yellow, white, purple, and black. They had also decorated the table with matching colored napkins and plastic black tablecloth. 

Zari looked down at the empty white table that had been provided for them and figured that it would have to do. She looked over at Behrad and could tell he was disappointed as he taped up his poster. Zari kicked herself for not being on top of this. 

She had been Behrad’s legal guardian for four years now. Despite that, she still felt like she did during the first year when she was still trying to figure out how to be a parent.She looked over at Amaya as she spread a table cloth across Kuasa’s table. Like Zari, she had found herself as Kuasa’s legal guardian a year ago, but she was already doing a better job than Zari ever had.

Behrad was busy arranging the cookies. She picked up a few and tried to put it in place next to the line he had created.

“I got it,” Behrad insisted as he pushed her away.

“Okay,” Zari said, sitting back and looking over at Sara.

Sara smiled back before yawning again. “Are we starting yet?” 

“Not yet honey,” Kendra said, giving her smile. “But you’ll want to stay up. I see Mrs. Tabitha headed this way.”

They all looked over to see the witch of an old woman strolling from table to table, making pleasant talk with the other parents and kids. Although she was merely the principal’s secretary, she ran the school like she was in charge. They all groaned, with disdain painted across their faces. Zari crossed her arms but put on a smile as she approached, with Sara, Kendra, and Amaya following her lead. Tabitha had a particular hatred of them, making all these functions impossible. 

“Well hello Dearies,” Tabitha said with pseudo cheerfulness as she looked around their tables. “Now what do we have here?”

She reached to pick up one of Kuasa’s cookies, turning the bag over in her hand. 

“They’re thumbprint cookies fresh out of the oven this morning,” Kuasa happily announced, her shoulders straight and head held high in pride.

“Oh?” Tabitha tisked. “These look awfully familiar.”

Tabitha reached into her pocket and pulled out another cookie. Zari recognized it as one of their Jammie Dodgers catching the purple Jiwe Bakery logo. Tabitha held the two cookies side by side. 

“Miss Jiwe, I am surprised at the lack of effort on your part, taking pre-made cookies from your store. I thought you, a baker of all people would I’ve had the best cookies here today.”

Zari’s mouth fell open in shock. Was the woman blind? The thumbprint cookies and the Jammie Dodgers weren’t even remotely the same.

“We made them ourselves this morning at the bakery that’s my fingerprint,” Kuasa said, pointing to the jam in her cookie.

“Miss Tabitha,” Amaya said trying to explain herself. “We did bake these cookies at the bakery this morning, but we did so by ourselves. They are homemade, as the requirements stated.”

“Yes, but you and your niece admitted that you made them at the bakery this morning. Who is to say you didn’t simply grab some cookies that were intended for sale at your business and try to pass them off as homemade? I’m afraid such action must disqualify you and Kuasa and from selling these cookies today.”

“But that’s not fair,” Kuasa shouted. “We made these!”

“Miss Tabitha we did make these at the bakery and I promise you we had our own recipe. It seems unfair to disqualify us, just because you believe we’re being untruthful.”

“How dare you call me a liar? My decision is final. Pack up your things and please leave at once. You too, Miss Tomaz,” Tabitha said, picking up one of Behrad’s cookies and shaking her head. “Don’t think I didn’t notice how unprepared you are today, and stealing your friend's cookies. What a bad example you two have set for the children that have been entrusted into your care. I’d hate to see such behavior continue.”

Zari couldn’t believe what Tabitha had just said, bluntly threatening them like that. She was ready to open her mouth and call out Tabitha for being the entitled bitch that she was, but Zari held her tongue. She knew that it would only make things worse. Zari looked over at Behrad, he hung his head and stared at the ground in defeat. 

Kuasa let out an enraged shout and stomped. Amaya looked over at Zari, she could see her feeling of failure mirrored on Amaya’s face.

Zari thought that would be the end of Tabitha’s rant, but she turned towards Sara and Kendra with accusatory eyes. She turned her attention towards Aldus and Sin’s tables, quickly picking up one of each of their cookies and inspecting them.

“You have to pay for that, you know,” Sara said, crossing her arms over her chest.

Tabitha tutted, but continued her inspection. “I suppose these will have to do.”

Zari looked down. She felt like she had brought Tabitha’s wrath upon all of her friends as she was the one who pissed her off several years ago. She looked over at Behrad who was sitting quietly in the chairs, just staring blankly at the floor.

“This isn’t fair!” Kuasa shouted stomping her feet and getting Tabitha’s attention. 

“Kuasa’s right, none of these rules were ever presented to us, and you can't just change them the day of,” Amaya said placing a hand on Kuasa’s shoulder, backing them up.

“You're just being mean because you don't like us,” Kuasa announced, her words catching the attention of everyone in the area. 

“What's going on here?” Mona asked as she and Ms. Ava Sharpe, Sin and Behrad’s teacher, approached them.

“Tabitha has disqualified us all for absurd reasons,” Zari said. 

“They're not absurd,” Tabitha screeched. “They were all in clear violation of the rules.”

“They’re stupid rules!” Kuasa said.

“It's because Amaya and I bought the cookies she made at the bakery, but she didn’t use one of our recipes,” Zari explained to them.

“I don’t see why that’s a problem? They used the resources available to them,” Mona asked with a confused look on her face.

“I agree, that should disqualify them,” Ms. Sharpe said, crossing her arms as well. 

“Well,” Tabitha said, clearly enraged that Mona and Ms. Sharpe weren't taking her side. But then she smiled in a way that made Zari uneasy. “Why don't we let principal Darhk decide.”

Zari sighed and even Kuasa deflated, as they all knew Darhk would take Tabitha's side, and his word would be final.

................................................................................

“Well, I must say I agree with Miss Tabitha on this. The rules were clearly stated beforehand and you have indeed broken them,” Principal Darhk said, as he sat across from them at his desk in his office.

Tabitha stood next to him with a triumphant smile. Zari and Amaya stood in front of his desk, as their children waited outside.

“But the rules were only changed yesterday!” Zari protested.

“On the contrary, they were actually changed more than a week ago. There was an email if I recall. If you want to see the date it’s printed right here,” Darhk said holding up the piece of paper for them, his finger on a date. He wore that easy smile he always had that put Zari on edge.

“All right, we’ll go,” Amaya said, turning towards the door in defeat.

“Hold on Dearie,” Tabatha said with a cunning smile. “The bake sale was a mandatory volunteer day for all parents. Since the two of you have been banned from participating, you will have to make up that volunteer work somewhere else.”

“Fine,” Zari said wearily, hoping that this simply meant volunteering in class, but knowing that was unlikely.

“Yes, and that reminds me we need some people to help set up for the spring concert. I’m sure our music teacher, Mrs. Heywood, would appreciate some help with the decorations.” Darhk said, folding his hands together. “So I will see the two of you here, this Monday at 9 a.m. You should only have to work until 3pm or so if you work diligently and it should only take a week.”

“What?” They both cried out.

“But we have a business to run?” Amaya said. 

There was no way Kendra and Sara could do everything on their own. Even if they did the morning baking, there was no way they could work at full capacity and make all of the week's orders. It took both her and Kendra, and Sara was not used to doing more than helping out. 

“Well, you should have thought about that before you broke the rules of the bake sale,” Tabitha snared.

“Surely we can work out a schedule where each of us can volunteer at different times,” Zari said.

“I’m afraid not,” Darhk said. “There is a lot of work to be done and we absolutely need all hands on deck.”

“You can’t do this! You can’t mandate us to volunteer during the workweek,” Amaya said, taking a defiance stance.

“Oh, but we can, all right here in the contract that you signed, and you signed up for the PTA at the beginning of the year. It is a public school after all, and we don’t have the resources of private education,” Darhk said, as he pulled the contract out of his desk, holding it over to them. 

Amaya took the paper rather forcefully from his hand, looking it over and flipping through the pages before finally finding the section on the bake sale.

“All parents must volunteer in the bake sale held in February. The rules of which will be sent out in an email unless parents are present at the PTA meeting during which they will be handed out to them. Failure to partake will result in additional volunteer hours administered by the administration at their discretion,” Amaya read aloud. “Yeah, it doesn’t say anything about you forcing us all to volunteer at the same time during the workweek.”

“Yes, but the workweek is the only time that the school is open. I wouldn’t want my teachers having to give up their weekend, simply because two parents failed their duties at the school, and it does specify the likes of which in index A.”

“What index A,” Amaya exclaimed, waving the paper about. “I don’t remember seeing an index A and I read this thing from front to back at the beginning of the school year.”

Darhk merely turned around and opened one of his cabinets, pulling out another section of papers, handing them over to Amaya. “I believe it’s page 4, before subsection C.”

Amaya grabbed it out of his hand and went to the page and read aloud again. “Mandatory parent volunteer work must not exceed but is not limited to 40 consecutive hours, administered at the administration’s discretion.” 

That’s illegal, you can’t force us to provide unpaid labor for a whole week!” Zari shouted.

“It’s not unpaid labor. It’s volunteer work. Work that you all agreed to do when you signed the contract joining the PTA. I thought you of all people Mis. Jiwe would have read the contract in its entirety. You are a businesswoman.”

If looks could kill their combination of hated glares would have set Darhk and Tabitha six feet under. Zari was appalled at the things this administration was pulling out of their ass just to punish them.

Amaya clenched her hands, no doubt wishing that they would be around Damien’s neck. Zari had similar thoughts of anger, but she would never risk anything that would jeopardize Behrad’s place at the school. It was the best public school in the district, and she wouldn’t risk Behrad’s education over petty revenge. She would, however, have a long prayer for Allah later today. 

Amaya turned around and opened the door, leaving. Zari gave them one dirty look before following her out.

The kids were sitting in the chairs just outside the office waiting for them. with Sara, Sin, Kendra, and Aldus, waiting with them. They all looked up with hopeful gazes as they left office, only to see their defeat and anger as they walked out.

“Time to go home,” Amaya announced.

Zari walked over to Behrad and put her arm around his shoulder as he got up, but he quickly shrugged her off. She watched as he ran ahead to stand next to Aldus, holding his hand as he left the school. He has been doing that a lot lately. After their parents died he had sought out her comfort almost hourly, but recently his behavior had changed as he rebuffed her.

They all walked out to the parking lot in silence, carrying their boxes. The bake sale was in full swing as people walked in and out of the gym. Sara and Kendra had walked out in support of them and Tabatha screamed that they would be forced to volunteer as well.

“Does anyone want to go out for brunch? Amaya asked in a clear attempt to cheer them all up.

“Not today,” Kendra said as they approached her van and she opened the door with her remote to let the ramp out.

“Yeah, it's a no from us too,” Sara said. “I think I'm just going to go home and sleep, and then maybe hit the skatepark later.”

“We’ll go with you,” Zari said.

“We will?” Behard asked, catching her words.

“Yeah,” Zari shrugged, it's not like they had anything better to do.

Amaya smiled at her and Zari’s heart did a flip flop. It seemed that Amaya had that smile just for her. It made Zari wonder if she had feelings for her as well, or if it was just a misguided attempt to read between the lines. Her greatest fear was that Amaya didn't like her back or that she would be put off by Zari's advances. Zari loved their relationship as friends too much to try and ruin them, and the thought of losing Amaya was unbearable.

................................................................................

Twenty minutes later they’re both downtown and seated at a booth in one of the nicer places in town. It was a modern dinner that was cheaper than the chain franchises and twice as good. But, the coffee was not as good as the coffee Kendra makes, of course. The waitress came by to take their order and Zari ordered a whole large breakfast plate as usual. Amaya smiled at her appetite and ordered an extra round of hash browns in addition to her order that would come out before the main dishes. 

“Can we go play?” Behrad asked, looking towards the kid's table that was set up with board games and other toys. 

Amaya was reluctant to let them go as it meant letting Kuasa out of her sight.

“Yeah, go on,” Zari said, getting up so Behrad could get out of the booth.

“Thanks,” he said as Kuasa also got up and ran to the table.

Amaya watched them go, her eyes trailing after Kuasa as she and Behrad picked out a board game and started to set it up.

“Relax, they’ll be fine,” Zari said, with a gentle voice, leaning over and grabbing hold of Amaya’s hand.

Amaya looked down at Zari’s hand in hers. She tried not to let Zari see the blush on her cheek and the way her heart fluttered in her chest.

“I know,” Amaya said, looking back over at Kuasa. “But I just can’t get over the feeling that I could lose her.”

“Yeah, I felt like that too for the first year after our parents died,” Zari said, looking over to the kids as well.

“Will it get any easier?” Amaya asked, looking back at Zari. “I just feel like Kuasa is so mad all the time, at me, at the world, at everything. I’ve been trying all the anger management stuff the parenting books suggest, but nothing works.”

“I don’t know. I hope so. I just keep watching as Behard further isolates himself in his room. I brought up maybe going to see the therapist again, but it just ended with both of us yelling at each other,” Zari said, shaking her head and looking away. “He doesn’t look at me like a parent, he just sees me as his annoying big sister.”

“I used to be the cool aunt who would let her eat frosting and play at the park all day,” Amaya said with a sad smile. “Now I have to make sure she eats her vegetables and does her homework. It’s a rough transition, I get it.”

Zari looked back at her and Amaya squeezed her hand. It felt nice to be able to have someone who was going through what she was. Kendra and Sara were a great help too, but they gave birth to their kids and that parenting role was theirs from day one. They weren’t thrust into parenthood with a child that wasn’t used to seeing them in a caregiver position, like Amaya was.

“Maybe you should go see them first Zari. If Behrad sees you going, then maybe he’ll go as well.” 

“I don’t know,” Zari admitted, hesitant to talk with a stranger, even a professional. “It’s not like I can just get a babysitter or take off work.”

“Why not,” Amaya shrugged. “I’d be happy to cover for you at the bakery or babysit if you needed me to, and I’m sure Kendra and Sara would say the same thing.”

“Thanks, I’ll think about it. For now, I might as well just get around to finishing that book Eshal gave me at the mosque about raising Muslim boys.”

“That sounds like a good place to start.”

“Yeah, I don’t know. I guess reading it made me feel like I wasn’t good enough.”

“That’s not true, you are good enough,” Amaya said, reaching over and squeezing Zari’s hand. “Just think of it like this. Parenting is something you’ve never done before and you’re just learning how to do it. I know it’s hard and if you want, I have a few books I’ve used and maybe we can share.”

“That’d be great, thanks,” Zari said, giving her a small smile.

Amaya smiled back, and it’s so soft and full of love that it made Zari feel like her smile grew to match. Her heart swelled in her chest as Amaya gave Zari her love. Zari looked over at her. Everything about Amaya was soft, her demeanor, her voice, her eyes, her touch, her smile, her everything. 

Zari felt like she was always too rough around the edges. She felt that if someone got too close, they would scratch themselves. Amaya never cared about her rough shape, she took Zari’s bluntness and sarcasm and she smiled at her because of it. In return, Zari tried to be more honest and not hide the tender parts of herself from Amaya.

“Enough about the kids,” Zari said, looking down hoping to hide her pink cheeks. “Tell me about any new baking ideas you have.” 

This was her favorite question to ask Amaya because her face lit up, and Zari could see the excitement build up as Amaya sat up straighter. 

“Well, I’ve been thinking about doing this new treat of the month sort of thing. For example, in October, I was considering doing little mini pumpkin pie cakes. They wouldn’t quite be a pumpkin pie, I’m thinking I’d make it more thick and fluffy like a cake and more on the sweeter side. I haven’t quite gotten down a recipe I prefer, but I’ve been experimenting in my free time and I think I found something that would work well, but there was this one…”

Zari smiled as she watched Amaya go on and on about her idea. Her happy enthusiasm was so enjoyable, and she lit up like the sun. Zari loved watching her passion come through in everything that Amaya did. She scribbled down her brainstormed ideas for recipes on little post-it notes and enthusiastically told their customers about the masterpieces she was going to make. One that will make their special day one they would never forget.

When the waitress came over and dropped off the plate of hash browns, Amaya paused to say thank you to her before going back to describing her idea. The flowered lemon tart that Amaya wanted to make for April would have made Zari’s mouth water. If she wasn’t already stuffing it with hash browns. The next few minutes flew by, and soon the waitress was returning with their meals, placing the plates down in front of them.

Kuasa and Behrad returned, arguing over who won their game of checkers that never truly ended. They all laughed and talked and for an hour and Zari forgot about the disaster of the bake sale and about her failed parenting. After they finished eating, Zari suggested that they all go to the park. 

The kids took off the moment they got there, heading straight for the playground. Zari and Amaya spent the first half hour playing with them and chasing them around the play center. The early gray morning and light misting rain meant that there were only a few other adults and kids in the park. So Zari and Amaya weren’t too concerned when Kuasa and Behrad ran off to play hide and seek in the trees with a few of the other kids. 

Zari all but collapsed onto the park bench, sighing and slipping off her coat that had suddenly become too hot. Amaya’s laugh is clear and rich as she sat down next to her.

“See I don’t need a workout. I can just pretend to be the Lava Monster and I’ll have a six pack by the end of the week.”

Amaya grabbed her hand and laughed again, throwing her head back and letting herself laugh, loud and full. Zari smiled as her heart felt like someone had wrapped it in a warm electric blanket. Once Amaya’s laughter died down, she just stared at Zari in delight, a subtle smirk on her lips.

“What?” Zari asked. 

“Nothing.” Amaya looked down and Zari could see her cheeks flush and not because of the cold or their bout of energy. 

Zari wasn’t a fool. She knew Amaya liked her, but something was holding her back from pursuing her. Zari’s not exactly sure what it was, but she had her suspicions. Between the laughter, the smiling, the blushing, the touching. Zari was tired of trying to hide her feelings from Amaya and grasped her hand. 

Amaya turned to look at her with an open mouth, and Zari leaned in slowly enough that Amaya could catch on to what she was doing and pull away if she wanted to. Instead, Amaya tilted her head, closed her eyes, and presented her lips to Zari’s. Zari closed her eyes as well and let their lips touch. In an instant, sparks went through them. Zari pressed herself against Amaya and they truly kissed, with lips and tongue and passion. Amaya moaned into the kiss and Zari took it as a sign to keep going. She let her tongue slip in and explore Amaya’s mouth. 

When they took a break for air, Zari opened her eyes first. She looked at Amaya, who still had her eyes closed and was standing there with a blissful smile. Amaya blinked and continued to smile at Zari in a way that made her let out a sigh of content, as all of her pent up feelings became a reality.

But Amaya’s face fell. She detangled herself from Zari and scooted an inch away. A distance that was more common among friends or acquaintances. Amaya dropped Zari’s hand and her heart. 

“I’m sorry, I can’t,” Amaya explained. “Things with Kuasa are too complicated. I can’t be in a relationship right now when I’m still figuring out how to be a parent to her.”

“No, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have pushed you,” Zari said, trying to busy her hands in her jacket pockets.

“Hey,” Amaya said in a softer tone, reaching out and squeezing Zari’s knee. “I... I liked kissing you and maybe once things settle down between Kuasa and I, we give this, you and me, a go.”

“I’d like that,” Zari whispered.

Amaya smiled at her and Zari felt that familiar longing coiled inside her. She could live with it, be patient and wait for Amaya. She would wait for an eternity.

................................................................................

“Eww,” Behrad said, shaking his head and sticking his tongue, as he watched Zari and Amaya kissing. “Ugh, why do grown ups always have to do that? I'm never going to kiss anybody.”

“It’s not that bad,” Kuasa said, but wrinkled her nose anyway. 

“Yeah, well what if they get married? I don’t want to be your brother. I already have one sister, I don’t need another.”

“We’re not going to be siblings!” Kuasa exclaimed, then made up her mind. She marched towards Zari and Amaya where they were sitting apart and talking. 

“Hey Kuasa,” Amaya greeted her. 

“Can we go home? Now!” 

“Honey, what happened?” Amaya asked getting up and putting her hands on Kuasa’s shoulders. 

“I’m bored and cold.”

Kuasa watched as Amaya sighed, but took off her own hat and pulled it over Kuasa’s ears. “Alright, we can go home.”

“Yeah, we should probably get going too,” Zari said standing up from the bench.

Kuasa looked back at Behrad and Zari who both had similar looks of disappointment on their faces, but she couldn’t understand why. Once she and Amaya were settled in the car, Amaya turned around to look at her before backing out of the parking lot. “Kuasa, did anything happen that made you want to leave the park? If something did, I want to know so I can fix it, honey.”

Kuasa looked over at Zari and Behrad as they climbed into their car as well. Right now it was just her and Amaya and that’s all she wanted it to be. “No, I’m just cold.”

“Okay,” Amaya said, looking over her shoulder as she pulled out of the parking space. 

Kuasa watched as Zari gave Amaya a sad wave one Amaya quietly returned. Kuasa tightened her seat belt as the turned onto the road. She couldn't lose Amaya, she just couldn't.

[i-write-stuff-its-ok]

Petals and Ink chapter 6

Summary: Michael is counting down the days before him and Jeremy’s hang out date. Jeremy is at a lost for words at the favor Chloe did him.

Genre: Fluff

Words: 1480

Warnings: Mild swearing

Michael sprung out of bed and quickly checked the date on his phone. Thursday two more days in till he gets to see Jeremy again. He went in the kitchen to see Cathy at the stove making eggs. “Morning bro.” She yawned. Her hair was in a messy bun she still had on the same clothes she was wearing yesterday. Her glasses slid down her nose as she rubbed her eyes. “I made coffee if you want some.”

“Cathy did you stay up all night again? You can’t keep doing this, I mean it this isn’t healthy!” Michael scolded.

“I’m fine really. Cookie just jumped on me at like four am and then I couldn’t fall back asleep so I just watched tv in till I fell back asleep, which I didn’t do but that’s beyond the point.” Cathy said as she rolled her eyes. “Now do you want breakfast or not?”

“Scr- “

“Scrambled with cheese. You got it.” Cathy smiled finishing her brothers sentence.

Michael sat behind the counter at the front talking to a costumer on the phone about flower arraignments for a birthday party. Brooke was painting Christine’s nails as it was a very slow day.

“Yes, your order will be ready for pick by eight am the day of the party so there is plenty of time for set up. Ok see you then Mrs. Jones ok, thank you. Have a great day.” Michael hung up the phone and sighed.

“Rude costumer?” Brooke asked.

“Nah I’m just waiting for this long week to be over.”

“Got something special planned for this weekend?” asked Brooke.

“He’s got a date.” smirked Christine.

“Ooooo with Jeremy?” giggled Brooke.

“What, no it’s not a date Christine. We are just hanging out ok. Completely platonic. Not a date.” Michael stammered turning red.

“That’s not what Jeremy said.” Christine grabbed Michael’s phone and quickly unlocked it. She scrolled through Michael and Jeremy’s texts in till she found what she was looking for. “Here just as I remember, Sunday from Jeremy, Saturday, awesome. It’s a date. See Jeremy said it was a date.” She smirked.

“That’s not what he meant! He meant as it’s a set date like a date of the month a time and day for us to meet up and, wait just as you remember? Christine have you been reading my texts?”

“What, can’t a girl look out for her best friend?” Christine said innocently, batting her eyes.

“Ugg you are impossible.” Michael groaned.

“Look all I’m saying is Jeremy called it a date. So, you never know he could have meant it romantically.” Christine smiled.

“Yeah! Have you seen the way that boy looks at you? He’s def in to you!” Brooke said.

“Oh please. Look this isn’t anything romantic. It’s just hanging out. We were just gonna chill and play video games. Ok.” Michael said rolling his eyes.

“Michael Mell do you have feelings for Jeremy? Be honest.” Christine said sternly. Michael nodded his head. “Do you want this to be a romantic date and not just hanging out?” she said. Michael nodded his head again, slower. “Then don’t doubt yourself.”

Rich snapped his fingers in front of Jeremys face. “Yo Earth to Heere. Jeremy wake up!” Jeremy snapped out of his day dream and back to reality.

“Ah ba ja what? I’m awake!” Jeremy stammered.

“Look alive Chloe ith here.” Rich sighed. Chloe strutted down the hall way in her heels and tight black dress. Her hair was in perfect waves and she had on dark red lipstick. Chloe was the manager of Needle Point, thanks Needle Point being one of the many companies her dad owned. Actually, if it wasn’t for Chloe putting in good words for them Jeremy and the others might not even have this job. It’s not that she isn’t a nice person Chloe is actually very sweet she was just intimidating. “Hey Chloe howth it,” Rich started.

“No time to chat Rich. Jeremy, I need you for a sec kay.” Chloe said sharply. Jeremy got up quickly and followed her in to the back room.

“What’s wrong?” Jeremy asked.

“Nothing.”

“Then why call me back here to,”

“Look I know you’re not supposed to know this but I found a loop hole. My dad isn’t supposed to tell you this. Me on the other hand well, I’m not a part of this deal I just know of it so I guess its ok for me to tell you. But you have to act surprised when my dad can actually tell you got it.”

“Tell me what?”

“I’m getting there Jeremy. Now I know you have been looking for an art school to go to. And it just so happens that my dad’s roommate in collage is the head of Cal State Arts. So, I told my dad about your predicament and, he sent his friend some of your work and he loved it! They’ve been talking about scholarships and,” Chloe was cut off by Jeremy wrapping her in a massive hug.

“Thank you! Thank you so much! Chloe, I can’t believe you! I just. Thank you so much!” Jeremy beamed.

“Hey it was nothing. I want the best for my friends.” She smiled.

Michael woke up cheery and checked his phone. It was Friday. One more day. Tomorrow was him and Jeremy’s day. He strode in the kitchen beaming. Cathy for one wasn’t there. He peaked in to her room she was asleep with Cookie Dough curled up next to her. He walked back in the kitchen and made breakfast as a surprise for her. About an hour later Cathy walked in the Kitchen rubbing sleep out her eyes to find her brother singing along to Dodie and dancing in place as pancakes cooked on the stove.

“Morning.” She croaked her voice still tired.

“Good Morning Cath.” Michael chirped.

“Someone’s a little ball of sunshine today. What’s the occasion?”

“I’m just excited for tomorrow. That’s all.” Michael said as he flipped the last pancake on to the stack on the plate.

“Wow I have never seen you this excited for a family party.” Cathy laughed.

“Wait what?” Michael said the color draining from his face.

“Connor’s ninetieth birthday. It’s tomorrow. The party at Mom and Dad’s house. With the whole family. Its tomorrow.”

“But tomorrow was supposed to be me and Jeremy’s…” Michael mumbled.

“Oh, that’s right. Shit. I’m sorry I’m sure you two could hang out some other day. I’m sorry Michael.” Cathy said. Michael texted Jeremy and told him the bad news. Michael sat on the coach defeated. Cathy sat down next to him and wrapped him in a hug. Michael sighed and laid his head on his sister’s shoulder. Michael’s phone buzzed. He looked down to see a text from his mom. “Mijo I can’t wait to meet your boyfriend tomorrow! Please tell me your bringing him! Cathy has told me so much about him! Ah! I’m so proud! Love you see you tomorrow.” Michael stared down at his phone in confusion.

“Cathy, what is this?” He handed the phone to her.

“Shit. I forgot to tell you.” Cathy said her voice growing panicked.

“Tell me what?”

“Um so uhhh funny story but a while ago Mom was texting me that she was getting scared for you and how you have never been in a relationship and well. She said she was gonna call you about it and this was right after you had that panic attack about that really rude costumer and I knew that the last thing you needed was mom on your back about not having a boyfriend. So, I um. I told her you had a boyfriend that you had been dating for a while and well. I sort of made up this fake boy and so now she thinks you have been dating this boy for a year now and the funny part is that this boy isn’t real. Ha ha he’s a fake character I made up to be the perfect boy for you and mom thinks he’s real. Ha ha ha surprise.” Cathy stammered.

“And what do you expect me to tell Mom tomorrow! Hi mom nice party also I’m still single Cathy made up the whole thing. Might as well tell her about my tattoo as well so she’ll kill both of us.”

“I’m sorry. I just got lost in the lie and oh god Mom is gonna kill me. Then she’ll dig me up and kill me again for me letting you get a tattoo.” Cathy started to panic.

“Wait we can fix this.” Michael said.

“How?” Cathy yelled.

“I have an idea.” Michael picked up his phone and called Jeremy.

“Hey Jeremy. About tomorrow I know I said I couldn’t hang out but umm change of plans. I’m gonna need you to do me a really weird favor.”