#it’s literally just Rosie barking so if you have dogs around know they will also bark

[golden-girl-daisy]

Honey’s sister Rosie was out today on Maggie and Pippa’s walk!

[beware-of-you-98]

how emily helps jj overcome her fear of dogs

tw for ptsd (I guess??) + referenced canon violence

JJ’s fear of dogs is actually debilitating at times

She’ll walk over to the opposite of the street if she sees someone with a dog walking towards her

Her heart races when her neighbor’s dog starts barking, she’ll break out in a cold sweat and feel incredibly nauseous

Her whole body shakes when cadaver dogs are brought out for a case and she has to excuse herself all the time because of it

She can’t go into the field if the police bring out the dogs and often has to stick back at the station and she absolutely hates it because she feels useless

Morgan invites her and Emily over to watch a game with him and Spence once and she declines only because of Clooney

(She feels absolutely awful about declining the invitation for weeks after)

Michael and Henry will ask her to go to the playground and she’ll get there and be completely frozen because someone is walking a dog/has a dog with them

(On multiple occasions she’s had to call Emily to watch the boys, feeling incredibly ashamed and embarrassed that she can’t bring herself to do it)

She’ll wait in the car and cry because she feels so weak and like a failure and a horrible mother or not being able to play with her sons

(Emily always, always assures her that she’s valid, that her fears are incredibly valid, and that her fears don’t make her a failure or a horrible mother in any sense)

When Luke joins the team, he brings Roxy to the first team BBQ he’s invited to without knowing about JJ’s phobia

JJ nearly has a panic attack and only calms down when Emily holds her and covers the blonde’s face so that she’s only focused on her and not the dog

(Luke feels absolutely awful for it for weeks after, but both Emily and JJ insist that he’s okay and that he didn’t know)

But after that day, JJ’s determined to get over her fear because she doesn’t want to keep missing out on playing with the boys at parks

Or going out of her way to actively avoid dogs

Or having a panic attack because she simply hears one bark

It takes time

Like a really, really long time

Most of the time, JJ is doing really emotionally draining exposure therapy and the sessions often leave her in tears (especially in the beginning)

She asks Luke to bring over Roxy for some sessions (because Rosy’s a trained ESA and is incredibly calm when she’s in her vest or when Luke tells her to be)

JJ can never bring herself to get more than ten feet away from the dog without trembling at first

But soon she’s able to sit near Roxy (still with her vest on) without her heart racing as much

It takes even longer for JJ to get used to other dogs, but slowly, she does

She can even go to the playground with her sons without calling and asking Emily to watch them for her

(She still calls Emily to come anyway and they’re able to sit with each other on the bench and watch the boys play)

Emily is there every step of the way and is very supportive of her girlfriend’s progress the whole way through

She goes with JJ to her exposure therapy classes and will hold her hand the whole way through

If JJ is ever too overwhelmed, Emily will make her stop and take her off to a quiet corner until she’s calm again

Treats every small accomplishment of JJ’s as if they’re huge accomplishments

She’ll shower the blonde in compliments and praise because each step is a huge hurdle to overcome and JJ deserves to know how much she’s accomplished, god dammit

She holds JJ after the sessions because the blonde is so emotionally drained and physically exhausted from pushing herself just a bit more each time

Emily will run her fingers through JJ’s hair and give her soft kisses and whisper how good she did or how proud she is of her for improving

One day, JJ reaches out and lays her hand briefly on Roxy’s head without shaking or gagging and bursts into tears afterwards because she finally pet a dog after 13 years of avoiding them

JJ hops up in Emily’s arms afterwards and is so fucking excited

She’s laughing in disbelief and is all like “Did you see that!? I pet her! I pet her!”

Emily showers her face in proud kisses, grinning at her excitement because it’s such a huge deal

And JJ’s excitement is literally so infectious and she looks so proud of herself and Emily’s heart fucking melts because of it

In celebration of her accomplishments, the team has a party over at Rossi’s

Luke brings Roxy (without her vest!!!)

JJ’s fine because Roxy mostly stands by Luke’s side or romps around with Michael, Henry and Jack

(She comes over and sniffs JJ’s hand once but leaves her alone after that)

(JJ’s proud of herself because she didn’t even flinch)

(She even gives the top of Roxy’s muzzle a gentle pat!!!)

(And, yes, Emily definitely hypes her up and praises JJ for it and it makes her feel light on her feet)

Derek is hesitant to bring Clooney but JJ insists on it because she feels it’s the last step in getting over her fears (since Clooney is the same breed as the dogs in that barn)

(He’s also way more high energy than Roxy, he isn’t trained as an ESA and doesn’t respond to the same commands that would let him back down like Roxy does)

When JJ first sees Clooney, she clings to Emily’s side like the older woman is her safety net even though Derek has him on a leash

Her heart races ever so slightly and her palms are sweaty but Emily’s thumb runs across her knuckles and it grounds her

She tenses up when Henry runs by Clooney and her heart plummets because she’s thinking the worst will happen to her son

(And, yeah, in exposure therapy she did learn what signals to look out for if a dog is aggressive or aggitated and Clooney is incredibly relaxed and alert but all that goes out the window when her momma-bear instincts kick in)

Clooney ends up sniffing Henry’s hands and licking him right in the face

Henry’s squeal of laughter immediately relaxes her

Derek watches JJ carefully and looks between both her and Emily as he inches closer with Clooney

Emily’s arm wraps firmly around JJ’s waist, her hand rubbing small, soothing circles in her side as the dog gets closer

JJ has a firm grip on Emily’s hand, and even then, she can hear her heart pounding in her ears and her hands are trembling ever so slightly but she insists she’s okay

She’s absolutely frozen when Clooney is a few inches away

The dog stands right at her side and sniffs in her direction but gets bored and immediately finds Spence in the crowd

JJ’s disappointment is really apparent on her face

She really thought she would do better than she did

She pet Roxy, so she’s frustrated that her interaction with Clooney went so bad

But Emily gives her a kiss that leaves her mind feeling fuzzy and blank

She’s cooing all sorts of sweet praises to her for how well she did and how proud she is of her for not giving up

Everyone is really impressed with her actually

Even Derek’s grinning ear to ear because he’s proud of how far JJ’s come

(It’s really heartwarming to hear everyone else’s praise)

(Dave gives her a kiss on the temple and calls her bella like a loving dad)

(Hotch and Tara are smiling warmly over at her)

(Penelope wraps her up in the tightest of hugs and gushes about how far she’s come)

(Even Spence, who isn’t normally one for affection, gives JJ a huge hug and a proud smile)

By the time the sun sets, she’s curled up in a small chair with Emily, watching the kids and Spence catching fireflies in the backyard

Emily’s fingers run through her hair and she keeps placing these sweet, loving kisses on her neck and shoulder and keeps whispering how much she loves her

(JJ’s cheeks hurt so much from smiling, her chest swelling with so much love and contentment with how the night is ending)

Roxy is laying on the ground sandwiched between both them and Luke

It’s the first time in forever JJ’s been so close to a dog and not been freaked out

And even if she still feels like she has a ways to go with Clooney, she at least feels accomplished that she can even be around any dog comfortably again

[thesnowinthemountains]

Getting Lost with Monsta X

listen this is so long i’m so sorry i have no excuse

Shownu

“We should turn back, it’s gonna be dark soon,” he said. “No, wait, I know this path, it’s just a little further up.” You were certain you knew the way. You had grown up nearby, you recognized every fallen tree, every bump in the ground. He was certain you were lost; every forest looked the same to him. He sighed, but followed you. “Trust me,” you looked at him, eyes wide. “Sure,” he grumbled, “but I’m getting hungry, so it better not be too far.” You shook your head and walked on. It was only a few minutes until you found the clearing you were looking for. At the end of it was a wooden structure, the same you remembered from when you were a kid. You ran over to it and climbed up the old stairs. He hurried after you and stopped at the top. “Woah,” he breathed. “See? I told you,” you said, proud. In front of you was a view of the whole town. You couldn’t have timed it better - the sun was setting behind the old church at the bottom of the mountain, all the houses and neighbourhoods lit up in fiery orange, the sky deepening in purples and pinks. You sat at the edge of the structure and he followed, reading all the messages engraved in wood from generations of teenagers spending their youth here. He found one that was unmistakably yours - lyrics from one of your favorite songs - and chuckled. “Really?” he pointed it out to you. You shrugged and pointed out another that was your initials with another pair of initials centered in a heart. He frowned and rummaged through his bag until he found an old pen. “No-” you started, but he was already carving both of your initials in a blank space on the railing. 

Wonho

“Are we just walking in circles? I feel like we’re just walking in circles.” You announce after an hour of what you deem to be pointless wandering. “It’s Venice, babe, it can’t be that hard to navigate,” he chuckles. You look around and throw your arms open. “How many times have we been here, though? I mean, look,” you point to a storefront, “that’s the weird little shop with the yellow writing in the window,” you point to another shop further up the way, “that’s the doll repair shop that’s super creepy but also quaint, like…” you trail off. “And over there’s the building with the spiral staircase around it, I know,” he sighs, finally admitting defeat. He glances around before nodding to a small restaurant a few steps away. “Let’s just get lunch for now, we’ll figure out the way later. I’m starving.” You scoff but nod. He leads the way into a dimly lit dining room with a large wood oven at the back, and the smell of fresh pasta surrounds you. 

Minhyuk

“I can’t believe you don’t know how to read a map,” Minhyuk scoffs, looking over the huge paper sprawled on the hood of the car. He pulled over the car fifteen minutes ago after figuring out that neither of you knew where you were going. “My apologies, I only grew up in the twenty first century. I didn’t expect I would ever need to,” you bite back, annoyed. You didn’t expect to lose cell reception either, but here you are, on a country road somewhere in the American Midwest. He cocks his head at you. Surely there would be a town nearby, but neither of you have ever been here before, so it’s difficult to tell. “This is what we get for deciding a good old-fashioned American road trip was a good idea,” Minhyuk mumbles, still staring at the map hopelessly. He wouldn’t admit it, but he never learned to read a road map either. A pickup truck finally comes over the horizon and eventually slows to a stop beside you. “You folks lost?” the gruff man at the wheel asks. “No, thanks,” Minhyuk replies dryly. The driver shrugs and speeds away. “Minhyuk!” You cry, eyes wide. “What? I figured it out, look, we’re here,” he points at a random stretch of road on the map. “Whatever,” you sigh, not believing him. “Get in. I’m driving this time!” You call over the car. 

Kihyun

 “Do you know the way back?” he slurs with a giggle. Maybe you two did have too much wine with dinner, after all.  “No, but it’s Paris, let’s just walk and see where it takes us,” you wrap yourself around him. He kisses you right as rain starts falling and you both cry out laughing. “Come here, I’ll protect you,” he holds you against his side, throwing his jacket open and holding the side of it over your head. You explode into giggles before pointing up at a white marble tower ahead, lit up from all sides. You gasp. “What is that?” You stop, staring. “Not the Eiffel tower, I can tell you that,” he replies. You pause in the rain, pulling out your phone to get a picture, hoping it comes out as well as you want it to. “Hey, there’s the metro!” Kihyun exclaims proudly. “Found it!” He grins. You run through the rain into the warm underground. The next morning, when you look at the pictures you took, they’re all blurred by rain and light, but you smile, finding the atmosphere captured perfectly.

Hyungwon

Hyungwon had wanted to see a DJ’s set at a music festival while you wanted to catch one of your favorite bands. You’d agreed to go your separate ways and meet up later for the last set of the night - the headliner. There was a path cut through the crowd to get from one stage to another, and you’d agreed to meet near the headliner’s stage. When you got there, however, Hyungwon was nowhere in sight. You paced around the path, looking around, until a security guard shooed you, saying no one was to stay in the ‘circulation lane’. You shrugged and went around to the other side of the gate, standing on the edge of it to try to see over everyone’s heads. “Step down from there,” the same guard barks at you. “I’m trying to find someone,” you snap, annoyed, but step down. You check your phone and Hyungwon is trying to find you too, so you call him. “Hey, where are you?” he asks the second he picks up. “I’m at the circulation thing, behind the big fountain,” you turn to look at the fountain, lasers from the stage ahead beaming into the water. “Oh, shit, that’s not where I am, wait,” with that he hangs up. You see the guard further down, facing away, so you climb the gate again, looking around. “I told you to get down from there,” the guard rushes back, screaming. An arm wraps around your waist from behind and you’re ready to elbow whoever it is before you spin and find Hyungwon pulling you down. “Woah, just me!” he exclaims, laughing, “Someone piss you off?” You nod at the security guard. Hyungwon gives him a quick glare but grins, pulling you away. “You shouldn’t argue with the security. You know they can actually kick you out?” He chuckles, giving you a quick kiss on the side of your head. “I know,” you pout, “I was just worried. I couldn’t find you.”

Jooheon

“I literally can’t believe we got lost. Like, I can’t believe it,” Jooheon was repeating for the millionth time. You laughed. “Don’t laugh,” he looked at you, “we were literally at a neighbour’s house. How are we lost?” he asked incredulously. “We just moved into the neighbourhood, I’m sure if we just keep walking we’ll find something,” you laughed again. The neighbours had invited you over as a sort of reverse-housewarming. Normally, you didn’t talk to neighbours much, but this was the first house you’d bought together, and you hoped it would be a long-term thing. Getting along with neighbours was key, plus they were actually pretty cool; they had dogs. The sun had long set and you looked up at the stars you had never been able to see from the city. Gazing down, you found a park and ran to it. “Where are you going?” Jooheon shouted after you. “Come on,” you cried back with a grin. You hurried to the swing set and sat. There was no more efficient way to bring on a wave of nostalgia. Jooheon chuckled as he came to sit on the swing beside you. “Are we teenagers sharing feelings?” he asked. “We can be,” you offered. There was a comfortable silence before he spoke.  “We shouldn’t stay here too long, it’s getting late and we don’t actually know where we are.” “Listen,” you lent an ear to the distance and he did the same. “What am I hearing?” he asked. “A boulevard. If we walk toward it, we’ll find our street.” “Ah, see, that’s why I love you,” he replied. “Supernatural hearing?” you giggled. He nodded wisely.

Changkyun

Changkyun was looking around, clearly worried, which did nothing to ease the stress and exhaustion you felt. You’d gone to a club for Halloween, and it was fun, everyone was dressed up. The atmosphere was perfect, the music was even good which almost never happens, but now it was almost 4 AM. You were in a short dress and it was freezing cold even after Changkyun had sacrificed his jacket for you. He was walking around in nothing but a long-sleeved shirt, his nose rosy from the cold. You felt bad, but you were still shivering violently, so you didn’t say anything. “Look, the last bus should be here any minute, we’re gonna have to hurry,” he said finally. You nodded. He grabbed your hand and lead you to the bus stop, a few street corners away. There was a spot on the bench in the shelter and you hurried to it because, to top it all off, it was starting to rain. Other people huddled around the bus stop, some of them loud, some of them obviously drunk or high. Changkyun stood in front of you in the bus shelter and sighed, looking at the time on his phone. Any minute now. You turned to some guys who were obnoxiously loud. You were seriously drained, you wished you could spawn into your warm bed; anything was annoying to you at that point. You started to stand, prepared to give them a piece of your mind - it was late and they should be respectful of the fact that there were others around - but Changkyun held you by the shoulder and sat you back down. “It’s not worth it, babe. We’ll be home soon, okay?” he murmured. You nodded and looked out at the street, spotting the bus in the distance. “Oh, thank god,” you whispered, hurrying to the curb.

[bots-basket]

{ So i may or may not have read @thepurpah ‘s “Suitor Armor” webtoon ( which you should totally check out btw-)  and may or may not have been inspired to draw Knightverse!au Versions of Typhoon & Rosie. Here’s the story of How they meet:  Rosie is a Quite and Dusty farmgirl who lives just outside of North-wind Kingdom with her Mom & Elder Brother.Due to her shy nature she mostly avoids other kids since they tend to pick her on her for being so reserved and the way she acts funny. One Day while picking berries she stumbled across what appeared to be an old and very large suit of armor. Rosie had always been secretly fascinated with knights and their weaponry so she wanted to just take a closer look to admire the craftsmanship. But upon closer inspection she realized this armor seemed to be abnormally large for a man to wear.. The twinkle of a Necklace around its helmet caught her eye. It was in the shape of a butterfly. Now rosie never had the pleasure of getting to see jewelry up close considering her mother wasn’t too interested in that sorta thing, so this was an experience. it was So pretty... She couldn’t help herself as climbed onto the armor went to touch it. As soon as her fingertips brushed against the necklace- she felt the armor beneath her shift and move Suddenly as the armor seemed... ALIVE!? she nearly fell over as she screamed- But two strong arms were quick to wrap around her and kept her from falling off.  Rose covered her face in fear as the armor fully stood upwards and glanced down to her. She warily opened her eyes looked up to it, Being met with an Eyeless gaze from the armor. There really wasn’t anything in there.. And it was absolutely TERRIFYING! She Gave a Soft and scared whisper to be set free, almost sure it was going to eat her. But instead, It Gently set her down before it. Rosie blinked slightly as she was returned to the ground. it let her go..? She didn’t Have much time to ponder this when the armor bent down on one knee before her and gave a respective bow before holding out with one armor plated hand the necklace she wished to see. She just stood there.. Awkwardly just staring at the strange Armored golem, unsure of what to do. after a few moments, she gingerly reached out for the necklace and took it from the Armor Golem. A Flash of wonder lit in her eyes as she weaved her fingers threw the golden chain of the necklace... It’s majestic color shimmering in the light. She glanced to the golem quietly- silently asking if it would be okay for her to try the magnificent jewel on. The golem Nodded. A Small Smile of excitement crept it’s way onto her face as she slipped it over her head and around her neck. She then pulled her Twin braids back to admire the necklace. it fit almost perfectly- except being a little bigger than she had expected. She quickly Realized that she probably shouldn’t even be messing with this necklace since it looked expensive. She gave a respectful yet embarrassed  nod and went to remove it from her neck, only to be stopped by the sudden yet careful touch of the golem’s hand. She looked at him with confusion as it shook its head and moved her hands away from the necklace. It Guided her hands and placed them on her chest.  She was a little confused by the motion for a few minutes till it finally clicked. She looked into its visor with large eyes and disbelief. “I can.. Keep this..?” She managed to breathe quietly, Hardly Believing what she was asking. The  Golem gave a swift nod in response. It was then slightly shocked to see tears begin to roll down the young girls face. it reached out it’s hands in a flustered manner in attempt of consoling her, only to find a wide smile beneath her tears. She Ran over to it and embraced it, leaving it even more confused than before.. but.. it felt.. Nice. The golem in an unsure manner shakily raised it’s arms to return the hug.. when a loud sound suddenly broke thought the forest.  It was her brother calling. Rosie had totally forgotten she was supposed to be picking berries! She let go of the golem and Hastily grabbed onto her little basket with few berries and ran off to meet with her brother, Waving goodbye to the Golem and Thanking it for the necklace. The golem watched quietly as she left in a rush. It stayed kneeling down for a few moments.. before rising to its feet, Making sure it’s Large sword was fastened securely to it’s back, it began to leave- When the Glint of something caught it’s attention. ~Later~  Rosie Had just finished up the last of the gardening and was helping her brother put up the wheelbarrow & tools to put in the barn when the both heard a strange crash. Their little Black dog’s voice erupted into a vicious barking frenzy as it stood infront of the barn. Glancing at eachother, The two siblings made a dash for the barn to see what had made the crash and sent their pup snarling. Rosie stood behind her Brother with a shovel while he held a garden Hoe as they crept towards the cracked open door with their dog in tow. Giving eachother a reassuring nod, The two and their pup  Burst into the barn ready to attack. But what was inside Left the two siblings Awestruck. There, Huddled up in the corner trying to get away from the barking dog, was that giant Armor from before, trembling slightly at the sight of the hound. Rosie’s brother was too shocked to move- while Rosie on the other hand was surprised that the Strange golem had literally followed her home.  She Called out to her Dog and Walked over to pick  the little beast up, much to the golem’s relief and her brothers dismay.  Once the dog was in her arms the golem Quickly took a step forward and went into a kneeling position once more. Her brother was quick to snap out of his trance and rush infront of her with his hoe in a protective manner once the golem moved closer in her direction. He Glared at the golem.. But it didn’t Really seemed all the bothered by him as it helm out it’s hand to them. Rosie and her brother’s eyes widened when they saw what was inside it. She placed the hound down and gently placed her hand on her neck as she whispered “ My necklace... you followed me home.. To return it..?”  She didn’t even realize it had came off. it must’ve went missing when she left in such a rush to get home. Her brother turned to her with an unsure look as she gently tugged on his tunic. They looked at eachother for a few moments before he finally let her pass, still holding onto his hoe and keeping an eye on the golem less it tried to hurt his little sister. Once She was close enough she reached out and took the Necklace once more and placed it around her neck. Once that action was completed the golem stood up and walked over to the corner of the barn. with a swift motion it unlatched it’s sword and drove it into the ground before infront it. It then placed its hands on the sword and just stood there, unmoving.   The two siblings just stood and stared- unsure of what to make of this. Surprisingly, Rosie was the first one to break the silence.  “... Can we keep him..?”  “ W H A T - “  “ .. Can we keep him.. ?”  “ ... “ “ Rosie i don’t think  even if we  told him to leave he would.”  “ So.. yes?”  “ .. I Guess..? But whatever we do, Mom can’t know yet.”  “ Yeah...”  “ So. What are you going to call it?”  “ me..?” “ He Followed you home, so you name him. plus your better with names than me anyways.”  “ ...Hmm... Let’s call him... Rook.” “ Rook..?”  “ Rook.”  “ .. meh. I can see it.  Rook it is then. now lets go back inside and get ready for bed so we can wake up from this strange dream. Comm’on Beastly. “ Her brother gave a Hearty yawn and he called to their dog, who obediently followed after him. Rosie glanced over to the motionless  over its sword. It was still really Errie.. But.. he also seemed nice. touching her necklace with her hands, she gently whispered ‘Goodnight Rook.’ and followed after her brother. If He was Right.. They would wake up tomorrow and Rook and his necklace would be gone. But it was such an odd but wonderful dream.. she wouldn’t minding it being real. But it is just a dream... Isn’t it?  

[cherrybracelets]

Rosie (A Joe Mazzello x Reader Fic)

(warnings - swearing / word count -2k )

summary : you and joe meet after your dog accidentally escapes her collar and runs away

It was the first nice day New York had had in months. The sun was shining, the temperature was actually over 50, and not a flake of snow in sight. You stared gleefully out your apartment window, seeing the glare of the sun on the tall buildings surrounding you. You knew the weather would only stay this nice for a few days, so you had to take advantage of it while you could.

You walked towards a small closet next to your front door and grabbed your dogs collar and leash off the shelf. The noise of the bell made your dog, Rosie, jump up from her bed and run over to you, her tail wagging with excitement and her eyes wide.

“Are you excited for walk time Rosie? Let me just get your leash on and grab some treats for you, okay?” You kissed her head and grabbed a ziploc bag of treats from your kitchen junk drawer and stuffed them in your pocket. You walked back over to Rosie, who was pacing eagerly.

Once you two got downstairs and out the front door of your building, you looked down at the little fluffy girl and asked, “Alright, where are we going?”

The nice thing about Rosie was that she was very small and well-behaved. When you went on walks together, you usually just let her lead the way. She always had an idea of where she wanted to go. If you ever got lost, you just used your maps to get back home. Thank god for phones. But Rosie had taken you all over at this point, you could get home without any help.

She looked up at you and started pulling you to the right, and you smiled and followed her cheerily. You walked for about a block in a half when you saw a food vendor in front of you. Your stomach rumbled, and you made the decision to stop and get a snack before you got too much deeper into your walk.

You and Rosie trotted along the sidewalk until you reached the vendor. You looked down at Rosie and told her to sit, which she did without hesitation. She looked up at you, panting, almost a smile on her face.

You began to order your food when you felt her tug at her leash a bit. “Just a second girl, I need a snack. I’ll get you a treat out too.”

She didn’t stop pulling. You looked down at her and saw her intensely staring at a bird down the street. Rosie was a great dog, but something that always bothered her was birds. You adopted her when she was two from a shelter, so you didn’t know if she had something happen to her or she just hated the feathered creatures, but no matter what if she saw a bird she flipped out.

She was growling and barking, pulling tightly on her leash. You tried to pull back but that only made her pull tighter against you. You looked down at her saw her wide eyes focused intensely. You decided it was best to pick her up before her frustration got any worse, but before you could even begin to swoop down, she pulled so hard that the leash flew out of your grip. She began sprinting down the street.

“ROSIE!” You screamed at her, and began sprinting quickly behind her. The bird heard her barks and flew away, but Rosie continued to sprint, not understand where the bird went. You continued to run after her, your eyes only looking at the little fluffy white blob in front of you. And then - smack!

You ran into something, hard, and fell right to the ground on your ass. Rosie heard your yelp and instinctively turned around and came running back to you. You took a deep breath and looked around at the mess you made. Food and groceries everywhere. And a man, also on the ground, looking at you with wide and confused eyes.

“Oh my god- Oh my god I’m so sorry,” you muttered, shaking your head. You looked up at the guy, who had an uncomfortable smile pasted on his face.

“Uh, it’s fine. I should’ve seen you coming and backed away. My fault too.”

You pushed yourself off the ground and offered a hand to him, which he grabbed and brought himself up to your level. He was quite handsome, a little stubble and disheveled hair.

“It was my dog, she just slipped away from me...” You looked down at Rosie who was smiling up at you, already forgetting about what happened less than five minutes ago. “Fuck, I knocked your groceries everywhere. Let me buy you some more, it’s the least I can do.”

“Oh, wow, yeah,” he looked down at the ground to see the food everywhere, almost shocked. It seemed he hadn’t even noticed the destruction. “Don’t worry about it. It’s not like I urgently need some more tomatoes or anything.” He laughed a bit and looked around, his eyes avoiding yours.

“I’m (Y/N),” you said, sticking out your hand and smiling. The least you could do was introduce yourself to the stranger you almost killed.

“Joe.” He grabbed your hand a shook it. His hazel eyes caught the sun and sparkled.

“This is a weird assortment of food that you bought here, Joe, can I ask what you’re doing?” Both of you looked at the ground to see the weird array of food and spices scattered along the sidewalk. Joe let out a sigh and ran his hand through his hair.

“Well, I was supposed to have this girl over for dinner tonight. I don’t know why I offered. I can’t cook for shit. Got all these pinterest recipes together. But she cancelled, anyways. Third time in a row. Guess I should take a hint, huh?” He let out a small laugh, and another sigh.

“Well, if she doesn’t want to date you she shouldn’t keep making plans and cancelling. Just be straight with you... seems like she’s kind of the worst.” Both you and Joe laughed and he nodded slightly. “Listen, I’m a terrible cook too, but I could offer to take you out for dinner tonight? My treat? It’s the least I could do after almost killing you and destroying some perfectly good produce.”

“Well how can I say no to an offer like that?”

“Do you know Giancarlos up the street? They have good pasta. Which by the looks of it appears to be what you were trying to make?” You let out another giggle, and Joe rolled his eyes slightly.

“I love that place. They do have good pasta. They got the recipe from me, you know?”

“Oh really?”

Joe made eye contact with you for a second and smiled, before quickly looking away. You looked down at Rosie, who was now whining, ready to head home.

“Meet me there in like, two hours okay? Chasing Rosie was the most exercise I’ve done in months and I’ve gotta get myself together before a fancy dinner for a stranger,” you picked Rosie up and held her in your arms. She stared intently at Joe, cocking her head when he began to speak.

“Here’s my number, just text me when you want me to head over.” Joe handed you a slip of paper with a number scribbled on it, your hands slightly touching during the exchange.

“I’ll see you in a bit, Joe.” You began walking back home, looking back a few times to see Joe watching you leave. You smiled slightly to yourself, thinking about this handsome guy you may have just scored a date with, all because your dog decided to have beef with a bird.

******

‘I’m heading over to the restaurant now, meet me there :) - (Y/N)’

You stared intently at your phone, waiting for the little dots to pop up insuring that Joe was actually going to meet you. You made sure to look your best, too. The whole walk home you kept thinking to yourself how you literally just ran into one of the hottest men you’ve ever seen who actually agreed to go out to dinner with you? You had to make sure to take advantage of this.

You stared at yourself in the mirror, pushing your boobs up a little extra, brushing through your hair to make sure it looked perfect. You felt your phone buzz in your hand, seeing a message from Joe. You heart fluttered a bit. Fuck, you were crushing on this guy and it had only been like three hours.

‘Will leave now, can’t wait!’

You smiled down at the message and called yourself an Uber. You pet Rosie on the head and told her to be good. You excitedly walked downstairs, and out your front door. A smile hadn’t left your face since you got the text.

Your Uber pulled up, and you slid in the backseat. You made a bit of smalltalk, but you couldn’t really focus. Your head was stuck on Joe’s smile, the way the sunlight made golden flecks sparkle in his eyes, the curls in his hair. His laugh. Before you knew it you were outside the restaurant, your Uber driving telling you to enjoy your night. You smiled and thanked him.

You stood outside the restaurant for a few seconds, staring at the fancy lights and greenery of the Italian restaurant. You took a deep breath, preparing to walk in, when you heard a voice behind you.

“(Y/N)!” You whipped around and saw Joe getting out of a car, smiling brightly at you. The moonlight only enhanced his features.

“Hey, Joe!” He looked amazing tonight. He had changed into a nice maroon sweater and pair of black pants.

“Are you ready to go in? I’m excited for my free dinner!” He winked at you and laughed, and began walking towards the door. You followed silently, too in awe of him to really say anything. You needed to collect yourself before you spoke.

“Reservation for Mazzello,” Joe informed the man standing at the front. He nodded and picked up two menus, motioning the two of you to follow him.

“You made reservations?” You asked Joe.

“Of course. This night has to be fancy. I have high expectations of you. Plus I really don’t like to wait and this place is always booked.” Joe had a smug smile on his face, but you could tell he was just trying to be funny.

The two of you got seated at a nice, quaint table in the back by a window. It was quiet, a candle lit in the center. You began flipping through the menu, actively looking for a wine list. You would definitely need a little liquid courage to help you tonight.

“So I have to ask,” Joe interrupted. You shot your head up from the menu and looked intently at him. “Is this a regular thing for you? Violently attacking strangers and then asking them to fancy dinners?”

“Oh absolutely, I try and do it at least once a week. Rosie isn’t even a real dog. It’s all part of the scam.” You widened your eyes and nodded at Joe. He laughed quietly, and pursed his lips together.

“I do have to admit, though. You running into me wasn’t such a bad thing. You’re probably the most beautiful girl I’ve ever met, and you’re pretty damn funny too.” Joe looked you directly in the eyes, and you felt yourself blushing a bit. A small smile formed on your face.

“Maybe it was Rosie’s will all along for us to meet. There wasn’t even a bird at all. She just knew you were down there, knew it was meant to be.”

“Damn, Rosie is one smart dog. Have you thought about entering her in a talent competition?”

“Of course, but I don’t think that would be fair to other dogs. She would clearly win.” You both laughed loudly, and people at the table a few down from yours began to stare. You just rolled your eyes at them and looked back to Joe.

“So I guess it was a good thing that girl cancelled on you tonight, huh?”

“Absolutely. I would rather be here with you anyways.”

[melonkooky]

new neighbor [kim taehyung]

not requested

word count: 3029

genre: college!au, fluff

author’s note: i honestly don’t remember the why i wrote this, but i don’t need a reason. i think it’s cute!!

please do not copy my work. but please like and reblog it. thank you!!!!

masterlist (in bio as always)

when you were notified about an apartment for sale, you expected it to be pretty decent. but some mistakes were also made on your part. you were so desperate to move out of your parents house, that immediately called the landlord. there weren't any pictures when you looked at the website, and the rent was cheap. plus, it also was only a ten minute walk from college. you were starting your first year of college in three months. it sounded too good to be true.

now, there you stood, keys in your hand, jaw dropped, eyes wide, as you stared at your new apartment. it was small and bland, and it looked ancient. you bought it on impulse, and you didn't think there were return policies on apartments. you looked down the hall, as your apartment was located at the end. the apartment complex was a little sketchy, to be honest. but it was decent. the more you thought about it, however, the more happy you felt. sure, it wasn't much but it was your first home, that you paid for with your own money. you were proud.

you looked around, walking into your apartment. it was small, and practically one giant room. a pony wall separated the "bedroom" from the rest of the apartment. there was a dresser near the bed for your clothes, and a pole for your clothes. luckily, the bathroom was an actual room with a door. otherwise, the living room and kitchen were one big space. a small table with two chairs separated the two.

your mom scolded you later about your purchase choice, but she knew that you were an adult and could make your own decisions. she helped you move in, and offered to buy you new furniture. you told in the near future, you would love to go furniture shopping. but currently, you wanted to wait.

you made the bed first, and then decided to sleep. you didn't feel like unpacking, not after spending most of the day bringing up boxes. your apartment was on the third floor!

the next morning, or rather the early afternoon, you woke up to tiny barking. you were confused. perhaps you were in the midst of a dream. but then, you heard a man whisper yell, "yeontan!"

you sat up in your bed and sighed. the listing failed to mention how thin the apartment walls were. you waited for the ruckus to quiet down, but then you heard small, light padding of feet running down the hall. you hurried to your door, unlocked it, and opened it, just as a small brown and tan teacup pomeranian ran down the hallway. before you could question anything, a young male ran after it. your mouth hung open as the chaos. you watched him, his pale, green hair bouncing up and down as he hurried after his dog. he hadn't even noticed you yet.

the dog ran to the end of the hall where the elevator was, barking happily at his newfound freedom. but his owner got to him first, "damn it, yeontan. every time." he mumbled as he scooped his dog up and began walking towards his apartment.

your mouth still hung open, and your eyes still felt heavy from sleep. you probably didn't look presentable at all, but you didn't have time to change as your new neighbor had already seen you. "oh!" he exclaimed, surprised, as his dark, brown eyes landed on yours.

you felt your cheeks flush as you looked down at your pajamas.

"sorry for the noise." he apologized sheepishly while glaring at his small dog. "he always manages to escape when i open my door. he's so small and fast."

you smiled, "it's okay."

the man smiled and looked at you. "you just moved in yesterday, right?" he asked.

you nodded. "i did."

the man nodded, adjusting himself so that he could hold his dog at his side. he extended his hand, flashing you a goofy, box-shaped grin. you couldn't help but blush at how cute he looked. "well, welcome, neighbor. i'm kim taehyung."

you shook his hand, bowing slightly. "i'm l/n f/n. and thanks."

he smiled before sighing. taehyung turned in the direction of his apartment. his door was wide open, and you could see inside his own living space. it wasn't very different from your own. "well, i'll see you around." he said, waving to you.

you nodded, "yeah, sure."

then he walked into his apartment and closed the door. you released a heavy breath and retreated into your own apartment. you shut the door. as you were enveloped in silence, you realized how fast your heart was beating, and how warm your cheeks felt. you leaned against your door as you remembered taehyung. you just moved in and you were already crushing on your cute neighbor!

you gently slapped your cheeks, shaking your head. "nope, not today." you told yourself. "i have some unpacking to do."

----

your back ached, having spent most of the afternoon sitting on the floor and unpacking boxes. you sighed as you pulled your last box closer to you. as you were opening it, your stomach rumbled. that's when you realized that you hadn't eaten all day. you had woke up late, and then got distracted by your neighbor and his dog, and then got straight to unpacking because it would get your mind off of everything.

you got up and changed out of your pajamas. you grabbed your wallet and apartment keys, while slipping on shoes. "i have to go grocery shopping." you mumbled to yourself as you stepped out of your apartment.

you went to the nearest convenience store, near the apartment, and bought an assortment of snacks and drinks, things to get your refrigerator and pantry started as they were currently empty. then you on your way home, excited to eat. you were looking forward to your ramen.

the elevator dinged and its doors opened. you stepped out, walking down the hall towards your apartment. you reached into your jacket pocket for your keys. just as you were inserting your key into the doorknob, you heard a door open. you turned and saw taehyung, "no," he said, "no, yeontan. you have to stay here."

you chuckled, forgetting that you were in the middle of unlocking your apartment. the green-haired man looked at you, before breaking into a grin. "i swear, he always escapes."

you nodded. "i believe it."

he locked his door before turning around and facing you. an awkward silence between you and taehyung fell. you suddenly felt shy, so in a flash, you waved a bye and pushed open your door.

"wait!" you heard suddenly.

you turned around, looking at taehyung. his cheeks had turned to a rosy red, making him ten times more adorable. "hmm?" you replied.

he cleared his throat. "have-have you gone grocery shopping yet? since you have moved in?"

you shook your head. "no. i haven't really had the time, i guess."

taehyung smiled, shyly, "do you, perhaps, want to go with me? i'm going right now."

you hesitated. you had just met him, and he had just met you. you didn't know him at all, and now you were actually considering on accepting his offer. he waited patiently for your reply.

you nodded, setting down your bag of snacks in your apartment and shutting the door. you locked it. "yeah, i'll go with you."

he chuckled. "great, let's go."

at the store, taehyung grabbed a cart and began pushing it. "shouldn't i get one too," you said, "since we're technically shopping separately."

"we can just use one, and then at check out we can separate our items."

you nodded, walking alongside taehyung as he lead the way around the grocery store. "this is so weird." you mumbled.

taehyung laughed, "why?"

you looked at him with wide eyes. "what do you mean 'why'? we literally just met a few hours ago and now we're shopping together as if we're best friends."

taehyung shrugged. "why did you agree to come with me then?"

you pouted slightly, turning your attention to the fruits next to you. "no reason." in reality, you were falling in love with him.

"alright then." taehyung stopped the cart and looked around the fruit and vegetable section. "is there anything you need here?" he asked.

you hummed, realizing that you really didn't know what you needed. "fun fact, i don't know."

taehyung shook his head. "have you ever been grocery shopping by yourself before?"

your felt your cheeks redden. "no."

taehyung continued to laugh. you pouted slightly, rolling your eyes. "shut up."

"sorry, sorry." he inhaled deeply, forcing himself to calm down. luckily, the store was close to empty as it was late. no one was here to judge you and taehyung. taehyung hummed as he looked around. "do you like strawberries?" he asked.

you looked at him. "yeah."

then he reached over and grabbed a box of strawberries. "there we go. off to a good start."

you looked at him. he was looking around at the fruits, but you were looking at him. you were falling for this stranger, or rather acquaintance, really fast. he was adorable, and fun, and seemed really outgoing.

while you were staring directly at him, he called your name. "y/n. hello?"

you blinked, realizing that he had drifted away from you. "what?"

"you coming?"

you hurried to him as he began to leave the "healthy" section. "you know, pasta sounds really good right now." i said as i looked at all the noodles.

once again, you didn't eat. you left your food at your apartment to go shopping with taehyung.

taehyung followed your gaze, eyes looking at the different types of noodles. "are you hungry?"

you nodded. "i haven't eaten all day. i was busy unpacking."

taehyung's eyes widened. "we have to hurry then, so that you can eat."

you blushed slightly, as taehyung continued to speak, "that's what that bag was, huh? your dinner?" taehyung felt bad. you were about to eat dinner, and he asked you to come with him.

he grabbed a random bag of noodles, just because of you. you watched him, wondering what he was thinking. then he walked further down the aisle, and he grabbed a bottle of pasta sauce. "taehyung?"

he looked at you, "i decided, we're going to make pasta together."

you looked at him surprised. "it's really okay. you don't have to." you tried to say.

taehyung grinned. "i insist. besides, we're neighbors, and friends now. we can cook together."

you blushed. "alright then, what else would you want with pasta?"

taehyung hummed, looking around. "chicken?"

an hour later, you and taehyung's cart was filled with various food items. most of it were basic items that were essential in every household, for you. some were taehyung's, and the last bit was for the large pasta meal you and taehyung planned out.

taehyung turned the cart into the only available register. a old lady was running it. you helped taehyung place the items down for the lady to scan. but in the middle of it, you realized that your and taehyung's items were mixed. how are you going to pay for your half? "taehyung, we've mixed everything. i still have to pay for my things."

taehyung looked up as he set down a bag of chips. he looked at you and smiled, "don't worry about it. i got you."

you sighed. "but then i feel bad."

taehyung chuckled. "you're making up for it by joining me for dinner."

you blushed. "smooth." you whispered.

the old lady scanning your items began to laugh. you looked at you questioningly. she shook her head. "i'm sorry, but you two are absolutely adorable together."

you blushed even more, finding yourself at a loss for words. taehyung, on the other hand, while feeling slightly anxious with the feeling of butterflies in his stomach, laughed. "thank you." he replied.

you seemed to have froze. taehyung seemed to like you too, and after what the lady said, your brain had malfunctioned. you were in love with you neighbor. you would probably classify it as love at first sight. but he might like you too.

taehyung paid for the items and helped the lady pack them into bags. you hurried to help them as well. minutes later, both you and taehyung were fast walking home. you and him hadn't taken into account that neither of you had a car, and there were a lot of groceries. luckily, you and him managed to carry all the bags, even though it was slightly painful.

"come on, come on, come on." taehyung said as he pulled his keys out of his pocket, sticking them into his doorknob.

your arms were shaking. finally, the door opened and you and taehyung rushed inside. not even a second after, you and him were dropping the bags down on the floor. "ah, my arms." you moaned quietly, feeling relief after your arms were free of the grocery bags. taehyung laughed, leaning against the wall as he rubbed his arms. you looked down at the floor, noticing yeontan wagging his tail and looking up at you, panting slightly. he didn't even have a chance to escape. the bags were blocking the entrance way.

"alright." taehyung said as he closed the door. "let's get the pasta started."

while taehyung prepped his kitchen, you searched through the bags for all the ingredients. you also started separating the bags; your groceries and taehyung's groceries. "yah!" you heard from the kitchen. "are you helping me or what?"

you shake your head. "hold on! i'm sorting our groceries."

"we can do that later. come here." taehyung responded.

you sighed, a smile forming on your face. you grabbed a bag you packed full of the food you and taehyung were planning on cooking. you stand up, waving down at yeontan as he followed you, and sped into the kitchen. "i'm here." you said, placing the bag next to taehyung. "i can chop vegetables." you suggested.

taehyung nodded. "can you hand me the noodles? we need to get those boiling."

you handed him the bag, before grabbing vegetables and washing them in the sink. you begin dicing them, chopping them up into smaller pieces. taehyung boils water and stirs in the noodles. he also begins to cook the chicken, chopping it and tossing them onto a pan. soon, the aroma of food fills the apartment. despite being busy with cooking, you and taehyung still hold a decent conversation, getting to know each other.

"y/n." he called. "taste this." you join him, seeing him hold up a piece of chicken. you take it and eat it.

he waited, watching you intently as you chewed the piece of meat. you nodded, as you tasted bursts of flavors, before saying, "that's delicious!"

taehyung grinned proudly, turning his attention back to the stove.

after a while, two plates were prepped. "god," you began, "i'm starving."

taehyung brings the two plates to where you sat on his couch. taehyung had a tv. you had turned it on to a tv show of some sort. taehyung handed you a plate and a pair of chopsticks. "thank you!" you said.

taehyung nodded as he sat down next to you. "of course."

a little while later, plates were empty and stomachs were full. "that was so good." you compliment.

taehyung nodded. "i've never cooked like that before."

you laughed.

"i think it was because you were here. you had ideas, and you helped me."

you blushed slightly, locking eyes with taehyung. "it was fun."

taehyung blushed as well, his cheeks turning as pink as yours. you smiled before reaching for your phone in your pocket. you checked the time, finding that it was really late. you sighed, feeling tired. "i should head back. it's late."

taehyung nodded, standing up. "let me walk you home."

you burst out laughing, taehyung laughing too. you look at him. "taehyung, my door is literally right next to yours."

"it's polite to walk a pretty lady home." he said between fits of laughter.

you blush, still smiling. "i'm pretty?"

taehyung walked around you, heading towards his door. "i believe that's what i said."

you smirked to yourself, before following taehyung. "let me help you with your groceries." he insisted.

as you and taehyung transferred groceries into your apartment, all you could think was that you and him seemed to be having trouble parting ways.

as taehyung brought the last bag into your apartment, you watched and waited. he was on his way out, before he turned around and faced you again. "hey, do you want to hang out tomorrow?"

you looked at him, feeling your heart burst. you felt nervous, and smiled at him. "yeah, i do."

taehyung grinned. "great. should i get your number then?"

you nodded and he pulled out his phone, punching in your number. "alright." he whispered to himself.

you laughed. "you know, it's funny that we're doing this as if we aren't neighbors who live next to each other."

taehyung stared at you for a while, his eyes soft and loving. his response was a bit delayed, "yeah, it is."

you blushed once again, before sighing. "alright then. i'll see you tomorrow."

taehyung stuttered, "r-right. yeah, see ya."

he hurried into his apartment, closing the door behind him. you closed your own door and locked it. you looked at your pile of groceries. your mind was on taehyung. you felt like you could scream and squeal out of happiness, but you knew that if you did, taehyung would most likely hear, as you share a wall with him and the apartment had very thin walls.

you bought this apartment not knowing what to expect. hell, you were desperate. even after you arrived at your new living space, you didn't expect a hot and adorable boy by the name of kim taehyung to be your neighbor. you were in love, and he seemed to be in love with you. you now had a date with him tomorrow, and he was so unpredictable, you didn't know what to expect.

[lunatens]

pepper partners

part 1/?

word count: 1722

genre: fluff

pairing: reader x johnny (minor ten x jaehyun on the side)

summary: you weren’t planning on joining your high school’s co-ed volleyball team, but when you find out the one and only johnny seo is playing, you can’t help but be grateful ten was able to convince you to join afterall.

~~~

you jolt awake to the familiar yet unpleasant tune of your alarm blaring from your phone, which is sitting on your bedside table. you reach over blindly to turn it off, taking a moment to lie in the darkness. you groan and rub your hands over your face, wondering why you ever thought joining the co-ed volleyball team was a good idea--if your best friend, ten, hadn't bribed you with the promise of rides to and from school every day for the rest of the year, you probably wouldn't have joined. you roll over and check your phone, noticing 3 missed calls from ten. you sigh, holding the phone to your ear and calling him back while you slide out of bed and make your way to the light switch. after a few rings, he finally picks up.

"y/n!!! you better be ready to go!! i'm coming to get you in five minutes." his voice (way too loud for this time in the morning) bursts into your ear. you hold your phone out to the side a little in an effort to save your eardrums, squinting as you flick on the light.

"what?? i thought you said we were leaving at 6:45! i'm still in my pajamas, ten!" you reply--you were expecting at least another 15 minutes to get ready.

"well, i changed my mind. we're going early. a little birdie--taeyong--told me that that cutie jaehyun is playing this year, and i NEED to see that boy asap. plus, he's friends with that tall kid you like--maybe he's playing too! all the more reason to go. EARLY."

"first of all, i'm pretty sure jaehyun doesn't know you exist. second of all, for the millionth time, I DON'T LIKE ANYONE! all i said was the tall kid from our english class is cute. that does NOT mean i like him, ten. and third of all--fine, we can go early. but only if you pick up lisa too."

"okay, FIRST of all...you don't know that! and even if it's true, it's about to change. second of all, y/n, i know you, and i also sit beside you in english and can see you doodling his name all over your notes. and third of all, of course we can pick her up! see you in 5, honey!"

the phone clicks as ten hangs up. you hadn't felt nervous for practice until now, but all of a sudden butterflies begin to swarm in your stomach. you're not sure what changed, but you swallow your nerves as you pull sweatpants over your shorts and tug a hoodie on over your old t-shirt from provincial championships last season. you slide your feet into sandals and snatch your volleyball bag and your backpack--including a set of clothes to wear for the school day after practice--on your way to the kitchen. just as you're reaching into the box of granola bars, you hear a car horn beep aggressively from the driveway. you cringe as your dog, ruby, starts barking. you send ruby a death glare as you grab an apple from the fruit basket, then rush out the door and into the passenger seat of ten's car.

"took you long enough! let's roll," he says, reversing out of the driveway and making his way around the block to lisa's house. you always wonder how he has so much energy in the morning.

the rest of the short drive to school is filled with ten and lisa chattering back and forth over the radio while you press your forehead against the window and try (to no avail) to fall back asleep.

"ugh, y/n, stop being so edgy, there's cute boys awaiting!" ten says as he shakes you awake. you decide to ignore his comment, climbing out of the car and trailing behind your two friends towards the gym.

you turn down the hallway to the changeroom and see two boys talking quietly as they fill up their water bottles. your cheeks flush red as you recognize one of them as johnny from your english class.

"see you in the gym folks, i have a water bottle that needs filling--immediately." ten states as he makes a beeline for the water fountain, where you now notice jaehyun (who's been ten's hallway crush since he transferred to your school at the beginning of the semester two weeks ago) standing beside johnny. ten turns to give you a wink, before making conversation with the two boys (mostly jaehyun).

***

you and lisa walk into the gym, where small groups of people stand scattered around. you recognize pretty much everyone from either the senior girls or guys volleyball teams, although there's a couple juniors you don't know who were invited to play. ten is still chatting to jaehyun, who is smiling down at your best friend with rosy cheeks. you roll your eyes--ten never fails to catch his target. you giggle to yourself as you watch johnny stand there awkwardly as jaehyun and ten continue talking, seemingly having forgotten johnny's presence. he turns to scan the gym, and you lock eyes with him for a second before you turn to look away, cheeks even more red than before. you adjust your hair, then turn to look at the list of teams that are signed up:

team #1:

ten (LIB)

lisa (LS)

lucas (LS)

jungwoo (S)

taeyong (RS/captain)

y/n (MB)

doyoung (MB)

  team #2

chuu (LIB)

jaehyun (LS)

yves (LS)

mark (S)

rose (RS)

johnny (MB/captain)

yuta (MB)

  team #3

jaemin (LIB)

jeno (LS)

haechan (LS)

yeojin (S)

renjun (RS)

olivia (MB/captain)

jisung (MB)

  you and lisa chat for a bit about the lineups, excited to get started, until coach lee blows his whistle. everyone in the gym hustles over to where he's standing by the net, silently waiting in excitement and anticipation for the beginning of the season.

"alright, welcome to the first day of co-ed volleyball! you all finally pestered principal kim enough to let us have a team, so here we are. seniors, good to see your faces again--welcome to a couple of our new players, jaehyun and rose, we're excited to have you. juniors, even though you're not gonna be in the final cut for the team, i hope you still have fun while you're here. you all will be in these three teams for the next month for any team-based drills we do, and for games we play at the end of practice. i hope you can all still bond with each other on the court and off the court, as at the end of the month, i'll be choosing 10 of you to take to the championships. so you'd best show me what you've got! let's get started; warm up with some pepper in partners."

coach lee blows the whistle, and everyone scatters, grasping at their nearest friend. you spy ten and jaehyun joined at the hip as they go to get a ball, leaving johnny behind. johnny smirks and rolls his eyes as his friend walks away with yours, then turns awkwardly looking around the gym, rubbing the back of his neck and biting his lip. you feel lisa nudge you from behind.

"go, silly! now's your chance!" she whispers eagerly.

"no! then you won't have a partner!" you whine in response.

"pshhh, i'll be fine! that new girl needs a partner anyways, i'll join her." lisa says as she jogs over to rose.

you hear a gentle cough from behind you, and you turn around to see johnny standing there with a ball.

"do you, uh, have a partner? mine kinda ditched me, haha," he says, looking over to where ten and jaehyun are warming up together.

"you do now! sorry about ten, he's pretty social." you respond, surprised at how calm you are in the face of possibly the cutest boy you've ever seen. johnny laughs, and motions for you to follow him to the other side of the court.

"i'm johnny--i think you're in my english class?" he says; you're surprised he noticed you.

"yeah! i'm y/n, it's nice to officially meet you, johnny." you say, sticking your hand out. johnny shakes it, a warm smile growing on his face.

***

the rest of the practice flies by; mostly it's just basic drills to get everyone back into the rhythm. any time there's a partner drill, your heart flutters as johnny immediately turns to you (one time, ten sees and sticks his tongue out at you then gives you a thumbs up). before you know it, practice is over and you're doing cool down stretches. you and lisa go to find ten; you spot him sitting on the bench beside jaehyun. the two boys have their phones out--honestly, you aren't even surprised ten's got his number already.

"ten! let's go!" you call to him.

"one second, y/n!" he replies, turning back to jaehyun quickly before jogging over to you, a smug look on his face.

"guess who has a movie date for friday night," he boasts.

"ooh, are you going to see the new spiderman movie? i hear it's really good," you ask. before ten can reply you hear a deep voice from behind you.

"are you guys talking about the new spiderman movie? i've heard it's fantastic!" johnny pipes in.

"well, you can come with us on friday! be there or be square, i'll pick you up at 6," ten replies.

"cool, i can't wait!" johnny says, making eye contact with you the whole time. "see you in english!" he says, running off to meet up with jaehyun.

you turn to ten.

"what are you doing??" you question.

"setting you up with the love of your life, DUH" he responds.

"he probably just wants to see the movie with his friends! i don't know if he wants me there. plus, won't it be awkward with you and jaehyun on a literal date?"

"oh y/n, sometimes you can be so blind. trust me, it'll be fine. you guys'll practically be on your own date!" he gives you a look that says 'you don't have a choice in this'.

"fine," you agree. the three of you leave the gym and hit the changerooms, and although you won't admit it to ten, you've already started counting down the hours til friday.

~~~ 

ahhh!! here’s my first series!!! i’m not sure if anyone will find this interesting, but i’m planning on continuing it at least for a little bit. i’d love to hear people’s thoughts/feedback!! or suggestions/requests/ideas!! <3 hopefully the volleyball parts will make sense to people even if you don’t play

next

[ezatluba]

Pandemic Pet Therapy: What's So Special About A Critter Friend?

November 22, 2020

Karen McCullough never wanted a dog. "It would have tied me down, and I had a great, very busy life," she says.

Her career as a keynote speaker at conferences has taken her across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. "My job is to get everybody engaged, excited and ready to network," she says.

McCullough loved the travel — "cool hotels and not worrying about having anything at home," she says. "I don't even have any live plants in the house." As she sailed into 2020, she expected her best year yet.

Then "BOOM" — everything stopped, including conventions and conferences. The pandemic "took my life away," she says.

Karen McCullough found a way to alleviate the loneliness that was starting to sink in. "Rosie has been like this magnet; she's attracting me to people and it's good."

Karen McCullough

Living alone in Houston, she started feeling the stress — anxious and worried about money. On top of that, she couldn't see her three grandkids who live nearby. "I'm such an extrovert and it's just been crazy and hard."

The surprising solution, for McCullough and many other Americans in 2020, was often furry, with four feet: a pet dog or cat.

First, her son and his wife adopted a puppy. McCullough decided to do the same, quietly hoping that if she got a puppy, the grandkids "would want to come and visit me in the front yard." On Labor Day, 8-week-old Rosie, a Wheaten terrier, arrived.

Rosie opened a new world to McCullough — within just a few blocks. Strangers became new friends. "I know all my neighbors now," she says. "We have a routine and she gets me out there; we walk three times a day!"

The loneliness that had started to sink McCullough as the pandemic wore on is gone. "Rosie has been like this magnet; she's attracting me to people and it's good."

And there's some science to back up McCullough's feelings. Research from Australia finds the "pet factor" does bring people together in helpful ways: Pet owners are more likely to get to know people, form friendships and get the social support humans need.

Psychologist Lori Kogan, a professor of veterinary medicine at Colorado State University and chair of the Human-Animal Interaction Section of the American Psychological Association, has been cataloging stories like McCullough's during the pandemic.

Kogan and colleagues from Washington State University, University of San Francisco and Palo Alto University did two anonymous online surveys via social media to current pet owners — one regarding cats and another asking about dogs. The surveys asked participants to share their thoughts, experiences and concerns amid the pandemic.

They found a significant number of people reported feeling they have less social support from friends and family now than before COVID-19 spread across the U.S. For many, their pets have played a critical role in helping reduce feelings of depression, anxiety, isolation and loneliness in these tough months.

Pets, Kogan says, are "a respite from the difficulties of life" and provide their human companions "an outlet to give." And while relationships with friends and family can be fraught, she says, "relationships with animals are simple."

Here are more stories of pet owners discovering animal companions can be the unsung therapists of these difficult times:

Get up and get moving: Dr. Gregory Brown and Kai

Dr. Gregory Brown is a psychiatrist in Austin, Texas, and a spokesperson for the American Psychiatric Association. Brown says he has been seeing an increase in anxiety, insomnia and depression among patients he has counseled in the past six months. "People are definitely dealing with economic stressors, a hard time with money, and with just being idle" — not getting out of the house much.

A dog "nudging at your foot or barking because they want to go for a walk" can be a real motivation every day to get out and get moving, he says. And that's good emotionally as well as physically. "We know physical activity can help reducedepression."

Kai has kept Dr. Gregory Brown out and about with a 6:30 a.m. wake-up call ... "when she's not busy eating up my wife's favorite pair of shoes."

Gregory Brown

Though Brown says he's a fairly active guy, he found the reduced structure of these pandemic days meant he was getting to bed a bit later, getting up a bit later and sometimes letting his exercise schedule slide.

Then, about a month ago, he and his wife decided to adopt a 10-month old golden retriever/lab mix named Kai. Now, every day starts with her wake-up bark around 6:30 a.m., returning some sense of structure to their lives.

And Brown says that he spends at least some time outside daily, jogging and walking and that helps make the days seem "a bit more normal."

"She's just been a joy to be around when she's not busy eating up my wife's favorite pair of shoes," he says.

Breaking through the isolation: Karol Kullberg and Molly

As a psychiatric social worker in Rockville, Md., Karol Kullberg has spent most of her work life in a small room, listening to patients face to face — work she finds rewarding and fulfilling, she says. When the pandemic hit, she was able to work from home — a blessing in some ways, but not others. Offering therapy online, via telehealth appointments, has been convenient, Kulberg says, but she also finds it isolating and somewhat alienating.

"It's intensely stressful — I think for everyone," she says. "Certainly for patients as well as therapists, who weren't particularly technologically adept or even comfortable using Zoom or other platforms."

Reading patients' facial expressions and body language can be more difficult she says, and without colleagues to talk to in between therapeutic sessions, "you're very aware that you are suddenly working in a vacuum." Kullberg doesn't say she's lonely. She says it's more like being "profoundly alone."

By the end of March when it became clear that staying at home would be the norm for quite a while, she decided to adopt a dog.

Enter Molly, a 5-year-old terrier mix who "came right into my home, was perfectly well-behaved, perfectly housebroken, and even welcomed my cat — who didn't return the favor."

For Kullberg, Molly was "like getting something you didn't know you missed; you forgot how wonderful it was to have something you didn't notice until all of a sudden it's there again."

She finds Molly an extremely comforting presence, "like having somebody's arm around your shoulder without having to say anything. Sort of like a dance partner you don't have to teach; they just figure it out."

Today, Kullberg says she no longer feels alone. "I get up in the morning and Molly curls up in her bed and we go to work."

A source of joy amid grief: Peggy Pacy & Emmet

"My glorious chow chow mix died at the end of January and I was heartbroken" says Peggy Pacy, who initially planned to let some time pass before getting another dog. But, "a heart needs to love," she says, "and I started looking."

At the end of February she adopted a large and fluffy Great Pyrenees mix — she named him Emmet. It was just before lockdown in Washington, D.C., where Pacy lives and works as an independent producer of commercials. Emmet arrived "just in time" says Pacy, who lives alone. "No question, it's very easy to go down the dark path in the world we're in today."

Early on in the pandemic, the first three minutes of every morning would start with a "mild panic" she says. But then a "giant white paw lands on my shoulder and I wonder if it is possible to literally feel serotonin," she says, referring to one of the neurotransmitters thought to help stabilize mood.

Emmet spends much of his time chasing flies, unearthing clothing Pacy had forgotten she owned, and making friends with neighborhood kids — just watching him is diverting, she says. "All day long the kids drop by and yell for Emmet."

Even in times of despair, Emmet makes a difference. "I'm standing in my front hall, lost in thought ... wondering if I will ever work again, if my small business loan will be approved, if I will have to sell my house. And then, gazing in the direction of my couch, Emmet decides that a long slow back flip to the floor is in order." His antics pierce the grief and remind her to stay in the moment, she says — " be grateful for what I have."

Pacy has a Post-it on her door that says: "I have health insurance; my cabinets are full of food; I have a home; I have Emmet. This makes me happy."

A new focus to replace anxiety: Devin Green and Taco

Taco has kept Devin Green busy and her anxiety at bay. "I'm consumed with him more than the worries in my mind."

Devin Green

Devin Green, a small business consultant and life coach, who lives in Portland, Maine, started looking for a dog to adopt in May. After many false starts, a close friend helped her find the dog of her dreams, a miniature goldendoodle (a cross between a golden retriever and a small poodle).

Taco has "changed my life in ways I never expected," says Green. As he grows, his puppy fur is getting replaced by adult dog fur which can get matted. So Green brushes him nightly, giving — and recieving — needed physical touch. "If I'm having a bad day, he's very warm and snuggly."

She sometimes struggles with anxiety, she says, and soothing the pup's needs helped her get beyond that. "I'm consumed with him more than the worries in my mind," she says. "My brain space is now taken up by something far more productive than it used to be."

Green says she used to panic a little if she didn't have plans for the day, but Taco has introduced her to the neighborhood and helped her feel more a part of the community. Every morning, they walk to the nearby fire station — a big loop, Green says. "The fire station is his favorite place."

Taco runs inside and "loves on all the firefighters and they love him back. I had never even spoken to any of them before but now we're all buddies."

Choosing the right pet for you: advice from the "falcon whisperer"

As executive director of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital in the United Arab Emirates, veterinarian Dr. Margit Gabriele Muller is known as her nation's "falcon whisperer." But her love for animals is thoroughly inclusive. She is the author of a new book, Your Pet, Your Pill: 101 Inspirational Stories About How Pets Can Lead You to a Happy, Healthy and Successful Life.

A falcon wouldn't be the right choice for everyone, Muller notes. "Falcons are good for people who can be extremely dedicated, adhere to strict time schedules and have a great understanding of the falcons' special needs and requirements," she says, noting that dogs, too demand the right kind of human companion.

"It's of utmost importance to find the right pet according to the person's personality, as well as personal circumstances and environment," she says. "This means if you don't have much time and you live in a very small apartment, a dog is not suitable for your lifestyle, and a cat, bird, rabbit or fish would be better for you."

All pets — dogs, cats, fish, rabbits, birds, snakes and, yes, falcons — can help people overcome numerous emotional and physical challenges, Muller says. And certainly during the global pandemic, when people are feeling locked down, isolated and lacking in human connection, pets can make a world of difference.

Just playing with a pet for five minutes or petting the animal for five minutes can reduce blood pressure and increase hormones associated with contentment research suggests.

Oxytocin, sometimes called the "bonding hormone" or "cuddle hormone," is oftenreleased with a gentle touch. And it's not just humans who benefit from increased oxytocin levels — dogs do too.

When you develop a bond with an animal companion, Muller says, you often get someone who "loves you unconditionally, who is there for you 24 hours a day, who doesn't mind how you look today," she says. "They are just there to love you and this brings a tremendous benefit for the entire family."

Withdrawn kids may particularly benefit. One family, she says, told her their son was always on the computer or iPad before they brought home a pet. Now he doesn't stop talking — about the pet.

"Once you plant that seed in children and they love animals and learn how to care for them, they learn responsibility," she says — skills that will prove incredibly valuable as they grow up.

[moisfrenchadventure]

This is a song that has always made me tear up when I sing it, but I had no idea what the words meant!

Auld Lang Syne literally translated means old long since, or days gone by. Being an empath the poignancy is not lost on me: the days that have gone, those that we have loved and lost, bringing in the New Year remembering them, but looking to the future.

I sat in my sunny garden yesterday, in the crisp cold air, and wrote my journal for the first time in a long time, and in it I wrote…

‘Dylan, and Oscar, and Sophie died this year. Sometimes our garden seems full of memories, of the ghosts of all the animals who were running around in it. Let us not forget  Tilly Kitten   who was also here then.

Then there were the chickens, the last girly died this year and Claudy the Cockerel was found a new home and a new girlfriend. Our garden became very quiet when they left, no more clucking, no more barking from Wiglet.

But life reminds us constantly that change is the only constant, and all we can do is evolve with it; carry our sadness for those who loved us, and who we loved but now we can no longer see or talk to. I have a strong feeling that there is a contingent here of animals passed, all waiting for Molly, whose time is imminent. She sits on my lap now, whenever possible, and I treasure every moment. Here she is, on my lap, early this morning.

For me the ending of the year and the ringing in of the New is a time for reflection, I don’t anticipate, as I know that life is doing the driving. I don’t look to the New Year believing it will bring me untold joy, happiness and wealth; I just know that it will bring me what I need (even if I don’t realise it at the time).

Last year we started the New Year not knowing if this was still the life for us. We believed that life would show us the way     and it did: we went forward with our own business and used all we had learnt in our careers, and it has been the best year yet, where work has been concerned.  We are still broke but we are the ones in charge of our lives p, and for the first time ever since living here we go into the New Year with some work. Where emotions are concerned we have learnt a lot this year, mainly remembered the people that we really are, we had lost them somewhere along the way, their back now.

I wrote how I finally came back to being me; and as a result my other blog has reached over 110,000 views in just over a year. This blog has more followers and views than ever before and I got my book published. The response from people all over the world has been so encouraging and I haven’t really started to fully promote it yet. So all good. I have met some wonderful people via cyber-space, who have truly inspired me at times.

But we don’t hold on too tight any more. That is the lesson we learnt this year: don’t hold on to something so tight you stop other things coming to you, or you stay stuck. A lesson from the Tao but also a fantastic lesson in Mark Nepo’s book of awakening:

To catch monkeys holes would be cut in coconuts just big enough for a monkey to get his hand through, then the coconut would be filled with rice to entice the monkey. The hungry monkey would come along and put his hand in the coconut, but of course once his hand was made into a fist to hold the rice he could not get it back out of the coconut. The monkey would be so caught up in the food in the coconut he would not let go of the rice, and forget that other food would come along; and the monkey’s who would not let go, were the monkey’s who were caught. All this year RD and I have used the analogy to ‘not hold on too tight’ and today we read this particular chapter for the first time, and smiled.  It’s been our lesson and life has confirmed that to us as the year closes.

It has been a productive year, it has been a happy year, and it has been a sad year because of the beautiful animals who have left us. So at the end of the year I want to pay homage to those who left my life (and the lives of others, leaving them bereft).

In January I wrote how a friend had helped me make my decisiton to stay and try for longer. He was someone I had known for over fourty years. We were not constantly in touch, had lost touch at times, but he was always a kind man, who truly cared. When he died suddenly in March after a short illness I was shocked, and his words rang in my ears: about how lucky I was to live here in the peace and quiet, about how anywhere has it downsides. Of course it does, he was right, and I think about him often, I will be raising my glass tonight to Rod Claricoats, I have no doubt he will be toasting the New Year with my mum.

Sophie Loafy. Sophie died suddenly in July we took her in for four years she had a difficult life but for the last years of her life  she was loved, more than ever before. RD still misses her riding on his shoulder as works in the garden.

    Osky Bosky as I loved to call him. His name was Oscar and he was a loved and faithful companion to a very dear friend of ours. A big cuddly apricot  toy poodle, who was always allowed his coat as nature intended. Oscar was diagnosed with cancer at a time that his dad was told a dear friend was also dying. I believe that dog held on to give his loved owner time to grieve before he had to leave him also. Whenever they visited or met us for walks (Oscar got on well with all the Welshies) he would be so genuinely pleased to see you. Smiling with his apricot lips, and looking so cute with that apricot nose. It always seems strange when his dad visits now, and Oscar is not with him. I picture him bounding round the garden with Dilly Dyls, smiling, as he always did. A truly beautiful boy.

Dyly Dyls, the little Welshie who was taken too soon. She blew in like a whilrwind, a little tornado running like the wind in our garden with her ears flapping. She went on a new adventure but sadly died soon after. Even now I cannot believe she has gone, and it still brings tears to my eyes. She was so loved, and has left a gaping hole in her mum’s heart.

And Molly? She is still here but it really is her last days, and we carry her and give her cat soup, and just cuddle her. I will cry, but I know it is time.

So add to that my mum and dad, and there is a wonderful New Years party going on up there, with all the animals we have loved and lost ruuning around young and free.

We have learnt that there has to be a balance, in everything, Good and bad, life and death, our love for animals reminds of that.

A mellow New Year, not Happy because there will be sadness as well as happiness. I believe that a mellow New Year filled with kindness, even if it is only you remembering to be kind, will be the best New Year. Just remember don’t hold on too tight.

Rosie

For Auld Lang Syne This is a song that has always made me tear up when I sing it, but I had no idea what the words meant!

[the-dunwich-horrors]

I really love the dogs I live with so here's a long ass post about them.

First we have Jory who's kinda orangey small and very fluffy. She has anxiety and gets really scared really easily. She knows all the hiding spots in the house but despite her fear of people will let me cuddle around her when I'm anxious. She's super soft and her nickname is the bed troll because she hides under my roommates beds and wrestles any dogs that try to get on the bed. But she's been getting better and will come pat at you know when she wants attention and asks to sit with us.

We have an older black dog called Jack Jack. She's eleven years old and was severely abused for much of those eleven years. She was kenneled all the time so now when she gets stressed or scared , which is often, she will pace around the available space in circles. She has hip dysplasia and will nip if you touch her hip or rub her tummy below her ribcage. She barks a lot and is second in command. She loves head scratches and if she's in the right mood cuddles. She's a diva and crosses her front paws when she lies down.

Then we have our rust colored wiener dog, Rosie. She's also eleven and was also abused alongside jack. Because of this she's over protective and will bite. She doesn't want to hurt anyone and is really sweet but when she's scared she gets aggressive. She runs the pack here. She also decided to adopt me. She will remind me to get up and will make me follow her to the kitchen so I'll eat. She never lets me out of her sight especially when my anxiety gets nasty. When I shower she opens the door and will sit right outside the shower til I peek my head out and let her know I'm okay. She loves belly rubs and anytime we walk by she flops onto her back and wiggles around until we rub her tummy. She knows how to open gates so we’ve given up using them cause she will break a gate if I'm on the other side of it. I love her and she helps a lot of my anxiety especially at night cause I know she will keep an eye on me and won't let me get hurt.

There's Rosco who's Rosie's littermate. He's black and brown and really fat. You'd think as the only male he'd be alpha but not by a long shot. He was in the same situation as the other two elders and like Rosie reacts violently. Tho he never moves unless Rosie tells him to. He also likes belly rubs and cuddles and just about any interaction. If you aren't being fast enough to let them go outside to potty or to come inside he‘ll grab your pant leg and drag you. He's basically a huge teddy bear.

There's also little Meho who is the youngest. She's super hyper and lovey dovey but panics when she's left alone. She's goin through a hold me phase and cries if you aren't always holding her. And by cries I mean loud whining and literal tears. I have to hold her in one arm and go around the house doing stuff with the other arm because she's super loud otherwise. Meho is really good and stopping panic attacks. She’ll worm her way into your lap and wiggle and lick until you pay attention to her. This may not sound like a great strategy but it works really well because she takes your attention completely away from whatever is causing the panic attack and won't leave you until you're totally calm.

These dogs are by no means perfect but neither is anyone else in this house so it works. They've all been a large part in my recovery process because I've also been abused in the past and dealing with the repercussions of it. They're amazing dogs that know how to help me and are better at reminding me to take care of myself than anyone else. We know that five dogs is a lot but they're all rescues and had to be taken in and most can't be put up for adoption.

IDK if there was a point to this post take it as you will. I still have a lot more to say about these guys but I figured this is already a hella long post.