#it's a bit overdone like the coffee shop au but also not

[hood-ex]

oooo what mafia au or mafia stories prompted the post??

I've read quiiite a lot of mafia boss fics throughout the years that contributed to such thoughts lolol buuut my thoughts were triggered today by a flower shop/mafia boss fic. It's an Ateez fic. I don't remember if you're into kpop or not, so not sure you'd have interest in it, but I'll send it to you if you are.

Honestly don't think I've ever read a mafia boss fic with Dick. Maybe a crime family fic with him and a few of the other bats. That was a longgg time ago though, don't even remember the story. I never really seek out fics where the bats are on the opposite side of the law, but if I happen to stumble across them, I'll take a look and see if they interest me.

No but in another fandom there was a mafia boss fic where the antagonist chopped off the SO's finger and sent it to the mafia boss in a box, and that's the type of shit that makes those fics so good.

[realcube]

YOU GOT: KEIJI AKAASHI 

matchup for @starlightte​

‘since i am already so stressed with acads, i like to chill at home & watch series, or spend hours in a cafe just chillin, prob scrolling through my phone and watching random videos! i just wanna be chill tbh LOL though i also like to travel from time to time, just having new adventures!! in such trips, i like taking lotsa lotsa photos and videos which i will later and edit to scrapbooks/travel vlogs/etc.’

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

♡ akaashi is probably stressed out too ngl- that’s why he enjoys hanging you with you so much, it helps him relax. he could honestly spend hours just sitting on the couch with you, watching a random tv show while procrastinating doing his school work lmao 

♡ but even then, he’s usually the first one to — begrudgingly — hop off the couch and head to his room to start studying, recommending that you do the same.

♡ omg ik this is overdone but akaashi + coffee shop AU!!

♡ like he probably met you in this one café that you were both regulars at. and once y’all start dating, whenever you’re down or stressed, he’ll take you to the same café for a quick drink and a chat :))

♡ akaashi loves travelling too- esp with you! he’s a bit camera-shy though so he’ll probably be the ones taking the photos of you lol. the only way you’ll ever get a pic of him is if you sneak one, or ask to take a selfie with him 

♡ also, after your trips he has so much fun scrapbooking with you- and he’s lowkey pretty good at it, like he has an eye for the colors and designs

♡ lmao he is kinda anticipating his retirement so he can just travel with you and spend his days scrapbooking away <33 

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

‘physical touch, quality time, and gifts. i am very affectionate to my partner and i won’t hesitate to make the first move HAHAH i can be clingy at times too, literally like a koala. though ofc, i also baby my s/o! will 100% spoil him with gifts too! so random gifts/treats with cheesy sticky notes or letters are common ^3^’

♡ yeesss bc bb akaaski needs someone who’ll make the first move 🙏 when y’all first start dating, he almost never initiates anything bc he’s afraid of making your uncomfy-

♡ he honestly doesn’t mind when you act clingy tbh, if anything he thinks it’s cute. like it makes him happy to think that you adore him so much that you actually want to be around him :)) and he makes sure that whenever you are being a lil clingy, he showers you with his affection!!

♡ ok so when you spoil him, he acts all nonchalant on the outside but on the inside he is screaming- it just makes him feel so loved and appreciated in a way he’s never felt before! and he tries his best to spoil you right back so it isn’t one-sided. 

♡ also the cheesy lil notes of encouragement you write him all go on this one corkboard in him room that hangs above his desk, so he can look at them and read them while studies, if he’s not feeling motivated. 

♡ he secretly writes you lil’ poems about how much he loves you but he’s too shy to show you them at first bc he’s not confident in his poetry ability but he might write you one for valentine’s day 👉👈

♡ idk if this is acts of service or gift-giving, but whenever you are fixated on studying and you seem really stressed —but akaashi doesn’t want to disturb you or ruin your momentum— he’ll do a coffee run on his own and buy you your favourite drink along with a sweet treat and deliver to you while you work

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵ 

‘star sign: libra sun, aries moon, sagi rising

fun fact: i used to compete in hip hop dance competitions back in hs but because i want to maintain my high grades, eventually, i stopped competing :<’

♡ akaashi is a sagittarius!! ‘the relationship of Libra and Sagittarius is in most cases a beneficent bond that allows these partners to develop their emotional, inner worlds and build their lives without negative influences.’

♡ if you told akaashi that, he’d definitely understand the decision you made bc he had to make a similar when he stopped pursuing volleyball to focus on his education

♡ but after you tell him, he’ll 100% ask you if you remember any moves and if you do, show him.

♡ and dw you’re a bit rusty bc akaashi will be in awe either way :o

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

for @starlightte​: i hope you liked it bb! i was thinking osamu at first but i said i would’ve give ppl their self-ships. then i thought bokuto but your hobbies were more compatible with akaashi-

[scheppke]

What are some tropes you like and hate?

🤔🤔🤔 HMMM well lets see from the top of my head...

Tropes I like are...The Reluctant Hero, gives Flavour, already gives nice drama and conflict on that alone. The Chosen One can be good too if a bit saturated in today’s media but it can provide a fun romp! Marriage of convenience/arranged marriage can be interesting in like. fanfics, lol. The Gruff Older Character Whose Life Is Changed by a Precocious Child is a flawless trope that should be used more often. Fake relationship, Body swap, Friends to Lovers, Soul mates, all nice. 

Love/friendship triumph all is good too because I’m a sap.

Pseudo-medieval Europe is one I both like and dislike. Its overdone, definitely, but I’ll admit its still a period and aesthetic I enjoy, lol.

Magic Realism is great and should be employed more

Tropes I don’t like are: 

The homogenous species... You have this whole species of aliens or whatever and you’re telling me they just have one language, the Alien Language? There is only one Alien Culture? For an entire species?? There isnt just The Human Language, there’s 6000+ languages. Come on, be a little creative! 

Ugly turned beautiful transformation boring, most often just stupid misogynist drivel anyway. Love triangle is infuriating, I’m Not Like Other Girls protagonist is cringey...

Dunno if this fits as a trope but Teen protagonists lmao. if they can be adults with nothing changed then make them adults! Also not sure if technically tropes but boring AUs in fanfiction. Grant it I dont like... any AU, practically lmao, theyre all boring. High school, coffee shop.... ugh. 

That’s all I can think of right now. Thanks for asking! 

[spectralscathath]

Skinny Vanilla Latte

Mikaela is the world's nicest customer, and Yuu's heart absolutely Does Not go 'doki doki' whenever he comes into the cafe for his standard order. Anyone who says otherwise is entirely incorrect. (Mikayuu but Coffee Shop AU)

Commissioned Mikayuu oneshot for @fyrecrackeruwu

Ao3 link, ff.net link

“Peppermint mocha, extra whip, for Lacus!” Yuichiro called out, trying to remember his customer service smile even though he knew his eyes said ‘I’ll kill you’ to every person in the café. Narumi just had to go and get a new job, like the traitorous bitch he was. Being a lifeguard wasn’t even a real thing.

Narumi’s absence left the Moon Demon Café down a barista, and because Shinoa and Kimizuki were banned from interacting with the general public, Yuu had been the only one they could shunt from the kitchen into front of house.

Fuck this job. If he didn’t need it so badly he’d have tossed his apron in Guren’s stupid face to get rid of the shitsmug smirk.

“Hi, welcome to the Moon Demon Café,” he turned to the next customer. “What can I-” oh my god. Don’t pause keep talking. “… I get you today?”

Holy SHIT someone call Heaven because an angel had gone missing. Seriously, the customer standing on the other side of the counter was the prettiest guy Yuu had ever seen. Not to be corny on main, but this was the first time Yuu had ever thought ‘eyes like sapphires, hair like spun gold’ had ever felt like actually applicable metaphors for someone.

“A skinny vanilla latte, please?” Pretty Boy said with the utmost politeness, and Yuu remembered that breathing existed and so did brain functions.

“Of course, can I interest you in any of our specials today?” He put on his best grin, writing down the coffee.

“No thank you, just the coffee.” Pretty Boy kept smiling, already having his card ready to pay because clearly this guy was Mr Perfect Customer.

“Sure thing, can I get a name for this order?” He barely held back from tacking a pet name onto the end, but he managed. Someone get him a medal.

“Mikaela. Mika works though, please don’t try spell ‘Mikaela’.” Pretty Boy- Mika’s- smile became slightly glassy, with the wartorn eyes of someone who’d had consistent misspellings of their name throughout their life.

“Mika it is,” Yuu grinned at him and scrawled it down. “I’ll have that ready for you in a jiffy.” Why the fuck did he say ‘jiffy’.

Mikaela snorted, bringing a hand up to cover his smile. “Sure thing.”

Yuu smiled and started up the coffee grinder, his cheer instantly evaporating away when he heard the sound of an empty grinder. Where were the coffee beans kept again? Shinoa better not have moved their location to fuck with him.

“It’ll be just a sec,” he forced a grin at Mika, getting a shrug in return. Customer seemed chill, cool. He reached under the counter to find empty air, instantly ducking down to check. Nothing but coffee residue from the bags. Welp.

“Hey, Kimizuki?” He yelled at the back.

“What?!”

“Where’d the coffee get moved?”

“You think I know?! Figure it out yourself, dumbass! I’m cooking!”

Yuu’s eye twitched and he counted to ten in his head to prevent himself from leaping through the overpass to wring Kimizuki’s neck. “Of course,” he grumbled. “Let me just pull some coffee beans out of my ass, that’s how we run things here.”

There was a soft chuckle and Yuu blanched, realising that shitfuck his sarcastic grumbling might have been a little too audible. He whipped around. “Uh- sorry, I didn’t mean that.”

Mika hid his laughter behind his hand again, blue eyes glittering like sapphires. “No no, it’s fine. Don’t worry.”

Yuu relaxed a little bit, kinda starstruck by the mirthful twinkle in those eyes. “I’ll just find you the coffee, give me a moment.” He spun around, hunting through every cabinet he could until he managed to find a dark roast with ‘hi Yuu’ scrawled on it in purple glittery ink. Shinoa and her fucking gel pens.

He started making the coffee properly this time, mentally promising that he would commit first-degree murder and get away with it the minute Shinoa showed her rat face again. He waited for the coffee machine to do the job and wrote Mika’s name on the takeaway cup, pausing before thinking to himself ‘fuck it’ and adding his phone number. He was gonna take the shot, especially since Mr Gorgeous had laughed at his sarcasm.

He finished putting it all together and smiled as he handed it over. “Skinny vanilla latte for Mika.”

“Thank you,” Mika grinned and pulled out a cup sleeve, slipping it onto the cup and completely hiding Yuu’s number. Yuu’s smile cracked. Fuck.

“Uh-” But Mika was already walking away after dropping change in the tip jar.

“Thank you!” He waved goodbye, the door closing behind him with a little jingle.

“You’re… welcome.” Goodbye gorgeous. Guess Yuu’d never see him again.

-------------

It was with great surprise that Yuu did in fact see Mika again, this time over Mitsuba’s shoulder as she did the ordering and customer talking while he just made coffee after endless coffee. Fuck rush hour holy shit.

He tried to catch Mika’s eye in-between frothing up milk and shaking cocoa powder over a cappuccino, green catching and locking with blue for the barest second before Mika smiled widely and gave him a little wave, a fancy-looking camera hanging around his neck. “Hi Yuu. Good luck with the rest of your shift, I hope it calms down a bit.”

“What, this? It’s no problem!” Yuu bragged, before he caught the side of his wrist on the milk spout and bit back a curse. Always with the burns.

“See you next time.” Mika grabbed his coffee, oblivious to Yuu’s plight, and walked out the door, again emptying some coins into the tip jar before he left.

Mitsuba turned to Yuu, blonde twintails bouncing with the movement. “You know that guy? He’s the nicest customer I’ve had yet. I hope he becomes a regular.”

“Yeah.” Yuu nodded. “Me too.”

------------

Mika did, in fact, become a regular. Which was awesome.

Every Wednesday and Friday like clockwork he’d show up, order his skinny vanilla latte to have there, pick a booth, and do stuff on his laptop. It was pretty cool, aside from the fact that Yuu couldn’t write terrible pick-up lines on the latte glasses.

That was Plan A of ‘Operation: get Mika’s number’ thwarted.

Plan B was to write it on the napkins, but then the problem was that Mika didn’t order food. Currently Yuu was on Plan C, which was Plan B but better.

Mika walked in with his laptop bag and his camera-holding thingie, waiting patiently in line until he was at the counter. “Hi Yuu.”

“Hey Mika. The usual?” Yuu gave him a charming grin.

“That’d be great, thank you.” Mika beamed. It was really pretty.

Yuu had to take a second to recover.  “Easy, one usual coming up. Do you want to try a muffin to go with it? On the house, between you and me.”

Mika looked like he was considering it and for a moment Yuu’s hopes were rising, rising higher- “Thank you for the offer, but I already ate. Just the coffee, please.” And down those hopes fell, dashed against the rocks and crumpled like wretched Lucifer, cast from Heaven into the pits of hell.

“Sure thing. Give me a shot if you need a refill.”

“Will do.” Mika smiled at him, paid, and pottered off to go take a seat.

Yuu watched him go, noticing that he was wearing thigh-high boots what the fuck that wasn’t fair. That was illegal, that had to be illegal.

“Uh, sir? Sir? Can I order now?” Someone rang the bell and Yuu snapped back to reality, looking at the man in the- what the fuck was that a fucking cat? It looked like this man had lopped off the skull of a white tiger and mounted it on his head what the actual fuck. Yuu really hoped it was fake, he desperately fucking prayed.

Okay, goodbye Mika, hello Crazy Customer of the Day #309.

------------

“Afternoon, Mika, the usual?” Yuu grinned at him, the café a bit quieter than usual. Maybe this time he could get a good conversation in while making Mika’s coffee.

“Yep, and also an English Breakfast tea, no sugars. I hope that’s not too much trouble.”

“None at all. You meeting a friend here?” He hoped it wasn’t a date. His attempts to try give Mika his number through shitty pick-up lines could not be foiled so easily.

“You could say that.” Mika smiled cheerfully, offering his card. “On debit, please.”

“No prob. He here yet?” Yuu looked around, not spotting any new faces.

“He said he’d be by in a few minutes. I’m surprised there’s not a rush, normally this place is quite busy. I thought getting a table would be harder.” Mika looked quite concerned at that.

Yuu waved it off as he finished putting in the docket. “It’s pre-midterms week. Everyone’s panic-studying, ordering pizza in, all that stuff.”

Mika chuckled. “I guess it’s a good thing I’m on top of my studies then, or else I might have had to miss out on the best coffee on campus.”

“Wouldn’t want that.” Yuu shot him a finger gun and a wink, before wondering if he’d overdone it. Luckily, Mika seemed to find it hilarious by how his smile went supernova and his laugh bubbled out of him.

“Definitely not. Thanks again.” Mika placed some coins in the tip jar before he went to the booth he always tried to sit at, pulling out his phone once he sat down.

Yuu watched him go and set to work on making the drinks, wondering if he should try make a food platter. Counterpoint to him trying to woo Mika through good food was the fact that Kimizuki was a snotty bitch who would kill him if he gave out even more free food, crushes be damned.

And yeah, Yuu could totally throw down with Kimizuki, but Mitsuba would tattle about it if there was a fight and he’d probably lose his job.

He’d just have to make it the best damn coffee in existence.

He was halfway through making the tea when a man walked in, and Yuu had to stop and stare for a sec because while yes, he was very fucking gay for Mika, he still had eyes.

It was when the total hunk sat down in front of Mika that Yuu felt his bout of ‘he’s pretty’ turn into entirely rational jealousy. Was Mika dating this guy? It took a special kind of hotness to pull off a braid and dyed bangs, Yuu could admit.

He put on his customer service smile as he carried the drinks over, rampant envy broiling in his veins. He set drinks down, being extra delicate and polite with Mika’s coffee and blanking out the other guy entirely. “here you go, Mika. If you need anything else, don’t hesitate to ask.”

“Thanks. Crowley, this is Yuu, the barista I mentioned. Yuu, this is my dad, Crowley.”

Yuu practically heard the record scratch sound. Dad?

His next thought was along the lines of ‘oh thank god, Mika’s still possibly available’, and he was starting to realise he may be desperate. “Nice to meet you, Crowley.”

“You too,” Crowley grinned back with a touch of a British accent curling around the words, red eyes twinkling in amusement. “Thanks for the cuppa, luv.”

Yuu nodded before tuning him out again and giving another smile to Mika, going around to clear some other tables and already plotting his next move. Fingerguns and winks were now on the table. Mhuahahahaha.

--------------

“So, Mika, how’s the photography?” Yuu struck up a conversation as he cleared away the latte glass, taking advantage of the restaurant’s quiet to try and kickstart a deep meaningful conversation that he was absolutely going to fill with stupid jokes.

“it’s going well,” Mika smiled, saving the photoshop file on the screen. Clearly he’d lost a file once by accident and saved every program with the vigour of a spartan warrior ever since. “Are you interested in photography?”

“Actually, I’m studying psychology,” Yuu grinned. “Gonna go for a masters if I can once I’m done with this, then eventually you’ll have to address me as Dr Yuichiro.”

Mika’s smile sharpened slightly. “A PhD, huh?”

“Thinking about it.” He shrugged, trying to look humble when he was anything but.

“I think Dr Yuichiro’s got a good ring to it,” Mika smiled slyly, and oh no that wasn’t fair he was not allowed to make it sound so sexy.

“You’re the first. Kimizuki said I shouldn’t be allowed near people,” he grinned.

“And you work the register?” Mika laughed.

“Used to work in the back ‘til Narumi up and ditched us to ‘follow his dreams’,” Yuu told him conspiratorially. “I’m the only one of the kitchen staff who can reliably not scare away customers, so I got shunted here.”

“Maybe I should thank Narumi then, if he got me such a good barista,” Mika smiled. “You’re not scary at all.”

“How dare you, I’m terrifying,” he joked.

Mika scoffed, sapphire eyes sparkling. “As terrifying as my cat.”

Yuu let out a theatrical gasp, balancing his tray on one hand as he clutched his heart. “I think I liked you better when you were a polite customer.”

Mika blinked innocently at him, a challenge curling at the edges of his toothy grin. “Am I not anymore? Shame.”

What a brat. Yuu smirked at him in answer. “Well, I can’t be rude to customers, so I’m legally required to say no.”

“Only legally? Not morally?” Mika rested his chin in his hands as he leaned forward on the table, his photoshop file left entirely forgotten.

“Morally I can say whatever the hell I want as long as it’s not said in front of consumers.” Yuu winked.

“I guess you’re treading on thin ice right now, huh?” Mika bit his lip in affected concern, a prominent pearly canine catching for a moment, and Yuu’s mind went fucking blank. “Best be careful then. I wouldn’t want my favourite barista to go jobless. Right, Yuu-chan?~”

“R-right.” Yuu stuttered for a moment as he tried and failed to come up with literally any kind of flirty remark in reply, getting zero zilch zip from his flatscreening brain. Head empty no thoughts. “I’ll get you a refill, then?”

Mika’s smile screamed ‘cat who caught the canary’. “Don’t keep me waiting, Yuu-chan.”

He nodded and scampered back behind the counter, taking a minute to settle his racing heart. He heard a tapping sound and looked at the overpass into the kitchen, Kimizuki rapping a spatula on the counter.

“You’re pathetic.” Kimizuki’s scornful gaze was only amplified by the glasses he wore.

Yuu flipped him off. Fuck Kimizuki.

--------------

Yuu steeled his nerve as Mika walked in, refusing to let his crush pull one over on him again. Shinoa hadn’t let up since Kimizuki had told her, and Yuu was getting real tired of every whipcrack hand motion she was sending his way.

Mika smiled very innocently as he walked up to the counter, blue eyes bright and oh-so-breathtaking. “Hello, Yuu-chan.”

Little bastard.

“Good to see you too, Mika,” he grinned, resting his elbows on the counter. “Here for your usual, or are you thinking of switching it up?”

“Hm,” Mika tilted his head like he was considering it. “Now that you mention it, maybe I should try something out. How about something a little sweeter this time, Yuu-chan?”

“I think you’re sweet enough already,” Yuu flirted cheesily, watching Mika’s eyes widen a touch. That’s right, he could flirt too. All that ‘Yuu-chan’ business had no power over him now. “But sure, hit me up with what you want to try.”

Mika’s eyes sparkled delightfully, a challenge in his smile. “What’s your poison, then?”

Yuu raised a brow. “Well, I’m a black coffee kind of guy-”

“Because you grind so fine?” Mika interrupted him, like he didn’t just say the sexy pick up line for Yuu.

He gave Mika a Look, Mika merely batting his eyes back at him. “Double shot, nothing extra.” Maybe a bit of hazelnut when he really needed a pick-me-up. “That’s my coffee.”

“A ‘keep me up til two AM’ kind of guy, I like that.” Mika snickered.

“Stop it,” Yuu cautioned. Only he was allowed to use terrible puns like that.

“Make me,” Mika downright dared him, leaning over the counter a little more.

Yuu grabbed his chin and looked him in the eye, a spark of victory gleaming in his emerald gaze. “Keep it up and we’ll see where it gets you, gorgeous.”

Mika’s pupils dilated.

Yuu smirked at him and let go, picking up the docket sheet. “So, coffee order? You’re holding up the line, babe.”

Mika beamed, a smile like spun sunshine. “You know what, I think I’ll go for my usual after all. But maybe next time I’ll be a bit more daring.”

“Sure you will.” Yuu winked at him. “Later, beautiful.”

Mika laughed as he went to his favourite booth, Yuu internally high-fiving himself as he went. That went excellently.

Okay. Next time he’d ask him out. Next time for sure.

-------------

Today was the day. It was absolutely the day. Today for sure.

He handed Mika his coffee, got ready to say ‘I love you give me your number’, and chickened out when he realised that was absolutely not the way to ask and would instead plant him straight in ‘ultra creep’ territory.

Next week. Next week for sure.

------------

Yuu looked up from wiping down the counter, groaning as Shinoa came in. “Aren’t you meant to be on your day off?”

“Well, yes,” Shinoa smiled far too innocently, and Yuu’s hackles went up with suspicion. “But my dearest friend has been telling me ALL about his new favourite café, so I had to come by and see it.”

“Shinoa, you work here.” Yuu glared at her.

“He doesn’t know that,” she smirked, eyes sparkling mischievously. “I never say names, my darling Yuu.”

“I never agreed to you calling me that.”

“I don’t care.” She swanned up to the counter, propping herself up on her hands and tiptoes. Yuu scowled as she smeared her hands all over the area he’d literally just wiped clean. “Now gimme free coffee.”

“Fuck off. Employee discount only and even then I’m debating making you pay full price.”

“You’re so mean,” she pouted. “And when I’m buying for my friend as well. I think you’d like him, as much as a big meanie like you can like anyone.”

“I like people, I’m not Kimizuki,” he rolled his eyes. “Who’s your damn friend?”

“Oh, you might know him.” Her evil grin came back full-force, making her look downright demented. “Why don’t we see if you can guess from his order?”

“Do you know how many customers we have?” Yuu snapped a tea towel at her hands. “Hands off the counter, you’re probably infested with something.”

“Boo you.” She huffed and raised her hands, twiddling her fingers as she did. “Anyway, I want a multi-mega mocha milkshake with extra sprinkles and four shots of coffee. Oh! And whipped cream. Lots of it.”

“You’re going to die from a caffeine overdose and I will film it.” He wiped the counter down again out of spite.

“Maybe so, but at least I’ll die not hopelessly pining for some boy who takes, oh, what was it now?” She tapped her chin, looking deep in thought. He didn’t buy it for a second, especially not when she turned a vicious smile onto him. “Oh, right, skinny vanilla latte. Large.”

He wondered what the hell kind of expression he made that had her cackling like the wicked witch she was. “You gotta be joking.”

“Nope, and remember, on the cup for that one, my friend’s name is Mik-ae-la~” She sounded out the name, taking too much joy in it. “And make it fast, sweetcheeks, he’s going to be here soon.”

“I hate you with every blood cell in my body.”

“Make sure to put one of your cute little pick-up lines on that now,” she winked. “I’ve been reading them whenever I take out the trash. You’re so desperate it’s cute. Now shoo shoo, make me coffee, coffee man.” She flicked a hand at him, revelling in the power that a customer had. Shit like this was why she was banned from interacting with the general public at work.

“Sure thing. I’ll bring your drinks out to you,” he forced out through a smile, teeth grinding together as he gritted them. His eye may have twitched. He wasn’t sure.

She twirled around and skipped to her seat, spinning her favourite little trinket in her hand and making the green and orange lights on it flare up like she was at a rave. He tried to stare a hole through the back of her head before he set about making her the drinks she ordered.

Mika. Mika was friends with Shinoa. It was a testament to how in love he was with that guy that knowing Mika willingly hung out with Shinoa did not become an immediate turn off. He liked her too, sure, for whatever was left of his sanity’s sake, but she was still a pain.

He heard the little bell above the door jingle and glanced up, his heart skipping a beat when he saw Mika waving at him. “Hey Yuu,” Mika grinned, sounding way too proud of himself.

“Hey Mika,” he smiled back, unable to stop himself from getting all soppy at the edges. “Skinny vanilla?”

“You bet,” he winked at Yuu and sauntered off to sit with Shinoa, the two of them immediately starting up some sort of gossipy conversation judging by the hand motions and expressions.

He looked down at the drinks he was plating up, took a deep breath, and furiously scribbled a puntastic pick-up line and his number on the napkin under Mika’s coffee. This was it. He was going to do it.

“I am not a coward,” he muttered to himself, picking up the tray and carrying it over. “That was a multi-mega mocha milkshake with quadruple shots, extra whip, and sprinkles, and a large skinny vanilla latte?”

“She’s having the deathshake.” Mika pointed at Shinoa, who fluttered her eyelashes at him.

“No problem.” Yuu set the drinks down, trying to ignore how he could hear his heartbeat thundering in his eardrums like the bass beat of a good metal concert, keeping on a smile that was at this point reserved only for Mika. “Let me know if you need anything else.”

“Will do,” Mika reached for a packet of sugar and dumped it into his coffee, picking up his spoon before his hand froze, sapphire eyes tracing over the wickerscratch handwriting on the napkin.

Are you an espresso? Because you’re a shot to my heart. Call me?

Mika blinked up at him, Yuu frozen in place with the sort of calm that only came from blasting beyond panic and landing in the cool grey apathy of total nerve-ridden shutdown.

Shinoa snorted, the sound snapping Yuu out of his quiet reverie. “Uh- I mean, unless you want to kinda- not to be a creep or anything, but we could-” he paused when Mika put a finger over his lips.

Mika’s smile was soft as silk. “I like movies?”

“Movies. Right. I’m off at eight?” No way no way no way-

“Eight sounds great,” Mika’s grin became a bit toothier. “I’ll meet you out front?”

“It’s a date?” Yuu smiled hopefully.

Mika grabbed the front of his apron and kissed his cheek. “You bet it is.”

“Great!” He gave him a thumbs up, practically floating back towards the counter with a sunshine smile all his own.

He heard Kimizuki scoff from the overpass at him. “What coffee shop fanfiction bullshit is this?”

Yuu ignored him, too happy to even care. Best workshift ever.

[ao3feed-destiel]

Between soulmates, pie, coffee and parties

Read it on AO3 here!https://ift.tt/3ciKfgI

by yaboiCelsius

I know its so very overdone but I am bored so here it is: coffeeshop soulmate AU!

Cas works at a coffee shop close to campus, and knows all the students there. Dean just wants to pick up his brother like he promised. confusion ensues. --- Cas works mondays, thursdays, fridays and saturdays at the little coffee shop close to campus.

“Hello. Can i have a...uhm coffee with one sugar and a piece of cherry pie?”

He smiles, and Cas could have just fallen to the ground right then and there. Okay so maybe he has been watching a bit closer than usual, but can you blame him? the guy is fucking gorgeous! But Cas quickly recovered. --- When he walked into the small shop he notices one thing, and pretty much only that one thing. Or person, rather. The very handsome guy behind the counter smiles as polite “i’m talking to a customer” smile. But it suits him wonderfully. He smiles like nothing is wrong, and his smile might be able to achieve world peace, Dean thinks. He doesn’t have a name tag, which is odd. But it also makes sense. Why would Dean need to know his name to order coffee? But secretly, he kinda wishes that he had a name to go with the face.

Words: 901, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English

Fandoms: Supernatural

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: M/M

Characters: Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester, Castiel

Relationships: Castiel/Dean Winchester

Additional Tags: Work In Progress, My First Work in This Fandom, Soulmate-Identifying Marks, Alternate Universe - Soulmates, Coffeeshop AU, I know its overdone, Fluff, Tired Sam Winchester, Bad Parent John Winchester, Author Is Sleep Deprived, no beta we die like men, also there will be no smut, im ace, Other Additional Tags to Be Added, also in the relationships, POV Alternating, Swearing

Link: https://ift.tt/3ciKfgI

[kinkymagnus]

Without any offense intended, can I ask why you seem to care so much about who is the more dominant/submissive one in Alec and Magnus's relationship? You seem to reblog and talk about that kind of thing quite often so I was just curious why. I mean no offense, I'm just wondering :,)

imma put this under the cut because it got really wrong (also: i take no offense! questions are fine and you’ve been nothing but polite! it’s totally cool.)

honestly, i don’t really think like. magnus only ever subs and alec only ever doms. i don’t hate it when people write it the other way around.

i personally like sub magnus/dom alec for multiple reasons: i relate to magnus and project things i like onto him, i think magnus deserves to let go and be taken care of for once, i think alec’s characterization fits more with him being the dominant sort in bed, etc. there’s also an element of spite--we’ll get to that in a sec.

i mostly dislike dom magnus/sub alec because a) it’s overdone, and by overdone i don’t mean “aw how cliche” i mean “LITERALLY EVERYONE DOES IT AND THEY PUT IT IN EVERYTHING AND MENTION IT ALL THE TIME AND IT GETS REALLY OLD.”  b) it’s usually done badly--making alec ooc as fuck and into this like, homophobic stereotype of this infantile helpless baby? like, not just soft and vulnerable, but like, legit just this blushing virtuous damsel who can do no wrong and is obsessed with cock. stuff like that. not to mention magnus is often made into a cocky top with no feelings beyond “take care of alec” “accidentally hurt alec” and “fuck alec”, and i hate that and think it does both of them a disservice. not to mention it can get into making alec “the girl” which has sexist AND homophobic implications (ie being a girl =/= being submissive/soft/delicate/tiny/out of control/pretty/innocent, and being a bottom =/= any of those things AND =/= being a girl). not every fan or person who enjoys bottom/sub alec does this but it’s very common. 

mostly i just dislike the fandom’s attitude towards it (calling anyone who enjoys bottom/sub magnus names and insisting they’re problematic, even when they haven’t done anything, and then the way they talk about/write bottom/sub alec) and when i get mad about something like that i tend to double down and stick to my opinion even harder because i’m a stubborn, spiteful bitch.

but also i just really enjoy sub magnus, ngl. both because of the whole i relate to him/like him and because like i said, i genuinely think he deserves to be taken care of and that alec would be a great candidate for that. i think alec would enjoy that, i think they’d both get a lot of pleasure from it, and i think it just works for their characterization. is there an element of “i think it’s hot”? sure. but look. lots of things are hot. thinking something is hot =/= fetishizing. 

not to mention literally anyone who has ever accused me, a mlm, of fetishizing mlm, is like. almost always non-mlm (i don’t think a fellow mlm has ever said that i was, but it’s not like i do a background check on every hater, and lots of them are anonymous, so) and it’s ALWAYS a bottom alec stan who wants me to write bottom alec. 

anyway, a mlm talking about top/bottom dom/sub is not in any way the same as like, a straight girl fetishizing a mlm relationship. people only ever bring that up in an argument when they dislike the other person’s choice of who’s doing what. they don’t really care about mlm or fetishization problems involving them one bit. (especially because they never call out the many, many bottom/sub alec fans who actually do do that? like, literally reducing alec’s character to “pretty little uke OwO” and shit. ugh.) 

(note: this isn’t aimed at you, you’re just politely asking a question and i have absolutely zero problem with that, i’m just talking about some of the people who i DO have a problem with lol) 

honestly tho, if the fandom wasn’t such a cesspool, i think i would have been a lot more open to writing about them switching, to having alec sub/bottom occasionally in my fics. but at this point, with all the gross characterization i’ve seen and the hateful anons i’ve gotten, i’m just staying away from it forever. i’ve latched on to my beautiful sub/bottom magnus headcanons and i’m never letting go :’) 

but really i’m not trying to police what others write--if people like bottom/sub alec, good on them. 

i just don’t like 1. super ooc characterization/fetishization, 2. trying to force me to write it, 3. when they just fucking add it into everything like. totally non-smut fic, randomly makes a comment about alec being a ‘total cockslut’ then goes back to fluffy coffee shop au. or when they suddenly turn it around in the middle of a smutty oneshot and their personalities do a u turn for the sake of their sub alec fetish like...... just write it like that from the beginning if you want that ok?? no need to be misleading and then butcher your own characterization??? 

i admit, the fact that it’s so popular it’s practically accepted as canon and is constantly shoved down my throat is really annoying, but i complain about it on my own personal blog--usually not even in the main tags--and i don’t harass authors who like it about it.

anYWAY, that’s my long opinionated rant hope it helped

[pabotofus]

A Long and Screamy Rant

So this is a rant dedicated to @apvrrish's fic (aknightley on AO3) 'calling me to come back', a gem of a fic and a sincerely gorgeous work. (If you haven't read it yet, go do it here and now!! Seriously, you won't regret it)

I was originally going to make this only about how I felt, but she writes so well I have to put something about her writing style there

Spoilers for the fic under the cut!!

1. Her worldbuilding

Literally once the fic started, I had such a good idea of what the shop looked like. Even if it may not have matched her mental image, it was so clear in my head (which is extremely rare for me). Apvrrish also does amazing descriptions, and it's like I'm actually living in the moment. It's so awesome!!!

2. Characterization

She nailed it. Completely and actually nailed it; bullseye after bullseye; on point. Shiro and Keith's relationship, later on Keith and Lance's relationship, Pidge (idk why I really liked the mental image of Pidge with a bun. I just did) staying up really late to help Keith, the way pIDGE CAN USE HER MAGIC THROUGH ELECTRONICS HDKCKSKCKFD

3. Lotor and Honerva/Hagar

Honestly, I was going to make this a side note on characterization, but this is so good it deserves its own topic. Honerva is so extra and I love it? I mean obviously it's not cool that she literally tried to kill Lance so that Lotor could go to a school. But that is something that she would totally do, and I can't really express my love for the all of this.

I also love the way aknightley wrote (or rather, mentioned) Lotor. Here's a beautiful beautiful quote: "Lotor was evidently interested in genetic science, something that Alfor specialized in, but Alfor was also specialized in avoiding people he didn’t care for, something Keith found enviable."

So maybe that quote doesn't focus on Lotor specifically, but it's such a GOOD SENTENCE. It wasn't the type of funny that would make me burst out into laughter, but the kind of brilliant genius that made me stare at my laptop screen and re-read that sentence five times, because it's that good.

4. While we're on this topic, QUOTES.

"Scrolling to a number that’s only labeled with a small bird emoji and a poop emoji, he texts, Can you do some research for me?" It isn't really the quote itself that I liked, per se, but the idea that Pidge's contact name is a bird and a poop emoji. That is perfect?? And I love it so much???

“Am I wrong, Sunshine?” Lance asks, tilting his head and smiling slyly." Lance calls Keith Sunshine. LANCE CALLS KEITH SUNSHINE OH MY GOD I CANT??? !!!!!!!

"You don’t need it to look pretty, Keith thinks, unbidden." Do I even need to explain here? Seriously, look me in the eye and ask my why I love this quote so much, I dare you. KEITH ADMIRING LANCE'S BEAUTY IS MY GODDAMN JAM

"“Sure, kiddo,” Shiro says, taking a sip of coffee with raised eyebrows." This. THIS!! The amount of pure goodness in this line is enough to make me cry. Shiro knows. Shiro knows!!!

"“Besides the obvious reasons,” Shiro says, raising his eyebrows. Keith gives in to pettiness and uses his magic to fling the pieces of cereal still on the counter at his face, grinning when they nail him directly in the nose." THIS IS THE GOOD BROGANES CONTENT THAT I LIVE FOR DID YOU KNOW??? Again, with characterization,, such perfection.

"“A customer,” Pidge says, doing air quotes. “A customer you dream about and who makes you go super smiley when he calls you on the phone.”" PIDGE KNOWS. SHIRO KNOWS. THEY ALL KNOW AND STILL KEITH REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE IT. A GOOD TROPE. I VERY MUCH APPROVE.

"“So I guess I should -- um -- take this off?” He pulls lightly at the material over his chest and Keith feels his own face heat up." FLUSTERED KLANCE IS BEST KLANCE. NO, I DONT ACCEPT OTHER ANSWERS. THIS IS LAW.

"Lance leaned in close so he can peer into Keith’s face.

Across the room, a cedar branch catches fire." AGAIN. FLUSTERED KLANCE IS BEST KLANCE. NEED THERE BE ANY MORE PROOF? (Also, I hope all these quotes convey the immense love I have for aknightley and her writing)

“I’m going to have to buy her something very sparkly,” Keith murmurs to himself, smiling at the little heart she’s drawn next to her name.

Just,, sparkles!! ✨✨give Allura all the sparkly things 2Kforever please and thank you :)

“I’m good, Sunshine,” Lance says, stretching a little. “In fact, I kind of feel lucky right now.”

OHHHHHH BOY. THIS IS THE CLICHE BUT WONDERFUL TYPE OF THING THAT A HERO GENERALLY SAYS BEFORE THE BIG SHOWDOWN AND I LOVE IT A LOT??? ITS BEAUTIFULLLLLLL GIVE ME EVERY AND ALL THE CLICHE TROPES

5. Keith taking off his protections so that he could talk with Lance in his dreams

I'm probably reading way too much into this, but Keith literally let Lance inside all of his defenses. This is his how much he likes Lance. He stripped down all his protection that he's had for like, forever and let himself be vulnerable ALL FOR LANCE. I CANNOT BELIEVE,, THE SHEER EMOTION AND TRUST SHOWN IN THIS SCENE,,, UGH MY HEART

6. Similarly, the garden scene

This is Keith's private place. This is where he goes to remember his parents, and he let Lance come with him. Again, probably reading way to much into this, but Keith is actually letting Lance in? I mean it's never stated explicitly in the fic but I don't think Keith really goes around sharing the garden with people... wHICH MAKES THIS SO MUCH MORE SPECIAL HDJCKDKSKC I WAS LITERALLY CLUTCHING MY CHEST I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS

7. Keith giving Lance his mom's jacket

Keith didn't even let Shiro, his own brother, keep some of his parents' books from him. Granted, it was a different situation, but still. Keith is incredibly protective of anything and everything related to his parents, so the fact that he let Lance wear and KEEP his mom's jacket?? Is like the equivalent of other people literally ripping out their heart for someone else. The Klance here is absolutely wonderful.

8. The 'fuck your emotions' scene

WELL DAMN, APVRRISH, FUCK WITH MY EMOTIONS WONT YOU?? THEYRE BOTH SO GODDAMN SELF SACRIFICIAL??? LIKE LANCE I GET IT YOU LOVE HIM AND DONT WANT HIM TO GET HURT BUT DONT PUSH HIM AWAY LIKE THIS PLEASE,, ON ONE HAND THIS SHOWS HOW MUCH LANCE CARES FOR KEITH AND WANTS HIM TO BE SAFE BUT ON THE OTHER HAND 'FUCK YOUR EMOTIONS' LANCE QUOTES LIKE ITS NO BIG DEAL... stop taking both mine and Keith's hearts and stomping them into bits you HEARTBREAKER

9. "The bell, when it rings above Lance's head, still cruelly sounds like laughter."

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. CATCH ME SCREAMING INTO THE VOID BECAUSE DAMNNNNNNNN. THE HOLY UNION OF BEAUTIFUL WRITING AND ALL OF THE FEELS IN THE WORLD. My eyes do not deserve to see the glory that is this sentence,, I had to give it a separate topic from Quotes because it was just. So good,,, Even now I feel like I'm not doing it justice, but it's so MIND BLOWINGLY AWESOME that I just can't. 👏🏻👏🏻 you did good, apvrrish.

10. Keith realizing he loves Lance

Need I say any more? Literally ALL I could dare to ask for. It's beautiful and I love it a lot. I also like how you didn't make it this big panicky moment for Keith, because honestly? Finding out that you're in love with someone isn't supposed to be all 'oH MY GOD WHAT DO I DO THIS IS BAD'. If realizing that you're in love with someone is bad, well, why are you in love with that person in the first place?

I kinda went off on a tangent there but anyways!! My main point- I really REALLY liked you portrayal of this scene and the way you wrote it. *swallows down the screams of the damned my emotional heart*

11. The dandelion

They're soul bound. They're soul bound, and Keith used a love spell thingy to track down Lance because he loves him and holy hell they're SOUL BOUND. I mean, the whole soulmate thing is low key overdone, not just in this fandom but everywhere. Yet apvrrish manages to put her own unique spin on the whole thing, incorporating magic and the idea of 'marriage bonds', which is really unique.

12. The idea of modern magic

Okay so I've been trying to go in chronological order but as I keep reading I just find this world so so cool. Most times there's a magical AU, the characters are somehow in the past, or it's a different world. But this, this is a combination of modern tech and somehow also these awesome magical abilities. There are potions with real life ingredients (certain types of wood, flowers, stones or minerals, etc.) and for realistic purposes. This is so realistic that I can actually imagine it happening, which is GREAT because it shows just how good of a writer that apvrrish is, but at the same time, makes me wish so so hard that I could be part of this world. Modern magic,, hdjckskc stab me in the heart with everything I've ever wanted, won't you?

13. “True love or some shit, I think,” Lance says cheerfully, and waves his hand.

Another quote too good for the Quotes section. He says this so nonchalantly?? It fits Lance's character SO WELL and so was really funny (idrk why it just made me smile a lot). Also, they're in LOVEEEEEEEEEEEEE~

14. Red!!

Beautiful cat child is cute and deserves all the love. I ADORE witch familiars, and Red helping Keith out with the exorcism thing was really pleasing to read. Also,, Red and Lance interactions. The pLaYFuL bAnTEr between Keith and Lance. Hhhhhhhhhhhhh I love this so muchhhh

15. The ending

tHE ENDING, OH MY GOD THE ENDING. THEY LITERALLY RODE INTO THE SUNSET ON A MOTORCYCLE. IM CRYING ITS SO CLICHE BUT BEAUTIFUL??? ME, SOBBING? ITS MORE LIKELY THAN YOU THINK BECAUSE THIS IS A GORGEOUS CONCLUSION.

Also! "“Why not?” he says quietly, leaning back against Lance’s chest. “We’ve got time.”"

That. THAT. I've already said this in a comment on the fic itself, but this is so good it needs to be said again. This entire story has kind of a recurring theme of how Keith doesn't have enough time with his loved ones (his parents and Lance because of the curse). But now that he broke the curse, he finally had time to be all cutesy and happy with Lance because they have time. Lance is no longer in danger of dying, and so they can take the long way and enjoy life just because now, they can. Catch me screaming into the void again because THIS IS BEAUTIFUL.

A last note- I found a song that kinda fits for this fic. The lyrics match the best, but in general the song is also super pretty!! So if you have time give it a listen because it's,, so good (jUST LIKE THIS FIC).

I still feel like all this ranting isn't enough to do this work of art and perfection justice, but anyways!! Apvrrish, continue being the awesomely amazing writer you are.

~Paladin

[thisweekingundamwing]

Weekly Recap June 24 - July 1

It’s everyone’s favorite day of the week! The day of the week where you get all kinds of Gundam Wing content linked in one place!

Remember to show these amazing creators some love.

Also, I listed the links next to the title as well since some people were having trouble accessing them embedded links. 

Fanfiction:

Just as a quick side note, if there aren’t warnings listed below be sure to read the warnings listed on AO3 before reading!

@amberlyinviolet​

Knife in Hand  - https://archiveofourown.org/works/6068848 

When Duo learns there's a hit out on him, he turns to the only person in Chicago he believes capable of helping him. But will the cost of the Broker's help be too high? Pairing: 2x3. Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death, Underage, Implied Childhood Sexual Abuse, Consent Issues, Organized Crime, Assassination, child trafficking, Past Abuse, Federal Agents, Abuse of Power, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - PTSD, Gender Issues

@anaranesindanarie and @rhysgalentalcernunnos​ 

The Maxwell Twins: Shi and Duo - http://archiveofourown.org/works/11026149/chapters/25320114

They didn’t know anything about their parents or if they were even related, but they couldn’t deny the fact that they looked alike. Or the fact that they only had each other. Warning: NSFW, twincest, 2x2

@the-notorious-bhg and @morbidbirdy

Something About Us - https://archiveofourown.org/works/11333262

Five Years after Operation Meteor the fragile peace between Earth and the colonies is once again threatened when a beloved prominent political figure is assassinated. The former Gundam pilots come together again for a new mission, which forces unexplored feelings to arise between Heero and Trowa. 3x1. Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death, Slash, Post-Endless Waltz, Post-Canon, Action & Romance, Missions, Mobile Suits, Preventers (Gundam Wing)

Cedechan

Within the Nexus - https://archiveofourown.org/works/11362980

By the end of AC 197, Zechs has returned from Mars broken and alone. His world as he knew it has been destroyed and in his attempt to move on, he dives back into the world from which he though he'd escaped.Unexpectedly, he finds himself partnered with Wufei Chang and one of Doctor J's former wards and life starts to become normal again, despite the battle with his inner demons. But when tragedy strikes again, he must rely on their help to find the assassin, because he can't do it on his own. Warnings: Major Character Death, Zechs Merquise, Chang Wufei, Original Character, Angst, Action, Murder, Justice, Friendship.

@chronicwhimsy

Saudade (Chapter 1) - http://archiveofourown.org/works/11352189/chapters/25407183

Duo and Trowa travel through Europe with the circus during the summer after the Barton uprising. Mentions of underage sex and drinking, unhealthy coping mechanisms. Pairings:  3x4, 2+3 bromance.

Co-Star

Desire told in colors - https://archiveofourown.org/works/11227302 

"There were kisses printed all over his shirt, some playfully smeared, some carefully stamped, some surpassing touching his collarbone, too many for not being remembered. With a swift movement, he pulled off the shirt and found a message written on the back, the lipstick so red it made him think of blood: 'Call me.'" A 2017 Summer of Zechs submission. Color prompts. Warnings and Pairings: Zechs Merquise/Lucrezia, Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Alternate Universe - Navy, From Sex to Love, Smut, Canon Het Relationship, Heterosexual Sex

DarkBluePhoenix

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Legacy – Gundam Invasion - http://archiveofourown.org/works/10464375  

A Mobile Suit Gundam Wing and Mobile Fighter G Gundam CrossoverIt’s a Gundam! *RANDOM EXPLOSION!* The cast of Gundam Wing meet our young heroes and befriend them in this tale of how those who understand, those who fight, those who doubt, and those who pass by, can claim victory against the forces of evil reborn. Mission Accepted. All systems go! Gundams… Evangelions… Launching!

@kangofu-cb 

Mission: Redacted chapter 9 - http://archiveofourown.org/works/10872516/chapters/25325301

2x5, 3x4 - they are getting the band back together!

Just Lucky I Guess -  http://archiveofourown.org/works/11298693

Final installment of the ‘Just’ 'verse. Wufei and Duo are getting married! There’s a little bit of drama, some smut, and overall a good time is had by all. 2x5 wedding fluff, with some post-wedding smut!

luvsanime02, 

Standby - http://archiveofourown.org/works/10852965/chapters/24098613

Heero goes in front of the Board of Professional Review, and now she has an important decision to make. This is the fifth story in Navigation, a fem!Heero series.

@noelleian,  

Put Up Your [Daisy] Dukes - https://archiveofourown.org/works/11338821

Quatre is a small-town, southern boy with aspirations that don't include spending the rest of his life as trailer trash, but for now, he's forced to wait tables at a dive in rural Georgia until he can save enough money for college. Though with a hot new bouncer on the payroll, maybe things are finally looking up. 3x4

ShenLong

High Rolling - https://archiveofourown.org/works/6614992 

Duo is a multi millionaire having made his money in computer games and is working himself into the ground. Hilde, his secretary and best friend convinces him to take a vacation – to Las Vegas. Parings: 1x2 and 3x4. Warnings: Fluff, Yaoi, Lemons, Limes, Angst, sap, ooc, AU, Gambling

The Manwell

May Demons Rest: Shinigami Sleeps 2017 - https://archiveofourown.org/works/10944786

A re-write of my 2004 fanfic "Shinigami Sleeps"To find and free Duo from his demons, Trowa leaves his uneventful life at the circus for the mean streets of an obscure colony in L2. 2x3. Warnings: Trowa POV, Duo POV, POV Alternating, POV First Person, First Time, Male Slash, Male Friendship, street gangs, acrobats, Clowns, Circus animals, Family, Canon-Compliant, EW-compliant, Post-Endless Waltz, Dreams and Nightmares

Twilight_Angel, 

[Podfic] Lollipop -  https://archiveofourown.org/works/11294784

Coffee was what got him going in the morning. What kept him going through the rest of the day was the boy that got on the train at Twelfth and Highland. Pairing: 1x2

@weiclown, 

Dead End?  - http://archiveofourown.org/works/11312295

Trowa and Quatre are sent in on a simple ‘infiltrate, get the data, and get out’ type of mission. Someone at Preventers was grossly misinformed, and things go FUBAR pretty quick. Will they be able to get out together, and in one piece? Warnings: Post-Endless Waltz, Attempted Rape/Non-ConBrief mention of attempted rape, Violence, Murder, Major Character Injury, Ambiguous/Open Ending, Preventers (Gundam Wing), Dark, Wilderness Survival, Forests, Blood and Violence, Trowa Barton, Quatre Winner - No pairings  

Cosplay:   

 @shinigami-of-excellence

Treize Khushrenada  - http://outofworkshinigami.tumblr.com/post/162402987842/more-photos-of-treize

Calender Events:

@chronicwhimsy​ - Gundam Wing End of Summer Block Party!

https://gwblockparty.tumblr.com/

WHAT? A fanworks celebration of all things tropey and cliche in the Gundam Wing fandom. Friends to Lovers? Sign me up! Coffee Shop AU? I’ll take a large to go. Sex Pollen? Bless you, and thank you. Nothing is too overdone - indulge yourself!

WHO? Everyone! All content for all ships is welcome! From canon to crack, from OTPs to Giant Pilot Polycules! Come one, come all, come everyone (if you’re doing it right - wink wink). By the end of this event, the master list should look like my high school algebra homework - only this time, there’s no such thing as a wrong answer.

WHEN? To celebrate the end of the season (depending on Hemisphere!) the suggested posting dates are 1st - 4th September! Let’s see Summer off with a bang! Or see Spring in with several bangs, depending on your preferences.

WHERE? If you share on tumblr, tag this blog or message us the link and we will reblog it! We will also create a collection on AO3, and a Tumblr master post at the end of the event.

HAVE FUN! BE SHAMELESS!

Thank you all for a wonderful week!! =D

[shealwaysreads]

Sterek Fic Recs: The Magic!Stiles Edition

You Only Live Once...Or Twice by @teenshmolf

““Anything,” Derek’s eyes are determined, boring into Stiles’.

Stiles huffs a laugh, “Careful there, big guy. Don’t want to be promising anything to every necromancer you meet. Some might ask for your soul or someth—”

“I’ll give you my soul to bring her back,” Derek says, his voice steady and strong with resolve, “if that’s what you want.”

Stiles’ mouth gapes open for a moment before his brain kicks into gear and he stutters out, “N-no, I don’t ask for that. I only ask for money.”

(Or the one in which Stiles is a necromancer who needs help stopping a rogue alpha and Derek is the solution, but at what cost?)”

This is a really gorgeous fic, full of emotion and it’s fair share of angst but it never feels overdone or hopeless. The characters are all beautifully written, and Stiles and Derek are lovely together. There are major character deaths, which is not something I would usually read, but I just think it is all handled so well that it is worth giving a shot. It has a happy, hopeful ending with resolution of the angst, and our boys driving off into the sunset cracking awful zombie related jokes. Oh. And prepare for Jackson to be your favourite character.

Kiss Me Under the Light of a Thousand Stars by @deleted-scenes

““It was a true love spell,” he admits quietly. “It was supposed to help me find my true love. And apparently I suck at magic as much as I suck at dating because I screwed this up too.”

~~~

In which Stiles' Valentine's Day love spell goes very wrong.

Or perhaps very right.”

This is so so sweet, and so so cute. You’re going to love it. Stiles casts his spell and then Derek fixes it. Derek’s perspective is so well done, and you get to see the full extent of his badass exterior giving way to the marshmallow we all know he is on the inside!

I Fall So Hard And I Call It Magic by @fishcommander 

“Stiles smells different.

It wasn't obvious at first—his car, his clothes, the people closest to him, they all smell enough like his old scent that it overpowers anything new. As far as emotions go, there's the usual anxiety, stress, tension, exhaustion, guilt.

But the base notes of his scent, the primary olfactory information anyone would use to track Stiles, are… stronger now, and not in a way that relates to being unwashed. They're sharper, more noticeable, less human and more…

Magical.”

This is such good fun, lots of moments that made me laugh, fantastic characterisations, and Derek’s perspective is just as sardonic as you think it would be. Stiles and his magic are just so...Stiles. And the way it all unfolds is lovely - the last lines will put a big smile on your face because secretly-a-dork Derek Hale is a beautiful thing.

Night Owls Early Birds  by @lissadiane

“Confession: Stiles is afraid of having magic.

The Spark had been cool. It had been small, manageable. He could do some funky stuff with Mountain Ash, all with the power of belief.

And now here he is, his Spark blown wide open, apparently coming down with a fatal case of magical overload, and all that stands between him and bleeding out is a grumpy owl that looks suspiciously like a feathered version of Derek Hale.

(In which Stiles learns he's a witch, but instead of a wand and a trip to Diagon Alley, he gets blood magic, a grumpy and reluctant owl as his companion, and an accidental blood bond with Derek Hale.)”

This is a fantastic story, with an equally fantastic equal, with a darker side to Stiles having magic. It’s really well written, with funny moments as well as some more horror themed moments! You are going to love Steve. Heed the warnings my lovelies, there is blood and gore throughout. But there is also lovely friendships and Stereky goodness too!

Werewolf Married by @inell

“Shealwaysreads said the perfect summary for this series is: 'Wherein Stiles nuts and runs, suspects any and all fairytale endings, but falls foul of sustained and earnest wooing by his alpha prince Derek Hale'”

I debated keeping this series for a soulmate fic rec, but this has badass Emissary!Stiles and is one of the most fun series I’ve read in a long time, written by my babe @inell. There’s your classic masquerade ball to kick things off, with a werewolf mating bite, but that’s where the standard trope ends. This Stiles is definitely not one for conforming to expectations, and instead of an instant happily-ever-after you get to read a beautifully real feeling relationship develop. The smut is scorching, the fluff is blush inducing, and the characters are amazing. You will love Stiles-Scott-Allison. And you will be so glad to have read this series!

In Desperate Times by @nokomisss

“Stiles gets magic wish-granting powers, but only when he's in danger. He begins to teleport to Derek in increasingly awkward moments.”

This fic had me quite literally wheezing with laughter in bed when I read it. It’s just got so many perfect moments - Derek’s infamous backflip, lucky charms, sneak-attacks. This will all make sense when you read it. Which you should. It’s a ball from beginning to end!

Echo by @saucefactory

“Soon after Deaton begins training him, Stiles starts weaving talismans for the pack.”

This is melancholy and so so beautifully written. Derek’s perspective is the perfect way to see the way that Stiles’ magic is changing him. It’s a really lovely little fic.

Misdirection by @bleep0bleep

“Derek's just moved back to Beacon Hills with his young daughter, whose newest favorite thing is Mr. Stiles and his magic shop. Derek likes Stiles a lot too, except he's a bit worried about how Stiles' magic is... actually real, and the local pack and their Emissary might find that a problem.”

This whole fic is completely adorable. You get yourself a lovely bit of single dad!Derek, magic!Stiles, and a beautifully settled and successful pack in Beacon Hills. Gena and Jimmy are the cutest kids, and Derek and Stiles are just as sweet. It’s a lovely, fluffy little fic to put a smile on your face.

Professional Werewolf Witch by @actualbird

“"Are you going to buy anything else?" Professional Eyebrows says and Stiles would like to buy him. A cup of coffee. On a date.

He just ends up pointing at the crate of whatever the fuck is behind Professional Eyebrows' head and says, "Uh, a box of that stuff."

P.E. turns, glances at the crate, and raises an eyebrow at Stiles. "You want a box of charmed rattlesnake tail?" God, magic is so fucking weird.

"Yeah." Stiles nods because he's making an ass out of himself. The hipster vampire browsing in the corner is not so subtly laughing at him. The sooner he leaves the better.

-

The one where Derek Hale is a Professional Werewolf Witch who owns a magic shop and Stiles fails at being smooth on a regular basis.”

The one where Stiles and Derek are both magical! This is hilarious from start to finish, and all of the accompanying cast are awesome. Scott and his love of dogs is basically who I am inside. This is fluffy and sweet with the perfect amount of snark for our two boys!

Soul seeker by @deleted-scenes

“Sighing, Stiles reaches for Derek’s big hands, cradled in his broad lap, his skin lighting up even more at Derek's touch. He takes a deep breath and closes his eyes, preparing himself to look for Derek’s soulmate. Whoever you are, he thinks, you better be worth him.”

Okay, so I love everything that deleted-scenes writes - and this is no exception. Stiles’ magic in this fic is really well thought out and the way he and Derek interact is just so perfect. Stiles’ perspective is lovely, and his reaction to Derek is absolutely so on point. The whole fic just makes you happy, and the ending is too beautiful - I adore the scene of Derek protectively held by Stiles.

The Color of Magic by vampireisthenewblack

“Stiles has to perform some kind of protection spell/ritual to stop the latest threat to BH, but according to Deaton and his terrible, terrible magic books, it requires that he willingly take the ‘life essence’ of an alpha within him so he can power the spell. Yep, semen, because druids were giant pervs back in the day. And apparently that shit is like a magical battery.”

This is so much fun from start to finish, very much a magic made them do it scenario - but I’m sure they would have got there on their own in the end! I love the interactions between Derek and Stiles throughout, and the ending is perfect. Not to mention the amazing smut in between ;)

What I Did On My Summer Vacation by @coyotequeens

“There's something weird about Beacon Hills that Stiles can't quite put his finger on. The way everyone in town knows his name the day he arrives. The way they insist the melancholic howling that echoes through the forest every night is just a dog. The way his dad denies getting a dog, even though Stiles comes home to find one sprawled across his bed, some big black thing whose eyes gleam red in the right light. The way that massive oak tree out in the woods vibrates under his touch, pulsing with sickly life.

There's something weird going on in this town, and Stiles is determined to get to the bottom of it.”

I love this fic a lot - it’s one I’ve re-read and honestly every time I read it I love it just as much. It’s beautifully written, and the whole idea of this town-wide pack is so incredibly pleasing. The sterek is slow build, but it’s perfectly done and it’s exactly how the characters would behave in this au I think. You will love all of the characters, and the world building, and oh - the Sheriff - you’re going to love him a lot. All I can say is you are in for a fantastic, long, and really satisfying read. You’ll thank me for it.

B.S.T.P.H.T by @uniwolfwerecorn

“Before Derek has the presence of mind to object, Stiles pushes the paper in his hands and makes for his jeep. “Just read it, okay?” is the last thing he says before slamming the door shut.

He starts the engine, and drives away in record time with gravel scrunching under his tires while Derek stands there dumfounded. He accelerates unusually fast, and the jeep’s back lights disappear into the night.

What. The. Fuck.”

This fic is a great imagining of what the alpha pack could have been like, and the ways that the Hale pack would have been stuck for ideas of how to save themselves. Stiles is a spark in this and enacts a ritual to protect the pack and their assorted loved ones. Derek’s perspective is lovely in this, and his view of the whole pack, and the way he takes Stiles’ advice (which works ofc) is really great to read. And the sex. Whoa boy. Awkward and tender and hot all at once.

Living Links by Miya_Morana

“This is it, he thinks as he dips his fingers into the bowl. No coming back. Once you tie yourself to a pack, to an Alpha, it’s a connection that’ll always be there.”

Oh boy. Short and sweet and so sexy - magical finger-painting is my new fave.

Writ in Hecate’s ink on willing skin by Lenore

"As you're always so fond of pointing out, you're the alpha. When bad shit happens to you, it affects all of us. If someone wants to use your alpha mojo or your wolf force or," Stiles waves his hand, "whatever you want to call it for diabolical purposes? We need to be ready."

This is great - I love the concept of the spell, and the intensity of the ritual itself. And I think with Stiles’ belief written all over him, our Derek will end up bulletproof.

Love Always Wakes The Dragon by hoars

“If you could only protect one person, who would it be?”

“Derek.”

“What would you do to keep him alive? What would you give up?”

“Anything. Everything.”

This is a really unusual fic, the narrative is not chronological, but it is beautifully weaved together. The Hale Pack that is imagined is a strange and dangerous one, but the future they have is beautiful. This fic might not be for everyone, but I really loved it. Try it, I think you’ll like it.

Of Course by @captainbuckingamerica 

“Semantics, Derek thinks. All Derek really remembers is the press of Stiles' lips against his, warm and wet, Stiles' mouth tasting like blue cotton candy, and Stiles' fingers curling into his shirt, and the clack of the roller coaster carts thundering above them. Derek hasn't kissed all that many people in his life, but Stiles is the best kiss he's ever had. He loves kissing Stiles, even now, two years later.

Derek's head rolls back, and he stares up at the ceiling. "I chose Six Flags because you'd never been there," he says, and when his neck rolls again, weakly, to face Stiles, he’s smiling at Derek.

"I know," he says, and Derek thinks, of course you did.”

This is beautifully written, heed the tags though - our darling boy Derek doesn’t have a great time to start with. But his and Stiles’ interactions are gorgeous, and it is the sweetest of endings, I promise.

All My Kingdoms Turn to Sand by @elisera 

“The real question is what Stiles wants. If he’s looking forward to seeing Derek again because they’ll complete what they started a long time ago or if Stiles is nervous because he’s feeling apprehensive. There’s a real possibility that he told the pack to finally send Derek up in order to tell him thanks, but no thanks. A lot can happen in six years; people change and grow apart and it isn’t like they were allowed to talk.”

This is wonderfully done - there is so much world building and back story implied that just makes it such a rich scenario. Stiles and Derek and all of their interactions are beautiful, and the closing scene is so happy making. 

We Put Down Roots Here by @bella8876

“A packs connection to its territory is sacred, it’s the place that they call home, the place that they draw their strength, the place that protects them and shelters them. As long as the wolves care for the land, the land will care for the wolves.

After the fire when Derek and Laura left Beacon Hills, they left the land, and the land left them. For the past eight years the territory had been Hale’s in name alone. But that was going to change, tonight.”

This is another lovely pack fic, there’s so much emotional punch at the end you’ll adore it. It’s a really interesting spin on Stiles practicing magic, and a lovely exploration of what pack is.

Last Call by @coyotequeens

“He doesn’t come to The Beacon to pick up people. It’s precisely the reason why he doesn’t go anywhere else. People in this neighborhood know him, know he’s not interested in being hit on, which allows him to have a drink in peace. Derek knows he’s good-looking, but the type of people it attracts disgust him. At least other werewolves can smell the unfriendliness on him and stay away, but that doesn’t stop everyone. He went to a gay bar with his coworker Isaac once and it was horrifying.”

You think this is going to be a snarky, sexy, hookup fic - and yes it is all of those things. BUT ALSO. Magic!Stiles, unexpected!feels, and ‘it’s-meant-to-be’ dreams. It’s all good stuff.

That Which You Cannot Undo by uraneia

“By twenty-eight, Stiles has resigned himself to a quiet life of working in his magic shop, selling Jackson Whittemore fart-inducing tea, and looking after his goddaughter. It's a good life. But the quiet goes to hell when his sister, Lydia, shows up with a crispy werewolf in her trunk and a bite mark on her shoulder, because hard on her heels comes the hottest person Stiles has ever seen, and he happens to be looking for his uncle.

You know, the dead guy Stiles helped Lydia bury last night.

(Or: the Pracitical Magic AU nobody asked for.)”

This is one of my favourite magic!Stiles fics - the world that the author has built is so believable and I adore Stiles and Lydia as siblings - their interactions are wonderful. This has everything I love - great Stiles & his friends interactions, Stiles as a parent, Scott being awesome, Lydia being awe inspiring, and Derek being his beautiful self. The last line will have you grinning all day.

Only By Entering the Wolf’s Den by @spurisani

“Stiles gets a call for help from his old babysitter, Laura Hale, after a slew of magical sabotage to the restaurant/gastropub she runs with her brother Derek. Mysterious magical and supernatural shenanigans are Stiles' bread and butter, so who is he to deny what's basically family?

Even if it does mean facing his age-old, hopeless crush on Derek again, and the fact that Derek hates him.”

This fic is an absolute joy to read - it’s got so many of my favourite things. Magic!Stiles, alive!Hales, chef!Derek, miscommunication, pining, baddie of the week. It’s got it all, and so many funny moments and sweetness and amazing character interactions. And the sterek is gorgeous - it’s the happiest of happy endings!

That’s all for this fic rec edition - I hope you love these fics as much as I do! Feel free to drop me a line with any suggestions for future fic rec editions you’d like to see!

[crypticcravings]

Memories Remain

Day Five of Adrinette Month is Coffee Shop AU!!  This drabble takes place when our heros are in university. It assumes that Adrien never went to school with Marinette and her friends. While writing this, I listened to Coffee Shop by BAP, which I think fits pretty well. I hope you enjoy!

Also on AO3

Adrien didn’t mind the night shift. It was quiet. Generally only one or two customers came in during the late hours, and Adrien spent his spare time reading behind the counter. 

Tonight was no different. It was about midnight, and the only other person in the shop was one of his daytime shift regulars. She was a very pretty university student who lived nearby. Normally, she came by in the mornings for a caramel macchiato before class. They rarely spoke more than a few words to one another, but he always remembered her. She had long, black hair and big, bright blue eyes that reminded him of another girl that used to make his heart pound. 

It was rare to see her while he was on the night shift. It looked like she was working on a project that was taking a while. She’s already been there for an hour and a half. 

Adrien finished wiping the surrounding tables and tossed the rag into the laundry bin behind the counter. 

He ran a hand through his hair before approaching the girl’s table.

“Good evening,” he said.

The girl started and looked up at him, eyes wide. “Oh, um, hello!”

“I’m sorry to interrupt. I was just wondering if I could get you anything. You just seem a bit busy.”

Relief seemed to fill her eyes. “Oh, that would be great.”

Adrien took down her order and retreated behind the counter. He fixed her drink–her usual–but he decided to make the macchiato a little special this time. He topped the drink with milk foam and used caramel and chocolate syrup to draw a small cat on top.

As the barista-Adrien, his name tag said- placed the mug in front of her, Marinette couldn’t help the pang of familiarity she felt. There was no reason for it, but he reminded her of someone. She’d been thinking it for some time, now, since she’d been coming to this coffee shop. 

But as she worked on her final designs, she noticed the way he moved so fluidly. It was so familiar to her somehow. Even his voice…

“Here you are.” He placed the macchiato in front of her.

She smiled at the image of the cat in the foam. “This is very cute! Thank you!”

“Ah,” He rubbed the back of his neck. “Thanks. I thought I’d try something new.”

“It seems like a shame to drink it.”

“So, um, do you mind if I ask what you’re working on?”

“Oh,” Marinette shuffled the papers around. “it’s some designs. I’m a fashion student at the university, and I have to turn in my final designs, but I’m stuck. So mostly, I’m just sketching until I work things out.”

“These are great,” Adrien said, glancing through her designs. He had seen his father’s sketches before, and these were on par with what he’d seen as a kid. “What are you stuck on?”

“I have to come up with a theme for all of my designs, and I can’t find one that will stick. It’s either too kitchy or too over the top. I just need to find a nice medium between overdone and innovative.”

“Hmmm.” Adrien pondered her designs a bit longer, “well whatever you come up with, I’m sure it will be great." 

"Thank you.” Marinette smiled at him, a new wave of confidence surging through her. 

“I didn’t catch your name.”

She held out her hand. “I’m Marinette.”

“Nice to meet you, Marinette.” Adrien took her hand, but rather than shaking it as she expected, he bent over it and kissed the back of her hand in a move Marinette had not seen in a long time. “Let me know if you need anything else.”

Marinette watched as he returned to his post behind the counter and took a delicate sip of her macchiato. He really did remind her of someone else. The resemblance was far more obvious after that last move. The only thing missing was a lousy, groan worthy pun. 

It had been about three months since Ladybug had seen Cat Noir. Even longer before that. She hated to admit it, but ever since Hawkmoth was defeated they were growing apart. Without a super villain to bring them together regularly, life was getting in the way. Maybe Marinette was seeing the similarities between this barista and her partner because she missed the silly cat. She missed the days of joking around on patrol, the flirting, and even his terrible puns. Maybe next time she saw him she should reveal herself to him. After all, the threat was gone. And she missed her best friend. How wonderful would it be to be able to call him and vent during these stressful late hours. Or to grab a coffee with him before classes in the mornings.

She was just wondering what the alley cat would look like in civilian clothes. The years had been good to him, after all. She imagined he would look good in anything.

Her eyes were drawn back to the barista. She imagined him to be a more clean cut version of her partner, if that were possible. 

Marinette was suddenly struck with inspiration. Her pencil flew across the page as fast as the ideas came into her mind.

Adrien was entranced by the young girl in the shop. The way her eyes were drawn in such seriousness as her pencil danced across her page. It reminded him of the way Ladybug’s eyes looked after she called for her lucky charm. It had been such a long time since he’d seen eyes like that. He wasn’t sure what had given her such inspiration, but he was glad it struck. 

He watched her finish off her macchiato and go through half of the pages in her notebook. She barely looked up, and he was glad for it. It meant he didn’t have to hide his interest as he watched her. He imagined what another dark haired girl was doing at this time. He hoped she was sleeping. She deserved the rest after all those years of crime fighting. But if she was awake, he wondered what she would be doing. Maybe she’d be like Marinette, working on her final projects in a coffee shop somewhere in Paris. He liked to think they were connected in that way.

Adrien contemplated this as he poured himself his own cup of coffee. When he was with Ladybug, he was balanced. She was good luck, he was bad luck. She was brighter than the sun, and he was as dark as a moonless night. She followed her head, and he followed his heart. Perfectly in sync, yin and yang. He missed her. 

How long had it been since he’d seen her? Three months, about. As he sipped his coffee, occasionally glancing up at the girl who reminded him so much of His Lady, he decided that maybe he should go out and patrol the next night. Perhaps he would run into her.

The clock turned to three in the morning before Marinette put the finishing touches on her sketches. Her line was entirely based on her partner, and she couldn’t be more proud of what she’d put together. Designing a Cat-inspired line as an homage to her best friend after all these years seemed a good tribute to her favorite super hero. 

Adrien had come around to check on her a few times. She figured it must be a bit boring to be the only one on the night shift with so few customers. After clearing her work space and packing her bag, she sketched out one last drawing. It spoke the words that she could never say aloud while giving away nothing at all. It was a sort of “thank you” for reminding her of her cat, and inspiring her project, but one that he likely wouldn’t understand. Marinette left her tip on the table and waved goodbye as she walked out the door.

Adrien wiped down the table and collected the tip Marinette had left for him. He was about to take the finished cup back to the sink when a slip of paper caught his eye. He picked it up to find a small sketch of a black cat and a ladybug chasing one another around in a circle. It had clearly been left with the tip on purpose. 

Before Adrien could even think of what he was doing, his feet propelled him to the front door of the coffee shop. He threw the door open and looked frantically for the girl with gleaming blue bell eyes. Unfortunately, she was already gone. His only comfort was that he might see her the next time he worked the day shift. Then, maybe, he could put these suspicions to rest.

[rhiannon-a-christy]

Like Velvet and Leather

Molly hiked the strap of her bag up higher on her shoulder. The contemptible thing had been nothing but annoying since she left the hospital. She should have just taken a taxi, but then again she hadn’t known her favorite café would be closed. Koffee With A K had been her place of choice since she had been in uni. It had been one of those kitschy shops that tried too hard to be ironic. They hosted poetry readings filled with the worst writers in England. Offered coffee with names like Winter Lodge White Chocolate Mocha Snowstorm. And played the latest in new age music. It was overdone and over the top, and she loved it. Unfortunately when she had gone to get her customary cup of Alpine Ginger Mountain, she had found the doors locked. She was presented with a problem. She was, in no small way, addicted to caffeine. She had just pulled a double shift at the hospital, and needed a cup of coffee about as much as she needed air. She had stood in front of the shop for several minutes trying to figure out what she would do. There were of course several popular franchises stuck on every corner, but the last time she visited one she cringed at the price and taste. She was close to despair when she remembered seeing a little café tucked away some blocks down. She had taken off without delay, ending up at the heavy old door panting and wishing that she actually drove. Regulating her breath, she looked up before her. The door was painted black with a simple sign of gold numbers. It looked for all the world like someone’s home, but the sandwich board on the sidewalk said otherwise. Slowly she entered the shop. 221 was the sort of place that movie hipsters spent their day. Inside was dark, the walls covered in Victorian patterned paper. Shadowboxes hung throughout the place, displaying various insects as well as old medical instruments. Bookshelves towered over the patrons, filled to the brim with worn, heavy volumes. What couldn’t fit on the overfilled shelves were stacked up in precarious piles, some on tables and others on the floor. Soft jazz played throughout the café, but was only loud enough to hear without straining. Molly quickly made her way to one of the corners, settling herself down into the black leather chair. She blinked when she noticed the pictures on the wall beside her. Diagrams of old medical practices were placed besides framed sketches of Victorian medical tools. Scattered about these were several Victorian post-mortem photos. The one closest to her of a husband with his dear wife. The café was far from the sort of place she normally went. The entire theme seemed to be Victorian Macabre, and she loved it. She was sure if any of her friends were with her they would be bolting for the doors. None of them had ever understood her interest in death and the seemingly morbid. And this place fit the bill perfectly. She was just pulling off her scarf when a cup of coffee was set down on the table before her. “Oh, um I haven’t ordered yet.” Molly looked up from the fine boned hands placing the cup and into the eyes of the man beside her. He was tall, thin, and had a head full of curly hair. She swallowed hard, the man was the definition of male beauty. “You don’t order here.” The man gave a swift nod of his head. Molly just blinked at him. She was about to reply when she finally noticed that nowhere in the café was there a board or menu. She looked down at the steaming coffee and back at the man. “I assure you, you will enjoy it. Take a drink.” The man’s lips curved into a slow, sinful smile. She picked up the cup, brought it to her lips, and slowly took a drink. The liquid was hot, dark, and filled with spices. There was a thickness to it, but she was sure the coffee contained no cream. Instead it had been brewed until velvety smooth. She could make out hints of cinnamon and cloves, but many of the others alluded her. There was a heat that curled over her tongue, leaving it tingling as she swallowed. She closed her eyes and let out a low moan. “What is this?” Another drink slipped into her mouth, trickling slowly past her tongue. “It’s our Belstaff brew.” The man sat himself down into the other chair. “And I take it you like it?” “It’s like sex.” Molly’s eyes flew open when she realized what she said. She had not meant to say that, not at all. Of course it was true. It was like the best sex she had ever had. Each sip was like velvet, leather, and silk. Like being tangled and tied. It was exhilarating and titillating. Her cheeks began to grow red as she imagined such things with the man in front of her. “Ahem, I mean, it is really good. Thank you.” “Next time you’ll try the Belgravia brew. I believe you may find it… just as exciting.” The man’s eyes shot straight towards her lips, his tongue peeking out to sweep across his own. Molly felt a knot clench tightly low in her belly and she thought quickly on something to dispel the tension currently growing between them. “Not that the company isn’t nice, but won’t you get in trouble for sitting down on the job?” “That is the great thing about being the owner, I rarely scold myself.” Molly swallowed another drink of the coffee, keeping her eyes on anything but the man. All she had wanted was a cup of coffee before going home, she had not planned on sexy flirting men. It probably wouldn’t bother her so much, but she wasn’t exactly dressed for this. Her old khakis, pink blouse, and cherry cardigan were not what one would call seductive. Plus, she was sure the smell of death still lingered around her. “I’m uh, I’m Molly by the way. Molly Hooper.” She gave a nod towards him, refusing to lend her hand for a shake. If he touched her when she felt as she did she was sure she would blow. “Sherlock Holmes.” The man, Sherlock leaned forward in his chair. “It is nice to meet you, Molly Hooper.” Molly just kept herself from choking when he spoke her name. If she thought the coffee was like velvet, well his voice surpassed that by a thousand. The door to the café opened, admitting a smiling middle-aged couple. Sherlock stood, gave a quick nod to the new customers and turned back to Molly. “I’ll have a slice of devil’s food prepared for you tomorrow.” Sherlock, wicked smile still in place, headed towards the counter. “Why are you so sure I will be back?” Molly set her cup down, turning to look directly at the suit clad man. He looked down at her, hair falling over one half of his face. “Because you want to know.” “Know what?” She squirmed in her seat. “How I did it. Now, drink up, Molly Hooper.” He winked at her, turned, and without another word headed back to the counter. Damn. Molly ran her fingers over the handle of her cup. She was in so much trouble. She looked back to the man. Though, maybe that wasn’t such a bad thing. ------------------------------------------------- Author’s Note: Prompt from @all-oftimenspace who asked for Coffeeshop AU. Hope ya like it Sugar, it kind of went a bit more sensual than I had planned. Also, Koffee With a K, is actually this fake coffeshop I created for my business class. I had to come up with a commercial and promotion campaign for it. (thankfully only written out) I also had to create an entire budget for opening it. The full name of the shop is actually: Koffee with a K, the Pretentious Coffee. It was a joke between my Da and me. Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.

[ao3feed-castiel]

Between soulmates, pie, coffee and parties

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/3ciKfgI

by yaboiCelsius

I know its so very overdone but I am bored so here it is: coffeeshop soulmate AU!

Cas works at a coffee shop close to campus, and knows all the students there. Dean just wants to pick up his brother like he promised. confusion ensues. --- Cas works mondays, thursdays, fridays and saturdays at the little coffee shop close to campus.

“Hello. Can i have a...uhm coffee with one sugar and a piece of cherry pie?”

He smiles, and Cas could have just fallen to the ground right then and there. Okay so maybe he has been watching a bit closer than usual, but can you blame him? the guy is fucking gorgeous! But Cas quickly recovered. --- When he walked into the small shop he notices one thing, and pretty much only that one thing. Or person, rather. The very handsome guy behind the counter smiles as polite “i’m talking to a customer” smile. But it suits him wonderfully. He smiles like nothing is wrong, and his smile might be able to achieve world peace, Dean thinks. He doesn’t have a name tag, which is odd. But it also makes sense. Why would Dean need to know his name to order coffee? But secretly, he kinda wishes that he had a name to go with the face.

Words: 901, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English

Fandoms: Supernatural

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: M/M

Characters: Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester, Castiel

Relationships: Castiel/Dean Winchester

Additional Tags: Work In Progress, My First Work in This Fandom, Soulmate-Identifying Marks, Alternate Universe - Soulmates, Coffeeshop AU, I know its overdone, Fluff, Tired Sam Winchester, Bad Parent John Winchester, Author Is Sleep Deprived, no beta we die like men, also there will be no smut, im ace, Other Additional Tags to Be Added, also in the relationships, POV Alternating, Swearing

read it on the AO3 at https://ift.tt/3ciKfgI

[miamibeerscene]

Where to Eat at Miami International Airport (MIA)

Not all airport food is entirely terrible.

Summer travel season is officially here. And since it’s that time of year when airports are the busiest, which could mean your pre-flight meal is all the more important in starting off your vacation on the right note. So you don’t waste time or coin, here’s an updated guide to navigate the dining at Miami International Airport.

TERMINAL D’S SEVEN STANDOUTS

Cafe Versailles

There’s nothing like a shot or ten of Cuban coffee at Versailles after a long haul or, if you’re one of those who likes to yap to strangers next to you the whole way there, before a long haul. Cuban sandwiches and lots of clamor en Español reminds you that you’re not in Kansas anymore, if but for a few hours. And, if the line’s too long at this one [After checkpoint, Terminal D, Gate D21 North Terminal], there are two others [Gates D5 and D44].

Beaudevin

This 42-seat wine and cheese bar based on the one in the Brussels airport is a swell place to swill while waiting for your most likely delayed flight. [Terminal D, Gate D24 North Terminal, post security]

Lorena Garcia Cocina

Her investment in America’s Next Great Restaurant may not have been the wisest, but Lorena Garcia’s investment in MIA (or vice versa, rather) has proven to be a pretty worthy one, serving ‘sensible, Caribbean’ cuisine to the mass transit masses. [After checkpoint, Terminal D, Gate D53 North Terminal]

Estefan Kitchen Express

Helmed by the Estefan’s (yes, those Estefan’s) it features classic Cuban fare like croquetas, pastelitos, bocaditos and, of course, mojitos. And it wouldn’t be Miami with out a little bit of a party, and Estefan Kitchen has that covered too. For $15 you can buy a “Cuban Party in the Sky” that’s filled with croquetas, mini medianoches and so on. Sadly, no mojitos will be found in that box. [After checkpoint, Terminal D, Gate 27]

Icebox Cafe

South Beach brunch and bakery staple set up shop at MIA to satisfy the sweet tooth of bitter air travelers. [After checkpoint, Terminal D, Gate D8 North Terminal]

Sushi Maki

The express version of the Coral Gables, South Miami, Kendall and Brickell mini-chain gives you a delightfully raw deal en route to or from your destination. Cooked faves include Kobe sliders and sushi tacos. [After checkpoint, Terminal D, Gate D29 North Terminal]

Ku-Va

The family-owned restaurant is a modern Cuban spot that claims to have some of the best ropa vieja with speedy service. A meal here isn’t complete without a mojito. It’s so Miami you barely need to leave the airport. [After checkpoint, Terminal D, Gate D19, North Terminal]

THE REST OF MIA’S STANDOUTS

La Pausa

The motto at La Pausa is “the best way to eat like you’re at home, while you’re traveling” through American classics served in a room decorated in swanky airport decor. Sounds just like home. [After Checkpoint, H-J Connector, South Terminal]

Casa Bacardi

Claiming the title of the “original rum bar and grill,” Casa Bacardi offers travelers both signature Cuban and American eats, along with an array of tropical drinks to begin your tropical vacation. [Before Checkpoint, Terminal E, Second Level, Central Terminal]

Top of the Port

If you’re stuck in the airport overnight, the Miami Airport’s Top of the Port, located in the airport hotel, offers up a commercial taste of Miami with fresh seafood and continental dishes. All this with a panoramic view of the runways so at least you can see what it feels like to make a flight. [Before Checkpoint, Terminal E, Hotel, Seventh Floor]

Bongos

Like the restaurant’s originator, Gloria Estefan, Bongos is Cuban and overpriced. That said, Bongos might still be a worthy stop if you’re in the mood for a taste of croquetas, palomilla, lechon asado, or maybe even a double Mojito before you depart. [After Checkpoint, H-J Connector South Terminal]

Corona Bar and Grill

Every airport needs a plethora of commercial brewhouses and Miami keeps it beachy with Corona Bar and Grill. Typical poolside fare, like Palomilla steak and burgers, pairs well with the standard cold Corona and lime. [After Checkpoint, Gate J11, South Terminal]

GATE D QUICK BITES

Au Bon Pain (Terminal D, 2nd level)

Boca Bons

Fresh AttractionsFresh Attractions (Terminal D, 1st level)

Haagen Dazs (Terminal D, Gate D10)

Manchu Wok (Terminal D, Gate D21, D44)

Nathan’s Hot Dogs (Terminal D, 2nd level, Gate D21, D37)

Pizza Hut (Terminal D, 2nd level)

Starbucks (Terminal D, 1st level, 2nd level, Gate D10, Gate D32)

Sushi Maki Villa Pizza (Terminal D, Gate D21, D44)

305 Pizza (Terminal D West)

Half Moon Empanadas (Terminal D West)

Juan Valdez Cafe (Terminal D East)

Wendy’s

Coffee Beanery (Terminal D, Gate D26)

GATE D FAST CASUAL & BARS

Bacardi Mojito/Lorena Garcia Cocina (Terminal D, Gate D53)

Beaudevin

Cafe La Carreta (Terminal D, Gate D19)

Cafe Versailles (Terminal D, Gate D5, Gate D21, Gate D44)

Clubhouse One: A full service, full bar American casual spot serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks.

Corona Beach House: Corona’s first flagship restaurant and bar and the only place in MIA with a breakfast buffet. They’ve got Margaronas to drink and sports bar food for lunch and dinner too.

Clover Irish Pub

Icebox Café

Island Chicken Grill (Terminal D, Gate D22): Have a seat and get a taste of the nearby Caribbean with jerk chicken wings and grilled churrasco.

Islander Bar & Grill (Terminal D, Gate D4, D49): The quicker, pull up a stool to the bar and watch the game place to get a jerk chicken sandwich.

Jose Cuervo Tequileria: If you’ve overdone it with Cuban food, head here for a Mexican breakfast, lunch, or dinner with some top-notch tequilas to kick off that trip to Cancun.

Jose Valdez Cafe (Terminal D, Gate D23)

Ku-Va

La Carreta Restaurant (Terminal D, Gate D37): Sit down or grab to go at this Cuban-rooted restaurant with pastelitos, croquetas, and Cuban sandwiches.

Lorena Garcia Cocina

Shula’s Bar & Grill: Enjoy Don Shula’s signature steak and other big player items at a more quick and casual setting.

T.G.I. Friday’s: The tried-and-true chain has a sit-down area with full service any day of the week.

The Counter: A contemporary burger joint, The Counter has a variety of “custom-built” patties along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

Tradewinds Bar: Just that, a bar. No food served here.

GATES E,F,G QUICK BITES

Au Bon Pain (Terminal G, 2nd level)

Burger King (Terminal E, 2nd level, Terminal G, Gate G8)

California Pizza Kitchen

Dunkin Donuts (Terminal F, 2nd level)

Fresh Attractions (E Satellite, Gate E30)

Great American Bagel

Guava & Java (Terminal G, Gate G9; Terminal F, Gate F14)

Haagen Dazs (Terminal E, 2nd level)

La Caretta (Terminal E, Greeters Lobby}

Pizza Hut (Terminal F, Gate F14; Terminal E, Gate E7; Terminal G, Gate G15)

Sbarro

Starbucks (Terminal E, 2nd level, E Satellite, Gate E23)

Subway

World Wide Cafe

GATES E,F,G FAST CASUAL & BARS

Bacardi Mojito (Terminal G, Gate G4): A full bar and food menu make this worth stopping by for a mojito while in Miami.

Budweiser Brew House (Terminal F, Gate F12, G10): Bloody Marys for breakfast? That’s just the recipe for a good flight here.

Cafe Versailles (Terminal F, 2nd level, also at Gate E30)

Casa Bacardi: The rum bar also has American and Cuban food.

Chili’s To Go (Terminal G, 2nd level; Terminal E, Gate E5): Part of the chain gang, Chili’s To Go is the smaller, full-service cousin of the original.

Lobby Bar: Grab a libation and sushi to-go from this quick bar.

Samuel Adams: If you’re craving a cold brewski, head here. They also have non-alcoholic drinks and chips and snacks.

Sushi Bar: Connected to Lobby Bar, Sushi Bar offers quick take-out or have a seat at the bar.

Top of the Port

GATES H&J QUICK BITES

Café Brioche Doree

Cinnabon

Corona Express

Espressamente Illy

Famous Famiglia

Haagen Dazs (H-J Connector)

Island Chicken Grill (H-J Connector)

McDonald’s

Nathan’s Hot Dogs (Terminal H, Gate H9)

Pizza Hut (Terminal H, Gate H12)

Quiznos Sub

Starbucks (Terminal H, Gate H5; Terminal J, Gate J7)

GATES H&J FAST CASUAL & BARS

Bongos

Budweiser Brew House (Terminal H, Gate H12)

Corona Bar & Grill

Gilbert’s Food Bar (H-J Connector; Terminal J, 2nd level): Serving Miami for over 35 years, Gilbert’s has you covered for sandwiches, pastries, and other cafe items to stay or to go. Get a cortadito too.

Heineken Bar: Pull up a stool, order a cold Heineken, and much on some snacks before boarding.

La Pausa Restaurant

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