#it's just not what i prepared myself for mentally

[gf2bellamy]

lipgloss — spencer reid

pairing: spencer reid x fem!reader ( no use of y/n ) summary: you leave a lipgloss mark on spencer's cheek content warnings: nothing a/n: i malfunction when i see glasses spencer

You let out an exaggerated sigh, slumping forward as you rested your chin on your hand. Across from you, Spencer sat at his desk, completely engrossed in his work, the soft scratch of his pencil against paper filling the otherwise quiet bullpen. His brows furrowed in concentration as he made notes in the margins of his case files. 

“Spencer,” you whined, drawing out his name. “Do you think Hotch would say anything if I just went home?” 

Spencer glanced up at you, his honey-brown eyes softening the way they always did whenever he looked at you.

“I think he might,” he admitted, tilting his head slightly. “But you could always say you weren’t feeling well. Technically, boredom is a form of mental fatigue.” 

You let out another sigh, this one even more dramatic. “I’m just so bored,” you groaned, dragging out the last word. 

Spencer’s lips twitched in amusement before he returned to his notes. You stared at him for a moment, then perked up as an idea struck you. 

“I’m gonna make myself a coffee,” you announced, standing up and stretching. “Do you want one?” 

Spencer shook his head with a small smile. “No, that’s okay. But thanks.” 

He picked up his pen, going right back to his work. You lingered for a second before stepping closer to his desk, your lips curling into a small, mischievous smile. With no one else in the bullpen, you leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek. 

Spencer froze. His pencil slipped from his fingers, rolling across the desk. His head snapped up, his face already turning an unmistakable shade of pink. 

Your smile widened. “What?” you teased, tilting your head. 

“You—” He blinked rapidly, his blush deepening. “We’re at work.” 

“And?” You arched a brow, feigning innocence. 

Spencer opened his mouth, then shut it, clearly searching for a response. Finally, he huffed out a quiet laugh, shaking his head before picking up his pencil again. 

“You’re impossible,” he muttered, but the small, fond smile on his lips gave him away. 

You grinned. Mission accomplished. 

You made your way to the break room, yawning as you prepared yourself a much-needed cup of coffee. The scent of freshly brewed caffeine filled the air, and just as you reached for a mug, you heard loud voices echoing from down the hall. 

Garcia and Derek. 

As you poured your coffee, you caught snippets of their conversation��mostly Derek chuckling about something Garcia had said, followed by her dramatic gasp. They had obviously just come back from their little break.

By “little break,” they meant sneaking off to grab food somewhere without telling anyone. Classic. 

Once your cup was full, you wrapped your hands around the warm ceramic, only to immediately flinch and mutter a curse under your breath. Too hot. You blew on it a few times before deciding to just endure the heat, making your way back to the bullpen. 

The second you stepped inside, you were met with two pairs of wide, mischievous eyes locked onto you. 

“Oh my god, it is hers,” Garcia said, practically vibrating with excitement. 

You froze mid-step, raising an eyebrow. “Uh… what?” 

Your gaze flickered between them and Spencer, who was now sitting at his desk, very clearly avoiding eye contact. His ears were turning a suspicious shade of pink. 

Slowly, you walked over to your desk, setting your coffee down as you eyed them warily. Garcia and Derek were standing on either side of Spencer’s desk, arms crossed, looking like they had just cracked some kind of case. 

“Okay,” you said cautiously, dragging the word out. “Why are you all looking at me like that?” 

Silence. 

Spencer, still blushing, pretended to be very, very interested in his paperwork. Garcia and Derek, on the other hand, exchanged a knowing glance before Derek let out a low chuckle. 

“You sneaky little thing,” he teased, shaking his head. 

“What are you talking about?” You sat down slowly, still staring at them like they’d lost their minds. 

Garcia gasped dramatically. “Don’t play innocent! We know what you did.” 

Your heart skipped a beat. “What—?” 

Derek smirked, arms crossed over his chest like he’d just won the lottery. “Your lip gloss.” 

You blinked. “What about my lip gloss?” 

As if on cue, your lips instinctively pressed together, feeling the slight tackiness of the gloss you’d applied earlier. Garcia let out an exaggerated sigh, shaking her head. 

“You left a mark,” she said dramatically. “A very clear mark, right on Dr. Reid’s cheek.” 

Panic surged through you. 

Your eyes darted to Spencer, then to Garcia and Derek, then back to Spencer again. He was already looking at you, and now it all made sense—the blushing, the way he had been avoiding your gaze, and the way Garcia and Derek were practically bouncing with glee. 

Oh. Oh god. 

You leaned in slightly, taking a closer look. And there it was. A faint but unmistakable pink smudge on his cheek. 

Spencer huffed, finally speaking up. “She’s not letting me wipe it off,” he accused, nodding toward Garcia. 

Garcia gasped, placing a hand over her heart in mock offense. “Excuse you, Doctor! It’s called preserving evidence.” 

Derek chuckled. “Yeah, man. We gotta document this. It’s not every day you get physical proof that you two are—” 

“Shh!” you hissed, eyes widening as you quickly glanced around the bullpen. 

Your relationship with Spencer was still a secret, and the last thing you needed was someone overhearing this conversation. You shot both Garcia and Derek a glare, but they were absolutely thriving off of your reaction. 

“Relax, sweetheart,” Derek teased. “It’s just us.” 

You turned back to Spencer, who was looking at you expectantly, silently pleading for help. With a sigh, you grabbed a napkin from your desk, stepping closer to him. His eyes flickered to yours as you hesitated for just a second before reaching out, gently swiping at the mark on his cheek. 

His skin was warm beneath your touch. 

You tried to focus, but you could feel Garcia and Derek’s eyes burning into you. 

“There,” you murmured, inspecting his face. The lip gloss was gone, but his blush? Very much still there. 

Garcia clapped her hands together. “Awww, that was adorable.” 

Derek grinned. “Man, if y’all think you’re still fooling anyone—” 

Spencer groaned, pushing his glasses up his nose. “Can we please move on?” 

Garcia waved him off. “Fine, fine. But just know—this isn’t over.” 

She and Derek finally turned away, giggling to themselves as they walked off, no doubt already plotting their next round of teasing. 

You sighed, rubbing your temples before glancing at Spencer. He still looked flustered, but there was a small, barely-there smile on his lips. 

“You okay, genius?” you asked softly. 

He nodded, exhaling as he glanced at you. “You know they’re never gonna let this go, right?” 

You sighed dramatically, shaking your head. “Yeah. We’re doomed.” 

Spencer chuckled, and despite everything, you couldn’t help but smile too. 

Even if Garcia and Derek were onto you, at least work wasn’t boring anymore. 

[miniaturesuitgladiator]

Batfam x Neglected Mortal

Kombat reader

Notes: this is part ten to lucid dreams.

Warnings ⚠️: not proofread. Mentions of death, killing, and child abuse.

The room felt as if it was the perfect temperature. The bed was the softest you've ever slept on. And you were tired as hell.

But sadly, you couldn't fall asleep.

But you weren't quite awake either. You were somewhere in between reality and a sweet relief.

Yet your mind couldn't choose which to go with.

Your body on the other hand was begging for sleep ,but your mind just wouldn't listen.

Your ears strain on instinct as you hear steps walking towards your room. They're not loud steps but not quite steps either.

They want you to hear them coming.

You sit up lazily still tired from your restless night. Your door opens and you straighten up ready for whoever walks in.

Three maids walk in dressed in black attire. They look kinda like nuns but their way more stealthy then anyother nun.

They bow as the see you and shoot you a stern glare as they see you still in bed.

"Long time no see loyce." You say to the head maid.

These women practically raised you.

As harsh as they might have been they never left you without proper care.

Loyce was the oldest of the three. And the other two you didn't know if they were mute or just weren't allowed to talk. But they never spoke. So you referred to them as Emine and Kira.

They circle around your sitting form like cats watching their pray. Their studying you. Every little detail. They have to see what need improving..

"Get in the bath." Loyce says quickly. And you groan.

"I can bath myself. " You protest as you make your way into the bathroom.

They give you a stern glare and you shake your head not amused. This was their job. They needed you to be perfect.

Undressing and stepping into the big tile tub you sit down In the warm water they've prepared. The grab brushes and shampoos of all sorts. They rub hard against your body and you groan and try and push them away.

Which does nothing but earn you a slap on the wrist with the wood handle of the brush.

"Why does your hair look this color?" Loyce speaks up.

"I dyed it once. It's been like this ever since."

You can practically hear them shaking their heads in disappointment.

Once their finished giving you a bath you smell absolutely delicious. And your skin hasn't been this hydrated in years and your muscles aren't so sore.

Their quick to dry you off not sparring a second.

And looking out the window the sun hasn't risen.

Their hands work quickly to get you dressed. And into some comfortable under garments.

Looking into the big mirror the have you sitting infront of you can see they've washed all the remaining bit of dye you had once had.

They begin straightening your hair with a devilishly hot straightener. Leaving no trace of your typical normal hair.

Your hair perfectly straight leaving not one hair out of place. They do your hair into a simple half up half down hair do.

As the begin with your make up. Simple but elegant.

Pretty enough for a princess.

Finally finishing up with your make up they lather your skin with lotion and oils giving you glowy skin.

Finally putting on your big elegent kimono. Your ready.

"What's the rush?" You say as they hurriedly slip on your shoes.

"Your father wants to see you immediately. " Loyce says speaking for the three of them.

You hum and nod knowing your father is impatient man.

"All this just to see my father..." You say looking at your reflection as the spray perfume on you.

You truly did look like a princess.

"The king," Loyce corrects you. " he's not only your father but the king...keep that in mind princess. " loyce says sternly like a mother teaching her child manners.

As they finally slip on your other shoe they take a moment to look at you. Making sure your absolutely perfect.

"You've grown beautifully....just like your mother." Loyce says and the other two nod agreeing with her. You mentally flinch at her words.

'Just like your mother.' She just had to add. You shake your head clearing these thoughts as they lead you outside room and into the big hallway.

The sun is casting over the horizon and you can't help but watch through the windows as you continue walking.

This place might have been cruel but it was beautiful nevertheless.

You walk through the big stone walls straight to father office. Just like you did many years ago.

You feel more anxious with each step. And your maids can tell. The give you a light sqeez on the arm as if trying to comfort you with their actions.

The other maids and servants bow as you pass and admire your beauty.

Finally arriving at your father office your maids bow and you dismiss them.

They each give a kiss to your cheek just like they've done ever since you were a baby.

Their kiss is not something their forced to do.

It's highly looked down apon to show any sorts of affection in the castle.

But they do it to show love. To show they care despite their cold demeanor.

Opening and stepping through your father's office doors you see him. Or more like his back.

His office looks the same dimly lit with candle and a small window. The red tiles clean ,and shiny as it always is and the pale color of the room adds to the beauty and aura.

Your father stands with his back facing you. And his long hair is tied into a bun. You can see the little gray hair peeking from his bun showing change. His growth.

Though you've grown he still looks as tall as ever. Still taller then you.

You can remember all the time you've been called to his office before. None of them were good. Hopefully now that'd be different.

But you'd be a fool to hope for something so soon. So you keep quiet, reading the room and atmosphere.

He begins talking and his voice is loud and confident just like you remember it. And you almost flinch at the sudden sound but you stand your ground. Your gaze never wavering from his back as he lights another candle.

"My girl......it's been so long...to long."

He says the last part with venom most as if he's angry at the time you've been away.

"Tell me....did you miss me?" He questions and he still doesn't turn around as he lights another candle and you wants scoff but you don't.

"Miss what? Your cruelty?" You say and you wish you could stop the words that flow out of your mouth but it's too late you've said them.

He doesn't filnch and his confidence doesn't waver at your words almost like he was expecting them.

"Ah... so you've devolved my tongue I see.... A great quality to have but it can get you into alot of trouble."

He says and you can tell he's smirking he likes that you've developed something of his.

He like your boldness. Because you undeniably got that from him.

He turns around before you can come back with a witty remark. And for a moment you have nothing to say. Your mind goes blank as your eyes meet his.

It's almost like he hasn't changed. Like not a day had gone by. But it has...his eyes widen but not in fear...no his eyes widen but only for a moment because he's proud.

"You've grown so much..." He says his voice barely louder then a whisper.

"And you not at all." You say and you don't bite your tongue like you would've before.

He smiles and you'd remember that smile anywhere. He's proud.

Not of what you've said but of you in general.

He steps forward and you take a step back hesitatently. You want to stand your ground to show no fear but your mind acts on instinct.

He takes notice of your fear and a frown appears on his face not liking your fear one bit.

"I won't hurt my dear...Im not that man...not anymore. " He says and his voice is surprising gentle.

You've never heard him talk like that before. Not even when you were a baby.

"Only a fool steps in a trap twice." You say quoting one of his lessons.

He raises his eye brows as a response and nods agreeing to your words and wisdom.

He sighs and you can see it. His chest is heavy.

He's nervous.

He's cations with his words careful not to over step.

"And you are no fool ,my girl....." He says his voice defeated.

"But I am your father....or I was. And I'd like to be agian...if you'd allow me?" His words are small and humble.

Which is so unlike him.

So unlike a king.

It was almost pathetic...he was asking to be your father.

If it was anyone else you'd probably roll your eyes for the dramatic words....

But nothing about this moment was dramatic. It was.....kind.

Something that you had never seen your father be.

Watching the man infront of you saw him. Not just a king or his cruelty...but your father.

You snap back into reality. You won't fall into a trap twice... you are no fool. You remind yourself. 'Don't attach yourself to false hope.' 'Always watch for traps.' Is what you've always been taught.

But seeing it father so honest...so desperate was doing something to you...it was breaking you.

His hazel dark eyes search yours looking for any sign of forgiveness. But you can't trust so easily. Not after everything. Your smarter then that.

"After everything's you've done...I can't just forgive you.." You say and you see how much your words impact you father but his kindness doesn't fade at the sight of denial. In fact it increases.

"I'm not asking for forgiveness...just a second chance.." He says his voice is soft and everything's in you is begging you to forgive him. But you can't.

Your hurt. He's hurt you.

"You killed my grandmother.. you took her life. That is not something I can forget." There it is something you've been dying to say to him. The final bridge that he must cross before you let him in.

You want him to explain. And he's been waiting for you to bring that up.

"That wasn't me. That was my men." He says defensively but his kindness is still there.

"Exactly your men. You might as well have killed her." You say and your venom is fierce and he feels it.

He feels your strength. He feels your emotions how you channel it into power. And he fucking loves it

If it wasn't such a bad moment he'd probably smile.

"They didn't do that by my command.....their orders were to scare you. Not to hurt you or your grandmother. "He says and you can hear his words are genuine.

"To scare me?" You say confused. They were just supposed to scare you...not bring you back?

"You still don't understand.....I let you go. " He says and he takes a small step forward and this time you don't step back.

You scoff at his words. He let you go? Impossible. He would've never let you go....atleast Not without a reason.

It's you who steps forward this time.

"Why?."

You ask commanding an answer.

"I had to let you go..." He says and his words are hollow and lack pride like his words usually have.

You look at him and tilt your head motioning for him to continue.

"Whether you believe what I say or not...I knew I was cruel. I knew I was hurting you." He says and his voice sincere. His tone so soft that you almost believe that this is a dream...

"And I didn't want to....but it was more about your strength. About what you were supposed to be.... there were things I couldn't teach you. I was to young. I lacked so much."

His voice is calm and he's trying to go around the truth but you already put the pieces together. You truly understand now.

"You lacked skills..but my grandfather didn't. So you let them take me. You let him train me. Teach me things that you never knew." You say and watch as he nods.

He sees that you've caught on. You've read him before he began speaking. Some only your grandfather would've been able to teach you.

"Your grandfather...he would've never taught me the things he's taught you." He says calmly.

He steps away from you and sits on a small chair and motions for you to sit across from him.

You hesitate sit and he pours you tea. Just like he used to do after your training had went well.

"So you expect me to teach you?" You ask as you take a sip of your tea.

"Teach me? No. I've learned plenty from other masters." He states and you look at him baffled.

"Teach Kion then?" You asks.

"No. I want to teach you all that I know." He says and he watches for your reaction.

"With what you already know and what I can teach you...you will be great." He says.

"All I am to you is some trophy..." You say feeling angry at his words how dare he want you to be nothing but a tool in game. In his war.

"Trophy?" He says confused and offended. You had taken his words the completely wrong way.

"My girl... you are all that I am. You are my daughter, my protégé, my heir."

What the hell did he just say? Heir?

You were no heir.

No bastard could be heir to the throne. You look at him confused and stunned.

"Kion is heir. Not me." You say as you take another sip of your tea.

"Says who? I have the final say." He say firmly.

"I will not take the throne from my brother." You say. You know how much blood can be shed from a siblings fighting of the throne.

"It's your birth right not his. He's known from the day he was born that you would be my heir. Not him." Your father states in a matter-of-factly tone.

"You can not take something that is already yours..." He continues.

Your silence is like a silence agreement to him as he continues speaking again.

"I assume Kion has told you what sub-zero did." He says and you can tell the memory still haunts him.

You nod.

"Do you know how he killed her?" He asks and his softness is long gone now.

You shake your head wanting him to continue.

"We were asleep. She was sleeping right next to me....and he slit her throat....I didn't even hear his steps. I woke up...and she was dead. He says and you can tell it hurts for him to admit that he was weak.

Now that was deep shit. You think to yourself.

All this time you had thought that sub-zero had killed her to start a war and take the throne ,but hearing how he killed...something much deeper had happened.

"Why not kill you? " You say and his eyes snap to yours.

"That's the question I ask every night....in chess when you take the king what happens?" He ask and you answer quickly.

"You win."

"Exactly....killing me... the throne would've been his. He wants something more... but I don't know what." His words are almost true...but he's hiding something. But you don't know what.....

You don't press any farther knowing he won't tell.. atleast not yet...

So you continue drinking your tea.

His words are kind and humble once agian as he begins speaking. And you can see the desperation in his eyes as he reaches for your hand.

"A war is coming ,and I need you...So I'll ask you agian. Will you allow me to be your father?"

As soon as the batfamilys feet touch the ground they take in the snowy atmosphere.

"Where the hell are we?" Your mother says confused. They weren't anywhere near the palace. They weren't anywhere near you.

"The portal was supposed to take us to her." Bruce says as he looks at the small device that controls the portal.

"She's about 10 thousand kilometers away." Tim says and dick groans.

"It'll take us forever to get there...." dick says annoyed.

Jason looks around the snowy grounds as if searching for you behind every tree. You mother walks up to him noticing his distressed state.

"You okay jay? Is medicine that we gave you still working? " She says her voice soft.

"Yeah.... I'm fine." He says dismissively. It was clear that jason was angry at pretty much everyone for you leaving.

He blames them. Because it is their fault.

"I have friends that can help that aren't to far from here..." Your grandfather says as he takes in the familiar surroundings.

"How long will it take us to her?" Your mother questions.

"A week at minimum. We better hurry." Your grandfather says as he begins walking knowing exactly where he's headed.

Damian stays silent for the most part. He knows he should've been a better brother...he regrets everything...ever incounter ever word...

He finally feels the weight of his actions getting back to him...but it's to late isn't it?

Thanks for reading!!

Comments and likes are highly appreciated! 💗

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[revscarecrow]

Hi Rev! That time is upon us once again, do you have any tips for first time protesters?

1. Wear nice walking shoes cause you are going to be out there for a bit and your feet will hurt.

2. Have a game plan. Are you down to get physical? Are you able to be arrested? No shame in saying no. I'm not much for physical altercations with the police myself. But you need to make that decision before your blood starts boiling. The energy is infectious and will lead you to make mob mentality decisions. Remember what you decided and don't go beyond that limit.

3. Weather appropriate precautions. If it's hot bring sun screen and water if it's cold bring a coat. It's simple but most of what I did as a street medic was giving people water or blankets.

4. Have a number you will call if you get arrested. Memorize it or write it on your arm in sharpie. Mom dad lawyer friend whatever. Someone for if things go tits up.

5. Cops don't like being filmed doing messed up stuff but they will do it. Violence comes after dark. The news won't stand around all day so after some b roll and an interview or two they will go home. Then they can interview the cops in the morning where they can say a couple of bad actors caused a scene and they were arrested but largely the protest was peaceful (or was a riot if you aren't white). This will be an easy way for them to get away with kicking your ass. This happens every time a protest goes long.

6. Go with a friend. It just feels good to have someone you know watching out for you.

7. Have an escape plan and park your car a bit away from the protest. They like to camp out the local parking areas to catch protestors who evaded the police cordon.

8. Password lock your phone. Don't use biometrics. A password lock keeps the cops out when they arrest you. They can't force you to give that information.

9. Cops don't like lefties. If you are not a right wing loser they do not give a shit about your rights.

10. Most of this shit will not come up for your first protest but I want to prepare you for the wildest shit so you are ready for it when it happens.

11. People will yell at your from cars etc. Fuck em. People will say your protest doesn't matter. Fuck em.

12. Your protest isn't just about trying to get the government to do whatever. It's mostly about making connections. It would be rad if the government caves but it's not likely until your protest reaches a critical mass. If your numbers can be ignored they will be.

13. For your first time protest just go have fun. Don't stay out late or get physical just do a simple version. Do the chanting and make friends. Like with any group there will be creeps so be on the look out for that but most of those people are gonna be cool people.

14. Thank you. We need people who are out there doing the things. Make connections we've gotten so distant and it makes us easier to fuck with.

[gothamite-rambler]

Ominous voice on the phone: Seven days.

Tim: For what?

Ominous voice: Seven days.

Tim: In a week? Yes, that is how long a week is. Is that all you needed to call about, stranger?

Ominous voice: No. Seven days… to live.

Tim: And?

Ominous voice: You're going to die in seven days.

Tim: FINALLY!

Bruce: Life is not that bad. End the call.

Tim: We have the Lazarus pit and unlike Jason I can handle it. Ma'am, I'm assuming you are because you sound like a little girl, but do you promise?

Ominous voice: What?

Tim: Do you really promise that you'll be here in seven days to kill me? I need to prepare for that death. Is it still a flat screen that'll get me, or can I expect something more creative?

Bruce: Give me the phone.

Tim (placing a hand on Bruce's face): I can set up lights and snacks if you need that.

Ominous voice: You're… supposed to be scared.

Tim chuckled flatly.

Tim: If I died right now, I'd welcome it. I live in Gotham. A sunny day either means I won’t have to deal with something awful or that something truly terrible is around the corner. My adopted father? I spent my teenage years helping him with his mental health, and then my parents died soon after. I didn't kill myself when my father died because I thought I wasn’t worthy of death, and then said adopted father put me through a test that nearly pushed me over the edge.

Ominous voice: …

Tim: So, is there a time or anything?

Bruce (taking the phone): Um, can you pick someone else for this? My kids are, um, not the best with mental health.

Tim: We learn from the best!

Bruce: I said I was sorry about the test!

Tim: Three months later!

Bruce: Is that not enough?

Tim: I would have appreciated no test at all! I'm not suicidal I just need a reboot.

Bruce: Tim... I care about you and understand the sentiment, but no. Death and pit isn't the answer to mental health.

Ominous voice: Sorry to interrupt, but yeah, don’t worry about me coming after him. In fact, who are your other kids? I’d like to avoid them and hope they get the help they need.

Bruce: Okay, so the first one is my eldest son, Dick. He handles his depression well enough… but he'd welcome death as well.

[volnawrites]

Recently i made the decision to start wearing the niqab a choice deeply rooted in my faith, my sense of modesty, and my commitment to covering myself in a way that I believe aligns my religion. While there are differing views on whether niqab is obligatory or recommended, I chose to wear it wanting to be on the safer side. I knew from the very beginning that this journey would not be easy and I had mentally prepared myself for the challenges that would come from society, from strangers, and from people who might misunderstand my choice. But what I was not prepared for was the reaction from my own family. I had imagined that stepping outside in a niqab would be the hardest part dealing with stares, whispers, or assumptions that I am overly conservative or isolated from the world. But surprisingly what hurt me the most was not the reaction of the outside world but rather the reaction of those closest to me. The moment that really struck me was during a simple dinner at home, where I was sitting with my family and an uncle from my maternal side. Since they are my mahrams i wasn’t wearing a hijab at that moment . His comments were very hurting and i realised that its not always the strangers but it is those within our own circles who question and challenge our choices the most.

His words and attitude made me realize how deeply ingrained certain perceptions are even among Muslims. Perhaps he sees the niqab as unnecessary, extreme, or a sign of restriction rather than empowerment. Maybe he believes it creates distance between people, making interactions more difficult. But for me wearing the niqab is not about separating myself from the world it is about strengthening my relationship with Allah about feeling secure in my modesty and about finding peace in my identity as a Muslim woman.

It has taught me that the real test of faith is not just in wearing the niqab but in enduring the reactions that come with it. I’ve realized that conviction is not just about believing in something it is about standing by it even when it is difficult, even when those closest to you do not understand it.

I know that this journey is still new for me and there will be many more challenges ahead. But I also know that sincerity in faith comes with trials. If Allah has guided me to this path then I trust that He will also give me the strength to walk it.

To any woman out there who is struggling with a similar choice know that you are not alone. The world may not always understand you, and even your own family may not always support you, but if your intention is sincere and your heart is firm that is what truly matters. Keep going. Your journey is between you and Allah and that is the only validation you need.

[gay-barbarian]

All the Way Home I'll Be Warm

Mercy bring Swan to an ice rink to teach her how to ice stake. Just fluff!

You can also read it on Ao3

“It’s really not that scary” Mercy giggled as Swan was holding on to her arm like her life depended on it. 

“Maybe for you. I never did this before, what if I fall?” Swan hissed under her breath trying to keep her anxiety in check. They were at the edge of a packed ice rink, rented ice skates on their feet. It was sunny outside and not that cold for a winter day, the perfect day to spend outside.

A week ago, Swan had made the mistake of mentioning she never learned how to ice skate in front of her girlfriend. Mercy had instantaneously looked at her with the biggest smile and stars in her eyes. She took Swan’s hands in hers and eagerly asked “Can I teach you?”. Swan would do anything to make Mercy happy, so she agreed, hoping they would actually never have time to go. That morning, knowing they both had the day off, Mercy had slipped out of bed and prepared each of them a hot drink, hot cocoa for herself and tea for Swan, in travel cups before coming back to the bedroom to wake Swan up. 

“Good morning baby” Mercy whispered, peppering the warchief’s face with light kisses. “It’s time to wake up.” She added in a peppy voice. 

“I thought we could sleep in today,” Swan grumbled, still half-asleep leaning into Mercy’s touches.

“We could, but I have plans for us, so get your ass up” Mercy announced before going to open the curtains, letting the sun come in the small window of their bedroom. Swan whined and buried her face in Mercy’s pillow, making her laugh. “Five more minutes” the second-in-command pleaded, her voice muffled.

“Nope” Mercy made the p pop and swiftly removed the blankets from Swan’s body. Swan sat up and looked at her girlfriend, annoyed “Mercy!” The tone of her voice would have been threatening for almost anyone else but Mercy just found it cute. The bed hair and sleepy eyes didn't help her look menacing at all. 

“Swan” Mercy copied her tone with a smile as Swan glared at her unamused. She pecked Swan’s lips and headed for the door “Make sure you’re putting on warm clothes, we’re going outside. Love you!”.

“Love you too” Swan muttered, letting herself fall down on the mattress with a sigh. 

<hr>  

One train ride later, they arrived at their destination. Mercy immediately headed to the little temporary wood cabin not far from the rink that seemingly rented what they needed. Swan watched her go, taking a sip of her tea that had been infused way too long. She took a mental note to write down the infusion time required for every different tea she had. She wasn’t a fan of the idea of putting sharp blades on her feet to slip around on frozen water, but she couldn’t refuse anything that would make Mercy happy. And judging by the big smile Mercy had plastered on her face as she came back with two pairs of ice skates, that whole outing was making her happy. Swan took another sip of her drink, trying not to grimace at the bitter taste, and met Mercy halfway. 

Looking at the intricate lace situation on the skates Swan asked deadpan “How am I supposed to put that on?” 

“You let me help you,” Mercy answered, her smile not flattering for a second, “go sit there, I’ll show you how it’s done”. She pointed at an empty bench a bit farther away from the crowd. 

Right as Swan was seated, Mercy kneeled in front of her to take off her shoes. “You know I can do that part myself, right?” Swan asked with a cocked eyebrow and a tiny smirk.

“Too late, I’m doing it” Mercy replied, joyous, as she swapped Swan’s boots for a pair of ice skates and started to tighten the laces starting at the bottom. Swan took a gulp of her tea, trying to hide her blush of embarrassment from watching Mercy help her like she was a little kid.

Just before tying the lace, Mercy asked “How does it feel? Not too tight?”.

Looking into Mercy’s eyes, Swan answered with a soft smile “It’s perfect”. Mercy smiled back and quickly finished tying up Swan’s skate before putting hers on. When she was done, she carefully stood up and offered Swan a hand. Swan put down her travel cup and took her hand, slowly standing up. She was pretty stable in the snow, but she still leaned heavily into Mercy, in part to make sure she wouldn't fall and in part to just be close to her girlfriend. Mercy wasn’t going to complain.

Once they arrived at the edge of the rink, Swan put one foot on the ice checking how slippery it would be, still grabbing into Mercy’s arm. The second her test was done, she brought her foot back into the snow letting out a tiny “nope not doing that”.

“It’s really not that scary”

“Maybe for you. I never did this before, what if I fall?”

“You will, but I’ll be here to catch you. Now stop being a baby and come with me” Mercy told Swan with a comforting smile while stepping on the ice, having a great control on what she was doing. 

Swan took a deep breath and followed Mercy that was pulling a little on her hand. As soon as both her feet were on the ice she stumbled over and fell into Mercy’s arm that was waiting for her. “See? I told you I’ll catch you” Mercy laughed.

Swan wanted to give up right there and then, she didn’t particularly like being the only adult falling down, hell even the kids around them were better at this than her. She watched her girlfriend with a stern look  “If you’re going to laugh at me I’d rather we go back home than be humiliated”. Maybe she was being a big baby, but she didn’t really care. Swan hated being bad at things. 

Mercy’s laugh died down rather quickly when she saw Swan wasn’t joking. She helped Swan get more stable, putting one hand on her waist and the other on her face to make her look into her eyes. “I’m sorry honey, I’m not trying to make fun of you. We’re here to help you learn so no more laughs from me from now on!” Mercy declared with an encouraging smile. Swan nodded silently, still a little embarrassed. Mercy pulled away and offered her arm once more before ordering her girlfriend to take it. 

“I’ll make you fall,” Swan said, taking her arm anyway.

“I’ve already fallen for you, baby, since the first time I saw you” Mercy couldn’t stop herself from teasing with a big smile.

“That’s not what I meant,” Swan grumbled, barely hiding her smile. 

They spent the next twenty minutes skating, mostly falling, around until Swan felt confident enough to let go of Mercy’s arm. One foot in front of the other, she started gliding, gaining more speed with each stroke. She turned her head around to smile at Mercy, until she realised she had no clue how to stop other than dropping herself on the floor. Mercy pointed to the side of the rink, trying to tell her to use it to stop and watched as a panicked Swan hit the sides at full force without reducing her speed. Mercy winced as she heard a loud “Huff” coming from her girlfriend and went as fast as possible to her side. 

“Swan, I’m so sorry you’re okay? You didn’t hit your head? Didn’t break any bones? How many fingers do I have?” Mercy asked rapidly, holding three fingers in front of Swan’s face before Swan could even get fully up, still sitting on the cold ice. 

Swan took her hand in hers and pulled herself up. “I’m okay, just think I had enough ice skating for the rest of the year”.

They made their way back to the train station, Mercy apologizing profusely and fuzing over Swan. As they sat down side by side in the train taking them home, Swan took Mercy’s hand in hers stroking them lightly with her thumbs “Mercy, I told you I’m fine. Don’t worry about it”. 

Mercy frowned and looked down, “You know I can’t do that. Stop worrying about you I mean. I wanted you to have fun today and instead you got hurt and had an awful time. I shouldn't have made you come here…”

Swan freed one of her hands to raise Mercy’s chin up, forcing her to look at her “I had fun, love. It was a very good idea. I could have done without the end but for the most part I had fun. Plus you were there with me all the way, it’s hard to have an awful time in those circumstances.” 

Mercy searched Swan’s eyes for any trace of lying and seemed satisfied when she couldn’t find any. “You’re pretty sappy for a stoic war chief y’know?” She said with a teasing smile. Swan smiled back before replying with a playful “shut up”. Mercy's eyes fell on Swan’s lips before going back to her eyes. “Make me”. 

Swan laughed and kissed her girlfriend on the train bringing them home.

[evedaser]

look i know this is meant entirely literally because they're talking about jousting but COME ON. THIS SOUNDS LIKE A EUPHEMISM.

[tinukis]

im rereading one piece (i'll watch certain arcs too as i get into OP again)

and man i forget how much i loved the baratie arc especially seeing how luffy and sanji first interact... "i refuse your refusal!" is so good and while bickering like an old married couple, they both yell at gin simultaneously i love them so much

[pers3phone399]

H E L L O ?!?!?!

[concrete-3ater]

how’re the anime only dandadan viewers doing after the most recent episode?

[lokh]

fastest way to piss me off is to try and add something to a task im in the middle of doing because 'youre already doing it so this shouldnt be extra work tee hee' THATS NOT HOW THIS WORKS

[freakurodani]

if you firmly established a boundary and you have mentioned that it bothered you when they didnt follow through, then they ignore (or ""forget"") again, are you allowed to be a petty bitch then?

[the-gayest-tree-you-ever-did-see]

finally caved and started reading all for the game. two chapters into the foxhole court and what kind of gay fucking shit is this! also did not know there were sports in here

[tewwor]

yknow. if i think too hard about yuta & gojo i’ll cry on the spot. i’ll do it. for starters just … the whole panel about ‘have’t we all kept on pushing gojo-sensei to be a monster all on his own? if gojo-sensei is gone, then the monster has to be someone else. if no one else will, then i will become one’

[whataboutyouisamascot]

Sometimes you just really need to do things for yourself (something I'm trying to remember)

[closedrop]

I’ve been thoroughly roped into the portal fandom now

All I know right now is the song “Mr. Blue Sky” by Electric Light Orchestra is fucking magical what the hell-

Why it doin that, more importantly how??