#jo's happy hour of positivity

[jolalibrary]

For happy hour....a picture I hadn't seen before!

You complete me,

El 💜

well. fuck me.

this is making me feel things.

also, like @goodwithcheese what are we saying the fabric is here? because it's looks soft, and his hand is telling me there's no like... zip it can just be pulled down? i need to know.

jo's happy hour of positivity (that will deffo be longer than an hour)

[luvismenu]

happy birthday master — jjk one shot

happy birthday to our golden boy!!! 🥺🫶🏻

pairing: boyfriend!jk x fem!reader

warnings: lower case intended, maid cosplay (role-play?), making out, oral (male receiving), praising, hair pulling, spanking, clit play, unprotected sex, use of 'master" , bigdick!jk

wc: 1.7k+

note — not proof-read! y'all better ignore the mistakes cuz i wrote this quickly in one sitting 🥴

♡ — permanent taglist: @wnteraezz @jkvias @jksctrl @blaricee @blluee28 @letmekookk @whoa-jo @wobblewobble822 @jkslvsnella @clxssy1997 @nikkinikj @kayleesaltzmann @rrosiitas @naurnonope @lola75111 @somehowukook @redcherrykook @parkinglot-nights @deluluisdasolulu @minghaosimp @hyeon-yi

you love jungkook more than anything.

and you'd go to the ends of the earth just to see him happy.

it’s his birthday today, and he’ll be home in just a few minutes. he had to go to his office for some work, which, to your relief, ended up taking him a few hours. that extra time was a blessing because it gave you the chance to get everything ready.

you want this to be perfect for him.

after all, he deserves nothing less on his special day.

that is why you bought a cute maid cosplay as a surprise for him!!

you’re a bit nervous about it, unsure if he’ll like it, but you remember the way his eyes lit up when he once mentioned maid cosplays... and just cosplays in general.

jungkook is always so generous with you. he gets you everything you want, often before you even have the chance to ask. and when it's your birthday, he makes sure it's an unforgettable experience, with grand celebrations that leave you in awe.

what you're doing right now might not compare to the extravagant surprises he plans for you, but you’re determined to make this the best birthday he’s ever had.

anything to see that smile on your boyfriend’s face, right?

you’re hiding behind the couch, dressed in your maid outfit, your heart racing with excitement.

your outfit is adorable—the skirt is mid-thigh length, and you notice how it rides up slightly, teasing just a hint of your ass.

the fabric hugging you just right, with a little bow on your chest that really completes the look.

you look like a birthday present (at least, you hope so!)

you’re excited, maybe a little nervous too

you’ve planned this surprise down to the last detail, and all you can do now is hope he’ll love it.

when he switches the lights on, you’re going to jump out like a bunny, and in that moment, you’ll find out if all this effort was worth it.

then, you hear the sound of the door unlocking. your heart skips a beat as you quickly get into position, ready to do your little jump.

“baby? you planning to scare me or something?” you hear him call out as he walks in, the sound of his keys jingling and you don't miss the slight teasing tone in his voice.

your heart is pounding in your chest as you quickly adjust your outfit, trying to steady your nerves.

the lights flick on, and you take a deep breath, jumping right into character.

“welcome home, m-master,” you stammer slightly, a blush creeping onto your cheeks as you see him standing there, his eyes wide with surprise. you almost laugh when you notice him nearly dropping the wine bottle in his hand.

“baby...” he slowly looks you up and down.

you catch the faintest hint of a curse under his breath, and it makes you smile, relieved to see that he’s clearly impressed.

“happy birthday,” you say softly as you walk over to him

“huh—oh, right, it’s my birthday, yeah wow.. fuck” he struggles to find his words, too distracted by your appearance. you chuckle, taking the bottle from him and placing it on the table with the cake and decorations.

his eyes never leave your body, tracing every curve and detail

“what do you think, master?” you ask, biting your lip as you look up at him.

“master?” he echoes, a smirk slowly spreading across his face as he meets your gaze.

“i am your maid for today, gonna serve you good” you reply, your fingers playing with the collar of his shirt, “do you not like it, master?”

“like? baby, i fucking love it!” he says, pulling you close, his arms wrapping around your waist.

“you look so fucking pretty,” his hands slowly drift down, cupping your ass in his palms. you gasp softly, and he grins with satisfaction before leaning in to kiss your neck. “so beautiful,”

you let him grab and squeeze your ass gently, feeling his touch grow more intense. then, he captures your lips in a kiss.

“are you really gonna serve your master, baby?” he whispers against your lips.

“yes,” you breathe out, and he squeezes your

ass harder.

he kisses you again, this time more passionately. his tongue slips into your mouth, making you let out a soft moan. his hands make their way to your hips, giving them a soft squeeze.

after what feels like two minutes, you gently push him back. he looks at you, a little confused.

“you have to at least take one bite of that cake before we do anything else,” you say pointing at the cake.

“oh i'm definitely gonna take a bite,” he says as his hand lands a playful spank on your ass, making you yelp.

you quickly light the candle, the tiny flame flickering. as you finish, he pulls you closer to his side, wrapping an arm around your waist.

“birthday wish?” you ask, tilting your head to look up at him, a soft smile on your lips.

he gazes down at you, his eyes softening, "i have you; what more could i want baby?" he murmurs, pressing a gentle kiss to the side of your face.

with a content sigh, he leans forward and blows out the candle. you carefully slice a piece of the cake, and then lift the piece to his lips. he takes a bite, savoring the taste, his eyes never leaving yours.

“delicious,” he says and you smile, pleased that he's enjoying the cake you made.

as you set the rest of the cake down, you notice a bit of cream on your fingers.

you smirk to yourself before you bring your fingers to your mouth, making sure he's watching every move. you slowly and deliberately suck the cream off your fingers, your tongue swirling around each finger, savoring the sweetness, while your eyes lock with his.

he kisses you immediately, his hands cupping your face, your tongues moving together as soft hums escape both of you. the kiss is urgent, yet passionate.

his breath catches, eyes darkening as he watches you.“fuck,” he breathes out, the word barely audible.

you start unbuttoning his shirt, your fingers fumbling slightly in your eagerness. he helps you take it off with one hand while his other hand grabs a fistful of your hair, pulling you closer, leaving no space between you as he deepens the kiss.

after a few heated minutes, he pulls back, his breath unsteady. “I'm your master for tonight, yeah baby?”

you nod quickly, your heart racing.

“gonna be a good girl for me, hm?”

“yes master,” you drop to your knees before him.

“mmph-fuck, yes baby, you're doing so good,” he groans, his voice thick with pleasure as you gag and drool on his cock. his breathing becomes ragged, each gasp echoing in the room as you take him deeper.

“you look so cute sucking my cock like that,” he murmurs, his hand gripping your hair as he watches you. the sight of your lips wrapped around him, the way your tongue swirls and your eyes water drives him wild. he groans, the sound low and deep, vibrating through his chest as he feels the warmth of your mouth engulfing him.

“fuck... get up, baby,” he orders, his voice filled with urgency. he moves his hand from your hair, helping you to your feet. he turns you around, guiding you into position.

"bend over for me, yeah?" he whispers, his tone commanding yet filled with affection. he pushes you gently down, and your hands grip the couch.

his hand travels down to your ass, giving it a sharp slap that makes you gasp. the sting makes you bite your lip, a mix of pain and pleasure coursing through you.

he doesn't stop there.

he continues delivering several more spanks, each one making you whimper and wriggle.

“you like that, baby?” he asks as he massages your now reddened ass, soothing the burn with soft, circular motions.

“mmfh... master, want you in me,” you whimper

he pulls your panties down in one swift motion, exposing your wetness to him. one hand stays on your hip holding you steady, while the other trails down to your clit. he moves his fingers slowly, rubbing them in teasing circles that make your legs weak. your moans grow louder, and your hips move involuntarily as he continues playing with your clit.

”will you let me cum inside you, baby?” he asks, his voice strained as his fingers continue their assault on your clit.

“yes... yes, please,” you moan out

he slaps your ass once more, the sound sharp and loud. “yes what?”

”yes, m-master,”

a satisfied smirk tugs at the corners of his mouth as he positions himself at your entrance. he teases you for a moment, rubbing the tip of his cock against your wetness before slowly pushing inside.

it feels so fucking good.

your walls stretching as his cock fills you completely.

he feels so fucking good.

“f-fuck master, so big!!” your grip on the couch tightens as you moan loudly. the feeling of his big cock inside you is almost too much, the pleasure so intense

“so tight, so good for me,” he grunts, his thrusts becoming faster, more forceful. the sound of skin slapping against skin fills the room, each thrust driving you closer to the edge.

“such a perfect pussy,”

his hand stays on your hip, holding you in place as the other reaches up to your hair, grabbing a fistful and pulling your head back slightly. the added pressure makes you cry out, your body arching as he pounds into you relentlessly.

“so good... so fucking good,” he groans,

you can feel the heat building inside you, your body trembling. “master, i-i'm close,” you whimper, your voice shaky

“cum for me baby,” he growls, both of his hands moving to your hips to hold you as his thrusts become more urgent.

your body tensing before you cry out his name, your orgasm crashing over you. your walls tighten around him, pulsing as you moan, lost in the pleasure.

“fuck, baby, i'm gonna-" he gasps, his thrusts quickening before he drives into you one last time.

he cums hard, his grip on you tightening as he finds his release, filling you with warmth. for a moment, you both stay still, breathing heavily. slowly, he pulls out, a soft groan escaping his lips.

he then pulls you into his arms

“i love you so fucking much baby," he murmurs, pressing a gentle kiss to your shoulder. "you're perfect.”

“happy birthday, master” you let out a tired chuckle and so does he

“best birthday ever”

[norrisjpg]

motion sickness - ᴍᴠ¹

in which, max feels the affects of losing his best friend.

contains: unresolved conflict, implied depression, crying, swearing, mentions of jos verstappen (AH), max losing his home grand prix, social media, happy ending.

max verstappen x unnamed female character

...

...

it definitely wasn't for the better.

driving down a pretty hillside road with the windows rolled down, soft sobs left her lips as the familiar dutch scenery blurred past her peripheral vision.

daniel had persuaded her to attend the dutch grand prix, max's home race - at least she could see him happy here, right? she could tell herself he was better off without her and move on with her life. but, she couldn't help but be a little selfish and think about her wellbeing - it was safe to say she wasn't well at all.

she had met someone - tristan, his name was.

they'd met in a bar in monaco, when she'd been dragged out of her apartment by her friends to pull her out of her grumpy state - anyone would have thought that she had gone through a devastating break-up.

you know that greek myth about soulmates? how we were seperated into two humans from one with two heads, four arms, and four legs?

max never used to believe in soulmates - platonic or romantic - but he adamant that they were meant to be, so be it friends, or hopefully lovers - she was supposed to be his, he was supposed to be hers.

but he had ruined it.

she was currently on her way to the track - it was race day in zandvoort.

qualifying had gone well in her eyes, but she knew that max would be disappointed with himself. she couldn't bring herself to face him when he visited the RB garage to see daniel, so she spent some quality time with yuki and liam instead.

max missed her, so much. he missed her hugs, her smile, her laugh, just her in general. he missed their monday evenings together, now they were spend moping around in his monaco apartment - tortured by knowing that they were only a few blocks away from each other.

tristan was in monaco, daniel claiming he only had one paddock pass left when he'd asked for her to come to the race - he'd lied, of course.

you see, he had this master plan. well, it relied on one thing actually, that both wanted each other back - which he knew was very true for the (previously) best friends. daniel would get her to come to the red bull garage after the race - claiming to have some big news, forcing the pair to confront each other and finally realise how stupid they were.

she arrived at the track two hours before the race started, parking her hire car delicately into a space near the entrance.

"hey, where are you?" daniel asked her over the phone, as she walked through the entrance to the paddock and scanned her pass.

"just coming in now." she replied bluntly, nodding as if he could see her.

"okay, come to the garage, yeah?"

she hummed a quick response before hanging up, shoving her phone back into her bag. her cheeks were slightly tear-stained, her eyes were a little bloodshoot, and her lips were a tiny bit swollen.

max, on the other hand? he was a fucking wreck.

the past few weeks had been absolute hell for him - the car looked pretty shit, mclaren were super close to them in the constructors' championship, and lando was closing in on him in the drivers' championship too - essentiallly, his whole life had gone to crap now that she wasn't in it.

the weekend couldn't have gone worse, so he thought maybe this was the universe telling him to fix the worst mistake he'd ever made.

first of all, the car was a monster, and not in a good way. the tires dropped off so quickly, the grip was atrocious, and his balance was way off. the practice sessions had proved the new lack of pace on the car, it was just so difficult to drive. then, he had lost pole position to lando — why did it have to be him?

of course, max was happy for his good friend, but why him? lando was only a couple handfuls of points behind him, and he was closing in on max's fourth world championship hopes. why couldn't it have been perez or something? well, not that he was doing too well in the car either — in all honesty, max kind of just wanted daniel back as his teammate.

but either way, max wasn't starting first — so in his mind, he was a failure, and did his father let him know that too.

"what the fuck was that?" jos had yelled at him, inside the confinement of max's driver room. "you're three tenths behind lando!"

"i know, dad—"

"god, maybe you don't deserve the seat after all this."

you don't deserve the seat.

you don't deserve the seat.

you don't deserve the seat.

max didn't really hear anything his father was rambling on about after that — he sort of just zoned out, his mind becoming a blur of static noise and foggy disappointment.

he needed her.

he knew he needed her.

he hoped she needed him.

she needed him too, right?

they had been friends for what felt like forever — meeting at an awards ceremony when they were fifteen, exchanging numbers, and it sort of went from there.

and now there was just nothing.

max felt an emptiness he'd never imagined, like the other half of his heart had been strategically cut out and burnt at the stake. but there was nothing he could do about it — well that's what he thought, because max was completely unaware that daniel had invited her to the race weekend.

so, when he thought he watched her walk into the paddock, he told himself he was seeing things. and when he thought he heard her laughing with an RB mechanic, he told himself he was hearing things.

the race rolled around very quickly, and she decided to stay in the garage. headphones over her ears, she stood with heidi berger, watching intently as the formation lap occured.

she had the same old nervous feeling in her stomach, but this time it was a lot worse. the thought that something could happen to max always ate her alive during a race, but the fact that they were also on bad terms currently? she was being burnt at the stake.

...

+ 22.896s.

that was the gap to the lead.

max verstappen had finished a pit stop behind lando norris — in second place.

he got out of his car at parc ferme, trying his best to seem happy with second place, although not too happy because otherwise that would be another thing to add to the list of things his father would have a dig at him for.

max shook hands with a few red bull mechanics, and then headed off to do some post-race interview, lying about how he was okay with second place due to the car new and unimproved pace. the podium felt lonely, max's gaze searching for her in the swarm as he plastered on a fake smile and sprayed his home crowd with champagne - but she wasn't there.

it was on his way back that it happened.

his heart was already beating fast as it was, but the pace sky-rocketed when max's miserable gaze fell on a familiar figure.

there she was, in all her melancholy mood and misery. she was here. in zandvoort. she was real. it wasn't some delusion that he was experiencing, she was here, in front of him.

his feet gained a mind of their own, walking quickly toward her stilled figure, slightly wide-eyed and definitely staring at the dutchman. max might have well collapsed into her body.

his hands tentatively found her waist, holding it as his head fell to the crook of her neck. her hands instinctively went to the back of his head and body - it was almost an involuntary action.

"i'm sorry." max murmured. "so fucking sorry."

"i'm sorry." she replied quietly, ignoring the cameras snapping and clicking around him.

"missed you so much." his voice was at a mumble, scared of what her response would be.

"me too - too much."

then something came over him. he didn't know what it was, but he lifted his head quickly and pressed his lips to hers. it was the softest, most delicate thing max had ever done - he was so hesitant during the movements it was ridiculous.

her eyes widened briefly, before closing and melting into him. the kiss was reciprocated, of course, but it stayed pure and wholesome.

he broke away first, gazing down into her eyes with a mix of pure admiration and lust.

"we need to talk." she blurted quietly, receiving a nod from max, who hummed in response.

a minute or so later, max had discarded his media duties and had headed back to his driver room with her.

"i'm sorry." she began, but max abruptly cut her off.

"no, don't apologise, i pushed you away and i was horrible and i didn't mean any of it." he rambled. "i'm the one who needs to be sorry and i am, i am so fucking sorry. the past month has been fucking awful and i miss you so much and i need you back in my life and please i'm so sorry."

"max, max, max." she stopped the man from literally pacing up and down. "calm down, breathe."

"i'm so sorry." he repeated.

"i know, i know." she nodded softly, cupping his face. "and i forgive you. you were stressed and exhausted and i know you didn't mean it - okay?"

"really?" he furrowed his eyebrows gently.

"really." she responded with a small smile. "now, i'm sorry for letting you push me away, i'd usually stand my ground and make you talk to me, but... i didn't and i'm sorry for that."

"i was never mad at you anyway." he shrugged, a small smile appearing on his lips - a real smile, the first of the month. "i can't ever stay mad at you."

"good." she blinked up at him. "now, you kissed me."

"um. yeah. sorry about that- we can just forget it if you want?" he shrugged, a little nervous at what her response was going to be.

"i mean... if you want to forget it, we can." she replied quickly, nodding her head slowly. "but, well... forgive me, but i don't really... want to."

"thank god." he breathed out, leaning down to her and catching her lips in a delicate kiss.

"max." she murmured into his lips. "i like you."

"i love you too." he replied effortlessly, the words just rolled off of his tongue before he could even realise what he'd said.

"really?" she pulled away, hands resting on his jaw as she gazed up at him.

"um." he pursed his lips. "yeah, i do."

"i love you too." she softly responded, a small smile painted on her pretty features.

"again, thank god." he laughed slightly - the first real laugh he'd let out in a while.

and he kissed her again,

and again,

and again.

this was definitely for the better.

-

guess who's the big fat fuck back!

[sukirichi]

𝐓𝐇𝐄 (𝐔𝐍)𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 | 𝐓𝐎𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 𝐉𝐎

+ contains fluff, banters, choji kinda chokes sakura, and cursing. fluff !! fem reader. shy! togame (divider from @/enchanthings)

+ wc. 1.5k

Togame sat in the bustling café with Sakura and Choji on his sides. They’d gathered around the small, circular table cluttered with coffee cups and dessert plates. Outside, the early evening lights of the city flickered to life, highlighting their faces as they all sat – hunched, heads nearly bumping into each other and speaking with hushed voices. They were talking about an issue of most importance, after all. Extremely confidential, according to Sakura, but more like extremely impossible, according to Togame.

“So, Togame,” Choji started, leaning forward with a mischievous grin. “We’ve been talking, and we think YN likes you.”

Togame, who had been sipping his latte, nearly choked. He coughed, setting the cup down hastily. “What? No way,” he said, shaking his head with a nervous chuckle. “She doesn’t like me like that.”

Sure, you looked at him often, and even rewarded him with the prettiest smiles, but Togame wasn’t stupid. You were just nice like that – smiling and waving at everyone.

He wasn’t special… right?

Sakura rolled his eyes, exasperated. Choji had been the one insisting that you liked him back, but Sakura had been the greatest ‘witness.’ Said he would dye his hair completely black if Togame remained blind to the way you stumbled over your words whenever Togame was involved. “Come on, Togame. She’s always laughing at your jokes, even the terrible ones. And she goes out of her way to spend time with you. It’s pretty obvious. Plus, you’re not that fucking funny, y’know?”

“Right,” Choji nods his agreement. “You don’t laugh at someone’s shitty jokes unless you like them.”

Togame felt a blush creeping up his neck, thankful that the collar of his jacket hid it. “That doesn’t mean anything,” he protested. “She’s just nice to everyone. Besides, I’m sure she’s not interested in me that way.”

Unbeknownst to Togame, you had just entered the café with the plans to join them. Choji had sent you a quick text half an hour ago that he needed your help with something, but never specified with. Still, you came as fast as you could. It wasn’t every day that Choji requested for anything, and honestly, after introducing you to Togame – your crush – you kind of owed him a favor.

Until you heard bits and pieces of their conversation, your name thrown in, and you stopped short in your tracks. You quickly stepped back and hid behind a nearby plant. Your heart raced as you listened it, uncaring of the ache in your thighs at the uncomfortable squatting position. There was just no way you’d miss a word of what they said.

“Togame, you’re clueless,” Choji laughed. “She’s always finding excuses to be near you. Remember that time she showed up at the park, ‘coincidentally’ when you were there? And the countless study sessions she insists on having, even though she’s a total genius and doesn’t need help? Hell, she’s smarter than you. The hell does she need you to tutor her on?”

Togame scratched the back of his head, feeling increasingly embarrassed. He did remember that. There were times you came up to him, a pout on your pretty face as you told him your struggles on math problems. Not that Jo could count for shit, but he didn’t want to turn you down. Or worse, to appear stupid in front of you. “I thought she just wanted to hang out. We’re friends, that’s all.”

Sakura sighed, a hint of frustration in his voice. “You’re so dense, Togame. It’s obvious to everyone but you. She’s into you, trust me.”

Still hidden behind the plant, you felt your heart swell. You bite your lip to suppress your smile, a whirlwind of happiness and nervous swirling in your belly. You’d liked Togame for a long time, but you’d always been too shy to say anything. He was the Togame Jo, second of Shishitoren. Talks of his strength and greatness were shared across the streets. Compared to him, you weren’t particularly special. You had always assumed he only treated you kindly because you were Choji’s friend, and whoever Choji liked, Togame did, too.

It just never would’ve occurred in your wildest dreams that he liked you like that. So hearing his friends insist that Togame was so oblivious to your feelings were both amusing and endearing.

Togame shook his head, trying to stay composed. “Even if that were true, which I doubt, why would she like me? I’m just... me.”

“Exactly,” Choji said, as if that explained everything. “You’re funny, kind, and you’ve got that whole devil-may-care attitude going on. Girls dig that. I know she does.”

Sakura hums in agreement. “Plus, you’re always there for her. You care about her, and she knows it. Maybe she’s waiting for you to make the first move.”

Togame felt his face grow hot, his mind racing with the implications of what they were saying. Could it be true? Did you actually like him? He shook his head again, more to clear his thoughts than to disagree. As much as he fancied (he dreamt of it happening everyday) the idea of having his feelings reciprocated, he didn’t want to get his hopes up. Besides, you had a great friendship with one another. He couldn’t – didn’t  want – to ruin that.

“I just... I don’t see it. I mean, she’s amazing, but I’m not sure she feels the same way.”

Hearing the hesitance and self-doubt in his voice made your heart ache.

You couldn’t stay hidden any longer. With your heart pounding in your chest, you stepped out from behind the plant, your eyes fixed on Togame’s fresh undercut. Sakura and Choji were the ones to find you, the former’s eyes widening, while Choji’s face lit up in a mischievous smirk.

“Oh shit–” Sakura exclaimed, nudging Togame in what was a failed attempt of being discreet.

Togame turned to see you standing there, looking both nervous and determined. He felt his stomach drop, a mixture of panic and anticipation swirling within him. You didn’t hear what they were talking about, did you? At least he hoped you didn’t, because he could barely muster a genuine smile right now.

“Oh... hey,” he stammered, his voice betraying his surprise. Underneath the table, Togame kicked Choji in the shin when the shorter man giggled.

You took a deep breath, your gaze. “I heard what you were talking about,” you begin, your voice steady despite the fluttering in your chest. “And I just wanted to say... your friends are right, Togame.”

Togame blinked, his mind struggling to catch up. “What?”

You smiled softly, stepping closer. “I like you, Togame. I’ve liked you for a while now, but I didn’t know if you felt the same way. I was too scared to tell you.”

The café seemed to fall silent around the two of you, the moment stretching into eternity. Togame’s face flushed a deep red, his heart racing as your words sank in. Sakura and Choji watched with bated breath, their eyes wide with anticipation. They’d made a bet before arriving at the café on who would confess first – a bet Sakura was losing miserably. With a low groan, he fisted his five hundred yen and shoved it to Choji’s waiting hands.

“You... you like me? Is that right?” Togame repeated, hardly daring to believe it.

You nodded, you smile widening. “Yes, I do. A lot.”

Togame’s mind raced, replaying every interaction you’d ever had, seeing them in a new light. The times you laughed at his jokes, the study sessions, the ‘coincidental’ meetings – all of it made sense now. He felt a rush of emotions – relief, joy, disbelief – overwhelm him.

“I’ll be damned,” he finally managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper. “I really thought these two–” he gestured to his friends, “–were messing with me.”

Your smile brightened. “Well, now you know,” you said softly.

Before they could say more, Choji erupted into cheers, breaking the spell. He nearly knocked over Sakura when he slung an arm around his neck, dragging him down to mockingly point a finger in Togame’s direction. “We told you!” he exclaimed, grinning from ear to ear. “Finally, you both admit it! I thought my hair would turn grey before either of you said a thing!”

Sakura sighed, and fought against Choji’s choking hold. “Yes, yes, we get it. They’re perfect for each other. Now stop lying and admit you’re just happy because you won the bet.”

“Of course I would,” Choji scoffed, “I’ve known Togame a long time. You really think that cool bravado of his means he actually has the balls to confess? Nah, it’s all for show. I knew YN had more guts than him.”

You and Togame were both flustered, but you couldn’t stop smiling. The café buzzed with excitement as the four of you celebrated the not-so unexpected confessions. And Togame? A sense of warmth settled over him, knowing that the person he’d secretly admired for so long felt the same way about him.

As Choji and Sakura bantered back and forth, Togame dared to reach out and slip his hands into yours under the table. The first contact made you jolt, heat creeping up your neck. It takes a few moments, and Togame’s equally shy smile, before you squeezed his hand in return. And for the first time in a long while, Togame felt like everything was exactly as it should be.

[thichnhathanhgems]

15 practical steps Thich Nhat Hanh says we can take to bring mindfulness to our work:

1. Start your day with 10 minutes of sitting in meditation.

2. Take the time to sit down and enjoy eating breakfast at home.

3. Remind yourself every day of your gratitude for being alive and having 24 brand-new hours to live.

4. Try not to divide your time into "my time" and "work." All time can be your own time if you stay in the present moment and keep in touch with what’s happening in your body and mind. There’s no reason why your time at work should be any less pleasant than your time anywhere else.

5. Resist the urge to make calls on your cell phone while on your way to and from work, or on your way to appointments. Allow yourself this time to just be with yourself, with nature and with the world around you.

6. Arrange a breathing area at work where you can go to calm down, stop and have a rest. Take regular breathing breaks to come back to your body and to bring your thoughts back to the present.

7. At lunchtime, eat only your food and not your fears or worries. Don’t eat lunch at your desk. Change environments. Go for a walk.

8. Make a ritual out of drinking your tea. Stop work and look deeply into your tea to see everything that went into making it: the clouds and the rain, the tea plantations and the workers harvesting the tea.

9. Before going to a meeting, visualize someone very peaceful, mindful and skillful being with you. Take refuge in this person to help stay calm and peaceful.

10. If you feel anger or irritation, refrain from saying or doing anything straight away. Come back to your breathing and follow your in- and out-breath until you’ve calmed down.

11. Practice looking at your boss, your superiors, your colleagues or your subordinates as your allies and not as your enemies. Recognize that working collaboratively brings more satisfaction and joy than working alone. Know that the success and happiness of everyone is your own success.

12. Express your gratitude and appreciation to your colleagues regularly for their positive qualities. This will transform the whole work environment, making it much more harmonious and pleasant for everyone.

13. Try to relax and restore yourself before going home so you don’t bring accumulated negative energy or frustration home with you.

14. Take some time to relax and come back to yourself when you get home before starting on household chores. Recognize that multitasking means you’re never fully present for any one thing. Do one thing at a time and give it your full attention.

15. At the end of the day, keep a journal of all the good things that happened in your day. Water your seeds of joy and gratitude regularly so they can grow.

- Thich Nhat Hanh

"15 Practical Ways To Find Your Zen At Work", Jo Confino - The Huffington Post.

[adventuringblind]

Oscar the Matchmaker: Chapter Three

Oscar Jack Piastri x Reader x Max Verstappen

Summary: Jos overhear a conversation and the trio finds themselves in a confrontation

Warnings: Jos being Jos, Oscar throwing hands, implied homophobia and slurs

Notes: I definitely wasn’t listening to eye of the tiger while writing this…

Previous <-

Masterlist

It’s was only a matter of time until someone noticed. Max had been more then smiley as of late and it wasn’t just because he was dominating the sport. He’d fallen head over heal and looked like a love sick puppy.

His smile tends to grow a little extra when someone brings up either of his partners. He just blamed on the fact he thought they were doing well and had become friends with both.

Christian didn’t fall for it. He wasn’t team principal for nothing. He’s an observant man and had seen it in the way Max moved, his he talked, even in his driving.

Max found himself being pulled aside by Christian into a space where the people either didn’t bother them or didn’t care what they were talking about.

“Care to tell me what has you so happy lately?”

Max panics and stutters, then ends up just shrugging his shoulders. “The weather.” He mentally face palms at the terrible lie.

Christian laughs at him and grabs his shoulders. “It’s a miracle you can make it through interviews sometimes.” He releases him again before continuing. “Are you going to tell me the truth now.”

“First promise me you won’t be mad and that you won’t judge.”

“Would you like me to pinky swear it?”

Max rolls his eyes but continues one. “I’m in a relationship.”

“Well I already knew that part.” A skirt tugs on Christian’s lips. “Who is the lucky lass? Or is it a lad?” The playful eyebrow raise puts Max oddly at ease.

“Both actually.” His hands get clams and he wants nothing more to disappear at the confession. The fear of judgement giving him nervous energy.

“… Like two partners or gender-fluid?” The genuine curiosity in the older males voice made him relax. He wanted to know and was supportive it seems.

“Two Partners. Y/N and Oscar, actually.” He is hopeless. He can’t even say their names without smiling.

Christian is also smiling widely. “I’m so happy for you! Remember this is a safe space and if anyone says anything please let me know. If not afraid to tell someone off.”

Max feels the tension leave his body. His initial panic evaporating into think air. “Thank you, it means a lot really.”

“Are you three going to go public? If so then please tell me sooner rather then later so the team is prepared.”

“No plans for that right now, just figuring things out. But I’ll make sure to let you know.”

Despite their plans to not go public or let more people into their secret, someone was ,siting just around the corner.

~

Max texted them immediately after the conversation. They still had a few hours before the race so he wasn’t to worried about time.

Max: Christian knows

Y/N: … is he upset?

Max: No, he’s actually really supportive

Oscar: interesting turn of events

Max: you two aren’t mad with me?

Y/N: why would we be mad? Christian is basically your dad!

Oscar: we made a decision that we are disowning Jos

Max: I don’t think that’s how that works

Y/N: don’t care. He’s disowned.

Max chuckles at their comments. They are both younger then him but neither would hesitate to protect him from anything. Including his aggressive father.

He didn’t notice a problem at first. He thought it was normal until he got up to formula 1 and Daniel told him that it’s not. Christian and Seb followed after him. Soon Max was in a position where he had to come to terms with his childhood.

He’d yet to do that because despite it all, Jos is still his father and he loves him.

All that to say he wouldn’t be surprised if the female in their trio ended up punching him one day.

~

It had been an absolutely shitty race for her. She’s on the verge of tears when she’s getting ready to leave until Yuki comes sliding around the corner. “They have more stuff to talk about.” She can hear the annoyance in her his voice.

“What if we just run away.”

“I may be fast, but my legs are short. We’d never make it.”

She groans and sends a quick text to the boys telling them she is going to be late and they can leave without her. Instead of the response she was expecting, they said they’d wait for her by the paddock entrance.

She smiled reading the text, then locked her phone again.

~

Her legs feel heavy as she walks through the dark and almost deserted paddock. Her brain has already shut off and she wants nothing more then to curl up with her lovers and sleep until next year.

A pair of heavy footsteps fall in line behind her. She assumes it’s just leftover staff and continues her journey. That is, until she hears the thick Dutch accent of Jos Verstappen. The last person on the planet she wants to see.

“Can we talk for a moment?” He yells out to her.

“I’m late for something, sorry.” She doesn’t look at him. She fears if she does she might not be able to hold her tongue or hands and the last thing she wants to do it get in trouble.

It doesn’t take long for him to catch up. She blames her uncooperative appendages.

“We need to talk.” He grabs her bicep and she yelps in surprise.

“I really am la-“

“You and the Australian keep away from my son.”

She panics. Her breathing gets labored faster then she would’ve liked. Questions fill her mind of how he knows. She tries to yank her arms away but he tightens his grip.

“Never.” She spits. He used his free hand to wipe his face. She can feel him heating with anger as his movements become jagged. She readies herself for the possibility of a swing. At least if he hits her first then she can hit him back.

“Hey! Leave her alone!” The much more soothing Dutch accent yells from behind her.

“Is it true? You’re really lumping yourself in with this nonsense?” Max had almost forgotten why he doesn’t tell his father things. He’d had to relearn everything when he was finally able to spend time with people who wanted him to understand that the internalized homophobia that he’d grown up with was not okay in any sense.

“Yeah, I am.” Max keeps his distance. His father is prone to aggression and Max fears for the girl currently in his hold.

The fear and simultaneous relief flood through him as he pushes her straight to the ground. The look of pain and exhaustion in her eyes is hard to look at.

She doesn’t move. She can’t find the energy to do so.

“Your no son of mine. My son would never be a fa-“ He does not get the chance to finish his sentence. Oscar had connected his fist to the Dutch’s face and sent him stumbling backwards.

She could feel Oscar seething. She’d never seen him lose his temper. Ever. Since she’d known him. He could be cold and calculated but this was a whole new level.

She looked at Max who was now gently hugging Oscar from behind and trying to calm the anger behind the Australians eyes. He also looked at her for some sort of understanding. Neither of them had any clue what to do.

“Say it again. I fucking dare you.” Oscar held his gaze on the older man. It felt as if time had frozen around them. “You have no right to say such things.”

Oh. It clicked for her then. He’d done this before with one of her exes. A few of them actually.

It’s not like she’d never been with a female before. She’d been called that F slur before and it definitely didn’t feel right. Oscar had also punched them. There was no hesitation behind his swing either.

Jos just stares back at them and Max had no other ideas except to get Oscar away before he gets himself in trouble. She watches as he starts tugging him back towards the entrance. Stopping to give you a hand up. Then she held Oscars hand in hers the entire way back to the hotel. Despite his earlier anger, he held her hand so gently and occasionally placed kisses on her knuckles. Reciprocating the action to Max when they came to a stop sign or red light.

He’d still not settled down when they got to the hotel room. His frantic pacing and angry rant seemed to help, but only so much.

“Love, pretty sure there are other ways to help you get some of this energy out.” She purrs. Had she noticed max is turned on? Yes. Is she also turned on? Yes. Have both of them been whispering about the rage fueled Aussie being turned on? Again, yes.

He freezes and eyes both of them with a rather lustful gaze.

Sometimes the best cure to pent up energy is really good sex.

~

Max wakes up to the awful sound of his phone buzzing. The blissful feeling of his lovers tangled in the sheets with him now ruined by the terrible sound.

Still he looks at the caller ID and almost chokes when he sees Christian’s name on his phone.

“Hello?”

“Hey Max… I was wondering if you could shed some light on why your father called to tell me not to let, and I quote, ‘the deranged McLaren Australian’ anywhere near out garage?”

Max laughs. It’s probably not the right time and the other two are now awake and trying to tug him down into the bed, but he can’t help it. “Oscar punched him last night because he used the F word.”

“The F word? Doesn’t Oscar say fuck? I’ve heard him before I think.”

“I should clarify: the F slur.”

Silence falls from the other end of the line. For a moment Max things he lost connection until he hears Christian grumbling. “Tell Oscar he’s allowed in anytime he wants and your father will be receiving a strongly worded letter about how he’s not welcome back.”

Again, Max can only laugh at the situation and how it’s unfolded. He’s not complaining though. It’s nice knowing that he doesn’t always have to fight for himself.

[alwaysonf1]

lewis is doing what?

Pairing: Charles LeClerc x Hamilton!OC

Genre: Slice of Life; Fluff

Word Count: 3k

Warning: Changes in the timeline for the sake of the story.

Rating: PG-13

Author's Note: This is my first F1 fic, which makes me nervous so why not start with a series.

Many Drive to Survive haters like to pretend everything that comes from the show and what it’s about are beneath them. That they couldn’t possibly care, and that the only important thing is the race on Sunday. And yet the day after the latest season drops you can find them amongst the chaos trying to figure out what the hell were all those hints about a new form of content that F1 plans to release. 

Interwoven with the usual storylines and mild dramatics there was a lot of talk about how drivers show their families the support they’re given. How they show up for them in their careers and bits of their lives. It was weird at first, but then it sent off alarm bells when an almost fourth wall breaking moment happened where the Netflix team was blatantly dismissed. 

“I think we have this one Netflix, but thanks for the help.” Those were the exact words spoken by the head of marketing as she closed the door to a room where you get a glimpse of team paraphernalia but see no faces. 

Every social platform that you can find an F1 fan on has it trending and the conversations (and screams into the void) are fast paced. But Twitter is where the real unhinged and brain cell losing behavior is happening. 

And the most accurate guessing.

Almost everyone within the community is discussing what that snippet could mean. Is it the end of DTS as they know it? The end of it completely? Are F1 and Netflix severing ties? Will F1 be taking over? Is this some little game they're playing with their viewers to keep them tuned in? Is it something completely different? What the actual fuck is going on?

In the middle of those questions are those who think themselves a genius or are delusional enough that they can’t help but form some wild ideas of what’s to come.

Someone must be retiring. Multiple people are retiring. There’s going to be a reality show ala Keeping Up with the Verstappens, where everyone learns that Max’s little trauma dumpy memories with Jos are just the surface level of how insane that man is. Someone is getting married. Someone is getting married to another driver. A nepo baby is going to become the “voice of the fandom” and host a show about the drivers during race weekends and it’s going to be all the wrong things. A dating show for all the singles. A behind the scenes at the lives of drivers and their families, but like Family Feud. And the penultimate dude bro dream of them getting to spend the season hanging out with drivers and get confirmation that their toxic thoughts that alienate most of the fan base is true.

After about twenty-four hours it all dies down. Everyone is still wondering, but they don’t feel like they’re losing their minds while they try to be the one who can say they were right when they news drops.

As if timed, the second that F1 drops in trends the F1 admin drops a graphic with the faces of six people who are clearly positioned like the thinking face emoji on every platform that they use. In the captions it says: Week in the Life - Sibling Edition.

If Twitter was home to the first wave of screaming, it belongs to Tumblr the second go round. Everyone is so excited for the content that someone must have thrown up from how aggressively happy they feel. Everyone is talking about who they want it to be and what content they’d love to see from which sibling. Those who make gifs are especially excited to get everything they can, though they won’t be outdone by those whose brains and fingers will be entities on their own once they get hold of a singular moment that will inspire the fic of everyone’s dreams.

Those who always have something negative to say are there as usual, but they aren’t as loud or upset as they often are. Being nosy doesn’t stop just because you want to pretend that you only care about the race, as if someone doesn’t have a file of screenshots from all the times, they’ve attacked the character of a driver for something not race related at all.

The reaction to this is the kind that instills faith in what is being done. The kind of thing that tells all the upper management who didn’t like it that it was a good idea, but also puts a certain bit of weight on the content team. They need this to deliver. Need to keep the hype, especially since the first episode doesn’t drop until the start of December and they’ve already recorded half the series so a failure could stop the rest.

So once the Singapore GP ends, Daniel Ricciardo’s face is no longer gray. You get to see that goofy smile and wink. You’d think they told everyone he was getting a permanent seat with a three year contract with the reception to it.

It’s Charles Leclerc for Japan. 

Lance Stroll for Qatar.

Carlos Sainz for COTA.

Alex Albon for Mexico.

And coming off his first P1 of the season, Lewis Hamilton for Brazil.

For the next week or so if a tweet isn’t about excitement, disdain, or shock in regard to this new F1 exclusive content, it has a certain main character at its center.

[minheelovelee]

who in &team would like to get called daddy 🫣

anon :((((( pls ur gonna send me into sub hours. not a lot of my followers know what i’m into, but daddy kink is high on that list.

&team: daddy kink

this belongs to everyone besides ej 🥺

k

- tough love. he loves his baby and wants the best for you. if that means being a little mean, that’s fine with him. if ur a brat, that’s okay. just know that you’ll get treated like one.

- he’ll implement the punishment system if you’re really naughty. don’t expect a reward from him any day of the week. but if you pass a class or make a big achievement at work, he would reward you for sure.

- if you slip up and call him daddy in a normal conversation, he wouldn’t let you live it down. he thinks it’s funny tbh and would be totally fine if you called him that outside the bedroom.

fuma

- his heart is huge. he loves to spoil you. your happiness is his number one priority. and in the bedroom, he does all the work. he would love to have a pillow princess.

- if you can suck dick, he’s hooked. lay there like a pretty little thing when ur getting fucked, but slobber all over his cock when he lets you have a taste. he LOVES getting head.

- he gets turned on by domesticity. cooking for him, vacuuming around the house, and folding his laundry will all end up with you bent over the nearest surface. he always talks about making you a mommy when he cums deep inside.

nicholas

- daddy :((( he holds onto his baby tight and never lets go. a hand on your thigh, his chin on your shoulder, hugs in the kitchen. he wants you to know he’s always there.

- in the bedroom he’s a bit of a whore. he would refer to himself as daddy in 3rd person. he’d love if you slut yourself out for him. he wants u completely cock-drunk and dazed.

- “daddy’s gonna cum, honey. he’s gonna fill you right to the fucking brim. keep that pussy open for him, princess.” he’s so daddy coded.

yuma

- he goes on a little power trip when u call him daddy. he loves that you trust him enough to open up like that.

- ur not calling him anything else during s*x. it turns into a fun little game where you pretend not to know anything besides his name. he’s not afraid to get rough, so me might yank ur hair or choke you a little.

- overstimulation. he’s mean. you’re done when he’s done. he’s mean enough to tie you up and make you cum over and over again on his fingers.

jo

- he takes it to heart. when you call him daddy, he realizes the role he plays in the relationship. he can be quite protective at times.

- he’s such a lover. his baby doesn’t need to be doing any work. he’s soooo long and lanky. he’ll get you folded up in funky positions. your legs fit on his shoulders so nicely.

- he needs his alone time with you. for you to sit on his lap while he pets you and tells you how much love he has for you. he wants to give you something you’ve never had in a relationship before. if he’s not your first, he makes sure to be your best.

[finnsbubblegum]

Becoming Mrs. Miller {Part 5: The Surprise} (Joel Miller x Reader)

Pairing: pre-outbreak!joel miller x f!reader

Warnings: fluff, domestic joel, mentions of pregnancy, morning sickness, pregnancy tests (lmk if i missed any)

Summary: You were now Joel Miller’s wife and Sarah’s mom. A few months after the honeymoon, you started to feel pregnancy symptoms. Joel, you, and Sarah were surprised by your pregnancy and they couldn’t be happier with having another family member.

Words count: 2k

A/N: Hi! This is part 5 for Becoming Mrs. Miller. But it can also be read as a standalone. I might finish with one or two more chapters! Stay tuned and hope you like it!

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7

 *Alarm rang*

“Ugh..” You extended your arm to turn off the alarm on the bedside table.

You felt tired even though you had slept for 7 hours. You rubbed your eyes and sat on the bed. Suddenly, you felt your stomach sick. You rushed to the bathroom, opened the toilet lid and threw up. Joel heard you and followed you to the bathroom.

“You okay?” Joel held your hair up.

“I don’t know.” You coughed.

You gagged and threw up again. Joel’s other hand rubbed your back in circles to help you feel better.

“Don’t look. It’s disgusting.” You rubbed your chest.

“Hey..In sickness and in health, remember?” Joel insisted on staying.

You nodded, stood up and flushed the toilet. You went to the sink and brushed your teeth. 

“Why don’t you take a day off? Get some rest.” Joel cupped your cheeks.

“Yeah. I’ll take a sick leave.” You walked to the door.

“Where are you goin’?” Joel stopped you.

“I need to make breakfast for you and Sarah.” 

“I’ll take over this morning. Why don’t you get back to bed and get some sleep? I’ll bring your breakfast over.” Joel guided you back to the bed.

“Thank you.” Joel tucked you in.

Joel went downstairs and made you breakfast. 

“Hey..” Joel stroked your head gently, waking you up.

You opened your eyes and Joel was sitting beside you with a tray of your breakfast.

“You need to eat.” Joel put the tray on the bedside table.

“I don’t think I can eat now. I’m still feeling nauseous. I’ll eat later. Thank you.”

“But don’t skip your meal, okay?” 

“Hmm.” You nodded.

“I’m runnin’ late. I’ll be headin’ to work. Call me if you need anythin’ alright?” Joel kissed your forehead and left.

You slept for a few hours and got up by lunch time. Despite getting more sleep, you still felt fatigued. You ate half of the breakfast Joel made for you and washed the dishes. You opened the fridge to keep the leftovers. 

“Oh my God.” You covered your nose as you couldn’t stand the smell. 

You felt sick again and ran to the bathroom throwing up the food you just ate. You wondered why you were sick. Was there something wrong with the food you ate yesterday? But Joel and Sarah were fine so it must be something else. You kept thinking and thinking. Then you realized your period was late. You checked the calendar and found you had missed your period for two months. You looked in the mirror and looked at yourself. You realized your breasts were swollen and you gained a bit of weight. 

“Oh my God. Am I-? This can’t be right.” You gasped and rushed to the drugstore to buy 5 pregnancy tests.

You went home right away and took the tests. You were shaking while waiting for the tests. 

“Please, please, please.” You folded your hands praying the tests would come out positive. 

Three minutes went by, you closed your eyes and took a stick. You opened your eyes and saw a positive sign. You gasped and quickly grabbed the other sticks. It all came out positive. 

“Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.” You cried in happiness and rubbed your lower belly. 

You wanted to call Joel and share the news but you hesitated. You wanted to tell him face to face so you decided not to call him. You texted him instead.

You: What time will you be home?

Joel: Probably by dinner time. As usual.

You: OK. I’ll make dinner tonight.

Joel: OK. Everything alright?

You: Yep

You couldn’t wait for Joel to be home. You were so excited so you went to the kitchen and started preparing dinner. Even though the smell of different kinds of food made you feel sick, you tried your best in making the dinner special.

“Hey mom, feeling better?” Sarah just got home from school.

“Oh hi sweetie. I’m feeling better, thank you.” 

“Need some help?” Sarah offered to help you.

“Yes actually, can you help me cut the onions, please?” You passed the onions to Sarah.

7 pm

“I think your dad is running late.” You and Sarah had waited for one hour and Joel hadn’t arrived home yet.

“Maybe we should just eat.” Sarah started eating and you ate too.

10 pm

You kissed Sarah goodnight and went to the living room. You checked your phone and still no text from Joel. So you decided to wait for him and turned on the TV. You yawned multiple times and were getting sleepy. It was unusual because you usually stay up until midnight but the pregnancy was making you feel tired all the time. You forced yourself to open your eyes but you finally fell asleep unconsciously.

12 pm

Joel was finally home. He opened the door slowly trying not to make any sound. He saw the TV was on and walked to the living room finding you were asleep on the sofa. 

“Hey, baby.” He rubbed your arms gently. 

“Oh, You’re home.” You yawned.

“Did you wait for me?” He looked guilty. You nodded.

“How are you feelin’?” He moved your legs and put them on his lap.

“Better.” You smiled.

“I’m sorry I’m late. The concrete guys were-” Joel wanted to explain but you cut him off.

“Shh. It’s fine. Did you eat?” The fact that he missed his meal worried you more.

“Ate with the guys.” He felt even more guilty and rubbed your feet.

“Great. By the way, I have something for you.” You got excited.

“I let you down and yet you got me a present?” He smiled and kissed you.

“Uh-huh. Close your eyes. Give me your hand.” 

Joel did what you told him. You grabbed one of the positive pregnancy tests you hid in your pocket and put it on his palm.

“Okay. Open your eyes.” You smiled so wide you couldn’t hide your teeth.

“What is-You’re pregnant?!” Joel opened his eyes slowly and saw what was in his hand. 

“Yeah, I think I’m pregnant.” You nodded.

“Baby, I-” Tears streamed down his face and he couldn’t finish his sentences. He pulled you closer, hugged you tightly and stroked the back of your head.

“Thank you, baby.” He kissed your temple and you cried with him.

“You’re going to be a mom!” He held your shoulder and shook you.

“Shh. Sarah’s asleep. I haven’t told her yet.” You laughed and told Joel to calm down.

“She’s gonna be so excited to have a sibling. Let’s tell her first thing in the morning tomorrow.” Joel rested your head to his shoulder.

“I was thinking maybe we could go to the doctor first. Just to make sure.” You didn’t want to disappoint Sarah if the tests were wrong.

“Okay, sure. Anythin’ you want.” Joel hugged you once again.

“I’ll take a day off tomorrow and go with you.” Joel moved his thumb up and down stroking your hand.

Joel suddenly stood up and carried you bridal style. You gasped. 

“I’m not gonna let you move a muscle from now on. I can’t let you work so you’ll need to quit your job. You’ll be working on carrying our baby. I can’t let you work a double.” He smiled and carried you to the bedroom.

“You’re so sweet.” You chuckled.

He laid you down gently on the bed and kissed your forehead.

“I’m gonna take a shower real quick and join you in the bed.”

You were already asleep when Joel finished taking a shower. You gasped and looked down when you felt a movement on your feet.

“What are you doing?” You saw Joel putting wool socks on your feet.

“You need to keep your feet warm, sweetheart.” He continued putting the socks on you and rubbed your feet to keep them warm.

“What did I do to deserve you, Joel?” The hormones were making you cry at his actions.

“Hey, why are you crying?” Joel climbed beside you and pulled you to his chest.

“I don’t know. I just love you so much.” You sobbed.

“I love you too, baby.” Joel kissed your head.

At the hospital

The next morning you and Joel went to the hospital to see an obstetrician. You were shaking while waiting in the waiting room. 

“Hey, you okay? You’re shaking.” Joel held your hand to calm you.

“I’m fine. I’m just nervous. It’s my first time.” 

“It’s okay, baby. I’m here.” He rubbed your back in circles. 

You nodded and rested your head on his shoulder.

“Mrs. Miller?” The nurse called your name.

“That’s us.” Joel held your hand and walked to the exam room.

“Good morning. What brings you in today?” The doctor asked as the two of you sat on the chair in front of her.

“I’ve been feeling fatigued and nauseous lately. I took a test yesterday and it came out positive. We want to make sure we’re pregnant.” You took a deep breath.

“Okay, please lay down here and we will take a look.” 

You raised your clothes and unbuttoned your jeans. The doctor poured cold gel on your lower stomach and you flinched. Joel took your hand to his and you squeezed his hand.

“Okay, let’s see. Hmm..” She moved the transducer on your stomach.

“Okay. You see here. This is your baby. Congratulations, you're 7 weeks pregnant.” She wiped the gel on your stomach.

“Oh my God.” You chuckled and cried. Joel kissed your hands.

“I’ll give you some time alone.” The doctor left the exam room.

“We’re gonna need another bedroom, baby.” You rubbed Joel’s arms.

“Don’t worry about it.” Joel assured you.

“Just focus on staying healthy. That’s what matters the most.” He rubbed your hand.

“I love you.” You gave him a kiss.

“I love you more.”

The doctor entered the room after giving you and Joel a moment.

“Okay, so I’ll give you some vitamins. You can get it at the pharmacy downstairs. And here is the sonogram. I printed a few so each of you can have one. I’ll see you next month. Again, congratulations.” The doctor smiled and shook you and Joel’s hands.

“Thank you, doctor.” Joel and you thanked her and walked your way out.

Joel took the sonogram picture and couldn’t stop looking at it. He was more excited than you thought.

“You need to stop looking at it.” You chuckled.

You were already in the car for sometime and Joel still hadn’t started the car.

“Do you think it’s gonna be a girl or a boy?” Joel looked at you.

“Hmm..We have Sarah, so a boy?” You raised your eyebrows.

“Right. I don’t want to be left alone. Sarah’s gonna be so excited.” Joel couldn’t wait to tell Sarah that she was going to be a big sister.

“Let’s go home, Joel.” Joel put the sonogram picture in his wallet and started the car.

“Do you want something you want to eat? We can stop by somewhere before we head home.” Joel wanted you to eat a lot especially now he knew you were carrying his baby inside you.

“Hmm..Pizza?” You squinted your eyes. 

“Okay, mama.” He drove slowly as he didn’t want to hurt you and his baby.

At home

“Where were you guys?” Sarah was confused as the two of you came home.

“Uhm.. We went to get some pizza.” Joel closed the door.

“Without me?” Sarah was getting upset.

“Sarah, sweetie, we need to tell you something.” You asked her to sit on the sofa.

The three of you sat in the living room. Your heart was beating faster and you took a deep breath.

“So..we’re pregnant.” You couldn’t find the words so you just told Sarah the main point.

“What? So does that mean-” Sarah's jaw dropped.

“Yes, babygirl. You’re gonna have a sibling.” Joel added and passed the sonogram to Sarah.

“Are you serious? That’s awesome! I gotta tell my friends!” Sarah got too excited.

Joel buried you and Sarah to his chest. The three of you laughed in happiness and had a family hug.

To be continued...Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7

Taglist:

@nyotamalfoy

@moonlightdivine

@happinessinthebeing

[torotauri]

You Think I Forgot? | Jo Hye-Won Zoa [WEEEKLY]

1164 Words

***

31st May 2023

It was Zoa's 18th birthday, she has been waiting for this day for so long. For Zoa, her birthday is a very big thing for her. She always get a big party out of it with her family and friends. This year, she thought it would be more special because she have you, her boyfriend, to celebrate this day with her.

Zoa woke up that morning very early and got dressed quickly, she normally isn't the type of person who wants to go to school. Today was different though, she wanted to go to school because her friends have planned a big surprise party for her after school.

School was boring like always, Zoa did not enjoy school but she was happy that a lot of classmates came over to say happy birthday to her. That was literally the only positives from school today. Thankfully, she managed to drag herself through the whole day and is now in the final period, Maths, Zoa's most hated subject. Despite that, she had something positive to look forward to. Maths was the only class that Zoa shared with you and as she popped herself down on her seat, you also walked into the classroom.

"Hey Y/N" Zoa waved at you as you walked into the classroom.

"Oh hey Hyewon, how are you doing today" you responded.

"What are you doing after school?" Zoa asked you trying to get more information about the party that her friends had planned.

"I've got football training after school so I can't hangout with you today, but I'll see you tomorrow at school and I can hang out with you then" you told Zoa.

Zoa didn't know if you were playing or were you being serious, but her heart did drop for a second after hearing that you have football training after school. To be fair, she knew you had football on Wednesdays but she would have thought that you would clear your schedules to hangout with her on her birthday.

"Anyways have you got anything to say to me today" Zoa asked trying to make you say something about her birthday.

"Right everyone class is about to begin" the teacher announced before you could give an answer.

"Yes, pay attention to the teacher" you whispered to Zoa.

However, Zoa can't pay any attention to class because of what you said. She was hoping that you were playing a joke. After all, who would say they are hosting a surprise party if they were hosting a surprise party anyways. Zoa tried to shake it off but she can't.

After a very long hour, the bell rang and class was finally dismissed. Zoa followed her friend Jihan to the music room hoping that you would be there to be part of the surprise.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY OUR BELOVED HYEWON" everyone shouted as Zoa entered the room.

Not going to lie, Zoa was surprised by this, but she was also surprised at the fact that it was only her close friends Jimin, Soeun, Soojin, Jaehee and Jihan there to celebrate. You were nowhere to be seen.

"What's wrong Hyewon? You don't seem too happy" Jaehee said whilst holding the cake in her hands.

"Nothing it's just he isn't here" Zoa responded.

"We asked him to come but he seemed to have more important things like football so he said he isn't free" Jihan replied.

"Let's eat some cake" Soojin said trying to distract Zoa from the fact that you weren't here.

Zoa understand why you weren't here. Football has always been a big part of your life and she knows that as well. But what was annoying her was that there wasn't even a birthday message from you, nothing, not even a text. After all, how difficult is it to put in minimal effort and text her a simple birthday message.

The truth was, you didn't forget. Whilst you really had football training to attend, you had your own plans. Tonight you were going to surprise her in her apartment. After all if there is one thing that Zoa liked more than you, it was surprises.

You really wanted to go to her party with her friends, but you can't. You were draft protected by the MLS and therefore you need to put in maximum effort in every training because you never know when the MLS scouts were going to come over to watch you train. You just need to be there just in case.

As training ended, you shot off immediately, hoping that Zoa was not mad at you the slightest. On your way to her apartment, you stopped by and brought her some flowers and her favourite green tea cake. Once the goods were secured, you went straight to her apartment.

Arriving at Zoa's apartment, you used the spare key that she gave you to slowly unlock the door and enter the apartment. The lights were off in the living room, but you saw a glimpse of light down the hallway coming from underneath the door of her room. You know she was in her apartment.

Tiptoeing towards her room, you made sure that she didn't know you were here and as you approached, you slowly opened her door and entered. Once you opened the door, there she was, lying on her bed, asleep. Probably annoyed at the fact that you forgot about her birthday. Walking up towards her you tapped on her shoulder to try to wake her up.

"GAAAAHHHHH" Zoa screamed as you scared her.

"Wait, Hyewon it's me" you tried to calm her down which seemed to work.

"Y/N? You scared me. What are you doing here?" Zoa was surprised at your arrival.

"I got you these flowers and your favourite green tea cake" you responsed.

Zoa was still a little bit mad at you for ignoring the fact that it was her birthday and forgotten about it the whole day. But it was difficult to be mad now that you showed up unannounced, it was a surprise and Zoa liked this surprise.

"What if I don't want them?" Zoa tried to push you away and pretend to stay mad.

"Well then how about if I do this" you leaned down and gave Zoa a quick kiss on her cheeks "happy birthday Hyewon baby" you said.

"I thought you forgot it was my birthday" Zoa said looking at you.

"You think I would really forget about my Hyewon baby's birthday?" you said looking deep into Zoa's big eyes.

"But today, in Maths class you didn't even say happy birthday. I thought you genuinely forgot" Zoa said.

"If I didn't play it like that, then I won't be able to surprise you like this" you responded.

"I'll give you that, this was a pretty good surprise. I like it, but I like you more" Zoa said.

"I like you too, my Hyewon baby" you said as you leaned in and started to make out with Zoa.

***

HAPPY ZOA DAY

I know it's late, but it's still her birthday here where I'm at. Anyways hope you guys enjoyed this little one shot for Zoa. Oh my god, they really grow up so fast, can't believe Zoa is now 18.

Anyways......

......HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZOA

[autoantonyms]

I’m finally home now so I guess it’s time for my Joker Out Utrecht gig report

- I had to wake up at an ungodly hour to catch my trains and the JO traveling curse really chose to fuck me over that day. My original 3 hour train journey turned into a 6 1/2 hour nightmare of delays and unexpected route changes. In the end I made it and I mean it was totally worth it!!

- i was going alone again and I expected to make new friends (like the last time as well) which I did! I met so many amazing people, finally got to know some of my mutuals and I can‘t wait to see (almost) all of you on Sunday again! 🫶🏻

- the queuing situation was a bit chaotic (GA) and before the doors opened I felt like passing out at one point cause we were all just smushed together and the air was so bad you couldn’t really breathe

- Raciks art looked so small on the big stage but it is so beautiful!

- Lorem Ipsum was so good!! I haven’t really checked them out before hand but I was positively surprised. The singer has a really beautiful voice and she was getting a little emotional seeing the reaction from the crowd, which I thought was so cute. Some of their songs already made it into my playlist. I can only recommend checking them out. (Even tho I have to admit they sound *way* better live)

- JC Stewart was also very entertaining. His voice is so good omg.

- seeing the boys on stage again was just as surreal as the last time but I loved every second of it.

- first of all the outfits. Like Bojans Shirt. With the fucking lipstick stain. I’m deceased (Lets all thank Maike for the beautiful Shirt). Kris very very good fitting pants were also a highlight of the night. And Jure wearing eyeliner again 😩 holy moly

- Bojan sounded so sick. It doesn’t really come off like that in the videos but you could really hear it live.

- The setlist was nice, I got all of my favorites so I can’t really complain. But sadly no Demoni scream and no NGVOT :((

- Kris was actively working against me this time. Everytime I’d taken my phone out to take a video of him, he fucking disappeared and everytime I was just enjoying the show he stood right in front of me. (Baby I need visual reminders that I saw you 😭)

- I enjoyed the prolonged version of UM and it was nice seeing Bojan in the crowd but the only thing going through my mind was: „This man is so short“ But I love my short king <3

- Kris trying to place the dutch flag on his microphone stand was so cute. The way he looked at it to make sure it wasn’t falling off 😩

- Hearing Everybody’s waiting live for the first time really made me emotional af. That was something I was expecting but damn. I can relate to that song way too much, so it hit me hard. Also Bojan asking us something along the lines of „do you also have panic attacks?“ and the crowd went screaming „yeahh“ and he was like „yuhu let’s go panic attacks“ idk I thought that was funny

Overall I‘m very happy that I went to that gig and I can’t wait for Cologne and Munich!

[jolalibrary]

JOLAPEÑO PEPPER MY BELOVED <3

i am here to share my new favourite photo of pedro for happy hour (when this full ad drops it's over for me)

GIRL, remember a time when we thought THIS was the hottest thing we'd seen. and then the videos dropped today? DO YOU REMEMBER?

but also back to this. i have very precise thots about this. and I'm gonna tell you them. even if you didn't ask.

so you KNOW how much i adore the man that is Francisco Morales, and this is him, at the beach, and you're being a GOOF, and the music is still playing, and this is the face he makes when you sing a particular line at him, hands outstretched at him, and while you're surrounded by other friends, they're non-existent. because there's just you.

and then, when you get closer, he looks exactly LIKE THAT. with your finger pressing the fruit down into the beer, and you kiss him, sliding over his lap on the chair. HAND ON YOUR THIGH AND EVERYTHING.

thank you for coming to my FM talk. (that you didn't ask for)

jo's happy hour of positivity (that will deffo be longer than an hour)

[tia-amorosa]

Sunset Died - Wainwright/Sword/Hatch

The Wedding (Part 1)

As Cyclone and Connor had already left a few minutes earlier, they still had enough time to look at everything in peace. “Amazing! And Judy did all that?"/ ”Mhm. I would have liked to have offered Blair more. But she was happy with the result."/ ”Jo. Well, then she'll probably turn up in a few minutes and the guests.

Guests who have received an invitation should arrive in the early afternoon. Provided they were able to come. After all, it wasn't a compulsory event, but simply a nice occasion in the midst of difficult times. “Where is she?"/ ‘She was behind me, just be patient, Mr. Groom’.

And Emma was right. Because after a few seconds, Blair also came through the large barn door. It was a special moment for Cyclone. “Wow…”. And he realized again that his hands were starting to sweat a little. “hnhn, close your mouth again, honey”. Blair walked proudly and contentedly into the barn, where it was pleasantly bright.

“I'm sorry. I've tried to imagine all sorts of things, but this has eclipsed everything.” Blair smiled and looked down at himself once more. “Emma created it for me"/ ”She really has a lot of talents. There's no turning back now"/ ”Hn, right. “. They tried to pass the time a little with conversation. And it was interesting to see which guests would accept the invitation.

One by one, the guests arrived at the venue. Each one is greeted individually. They exchanged a few short sentences and then moved on to the next. It's rare to be with so many people in one place. “Oh, look, Xander's coming too. My goodness, he looks like his father when he was young”.

And of course, guests who aren't actually there yet are also welcomed. “Normally I would ask if you already know what it's going to be. But I think we have to let ourselves be surprised at this time"/ ”that's true. And as they always say: the main thing is that it's healthy"/ ”Exactly. We'll start right away, then there'll be cake for you two, hnhn”.

Now Blair was getting a little nervous again. “Are you all right?”/ “I'm just wondering if we should wait until my parents get here or…”/ “ your mother is here, she just came in”/ “Really? Oh how nice… All right… Let's get started then, I hope I remember what I wanted to say”. Cy had to smile a little. Because he could understand her nervousness at that moment. “hnhn, in case you've forgotten, be spontaneous. let's begin”..

The guests chose a seat and the bride and groom also got into position. “Look how she's woven the tendrils through here. That's very pretty"/ ‘I can see what else is pretty here’…Blair had to grin a little after his compliment. „Don't make me any more nervous than I already am"/ ‘I'm sure it'll be completely gone soon, darling’.

Susan had the involuntary pleasure of sitting next to Xander. “Do I have something on my face or why are you staring at me like that, huh?”. His voice was rough, but not unfriendly. “Sorry… I just thought this cardigan looked so familiar"/ ‘My dad wore it a lot, that's it…’/ ”God rest his soul. I'm sure he'd be proud…"/ ”hmhm. Your daughter is getting married, I'm not important”…

Blair looked around and could only see her mother among the guests. But her father wasn't there. “Maybe he's fallen ill…"/ ”Maybe, yes. But you can still ask her that. Or…"/ ”I'm not going to wait any longer. We can start now.”.

It was time for the two to say a few words to each other. And Blair took the liberty of going first. “I don't know how to begin. I just want to tell you, my dear Cy, that I am eternally grateful to you for being my loving and safe companion in my darkest hours. I was often afraid of losing you and also of losing myself”

“But I could always rely on you. You've always been by my side and I hope that we could go all the rest of the way together.” Blair would have wanted to say so much more, but she knew that the day would never end otherwise. So she left the rest of the words to her groom. “hn, you almost leave me speechless, love”.

“When I saw the cute blonde girl back then, I thought I'd never have a chance with her. What does she want with a nerd like me? But you discovered sides of me that nobody knew about. And you made so much more of me. I'm grateful to you for that.” Cyclone would also have liked to say more. But they wanted to save more words for later. “Kiss, kiss… now!“..

Of course, you don't need to be told twice. Even if not all the invited guests came, it was still a successful wedding for the couple. All fears were now gone and they could devote themselves to more pleasant things. “Hey, no more snogging, otherwise there'll be no more cake"/ ‘hahaha’.

And just as it was all over, Blair's father walked in the door. With a look on his face that spoke volumes. He was incredibly sorry he was late. “Look who's here”. Cy made a head movement towards the door.

Blair looked to the side and saw her father standing there, which gave her a smile of joy. Then she ran to him and hugged him. “Oh, you're still coming"/ ‘yes, just too late, it looks like’/ ”Oh no, not at all. I know you wanted to be there, but I'm sure you had your reasons"/ ”yes, but they really wouldn't have been as important as your wedding. Congratulations"/ ‘thank you’.

Blair was happy that her father had shown up after all. The only sad thing at that moment was that no one from Cy's family could be there. But that was something they had to accept. Then finally the best part of the party came. "Who wants cake?".

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

End of this Part

@greenplumbboblover🥰

Note: I had to move the wedding cake table during the process because, strangely enough, you couldn't put anything on the CC table. I should have tested it beforehand, oh well. And I'm glad that the party went reasonably well. Apart from Connor, who didn't stay on his chair for long, everyone stayed seated. Maybe I'll take a wedding photo of the two of them at some point... in the next part, an uninvited guest shows up...

[maffinstuff97]

I liked the ending of the trainee.

Maybe an unpopular opinion by what I've read in this website?

I really liked that this series didn't focus on the romance but rather on the chemistry of the whole group of trainees. We got to see how they all evolved, how they all got tangled up with each other and how they all became friends. Of course that means that when it came to the relationship of the main characters, maybe a bit was left to the imagination.

______________

But let me start with Tae and Ba-Mhee. I am so happy that they decided to keep them together. I would hate for the start of a GL couple to be cheating... And to be honest, I saw Ba-Mhee and Judy's relationship more like one of adoration and admiration other than them falling in love. Not to say that I don't think Ba-Mhee is bisexual, she FOR SURE IS. But I like that they didn't go there just for the sake of "having lesbians in the show". I also love that they didn't solve the conflict in 2 seconds but rather showed us the characters slowly realizing that they forgave each other and missed each other.

______________

When it comes to Ryan and Jane, I fell in love with them. I think that there were some communication issues at the start but I also feel like they improved on it so much. By the end, Ryan is very vocal and Jane keeps asking him "what do you want to know?" or "what do you want to ask?", even with the mv incident. Plus, it kinda makes sense that they would start like this because Jane is in a position of power over Ryan, so both are scared of crossing that line and saying something wrong.

I love that they also didn't go for the trope where one of the members of the couple drops all their dreams and opportunities to BE in a relationship. I love that Jane actually pursued his dream and is now a director and how Ryan just supports that. Of course Ryan could have forgotten all about him in the years that Jane is out and of course people fall out of love sometimes.

But isn't it more romantic that Ryan trusted Jane to come back other than Jane just dropping everything to be with Ryan?

Plus my final thoughts on this couple is that what we saw in the series were just snippets of the start of their relationship. We see Pie at some point talking about how Ryan and Jane talk for an hour every single night and how their conversations through the printer just got longer and longer. And you can't tell me the kiss on episode 11 didn't evolve to something more.

Though we get confirmation that they didn't talk for the whole time Jane was out, I still think the way it all played out wasn't rushed or problematic. Jane didn't show up and demand to be in a relationship with Ryan, they had lunch and Jane asked if anything stayed the same. That's how nervous one can get. You know he's wondering if Ryan still feels the same, if he stopped loving him.

______________

And I LOVED IT SO MUCH THAT THEY SHOWED JANE TALKING TO JO AT THE END, MY BOY WAS TRAUMATIZED BY A FEW COMMENTS (can relate) AND I LOVED HOW THEY GAVE HIM CLOSURE.

If it's the best gmmtv series I've watched? No, not really. But I laughed and cried watching it and at the end of the day I think that's what you want from a series? idk I'm rambling now

[aheathen-conceivably]

Josephine had been sitting with Antoine for hours. Her years at the brothel had taught her what to do when someone was drunk and unresponsive; so with great difficulty she had hoisted Antoine off his back and into an upright position. She stayed there next to him, smoking an endless chain of cigarettes as she monitored his breathing and occasionally attempted to wake him again.

Her brother’s physical presence didn’t make her feel any less alone there. Giorgio was gone, almost all of her friends were gone, even Zelda was gone. She was only thankful that Violette wasn’t here to see this.

Jo hadn’t seen her brother drink this way in almost a decade. Sure, they had drank far more than they should throughout their youth, who hadn’t? The halls of Storyville were practically flowing with champagne, and she wouldn’t see a John or get on stage without at least a bottle.

And all their lives she and Antoine had liked drinking. Even before she had started working, they would often galivant through the clubs of Storyville together as teenagers. Dressed in whatever clothes they could gather from the pieces men left at the brothel, they would pretend to be upstanding, paying gentlemen.

Of course the owners of the clubs all knew who they were. Delphine’s little ones. So late at night, when couples began to pair off and the men were too drunk to notice the interlopers, the bartenders passed them shots of whiskey or champagne and let them dance to the piano without paying the cover fee. It was how Antoine has learned how to play, how he had heard Jelly Roll and Tony Jackson in their primes.

Josephine realized that looking back now, it was perhaps a bit sad: two teenagers given free reign of the vice district as their mother worked. But in the moment she only remembered them feeling free and happy, and having each other amidst the heavily gilded debauchery all around them.

But once he got back from the war, it had all changed. Antoine never drank for fun after that. Only to forget, or to rage and get into fights; only to pass out on the floor of the club, disappointing their mother and teaching Josephine how to rouse him from yet another drunken episode.

Josephine was pulled from her memories by a groan at her side.

“Jo?” He asked, lifting his head, “Fuck, was that you? Had you been here all along?”

As she shook her head yes, he rubbed his temples, the hangover clearly already settling in, “Did you hear all that? Everything I said?”

“Some of it,” she answered, unwilling to say how much. She had always assumed that he wouldn’t want to leave, always assumed it wasn’t worth telling him about Giorgio’s offer, just as he had never told her that Gio had offered him part ownership in the farm.

Neither of them wanted to be the first one to jump ship, to abandon their home or their mother’s memory; but at that moment they both knew that they were ready, both thought it separately without wanting the other to know.

Instead Antoine cleared his throat, doing his best to hide his thoughts from his sister, “Have you heard from Zelda? She should be home by now, shouldn’t she?”

Josephine shook her head, not wanting to acknowledge her own fear that perhaps Zelda wasn’t coming home at all. Each day they woke, expecting a telegram with the information of her return ship; yet each day it didn’t come, until weeks became months and its arrival seemed less and less likely.

Josephine buried her fears and stood on unsteady heels. She offered her hand to her brother, “Come on, let’s get you some food.”

Antoine took her hand, the room once again beginning to spin as he rose to his feet. Jo put her arm around his waist to steady him and they crossed the now empty dance floor. Unbeknownst to her, the wisps of phantoms still danced there, threatening to pull Antoine under once again. He leaned his weight onto his sister, trying to ignore their calls and bury the whole ordeal deep in his mind.

Part 2/2

[thichnhathanhgems]

15 practical steps Thich Nhat Hanh says we can take to bring mindfulness to our work:

1. Start your day with 10 minutes of sitting in meditation.

2. Take the time to sit down and enjoy eating breakfast at home.

3. Remind yourself every day of your gratitude for being alive and having 24 brand-new hours to live.

4. Try not to divide your time into "my time" and "work." All time can be your own time if you stay in the present moment and keep in touch with what’s happening in your body and mind. There’s no reason why your time at work should be any less pleasant than your time anywhere else.

5. Resist the urge to make calls on your cell phone while on your way to and from work, or on your way to appointments. Allow yourself this time to just be with yourself, with nature and with the world around you.

6. Arrange a breathing area at work where you can go to calm down, stop and have a rest. Take regular breathing breaks to come back to your body and to bring your thoughts back to the present.

7. At lunchtime, eat only your food and not your fears or worries. Don’t eat lunch at your desk. Change environments. Go for a walk.

8. Make a ritual out of drinking your tea. Stop work and look deeply into your tea to see everything that went into making it: the clouds and the rain, the tea plantations and the workers harvesting the tea.

9. Before going to a meeting, visualize someone very peaceful, mindful and skillful being with you. Take refuge in this person to help stay calm and peaceful.

10. If you feel anger or irritation, refrain from saying or doing anything straight away. Come back to your breathing and follow your in- and out-breath until you’ve calmed down.

11. Practice looking at your boss, your superiors, your colleagues or your subordinates as your allies and not as your enemies. Recognize that working collaboratively brings more satisfaction and joy than working alone. Know that the success and happiness of everyone is your own success.

12. Express your gratitude and appreciation to your colleagues regularly for their positive qualities. This will transform the whole work environment, making it much more harmonious and pleasant for everyone.

13. Try to relax and restore yourself before going home so you don’t bring accumulated negative energy or frustration home with you.

14. Take some time to relax and come back to yourself when you get home before starting on household chores. Recognize that multitasking means you’re never fully present for any one thing. Do one thing at a time and give it your full attention.

15. At the end of the day, keep a journal of all the good things that happened in your day. Water your seeds of joy and gratitude regularly so they can grow.

- Thich Nhat Hanh

"15 Practical Ways To Find Your Zen At Work", Jo Confino - The Huffington Post.