#long mudroom bench

[timelordoflumpyspace]

Craftsman Entry - Mudroom Example of a large arts and crafts ceramic tile and black floor entryway design with gray walls and a black front door

[joeloverture]

fair's fair | pervy!dbf!joel x f!reader

masterlist | notifs blog

pairing: pervy!dbf!joel x pervy!f!reader summary: [no outbreak] joel shoves you in his sweaty pits as a 'joke'. warnings: (18+ mdni) pervy!dbf!joel, age gap (early to mid 20s/38), somewhat mutual pining & sexual tension, joel in a wifebeater and jorts, reader has hair, smacking joel's ass like god intended, degradation, sweaty!joel, musk kink, armpit kink!!!, coming untouched, joel calls reader 'kiddo', 2 spanks, m!masturbation [no use of y/n] word count: 2.1k a/n: in another life, i'd be sorry for this fic. in this life, i am not. as always, a shoutout to the effervescent @lovesickonmybed for moodboard curation + creating this au. love to @seventeenpins for taking a glimpse at this + inspiring me. ty esquire team.... hooooly shit. pls suspend your disbelief if you can't come untouched we're here for a good time not a realistic one. btw you're all pussies for chickening out of the pit fics you 'planned' to write after this esquire photo fell into our laps /j

You awake to a rattling crash on the other side of the wall that you share with your dad’s combination garage/man cave. With an exaggerated groan, you peel yourself out of your creased sheets. Maybe the raccoons that have been terrorizing your garbage cans have finally broken into the garage. You’re still in your pajamas — a low-cut tank top and some bloomers that are entirely too short on you — when you rub the sleep from your eyes and shove your feet into your slippers to investigate. 

The house is quieter than dust so early in the morning. Your dad’s out at work, and the rest of the neighborhood is just beginning to wake up. There’s the tstststststs of the Adler’s sprinkler system and the birds are chirping. In the mudroom, you snatch up a broom and wrap your fist around it. You listen through the paneling of the door for any hissing or scuttling, but hear nothing. You are not looking to get rabies today.

You poke your head out of the door, broom pointed at the ground like a staff. Immediately, you’re blinded by a slice of sunshine cutting through the very much open garage.

You’re about two seconds away from sprinting back inside to call 911 when you see the unkempt, sunkissed hair of none other than Joel Miller.

You set the broom gently back against the wall. Joel’s not a threat – at least not to anything but that traitor between your legs. He’s just your dad’s buddy; drinking buddy, fishing buddy, jack-of-all-trades buddy. He’s also no stranger to those borderline goo-goo eyes you give him. How could you not? He’s just so broad and muscled and God, you swear up and down that you stare more at his ass than anyone has ever stared at yours.

Sometimes, if you’re lucky, he’ll even give you shit about it. Bending over directly in your line of sight at block parties, ‘play wrestling’ with you on the dock by the lake whenever you jokingly call him an old man, or, in one very special instant, giving your ass a smack that sent you into an hours long tizzy.

You deserve to give him shit about it, too.

After all, he’s the one ferreting around in your dad’s garage in the wee hours of the morning. You pad into the garage, footsteps muffled by your slippers as you navigate around your dad’s pickup. You catch a better look at Joel when you pass the truck bed. And, for better or for worse, he’s dressed like a slut.

His ribbed white wifebeater stretches over his wide chest, grass stains scattered along the small of his back. Sweat darkens the hems of his shirt under his armpits, glistening and beading on the back of his neck, too. In true dad fashion, he even has on jorts. He’s bent over your dad’s tool bench, thumbing around an assortment of screwdrivers. His denim-covered ass sticks out. A smile spreads across your face.

You slip around the truck and take soft step after soft step until you’re right behind him. You can’t help but notice a cocktail of his pheromones and B.O. surrounding him. He must’ve been outside for a while now with all of the stains he’s accumulated on his shirt already. You keep your breathing muted so he can’t hear you as you reach out and — smack!

Joel shrieks, shooting upright. His head slams into the shelf overhead and a few bolts go toppling onto the concrete below. He cusses like a sailor as his hand goes up to rub the back of his head, nursing where a lump will probably be in a few hours time. Joel whips around to see you, smothering your giggles behind your hand. “You little shit,” he huffs, still scratching at his head. You don’t miss how his cheeks are firetruck red. “The fuck are ya doin’?”

“Me? The fuck are you doing, Miller? Stomping around my dad’s garage at, like, the asscrack of dawn–”

“Nine in the mornin’ ain’t the asscrack of dawn, sweetcheeks,” Joel says. Then, he holds up a set of pliers. “Mower shit the bed. I’m thinkin’ Sarah stole my pliers to make necklaces, but she hasn’t fessed up yet. Your pops said I could borrow his.” He stretches, giving you a long whiff of his scent. The groan he lets out stirs something in your stomach, much to your chagrin.

“I think the mower is the least of your worries,” you say, wrinkling your nose. “You reek. Shower shit the bed, too?”

“You try doin’ yard work in 90 degree heat, kiddo. See how much you smell like that strawberry raspberry peach whatever-the-fuck soap you’re usin’.”

You roll your eyes so hard you’re surprised you don’t see the back of your skull. “Rosemary eucalyptus,” you correct under your breath.

“Hmm, what was that?” Joel asks, tossing the pliers down onto the workbench. “Gotta speak up.”

“Rosemary eucalyptus,” you say. “But I bet you wouldn’t know. What do you use? 18 in 1?”

Joel grunts. “Real funny.” He takes a step closer to you, lips taut with a smirk. “How ‘bout you find out?”

You don’t have time to question what the hell he means – he just cups the back of your head with one of his wide palms and shoves your face directly into his closest sweaty pit. “Mmmmph!” you protest, mouth sealed shut against the thatch of hair that’s spattered across his skin. You hold your breath for as long as you can, but eventually, you’re forced to suck in a breath through your squished nose. His musk, sweet and just as sharp, fills your airways. Your clit all but jerks between your legs in humiliation, drawing a whine out of your throat.

Joel chuckles, ruffling your hair. It’s enough to make your thighs clench. “You’re a little freak, huh?” He presses harder on the back of your head, so much so that you almost get a mouthful of his underarm.

“Youuu dick!” you try to say without opening your mouth too far. It comes out muffled against his sweat-pearled skin. You squeeze your eyes shut, trying to push him off of you.

Another wry chuckle comes from above. Joel bends his arm so that his elbow is wrapped around the back of your head, effectively trapping you in his funk. “Come on, huff ‘em. Practically fuckin’ asking for it earlier, all ‘a that mouthin’ off. So now you get a mouthful of my pits. Fair’s fair, kiddo.”

Embarrassment ribbons through your body, the kind that makes you leak into your panties against your will. Still looking for a way out, you squirm against his ironclad hold.

It’s only good for making him land a heavy-hitting slap across your ass. You yelp, a new wave of slick saturating the drenched gusset of your panties. You jump where you are, hips bucking into nothing – for escape or pressure, you’re not entirely sure. “Unless you wanna go over my knee instead?” Your face sears with humiliation.

Tentatively, you snuffle a bit against his pit, biting into your cheeks at his musk. It makes you cough a little bit – he’s been carrying the smell of cutting grass and his own sweat all morning.

“Yeah, thought so. But you can do better than that, sweetcheeks. I said huff, not fake an asthma attack.” You whimper, this time sucking in a longer breath. Here he is, holding you down, secure against his pit as you're left with no other option than to take what he gives you, when he gives it to you. All you can smell, feel, touch is just Joel, Joel, Joel. It makes you lightheaded.

Your clit is practically a kickdrum between your thighs, pulsing and doing more work than your head. You try to angle yourself so that you can rub your clit against Joel’s leg, but he puts a stop to that real quick. “Gettin’ all wound up just from being where ya belong, your pretty little face in my pit?” You mewl, reaching for Joel’s sides. You bunch your fists in the fabric of his wifebeater, and he allows it.

“Since you’re so eager to complain about it, how ‘bout you clean me up, huh?” He nudges his pit against your face again, and, confusedly, you furrow your brows. You can’t see much of him, but you do see the edge of his mouth tip up in satisfaction. “You got rocks for brains? Lick, kiddo.”

Hesitance drives the soft kitten lick of your tongue, swiping up and down across a very small portion of his pit. He loosens up on his grip on you, giving you the slightest bit more reign. You try to tell yourself that you’re scared of what he might do if you disappoint him, but hell if you don’t want this as much as he does, tongue, nose, face buried in his pits. Some sort of ultimate form of worship between the two of you.

You lave your tongue across his pit, eyes fluttering with each stroke. You swirl it in the crease of his arm, sucking his goddamn hairs clean with the fervor you’ve picked up. Enthused now, you bob your head up and down. Your clit responds, throbbing with a heartbeat of its own.

You’re panting, inhaling and exhaling him, lapping up his musk like a fucking dog, gone from reluctant to eager. Your clit twitches faster and faster, and you swear that arousal must be tacky on the insides of your thighs, leaking through your panties all over the front of your bloomers, but you can’t do anything about it. You can’t even grind against Joel – you can only slurp against his armpit, something like desperation having replaced all of your previous mortification from when he’d shoved you there in the first place.

You’re so preoccupied with pleasing him that you don’t even notice the thumping of your clit, picking up speed and pressure. Your body seizes in between your greedy little licks. You feel yourself weaken before you stiffen.

And maybe it’s the way Joel keeps groaning with each movement of your tongue. It could be how he exhales, “Kiddo,” in a raspy voice, both demeaning and endearing all at once. But in the end, it’s how he says, “Mmmm, such a good goddamn tongue. Bet it’d feel so good on my cock,” that breaks the dam between your legs.

You shudder, coming completely undone with little moans and whimpers in Joel’s arms without so much as a hand on your clit, just your face smothered in his pit. Drool runs down your lips and across your chin as you jerk and weaken in his grasp. If you weren’t so underwater, so far gone, you’d be able to hear him saying, “Fuck – whoa, whoa, whoa,” trying to stop you from falling on your ass in the middle of the garage. His hands card across your sides as he props you up against the workbench. Your vision blackens at the edges from the intensity of your orgasm, and you’re still coming, at least you think you are, when you blink yourself back to awareness. You’re wide-eyed, tears brimming at your waterline, incapacitated in a way that you didn’t know you could be.

“Holy shit,” you gasp when you finally fully come to, slumped over the workbench, still half-clinging to Joel. “Fuck.”

Joel looks stunned, looking you up and down as if he can’t get enough of you. His eyes land right between your thighs, where, sure enough, you’ve ruined your bloomers. You still feel like deadweight, and you struggle to stand upright. You’re not sure you’ve ever come so hard even with someone’s hands all over your. Joel’s glistening with even more sweat, and it’s impossible to miss the glaring bulge in his shorts. He clears his throat after a minute. “Oughta go get cleaned up before your daddy gets back for his lunch break, kiddo.”

You stumble upright, drenched in sweat yourself now, Joel’s lingering scent still pervading every breath you take. “Y-yeah,” you manage, nodding. You feel out of your own body, stumbling towards the door. You’re so wet that you can feel it with every goddamn step. Fuck Joel Miller, cocky piece of sh–

You’re immediately returned to your own body by the resounding swat Joel lands on your ass. You jump, shooting a glare over your shoulder. He puts his hands up, pleading innocence.

You’re not surprised when you crawl out of your shower, smelling of rosemary eucalyptus and dripping water all over the floor, only to see Joel’s mower abandoned in the middle of his yard. Even worse, you aren’t surprised in the slightest when you squint through your bedroom window, Joel sprawled out across his bed, hips bucking in-time with his fist before catching your eye and spraying ropes of cum all over his abdomen.

You mouth at him through the window with a taunting little wink, Clean yourself up this time.

[vodika-vibes]

Happy 500!

I would request a sapphire with Rex in autumn, a season of change, Rebels Era time frame.

Thank you!

Forever Is A Long Time

Summary: Years after the end of the Clone Wars, you and Rex have managed to make a life for yourselves on your grandparent's old farm. Autumn always brings its own challenges, but that’s not always a bad thing.

Pairing: Rebels!Rex x Former Jedi GN! Reader

Word Count: 934

Warnings: Tooth-rotting fluff. You have been warned.

Prompt: Sapphire - Wise Love

A/N: Full honesty, I've never seen Rebels, so I decided to play around with everything. I hope you like it!

You think you love autumn.

You love how the world bursts into a wild array of colors, how the miserable summer heat settles into something tolerable, and how everything is pumpkin or apple-flavored.

Lazily, you stretch your arms over your head, able to feel Rex’s shirt creep up your thighs as you reach up, though it falls back into place as your arms fall back to your side. 

Speaking of Rex, where is he?

You turn your head away from the window that looks out at the orchard, to focus your attention deeper into your home. He hasn’t gone outside yet, though you know that he plans to work on his speeder today. Your handsome Captain seems to think that having a working speeder will make the harvest easier.

And he’s right, it will.

But you’re not going to tell him that.

“Rex?”

“Back here, mesh’la!” He calls from the back of the house.

Curiously, you push away from the kitchen counter and follow his voice through the halls until you reach the back hallway which leads to the mudroom. 

“What are you doing?” You ask as you settle on the bench that was built into the wall, your head tilting to the side as you try to figure out what, exactly, he’s working on.

He glances at you, a grin on his face, “What? You can’t tell?”

You scrunch up your nose at him, and then glance at his project. It’s some kind of electronic device, based on what you can see. But what you don’t know about computers and mechanics could probably fill several archives. “I give up.”

“You didn’t even make a guess, cyare.” His voice is dancing with amusement, and you make a face at him.

“Oh, I dunno…Is it a comm?”

“Close, but no.” Rex focuses on it for a moment longer, snapping a few pieces together, “It’s the old radio that your brother gave you.”

“The radio he broke in a fit of temper? That radio?”

“The very same.”

“Huh.” You move off the bench so you’re able to lean on Rex’s shoulder to peer at his project, “Why are you fixing it?”

“Because it was broken,” He replies simply.

You nudge him gently, “Come on, Rex. It’s been broken for years.”

He glances at you and then sets his tools on the ground so he’s able to tug you onto his lap. You release a startled noise as he settles you comfortably on his lap and leans in to press his forehead against yours.

His dark eyes scan your face, and you aren’t able to stifle your soft giggle as you reach up and press your hands against his cheeks, your fingers gently brushing his beard.

Rex’s eyes crinkle with the strength of his smile, and his arms tighten around you, “Hi.”

“Hi yourself,” You reply, grinning widely. 

He tugs you into a gentle kiss that turns into several gentle kisses, pulling even more delighted laughter from you. When he kisses you like this, you feel like you’re back at the start of your relationship, all those years ago. When he was a Clone Captain, and you were an Archivist at the Jedi Temple.

“I saw you looking at the radio the other day,” Rex says lightly, “So I decided to fix it.”

“You did?”

He bumps his nose against yours, “What? You think after all these years I can’t tell what you’re thinking?” Rex teases lightly.

“Of course you do,” You murmur in turn. “I was considering throwing it away, though.”

“Well, now there’s no need.”

“Rex,” His name is a laugh, “We have so much stuff.”

“Well, seeing as neither of us had any stuff when we were younger, I think we have just enough.” He adjusts you on his lap and focuses his attention on the radio again, snapping a few more pieces back together, before putting the whole radio together and standing it up.

And then he flips the power switch, and soft music fills the hallway.

Familiar music.

You recognize the tune immediately, it's the song that was playing the day that Rex confessed to you. The song that was playing when he proposed. The song that you danced your first dance to.

“Well now,” Rex grins at you, “Seems like fate.” Gently he nudges you to your feet and then stands up to tug you into his arms. “May I have this dance?”

You beam at him, “You can have all of them.”

He spins you in the narrow hallway, before pulling you flush against him. His expression is soft and warm and for you and you alone. 

“Tell me, cyare.” He murmurs as the pair of you sway to the soft music, “Is this what you expected from life?”

“No, I didn’t.” You snake your arms around his neck, “But this is so much better than I expected.”

“That right?”

“I’ll spend forever in your arms,” You whisper to him.

Rex chuckles, “Forever is a long time, cyare.”

“And I’ll happily spend every minute of it with you.”

He kisses you then, slow and deep, “You spoil this old clone.”

“Well, someone has to.” You reply against his lips.

His grip tightens around your hips, “Do we have plans for today, cyar’ika?”

“Nothing that can’t be put off for a couple of hours.”

“Good.” He lifts you as if you weigh nothing, and then carries you into your bedroom, kicking the door shut behind him as your giggles fill the home you built with Rex.

Forever might be a long time, but in your opinion, it’s not nearly long enough.

@bad4amficideas @justiceandwar98 @Mira-Loves-Star-Wars @tiredbi-peach @dukeoftheblackstar

@trixie2023 @kimiheartblade @padawancat97 @falconfeather23435 @etod

@bb8-99 @kiss-anon @continous-mistakes @yoitsjay @imabeautifulbutterfly

@n0vqni

[fatguarddog]

i heard you're looking for some tf scenarios so im throwin my paw in the ring! inspired by me eating a whole pie today (half done atm :3)

you're traveling out of town at a farmhouse air bnb. is gorgeous and spacious, and the crowning jewel is the pumpkin field filled with huge pumpkins, all being grown for state fair records.

as you walk into the house, the warm smell of spices fill your nose. you drop your luggage off into the mudroom and follow the scent, spotting a still warm pumpkin pie on the window sill. next to it is the note that reads "thank you for staying at my farm. as a sign of my gratitude i baked you a pie with some of my prize winning pumpkin. please enjoy while it's still hot!"

you're sure you weren't especially full when you arrived, but as you set the note down and pick up the pie, you can feel your stomach growling. you search the nearby cabinets for a knife or a plate to serve yourself a slice, but you can't seem to find one anywhere.

you grumble to yourself, annoyed that the host seemingly forgot to provide any silverware except the fork left out next to the pie. pumpkin pie and fork in hand you step outside onto the porch, settling down onto a rather large wicker bench.

you dive the fork into the pie, bringing the bite up to your lips. it smells amazing, warm fall spices and even some almond filling your nose. you take a bite and are immediately shocked at how decadent and tasty it is. you can't help but taking another bite. and another. and another...

you don't even notice how fast you're eating, practically shoveling bite after bite into your mouth. it feels like its wrapping you up into a nice warm blanket, keeping you cozy in the outdoor fall weather. you absentmindedly undo your now too-tight pants, giving your round growing stomach more room. it feels heavy and warm but not full yet, so you keep eating.

you only stop when your fork can't even scrape up another bit. the pie pan empty and your stomach now full, you set it down and lay back, leaning against the backrest, rubbing your bloated heavy gut.

its not an unpleasant fullness, but a comforting one. you feel drowsy and at peace, staring out at the pumpkin fields. you don't even realize that your stomach is still growing, your shirt looking more like a crop top now, barely covering your chest at this point. the seems of your clothes creak but you aren't really bothered, finding your clothing now restrictive and uncomfortable.

you try to remove your pants, but find you can no longer stand up, so you simply let yourself grow even more, figuring you'd burst out of them eventually. as your clothes rip and fall away from your body you can feel something fuzzy around your legs, and as you look down you see vines crawling and winding up your legs and towards your still growing stomach and arms.

you can't even be bothered to fight it as the vines hold you down in place, some even slipping up from in between the wooden planks of the porch to wrap around you and hold you down. some even snake towards your tcock, sucking and pumping it, making you moan and writhe. as your mouth hangs open a vine takes its chance and dives in, pumping what tastes like even more of that delicious pie into your mouth.

the combination of the pleasure and the vines making you even fatter cause the bench below you to creak and groan, eventually crushing under your weight. you land with a thud onto the porch, beached on your back, letting the vines take care of you. you begin to close your eyes, so sleepy from all the pie in your stomach.

as you wake up in the morning you cannot even believe how large you are. a hand pats your huge belly, rubbing it comfortingly. the farmer, a plump attractive person with long scruffy hair coos as they pet you, peering down at you. "Good morning pumpkin! So how was the pie?" they ask with a southern twang. "Delicious im sure! its a recipe i developed myself to guarantee i'd have the biggest pumpkin for the state fair this season", they say with a chuckle, patting your taught pumpkin of a stomach. "So what'ya say pumpkin? you ready to win me that blue ribbon?"

you groan, head foggy and swimming with pleasure. you could get used to being a huge pampered pumpkin.

-🐶❤️

(sorry if i wrote too much i got a lil carried away !!)

God I've been reading and re-reading this ask and getting off to it over and over since I got it 🥵

This is absolutely incredible, I don't even know what to say other than how extremely hot I think this is and how much I could get used to being a huge pampered pumpkin with vines wrapping me up and taking care of me, toying with my tdick and making sure I always have something delicious in my mouth when I need to... also god I don't know if it's what you had in mind but the idea of my skin firming up and taking on a proper pumpkin texture/hue is really really hot to me too... literally obsessed with this

(also congrats on the pie stuffing! and to you and anyone else worried about sending long asks, please don't, it's really amazing and flattering to receive something this detailed and great!)

[ohforficsakelibrary]

You Brought Me Poison Flowers

Chapter 5: Onion - Never throw onion skins and peelings onto the ground; if you do, you throw away your prosperity.

prev / series masterlist / masterlist

Series Summary: Joel and Ellie settle into life in Jackson, one more easily than the other, until Joel is reminded of what normal feels like. The kind of normal that he perhaps never had. A series of one-shot glimpses into a relationship (no true plot here, people.) Soft!Joel. Two touch-starved babes. Slow-ish burn.

Chapter subtitles taken from Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham. Although herbal preparations are consistent with historic uses, nothing herein is to be construed as medical advice.

Pairing: Joel Miller x Herbalist!OFC (age-appropriate age gap)

Word Count: ~4.2K

Rating: Explicit 18+ / unprotected piv, further tags intentionally withheld. Minors DNI.

A/N: Joel returns a coat because skin is much warmer.

Joel is surprised that the shop is open when he makes his way back there after a late dinner.

A moth to the golden light that spills from her windows into the street.

Lennie is leaned over the counter speaking quietly to a young woman. She doesn’t even bother to angle her eyes over at him when he thuds in on heavy boots, coat draped over his arm.

“Joel, can I get you to step out for a second.”

It’s quick and firm and not a question.

And so he does until the woman breezes past him, throwing “she says you can head back in,” over her shoulder.

Lennie is herself with him again when he returns.

“Sorry about that, Joel. Flip that sign for me?” She cocks her head towards the “Open” sign as she moves to heave heavy blue curtains over the front shop windows. 

Trapping the gold inside.

Joel complies, eyes lingering a fraction too long at where her yellow linen dress hikes up her thighs as she reaches for each.

She’s not wearing shoes.

“I won’t stay long,” he clears his throat and rushes to apologize. “Wanted to bring this back.”

Lennie takes the coat from his hands, digging fingers into the leather.

“Thank you,” she smiles in earnest, clutching it to her chest a moment as if to clutch a memory.

Whether it’s of him or her husband he can’t be sure.

“Yeah. ‘Course,” he murmurs softly as she replaces the coat on the mudroom rack.

“Dress ‘s nice,” he gestures loosely in her direction when she returns, thumbing at the corner of his mouth before shoving his hands in his pockets.

She throws him an incredulous look.

“You handing out compliments now, Miller?” Lennie teases before softening. “Thanks. Julie’s trying out some food scrap dye. I believe this is onion skin,” she gestures down the length of her with a flourish.

“Onion skin is your color.”

Lennie huffs a laugh and Joel searches for something else to say.

“She uh, she gonna be okay?” Joel nods at the door.

“Hmm?” She looks up from wiping the bar top, “oh, yeah, yeah she’ll be fine. Sorry to throw you out, some things are just for the girls.” She tosses him a wink.

“Well,” he rakes his fingers through silvered curls with the realization that he’s just been looming in the middle of the room as she flits around him, closing up for the night.

“I just came to return the coat, I’ll get out of your hair. You’ve seen enough ‘a me for the day.”

“You want some gin?”

“Yeah, would love some.”

Flames know more than moths give them credit for.

Getting him to stay is simple because he doesn’t want to leave.

She shuts off the set of lights directly above the bar and disappears to the right of the shop before returning with a bottle and two glasses of ice. Joel fills her glass and then his own as he sinks down onto the bench at her oak table.

“Thank you for your help last night,” she taps her glass to his before taking a sip.

“Didn’t really do much.”

“You kept me from freezing to death, so. I’d say that counts.”

He wants to dig in here but thinks better of it, pursing his lips to keep the words in.

“Thanks for teaching me. And Ellie. She couldn’t stop talking about it over dinner, she loved being able to help. Thought it was the coolest fuckin’ thing ever.” Tight lips split into a grin.

“Oh she did a great job today. A quick study, for sure.”

“You gotta check on her tonight?” Meaning the horse.

“Nah, dosed her about two ago and she should be good till morning. Looks like she’s on the other side of it, but Tommy said he’ll do one more check before he heads in and let me know.”

“Mmh,” Joel grunts in acknowledgement. 

For a moment he allows himself to take her in. Her hair is half pulled up, washed and just this side of dry, streaks of silver at her temples curling over her shoulders. Free from hay. The scent of cedar and lavender heightened.

The yellow of her dress draws out the honey in her brown eyes. 

“You were asking me something yesterday. When I was here to get coffee, before Ellie came in.”

She hums and smiles through a sip. And she’s nervous for a moment with the way massive chocolate eyes have gone soft. His arms are loosely crossed, elbow resting on the table. Biceps straining against brown and green flannel.

 Joel’s tongue darts out to lick his bottom lip.

And Lennie clears her throat. 

“I wanted to ask if you’d like…”

And like a demon summoned from a place Joel desperately wishes to send him back to––Tommy knocks on the shop door.

Unfortunately, Lennie gets up to let him in.

When Tommy tosses Joel a curious smile, Joel shoots him the same shut the fuck up stare he’s been throwing at Tommy for the past 40-something years.

When Joel broke that window in the garage with a baseball.

When he snapped the door handle off his truck because he was pissed about god knows what.

When Tommy caught sixteen-year-old Joel’s girlfriend sneaking out the back door at 3am.

It only makes Tommy grin harder.

“Yeah, she’s doing good.” He answers a question that Joel hadn’t even heard her ask. “You brought her through it, Len.”

“Care to join?” She nods at the gin on the table.

If Lennie notices Joel staring daggers over his shoulder at Tommy, her face doesn’t betray it.

And if there’s anything else that Tommy has learned in the last 40-something years, it’s not to interfere when his big brother is teetering on the precipice of being down bad for a girl.

“Nah, I can’t stay. But I wanted to bring you this,” he hands her a small paper bag and it's her turn to grin.

“I’ll add it to the collection.”

“It’s well-earned,” Tommy rakes a hand through thick black hair. “Alright, well––”

His cheeky tone makes Joel bristle.

“Y’all enjoy your night.”

“Night, Tommy,” Joel growls and Tommy smirks as he shuts the door behind him.

“What's that?” He nods at the bag when she returns to her spot opposite him at the table.

Lennie fishes out a snake’s rattle and offers it to him.

“Souvenir.” 

Joel takes the hard scales between his fingers, holding it up to the light as she continues.

“I have almost every one that I've managed to heal.” She points over his shoulder to a hook above the doorframe where over twenty rattles are bound together in a bunch. 

“Almost?”

“Sometimes they get away,” she takes the rattle he hands back, re-wraps it in paper, and gets up to place it on the bar.

Without thought, Joel reaches out as she passes him, gently catching her wrist on the tips of his fingers.

Lennie looks down, eyes bright and wide and betraying nothing.

It’s maddening, the way she does that. Says nothing and shows nothing in the moments where Joel feels most exposed.

But she hasn’t moved to pull away. 

And so he pulls her in.

Joel closes his fingers around her wrist and guides her down onto the bench, facing opposite him. The hand on her arm stays while the other lays the paper bag on the table.

A chill races up her spine.

He slides his fingers up her forearm before weaving under her curls to cup the base of her skull. Dark eyes like saucers lock. Unbreaking.

“What were you saying, Len?”

Her eyes dart down to his lips and linger before meeting his gaze again.

It’s been fifteen? Sixteen? Years since he’s had a ‘first’ anything with anyone but she doesn’t know that because he’s never said anything and he remembers enough to know he doesn’t need pretty words right now. 

And he forgets his own question.

“Tell me to let go…”

“No.”

He huffs through his nose, breath from his lungs ghosting across her skin, because she’s defiant in the way she spits it, eyes still bright. 

Amused.

“C’mere then,” and he encourages her forward with pressure through his fingers until she can feel gin-warm breath ghost over her lips.

It’s just a brush at first. A brush that turns into a press, a parting, a latch. 

She bends until her back hits the oak for better access to his mouth and he twists into her, hand still cradling her head. Holding her firm. 

Holding her here against him.

Joel pulls back a fraction and she follows, her eyes flitting up to his. 

For any sign that this was his mistake. 

That he’s changed his mind. 

That his skin isn’t burning the way hers is.

But he’s pulled back because he’s breathless. With eyes closed and he never sees her fear.

“Joel.”

“Tell me to stop and I will,” his forehead thumps hard against hers, and the angle is weird because he hadn’t thought it through, just moved like all the times before.

His chest is heaving and god how she longs to feel the press of it against her own. 

“Tell me, Lennie,” he rasps with urgency.

“No.”

And she shifts because she needs him to know that she needs him, propping herself up to sit on the edge of the table as her mouth latches to his once again. He stands abruptly and the bench groans across wood planks where it gives against the backs of his knees, hungry lips and teeth seeking out her jaw. The softness of the skin just under her ear. Her throat. Her hands sweep the breadth of his shoulders to grip the collar of his shirt first, his hair next, as he fits between her legs, one arm wrapped around the small of her back, the other hand cradling her skull.

“The door,” she pants against his mouth, “Joel, the door.”

Because it’s still unlocked from Tommy’s unwanted intrusion and he kicks the bench back further. In two long strides it’s latched with the shade pulled down. 

He locks eyes with her across the room, hair mussed, lips plush from his attention.

Fingers gripping the edge of the table she’s perched on.

Two strides more and he returns to her with an urgency that knocks the air from her lungs when they collide. Her hands cup his face before moving to tangle in his hair.

Something gives when he swipes his tongue over her bottom lip.

His begging for entrance granted.  

He laps at her tongue and licks at her teeth, feeding her growls and getting moans in return. Lennie pushes his unbuttoned flannel off his shoulders and down to the floor, skating her palms over the heavy muscles of his arms before threading her fingers under the collar of his t-shirt to get at his skin.

And she grows impatient.

She hikes one leg up over his hip and he yanks her to the edge of the table, one hand splayed across her lower back, the other hitched up under her knee, holding her firm to grind his hips against hers. She lets out a gasp and buries her face against his neck when he presses the bulge in his jeans against her with a groan. 

He rocks there against her heat, nose crushed against her temple, frantic breath rushing over her cheek. 

There’s far too much fabric here but she can feel the searing heat of him and the thick, heavy line of his cock through his jeans.

“Joel,” she breathes, and he thinks for a second it’s too much too fast, but her fingers tug at his belt loops, and skim down over his ass, pulling him closer.

And god he wants to touch her, taste every inch, but right now he’s burning. Scrambling over her thighs to get to the core of her because his brain is sparking with the need to bury himself there until his blood stops simmering.

And Lennie.

Lennie’s on fire.

She shifts to help as thick fingers slide under her dress, yanking cotton panties down her thighs before one side of them snaps, Lennie uncaring as she paws at his belt then the button on his jeans and rips at the too-worn zipper, slipping it and his boxers down just far enough to allow her to take his cock in hand.

His forehead thumps against hers as he moans from deep in his chest.

“Jesus christ…” Lennie murmurs at the size of him, more to herself than anything. She just does it into his mouth. Joel huffs halfway between a laugh and a heady growl at the way her small hand slides over the thick girth of him.

Unable to still the barest rock of his hips into her fist.

Joel grabs at fabric where the hem of her dress is rucked up, tugging hard to urge her up off of it.

“Lean back, Len,” he murmurs against her mouth, pressing her backwards with his chest. His hand replaces hers around his length when she steadies herself with both palms on the table.

He leans against her with one hand on the table as the other leaves his cock to lick his fingers and reach between her thighs, tongue breaching her lips the second his fingers do.

A choked sob catches in her throat.

Joel hums low at the wetness he finds there. He spends a moment, teasing small circles against where she’s already so sensitive to his attention.

There’s no pretense here. 

No romantic gestures, no pause to look into each other’s eyes. 

Only his lips on her neck as he sweeps the blunt, weeping head of his cock against the slick lush of her and slides home with a strangled cry from them both. 

Oh–

–god

She wraps a hand around the nape of his neck and he bends down with her. Back until her shoulder blades hit the table as she arches as best she can under the broad weight of him. 

The gold chain of her necklace skitters over tendons as rings land with a dull clink against oak.

The pads of his fingers dig into the wood on either side of her head. 

For a moment they just breathe each other in. Humid air delivered through open mouths. 

The same molecules shared between two sets of aching lungs.

Lennie wraps her arms around the thick column of his neck that’s gone red with heat, beard prickling against her biceps, turning to a scrape when he angles his head to bite the flesh there.

Joel is a creature that needs touch, desperately.

He’s just walled himself off from it because touch gets you killed.

But now, buried deep. Weight pressed flush. Teeth sunk in. 

With this body he’s wrapped in that writhes underneath him.

Her body.

Kind, warm, soft Lennie. Who brought laughter and coffee and scent back into his life again.

Lennie with her wild hair and mirth that collects in the creases at the corners of her eyes.

And Joel wants so desperately to take his time but that Joel can’t come to the phone right now because her hands have worked up under his t-shirt and her nails bite into his back, and her heel is digging into his ass encouraging him to “move, Joel. God, please move.”

He rolls his hips slowly, rocking against her without pulling out, forehead pressed to hers, hissing through clenched teeth because she’s tight around him and it has been so long.

He starts up slow, rolling strokes that drag his cock over every sensitive spot inside her, each thrust longer. Faster.

“Feel…s…so good, Len,” he pants against her mouth and she slips her tongue against his to savor the compliment’s taste. He curls his hips with every stroke because he hasn’t forgotten.

Hasn’t forgotten how to pull a woman apart from the inside out.

Joel preemptively apologizes with a nip at her chin before he rights himself, smoothing his palms down over her ribs, rucking her dress up around her waist, gaze locking a moment at where his thick cock fills her. He curls strong fingers under the wings of her hip bones with a snarl, pulling and tipping her hips to seat himself ever deeper, chasing her high. 

One small hand reaches out for a wrist she can’t fully encircle, and the other slides up her chest to knead her own breast. Joel keens at the sight, fingers digging harder into the meat of her hips.

He grits his teeth, growling, pulling her against him and sending her back up the table with each thrust. He shifts her a fraction and the change in angle drags the crown of his cock over her g-spot. 

Lennie gasps and presses a palm to her mouth, twisting in his hold.

“No,” Joel growls and picks up his pace. “Let me hear you, Len.” One hand leaves her hips to spread low over her stomach, thumb rubbing circles against her clit.

Her eyes are shut tight with pleasure but his are locked on her face. He watches until her back arches with a moan and her hand slips from her mouth, fingers catching on her bottom lip before searching frantically for his skin. He leans forward and she grabs a fistful of his t-shirt, pulling him back down to her.

He braces one palm against the table, teeth clacking sharp against hers as he finds her mouth again. She cradles his face between her hands until she can’t meet his kisses anymore, tipping her head to the side and offering her collarbone to his teeth.

“Joel, Joel please, yes, yes, yes—” she pants as he adjusts his hand to rub at that sensitive bundle of nerves with his middle and ring fingers.

“Joel… Joel, Jo—oh fuck,” she cries out as her muscles clamp down tight around him, back arched, fingers of one hand clutching at his curls, the other digging into the back of his shoulder as her cunt pulses around his length and it trips him up and tips him over and Joel comes hard on a string of yes-laced profanity as both hands pull on her hips, snarling like some untamed thing, pressing deep and holding there, painting her walls in hot, thick ropes of his spend.

He stays a moment, damp breath filling the shell of her ear before he shifts to lick at the dip of her throat. Lennie lets go where her hand is cramped from fingers gripped in his hair like a tether to the very earth and lets her legs slip lazily from his waist one at a time, the toes of one foot finding the edge of the bench.

She uses the leverage to give a mischievous roll of her hips and Joel moans and smiles, burying his nose in the valley of her breasts where the wrap of her dress has loosened. 

She sweeps fingers down his neck under the collar of his t-shirt, humming with pleasure as Joel sucks kisses into her sternum, teeth gently sinking into the curve of her breast.

And then his head clears.

“Fuck.”

Lennie’s eyes snap open. 

“Fuck, Lennie…” his voice is an octave higher.

And her heart jumps straight into her own anxieties before it preemptively drops out of her chest. 

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry I didn’t…I shouldn’t have…fuck,” and despite his fervor he can’t catch the moan from his throat as he slips his softening cock from her warmth. “I…”

She shudders and prepares for the confession she knows must be coming. The unburdening of himself as he admits the mistake of taking her in his arms. 

The we shouldn’t have done that.

The it happened too fast.

The I didn’t mean to.

I didn’t mean you.

For the tucking in of himself and his shirttails and the back of his hand wiped over his lips and the thud of boots and the slam of a door. 

It all plays out behind her eyelids and the prickly promise of tears turns to a burn.

Lennie bites her lip because she refuses to let them fall. 

If this is that he can’t have any more of her.

Her hands drop from his skin, eyes shut tight to hold in the last time she looked at him and thought he was beautiful. 

Emptiness returns to the spaces between her ribs. The vacuum that threatens to collapse her back in on herself.

Maybe she was wrong about Joel Miller. 

She reaches to pull down the hem of her dress but he’s in the way, his bare stomach pressed soft against hers and for a moment she wants to shove him off where seconds before she was desperate for the rush of his skin.

Joel rights himself, taking Lennie up with him, helping her to cover herself with her dress. 

He notes how she tucks it between her thighs.

Closing herself off to him. 

And he discretely reaches down to tuck himself away.

Lennie can’t meet his gaze, staring over his shoulder instead at her jars stacked on the far wall behind him before they start to swirl along with her stomach and she shuts her eyes tight again.

But she’s aware of the broad palms that skitter nervously up her spine. Of gentle fingers that stroke her sides. Of how he delicately brushes errant curls off of her forehead before he cups her face in his warm, rough hands.

Of how his body doesn’t leave hers

He hasn’t sprung away like a thing burned.

“Lennie, look at me.”

Joel presses a soft kiss to her parted lips and for a moment she hopes behind closed lids. 

“Please, Len,” he whispers against her mouth and when she does his big brown eyes are full of fear.

And she reckons it must be here on her face too.

And for a moment neither one speaks because they each think that their fear is the other’s truth.

That in the blinding clarity of the afterglow he realized he didn’t want this and he’s two steps away from being out a door that he’ll never walk through again.

That he took pleasure without permission and defiled something sacred when he didn’t pull out and it means she’ll never let him have this—her—again.

And Joel speaks first because Joel’s not a man who doesn’t own up to his mistakes. 

“Lennie, I couldn’t catch myself in time. What can I do, tell me, and I’ll do it. What do you need, say the word. Stay right there and let me get it for you…”

It comes out in a rush but it comes out firm. He’s heard rumors of seeds and teas and he hates that he’s never paid attention because he’s always pulled out. Always. Except of course this time with a woman he’d like to not fuck up with before it’s even started. 

But Lennie does this, Lennie knows, and maybe some things are just for girls but he did it this time and he’s going to make it right.

And Lennie does the last thing in the world that Joel expects.

She laughs. 

Soft and breathy on a sigh of relief at Joel’s confession and he feels her tension melt where his chest is still molded to hers.

“Joel,” her forehead knocks gently against his. “Joel, you’re fine,” she whispers, smiling as she reaches to cover his hands with her own, tipping her face to kiss into his palm.

She’s liquid with relief against him again now, arms winding around his neck, “we’re fine” tucked against the shell of his ear.

“How.”

“I promise,” it’s not an answer but she sucks her promise into his lips and the feel of her is again so divine that he doesn’t catch himself, pressing her tighter to him as though her promise could seep into his bones and make him believe.

“You’re sure.”

Perhaps some things will remain just for girls to know after all.

“I’m sure, Joel.”

He pulls back, still holding her waist in the span of his hands, voice earnest when he continues.

“You were scared, Len.”

She takes his scruffy jaw between her palms.

“Not of that, Joel. Not of that.”

He nuzzles at her nose, whispering against her mouth, “of what, Len?” Joel cradles her skull in and sucks lazily at her full bottom lip before peppering her neck with kisses. “Tell me. Let me fix it. For you.”

She leans back a hair to stare into his eyes.

“Will you come upstairs with me?” 

And her voice is so small when she says it. Like she’s asking for something she’s sure he won’t give and if she says it softly enough it’ll feel like she hasn’t said it at all when he says no. 

It’ll be so miniscule that they can both just forget about the whole thing.

And she braces for all of it.

Gotta get goin’.

‘S late.

Ellie will be wonderin’.

But Joel’s flushed cheeks go round with a smile and his eyes glitter with mirth looking for all the world like a kid on Christmas morning.

He breaks from her hold to sit down on the bench. Fingers make quick work of unlacing his boots, pausing after he toes one off to lay a nip at her thigh, toeing the other off in seconds. 

Joel helps her off the table by the hips when he stands.

“Lead the way, Len.”

next

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[alexanderlightweight]

if prompts are still open, I'd love to see something about how Alec has been raised to be extremely practical and (through his relationship with magnus) finally gets to experience the joy allowing oneself to indulge

Hey anon thanks for prompt! Yup still open :)

Hope this works!

—

Magnus grew up in the Silent City, he has some —unfortunately more than most— knowledge of nephilim society.

Which means that while he’s not surprised by how many luxuries Alexander is delighted by, he’s still indignant about it.

So he plans and he plots and every spare minute they aren’t entwined together, Magnus does his level best to spoil his boy.

And Magnus is very well versed in decadence.

Alexander soaks up the attention lavished upon him eagerly, like ivy in a drought, delicate and enduring, but so eager when the rain comes.

So Magnus showers him with affection and attention and learns about what Alec likes, and what he’s never known he could like.

—what he’s never been allowed to enjoy—

When Magnus asks what he wants for dinner and Alexander suggests sushi, he summons it from Japan or portals them there.

When he’s had a long day and craves the dark, bitter sweetness of chocolate, Magnus summons it from Belgium and feeds it to him with kisses, one piece at a time.

He paints Alexander’s hands one night in France, as they giggle and titter over champagne and strawberries and still warm baguettes covered in soft cheese.

—Magnus forgets to take it off for Alexander before he returns to work, and he’s surprised and delighted when Alec comes home with it still on—

He rubs Alexander’s sore muscles and kisses his bruises, hiding his scowl in Alexander’s skin when Alec laughs and says, ‘Magnus I’m fine.’

After two weeks of Alec constantly returning home, sore and aching, Magnus creates a hot spring on their roof and adds a garden, for ambience.

He takes Alexander ice skating on the frozen lakes on the islands of ice and keeps him warm with magic as they dance under the moonlight.

Magnus slowly replaces every single piece of Alexander’s clothing, even what remains at the Institute. Continuing until Alexander no longer steps outside of their home without being dressed in Magnus’ choices.

He adds a mudroom to the loft, with benches to sit and racks for weapons and a magical stool that cleans Alexander’s boots for him.

Alexander gives him a look when he does, kisses him sweetly and tries to assure Magnus that he’s fine. That Magnus doesn’t have to change his space for Alec to fit, that Alec loves him without all of these gifts.

Alexander was raised with all the practicality of a nephilim commander and his assurances only make Magnus want to spoil him more.

So Magnus ignores him, pins him to the bench he magically created, and rides Alexander until he has nothing left to say.

The next day, Magnus hands Alexander's his bag and smiles when Alec sighs, opens it and then shakes his head.

But he’s smiling as he does it and he kisses Magnus’ cheek gently. Like he’s overwhelmed that Magnus charmed his bag to be weightless and protected.

Alexander brings his own gifts.

Several priceless cuttings from the Institute greenhouse that he brought, admitting with soft delight that they ‘ reminded him of Magnus’.

—that those gorgeous, nephilim-hoarded, angelically blessed and magically powerful plants make him think of Magnus, when every other nephilim thinks of them as reminders of Raziel—

Magnus turned the rooftop garden into a magical greenhouse after that.

He does other things. Like making Magnus tea and snacks when he’s busy experimenting, sitting nearby and listening to Magnus ramble and gently, occasionally, nudging him to drink and eat until Magnus is done.

Then he’ll sit in a chair with his own snack, reading a book or sometimes just watching Magnus.

He hardly ever rushes Magnus, only ever when they have a meeting it would be bad to miss.

Alexander also picks up after him, not because he needs to, because he wants to.

Magnus is used to throwing things when done with them and using magic to eventually get them where they belong.

Alexander will laugh and shake his head and smooth a pillow back into place, eyes soft as they stare at Magnus with an adoration that consumes him.

And so they play their little games. Loving each other in a way that no one else has ever done for them.

[ladylooch]

I’ve had a long day and I just wanna cuddle with timo imagine Emma and timo cuddling 🥺

-🌸 anon

A/N: Oh no bby. I must have known cause I had this idea of Em being sick and really leaning into T. So, here is Timo and Em to brighten your day 💕😘

The second I open the door to the mudroom, warmth covers my chilled body. I set my work bag down on the bench then slowly lower myself down to it as well. I sigh, closing my eyes and rubbing at my temples, searching for relief from this sinus headache. A shadow dances across the kitchen floor in front of me. I can see a baby on his hip as he moves. I smile despite the awful, persistent ache in my throat. 

An illness started washing over me after I left home earlier this morning. I kept trying to push through- drinking water, attending meetings virtually, keeping my distance from others. I had meant to head for home around 3:00pm, but then the caterer for an event on Friday called. They had a fire in their kitchen and could no longer support the number of attendees. 

So instead of heading home, I worked until 7:00pm, making frantic, pleading calls to all my contacts in New Jersey until I finally found one who owed me a big enough favor. My voice was giving out as I was saying my goodbyes to them.

Tenderly, I push myself back standing, groaning at the aches settling into my body. I sway slightly, dizzy from the pressure in my head and the change in position. I move into the kitchen where Lio is guzzling down some water from his Devils sippy cup while his dad finishes loading the dishwasher.

“Hi mama.” Timo smiles over his shoulder. “Long day?”

“Yeah.” I respond. Timo’s smile drops immediately.

“Baby, you sound terrible.”

“I feel worse.” I murmur, walking towards him. I pause, look at Lio. “I should stay away. You have a game tomorrow too. I’ll sleep in the guest room.”

“Absolutely not.” Timo scoffs. “He’s is ready for bed. Go sit down on the couch. I’ll make you something to eat when he’s down.”

I nod, then wander into the living room. I lay down on the cream couch, falling asleep immediately after my boys disappear upstairs. I awaken to Timo brushing my hair off my cheek. 

“I think you’ve got a fever.” He murmurs, extending his hands forward with water and Tylenol. I sit up, then a cough suddenly shakes my shoulders. Timo pouts, rubbing my back. “Time for bed.” 

“I haven’t eaten today.” I confess. 

“You? Skip meals while working? Never.” 

“I’m sick. Don’t lecture me.” I whine. He wraps an arm around my waist. I cling my hand to the back of his shirt for stability as we head up the stairs. 

“Get changed. Get in that bed. And I’ll be back with something to eat.”

“Baby, I wanna cuddle.” I moan, grabbing his wrist when he turns.

“I’m going to infuse you into my body when I get back up here. But you need to eat something. Your body needs nutrients to fight whatever you have.” He tucks my hair behind my ear. His lips brush against the end of my nose, making my eyes close. “Love you, baby. Go get comfy.”

I do as I’m told, tucking myself into all of Timo’s clothes. When he comes back into the room with a sandwich, he smiles softly at me.

“You look so cute.”

“I’m pathetic.” I say after blowing my nose. He hands me the plate, watching me until I take my first bite. 

“Whole thing.” He circles the plate, then motions to my mouth.

I eat four more bites, almost half the sandwich before I literally cannot keep my eyes open anymore. Timo takes the plate from me then gathers me into his arms. He leads my leg over his hip, tangling his hand into my hair. He gently rubs his fingers into my scalp, releasing more tension as I whimper. Chills shiver my body, so he tucks me in even tighter, bringing the covers up above my shoulders. Feathery kisses are placed along my face. Timo brings his other hand to my cheek, stroking my red skin.

“I’m sorry you don’t feel well, baby. Wish I could trade places with you.”

“If you keep kissing me you’ll be miserable too.” He chuckles.

“Love you so much I wanna share all your germs.”

“Shhh.” I murmur, bringing my finger up to his mouth. He kisses along my finger, working his mouth into my palm. He then moves my hand to cup his side. “Love you, T.” I barely mumble before I’m drifting off again.  

Several times during the night, I wake up because I’m coughing so hard. Every time, T sits up with me, rubbing my back. I whimper after the latest one. My fever is coming back and my teeth begin to chatter in my mouth.

“I’ll get you some cold medicine this time.” He says, walking into the bathroom. “All we have is kid stuff for Lee.”

“I’ll take it.” I croak out. 

He hands me the dosage then disappears back into the bathroom. 

“Come here.” He whispers, gathering me back into his arms. “You are staying home tomorrow. No work.” I nod. “I’m going to skip morning skate to take care of you.” I nod again as he pulls me tighter into his chest. His lips ghost my hair. I melt into his strong body, appreciating how well he is taking care of me. “I’ll take Lee to Lexi tomorrow night for the game. Pick him up after. You’re only job is to rest in this bed.” My nod is extremely lethargic this time. His lips softly brush over mine, barely connecting. I wrap my hand around the back of his neck, holding him down to me.

“There you go again… loving me perfectly.” I feel his lips tilt up.

Then his hand presses into my lower back, trying to devour me into his chest until there is no me or him, just us.

[smurphyse]

Bunny's New Rules

Smurph's Masterlist | Series Masterlist

Part 8 of Bunny and the Beast

Warnings: Extremely dubious consent, emotional manipulation, possessive behavior, toxic relationship behavior, rough sex, dominating behavior, sex rules, dirty talk, choking, choking with a belt, spanking, blacking out, aftercare

Summary: Spencer takes you to the new house, and you quickly figure out which room to break in first... and things get a little out of control

A week after asking you to move in, Spencer took you to his house in a much too nice area of DC for you to feel at home there. The block was lined with large brownstones, intricate structures with their own fences and gates and a guard at the front of the neighborhood.

“Jesus Christ,” you marveled as you pulled up. Snow had started to fall, and Christmas was only a month away. The gated community had decorated itself with lights and displays, and only Spencer’s house sat dark and empty in the snowbed.

He’d had a company move all your things to the house already, and his as well from the duplex except the bed so he could sleep there when needed. In a big puffy coat, you turned to him excitedly in the front seat of the car and grinned, “Can we put up lights this weekend?”

He made a face, “We’ll just have to take them down in a few weeks.”

You deflated a bit and looked longingly at the house. It needed color, and you hadn’t had the chance to really decorate for Christmas in years. You’d never had a place to call your own besides the duplex and the other shitty apartments you had over the years, always dreaming of a real home to decorate and beautify.

You felt Spencer’s hand rest on the back of your neck, and he groaned in annoyance, "Okay, we'll put up the damned lights, but I'm drawing the line at an animatronic Santa."

You giggled happily and looked over to him. He was trying to scowl at you but his smile was peeking through so you bumped him with your elbow, "We're putting up a tree too, right?"

Spencer scoffed and nodded, "Where else am I going to put the presents I got you?"

"You buy me too many things, Spencer," you told him, but he just cocked his head at you. 

"I don't buy you enough things, bunny."

He didn't let you reply, instead turning off the blessedly warm car and hopping out. He rounded the front and nearly tripped on the ice, flashing it a glare before opening your door. The cold air blew in and made you flinch, but Spencer grabbed your hand and pulled you from your seat. He laced his fingers with yours as you walked together up the walkway, and when he got to the front door he pulled out a d-ring with some keys.

One was purple, the other blue with a sunflower keychain while his had a stack of books, and he gave you the blue one with a smile, “This one’s yours.”

It was a simple act, but you couldn’t hold back your happy stupid grin as it landed in your palm. It was the same color as the sundress you wore the first day you slept with Spencer so long ago. Even though the small sliver of metal weighed next to nothing, the emotional weight it held for you was almost too much to bear. It was your key… to your home with Spencer.

He watched you expectantly as you stared at the key, pointing to the door, “Do the honors, bunny.”

Sliding the key into the heavy lock, the deadbolt opened with a loud thwack. The door was thick with a large window, and your jaw dropped as you peered inside. 

The mudroom had a bench on either side with room to put shoes under and a coat rack, but it was empty. Another door lay a few feet in front, and Spencer didn't waste any time as he tugged you along and opened it, ushering you in out of the cold, locking both behind him. 

You stepped into a large parlor with dark mahogany flooring, a long staircase leading to the upstairs while a living room lay to the left, a sunroom on the right. 

Spencer's voice made you jump as he leaned down to whisper in your ear, "Which way do you want to go first?"

"Uhmm," you hummed, unsure. You didn't know this place, and to be honest you felt a bit uncomfortable in it as it was so much larger and more lavish than you could have imagined. "Left?"

"Left it is," Spencer chuckled heartily, and then he was pulling you into the living room. 

Boxes lined the walls, some with your name on them, others with Spencer's. The walls were dark, a light gray blue and lined with mahogany trimming and hand carved moldings. A television hung on one side while your couch laid across it, the bright yellow velvet shining in the dim lighting. 

"How long has it been since you lived here?" you asked, eyeing the cobwebs in the corners. 

"I've never lived here, I just sleep here sometimes," Spencer shrugged, pulling you along. "I inherited it from a friend when he died."

"Oh," you said, coming to a stop. Spencer turned back to look at you, frowning. "I'm sorry you lost him, Spencer."

He smiled sadly at you, cupping your jaw with his free hand and kissing your forehead. He jerked his head toward the next room and said, "C'mon sweet girl, let's look at the dining room."

There wasn't much in there besides the built-in China cabinets in the corners and a hutch on one wall, the walls painted the same as the living room and a small bathroom off to the side, but when Spencer brought you into the kitchen you gasped as your mouth hung open. 

"Holy shit," you whispered, making Spencer laugh. 

The walls were a pale Robin egg blue with silver appliances and white cabinets. The countertops were a beautiful white quartz, and he watched from the doorway as you walked inside, running your fingers lightly across the surface. There was a bar peninsula at one end of one counter with little stools, room enough for all the coffee you and Spencer drank and to enjoy soft mornings together. 

A breakfast nook overlooked the back yard that was now covered in snow, but you could see where the large patio sat behind the back door and the massive length of the fenced in yard. 

You could see summer in your mind, the big oak tree flourishing with green leaves. There was room for your herb garden next to the giant windows at the back of the kitchen, even larger than the one you had at the duplex. 

"I can't wait to cook in here," you marveled, turning to catch his eye. 

Spencer grinned like a cat, "I can't wait to fuck you on these counters."

"Don't you think about anything else?" you scolded playfully. 

He shrugged, "I think about you most of the time, bunny."

Pushing himself from the frame, he reached out for your hand once more and led you into the next room. They all connected in these types of houses, old and nearing ancient, but Spencer had kept it in top condition. 

The last room downstairs wasn't just a sunroom, but a massive library with large windows overlooking the front of the house. A fireplace sat in the middle of the exterior wall, and you could already tell you were going to spend a lot of time there. 

Your shoes clicked on the wood floor, echoing around the empty house as Spencer led you through. The stairs had two beautiful carved railings, and you delicately ran your fingertips along the cool wood as he took you up them. 

The two rooms at the top of the stairs were larger than yours at the duplex, with big closets and their own small bathrooms, but the master suite nearly made your heart stop beating in your chest. 

It spanned the entire front of the upstairs, overlooking the neighborhood with wide wall length windows. A four-poster bed sat near the middle as the centerpiece of the room. Two walk in closets on one end and the door to the bathroom on the other, the walls painted a bright light blue. 

"Do you like it?" Spencer asked softly, setting his hands on your shoulders. You were grateful for it, as it grounded you when you were surely about to float away. 

Turning in his arms you wrapped yours around his waist and squeezed him tight. He hugged you back and chuckled as you spoke muffled into his chest, "I love it, Spencer, it's perfect."

"We'll decorate however you want," he mused aloud, making you grin until his shirt. "The place will be covered in velvet before we know it, but I don't mind. It reminds me of you."

"Velvet is amazing," you declared, and he laughed. 

"You can use the library or the little bedroom for your office so you can work. It'll be great, bunny. I'm so happy you're here."

You finally glanced up at him, and he was smiling down at you. You couldn't help yourself as you broke into a mischievous grin, "When are we going to break in this room?"

Spencer's eyes lit up, and before you knew it his hand shot out and gripped your throat tight enough to bruise. Heat rushed to your cheeks and the puffer coat became too much, but Spencer was pushing you towards the bed too quickly for you to do anything about it. Your gasp was quickly silenced by his choking grip, and he loomed dangerously above you as the backs of your knees hit the high footboard of the bed. 

"Now I've got you all alone, bunny," he whispered hotly, his breath fanning your face as you clutched his wrist just to keep yourself upright. "New house, new rules."

You watched him with wide eyes, gulping under his strong palm against your vulnerable throat. Spencer kissed your cheek much softer than his tone, "I've got you all to myself…and I'm going to take full advantage."

"H-how are you going to do that?" you asked quietly, a bit nervous. 

Spencer pouted at you mockingly, and it sent a delightful shiver up your spine, "Are you scared, bunny?"

You swallowed thickly and shook your head, "Excited."

Releasing you, Spencer reached out and slowly unzipped your coat. It fell to the floor with a loud echo that reverberated throughout the empty house as he pushed it off your shoulders, and soon enough he was gently pushing you down onto the bare mattress. 

You laid with your legs hanging off the edge, watching him as he took off his own and set it on the side of the bed. You wore a pair of leggings and a sweater since it was so cold outside, and the house was chilled due to it being empty for so long, but it wasn’t the reason you trembled. 

The dark look in his eyes could have swallowed you whole, and the way they trailed down your vulnerable body alone here with him… it had you feeling like prey caught underneath a predator. 

Spencer slipped his hands underneath the hem of your sweater, his fingertips cool and biting against your body heat. You took in a shuddering breath as he pushed it up to palm your breasts, kneading them and moaning quietly to himself. 

"You're so small and sweet," he murmured, leaning over you to press his lips to your sternum. "I love being with you. You know that, don't you bunny?"

He grazed his teeth along the sensitive skin before looking up at you, and you barely managed to squeak out, "Yes, daddy."

Spencer dragged one of his hands from your breast and over your chest, threading his fingers around your throat. It was gentle this time, and you extended your neck to make room for him. 

"You fit so perfectly in my hands…" he murmured, "I think you were made for me."

You let out a happy chuckle and wriggled on the bed and he smiled at you, "Are you ready for your new rules?"

"Yes, daddy."

Spencer licked his lips before kissing your exposed nipple, the heat nearly sizzling your skin in the cool house. He groaned and his hips bucked forward. You knew that sign, that he was holding himself back.  

"You are to be wet, open, and ready for me anytime," he growled lowly, a guttural thing coming from his chest. "I'll always take care of you, so you're going to take care of me."

"But I'm always ready for you," you frowned. 

"I know, but things are different now. I'm all yours and I need you," he told you, and you nodded. "I need you to be here for me."

This time you weren't tied down, so you reached out and cupped his jaw. You wanted to kiss him so he could feel your words, your intentions, but he didn't want that. Instead you pressed your thumb to his lips and rubbed them so they dragged. 

"I'm right here, Spencer," you said emphatically, putting every bit of yourself in it that you could. "I'm here for you, okay?"

Spencer kissed the pad of your thumb and nodded, then turned his cheek so he could lean into your palm, "You have no idea what that means to me, bunny."

You started to sit up, and Spencer pulled his hands from you so you could. You knew he still wanted to pound you into the mattress, but he needed a moment of sweet comfort and you were damned if you weren't going to give it to him. 

Pressing your forehead against his you nuzzled close, holding him to you. You squeezed him in as big a hug as you could muster, and when his arms wrapped around your waist you knew he could feel what you wanted to tell him. 

You kissed his cheek, each firm press of your lips staining a promise into his skin. Spencer leaned into each one, sighing and reveling in your attention. The scent of his cologne washed over you, his cinnamon shampoo flooding your nostrils as you kissed the shell of his ear. When you kissed that spot behind the back of his ear that he loved, Spencer actually whimpered and his hips twitched beneath you. 

"I'm ready for you now, daddy," you whispered seductively in his ear. "Just for you, and only you, forever. In our house together, you can take me whenever you like."

A guttural snarl burst from his chest, and you knew you were in for it now. Suddenly you were being shoved back onto the bed and flipped onto your belly, your warm leggings pulled down just enough to expose your ass and your pussy to the cold air. 

Spencer pushed up your sweater to show more of your back, trapping your thighs between his legs. You arched your back when you heard the clinking of his belt buckle in aching anticipation, twitching with excitement as his zipper pulled down. 

His hand came down on the back of your neck to hold you down, but he didn't need to. You wiggled your ass to entice him, smiling when he groaned and pressed the blunt head of his cock to your wet pussylips. Unlike his apology the week before, he wasn’t slow. Spencer shoved inside you with one sharp thrust, splitting your walls wide and open and trapped around his thick throbbing length and making you yelp as you gripped the fabric of the mattress.

He leaned over you, shaking you by the back of your neck as he growled in your ear, “I’ll take you whenever I want, as slow or fast as I want to be."

You shuddered at his words, dripping at the mere thought. 

"You belong to me, bunny," he hissed, but it was full of longing and care as he filled you. "I belong to you. We're going to take care of eachother."

Pushing back into him and whining, you said, "Let me take care of you, daddy."

He chuckled darkly and kissed your cheek, "Thank you sweet girl, thank you for taking care of me."

Without letting you reply, Spencer put one hand on your back, his big hand nearly covering all of it as he palmed your waist and started pounding into you. Each thrust made a small gasp or whine huff from you, the cool air fogging as Spencer held you down by the back of your neck. 

Your dripping cunt pulled him back in, his guttural snarls making your eyes roll into the back of your head. You could see the houses outside the window, the neighborhood going on without knowing that you were being fucked into oblivion. 

"My sweet little fuck bunny," Spencer groaned. His hips bruised the back of your legs with each slap of his skin against yours, the warming skin stinging in the cold room. "I can't believe I found you, I can't believe you're all mine."

"Just yours, daddy!" you whimpered into the bed, your voice muffled. 

His hands left you and his hips stilled, the sounds of his belt clinking behind you. Just as you turned to see what he was doing you felt the leather slip around your throat, tightening in an instant and pulling you back. Your back arched as a near painful shudder ripped through you, Spencer holding your neck with the belt like a leash. 

"Little velvet rabbit," he grunted, thrusting sharply to accentuate his point. You let out a groan as the fronts of your thighs hit the footboard, no doubt bruising them as much as the belt. "Daddy's little fuck toy…"

You yelped when he tugged on the belt, your hips pushing back to take as much of him as you could. There was something virulent coursing through you at his dehumanization, something primal and fucked up. Your head swam as the world went hazy, going limp as he screwed you like a piece of meat. 

When Spencer’s hand came down on your ass, you let out a shaky moan, heat coursing through your body. The world faded away until there was only this, now, right here with him. His cock pummeled your cervix, your quaking walls shaking around him as you took what he gave. 

"You're so beautiful like this. Maybe I should get you a collar of your own with my name on the tag," he chuckled darkly, panting with each thrust. "I'll get you a set of bunny ears and a little tail plug to keep you open for me, any hole, any time I want."

He hit you again, harder and the stinging radiated up your back, "What do you think, bunny? You want daddy to use this toy any time he wants?"

"Hnnnngg," you groaned, barely conscious between the subspace and his merciless pounding of you from behind. 

He gripped your hair, making you gasp and drip your juices down your thighs, "I can't hear you, cocksleeve."

"Yesdaddy!" you barely managed to cry out. Your body was cold and so hot, tight and limp all at the same time, that belt squeezing your neck and leaving bruises to enjoy tomorrow. "Fuck your hole, play with my little cunt and my ass any time!"

He let you babble, knowing how you got once he dominated you into this headspace. Tears streamed down your cheeks as your breath escaped in quick pants, "Keep me on my knees, in a cage! Tied to the bed, I don't care! Just breed your little bunny pleaseee!"

You heard his shivering moan at your words, pushing him over the edge as they so often did. He twisted the end of the belt over his hand and held you taught and tight as he buried himself balls deep. His cum spurting into your cervix ignited your own orgasm, your heated body curling up the best it could in the position. 

Your toes curled, your cries cut off by his grip, each new bit of spend flooding your cunt and soaking you in its warmth. Your vision whited out as you came again, barely breathing as your body lost all control. 

When you came to, blinking blearily at the ceiling, Spencer loomed above you. He lightly slapped your face, speaking to you in quick tones. 

"Oh thank god," he gasped as you locked eyes with him. "You scared the shit out of me."

"Mmm," was all you could reply, pushing at him so you could sleep, but he grunted and slapped at your hands. 

"Let me look at you, don't go to sleep," he snapped. His hand slid up the column of your throat, pressing gently on the forming bruises. "Did you black out from cumming or could you not breathe?"

"I don't know," you grumbled.

Spencer sighed, "Bunny you have to tell me if you can't breathe. If you need a break or I'm being too rough, you have to tell me so I don't accidentally kill you."

You groaned in annoyance, "But I like it…"

Spencer broke into laughter, but it was a bit panicked. He brushed back your hair and you let your head loll to the side, realizing he'd slipped the belt from your neck and tossed it aside. He leaned over you and pressed his forehead to your cheek, one hand rubbing your tummy to soothe. 

"You have to tell me, okay?" he begged, and you glanced sleepily at him, patting his arm in response. "You can't actually let me do whatever I want if it's really hurting you."

"But it felt so good," you insisted, and he pulled away to glare at you. You reached between you to touch his soft, pussy soaked cock, "I can go again right now, daddy."

"Oh fuck no," he said, pulling your hand from him. He stuffed himself into his pants and pulled up your leggings before scooping you up and carrying you into the bathroom. 

A large clawfoot tub with stairs and a ledge sat in the center of the room, much bigger than even the ones you'd seen before like it was made for multiple people. A large shower with glass doors and tile floors sat on one wall, a bay window opposite the sink counters with their massive mirrors. 

Even through your post-fuck haze you marveled at the beauty of it. Spencer held you like a baby in both arms, sitting on the tub ledge and corking the bottom. You clung to him limply as he filled it, going in and out until you found yourself in the water. 

You hadn't even felt him undress you, nor set you down long enough to undress himself. Spencer set you between his legs with your back to him, his strong fingers immediately digging into your back and massaging you. 

"Seriously," he murmured in your ear, and you smacked your lips as you tried to stay awake. "Are you okay?"

"I feel fine, Spencer," you rasped, realizing your throat was dry. "That was amazing."

He groaned and pressed his forehead to the back of your hair, "I don't want to hurt you for real, bunny."

"I think I just came too hard," you chuckled. "If your other partners can take it, so can I."

"I've never had anyone black out like you do sometimes," he said quietly. "I don't like thinking I lost control."

"Spencer, I don't think I ever had a real orgasm before I met you," you told him, and you felt his small laugh behind you. "You worry too much."

"You make me worry… I'm so scared of losing you or driving you away."

You groaned as you turned to straddle him and wrap your arms around his neck. He watched you with fearful eyes even as you bumped your nose with his, "I promise I'm okay. I'll tell you if it's too much. I just get so lost in you, I don't always realize."

"I feel the same way," he whispered. His hands rubbed lines up and down your back as he clung to you. "That's why this is so scary. You're so young, you can have anyone you want."

"I want you, Spencer. Even if you're an old man," you said playfully, and he chuckled embarrassingly. 

"I'm twenty years older than you, Y/N."

"Like I said, old man." You pressed your lips next to his so you didn't push his boundaries, whispering, "My old man, though. Just mine, and I'm just yours. It'll only work if we work at it."

He smiled softly at you, bringing his hand up to cup your face and watch you softly in the dim light. The water sloshed around you, warm and safe, but really it was him that kept you grounded. 

"I'm in this for real, bunny. Okay?" he asked tearfully, his eyes turning red rimmed and watery. "You're the only one I want, you're the only one I need. I'm in it for as long as you'll have me."

"Okay," you said back, smiling at him. "You have me."

He broke out in a devilish grin, "We're waiting a few days, but what room do you want to break in next?"

You tapped your jaw as you pretended to think, trying to decide how you'd entice him to fuck you before then. 

"The kitchen," you decided. "Right on the counter, in front of that big window."

"Sounds like a plan."

Notes: Please tell me what you think! Do you think Bunny will start telling Spencer her boundaries? How do you think Spencer might take advantage of Bunny's new rules?

CM Forever Tag:

@thedancingcostumeyoungadult @muffin-cup @simplyparker @spencerreidsmommy @hotchandspencearedilfs @gspenc @kbakery @nomajdetective @givemeth @hoshihiime @halloween-is-my-nationality @reidselle @thisiscalmanditsdoctorreid @dreatine @thebloomingeagle @fortheloveofwonderland @theforgottenwinter @parkerreidnorth @reidselle @randomhoex @scargarcia-magshotchner @stitchwrites @pygmygoat-bicyclehelmet @cle13 @aysixdy @elhotchner @directioner5life @elhotchner @loveeee2134 @preciousbabypeter @la-stuffs @stories-you-wont-hear @hotchlover @fortheloveofwonderland @lokiandhisdagger @bellanutellababyyy @dark-night-sky-99 @straightforbuckybutgayfornatasha @maltamurdock @charelletjee @kansas-reid @zephyrmonkey @spencer-reid-wonderland @spencersprettyslut @im-sure-its-fine @tvdstelenaforever @teddylupintonks  @lilibet261 @kneelforloki @dirtytissuebox @almostgenerallyalways

[violetfoxsketches]

It's Holiday Time!

What does Emmy do for holidays? Is it hard to celebrate since he become a vampire? Would he give some gifts to his loved ones? What would it be?

(This was incredibly fun to write, and entirely your fault :3 )

Emmy was sure his eyes must’ve grown to the size of saucers at the sight of all this snow. Sure, Flagstaff had its skiing slopes, but being in Poland in the dead of night, watching the snow fall in huge, fat flakes? This was magical. His nose —as well as Jasper’s- were both smooshed up against the one way glass of the fancy coach that was delivering them to their countryside destination. Victoria was bundled up in some fluffy fur coat and taking advantage of the fancy heated seats, while Javi looked particularly moody and out of place on the bench across from her. Jasper’s tail thwapped in rhythm against the sleeve of Javi’s leather jacket and Emmy was finding it just as hard to sit still as his canine companion. Then there was Cas, who seemed to be especially amused by it all. He’d told Emmy that he grew up here, way back in the 18… 19… somethings? Em had long since forgotten the date. He’d also listed off where they’d be staying but Emmy couldn’t even pronounce that name, much less remember it.

Sean was up front and handling the snowy drive like a champ. But every now and then, he’d turn around, see Emmy backwards in his seat, and bark at him with a ‘park you an yer mutt’s arse in that seat, cowboy’. Em ignored it for the most part; it wasn’t like a car crash could even kill him anymore anyways. Instead he kept his eyes on the passing scenery, astounded by how bright everything was, and how the trees all sported long, white icicles.

Finally the house came into view, surrounded by what must’ve been a foot or so of unspoiled snow. And after what seemed like ages, the car finally pulled under some wooden pitched roof. The first one out the door was, of course, Jasper, and Emmy was keen to be right behind him. Immediately kneeling to snatch up snow in his bare hands and yeeting it squarely into Javier’s chest as he exited. Javier looked downright offended before that scowl twisted into something truly wicked. Without warning, the man cleared the distance in a blur, snatched Emmy up in his arms and hurled him through the air in an arc. Cas and Victoria exited like proper fancy folks, but even Cas couldn’t contain the soft laugh that escaped him at the sight. Em squealed and twisted with supernatural balance to land on his feet in a knee-deep snowdrift —just before Javier plowed into him with a “you little shit,” and they both went WHUMP, ass over teakettle, into the snow. “Boys, boys!” Em heard Victoria shout and clap her hands just as Javi sat on Em's stomach and swept an armful of snow over Em’s face, “It is too cold for me to stand out here and wait for you two to finish being gross!” The extra weight left Em’s tiny frame and he was yanked upright onto his feet. Javi was doing that thing where he was scowling to hide the twitch of his lip that might dare let him smile as he reached over and brushed snow off Em’s shoulders and out of his hair. Em on the other hand, had no problem bubbling over with laughter at how much the snow seemed especially attracted to Javier’s hair and left him looking like an abominable snow-punk. In fact, it seemed the only thing the snow wasn't clinging to was his jacket.

Emmy waded his short little legs through the deep snow to reunite with the others.

“Thanks so much for bringin’ us, Cas,” he beamed up at the elder Ventrue.

“You’re most welcome,” came the airy reply, “But mayhaps in the future, we wait until after we have settled for you and your… ruffian to go frolicking in the elements. You’re both positively  soaked. I will have to insist you shed your coats and footwear in the mudroom and then change immediately. I will not have you leaving a drip trail through my old home.”

“Yeah yeah,” Javier answered for them both. He was high-stepping awkwardly through the stuff, pausing every few paces to shake snow out of the cuff of his jeans, “Not keen on dirtyin’ someone else home —even if it is yours.”

“Javiii,” Em hushed him, “You said you’d be nice.”

“What?” Javi retorted, but folded his arms and relented with a muttered, “...was raised better than that anyways…”

“Never would have guessed,” Cas replied dryly.

Em took the opportunity to hook Javier by the arm and walked him away to get their things from the trunk.

~ . . . ~

“I still can’t believe that shipping yourself in a jet from the states is just… a thing you do." Emmy mused. The den was nice and cozy. The fireplace had long since been replaced with a newer age radiator that only imitated a fireplace’s warm flickering glow —as real fire and vampires didn't get along- and a charmingly old sort of record player filled the air softly with Michael Bublé.

“Well, Emerald, when one cannot travel in daylight, one makes do. I hope you did not find it too jarring an experience to have to daysleep during travel.” Casimir replies from his seat on the couch. “Only really the bits where I was awake when the rest of you were conked out. I think Jazzy here was the one who hated it the most.”

Javi snorts a bit, “Oh he made it abundantly clear how much he hated it.” The canine in question was too busy circling and sniffing the tree, and Em turned just in time to see him clamp his chompers on an apple that had been decorating one of the lower hanging branches. Apple in mouth, Jasper hauled ass down the hall to wolf down his stolen treat in private. That one got Victoria laughing.

“I guess no one round here would’ve been snacking on those besides you anyways, Em.” She teased.

“At least he stopped trying to eat the presents.” Javier adds with his own amusement, “Speakin’ of…”

The man sits up from his reclined position and pulls a small box —wrapped in kraft paper and tied with twine- out of one of the countless pockets on that jacket. ‘Cielo’ was neatly scripted in ballpoint pen on the outside and the dot on the ‘i’ was a star. Emmy gasped quietly and gingerly took the gift before scooting over under the tree to snag his own haphazardly wrapped presents. Diligently passing something out to each of the three other vampires in his company.

“Well, go on” Em insisted.

Victoria picks delicately at her own disaster-wrapped package with her long nails. It was definitely wrapped almost in more tape and ribbon than paper. Javier simply pulled a blade from his belt that he usually kept stowed in his boot to make short work of the mess and free his gift. Casimir had a bit of a harder time with his and is the last to get it open. Emmy watched as each of them held out their respective gifts to inspect. He’d selected a scarf for each of them. Javier’s was long and soft black fleece, dotted with sprinklings of white constellations. He gives a quiet chuff and wraps the garment loosely around his neck. A rare moment of softness passes between the two as Javier leans over to give Emmy a peck on the cheek.

“Thanks, I’ve been needing one of these.” Javier mumbles softly. Emmy, however, takes a moment to grab one end of the scarf and squeezes a hidden switch. A bright blue string of LEDs hidden inside suddenly flashes to life, illuminating the various constellations and turning Javier’s scarf into a true night sky. The soft look melts into first confusion, then an exasperated bit of laughter and a “Of course there’s fairy lights in it.”

Next was Victoria as she pulled a pastel pink infinity loop of delicate scarf from the wrapping. The edges were lacy and tasseled and the knots had been fashioned into little yellow roses and pale green leaves. She fussed with which way to gather the fabric before throwing it around her neck.

“Aw~” Victoria clicked her tongue and threw Emmy a teasing glance, “Does this mean the end of any more yellow roses hidden behind your back or stuffed under that chewed up hat or up your sleeves or wherever you keep managing to pull them from?” “Not in a million years,” Em giggled, “It’s just now you have some that won’t get all shriveled and lose their petals.”

Finally, Casimir managed to finish fighting tape to reveal his own scarf: A length of soft indigo cashmere with paisley and filigree, but upon closer inspection, the paisley shapes were actually little rabbits and the filigree were strings of purple orchids. He thumbed over the pattern before following the other two’s example and folding it tidily around his neck. “What a thoughtful surprise, Emerald,” Cas said with the ghost of a smile, “...And I’ll have you know there’s a gift under that tree for you as well. Ah! And before I forget…”

Casimir stood with the assistance of his cane and left the room. He was quick to return with a wrapped box and curtly handed it to Javier with a “Aaron asked me to make sure this found its way into your hands tonight.”

The Toreador looked up with blatant surprise, then took equally as short of time using the knife to open this present as well. It was… a smartphone? An envelope ostentatiously sealed with a wax “M” was also present and Javier passed the phone into Em’s hands to free his own to pop the seal and read the contents. “Kid,” Javier dictated, “Word on the web is that your blackberry is about to become a fancy obsolete paperweight in the new year, so I got my claws on a new one for you. Don’t worry; I installed Linux on it; no sneaky apps can track you or harvest your data. Yes, I disconnected the camera. You’re welcome. Aaron Malemir.” Emmy heard Javier chuckle but he was too busy pulling the new device out of its casing and sliding it back and forth to reveal and subsequently hide the full keyboard underneath the absolute unit of a screen —at least, a unit in his teeny hands. It’d probably fit Javi’s just fine. He relinquished the new gadget back to Javi, who immediately put it aside to thumb through and squint at the fine print in the user manual.

Emmy wriggled across the lacquered wooden floor to retrieve the next round of presents. All immaculately wrapped with perfect, coordinated ribbons and bows and paper and neat precise folds. Emmy was surprised to see a gift from Victoria addressed to Javi, in what looked like a similarly sized box to his own from her. Emmy could tell immediately from the weight and shape that it was a clothing box and tried to suss out just what exactly Victoria of all people could have bought for Javi to wear? Perhaps she’d pumped Lib for both of their measurements?

“No, no, you two need to open yours together,” Victoria insisted as she saw Em start picking at the glittery cluster of bows. “Huh?” Javier finally looked up from the user manual just as Em pushed Victoria’s gift into the man’s lap, “Oh, uh. I didn’t… Well, this is awkward…” he mumbled with a hint of guilt.

Victoria waved off the concern with a “Oh, don’t worry about that~”

She rested a chin expectantly on laced fingers as she waited with only the most pleasant, well-meaning smile on her face. Em beamed at them both; it was nice to see them getting along for once. Or, at least, being civil. He got to work removing each bow without damaging it and even took a moment to playfully stick a red one to the side of Javi’s head. Javi, however, simply sliced through ribbon, bow, and paper alike with his knife. As instructed, the two lifted the lids of their respective boxes in tandem and their reactions couldn’t have been more different. Emmy snorted and giggled. Javi cringed and curled a lip. In the boxes were two matching, incredibly garish clearly hand knitted Christmas sweaters: Emmy's mostly green with the word ‘NICE’ knitted across the front in silver, and Javi’s mostly red with the word ‘NAUGHTY’ instead in black.

Victoria grinned. “Now you two can match. You should go try them on; I’ll go get the Polaroid.” Em finally managed to suppress his giggles and even had to wipe the beginnings of red from the corners of his eyes with a “It’s like the sweater you got for Jasper, Javi~! Oh he hated it so much!” he turned to Victoria as she got up to make good on her promise, “Thanks so much, Vee; these are amazing! C’mon, Javi, yours matches your bow!”

Cas had a hand over his mouth but otherwise remained engrossed in inspecting his own, much more respectable-looking hand knitted sweater. Javier simply rolled his eyes, then snatched one of the multitude of bows to plop atop Emmy’s head in response.

“Fiiine,” he relented and stood up to hook Emmy by the arm and sent a look at Victoria’s way that said this wasn’t the end. He then escorted Em down the same hall Jasper had taken earlier. Upon their return, Em could not contain his giggles. It would seem if Victoria had somehow gotten measurements from Lib, she hadn’t quite learned how to implement them yet. They had discovered Emmy’s to be so wide in the collar that it almost hung off one shoulder. Javier had struggled to get his head through the collar of his, but otherwise the looser stitches worked to his benefit. He was still wearing that leather jacket over the bright red sweater. What Emmy had been losing his shit over was the fact that the only visible part of the lettering was now simply ‘UGH’. Javi had left the bow in his hair too, at Emmy’s request. Victoria was poised and ready with Emmy’s Polaroid, and Em instinctively snuggled himself cutely against Javier and smiled just in time for the flash. Javier smiled as well, but in a chagrined way that only used about half of his mouth and refused to reach his eyes. Victoria caught them in a second flash and handed the photos over to Emmy with amusement.

“Have to admit,” Javier finally said once the camera had been safely tucked away, “These are really soft. Comfy, even. Always thought these things were scratchy as hell.”

“Gross; you’re not supposed to be nice about it; You’re supposed to be,” Victoria paused to point at Javier’s chest with a facetious grin, “…‘ugh’ about it. But thanks.”

Emmy giggled at that, too, before burying his face even further against Javi’s chest. He was right; it was super soft.

“Alright, knock it off before I get Jasper’s spray bottle next.” Victoria made a shooting gesture with one hand.

“It would seem your insidious plan has backfired, My Dear.” Cas added from the couch. He’d found the time to don his sweater too, a dark navy and pastel blue cardigan in one of those fancy diamond patterns Em could never remember the name of.

He beckoned Em over and pointed to two more presents under the tree. It was then he realized Victoria must've already gotten to hers from Cas because it was conveniently missing and an unfamiliar pair of warm, but very pink boots sat at the foot of the couch. Em tugged Javier along and passed out the remaining bags and tissue paper. Javier was once again first to get his open and pulled out a bundle of sensibly dark socks. He looked… surprised by the gift. “I understand the holes in your trousers are intentional, but I imagine the ones I’ve seen in your socks likely are not one of your… statement pieces.” Cas offered.

“Wow, I haven't gotten socks for Christmas since my Mo—” he started to mention, but quickly clammed up with a “So, Em, what did the old fart get you, huh?”

…Em had been admittedly distracted by Javier’s sincerity.

“O-oh, lemme just…” Em started as he undid yet another ribbon keeping the bag shut and pulled out… an old key? He looked up at Cas for context. “There is an envelope in there as well, Emerald.” Cas gestures back to the bag.

Sure enough, there was a letter sealed with wax, same as the one on the letter Emmy had delivered to the man when they first met. He pulled out his own knife and gingerly worked at the wax seal so as to not crack it or tear the paper. It took him a bit to work his way through the cursive handwriting. Mercifully, the letter was short:

My Dear Boy Emerald,

This key belongs to the closet in the entryway. I implore you to return it to me before the vacation’s end, but you may keep what I have stored inside. May it help you experience the best Poland has to offer in this new chapter of your life …

Merry Christmas,

— Casimir Breza

Emmy’s eyes grew wide and he hurried to his feet to the specified closet. Once unlocked he squeaked excitedly and pulled out a well-loved wooden… sort of tabog… tabboo… sled-thing. A silky green ribbon had been tied around it and fashioned into a fancy bow that looked more like a flower.

“Oh now you’ve done it, old man…” Javier snorts knowingly and preemptively scoots out of the way just in time for Em to practically blur his way over to Cas and latch onto him in a hug.

“ThankyouthankyouthankyouTHANK YOU!” Em’s gratitude flew from him like a fast-forwarded cassette.

Victoria’s own snort of laughter joins Javier’s as Casimir grunts awkwardly and tenses in Emmy’s death grip as he sways them both back and forth. “As —urk- happy as I am that you appreciate your gift, do you not —hng- still have one left?” Casimir managed.

“Oh! That’s right!” Em gasped, “I left it in the room!”

Another excitable blur there and back and Em was now parked right next to Javi. Nestled right up next to the man as he finally undid the twine on the simply wrapped box. He caught Javi’s ghost of a smile out of the corner of his eye as he removed the brown paper and gently undid the box. It was… “Well,” Javier commented, “You kept talking about wanting to start up a music act…”

Emmy pulled out what looked to be a gently rolled piece of fabric and unfurled it. Before he could even register what it was, a small bit of plastic fell out from where it had been tucked away. Em caught it practically on reflex before it could hit the ground and gasped once he realized what he was holding was a guitar pick with a freehand star in green sharpie. The fabric, now that he’d gotten a better look at it, was a hand-embroidered patch that read “Emerald Starlight” in decorative lettering and framed by matching scattered green star-shaped studs.

“That’s the name you talked about using, right?” Javier’s arm curled around Em’s shoulders, “When we get back, I can sew that on the back of your jacket for you. Or we could hit a thrift store, pick up a new one for it.” By now, Em had let his hand drift over his mouth as he stared down, wide eyed at all the little stitches and studs.

“Oh, and I couldn’t exactly smuggle a guitar all the way out here, so we should swing by the shop and pick one out. I picked up an odd job or two, so we can get a nice one to get you learning on.” “Javi…” was all Emmy was able to manage through a choked voice.

He twisted and threw his arms around the man’s neck, peppering affection all the way up one side of Javi’s face before kissing him fully. Javi was momentarily stunned, but Em felt Javi’s other arm slide across the middle of Em’s back and hold him close.

They stayed like that until Em heard the all-too familiar interruption of a cleared throat and pulled away sheepishly.

“I, uhm… sorry, kinda got carried away.” Emmy admitted, “Did, uh… you wanna to bunk up with me to try out this ‘boggin-sled, Cas? I bet if Jasper pulled us, we could really get some speed goin'.”

— End —

Happy Holidays!

[50calmadeuce]

Ch. 29: Court

Disclaimer: This is a work of fan fiction using characters from the Top Gun: Maverick world, trademarked by Paramount Pictures Corporation. I do not claim ownership of the characters and the world that I am borrowing.

The story and situation I am creating are a work of my imagination and I do not ascribe them to official story canon. This work is for entertainment only and is not a part of the storyline.

I am not profiting financially from the creation and publication of this story, but I do hope it gives you happy thoughts.

These stories are my own, so please do not take them and use them for yourself without my permission. If you see them somewhere else, please let me know. :)

A fresh layer of snow fell overnight, and the temps had fallen into the low thirties. You took a pic and sent it to Jake. 'Fresh snow and cold temps this morning. Wish you were next to me keeping me warm.'

You get dressed for work, even though you were going to court. You wore long underwear under your khaki 5.11 cargo pants, long sleeve dark green DNR shirt and black winter work boots. You buckled your black duty belt and strapped your leg holster around your right leg as you walked into your office and into the closet. There you walked to your steel gun cabinet, typed in the code to open it and too out your .45 Glock 21. You secured your Glock in your leg holster and placed your two spare magazines on your bullet proof vest. The magazine you used in your Glock was out in your truck along with your shot gun and rifle. You tried not to have loaded weapons around Christian.

You secured your gun safe, grabbed your vest, walked out of the closet and headed to the kitchen where Christian sat in his highchair eating breakfast with Montgomery.

"Thank you, Montgomery."

"It's no problem, Doctor. Miss Abigail deserves a vacation."

You look at him. "You know, you're welcome to take a vacation too."

"Doctor. You and Christian are the only family I have."

You nod understandingly as you place your vest on the back of the kitchen bar char and walk over to Christian in the highchair. "You behave for Montgomery."

"Gumree," Christian repeats as he stuffs his mouth with toast, and you kiss his forehead.

You grab your winter DNR coat and put it on along with your beanie hat. You grab your vest off of the chair. "I'm not sure when I'll be home. I'm even afraid to see my desk."

"No worries. We'll be okay."

"Okay. See you guys later. Love you, C.J." You blow Christian a kiss.

"Lub you, Mommy." Chrisitan blows you a kiss back.

You walk to the mudroom that led to the garage.

Judge Arnold Krawczak looked at his watch from his bench as you and Whitaker sat behind the attorney table to the right of the judge's bench.

"I'll give them five more..." Judge Krawczak stopped as the doors to the courtroom opened.

Celine walked behind two attorneys. Dressed as though she was a movie star from Hollywood.

"We apologize, Your Honor," the attorney dressed in the gray suit said as they got behind the other attorney's desk. "Traffic was horrendous!"

Judge Krawczak raised an eyebrow quizzically along with you and Mr. Whitaker.

"Mister...?"

"Attorney Nathan Crawley and Attorney Justin Dodge, Your Honor."

You and Whitaker looked at each other.

"Mister Crawly, let's get this started since you've already waisted 10 minutes of my morning."

"Yes, Your Honor." He opened his briefcase and took out some papers. "We're here to contest the restraining order Mrs. Y/N Astor has placed on Ms. Celine Astor-Davenport."

Whitaker stood up and cleared his throat. "Excuse me, Your Honor. My client's name is Doctor Y/N Astor. As of Wednesday, last week, it's Doctor Y/N Astor-Seresin or Doctor Y/N Seresin. She deserves that respect."

"Agreed. She will be addressed as such."

Celine's attorney glared at her, and she just shrugged.

"Again, I apologize, Your Honor." He paused. "We're here to contest the restraining order Doctor Y/N Astor-Seresin placed on my client, Celine Astor-Davenport. We're also contesting the marriage."

Judge Krawczak sighed. "Let's start with the restraining order."

"Christian Astor Junior is Mrs. Astor-Davenport's only grandchild. She has the right to see her only grandchild."

"Agreed. Mr. Whitaker?"

"We also agree, Your Honor, but supervised. Per the contract Christian Astor and Charles Astor left behind, Mrs. Astor-Davenport cannot be trusted."

"I object, Your Honor!" Crawley intejected.

"Mr. Whitaker, please explain?"

"Due to Christian Junior being the sole heir to the Astor fortune, Mrs. Astor-Davenport cannot be trusted due to financial issues. Both Christian and Charles expressed that in their Wills. Hence why we recommend supervised visitation."

"After reading the Wills, I agree."

"What!?" Celine scoffed loudly.

"Mrs. Astor-Davenport. Another outburst and you'll be held in contempt." Judge Krawczak looked at Attorney Crawley. "Next subject."

"Uhm, we're contesting her current marriage."

Judge Krawczak sighed. "Mr. Crawly. Doctor Astor-Seresin is an adult. According to her previous marriage, she knew Christian Astor only three weeks before they eloped and were married for 3 years. I trust Doctor Astor-Seresin's judgement. Let's get real, Mr. Crawley." Judge Krawczak looked at both attorneys. "If that is all, court is adjourned." He beat his gavel, stood up and walked to his chambers.

Celine glared at you. "This isn't over." She walked away with her attorneys.

Whitaker shook his head as he watched Celine walk away. "That woman." He looks at you. "Come on, Y/N. Let's get out of here."

You leave the courthouse and go out to your work truck where you open the door and get in. Your phone dings that you got a text and you look at it after you start the engine.

'Me too, Darlin,' Jake responded.

[firstflooradditionsinsydney]

Must-Have Features for Family-Friendly First Floor Additions Sydney

Adding a first-floor addition to your Sydney home is a fantastic way to create extra space for your growing family. But with so many design considerations, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. This blog dives into the must-have features for First Floor Additions Sydney that cater to the needs of a busy family, ensuring your new space is both functional and delightful.

Understanding Your Family's Needs

Before diving into specific features, take a moment to understand your family's unique needs. Consider factors like:

Family Size and Age: Are you a young family with small children or teenagers who crave their own space? The number of bedrooms and bathrooms will depend on your family's current and future needs.

Lifestyle: Do you love to entertain? Do you need a dedicated workspace for work-from-home parents? Tailoring the addition's features to your lifestyle preferences is crucial.

Storage: Families create a lot of stuff! Plan for ample storage solutions throughout the addition to keep clutter at bay.

Must-Have Features for Family Harmony

With your family's needs in mind, let's explore some essential features for a family-friendly First Floor Addition Sydney:

Dedicated Playroom: Creating a dedicated playroom keeps toys and mess contained and allows children a space to unleash their creativity. Consider built-in storage solutions for toys, books, and art supplies.

Multi-Functional Rooms: Not every family needs a formal living room. Consider a multi-functional room that can serve various purposes, such as a playroom that converts into a guest room when needed, or a media room that doubles as a home office.

Ample Storage: As mentioned earlier, storage is key. Utilize built-in wardrobes, cabinets, and shelving in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways. Explore hidden storage solutions like under-bed drawers or ottomans with storage compartments.

Durable Flooring: Opt for durable and easy-to-clean flooring materials like engineered timber, laminate flooring, or high-quality tiles in high-traffic areas. These materials can withstand spills and the wear and tear of active children.

Enhancing Functionality and Safety

Beyond the basic features, consider these elements for a more functional and safe family environment:

Natural Light: Ample natural light creates a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. Skylights, strategically placed windows, and light shelves can help maximize natural light penetration.

Safety Features: Install safety features like window locks, stair guards, and smoke detectors throughout the addition. Consider child-proof door knobs and cabinet latches for areas with younger children.

Laundry Chute (Optional): A laundry chute can simplify laundry day for busy families, especially with a first-floor addition potentially located above the laundry room.

Mudroom (Optional): A mudroom near the entry point provides a designated space to store shoes, coats, and bags, preventing clutter from spreading throughout the house. Consider built-in benches for easy shoe removal and a drying rack for wet clothes.

First Floor Additions Sydney: Balancing Family Fun with Adult Serenity

While prioritizing your family's needs, don't forget to create a space for adult relaxation:

Master Suite Retreat: If space allows, consider incorporating a dedicated master suite retreat within the addition. This could include a spacious bedroom, a luxurious ensuite bathroom, and a walk-in closet. This creates a haven for parents to unwind after a long day.

Balcony or Deck (Optional): A balcony or deck accessible from the addition offers a lovely outdoor space for relaxation and entertaining.

Essential Considerations Beyond Design

Planning a First Floor Addition Sydney requires more than just functionality:

Structural Engineering: Ensure the new addition is structurally sound and integrates seamlessly with the existing framework of your home. Engage a qualified structural engineer to assess your property and design the necessary support structures.

Building Codes and Approvals: Always obtain the necessary building permits and approvals from your local council before commencing construction. Be mindful of any heritage overlays or zoning restrictions that may apply.

FAQs: First Floor Additions Sydney - Creating a Haven for Your Family

What are the benefits of incorporating family-friendly features in a first-floor addition?

Family-friendly features offer numerous benefits:

* Increased functionality:  Dedicated playrooms, multi-functional spaces, and ample storage solutions make family life easier and more organized.

* Improved safety:  Features like safety gates and child-proof locks help create a safer environment for children.

* Enhanced livability:  A well-designed addition with designated spaces for family activities and relaxation fosters a more enjoyable living environment for everyone.

How much does it cost to incorporate family-friendly features in a first-floor addition?

The cost of incorporating family-friendly features can vary depending on the specific features chosen. Built-in storage solutions and laundry chutes can add to the overall cost, while opting for durable, yet affordable flooring materials can help manage expenses.

Can I add a first-floor addition to a terrace house in Sydney?

Yes, adding a first-floor addition to a terrace house in Sydney is possible, but there might be limitations. Be sure to consult with your local council and a heritage architect (if your terrace house is heritage-listed) to understand any restrictions or guidelines regarding size, materials, and overall design.

What are some alternative solutions for creating more space in a Sydney home if a first-floor addition isn't feasible?

If a first-floor addition isn't feasible due to budget constraints, space limitations, or heritage restrictions, consider alternative solutions like:

* **Converting existing underutilized spaces:** Explore converting an attic or basement into a usable living space. Ensure proper ventilation, insulation, and egress are addressed before commencing any work.

* **Building a granny flat in the backyard:** Depending on council regulations, a granny flat can provide additional living space. Explore granny flat designs that complement the style of your existing home.

* **Extending outwards on the ground floor:**  In some cases, extending outwards on the ground floor may be a viable option, but again, council approval is essential.

Conclusion

Adding a first-floor addition to your Sydney home can be a transformative project, especially for families. By understanding your family's needs, incorporating essential features like dedicated playrooms, ample storage, and safety considerations, and creating a space for adult relaxation, you can create a First Floor Addition Sydney that fosters harmony, functionality, and joy for your entire family. Remember, planning is key. Take your time, research your options, and consult with qualified professionals to ensure a successful outcome that meets the needs of your growing family for years to come.

First Floor Additions North Shore

[homeimprovementway]

Mudroom Paint Colors: Transform Your Space with Stunning Shades

For the best mudroom paint colors, consider creamy white, blue-gray, soft blue, olive green, burgundy, greige, dark blue, and aqua. To achieve a tough, furniture-like finish, consider using ADVANCE® interior paint. A well-designed mudroom can serve as a functional and stylish entryway to your home. From providing storage for shoes and outerwear to offering a convenient spot to sit and put on shoes, a mudroom serves as a versatile space within your home. With the right paint colors, you can enhance the overall aesthetics and functionality of your mudroom. By choosing suitable paint colors and finishes, you can create an inviting and organized space that complements the rest of your home's interior. We'll explore some popular mudroom paint color options to help you make the best choice for your space.

Choosing The Best Mudroom Paint Colors

When it comes to selecting the perfect hues for your mudroom, the right paint color can transform this functional space into a stylish entry point for your home. Creamy White - Creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere - Timeless and versatile choice Blue-gray - Adds a soothing and calming vibe - Perfect for creating a serene ambiance Soft Blue - Sets a relaxing and fresh tone - Ideal for a light and airy feel Olive Green - Brings a touch of nature indoors - Elegant and earthy option for a mudroom Burgundy - Infuses richness and depth - Dramatic and bold choice for a statement look Greige - Combines warmth of beige with coolness of gray - Modern and sophisticated color palette Dark Blue - Elegant and moody atmosphere - Brings a sense of depth and coziness Aqua - Refreshing and uplifting color - Adds a pop of brightness to the mudroom

Selecting The Right Type Of Paint

Selecting the Right Type of Paint for your mudroom is crucial for creating a durable and long-lasting finish that can withstand high traffic and various weather conditions. When choosing a paint, it's essential to consider both the aesthetics and functionality to ensure your mudroom remains a stylish and practical space. Durable Finish With Advance® Interior Paint For a tough, furniture-like finish—the kind you need in a mudroom—ADVANCE® interior paint is a great choice. This premium paint offers exceptional durability, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like mudrooms. Its advanced formula provides a smooth, long-lasting finish, resistant to wear and tear, scuff marks, and stains. In addition, ADVANCE® interior paint dries to a hard, furniture-quality finish, ensuring your mudroom stays looking fresh and clean. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2xJIpEn2Oo

Enhancing The Aesthetics Of Your Mudroom

Your mudroom is the first space you and your guests see when entering your home, so why not make it a visually appealing and functional area? With the right paint colors, furniture, and materials, you can transform your mudroom into a stylish and organized space that leaves a lasting impression. In this article, we will explore some essential elements you can incorporate to enhance the aesthetics of your mudroom. Incorporating Functional Furniture In order to maximize the functionality of your mudroom, it's important to include furniture pieces that serve a purpose. A built-in bench provides a convenient place to sit while putting on shoes, and can also offer hidden storage space for shoes, bags, and other items. Adding hooks or a coat rack near the entrance allows you to hang coats, hats, and umbrellas, keeping them easily accessible and off the floor. Including Practical Elements When designing your mudroom, it's crucial to consider practical elements that will make your daily routine more efficient. Installing a large sink with prep space is not only great for cleaning dirty shoes and boots, but also for completing arts and crafts projects or arranging flowers. Additionally, a washable rug can help protect the flooring in your mudroom from dirt and moisture while adding a pop of color or pattern to the space. Choosing Washable And Durable Materials Since the mudroom is a high-traffic area, it's important to select materials that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. When choosing paint colors for your mudroom walls, opt for washable paints that can easily be cleaned in case of scuffs or stains. Consider using semi-gloss or satin finishes for their durability and resistance to moisture. For the flooring, materials such as ceramic tile, vinyl, or rubber are ideal due to their easy maintenance and ability to withstand muddy or wet shoes. By incorporating functional furniture, including practical elements, and choosing washable and durable materials, you can transform your mudroom into a visually appealing and highly functional space. Whether it's a dedicated room or a part of your entryway, a well-designed mudroom sets the tone for your home and provides a welcoming space for both you and your guests.

Exploring Trendy Paint Colors

When it comes to designing a mudroom, the choice of paint color can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the space. From moody and muddy tones to soothing spa-like hues and bold and vibrant shades, there are plenty of trendy options to consider. This blog post will take you through some of the most popular paint colors for mudrooms, ensuring that your space is not only functional but also aesthetically appealing. Moody And Muddy Tones Moody and muddy tones are perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your mudroom. These colors add depth and warmth to the space, making it feel more intimate and welcoming. - Dark Green: A deep shade of green like forest or olive can evoke feelings of nature and provide a sense of calmness. - Earthy Brown: Brown tones, such as taupe or chocolate, create a rustic and earthy feel, bringing the outdoors inside. Soothing Spa-like Hues If you prefer a more serene and spa-like atmosphere in your mudroom, consider using soothing hues that promote relaxation and tranquility. - Soft Blue: Light blue shades like sky or powder blue can mimic the feeling of being by the beach or a tranquil spa. - Subtle Gray: Light gray tones create a clean and sophisticated look, adding a touch of elegance to your mudroom. Bold And Vibrant Shades If you want to make a statement and add a pop of personality to your mudroom, don't be afraid to go bold with your paint color choice. - Fiery Red: Red is a vibrant and energizing color that can create a focal point in your mudroom and make a bold statement. - Sunny Yellow: A cheerful shade of yellow adds warmth and brightness to your space, making it feel more inviting.

Inspiring Design Ideas

Looking for inspiring design ideas to elevate your mudroom? Incorporating the right paint colors can transform your space. From creamy white to olive green, these hues can create a welcoming and functional mudroom. Enhance your mudroom design with these stylish paint colors and give your space a fresh new look. Mudroom Design Inspirations When it comes to designing your mudroom, color choices play a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere of the space. Whether you want a vibrant and energetic mudroom or a calm and soothing haven, the paint colors you choose can make all the difference. Here are some inspiring design ideas to help you find the perfect color palette for your mudroom. Colorful Examples For Renovation 1. Creamy White: A warm white shade can create a clean and inviting look in your mudroom. It pairs well with any decor style and allows other elements in the room to stand out. 2. Blue-Gray: For a touch of sophistication and tranquility, consider a blue-gray hue. This color brings a sense of calmness while adding a subtle pop of color to your mudroom. 3. Soft Blue: Create a relaxing and refreshing atmosphere in your mudroom with a soft blue paint color. This color choice is perfect for those looking to add a touch of serenity to their entryway. 4. Olive Green: If you want to bring a natural and earthy feel to your mudroom, consider an olive green shade. This color choice adds warmth and a hint of nature's beauty to your space. 5. Burgundy: For a bold and dramatic look, go for a burgundy paint color. This rich shade adds depth and sophistication to your mudroom and makes a statement. 6. Greige: A combination of gray and beige, greige is a versatile paint color that complements any style or decor. It brings a sense of warmth and comfort to your mudroom. 7. Dark Blue: Create a sense of depth and elegance with a dark blue hue. This color adds a touch of drama and creates a striking focal point in your mudroom. 8. Aqua: For a fresh and invigorating look, consider an aqua paint color. This vibrant shade adds a pop of color and brings a lively energy to your mudroom. Cabinetry And Trim Recommendations When it comes to choosing the right paint color for your mudroom cabinetry and trim, there are a few recommendations to keep in mind. Here are some options to consider: - Benjamin Moore: Check out their bold paint colors for cabinetry and trim, such as their Interior Paint Color Palette Ideas and Best Grays collection, to find the perfect shade that complements your mudroom. - Sherwin Williams: Consider their Greige Paint Color collection for a modern neutral house paint color palette. This collection is perfect for creating a modern farmhouse aesthetic in your mudroom. - Farrow & Ball: For those who seek a more luxurious paint option, Farrow & Ball offers a wide range of elegant colors to choose from. Their high-quality paint will give your mudroom a refined and polished look. - Home Depot: Explore their extensive range of paint colors, including budget-friendly options, to find the perfect shade for your mudroom cabinetry and trim. Remember, the color choices you make for your mudroom can greatly impact the overall look and feel of the space. Consider the mood you want to create and the style that suits your taste. With the right paint colors, your mudroom can become a functional and beautiful entryway to your home.

Budget-friendly Paint Options

Discover budget-friendly paint options for your mudroom with these top color choices. Try creamy white for a warm feel, or opt for blue-gray and olive green for a sophisticated touch. Transform your mudroom into a stylish space without breaking the bank. Creative Alternatives From Etsy Find unique paint colors on Etsy that won't break the bank. From bold hues to modern neutrals, Etsy offers a diverse range of paint options for your mudroom. High-quality Selections From Home Depot And Benjamin Moore Explore top-notch mudroom paint colors at Home Depot and Benjamin Moore. These trusted brands provide a wide selection of high-quality paints for your budget-friendly makeover.

Expert Tips For Application

Professional Advice On Paint Application Techniques Proper paint application is key to achieving a flawless finish in your mudroom. Here are some expert tips to help you get the job done professionally: - Start by prepping the surfaces by cleaning and sanding them for better adhesion. - Use high-quality paintbrushes or rollers to ensure smooth and even application. - Apply paint in thin, even coats to prevent drips and streaks. - Allow sufficient drying time between coats for optimal results. DIY Strategies For Painting Success If you prefer to tackle the painting project yourself, here are some DIY strategies to ensure painting success in your mudroom: - Choose the right paint type for high-traffic areas, like a durable latex or acrylic paint. - Use painter's tape to protect trim and edges for clean lines. - Work in sections to maintain a consistent finish across the entire space. - Consider using a primer for better coverage and adhesion, especially on bare surfaces.

Final Thoughts On Mudroom Design

When it comes to creating a functional and stylish mudroom, choosing the right paint color is key. It can set the tone for the entire space, making it both welcoming and practical. Additionally, maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of the paint. Let's delve into some essential considerations for a well-designed mudroom. Creating A Welcoming And Stylish Entryway Choosing the perfect paint color for your mudroom is essential in creating a welcoming and stylish entryway. Creamy White, Blue-Gray, and Soft Blue are popular choices that can make the space appear larger and more inviting. Forbes Home suggests that Olive Green and Burgundy can add a touch of sophistication, while Greige and Dark Blue bring a sense of coziness to the area. Whichever color you choose, it's crucial to consider its impact on the overall ambiance. Maintenance Tips For Longevity To maintain the longevity of your mudroom's paint, it's important to invest in a durable and washable paint that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. Benjamin Moore recommends using their ADVANCE® interior paint for a tough, furniture-like finish that is ideal for a mudroom. Additionally, investing in a washable rug and incorporating a bench or seating area can help keep the space clean while adding functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Color To Paint A Mudroom? The best color to paint a mudroom is Creamy White, Blue-Gray, Soft Blue, Olive Green, Burgundy, Greige, Dark Blue, and Aqua. What Type Of Paint To Use For Mudroom? For a mudroom, use ADVANCE® interior paint for a durable, furniture-like finish. Best colors include creamy white, blue-gray, soft blue, olive green, and burgundy. Include seating, a sink, and a washable rug for a functional and stylish mudroom. How Can I Make My Mudroom Look Nice? To make your mudroom look nice, use warm white, blue-gray, soft blue, olive green, or other soothing colors. Add a bench, a large sink, and a washable rug for functionality and style. Consider using a tough, furniture-like paint such as ADVANCE® interior paint. What Color Is Sherwin Williams Silver Lake? Sherwin Williams Silver Lake is a beautiful spa-like blue-gray color that is perfect for bathrooms and en suites. It creates a soothing and calming atmosphere.

Conclusion

In the quest for the perfect mudroom paint color, the options seem endless. From calming blues to warm neutrals, it's clear that your choice can greatly impact the overall ambiance of the space. Considering your personal style and the desired atmosphere, it's worth exploring these recommended hues to create a welcoming mudroom that suits your lifestyle. Read the full article

[fernkids58]

Transform Your Space: Furniture Solutions for Every Corner of Your Home and Classroom

Enhance Your Home Decor with a Stylish Small Bookshelf

Transform your living space with a versatile small bookshelf. Perfect for compact rooms or cozy corners, this sleek and practical furniture piece adds both style and functionality to your home. Organize your favorite novels, display decorative items, or showcase family photos with ease. With its space-saving design, a small bookshelf is the perfect solution for maximizing storage in any room. Available in a variety of styles and finishes, finding the perfect small bookshelf to complement your decor has never been easier.

Keep Your Entryway Neat and Tidy with a Convenient Boot Rack

Say goodbye to cluttered entryways with a durable boot rack. Designed to keep your footwear organized and easily accessible, this essential storage solution is a must-have for any home. Whether you’re dealing with muddy boots, wet shoes, or everyday sneakers, a boot rack provides a designated spot for all your footwear needs. Its compact design makes it ideal for small spaces, while its sturdy construction ensures long-lasting durability. Say hello to a tidier entryway and goodbye to tripping over stray shoes — invest in a boot rack today.

Spark Joy in Your Child’s Playtime with Exciting Slides for Kids

Make playtime unforgettable with colorful slides for kids. Designed for endless hours of fun, these vibrant playground essentials are sure to delight children of all ages. Whether they’re racing down the slide, climbing to the top, or exploring imaginative worlds, slides for kids encourage active play and creative expression. With their sturdy construction and safety features, parents can rest assured knowing their little ones are having fun in a secure environment. Add a touch of excitement to your backyard or playroom with slides for kids and watch as laughter and smiles abound.

Streamline Your Entryway with a Functional Shoe Bench: Organize Footwear Effortlessly

Say goodbye to cluttered entryways with a practical shoe bench. Perfect for keeping shoes neatly stored and easily accessible, our benches add style and functionality to any foyer or mudroom. With multiple compartments and a comfortable seating area, our benches make getting ready to go out a breeze. Say hello to a tidier, more organized home.

Display Your Favorite Reads with a Stylish Book Stand: Showcase Literature in Style

Enhance your reading experience with a chic book stand. Perfect for displaying your favorite novels, cookbooks, or magazines, our stands add a touch of elegance to any book collection. Choose from a variety of designs and finishes to complement your home decor. Keep your reading material organized and easily accessible with a stylish stand that doubles as a decorative accent.

Elevate Learning Experiences: The Power of Effective Learning Space Design

Transform your classroom or training facility with strategic learning space design. Explore innovative layouts and furnishings that promote active participation and knowledge retention. With thoughtful consideration of lighting, acoustics, and ergonomic furniture, you can create an environment that fosters creativity and supports diverse learning styles.

Transform Learning Spaces with Quality School Furniture Canada: Enhancing Educational Environments

Searching for reliable school furniture Canada suppliers? Look no further! Our extensive range of high-quality classroom furniture is designed to create engaging and functional learning environments for students of all ages. From desks and chairs to storage solutions and collaborative workstations, we offer everything you need to furnish your classrooms with style and durability.

Elevate Learning Experiences with Leading Commercial Kids Furniture Brands

Discover top-notch commercial kids furniture brands that prioritize quality and safety. Our curated collection features a wide selection of furniture specifically designed for children, ensuring comfort and durability in commercial settings such as schools, daycare centers, and recreational facilities. With attention to detail and innovative design, these brands deliver furniture solutions that enhance both learning and play experiences for children.

Optimize Educational Spaces with Innovative Furniture for Classrooms

Upgrade your educational spaces with versatile and durable furniture for classrooms. Our comprehensive range includes desks, chairs, tables, and storage solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of modern learning environments. Whether you’re furnishing a traditional classroom, a STEM lab, or a collaborative workspace, our classroom furniture solutions are tailored to enhance functionality, comfort, and aesthetics, creating inspiring spaces for teaching and learning.

Elevate Your Space with Modern Kids Furniture: Stylish and Functional Designs for Every Room

Transform any room into a vibrant and inviting space with modern kids furniture. From sleek bunk beds to colorful study desks, our collection offers a wide range of stylish and functional pieces to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re furnishing a nursery, playroom, or bedroom, our modern kids furniture is sure to inspire creativity and comfort for your little ones.

Showcase Your Favorite Reads with a Book Display: Organize and Beautify Your Home Library

Enhance the charm of your home library with a versatile book display. Whether you prefer wall-mounted shelves or freestanding bookcases, our collection offers a variety of options to showcase your favorite reads in style. With sleek designs and ample storage space, our book display units are perfect for keeping your literary treasures organized and easily accessible.

Keep Your Entryway Neat and Tidy with a Boot Rack Wood: Functional and Stylish Storage Solution

Say goodbye to cluttered entryways with a boot rack wood. Crafted from high-quality materials, our boot racks offer a durable and stylish storage solution for your footwear collection. Whether you’re dealing with muddy boots or wet shoes, our boot rack wood provides the perfect spot to keep them neatly organized and off the floor, preserving the cleanliness of your home.

Foster Collaboration and Comfort with Classroom Bench Seating: Ideal Seating Solution for Learning Environments

Create a conducive learning environment with classroom bench seating. Designed for comfort and versatility, our bench seating options are perfect for classrooms of all sizes. Whether you’re arranging them in rows or clusters, our classroom bench seating promotes collaboration and engagement among students, making it an ideal seating solution for modern educational settings.

Optimize Learning Spaces with Class Room Table: Functional and Versatile Tables for Educational Settings

Enhance the functionality of your classroom with a sturdy class room table. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, our tables are designed to accommodate different teaching and learning styles. Whether you need individual desks or collaborative workstations, our class room table options offer durability, versatility, and ergonomic design to optimize learning spaces for students and educators alike.

Discover the Ultimate Study Companion: The Adjustable Student Table

Looking for the perfect study solution for your child? Look no further than the adjustable student table. This innovative piece of furniture is designed to grow with your child, providing a comfortable and ergonomic workspace at every stage of their academic journey. With its adjustable height and spacious surface, the adjustable student table is the ideal choice for creating a productive and organized study environment.

Organize Your Space with the Adjustable Wooden Shelf

Transform your living space with the versatility of the adjustable wooden shelf. Crafted from high-quality wood, this customizable shelving unit offers the perfect blend of style and functionality. Whether you need extra storage in the living room, bedroom, or home office, the adjustable wooden shelf can be easily adjusted to suit your needs. From books and decorative items to kitchen essentials and office supplies, this versatile shelf is a must-have addition to any home.

Affordable Kids Furniture: The Key to Creating a Fun and Functional Space

Creating a stylish and functional space for your child doesn’t have to break the bank. With affordable kids furniture, you can design a room that reflects your child’s personality and interests without compromising on quality or style. From colorful beds and playful storage solutions to sturdy desks and cozy seating, affordable kids furniture offers endless possibilities for creating a space that your child will love to call their own.

Create a Cozy Retreat with the Children’s Reading Nook

Encourage a love of reading with the childrens reading nook. This cozy corner is the perfect spot for your little bookworm to escape into their favorite stories and adventures. With its soft cushions, bookshelves, and reading light, the children’s reading nook provides a comfortable and inviting space for hours of literary exploration. Whether it’s a rainy day or a quiet afternoon, the children’s reading nook is sure to become a cherished retreat for your little one.

Keep Things Tidy with the Children’s Shoe Bench

Say goodbye to cluttered entryways with the childrens shoe bench. This stylish and practical piece of furniture is designed to keep shoes, boots, and accessories neatly organized and out of sight. With its sturdy construction and ample storage space, the children’s shoe bench is the perfect solution for busy families on the go. Whether you place it in the entryway, mudroom, or bedroom, this versatile bench will help keep your home tidy and organized.

Discover the Versatility of Adjustable Storage Shelves for Your Home or Office

Looking for flexible storage solutions? Adjustable storage shelves offer the perfect answer. These shelves can be customized to fit your space and organizational needs, providing a versatile storage solution for any room. Whether you need to maximize vertical space in a closet, garage, or pantry, adjustable storage shelves can be adjusted to accommodate items of various sizes and shapes. Say goodbye to clutter and hello to organized bliss with these convenient and adaptable shelves.

Embrace Comfort and Style with an Angle Chair for Your Home or Office

Upgrade your seating experience with an angle chair. Designed for both comfort and style, these chairs feature a unique angled design that provides ergonomic support while adding a modern touch to any space. Whether you’re working at your desk or lounging in the living room, an angle chair offers the perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to relaxation with this innovative seating solution.

Transform Your Child’s Space with the Best Kids Furniture

Create a fun and functional environment for your little ones with the best kids furniture. From colorful beds and playful storage solutions to sturdy desks and cozy seating options, the best kids furniture combines safety, durability, and style to meet the needs of growing children. Whether you’re decorating a nursery, bedroom, or playroom, investing in high-quality kids furniture ensures that your child’s space is both inviting and inspiring. Let their imagination run wild with furniture that’s as unique and special as they are.

Elevate Learning Environments with Classroom Benches

Enhance collaboration and comfort in educational settings with classroom benches. These versatile seating solutions are perfect for classrooms, libraries, and common areas, providing students with a comfortable and supportive place to learn, collaborate, and socialize. With durable construction and ergonomic design, classroom benches are built to withstand the rigors of daily use while promoting proper posture and concentration. Whether used individually or in groups, classroom benches are a practical and stylish addition to any learning environment.

Foster Collaboration with Classroom Group Tables

Encourage teamwork and interaction in educational settings with classroom group tables. Designed for collaborative learning activities, these tables provide students with a dedicated space to work together, share ideas, and problem-solve as a team. With various shapes, sizes, and configurations available, classroom group tables can be customized to fit any classroom layout or teaching style. From traditional rectangular tables to innovative modular designs, classroom group tables offer endless possibilities for creating dynamic and engaging learning environments.

[house-organizing-hacks]

25 Functional and Attractive Shoe Storage Ideas

Kicking off your shoes after a long day is a great feeling — unless you have no place to store them. Avoid the frustrating shoe pile on the floor with a handy shoe storage solution. If you're short on closet space, consider an over-the-door system to utilize every inch of storage possibilities. Messy mudroom? Opt for a shoe storage bench that offers storage as well as a place to sit and put your shoes on.

Click here for further information - https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/clean-and-organize/the-best-shoe-organizers

[wynilthyrii]

A Strand of Pearls

“Joros, will you meet me at home?  I have a wound that needs cleaning.”

I have a soul that needs mending.  I need your touch and your warmth and to hear the sound of your heartbeat against my hand, I need—

“Yes, sweetheart.  On my way.”

The relief made my knees weak and I slumped against the cold stone of the keep.  Vyas had seen me in the hall when I’d made my escape.  I just hoped he hadn’t noticed the tears on my face.

No one needed to see those right now.  They were birthed of an ache and a fear that I couldn’t dare voice because it might make them real, might put them out into the universe.

“Thank you.”

There were a thousand things I should be doing instead of retreating.  I was more than half certain there were a thousand things that he should be doing, too, instead of coming home to tend to me.  The Everlight was a powder keg fit to explode, and what was I doing?

Running home to lick my wounds and dragging a Warden that wasn’t mine—that wasn’t anyone’s, not yet, but would be soon enough—with me.  Two fewer blades on watch in a realm balancing on a razor’s edge, enemies within and without baying for blood.

I could have just as easily asked one of the others to clean it—Vyas, Amaris, Tess, even athair, if only to give him something to focus on other than what had driven him to drinking so early—but I hadn’t.  No.  No, after what we’d done and seen at Deatholme, after the beach yesterday, after Lum’s anger and hurt in the kitchen, the words that crystallized into something else, something different and driven a spike into my heart, I couldn’t.

What I was doing was a luxury I shouldn’t allow myself.  It wasn’t something that was sustainable.

But right then, at that second?  All the strength that it would have taken to stop myself had ebbed away.  Maybe it had been the effort to hold the shield back in Deathholme, or the sting of an authirus-laced wound, one that very well could have been deeper than I realized, one that would add another scar to the collection on my back.

The portal home was one I was able to manage almost without thinking.  It spat me out in the mudroom off the gardens, and I sank down onto one of the benches that ran the length of the room.  With shaking hands, I took off my boots, stacking them in one of the cubbies beneath the bench.

One breath.  Another.  Steady.

Adrenaline was wearing off.  It was only a matter of time before I got the shakes.

It felt wrong.  It had been so long.

Steady.

I heard him calling my name from the foyer.  Swallowing hard, blinking back tears I didn’t remember welling up, I lurched to my feet.  Out of the mudroom, through the kitchen, the sitting room.

His face was the only thing I saw as I stepped into the foyer, and it was enough.  Concern contorted his expression and my breath caught, rasping.

He didn’t say anything when I threw myself into his arms, not giving a damn that I’d just thrown myself against plate and that the clasp of his cloak, his Warden insignia, was digging into my cheek.  I didn’t care because his arms closed around me and his fingers laced through my hair and that was all it took to calm my racing heart, to ease the panicked fear that had welled up inside.

It’s okay.  It’s okay.  You’re okay.  He’s here.  Everyone’s safe.  It’s okay.

The litany kept going through my head as he guided me back to our bedroom and we helped each other out of armor—though he tried to stop me from helping him, protesting that I was still bleeding, what are you doing, I can handle it myself—

But I needed to do it.  I needed it, and he relented.

Cleaning the wound stung, but it wasn’t as bad as it could have been, wasn’t as bad as he’d clearly feared when he laid eyes on it.  I probably could have saved the effort, had someone back at the Keep stitch it instead of using the Light to speed the healing after it was cleaned.

I hadn’t even dared to figure out how bad it was until after he’d cleaned it.  Not knowing what authirus did.  That was a horror neither of us needed, one that would throw us both back into another time.  What I’d seen was bad enough.  He didn’t need it, too.

Of course, I would tell him.  He wouldn’t ask, but I’d tell him, but not yet.  Not yet.

His fingers were soft and warm against my back, the touch gentle as he smoothed a rag over the wound after it was cleaned, after I’d started it knitting back together.  His breath stirred the hairs on the back of my neck as he pressed a kiss to my spine.

I shivered a little and his arms closed around me, his chest against my back and his breath warm against my cheek and ear.  I closed my eyes, letting go of the tension by inches and fractions.  My pulse slowed and I turned my face just enough to look at him, managing to smile.  He pressed a kiss to my forehead and murmured the words that even after almost five years made my heart stutter in my chest.

It was half an hour later when he managed to get me into the shower.  I don’t remember if it was trying to convince me or if it was just getting me to move from where we knelt on the bed that was the problem, but it took longer than it should have for us to end up under a steaming stream of water.

I don’t remember if I cried.  I think I must have.  The water drew the words from me—Corey, athair, Deathholme, Dazen, the kitchen after.  I recall the trace of pain that washed through his expression, the determined set to his jaw, the tenderness of his touch and his voice when he told me that somehow, it would be all right, that I didn’t need to worry.

It would be okay.

I let the fear out, the one I knew that he already knew full well.  We both carried it for each other, and the promise between us was unspoken.

Forever.  Because we’d asked.  Because we’d vowed it under a summer sky.  Forever.

Steam and water were cleansing for the soul as much as the body.  Exhaustion washed over and through me like waves against the shore, where craggy rocks weathered away and the sand was long gone.

I’d forgotten what a bitch adrenaline and fear could be, coupled with magic and pain.  How much of that was because of the authirus that had been the wound, I wasn’t sure.

He carried me to bed and stretched out beside me, propped against our pillows.  I curled against his side as he pulled the covers up over me and I pressed my cheek against his shoulder.  The book we’d been reading filled his hands, and the sound of his voice filled my ears as I closed my eyes, fingers tracing the old scars on his shoulder and collarbone.  His cheek rested against my damp hair and I exhaled a quiet, shaky sigh.

Centuries, athair had said that night in the war room after the others had made their strategic escapes once they’d realized what I was talking about.  Light and fate willing, we’d have centuries.

I clung to that, especially now.  Especially the way things seemed to be turning out.  It would be hard work, but we’d done that before.  Fought hard.  Won.  The fight to keep him was one I was willing to wage, so long as we came out of it together in the end.

Forever.

He drew the blanket a little closer and kissed me once, then again.  I kissed him back and settled, closing my eyes again as he wrapped his arm around me, its weight comforting, protecting.  He probably wouldn’t sleep tonight, but I would.  The cadence of his voice was as familiar to me now as breathing and the steady beat of his heart matched my own.

The last of the tension drained away as sleep closed in.  It was too early, of course, but it was coming just the same, and I had no choice but to welcome it.  I could only hope, as I drifted off into the gray, that the dreams that came would be good ones—or none at all.

The last thing I felt before sleep claimed me was the touch of his fingers lifting hair away from my face before he pulled me a little closer, held me a little tighter, before he started the next chapter.

[sims4luxury]

Farmhouse ~ Entry (part 2)

Hello everyone 😊

As you may know now, I'm working on a long-term collab with @katesimblr @pineandhome and @indoorsim around a farmhouse we are creating altogether.

We are starting with the entry hall/mudroom and this month I added some new meshes to the collection, which is not completely finished yet as I want to create some modular pieces such as wall panels, modular bench and hooks.

The new items available can be seen in the first picture of this post. You'll find:

an open-double door arch

a console

3 artwalls

and 2 new doormats

I can't wait to show you the entire Farmhouse - Entry collection as soon as I finish it 😛 Next room will be about the kitchen!

These items can be downloaded as early access on my Patreon.

Wish you all to enjoy and thank you so so much for your support ❤❤❤