#mAKING AND BUILDING THINGS WITH THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE AS THE WAY TO LIVE A FULFILLED LIFE

[summertimesadnessirl]

I don't want to be stronger I want to not have to look at every goddamn experience as building character.

I want to be safe.

I don't want people to bring me their guilt and their loneliness and their stupid conceptual boxes that no living human being could fit into. I don't want them to huddle on my doorstep begging me to be their mother and their therapist and their lifecoach and their rescuer and their goddamn excuse to pretend to be a good person while doing shitty things.

I don't want anyone to interact with me unless they give me money and I don't want even those people to try to dump all their fucking negative emotions on me or suck me into their black pit of need.

OI want to be free.

I want to need no one one and for no one to need me.

I want people to see me as an inherently untrustworthy and unsafe person who will not fix everything and put things back together for them.

Because your reward for being vulnerable is being preyed on.

Your reward for being helpful is having more messes to clean.

Your reward for being comforting is that other people coat you in their misery and it's never enough.

Your reward for being caring and trustworthy and not shutting down someone's bullshit

And let's be real

Usually shallow to an insulting degree

Like shallow to the point where this person obviously thinks you are the dumbest most emotionally deprived person to ever live

Like shallow to the point that if all it took for someone to think they were that devoted to you was for you to not be actively a bitch to them for five minutes

Are you supposed to believe that?

Or does this person just hate you and want to punish you for being nice by lying to you?

It has to be that they are lying because they are normal and have everything going for them.

So you know that person thinks you are stupid and worthless and pathetic and unlovable and also gullible

Your reward for telling that person no but still letting them talk to you when they don't do that

Is just them refusing to stop trying to convince you that they love you.

Your reward for believing someone is in love with you when they might be is always total and complete loss of personal autonomy and them systematically destroying everything you love.

Your reward for not shutting this shit right down is that they think they can pull a face and say some words and make you feel bad and then you will take all the responsibility for them and do anything they want.

You become a parent or a child or a slave.

If I could surgically remove my ability to feel empathy I would.

That shit is only ever used against you.

Other people conveniently always feel really bad but never act in a way that helps you or pays you back or supports you.

It's just a way to prey on the weak.

No one ever sees you acting like you care about their displays of feelings as anything other than a sign that they don't have to act to help you or be kind to you because you are worthless.

honestly, the radicalizing event that made me ditch faux-ironic detachment is when I sent a hard-to-write sentimental message to someone I was (at the time) close with, and they sent the vomiting emoji back. it was like oh okay, that sucks. I am now of the opinion that it is 100x cooler and braver to be sappy with the people you care about.

[withercrown]

The worst thing about the reductive argument about whether Vander and Silco are "brothers" is that everyone involved misrepresents what that word actually means, and as a historian I have had enough.

"Brothers" is not meant to evoke either actual brothers (they are just simply not brothers, either by blood or adoption) or brothers-in-arms (this is a militaristic concept which is not appropriate imo).

The kind of 'brotherhood' they share is specifically revolutionary/national brotherhood.

The French flavoring of the show—everything from the graffiti to the architecture of Piltover (it's just Paris, guys) to the revolutionary imagery—is one of the things I love most about Arcane. Fortiche is a French studio. They wove their own history and culture into their work.

What's the single most famous phrase associated with the French Revolution?

"Liberté, égalité, fraternité".

This motto was popularized by Robespierre in a speech he gave in 1790. It encapsulated the spirit of the French Revolution so completely that it became institutionalized as the national motto of France to this day. The concept of brotherhood in an explicitly French revolutionary setting is not ambiguous and we are not going to pretend that it is.

"Men of all countries are brothers, he who oppresses one nation declares himself the enemy of all." -Maximilien Robespierre, speech delivered April 24, 1793

During the Revolutionary period, it was the feeling of belonging to a common struggle among the people of France, all together, united as brothers, by their beliefs and their nationality: This struggle was led internally in France against the absolute monarchy, which had to be toppled. Source: France Diplomacy, Liberty – Equality – Fraternity

We have got to start thinking about why the creators might want to emphasize the revolutionary brotherhood between Silco and Vander so strongly. Fraternité was arguably the most actively dangerous part of the triad:

Fraternité was sometimes styled as “fraternité ou la mort” — “brotherhood or death.” This “you’re with us or you’re against us” mentality, cloaked in the ideals of freedom and enlightenment, would go on to fuel one of the bloodiest episodes in France’s history: the Reign of Terror. Source: Liberté, égalité, fraternité: French Political History and THE PLAGUE

Fraternity is not a toothless concept. This isn't about picking a brother and a sister and maybe a mommy and a daddy. This led directly to the beheading of the King and Queen of France and their son, and to a political slaughter severe enough to be named the Reign of Terror by historians. 30,000 people died, 17,000 by execution. These guys were not messing around. Again: this is France's (and Haiti's) motto today. You can go to France right now and see this all over their buildings and monuments.

Vander and Silco diverged on this point. When they speak to one another, they use the past tense. You were my brother. They no longer see each other as being part of the same vision. They no longer interpret brotherhood in a way that includes one another.

Fraternité ou la mort is practically a thesis statement for Silco's character. He lives and dies on his sense of brotherhood—and in fact, choosing his daughter over Zaun and his sense of revolutionary brotherhood directly and almost immediately results in his death.

(Not so incidentally, in making the choice of Jinx over Zaun, he refers to Vander as brother again, as their visions have finally come back into alignment.)

(they're both still wrong tho)

It's not enough to say they were brothers-in-arms. It's also not textually supported to say they were siblings. Their relationship to one another was defined through their commitment to Zaun, and their relationship with the fraternity promised by that dream.

I think there is a broad scope for valid interpretations of their relationship, btw—from revolutionary brothers to best friends to boyfriends. I am just so tired of seeing the same points repeated ad nauseam about the word 'brother' when it isn't really ambiguous at all what was intended, and learning that information is just France 101.

[oaksgrove]

Welcome Gift

Pairing: König x Reader

Synopsis: After moving to Austria to live with König, you find yourself overwhelmed by the unfamiliarity of a new country. From navigating the bustling streets to adjusting to the rhythm of life in a different culture, your nerves are stretched thin. But König, ever thoughtful and patient, is determined to make you feel loved and at home in every way possible. 

Warnings: none?

word count: 985

Salzburg streets bustled with a quiet charm, the winter air crisp as you and König walked hand in hand. Snow dusted the cobblestones, and warm lights glowed from shop windows, painting the city in hues of gold and white. It was picturesque, but your nerves were a jumble. Moving to Austria to live with König had been a leap of faith, and while you loved him deeply, adjusting to life here was proving to be a challenge.

You found yourself clutching König’s hand a little tighter than usual as you walked. Everything felt so new—unfamiliar faces, different languages, even the way people carried themselves. There was a rhythm to the city, it wasn’t unfriendly, just one you hadn’t quite learned yet, and while it was beautiful, it also left you feeling adrift in an ocean of the unknown.

“You’re quiet,” König said softly, glancing down at you. His Austrian accent, once a novelty when you first met, had become a comforting melody in your life.

“Just… taking it all in,” you murmured, giving him a small smile.

König slowed to a stop, turning to face you fully. His height meant he had to dip his head to meet your gaze, and his piercing blue eyes held a wealth of affection. “If it’s too much, we can take it slow,” he said, his large hand brushing softly against yours. “You’ve already done so much by coming here.”

You opened your mouth to protest, but his warm smile and the steady reassurance in his gaze stopped you. He leaned down slightly, his forehead almost brushing yours. “Let me spoil you today, ja?”

Before you could respond, König guided you toward a shop nestled between two taller buildings. Its display window glittered with jewelry—delicate chains, rings, and gemstones arranged with care. You blinked up at him, your brow furrowing.

“What are we doing here?”

“I told you,” he said, holding the door open for you. “A proper welcoming gift. Something beautiful to match you.”

You blinked, cheeks flushed at his words, your mouth opening and closing as you searched for a response. A welcoming gift? You’d thought the flowers he brought home every day were already more than enough, but König clearly had other ideas.

The interior of the shop was even more charming than the display outside—polished wood counters, velvet-lined cases, and a faint scent of lavender lingering in the air. A kindly older woman greeted König, her tone familiar and warm as she spoke in German. He responded easily, his voice dipping into the fluid rhythms of his native tongue.

You caught most of the exchange—your German was decent, though far from fluent—but nuances still slipped through your grasp. König noticed your tentative expression and gave you a soft smile. “This shop,” he explained, switching back to English, “is special. My mother, my sisters, even my grandmother—they’ve all come here over the years. It’s where my family buys things for… important moments.”

Your heart skipped at the significance of that statement. “König, that’s—”

“Shh,” he interrupted, his grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Now, let’s find something for you.”

He took his time examining the displays, occasionally asking the shopkeeper questions. Eventually, his gaze landed on a pair of earrings— a delicate silver design, teardrop-shaped with a subtle shimmer that wasn’t too flashy. Beside them was a matching necklace, simple yet elegant, with a single pendant that mirrored the earrings’ design. 

Turning to you, he gestured to them. “These. Do you like them?”

“They’re beautiful,” you murmured, your cheeks flushing. “But König, I can’t—”

“You can,” he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument. “I want you to have something from here. So that when you wear it, you’ll remember how much it means to me that you’re here.”

The sincerity in his words left you speechless, and before you knew it, you were leaving the shop with a small, carefully wrapped box in your hands, almost too much to bear. You turned to König, your voice tentative. “I don’t know how to thank you.”

“You already have,” he said simply, taking your hand in his as he led you back into the bustling streets.

Later that day, the scent of fresh coffee and pastries filled the apartment as König emerged from the kitchen carrying a plate. On it was your favorite pastry, carefully chosen from a bakery he’d insisted on visiting earlier. He set it down in front of you along with a cup of coffee and a small stack of German vocabulary cards, each one handwritten with neat, blocky letters.

“I know your German is good,” he said, almost shyly, his towering form seeming a little smaller in the soft light of the kitchen. “But I thought these might help with the little things.”

You picked up one of the cards, your eyes skimming over his careful handwriting. “You made these?”

He nodded. “I want you to feel comfortable. To feel… like this is home.”

Your chest tightened at the depth of his thoughtfulness. “König,” you said softly, setting the card down to reach for his hand. “You’re spoiling me.”

He chuckled, crouching beside you so that you were eye level, his large hands cradling yours gently. “Maybe,” he admitted, his smile warm. “But I don’t mind. I want you to know how much you mean to me. You’ve made my life so much better just by being in it. Now that you’re here, I want to make sure you feel loved and safe every day.”

Your breath hitched, and you bit your lip, unable to find the words to express how much his actions meant to you. Instead, you leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. It was a quiet reassurance that you were exactly where you were meant to be.

König smiled against your lips, his hands tightening around yours. “Welcome home, meine Liebe,” he murmured.

[hwnglx]

pick a pile - what makes you attractive?

welcome back lovely reader! let's take a peak into what makes you so attractive. breathe slowly, take your time and use your intuition to go with the pile that speaks to you the most. remember to take what resonates, and leave what doesn't. 𓆩♡𓆪

˖ ࣪ ⊹ ꒰ঌ pile 1 ໒꒱ ⊹ ࣪ ˖

you're attractive, in the way you're interested in creating these meaningful and emotional connections to people.

you aren't the type of person who feels the need to place yourself above anyone, in order to feel good about yourself. your desire for balance and harmony in your relationships makes you highly attractive.

the way you're able to put yourself in other people's shoes, and approach them with empathy, is wonderful. you give them this precious feeling of being understood.

you're a person who has very comforting energy, and a soothing effect on others. someone who brings the calm after the chaos, and hope into situations that seem lost.

spirit keeps showing me this image of a bandaid.

your attractiveness lies in your gentleness. in your ability to mend and heal.

the fact that you've been through so much, but this inner spark of hope inside you still remained bright and dazzling in the end, makes you very special.

it's likely that a lot of you aren't fully aware of this, but your existence is dazzling, and extraordinary in many people's eyes.

you stand out. you're unique.

there's something about your presence that shines differently, compared to the people around you. it's almost like a butterfly that can't see the beauty of its own wings.

i believe a good amount of you, have gone through your own losses and heartbreaks in the past.

it's likely you went through different cycles, and various impactful stages in your life where you were forced to adapt and adjust. unexpected situations which caught you off guard and resulted in you needing to pick up the pieces by yourself.

but the way you've been able to bounce back, and still find this inner courage to keep going, despite the hurt, is impressive.

i believe you've come to a point where you've been able to move away from that state of sorrow, and turned it into something that fuels your power.

your ability to bravely deal with the things that life unexpectedly throws you head on, makes you very attractive.

you still have a more sensitive heart, and your core will always be a little soft and sweet deep down; but your character has gained a lot of strength throughout the years.

this is something you radiate to the outside now. your inner power makes you incredibly attractive.

you look at the things you've been through till now, as experiences which have shaped you immensely, and turned you into the person you are today.

a lot of you are also likely to be outspoken, and pretty straightforward. you like getting to the true core of topics, and aren't afraid to voice things others might shy away from.

your attractiveness lies in your ability to balance these two coinciding sides in you; one that is full of empathy, warmth and a kind heart, and one that is self-sufficient, ambitious and courageous.

˖ ࣪ ⊹ ꒰ঌ pile 2 ໒꒱ ⊹ ࣪ ˖

you're attractive, in the way you relentlessly work towards fulfilling your own dreams and goals.

you're willing to put in consistent effort, in order to build yourself the dream life you desire so badly.

i just don't see you liking to rely on anyone else to do the work for you. you're very self-sufficient, and recognize that in order to get to a place of satisfaction and contentment within yourself, you have to be the one to make the effort. there's nothing like enjoying the fruits of your own labor.

a lot of you are very sure of what you want for yourself. some of you might actively manifest, by imagining and picturing how you want your life to be.

creating moodboards on pinterest or something. creating folders of style inspiration, or interior design inspirations. this is how i want to be dressed, this is the place i want to live in.

you're not gonna be someone who throws the towel and gives in, just because someone else might label your dreams as impossible, or unrealistic.

it's almost like you'll tell them “well, i'll show you then”

you have high aspirations, standards and expectations towards yourself, as well as others, which makes you even more attractive.

you just do not settle for anything less than what you want.

people can't get to you too easily. you're guarded and careful about who you let in closely.

many people are likely to look at you as a person they can't quite decipher or fully figure out at first; someone whose facade they'd like to look beyond.

the fact that you aren't an open book who's constantly accessible and available twenty four seven, makes you highly attractive to others. you cautiously keep them at an arm's length, and people might have to work for your attention.

there might even be some people envious of you.

envious of the fact that you're so self-reliant, independent, and in no need of anyone's help or guidance in life.

and although you give off a more detached and colder vibe to some people on the outside, people who actually know the true you, are aware of how sweet and empathetic you can in fact be. you just have a genuine heart deep down.

you're likely to be someone with a lot of depth and layers, and the closer people get to knowing you in your entirety, the more they get to see of your more complex, introspective and sensitive sides.

you might be much more emotional, romantic and dreamy than what meets the eye at first; and this is likely to draw a lot of people to you.

like “wow, i didn't know you had this side to you”

there's this type of reversal charm, where you might pleasantly surprise some people with how soft you can actually be at times, compared to the first impression they had of you.

some of you might literally have an rbf, but a beautiful smile that brightens and lights up your face in a whole new way.

you also give me very very creative energy. i feel like you love to express yourself beautifully, in many artistic ways. and you see art as a way to live out your most authentic self.

˖ ࣪ ⊹ ꒰ঌ pile 3 ໒꒱ ⊹ ࣪ ˖

you're attractive, in the way you lead with your heart.

it's likely that you're a person who nurtures a strong connection to their vast and rich emotional world. you're someone who genuinely cares.

like.. i don't think you even know how to just not care about things, and go through life in a nonchalant “meh” way. most of the time, you're very chalant. (ㅜ same!)

this makes you much more attractive than you might realize.

you can easily get emotionally invested in plenty of your endeavors; whether that's your relationships, the choices you have to make, the different situations life throws in your way.

you feel everything in a deep and profound manner, and this makes you unique.

reason why i believe you might not be fully aware of this, is because you seem to have the tendency to see yourself as more lacking than you actually are.

you're likely to be a person who's very humble at their core. an eternal student of life.

someone who tries their best to grow continuously and better themselves through every situation they get confronted with; especially the disappointments, regrets, losses.

you're eager to pull the lesson out of every experience in life, and sincerely want to learn from your mistakes.

despite criticism hurting you sometimes, you're still trying your best to improve yourself through it all.

this hard-working, grounded, down to earth and modest energy makes you incredibly attractive.

i think you're slowly but surely trying to let go of certain limitations you habitually set yourself till now. you might've felt trapped in your mind and stuck for a good while, but you're progressively coming out of that place.

despite the exhausting struggles you've been through till now, you're still standing strong!

your endurance, resilience and inner strength makes you immensely attractive.

yes you're wounded, yes you don't see yourself as perfect, but you're still ready to fight. you are a true warrior.

even with your naturally modest character, i don't see you as a person who allows people to step all over them anymore. you're starting to learn to be more strict and clear with your boundaries.

people might see you as someone who's becoming more guarded and closing yourself off, but to you, it's what's necessary to protect yourself.

you're attractive in the way you're becoming more and more aware of your true worth and your value.

you shouldn't let people look at your inner softness as weakness anymore.

on the contrary, it makes you incredibly strong and attractive, if you confidently embrace that side of you. i can see you stepping into your true power, once you learn to acknowledge your qualities more.

it's very likely for the things you yourself see as your downfalls, to be your actual strengths. you might just see yourself in a negative light way too quickly.

for example, your emotionality and sensitivity doesn't have to be a flaw. it can be your asset. it makes you special.

not everyone is capable of emotional connection the way you are. not everyone has the ability to be so genuinely loving, caring and sincerely empathetic the way you are.

don't constantly see yourself for what you aren't, for what you lack, for what you can't do. but see yourself for what you are and what you have, what you can indeed do!

note; i was definitely the most passionate about this pile because i have to admit, i relate so much 🥹 sending you all my support and hugs sweet reader

[little-miss-fandom-freak]

Jayce Talis x Goth!Reader

Here's the 2nd Goth!Reader story as promised, Dr. Phosphorus' is on the way!

The two of you met while he was in the Undercity buying parts for his newest project.

You were a regular in Benzo's shop, selling anything you found while you were out scavenging. You were in the back, looking for something in particular for a project of your own. When you came from the back, Jayce digging through a box of power converters.

"Whos this guy?" You asked as you walked behind the counter.

Ekko shrugged. "Some topsider."

When he finally found the one he needed, Jayce dropped it in his box and slammed it on the counter.

"How much for all this?" He asked.

Ekko looked at you, then back at him. "Um... let me look."

As Ekko looked through the box, the Jayce's gaze drifted to you. You were too busy going through Benzo's knick-knack box to notice, but he was completely infatuated with you. So infatuated, he didn't even hear Ekko tell him the accurate price. When Jayce didn't respond, Ekko took advantage and doubled the price. Jumping out of his thoughts, Jayce quickly paid, and as Ekko happily scurried away, Jayce kept his eyes on you.

Feeling his gaze, you looked up at him through your lashes. "Can I help you?"

He looked almost startled when you acknowledged him. "Oh-um. I was... um... I-I was just... uh, I wa-wanted to say you... you-you look... nice."

You couldn't help but chuckle at his flustered self. "Thanks. Not so bad yourself, Topsider."

"To-Topsider? How-How'd you- I mean, what? Me, top-topsider no! No I'm not..." He realized he wasn't convincing you at all.

You laughed once again. "You're funny. I like that."

"You-You do?" He couldn't believe his luck right now. Grabbing you supplies, you walked around the counter with a pen in your hand. You pulled his hand twords you and wrote down your information on it and without another word, you left.

♡ Your first date with Jayce was to the History of Piltovian Technology Muesum. He felt a little embarrassed by it at first but was thrilled to find out how much you loved it.

♡ He doesn't quiet understand Goth culture (He's the type of person to call anyone wearing a lot of black Goth), but he tries

♡ He builds you little robot creatures and gifts them to you randomly (holiday or not)

♡ Your dynamic is literally the "He asked for no pickles" meme

♡ Let's you practice new makeup styles on him. It sounds since until you realized he cannot sit still at all.

♡ You're basically known around the university pretty early on as Jayce's scary girlfriend.

♡ People think Jayce is haunted after the one time you spent the day on campus with him and Viktor. Several students reported a ghost sighting that day.

♡ Speaking of Viktor, the two of you got along like a house on fire

♡ Being that you both grew up in the Undercity, you both had a similar thought process.

♡ Despite the chaoticness of the two of you, he loved seeing his best friend and lover get along.

♡ He also introduced you to his mom not even a week into dating (even she felt like it was a little early, but she welcomed you with open arms)

♡ Kinda thinks your a witch because of all the "potions" he finds you making (theyre just medicines and face creams)

♡ If you don't live with him, he will visit you almost every single day.

♡ But if you do live with him, or at least stay at his place the most, he will let you have full control over decorating. He's a scientist, not an interior decorator. The most "fun" thing in his apartment was a dead plant on the kitchen windowsill.

♡ Loves wearing your jewelry.

♡ If you're missing a certain ring or bracelet, there's a 99% chance Jayce took it before when left that morning. (He says wearing it feels like having you there spiritually)

♡ One day, he had you meet the Kiraman's. And you were a nervous wreck.

♡ Not only were they Jayce's sponsors, but they were close friends with him, and you didn't want to ruin it.

♡ When Jayce caught you dumbing down you outfit to one thst was more casual, he FREAKED out.

♡ He hated that you felt the need to change yourself. "If they can't see past the makeup, then they're sad for just assuming who you are without even getting to know you." (He made you cry, thank God you didn't have any makeup on)

♡ Caitlyn was a little scared of you, but eased up when she saw the look of pure love in Jayce's eyes everytime he looked at you.

♡ He bases a lot of his designs around you. This lead to many if the Hex-Tech machinery having Gothic-like designs.

♡ He tries so hard to get involved in your intrests, but he doesn't understand it.

♡ Pre-Time jump Jayce gets very sick when it comes to any level if gore, so horror movies were out. He didn't quiet understand the appeal of Goth music, but he loved seeing the way your face lit up when you would explain the song or the band to him

♡ When Jayce left with Himerdinger and Ekko to investigate the Hex Core, he ran into you. He tried his best to explain everything, and he knew you didn't understand but just being able to air it all out calmed him down.

♡ You were already late for work or else you would've went with, so instead you have him your black cuff. It was his favorite because he had a matching pair that was his house colors.

♡ And good thing you gave it to him, it was the only thing that kept him mildly sane when he was in the other timeline.timeliness. He would spend hours just staring at it, trying to hold on to the memory of you

♡ When he got back, the first thing he did was try and find you. When he did, he couldn't help but kiss you until your black lipsticks rubbed off of you and onto him.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

I hope you enjoyed this and if you have anything you would like me to personally respond to, message me or put it in my ask box because as of right now, Tumblr won't let me respond to comments :)

[rifari2037]

What , Do you like About Zuko X Katara and Aang and Toph .

There are too many things I love about Zutara and Taang, I've probably talked about them in my previous posts a lot. But, there are some similarities between Zutara and Taang that I like.

Zutara and Taang look sooo good together, I mean, look at them!

2. Zutara and Taang donn't get along when they first meet, but later become very good friends and partners.

3. Zutara and Taang have opposite elements, but they are balanced and complement each other

"Fire is the element of power. The people of the Fire Nation have desire, will, and the energy to achieve their goals"

Katara has a fire inside her. She has power and always tries to achieve her will. She's not afraid to fight someone more skilled than her, such as Pakku and Hama. She is also not afraid of the Fire Nation soldiers when helping Haru and the villagers of Jang Hui River.

"Water is the element of change..."

Zuko has the water inside him. Zuko's main arc is redemption, he goes from being an enemy to being a good friend. He changes.

That shows how they can balance each other.

Also, I love how Zuko learns martial techniques from all the elements (he used them all in Agni Kai), but he often uses water techniques in the series.

"Air is the element of freedom"

Freedom is what Toph wants and needs. Aang offers Toph freedom. Aang is also Toph's first friend, she even tells Aang her feelings and shows him the abilities she hides from others.

"Earth is the element of substance"

Toph is the one who teaches Aang to be tough and stand his ground. That's all Aang needs to get out of his comfort zone.

That shows how they need each other.

Also, I love how Aang as the avatar can use all the elements, but earth is the element he uses the most after air.

4. Zutara and Taang have deep connection towards each other that build their chemistry.

Zutara are the reincarnation of Oma and Shu. The story, the symbols, even the colours of their clothes, all show the connection between Zutara and Omashu.

Aang and Toph have a connection, that's shown in episode The Swamps. In that episode, Huu explains how the swamps gives visions of people who are connected to someone.

Huu : In the swamp, we see visions of people we've lost, people we loved, folks we think are gone. But the swamp tells us they're not. We're still connected to them. Time is an illusion and so is death.

Sokka and Katara see a vision of their past, someone they've lost and they love most. Yet, Aang the only one who sees someone in the future.

But, how if Toph is actually someone in Aang's past? How if she is the reincarnation of Avatar Kuruk's lover?

I really love this theory!!!

And even if Toph isn't the reincarnation of Avatar Kuruk's lover, the swamp still show a connection between Aang and Toph when he sees the vision of her.

And they're still connected when Toph decided to live in the same swamp where Aang first sees her in her old days.

5. Zutara and Taang's disguise are matching. Zutara represent the spirit world meanwhile Taang represent physical world.

6. Zutara and Taang have similarities of how they meet the original source of their element.

Zuko and Katara never meet the original source of their elements until they set off their journey with the Avatar. And the way the Avatar meets them seem so magical.

Meanwhile, Aang and Toph have met the original source of their element and have been friend with them since they were little.

7. Zutara and Taang crumbs in NATLA make me love them even more!!! Look at them wore their colour!!

I can't wait to see them in the next season!

[the-angry-acrobat]

how you can help stray animals

the first thing to remember is not to take stray animals to kill shelters. if you leave an animal at a kill shelter, the animal will not be properly looked after, rehomed, or given a chance. many shelters kill the animals just because they don’t have enough room in the shelter. they decide which animals are more in need of adoption and rescuing, and they don’t consider or care for all of them individually. they euthanise animals that are old, ill, aggressive, unclaimed, or unadopted after a very short period of time. the animals are not kept in clean and safe conditions. they are not given attention, love and care, which leads to depression, anxiety, stress and many other behavioural issues. an estimated 100,000 animals are killed in council pounds and shelters every year, and most are never given the chance to find a new home.

what to do instead of taking animals to shelters;

rehoming. try and find someone who will adopt and care for the animal. ask your family, extended family, friends, the friends of your friends, your friend’s families and extended families, cousins, uncles, aunts, siblings, and anyone that you know if they will take and care for the animal. if they are already looking for a pet this is an even better idea. if not, make sure you give them plenty of time, space and help with the animal as the animal settles into their home. make sure the animal is being cared for properly there, the people intend to keep it up, and regularly check in on the animal and family. find the animal a forever home.

fostering. you can foster the animal, giving it a temporary home with you, until you can find someone to adopt the animal and give it a safe place to go.

animal rescue groups. there are very good, safe, humane animal rescue groups and animal charities that specialise in caring for animals that need homes or are strays. research properly into any rescue group first, connect with people who have had experience with said group, go and have a look at the rescue first, and meet some of the animals there, talk to staff and volunteers. make sure the group is no-kill, and rehomes and adopts out animals to good homes.

adopt the animal. if you have the time, space, resources and money to care for the animal and you want to care for it, then adopt it. get the animal the right veterinary and health care, prepare to bring the animal to your home, make sure that if you don’t live alone that the people you live with are also prepared and want to help care for the animal/are cool with you bringing the animal in. care for the animal well, give it lots of attention, love, and play, and love them.

if you cannot give the animal to a rescue group and have to take it to a shelter, then research the shelter, make sure it is a humane, safe, no-kill shelter, look into the shelter properly and check the health regulations, state and condition of the animals, staff behaviour, and if there are volunteers working there. possibly interact with some of the animals there, and make sure they get attention and proper care at the shelter. then and only then take the animal to the shelter and make sure the shelter will be looking to rehome the animal to a good, safe family. other ways to help stray animals:

provide them with food and water. this can be done by setting up a food and water station in a safe and accessible area. that way you can ensure that the stray animals nearby have access to the nutrition they need.

provide them with shelter. you don’t have to adopt the animal to make sure they’re safe. you can set up a shelter in your yard, garage, or basement. you can build a shelter out of wood or other materials. this will provide the animals with a safe place to rest and/or stay warm during cold weather.

volunteering. volunteering to help stray animals is a good and safe way to help them. animal lovers can step forward to help strays in their communities get vaccinated, treat injuries and even find new homes. they can assist in the establishment of adoption centres and humane shelters.

look out for stray animals. stray animals' lives are incredibly hard, with many daily challenges. it is a struggle for them to find food, water, and shelter, and they are without medical care. they are also deprived of the love and companionship they need to survive. each day is a struggle for them. don’t let them suffer in silence. do whatever you can, even if that is not much. it’s better then nothing. spread awareness for stray animals whenever you can.

please share this and spread awareness

[maelstrom-of-emotions]

Ah, I’m so relieved this didn’t come off as obtuse. And yes, absolutely—SAD-ist’s animations feel like the sun of this fandom, something warm and glorious and gorgeous beyond comparison. While I do think that the pandemic definitely played a role in that hyperfocus. I mean, when the world is crumbling and death is on your door and the next, what else can you do but cling to something else, anything else?

But I think that same semi-isolation also gave the fandom its pulse, its coherence, so to speak. I’ve just never seen a community grow with such synchronicity. People were talking, there were no cubicles (or, not that I know of, besides the shipping ones; which were rare since the fandom is a grand canyon of family fics) but there was just this togetherness, all helpless people coming together to build hope. For it is the hopeless that carry it the most. Maybe time has softened the rough edges and made it all seem more golden than it really was, but even from a biased historian’s point of view, it feels monumental. It feels loved.

The thought of all these people—keeping the altars clean, offering their sacrifices, building this wonderful, self-sustaining ecosystem—it’s incredible. Even if it’s all a bit abandoned now, their work still stands. A place where we can still photosynthesize, still flop around and bask in what they created. It leaves me starstruck every time, seeing the way people take a source material they love, pour their own love into it, showing their work a gentleness that they can’t bear to show themselves and create something. Stepping stones for new fans to walk on, a path smoothed by people who loved, who cared, who tried. It’s like watching a legacy grow in real time.

This is all very dramatic, I know. But I think the DSMP is just the perfect example of it. All that passion, the effort, that love - seeing what we can do when when we care to build something bigger than ourselves.

Probably not the best place or time to say this, but I think people often make the mistake of believing it’s too late to join a fandom, as if there’s some invisible clock that’s run out. “There was an era for it, and now it’s gone” - that’s how the common saying has become. But fandoms don’t die. They’re not eras; they’re living, breathing things. Even when they feel buried, they’re just buried alive. And buried feelings never really fade. You can always come back to them, in fact, often times they force you.

Sure, it might not feel the same as it once did. Maybe the golden days are gone, but that doesn’t make it any less meaningful. What matters is that it’s still loved. Fandoms don’t have deadlines, and they don’t come with expiration dates. The love you have for them is valid whether you’re there from the start or you stumble into it years later. That door is always open. You don’t have to keep peeking from behind the curtain.

Thank you, internet stranger, because I had a lot of anxiety posting that and now there’s just dopamine.

Yknow what I'm actually tired of so many people getting mad when Tommy and other dsmp members bring up the server because "it's been 4 years get over it" when it's like.... I still think about my middle/high school minecraft servers with friends all the time and we make the same dumb inside jokes from it over a decade later, and that's WITHOUT having a massive fandom obsessed with our server and friendships and constantly being reminded of it by strangers. And that's such a normal thing to be nostalgic of fond memories with friends. And yeah absolutely some fans take it too far bringing it up too often BUT also we were all locked up during covid's peak and it was literally impossible for some people not to get parasocially attached when we spent more time watching these streamers than with our own friends/families in many cases. And I don't *want* to think about that server so much even to this day years later. I didn't want to waste literally hundreds of hours (thank twitch recaps) watching everyone's pov of block game even back then. but mental illness is a bitch, hyperfixation is a hard thing to fight, and I'm not blaming myself for being reminded of it when it was one of if not the worst period of time for our generation and the only escape we had was a dumb minecraft server we weren't actually on (though I argue the fans were absolutely "a part of" the server in a sense as a hefty chunk of the lore came from fans). And that said I know when to sit on those thoughts without saying anything in streamers chats, and I know not everyone knows how/when to do so

Idk man just let people be is the main thing i'm trying to say nostalgia is not a crime

[milkoomi]

₊˚⊹ ᰔ a guide to building confidence ᝰ.ᐟ

confidence doesn’t come easy when we live in a world full of standards that we feel like we have to follow and uphold. let go of those standards and focus on you and what you want for yourself.

let’s begin !!

ᝰ.ᐟ posture

your posture might be one of the first things people notice about you! so stand up straight, bring your shoulders back, and lift your head up high! having good posture isn’t just good for your back, but it’ll also make you feel more regal, classy, and come off as more confident.

people always tell me that they love how i hold myself, and part of that is thanks to my posture! i walk into any room with my head held high and standing tall because i want people to see that i hold myself to the highest standard and i want to feel that way too!

ᝰ.ᐟ maintain eye contact

this is a hard one, for me at least. it’s something i’m still practicing! but being able to maintain eye contact not only shows that you’re engaged in a conversation, but also shows that you aren’t afraid to communicate with whomever you’re speaking to!

i’m neurodivergent, so eye contact is not one of my strong suits, but what’s helped me in conversations is to look at the person who’s speaking while i listen and once it’s my turn to speak, i’ll maintain eye contact for short periods of time as i talk and then gradually continue to keep the eye contact going! it also helps if you look at one of the eyes of the person you’re speaking to and focusing on that rather than their entire face!

ᝰ.ᐟ speak up

for my soft spoken babes out there, you are allowed to get a little loud! if you’re someone who tends to hear “i’m sorry, what?” or “i can’t hear you” you gotta speak up! as someone who was told that all throughout my younger years in middle/high school, i got tired of it really quickly, so i started to raise my voice a bit whenever i spoke. now, i’m not saying you have to go out and start yelling at people, but just use a bigger voice whenever you talk!

it also helps to articulate your words more! mumbling can be a sign of anxiety or insecurity, so be clear with your words. speak with clarity!

ᝰ.ᐟ be, unapologetically, yourself

when you start doing things because you want to or because it makes you happy, you start feeling so much better about yourself. immerse yourself in things you enjoy rather than what people say you should enjoy. live for yourself, play by your own rules, and stop succumbing to what other people want from you!

get that hair cut, dye your hair that color, wear those clothes & accessories, do your makeup how you want to, get into the hobbies you’ve been dying to enjoy, listen to the music that makes you feel good! be your most authentic self!

ᝰ.ᐟ dress to impress yourself

to go off of that previous point, it’s important to wear what you feel the most comfortable in! wear what makes you feel good and makes you feel like the best version of yourself!

don’t dress for anyone else but you! you should be the only one you’re trying to impress! if you feel great in the clothes you decide to wear, then keep wearing them! find a style that you feel like you would absolutely devour in!

ᝰ.ᐟ learn to accept criticism

“but you just said-!” hold on, babe!!! i mean this in a professional sense! when it comes to your job, career, and/or your education, learn to accept that constructive criticism from your mentors/teachers/higher ups!

i used to dread being told that there was something i needed to improve on, but it turns out that that constructive criticism helped me grow in my field, in my schooling, and even as a person. learning to accept that kind of criticism will help you more than you think. it allows you to continue to grow, to see what exactly it is that still needs a little bit of work, and with that information you can hone and sharpen your skills, your knowledge, and yourself which will lead to more personal growth! and with that growth comes more achievements, and with more achievements, the more confidence you’ll have for yourself!

ᝰ.ᐟ stop the negative self-talk

if you don’t like being put down by others, why would you do that to yourself? continuously putting yourself down or talking poorly about yourself will only continue to bring down your own confidence. the insecurities will only take over even more if you keep bringing yourself down with negative self-talk.

be kind to yourself. you should love yourself as you love your friends, family, and partner(s). you deserve kindness, especially from yourself! make it a daily goal to look in the mirror and compliment yourself the way a loved one would!

𝜗𝜚 final notes 𝜗𝜚

building confidence isn’t an easy feat, a lot of this is so much easier said than done, but if you want to have personal growth you have to put in the work towards making yourself better, and make sure you’re making these changes and going through these growths for you and not anyone else. i know a lot of us want to be treated a certain way, so start with treating yourself that way!

live and love, babe.

sincerely, juno ⭑.ᐟ

[lillaydee]

Uncoupled - December Part 2

Roommate! Joel Miller / Reader

Two people leaving their marriages ended up going through the mandatory one year separation together before filing for divorce.

Nothing could possibly happen in a year, right?

WARNINGS: Alternate Universe - No Cordyceps Outbreak (The Last of Us), Ellie & Joel Bonding (The Last of Us), Good Parent Joel (The Last of Us), Soft Joel (The Last of Us), Joel Needs a Hug (The Last of Us), Hurt Joel (The Last of Us), Protective Joel (The Last of Us), No age gap, Roommate Joel, Teacher Joel, Handyman Joel, Insecure Joel, Minor Character Death, Grief/Mourning.

SERIES MASTER LIST

December Part 1

---

Joel put his truck into gear and drove off, his heart heavy at the sight of a sobbing Ellie in front of your bakery, his cheek still tingling from the small peck you gave him, your whisper of ‘drive safely’ to his ear as you lightly hugged him before he left, still giving him goosebumps. He had picked Ellie up as usual, but instead of taking her home as he had done this past week, he dropped her off at the bakery. He needed to pick his Mama up back home so that she could spend Christmas together with you, Ellie, Tommy and Maria. Tickets for flights, trains or buses were nowhere to be found so close to Christmas, so he decided he would make the six hour journey to pick her up.

She had offered to drive, but his heart couldn’t take the thought of his mother making the drive alone in her old car in the cold. What if it started snowing? What if there’s ice on the road? No… so Joel decided he would leave immediately after school and the two of them could drive up together. He will drive her back after New Year. Fatigue be darned.

But this would be the first time in nearly four months that he wouldn’t be there at Ellie’s bedtime. The first time he wouldn’t be there to read a story for her or stroke her hair until she fell asleep on his lap while watching TV. He had promised her it’s just for a night, and the little girl had clung on to him like glue as he tried to pass her on to you; so hard, you had to peel her off him.

It’s so weird how attached he had become to this little girl, and her to him. He was never one of those men who hated children; he was a teacher after all. But since children was a far off topic with him and Jen, he had never imagined he would end up being this attached to one. Really. He loved that little girl so much he would be hard-pressed to believe he wouldn’t die for her.

And then, there’s you, and this ‘feelings’ he might have for you.

It’s not that he didn’t want to explore the ‘feelings’, it’s just that he really wasn’t sure. What if he told you how he supposedly felt, and it turned out to be a rebound thing? You were one of the nicest people he knew, and you were just as vulnerable as he was these days – he couldn’t do that to you. So until he was sure it was a real feeling he was feeling, he wouldn’t say anything. Until then, he will enjoy your company and just live in this fantasy land where you, him and Ellie were a family.

He glanced at the passenger seat as he drove. A basket full of the biggest thermos you found, filled to the brim with hot coffee, just the way he liked it, a big bottle of water and a massive container of assorted bite-sized pastries and biscuits and cookies from you, and a packet full of assorted gummy bears from Ellie’s personal stash accompanying him to make sure he didn’t go hungry or thirsty during the six hour drive. Had Jen ever done that for him? He once went to visit his mother for a week and came home to Jen leaving for a night out looking shocked he was back with a suitcase; she hadn’t even realized he had been gone, much less made up a care package for his journey.

But see, this was just one of those things that made him so confused about his feelings. Was he really attracted to you? Or was he just enamored by everything you did for him that Jen did not? When he sprained his shoulder building the planter boxes when the two of you had the house to yourself, you spent the night before Ellie came back icing his shoulder, even going so far as massaging it for him, your lips full of apologies and words of promises to make him all the rice puddings he wanted for making him build them for you. In truth, all you did was tell him your vision for the garden when spring came, but he got overexcited and just got to work. He loved that you shared that with him, that you asked for his opinion. He wanted to do that for you, he wanted to make you happy, because you made him so very happy.

When you were trying out new cookie recipes for the bakery, he became your tastebud, your sounding board, taking his opinions and recommendations into account. You were now talking about redoing Ellie’s room so that it didn’t look like an old lady’s room, and the other day, you were looking at pictures of kitchens, and googling how to repaint your kitchen cabinetry. He looked forward to it all. If not for nothing, he just wanted to spend time with you, work side by side with you. And he knew for a fact that you would welcome his help and company.

That was the other thing. You had never rolled your eyes in distaste for him, never dismissed him or his thoughts or his stories. You literally stopped what you were doing to listen to him, actually removing a pot off the stove once so you could turn and give him your full attention. He had to consciously remind himself to not talk to you when you were concentrating on something – you would definitely stop just to entertain him and his nonsensical ramblings.

He once asked Jen if she had seen his laptop, and she took a deep, annoyed breath as an answer. After that initial year of marriage, everything he did annoyed her. The first instance shocked him. He sneezed while dusting the TV cabinet once, and she snapped at him to sneeze quieter. He joked that if she could figure out how he could control his sneezes without bursting a blood vessel, he would gladly do it, and she grabbed her car key and left for the night, screaming in frustration. He remembered standing there in shock – had he crossed some line he didn’t know existed or something?  

After that day, everything slowly changed. He got yelled at because she came home and there was dinner on the stove. She had a dinner to go to, who the fuck was going to eat that? He ended up taking the food to school for lunch that week, but he didn’t see what the big deal was. So she had a dinner – she didn’t tell him that, so he cooked, and that, apparently, merited a yelling.

And if he dared burp in her presence, or God forbid, cut a fart… oh… how could he do such disgusting things in her presence.

The first time he accidentally farted in front of you, he froze. Ellie let out an eww, so he very quickly said sorry. You didn’t even look his way. You just said, ‘it’s alright,’ lifted your own butt and cut one right back at him, grinning at him so widely he couldn’t help but laugh until he cried. Ellie kept her fingers on her nose until she was blue in the face but ended up laughing with both of you anyway.

So, was he falling for you, or was life just easier with you? Was the joy he was feeling every time he stepped into your company proof that he’s in love with you, or that he had been treated so negatively by his ex that he was confusing the relief he felt with love?

He did know one thing for sure though.

God, he missed the two of you already.

He had been on the road for around four hours when his phone rang. When he realized it was you he slid the answer button so fast he almost dropped the phone from the holder. You apologized profusely for calling, but Ellie refused to go to bed without saying goodnight. He told her a short story his Mama used to read to him before saying goodnight, the little girl mumbling ‘goodnight old man’ as she drifted to sleep. You whispered to him that she was out, and he could hear you close her door. You asked him where he was, how long of a drive he had left, and if he needed company for the rest of his journey.

He said yes to your company so quickly his cheeks felt hot at his desperation. But you just laughed.

You basically kept him company, telling him the drama that was Ellie during dinner, wallowing in the fact that he wasn’t there as if he had been gone a month, making his heart clench. You told him about the Karen that tried to exchange cookies bought from another bakery for yours because yours were nicer, making his blood boil at the thought that someone was so rude to you. You kept him talking, but not distracted, making sure he was not nodding off while driving.

This was the other thing about you. He felt as if you cared about him. The snack basket, the lunches you packed for him, the check ins whenever he’s not at home, your interest in his family, always asking about Tommy and Maria and his Mama. He off handedly mentioned something his Mama had begun crocheting and you asked him the next time he got off the phone about that particular project, whether she had finished it, if she liked the end product. He separated the beansprouts from his meal at dinner once, and all of a sudden, beansprouts no longer appeared on his plate. You paid attention. You cared.

In no time at all, he had pulled into his Mama’s driveway, shocked that two whole hours had breezed by since you called him. You were in the thick of telling him some idea Frank had about the Christmas cake, so he cut his engine and sat there, taking the phone from the holder, listening to you ramble on about the silly idea Frank had, and the back and forth he and Tess had about it, laughing at your story telling talents.

His Mama knocking on his window made him jump. He opened his door and told you his Mama was there. You just started speaking to her as if you had known her forever, despite never having met before. You ended the call, much to his disappointment, telling him to get a good night’s sleep and to text you when he’s leaving the next day.

“Hi Mama,” he greeted her with a kiss. He picked up the backpack he had brought with him and the basket of snacks you had provided, putting his arm around his mother’s shoulder before walking in with her.

**********

Anita Miller was an observant woman. She may not be the richest, or the most educated, but she was an observant woman. She also had a sixth sense of sorts, about the people she loved and those around them. When she got pregnant with Joel, she knew before she even missed her period. She knew he was there. He was an easy pregnancy. She didn’t get sick, she felt energized for much of her pregnancy, he hardly gave her any discomfort, just turned every now and again, a small kick or two, making her feel as if she had butterflies in her stomach and the labor was a breeze, considering it was her first pregnancy.

And that was how Joel was as a son. He was easy. As a baby, he hardly ever cried, just ‘complained’ when he wasn’t comfortable or was sick. He was the child who sat still when visiting other people’s homes, who helped with dinner, who cleaned up after himself, who never got in trouble at school. He was such an easy baby; she and Jake were tricked into believing child-rearing was easy. That her friends and family who complained raising children was the hardest job in the world were exaggerating. So they tried for a second baby.

She knew from the start Tommy was going to be… challenging. The morning sickness, the body aches, the food allergies, the ‘Tommy’ kicks, the extra strength Brackston’s Hicks, the bedrests, the labor… oh… the labor…

Tommy was the kid who couldn’t sit still, who Joel helped calm down, who screamed his lungs off at every discomfort, who Joel comforted, who raided people’s pantries and toyboxes when visiting, which Joel put right, who left a mess, which Joel cleaned up, who got detentions every single week, where Joel waited for him, who got into fights with just about everyone at school, which Joel defended him for, who couldn’t decide on a future, which Joel advised him for, who went through girlfriends like he was changing his clothes… where… Joel had to help break the news to the unfortunate girls for.

When Anita first heard about Maria from Tommy, she had a feeling. She heard him as a different person when he told her he met someone. Even on the phone, she knew. She knew this was the woman he was going to marry. She saw how Tommy mellowed around the time he met her, and he had matured to be the responsible man he was today. And when she finally met her, her hunch was confirmed. Maria was his other half. She completed him. Anita knew. She felt it.  

Joel, on the other hand, met Jen the day he started high school, became good friends with her, and stuck with her. As he and Jen went through all those stages everyone went through, right to adulthood, he stuck with her, as she pulled farther and farther away from him.

The first time Jen came to the house for a school project with Joel, Anita didn’t think anything. They were friends. But the moment Joel told her they were a couple a few years later, she felt… something. She was shocked, to be honest. Jen was not someone she ever thought Joel would be with, even if they had been friends for a while. As they grew older and their relationship blossomed further, Anita tried hard to make peace with it. Jen was a sweet girl, and Anita had nothing against her. She just… had a feeling. Something was not right. But her son believed he was happy. And Joel had never given her grief about anything. So she went with it. As long as her son was happy.

But then she watched that once sweet girl turn into the ambitious, callous, rude, selfish, cold-hearted person she was now. She saw how heartbroken her son was. Even though he played it down every time he talked to her, she knew. She knew her son was unhappy. She saw how Joel had to work too hard to make this girl happy. He would work extra hours to buy her a present, saved and starved to get her something she wanted, especially since she started college. She saw how Joel felt he needed to work for her love, her attention. He was always trying to prove his worth to her. And she saw how disappointed he was every time his efforts were downplayed. She saw with her own two eyes how this once sweet girl chastise her son for letting her stay over. For buying her something on her birthday. For spending money on her.

She heard from Tommy how this once sweet girl broke her son’s heart, blatantly cheating on him and shoving it in his face. She saw how she made her sweet boy smaller, quieter, sadder. It broke her heart so much that she nearly jumped with joy when he finally told her he was leaving her.

And then, he moved in with you. She felt it. He changed. He was himself in ways she didn’t even know he could be. He was happy. Really, really happy. He was relaxed. Rested. Comforted. Content. She asked Tommy about it. And Tommy let slip that Maria and her good friend Tess may or may not have orchestrated this whole living arrangement out of a hunch. A hunch, Anita had to say, she shared wholeheartedly.

Joel just sounded… different. The very first time Joel introduced her to you via Facetime, she just felt it. She had a feeling.

A good feeling.

Although, her oldest boy kept insisting that you were no more than a friend. A roommate. His best friend these days. And yet, she could hear his smiles and his expanding heart every time he talked about you and Ellie, which was every single time he talked to her. As soon as he moved in, stories about the little girl Ellie filled her heart. Joel couldn’t stop talking about her. Pictures upon pictures of Ellie was shared, Anita had a hard time believing she was not her grandchild at all. Facetimes with Ellie was a regular thing, which you sometimes join in on. She found herself missing you and Ellie, despite never meeting, and would beg Joel for stories about her, about you. Every time she went shopping, she found herself buying things for you and the little girl, and earmarking recipes for you to try. Anita had to remind herself that you were his landlady, not his girlfriend. But my God, she liked you.

She had a feeling.

And tonight, as she watched Joel sit in his parked car talking to someone on the phone, she didn’t need to ask who he was talking to. She saw it on his face. His tired, worked all day and drove all evening face.

She knew he was talking to you.

She had a feeling.

And when she found out you had kept him company for the final two hours of his drive and had packed a basket full of snacks for him so he wouldn’t go hungry during his drive, she found herself liking you more.

When she heard him talk on the phone in his room before bed, laughing and giggling with someone she couldn’t see, she didn’t have to ask who it was either. And when he called someone before leaving early the next morning, the smile on his face as he assured the other person that he will drive safely, stop if he felt tired and text if he did stop anywhere, as well as the smile that lingered for ages on his face as he drove the two of them back to his new home told her everything she already knew. He was talking to you.

She had a feeling.

**********

Joel’s truck had hardly entered the driveway when the front door flung open. A little girl, wrapped in a thick jacket and wool hat was standing right in the doorway - practically giddy with excitement as Joel muttered to himself ‘no, no, no, don’t come out yet sweetie, it’s not safe’ – and waited until he killed the ignition before running towards the driver’s door and launching herself at him as soon as he opened it, climbing aboard onto his lap and hugging him with all her might. She then shyly peeked at Anita, saying hi in the sweetest voice Anita had ever heard since her own boys said their first words.

Her own side of the door opened, and Anita was greeted by the sweet, adorable face she had met on Facetime, jumping out to give you a hug. She felt as if she had known you forever, and you, her. Joel came around the truck, Ellie still clinging onto him, giving you a kiss on your cheek and quick hug hello. As you pried the little girl off Joel, telling her Joel must be tired, let’s not cling to him like that, okay, Anita felt it again.

She had a feeling.

Joel carried her many, many bags into his room with Ellie’s usual brand of ‘helping’, letting his Mama have his room for the two weeks she would be staying – he would be staying in Ellie’s room. You and Anita were already like a pair of old slippers, you telling her to sit down as you served lunch for the four of you, her shushing you and helping set the table anyway.

Lunch was a merry occasion, and Anita felt welcomed and right at home, Ellie sitting between her and Joel, chattering as if she hadn’t seen Joel in a week, telling him everything he had missed since he left them not 20 hours ago. Then came the conspiratorial whispering, one that had been happening a lot over the last week, you told her. It’s a surprise, he told you, winking cheekily at Anita with a smile.

Tommy called a few hours later, asking if he and Maria could trouble you to come over for dinner – as if he needed to ask. You had never minded if the six of them dropped by unexpectedly. Plus, Anita hadn’t seen Maria in person since she got pregnant, so she was very excited for her son and daughter in law to come visit, promising his and Joel’s favorite meal for dinner. She asked if you would mind taking her to the store so she could buy some ingredients? You, of course, didn’t, just as she expected.

She separated from you for a while as she was looking for something, so you took the opportunity to get some stuff for the house. You were getting Joel’s usual brand of shampoo when a sharp tap on your shoulder made you look.

Jen. In all her immaculate perfection. Honestly. You felt like a frumpy old lady every time you saw her.

“Come to your senses yet?” she snarked, her eyes giving you a once over, checking your comfortable shoes, your warm but less than stylish jacket and the peeling old purse you were holding, the one Max bought you with his first pay.

“What do you mean? Come to my senses about what?”

“Look at yourself. I wouldn’t be caught dead looking like that in public, and here you are.” She snapped a picture of you, messy ponytail and all, and typed a quick text before sending the picture to someone. “I don’t even want to imagine what you looked like at home. And to think he left me for you. Don’t you realize you are not his type? Why would he lower his standards to be with someone like you?”

“I think he left you because you cheated on him, Jennifer, and may I say, she looks much better than you did before all the surgeries.”

Jen’s face snapped at the sight of Anita appearing behind you, placing a few items into the cart. She composed herself and forced a smile on her face.

“Anita… I’ve missed you… how are you Mama?” She tried to hug Anita, but the older lady took a step back.

“You missed me? The last time you saw me you called me ‘an intrusive old lady’, you know, as you were screaming at Joel to send me home.”

“Well, I was having a hard time back then…” Jen waved her hand as if what Anita just shared wasn’t the most horrifying thing you could think of being said to her.

“Yes… cheating must have been very difficult for you. Anyway, nice to run into you. I hope that doesn’t happen again. Come on, Lily sweetie, let’s go home. Joel and Ellie are waiting.”

She slipped her hands through your arm and guided you out of there, Jen standing there, stewing at the thought of her soon-to-be-ex-mother-in-law calling you ‘sweetie’ when she was never granted such a term.

“I knew you’ve always hated me,” she screeched out after the two of you.

“Really? I wonder why,” Anita dryly replied.

She paid for the purchase, fending off your protests and sweet talking the cashier into taking her card instead of yours, helped you load everything into the car, got in, and heaved a huge sigh of relief as the two of you buckled up and waited for the engine to warm up.

“You know, I never liked that bitch.”

**********

Joel showed you the message Jen sent him while you were at the store. A picture of you with the text – ‘I can’t believe you dumped me for this’. He hugged you, asking you if you were okay, knowing that she must have confronted you if she was that close to you to get a picture.

Anita told him what happened, and he kissed her, thanking his Mama for defending you. He hugged you again, apologizing for Jen’s words. You waved it off, it wasn’t his fault, you told him. She’s right, you muttered to yourself when you were sure Joel was out of earshot, greeting Tommy and Maria at the door, both of whom quickly smothered Anita with hugs and kisses as Anita cooed at Maria’s belly.

You unpacked the shopping while Anita, her two boys and Maria were merrily chattering while dinner was being prepped. She was making the boys’ favorite stew. When Jake Miller died, Joel and Tommy were only seven and four. His pension was hardly enough to cover half the expenses, so she would make that stew to save cost. It quickly became the boys’ favorite meal, she told you. She’ll teach you how to make it, it might come in handy, she said.

“It’s true. Sucks the grump away from both of them like that,” Maria said, snapping her fingers, her mouth full of the leftover Christmas cookies you had brought home from the bakery the night before.

You laughed, Joel and Tommy kissing their mother’s cheek, so much love in their eyes for her. You kept unpacking, your eyes glued to how happy Joel looked that his mother was here, absent mindedly taking out a plastic container that rattled. Upon realizing what it was, you shrieked and threw it onto the counter, taking a step back, looking at it in horror.

Ellie ran in, panicked at hearing you scream. Joel immediately going over to you, asking you what was wrong, did you hurt yourself? Was there a spider? What? Ellie peeked on the kitchen counter and saw what you just tossed. Recognition immediately filled her features, and she started laughing uncontrollably.

“What? This?” Joel asked, picking up the item you tossed.

It was a container of raw kidney beans.

He showed it to you, asking you if that was what you were scared of.

You froze and took a step back.

“When she was my age Daddy told her she needed to put them up her nose if she wanted to get the good presents for Christmas. She put so many up there her nose bled, and her head rattled. Grandpa had to take her to the hospital. The whole family missed Christmas that year.”

“Wait, that’s where Beans came from?” Joel asked, a sweet smile forming on his face.

You bit your lips, shame flooding your face. Fuck. Secret’s out.

But then you sort of saw the funny side of it and snorted. You nodded slowly, your eyes closed, your face scrunched up in embarrassment.

“So you don’t buy kidney beans?”

“Only the canned ones. Never the dry ones.”

Anita snorted, and the rest followed. You laughed with them, bent double from the silliness of it all. Joel gave you another hug, kissing you on the head.

“You’re adorable,” he said, before he could stop himself. You blushed and smacked his arm, continuing your unpacking, laughing as you did so, shoving the beans and a few other items into his hand telling him to store them in the pantry.

Anita was an observant woman. She watched every time Joel looked at you, which, if her watch was right, was every few seconds any time the two of you were in the same room together. She watched as he touched you every chance he got. She watched as his face lit up every time you talked, blushed every time you were looking at him. She watched as her oldest son’s face morph into longing and yearning every time you were not. She watched as he clung on to every word you said to him. She watched as he smiled and relaxed in your presence. She watched as he bounced around the house with you with ease, as you laughed with each other.

She watched. She observed.

She knew.

She had a feeling.

Her oldest son was head over heels in love.

For real this time.

And she was all for it.

---

December Part 3 - The Show, The Purses, The Mistletoes

[kagoutiss]

pelican town, ‘72

[tenderjock]

I’m with you, my love The lights shining through on you Yes, I’m with you, my love It’s the morning and just we two

[starleska]

psst, hey, fellow selfshippers and lovers of fictional characters!! something i want to share and reassure folks on as a person who gets character crushes super easily: don't be embarrassed by whoever's making your brain light up 🥰💖 i see some lovely folks get really in their head about this. perhaps they've always crushed on a specific kind of character, so when they get one who's a little different, they feel like they can't talk about it. maybe they've touted themselves as having one crush and have been super dedicated that whole time, so feel like it's a betrayal somehow, or makes them less of whichever label (e.g., yume, selfshipper, etc.) they've identified with. i'm here to tell you that's all nonsense!! 💖 this is fandom. you're not an influencer and you don't need to keep up a specific 'brand'!! if you see a character who makes your heart all gushy, don't think up an imaginary critical audience who is going to yell at you for not fixating on the 'right' thing. life's too short to deny yourself happiness 🫂

[rocicrew]

The Expanse (2015-2022)

[enwie]

"If they just kill this one person who's really evil they'll fix the cycle of violence forever" <- people who somehow fail to grasp the message of a children's show which is not being subtle about it

[faaun]

procrastination is starting to have its consequences finally