#multicultural dating

[gornwen]

Things no one prepares you for in multicultural dating: the foods you want when you are sick are different.

I made a damn good lime honey whiskey tea (think hot toddy on steroids), have procured ginger ale (Canada Dry, Vernon's is annoyingly difficult to find outside of Michigan), and found kettle cooked potato chips to cure and soothe my partner's sore throat.

I am drinking said tea and he is eating a bowl of instant noodle soup with fish balls.

[gentleauroch]

I am 20 next Monday. Good god.

[laindependencialuna1899]

istg my roman empire, mongol empire, golden horde is hitting bitches who hate polyamory

[aqlstar]

Shavua Tov jumblr

Starting out this week with some kvetching about stuff that doesn’t matter

Does it bother anyone else that some American public schools insist on using “winter break” instead of “Christmas break?” It’s a break that consistently lines up with Christmas and New Years- just own it. No one’s mad schools give off for Christmas; just don’t pretend you’re giving time off for a multicultural celebration of all winter holidays when you aren’t.

Also- “Happy Holidays” when used in a virtue-signally way (as opposed to meaning Happy New Year and Christmas). Because half the time Hanukkah and Dwali have like already passed or aren’t coming up for another entire month.

Similarly, what’s up with BCE/CE? BC/AD was honest and open about being a Christian system of dating. BCE/CE is still just as Christian, but it pretends to be universal. “Common Era” my ass.

Did anyone ask for these changes to be made? Or are culturally Christian Americans trying to fool themselves into thinking that American society is more secular than it is? … So they can gaslight us about it later

Feeling extra suspicious lately 🤨

[psychicreadsgirl]

Pick a Dish: Your Relationship Dynamics with your next S/O

Pick the picture that draws you most. If you can't decide between 2, then look at the 2 readings. Remember, this is a general reading so take what resonates and leave what doesn't behind.

#1

Very relaxed, kind of lazy. Stay at home dates - a lot of Netflix and chill vibes. Almost literal couch potatoes at times.

You two will feel comfortable with each other really fast. You two won't be scared of sharing your "bad" sides like farting in front of the other or telling them how bad your arm pits smell etc. You also will feel comfortable wearing just casual stuff or PJS or home clothes with them. You won't really feel the need to put on makeup or dress up much for your S/O.

You two will feel like good friends, in fact, almost like best friends. You two will either be very clingy towards each other or will lead very independent/almost separate lives, mostly bc of your work/school or some other uncontrollable situation.

You will both help out each other and listen to one another. There's a lot of positive energy between you two. And a LOT of lazy chill energy - which is fine too. Just be careful of your health - still important to exercise and eat healthy.

Some people may feel like you two are like those super old married couples, but you both feel that's ok.

For some there may be a long distance relationship for you two or it will become one after dating.

#2

You both like to keep things fresh and spicy. Expect lots of surprises and fun. I see both of you travelling a lot together and you might even be the couple that quits their jobs and becomes vloggers or quits their jobs to start some other biz etc. Somehow being together leads you two to create something together, whether it be a career/organization/a place/other friendship maybe. There's some "expansion" or creation aspect to this union.

You will find each other to be very funny and will enjoy spending time with each other. You will have endless of things to talk about--likely one of you will be more chatty and the other just more quiet.

You two don't seem to place that much emphasis on material things in life. You enjoy doing activities together -- not necessarily the fact that you two went to some "fancy" restaurant. You both don't really care about luxury goods or brand names. You both would rather spend money on more practical things or entertainment like travel, movies, vacations, etc.

For some of you you might be polar opposites with the other person so inevitably there may be times where you two will definitely butt heads. However you two will make up usually by some physical touch or sex.

#3

There'll be some traditional undertones to this relationship. Perhaps both of you come from very strict families or one of you does or maybe you/they/both have traditional values. Maybe you two were set up by your parents.

There's going to be some element of cultural significance/foreign element too. Perhaps you both enjoy different cultures' foods. Maybe one of you comes from a multicultural family or has lived abroad in many different places. Maybe one of you is fluent in multiple languages or has many different friends abroad. Maybe you guys even are from 2 different countries.

Oddly there's a mix of non-traditional/traditional elements to this relationship. Sometimes that might make for a very interesting dynamic/relationship. Sometimes it might lead to conflict/disagreements because there are 2 different, sometimes opposite views in play.

There's likely going to be someone's parent that disapproves of this relationship for some reason.

I don't see this relationship as one that's particularly easy, in the sense that there are a lot of factors that are out of your control, which try to break you two apart or cause you two conflict. Whether you and your s/o will be able to work with each other to overcome those will be up to both of your efforts in the relationship.

This relationship will also be a meeting of equals, so you both will be quite "equal" in the sense that there won't be a power imbalance. You both could be equally smart or equally foolish. You both could make similar amounts of money too.

#4

This will be a rather chaotic yet dynamic pairing. Somehow there'll be a lot of gossip/news or something related to your relationship. Perhaps this is some office romance that's a bit judged on (i.e. you are dating your boss) or maybe you two seem like such an unlikely pair that people kind of just assume the worst about you two.

I see a strong physical attraction. Sometimes it might even seem like that physical attraction triumphs other parts of the relationship. There will be a lot of physical touch and bedroom activities. If you've never had your 1st sexual experience, then your s/o will likely be the more experienced one. It's not to say that they have fooled around with tons of people out there, but they will have had more dating experience than you.

It feels like one party will be more mature/experienced, while the other seems to be more naive/innocent/inexperienced. There may also be an age gap at play and this age gap can be quite big. Possibly for some of you, this will be the relationship after you've ended a long term relationship or marriage. Possibly for others, your s/o might have been previously engaged or married. Your s/o might even have married more than once before.

This relationship may also have a bit of like..parental feeling? Getting the sense that 1 of you might suffer from issues related to your parents and somehow your s/o kind of takes on the role of a parent that you didn't have. Some people might feel like your s/o is like your nanny sometimes or butler? One of you will definitely be the one that does a lot of acts of service.

#5

There's a very youthful feeling about this relationship. It might even be the 1st relationship that you'll ever have. There's that puppy love/1st love feeling. If it's not the 1st relationship, then it might be that rare serious relationship that you have.

There are very deep feelings within this relationship from both sides - more emotional than physical. Not to say that physical affection doesn't exist here, but you two will feel very emotionally connected with each other. You might even feel like they don't even need to talk to you and they get how you feel and vice versa. I don't see that a lot of communication is needed between you two. Somehow one look or some behaviour will just let you or your s/o know what's going on.

There can be some feelings of possessiveness/obsession with this relationship. 1 of you or both will be rather possessive. That can be bad or can be fine, depending on how it plays out. The possessiveness can sometimes turn into deep obsession/jealousy, which would not be great.

You might feel in this relationship that without your s/o you are incomplete. You feel like your s/o truly understands you. It's possible that 1 of you have had a traumatic childhood/past or both of you have and you two bond because of this. Or one of you will be very empathetic and understanding or somehow maybe even have an occupation as a therapist/healer/doctor that can help your s/o.

#6

Wow there's something really forbidden about this relationship. You or your s/o might both be already in relationships or even in a marriage but somehow you two are very drawn to each other. The lust/attraction is irresistible and even if you or both are already in relationships, you both will still date. Another possibility is that you two are dating when you're not supposed to be like the school/company won't let employees date or you're dating your best friend's ex partner. Or you two come from 2 different religions/ethnicity that traditionally have hated each other. Other possibilities in rare cases could be like incest or bordering incest (i.e. you are in love with your step sibling who doesn't have any blood relations with you or you are in love with your cousin etc). In other rare cases, you may be dating a well-known public figure secretly.

There's a lot of intensity with this relationship. The physical affection/passion is definitely there. There may be like a lot of angst too or suppressed feelings or you know in movies etc where there's a lot of sexual tension but then someone comes and interrupts and so the sexual tension has to be cut short? Something like that.

This relationship while intense may end rather abruptly or have many make ups and break ups. Somehow you both continue to be drawn to each other.

For some there may be some toxic stuff in this relationship - I see a lot of arguments and shouting and then shortly after there'd be intense makeup sex or kissing. A lot of times the physical side of the relationship will dominate everything else, which isn't so good, because the problems of this relationship don't go away.

For this relationship to work, both will need to recognize the issues and want to change and also realize that communication is very important. For some, this relationship will inevitably end for various reasons.

Because of the forbidden element to this relationship, inevitably there can be many misunderstandings and complications.

This relationship, however, will be one that you will definitely always remember - probably the one most dear to you.

[i-wanna-write]

If One's Different, One's Bound to be Lonely - Wolverine Fic

Fic Synopsis: We know Wolverine and Sabertooth but the reader is known as Jackal. Just like the other two, their mutation is animalistic, lending them healing factors, enhanced physical abilities, and animal senses. This fic details their relationship with the Anchor!Wolverine and how they ended up meeting the Worst!Logan

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6

Chapter Warnings: violence, cussing, lewd comments/thoughts, lots of angst

Word Count: 4k+

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Many months passed and it took you a while to become semi-comfrortable living at the school. The first few weeks were completely overwhelming. You spent half your time in your room, needing space from the voices, the scents, the people. 

You did not teach at first, Charles allowing you to grow accustomed to school and being in civilization again. Your days consisted of you using the combat training room and prepping lesson plans for teaching - something you found yourself terrible to do.

You could easily teach the kids how to defend themselves and harness their powers. You did it yourself so many years ago. But deciding what books to read and why was proving to be difficult.  

The bright side of living at the school was that you were able to find friendship in Ororo. The two of you ate dinner together everyday, yourself not being much of a morning person. You were able to eat with some conversation, though never going too deep. You learned that she taught an elective of multicultural studies and discovered her mutations when she was only nine years old. 

Another bright side was that Charles allowed you to frequent the woods in the surrounding area when you needed a break from others. You were able to fully be yourself, not keen on showing the students the full capability of your mutation yet.

Soon, you felt comfortable enough and found it ridiculous that you were nervous to teach. You were surprisingly good and due to your love of literature and ability to read people, you were able to plan lessons that the kids actually enjoyed. They always seemed to be engaged in your classes and had deep thoughts about whatever book you were reading.

When it came to combat training, the kids actually respected you, though some were even scared of you. You figured to throw caution to the wind and started day one with explaining your mutation and letting the kids who felt comfortable to do so too. You explained to them how it was important to have confidence and embrace their abilities. To not be afraid or ashamed of them.

In addition to being the resident doctor, Jean also taught biology courses and was dating mister stoic, Scott. The cyclops taught geometry and continued to annoy you to no end. 

A year into living in the school, Charles pulled you into his office one day. He explained how he and some of the faculty are what he deemed the “X-Men”. How they scout for other students or adults to join their school, as well as take down any threats, mutant or not.

So that became your life for the next three years, joining Scott, Ororo, and Jean on missions to find other recruits. Sometimes Charles would send you and Ororo on solo missions, knowing that you’ve gotten your hands dirty in the past and had no qualms doing so in the future. 

You weren’t offended by that notion. You were confident in yourself and not ashamed of your past. If these people could accept you despite it, you could accept yourself. You were happy to be the go-to mutant to take down any enemies - especially when it meant helping kids who needed it. 

You were able to get more comfortable around others, Charles helping you explain the concept of ‘putting up a wall’ in your mind. The wall allowed you to limit the increased stimuli your instincts constantly gathered. 

The next three years of our life you were content. You may have even considered yourself happy.

Until a man you never thought you’d see again showed up.

And he didn’t remember you.

You just got back from a solo-mission, your aim to gather intel on a mutant named Magento and his brotherhood of mutants. His right hand man, another mutant similar to a Sabertooth was spotted and Charles sent you to do some scouting. Your skill of adaptability comes in handy. 

But as soon as you entered the school, Charles’ voice entered your head.

“Y/N, come to my office, it’s urgent.”

Odd, as the man rarely enters without your permission, you quickly made your way to that destination. You passed Ororo and Scott on the way, both looking weary but not speaking a word to you. You reached Charle’s office and knocked, waiting for a response.

“Come in,” his voice sounded and you did as he said.

You entered and froze at seeing a man from your past. There, standing in Charle’s office was Logan. Was the Wolverine. He was dressed in gray sweatpants and sweatshirt, ones that definitely did not fit him.

Your eyes gaze over him, noting how his build seems larger than before if possible. The sweatshirt was zipped halfway, showing off his brown chest hair that you missed so much. His shoulders are broader, arms more defined. You finally reach his face and a gasp leaves your mouth. You can’t help it.

He looked the exact same as all those years ago. His jaw is lined with stubble, longer than you've seen it before. His hair was longer as well, the tufts on either side more pronounced then you’ve ever seen. 

You take a deep breath to inhale the scent you missed so much. Smokey like a cigar, a splash of whiskey, something that you always defined solely as Logan. Only there’s something else.

Something different.

When your gaze finally meets the rich brown you’ve been dreaming about, there is no softness like you expected. No look of trust and warmth. No recognition.

Instead, they were filled with distrust and confusion.

You felt like you were stabbed through the heart.

“I know this is Logan, and you knew him in the past.,” Charles’ voice starts in your head. “But I’ve looked into his head and he has no memory of you. In fact, he has no memory of anything past ten years ago.”

You give a stubble nod, showing Charles you understand. You swallow a lump in your throat but do your best to remain professional.

“Miss. Y/L/N. I’d like you to meet Logan.” Charles begins introductions, gesturing to Logan with one hand. He brought a teenager here and will be staying for the time being to help us assist against Magento. We think the girl, Rogue, is wanted by Magneto.” Charles begins to explain before turning his attention to Logan. “Logan, this is Professor Y/N. She teaches English Literature and helps out with Combat Training. In addition, she is a member of the X-Men and one of my most trusted companions.”

That’s news to you.

“Y/N, I was hoping you could give Logan a tour and show him where he will be staying for the time being.” Charles finishes.

“Um.” You hesitate before clearing your throat. “Of course.”

No. You do not want to be around this Logan. This is not your Logan. This is someone entirely different. Someone who had to have gone through something similar to you to not have his memories. To smell different. 

“Wonderful! I’ll leave you two to it.” Charles finishes, dismissing the both of you.

You look to Logan, motioning with your head for him to follow you at the door. The man looks at you with distrust before sighing and doing so. You close the door to Charles' office, stopping to turn to the man you used to know.

“Sorry about Charles or any of the other people you met already. While they’re also mutants, they don’t get people like us.” You say quietly, knowing he’ll hear you.

“Us?” He questions, eyebrow arched.

His voice, too, is the same it was all those years ago. Rough and husky that sends a feeling throughout your entire body. You shake that thought and send him a sly smirk. You raise your right hand, growing your claws on it and flashing your sharp teeth.

“Us.” You say.

Logan raises an eyebrow in surprise at this. You wonder if you’re still the only female mutant like him he's met before - except he doesn’t recognize you so he’s now meeting you for the first time. You watch as his gaze travels down your body, as if assessing you for the first time. His mistrust seems to grow in you as his eyes narrow. You should have expected that, with what happened during your first meeting and all. A feral with another feral could lead to someone getting their throat ripped out.

“Shall we begin the tour?” You don’t wait for a response, turning on your heels and walking down the hall.

…

The tour ends with you bringing Logan to his assigned room, the one right across from yours. Lucky you. You open the door and step in, throwing your hands up and spinning around the room.

“And this is where you will be staying. You got a bed, dresser, nightstand, closet, and private bathroom.”

You watch as Logan steps into the room, looking around and taking it in. He was quiet throughout the tour but you could tell he had questions. That he was observing and reading you, waiting for a moment to escape or attack if he needed to. The two of you were still so similar. His personality was exactly as you remembered it. Confident but not cocky, smart but not arrogant. You just wished he remembered you.

“I’ll leave you to it.” You give a tight lipped smile and go to leave, passing him as you do so.

His arm grabs yours, stopping you. Unlike the last time you first met though, his claws don’t come out and pierce you. He merely grabs you and turns you to face him.

Goosebumps arise on your skin as this is the first time you’ve been touched by him in so many years. You hope he doesn’t notice the reaction he gets from you. The increase of your breathing and heartbeat. The slight blush you’re sure you’re wearing.

Your gaze goes from his eyes, to his hand, then back to his eyes. He immediately lets go, his face almost looking apologetic before he stops himself.

“How did you end up here?” He asks after a moment of silence, as if he’s waited the whole day to ask. “How can you stand being here?” He shakes his head, as if he can't fathom being around all these people.

You let out a chuckle. 

“I couldn’t stand it. Not at first. I’ve lived my whole life alone,” You stretch the truth “enjoying the comfort of it. Charles found me and I was hesitant at first. But, I realized I could be the person I needed years ago. It’s been a good few years for me since I came here.” You reveal, not wanting to say too much.

Not wanting to say how much you missed him. Or how you’d wait for him to show up on your front porch. Or ask what he’s been up to. Or what has happened to him to not remember things.

“And they don’t care that you’ve -”

You cut him off. “Killed people?” You shake your head. “No. If anything it gives them an excuse not to get their hands dirty.”

Logan stares at you, as if pondering your answer. You don’t give him time to explain, stepping halfway at the door.

“I’ll leave you to get settled. During your stay, if you need booze, you won't find it here. Charles doesn’t allow it in common areas due to the kids around. But feel free to knock on my door. I have lots of beer and whiskey.” You shoot him a smile.

You cross the hall and unlock your own door, not looking back and closing it. You then lean against it and slide down to the ground, silently letting your tears fall.

…

The next morning, you cry again. You can’t help it. Everything you imagined happening to Logan the past years, this wasn’t it.

You always assumed he was out there searching for you too. That the two of you would eventually find eachother again and simply missed each other in passing every so often.

You never expected this.

You’re currently sitting in med bay with Ororo, Scott, and Charles. Jean ran tests on Logan, examining his mutation and performed a full body scan - all similar to your own when you first arrived. The results startled you. All his bones have been coated with a metal called Adamantium. It was surgically grafted into his entire skeleton. 

That explains the change in his scent.

Jean explained how his mutation is the reason he survived the surgery. His regeneration capability allowed him to heal rapidly. Jean added how determining his age could be impossible because of this. His was very similar to your own mutation, she added.

Ironic that you’ve been dying to know the similarities between you two all those years ago. Yet you find out the worst way imaginable.

“Who did this to him?” Scott questions, voicing everyone's thoughts.

“He doesn’t know.” You speak up before Jean can. “And I bet he doesn’t remember everything about his life before it happened.”

All four of your companions look at you, surprised at your knowledge. 

“That’s correct.” Jeans confirms. “How do you know that?”

You look to Charles for guidance. You weren’t sure if you should reveal that you’ve met Logan before. That his name was James and he had a brother named Victor. That he enjoyed whiskey on the rocks and added too much salt to his steak. That he smoked cigars in bed and was a blanket hog.

“Share what you’d like. We won’t tell him.” Charles promises, getting nods from the others.

You swallow, trying to form words to discuss a past you’ve long since tried to forget. “I haven’t seen him in many years..” You start. “I met him in the 50s, and we ran into each other for the next ten years or so. He went off to Vietnam and got tangled with some people but we found eachother again.” You close your eyes, remembering the day like it was yesterday. “We lived peacefully for six years. We were… normal. Until one day, I was captured and we saw each other for the last time.” You finish, keeping it short and concise.

“You guys ran into each other or you guys ran into each other?” Ororo questions from your right.

You shake your head at the woman, knowing what her thoughts are. You couldn’t blame her. Logan looked just as appetizing fifteen years later.

“You trust him?” Jean questions, asking you curiously.

You can tell she wants to dive into your mind. To figure out Logans past from you and try to work through how to help him. That’s how Jean is, you've come to learn. Always wanting to solve the next puzzle. 

You sigh, thinking of that question before finding your answer. “Back then, our roles were reversed. I was more feral, more likely to get into a fight or kill someone. I hated being around anyone and solely followed my instincts. He was the calm one. He had no qualms ignoring his instincts. Now though, although his personality is the same, he’s definitely not the man I knew back then. But if there’s one thing I’m sure of, he’ll still have good morals. ”

Which was the truth. Even when you saw Logan at his worst, he knew right from wrong.

There’s silence again, everyone taking in your answer. They knew of your past and didn’t think any differently. But they weren’t sure about a stranger in the school full of teens. A stranger that solely trusted his animalistic instincts with indestructible metal throughout his entire body.

You had to add the part about his morals. That was the very first thing you admired about him. He always seemed to not want to cause harm, cause destruction. He always seemed to want to make the right choice. 

“Experimentation on mutants. It’s not unheard of but I’ve never seen anything like this before.” Charles breaks the silence.

“What do you think Magneto wants with him?” Scott questions.

“I’m not entirely sure it’s what Magneto wants.” Charles reveals.

…

Later that day, you follow Jean into the exam room where Logan sits upon the table. He’s back to wearing the great sweatshirt and sweatpants and looks up as you too enter.

“So?” He asks, seeming to ignore your presence. 

“The metal is throughout your entire skeletal system, as expected.” Jean informs him.

He snorts, as if to say ‘I told you so’. His eyes take you in as they did last night. Only this time they only hold curiosity. You guess that's a step up from mistrust. 

“So why are we here again? You people got your pictures.” He tells you.

“With my abilities, I might be able to grab a memory and see it.” Jean simply explains to him. The two of you make your way towards the man, you behind him while Jean is in front. His gaze solely focuses on you, as if he poses you as the bigger threat and doesn’t want his back to be turned. 

“And you brought the English Lit teacher because?” Logan questions, not turning to look at the doctor.

“It might hurt and I probably rival your strength the best here.” You smile snarkily, wanting to smack the condescending look off his face.

“Whatever you think bub.” He states.

You roll your eyes but don’t say anything, looking to see if Jean is ready. The woman nods and you place both of your hands on either of his shoulders. You squeeze and press down with your strength, smirking slightly at the way Logan tenses. If he was going to be a dick to you without even knowing you, then you were going to be a bitch back.

“Ready?” Jean asks, raising her hands to both his temples but not touching him.

You feel Logan take a deep breath and you assume he closes his eyes before Jean does the same. His body immediately tenses up and you take a guess that he probably would have moved if you weren't holding him, You watch as Jean's eyes flutter back and forth beneath her eyelids as she tries to uncover any memory. Not even thirty seconds later, Jean’s hands are removed and Logan relaxes. 

“What did you see?” He asks her.

You watch as Jean stares at him before saying, “Scott.”

You turn to the door and see the man standing there. Jeans doesn’t answer Logan's question and bids you both goodnight, Leaving the two of you alone.

“Guess you’ll find out tomorrow, tough guy.” You tease before walking out of the room and leaving him alone.

…

You wake to a shout. You immediately rush out of bed, dressed in sleep shorts and a t-shirt that's seen better days. You open your door and look up and down the hallway, seeing no one there. You start to head back to your room before you hear another shout, realizing it’s coming from Logan’s room.

Throwing caution to the wind, you enter his room and quickly shut the door to find him thrashing around on his bed. You slowly walk closer, knowing how to be silent, and look over him as he has what you assume is a nightmare. 

Sweat litters his brow and shirtless torso, his eyes moving under his eyelids. He continues to thrash, his head moving side to side as another shout escapes him. You can’t bear the thought of him going through this.

“Logan.” you whisper, body standing on the left side of his bed. “Logan.” You say a little louder.

It does nothing to wake him and he continues to dream, body moving more as if it’s becoming worse. Sighing, you lean forward with your left hand, reaching down to touch his left shoulder. Before you can touch him though, he awakes.

“Arrghh!” He exclaims, a schilt noise heard before you feel metal pierce your body.

“Fuck!” You shout in pain, feeling your breath catch in your throat, guessing that a lung or both have been punctured.

You begin to gasp for breath, feeling as you open your mouth but nothing will enter it and make it to your lungs. You E/C eyes match dark brown and you see a now awake Logan staring up at you, eyes filled with concern.

“Help me.” Logan says. “Somebody help!” He screams as you continue to struggle for breath.

For some reason, your body is taking longer than usual to heal and you don’t like that thought one bit. You’ve survived so much in your long life. Bullets, Animals. Other mutants. Knives. You are damned if the man you used to love is the one that kills you.

Willing your body to cooperate and heal, you raise a hand to one of the wounds and grow our own claws. You then dig them in, and it seems to snap your body out of shock, starting to heel. It’s at that moment the light flickers on and you turn to see Scott, Jean, and Ororo enter the room, children standing in the hallway.

“What happened, are you okay?” Ororo asks, immediately rushing to your side along with Jean while Scott tries to block the kids.

“Yeah. I just startled him and got to close. His claws got me.” You explaining, looking at both the concerned women and smiling lightly.

“Then why did he scream for help?” Jean questions, lifting your shirt to see where the wounds should be, already gone and healed.

“I don’t think my brain registered what happened. My healing didn’t trigger right away so I sped up the process.” You explained. 

“Healing?” Logan questions from behind.

Suddenly remembering you’re in his room and have an audience, you glance up at Scott and the kids, addressing everyone except the man seated on the bed behind you.

“I’m okay. We’re okay.” You start. “Everyone back to bed. You have class in the morning.”

Some of the kids groan, probably excited that they saw more action tonight than they have throughout all of their combat training. You look to Ororo and Jean and say,

“I’m okay, promise.”

They both search your face for a moment, looking for any signs of a lie. But since you’ve known them, you’ve been evasive yes but never lied to them, furthering their trust of you. They seem to believe you, both nodding before turning around and leaving the room. Ororo shoots you a small smile before closing the door so you’re now alone with Logan.

You turn and look at the stranger wearing the familiar face. He’s still sitting on the edge of the bed, his face full of concern and staring at you. His gaze still seems to continue to roam your body, as if not believing you’re okay.

Even though he doesn’t remember you, you remember him. It breaks your heart to see him like this. You walk closer to him, his gaze never leaving. You gesture with your hand to the seat on his left, silently asking if you can have a seat there.

He nods, turning his head to look at you. You take the seat and lick your lips and sigh before starting to speak. “When I said you and I are alike, I wasn’t lying. Your mutation is similar to that of the Wolverine animal. Mine is similar to a Jackal.”

Reconfizition immediately fills his face. You hope, for one second, it’s a memory. Maybe you were in his dream. Or maybe, be some stroke of luck, he’s remembering you and all your times together. But that’s not what happens.

“I’ve heard of you,” He starts, his voice gruff. “A mutant that relies solely on their instincts. Known for hunting down dangerous mutants.”

You smile slightly at that. “That’s me.”

“But I’ve heard about them existing in the mid 1900s. You don’t look like you're 80.” Logan says, his eyes moving across your face, as if observing if your true ability is to simply disguise your age.

“Hence how we’re alike so much. I was born in 1895. I have regenerative abilities that cause me to age slowly. And also heal quickly.” You inform him by gesturing to your healed wounds.

His gaze travels down, able to see your stomach through the holes in your shirt - which you have no qualms about. He has seen you naked before - memory or not.

“Have we ever, I mean,” Logan pauses, as if searching for how to ask a question. “If I’m as old as Jean thinks I am, and you're as old as you are, have we ever met before?”

His voice is hopeful, as if you can be the answer to his lost memory. You immediately think of what could possibly go wrong if you tell him the truth. You certainly don't think it would jog his memory. If anything he could possibly look at you with pity if you tell him everything. How you guys got to know each other and all it entailed.

You sigh though. You don’t want to lie to the man. You decide honesty with some hidden truth is the best option.

“Our paths crossed over forty years ago. We ran into each other a few times after.. Just shared about our experiences as mutants.”

Surprise and relief covers his face. You wish you could be fully transparent, you really do. But you know it wouldn’t be fair to him. He’s essentially a new person, he has a chance to start over. Forget all the wrong he did and maybe do some good.

“What was I like?” He questions and you knew it was coming.

“Exactly the same.” Your reveal. “Confident but not cocky. Smart but not arrogant.” You leave the explanation at that, not wanting to dive deeper into how he's the same person but now has a chance to do different things. “Can I ask a question?” You try to change the subject.

Logan sighs, as if knowing you were going to. Since Jean revealed his adamantium skeleton, one question has been on your mind.

“When your claws come out, do they hurt?” You needed to know. Needed to know if what he went through continues to torture him everyday.

“Every damn time.” Logan reveals.

Your heart breaks even more, if possible.

\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///\\\///

Tag List: @randomblogzsblog, @sebastianstanblog, @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @somiaw @sseleniaa @whyamistillontumbler @badbishsblog

[bruciemilf]

I think Tim and Jason should bond over their significant others being Damian's favorites instead of them.

Bernard genuinely asks his opinion on multicultural lore, folklore, mythology, legends, etc.

Damian seeing the opportunity to use his education for something harmless and enjoyable? Sign him up.

Let them have a mystery board! Let them watch the X Files and Doctor Who and Buzzfeed Unsolved and form inside jokes! " Dames, you're not gonna believe this,"

"Hey, Joker! I'm on your bridge!"

Tim's eye twitches. Bernard just apologetically Informed him date night is cancelled because he and Damian are going to pull an all nighter to catch the tooth fairy.

"When did you lose a tooth?"

Damian looks him square in the eye, " Oh, they're not my teeth." Before nonchalantly leaving.

With Jason it's a whole other beast. There's exactly four people Damian openly favors in this household; Alfred, Bruce, Dick, and Titus. It's a carefully selected pyramid.

Jaime, his amazing boyfriend, overthrew said pyramid.

One night; It took one night of babysitting. That was it.

"Damian's a sweetheart! Honestly, how could someone ever have problems with him?"

"...So he didn't attack, maim, or killed anyone? Tried to escape? Bite your finger off?"

" No? We binge watched Sailor Moon and painted together! It was fun. I do have to go through, Bruce left me some training sheets and,--"

A katana pierces through Jaime's shirt and Damian stubbornly holds him down. " We have two more seasons to complete. "

[lesmana-enterprise-ltd]

Our Story, Meet the Lesmanas.

Meet the Lesmanas—the family behind the powerhouse that is Lesmana Enterprise. As the driving force behind one of the Simworld's most influential companies, they blend tradition with cutting-edge innovation. Led by patriarch Kieran Lesmana, every member of the family plays a crucial role in sustaining their empire’s global reach. From Tyo, the poised heir, to Mia and Amira carving their own paths, they embody the essence of wealth, influence, and responsibility. The Lesmanas are more than a family—they are the foundation and future of the enterprise.

(Left)

Kieran Agung Lesmana Birthdate: March 12, 1966 (58 years old) Occupation: CEO and Chairman of Lesmana Enterprise

As the head of Lesmana Enterprise, Kieran oversees the massive business empire that his family has built. He's a shrewd and pragmatic leader with a vision for the company that spans decades. Despite his strict and focused demeanor in business, Kieran often finds himself enjoying his late-stage life, yet he maintains control over his image as the powerful patriarch of the Lesmana family.

(Right)

Seo-Yeon Lee

Birthdate: October 7, 1997 (26 years old) Occupation: Celebrity and Shareholder in Lesmana Enterprise.

Seo-Yeon, the wife of Kieran, is a social media sensation and an ex-Spop artist. Her role within the Lesmana family has elevated her into elite circles, but she maintains a vibrant public persona. She often enjoys the luxuries being a new Lesmana offers, but behind the glamorous facade, she’s sharp and calculating when it comes to maintaining her status.

(Left)

Tyo Saputra Lesmana

Birth Date: January 12, 1989 (35 years old) Occupation: Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Lesmana Enterprise

Tyo Saputra Lesmana is the eldest son and COO of Lesmana Enterprise. The chosen heir to lead the family business, Tyo balances corporate pragmatism with family tradition. A firm but steady leader, he works to shape the future of the enterprise while maintaining the family's legacy. Married to Clara, he’s often the anchor in family affairs, though the weight of the business constantly looms over him.

(Right)

Clara Ivanova Lesmana

Birth Date: April 17, 1990 (34 years old) Occupation: International Lawyer

Clara Ivanova Lesmana, born into a multicultural heritage of Indonesian, Russian, and Ukrainian descent, is Tyo's no-nonsense wife. With her international legal expertise, she brings a sharp perspective to the family. Clara's strong demeanor complements her role as a devoted mother and wife while navigating the intricate dynamics of the Lesmana family.

(Left)

Anindita Dianti Lesmana

Birth Date: February 7, 1992 (32 years old)

Occupation: CEO of Lesmana-Unternehmen Windenburg AG  

Anindita, also called “Anin” serves as the Lead of the Enterprise’s projects in Windenburg such as The Windenburg Royal Cathedral Restoration Project. Her work focuses on historical preservation and infrastructure projects. With a strong sense of family tradition, she is respected for her meticulous attention to detail.

(Right)

Arthur-Satria Lesmana

Birth Date: August 1, 1996 (age 28) Occupation: Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of Lesmana Enterprise

Arthur-Satria Lesmana heads the creative division at Lesmana Enterprise, responsible for marketing, branding, and the company’s public image. Known for his vibrant, carefree lifestyle and connections to the world of influencers, models, and pop culture, Arthur brings a modern flair to the family business. While his approach sometimes clashes with the more traditional values of the family, his innovative strategies have helped keep Lesmana Enterprise relevant to a younger demographic.

(Left)

Mia Citra Lesmana

Birth Date: January 15, 2004 (20 years old) Occupation: Influencer and Shareholder in Lesmana Enterprise

As Kieran’s fourth child, Mia is still figuring out her path in life but enjoys the perks of being part of the Lesmana family. She’s currently pursuing a degree at Del Sol Valley State University while being an active Simstagram influencer. Known for her luxury lifestyle, Mia enjoys her status but can be perceived as tone-deaf when it comes to the reality outside her bubble of wealth.

(Right)

Amira Malinda Lesmana

Birth Date: June 7, 2008 (16 years old) Occupation: Student and Shareholder in Lesmana Enterprise

The youngest of the Lesmana family, Amira is still in school and balancing her life between being a teenager and growing up in a powerful family. She is slowly gaining traction as a social media personality, often appearing in Del Sol Valley events and sharing glimpses of her life online. Despite her privileged upbringing, Amira is exploring her identity and figuring out where she fits into the family's empire.

(Left)

Liam Mas Lesmana

Birth Date: June 16, 2016 (8 years old) Occupation: Elementary School Student

The eldest child of Tyo Saputra and Clara Ivanova Lesmana, Liam is growing up under the guidance of his ambitious parents. He's intelligent, a bit mischievous, and already shows signs of being quite the negotiator like his father. Liam enjoys being the center of attention among the younger generation of Lesmanas and is often seen shadowing his father during corporate visits.

(Right)

Rania Putri Lesmana Birth Date: February 10, 2019 (5 years old) Occupation: Kindergarten Student

The youngest member of the Lesmana family, Rania is a playful, curious child with a bright personality. She's doted on by her older sibling, aunts and uncles, always the center of affection in the family. Rania is already learning how to balance her mixed cultural heritage and often mimics her mother Clara's no-nonsense attitude in a more innocent way.

[lionofchaeronea]

Coin of Antialkidas, king of the Indo-Greek (Yavana) Kingdom, a Hellenistic successor state encompassing parts of present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. Antialkidas' regnal dates are disputed, but he probably reigned in the late second or early first century BCE.

On the obverse, Antialkidas is shown wearing the aegis (which identifies him with Zeus) and holding a spear. The Greek inscription surrounding him reads BASILEOS NIKEPHOROU ANTIALKIDOU ("Of the king, the victory-bearer, Antialkidas"). On the reverse, Zeus, holding a scepter tipped with a lotus, stands before an elephant with a bell (the symbol of Antialkidas' capital city, Taxila, located in the Punjab region of present-day Pakistan). Above, Nike, holding a wreath, crowns the elephant. The inscription on this side is in the ancient Indic script known as Kharosthi and reads MAHARAJASA JAYADHARASA ANTIALIKITASA ("Of the victorious king Antialkidas"). This blending of motifs and languages from the Mediterranean and South Asian regions reflects the multicultural, syncretic nature of the Indo-Greek Kingdom.

Photo credit: Classical Numismatic Group, Inc. http://www.cngcoins.com

[supernotnatural2005]

The Meet Cute - Chapter Three

Pairing: Dean x Reader

Summary: After deliberating with yourself for weeks about committing to a date with Dean, you finally take the plunge after some much needed encouragement off of your best friend and the desire to see Dean again.

Word Count: 3.4k

Warnings: FLUFF, mentions of past relationships, Matty is something else 😂

AN: Here it is! I'm excited to finally be sharing this with you all and hope it was worth the wait. I do apologise for it taking so long, but I wanted it to be right. Also, I am from the UK, and know very little about American customs and their multicultural societies etc 😅 What is included in this chapter is purely based off of research, so I do apologise if any of it is wrong.

Main Masterlist

TMC Masterlist

The first few weeks after the wedding weekend flew by in a blur. Work had been relentless, and though you had Dean’s number and exchanged a few texts, you just couldn’t find the time—or the courage—to meet him again. It wasn’t that you didn’t want to. Every time his name lit up your phone, your stomach would flip, and you’d catch yourself smiling before you could stop. But the thought of stepping into something new, something that could hurt as much as it could heal, was terrifying.

Matty had been the loudest voice in your ear, even from across the country. After the wedding, he’d returned to LA, and his absence was palpable. Phone calls and late-night texts were all you had now, and this evening was no different, and as perusal the topic was brought back to Dean. 

“Babe, you’re doing that thing again,” he said in a sing song voice over the line. “You’re overthinking, overanalysing, and over-everything-ing. Just go out with him. It’s one date.”

“It’s not that simple,” you replied, picking at the edge of your blanket you had draped over your legs, a glass of half-drunk wine sat beside you. Outside, the rain drizzled against the windows, the soft patter mirroring the unease in your chest. It was a common denominator in your augment of why you hadn’t gone on this date already. 

“You don’t understand,” you said, your voice quieter now. “The last time I let someone in, it broke me. You were there, Matty. You saw what it did.” Although it had been nearly 3 years, sometimes the wounds still felt fresh, no matter how much ‘healing’ you’d done. 

The line was silent for a moment, and then Matty’s voice softened. “I did. And I also saw you rebuild yourself. You’re stronger now, more than you realise and you deserve to be happy. Don’t let fear keep you from that.” You sighed softly, knowing and hating that he was always right. But it was moments like this that made you only cherish your friendship more. 

“Now, onto more important topics. Has he sent you a dick pic yet? And can I see it?” 

After scrubbing, to no avail, at the wine stain you’d made by spluttering all over your beige blanket as a result from choking on your wine.

Leave it to Matty to turn a tender moment vulgar.

His previous words had stuck with you long after the call ended. 

They echoed in your mind as you lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. You’d spent so long guarding your heart, building walls to keep the pain out. But those same walls had also kept joy at bay. Could you really let someone in again?

The decision came one evening when a text from Dean popped up. It was a meme—a goofy, exaggerated depiction of a woman in an elaborate ball gown captioned, “Me: ‘I have nothing to wear!’”

You burst out laughing. It was the latest in a string of silly back-and-forth’s you and Dean had been sharing. The unofficial competition to ‘out-meme’ each other had been one of the lighter parts of your chaotic weeks. His text reminded you of the morning after the wedding, when he teased you about your hug faux pas and your insistence that you didn’t need rescuing. 

Somehow, this guy—the one you’d hugged by accident, who had laughed with you through one of the most unexpectedly fun nights of your life—was still here, making an effort.

The thought hit you like a jolt. Dean had stuck around. Even through your genuine excuses of being busy, he hadn’t given up. And he still made you laugh.

Before you could second-guess yourself, you typed out a reply.

You: Okay, you win. When are you free?

His response came almost immediately.

Dean: I’m free Friday. There’s a little Italian place just outside of town I think you’d like. I’ll pick you up at 6?

You: Deal. 6 it is.

Friday evening arrived quicker than you expected. You spent far too long debating what to wear, rifling through your closet as Matty’s voice echoed in your head.

"Wear something that says, ‘I’m interested but not desperate’”.

“Easy for you to say.” You huffed, settling on a simple pale-yellow sundress paired with some cute wedges you’d purchased a couple of weeks ago, but had yet to wear. By the time you were done with your hair and makeup, you were flustered but cautiously optimistic.

When Dean had texted that he was outside, your stomach was a bundle of nerves. Taking a deep breath, you grabbed your bag, forgoing a jacket since it was the middle of July and the weather was decent enough to not need one, and headed out. 

You were taken by surprise when you first saw his car. It was a classic black Chevy, sleek and immaculate, and somehow it suited him perfectly. Dean leaned casually against the driver’s side, dressed in a dark green button-down that made his eyes stand out even more, paired with some dark-wash jeans and boots. He looked delectable.  

Dean’s grin widened the moment his eyes met yours. "Wow," he said, his voice carrying a mixture of warmth and awe. His gaze swept over you—not in a way that made you feel self-conscious but as if he genuinely appreciated every detail. "You look amazing."

"Thanks," you replied, a shy smile tugging at your lips as a blush crept up your neck. His words, paired with the sincerity in his tone, had you feeling flustered in the best way. "You clean up pretty well yourself."

Dean stepped closer then, his movements unhurried and natural, as though he’d done this a hundred times before. When he leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to your cheek, his lips barely brushing your skin, it was enough to send a shiver down your spine.

"It’s really good to see you," he said softly, his voice tinged with a genuine warmth that melted any lingering nerves.

The unexpected intimacy left you momentarily stunned, your heart pounding in your chest. You barely managed to maintain your composure, though the scent of his cologne—woodsy with a hint of spice—was distracting in the best way. And the way his hand lingered briefly on your arm as he pulled back didn’t help your spiralling thoughts. Damn, why did he always have to smell so good?

"You too," you murmured, your voice softer than you intended. Meeting his eyes for a brief moment, you felt a jolt of something unnameable. It left your stomach flipping and twisting, and before you could overthink, you broke eye contact, glancing toward his car.

“Nice car,” you blurted out, gesturing toward the polished vehicle behind him. Immediately, you wanted to kick yourself for your awkward comment, but Dean didn’t seem to mind. If anything, his grin grew even more excitable.

“She’s my baby, my pride and joy,” he said with a touch of affection, running a hand over the gleaming roof. His tone held such earnest admiration that you couldn’t help but laugh.

“Your baby?” you teased, raising a playful brow.

Dean didn’t falter, not even a little. “What?” he said, a spark of mischief lighting his eyes. “Are you a little jealous? Afraid of some competition?”

You chuckled, raising your hands in mock surrender. “Oh no, I can clearly see I’m outmatched here. You’re a loyal man. I know my place.”

The two of you laughed together, the teasing exchange breaking the last of the tension. You nodded your thanks with another shy smile as he opened the passenger door for you, even closing it behind you.

As he settled behind the wheel, you couldn’t help but glance at him out of the corner of your eye. The ease in his smile, the gentle confidence in his movements—it all felt strangely reassuring. Then the teasing voice of your best friend entered your mind for the last time that night. 

“I told you so.” And in that moment, you couldn’t find it in you to argue.

The restaurant was charming, with rustic wooden beams and string lights casting a warm glow. The scent of garlic, basil, and freshly baked bread filled the air, making your stomach rumble. Dean held the door open for you, and the hostess led you to a table by a window overlooking a small, fairy-lit garden.

As you sat down, you couldn’t help but feel a mix of nervousness and excitement. Dean seemed to pick up on it, his expression softening.

“You, okay?” he asked, leaning slightly forward.

“Yeah,” you said quickly, then added with a small laugh, “It’s just been a while since I’ve done this.”

“Me too,” he admitted, a hint of vulnerability peeking through his usual confidence. “But hey, there’s no pressure, alright?”

His reassurance settled some of your nerves, and you nodded in kind. Soon the conversation began to flow, and you talked about your favourite books and movies, the quirks of your jobs, and shared embarrassing childhood stories that left you both laughing. Dean’s laugh was deep and genuine, and you found yourself relaxing more with each passing minute.

“So, the garage,” you said, resting your chin on your hand, you’d just finished a hearty plate of delicious pasta, both of your now empty plates sat off to the side. “How did that happen?”

Dean’s expression shifted, a flicker of something more serious crossing his face. “It started after my mom passed. My dad… he kind of fell apart. The garage became his way of coping, and eventually, it became mine too. It gave us both something to focus on, something to build together.”

“I’m so sorry about your mom,” you said softly.

“Thanks,” he said, his gaze meeting yours. “It was tough, but it taught me a lot about resilience. About not giving up, even when things feel impossible.”

His words struck a chord, the unspoken understanding passing between you. Before the moment grew too heavy, Dean smiled and leaned back in his chair.

“What about you?” he asked. “What’s your family like?”

You hesitated for a moment, then smiled softly. “Well, my mom remarried when I was six, and she and my stepdad, Jeff, had Amy a year later. Jeff’s been amazing—he’s the only father figure I’ve ever known since…” You trailed off but Dean interrupted, seeing it was a tough subject.

“Sounds like a great guy.”

“He is,” you said, your voice warming at the thought. “Growing up, the age difference between me and my sister sometimes made it hard to be super close, but now that we’re older, we’ve found our niche. And I’m so proud of her.”

Dean smiled affectionately at that, maybe because he could relate himself, in that regard.

The rest of the dinner passed by in a blur of laughter and shared stories. When the check came, you realised you weren’t ready for the evening to end.

“I don’t know about you,” you said, fiddling with the edge of your napkin, “but I’m not ready to call it a night yet.” 

Dean’s smile widened and it instantly dampened your rising anxiety from your confession. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, there’s a fiesta festival back in Topeka,” you said. “It’s been going on all week. They have some great sweet treats too.”

“You had me at something sweet, let’s go.” He said, his enthusiasm making you grin. 

Downtown Topeka was alive with vibrant colours, lights and the hum of music. Strings of Papel picado fluttered in the breeze, and the scent of spices and fried dough filled the air. Booths lined the streets, offering everything from handmade crafts to authentic Mexican dishes.

Dean’s eyes lit up like a child on Christmas morning as you passed by a churro stand.

“You want one?” You offered, stepping closer to the stall, he nodded furiously eyes alight with wonder at the cinnamon sugar-coated fired dough, and you exchanged a few dollars to the merchant for two servings. 

After enjoying the sweet treat and finding amusement in Dean’s adamancy that he needed to revisit these little fried pieces of heaven.

You wandered through the festival, stopping to watch traditional dancers perform in brightly coloured dresses. Dean bought you both a drink from one of the stands, and you couldn’t stop teasing him as he tried to pronounce "champurrado" while ordering the warm drink.

“This is incredible,” Dean said, taking in the bustling energy around you. “Do you come here every year?”

“Pretty much,” you said, a soft smile tugging at your lips. “It’s one of my favourite parts of living here. What about you? Do you guys have anything like this back in Lawrence?”

Dean tilted his head slightly, his gaze scanning the lively festival around you. “Not like this,” he admitted, the warmth of the surrounding lights reflecting in his eyes. “Sam would love it, though. He’s a big culture guy—always reading up on traditions and history. Stuff like this would be right up his alley.”

“How is Sam, by the way?” you asked curiously, stealing a glance at him as you strolled side by side along the strip. The stars above were fully awake now, scattered across the velvety black sky. The fading hues of twilight had been replaced by a soft chill, and without realising it, you drifted slightly closer to Dean, drawn to his steady warmth.

“He’s doing good,” Dean replied, his tone infused with a mix of pride and affection. “Working a lot as usual. But—big news—he and Jess finally set a date for the wedding.”

“Wow, that’s great!” you said, your excitement genuine. “I’m really happy for him. Though…” you added with a playful smirk, “Matty’s gonna be crushed. He was holding onto hope that Sam would switch sides.”

Dean let out a hearty laugh, the sound warm and unrestrained. “Maybe it’s best you don’t tell him, save him the heartbreak.”

“You’re probably right,” you giggled, shaking your head. “I guess we’re both victims of our younger siblings figuring their lives out before us, huh?” The thought lingered as you looked ahead at the vibrant festival, your tone shifting slightly.

Although you were proud of the life you’d built for yourself, a small part of you had always assumed you’d be the one to walk down the aisle first. It wasn’t jealousy—more a wistful acknowledgment of how differently things had turned out. Your chest tightened briefly at the thought of the man you’d once believed would stand by your side.

But that memory no longer felt sharp. The sting had dulled, replaced by clarity. That relationship would have been suffocating at best—a living hell at worst.

“Funny how things work out,” you murmured, mostly to yourself.

Dean huffed softly, a sound of both agreement and amusement. “I guess we've just been holding out for the right person,” he said, his voice quieter now, more thoughtful.

The gentleness of his words made you glance over, only to find his eyes already on you. His gaze was steady, holding something unspoken but unmistakable. It wasn’t just the charm he wore so effortlessly—this was deeper, more earnest.

Your stomach flipped, the air between you charged with something that felt both thrilling and terrifying.

“Maybe,” you said softly, your voice almost a whisper as you held his gaze a moment longer.

The sounds of the festival buzzed around you—the distant laughter of children, the rhythmic thrum of music—but it all felt distant, as though the world had shrunk to just the two of you. Dean’s hand brushed against yours briefly, a subtle, tentative touch that sent a shiver up your spine.

Without thinking, you reached out, your fingers brushing against his, and Dean took the hint, intertwining his hand with yours. The simple gesture sent a warmth through you, a quiet reassurance you hadn’t realised you needed.

The night continued with more laughter, another helping of churros, at Dean's request, and even a few carnival games. Dean won you a small stuffed bear at a ring toss booth, grinning proudly as he handed it to you. 

You felt like a giddy teenager on her first date. There was something about Dean—the way he carried himself with that effortless blend of cool confidence and boyish charm—that disarmed you completely.

He had a knack for making you feel at ease, like you didn’t have to overthink or try too hard. By the time he walked you to the front door of your building, after driving you home, the evening felt like something pulled straight from a dream.

Dean lingered there with you, the warmth of his hand enveloping yours as his thumb brushed lightly over your knuckles. The simple touch sent a familiar current rippling up your arm, a spark that had been present from the very beginning but now felt undeniable.

“Thank you for tonight,” he said, his voice low and genuine. “I haven’t had this much fun in… I don’t even know how long.”

“Me neither,” you admitted, clutching the stuffed bear he’d won for you against your chest with your free hand.

His gaze softened, and for a moment, the world around you seemed to fade away. “So,” he began, a faint, hopeful grin tugging at his lips, “is it too soon to ask if I can see you again?”

The space between you felt smaller somehow, his presence radiating warmth against the chill of the night air. His closeness was grounding yet thrilling, and you couldn’t help the wide smile that spread across your face, making your cheeks ache in the best way.

“Not too soon,” you replied, your voice tinged with quiet certainty. “I’d like that.”

Summoning a burst of courage, you rose onto your tiptoes, leaning in to press your lips softly to his. The kiss was brief but full of emotion, and when you pulled back, the surprise on his face was endearing. His lips parted slightly; his eyes wide as though he hadn’t expected it, but then his expression shifted. The initial shock melted away, replaced by a bashful, almost boyish smile that lit up his features.

Your heart raced as you searched his face, the warmth of his lips still lingering on yours. A wave of panic crept in—had that been too much, too soon? You hadn’t planned it, hadn’t thought beyond the pull of the moment. But before you could second-guess yourself, Dean stepped closer, his hand gently brushing against your cheek as he leaned in.

This time, the kiss was deeper, his lips meeting yours with a tender determination that left no room for doubt. It was slow and deliberate, like he wanted to memorise every second, every sensation. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you under the quiet night sky.

When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested against yours, his breath mingling with your own. His voice was softer now, almost distracted, as though he were still lost in the moment. “I’ll hold you to that,” he murmured, the words carrying a promise you could feel in your bones.

You pressed on more lingering kiss to his lips, unable to help yourself. There was just something so intoxicating about the way he kissed you—gentle but determined, like he’d been waiting for this as long as you had.

A part of you already felt the addiction creeping in, the kind of pull that made you crave more even as you tried to pace yourself. His lips left a tingling warmth against your own, a sensation you knew you wouldn’t forget.

Reluctantly, you pulled away, your gaze lingering on his as you tried to steady your breathing. “Goodnight, Dean,” you said, a knowing smile playing on your lips, your voice steadier than the whirlwind of emotions inside.

Dean cleared his throat, as though grounding himself, and took a small step back. “Night, sweetheart,” he replied, his voice rougher but no less tender.

You watched as he retreated toward his car, the sound of the engine breaking the silence of the street. As his taillights disappeared around the corner, the events of the night replayed in your mind like a dream—the laughter, the easy conversation, the way he had made you feel so seen and safe.

Clutching the stuffed bear tighter, you leaned against your door, a quiet smile still lingering on your face. For the first time in what felt like forever, a spark of hope flickered in your chest. It wasn’t just a fleeting feeling—it was a sense of possibility.

Maybe, just maybe, you could let someone in again.

AN: And there we have it. I'd love to know what you all thought? How did you like 'the date'? Are you excited to see where it all leads with these two? 👀 Also I know Matty is a fan favourite for some, and his part was much smaller, but there will be more of him to come 😁 As always thank you for reading 💕

Dean Winchester Tag List:

@bettystonewell , @lyarr24 , @nancymcl

Series Tag List:

@zepskies , @roseblue373 , @muhahaha303

[gossipgirloff1]

It's so funny how girls keep 100 tabs on Kelly, Alexa, Magui and such, while stanning those problematic men. ////// f1 fans have a "boy mom mentality": their faves are innocent angels who need to be defended and rescued from these evil witches who try to corrupt such pure souls. 😂😂😂😂 but seriously. literally the drivers got involved in the same controversies as their partners, but their fans crucify the women to this day while pretending that the drivers never did anything wrong. as you said, what's the point of a lando fan criticizing magui for cheating on her ex when lando was caught DM'ing another girl while dating luisa? or a max fan hating kelly for defending her criminal dad, supporting bolsonaro, and posting a xenophobic meme about china during the pandemic, while max defends jos no matter what happens, liked posts supporting trump, followed geert wilders, and got involved in a xenophobic diplomatic incident with mongolia? and charles' fans talking about alex liking the anti-multiculturalism tweet, while pretending he never liked the anti-BLM tweets and refused to kneel? i don't like the "y'all are just jealous bitter bitches" argument, but if these hypocritical fans really cared about these matters, then they shouldn't be fans of these drivers on the first hand. they make whole ass threads about how these women are the worst and turn a blind eye on their fave driver problematic shenanigans

👏🏻

[elbiotipo]

Unrelated (really, unrelated), but it's interesting that there is a conception that the Greek Gods (as in the Olympians and such) are considered the heritage of our current Western culture, when they never remained as static and "canonical" as most Greek mythology fans seem to believe. During the Hellenistic period, as Greek culture spread through Alexander's conquests and Greek colonizations the gods and their importance varied. It's really interesting that as big empires with multicultural populations (Hellenistic Egypt, the Romans) arose, there also arose "universal" gods, like Serapis and the spread of Hellenic philosophy. And then with the Romans who weren't exactly Hellenistic, but they continued these dynamics with the Interpretatio Graeca, mystery cults, the interaction with Zoroastrian beliefs. And of course, the rise of Christianity at the end of this period.

And I'm not saying this in the "the Romans were tolerant" sense, but as how religion evolved and adapted as empires spread.

Of course, I'm mostly talking in a religious sense here, as in people actually worshipping the gods. In the sense that they are "myths" and fables, that could be another way of looking at them, but that mostly, I think, dates from the interest on Grecorroman culture from the Renaissance onwards. The Middle Ages weren't as influenced by Hellenism.

[stardustjie]

𝚐𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚊𝚛𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚕𝚊𝚛𝚊

headcanons about getting married to lara because i physically need to write about my best girl (female reader)

𝚠𝚎𝚍𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐

marriage has always been in lara's plans, she just didn’t know when until she started dating you. she knew she wasnted to marry you when you casually said "when we'll get married" during one of your dates. your relationship was a couple of years old and she already had an established career when she started considering getting married.

the proposal is intimate. she decided to plan a short trip, just the weekend, in the scottish highlands. she asked you on impulse, not finding the right words and playing with the box of what was your engagement ring. you said yes.

planning the event with you is probably lara's favourite part. sharing ideas and pinterest boards, doing the shopping and the guest lists, creating the favour yourselves... she wants to share as many moments as possible while organizing your wedding. its an event to celebrate your love, she wants to create it with you. i believe her favourite part would be choosing the cake and the menu.

speaking about the menu, she would love to include her favourite dishes from the places she visited during her expeditions. therefore you decide on a buffet style reception that includes a lot of dishes of lara's choice along with more common ones. the wedding cake is actually the most fun part, trying all the different flavours together.

you two agree on a intimate wedding. she doesn't really care about formalities therefore, including both families and friends, you end up with around 30 people. a small event. on the other hand, i think the theme would be kinda classic since you chose the manor as the reception and she wpuld want to match.

dress shopping is another fun part. i believe lara would wear a suit jacket with matching trousers and one of those lace corset underneath. i believe it would fit her tomboyish side and aesthetic. when it comes to your dress, lara doesn't hide her personal preferences but she will adore your choice.

𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚝

the cerimony is civil, at 11am in the royal botanical garden. this gives you and your girlfriend some time before you have to get ready and start the day. nothing like pre-wedding cuddles at 7am in the morning.

you walk down the aisle together, holding each others' arms. the vows are actually pretty short, its just a quote by one of her favourite authors and she thinks its enough to express her love for you. the kiss after was her favourite part. after the cerimony you stay inside a little for the photoshoot and your guest throw foower petals the moment you two get out.

the reception is the croft manor. the garden are marvelous, curated and perfect to celebrate your wedding. the lunch is a buffet style, the guests take the food themselves and they can choose from a variety of multicultural options. the wine is sweet and sparkling, only served when the cake comes.

i don’t see lara being big into games or activities durind the reception, especially since on the grass it might be difficult to dance or do anything. the entertainment would be probably just talking with other people with music on the background sound.

𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚢𝚖𝚘𝚘𝚗

for the honeymoon you devided to go to nara, japan. lara always wanted to feed those crackers to the deer and getting married was a perfect reason to do that. you soendt ten days in the japanese city, visiting every aviable historical and cultural place. she spendt the whole honeymoon talking nonstop about all the historical facts she knew.

[starcharmed]

MULTICULTURAL - ☁️

scaramouche - 19. a reputational guitarist who has an egotistical and tough exterior. surprisingly majoring in nursing while balancing two clubs. no one knows much about his life, minus the exception of kazuha. the two supposedly had a falling out - thanks to the gossips going around the university - and rarely interact. perhaps the violet-haired guy who tunes his guitar in empty classrooms has more going on underneath the surface.

kazuha - 18. a singer who uploads covers to a youtube channel, drawing in tens of thousands of listeners per each month he uploads. an english major that writes haikus on torn notebook paper, sliding them in unsuspecting spots on the university grounds. according to local superstition, if you find a haiku of kazuha's, your day will be blessed. however, not as blessed as him via looks from prestigious members of the school.

al haitham - 20. a part-time tutor who has a busy schedule. lives off-campus with his friend kaveh; the two of them are glued to the hip and are under the poor berate of "are you two dating?" questions. one of the ticks on al haitham's schedule includes being a barista at the local cafe. despite being in mental shambles that he has to put his headphones in his work locker during shifts, he's pretty damn good at his job.

ayaka - 19. a young woman who is burdened with the sake of her parents' company. orphaned at a young age, ayaka and her brother have been under a numerous amount of stress since they were but children. she adores her brother from the bottom of her heart, yet he is all work and no play. a dance major that prefers traditional ones over any else. this lady with hair the color of an azure sky is quite blue.

[ name ] - 19. a new student whose major is actually undecided, considering the fact it was changed mid-year. with a peculiar sense of humor and a tac for being a high-risk taker - "high-risk, high reward", [ name ] has not adjusted to this new world. not that anyone knows it's a new world for [ name ], as it would seem crazy and unnatural. just roll the dice and see which moves you'll take into this sea of opportunities.

[axellaniez]

The Synagogue of Singapore: A Historical Overview

As someone with a rich Jewish heritage, the history of the Maghain Aboth Synagogue in Singapore holds a special place in my heart. This synagogue represents not only the perseverance and unity of the Jewish community but also my personal connection to a legacy that has endured for generations. It's a beacon of faith, culture, and history that resonates deeply with my sense of identity and belonging.

The Maghain Aboth Synagogue, located in Singapore, is the oldest Jewish synagogue in Southeast Asia. Established in 1878 by the Jewish community, primarily comprised of Sephardic Jews from Baghdad, it has served as a central place of worship and community for over a century.

The Jewish presence in Singapore dates back to the early 19th century, with traders and merchants arriving from regions such as India, Iraq, and Persia. As the community grew, the need for a dedicated place of worship became evident. The Maghain Aboth Synagogue was constructed on Waterloo Street, designed in a neoclassical style that blends with Singapore's diverse architectural landscape.

Over the years, the synagogue has witnessed significant events, including World War II, when it served as a refuge and community center during the Japanese occupation. Despite the challenges, it remained a steadfast symbol of the Jewish faith and resilience in Singapore.

In the 20th century, the synagogue underwent renovations to preserve its structure and accommodate the growing community. It continues to serve as the focal point for Jewish religious life in Singapore, hosting services, festivals, and cultural events.

Today, the Maghain Aboth Synagogue stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and contributions of the Jewish community in Singapore. It not only represents a place of worship but also a historical landmark reflecting the multicultural tapestry of the city-state.

Axel Laniez

[reyaint]

ari.gen members | kwon liu zhi ruo

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date: february 5, 2025. i missed school today. i'm so exhausted and sore.

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"𝑶𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒌𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒚"

✧˖*°࿐background

zena, born as Kwon Liu Zhi Ruo in Hong Kong, China, grew up in a multicultural household. her father is Korean, and her mother is Chinese, giving her a unique perspective on the world. raised between the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong and the more serene Korean traditions, Zena learned to blend the best of both cultures. From an early age, she was drawn to music and performance, excelling in both singing and dancing.

her passion for performance began in her teenage years, where she became involved in her school’s music and dance programs. Zena's natural charisma and energy made her a standout performer. she soon transitioned into contemporary and K-pop-style dancing after discovering groups like 2NE1 and EXO.

zena’s journey into music began with her love for Chinese opera, which her mother introduced her to. her vocal training was heavily influenced by this traditional art form, which explains her clear, powerful voice with a sharp, operatic quality. she also excelled in modern dance, particularly in K-pop styles, blending traditional and contemporary elements to create her unique stage presence.

before signing under DeadSound Entertainment, Zena and the other members of The Genesis Crew performed together, honing their skills in various styles of dance, singing, and stage performances.

like many other members of the group, Zena began her training under JYP Entertainment. During her time there, she honed her vocal skills and improved her dance technique. however, after growing frustrated with the company’s restrictions on creative freedom, she left JYP with the other members, and they all found a more supportive environment at DeadSound Entertainment. this transition allowed Zena to explore her personal style and contribute significantly to ARiSEN: GENESiS’ creative process.

"𝑺𝒐 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒚, 𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆"

✧˖*°࿐basics

დ. stage name. zena დ. full name. kwon liu zhi ruo დ. korean name. kwon ji ra დ. english name. zena kwon

დ. date of birth. march 23 2002 დ. place of birth. hongkong, china დ. nationality. korean-chinese დ. ethnicity. korean-chinese დ. race. asian დ. languages. —chinese (100%) —korean (100%) —japanese (94%) —english (91%) —haiqinian (87%) —tagalog (84%)

დ. height. 178.5 cm (5’10″) დ. weight. 47 kg (103 lbs) დ. zodiac sign. aries დ. blood type. A+ დ. gender. female დ. pronouns. she/they დ. sexuality. pansexual დ. s/o. n/a

დ. personality. —her confidence shines through in her performances and interactions with others, and she is often the one to lift the spirits of the group when things get tough. as the life of the party, she brings a playful, carefree energy to the group dynamic, encouraging her members to have fun while working hard. —however, she also has an inner strength and determination that allows her to push through obstacles when needed. —she’s someone who can lighten the mood with a joke or a quirky dance move but is also extremely driven and protective of her teammates when the time calls for it —she’s not afraid to take charge when necessary and can rally the group in tough situations. her determination to reach the top is a driving force for her, and she isn’t afraid to push others to reach their full potential. —zena has a close bond with Ky, as they both share a similar drive to succeed but approach challenges in different ways. While Ky tends to be more grounded and calm, Zena brings a sense of adventure and excitement, which balances out the duo’s dynamic.

mbti. ESFP (the ) enneagram. 7w8

"𝑩𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒌 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒇𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆𝒔"

✧˖*°࿐career

დ. training period. 2013 to 2017 დ. company. jyp entertainment ( 2013 - 2015 ), deadsound ( 2015 - present ) დ. group. arisen genesis (2018 - present)

დ. rep color. magenta დ. rep emoji. 🐯 დ. positions. lead vocalist, lead dancer, rapper

დ. their performance style is bold and fiery that combine sharp, controlled movements with fluid, expressive dance. Her ability to seamlessly transition between different styles makes her stand out as a versatile dancer, capable of performing both graceful, elegant routines and powerful, high-energy sequences. her dance style fuses traditional Chinese dance elements with modern K-pop routines, creating an unmistakable signature style.

დ. her stage presence is dynamic and commanding, often pulling the audience into the performance with her intense gaze and powerful movements. She’s known for using facial expressions to convey the emotions behind each song, giving her performances an added depth.

დ. zena’s personal aesthetic often incorporates bold colors and dramatic contrasts, from sharp angles in her choreography to vibrant, eye-catching costumes. zena’s role is crucial in shaping the group’s sound and visual identity.

დ. on vocals, Zena is known for her vocal runs and ability to transition seamlessly between high notes and belting. Her operatic training adds an extra layer to her vocal delivery, which is both captivating and technically proficient. her dancing is also highly synchronized with the rest of the group, but Zena’s natural flair for expressing herself shines through in her freestyle moments. Whether it's during group routines or solo performances, Zena brings an unmatched level of passion and energy to the stage.

"𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒂 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒊𝒕"

✧˖*°࿐facts

დ. she is a huge fan of spicy food and often posts about trying different spicy dishes from around the world.

დ. she has a deep love for traditional Chinese opera, which influences both her vocal style and performance.

დ. her natural hair color is black, but she occasionally experiments with different shades, from silver to pastel colors, to reflect her ever-evolving persona.

დ. zena is an extreme thrill-seeker, enjoying activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and hiking to connect with nature.

დ. she’s known for her love of animals, particularly tigers and pandas

დ. zena is also known for her distinctive sense of humor and is often the one to crack jokes or lighten the mood in the studio.

დ. hobbies: photography, trying new foods, dying her hair, fashion

დ. inspirations: exo, 2ne1, BoA, BTS

დ. her fashion style is a mix of bold streetwear, high-fashion elegance, and edgy aesthetics. her wardrobe choices are dynamic, experimental, and futuristic, often balancing boyish and feminine elements in a way that feels uniquely her own.

დ. personal motto: "Chase the fire, never look back."