#mutual understanding

[aventurineswife]

*slaps a wad of cash on table* p-P-PROPOSE DAY WITH XIANGLI YAO-

-Smooch Anon 💋

Through the Lens of the Heart

Summary: On Propose Day, Xiangli Yao and you share a quiet, intimate moment in the Huaxu Academy library. As you contemplate the deeper meaning of your bond, you confess your feelings and ask Xiangli to explore a journey of knowledge and connection together. Xiangli, known for his intellectual pursuits, responds with warmth and sincerity, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in your relationship—one grounded in mutual understanding and personal discovery.

Tags: Xiangli Yao x Reader, Valentine's Week Special, Propose Day, Romance, Confessions, Emotional Growth, Mutual Understanding, Slow Burn, Heartfelt, Quiet Moments, Fluff.

A/N: Ima just... *silently takes the money* Pleasure doing business with you, enjoy! ;)

It was the quiet hum of the Huaxu Academy’s library that set the stage for your meeting with Xiangli Yao on Propose Day. The scent of aged paper, the soft flicker of warm lamplight, and the steady tap of his fingers on his laptop made the otherwise mundane surroundings feel serene. You’d been spending time together more frequently lately, and every moment felt like a delicate discovery—each conversation, each shared glance, another piece of the puzzle that was Xiangli.

Your eyes caught his from across the room. He was engrossed in his research, as always, but you noticed the way his lips curved into a small smile when he saw you approach. Despite his brilliant mind and quiet demeanor, he’d always made space for you. And today, there was something different in the air.

“Xiangli,” you called gently, your voice barely above a whisper. He looked up from his work, his green eyes—reflective yet thoughtful—meeting yours.

“Ah, you’re here,” he said, a soft warmth in his tone that you’d come to recognize. He motioned to the seat beside him, inviting you to join him as he returned to his task.

Taking a deep breath, you walked toward him, your heart beating a little faster. There was something important about today. It wasn’t just Propose Day—it was the culmination of all the moments, the conversations, and the quiet understanding that had bloomed between the two of you.

You sat beside him, not too close, but close enough to feel the slight warmth of his presence. For a moment, the space between you both was filled with a comfortable silence. But you could sense Xiangli’s curiosity as he glanced at you from the corner of his eye.

“What’s on your mind?” he asked, his voice soft yet perceptive. It was his way of gently probing, his way of showing concern without overwhelming you.

You hesitated for only a second before deciding to take a leap of faith, the same kind of leap you’d always admired in his scientific pursuits. It was time to speak the truth.

“I’ve been thinking a lot,” you said slowly, glancing at the soft blue glow of the holographic screens before you both. “About truth. About knowledge. About what it means to pursue something that… might change everything.”

Xiangli tilted his head slightly, the small gesture revealing his interest. “And what is it that you’re hoping to change?”

The question hung in the air for a moment, but you knew the answer. You could feel it in your chest, a truth that had been growing for some time now. You took a deep breath, your hand gently resting on the table between you.

“I’ve been thinking about us,” you said, your voice steady despite the nerves fluttering in your stomach. “And how every moment we share, every conversation, is a discovery I want to keep exploring.”

Xiangli’s gaze softened, his eyes locking onto yours. He didn’t speak right away, but the silence between you wasn’t uncomfortable—it was almost as if he were processing your words, considering their weight in the same way he approached his scientific discoveries.

Finally, he spoke, his voice low but full of meaning. “I’ve always believed that the pursuit of knowledge is one of the greatest gifts,” he said, looking down at his hands for a moment before meeting your gaze again. “But knowledge without connection... without understanding the truth of another person... It’s incomplete.”

Your heart skipped a beat, the significance of his words not lost on you. Xiangli was a man who didn’t open up easily, yet here he was, sharing his feelings with you in a way that spoke volumes.

“I want to know you more, just as you’ve taken the time to know me,” Xiangli continued, his hand finally reaching for yours. His fingers brushed against your skin, a gesture so simple, yet so profound. “And I think... I think I already have.”

You could see the sincerity in his eyes, the vulnerability that he rarely allowed anyone to witness. In that moment, it felt as though the entire weight of his intellectual pursuits—theories, research, and boundaries—were set aside in favor of something far more personal.

“So,” you began, the words coming naturally now, “will you be the one to join me in exploring all the truths yet to be discovered together? Will you make this journey of knowledge—and connection—complete?”

Xiangli’s expression softened further, and for a moment, you saw a flicker of something deeper in his eyes—perhaps hope, or maybe a quiet resolve. Then, with a small, almost imperceptible smile, he nodded.

“Yes,” he said, his voice steady but filled with a warmth that made your heart swell. “I would be honored.”

And with that, in the quiet sanctuary of the library, surrounded by the weight of knowledge and the pursuit of truth, you knew that this was just the beginning of a new chapter for both of you. A chapter not defined by the quest for knowledge alone, but by the discoveries of the heart that you’d make together.

[artofmaquenda]

Shared Perspective

[small-z24]

Shadows of Fate 3

Summary:

Y/n, Cassian's shy and quiet sister, prefers to keep to the shadows. Unbeknownst to her, she is Azriel's mate. His shadows are inexplicably drawn to her, and as they grow closer, a slow-burn romance ensues. Cassian, ever protective of his sister, watches over her as the bond between Y/n and Azriel deepens.

Word Count: 966

Warnings: None

Chapter 3: Unseen Bonds

Y/n’s days at the House of Wind had taken on a new rhythm. Each morning, she would retreat to her favorite quiet corners, only to find Azriel already there, his presence a comforting constant. As their bond grew, she found herself feeling more at ease, her anxieties quieted by the soothing presence of Azriel and his shadows.

One afternoon, Y/n was reading in the garden, the vibrant flowers swaying gently in the breeze. She was so engrossed in her book that she didn’t notice Cassian approaching until he was right beside her.

"Hey, little sister," Cassian said, sitting down next to her.

Y/n looked up, a smile spreading across her face. "Hey, Cass. How was training?"

"Grueling, as usual," he replied with a chuckle. "But I wanted to talk to you about something."

Her smile faltered slightly. "What is it?"

Cassian’s expression turned serious. "I’ve been thinking a lot about you and Azriel. I want you to be happy, Y/n, but I also worry about you."

"I know you do," she said softly. "And I appreciate it. But Azriel and I... there’s something special between us. I feel safe with him."

Cassian sighed, his protective instincts warring with his desire to see his sister happy. "I just want to make sure he’s treating you right. That he’s not rushing things."

"He’s not," Y/n assured him. "We’re taking things slow. And he’s been nothing but patient and kind."

Cassian nodded slowly, his gaze softening. "Alright. I’ll try to ease up a bit. Just promise me you’ll come to me if anything feels wrong."

"I promise," she said, squeezing his hand.

Later that evening, Y/n found herself in the library, a place that had become her sanctuary. As she browsed through the shelves, she felt a familiar presence behind her. Turning, she saw Azriel standing there, his shadows curling around him like loyal pets.

"Hello, Y/n," he said, his voice like a warm embrace.

"Hello, Azriel," she replied, a smile lighting up her face. "I was just looking for something new to read."

He stepped closer, his gaze soft and affectionate. "I have something for you." From behind his back, he produced a small, leather-bound journal. "I thought you might like this. It’s empty, so you can fill it with whatever you want."

Y/n took the journal, her eyes widening with delight. "It’s beautiful. Thank you, Azriel."

"I thought you might use it to write down your thoughts or dreams," he said, his eyes never leaving hers. "Or even just to keep track of our adventures together."

Her heart swelled with emotion as she hugged the journal to her chest. "I love it. I’ll cherish it always."

They spent the rest of the evening together, sitting in a secluded corner of the library. Azriel read aloud from one of his favorite books, his deep, melodic voice weaving a spell around them. Y/n listened, her head resting on his shoulder, feeling more at peace than she ever had.

The next morning, Y/n awoke to find a note slipped under her door. Unfolding it, she recognized Azriel’s elegant handwriting.

Meet me in the training grounds at sunrise. I have something I want to show you.

Curiosity piqued, Y/n quickly dressed and made her way to the training grounds. The early morning light bathed the area in a soft, golden glow. Azriel was waiting for her, his shadows already swirling around him in anticipation.

"Good morning," he greeted her, his eyes bright with excitement.

"Good morning," she replied, her heart fluttering at the sight of him. "What’s this about?"

"I wanted to teach you something," he said, holding out his hand. "Come with me."

Y/n took his hand, allowing him to lead her to a more secluded part of the training grounds. There, he produced a pair of slender, beautifully crafted daggers.

"I thought it might be good for you to learn some basic self-defense," he explained. "Just in case."

She looked at the daggers, then back at him, her eyes wide with surprise. "You want to teach me to fight?"

"Not to fight," Azriel corrected gently. "To protect yourself. You don’t have to become a warrior, but knowing how to defend yourself could be useful."

Y/n hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. I’ll try."

Azriel smiled, pride and affection shining in his eyes. "Good. Let’s start with the basics."

Over the next hour, he patiently guided her through a series of simple exercises. His touch was always gentle, his instructions clear and encouraging. Y/n found herself enjoying the lessons, the sense of empowerment that came with each successful move.

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, they took a break, sitting together on the grass. Azriel handed her a water bottle, his gaze warm and approving.

"You’re doing great," he said. "You have a natural grace."

"Thank you," Y/n replied, feeling a flush of pride. "I didn’t think I could do it."

"I knew you could," he said softly. "You’re stronger than you realize."

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world seemed to fade away. Y/n felt a surge of emotion, a deep, unspoken connection that went beyond words. She reached out, taking Azriel’s hand in hers.

"I’m glad I have you," she whispered. "You make me feel like I can do anything."

"You can," he replied, his voice filled with conviction. "And I’ll be here with you, every step of the way."

As they sat together, hand in hand, Y/n knew that their journey was only just beginning. But with Azriel by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, confident in the strength of their bond and the love that had grown between them.

Author's Note: Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this chapter of Y/n and Azriel's story. Feel free to leave comments and let me know your thoughts!

[quotidianish]

Meaningless wurtle Drabble

Turtle wasn’t prideful by any means, he hardly thought about things like “loyalty to his tribe,” despite being a prince, or maybe because he was one of thirty. Winter made it clear he was never afforded that comfort of mind. “You don’t act like a prince.” Winter had crudely stated. They were stationed just east of Sanctuary, doing chores for the local doctor.

Neither of us are, not now, thought Turtle, knees deep in mud, struggling to reach for a hanging bucket in the middle of a well. Winter wasn’t exactly looking any more dignified, wrestling carrots out of the ground a few meters away.

“You told me that before.” He made a grab for the bucket and pulled it towards himself. Turtle knew better than to think Winter was being hostile at that point, otherwise he would’ve been shouting. This is just how he talks.

Winter yanked at a patch of leaves, blinking as dirt spewed in his face.

The doctor, a herbalist, offered them a spare room to stay in for the night. The rug on the floor barely had space for two, so they lay awkwardly, haphazardly piling on top of eachother. Crickets outside drowned out Turtle’s thoughts. “Hey,” he whispered, after thoughtless deliberation. “Are you asleep yet?”

“Maybe I would be if you weren’t so warm.”

Turtle expected him to use a different adjective, one he could be sorry for. On a summer's day it felt good having a cold blanket draped groggily over him. He sighed and furrowed his head into one of the rug’s creases, Winter’s glittering tail softly lashing back and forth in front of him, eventually lulled to sleep by its slow clattering.

[pumpkin-the-girlie-girl-vixen]

Sometimes You Just Need to See from a Different Perspective

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to become entrenched in our own viewpoints and experiences. We develop our beliefs, opinions, and reactions based on our unique backgrounds, encounters, and emotions. However, life has a profound way of reminding us that understanding often lies beyond our immediate perception. The adage “sometimes you just need to see from a different perspective” encapsulates the essence of growth, empathy, and human connection. This entry explores the importance of shifting our viewpoints, the benefits it brings, and practical steps to incorporate this transformative practice into our daily lives.

The Beauty of Different Perspectives

At its core, seeing from a different perspective is about acknowledging that our individual experiences are just a fraction of the larger human experience. We often find ourselves in situations where our viewpoint feels absolute, creating a barrier to understanding and connection. By embracing diverse perspectives, we open ourselves up to a more nuanced comprehension of the world around us.

Imagine a simple situation where two friends have an argument over a miscommunication. Each believes they are in the right, clinging tightly to their respective narratives. However, if they took a moment to see the situation from each other’s viewpoints, they might discover that their intentions were misunderstood, leading to a more profound understanding and resolution. In this scenario, stepping back and embracing different perspectives allows for empathy, healing, and growth.

The Benefits of Shifting Your Perspective

1. **Enhanced Empathy and Understanding:** By practicing perspective-taking, we cultivate empathy for others’ feelings and experiences. Understanding that someone’s actions might stem from their struggles, fears, or past experiences fosters compassion. This empathy allows for deeper connections in both personal and professional relationships.

2. **Creative Problem Solving:** When faced with challenges, viewing the situation from various angles can spark creativity and innovation. By exploring different solutions and approaches, we may uncover options that we hadn’t initially considered. This broader perspective can lead to more effective problem-solving and decision-making.

3. **Reduced Conflict:** Misunderstandings and conflicts often arise from rigid viewpoints. When we are willing to consider alternative perspectives, we can diffuse tension, find common ground, and prevent unnecessary disputes. This practice encourages dialogue rather than confrontation, fostering healthier relationships.

4. **Personal Growth:** Challenging ourselves to see beyond our immediate beliefs can promote personal growth. It encourages self-reflection and critical thinking, pushing us to confront biases and assumptions that might limit our understanding. This growth can lead to a more open-minded and adaptable mindset.

5. **Broader Worldview:** Exposure to different perspectives enriches our worldview, providing a more comprehensive understanding of societal issues, cultures, and human experiences. This expanded awareness can help us appreciate the complexity of life and the diversity of thought that exists.

Practical Steps to Shift Your Perspective

1. **Practice Active Listening:** Engage in conversations with the intent to understand rather than respond. Ask open-ended questions and allow others to express their thoughts and feelings fully. This practice not only fosters deeper connections but also exposes you to viewpoints you may not have considered.

2. **Seek Diverse Experiences:** Step outside your comfort zone and immerse yourself in experiences that challenge your existing beliefs. Attend cultural events, read literature from diverse authors, or participate in community service. Embracing diversity in experiences broadens your understanding of the world.

3. **Reflect on Your Beliefs:** Take time to reflect on your beliefs and values. Consider how your experiences have shaped your perspectives and be open to questioning them. Ask yourself how those beliefs might differ if you were in someone else’s shoes.

4. **Engage in Thoughtful Discussions:** Engage with people who hold differing views in a respectful and open-minded manner. Discussing topics with those who think differently can provide valuable insights and encourage you to consider other angles.

5. **Practice Mindfulness:** Mindfulness encourages us to be present in the moment and aware of our thoughts and feelings. By tuning into our internal reactions, we can recognize when we might be reacting defensively and consciously choose to approach the situation with curiosity instead.

Conclusion: The Transformative Power Of Perspective

Ultimately, the ability to see from a different perspective is a powerful tool for personal growth and connection. It allows us to navigate the complexities of human interaction with empathy and understanding, fostering relationships that are rooted in respect and compassion. Life is a rich tapestry of experiences, and by embracing the myriad of viewpoints that exist, we can deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

In a world that often feels divided, the simple act of shifting our perspective can be a catalyst for change. It encourages dialogue, nurtures empathy, and fosters a sense of community. So, the next time you find yourself entrenched in a viewpoint, remember that sometimes you just need to step back, take a deep breath, and see the situation through a different lens. You might be surprised by the beauty and richness that lie just beyond your immediate perception.

[mental-food]

So what’s wrong if there happens to be one guy in the world who enjoys trying to understand you?

-Haruki Murakami, Norwegian Wood

[howifeltabouthim]

I'm wound up because it's so rare that I meet somebody I can really talk to. And now here you are, and I feel kind of dizzy.

Siri Hustvedt, from The Blazing World

[blackpetrichor]

[aventurineswife]

Relationship hcs for Dan Heng? 🤭😊🙏

Dan Heng Relationship HCs

Dan Heng isn't one for grand gestures. Instead, his affection shows in subtle ways—like remembering small details about you, leaving you little things he thinks you might need, or giving you a silent but meaningful look. It’s a quiet but deep kind of love, where actions speak louder than words.

He is naturally protective and often keeps a watchful eye on you, especially when you’re exploring new or dangerous places together. Although he may try to keep his emotions hidden, his protective nature often slips through, especially when he senses any threat toward you.

Given his introverted nature, Dan Heng values personal space, both his own and yours. He is sensitive to your need for solitude or personal time and appreciates it when you offer him the same. He views it as a mutual understanding, a respect for each other's boundaries that strengthens your connection.

Dan Heng rarely opens up about his past, but over time, he’ll let you in on small fragments. If you encourage him, he finds comfort in your presence, and he may gradually reveal his vulnerabilities. Your unwavering support and understanding become a source of strength for him, even if he doesn't always express it directly.

You learn to enjoy comfortable silences together, finding peace in just being by each other’s side. He doesn't feel the need to fill the quiet with words, and with you, he can finally let his guard down without worrying about being judged or misunderstood.

With you, he starts to open up emotionally in ways he never thought possible. You manage to draw out a rare smile from him now and then, which makes him feel slightly embarrassed but happier than he’ll admit. These moments are rare, but they become treasured memories for both of you.

Dan Heng respects your abilities, whether it’s in combat or otherwise. He might offer to spar or train with you, and these sessions become a way for you to bond. His combat tips are often delivered with a calm demeanor, and he occasionally slips into a protective role if he thinks you’re getting too close to danger.

Dan Heng isn’t naturally physically affectionate, but he’ll occasionally reach for your hand or brush a stray strand of hair from your face, usually when words aren’t enough to convey his feelings. These gestures feel almost sacred, as he rarely shares such intimate contact with anyone else.

When he does open up, it’s usually in the quiet hours of the night. You’ll find him sitting by a window on the Astral Express, lost in thought, and he’ll invite you to join him. These rare conversations often reveal the depths of his thoughts and fears, allowing you to understand him on a much deeper level.

With his tumultuous past, Dan Heng sometimes struggles with self-doubt. Your presence becomes a calming influence, anchoring him whenever he feels overwhelmed. Knowing he has you by his side gives him a newfound sense of purpose and a small but powerful hope for a better future.

[priyanshis-things]

Distance over disrespect>>>

[small-z24]

Shadows of Fate 4

Summary:

Y/n, Cassian's shy and quiet sister, prefers to keep to the shadows. Unbeknownst to her, she is Azriel's mate. His shadows are inexplicably drawn to her, and as they grow closer, a slow-burn romance ensues. Cassian, ever protective of his sister, watches over her as the bond between Y/n and Azriel deepens.

Word Count: 803

Warnings: None

Chapter 4: The Protective Brother

The days passed in a tranquil routine, with Y/n continuing her self-defense lessons with Azriel. Cassian, though still wary, began to ease his constant vigilance, trusting Azriel more with each passing day. However, the protective brotherly instincts never fully faded.

One evening, Y/n was in the common room, sketching the flowers she had seen in the garden earlier. She found peace in drawing, her mind relaxing as her hand moved over the paper. Azriel was beside her, reading a book, his presence a comforting constant.

Cassian entered the room, his eyes narrowing slightly as he saw them together. "Y/n," he called, drawing her attention away from her sketch. "Can we talk for a moment?"

Y/n looked up, her heart sinking a little. "Of course, Cass." She glanced at Azriel, who gave her a reassuring nod.

Cassian led her out to a balcony overlooking Velaris. The night was calm, the stars twinkling above like scattered diamonds. He leaned on the railing, taking a deep breath before speaking.

"I need to ask you something," he began, his voice serious. "Do you really believe Azriel is the one for you?"

Y/n's eyes softened. "I do, Cassian. I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. He understands me, and he makes me feel safe."

Cassian turned to face her, his expression conflicted. "I just worry about you. I’ve seen how harsh the world can be, and I don’t want you to get hurt."

"I know you’re just looking out for me," Y/n said, placing a hand on his arm. "And I appreciate it. But Azriel is different. He’s patient and kind, and he respects me."

Cassian sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I see how much he cares about you. I just... it’s hard for me to let go."

"You don’t have to let go," Y/n reassured him. "Just trust that I know what I’m doing."

Cassian nodded slowly, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Alright. I trust you, Y/n. Just promise me you’ll be careful."

"I promise," she said, giving him a hug. "Thank you, Cass."

They stood there for a moment, the silence between them filled with unspoken understanding. Finally, Cassian pulled back, his expression lighter. "Go back to Azriel. I’ll be here if you need me."

Y/n smiled, giving him one last squeeze before returning to the common room. Azriel looked up as she entered, his eyes filled with concern.

"Everything alright?" he asked softly.

"Yes," she replied, sitting beside him again. "Cassian just needed to talk. He’s trying to trust us."

Azriel nodded, a look of determination crossing his face. "I’ll prove to him that his trust is well-placed."

A few days later, a sense of unease settled over the House of Wind. Y/n felt it in the air, a tension that seemed to affect everyone around her. She couldn’t quite place it, but it gnawed at her, making her restless.

She found herself wandering through the halls, seeking out Azriel. She found him in the war room, deep in conversation with Rhysand and Cassian. As she approached, the conversation hushed, and the three males turned to look at her.

"Y/n," Rhysand greeted, his tone warm but guarded. "What brings you here?"

"I just... felt like something was wrong," she admitted, her eyes flicking to Azriel. "Is everything alright?"

Azriel stepped forward, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We’re just discussing some security concerns. Nothing for you to worry about."

Y/n wasn’t convinced, but she nodded, trusting Azriel’s judgment. "If you say so."

Rhysand gave her a gentle smile. "We’re handling it, Y/n. But thank you for your concern."

She nodded again, squeezing Azriel’s hand before turning to leave. As she walked away, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something big was looming on the horizon.

That night, Y/n couldn’t sleep. She tossed and turned, her mind racing with worry. Finally, she got up and made her way to the balcony, hoping the cool night air would calm her.

She wasn’t surprised to find Azriel already there, his shadows dancing around him like restless spirits. He turned as she approached, his eyes softening.

"Couldn’t sleep?" he asked.

"No," she admitted, leaning against the railing beside him. "I can’t shake this feeling that something bad is going to happen."

Azriel wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close. "I understand. But whatever happens, we’ll face it together."

Y/n looked up at him, her heart swelling with love. "Promise?"

"Promise," he said, pressing a kiss to her forehead.

They stood there in silence, the night wrapping around them like a protective cloak. In that moment, Y/n felt a glimmer of hope, a belief that no matter what came their way, their bond would see them through.

Author's Note: Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this chapter of Y/n and Azriel's story. Feel free to leave comments and let me know your thoughts!

[noobiestnoober]

A Drink for the Traveler (Diluc X Lumine)

Diluc doesn’t drink alcohol, but when he sees Lumine looking exhausted at Angel’s Share, he silently pours her a drink and sits with her. It becomes their little tradition—sharing quiet nights together over non-alcoholic drinks.

The scent of oak and aged wine filled the dimly lit tavern, but Diluc barely noticed it anymore. Angel’s Share had long been his responsibility, though he felt little attachment to the drinks it served. He poured, he cleaned, he ensured the atmosphere remained orderly—but he never indulged himself. Alcohol dulled the senses, and he preferred to keep his sharp.

Which was why, when he noticed Lumine slumped over the counter, he frowned.

The Traveler was rarely one to let her exhaustion show. Even when she had fought for days, even when she had carried the weight of Teyvat on her shoulders, she faced it all with quiet determination. But tonight, under the dim lanterns, she looked... tired. Not just physically, but the kind of tired that settled deep into one’s bones.

Wordlessly, Diluc reached for a bottle—not wine, but a special apple cider he kept for customers who didn’t drink. He poured it into a glass, its amber surface catching the light as he set it gently in front of her.

Lumine blinked, looking up at him with faint surprise. "I didn’t order anything."

"You look like you need it," he said simply.

She hesitated for a moment before wrapping her hands around the glass. The first sip was slow, deliberate. Then her shoulders slumped, and she let out a quiet sigh. "This is good."

Diluc merely nodded, cleaning an empty glass with his usual methodical movements. He didn’t speak, didn’t press. He simply let the silence settle around them, comfortable and unspoken.

Minutes passed before Lumine spoke again. "You don’t drink, do you?"

"No."

"That makes two of us." She swirled the cider in her glass before setting it down with a small smile. "But this is nice. Just… sitting here like this."

Diluc didn’t respond right away, but something about the way her voice softened made him glance at her. He wasn’t one for meaningless conversation, nor for small talk to fill the air. Yet he understood what she meant. A quiet moment shared between two people, no expectations, no need for words.

So, the next time she walked into Angel’s Share—tired, weary, but still standing—Diluc didn’t wait for her to order. He simply poured her a drink and slid into the seat across from her, letting silence speak for them.

And just like that, it became their tradition.

[theexcellentmarriage]

Managing expectations is a crucial component of maintaining a healthy and lasting relationship. Couples often enter relationships with ideas of how things should be, but these expectations need to be communicated clearly to ensure mutual understanding. Marriage counseling services in Charlotte, North Carolina can help couples explore their expectations and develop healthier communication habits. By addressing differences early, both partners can work together to create realistic expectations and avoid misunderstandings.

[sheilamurrey]

Freedom Isn’t Free When It Infringes on Others: Understanding the Balance of Liberty

Written by The Realist Juggernaut Staff Freedom is often celebrated as the highest ideal—a cornerstone of democracy, justice, and individuality. …Freedom Isn’t Free When It Infringes on Others: Understanding the Balance of Liberty

[howifeltabouthim]

'You know why I like you . . . ?' After I had dutifully said, 'No . . . why?' 'Because we get it. The world is shit.'

Siri Hustvedt, from The Blazing World