#my little treat is a salad if anyone wanted to know

[bodega-catto]

Gonna buy a pathetic little treat like the pathetic silly guy I am because if I don’t I’ll genuinely go psychotic

[corroded-hellfire]

I've got this image in my head of very pregnant!AYW reader sitting outside with her feet in a kiddie pool, letting the older boys splash around and keep her cool on a hot day. Maybe a cooler full of frozen treats at her side.

I have had this one in my ask box forever because I wanted to write something I’d be happy with and I think I’m there lol. I hope it makes you happy as well 😘

Words: 1.4k

[As You Wish masterlist]

Of course. The August that you’re seven months pregnant is the hottest summer Hawkins has had in over fifty years. Of course.

Eddie could see how the heat was getting to you. Sweat would dot your forehead just moments after you’d step outside. Your ankles had swollen to almost double the size. It hadn’t escaped anyone’s notice that you were a little more irritable than usual as well. But your husband wasn’t sure what he could do to comfort you. Usually, his way of comforting you included wrapping you up in his arms but the one time he’d attempted to do that you’d given him a death glare that blazed hotter than the weather. He’d learned his lesson after that: no touching when the temperature is above a hundred degrees. 

One early Saturday afternoon, you and Luke are eating lunch while Eddie and Ryan run a few errands. Luke had wanted to go too, but ever since you started your third trimester, Eddie didn’t like the idea of leaving you by yourself. 

It’s quiet between you and your ten-year-old son when the back door bangs open, making you jump and swivel around in your seat–which was no easy task. Perspiration runs down Eddie’s forehead, Ryan’s own golden brown hair plastered to his forehead from the moisture. Patches of Ryan’s gray shirt are black and clinging to his skin from the sweat. If Eddie’s black Iron Maiden shirt weren’t so dark, you know you’d see the same thing on him. Despite how hot and sweaty they both look, they both have smiles on their faces and Eddie looks quite proud of himself.

“I f’ought oo were goin’ to da store,” you say around a mouth full of pasta salad.

“We did,” Eddie said, breaths labored.

“And we set up a surprise for you!” Ryan adds, his beaming grin stretching from ear to ear. 

“And me?” Luke asks optimistically, craning his neck to look over at his father and brother.

“Actually, kind of,” Eddie says with a shrug. “Come on.” Your husband waves the both of you over towards the back door before remembering he should help you up out of the chair–even though you’re capable of doing it yourself. 

The boys both run ahead of you as Eddie stays back with your waddling pace. It feels like no sooner than your bare foot hits the grass of the yard than sweat begins to break out along your hairline. You swear you’ll never complain about the winter being too cold again. 

“It’s small,” you hear Luke say. 

Your eyes catch on the short inflatable kiddie pool set up in the middle of the backyard, two white and blue striped lawn chairs set up beside it, and a large red cooler between them. The garden hose is hanging inside the pool, the green tube writhing like a snake as the water whooshes in to fill the empty space. 

“Cause it’s a kiddie pool, duh,” Ryan replies to his brother. 

“I thought,” Eddie starts, reaching up to rub your shoulders before catching himself, not wanting to make your discomfort worse, “you could sit out here with your feet in the nice cold water. Might help your ankles, too. And you know these two monkeys are always splashing so you’re bound to get caught in the crossfire.”

“Hey,” Luke protests, but Ryan nudges him with his elbow because they both know that their father is right. 

“And…” Eddie takes your hand and gently leads you closer to the chairs, where he opens the cooler that’s nestled between them. Inside there are different flavors of ice pops, ice cream bars, and cold drinks, all enveloped in gallons of ice that have a pleasant chill wafting off them. 

Words become trapped in your throat. Your wonderful husband did all of this for you just because he knows how the heat has been making you feel lately. And after you’ve been a pain in the ass. This would’ve made you emotional even if the hormones didn’t beat you to the punch. 

“Eddie,” you say, all other speech cut off as your bottom lip begins to wobble.

“Uh oh,” Luke whispers.

“No, could be a good thing,” Ryan mumbles back quietly. He was slightly better at understanding the emotional aspect of hormones than his little brother. 

“This is so sweet,” you say, turning to cup your husband’s face in your hands. 

“You’ve been hard at work cooking that bun in the oven,” Eddie says with a shrug. “Oven needs some cooling down though, she’s getting overheated.”

“Ahem,” you hear from behind you. Ryan moves into your peripheral vision, and you turn your head to look at him, sliding your hands down to Eddie’s shoulders as you do. The eldest brother is clearly holding something behind his back, and you scrunch up your brow as you look at him.

“Whatcha got?” you ask.

Eddie huffs out a small chuckle and presses a kiss to your temple before saying, “Ryan found something at the store he says is on every ad for the beach.”

“You bought me sand? The ocean?” you tease the boy.

Ryan rolls his eyes, another reminder that he’s a preteen now. 

“No,” he says. From behind him, Ryan brandishes a floppy hat, and he is certainly right—a woman is wearing one of those in every ad for the beach.

“Ryan, I love it!” you exclaim with a giggle. The grass crunches beneath your feet as you waddle over the few steps to the boy. He holds the straw hat out to you, a bright grin on his face at your happiness. 

“You know,” you say as you accept the hat from him, “I’d bend down so you could put it on my head but then I wouldn’t be able to stand back up.”

“Like crowning a princess!” Luke adds as Ryan laughs.

“Well,” your husband says, coming up behind you, “it’s a good thing I’m taller than Ryan then, huh? Or we could’ve just made Luke help you back up.”

Eddie plucks the hat from your grasp, the straw scratching lightly against your fingertips as he pulls it away. He steps in front of you, and you keep your head level, only raising your eyes to watch Eddie’s pale, toned arms lift to place the floppy hat on top of your head gently. 

“Your Highness,” Eddie says, bowing his head. Your giggle makes Eddie grin as he gestures towards the lawn chairs. “Your throne awaits.”

Twenty minutes later it’s as if the summer heat were merely an annoying insect that you’re only somewhat aware of. Even though the chill water of the miniature pool only goes up to midcalf, sloshes of water have hit you all the way up to your neck. The cool beads of moisture feel like heaven as they meander down your red tank top, though. The denim shorts you’re wearing will weigh a ton later since the boys’ splashing has gotten them so wet, but Eddie’s such a pro at taking your clothes off that he could use a little challenge this time. 

Luke and Ryan manage to find games to play in the small pool—after Luke’s failed attempt at Marco Polo, anyway. Toy boats glide through the water, a few of them on the grass from flying overboard. The two boys shout but they’re outside and having fun, and it’s nice to hear. 

The sound of the back door slamming shut reaches you as you tilt your head back, protected from the sun by Ryan’s thoughtful gift and the sunglasses you grabbed when you got changed. Eyes closed, you listen to footsteps in the grass as Eddie walks your way from the house. They come to a stop and you sense as he crouches down next to you. Lazily, you loll your head to the side and crack your eyes open. 

“How’re my girls?” Eddie asks, placing his right hand over the soaked red shirt covering your baby bump.

“Mmm, good,” you hum. “She’s very happy you bought strawberry shortcake bars.”

“I’m glad she liked them,” Eddie says with a chuckle. “What about you, princess? How do you feel?”

You pretend to consider his question for a moment before speaking.

“Kiss me?” 

You pucker your lips and there’s no hesitation as your husband leans in and gently presses his own against yours.

“Perfect. Now I’m perfect.”

[dietmtdewbabynewyorkcity]

HOW I’VE BEEN SUCESSFULLY LOSING WEIGHT: Notes from a former binge eater ♥️

*this guide is to show how ~I~ do things and offer advice on how to do it MY way. I am in no way encouraging anyone to do themselves harm. First off,

HEALTH IS WEALTH.

That being said.. this is literally the longest I’ve ever gone without bingeing. It’s just,,, easy this time. Once you get a feel of what it’s like to be skinny you just don’t crave junk as much anymore bc you KNOW it’s not worth it. The trick is to eat clean 90% of the time and allow your favorite treats 10% do the time. Fit them into your calorie limit!!! Here’s some personal favorites that have helped me lose like 20lbs in the past 2 months.

I tend to do one higher- calorie drink during the day (protein shake, Starbucks, etc) and one healthy filling but low cal meal and a sweet snack at the end of the night.

LOW CALORIE 90%

Mediterranean salad (~150): mixed greens, chopped bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion. Little bit of feta cheese. Balsamic vinegar (not dressing or vinegarette!!!!) I don’t add meat but you could totally add chicken for low cal high protein choice. You could also add olives but I don’t fw them.

Chocolate Protein shakes from the gas station (loll). They’re 220 cal on average and a great treat. Strawberry one is good too.

SEAWEED SNACKS they’re literally 30-60 calories for a pack and kill my urge to eat chips!!! Please give them a try!

Soups. Soups that are already portioned and have the calorie amount posted. I add extra seasonings and spice to boost metabolism.

Coffee!! With almond milk and a little coffee creamer. It’s worth the calories if you want a coffee just make one it’s better than going to Starbucks.

Sushi: I’m vegetarian so I get an avocado and cucumber roll. It’s so good with fresh ginger and a little soy sauce. Sometimes I will be craving it allllllll day and have it as my OMAD so rewarding 🥹

Miso soup>>>>>> add tofu and seaweed and onions!! And mushrooms if you like them.

Monster Ultra energy drinks,,,, yeah I know they’re bad for you but I love them.

Fruits!!! I especially love strawberries, watermelon, cherries, blackberries, pineapple and mangoes.

TREATS 10%

Trail mix: dried cherries, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, cashews. High in calories but perfect for killing hunger. High protein keeps you full and muscles strong, high healthy fats will keep your hair and skin and nails beautiful.

Chocolates: SMALL PORTIONS. if you can’t eat just eat a piece without bingeing, do NOT buy a big bag. what I do is I buy a bar of whatever chocolate I’m craving for my bf and we share it piece by piece. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white, hazelnut, with coffee beans, with toffee, fruits, chocolate is the best thing ever 🍫

Starbucks! My fav drinks are matcha lattes (hot/iced), iced white chocolate mocha, caramel macchiato, and occasionally a pumpkin spice latte. Peppermint mochas on the holidays. Oat milk always

Baked goods. Same deal as the chocolate, ONLY BUY THE PORTION YOURE GOING TO EAT. If you have been craving a croissant, go get one. One. Don’t buy a whole dozen of them. You will end up bingeing trust me. My favs are cinnamon rolls <3

Habits

I’m going to the gym!!! Consistently for the first time in my life. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy. Spend 30 min on the treadmill alternating between incline walking and easy paced jogging. Put on a YouTube video. Wear pink and bring a cute water bottle. You have to make an experience out of it! I stick to cardio and full body stretches plus ocasional (light) strength workouts w my bf.

I don’t drink anymore. Just 🍃. Alc is so high in sugar and carbs and it’s literally poison bro. I know it’s hard to stop but once you do you’ll feel so much better.

I rarely weigh myself. I’m at my bfs house all the time so I only step on my scale maybe 3 times a month. It’s been a game changer!!!

MINDSET

I practice mindfulness and speak kindly to myself. Basically sweetspo + affirmations to myself all the time.

Taking more pride in your appearance will also help motivate you. You think you’ll still want to binge after you took a full body shower, clean PJ’s or outfit, painted your nails, skincare and makeup done, whitened your teeth and lit a candle? No thanks.

Limit stupid, negative, useless media consumption. Watch things that have to do with your hobbies/ interests and your social media algorithms begin to kinda clean themselves up over time. My pages are all about exercise, study blogs, beauty tips and sciencey stuff. No more drama or celebrity nonsense. Cut down your following!!

Remember you only have one life on earth. You’re young and hot once. Don’t you want to grab this chance while you have it? Unfortunately your beauty is your currency especially as a woman, so if there’s anything I can do to give myself a better life I will. Losing just a few pounds of fat will make the craziest difference in ways you’d never expect. Free and discounted stuff. More people smile at you and listen to what you have to say. Both literal and figurative doors will be opened for you.Clothes fit better bc they’re more flattering when your body is fit and healthy. While it feels good to get validation from other people, the best part of it is looking in the mirror and feeling proud instead of ashamed. The inner confidence that comes from successful transformation………….there’s no other feeling that compares. If you know, you know. I’m just saying,, the choice is yours 🤷🏼‍♀️

[adonis-koo]

sweet nothing • 4

(in which he has never been grocery shopping before)

↳ Description: being a guest at the Jeon Estate after a mishap of being kidnapped and dragged into your brothers affairs isn’t all that bad. Truth be told it brings you a lot closer to the mobster and owner of the estate Jeon Jungkook himself.

His two rules are simple, don’t cause trouble and don’t give him a hard time. Somehow you manage to constantly do both in the most endearing way despite being pregnant and waddling around most of the time.

↳ Pairing: Jungkook/reader, ???/reader

↳ Genre: slice of life AU, mafia!AU, pregnancy, there’s like…a little bit of a plot but not a lot, future smut? maybe? it's very domestic!

Word Count: 2.5k

Previous | Next

Note: for all my slice of life girlies!!! Here’s a lil treat 🫶 I’ve been having brain rot for sweet nothing the last couple of days so enjoy!!

When Jungkook had said he would take you anywhere, he meant it. Whether it was a two hour roadtrip or a two week trip to Morocco, he’d do anything and take you anywhere to make up for his absence the last week.

You had thought long and hard on it and when the time came to decide on your first weekly outing, Jungkook was truly prepared to take extra time off, just for you.

What he hadn’t expected was this.

“Y/n, remember when I said we could go anywhere?” Jungkook asked, trying to keep his sniffle quiet as he fixed his face mask and then adjusted the black ball cap he wore.

“Hm? Yeah?” You replied, beaming as you held your swollen tummy in excitement.

“I meant anywhere in the world. Not the grocery store.”

You glanced up at him, a shy smile on your face, “I know, but I’ve been wanting to cook for myself the last few days but you don’t have anything in the second kitchen. And staff won’t let me in the first.”

Jungkook frowned though you couldn’t see it, “Is the cooking not to your standard?”

“Oh no! The cooking is fine,” You smiled somewhat nervously, already noticing the look in his eyes which said he was close to whipping his phone out and firing people on the spot, “I just miss cooking for myself. Gourmet food is amazing, but nothing beats home cooking! I thought we could browse around and get some ingredients for a few dishes.”

Jungkook shrugged, “It’s your outing choice not mine. Let’s go.”

He opened the door to the small local grocery store, the bells jingling as he let you walk in first, the ladies at the registers greeting you both as you grabbed a grocery basket.

You browsed through the isles, admittedly curious to see what goods they sold, you had never come in before but had found it online after doing some looking because if Jungkook was coming with you, it would be best to try and be discreet, he was a CEO after all.

Granted he didn’t look discreet himself, even in casual clothes he was still in all black, black jeans, black leather jacket, black cap, black mask.

Oh and the gold Rolex on his wrist.

You briefly glanced at the shiny metal before looking back at the produce. Jungkook was practically glued to your back, leering over you with each product you picked up, looking as if he didn’t know what to do with himself.

“That’s ridiculously cheap.” He commented as you set the salad dressing back on the shelf.

You twisted around in surprise, “That’s eight dollars! That’s not cheap at all.”

Jungkook cocked his head to the side as if trying to figure out whether you were serious or not. This made you sigh as you felt a small kick in your stomach hand automatically grabbing the spot as you corrected yourself, “It’s not cheap for anyone who isn’t a millionaire.”

“Multi-millionaire.” Jungkook corrected as he reached back over, tossing it into the basket.

“Jungkook-”

“Not a word.” He replied, looking down at you chastising, “In fact.”

“Jungkook!”

“Give me that,” Jungkook grabbed the grocery basket from you, it was empty aside from the salad dressing that rolled about in it, “You’re pregnant you shouldn’t be carrying it anyways.”

“I can still carry things!” You replied indignantly, crossing your arms above your stomach.

“Yeah but should you?” Jungkook replied but cut you off before you could even try to reply, “Yeah I didn’t think so, moving on.” He pressed his hand into your back, giving you a gentle push to move forward.

Briefly in the peripheral of your eyes you could see an elderly couple giggle at your squabbling. You could feel the tips of your ears begin to burn as you without putting up a further fight, continued on, you didn’t want to make people think you and Jungkook were…

Your thought wasn’t continued at the sight ahead, instead a delight noise escaped you as you clasped your hands together, “Ah! Look at these, aren’t they just darling!” You sped over to the small clothing section but what had caught your eye was of course the baby clothes.

There was various sizing but newborn was what your eyes honed in on, little bright colored onesies, the smallest coats with little bear ears! And the socks! They were so tiny.

Just all of the clothing had you grabbing your bump in excitement as you dug through them.

Jungkook only sighed as he leaned against the metal rack, basket still in hand as he asked, “Is it a boy or a girl?”

“I don’t know,” You confessed with a shy smile, “I want it to be a surprise. I’d be happy with either. I don’t have much for the baby to be honest with you…” Your smile faltered a little, “I have a few sets of onesies that I’ve gathered throughout my pregnancy but I’ve been trying to keep them in gender neutral colors.”

You tried to not linger on the words that accidentally slipped out of you about not having much for the baby, but it was the truth. You absolutely hated going to baby showers before, always feeling awkward and a bit bored most of the time, and not really understanding the purpose of it.

Now being pregnant yourself you realized it was about chipping in and helping the new mom out on expenses, just about everything was insanely expensive.

Especially when the baby would be grown out of many of these garments in just a few months.

So the simple fix was, just have a baby shower.

The problem was, embarrassingly enough, you didn’t have any close family left aside from your brother, could you even count him anymore? The few people you knew were your coworkers, they were kind people, going out of their way to give you an informal baby shower which included a small set of gifts when you came in to open one day and a small set of cupcakes for everyone.

It was such a kind gesture it had brought you to tears, but it still didn’t fill that void inside you that in the end, you truly didn’t have anyone to come back to at home.

“What do you have for the baby?” Jungkook asked casually, looking as if his cuticles were more interesting than the conversation at hand.

You knew better than to believe his nonchalant attitude though, “Enough.”

“But how much,” Jungkook repeated, shifting his eyes from his hand to you revealing that he was very much invested in this conversation, no matter how cool he was trying to play it, “You’re staying with me until this whole ordeal with your brother is solved, remember? Which could be months.”

You sighed in irritation, grabbing hold of your stomach as you shifted your weight, “I’d hope not months, if it can be helped.”

This made Jungkook sigh in exasperation as well, “Of course, but again, it’s better to be prepared then not. I could buy this entire store in a second if I wanted, you think infant clothes are gonna break my bank?”

“That’s not the point Jungkook!” You frowned, not happy at all with how this conversation was going, “I’m sure you’ll find Wonho soon enough, can we please go check out my back is starting to hurt.”

You weren’t lying by any means, anytime you stood for more than a few hours at a time your back would start to dully ache these days.

Jungkook tucked his tongue against his cheek, looking as if he definitely had more to say but relented as he gestured you to forward first, huffing you kept your hands on your bump as you walked past him.

After checking out Jungkook was determined to carry your grocery bags for you all the way to his car, a custom made Viper with LED’s on the inside, it felt a bit ridiculous to ride in honestly, but seeing his satisfied tap of his fingers against the wheel told you that as long as he was happy, so were you.

The last stop of your short trip was the one you were looking forward to.

“This is a horrible idea.” Jungkook commented, his voice sounding a bit raspier as you turned to him in suspicion, “What…?”

“Are you okay?” You asked, turning your head to the side in question.

“I’m fine.” Jungkook waved a hand, his voice still a bit scratchy though, nothing a good cup of tea couldn’t fix though, and luckily Serendipity Bakery could help with that. Otherwise known as your old work place!

Walking in you made eye contact with the cashier you blinked as if trying to figure out whether you were a ghost or not, “Y/n!?”

“Eunwoo!” You cheered with a bright grin, he was the owner’s son of the shop but he had been training in every position while learning the trade of the business in hopes of one day taking over the shop for his father.

He rounded the counter sweeping you into a hug, careful of your stomach though before he held your shoulders tenderly, “I was so concerned when you sent in that text about going on maternity leave early! I’ve been trying to contact you since, you’ve had me worried to death! Is the baby okay?”

You were so surprised by the amount of questions that it took you a moment to process before you glanced down at his hands, sliding from your shoulders to your stomach.

“I’m okay…” You admitted, a bit shy at his attention, Eunwoo was…you weren’t sure what you two were to one another, other than perhaps a missed opportunity had you not been pregnant, in your first trimester when you had started working here, “Just been busy.”

“But the baby…”

“Is fine.”

The deep voice of Jungkook cut into the conversation making you remember he was indeed still here, he looked like a black rain cloud, suddenly looming right behind you and his eyes had twisted into a death glare, except it wasn’t aimed on you, moreso on Eunwoo’s hands, which were still on your stomach.

“Oh…?” Eunwoo’s hands reluctantly dropped as he frowned, “And you are…?”

“Jungkook,” He replied with a clipped tone, “her caretaker.”

“He mean’s roommate.” You curved a brow at him, caretaker? Seriously? “I moved into a new home! Jungkook is my roommate, he’s been helping me settle in and get ready for the baby. Right…?”

Jungkook said nothing, despite wearing a black face mask it wasn’t difficult to tell his expression beneath was unfriendly, you had seen many sides of Jungkook but this one wasn’t one you were most familiar with, he had flashed expressions like this at men who would attempt to talk to you at the Red Light before you had gotten pregnant.

But this was Eunwoo, not just some guy.

“I see…” Eunwoo frowned, glancing at Jungkook, “Well, it’s nice to meet you Jungkook, I’m Eunwoo, Y/n’s co-worker and friend, I hope you’ve been taking good care of her, she deserves only the best.”

“Eunwoo...” You felt a bit flustered at the sudden tension between both men, uncertain of how to translate this, you never had any intimate relationship with either of them aside from a certain unspoken attraction that you had at some point just assumed was you being stupid and it was only one sided.

At least in terms of Jungkook…You tried not to think about those days anymore, after all you never truly knew Jungkook back then, other then you were girlishly flattered at the attention he would sometimes give you.

You were too embarrassed to even think about it these days, the amount of times you’d stay up late into the night imagining a glimpse of a life that would never happen with him.

Eunwoo however...was a very different story, he had a boyish charm about him, the boy next door type of feeling, he had always been sweet to you, even after knowing you were pregnant he looked at you no different, and he was the reason you even had a small baby shower to begin with.

You could’ve had something with him, but the only person stopping you was yourself.

Partly because you didn’t want him involved in all of this, but there was also something else you hadn’t quite figured out yet.

“Luckily for her I only provide the best,” Jungkook replied, a little haughty, as if he was ruffled at the insinuation at not being able to take care of you, his glare didn’t let up, “You gonna take our order or what?”

You could tell Eunwoo didn’t appreciate his tone, but he forced a smile as he replied, “Anything for you Y/n, what’s on the craving menu today?” He rounded the counter as he rested his elbows on the surface.

You gave a soft smile, trying to ignore Jungkook practically towering over your shoulder, now acting as if he was a force field making sure you stayed a good distance from Eunwoo, “Honestly a London Fog and a blueberry scone sounds amazing! What about you Jungkook?”

“Coffee, black.” Jungkook replied deadpan.

“Alright,” Eunwoo nodded, “It’s on the house.”

“What? No, no we can pay!” You frowned as Eunwoo chuckled, a pretty smile on his lips as he shook his head, making his freshly dyed blonde hair brush over his eyebrows.

“Nope, too late, order’s been voided, i’ll be back with your stuff in a moment.” Eunwoo winked at you as he disappeared into the back.

“He’s your coworker?”

You twisted around, your frown turning into a pout, “Not for long with the way you were glaring.”

“I wasn’t glaring.” Jungkook replied, shoving his hands into his pockets.

Before you could pursue the conversation Eunwoo returned with your drinks and food, both in to go cups and a small pastry bag, “Here you are.”

“Thank you Eunwoo!” You grinned as you reached for your drink.

But before you could grab it Eunwoo softly grabbed your hand, “Anything for you Y/n, seriously, text me, I know you’re on maternity leave but if you want to hang out let me know! We can go out sometime.”

“Let’s go.” Jungkook’s voice was a tad deeper than normal, his eyes back into a glare as he reached over your hand grabbing both drinks, somehow managing to hold both in one hand before pressing another against your back firmly to turn you around.

It happened so fast you could hardly process it as you waved goodbye to Eunwoo.

“What was that about?” You asked bewildered by his action as you exited the shop.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Jungkook replied, his eyes staying forward as you huffed, curving a brow as took your drink from his hand, taking a sip of it as you decided to not pursue this conversation though it was very tempting.

Being so focused on how childish he was acting you didn’t even notice how his hand still stayed against your back all the way until you returned to the car, Jungkook making the point to even open the door for you as you sat back down with a groan, your back aching once more with the need to rest.

“Anywhere else you wanna go?” Jungkook asked as he slid into the drivers side.

You shook your head, “Nah, I just wanna go home.”

You couldn’t see it beneath his mask, but the tiniest smile tugged on Jungkook’s lips at your words, “Then home it is.”

[xaphrin]

At Midnight, My Heart Drops

Fuck.

Raven stared into Damian's calm face, desperately trying to think of something to say - an excuse, a flippant comment - anything. But, no. She stood there, frozen on the spot watching the muscle in his jaw twitch as he waited for an answer for the most unnerving question he could have asked her. 

“I'm… sorry?” She feigned ignorance, trying to buy enough time to get her brain to process his request again. Her heart was pounding in her throat and he had to have heard it. “Can you ask me that one more time?”

“Be my date for the Wayne New Year's Eve party.” 

When he repeated it, it sounded less of a request and more of a demand. As though the inconvenience of repeating himself should have been repaid with a ‘yes’ answer regardless of what the question was. Cocky bastard. Raven fought the automatic urge to open a portal to anywhere and shove him in it. Taking a deep breath, she calmed her pounding heart and stared at him, keeping her face expressionless. Just because she was adept at controlling her emotions, it didn’t mean she didn’t have any.  

“What the fuck for? You’re the son of Bruce Wayne. You wake up and trip over people trying to get dates with you. You have a wellspring of viable candidates to choose from for a New Year’s Eve party.” She fought to keep her panic under control, and continued to stare at him, hoping she looked calmer than she felt. “Please don't ask the girl who doesn't know the difference between an oyster fork and an olive fork.”

“Or a dessert fork.” He smirked as he reminded her of the celebratory dinner party the Mayor had in their honor last year, and the horror of some societal elites as Raven ate her salad with a dessert fork. The scandal.

Raven's face fell and she gave him a deadpan stare, but Damian was unaffected. Finally, he sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. “The truth is that I need someone I trust to run interference.”

She crossed her arms over her chest and lifted an eyebrow, motioning for him to elaborate. 

“There are… girls. Women.” He shrugged. “Some men.”

“Yes. That's usually who make up populations of people. Your point?”

“I'm a rich, educated, eligible bachelor.” He groaned and stared up at the ceiling, as if he was ashamed to be direct. “Of marrying age.”

“You forgot good looking.”

Why in the fuck had she admitted that out loud? Raven bit the inside of her cheek to keep from looking embarrassed, but Damian stared at her, and she swore she saw his face flush at least a little. She shrugged, trying to be as objective as possible. “I'm not blind, Damian.” She managed to keep herself from blurting out the rest of that statement: you're drop dead gorgeous and totally stacked - of course people are going to try and at least bang you.

“So what… you want me to lurk in the shadows and scare off anyone you don't approve of? Is there someone specific you're trying to… date? Court?” She rubbed her thumb along her jaw, thinking. “What do rich people from the Hamptons call it? Woo?”

He pinched the bridge of his nose and groaned. “Is there a reason you're being so blithe about this?”

“You just asked me to be your pretend girlfriend so that you can avoid talking to people who might want to date you.” She shoved at her hair and crossed her arms over her chest, needing to do something with her hands. “That’s a setup for a bad romance movie.”

He sighed again, obviously frustrated that Raven wasn’t taking his request seriously. Raven couldn’t take his request seriously. The minute she stopped trying to treat his request like a joke, her heart would break into a hundred pieces. She had been harboring feelings for Damian for years, practically since they had been pulled onto the Titans team together. She could keep her feelings under control as long as she kept a heavy barrier of friendship and distance between them. 

But knowingly putting herself into a situation where she had to be a girlfriend - even a pretend one - would force all of those feelings front and center. It would leave an opening for her to confess those feelings, and she would admit to him (and probably all of his family too) that she loved him. If Raven was being honest with herself, she didn’t want to be hurt when Damian ultimately rejected her confession.

She could see the whole scene play out over and over in her mind, and the risk felt far too great. 

“You’re the only one I want to be my date for the party.”

Raven felt like the floor underneath her had just disappeared. Her heart fell into her stomach before leaping back into her chest to pound frantically against her ribs. Damian’s face was unreadable, and he stared at her, his eyes searching her face for something he could read. 

Raven panicked again, trying to find something she could say that would keep her in control. “Is it because you trust me to not fall in love with you?” Because too late, she added within her own thoughts. 

“Because you’re my friend and I trust you. Full stop.” 

The excitement of his words mingled with the pain of the word friend, leaving Raven to feel both elated and disappointed at the same time. But, that was what she wanted, wasn’t it? She would rather be safe behind her barrier of friendship, then put herself at risk of a broken heart. But still… if he only considered her a friend, then there was nothing she needed to worry about. She could do this for him, as a friend.  

Rubbing her forehead, she turned and stepped back from him, knowing that her next words were going to be her downfall. 

“Just tell me when I have to meet you, and what the hell I should wear.”

[docholligay]

For anyone else with a toddler (or former toddler) or who teaches toddlers:

Beebarini starts preschool next week, great cool, she's got her strawberry backpack and her Hello Kitty towel for swim lessons, we're golden.

TWO QUESTIONS:

Would it be out of my mind insane and disruptive to ask if I could come in and talk about Hanukkah around holiday time? I have a wooden menorah set and dreidels, I've got a book and I promise it's a nice one and not a thinly veiled "I hope you all shut the fuck up forever*" (that is for Jew-only time), and I can make rugelach (because I don't want to get murdered by a teacher for bringing in sufganiyot. I would murder me too) I can get this down to a tight ten, twenty if you allow snacktime,

For her birthday, would it be cool to ask if I could provide the snack for snacktime? It doesn't even have to be cake or whatever, I am happy to provide fruit salad cups, or little yogurt parfaits, or even fun-cut sandwiches. I admittedly fucking hate the like 40% of the snacks on the schedule but my motivation is genuinely to give a treat and not "A graham cracker is a fucking cookie and uncrustables are all sugar and I am only not packing beeb her own snack because I really need to maintain a veneer of sanity, as 80s prefab furniture thin as it may be" I will keep all that inside.

I generally do not ask for advice if I am unwilling to be told no. I will just do it. So, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE A PRESCHOOL EDUCATOR, I am totally into being told these ideas suck.

*This is actually something I'm trying badly to reign in. Perhaps at some point I will expand on the hows and whys of that thought, but as it turns out I really don't want to talk about it today, so I shan't. But, please know if you hear me being less vitriolic on this measure, it's because I annoyingly am trying to be a better person. I hate it too.

[msschemmenti]

hinge - a potential series

eventual melissa schemmenti x reader

synopsis: melissa joins hinge. who will she match with?

a/n: hello yes i know i’ve been gone for over a month after saying i was going to finish some things. my job got SUPER busy! but i’m trying to get back into writing and with that in mind i wanted to do a little writing exercise that i thought could be fun. so basically this will be a one shot series where melissa matches with different readers each installment. i was thinking if you all were interested i could open my requests for descriptions of readers you’d like to see melissa chat with and date! this is just an introductory piece to the vision, but let me know if you all would be interested in submitting readers for this. if not that’s cool as well ahaha! but either way, i hope you enjoy this chaotic prologue.

“You know, you should really get back out there Melissa.” Jacob’s voice floated over Melissa's shoulder. The older woman felt the tension between her eyebrows tighten as she slowly turned to address the young teacher. Not only had he been listening in on her conversation with Barb, but now he was giving advice. She knew they shouldn’t have let him stay for the Christmas dinner, now he thinks he’s a part of their circle. 

"What are ya talking about?" Melissa glared. Jacob had the sense to look a bit squeamish under her gaze but still cleared his throat as if to speak.

"I just mean, it's been months since Gary stopped stocking the vending machine. And kind of disappeared off the face of the Earth. And you're a beautiful woman, who deserves to be treated well. I'm sure there's a sea of men just waiting to make you their wife." Jacob rambled as his face grew red.

"First of all kid, I had nothing to do with Gary's career change and if you tell anyone different we'll have a problem. Second of all, I know I'm hot. I'm a Philly 11. I don't need no man making me his wife. I'm perfectly fine with the way my life is right now. Not that it's any of your business." Melissa scoffed with an eyeroll.

"Well that doesn't mean you can't see what's out there." Janine piped up from her seat next to Jacob.

"Oh you're one to talk, what does that even mean?" Melissa asked.

"Well, I'm not looking for a relationship right now because I'm working on myself. But that doesn't mean I don't want to see who's out there. Or even get a little validation from knowing someone wants me."

Melissa listened curiously, "and how exactly do you do that? Are you going to bars and turning down drinks or something?"

"No! Dating apps. People see my profile and like me but I don't have to say anything back." Janine explained.

"Oh yes! Before I met Zack I had a profile on all of the apps, just to make sure I wasn't missing any of the validation." Jacob added in causing Janine to nod.

"I think that could be good for you." Barb hummed before taking another bite of her salad.

"Not you too!" Melissa groaned before Ava walked through the door swiping on her phone.

"What we talking about?" Ava grinned looking around the tables.

"We're trying to convince Melissa to get back out there. On a dating app."

"Oh you should definitely do that. There's a market of men you're missing out on. Get you a young thing to get all up in that Italian Dressing." Ava said wiggling her eyebrows before reaching to make her coffee.

"Okay. None of that." Melissa groaned as she and Barb shook their heads in disappointment.

"No, you don't have to start out doing that. You can just start out seeing who's out there. Getting some likes, giving some likes, and then if you want to you can move it to chatting. It's all at your own speed." Janine tried to explain.

Before Melissa could even try to continue disagreeing, Ava had finished dumping sugar in her mug and had snatched Melissa's phone from the table. "The question is, what app do we get her on. I think Tinder is out if she's not gonna let any all up in her business. Bumble is dead and boring. What else is there?"

"How about none?"

"Oh Hinge! That ones really good." Jacob volunteered and Ava nodded moving to download the app on the older woman's phone.

"You are insane! Give me back my phone." Melissa tried to lunge at the taller woman.

"Stop fighting girlfriend. Just let it happen." Barbara appeased placing her hand on Melissa's shoulder in an attempt to calm her.

"Oh not you too!" Melissa sighed.

"Give in Schemmenti. I'm already creating your account." Ava grinned flashing the phone toward the older woman.

Seeing the phone, Melissa just shook her head. "I hate all of yous."

Ava took a seat in the middle of the table and smirked over her shoulder at Melissa. "Alright so let's get these questions and pictures together. Gotta show every how hot you are!"

Melissa scoffed but only rolled her eyes in response.

"So I got all the basics, now who are you looking for? Just men? Or are you down for a lil lady action? You seem like you'd know your way around the lady parts." Ava asked.

"Oh my god. You are the WORST!"

"That's not answering my question. You know what, I'll just put it as bisexual for now. Keep your options open. Let's find pictures for the prompts. You have any nudes in here I should be worried about seeing?" Ava asked shielding her eyes playfully.

"No? What kind of lady do you think I am?"

"I don't know. I'm just saying. Okay I already did the first one now the next one is 'As seen on my Mom's fridge', how about this cute picture of you and your blonde sister?"

"Yes that would be cute!" Janine smiled.

"Oh put this picture I secretly took of her crocheting on there. People love crafts!" Jacob said air dropping the photo to Melissa's phone.

"Why are you secretly taking pictures of me?" Melissa glared.

"Oh hush, it's helpful now. Oh a writing prompt, what are your simple pleasures?"

"Food, wine, and the Eagles." Melissa answered quickly.

"Let's say Cooking, wine, and the Eagles. People like cooking." Janine amended.

"Another picture, let's do this cute one with me in the back. That'll really get you some likes. I'm pretty well known around this app."

"Last prompt, the key to your heart?" Janine asked.

"A clean kitchen and an empty stomach." Melissa spoke with a shrug.

"Oh cause you like to cook for people. You're so good at this. Yes." Janine swooned.

"And with that, you're live. Now you just wait for the local baddies to match with you."

As Ava handed the phone, Melissa had no choice but to scroll. Well I guess this is what we're doing now.

"If this ends poorly, all of yous better watch your back."

[fanboo]

You’re sick hc’s

Quackity

• “I think I’m sick- what’s that sound?”

• He immediately drives to the store to pick up any medicine he thinks you’ll be needing and food

• Treats you like you aren’t sick while still taking care of you

• “I wanna cuddleeee” “I don’t want to get sick” *three seconds of silence* “scoot over, you look cold.”

• cuddles

Wilbur

• Depending on how sick you are, he’ll cancel his plans to take care of you.

• Makes sure you’re hydrating and eating

• Sings you songs

• Blanket? Nonono. Wilbur

• Mom mode activated

• “Wil, I’m fine.” “You’re way too hot, get in bed.” “You think I’m hot?” “Y/N, bed.”

• Forehead kisses galore

Tommy

• He doesn’t actually know what to do at first, so he calls Phil, Wilbur, and his mom for advice

• Lets you stay at his house until you feel better

• It’s like being comforted by a little kid but also better

• Mf still streams

• But makes the streams shorter so you don’t think he’s ignoring you

• “HELLO CHAT! Y/N is sick so today we’ll just chat. Can’t get too loud cuz they’re sleeping”

• Honestly it’s just cute

Dream

• “We’re going to the doctor”

• Will not leave you alone

• Makes sure you get whatever you want as soon as you ask for it

• Has Sapnap run to the store to get you food and medicine

• You now live in his bedroom

• Minecraft and cuddles

Sapnap

• As soon as he sees you he knows you’re sick and sends you to bed

• That purple Balenziaga hoodie? It’s yours the entire time you’re sick

• Buys you so much junk food

• Also buys salad

• “Healthy food healthy body”

• You’re pretty sure he cuddles the sickness out of you

• So many comforting kisses

• Oh my god so much kiss

• Dream almost got throat punched once because he coughed in the same room as you right after you just got out of a sickness

George

• Bless his heart

• “Wtf do I do I don’t know how to take care of people”

• “Dream help”

• With Dream’s help he takes great care of you

• Because he’s just kinda a little stupid he managed to get sick with you

• Sick cuddles>>>>>

• “I lob yoo” “George how are you sicker than me” “Say it back!” “I love you too”

Karl

• Karl is on top of taking care of you

• He makes you soup for lunch every day

• Cuddles and forehead kisses

• “Just tell me whatever you need, Y/N”

• Blows all his friends off to take care of you until you feel better

• Gives you his comfiest outfits to wear

• Probably takes better care of you than anyone else ever will

Technoblade

• Very good brother

• Tells you stories

• Constant check ins

• Even if he’s streaming, he’ll walk away for a second to see if you need anything

• “Can you tell me a Greek myth?” “How about all of them?” “Wait no” “Too late.”

• 10/10 brother

Tubbo

• Prepare to be pampered

• He gets you so much fast food

• Sucks at cooking but manages to cook you soup a couple times

• Cuddles

• He’ll sing you silly nonexistent songs to distract you

• Sucks at caretaking in all honesty but he is doing his best here

• Got sick right after you so you had to take care of him

Ranboo

• He was visiting Tubbo when you called him

• Found a flight back home as soon as he heard the sickness in your voice

• Didn’t tell you they did this until the next day when they walked into your house with groceries and their bags

• So much cuddle

• Very forehead kiss

• Had the foresight to buy canned soup so they just had to microwave it for you

• Literally takes the best care they can of you

• Took you back to Tubbo’s with them to keep an eye on you and still hang out with Tubbo

[icantspellthings]

I wonder what Oliver would've lied about if he got obsessed with other people, for instance, Venetian or Farleigh.

I'm assuming Venetian is going to Oxford, but it is a 3rd year now about to graduate. Oliver sees her first instead of Felix, is possibly enamoured by the way she dressed and how much she stands out from the crowd yet has people flocking around her. Venetia loves "real" people, people who aren't afraid to indulge in the filth and grime of life (she was so horny for period sex on a fucking bench in the middle of the garden, girl is a freak. Walked back to her room just covered in period blood while free bleeding. Do not get me started on the vampire scene an how much spit and fluids we were shown)

I don't think Venetia would fall for the "damsel in distress" act that Oliver put on for Felix, she was attracted to a more dominant Oliver who took control of things, who desires her even when she didn't think she was desirable. I think Oliver would go with the same druggie parents angle but maybe not made it so sad and awful on his part. Instead of making it some kind of tragic tale he instead made it a triumphant one. A story about how he was able to escape from his fucked up family and become his own man. He probably will mention his sisters but make them the golden child, born before their parents started doing drugs, lived a relatively normal childhood ane moved out as adults leaving oliver all alone. Because fundamentally, Venetia knows that in her family she will always play second fiddle to Felix the golden son, she will never be the center of attention. But maybe she can bew someone, because if this poor broken boy with druggie parents who lives in abject poverty can crawl his way up to become someone of his own making, then so can she. She feels a kinship with Oliver, being the unwanted child, she finds him real and refreshing, raw and rough around the edges in a way her other aristocratics friends are not. I think this version of Oliver would be much messier and also more assertive less passive because Venetia loves mess, she's a mess herself after all, and she likes someone who can deal with her mess unflinchingly, and maybe even love her inspite of it.

And for Farleigh, oh Farleigh, he was antagonistic right from the start. He's just itching for a fight with anyone and everyone, lots of anger in him, justifiable anger really having to live with the Cattons treating him like their special charity case. From the first tutorial scene with Oliver, you can see that Farleigh likes the Oliver fights back. He's intrigued that this no name boy from bum fuck no where has the wit to spit fire right back at him. I do think that if Oliver just kept being a little bitch Farleigh would eventually start noticing him. My personal interpretation is that Farleigh dislikes the little helpless boy act that Oliver does with Felix, it might remind him a little to much of who he used to be or it makes him think about what the Cattons want him to be, the perfect victim charity case they can help.

I don't think Farleigh could really become friends with Oliver, they're too similar but also too different. Frenemies with benefits certainly because he was obviously physically attracted to Oliver. Oliver probably wouldn't have to lie about his family to Farleigh, he obviously isn't interested in that. Oliver would just need to continue to be a scathing little bitch. They can shit talk Felix behind his back to each other, a common enemy(friend) if you will.

This quite possibly makes absolutely no sense at all it's really just a word salad, but I just needed to get it out of my brain.

[harrywavycurly]

Here me out: princess and Eddie on Valentine’s Day. I just know he would spoil tf out of us & also featuring some heart printed fuzzy socks ahhh sooo cute

Ps love princess & Eddie- I’m so independent so it’s nice to read these for a change! Love your work ❤️

Hiii lovey!! Sorry I’m a day late 😂 but I hope you enjoy these convos Eddie and his Princess had on Valentine’s Day! Yesss I am also semi independent and I love to escape into stories where I can be pampered!!💖

-find all things Eddie x Princess here✨

*Eddie hasn’t ever had anyone to spoil on Valentine’s Day before so he goes all out for you*

“Good morning honey…oh my goodness what is all this?” “Good morning baby…well it’s Valentine’s Day and I know you love a good breakfast before work so…I made you some of your favorites.” “You’re so sweet…oh are those blueberry waffles?” “They are…also made chocolate chip muffs for you to take to work for Robin.” “And Steve.” “I didn’t make muffins for Harrington baby…” “but you made them for Robin?” “Yeah…she deserves some love today and I know you got her a little card.” “And people think you’re so big and bad…little do they know you’re in here making muffins and waffles.” “Let’s keep that little fact between us okay Princess? I have a reputation to uphold.” “Your secret is safe with me honey…happy Valentine’s Day…I love you.” “I love you too baby.”

“Edward James Munson this is too much.” “No need to go full name on me baby.” “This is too much…way too much…when did you even have time to do all this?” “I took a half day…what do you think?” “I think it’s…it’s beautiful…where did you find all these flowers and balloons? Oh my…is that a box of chocolate covered strawberries?” “I might’ve cleaned the florist out on Main Street and the balloons I got from the mini mart and just filled them up at work…it is…and yes before you ask you can have a few before dinner.” “What’s for dinner?” “I made pasta and that salad you like.” “Oh that sounds good…what’s that on the table?” “Don’t know why don’t you go find out?” “Eddie…” “Yes sweetheart?” “You got me a matching skull ring?” “I did…I know it’s your favorite of mine and it’s too big for you so I figured you’d like one that you can wear on your finger and not in a necklace.” “I love it…thank you honey.” “You’re welcome Princess.”

“Did you enjoy your bubble bath baby?” “I did…you always run me the best baths…honey have you seen my socks?” “Oh I got you these…they are fuzzy and have lotion in them or something that supposed to make your feet all soft.” “They have hearts on them! They are so cute…oh and so soft oh my.” “You like them?” “I love them…you really didn’t have to do all this for me.” “I wanted to. You deserve it sweetheart.” “You’re too good to me.” “Nonsense now come here and cuddle with me while you tell me how Robin liked her little Valentine’s Day treat.”

[itzpris15634]

Midnight Drink (ft. Zoe x Pepper)

This was the first time they'd (literally) slept together in the same bed.

And Zoe did not expect Pepper's snoring to be this loud. It was keeping her wide awake.

Which was just unacceptable! Zoe needed her beauty sleep! She needed to look fresh and healthy!

…

Hmm… What if she went and got a snack? To provide a distraction. A small treat now and then never hurt anyone. She was already awake, anyway.

But also, she was currently trapped by Pepper's limbs entangled with hers. She didn't want to disturb her girlfriend's sleep…

At the same time, she just wanted a snack.

…

Zoe made her decision. She was going to get up, go to the kitchen, and get something to eat. Or drink. Whatever she'd find more appealing later.

First, she'd have to get out of bed without waking Pepper.

Slowly, carefully, she lifted Pepper's arm off her waist, gently placing it down on the bed. Zoe froze when Pepper stirred a little, murmuring in her sleep. A sinking feeling settled in her gut.

…Did I wake her up?

Luckily, a few moments later, Pepper was back to snoring. Loudly as ever.

Zoe sighed in relief, the feeling of guilt for disturbing her lover's rest now gone.

And it was off to the kitchen.

-

Zoe knew Pepper wouldn't mind her going through her kitchen. She was given spoken permission and all.

Pepper's fridge was certainly full. But nothing so far interested Zoe...

Leftover birthday cake from Vinnie's party? Delicious, but maybe not tonight.

A half-eaten peanut butter sandwich? Er… no thanks.

There was a salad in there… but the leafy vegetables in it were starting to brown. Zoe wondered what that smell was when she first opened the fridge. Zoe quickly did Pepper a favor and tossed the thing away.

Okay, back to the fridge. Hmmm…

After pushing aside a few items to look further back, one thing finally did catch Zoe's eye. A cute little juice box, the same kind that kids could conveniently pack to school. Apple flavored. Yum.

It was perfect.

Eager to enjoy her new find, Zoe picked it up from its spot on the fridge and shut the door.

And then the kitchen light switched on.

"Well, well, well, Miss Trent. What are you doing up so late at night?"

"ACK!" Zoe leapt in surprise,

"Ah, Pepper!" Zoe leaned on the nearby counter, laughing nervously, "What are you doing out of bed?"

"I have the same question," Pepper said, "Mind if you're the one who answers first?"

"Well, I… couldn't sleep, that's all. So I figured I'd have a snack or so."

"Huh. Never thought I'd see the night where Zoe Trent would be awake past 10 PM, but here I am!!"

"Enjoy the moment. It's rare," Zoe teased. Remembering the juice box in her hand, she held it up and asked, "You don't mind if I have this apple juice, do you?"

Pepper shook her head, "Not at all. All that is mine is yours."

"Perfect," Zoe smiled, giving the box a good shake before taking the straw and poking it through the little hole on top. She brought the straw to her lips taking a few sips.

"So I'm sure you're wondering why I'm out of bed now, too. Well, it kinda felt like something was missing. Cause like- one moment, you were in my arms. We were cuddling together, warm and happy. And then you were… gone."

Zoe paused her sipping on the apple juice.

"…Oh."

"…Yeah, don't think about it too much," Pepper made her way over to the counter, next to Zoe. She leaned on Zoe’s shoulder, sighing, "I just enjoy your touch, is all."

"I would have returned to bed anyway, dearest."

"I know. Still miss you."

"Aww…" Zoe smiled, "Well, you'll get more of me later."

"Is that a promise, Miss Trent?"

"Promise." Zoe nodded. Shaking the juice box, she could hear the sloshing of some apple juice still inside. She handed the box over to Pepper, "You want it?"

"Aight then," Pepper took the juice box and sipped on the straw, further leaning into Zoe.

"You snore like a broken car engine, by the way."

"I- huh-? Hey!"

===

Day 9: juice box

If you somehow do- remember my headcanon about Pepper calling her friends by their surnames? And how i said there Zoe is an exception to that because they're closer?

Yeah uh nevermind. She just calls her Trent anyway, but adds a 'Miss' to it so its fancier.

[library-of-cronos]

Valentine's Core Exchange 2024!

Happy Valentine's Core Exchange, @maxattax!

You asked for a flirty, awkward trans Danny gift, and I will deliver!

And a huge thank you to the lovely people at @valentines-core-exchange for putting all this together! I know I'm very happy with my own gift, and I hope everyone else is, too!

Double Trouble on Ao3

For those who don't want to make the trip to Ao3, I'll put it under the read more :)

The idea of a double date was scary. For Danny anyway. Sam thought it was fun.

Besides, she loved any chance to spoil her boyfriend. He was always so shy about asking for or receiving money from her, even though she was easily the richest one out of the four people she was treating to a dinner double date. Valerie was the one to suggest it, but Sam was paying. Dani couldn’t exactly pay for her girlfriend when she was too young to have a job aside from working for Danny’s parents on the side while going to school with him.

But the girl in question was actually the one to find a nice, little spot in Elmerton to dine at. Dani was nice enough to call ahead and make sure to ask for a booth, which they were currently sitting at. They even had a nice spot next to a window, which Danny and Dani had gotten on their respective sides.

They were all dressed up nice. Dani and Valerie in matching blue blouses and jeans, Sam in her usual outfit, but with her tank top replaced with a half-sheer dark green shirt. Danny had tried to dress up like them, but with his matching green button up too tight around his neck, it was clear he hadn’t started off the date with much experience in being fancy(ish).

They hadn’t even been there long, but Sam was, quite frankly, enjoying the awkward first date conversation.

Valerie was a pretty smooth talker, as was Dani. They had been together for a few months now, so spending time together made them closer than anyone else in their lives. They knew each other pretty well, and knew how to play off of each other to make some entertaining back and forth.

As for why Danny wasn’t a smooth talker to his girlfriend (who had been dating him for much longer than a few months), that was probably because Sam was the one who was more of a flirt. Gifts, compliments, generally being touchy—that was all her. Danny could barely handle a single you look cute without stuttering and looking close to phasing into the ground to avoid her flirty response of

thank you, baby.

That all being the case, Danielle’s little spot was a perfect spot for two out of the four of them to flirt with their partners. Val and Dani had been consistently flirting with each other, sometimes taking a break to talk with Sam or to tease Danny. Sam would do the same, but, well, Danny was too nervous to even talk, let alone let out his (rarely) flirty side.

Dani, with her tall soda cup and massive plate of fries, sharing with Valerie, who had a lemonade in front of her. They had never been shy about sharing everything. Tables, food, even drinks.

Sam, with her glass of water and half empty plate of salad. It was too plain to finish, and watching the two of them tease her boyfriend while he tried to stutter out anything cute to her in response was too amusing to pass up on a lackluster meal.

Poor Danny, with fidgeting, cold hands holding one of hers on the seat. He had barely touched his mozzarella sticks with how nervous he was doing anything romantic in public. No one was even watching them, but he must have thought otherwise. She couldn’t help but smile. He was cute. Incredibly so, actually. Slightly green face and ears, legs unable to sit still—everything she knew he hadn’t noticed, but that everyone at the table had.

“Hey, Danny?”

Valerie hadn’t had her turn teasing Danny as much as Dani, so Danny clearly hadn’t expected all eyes on him with the way he squeaked out, “Yeah?”

“I’ve always wondered something.” He nodded at her once, tight. “If Danielle is a clone of you…” Dani perked up from in between scarfing down the contents of their shared plate. “Why are you different genders?”

Sam had to try really hard to not snicker at the way Danny pressed his hands into his face and sunk until he was halfway under the table. If he wasn’t blushing before, he was now.

“Are you okay, Danny?” She had tried to sound like she wasn’t laughing at him, but she wasn’t subtle enough. It was only because she was still holding onto his hand that he hadn’t fallen under the table completely.

“Did I…” Valerie, slowly, worried. She probably thought their teasing went too far. “Say something wrong?”

Sam sighed, trading looks with them. “No, it’s-”

Danny was clearly not in the right not-embarrassed state to come up with any excuses, and Sam herself wasn’t a fan of lying to both girls considering Danielle also didn’t know with the way she was looking at her with a half-full mouth and still holding Valerie’s hand on the seat. Vlad clearly hadn’t informed her before or after siccing her on Danny. If he knew at all.

Besides, Danny had always given Sam the trust to tell anyone who earned it, and Valerie had without a doubt.

“Look, can you-” Sam gestured for Valerie to get closer. She lent forward, but not close enough. Sam pulled her in by her blouse and whispered, “Danny’s trans.”

“Oh.” She blinked, then, “Oh!”

Sam sat back down and nodded. “Yeah, oh.”

A clear look of we’re in public, don’t make a fuss. Valerie got it, but with her pursed lips it was clear she hadn’t been expecting it and wasn’t sure what to say. Sam knew she’d be totally fine with it, but boy did it make the date a little awkward.

“Val?” Dani, rightfully still confused, then turned to Sam and fake-pouted. “What, am I not good enough to share the secret?”

Danielle would be fine with this reveal, too. That was obvious from the first moment. The fact that Danny hadn’t told either of them yet was actually a bit surprising. A roll of her eyes at her insistent look, then Sam gave her the same treatment.

It took a second, and in that time wherein she was confused about just how that related to her coming out of the cloning tube a girl when Danny was a boy, Valerie took the opportunity to quietly say, “If it makes you feel better, I never would have guessed.”

At that, and at her realization, Dani immediately burst out laughing, slapping the table and giggling loudly, nearly choking on her food.

It must be incredibly funny to Dani that no one had ever made the connection even though they said they were identical twins at school. Or she was laughing because despite him being terrible at keeping secrets, this was the one thing everyone seemed to overlook. Or maybe Danielle was laughing at Vlad for not figuring it out either. He always claimed he was some genius prodigy, but apparently he was too dumb to connect some dots.

It was anyone's guess.

Danny himself was now one with the floor, and Sam wasn’t sure she’d ever get him up with all the ruckus his clone was making. He looked about four more seconds from phasing himself into the ground and towards the center of the Earth.

Sam slid down to his level, joining him halfway. Trying to comfort (and trying not to laugh at his admittedly pathetic state), “Doing alright, babe?”

He put his hands across his fully green face and, incredibly muffled, mumbled, “Just tell me when she stops laughing, and I’ll eat my mozzarella sticks.”

A look back up. Dani had not stopped, and, in fact, was having trouble breathing with how long she had been going on for. Even Valerie had gone from hesitant and worried to laughing, too. The diner was probably incredibly confused as well. Actually, Sam knew they were. Waitresses stopped serving, people had their forks halfway to their mouths and stared.

Danny would never live this down.

She pat his shoulder a few times. He merely whined when Danielle still kept laughing. “I’ll let you know."

[dre4ml4nd-st4rlight]

Trauma Candy / relatively sugary thing Salad !! (tw, obvs)

Doing this with my system , but on here + without pics bc we don't make pics of ourselves as much as we want to. Some trauma is from sources (mostly with introjects + fictives), and some is our bodily trauma.

Starlight - My sister Sacrificed herself to save me + got stuck in some inbetween purgatory shit no one understands. But her sacrifice is what ultimately led me to getting kidnapped and tortured by the only person I've ever met that could subdue my powers. That led to both of us becoming the same person and forging some weird bond that makes it so only one of us can be alive at once. I am adding some caramel Tisa - I am the afformentioned sister. Adding on- me and Starlight were only created to endlessly create realms + worlds, and keep all those worlds + our world + Earth together, we are nothing but soldiers to our makers. I am adding our homeworlds version of grandma candy. Muttbun - I was groomed on the internet and abused by many, many people sexually + verbally (online and irl). I had to process all the trauma we went through + the stuff we couldn't tell anyone about and (due in part to mine and the bodies innocence) I wasn't the best of people because of it. Not to mention I hold all the bodies drug addictions when I really shouldn't. I am adding the little ice cream cones that are also edibles

Travis - After being indoctrinated to horribly toxic Christianity I was then indoctrinated to a murder cult that worships what can I can only describe as the definition of the anti-christ. When I was extremely young my father forced me to join him in 'killing the disgraced prophet' (Sal Fisher). I lied to my dad after realizing the shot didn't kill Sal, and then made a deal with the anti-christ to keep Sal alive but make him so miserable that he never fulfills the prophecy. I am keeping the boy I love alive by relentlessly bullying him and I hate it. I am putting in some of those cinnamon twist things from taco bell I know they aren't candy but they are really good.

Rosebur - I lived through our first abusive romantic relationship, I hold most of the trauma mems we wont let our body think about or remember, one of which being the memory of all our attempts. Also C!Wilbur soot trauma? Mildly idfk. I am adding kit Kats.

Sola - My parents were horribly bad at raising a child and treated me more like a science experiment. They sent me into another dimension when they managed to open a portal and that dimension happened to be hell. I got trapped there for years alone until I met Wither, who after 'saving' me literally turned me into his slave and forced me to do his bidding. He forced his powers into me, he forced his trauma onto me, he abused and tortured me (and my friend when she came to rescue me). After I left it wasn't long till I killed him. I... um.. put a cake in there? ig

Draco - My father abused me and made me grow up in a rasict blood supremacist family, he made me dawn the dark mark and become a servant to one of the greatest dictators of my time. I added some chocolate frogs. many. totally not because I am collecting the cards nuh uh.

[kitramune]

This is not my usual fandom posting so feel free to ignore it but in light of posting pics of my rabbits I've gotten a lot of other rabbit pics in my feed and I don't want to call anyone out, but education is always key, so... I'll just share my stance here: Rabbits do NOT belong in cages. Rabbits may seem lazy since they are crepuscular (like cats, meaning active at dawn and dusk) but they are extremely active when they are, and need space to roam and binky and run and hop. A cage is not that. Cages are also impractical af since they cost upwards of $100, whereas you can make much more adequate space by buying those puppy exercise pens for like $40. Save your friend, and save your wallet. Rabbits do NOT belong outside. Domestic bunnies have no way to regulate their body temperature and will very easily overheat or freeze if left outside. That's not even accounting for predators like neighborhood cats tormenting/scaring them or breaking in to get them. Rabbits do not belong on hard floors, nor do they belong on most advertised substrates. Rabbits do not have paw pads. Just fur and bone. A hard surface can cause sore hawks (open wounds on the feet) at best, and permanent splayed legs at worst. Many substrates are also toxic or hazardous for them to ingest. Rabbits can't vomit like a dog or cat, so if they ingest something bad, they are very at risk for blockages or toxicity build-up. Generally safe exceptions include recycled paper bedding or baked pellet bedding, in their litter box. For flooring, I recommend an area rug that they can't dig or chew up. Speaking of litter boxes, those little corner ones that come with cages? Ditch 'em. (Spayed and neutered) Rabbits are exceptionally clean animals, but they do poop constantly throughout the day due to how their digestive system works. Those tiny boxes are going to fill up even if you manage to make them comfortable for the bun, and then the rabbit is forced to get feces and urine all over its paws, or it's going to say "screw that" (understandably so) and eliminate all over its space. Preference for hood vs no hood etc is going to vary depending on the rabbit, but go with a large cat litter box and clean it every 1-2 days depending on the bun or your own tolerances. Get a large, heavy dog water bowl. Rabbits on a healthy diet drink a LOT more than you'd expect. Elowen is only like 4lbs and I have to change her huge bowl every day. I say heavy cuz rabbits like to throw their bowls. Those little water bottles for cages are also pretty garbage. Not only are they bacteria traps that are ridiculously hard to clean, they don't give enough water and your bun is at high risk for dehydration. Drinking out of a bowl is far more natural for the lil guys. Brush them and clip their nails! They will groom themselves but rabbits have very heavy sheds and because they can't cough up hairballs like cats, it's a blockage risk if they have a ton of excess hair. Long nails in a rabbit will also increase their risk for splayed legs and other health issues. That healthy diet I mentioned? It needs to be about 80% grass hay. Make sure they have a steady supply, especially in their litter box (rabbits have an "active gut" meaning they eliminate while grazing) If you have a hard time with Timothy Hay because of allergies or dust, I recommend good quality orchard grass or oat hay. Pellets should be given only at mealtimes measured by the rabbit's weight. More is liable to make your rabbit overweight. Pellets should be 19% fiber MINIMUM. Untreated or washed leafy greens are also important. (I get those pre-washed baby spring salad mixes for Elowen cuz I'm a big dummy lazypants). Fruits and veggies should be treats only, due to the sugar. (Yes, the carrot stereotype is a LIE. I know.) Hay naturally keeps their gut healthy and their teeth filed. If you notice a rabbit not eating for a few hours, take it seriously. G.I Stasis is no joke, nor are overgrown teeth. X_X

[alj4890]

Hello!

It is canon that Naveen is an unabashed gossip. We also know Ethan is practically his son, and he adores MC. But let's face it, we know those two had to be the source of a lot of gossip.

How do you think Naveen dealt with that?

Sorry this took so long. After the week with Tobias, it took me a little while to get back into "Ethan is going to end up with the MC" mode 🤣 So here's my take on how Naveen would enjoy the gossip going on about two people he cared about.

Rating: G for pure fluff

@hopelessromantic1352 @twinkleallnight @tessa-liam

Masterlist

Tea Time

"Dr. Banerji." Marlene greeted as she sat down across from him.

"Ah, just the nurse I was hoping to see." Naveen set his crossword puzzle book to the side of his tray. "How's your day been?"

"Busy but good." She chuckled. "You should see the new batch of interns in action."

"And how are our second year's holding up?" He prodded.

Marlene rolled her eyes. "I know you really only want to hear about one in particular."

Naveen snorted in amusement. "You caught me. How is Casey doing?"

"She definitely got the toughest intern I've seen in years." Marlene glanced about the nearly empty cafeteria. "I think she's a harder nut to crack than Dr. Mirani."

"Zaid?" Naveen winced. "Poor Casey. But if anyone can get someone to open up, it's definitely her. I've seen her work wonders on the ones you'd least expect."

Marlene nodded while picking through her salad.

"Any other news?" He asked.

"She seems to be holding her own on the diagnostics team." Marlene pointed out. "So far, I've seen each member impressed with her ability to figure out what is wrong with the patients they treat."

"Interesting." Naveen stroked his chin. "I might have to pay a visit and see how things are going myself."

He checked the time. "Looks like my reprieve from paperwork is nearly over."

"There's one more bit of news." Marlene whispered.

The smile on her face let him know she was finally getting to the good stuff.

"Trish was walking past the office when she saw Dr. Valentine in there alone with Dr. Ramsey."

"And?" Naveen leaned forward.

"And she believes they were holding hands under the table while reading through medical files." She explained.

Naveen sat back with a grin. "Holding hands, hmm? Interesting."

He got to his feet and placed his unopened pudding cup on her tray.

"Keep me posted." He said on his way out.

**************

A few weeks later...

"Baz!" Naveen called out. "Good to see you this evening."

The younger doctor turned around with a warm smile. "Naveen. It's good to see you too. How are you feeling?"

"Almost like new." Naveen teased, draping his arm around the man's shoulders. "Tell me how things are going on the team with Ethan in charge."

"They're great!" Baz exclaimed. "We are working like the well oiled machine you created."

"Umhmm." He hummed in approval.

Naveen could care less about that. He knew that Ethan would continue to succeed, never doubted it.

"And how is the newest member settling in?"

"Casey?" Baz's smile grew. "Like she's always been there."

"Really?" Naveen paused with him outside the locker room. "No awkwardness?"

"Not really." Baz stroked his chin in thought. "I mean, her first few days with us she was more quiet than she is now. She started contributing more after she talked to Ethan alone one day."

"Alone, hmm?" Naveen wondered what happened there. "Good. Very good."

He patted the young man on the back. "Glad to hear everything's going as it should."

Baz wished him a good night on his way to get changed.

Humming to himself, Naveen returned to his office. He made sure to take the long way there, pausing outside the glass doors of the diagnostics office.

He stayed somewhat in the shadows as he peered into the dimly lit room. He could see Ethan sitting there on a sofa. A rare smile was upon his face as Casey talked. With the way her hands were gesturing, she was relating a humorous story.

Naveen narrowed his eyes as he studied the man he considered a son. He hadn't seen Ethan that relaxed in quite some time, nor willing to sit there after hours to listen to someone else's story.

And then he saw Ethan reach for Casey's hand. His thumb brushed over her knuckles as the pair directed their attention to their clasped hands.

Casey's expressive face sobered. Ethan said something that made her grimace. Whatever she replied with had him hesitating before shaking his head and releasing her hand.

Naveen could almost feel the longing from here. With a slight frown of his own, he decided to maybe drop a hint or two to Ethan that one shouldn't miss out on life.

***************

A few nights later...

"Ethan, my boy." Naveen rose from the table to shake his hand. "I was just about to order us some appetizers."

"Sorry I'm late. We had a last minute development on that influencer who insists on filming everything."

"Ah. And what is her diagnosis?"

"A tapeworm." Ethan pointed at the menu. "Stay away from the steak tartare."

Naveen chuckled. "Did she film that announcement?"

"She did." Ethan smirked. "And it has been the best part of my day."

Naveen laughed once more.

After they placed their orders, the two began to discuss Edenbrook's financial crisis.

"We have to keep it going." Ethan told him. "After all the work you've done over the years to make the hospital mean something more than--"

Naveen waved his hand in a dismissal fashion.

"Whatever happens, the diagnostic team will have served its purpose."

Ethan sat stunned over his cavalier attitude over what had been a huge milestone of Naveen's entire career.

"When I was dying," Naveen began, "I had a lot of time to reflect on my life."

Ethan quirked an eyebrow in silent question.

"Believe it or not, the creation of Edenbrook's revered diagnostic team didn't even factor into my thoughts."

"What?" Ethan blinked. "What did you think about?"

"All that I'd missed out on." Naveen took a sip of his wine. "Did you know, that when I was a young man that I'd planned on doing a tour of Europe?"

"No."

"I did." Naveen smiled sadly at his wine glass. "I was going to walk through the vineyards, sample the finest wines the world has created, see landmarks I'd only viewed in travel books, and simply soak in the culture."

He sighed, setting his glass down. "I never went."

"That doesn't mean you can't still go." Ethan pointed out.

"It's not the same." Naveen argued. "I'm not the same man I was forty years ago. I can't trek all over the countryside with knees aching from arthritis. I can't look at the world with those wide, young optimistic eyes I once had. I'll see everything through my years of witnessing people be ravaged by disease and self harm."

He eyed Ethan.

"And, I'll be alone. There was a young woman I was dating at the time of my big dreams. She was more than ready to drop everything in her life, like one easily does in their twenties, to spend months with me in Europe."

Naveen turned toward the window their table was near. His eyes grew distant as he tried to capture the image of his lost love's smile. "Carmen was ready to start a life with me. I kept keeping her at a distance. I put off asking her to marry me, believing I needed first to become some great all knowing doctor."

He ran his hand down his face with a slight sigh. "I didn't give her the attention she needed. So, someone else came along who did."

Ethan's brow was furrowed in thought as he listened quietly.

"Don't let my goals become yours." Naveen stressed. "You owe me nothing."

"I disagree." Ethan muttered. "I owe you everything with my career."

"You accomplished it all on your own. I didn't give it to you. You earned every bit of recognition and respect you have from me and your colleagues."

Naveen leaned forward to drive his point home.

"As someone who cares about you like you were my own son, I don't want to see you waste your life on one single endeavor. Find other things, people, places that make you happy. Let them give you warm memories when you are old. Don't end up like me with nothing but regret when you are on your death bed."

Naveen motioned for the waiter to bring him the check. "I want you to have a full life, Ethan."

"I do." Ethan argued.

"I hope you will soon see the truth." Naveen paid the waiter and pushed away from the table. "I better be-"

"What truth?" Ethan got to his feet. "What are you trying to get me to understand?"

"I can't tell you that." Naveen placed a comforting hand on Ethan's shoulder. "That's something every man has to discover for himself."

He gave him an affectionate squeeze then left Ethan alone with his thoughts.

*****************

A few weeks later, Naveen cornered the one doctor he suspected knew more about Ethan and Casey than anyone else.

"Dr. Trinh!" He smiled at her. "How are you doing?"

"I'm good, Dr. Banerji." She slowed her pace to match his. "How are you?"

"Still going which is always a plus at my age." He replied with a wink.

She giggled. "It is at any age."

"True." He glanced at the clock. "Have you had lunch yet?"

"No sir." She grimaced somewhat. "I've been going nonstop since I got here this morning."

"Then as Chief, I insist you take a needed break." He took the folders out of her hands and set them at the nurses station. "Danny, take care of these for Dr. Trinh please."

He then took Sienna's arm and led her towards the elevator.

"But, I should really--"

"Are any of your patients in danger?" He asked.

"No." She replied. "They are all stable."

"Then we aren't arguing about it." He told her. "I'm starving and would like some company this afternoon while I eat. Would you join me for lunch?"

Sienna blinked in surprise. "Of course. Thank you."

"I should be thanking you. You're saving me from people staring at me with curious pity as to why I'm eating alone at a restaurant."

Sienna laughed. "I doubt that's why they are staring. They are probably curious what type of physician you are once they see your white coat."

"Or how that old man ended up alone." He teased. "Allow me my dramatics, Dr. Trinh. It's one of my few enjoyments in life."

"Then I guess I'll have to humor you." She said with another laugh.

"I hoped you would."

******************

"Sienna, so you do see what I'm talking about?" Naveen exclaimed. "Why don't they see it?!"

"I don't know!" Sienna dropped her head back in frustration. "They are in love! But Casey won't force Ethan to make a definite decision about them and he keeps saying he can't because of their job."

"I thought I was helping them when I put Casey on the team." Naveen grumbled. "I wanted to reward her brilliant mind with more challenges after discovering what I once thought was my unsolvable illness. I wanted to give Ethan a chance to grow closer to her. I never dreamed that the man I once considered highly intelligent could end up--"

"An idiot?" Sienna slapped a hand over her mouth for insulting Dr. Ramsey in front of the one man she knew adored him.

"Precisely. The biggest idiot, save for my former self, that I've ever seen." Naveen grumbled.

"Can't you talk to him?" Sienna asked. "I know Ethan respects you."

"He does, but Ethan is very stubborn. If he has it in his mind something has to be handled a certain way, there is no swaying him differently."

Sienna placed her fingers at her temples and began to rub in slow circles. Her eyes narrowed at the table top while she tried to find a way around getting her best friend with the man she loved.

"Could you talk to Casey?" Naveen asked.

"I have." Sienna sighed. "A lot. She wants him and is holding out hope he'll finally say they can be together. At this point, I think she'd be willing to keep their relationship a secret. But from what I can tell, Ethan won't do that to her."

"Hmm." Naveen scratched at his chin. "There has to be a way forward for them."

"I know. I want there to be one." Sienna slumped back in her chair. "It can't just stay like this. Something's bound to give and I'm worried it will be nothing but heartache for both of them."

"Me too." Naveen checked the time. "We should probably head back."

Sienna began to dig around in her purse for her wallet.

"Put that away!" He scolded. "This lunch is my treat for you humoring an old man."

"That isn't necessary." Sienna smiled at him. "It was nice eating with you."

"I'm glad you think so." He eyed her for a moment. "Shall we make this a weekly meeting?"

Sienna's eyes lit up. "So we can plan a way forward for a certain pair of doctors?"

Naveen beamed at her. "Sienna, I am very happy I approved of your internship at Edenbrook."

She giggled. "Me too, sir."

*****************

As the weeks went by, Naveen heard more and more snippets of gossip about Ethan and Casey. With Sienna, Marlene, and an unknowing Baz keeping him updated on a weekly basis, he knew that most of what was whispered about by others was true. It seemed the two doctors were becoming a bit more daring in the affectionate touches.

Then the attack happened. Naveen was only able to briefly observe how Ethan was taking the news that Casey had been affected by the maitotoxin. He was forced, as Chief, to handle the panicked staff and removing patients from the floor.

Once he finished, he made his way up there to get an update. After speaking briefly to the group of doctors, he was hopeful to see that Tobias believed he had figured out a way to fight the poison that was doing its best to kill Casey and Rafael. Naveen didn't want to have to make two more phone calls to families to let them know they had lost their loved ones. It had been hard enough with Danny's parents and Bobby's wife.

He glanced around at the physicians working with a speed only the young and desperate possess and noticed one missing. Curious but not wanting to interrupt them anymore than he already had, he slipped quietly out of the room and made his way to the observation window.

He ducked into the shadows when he saw Ethan sitting by Casey's bedside. Ethan's face was nothing but pure torment as he held her hand, watching her as she struggled through tears to say what she regretted in her short life.

Then Ethan admitted how much he regretted all the times he'd pushed her away. Naveen watched as Casey's pale face lit up briefly with happiness as Ethan continued to say he wanted to be with her and that he was done fighting against his feelings.

When Casey said she'd always thought they would be good together, Ethan's surprise was soon replaced with a smile as she pointed out that was the reason she kept bringing up that they should try and make it work.

Naveen felt his heart nearly break when Ethan climbed into bed with Casey, taking her in his arms to hold her while she slept. From this distance one could easily see Ethan's face contorted in a sad sort of anger. Naveen wondered if it was because he finally knew the truth about what he needed in life and yet believed he was about to lose her.

Naveen silently crept away with anxiousness for the coming dawn. He hoped that the next news he heard was that Ethan and Casey had a future.

****************

On the evening of the gala to help raise the needed funds for Edenbrook, Naveen was pleasantly surprised to see Ethan arrive with Casey. He tried to keep his attention on what one of the donors was saying to him, but he found his attention was more focused on keeping tabs on the couple.

Sienna slipped over beside him.

"Mrs. Parker," Naveen said to the donor who was oblivious to his lack of attention, "will you excuse me? I need to speak to Dr. Trinh about two patients of ours."

"Yes, of course." Mrs. Parker smiled at him. "I hope they are doing well."

"They are!" Sienna couldn't contain her excitement. "They've improved more and more these last few weeks."

The elegant lady left them with a congratulations.

Naveen led Sienna off to a less crowded area of the party.

"Well?" He prodded, his own excitement growing with hers. "What happened?"

"So much! I think they have been secretly meeting! Ethan asked her to the gala!' She whispered. "He said it was to represent the diagnostic team, but Casey knew the real reason."

Naveen chuckled. "Of course she did."

"But," Sienna continued, "when he arrived at the apartment to pick her up, Casey introduced him as her date."

"She did? And how did Ethan take that?"

Sienna was practically beaming. "He didn't correct her."

Naveen noticed the couple talking to a possible donor together. They then drifted over to the bar for a drink.

"Sienna, look!" He gestured toward the ones they were gossiping about.

Sienna turned to see Ethan take Casey into his arms, kissing her passionately in front of everyone.

She squealed softly, throwing her arms around Naveen in an excited hug.

He couldn't stop smiling as he returned her hug.

After all, he saw that he would have many, many more delightful gossip sessions about the two people who held special places in his heart.

[ariel-seagull-wings]

FICTIONAL CHARACTER ASK: JANICE

Asked by @princesssarisa 

@softlytowardthesun @themousefromfantasyland @moonbeamelf @fragglesesamemuppetz2 @angelixgutz @the-blue-fairie @thealmightyemprex @amalthea9 

Favorite Thing About Them: She is a genuinelly sensitive, sweet, kind and empathetic person who has the ability to easily make friends and a competent performer in the fields of music and acting who greatly values team work rather than competing for attention with her colleagues.

Least Favorite Thing About Them: How the writers of the 2015 ABC sitcom the muppets. portrayed Janice as so over the top ditzy that she acted passive and with no opinions or desires of her own while the male characters Sam the Eagle, Floyd Pepper and Dr Teeth treated her as an object of dispute wich they were entitled to have as a romantic partner.

Three Things I Have In Common With Them:

* I have a tambourine;

* I love colorfull clothes made of light fabric;

* I love rock and roll music;

Three Things I Don’t Have In Common With Them:

* I’m not a member of a band;

* I’m not as chill as she is;

* I don’t have long blonde hair;

Favorite Line:

From the movie The Great Muppet Caper:

“…and I said, ‘Look mother, it’s my life o-kay? And if I want to live on a beach and walk around naked, I–”

From the movie The Muppets Take Manhattan:

"So I told him 'Look, buddy, I don't take my clothes off for anybody, even if it is artistic’”

From the comic Muppet King Arthur, where she played the humourous and witty Lady of the Lake:

“Call me Janice. That was my name before I, like, became one with nature”.

“Rock never hurt anyone. Well, except for scissors. Poor scissors”.

From the comic Muppet Robin Hood, where she plays the healer Willa Scarlet (a genderbent Will Scarlet):

“Oh yeah, like, going back to nature is sooo real, man, fer sure. You’ll like dig it, totally! These trees can teach us lessons, man”.

From the comic Muppet Peter Pan, where she played the role of Wendy Darling:

“Like, I’m detecting some rilly unresolved anger issues, fer sure”...

“A nice fruit salad is very cleansing for the system”.

“It never hurts to try to be, like, totally diplomatic and make friends!”

“I’m ready to grow up, now. Yeah, I even know what I want to do when I grow up! I wanna Rock and Roll!”

“Hey, dad, at least it’s, like, totally american... fer sure!”

From the comic Muppet Snow White, where she played the dwarf Happy:

“You’re like my favorite fairytale character. Next to Wendy from Muppet Peter  Pan”.

brOTP: Rowlf the Dog, Kermit the Frog, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, Bean Bunny, Scooter, Skeeter, Miss Piggy, Annie Sue Pig, Spamela Hamderson, Zondra, Darci, Charlie (Solid Foam's Drummer), Dolores (Trumpet Girl), Wanda.

OTP: Skeeter, Zoot, Floyd Pepper.

nOTP: Dr Teeth, Lips, Sam the Eagle.

Random Headcanon: She was born in San Francisco, and in one side of her family she has lebanese heritage, wich is aparent in her lips, eyes and olive skin tone, while on the other side she has german-irish heritage, wich is aparent in her blonde hair.

Unpopular Opinion: Her toddler design with open eyes and already big lips in 1984's Muppet Babies looks pretty unsetling. The illustrations for the Muppet Kids books reached a better natural look for a young Janice, with more subtle lipstick around her lips and her characteristic closed eyes.

Song I Associate With Them:

Black Bird

Fifty Ways to Leave Your Lover

With A Little Help from My Friends

Earth Song

It's In Hiss Kiss

Rockin All Around the World

Favorite Picture of Them:

In her early concept sketch drawing, when she was originally idealized as an androgynus male identified character inspired by Mick Jagger

As a preteen alongside Skeeter and Miss Piggy in two illustrations of the Muppet Kids picture book New Girl In Town

Alongside fellow Valley Girl Moon Zappa, actress and daughter of rock musician Frank Zappa

In her beautifull tye-die dress portraying Wendy Darling in the comic Muppet Peter Pan (alongside Scooter as John Darling, Bean Bunny as Michael Darling, Kermit the Frog as Peter Pan and Miss Piggy as Piggytink)

Portrayed in a gala dress by Muppet Peter Pan artist @amymebberson

Another art by @amymebberson portraying her and Skeeter with buttons in support of Miss Piggy

With Floyd Pepper and Elton John

Just chilling out