#new york city elopement

[llstylephoto]

NYC Elopement at Bethesda Fountain.

[koffiphotography]

[pelenguino]

Jennifer & Richard Elopement at The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Website | Instagram

[weddingcentralpark]

How to Have a Destination Wedding that your Guests Will Enjoy

If I had a dollar for every time I told someone that their wedding day is their day and they should do it just how they want it I’d have quite a few dollars!  But, if you’re planning have a destination wedding and to invite a group of people to travel a long way to see you get married then it’s certainly worth the effort to make the whole thing and fun and memorable event for them too. Such a…

[kaliartistry]

The Premier Guide to City Hall Weddings in New York City

Experience the Charm of a City Hall Wedding in NYC

City Hall weddings in New York City offer a unique blend of simplicity, elegance, and the vibrant backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic cities. Whether you are local residents or lovebirds coming from afar, the Manhattan Marriage Bureau provides an intimate setting for couples looking to embrace the beauty of New York City in their nuptial celebrations.

Simplified Steps to Your NYC City Hall Wedding

Preparing for Your Big Day

Before you can enjoy the simplicity of a City Hall wedding, there are several steps you’ll need to follow to ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. Obtaining the Marriage License

First things first: securing a marriage license is crucial. You can make an appointment through the Project Cupid website to obtain your license at least 24 hours before your ceremony. The City Clerk’s office releases appointment slots three weeks in advance, typically on Mondays at 9 AM. Keep an eye on their Twitter feed for real-time updates.

2. Scheduling Your Ceremony

After securing your marriage license, you’ll need to book a ceremony appointment. These are also scheduled through Project Cupid. Remember, your appointment time is not your ceremony time but rather your entry into the City Clerk’s office.

On the Day of Your Wedding

Arrival and Check-In

Arrive on time for your appointment to ensure a smooth process. You’ll check in at the front desk, where you’ll be given a ticket number. This number is essential, as it will be called when it’s your turn to sign your marriage documents and again when it’s time for your ceremony.

The Ceremony

City Hall ceremonies are brief but memorable. You’ll choose between the East Chapel and the West Chapel—both offer a simple yet charming setting for your exchange of vows. Ceremonies typically last from three minutes to five minute and conclude with the iconic kiss that seals your union.

What to Expect at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau

The Setting

The Manhattan Marriage Bureau, located at 141 Worth Street, provides a quintessentially New York ambiance. Despite its efficiency, the venue is equipped with picturesque spots perfect for those post-ceremony photos.

Guest Policy and Photography

As of the latest update in January 2024, you are allowed to bring four guests, excluding children under 12. Your photographer counts as one of the four guests, so plan accordingly.

After the Ceremony: Celebrating Your New Union

Capturing the Moment

We at Kali Artistry understand the significance of this day and offer specialized photography services to capture every candid moment. Our team is skilled at utilizing the unique elements of City Hall to create stunning visual memories that you’ll treasure forever.

Exploring Nearby Photo Opportunities

After your ceremony, take advantage of the nearby locations for a photo session. The Brooklyn Bridge, the Brooklyn Promenade, and the charming streets of Manhattan provide perfect backdrops for your wedding photographs.

Comprehensive Costs and Planning Tips

Fees and Necessary Documents

You will need to bring:

A valid ID for you and your partner.

Your witness, over 18 years old, with a photo ID.

The marriage license, obtained in advance.

A $25 ceremony fee, which is payable by credit card or money order.

Additional Advice for a Smooth Experience

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a change of attire if desired. The relaxed atmosphere of City Hall, combined with our expert photography, will ensure your wedding photos are as joyful and authentic as your love story.

Kali Artistry: Your Premier NYC City Hall Wedding Partner

We are more than just photographers; we are storytellers who are privileged to be part of your City Hall wedding in New York City. With Kali Artistry, you’re not just getting a City Hall photographer; you’re gaining a dedicated partner who will ensure your wedding visuals are as enchanting as your love story.

For inquiries or to book our services, please visit our website or contact us directly. Your journey to a memorable City Hall wedding begins with us. Let’s make magic together.

[xinganhao]

🎸 vernon dates rockstar!reader. (2)

vernon x rockstar!reader who's a foreigner in an international rock band (2) a.k.a the one where vernon tours in your city ➤ see also: series masterlist

‧₊˚✩彡 includes: international rockstar!reader, f!reader, long distance relationship, established relationship, pet names, fluff, best read in order + headcanons under the cut.

🗺️ vernon chwe's guide to new york .ᐟ

📍 Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Astoria

your first date that's not over discord or facetime takes place in new york. vernon's just a little too prideful to have you come all the way to sokor for him and a part of him wants to play it safe. there's a smaller chance of him being recognized abroad than if he were to have you in seoul, so he books the red-eye flight and crashes on your couch for the weekend. he's still a bit jet-lagged when you drag him out to your location of choice. new york has its fair share of parks. vernon is expecting the usual— nature, buskers, the likes— only to find that and so much more. you'd taken him to an artist's park. there's exhibit sculptures, and multimedia installations, and he's just absolutely blown away. you can see it from the look on his face, how taken aback he is by the sheer thoughtfulness of your pick. he doesn't really know the extent of it, not yet, until you clue him in. "do you know what street we're on?" you prompt him as the two of you halve a greasy slice of pepperoni pizza. he raises his eyebrows in response. "i chose this place because it's on vernon boulevard," you say, and oh. oh. (or: this is where vernon realizes he's going to be pretty down bad.)

📍 The Bowery Electric, 327 Bowery

it's far from the first time vernon has seen you perform. he's seen all most of your videos on the internet, has watched you at festivals and concerts. there's something different, though, about the way you take the stage at the staple east village hangout. you're in your element underneath the blue and pink neon lights. your sound is full, and your eyes are bright, and it steals the breath from his lungs. you do an entire set until you're sweating and your chest is heaving. he wouldn't be able to look away even if he wanted to. everything about you is so cool. your oversized flannel, your secondhand fender. he thinks there's no way he can adore you more until you announce that you want to do a quick cover of a 'friend's song. the amps crackle. the drums kick up. you start to croon running 'round the whole city for someone to look me in my eyes and tell me pretty lies, and vernon swears he can just drop dead then and there. you come up to him afterwards, one corner of your lip twitching in to a smirk. as if to say 'so? what did you think?' (or: this is where vernon first thinks he might actually be in love with you.)

📍 The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral, 263 Mulberry St.

when you tell him that you're taking him to church for a date, vernon is admittedly a little unnerved. at this point, he's already fairly sure that he loves you. you haven't said it yet, so he tries to keep his own admission under lock and key. a church, though? "are we going to elope?" he jokes to you, trying (and failing) to not sound nervous. thankfully, you roll your eyes and laugh instead of taking offense. "you wish," you shoot back. that puts him at ease enough for him to be completely normal with you in the back of the cab. when you get to the cathedral, though, he immediately puts two and two together. "is this—?" he starts to ask, his mouth agape. there's a smug look on your face as you nod. it's the church in one of vernon's favorite films, the godfather. he's barely even walked past the doors of it before he blurts out, "god, i love you." he freezes. you freeze. and then— "you sure you're not the one who wants to elope, chwe?" you tease. vernon's ears are burning red with shame, but then he hears the quiet way you add, "i love you, too, by the way." (or: this is where vernon learns just how good it feels, to say and hear those three words.)

📍 Staten Island Ferry

throughout at least half of the ferry ride, vernon is convinced you're going to break up with him. he's been a pretty terrible boyfriend. comeback season had been brutal and the upcoming world tour meant that he would have even less time to make up for his shortcomings. he's tried, he's been trying, but it's been hard. and so as the two of you hang on the back of the ferry's lower deck with the manhattan skyline receding, he thinks: this is it. he's going to lose the best thing that has ever happened to him. you start the conversation with "i'm sorry," and vernon resist the urge to get to his knees. you surprise him when you go on to say, "i've been pretty shitty to you lately, huh?" you talk about your temper, your schedule, your occasional unresponsiveness. your voice wavers in the slightest when you mumble, "i understand if you want to—" no. "no," vernon says quickly, immediately. before he can think of it, his hand is already reaching out to hold yours. the surprise and hope that fills your face is almost enough to bowl him over. "i don't want that," he reassures you. "i'll never want that." he means it. he surprises himself with just how much he means it. (or: this is where vernon decides that he's in it for the long run.)

📍 Little Bay Bridge Pier, Queens

vernon's attempt at planning a date on your turf ends up to be an utter failure. you don't see it that way, at least. you're too nice to call him out for the way everything kind of went to shit, from his credit card declining at the restaurant to the museum he wanted to see being closed for renovations. by the time the day is coming to a close, he's desperate for at least one thing to go right. vernon is not a religious man, but he prays, then, to every higher being and deity known to man. please, give me this. he's convinced they all hate him, though, because while the both of you are sitting by the pier— about to try what he researched to be the best churros in queens— a rat steals the snack. vernon briefly considers throwing himself in to the water. he doesn't know if he should be annoyed or relieved that you're laughing it all off. he settles for something in between. "this is not a laughing matter," he huffs, even though there's the smallest smile on his face. it's the only thing he can do to hide his disappointment. then, a little more seriously, he says, "i wanted to do right by you." it's a grace that you know how to deal with him. there's a fondness in your eyes as you press your lips to the back of his knuckles, the action making his heart skip a beat. "hansol," you say sweetly. not vernon, not v. not babe or baby boy or anything else. you assure him, "you're always right for me," and he wants so badly to believe you. (or: this is where vernon changes his prayer; this time, he begs to never wrong you.)

[stark-ironman]

What happens in Vegas... Part 2

18+ No Minors

A/N: guess who finally wrote a long fic!! Well long for me. This was going to be 3 parts but I got carried away. I still could though 😈 also, the Hugh drama with his Broadway costar came back up during this sooooo i wrote it in. Enjoy 😁

Warnings: Accidental marriage, angst, jealously, smut, unprotected sex (wrap it)

Part 1

The next few weeks have flown by quickly as you and Hugh learn more about each other and this new life you both chose to live. The four of you had to leave Vegas early due to the fact someone leaked some pictures from inside the wedding chapel and your hotel was swarmed by paparazzi.

Ryan and Blake reassured you that everything was okay and they was fine going home early because they was ready to see their kids. Even Hugh tried his best to cheer you up but it didn't last long due to the fact your publicists and both of your families were blowing your phones up with questions on your relationship.

As of right now, everybody thinks that the relationship has been under wraps for a while now and you both decided to just elope so until you're ready to discuss it, only Ryan and Blake know the actual details of what happened. Since leaving Vegas, you and Hugh decided it would be a better and safer decision to stay at your house in Colorado instead of his penthouse in New York.

Your place is secluded on a big plot of land and it's been the perfect opportunity for the two of you to get to learn about each other in a more intimate way, minus the kissing and the sex. Don't get it wrong, you want to do those things with him but you both agreed to move slow with this relationship so you're waiting on Hugh to feel comfortable enough to make the first move.

"Y/N, did you hear me?" Hugh asks taping his fork on your plate, snapping you out of your thoughts. "Sorry, I guess I zoned out. What did you say?" You look at him and see a small smile on his face. "I asked what are we going to do when it's time for me to head back to New York since you live here and I live there." He says cutting another piece of steak.

"I've been thinking about that actually and I wanted to talk it over with you. You know how I feel about living in big cities, especially New York.." Hugh nods and you continue, "Would you want to move here and we just keep your place in New York so we could visit? Or we find a house on the outskirts of New York?"

Hugh takes a deep breath and thinks it over for a moment before saying, "You're my home, darling. I will go wherever you go." You feel your heart skip a beat at his words and tears well up in your eyes. "Are you sure? I know how much you love New York." He grabs your hand and nods. "We can visit whenever we want. Since staying here with you, I've become a little spoiled by this secluded farm life you live. I love being here and I love being with you." His voice is sincere and you can't help but feel yourself falling in love with him even more.

"Hugh, I need to tell you something.." You start to say but you're interrupted by his phone going off. Hugh apologizes and answers, standing up and walking away, leaving you with your thoughts.

You almost admitted to this man that you love him and while you're sure he feels the same, you don't know if he's ready to take that step yet. One thing about Hugh Jackman, the man is a flirt with everyone. He's a very smooth talker and he is really easy on the eyes. Would he be willing to give all that up? Would he ever cheat on you when he tires of you?

While you know him as a loyal friend, you don't know him as a partner or a lover. Yes, right now he's saying he's happy with you but what happens once you both go back to work and he has to kiss a girl for a movie? Or do a sex scene with one? You know you're not the best looking woman in Hollywood but you try to at least hold the self confidence of one.

Your eyes search across the room until they land on Hugh and you can't help but admire the way his back muscles look and how his pants fit in just the right places. You need to snap out of this little crush before you wind up hurting yourself and the friendship you two have had for many years.

You're pulled out of your thoughts by Hugh walking back in the dining room, sitting back across from you with a sigh. "That was my agent. They want me to come back to New York and do a Broadway show called The Music Man." He says, looking in your eyes as if trying to see your reaction. "When do they want you to leave?" You ask, trying to be a little nonchalant but you know he can tell you're not happy. "They want me to fly out of here tomorrow and be in rehearsals the next day."

"You should go. It's a great opportunity for you." You say. "Are you sure?" Hugh's eyes widen, shocked at you giving him the opportunity to leave. "I'm not going to stand in the way of this. You love singing and I love seeing you happy. Plus, I can come stay with you once I get things settled here."

Hugh breaks out in a smile, kissing your hand softly before standing up. "Let me go pack and we will spend the rest of the night watching movies and cuddling." He runs off to pack, leaving you sitting at the table by yourself with a heavy heart.

You don't want him to go but you're not the type of person to ruin a great opportunity for anybody, especially Hugh. You just hope he doesn't find somebody else while you're both away from each other.

------

It's been about a month since you've seen Hugh. He had his first show and you was there in the front row happily supporting him but shortly after the show ended, rumors circulated that Hugh was already cheating on you with his co-star, especially after she came out saying they spend a lot of time together in her dressing room. You seen the chemistry on stage between them but you was hoping it was nothing.

Hugh has tried to call and text you for the past couple of weeks but either you've short replied him or just said you was too busy to talk.

You were hurt. You knew it, Hugh knew it, everybody knew it. Ryan and Blake have even tried calling to tell you the rumors weren't true but you just couldn't handle hearing it.

A knock on your door sounds throughout the house and you already know who it is. "Darling, please open the door." Hugh's voice is muffled by the door but you ignore it, feeling the tears well up in your eyes again.

"Baby, please. I promise you nothing happened between me and her. She's just doing it for the publicity." He says, hearing something sliding against the door as he continues, "I know things have been less than ideal with us but the past few months have been the happiest of my life and it's all because of you. I only have eyes for you, even before we got together, it was always you. Ryan used to make fun of me for how in love with you I was and that's never changed. Accidentally marrying you was the best thing I ever did and I would do it all again in a heartbeat. I love you, darling and if you don't want me here then at least tell me that you don't."

Hugh goes silent and you can't help but walk towards the window, seeing him sit with his back against the door wiping at his eyes. You open the door slightly, watching as he stands up quickly to look at you.

"I'm sorry," You whisper, looking into his eyes, "I knew this would happen the day you recieved that phone call to go back to New York. I didn't want you to go but I will never stand in the way of your career. I tried to stop myself from being happy with you, from loving you, but no matter what I do I can't help but fall in love with you even more with each passing day. I ignored you because I was scared the rumors were true and I wanted to protect myself. You're a natural flirt, you do it without even knowing majority of the time and I didn't want to make you change anything about yourself. I love you the way you are but Hugh, I don't want you giving other girls the time of day. Call me selfish, call me whatever but I want you to myself. I want to have kids with you and live on a plot of land away from the spotlight. I love you more than I ever loved anybody and it scares the shit out of me."

Your confession causes the tears to flow as Hugh steps in the house, taking your face in his hands as he wipes the tears away. "I want this. I want you." He whispers, looking down at your lips.

His lips meet yours. Your arms wrapping around his waist to pull him closer, vaguely hearing the door shut as he leads you to the living room, laying you gently on the couch as he slots himself in between your legs.

Your hands find the hem of his shirt, raising it up and over his head as his lips meet yours again, his tongue running across your bottom lip before sliding past and attacking your tongue. A moan escapes your lips,

"Do you want to stop?" He mumbles against your lips. "No." You whisper back and he quickly sits up, removing your clothes before doing the same to his. Your eyes widen, quickly remembering the last time you two had sex was when you both blacked out in Vegas, but Hugh quickly reassures you. "I'll take my time, darling. I'll be easy... today." He smirks, crouching on the ground as he spreads your legs,

Hugh admires your core, as if savoring the whole thing to memory before lowering his head and licking a stripe up your slit, running it over the little nub and teasing it. "Taste so perfect.." He murmmers, wasting no time closing his mouth down and latching onto you as if he's been starved. You gasp as his tongue worked against you with long, calculated strokes, your hand gripping his hair as if your life depended on it as his lips enclose around the sensitive little bud.

You moaned his name loudly, your back arching with each pass of his tongue as the pleasure hits in ways you've never experienced before, your head falling back against the arm of the couch.

His mouth continues it's assault, your legs trembling around him as he pulls you close to your orgasm when you feel two of his fingers slide in, his lips enclosing around your sensitive spot causing you to cry out from the pleasure. He slides a third finger in, pumping his fingers into you as your release rips through you, keeping his mouth on you as he works you through your release.

Your body trembles and you're left breathless, thighs shaking from the intensity of the moment as he sits back to look at you with the most sinister smirk you've ever seen on him. His lips glossy and his hair tousled from what just happened and he leans forward, kissing you deeply to let you taste yourself.

Hugh's hand grabs his base, rubbing the head of his erection against your entrance and you shiver from the sensitivity, moaning softly when he dips his head down towards your breast and takes a nipple in his mouth.

He presses the tip against your wet folds, sliding into you slowly as if to not hurt you. Once he bottoms out, he let's you adjust to his length and when you give him permission to move, he moves slow making each thrust hard and deep. You notice he's holding back though so you decide to remind him not to.

"Hugh," You breathe out, "I won't break.. you can fuck me." Hugh let's out a low growl, placing your legs over his shoulders as he starts pounding into you, the force causing the couch to slightly move and your fingers to dig in his forearms.

His thrusts continue to go deep as you watch his head fall back from the pleasure, his mouth slightly open and low moans fall from within. "Fuck, I knew you were made for me... your pussy was made to be all mine.." He grunts, leaning down to sloppily kiss you, pressing your knees to your chest. "I'm never letting you go after this. You own me now, baby." His voice is full of promise and you kiss him again, holding on tightly to his shoulders while he continues his hard, brutal pace.

"Hugh... I'm close.." You choke out against his lips and he smirks at you. "Come for me baby." He says angling his hips just slightly, memorizing your face as you release all over his cock, moaning softly when he hears his name fall from your lips.

He continues his pace, chasing his own release. You clenching around him pulling him closer and closer, finally releasing deep inside of you and a deep growl erupting from him. Hugh rides out both of your releases, thrusting slowly inside of you for a few minutes before finally pulling out, both of you moaning softly at the feeling.

Hugh grabs you and pulls you on top of him, holding you close as he kisses the top of your head and you play with his chest hair. "I meant it, darling. After today, you own me. I don't want anybody else." He softly says, looking down at you. "I'm all yours too. Especially after that." You say with a chuckle, causing him to chuckle to.

"Will you marry me, again?" Hugh asks and you lift your head up to look at him. "I know it's not the most romantic time but we agreed we would do a ceremony if we chose to be together. I want to marry you and say our vows, this time with us both remembering it."

"I would marry you in every lifetime." You say, kissing him softly.

For the first time since Vegas, you finally feel like everything is falling into place and you are extremely happy for the future with Hugh.

[supercap2319]

Y/N walked into the kitchen and found his mother at the icebox, putting away the milk. She gives him a small glance. "I presume Polly's on her way back to New York City?"

"Yes. And I'm so jealous. She has... freedom, a career, a man she loves. That's more than any one of us here can say."

"Don't pick a fight with me, Y/N. I'm not in the mood. I'm not in the mood."

"So when are you going to stop?" Y/N asked her. Stop sabotaging our family?"

"Oh, is that what you think I'm doing?" Alice Cooper asked.

"Well, isn't it? You know what? You are a sad, lonely woman. And it is all your own fault. It's never been about Betty and her desire to have sex, or Polly's desire to be a burlesque dancer, or dad's secret love affair with Frank Andrews. Or with me wanting to be with Archie, no, it has always been about you. And I'm sick of giving you control over my life because you will ruin it."

"So what? You want to go? Fine. Go!" She tried to push past him, but he blocked her. "Oh, you should know that Archie and I are going to elope. And maybe I'll get a job where I can take off all my clothes. Then what will you tell your friends? Your son is queer and likes to be in the nude?"

The sharp smack to his face made Y/N gasp, but he wasn't surprised as he turned to his mother with a hand on his cheek. "I'm surprised it took you this long to do that." He walks out of the room.

[morbidology]

Dorothy Harriet Camille Arnold was a wealthy socialite and heiress. In December of 1910, she disappeared without a trace. She was the daughter of perfume importer, Francis Rose Arnold. The family lived in New York City. Following her graduation from the Veltin School for Girls, Dorothy tried to make it as a writer; her writing career failed, however, much to the amusement of her family.

At around 11AM on the 12th of December, 1910, Dorothy went shopping in the city for a dress. Her mother, Mary, offered to come with her but Dorothy declined. Numerous people saw Dorothy on her shopping trip spring the city. 

She was last seen walking through Central Park at around 2pm. When she didn’t arrive home for dinner, her family were worried but not enough to report her missing. They believed the disappearance would attract unwanted attention, thus they didn’t didn’t report it. In fact, when Dorothy’s friend called that night, her mother said that Dorothy was at home in bed.

While they didn’t contact the police, they contacted their family lawyer who came to search her room. He found that nothing was amiss but found letters stamped with foreign postmarks. He also found folders containing transatlantic streamliners. He theorised that Dorothy may have eloped with a man to Europe. 

Eventually, the family contacted the police several weeks later and offered money for any information as to her whereabouts. Despite an exhaustive and countrywide search, Dorothy could not be found. Police announced that they believed she was still alive but her family weren’t so sure. 

They theorised that she had been murdered while walking through Central Park. Some others considered she took her own life. Following her knock backs during her attempting writing career, she wrote a letter to a friend in which she said: “Failure stares me in the face. All I can see ahead is a long road with no turning. Mother will always think an accident has happened.”

The case remained at a standstill until the following year when Francis received a postcard stating “I am safe” which was signed “Dorothy.” Another widely believed theory was that Dorothy had become pregnant and had sought an abortion and died during the botched procedure. In 1916, an illegal abortion clinic was uncovered by police. Furthermore, several women had gone missing after visiting the clinic, adding more suspicion to the theory. 

While there have been numerous reported sightings of Dorothy, what became of her still remains unknown.

[llstylephoto]

Golden Hour with Chelsey & Lucas

https://llstylephoto.com/blog/chez-moi-brooklyn-wedding/

[koffiphotography]

[niki-phoria]

i really see few jay(enhypen) x m!reader fics, can i request where *non-idol*jay suprise his boyfriend to a trip to new york and got eloped?^^

i'm so obsessed with him you don't understand

pairing: non idol!jay x male!reader (he/him pronouns) genre: fluff word count: 987

a/n: thank you for requesting !! this idea is so sweet, i love it. i hope you like it :))

PART ONE / PART TWO

requests open !! read my rules first

the sound of muffled music and freshly made pancakes greets you when you wake up. you shift onto your side, glancing at the clock on your bedside table. 10:24. 

you smile, rolling out of bed. the floor is cold against your bare feet as you make your way into the kitchen. jay stands over the stove, flipping another pancake in the pan. you lean back against the doorframe, watching him. he nods his head along to the music playing from his phone speakers as he cooks. your oversized hoodie fits him perfectly. his messy bed hair frames his face along with a chunky pair of black glasses. 

you push off of the wall, silently wrapping your arms around him from behind. jay jumps a little before laughing, turning the heat down and turning around to face you. “hi baby,” he whispers, pulling you into a sweet kiss. you wrap your arms around him, leaning against his chest. 

“what’s the occasion?” jay cocks his head at you in confusion. “come on, you only make pancakes when something special has happened. and unless my dates are wrong, our anniversary isn’t for another week. so, what’s the occasion?” 

jay laughs, hands ghosting against the bare skin of your waist. his touch sends shivers down your spine despite the years you’ve shared together.“i have a surprise for you.” 

“yeah?” you pull him even closer. “what is it?” 

“i was thinking about our first date, when you asked what my dream vacation was.” you hum. “you said you wanted to see the city. experience the night life,” jay leans in even closer, brushing his nose against yours. “so, we’re going to new york.”

your jaw drops as you look up at him. he smiles as he pulls back. “no way,” you whisper. 

“i sent you the confirmation email last night.” 

“jay!” you jump into his arms, wrapping yourself around his body. he laughs, holding you up. you press a million little kisses against his neck and face before leaning back to kiss him properly. jay hums into it, pressing another peck against your lips when you pull away. “thank you.” 

“anything for my boy.” 

you sigh as jay sits down in the seat next to you. your legs feel cramped in the airplane seat. jay reaches over to grab your hand, lifting it up to press a kiss against your hand. “tired?” he whispers. 

“exhausted,” you sigh. “and excited. i forgot how much of a pain it is to fly.” 

jay chuckles, stroking his thumb against your knuckles. “it’ll be a long flight.” he lifts the armrest, coaxing your head onto his shoulder. “sleep. i’ll wake you up when they take our food orders.” 

you lift your head up, lazily blink up at him. “are you sure?” 

he nods, stroking a hand through your hair. “get some rest. i’ll be here when you wake up.” 

with jay’s encouragement you let yourself fall back against his shoulder. he presses a kiss against your head as your breathing evens out. your body relaxes, tension slowly dissipating. 

jay stuffs his hand into his pocket, checking for the small black box. he holds it, feeling the weight of it in his hand. though the sides of it dig into his thigh awkwardly it almost feels comforting. his thoughts wander. the fear of rejection slowly builds in his stomach. but when you sigh, nuzzling even closer against him, unconsciously searching for his hand in your sleep, all of his nervousness disappears leaving only a warm feeling of overwhelming love behind. 

“wow,” you whisper, looking out the window. lights shine everywhere you look, decorating the city streets. jay wraps an arm around your waist, looking over your shoulder. “it’s beautiful.” 

“you’re beautiful.” 

jay laughs as you playfully swat at him. “stop flirting with me, my heart can’t take this.” 

“you know, there’s a balcony if you want to see everything better.” 

“there’s a balcony?” your eyes widen as you turn to look at him. “no one told me there was a balcony! can i see it?” 

he chuckles, grabbing your hand. “come on.” 

the air feels warm against your skin despite the late hour as jay slides the door shut behind you. he wraps his arms around your waist in a back hug. you lean back against his chest as you lean over the edge, taking in the sights. a light breeze blows past you, rustling your hair. “i could stay up here with you forever.” 

jay puts his hand into his pocket again, reaching for the box. “yeah?” 

you hum. “everything is better with you by my side.” 

jay pulls the box out, stepping slightly away from you. he kneels down, holding the box out. “y/n.” you turn around before gasping. tears well in your eyes as jay smiles. “you’re the best thing that has ever happened to me. i didn’t know that i could love someone as much as i love you.” he pauses, taking a shaky breath. he can feel tears building in his own eyes. “i love you, so, so much. i’ve never been so sure about anything else.” he opens the box, revealing the ring. you bring your hand up over your mouth as he continues. “will you do me the honors of being my husband?” 

“yes, yes!” jay laughs, smiling as he stands up to slide the ring onto your finger. he pushes it up until it reaches your knuckle. you admire how it glimmers for a second before throwing yourself into jay’s arms. he wraps his arms around you, happy tears rolling down his cheeks. you cling to him, only pulling away to press a searing kiss against his lips. he reaches up to hold your face as he deepens it. 

“i love you.” you whisper when you pull away. 

“i love you too. so, so much.” you sniffle, laughing as jay pulls you into another kiss.

[veronicaleighauthor]

Embracing My Inner Marian Brook

SPOILER ALERT!!!

First of all, Praise Jesus, we’re getting a Season 3 for “The Gilded Age!”

::WARNING:: ::THIS IS A LONG RAMBLING POST::

::sighs::

I can’t believe Season 2 of “The Gilded Age” is over. Why did we get nine episodes in Season 1, but only eight in Season 2?!?!?! Not that another episode would have been enough for me. The costumes, the snobbery, the grandeur, the upstairs/downstairs relations – I love it all. It may even surpass my love for “Downton Abbey.” I think it’s because I’m American and this is based in America, and we just don’t have the period dramas that Britain has. We had “Mercy Street” for only two seasons – I’m still not over the cancelation of that show. Anyway, I can easily get lost in the show’s world, even though my ancestors of that era were farmers, laborers, and factory workers in the Midwest. There’s a derogatory comment made in Season 1, that in the past, Bertha Russell dug her own potatoes before she married George and they made their fortune. My people would be closer to that than anyone else on the show.

Last season, I was really drawn to Peggy Scott’s character. I still adore her, but during my rewatch of season one and watching this season, I’ve realized something. My personality is closer to Marian Brook’s. According to a Myer-Brigg’s personality test, I’m an INFJ-T and though I’ve searched around on line, I found only one site that claimed Marian was an INFP. We’re not twins, but I really feel I’m closer to her in personality than I am with any other character on the show. Except maybe Gladys Russell. I might be similar to Gladys…Poor girl.

We’re introduced to Marian Brook in Season 1 when her father dies and she learns she’s left with nothing. Her world is turned upside down. She receives a letter from her Aunt Ada in New York; it contains a train ticket and encouragement to come live with her and her older sister, Agnes van Rhijn. Marian accepts, arrives in the city with Peggy Scott who helps her on the journey, and she is thrust into New York society. Since Agnes married into an Old Money family, Marian is considered part of that family by connection. She makes friends with the Russell siblings across the street, who are New Money! She is also friendly with Mrs. Chamberlain, who broke the rules and is ostracized. ::gasps:: As she navigates society, an attorney friend from her hometown in Pennsylvania, Tom Raikes (who lives up to his surname) shows up and much to Agnes’ disapproval, he pursues Marian. She is persuaded to believe she is in love, and maybe in a sense she was. Maybe it was a first love kind of thing. The audience, and Aunt Agnes especially, knows something isn’t quite right. Tom proposes, Marian accepts, and an elopement is planned and attempted…Well, Marian follows through with the plan, Tom fails to show up and later dares to show his face at Mrs. Russell’s ball. ::boo, hiss, boo:: Marian is brokenhearted, but she’s young and resourceful, she will heal.

Season 2 opens and as the Opera War is being waged, we discover that Tom Raikes is newly married and though Marian is a little affected, she is moving on. She has taken a position teaching water colors painting at a school. ::gasps:: Aunt Agnes is horrified. No one from an Old Money family works. It’s not done, it’s not genteel. While Marian loves her life in New York and the society she belongs to, she finds purpose in teaching her class. It eventually involves into teaching other pupils how to read and write. Just when she finds her place in the world, a cousin of hers (or is it a nephew) by marriage, Dashiell Montgomery arrives on the scene. Newly widowed and the father of a daughter, he soon sets his sights on Marian as a prospective second wife. Marian appreciates his company and likes him and his daughter (despite them insulting her by saying “she’s not a real teacher” and making an off-handed comment that the poor people can wait to learn to read, her attendance at this fancy gathering is necessary). Dashiell is…not a bad man, and in Aunt Agnes’ eyes, he’s a good catch. I have a hard time getting past the Tsar Nicholas II beard that he sports (I swear, whenever he was on the scene, all I could think of was Tsar Nicholas II). But when he puts Marian on the spot by proposing to her in public, to be kind and show compassion to his daughter who desires the match, she accepts…

When the van Rhijn’s encounter financial troubles, I feared Marian would be pressured to continue with the engagement. Thankfully, she waited for a private moment to part ways with him. Aunt Agnes reminds Marian she must be careful – her reputation has taken two hits, society won’t accept a third. But she is free. Free to teach, to help with social causes, to perhaps find love with the Russell boy.

The internet seems divided about Marian’s personality type. One site claims she is a INFP and that’s close to what I am. In my recent binges of the show, I have seen parallels between our personalities. She seems more traditional at first, relying first upon her father and then Aunt Agnes for support. She and Peggy Scott befriend and support one another, yet it is not without some troubles. Though Marian believes all people are created equal and treats them as such, she originally thinks Peggy is poor and calls on her at the Scott family home bringing a “charity bag.” Thankfully their falling out only lasts an episode or two. We are horrified when she misses the racism Peggy faces at a shop she likes to buy from. A well-meaning person, she misjudges Tom Raikes. The audience can see he’s more in love with New York society than he is Marian herself. This nearly leads her into scandal. When Dashiell obviously begins to pursue her, rather than bluntly dissuade him, she permits his attentions because he does some kind things and he’s closely connected to her aunts. For me, that one hits close to home. Marian is nice, but when compared with the more dynamic Bertha Russell or force of nature Agnes van Rhijn, she doesn’t stand out.

A Collider article criticizes her for being the “least interesting character.” I initially overlooked her too. Maybe it was my acceptance of that I’m closer to Fanny Price of “Mansfield Park” than say Elizabeth Bennet of “Pride and Prejudice,” encouraged me to give Marian Brook of “The Gilded Age” a second look. Marian is more introverted; she often has her nose in complicated books like Henry James’ “The Portrait of a Lady” and she doesn’t make waves until she really has to. She enjoys fashion and pretty things, wishing for a fancy fan, that Bertha later gifts her. When pressed, she will stand her ground and fight for herself and others. The criticisms she’s received from articles and online comments, reminds me of the criticisms I received over the years. That I was too shy, not outgoing enough, that I rarely talked, that I could be a Miss Priss. I don’t always have the best judgment about people and I can be swayed into doing what others wish. I prefer to handle things privately.

You know what, there’s nothing wrong with being shy, introverted, reserved, traditional, etc, etc. Shy girls deserve a place in the narrative too. Marian Brook is this “least interesting” girl’s favorite character. I can’t wait to see what Season 3 has in store for her. ::sighs:: 2024 is going to be a long year.

Who is your favorite character from “The Gilded Age?”

[ltwilliammowett]

Signal Flares

Even if this invention goes back to a man, we have a woman to thank for the fact that they are used at all. Pyrotchnic flares were invented by Benjamin Franklin Coston, but he died before he could give them to the US Navy. His wife Martha Jane Coston (born 1826) eloped with him at the age of 16 and married him early. Benjamin quickly became a naval scientist for the U.S. Navy's scientific laboratory in Washington, D.C. At the Washington Navy Yard, he developed a signaling rocket and a percussion primer for cannons. Due to a disagreement with the Navy, he left that post in 1847 and joined a gas company, but had long been battling health problems from the chemicals he had been working with. This led to his death in November 1848.

Martha Jane Coston (1826-1904) (x)

It was Martha who attended to his affairs and found a note on the subject of night signals. However, it was only a note and not elaborated and so she did for the next 10 years. With limited knowledge of chemistry and pyrotechnics, she relied on the advice of hired chemists and fireworks experts - with mixed results. Her breakthrough came in 1858 when she watched the fireworks in New York City to celebrate the completion of the transatlantic telegraph cable. She realised that her system needed a light blue flare in addition to the red and white signal flares she had already developed. She formed the Coston Manufacturing Company to produce the signal flares and entered into a business relationship with a pyrotechnic developer to procure the necessary blue colour.

(x)

On 5 April 1859, she was awarded US Patent No. 23,536 and sold this for $20000 for a pyrotechnic night signal and code system. Using different colour combinations, ships could communicate with each other and with the coast. But the patent was granted to her as executor of the estate of her late husband, who is named as the inventor. Captain C.S. McCauley of the U.S. Navy recommended the use of their beacons to Secretary of the Navy Isaac Toucey in 1859. After extensive tests that proved the effectiveness of the system, the U.S. Navy ordered an initial set of 300 flares and later placed an order for $6,000 worth of flares. However, she then secured the patent in Europe.

(x)

In 1871, however, she introduced her own system of different colours and patterns, which allowed ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication and sold the signals to navies, ship owners and yachts around the world.

Eventually, in the USA, every United States Life-Saving Service station was equipped with Coston flares, which were used to signal ships, warn of dangerous coastal conditions and call surfers and other rescuers to a wreck. Many accounts of shipwrecks and rescues describe the use of the Coston flare, which helped save thousands of lives. Although Martha Coston died in 1904, her company, later renamed the Coston Signal Company and Coston Supply Company, continued until at least 1985.

These flares are still used today:

White flares are used to warn other ships of a boat’s position in order to avoid collisions. They are also useful for illuminating the water by night if there is a man overboard.

Orange distress flares are designed to be used for distress calls in daylight as they are easier to see than red flares due to the substantial clouds of orange smoke that are produced.

Red distress flares are used only in an emergency that requires immediate assistance. Because of their meaning, it is illegal to fire or ignite a red flare either on the water or along the coast in order to prevent calling out emergency services for lesser reasons. Red distress flares are used mainly at night because they are easier to see in darkness.

[allthatglittersisnotgoldrush]

The Road So Far: A Brief Summary of the Gold Rush AU (Part I, by TolkienGirl)

Recently a reader brought to our attention the need for a succinct narrative summary of the events of the AU. In addition to compiling that (please see Part I, covering the "pre-series" timeline through Maedhros' capture), we refer you to our Wordpress, which includes a timeline and an organization of our first four "Series"... that is, the order of chapter fics and one-shots, vignettes and flashbacks etc., into plot arcs that could roughly provide the basis for "All That Glitters," the prestige TV show.

EVENTS OCCURING PRE-1851

 [Stories detailing these events are sprinkled throughout the chronological timeline]

The pre-canon timeline begins in the late 1700s/early 1800s when Finwe, a talented metalworker, emigrates from Ireland, settles in Philadelphia to work in the steel-business, and marries Miriel (whose mental and physical health are precarious). Feanor is born in 1807, when Miriel dies in childbirth. Finwe, a Catholic, marries Indis, an Anglican woman (whose family disapproves of the match) in 1808. Thereafter, Fingolfin (1809) and Finarfin (1810) are born.

When Feanor is going on eighteen, Finwe relocates to New York, where Manwe Sulimo is a rising politician. Finwe is interested in locally representing Irish interests. Feanor is apprenticed in Boston to Aule, a blacksmith, and meets Nerdanel (b. 1809), then a lonely girl in finishing school.

They are married in 1827, despite the disapproval of Nerdanel’s Scottish father (Mahtan), settle in the Hudson Valley on Formenos farm, and have seven sons: Maedhros (b. 1828), Maglor (b. 1829), Celegorm (b. 1832), Caranthir (b. 1835), Curufin (b. 1836), and twins Amrod and Amras (b. 1837).

Meanwhile, Finarfin elopes with Earwen in Ulmo’s Bridge (Missouri) in 1828, temporarily earning Finwe’s disapproval. Finrod is born in 1829, Angrod in 1833, Aegnor in 1834, and Galadriel in 1836.

Fingolfin marries Anaire (of French descent) in NYC in 1830. Fingon is born in 1831, Turgon in 1833, Aredhel in 1834, and Argon in 1837.

In 1832, Manwe’s older brother Melkor Bauglir (who inherited the family plantation in the antebellum South) visits New York, taking an interest in influencing politics. At a dinner hosted by Manwe, Finwe and Feanor encounter Melkor, and Feanor (being an abolitionist, naturally) helps Melkor’s slave Rumil, an accomplished mapmaker, escape.

Following his encounter with Melkor, Feanor’s paranoia increases, which leads him to be stricter with his children (especially Maedhros) and to secretly abuse Maedhros as a way of trying to teach him to endure pain. When Nerdanel discovers this, she puts a stop to it, but Maedhros develops an early understanding that he is to serve as a protector of his family, including his father, if need be.

In 1835, Finwe is elected to City Council in New York. In 1837, Feanor buys an additional home in the City to keep tabs on his half-family. In 1841, Rumil, who has relocated to California, has met a land-holder and cattle-rancher, Elu Thingol (a Spaniard, married to a Chinese woman, Melian). Rumil and Thingol have negotiated for Rumil to take over a property called Mithrim, which contains a diamond mine that Rumil thinks Feanor would be best able to help access and harvest. Feanor conducts a secret mission to California, reconnecting with Rumil, building the Mithrim bridge, and finding a large diamond. Suspicious of Feanor’s activity, Melkor visits Formenos in April (shortly after Feanor’s departure) and takes an interest in 13-year-old Maedhros. Without Feanor to manage the farm or provide for the family, Nerdanel and the boys endure a hard winter. Maedhros begins to develop a tendency towards disturbing premonitions.

Feanor returns in 1842, gifting the diamond to Finwe. Melkor, intrigued by the happenings out west, visits Doriath but is turned away after showing lecherous attentions to 13-year-old Luthien. He begins to explore the continental U.S. more broadly, and, in doing business with a former nautical mapmaker, takes an interest in his 18-year-old daughter Estrela (Arien). After Estrela refuses his proposal of marriage, Melkor has his protégé Mairon capture and torture her. Renamed “Belle,” she is then enslaved as part of a workforce that Melkor uses to advance his westward projects, supervised by a former plantation overseer of his, Cosomoco Gothmog.

In 1843, Morgoth’s steel manufacturing enterprise (one of his eastern ventures) is found to be corrupt and rife with worker abuse. He is recalled from his western travels and sanctioned. He is confined to house arrest rather than being imprisoned. Meanwhile, Feanor sends Maedhros and Maglor to be educated in the city, though he chooses not to send any of the younger boys, which negatively contributes to Celegorm’s self-perception. For the next several years, Maedhros struggles against the temptations of high society while Maglor begins a promising musical education/career. There is increasing unrest between Feanor and his half-family, but Fingon and Maedhros form a very strong mutual friendship.

In 1847, Finwe retires from City Council (with a ceili/party at Formenos). Maedhros meets Finrod’s friend Esther Landau, a young Jewish woman. Feanor and Finwe intend to have Maedhros fill Finwe’s seat on City Council, while Maedhros is more interested in proposing to Esther. In the end, neither event comes to pass: at the end of 1848, Maedhros rejects his grandfather and father’s plans, quarrels with Feanor, and privately breaks off his relationship with Esther without ever introducing her to his family. Just before this, Finrod departs on a solo western adventure.

Meanwhile, Melkor has been quietly released from his imprisonment. In addition to his frontier developments, which he has been remotely managing, he now advises Manwe and other council members. Feanor is aware enough of this to wish for Maedhros to help him investigate Melkor’s doings.  By 1849, Maedhros has sunk into a debauched lifestyle, which Fingon (studying to be a doctor under Olorin the physician) is largely unaware of but which Fingolfin notices and is dismayed by. Increasingly paranoid, Feanor threatens Fingolfin’s life after a tense spring and growing conflicts. This creates a rift between Fingon and Maedhros for a time.

In 1850, Melkor has Finwe murdered on the front steps of his home and steals the diamond. Feanor is convinced that Melkor had a hand in the murder, but is unable to completely convince Fingolfin. Maedhros and Fingon reconcile to an increased degree, although both still feel uncertain.

EVENTS OCCURRING 1851 – mid-1852 (“SERIES ONE”)

The timeline for the story officially begins in 1851, in New York. Finrod has recently returned from his western exploration, during which he befriended Beren, whose (now-extinct) tribe is indigenous to the Pacific Northwest, and who, some years before, met and fell in love with Luthien in Doriath. Still unable to seek justice for Finwe’s death, Feanor now wishes to move out west and join Rumil at Fort Mithrim. Feanor and Maedhros gain information from Finrod about the gold prospects in California.

Manwe selects Melkor as the spearhead of the western railroad expansion. Disgusted by this assignment of power, Fingolfin agrees to join Feanor in relocating. Finrod intends to go as well. Finarfin and the rest of his family stays behind, but Galadriel (Artanis) secretly stows away with Fingolfin’s train. Feanor, who is leaving first, has been entrusted with the money to procure wagons at Ulmo’s Bridge in Missouri, where Finarfin’s father-in-law Olwe lives. Nerdanel initially opposes the plan to go west, but is persuaded by the inevitable.

On the road, Feanor and his family encounter Gothmog, who taunts them with Melkor’s rising power and the diamond taken from Finwe’s body. Gothmog injures Nerdanel, which increases Feanor’s resolve to move quickly and trust nobody. In early July 1851, Feanor double-crosses Fingolfin and the townspeople at Ulmo’s Bridge, stealing enough wagons for himself and destroying the res, then killing a number of the town’s militia. He then escapes by burning the titular bridge behind them, knocking Maedhros unconscious when he (Maedhros) refuses to cooperate. Nerdanel, having refused to join in this plan, remains behind.

Now wanted, Feanor, Maedhros, and the other boys continue west, collecting new allies along the way, largely through Maedhros’ recruiting efforts. Celegorm engages in a skirmish that ends with a man being killed and a new manhunt being launched. Maedhros also barters sex for information with a string of barmaids and prostitutes along the way, including Melkor’s spy Thuringwethil, who assaults and scars him by way of claiming a “trophy” for Bauglir.

Rumil tries and fails to communicate to Feanor that increased hostility in the vicinity of Mithrim means it is no longer a safe place for them to join forces. Mairon has insinuated himself as a spy within Mithrim, for a time, and then massacred several of Rumil’s best men. An increased number of militia-men of unknown allegiance are also patrolling the countryside and harassing Mithrim’s inhabitants (who include natives tribespeople and former slaves).

Meanwhile, Fingolfin and his family arrive at Ulmo’s Bridge to find themselves betrayed. After seeing Nerdanel, who intends to return east to Indis, Fingolfin chooses to advance his course with a northward river-crossing. Turgon’s wife Elenwe gives birth to their daughter Idril on the trail, which causes the family as a whole to stop for a time (as autumn closes in). After leaving Elenwe and Idril with a settler family, Fingolfin’s company continues onward. They encounter a posse seeking to revenge Celegorm’s kill, which results in Argon’s death. Fingolfin’s company flees farther north and is caught in a Nebraska blizzard which takes Anaire’s life. While the rest starve, snowbound, they are rescued by Haleth (a native leader who works cooperatively with Thingol, and, unbeknownst to Thingol, with Beren) and her company, which includes Beren and Wachiwi, another native woman who forms a close relationship with Fingon.

Shortly before arriving in Mithrim (between Christmas and New Year’s 1852), Feanor and company encounter Mairon spying on them. After being taunted and questioned by Maedhros, he escapes.

At Mithrim, Rumil is somewhat reluctant to assimilate Feanor’s company. It is revealed that Feanor’s interventions in Mithrim’s development a decade past led to a falling out with Thingol of Doriath, specifically with respect to the diamond mine and the diamond that Feanor gave Finwe. Feanor returns to mining, and also begins to launch attacks on the railroad. Maedhros and Celegorm, on an exploratory mission, discover that the nearby Mount Diablo is being excavated.

Amid growing tensions within Mithrim in the late spring of 1852, Amrod decides to write to Nerdanel. Rumil attempts to mail the letter for him, but returns seriously injured/poisoned. Amrod then rides out himself. Urged by Maedhros and Amras, Feanor and his sons go to find him, but end up embroiled in a standoff with Gothmog at the Utumno headquarters of the railroad project. Feanor is mortally wounded by Gothmog. Maedhros leads the return to Mithrim, but after Feanor dies, rides out without his brothers to attempt to track Amrod down. Mairon and then Gothmog surround and capture Maedhros. Gothmog reveals that Amrod’s horse slipped down a riverbank, and he is presumed dead.

Maedhros is delivered to Melkor in “Angband,” the fortress built within “Thangorodrim” (Mount Diablo).

[hyperfixationsporfavor]

Weekend in New York

Weekend in New York (80s au)

Nanami Kento had done well for himself in life. After obtaining his mba from Columbia he came back to Tokyo and started work as a stockbroker at a prestigious firm. As a well to do society man of the times he had acquired a plethora of extravagant holdings: a penthouse, company car, designer suits, symphony box seats, and a guaranteed reservation at any gourmet restaurant in town. 

While these luxuries brought him comfort the most sacred thing in the world to him was you, his beloved wife. 

The two of you had met in New York while you were getting a masters in art history at Barnard. He postponed his stay in the city another year to be with you, going against his parents wishes and renting a two bedroom on the upper east side. After a few months you moved in together, practically inseparable in those early days of your relationship. When you’d come home from a long day of seminars and symposiums he’d be there to greet you with dinner and give you his undivided attention as you’d tell him about your day. 

He loved you and you loved him. When you had finally finished your degree and were charting your next steps he did the unexpected and proposed to you, not entirely unexpected, just out of character. Nanami Kento, straight laced and driven by reason, acting on passion and brought to his knees by you. Of course you accepted and once you had arrived in Tokyo the two of you moved into the house you’d make your home. You had eloped, once again disappointing his parents, and spent your honeymoon christening the penthouse in a passionate fit of lovemaking that started in the bedroom and ended on your living room floor. 

Despite his arduous work hours, he always made time for you. He still cooked for you on occasion and after one two many glasses of wine the two of you would dance to one of his jazz records. You’d close your eyes and sigh into his strong chest letting him caress you in his arms. 

In all meanings of the word you were happy. In marriage and in life. However, there was one thing that you had yet to achieve, having a child. You and your husband had been trying for a few years and had no luck. Now with the two of you reaching your early thirties the pressure was being added on from his parents and yours. Your husband had assured you that it wasn’t an issue and it would happen when it was meant to. 

You on the other hand began to grow restless. You were ready to take that next step in life and be a mother, and you couldn’t stop imagining Kento as a father. He’d look picturesque holding a baby. Feeding them breakfast and reading to them before bed. It was enough to make your heart ache. You knew it was silly, but a small part of you worried. Was it getting to him like it was getting to you?

You cleared your throat and looked out the window of the town car. The brokerage firm building where your husband worked was on the horizon.

~

You lightly tapped your knuckles on your husband's opened office door. He looked up from his paperwork and a small smile formed on his lips. 

“Hello there.”

“I’m terribly sorry. I’m afraid I didn’t schedule an appointment Mr. Nanami.”

He chuckled and got up from his desk and walked over to you. “What are you doing here? I thought I was going to meet you at the airport.”

“Am I intruding?”

He smirked and shut the door behind you. “Actually I encourage intrusion when it brings you to me.”

He pulls you into his embrace and kisses you tenderly. 

When he surrendered your lips you explained the reason for your visit. “I know you were going to get a cab but I thought I could wait for you and we could go together. If it’s to much of an inconvenience-”

He kissed you again and pressed his forehead to yours. “That sounds wonderful.”

You smiled. “I thought you’d say that.”

“I still have about half an hour. Is that alright?”

“Of course. Take your time.”

You sat on the couch and kicked off your satin heels. 

Kento pressed the intercom on his desk. “Ms. Kasumi, will you get my wife an espresso?”

“Right away Mr. Nanami,” his secretary responded back. 

“I can’t believe they made you come in today.”

Your husband groaned. “Part of the joys of being the head of the department.”

“You work too hard darling.”

“Well I need to secure our nest egg.”

You hummed in acknowledgement. The two of you had some distant dream of moving to the coast and buying a small house where you could spend your days reading and baking together. A fantasy more than anything but if Kento did well enough he could retire early. 

You got up from the couch and sauntered over to your husband draping your arms around his broad shoulders. 

“Just promise me you won’t overdo it. I couldn’t bear to think of you being unhappy.”

He sighed into your caress and put his hands over yours. 

“My happiness is getting to come home to you.”

You were about to kiss again before someone cleared their throat and interrupted you. You both turned to face Kento’s secretary. The young girl hurriedly placed the espresso on your husband’s desk. 

“If that’s all you need I’ll be taking my leave. Good night Mr. Nanami, and uh Mrs. Nanami.”

She scurried out of the office and made a beeline to her desk to collect her things. 

“Goodnight Miwa,” you called out. 

“Have a safe flight,” she hollered over her shoulder. 

~

Kento had been ordered to attend an impromptu meeting in New York with the firm's sister company. While a business trip abroad sounded glamorous the whole thing had been scheduled last minute and proved to be an inconvenience. The winter holidays were approaching and he was forced to cancel your trip to Zurich. 

So in a way to make it up to you he had insisted you accompany him so you could spend the weekend together. 

You naturally accepted and were pleased with the idea of returning to where you first met. The city held a blissful nostalgia in your heart. 

~

“Have Ito handle it. Yes he should be able to take care of it. Okay. Thanks. Yeah, The Pierre. No you won’t be able to reach me until I’ve arrived. Okay. Thank you. Goodnight.”

Kento hung up the car phone before his associate could think of something else to bother him about. 

You picked up on his anxiety and brushed your fingers through his blond hair. 

“I was thinking once your meetings are over we could go to that little diner. You know the one.”

He relaxed and smiled. “How could I forget the place where I met the love of my life?”

He adjusted your cashmere scarf around your neck to ensure you stayed warm. The town car raced towards Haneda Airport, leaving the city of Tokyo behind. 

~

“And if you need anything please don’t hesitate to ring the front desk.” 

“Thank you.”

While Kento checked you into the hotel, you noticed at the desk next to you, a father was checking in with his son. The young boy peeked out from behind his father’s leg and gave you a small wave. You chuckled and did the same. The father finished his business and towed the small child away. 

“Right this way.”

The bellhop took your bags and guided you towards the elevator. 

“(Name)? Are you alright?” Kento asked. 

You nodded. “Yes. I’m just a bit jet lagged. That’s all.” 

He pulled you towards him and the two of you followed the bellhop. 

“We’ll lay down for a while okay?”

~

After a fourteen hour flight the two of you barely had enough energy to tip the bellhop and shut the door behind him. 

Kento groggily shrugged his coat off and tossed it on a chair. You followed suit and stripped down to your underwear. Despite being sleep deprived your husband reached out and ran his finger down your bare torso. You smirked and helped him remove his clothes. Once he was standing in his boxers you pulled him into the bedroom.

~

A few hours later Kento woke up and pawed at the nightstand for his watch. You sighed and nuzzled your face into the crevice of his neck.

He snatched his Rolex up and brought it close to his face.

‘1:00 pm’

“Did we oversleep?” you murmured. 

“No,” he whispered. “The meeting’s not until four.”

You yawned and hugged him tighter. You were about to drift back to sleep when the phone rang.

 Kento groaned as he reached for it. You put a hand on his arm to stop him and picked it up yourself. 

“I’ll just tell them you're in the shower,” you promised. 

He nodded and you removed your hand from the receiver and cleared your throat. 

“Yes? May I ask who’s calling?”

You blinked in surprise. “Oh. I see. Alright.”

You paused for a moment. “Well I can’t say at the moment.  But if you could give me her extension I would greatly appreciate it.”

You pulled out the nightstand drawer and retrieved a notepad and pen. You placed the pad on your husband’s shoulder and jotted down the number. 

“Got it. Thank you very much. Bye.”

You hung up and Kento sat up and leaned against the headboard. 

“Who was that?”

“My old college friend. You remember Mei Mei?” 

~

Mei Mei was a fellow art history major with you at Barnard. After the two of you had finished your masters program, she had accepted an offer to be an art buyer for the Mercedes Benz New York office. She was supposed to be in Berlin for a business trip but after a mixup with the tickets her flight had been postponed till midnight. That left an opening to catch up with you over coffee at Bergdorfs.

“And you're sure you're okay with me going?” you asked as you shrugged your coat back on. 

Nanami riffled through your suitcase in search of your wool scarf. 

“Of course. We can meet at the diner and spend all day together tomorrow.”

He pulled out the cream garment and walked over to you. You hummed in satisfaction as he wrapped it around your neck. These little acts of love made you feel just as magical as when you started dating. Kento kissed your forehead and offered you a smile. 

“Have fun. I love you.”

~

Mei Mei was in desperate need of new winter wear. She couldn’t show up in Berlin with her pieces from last winter. After the two of you finished shopping you had cappuccinos

and scones at the Bergdorfs cafe. 

“So tell me. How’s life as a New York career woman?” you asked. 

“Same old same old. The money makes up for the abundance of revolting Wall Street brokers that mistake me as a secretary. I’m actually considering trying Paris for a while.”

“Wow, Paris. That would be a dream. Say hello to Alain Delon when you see him.”

She chuckled. “And what about you?”

“Nothing as exciting as you. Kento is as wonderful as always.”

“And he still has all his hair?”

You chuckled. “For the time being. You know how it goes. The same activities with the same yuppies.”

“And perhaps the pitter patter of little feet?” Mei Mei suggested. 

She raised a brow when she took notice of your slightly stifled reaction.

“I’m sorry.”

You quickly shook your head. “No. It’s fine. And no. No children yet.”

“Okay,” she empathetically nodded, allowing the alluring executive act to soften.

“We’ve certainly been trying but…no luck.”

Your friend offered you a shrug and waved her hand nonchalantly. “More time for the two of you. Don’t let your in-laws or anyone pressure you, okay?”

You chuckled. “Never.”

“And everything will happen when it’s meant to be okay?”

You brushed your finger over your wedding ring, letting the diamond's sharp cuts scratch against your skin. 

Before you could respond two unsavory executives approached your table inappropriately eyeing the two of you. 

“Good afternoon ladies. Are you having a nice time?”

You exchanged a look with Mei Mei, both signaling a plan of retreat.

“We’ve already had a nice time. In fact, we were just about to leave,” Mei Mei smoothly answered. 

One of the men, clearly wearing a wedding ring, leaned closer. “Well in that case how about we take you ladies out for some drinks. There’s a little bar at a hotel just up the road.”

You almost laughed at his poorly placed hair piece, the confidence was astonishing, but you decided to indulge the adulterer for a moment more. 

“That sounds nice. Why don’t you two settle our bill at the front desk? We’ll meet you at the entrance.”

The pair of buffoons eagerly accepted your offer racing to the register. You and Mei Mei waited until they weren’t looking to hurriedly collect your bags and sprint out of the cafe. The pair of you snickered like mad women as you rushed out of the store and frantically hailed a cab. When you were secure inside driving away you laughed so hard the entirety of Manhattan heard you. 

~

After that, you dropped off Mei Mei and said your goodbyes. 

“I’ll call you when I’ve arrived in France. I’d love to have you and Kento visit.”

You’d happily take her up on her offer. 

Then you asked the driver to take you back to The Pierre. 

You swapped your designer suit for one of Kento’s sweaters and a pair of jeans. Just as  you were reapplying your lipstick,  you got a call from the front desk that Kento had sent a car for you. Another of many kind gestures, but as you drove away from the hotel and towards the diner the conversation you had with Mei Mei replayed in your mind, dampening your mood. You leaned forward towards the driver. 

“Excuse me? Could we make a quick stop at the drugstore?

~

“Sorry I’m late!”

You shimmied into the booth next to your husband who waved away your apology. 

“It’s fine. I’ve only been here a few minutes.”

“Did you order?”

“Just coffee to start. Are you hungry?”

“Maybe a little.”

You looked around at your surroundings. The diner had remained frozen in time. The same dull plastic benches, fake plants, and flickering lights.

“It’s just like how I remember it, just more graffiti in the mens room,” Kento remarked.

You leaned into him and sighed. “I remember when I met you, I was so nervous.”

He chuckled. “You spilled a cup of coffee in my lap.” 

You groaned. “God I remember I was so embarrassed I just spent the rest of the night apologizing.”

He pressed his lips to your forehead. “That’s alright. I’d say everything worked out.”

The feeling of anxiety penetrated through you again, ruining this nostalgic intimacy. 

“Yes, everything worked out.”

~

Kento’s meeting was a success and with business wrapped up the two of you had a full day together before flying home. After a morning in Central Park and a feast of bagels and coffee, Kento took you to The Met, an old time favorite of yours. 

In college, you’d spend your afternoons taking in the real works of the slides you’d study in class. Kento would later join you on these trips, happy to listen to your thoughts on your favorite pieces while he’d offer his own feelings on works he favored. As he watched you take in ‘Young Mother Sewing,’ he noticed an expression of melancholia. Kento softly pressed his hand against your back.

“Are you alright (Name)?”

You quickly replaced your frown with a smile. “Of course, Mary Cassatt’s work is just so…intimate. Onto the next piece?”

 ~

After a full day the two of you opted to retire early in front of the television. Kento settled on an old rerun of Magnum P.I. 

You emerged from the bathroom in your nightgown settling next to him on the couch.

“What did I miss?” you asked.

“Well those schoolkids hired Magnum to find their missing teacher but the groundskeeper is holding out on him.”

“School kids can hire private investigators?”

Kento chuckled. “Things must work differentially in Hawaii.”

He noticed the familiar look on your face, the one from the museum. You picked up the remote and muted the television. 

“I need to talk to you.”

He sat up a little straighter, trying not to let his nerves overreact. 

You took a breath and took your husband's hand. 

“I didn’t want to say anything. But I’m late.”

It only took your husband a moment to interpret that. He nodded. “Yes.”

“And I thought…I thought I might be pregnant. So on my way to see you yesterday I bought a test and I took it after you went to bed.”

Kento could already tell by your expression what the verdict was. 

“False alarm?”

You let out a shaky breath and nodded.

He leaned forward and pulled you against his chest. “I’m sorry love.”

“I would have told you but I wanted it to be a surprise,” you managed to get out.

You hate this. You hate being this obsessive and desperate to create results. You want this to happen organically. So why was it taking so long? You were at the end of your tether. 

“(Name). It’s fine.” 

“I know,” you exhaled and continued, “I guess I just feel stupid for getting my hopes up.”

“We’ll have a baby eventually.”

You let out an exasperated sigh and stood up. “I know. I know Kento. Everyone has said that. The doctor, your parents, my parents, Mei Mei, and now you.”

He stood up and clasped your shoulders in a firm grip. “(Name). I know it’s upsetting but you can’t beat yourself up like this.”

You’re almost afraid to ask but you do anyway.

“Be honest with me Kento. It’s not a little upsetting to you that we’re having such a difficult time with this.”

He cupped your face and leaned forward. “No sweetheart. No. Yes I want to have a child with you. But my love for you isn’t based on that.”

You placed your hands on his. Watching as he bit his lip before asking you a question.

“Do you find yourself…feeling angry towards me?

“No! God no. I’ve been angry at myself. You make me so happy. And I want to make you happy.”

“I am,” he assured you.

“But-”

“I am, I swear to you.”

You sighed and kissed his lips in annoyance at how damn charming he is. “ I love you so much.”

“I love you too.”

~

The two of you laid in bed together, content to listen to the bustling of traffic down below. 

After some time had passed your husband broke the silence. 

“We could always consider alternative methods,” he suggested.

“Adoption?” you asked.

“If that’s what we want.”

You sighed. “I admit. I’ve thought about it.”

“Me too.”

You wrapped your arms around Kento. “We should think it over. It wouldn’t be smart to rush to any decisions.”

He kissed your cheek in the dark.

“Of course love.”

The End.