#no secondchances

[in-tenebris-et-in-solitudine]

It’s scary trusting people again.

[swtorramblings]

Vaylin trick-or-treating as Galactic Empress Barbie by @fleeting-sanity, thanks a lot, she's lovely!

Happy Halloween

Brief story.

Claudia looked up from the laptop. "Halloween?"

Azula looked over where she was training and raised an eyebrow. "What was that?"

Claudia looked back down to the screen. "Halloween. It looks like it's some kind of ritual to drive off evil spirits?"

Vaylin just looked amused as she stood up from the couch. "I thought you said there weren't any spirits here?"

"I don't think it's magic. I think it's more of a legend, a story. An excuse to dress up and get candy."

"Like, formal wear?" Azula asked.

"Costumes."

"Costumes? What kinds of costumes?"

"All kinds! It looks like fun."

Azula had walked around behind her and was now peering over her shoulder. "So we'll need costumes."

"Yeah. I wonder if the others can get them?"

"Oh, don't worry about that," Azula said with a grin. "I'll take care of it."

Claudia didn't look convinced. "Right. I doubt they'll like how you do it."

Vaylin joined in Azula's grin. "That's what makes it fun."

...

After some creative costume acquisitions and a change of clothes, the three looked at each other. Claudia was looking at a tag that came with her clothes. "Cruella de Vil?"

Azula still hadn't stopped grinning. "Trust me, it's perfect."

Vaylin looked her over. "And you are?"

"Ember. She's new. I can feel more like myself for one night, so leave it."

"All right. But why all this pink for me?"

"Because she can be anything, and isn't that what you said you wanted?"

Now Vaylin grinned again. "It is. All right, let's go get candy."

"And have some fun for once."

"We will conquer Halloween and none shall stand before us!"

[harmonyhealinghub]

Second Chances Shaina Tranquilino November 3, 2024

Jack had always lived life in the fast lane. He was successful in his career, relentlessly ambitious, and driven by the need to prove himself. Friends, family, the simple joys—they all came second to the next big deal, the next milestone. He’d never stopped to consider what he might miss if he lost it all.

Then, one foggy morning, everything changed.

The memory of the accident was hazy—a car spinning out of control, the crush of metal, the sound of sirens. Jack had spent weeks in the hospital, drifting in and out of consciousness, cocooned in pain and regret. His body was healing, but it was his heart that had changed the most.

During those quiet, sterile nights, he felt something stirring deep within him. Faces he hadn’t thought about in years came to mind, their expressions softened with smiles. He recalled Sunday dinners at his mother’s house, the warmth of his father’s hand on his shoulder, his brother's infectious laugh. He thought of his friend Danny, who had called countless times only to receive a short, hurried response. And he thought of Sarah, the love he’d let slip away because he hadn’t had the time to nurture it.

When he finally went home, everything felt different. The walls of his spacious apartment seemed colder, emptier. It was as though he could see his life in two versions: the one he’d been living, and the one he could have lived had he cared more for the people who had loved him without condition.

The first call he made was to his mom. She answered on the first ring, her voice shaky with relief. They spoke for hours. She told him how she’d prayed for him every night and how, no matter how many times he brushed her off, she’d never stopped hoping he’d come back to them.

Next, he visited Danny, his best friend from college. They met at a small café they used to love. As they sat across from each other, Jack felt the weight of all the canceled plans, all the unreturned messages. But Danny just grinned, his eyes warm. "Took you long enough," he joked, clapping Jack on the shoulder. They talked like no time had passed, picking up where they’d left off. And for the first time in years, Jack laughed—really laughed.

Finally, he reached out to Sarah. She was hesitant, guarded. She had a right to be. But she listened, and he could see the hurt softening as he apologized for the countless times he’d put work before her. They took it slow, meeting a few times for coffee. Jack knew it would take more than a few dates to mend what he’d broken, but he was willing to try.

Over time, Jack found himself savouring the moments he’d once overlooked. Cooking with his mom, a lazy afternoon on his dad’s porch, laughing with Danny over memories of their younger selves, the warmth in Sarah’s eyes as they rebuilt their connection. These were no longer interruptions in his life—they were his life.

The accident had changed Jack. He’d been given a second chance, and he was determined to make it count. Now, each day felt like a gift, each relationship like a blessing. Life was slower, softer, but it was fuller than he had ever dreamed.

And for the first time, Jack felt that he was truly living.

[girltalkcollectives]

Sometimes Love Needs a Reset Button

It's funny how we always think the answer is finding someone new. Like somehow, a different person will solve all the problems that made us fall out of love with the last one.

But here's what nobody tells you: sometimes the bravest thing isn't walking away. Sometimes it's staying and saying "let's start over."

Not with someone new. Not with a blank slate. But with the person right in front of you. The one whose coffee order you know by heart. The one whose snoring you've learned to sleep through. The one who's seen you at your worst and stayed anyway.

The thing about long-term love is that it gets buried sometimes. Under bills and work stress and dirty dishes and mundane arguments about whose turn it is to do laundry. The spark doesn't die - it just gets covered up by everyday life.

We forget to look at them. Really look at them. Remember when you couldn't take your eyes off them? When every little thing they did was fascinating? When did we stop noticing?

We get so caught up in what's missing that we forget to see what's still there:

The way they still reach for your hand in their sleep

The coffee they make you every morning without asking

The fact that they remember your mom's birthday

How they know exactly what to order you from every takeout place

The way they can still make you laugh even when you're mad

Maybe love isn't about finding someone new. Maybe it's about choosing to see the person you're with through new eyes. About remembering why you chose them in the first place.

Sometimes you have to press reset. Start dating again. Not other people - each other. Find new things to talk about. Create new inside jokes. Make new memories. Rediscover the parts of them you forgot to notice.

It's not about going backward. It's not about trying to recreate what you had in the beginning. It's about building something new with the foundation you already have. With the person who already knows your story.

Because here's the truth: that initial spark? The butterflies? The can't-eat-can't-sleep feeling? It's beautiful. But it's not sustainable. Real love is what comes after. It's choosing someone over and over again, especially when it's hard.

But sometimes you need to remind yourself why you made that choice in the first place.

Look at them when they're not paying attention.

Ask them questions like you're just getting to know them.

Listen to their stories like you haven't heard them before.

Touch them like it's the first time.

Kiss them like it might be the last time.

Love isn't always about finding something new. Sometimes it's about finding new ways to love what you already have. Sometimes it's about remembering why you fell in love. Sometimes it's about pressing reset and starting over. Right where you are. With exactly who you're with.

Because maybe the greatest love stories aren't about finding the right person. Maybe they're about being the right person. Over and over again. For the one you already chose.

So before you decide the spark is gone, before you convince yourself you need someone new, before you give up on what you have, try starting over. Right here. Right now. With them.

Because sometimes the love of your life isn't someone new waiting to be found. Sometimes they're right there, waiting to be loved like you're just beginning.

[distressedwalnut]

Silly oc ship oOOo!! Asmo belongs to @guhtheblog :)

[istariray23]

🐾🌟 Calling All Pet Lovers! 🌟🐾

ur beloved rescue cat Bizkit has a heartwarming tale to share, and now she's looking for loving fur parents for her babies! 🐈💖

Bizkit gave birth to 3 healthy and strong kittens yesterday 8 November 2024 Friday

Bizkit was once a stray cat struggling to survive on the streets until Jedi rescued her and showed her the true meaning of love and care. Through patience and compassion, Bizkit blossomed into a healthy, affectionate companion who now has her precious kittens.

As we prepare for the joyful moment when Bizkit's babies enter the world, we are seeking compassionate individuals who are willing to open their hearts and homes to these little miracles. Just like their mama, these kittens will be full of love, charm, and endless cuddles.

By choosing to adopt one of Bizkit's babies, you not only provide a forever home for a deserving feline friend but also become part of their heartwarming journey from stray to a cherished family member.

If you're ready to welcome a new addition to your family and experience the unconditional love that rescue cats have to offer, please reach out to us to learn more about adopting one of Bizkit's precious offspring. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these innocent souls, one purr at a time.

🌺🐾💕🌺🐾💕🌺🐾💕🌺🐾💕

#AdoptDontShop, #RescueCatsRock, #BizkitsBabies, #ForeverHomesNeeded, #RescueCat, #SecondChances, #LoveKnowsNoBoundaries, #BizkitsJourney, #AdoptDontShop, #RescueCatsRock, #BizkitsTale,

[ivyblytheedits]

Right person, wrong time. 

[the-royal-blue-network]

A Rainy Day

It never really rains in Sunny California, so when droplets of water begin to pellet the window of Raven's car as she makes her way home from work, Raven's mind begins to travel back in time. As she navigates the wet streets of LA, she finds herself thinking of Samantha, her ex-girlfriend.

The pair were so in love, and Raven had always thought that Samantha was the one. But life and the demands of busy work schedules got in the way. But as the rain taps against Raven's windshield, she can't help but wonder; does Samantha ever think about her when it rains?

CLICK THE TITLE AND CHECK OUT THIS STORY TODAY!

[im-madam-baby]

Every day is a testament to the second chances bestowed upon me, allowing me to resume what was once delayed. Amidst it all, I perceive the unyielding love of God, ever-present, never forsaking me in times of adversity 🙏

[zephyra-in-the-house]

Chapter 17 of Second Chances

Hey you! Yes you! The third act of the Shopping Trip has been published! Go check it out!

https://archiveofourown.org/works/40021290/chapters/113734780

[in-tenebris-et-in-solitudine]

I know I pushed you away, and I deleted every way possible for you to contact me, but I still wish you tried to find a way..

[hes-a-rat-whisperer]

Felonious wasn’t sure why he even bothered coming here. All the other nobles did was trash talk him, his late husband, and their baby. It’s like that was all they were GOOD for or something!!

“Daddy? Can I have a strawberry tart?” The soft tugging of his petty coat made the raven haired lord pause to smile down at his rose haired darling. Fel bent down to pick her up, the little four year old weighing nothing to him, as he carried her off to the sweets table.

“Of course Juilana, you’re being such an Angel tonight you can have as many as you want.” That made his freckled baby light up, her emerald eyes sparkling as thoughts of sugary treats filled her mind. It was enough to keep her deaf to mocking jeers of the other snobs around them. There was nothing more the raven haired man wanted to do, than to pick up that platter of beef tar tar, and throw it at the crowd.

there was one pair of eyes, watching them from within the crowd, who didn't make fun of them. far from it!

an older, silver haired gentleman was staring at the long haired royal in awe.

of course, he knew of lord d'uvalt, how couldn't he? the story of the lord and his tragedy spread throughout the kingdom.

while the nobles saw it as scandalous enough to mock, Alistair felt a great deal of pity for Felonious and his daughter.

well..maybe that wasn't the only thing he felt..

a possibly tipsy noble, who stood right beside Alistair, hollered even more mockery towards the lord, nudging the brit's shoulder while doing so.

it may have been the physical contact, or the choice of words this supposed 'noble' used, but whatever it was, it sent Alistair into an immediate rage.

"dont you have anything better to do than to insult a widower's ears with the sewage you spew from your mouth?!" he snapped.

[harmonyhealinghub]

From Darkness to Light Shaina Tranquilino August 15, 2024

Dr. Evelyn Carter was once at the forefront of biomedical research, renowned for her work on regenerative medicine. She lived for the thrill of discovery, pouring over data and orchestrating experiments late into the night. Her colleagues admired her tenacity, her unyielding belief that science could change the world. But then came the experiment that changed everything. After years of work and millions in funding, her groundbreaking project failed—miserably. The results were disastrous, setting back the entire field and shattering Evelyn’s confidence. Headlines labeled her a cautionary tale, and the research community that once celebrated her now turned away. The fallout was more than she could bear.

Disillusioned and weary, Evelyn left the lab for good. She retreated to a small town far from the research institutions she once called home, determined to leave her past behind. She rented a modest house and found solace in the routine of a quieter life. But the passion for science still flickered inside her, even if she no longer knew how to kindle it.

It was at the urging of a neighbour that she applied for a position at the local high school. They needed a science teacher, someone to take over the classes left vacant after the sudden departure of the previous instructor. Evelyn hesitated, unsure if she could face a classroom after the pressure of her former life. But something inside her nudged her forward, a small voice that refused to let go of the possibility that she still had something to offer.

On her first day, Evelyn stepped into the classroom with nerves fraying her calm exterior. She looked out at the rows of young faces, each one eager, curious, or simply indifferent, and she felt the weight of the moment. She cleared her throat and began to speak, not about the textbook or the syllabus, but about why science mattered.

"It’s not just about what we know," she said, her voice growing stronger with each word. "It’s about what we don’t know. It’s about asking questions that no one else has thought to ask, and it’s about trying to find answers, even if you fail along the way."

The students were captivated. They had never heard anyone talk about science like this, with such raw emotion. She told them about her own journey, carefully omitting the painful details but sharing the excitement of discovery, the thrill of chasing an idea, and the importance of perseverance.

As weeks turned into months, Evelyn’s classroom became a place of wonder. She turned the lab into a playground of curiosity, encouraging her students to think beyond the confines of the curriculum. They built models, conducted experiments, and debated scientific ethics. The students were eager to learn, and Evelyn found herself rediscovering her own love for the subject through their eyes.

One day, a student named Maya stayed after class, a notebook clutched tightly to her chest. She had been one of the quiet ones, always sitting in the back, never raising her hand.

"Dr. Carter," Maya began hesitantly, "I’ve been working on something. It’s not much, but I wanted to show you."

Evelyn took the notebook and flipped through the pages. What she saw stopped her in her tracks—a series of complex diagrams and hypotheses, each one more ambitious than the last. They were rough, but they had potential.

"This is incredible, Maya," Evelyn said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "You have a real gift. Have you thought about pursuing this further?"

Maya looked up, her eyes shining. "I didn’t think I was good enough. But… maybe, with your help?"

In that moment, Evelyn realized that her failure in the lab had led her to something even more important. She had found a new way to contribute to the world, not through her own discoveries, but by nurturing the potential in others. She had found her purpose again.

Years later, when Maya stood on a stage accepting an award for her groundbreaking research, she would thank her high school teacher, Dr. Evelyn Carter, for believing in her when she didn’t believe in herself. In the audience, Evelyn would smile, knowing that sometimes, failure is just the beginning of a new journey.

[mooner3]

A Chance to Change ch1 page29

[saanvisays]

1. 25 Years of Darkness.

The last time I saw my little boy, he was 5; young, full of energy, sharp and always asking questions. He was the sweetest kid who changed my life forever. On the other hand, let's say I was not an ideal father, and that's to say it politely. I was doing all sorts of wrong things: stealing cars, selling drugs and whatnot. There is a thing called karma, and it hits you like a truck. I was caught selling drugs in a police raid, and I was sentenced to 25 years in jail; it is a long time.

(image credit to ChatGPT - AI generated)

(Credit to SoundEffectsFactory - Youtube)

My ex-wife didn't want to maintain any contact with me, nor did she want our son with me; I don't blame her; who'd want to be associated with a convict? I am not proud of what I did, but I had no other option; I had to feed my family. I know there are honest ways to go about doing this, and I don't deny that; thinking this gives me solace. Prison is brutal, let me tell you all. It is dull and claustrophobic, and you are around the worst members of society; some of them are trying to learn better ways of living and trying to be better, but most are just waiting to get out and commit the same crimes again. They toughen you up, and you have to fight for survival and guards; they do nothing. I have had the same mundane routine for the past 25 years; I used to wake up, brush my teeth, shower, and go out for work.

I usually didn't do breakfast and only had lunch and dinner; later in the day, I would write about my day and read books. I had a picture of Jack in my room next to me; the shining rays of light in my dull room gave me the energy to get up in the morning and fight off the day.

(image credit to ChatGPT - AI generated)

(Credit to Jurrivh - Youtube)

I have been dying to see him all these years, doing father-son stuff like playing with him, teaching him, taking him to school and then picking him up, talking to him about his girlfriends - but I have missed all that, and the only person to blame is me. He is 30 now, turning 31 this October. I contacted him to ask him to meet me, and after a lot of convincing and apologizing, he agreed. I can't mess this up; I would never mess it up. I must show him I am a new man who'll work hard to be in society and his life. I didn't experience the boy he was, but I want to experience the man he is. I am nervous but confident, for I have worked hard to get another shot at life. I have learned from my mistakes and will live my life the way I want, honourably. I am excited to meet him and hug him.