#not even a full glass of water per week

[kotoal1011]

OMG NEW SCRUNKLY ART

WITH MONSTERA AAAAAAAA

[mariasont]

Hii! I saw this gif earlier today and I literally had a brain wave of an idea for fan fic!

Based off this gif below. S2!reid x reader. Reader has called off sick for a few days now and Spencer has been “looking after them” (ifyky) and one of bau members actually comes to help them with their “sickness” and sees Spencer leave like the gif below and he is like “hey.. wow” awkward! (Can be light smug or implied, up to you!!)

Looking After You - S.R

a/n: um i loved writing this one tehe, ur mind is amazing and i thank you for trusting me to make it come to life

masterlist

pairings: spencer reid x fem!reader

warnings: 18+ MDNI, smutsy, spencer giving head (i just know that man gives the best head i really can't think about it for long), reader is sick (kind of), morgan and garcia being nosy per usual

wc: 1k

His mouth was on you, head between your thighs as you pulled at his hair, whining his name between moans. He was a genius, yes of course in the literal sense, but you meant in bed. He was perfect and he ate you out like he was a man starving and this was his first meal in weeks.

You had been down with a cold for the past couple of days, finally seeing the end of the tunnel after some help from Spencer. You had been surprised when he showed up at your door with a plethora of home remedies and even more surprised when one of those remendies included his mouth being glued to your cunt.

Each breath you took, you could feel yourself getting closer—an electric tingle spreading from your toes to your fingers, the tight coiling of desire in your belly. That elusive peak was tantilizingly close, deliciously aching, but just out of reach.

Fate apparently had a twisted sense of humor and decided it would stay out of reach.

The knock on the door was like a cold splash of water causing you to jolt up, but Spencer's large palms clasped around your thighs as if to say, I'm not done with you yet.

The sharp intake of breath was involuntary, a reflex as you sunk back into the mattress. Whoever was at the door would get the message eventually. Right now, you were writhing against the sheets with hands forming fists in the curls of Spencer's hair, and that was all that mattered.

"Oh—yes, Spence, please." You weren't certain you were making sense.

He hummed against your clit, sending full body shockwaves through you as you finally released, like a taut rubber band finally being snapped. You were panting, mumbling something incoherent as your hands sought out Spencer's.

Another knock, more aggressive this time. You struggled to sit up, your mind still hazy, but Spencer's gentle touch coaxed you back down.

"I'll get it," he said, fingers tracing constellations from freckle to freckle on your ankle. "Do what you do best, sit and look pretty."

You laughed weakly, pressing your lips against his before you watched him disappear from the room.

Spencer moved to answer the door, his hand barely grazing over the handle before turning it, but as it swung open, the color drained from his cheeks, eyes widening at the people in front of him.

Garcia and Morgan.

He was suddenly aware of how he looked—hair strewn in every direction, glasses resting lopsidedly on his nose, mouth no doubt still covered in you. That thought prompted him to bring his sleeve up to his face, wiping the remnants away as he simultaneously ran a hand through his hair.

But it was too little too late, they had damning evidence against him now. His first instinct was to slam the door shut, but he hesitated, certain it would worsen the situation. So he remained still, opening and closing his mouth wordlessly, his eyes flickering to the soup and tissues they presented.

"Are we at the wrong apartment?" Penelope whispered, not-so-discreetly, to Morgan.

"Nope, this is definitely the right apartment." Morgan said, smirking as he clasped Spencer on the shoulder. "You've been taking care of her, huh, Reid?"

"Time out!" Penelope squealed, her hands jumping up, almost dropping the soup in the process. "You and—, and you guys are? You're lying. Oh my stars, wait, what were you two doing? Why do you look like you've been... oh, don't tell me!"

Spencer could feel the pink suffusing his face, fingers pinching his brow as he started to shut the door. He should know better than to check the peep hole before opening the door.

Morgan's hand stuck out, preventing the door from shutting any further.

"Hold your horses, pretty boy," Morgan teased, nudging Spencer aside without waiting for an invitation. His eyes darted around your living room as if he would find you. "At least let us do what we came here to do."

Penelope started to set her stuff on the coffee table, her face displaying her thrilled emotions like an open book.

"I can't wait for JJ to know about this, she's going to freak," Garcia says, clasping on to Morgan's arm.

Morgan laughed, patting her hand as he shook his head. "No one is going to tell anyone. Your secret is safe with us, pretty boy. We're a vault, aren't we, baby girl?"

"Yeah, okay, fine," Penelope started, lips pursing as she peered into the kitchen. "But just so we're clear, this is going to be like swallowing a live grenade of gossip.

Now it was Spencer's turn to laugh, head shaking as he pushed his glasses to the top of his nose.

"Thanks, guys. I'm sure she's going to appreciate this."

He nodded towards the items, disregarding their comments as he awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck, walking them both to the door and hoping to the gods you would stay put.

"Alright, we'll let you get back to... whatever this is," Morgan conceded, hands shooting up in defense as he stepped out the door. "But hey, you make her cry, and I'll be using those spaghetti limbs of yours to mop the floor."

"Morgan!" Penelope said, slapping him on the shoulder.

"Unnecessary, but understood," Spencer said, waving towards the exit. "Now, if you wouldn't mind..."

He could feel the migraine coming on.

"Oh my god."

They were both looking behind him, he followed their gaze, seeing you standing there just outside the bedroom door, wearing his boxers and one of his Star Trek shirts.

He slammed the door shut.

taglist: @hotchhner @khxna @readergf @sarcasm-and-stiles @edencherries @aurorsworld @princess76179 @malindacath @freyy253 @broadwaytraaaaash @r-3dlips

join my taglist here

[sturniqlo]

HERE TO STAY FOREVER- CHRIS STURN

summary: when chris starts to turn cold towards his best friend, y/n, she thinks the worst. what happens when she starts to back off and chris is desperate to hangout with her and confesses something?

cw: slight angst, cursing, commitment issues, fluff

an: i've been OBSESSED with bff!chris lately so here's more!! | thank you to @monroesturnns for the idea💋

masterlist

-----------------------------------------------

Chris and Y/n have been best friends now for about four years now. As they spent more and more time together, Chris started to feel different about her. Not in a bad way, never that. Just different.

He started to picture a future with her. An, eternity with her. And it scared him, it really did. He's never felt like this towards anyone. Yeah he's has a few girlfriends here and there but, he never saw a future with them. It scared him that he saw forever with her and they weren't even dating.

Unfortunately, something in his mind told him to turn cold towards her. She doesn't like you back, she never will. He tossed and turned in his bed, trying to fall asleep. She needs someone better, you aren't it for her. He groaned, throwing the comforter off of himself and getting up. He goes up to the kitchen and serves him a glass of water, placing it quietly in the sink.

Getting back in bed, his phone buzzes on his nightstand. He picks it up and sees a message from no one other than Y/n. hey chris, sorry if you're sleeping already but are we still on for tomorrow night? They had planned on going to a fancy dinner. Someone they always joked about, dressing to super fancy and join the rich snobby people at a fancy restaurant. They'd been saving a good amount from their paychecks. sure, hopefully you aren't getting any cold feet about it? i was looking at the menu and holy shit is all i have to say. He types back. no cold feet at all, i'll see you tomorrow! goodnight:))

Her messages somehow gave him hope and he was able to sleep.

Over the next two weeks, Y/n has been getting treated differently by Chris. Whenever they hangout, he's quieter than usual and moody. It would hurt her from time to time when he would snap at her for something so simple. Chris never snapped at her.

Even his brothers noticed it. "Chris, why are you being so mean to Y/n?" Matt said once he heard the bathroom door closing signaling Y/n couldn't hear. "No I'm not?" He scoffed, opening the fridge to grab the leftovers from yesterday's dinner their mom had cooked. "Uh, yeah you are." Nick says next to Matt. "She's been telling me how you snap at her all the time. And five minutes ago you literally bumped her shoulder and didn't say sorry. I'd say you are being pretty fucking rude."

"Why the hell is she even texting you?" Chris says, retrieving the plate from the microwave. "If I remember correctly, she's everyone's friend, not just yours. You know what? I thought you had feelings for her." As Chris was about to respond, they all heard the bathroom door opening and he shut his mouth.

The following Friday, Y/n went over their house per Chris' request. It had been about an hour and Chris had spoken no more than ten words to her. She was feeling unwanted. She felt awkward and uncomfortable at the shift in his mood. "I- I think I'm going to head out." She broke the silence. "So soon?" Chris' heart dropped and he shut his phone off. "Yeah, my mom she- uh she needs some help with something." She waved her phone. "Oh, okay. I'll walk you out." She nodded and walked toward his room door.

Chris walked her down to the door and wanted to phone her mom and tell her if Y/n can stay for longer. "I'll see you around." She goes for a full hug but Chris only gives her a side hug. Her heart stung for a second. "Okay." He cleared his throat, shutting the door once she went down the steps.

"Y/n is gone already?" Both Nick and Matt magically appeared in the kitchen, snacking on the chips they had bought the other day. "Yep, I feel like shit though." He groans into Matt's shoulder. "What up, Kid?" Matt pats his back. "You guys were right, I've been such a shit best friend to Y/n."

"We've been telling you." Nick says from the sink. "I thought you had like major feelings for her." Matt looks at him. "That's what I said last time," Nick throws his hands up. "what happened to said feelings?" Nick adds on, he knew how much his brother had feelings for their friend Y/n. "Fine," He pauses before continuing. "I like her, but I cant help but act like such a bitch to her. I'm- I'm scared to tell her." He walks to the fridge to retrieve a can of pepsi.

"Scared of what?!" Nick yells, his eyes widen in disbelief. "Commitment? Rejection? It's all over the place!" He opens the blue can. "Have you seen how she looks at you? Her eyes turn into fucking heart anytime she looks at you. I doubt she'll reject you." Matt nods at Nick's words. "As for your commitment issues, you guys can take it easy, or you guys can be exclusive for sometime. It's up to you two."

The following week, Chris has noticed a change in Y/n's behavior. Something that has never happened. hi, do you want to hangout tonight? Chris waited patiently with his phone in his hands. The three familiar dots popped up before disappearing for a couple of seconds and popped up again. sorry, i can't tonight. Chris sighed. It was the third time this week she had said no to hanging out and it was only tuesday.

oh okay. tomorrow maybe? He replied. maybe He turned off his phone and threw himself back. "What is going on!" He rubs his face.

It was now Friday and they were finally hanging out together. Chris had managed to finally get some of Y/n's time. However, Y/n was home all week. She felt so guilty turning Chris' hangouts down while she was in bed thinking about Chris' cold behavior. She took some time to think and finally decided it was time to come out of hiding.

"Hey, get over here!" Chris said, grabbing Y/n by her waist pulling her towards him. "Oh- are you sure?" She's startled by Chris' sudden touch, something she hasn't felt in over three weeks. "Of course. I missed you this week, you know?" He kisses her cheek. "Sorry, I was uh- busy?" She stutters. "Why're you questioning it?" He giggles against her shoulder. "I wasn't actually busy. I was giving you space."

"Space? From what?" He pulls back. "I just- I thought- you were being so cold to me I thought you wanted some space. Thought you were getting tired of me or- or maybe you were talking to someone. I wasn't sure." She shrugs, playing with a loose thread on her sleeve. Chris grabs her and places her on his lap. "Hey, listen. I have to tell you something." She nodded at him.

"I'm sorry, about my behavior. I just- I- I love you. And, I was to- I was too scared to admit it. N' I thought if I were to I don't know. Mean? Cold? That my feelings were to go away. But I realized that they're never going to leave. They're here to stay forever. I love you, Y/n." At this point, Y/n is in tears. She's waited so long for Chris to admit something like this.

She knows how much his commitment issues have gotten away in the past. "What?" She says through a teary laugh. "I love you, Y/n. I fucking love you." He smiles and grabs her face to kiss her. Chris hesitantly leans his face towards hers and Y/n grabs the back of his head and locks their lips together.

"Mmph." He huffs in relief and grabs her jaw lightly. They finally let go of each other once they're out of breath. "I've been waiting so long to do that." He places one chaste kiss to her lips. "Me too." She moves the hair out of his face, staring at him with a smile. "I take it you feel the same way." He giggles. "Of course I do." She kisses the tip of his nose.

"I love you, Chris."

[losver07]

heyyy i wrote some wolfstar

cursing and very, very cliche-y overdramatic plot lol

James Potter Wins a Bet

“I'm so sorry, Professor, I really... Oh, for fuck's sake, Black, do you know what a bloody shower is? You don't need to torture us all with your quidditch practice sweat.”

The room goes silent. Even Slughorn doesn't know what to say, he just looks at Remus like one would look at an exotic species of bird, brows furrowed in an attempt to understand.

“Um... Well, sit down, Mr. Lupin, please.”

It's strange. Everyone's used to Remus not being able to hold his temper, and all of his teachers are aware that it's the week of the full moon, but he expected to, at least, be scolded; not just for attacking another student, but his vocabulary too.

But, hey, he's not going to be the one to ask for punishment, is he?

Doing his best to ignore the smell in which the classroom is soaked, he approaches his friends, and sits next to Lily, as per usual. She gives him a funny look, but says nothing, so, while Slughorn talks, he turns to James and Sirius to tap Black's shoulder.

“Honestly, coming here right after your practise is a method of torture more cruel than I thought you capable of,” he whispers to the long-haired boy, taking a sniff at the scent of dorm room and sweat and... “Why does it smell like leather? And gasoline? And who snuck a fucking fag into potions?”

“Remus,” James says, eyes wide open behind his glasses. “Loo. Now.”

“But I—

“Now.”

Before Remus is dragged out of the classroom by James —who is very dramatically faking a nosebleed—, he shoots a look at Sirius. He looks paler than usual, staring into the empty space where moments before Remus had been sitting.

He and James enter the nearest bathroom, and, after a silencing spell is cast, Remus hears:

“I knew it!”

“What?” he asks, unperturbed. “That puberty hit Black? Yeah, I think we all—

“Remus, you're the only one who smelled Pads in there.”

Remus laughs. That's not possible. Yes, he might be a werewolf, but he knows when a scent is strong enough for even a human to catch. And that one was strong.

“You've all caught a cold, then, 'cause he—

James shakes his head vehemently, and Remus keeps quiet, eager to hear the boy's explanation.

“For me,” he says, clearly begging for Remus to understand, “it smelled like my mum's lasagna. And Evans' shampoo.”

He's about to ask how on earth could one smell Effie's cooking miles away from the Potter's house, but, just then, something clicks inside his head.

“That's— Oh, no.”

And he wishes the earth would swallow him whole. He wishes he would become one of the tiles in the floor, or a drop of water disappearing into one of the sinks.

“Oh, yeah,” James says, in a less enthusiastic tone than the one he used before.

If he would've slept a bit better, maybe he would've remembered. Maybe, if he wouldn't have been thinking about bloody Sirius on his way to class, he could've checked his notes and realise.

Today's lesson was about Amortentia.

“Oh, god, what did I do,” he says, burying his dangerously red face in his hands, taking in a deep breath as he tries to recall the smell: Dorm room, fireplace, bedsheets, a leather jacket, a shared fag, his skin...

“You just yelled that Padfoot is what you love most,” James smiles. “And I just won a bet.”

“Oh, dear fucking god.”

part 2 heheheh

[akai-akai]

Quiet of the Mind

a tiny 141 poly drabble— slightly price/gaz centric but not really.

***unedited***

✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿..•..✿

It's rare that they're granted this kind of peace.

The sun's just beginning brush against the treeline, the gentle lapping of water against a rocky lakeshore mixing with the hum of cicadas and birdsong.

John's old blue truck— the same once he's had since his beard was no more than some scratchy stubble on his chin— was backed up near a dock, a bright red cooler filled with beer and other drinks and lunch meat sitting on the bed of it and the tailgate flipped down.

Up a wooden plank staircase, a fair-sized cedar cabin sat on structural stilts, not far from the water's edge. The boys had rented the thing for the entire 2 weeks, per John's suggestion.

"We're out in the bush all the time as soldiers," John said when he spoke of the trip. "Never get to really enjoy nature, too busy watching our arses out there."

So here they were. A quiet, private lake spanned out in front of them, surrounded by lush green forest and the only other civilization being the cabins on the far side, far enough that the early morning fog that settles over the crystalline waters completely hides the cabins from view.

Simon and Johnny stand on the cabin's deck above, Simon manning the grill while Johnny spears darts into a dartboard fixed on the side of the cabin. Below, Kyle rests, sitting on the open tailgate with a cold can of coke next to him and a maplewood guitar sitting in his lap, his fingers deftly plucking away at the strings. It's a lulling sound, soft dulcet chords vaguely reminiscent of western folk music. John leans against the tailgate beside him, eyes fixed on the far shoreline as he watches a small herd of deer travel through the grass towards the trees. He's quiet, his mind is quiet. For once.

"What song?" He mutters to Kyle as he glances over to him, only to find Kyle's warm eyes already locked onto him through his pretty eyelashes, head tilted with the way he holds his guitar.

Kyle shrugs slightly, continuing to strum. "Just wingin' it."

John smiles at him fondly, but says nothing more. Just turns back to the lake and listens. Even the sound of Johnny cursing at the dartboard and Simon griping at him for putting a dart-sized hole in the wood siding of the cabin can't interrupt his peace. If anything, it's a comforting sound.

There's several plates lined out on a foldable table next to the still-smoking grill— bratwursts, burger patties, hotdogs, grilled cob corn, potato wedges, macaroni courtesy of Johnny, who nursed the pot over the cabin's stove for 15 minutes and fished the ripped up box from the trash 3 different times because he kept forgetting how much milk, butter, and water to add. (Simon told him multiple times to just leave the bloody thing on the countertop until the mac was done.)

The sun's shining bright gold and orange through the gaps in the trees when Simon lets out a whistle signaling the barbecue's done, and Kyle slides his fingers down the strings, stopping the vibrations as he carefully sets his guitar back in his case behind the cooler. He dutifully fishes more beers from said cooler for the other 3 men, favoring another coke for himself. John's hand brushes over his affectionately as he takes the glass bottle with a soft murmur of "thank you, love."

They each carry their full plates back down the stairs and take their seats at the old picnic table at the bottom as the sky paints itself purple and pink, and John's unusually quiet. Content.

His eyes rest on each of his boys in turn as he eats, Johnny and Kyle bickering good-naturedly about the best time of day to go fishing while Simon glances between the two, subtly eggs them on with a quiet "the best time's midnight" and suddenly they've both turned on him, allies against a common enemy. Simon must feel John's gaze on him— he has a knack for that— because he glances up at just the right moment as Johnny and Kyle move on to their favorite fishing lures.

Simon's lips quirk into the smallest crooked grin, an equally fond look in his eyes as the two speak without words.

Price just takes a swig of his beer and pushes all other thoughts from his mind. Averts his eyes to the sky.

A pretty sunset, he thinks.

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*bites hand and screams* I LOVE THEM SO MUCH

honorable mentions: I think simon would secretly have a nice, velvety singing voice, johnny is wicked on a drum set, and john is scarily good at whistling.

[wifetomegatron]

I’m not sure if you’re taking requests or not so feel free to delete but if you are how about some firsts! First date with First Aid in the First Contact!AU?

thank you for requesting anon <3 i hope you enjoy this !

a night full of firsts : what a first date with first aid would be like (sfw!)

i) you weren't his first date ( he had dated a couple of times back in medical school, but that had been ages ago ), but you were his first date on earth. first aid had idled outside the door of the restaurant for about ten minutes, constantly re-checking the screen of his mobile phone — which, in his opinion, was ridiculous to carry around — to double and triple check your picture. he was fidgeting, servos twitchy as he entered the place. the funny bit was you had witnessed the whole thing, the wide, clear window giving you a full view of first aid desperately trying to soothe his nerves ( you tell him this months after and he nearly breaks apart from shame. )

ii) first contact had been established for nearly a decade now, and humans were surprisingly quick to assimilate. if anything, none of the patrons bat an eye at his presence — red and white metal, shining under the golden glow of the lights. there were only five other bots inside the place, including him. and when he was the only one obviously on a date, first aid felt singled out if not scrutinized. with a more integral involvement in the council of worlds, the people of this little green planet had opened themselves slowly to the idea of 'interspecies relationships.' it was only a matter of time before someone created a dating app specialized for that. ( the secondhand embarrassment in asking velocity to help him create his profile pales in comparison to the shame he felt when he saw so many of his friends there.) less than a week of being on there scrolling, the two of you had matched. and the sweet little messages had boiled down to this very moment: you sitting across him, cheeks dusted pink. he averted his optics, suddenly feeling shy for the first time in a long time.

iii) the first hour went smoothly, with a few bumps along the way such as the occasional slip-ups and misunderstanding — you had accidentally asked him if he thinks the carbonara is better than the aglio e olio while he had slipped and accidentally called your eyes 'fascinating' instead of 'beautiful'. those he could laugh off.

until you had wondered aloud at how interesting it was that humans and cybertronians were so similar. and off-handedly, out of instinct, the medic had responded with : more than you think.

you had a playful glint in your eyes when you responded, lifting the wine glass to your lips, ' is that a promise?'

at the innuendo, his already nervous knee had jerked upwards and bumped the underside of the table, knocking the glass of water all over the surface. he immediately stood up, reaching to undo the damage by plucking the glass, only to have one of the table cloths snag in the seam of his knee. in an instant, the plates and cutlery had toppled over, loudly crashing onto the floor. but he didn't even have the time to react, the candle — which in his opinion was an evil, dangerous, thing to have on a dinner table and nowhere romantic — had set several of the napkins on fire. a dozen frightened patrons and one, messy fire extinguisher later, first aid had yanked you out of your seat and away from the chaos. this was the first time, first aid wished — what was the human saying ? for the earth to swallow him up? judging from how your clothes were most likely irreversibly damaged by the wine and pasta, disappearing was the best option.

iv) he knows ratchet was trying not to laugh at the story, failing miserably the moment he excused himself out of the room to ( not so discreetly ) tell his conjunx about the incident. velocity gave him a pitying smile, even if she was hiding her amusement. he told her that he was never going to see you again — that he ruined a beautiful night with a beautiful person over a stupid accident. considering that he was flustered enough to disappear without a word. until you had showed up by the receptionist's desk, worried hands wrung together as you asked one of the nurses for him.

at the sight of him, your eyes lit up. this was the first time first aid found himself at a loss for words, spark racing as you explained to him how you were more worried about how he had deleted the app the morning after and left without a word. determined not to get ghosted by someone who clearly enjoyed the night, you had tracked him down to ask him for another date.

' this time,' you had cleared your throat, ' i can prepare us dinner back at mines and actually make sure there'll be no candles around. if you'd want, that is ?'

he was glad he had his mouth guard up because he could feel himself grinning, velocity in the back already calling swerve to break to him the news.

'yes,' first aid answered, ' i'd like that.'

[nerdieforpedro]

Part Four of “The Lake Between Us”

What you look like during the day

Ezra AU x plus size OFC (Moonbeam)

This fic/blog is 18+ MDNI

Word Count: about 1.2k

Summary: Our nurse and reformed scoundrel meet in person. Are things the same as when they watch each other at night? Could it be better or worse?

Warnings: Ezra is his own warning, verbal sparring (someone did lose), HANDS (a Pedro character special)

Notes: Did I wait (stall more like it) in finally giving Ezra more than a line or two of speech? Yeah I did. I wanted to make sure it sounded like him to me and hopefully to you all as well. They've finally met after three parts. 😆 To be fair, I did say slow burn. 🔥 Simmering like some gumbo maybe? (Nerdie with the bad joke and we are complete. 😎)

Main Masterlist / Ezra Masterlist / The Lake Between Us Series / A03 link

Now a month and a half out from their initial meeting, they’ve had yet to speak face to face. Ezra has just finished giving another tour of the bayou. Regalling tourists with the history of it along with New Orleans with his expressive flair. He’s in the process of meeting up with the manager to get his check for the week. Today is friday so he’s going to go to the bank after this per his normal routine.

He recalls that black poofy tresses that he often saw from beneath the purple bonnet at night. They were tied up in a high ponytail. The same legs that rocked in the chair at night were across from him speaking to some basic looking man and a smile upon her face along with a child. Was she married? Was the child hers? For her to be out every night their relationship or marriage couldn’t be a happy one right? But she walks away with the child and speaks to a woman who takes the child as they begin to walk away. Maybe the woman is her girlfriend? The soft pink of her dress covered what was normally visible to Ezra at night. He was able to see that her skin was indeed the sensual caramel he thought it had been and the scoop neck of casual wear exposed the very tops of her breasts. The full lips were a brownish pink on closer inspection and her glasses were blue not black, an easy mistake to make in the dark. The most startling to him was her eyes. A sweet shade of honey hugged her pupils which formed her irises. He sees her waving at the woman and the child as they leave, so maybe they’re not together? Enough of this, he needed more facts and less speculation.

The business with the manager is quickly concluded and he jogs over to her, unable to move too fast in his hip waters. He’s wearing black suspenders and a white t-shirt that’s become semi-transparent from the heat. His chest is visible as you hear a voice say, “Greetings from across the lake, the daylight suits you as well. My name’s Ezra.” That’s how you knew who he was once you turned. The patch was indeed blonde and his beard patchy but it suited him. A roguish smile appeared on his face as he spoke and his hands were on his hips. His skin was indeed a smooth copper, partly from the sun and from his own tone. The chest that you’d seen at night was even more impressive during the day with biceps to match, flexed as he stood. Your feet carried you until you were a foot away from him. The tall waters looked to be slightly big on him, but his long legs still had his hips above the tops of them and he had a soft middle. The only part of the man that could be called cute besides his nose, large but the shape was pleasing to your eyes.

“Good afternoon neighbor. It’s good to finally see you up close. The sun has been kind to you too.” You half-joked. The freckles were something you hadn’t seen and you wondered how it would feel to trace your fingers over them and if they formed their own constellation. You told him your name and he repeated it twice to make sure he had it correctly, when you nodded, he extended his hand presumably for a handshake. Ezra’s hands hadn’t looked that large from your spot on your porch but up close, they eclipse yours as you shake his hand, making sure you’re giving him a strong grip but not your hardest. There was a smirk that formed on Ezra’s face as he let go of your hand, his calloused fingertips touching your palm. You gasped from the tickle and his smirk grew, your eyes lingered on his hands for a moment curious what was so funny, though you knew. He was gauging your reactions. Squinting your eyes, you gave him a slight frown, “something funny Ezra? I have been told I’m funny but I don’t believe I’ve done anything comical yet.”

The confidant look on his face remained, “We just met and I’m already being accused of something? Not unusual, but still a bit hurtful my dear.” He placed most of his weight on his right leg and ruined his left foot and knee outward, despite the hip waters, it was still quite a sight and exposed what they had been covering up. Your eyes flipped down and the back up to his face where his smirk had widened. This man…you cleared your throat and exhaled. “I think we can come to some accommodation that would mend my bruised ego.” Your arms crossed in front of you, shaking your head and on the verge of a laugh so you bite your lips though the side of your mouth still curve upward.

When you feel like you’re not going to chuckle, “What pray tell would you have me say or do to mend this fragile ego of yours Ezra? Mind you we just met in person less than five minutes ago.” You added with Ezra now being the one to try and not laugh. It was an entertaining game to see who would break first, you’re trying to keep up with him, but you’re not quite sure you can.

Putting his hands up as if he’s gotten caught, lowering his head and making his chocolate brown eyes sullen with a frown to complete the look. “Now I would never be so discourteous as to ask a luminous lady such as yourself to do anything untoward.” Your mouth is covered by your fist to hold it in. He’s purposely laying on the ham extra thick. “I think we should just start with sharing a drink on the same porch. Being a gentleman, I will come to you and may bring you dinner if you’d like an adventure of a culinary nature.” His request was along the lines of what you were going to ask anyway so you nodded and moved your hand away from your mouth to tell him yes, resting your chin on the back of your hand. Upon hearing your answer, he runs his hand along your arm that your jaw sits upon. The calloused pads of his fingers have your skin jolting with electricity, a breathy sigh escapes your lips as you watch him speak.

“My dear Seraphina, I am anticipating that my ego shall be fully repaired after our evening encounter. Lady’s choice of course.”

Ezra’s gaze is as heavy as his words. His meaning is not hidden from her and he’s left if it happens or not up to her. The time has been agreed to as well as the menu and location. It appears things are changing tonight, what will Seraphina’s choice be? She’s not one to shy away from an adventure or a challenge, not at this stage in her life. Both her arms drop and her hands land on her hips, and a smirk plays on her lips. Ezra’s fingers didn’t leave Sera’s arm, still strumming the pads of them along her forearm. “I’ll take you up on both your company and dinner. I’ll provide the drinks. I have rum and tequila, so I can stop by the store on the way home if you prefer something else. How’s seven sound to you?”

Part Three Part Five

Taste-testers of Ezra’s gumbo 🍤: @rav3n-pascal22 @maggiemayhemnj @morallyinept @survivingandenduring @bonezone44 @magpiepillsjunior @yorksgirl @gemmahale @missredherring @missladym1981 @alltheglitterandtheroar @megamindsecretlair @readingiskeepingmegoing @pedroshotwifey @tinytinymenace @inept-the-magnificent @vivian-pascal @jessthebaker

[toastyrobos]

When flowers do the talking (Wrecker x female reader one shot)

Word count: 3116

((You had no idea why wrecker always came by the medical bay or would bring the occasional small batches of flowers. He said he was just being nice. You had no idea why he was doing it. It’s not until Tech let’s it slip that Wrecker likes you, That you realize how much he has occupied your headspace so you rush to find him))

Once again your eyes drifted over to the bouquet of flowers resting in the vase next to the window. Rain pelted the glass as per usual. That was the one thing you didn’t particularly like about Kamino. Torrential rain. On most occasions it didn’t bother you, but on days when it just poured you weren’t too keen about it.

A week ago though your spirits had been lifted. By the same individual who seemed to know just when a heavy rainstorm was brewing. You had no idea how he knew, but giving the vase your full attention, you didn’t mind. In fact you actually enjoyed it.

Anytime the well built member of clone force 99 would come by it put a smile on your face. Most days it was as simple as a hello or how is your day going. He didn’t get to stay for long, as he usually was called away for missions often. No surprise. Given the groups track recorded.

But he would make up for it. The row of flower vases that use to line your windowsill as a tall tel sign.

Every time Kamino was due for heavy rain, Wrecker would bring you another set of flowers. Your first instinct was where was he getting them from? Kamnio was surrounded by multiple bodies of water. Things like flowers were not within the planet’s surface?

The second thought was why was he giving you of all people flowers? Was it because you were one of the main medical staff members and he wanted to show you his appreciation?

That didn’t seem correct. You were simply doing your job is all.

Your next thought seemed even less plausible. Making you shake your head at how ridiculous it sounded.

Whatever his reasoning for gifting them to you was it didn’t really matter anymore. It was sweet and made any stressful rainy day you experienced brighter.

“(Y/N)?” You lifted your attention to the two figures hovering in the doorway.

Your eyes grew at the state both of them were in. Especially their resident brainiac.

“Tech”. Stunned you were at the way he was limping and clinging onto Hunter for support. Instantly you dropped whatever task you were preforming and moved over to him. Wrapping an arm around Tech’s figure you helped Hunter guide him to the empty medical table.

“What happened?” You immediately questioned the two of the them. Or whoever would ever answer you first.

“A training exercise”. Hunter answered, crossing his arms over his board chest. “We decided to test out a new formation and well it did not go to plan”.

“Technically it did”. Tech held up a finger. “By my calculations we had an 80% chance of success”.

You turned your back to them, digging through your medical supplies for a brace and bacta spray.

“Not 100% though”. You merely said.

You heard Tech exhale behind you. “The chances of a 100% success rate are exponentially low to near impossible. Wrecker’s purists in expressing his romantic attraction towards you, by the use of colorful flora and fauna has a higher success rate I’ve determined”.

You stopped what you were doing. Everything pausing around you.

“What?”

For a few minutes no one uttered a single word. You shook your head. You must have heard him wrong.

Hunter was the first one to break it. “Tech!” He scolded his fellow squad member.

Tech blinked. Not understanding the gravity of his actions he had caused.

“I thought it was obvious”. He simple explained repositioning his slipping goggles.

Obviously it was not. And frankly the very notion of it sounded ridiculous.

You chuckled nervously. “Thats impossible”.

With equipment in hand you twisted back around to attend to your current patient. Who had no idea the affects his statement had on you or your racing mind and heart.

Hunter did, however. The minute Tech had revealed Wrecker’s rather obvious secret he witnessed the way your complexion paled for a brief second before your cheeks shifted to a light shade of pink. The way your heart skipped a beat momentarily then picked up in speed. He was about to say something, but you beat him to the punch.

“Wrecker doesn’t have feelings for me”. You argued, ripping open a bacta patch. Something about the cooling nature of it against your heated skin felt refreshing.

“Your wrong Tech. The flowers are just him being nice”.

Patch in hand you brought it up to the exposed skin of his leg and applied it. Tech hissed slightly from the cold sensation of the patch meeting the warm temperatures of his body.

“Technically you are correct”. He began. “Wrecker is the most accommodating and indulgent one out of the five of us, however it has been visible to each of us, in multiple instants, that he attracted to you. Romantically that is”.

You blinked.

“If I may (Y/N). Wrecker is quite taken by you. Infatuated I believe would be the proper term. On several occasions each one of us has witnessed him speak about you with such significance. From my research it would appear he was, as I’ve read, as though he was ‘floating on air’”.

You opened and closed your mouth. Processing his words. The meanings. The implications in which they held.

This…this couldn’t be true. Could it though?

Again you shook your head. Tech was wrong. Strange as it sounded. Wrecker was just being friendly. Kind. Generous. It’s who he was. Strong and ruthless as he could be in battle, he also had a heart of gold. Wore it on his sleeve.

There was absolutely no way that some like him could harbor romantic affection for you.

And yet. The mere idea of it gave you pause. Was he just being nice? We’re the array of different flowers just a friendly gesture? Or was there more to it?

Racking your brain for anything, you stumbled upon a recent memory. A day when everything that could go wrong, had gone wrong.

Sitting at your desk, body hunched over, you hadn’t noticed him come in. He coughed to get your attention. To which you immediately looked up, eyes meeting his brown ones. Another Bouquet of flowers were in his gloved hands. Red roses this time. Your favorite.

You were beyond exhausted, however the second you eyes landed on him every bad moment from the day vanished like it never had existed.

The way he would stumble over his words every time that he talked to you. How flustered he became in your presence. How he avoided your gaze in certain situations.

It was if everything around you had stopped. Frozen in time.

By the maker.

How had you not noticed it before. It was all right there! Plain as day to see! And you had missed it.

Had missed every single detail.

Maker..

He had feelings for you. Wrecker had feelings for you.

Heat immediately pooled in your cheeks at the sudden realization. Butterflies fluttering away in your stomach at what ever single arrangement of flowers now meant.

From where he was residing, Hunter could see your poor attempt at concealing your flustered appearance. His brown eyes catching yours only making your blush deepen.

It felt like your entire face—no, your entire body was tingling with warmth. Caused by the same individual who had gifted you such treasures.

It was then you came to a second, more deeper realization.

You reciprocated his feelings. You had feelings for Wrecker.

How his wide grin could light up a room. The way he would take an interest in your day. And above all, the flowers. The flowers….

“(Y/N)”. Hunter called out your name, but you couldn’t hear him.

Millions of thoughts and memories had taken over your mind. You were starting to question the nature of every time Wrecker would say hello to you or was nervous around you.

Was every one of them him taking an opportunity to work up the courage to eventually tell you how he felt?

Looking back on them it had to be. You were absolutely certain of it. The way his gaze would linger on you for far longer then normal.

“(Y/N)!” Hunter’s raised voice snapped you out of your trance.

You blinked. “I-I’m sorry. I just..”.

Your voice drifted off. An overwhelming feeling taking control of your body. Everything suddenly becoming clear. And you knew what you needed to do, before you could rationally think it over.

Before either one of them could utter another word, you dashed out of the medical bay, stumbling as you rounded the corner. Nearly straight into another person.

“Sorry!” Not stopping for even a single minute, you briefly apologized from further down the corridor.

All you could think about was locating Wrecker and telling him exactly how you felt. That you reciprocated his feelings. That you wanted to be with him. Or at the very least give whatever this was a brewing between you two a chance.

However you didn’t know where to start looking. With Hunter and Tech back in the infirmary there was a high probability that their squad was staying put for a bit. As evident by Tech’s minor sprain. Meaning that Wrecker was here. Perhaps near by.

They had just come from the training field. Maybe they had made their way back to their barracks. You rounded another corner. Kriff why did every single hallway have to look the same with its blinding white interior?!

Taking another left you came face to face with the open door to their barracks. You ducked your head inside momentarily to see if he was here. Everything inside laid so still. As if untouched for a while. Kriff. He wasn’t here.

“(Y/N)?” You recognized that voice. You quickly snapped your head in that direction to find Echo walking towards you, a bit confused to find you at his door.

“Echo I need to find Wrecker. Where is he?” You cut off him impatiently, before he could ask what you were doing here of all places.

Puzzled, he pointed down the hall. In the direction he had just come from. “In the hanger, why are—“

Even before the entirety of the sentence could leave his lips you had already dashed off. Running in the opposite direction you had come from. Fully intent on finding Wrecker and letting him know your true feelings. Adrenaline pumped through you veins as you raced down multiple halls. Your destination near.

Finally. Rounding the last corner, you stopped briefly, eyes frantically scanning the surrounding bay to see if you could find him or the Marauder.

Eyes widened the minute you spotted it. Off to the left, housed between a weapon storage vault and another larger vessel. Then you eyes found him.

Nothing stopping you, you quickly darted across the hanger bay. Legs pumping, burning from the excessive running you had done today. But you paid it no mind. No. Reaching Wrecker was all that mattered.

As if he could sense your presence, his frame twisted around to see you coming at him full force.

“(Y/N) what are you—Mmfph”. You flung your body into his, impulsively crashing your lips onto his, cutting him off and rendering him completely speechless.

Realizing what was happening to him, Wrecker reached his arms around your fragile frame securing his hold onto you. The warmth of your body up against his chest mixed with how sweet your lips tasted, maker he thought he was for sure in heaven.

You tasted so delightful on his lips. Like one of those nectar infused cocktails down at the 79. But better. Much better. Richer. More flavorful. Like honey. And he loved honey.

For you, the second your lips touched his it was like fireworks going off. Electrifying and loud, but bright and spectacular. He was so gentle in the way he held you. Careful to not let his strength become too much. Applying just the right amount of pressure.

Maker did you absolutely want to continue kissing him. But you also came here with a purpose. To tell him that you felt the same way about him that he did about you.

Besides you had a good hunch that once you laid everything out in the open, getting to kiss him would become a normal occurrence.

Reluctantly you pulled away. To his disappointment.

But he quickly recovered, staring straight at you. A puzzled look in his eyes. “W-what was that for?”. He questioned you. Vaguely worried that he was dreaming what was happening to him right now. Bracing himself, he had to be sure it was all truly real.

“Tech”. You took in a deep breath, steadying yourself. “He told me everything, Wrecker”. He continued to stare at you, perplexed. What did you know?! There was so much that Tech knew! What had he told you?

“I know about the flowers”. His eyes widened. Tech had told you that secret. Oh dear. “I know that you…you have feelings for me”.

He swallowed slowly, feeling his throat dry at your eyes scanning him. Frantically he opened his mouth to say something. Like Tech was wrong. Or that you had missed heard him or—

“And I wanted you to know that I care about you too”. You admitted out loud finally. To both yourself and him. Having your own confession out in the open felt invigorating. Like a weight off your shoulders.

Even if you had only realized the truth of it all less then twenty minutes ago. It didn’t matter.

Wrecker stood there stunned. Frozen, you wrapped up in his arms. Was he dreaming? He must have been. Because he most definitely misheard you.

“Y-you mean it?”. He responded before he could give it a second thought.

You nodded. “I do. I didn’t realize I did until Tech told me how you felt”.

It was true. You hadn’t really thought about it until Tech put the idea in your head. The the idea of you and Wrecker made perfect sense to you.

He made you laugh, brightened the gray days you would have, and you adored his goof ball energy. And if you were being completely honest, you liked a man who could swallow you up in a single hug. Wrecker checked all the box’s for you.

You lifted your hands up and took his face between them. “I really like you Wrecker”. You confessed wholeheartedly. “I really do”.

The biggest smile you’d ever seen erupted across his face. The pure joy and happiness radiating off of him was contagious. You felt him light up like a thousand stars in the night sky. The browns of his eyes glowing like two embers.

“I love you”. He crushed his rough lips onto yours, catching you off guard. For the briefest of moments you were unable to register what he had said. But then you quickly melted into the kiss, wrapping your arms around his neck, leaning into him.

You couldn’t explain the feelings that coursed through your veins, but somehow you felt whole. Like this is where you were meant to be. Being embraced by an individual who was responsible for much joy in your life.

Breaking apart, both of you were left breathing heavily. Lungs near exasperated from the lack of air flow. But it was worth it.

“Wow! That was…wow”. You giggled at his simple minded description.

“Yeah”. You mumbled, shyly biting your bottom lip.

His smile softened as he studied your flushed cheeks. “Maker your really beautiful”. He complimented you without a second thought.

Instantly your entire face flared up at his very honest observation. Normally you did not get embarrassed, but now with everything coming back to you, including a clear head, you made the discovery of just how emotionally driven you’d been.

Not that it was a bad thing, it just usually wasn’t your style. Yet in this situation you were grateful that you had been a bit…reckless in allowing your heart to guide you. For it had led you down this path. To this.

“And your eyes. But especially your smile. Your smile (Y/N) is incredible”. Wrecker confessed. “It was the first thing I noticed and man oh man did it reel me in! It was like I was seeing the sun for the first time”.

You’d seen Wrecker passionate and enthusiastic numerous times, mostly when talking about being on the battlefield. Destroying ‘clackers’ as he referred to them. But never about you. Let alone your smile. You didn’t even know that he liked it that much. The way he was describing it however made your heart swell.

You were too stunned to speak. So he just kept on going. “When I brought you flowers you would always smile, like I was your favorite person, so I-I kept on bringing you some. Umm…even if nothing happened, I’d at least get to see you smile and that would make any day better then it was”.

He brought you flowers, not just because he cared about you, but because he wanted to see your smile?

Dan Ferrik. You swore your heart would melt at that. You couldn’t believe what you were hearing him confess to you!

“Wrecker, you really like my smile that much?”

Wrecker shook his head. “No. I love it”.

Now you were positive your heart was melting. If not your heart then your eyes. Tears had started welling up in them, only to overflow down your cheeks.

“Y-you do?” You asked to which he nodded, leaning in to lay his forehead against yours. Your heart was beating rapidly at this point. No end to its frantic nature in sight.

“I love everything about you”. Now it was his turn to be flustered, but it did not bother him.

He confessed all that he wanted to. All that he needed to. And never in his wildest dreams would he think that you’d feel the same way. But by golly he was so thrilled that you did.

Placing you back down on the ground, to avoid anymore suspicious stares, he scratched at the back of neck. Nervous ticks finally setting in. But he was grateful for your lingering touch. Your hand Iaced with his. Fingers tangled together. Making him feel slightly less nervous.

“Would you like to umm…go out?”

Leaning up on your tippy toes, you placed a gentle kiss on his cheek. “I would love to, Wrecker”. You both beamed from ear to ear.

“Tomorrow?” His smile as bright as ever.

“Tomorrow”. You echoed, spinning around. But not before you uttered one last thing.

“Oh and I’m looking forward to the Bouquet”.

[rimon-limon]

Solarpunk Aesthetic Week: Worldbuilding Thoughts Part Two, Electric Boogaloo

(Worldbuilding is my strong suit, I will definitely have a lot of these!)

In a solarpunk future, people should be able to rely less on money to get what they need! But if currency remains a thing then my leftist dad told me about a concept called global minimum wage (I think) where everyone gets an unconditional steady income, of say.. 20$ an hour per 12 hours of the day becoming 240$ per day. If we're not doing much with money, can't hurt to give lots of it to everyone, yeah?

Besides that, I was thinking about carbon-neutral skyscrapers. Our current method of steel and fiberglass is woefully inefficient in that regard, but in terms of space, building upwards is incredibly efficient. Ideally we would strike a balance with carbon-neutral, long-lasting materials that are good and sturdy!

Oh, and clear solar panels to be put in windows? Imagine stained glass religious reliefs generating power, whole 'glass' buildings becoming beacons of energetic output, self-sufficient houses full of light..

Languages! Languages in the air, signs in so many different alphabets, songs and laughter and family said in so many words but still understood and respected.

Sign language would be commonplace! Mischievous students signing to each other after their mentor told them to hush, parents signing over their sleeping baby, divers speaking merrily to each other while tens of feet down in the deep and expressing their awe for nature. Hearing-impaired folk would be able to move through society with ease and understanding.

BRAILLE LABELS. On stuff in stores, on signs, textured curbs to catch a cane.. but really on stuff especially. You know how hard it is to shop while blind? Everything is identical. It's awful.

Community decisions are decided by council, and anyone who wishes to join the council meetings can. Even children! Especially children. Their voices are heard and respected, because they live in our communities too.

If someone is truly acting harmful and cruel to others, and does hurt people, at majority community vote they are removed from greater society and put in a rehabilitation commune with therapists and social workers to assist them on the right path. With love, not hate and mistreatment.

Has anyone heard of dementia villages? A whole village for those elderly suffering with dementia, constructed for the purpose of their autonomy. Communes would not necessarily become as such and they may not be as necessary- for we all would love and care for each other, especially those infirm- but settlements would be constructed in a similar fashion for ease of navigation, with lots of signage to help point people where, and perhaps dedicated guides if necessary.

That concludes this group of thoughts! Here's a reminder to drink some water and eat something today if you haven't already. Happy Solarpunk Aesthetic Week!

[fantasy-svt]

Mine

Previous | Magic or Not Masterlist | Next

Synopsis: Seungkwan had always dreamed of finding his one true love, his soulmate. Yet when he meets the one first, he doesn't know whether he should be happy. That soon changes when he offers to help you, which gives him a chance to confess.

Pairing: Boo Seungkwan x fem!reader Word Count: 4.5k words

"Seungkwan-ah!" Seungkwan's mother called loudly, swimming to her son with the brightest smile and open arm. Seungkwan didn't often go far back into the ocean, he preferred the beach to the open sea while his family preferred the sea. So they parted ways, but Seungkwan would visit them every two weeks as per their agreement. So Seungkwan embraced his mother before squeaking when his sisters joined the hug and basically squeezed the life out of him.

"Come on, we should hide deeper down." His elder sister spoke, guiding Seungkwan down into the reef. Seungkwan frowned, but followed as he stared up at the surface. It was only then that he noticed the boat floating above him, anchor thrown into the sea floor to keep the boat steady. An angry stare replaced the previous frown as he tried to figure out why a ship would settle here. His mother seemed to guess his train of thoughts as she grabbed his ear and pulled him back, deeper into the reefs. Seungkwan pouted, but didn't protest anymore as he followed them home while trying to push back the thoughts of the ship.

The men on your deck were all happy, loud shattering as food was passed around with joyous laughter. You just remained above it all, happily swinging your feet of the ledge as you looked over the far sea. The wind that blew through your hair, the cold breeze cooling your body down from the blazing sun. You felt lucky today, unlike other days, and you were actually looking forward to continuing your journey. That is, if you were able to fix the sails of course. Your crew worked on that, just not right now.

"Captain?" Your first mate walked up to you, a second glass in hand that he quickly handed to you. You turned your head and grabbed the mug with a smile of your own, quick to throw the liquor back with a content sigh.

"How's the repairs?" "Going swiftly, captain. We should be able to set sail in a day or two." He spoke quick, not bothering to tell you the details since he knew well enough that it didn't interest you in the slightest.

"How about rations?" You turned to the sea again, staring out over the calm tides. It reminded you of why you became a pirate. The sea had always called you, something about the mysteries waters was so fascinating to you. Along with that, stealing from the rich was rather fun to you and the adventure was thrilling. So why not be a pirate?

"Captain?" Your first mate spoke again, but this time with a more worried voice than before. You raised an eyebrow at him, turning around again and pulling up one of your legs.

"The crew is a bit worried about our destination... It is rumored to be swarmed with sirens." You scoffed at the concern, knowing full well that it was not a necessary concern. Although sirens were vicious and often dragged people to the bottom of the sea, they didn't have to be feared as they only approached when threatened.

"Besides, we're already in the area since yesterday. Sirens are probably swimming right under us as we speak." You smirked at him before tilting your head to the sea, where you could see the shimmering of scales. In seconds, the man beside you grew anxious as he stared into the sea and you almost wanted to scoff again.

"Now instead of worrying, why don't we ask our cook to prepare a feast?"

Seungkwan liked watching the stars late into the night, preferably from above the water. So tonight, he swam to the surface and laid himself on some stones. He stared at the night sky, wondering how his friends were doing today. The necklace on his neck suddenly felt heavier, all the little trinkets reminded him of his friends. Even though he was barely gone for a day, he always missed his friends immediatley after leaving. With a loud sigh, Seungkwan let go of the necklace and instead turned his head softly to the side, avoiding the water that crashed against the rocks and in turn on him. Blinking a few times, he set his sight on the boat in the distance. Then his eyes widened as he saw someone staring straight at him, their eyes just as wide in shock as his. Then a pain shot through his body and right then and there, Seungkwan realized what had happened.

"I'm meant for a pirate, of all things?!" He couldn't help but groan in annoyance before diving back into the water, not wanting to wait for the reaction of his other half. It was almost ridiculous, Seungkwan couldn't believe that fate had played such a trick on him. He wasn't picky, anyone would've been nice, but a pirate? The people who were responsible of the deaths of so many mermaids and sirens and Seungkwan had to be fated for one.

He didn't say anything to others, he hid the fact that his heart ached when he watched the ship sail off into a distance. No one needed to know, it had no use to tell them.

In truth, it was all very obvious to others. They could easily notice that he suddenly grew more quiet than before and how he hid himself away in his room for long periods of time. In the days with his family and when he returned back to the castle, everyone could notice that something was off about the younger. Yet no one dared to ask, except for Vernon of course. He was the only one who dared to, annoying Seungkwan until he said something.

"I'm fated for a pirate." He finally confessed during dinner, which made everyone stop eating and stare at him. It grew quiet and Seungkwan wanted the sink through the floor right then and there.

"Wait, you did that zing thingy with a pirate?" Soonyoung laughed loudly, falling back in his chair as he laughed while the others just chuckled at the sour expression on Seungkwan's face as he yelled out that it wasn't a zingy thing. He then proceeded to kick his feet towards Soonyoung chair, making it fall over and taking the elder man down with it to the ground. Soonyoung did not stop laughing, if anything his laughs just grew louder by the second.

"A pirate, huh. Was he at least handsome?" Jeonghan asked with a reassuring smile and Seungkwan shook his head quickly, to which Jeonghan frowned.

"Is he that ugly?" "No! She's beautiful!" Seungkwan answered and this made Seungcheol pay attention to the conversation suddenly as he halted his writing. The others looked confused as well, the existence of a female pirate wasn't often heard.

"Wait, a female pirate? Was she the captain?" Seungcheol asked and Seungkwan shrugged, he didn't know how to see if someone was important on the ship. After asking why, Seungcheol quickly explained that a pirate ship with a female captain had set foot on the ports of the kingdom. This time Seokmin was quick to step up with a smile.

"Let's go see then!" Then Seungkwan was pulled out of his seat by Seokmin before being slung over Soonyoung's shoulder. He let out a scream, trying to get back to the ground. It didn't have much use, not even when he bit down on his arm. So Seungkwan waited until he came by the fountains outside, reaching his hand out to the water beam in hopes to reach it. The weather was on his side, blowing the water his way and hitting his hand and Seungkwan smirked as he felt his legs change. Soonyoung yelled loudly as he felt the sudden added weight of Seungkwan's tail, crashing to the ground on his knees.

"Not fair! Turn back!" Soonyoung whined loudly as he tried to stand back up, unsuccessful of course, and Seungkwan wanted to smirk. Something paused it though, a spike through his heart that made him look up quickly.

Through the water, Seungkwan saw you and you were staring straight back at him in shock. Seungkwan's heart started beating faster, hitting his ribcage in a painful manner that made Seungkwan want to run your way and embrace you.

It was the first time that Seungkwan saw you properly and he was in awe. You wore clothes that somehow fit both the weather but also the fact that you were a pirate. Your jacket was the typical ankle length pirate coat, sleeves seemingly ripped off and revealing your muscled arms that were littered with scars. The jacket hung open, revealing that you wore a tight fitting crop top and Seungkwan couldn't help but stare at your stomach, abs on full display for anyone to see. Your pants didn't leave much to the imagination either, the belts that looped around your thighs to hold your gun and knives were also a bit tight. The hat on your head was slightly tilted and revealed your hair, which was hanging loose with small braids throughout it. Seungkwan could help but stare at you, albeit a bit creepy. Then you spoke up, your voice sounding almost angelic compared to your appearance.

"Where's the king's office?"

You didn't really expect the sight before you in any way. Seeing a mermaid or siren was a rare occurrence to begin with, but seeing one in the royal palace was even a rarer chance. And yet before you was a kneeled man with a siren hung over his shoulder, who was staring at you intensely. The man was attractive, soft features that pulled you into a falls sense of trust. His eyes seemingly changed between pink shades and his scales were a million colors at once thanks to the sunlight shinning down. His dark blue hair framed his face nicely and you couldn't help but be reminded of the dark waves of the far away ocean. Your heart beat quickened for just a second and you blinked before shaking your head. This wasn't why you were here, you should focus on the task at hand. So you left, unaware if the siren that stared at you in shock and sadness as if he had been harshly rejected to his face.

Instead you just roamed the hall, ignoring all the whispers from the people around you. You knew the reasons, one being your outfit and the second being your stumbling walk due to your long journey on the sea. You didn't really care, you continued to move until you noticed a door that was being guarded by around three or four guards. You marched closer, ignoring the shouts from the guards as you pushed through and walked inside of the room. The king was easily spotted, the crown that laid on his head was a clear indicator of that. The woman beside him seemed to be his wife and the two elder people were probably his parents. You grabbed one of the nearest chairs, twisting it around before sitting down sideways and throwing your legs over the side. The king seemed to recognize you while the elder two just seemed shocked at your behavior.

"Oh, right. I apologize." You scoffed softly before putting your hat on the table before ruffling your hair and leaning back in your chair again. The doors suddenly slammed open again, revealing about a dozen of guards that all aimed their weapons at you. Soon enough, you were surrounded by them and you couldn't help but sigh. You moved slightly, just enough to wrap your hand around the bag that hung on your belt, but also enough for the guards to react again. You felt a knife press against your neck and rolled your eyes at it, opting to throw the bag to the king. It landed with a loud thud, the contents rolling out and rendering the room silent.

"I heard you were offering a nice price for this, although I demand a bit extra for the threat on my life." You threw him a smile and the guards around you were quick to disperse when the king waved his hand, reaching out to the jewel before him. Then he looked at one of the guards, asking him to get Jihoon. You raised an eyebrow at this, a bit offended about the fact that he didn't trust you, but then again you were a pirate. You didn't have a nice reputation, not thanks to some people that dared to call themselves pirates. Moments later a man entered, his bright red hair a contrast to his pale skin and the black robes he wore were covered in dust and wet spots. You frowned as the short man just walked past you, looking rather annoyed at the call for him, before freezing as he caught sight of the jewel.

"Yes, that's real!" You called out and his eyes snapped to you before back at the jewel, lifting it before inspecting it closely. Once done, he just handed the jewel back to Seungcheol with a nod and you smirked.

"Told ya!" You gleamed almost as Seungcheol nodded at you before getting up and telling you to follow him. You got up, bumping your shoulder harshly against the guard's that had held a sword to your neck and gave him a small glare. The guard just scoffed, but didn't say anything as you walked out. The walk through the hallways wasn't long, but you couldn't help but stare at every painting and sculpture that you passed. You stopped on one, a large painting with thirteen men and all smiling brightly. One caught your eye, the siren that you had spotted earlier. Although, his eyes were blue here unlike the pink color you spotted earlier. Staring at it for a few seconds, you then decided that you had probably seen it wrong. So you waited no longer as you followed Seungcheol again, entering what seem to be the king's office.

"Are you going to offer me a deal or something?" "Yes, actually." Seungcheol spoke and you frowned as you sat down in one of the chairs, the golden object before you quickly catching your eye. You wanted to take a look, but the man opposite of you prevented that as he sat down.

"Our previous supplier of magic items has... Well, he isn't our supplier anymore and we need a new one." He explained and you leaned back, sighing softly.

"What do I get?" "A place where you and your crew can stay without being chased down by every guard, unless they do something wrong. And also, a decent job that pays well." Seungcheol explained the rest and you scoffed softly as Seungcheol held out his hand, but you leaned forward before shaking his hand.

"We've got a deal then!"

"Are you just going to stare at her?" Wonwoo asked and Seungkwan glared at the vampire, shoving up the umbrella to make the sun hit Wonwoo's skin for just a second. Wonwoo hissed loudly, showing his fangs for a split second, a gesture that Seungkwan gladly returned with his own hiss. Then he moved his eyes back to your form.

You were working in the blazing sun, jacket thrown somewhere and clothes sticking to your body like a second skin. Sweat covered your body, drenching your clothes and making your hair cling to your head. Most people would be a bit disgusted by such a sight, but Seungkwan thought quite the opposite. He couldn't stop admiring you, if anything. He just stared at you as you lifted the barrels and carried them to your ship before repeating the action with the next barrel. Every single action made your muscles flex, an action that made Seungkwan's mouth practically water.

You, on the other hand, felt the eyes of the siren on you and you had caught his stare a few times. It almost felt satisfying to see how he reacted to you and you made sure to flex your muscles more often, watching carefully as the siren swallowed harshly every single time. It was very amusing.

"Captain!" Your first mate called out to you loudly, running up to you and handing you a towel. You took it, wiping the sweat away on your forehead before looking at the paper that was held out to you. You read the list with care, most objects were easy to get. Gems, crystals, some potions and even some enchanted weapons that you'd have to visit the dwarves for. None impossible to find, except for one.

"He wants ogre eyes?" You asked, just to be sure that it was supposed to be on the list and your first mate just nodded. With a groan, you threw the towel back at him before marching off to where the siren and vampire were sitting. Slamming down the list, you sat down and gave a short wink to the siren before turning to the pale man.

"You're friends of Seungcheol, right?" You asked and the vampire nodded, introducing himself as Wonwoo before pointing at the siren and introducing him as Seungkwan. Nodding, you then pointed at the list.

"Can you tell Seungcheol that he's an ass. These things-" you pointed at the words to make it clear. "-are bloody hard to find." You sighed as you leaned back in your seat as the two men looked at the list.

"You can find those in Eldan, they sell them at the main markets." Seungkwan spoke and you nodded before leaning closer to the boys.

"Yeah, but those electrical storms are incredibly difficult to get through." "I can help there." Seungkwan spoke and you frowned, leaning back in your seat as you waited for him to explain further. He didn't say anything more and you shrugged.

"Fine, you'll come with. Tell Seungcheol!" You told Wonwoo before grabbing Seungkwan and dragging him to the ship. He complained, but you didn't care much as you needed to leave immediatley. The weather was pleasant now and you didn't want to wait for a storm to roll around, because you really didn't want to loose any crew members.

"Can't I just swim?" Seungkwan felt sea-sick, not being used to be on top of the ocean instead of in. He had been laying down all day, he assumed it was a day, and you were beside him the whole time. Although you weren't helping him too much, mostly just joking around as you had never seen a sea-sick sea-creature.

"Well, we should be in Eldan territory soon so we kind of need you." You said and just on cue, a loud thunder sounded and shook the whole ship. Seungkwan was quickly thrown to the side, crashing to the ground with a loud groan while you still remained sat in the same spot.

"I hope you can reach the deck." You spoke as you got up, not even falling as the ship rocked from side to side. The door was thrown open and you were met with a dark atmosphere and all your crew members in panic.

"Get the sails up!" You yelled out and a moment of silence was followed by all the crew rushing to their tasks. Seungkwan reached the deck not minutes later, his skin paler as before as he realized something. This wasn't a regular electrical storm, not one he could fix with ease.

This was the work of a thunderbird.

"Well?" You turned to him and Seungkwan could only stare at you with wide eyes, which quickly made you realize that something was wrong. Just then, another loud thunder followed by a screech. A loud curse came from you as you watched something crash through one of your sails, ripping it to shreds and slowing your boat.

"Dammit! Get the new sails, get them in the air! Now!" You screamed to your men, some frozen in fear before moving as they were dragged by others. The storm only seemed to worsen as even you started to stumble at the rocking of the boat and Seungkwan had already given up on standing, instead he was just sprawled on the ground.

"You can't do anything?!" "You try talking to a thunderbird, they're stubborn as hell!" Seungkwan screamed back and you groaned loudly before rushing upwards, clinging onto one of the ropes before hauling yourself up. You reached the top of the mast with ease, looking out for any sign of the beast. Luckily, it made itself known. How, you may ask?

By smashing into your boat full force.

Seungkwan let out a screech, something that made you wince as you watched the bird stalk closer to the siren. Unfortunately for Seungkwan, he had also turned into half a fish due to the amount of water that was splashing him. You groaned, almost a bit annoyed at the fact that you now had to save the one who promised to calm the storm. Nonetheless, you grabbed you sword and slashed a rope before descending at lightning speed. Once you landed on the deck, you rushed to Seungkwan, cutting at one of the wings and successfully cutting it. The bird screeched loudly, but was unable to fly off thanks to the large cut you made. Then it just froze.

"Come on, kill it!" Seungkwan called and you turned your head to see Seungkwan holding some sort of stone towards the creature and you took the chance to slay it. When it landed on the deck fully, you were quick to push your blade down to make the creature pass quickly without too much suffering. The storm seized, the waters turned calm again and you fell down in exhaustion.

"Good work." You called before flinching as you felt two arms wrap around your waist, Seungkwan's head pushing against your side. You awkwardly pat his back while waiting for him to release you, he was surprisingly strong. You could hear him mumbling words of apologies, but you were quick to shush his worries.

"We didn't know and we're safe." You said before raising your head as someone called out that land was in sight.

"Please just get to shore." Seungkwan mumbled and you chuckled, patting his head before sitting up and looking at the clear view of the sea. Then you turned to watch Seungkwan again, your heart racing as you watched him. He was cute in a way, cuddled up by your side while keeping you tightly in his grip. Also, but naked except for his shirt. With a short flinch, you were quick to shove your jacket on top of the man and he looked up before turning red from embarrassment. You were quick to just get him some pants, which he gladly put on before handing you your jacket back.

"You wear it, it's scalding hot out here. Wouldn't want you to dry out." With a short wink, you walked off of the ship and on the docks. Sauntering away, you left Seungkwan alone on the deck in pure confusion.

Seungkwan didn't know what to do, not when he felt jealousy consume him as he watched a man near you get a bit too close for his liking. The arm around your shoulder was bugging Seungkwan to no end and you never seemed to display any kind of discomfort. Until the man came a bit too close, seconds later the man landed on the ground while clutching his arm in pain. Seungkwan's eyes widened as he watched you stride over to his table, sitting beside him with a grin.

"What was the staring for?" You asked as you set down your mug, looking at him with curiosity and a hint of smugness. Seungkwan blushed before looking at his own glass, just a class of water unlike your alcoholic drink, while trying to come up with an answer. He didn't have to think for long as you threw your arm around his shoulders, leaning closer to his ear before whispering.

"Does it have to do with your little crush on me?" You asked and Seungkwan's eyes widened before he awkwardly turned his head to look at you. You smiled at him, watching as his ears turned red again from embarrassment.

"You talk in your sleep." You gave another wink as you let go of him again, ruffling his hair softly and the siren blushed even more. "I can't help it, okay!" He exclaims and you smile again, turning to face him completely. You stared at him for a few seconds, unable to get your thoughts straight as you watched the man. Once again, you were reminded of how ethereal Seungkwan looked without even trying. Your heart was kind enough to remind you of your growing affection for him, almost hammering out of your chest the longer you stared at Seungkwan.

"I'm going back to the ship." You then spoke, kissing Seungkwan's cheek before getting up and making your way back to the ship on your own. By doing so, you missed the chance to see Seungkwan's eyes change back to the lovely pink color that was reserved for you.

The sea was calm today, the moon high in the sky and surrounded by a million stars. The soft wind cooled you down from the buzzing heat in your body, making you sigh with content as you raised your glass to your lips. Your eyes closed as you leaned your head back, sighing once again.

"Are you okay?" Seungkwan's voice pulled you from your thoughts and you turned your head to watch him, a bit surprised that the man had followed you outside although you didn't show it.

"I'm thinking..." You replied shortly, not really knowing what you could possibly say that would sound like a sane person. Sure, magical beings existed, but you weren't one. So how would you explain the sudden connection to Seungkwan that was only spoken of with certain magicals. Usually also with their own kind, you never read of a human and magical being soulmates.

"Do siren's have soulmates?" You asked, unable to stop yourself from asking. You couldn't help but notice Seungkwan's body stiffening, freezing for a few seconds before relaxing again. He nodded, staring at the sea as well before looking at you. You looked back at him, eyes widening slightly as you noticed his eyes.

"I thought you had blue eyes?" This seemed to shock Seungkwan as he quickly looked away, hiding his eyes from your gaze. You frowned, placing your hand underneath his chin before softly turning him back to face you. His face was red from blushing, his eyes almost a neon pink with swirls of blue and you gave him a reassuring smile.

"Does that have to do with me?" You asked and Seungkwan nodded, which made your eyes widen again as you did not expect him to actually confirm the thought. Your hand dropped and Seungkwan looked at the ground before sighing loudly, maybe as a way to make himself a bit more confident.

"I'm in love with you!" His voice was loud, you flinched slightly at the volume before blinking a few times. Then you pointed a finger at yourself, to which he nodded again.

"You- I'm your soulmate?!" You asked louder and the second that Seungkwan nodded, you threw yourself at the male to embrace him. You leaned back, staring at the man as his eyes flashed again before turning blue again. Seungkwan was the first to move again, kissing your cheek before burying his face into the crook of your neck with a low purr. You could only make out the soft whisper from the siren.

"Mine."

[klavskronbergs]

100 ways to loss weight ?!

As the holiday season approaches, it's easy to succumb to the temptation of indulgence. However, with a bit of planning and intention, you can still enjoy the festivities without sabotaging your weight loss goals. Here are 100 approved ways to lose weight without harming your body, even during the holiday season.

Prioritize protein: Protein helps you feel full and satisfied, so make sure to include it in every meal and snack. Choose lean protein sources like fish, chicken, beans, and lentils.

Load up on fiber: Fiber helps you feel full and aids in digestion, so include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.

Control portions: Even healthy foods can sabotage your weight loss efforts if you eat too much. Practice mindful eating and pay attention to your hunger cues.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps you feel full and flushes out toxins. Aim for eight glasses per day.

Get enough sleep: When you're sleep-deprived, your body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to increased appetite and weight gain. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

Move your body: Exercise helps you burn calories and build muscle, which can boost your metabolism and help you lose weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Mind your alcohol intake: Alcohol is high in calories and can hinder weight loss efforts. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation.

Make healthy swaps: When indulging in holiday treats, make smart swaps like opting for dark chocolate over milk chocolate or choosing fresh fruit over sugary desserts.

It's time to ditch the fad diets and get real about weight loss. This comprehensive guide provides you with 100 proven strategies to lose weight safely and effectively, without harming your body. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned weight loss enthusiast, this book has something for everyone. Learn how to: [ Click Here ]

[lifedimensionality]

The Step Zero Towards Perfection: Nurturing Your Roots

The Roots of Our Personalities

Let me share with you the three fundamental aspects that shape our personalities: physicality, mentality, and spirituality. These are like the three roots of a tree that nourish and support it, allowing it to grow tall and strong.

Physicality: The Soil of Life

Think of physicality as the soil in which your roots are planted. Just as a tree needs good soil to thrive, the physical body needs exercise and proper nutrition to stay healthy.

- Exercise:

  - Types of Exercise: Engage in a mix of cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and balance exercises.

 Cardiovascular: Running, swimming, cycling. Strength Training: Weightlifting, resistance bands. Flexibility: Yoga, stretching routines. Balance: Tai chi, Pilates.

  - Routine: Establish a consistent exercise schedule, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, plus strength training twice a week.

  - Consistency: Make physical activity a daily habit, even if it's a short walk or quick workout.

Nutrition:

Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 glasses or 2 liters daily.

Moderation: Limit the intake of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats.

Mindful Eating: Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues, and avoid eating out of boredom or stress.

 Rest:

Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

Recovery: Incorporate rest days into your exercise routine to allow your body to recover and prevent injuries.

Relaxation: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga to manage stress and promote overall well-being.

Take care of your body, and it will take care of you in return.

Mentality: The Trunk of Strength

Mentality is like the trunk of the tree, strong and sturdy, supporting the branches and leaves above. Thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes toward life shape who you are and how you interact with the world.

Positive Thinking:

  Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reinforce a positive mindset.

  Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal to focus on the positive aspects of life.

  Reframing: Learn to reframe negative thoughts and challenges into opportunities for growth.

Belief in Yourself:

Self-Confidence: Build self-confidence through small, achievable goals.

Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially in times of failure or difficulty.

Visualization: Visualize your success and the steps you need to take to achieve your goals.

Continuous Learning:

 Education: Pursue formal education or self-study in areas of interest.

 Curiosity: Stay curious and open-minded, always seeking to learn new things.

 Skills Development: Invest time in developing new skills or hobbies.

Believe in yourself, and the world will believe in you too.

Spirituality: The Branches of Connection

Spirituality is like the branches and leaves of the tree, reaching up towards the heavens and connecting you to something greater than yourself. Beliefs about the purpose and meaning of life give direction and purpose.

Purpose:

  Life Goals: Reflect on your long-term goals and what gives your life meaning.

  Passion: Identify and pursue your passions, whether in your career, hobbies, or relationships.

  Service: Consider ways to give back to your community or help others.

Connection:

Nature: Spend time in nature to feel connected to the world around you.

Relationships: Build and maintain meaningful relationships with family, friends, and community.

Spiritual Practices: Engage in spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, or attending religious services.

Wonder:

Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness to stay present and appreciate the moment.

Exploration: Explore new places, ideas, and cultures to broaden your perspective.

Creativity: Engage in creative activities that inspire and fulfill you.

Embrace the wonder and mystery of life, and you will find fulfillment beyond measure.

Interconnectedness of the Three Aspects

People often attempt to differentiate between these three aspects, but they are interconnected, and together they contribute to the development of your unique personality.

Balanced Growth: Just as a tree needs all three roots to grow tall and strong, nurturing all three aspects of oneself is essential to becoming the best version of oneself.

Holistic Development: Physicality, mentality, and spirituality support and enhance each other.

A Journey Towards Perfection

There is knowledge within me to guide you toward achieving greatness. An unwavering commitment to your success fuels every endeavor. This isn't merely about entertaining and motivating but also creating a space that is warm, inviting, and entirely your own. From this day forward, embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, where the limits of potential are shattered and dreams are realized.

Self-Improvement: Start a journey toward self-improvement and excellence.

Comprehensive Resources: This platform offers a comprehensive array of strategies and resources to help unleash true potential.

Personal Growth: Dive into spirituality, develop mental toughness, achieve peak physical fitness, learn effective money-making strategies, and gain insights into psychology.

Welcome to the Road Toward Perfection

So take care of your body, cultivate a positive mindset, and embrace the wonder of life. Great things await, and the world is ready for you to shine.

Health: Prioritize physical well-being.

Mindset: Foster a resilient and positive mentality.

Spirituality: Seek and embrace deeper meaning and purpose.

Welcome to the Road Toward Perfection.

[lumine-no-hikari]

Dear Sephiroth: (a letter to a fictional character, because why not) #176

Today was relatively uneventful, but a couple of interesting developments occurred. And I took a bunch of pictures for you, too! Maybe you'll like them...

But first! Tea! Because it is my habitual morning thing, and it is a small bit of magic that I continue to wish that I could share with you.

I prepared a black tea that has vanilla, rose petals, and cream flavoring in it. Incidentally, I found a tiny black feather inside that I had to pull out of my measuring spoon after I scooped the tea; it was odd:

...You can bet that this is now in my box full of all the feathers I find everywhere. It's tiny, but its placement was very weird!

...I brewed the tea normally nonetheless, and today's swirls were lovely. I'm really glad that I got the glass mug so that I can capture them for you:

...I've been tired of being stuck in the house unable to do things. The rib injury is still unresolved even after two years, and it doesn't seem like I am going to be able to return to the water anytime soon to resume mermaid training, if at all, ever. I can't weave wire trees fast enough to earn appreciable income (and I think the repetitive movement of twisting the wire stresses the rib somehow anyway...), and I wanna be able to do things like take J, M, and Br out for lunch and get them nice surprises by my own power.

The grocery 5 minutes down the road has had a sign that says, "Immediate Interviews" for a while now, and I've noticed that they tend to hire neurodivergent and otherwise disabled people, so... on a whim, I went. And even without having rehearsed anything or being dressed all fancy, I made good use of my training in human psychology and development, and used that to answer questions about how I generally like to resolve conflicts. I seem to have made a good first impression somehow (assuming the interviewer was being sincere...), and I was given step-by-step instructions on how to apply on a little slip of paper (which was SUUUUPER appreciated because I cannot hold verbal instructions in my mind for the life of me...). So I applied. I guess we'll see what happens.

To be clear: I do not need an income, per se. I live with M and J, and they both work in a tech field, and currently, my contribution is making sure the house is clean(ish) in whatever ways my injury allows. I used to work in a tech field as a database analyst (I am DAMN GOOD at making machines do what I want), but between the social repercussions of not having been born with a penis and just generally not being able to handle office politics, I wasn't happy there. Office work on a full-time basis is not something that my neurotype can handle.

I'm hoping to be able to do simple things at the grocery on a part-time basis - no more than 20 hours a week or so. I like the grocery store and I like being able to help people, so maybe it'll be a good time. I'll try it and see if it fits, and if it doesn't work out, I can try something else.

On the way home, I took some pictures for you of some flowers and some pictures of the sky and of the sun. I wonder if you'll like these:

...It was difficult to get those last two!! I hope you'll enjoy them!

I spent the rest of the day resting, because I did a scary social impromptu interview thing. I played the Rune Factory 4 game that was suggested to me by one of my readers. It's a delightful game! But... I maaaay have gotten so into it that I forgot entirely to eat anything after breakfast. Whoops. I'm sorry about that. But I'll do better tomorrow, I promise.

I hope you're taking nice care of yourself, too, wherever you are. Maybe someday you'll be able to tell me how you're doing and whether or not you're safe...

Well anyway. Suppose I'll end today's letter here. I don't have much more to say.

I love you. Please stay safe out there, okay? I'll write again very soon.

Your friend, Lumine

[zillyshahblog]

Achieving Weight Loss: Simple Strategies for Success

In the pursuit of weight loss, many people seek complex solutions or fad diets, often overlooking the fundamental principles that can lead to sustainable results. While individual needs may vary, focusing on simple, evidence-based strategies can help the majority of individuals achieve their weight loss goals. In fact, research suggests that around 90 percent of successful weight loss is attributable to basic lifestyle changes rather than drastic measures. Here, we explore these straightforward approaches to help you embark on your weight loss journey effectively. you can also use this product to weight lose click here

### Understanding Caloric Balance:

At its core, weight loss boils down to one principle: caloric balance. To shed excess weight, you must consume fewer calories than you expend. This can be achieved through a combination of dietary changes and increased physical activity. Begin by calculating your daily caloric needs based on factors such as age, gender, weight, height, and activity level. Online calculators or consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine this figure.

### Mindful Eating:

Mindful eating involves paying full attention to the experience of eating, without distractions, and tuning in to your body's hunger and satiety signals. Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite, chewing slowly, and being aware of how different foods make you feel. Avoid eating in front of screens or while engaged in other activities, as this can lead to mindless overeating.

### Portion Control:

Portion control plays a crucial role in weight management. Even healthy foods can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excessive amounts. Use visual cues and measuring tools to gauge appropriate portion sizes. Additionally, aim to fill half of your plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with whole grains or starchy vegetables. you can also use this product to weight loss click here

### Balanced Nutrition:

Focus on consuming a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats into your meals and snacks. Limit the intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-calorie snacks, which provide little nutritional value and can hinder weight loss efforts.

### Regular Physical Activity:

Regular exercise is essential for both weight loss and overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week, as recommended by health guidelines. Additionally, incorporate strength training exercises at least twice a week to build muscle mass, which can boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.

### Hydration:

Staying adequately hydrated is often overlooked but is crucial for weight loss success. Water not only helps regulate appetite and prevent overeating but also supports proper bodily functions. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and more if you're physically active or in hot weather.

### Adequate Sleep:

Quality sleep is essential for optimal metabolic function and weight regulation. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, as inadequate sleep can disrupt hormone levels and increase hunger and cravings. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to improve sleep quality. you can also use this product to weight lose

### Stress Management:

Chronic stress can contribute to weight gain by triggering emotional eating and disrupting hormone balance. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature. Prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation and well-being.

### Accountability and Support:

Seeking support from friends, family, or a professional can enhance your weight loss journey. Consider joining a support group, enlisting the help of a dietitian or personal trainer, or partnering with a workout buddy to stay motivated and accountable. Celebrate your successes and learn from setbacks, recognizing that progress may be gradual but is achievable with persistence and dedication.

### Consistency and Patience:

Finally, remember that sustainable weight loss takes time and consistency. Focus on making gradual, lasting changes to your lifestyle rather than seeking quick fixes or extreme measures. Be patient with yourself and trust the process, knowing that small steps taken consistently can lead to significant results over time.

In conclusion, achieving weight loss doesn't have to be complicated. By incorporating these simple strategies into your daily routine, you can make meaningful progress towards your goals and enjoy improved health and well-being in the process. Here's to your success on your weight loss journey! disclaimer: this Blog contains affiliate links

[mannu-k]

how to loose belly fat in 3 days (Step by Step)

Belly fat is not only a cosmetic issue, but also a health risk. Excess belly fat can increase your chances of developing diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. Therefore, losing belly fat is not only good for your appearance, but also for your well-being.

But how can you lose belly fat in a week? Is it even possible? The answer is yes, but it requires some dedication and discipline. You cannot expect to lose all your belly fat in a week, but you can make some noticeable changes by following these tips:

1. Eat a balanced and low-calorie diet

The first and most important step to lose belly fat is to eat a healthy and balanced diet that provides you with all the nutrients you need, but also creates a calorie deficit. A calorie deficit means that you burn more calories than you consume, which forces your body to use its fat stores for energy.

To create a calorie deficit, you need to reduce your calorie intake by about 500 to 1000 calories per day, depending on your current weight, height, age, and activity level. You can use an online calculator to estimate your daily calorie needs and then subtract the desired amount to get your target calorie intake.

However, reducing your calories does not mean starving yourself or skipping meals. You should still eat at least three meals a day, and make sure they are balanced and nutritious. A balanced diet should include:

Protein: Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass, which boosts your metabolism and helps you burn more calories. Protein also keeps you full and satisfied, which prevents overeating and cravings. Some good sources of protein are lean meat, fish, eggs, dairy, soy, beans, nuts, and seeds.

Fiber: Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that your body cannot digest, but it helps you regulate your blood sugar, lower your cholesterol, and improve your digestion. Fiber also adds bulk to your food, which makes you feel fuller and eat less. Some good sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts.

Healthy fats: Healthy fats are unsaturated fats that provide you with essential fatty acids and vitamins, and help you absorb other nutrients. Healthy fats also help you balance your hormones, reduce inflammation, and protect your heart. Some good sources of healthy fats are olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.

Water: Water is vital for your body, as it helps you flush out toxins, hydrate your cells, and regulate your body temperature. Water also helps you control your appetite, as it fills your stomach and prevents dehydration, which can sometimes be mistaken for hunger. You should drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and more if you exercise or live in a hot climate.

On the other hand, you should avoid or limit the following foods, as they are high in calories, sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and can contribute to belly fat accumulation:

Processed foods: Processed foods are foods that have been altered from their natural state, and usually contain additives, preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors. Processed foods are often low in nutrients and high in calories, sugar, salt, and trans fats, which can increase your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, and cause inflammation and weight gain. Some examples of processed foods are chips, cookies, cakes, candy, soda, fast food, frozen meals, and canned foods.

Refined carbs: Refined carbs are carbs that have been stripped of their fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and are quickly digested and absorbed by your body. Refined carbs can spike your blood sugar and insulin levels, which can lead to fat storage, especially around your belly. Some examples of refined carbs are white bread, white rice, white pasta, pastries, and sugary cereals.

Alcohol: Alcohol is a liquid that contains ethanol, which is a type of sugar that your body cannot use for energy, but has to metabolize and eliminate. Alcohol can interfere with your liver function, which is responsible for burning fat and detoxifying your body. Alcohol can also increase your appetite, lower your inhibitions, and impair your judgment, which can make you eat more and choose unhealthy foods. Alcohol can also dehydrate you, which can slow down your metabolism and make you retain water.

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2. Exercise regularly and intensively

The second step to lose belly fat is to exercise regularly and intensively. Exercise can help you burn calories, build muscle, improve your cardiovascular health, and reduce stress. All of these factors can help you lose belly fat and improve your overall health.

However, not all exercises are equally effective for losing belly fat. You need to choose exercises that target your whole body, and especially your core muscles, which are the muscles that support your spine, pelvis, and abdomen. You also need to choose exercises that challenge your body and increase your heart rate, which can boost your metabolism and fat burning.

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Some of the best exercises for losing belly fat are:

High-intensity interval training (HIIT): HIIT is a type of exercise that involves alternating between short bursts of intense activity and brief periods of rest or low-intensity activity. HIIT can help you burn more calories and fat in less time, as it increases your oxygen consumption, metabolic rate, and fat oxidation. HIIT can also improve your insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. You can do HIIT with any type of exercise, such as running, cycling, swimming, jumping rope, or using a treadmill, elliptical, or rowing machine. You can also do HIIT with bodyweight exercises, such as burpees, squats, lunges, push-ups, and mountain climbers. A typical HIIT session lasts between 10 to 30 minutes, and consists of 20 to 30 seconds of high-intensity activity, followed by 10 to 15 seconds of rest or low-intensity activity, repeated for 8 to 12 cycles.

Resistance training: Resistance training is a type of exercise that involves using weights, bands, machines, or your own bodyweight to create resistance against your muscles, which forces them to contract and grow stronger. Resistance training can help you build muscle mass, which increases your metabolism and helps you burn more calories and fat, even at rest. Resistance training can also improve your bone density, posture, balance, and coordination. You can do resistance training with dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, bands, machines, or your own bodyweight. You can also do resistance training with exercises that target your core muscles, such as planks, crunches, leg raises, and twists. A typical resistance training session lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, and consists of 8 to 12 repetitions of each exercise, for 2 to 4 sets, with 30 to 90 seconds of rest between sets.

Cardiovascular training: Cardiovascular training is a type of exercise that involves moving your large muscle groups in a rhythmic and continuous manner, which increases your heart rate and blood circulation. Cardiovascular training can help you burn calories and fat, improve your heart and lung function, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and reduce your stress and anxiety. You can do cardiovascular training with any type of exercise that gets your heart pumping, such as walking, jogging, running, cycling, swimming, dancing, or skipping. You can also do cardiovascular training with machines, such as treadmills, ellipticals, rowers, or bikes. A typical cardiovascular training session lasts between 20 to 60 minutes, and consists of a moderate to vigorous intensity level, depending on your fitness level and goals.

You should aim to exercise at least 3 to 5 times a week, and vary your exercises and intensity levels to avoid boredom and plateaus. You should also warm up before and cool down after each session, to prevent injuries and soreness. You should also listen to your body and rest when needed, to allow your muscles to recover and grow.

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3. Manage your stress and sleep well

The third step to lose belly fat is to manage your stress and sleep well. Stress and sleep are two factors that can affect your hormones, appetite, and metabolism, and influence your belly fat levels.

Stress is a natural response to challenging or threatening situations, which activates your sympathetic nervous system and releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can help you cope with stress in the short term, but if they remain elevated for a long time, they can have negative effects on your health and weight. Chronic stress can increase your appetite, especially for sugary and fatty foods, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. Chronic stress can also impair your digestion, immune system, and mood, and increase your risk of various diseases.

Sleep is a vital process that allows your body and mind to rest, repair, and rejuvenate. Sleep can affect your hormones, appetite, and metabolism, and influence your belly fat levels. Lack of sleep can disrupt your circadian rhythm, which is your natural body clock that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. This can affect your hormones, such as melatonin, leptin, and ghrelin, which control your

sleep quality and quantity, which can affect your appetite and metabolism. Lack of sleep can increase your hunger, especially for high-calorie foods, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. Lack of sleep can also lower your energy, motivation, and mood, and impair your cognitive function and immune system.

Therefore, to lose belly fat, you need to manage your stress and sleep well. Here are some tips to do so:

Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques are methods that can help you calm your mind and body, and reduce your stress levels. Some examples of relaxation techniques are deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, massage, aromatherapy, and music therapy. You can practice relaxation techniques whenever you feel stressed, or as a part of your daily routine, to prevent stress from building up.

Seek social support: Social support is the help and comfort that you receive from your family, friends, and other people who care about you. Social support can help you cope with stress, as it can provide you with emotional, practical, and informational assistance, and a sense of belonging and acceptance. You can seek social support by talking to someone you trust, joining a support group, volunteering, or engaging in hobbies and activities that you enjoy with others.

Avoid or limit caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol: Caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol are substances that can stimulate your nervous system and increase your stress levels. They can also interfere with your sleep quality and quantity, as they can keep you awake, disrupt your sleep cycle, and cause you to wake up frequently. You should avoid or limit your intake of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, especially in the evening, to reduce your stress and improve your sleep.

Stick to a regular sleep schedule: A regular sleep schedule is a pattern of going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, which can help you regulate your circadian rhythm and optimize your sleep quality and quantity. A regular sleep schedule can also help you avoid jet lag, daylight saving time, and other factors that can disrupt your sleep. You should aim to get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night, and avoid napping during the day, to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

Create a comfortable and relaxing sleep environment: A comfortable and relaxing sleep environment is a space that is conducive to sleep, which can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. A comfortable and relaxing sleep environment should be dark, quiet, cool, and clean, and free of any distractions, such as noise, light, temperature, and clutter. You can create a comfortable and relaxing sleep environment by using curtains, blinds, shades, or masks to block out light, earplugs, fans, or white noise machines to mask noise, air conditioners, heaters, or fans to adjust temperature, and bedding, pillows, and mattresses that suit your preferences and needs. You can also create a relaxing sleep environment by avoiding or removing any electronics, such as TVs, computers, phones, or clocks, from your bedroom, as they can emit blue light, which can suppress your melatonin production and keep you awake.

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4. Try some natural remedies and supplements

The fourth step to lose belly fat is to try some natural remedies and supplements that can support your diet, exercise, stress, and sleep efforts. Natural remedies and supplements are substances that are derived from plants, animals, minerals, or other sources, and are used to treat or prevent various health conditions. Natural remedies and supplements can help you lose belly fat by enhancing your metabolism, reducing your appetite, increasing your fat burning, and improving your digestion and detoxification. However, you should always consult your doctor before using any natural remedies or supplements, as they may have side effects, interactions, or contraindications with your medications, allergies, or medical conditions.

Some of the natural remedies and supplements that can help you lose belly fat are:

Green tea: Green tea is a type of tea that is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are steamed, rolled, and dried, and contain high amounts of antioxidants, such as catechins and flavonoids. Green tea can help you lose belly fat by boosting your metabolism, increasing your fat oxidation, and reducing your fat absorption. Green tea can also lower your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, and improve your mood and cognitive function. You can drink green tea 2 to 3 times a day, preferably before or after meals, and avoid adding sugar, milk, or cream, to maximize its benefits.

Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar that is made from fermented apple juice, and contains acetic acid, which is the main active ingredient. Apple cider vinegar can help you lose belly fat by suppressing your appetite, lowering your blood sugar and insulin levels, and increasing your fat burning. Apple cider vinegar can also improve your digestion, balance your pH levels, and fight infections and inflammation. You can take apple cider vinegar 1 to 2 times a day, preferably before meals, and dilute it with water, honey, or lemon juice, to reduce its acidity and improve its taste.

Garcinia cambogia: Garcinia cambogia is a type of tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia and India, and contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is the main active ingredient. Garcinia cambogia can help you lose belly fat by inhibiting an enzyme called citrate lyase, which converts excess carbohydrates into fat, and by increasing your serotonin levels, which can reduce your stress and appetite. Garcinia cambogia can also lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and improve your mood and energy. You can take garcinia cambogia as a supplement, in the form of capsules, tablets, or powders, and follow the dosage and instructions on the label, or as advised by your doctor.

Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial for your gut health, and can be found in fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha, or in supplements, in the form of capsules, tablets, or powders. Probiotics can help you lose belly fat by improving your digestion, enhancing your immune system, and modulating your hormones, such as leptin and ghrelin, which control your appetite and metabolism. Probiotics can also reduce your inflammation, bloating, and gas, and prevent or treat various digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea, and ulcerative colitis. You can take probiotics daily, preferably with or before meals, and choose a product that contains multiple strains and a high number of colony-forming units (CFUs), which indicate the potency and quality of the probiotics.

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Conclusion

Losing belly fat in a week is possible, but it requires some dedication and discipline. You need to eat a balanced and low-calorie diet, exercise regularly and intensively, manage your stress and sleep well, and try some natural remedies and supplements, to achieve your goal. However, you should also be realistic and patient, and understand that losing belly fat is a gradual and long-term process, that depends on your genetics, lifestyle, and health conditions. You should also monitor your progress and adjust your plan accordingly, to avoid plateaus and setbacks. You should also celebrate your achievements and reward yourself, to stay motivated and positive. Remember, losing belly fat is not only good for your appearance, but also for your health and happiness.

[my-own-walker]

Someone You've Never Seen Before

A Kyle Spencer Fan Fiction

frat!kyle AU, fem!main character, sexual themes, mature language, use of drugs and alcohol, frat boy antics

3.

I slammed the apartment door shut and threw my bag onto the ground. My keys landed with a loud clatter on the counter. My boots clunked against the wall after kicking them off as hard as possible. 

"Jesus, Han, what's your damage?" Lily groaned, emerging from her room. She was nursing a mighty hangover. Pi Phi took "Thirsty Thursdays" seriously.

"That fucking class makes me sick," I spat, throwing myself onto the couch. I looked over at Lily who had shuffled further into the living room. It was only the second week of classes and she had already skipped three lectures.

"What class?" she asked, dragging her feet as she traveled to the kitchen. She turned the tap on and poured herself a glass of water.

I chewed my cheek, pulling my legs up to sit criss-cross-applesauce on the sofa. "Calculus," I sighed, throwing my head back. "Another quiz today."

"Why the fuck did you sign up for calculus, Hannah?" Lily scoffed, throwing a few pills into her mouth before using her water to swallow them. "You know you suck at math. Why such a hard class?" she continued after a large gulp.

"Man, I was late for registration, remember? It was the only math available."

"I just don't understand why you didn't hold off until next semester, or even next year, then," she shrugged. She walked to join me on the sofa. She sat and swung her legs up to the side and rested her head on my shoulder. 

"I wanna take fun classes my senior year," I whined. "I can't hold it off forever." Lily nestled into the crook of my neck.

"What upset you today anyways?" she asked.

"Pretty sure I failed another quiz. I am going to ruin my GPA for a stupid math credit," I muttered. "Plus, I humiliated the fuck out of myself."

"How so?"

"I was desperate. Like, my mind was fucking blank. So I decided to try to cheat," I replied sheepishly. Lily popped her head up and looked at me, baffled. 

For some helpful context, I was practically a perfect student. High school Hannah graduated with a 4.0 GPA. I was involved in student government, theater, and the French club. I was on the honor roll and was in the running for valedictorian. I excelled so much that I got into every college I applied to. I received decent scholarships, if not full rides, from each university as well.

I never got in trouble, either. Along with my good grades, I was also a model student. I never skipped school, I never cheated on tests, and I sure as hell never got yelled at by my teachers. I was so scared of being reprimanded that I worked extra hard to be flawless. The only time I could remember being told off by a teacher was during fourth grade. She didn't even yell at me, per se. She questioned the integrity of my reading log, thinking I may have forged my mother's signature, and I lost it.

My need for perfection didn't stop when I started college. Lily would always make fun of me for how hard I tried to get perfect grades in every single class. I wanted to keep my options open in terms of grad school, so I had to continue to excel. She swore I would develop a stomach ulcer one day because of the stress I put on myself. The Hannah she knew would never cheat.

"I know, Lily," I groaned. "But I couldn't not. I can't fail this shitty class."

"So you tried to cheat. Tried. What happened?" she asked. "Did you get caught or something?"

"Yes, but not by the professor. The kid I was cheating off of caught me," I laughed, shaking my head at myself. "Kyle fucking Spencer. The frat guy."

"Hannah," Lily gasped.

"I know."

"That's so bad. Humiliating almost. What the fuck made you decide to do that? Like, Kyle Spencer. Kyle Spencer of Kappa Lambda Gamma," she cried.

"He's like, scary good in the class. He's a math god or something. I couldn't help but notice so I leaned over to see his answers," I explained. "He saw me and covered his paper, then made fun of me outside as I was leaving."

"That's so bad," Lily audibly whispered. 

"I fuckin' know," I uttered. Lily returned her head to my shoulder. I relaxed into her and pulled my cell phone out of my pants pocket. I mindlessly scrolled Twitter, trying to forget everything that had transpired in the day. I was so embarrassed and likely failing calculus. Lily shifted next to me and sniffed.

"I don't feel good," she groaned. I rubbed her arm knowingly.

"You know what would make you feel better?" 

"What?"

"Alcohol," I replied deviously. Lily sat up quickly to look me in the eyes. She feigned a gag before mustering a response.

"You're kidding." She flopped back onto the other side of the couch demonstratively. "Hannah, I can't even think about drinking right now."

"Did you ever hear of 'Hair of the Dog'?" I scoffed.

"No, Han, I'm not a bastard Bostonian," she moaned. "I don't know any stupid northern sayings like that."

I reached over and smacked her leg lightly. "Excuse me, miss," I gasped. "I'll have you know that that is NOT just a northern-exclusive saying. And, I am not from Boston." I folded my arms over my chest, feigning shock. "Hair of the Dog is drinking more when you're hungover, bitch. It's supposed to help."

"I think you're an alcoholic," Lily murmured. 

I stood from the sofa and padded over to the kitchen, electing to make myself something to eat before drowning in liquor. We needed to go grocery shopping. There wasn't much left in the pantry besides bread and various cans of vegetables and soup. I decided some toast would be fine.

"On second thought, Hannah," Lily called from the other room, "I think I need a fuckin' drink."

"That's my girl," I smiled, satisfied with my job of convincing my friend to engage in bad behavior with me. 

+

I knew from the second I met Lily Davies that I'd have my hands full. She garnered everyone's attention. She was a bright light that no one could take their eyes off of. Lily was beautiful. And I'm not saying that lightly. There was a light in her eyes that let others know she wasn't some run-of-the-mill pretty girl. No. She was witty. Funny. She could draw a crowd.

I consider myself so lucky to have her. When we met, I half expected her to laugh in my face. In my eyes, we existed on two very different planes. Nonetheless, we clicked, and for that, I was forever grateful. At parties like this, she commanded the room, while I became a wallflower. Our relationship was simple. She would drag me to parties, I would be her de-facto bodyguard, she would have fun, and I would make sure we got home in one piece.

I watched her as she danced in her itty-bitty black dress. Her shiny blonde hair bounced as she moved and the light hit her skin perfectly. I kept my eyes fixated on her. I was more than happy with being the sidekick in Lily's story. More than happy to be the bad guy that pulled her away from unsavory men. She was a sunflower and I was her stem, supporting her through anything.

She had the power to say things to men that would steal their breath and make them delirious. It was dizzying. I made it my personal job to rescue her from situations she didn't want to find herself in. When she got drunk, she got flirty, and college boys have an easy time taking things the wrong way.

We landed on heading to Tau Kappa Epsilon's beginning-of-semester party after much debate. When I begged Lily to drink with me, I meant in our apartment, watching movies and eating disgusting quantities of junk food. All fraternities and sororities on campus were invited, though. So there I went, supporting my best friend in her social endeavors. 

The crowd was suffocating. TKE's house wasn't big enough to hold an event like that. But Lily still found a way to dance. She was like that. With good music and a little something to drink, she was the life of the party. 

I left her to go get us some more drinks. We pre-gamed the party in the apartment. The plan was to arrive drunk and get home relatively sober. But once we got there, she decided she needed something more. I didn't trust the knuckleheads serving the alcohol to not give her something extra in her drink if she went to get it herself. Instead of joining her, though, I delivered her a red solo cup full of cheap beer and returned to my spot against the wall. It wasn't a pleasant night for a party of this caliber. I sweat bullets through my dress.

Party attire was important. I didn't care much for dresses, but the situation I found myself in warranted it. Out of sheer avoidance of great guy bullies making fun of me, I settled on a loose-fitting floral print dress I found at a thrift store. Regardless of how cooling it should have been, the humidity in the air was unbearable. Maybe I shouldn't have worn the Doc Martens.

I looked back over at Lily and found that the wolves had descended on her. Two guys, the identities of which I couldn't make out, stood uncomfortably close to her. They were stooped down, I assume in an attempt to hear her better.

I could tell by the way he was holding himself, that one of the dudes thought he was the shit. He stood with his shoulders wide and his chin tilted upward.  I grew sick watching him speak closely to her ear. She replied with a smile to whatever he said, looking up at him with her sparkly doe eyes. I could see this ending horribly. I began meandering through the throngs of people, trying to get to her before it was too late.

As I was steps away from Lily and the two frat guys, I watched one place a hand on her hip, pulling her closer to him. Her eyes widened and her stance stiffened up. She was clearly uncomfortable.

"Hey, asshole!" I shouted. "Get your fucking hands off her!"

"Hey, hey," The guy shouted protectively, throwing his hands up. He turned to face me, and to my dismay, it was Kyle. "What's good?"

"Do you mind letting go of her, please?" I spat, standing with my arms folded. Lily looked at me with pleading eyes. I could see by the way she was swaying that she was very drunk. The poor girl had problems standing up for herself, but that's what I was there for.

"She doesn't have a problem with me, right Lily?" Kyle replied, hugging my best friend tighter, playfully mussing up her hair.

"Bro, let go of her," I persisted, stepping forward slightly. 

"I'm not doing anythi-"

"I will fucking scream," I yelled, interrupting him.

"Fine, fine," Kyle laughed, releasing Lily from his grasp and shoving her gently in my direction. He looked at his frat brother, Ethan with wide eyes and chuckled again. "What, are you like, in love with her?" He was trying to tease me, but I was too angry to care.

"Shut the fuck up, Spencer," I gritted back, grabbing Lily by the hand, and beginning to walk away.

"Hey, you didn't think so bad of me when you were looking at my quiz earlier," he called after me, punctuating the barb with a laugh. I didn't turn around, though. Instead, I continued to weave through the crowd, trying to get to the door.

I muttered a softly spoken magic spell willing the universe to have Kyle get hit by a bus on his way home.

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