#organic fruit powder

[itsherbalagic]

Enjoy the Goodness of Natural & Dry Fruit Powder

However high-paced your lifestyle is going to be, it is always important to make sure that the diet you follow is nourishing and fulfilling. Instant food has started getting a lot of attention, and that is why many people have started switching to fruit powder and vegetable powders, respectively. It may seem hard to believe, but many high-end outlets like Starbucks and Subway do offer snacks, which are healthy.

What is the difference between natural and dry fruit powders ?

Natural fruit powder is made by drying and grinding fresh kfruits into a fine powder. The result is a product that retains the essence of the fruit, packing all its vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre into a compact form. Organic fruit powder, on the other hand, is made from fruits grown without artificial pesticides or fertilisers, that offers a more eco-friendly and pure choice  for health-conscious consumers. Dry fruit powder, made from dried fruits like dates, raisins, and apricots, brings all the natural sweetness and nutrients of dried fruits into your daily routine. These powders are rich sources of energy-boosting elements like fiber, potassium, and magnesium.

The Benefits of Using Natural & Dry Fruit Powder

Boost Your Nutrient IntakeUsing organic fruit powder can help you increase your intake of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, which are important for skin health, immunity, and overall wellness. Additionally, dry fruit powder is a great source of healthy fats and protein, which are essential for maintaining muscle mass and energy levels.

Long Shelf Life

Unlike fresh fruit, which gets spoilt within a week, organic fruit powder and dry fruit powder have a longer shelf life. You can store them for months until expiration without worrying about them getting stale, making them a pantry staple.

Aid Digestive Health

Many fruit powders, especially those made using berries and apples, are rich in dietary fibre. Fibre is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation. A tablespoon of natural fruit powder in your daily diet can help you meet your fibre needs and keep your digestive system running smoothly.

How to Use Natural & Dry Fruit Powder

Smoothies: Add a spoonful of your favourite organic fruit powder to your morning smoothie for a natural flavour boost and extra nutrients.

Baked Goods: Incorporate fruit powders into your muffins, pancakes, or cookies for a sweet, nutrient-packed twist.

Energy Bars: Use dry fruit powder as a base for homemade energy bars, combining it with nuts, seeds, and other superfoods.

Oatmeal & Porridge: Stir in a tablespoon of natural dry fruits powder into your morning oatmeal for a quick, healthy breakfast.

Yoghurt or Pudding: Mix fruit powders into yoghurt or chia pudding to give them a flavourful, nutritious boost.

Conclusion

Individuals who live a hectic lifestyle and do not get enough time to buy fruits every day and the people who don't have refrigerators at their house can add the dry fruit powder to their diets. That is how they will not be missing out on the richness of their favourite fruits. Store the powder for six months in a cool and dry place. As most of the fruit powders have a shelf life of 6 months, always check if you are allergic to any ingredients of the fruit powder you have decided to incorporate into your diet. 

[sayajispraydrying]

Boost Your Health Naturally: Exploring the Benefits of Organic Fruit Powders

In today's health-conscious world, finding natural and effective ways to boost our well-being is more important than ever. One such powerful solution lies in organic fruit powders, a versatile and nutrient-rich addition to any diet. 

Sayaji Spray Drying, a leader in the field of spray drying technology, has perfected the art of creating high-quality organic fruit powders that retain the natural goodness of fresh fruits. These powders offer a convenient and potent way to incorporate essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants into your daily routine. 

In this post, we will delve into the numerous benefits of organic fruit powders and explore how they can enhance your overall health naturally.

What Are Organic Fruit Powders?

Fruit powders are finely ground and dehydrated forms of various fruits. They are created by carefully drying fresh fruits and then grinding them into a powder consistency. This process helps to preserve the natural flavours, colours, and nutritional properties of the fruits. Fruit powders offer a convenient and versatile way to incorporate the benefits of fruits into your daily routine.

These powders can be made from a wide range of fruits, including popular choices such as tomato, Tamarind, imli, mango and beetroot, as well as exotic fruits like lemon, mango , and orange. Each fruit powder retains the distinct characteristics and nutrients of the original fruit, making them a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibre.

How Do We Make Fruit Powders?

Creating fruit powders involves a meticulous process that ensures the preservation of the fruit's natural nutrients and flavours. First, fresh, organic fruits are carefully selected and washed. They are then sliced and gently dehydrated using advanced drying techniques, such as spray drying or freeze drying, which remove the water content while maintaining the fruit's essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

Once dried, the fruit is finely ground into a powder, ready to be packaged and used. This process results in a versatile and nutrient-rich product that captures the essence of fresh fruit in a convenient, easy-to-use form.

Health Benefits of Organic Fruit Powders

Organic fruit powders are a concentrated source of nutrients and antioxidants, offering numerous health benefits:

1. Boosting the Immune System

Rich in vitamins, especially Vitamin C, which enhances immune function.

Antioxidants help combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall immune health.

2. Enhancing Digestion and Gut Health

High in dietary fibre, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Prebiotic properties support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

3. Supporting Skin Health and Anti-Aging

Antioxidants and vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin E help protect the skin from damage and promote a youthful appearance.

Compounds in certain fruits can help improve skin elasticity and hydration.

4. Promoting Cardiovascular Health

Nutrients like potassium help regulate blood pressure.

Antioxidants and fibre reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

5. Aiding in Weight Management

Low in calories but high in nutrients, helping to keep you full and satisfied.

Natural sugars provide a healthier alternative to processed sugars, reducing cravings.

6. Boosting Energy Levels

Natural sugars and vitamins provide a quick and sustained energy boost.

B vitamins support energy metabolism and reduce fatigue.

7. Improving Cognitive Function

Antioxidants like flavonoids have been shown to enhance brain function and protect against cognitive decline.

Essential nutrients support overall brain health and improve focus and memory.

By incorporating organic fruit powders into your diet, you can enjoy these health benefits in a convenient, easy-to-use form, making it simpler to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Practical Uses of Organic Fruit Powders

Organic fruit powders are incredibly versatile and can be easily incorporated into a wide range of culinary and non-culinary applications. Here are some practical ways to use these nutrient-rich powders:

1. In Smoothies and Shakes

Add a spoonful of organic fruit powder to your morning smoothie or protein shake for an instant nutrient boost.

Combine different fruit powders to create unique flavor profiles and enhance the nutritional value of your drinks.

2. Baking and Cooking Applications

Incorporate fruit powders into baked goods like muffins, pancakes, and cookies for added flavor and nutrition.

Use them as natural colorants and flavor enhancers in desserts such as cakes, frostings, and ice creams.

Add fruit powders to oatmeal, yogurt, or granola for a fruity twist.

3. As a Natural Sweetener

Substitute sugar with fruit powders in recipes to reduce added sugar while adding natural sweetness and flavor.

Sprinkle fruit powders on top of cereals, salads, or toast for a healthy and flavorful touch.

4. DIY Skincare Products

Use organic fruit powders in homemade face masks and scrubs for their antioxidant and skin-nourishing properties.

Mix fruit powders with other natural ingredients like honey, yogurt, or oatmeal to create custom skincare treatments.

5. In Beverages

Stir fruit powders into water or herbal teas for a refreshing and flavorful drink.

Create fruity cocktails or mocktails by adding fruit powders to sparkling water or juices.

6. In Sauces and Condiments

Enhance the flavor of sauces, dressings, and marinades with a touch of fruit powder.

Use fruit powders in chutneys, salsas, and relishes for an added burst of flavor.

7. In Dietary Supplements

Incorporate fruit powders into homemade energy bars or protein balls for a nutritious snack.

Use them in smoothie bowls, combining with nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits for a balanced meal.

8. For Kids' Meals

Add fruit powders to homemade baby food, yogurt, or applesauce to introduce new flavors and nutrients.

Use them to naturally color and flavor homemade popsicles, making them a fun and healthy treat for kids.

By using organic fruit powders in these various ways, you can enjoy their health benefits while adding natural flavors and nutrients to your diet and daily routine.

Conclusion

Organic fruit powders offer a convenient and powerful way to enhance your diet and boost your health naturally. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, these powders provide numerous benefits, from strengthening your immune system to improving digestion, skin health, and cardiovascular function. Their versatility makes them easy to incorporate into a wide range of recipes and applications, whether you're making smoothies, baking, or even creating homemade skincare products.

By choosing high-quality organic fruit powders, such as those produced by Sayaji Spray Drying, you can ensure you're getting the purest, most nutrient-dense products available. These powders are free from harmful chemicals and additives, providing a natural and effective way to support your well-being.

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𝒮𝒴𝒩𝒪𝒫𝒮𝐼𝒮: toji’s bulking and you’re ovulating! how can you keep your hands to yourself when all you want to do is touch? 𝒞𝒪𝒩𝒯𝐸𝒩𝒯 𝒲𝒜𝑅𝒩𝐼𝒩𝒢: any color can read<3 size difference (toji has a monster cock ૮ ․ ․ ྀིა), blowjob, female oral, choking, pussy slapping, unprotected sex, cream-pie, explicit language, mirror sex, 69, toji fucks you in a headlock ݁𖥔 ݁˖

BULKING!TOJI who always seems to be wearing the sluttiest clothing. muscle tees that grip his meaty arms enticingly, showing off every curve and bulge of his well-defined biceps. his sweats always seem to hang too low on his hips, revealing a dark happy trail that leads down to his waistband. the fabric clinging to his thick thighs.

BULKING!TOJI who religiously carries a protein shaker with him, even on date nights, because he's serious about his bulking diet. he’s got a variety of protein powders, from chocolate to vanilla, and he loves mixing them with different fruits and oats to keep things interesting.

BULKING!TOJI who loves trying out new high-calorie recipes and often ropes you into cooking massive meals with him. you two have fun experimenting in the kitchen, making everything from giant stacks of protein pancakes to hearty chicken and rice dishes, always ensuring they meet his caloric needs. he’s genuinely grateful. often, hugging you from behind while you cook, placing the sloppiest kisses behind your ears, his tattooed arms coiled around your frame. his gratitude is evident in the way he nuzzles into your neck, whispering sweet nothings about how much he appreciates your efforts. “i love you, y’know that. . .right?”

BULKING!TOJI who’s noticeably chubbier, you like it. really like it, often burying yourself into his pudgy side with a satisfied sigh. “i could die like this.”

BULKING!TOJI who despite his intense workouts, always makes time to cuddle and watch movies, using you as his favorite "recovery" time. he loves resting his head on your lap while you binge-watch your favorite series, feeling your fingers run through his hair as he relaxes. “i hate this scene.”

BULKING!TOJI who gets annoyed and sleeps on the couch when you won’t stop playing with his tits. “you’re so damn annoying.”

BULKING!TOJI who you make sure has a secret stash of snacks in his gym bag for when he needs extra calories on the go. protein bars, nuts, and dried fruits are his go-to, and he always has a little something to munch on between sets or during quick breaks.

have a good workout<3 - signed your amazing beautiful girlfriend

BULKING!TOJI who becomes an expert at meal prepping, and his mini fridge is always stocked with containers of chicken, rice, and veggies. each container meticulously measured to ensure he gets the right amount of protein, carbs, and fats, and he takes pride in his perfectly organized fridge.

BULKING!TOJI who likes wearing your crop tops, flexing in front of the mirror. “take it off! you’re stretching my shit toji.” “no.”

BULKING!TOJI who can’t resist squeezing your face in his bicep, laughing as your chubby cheeks push together. “haha!”

BULKING!TOJI who just throws you over his shoulder during arguments. “i’ll put you down when you’re done being a brat.”

BULKINGTOJI! who thinks it’s dumb as you tie a pink ribbon around his wrist, demanding he stay still. he thinks it’s even dumber when you record it, the video boasting one-million likes on tiktok. “they loveeeeee you!”

BULKING!TOJI who’s entire hand covers your face. jeez, your poor cunt, he thinks.

BULKING!TOJI who can’t help but admire the way your swollen sticky lips suckle at his thick cock, pulling him back in greedily. usually, it’d take some time for him to ease into your tiny hole. but, you were ovulating today and after seeing your boyfriend walking around shirtless with nothing but boxers on, you practically jumped his bones.

BULKING!TOJI who presses all his weight onto you as he fucks your soppy pussy, the pressure in your back dull as he prods into that sweet spot from behind. pale veiny hands pull your cheeks apart, spreading you, revealing your puckering hole. a glob of warm spit followed by his thumb lubricating your asshole has you arching your back in anticipation. “papaaaa,” glossy eyes squeeze shut as he gently sinks his thumb into your asshole, pelvis relentlessly slapping into your sore ass. the sight has his dick twitching, “humph, look so pretty with both holes filled.”

BULKING!TOJI who doesn’t care that you’re overstimulated, rocking his dick into your tight velvety walls at a mean pace. you don’t know how many orgasms the man has yanked from you. “i know baby, doing so good. takin’ all of me like a big girl, fuckkkk.” glazed eyes watching the way you glisten on him as he folds you against the wooden headboard, your legs flush to your chest. “tojiiii,” you whine, he could get drunk off the way you whimper his name. “am i deep baby?” he groans, thick cream building on his base. “mhm!”

BULKING!TOJI who has you in the nastiest headlock, one hand wrapped around your throat, the other forcing you to look into the mirror. you’re a mess, disheveled hair, tear-stained cheeks, swollen lips. the man’s so fucking huge he covers your entire body. “unt, unt. eyes open beautiful.” he sends a particularly deep thrust that has you shivering. slick, slick, slick, a repetitive noise that has him grunting deeply into your ear.

BULKING!TOJI who eats your pussy while you suck his dick. it’s a struggle taking him, drool seeping down your chin as you slurp at the veiny masterpiece. it’s also a struggle to concentrate as he eats you out like a starved man, spitting, slapping, fingering. god, you’re gonna cum again. “cummin!”

BULKING!TOJI who watches as his cum trickles out of your pulsing hole, pushing it back inside with a frown. “stay.”

[jukasorganicco]

Discovering the Best Liquid Multivitamin: A Comprehensive Guide

Maintaining optimal health often involves incorporating a high-quality multivitamin into your daily routine. Among the various forms available, liquid multivitamins stand out for their fast absorption and convenience. If you're seeking the best liquid multivitamin to enhance your wellness, this guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips. Additionally, we'll explore the benefits of West African pure organic oil, a natural supplement that complements your multivitamin regimen.

Why Opt for a Liquid Multivitamin?

Liquid multivitamins are known for their superior absorption compared to pills and tablets. This is because the nutrients in liquid form are more readily available for your body to use. If you find it difficult to swallow tablets or if you have digestive concerns, a liquid multivitamin could be the ideal solution.

Furthermore, liquid multivitamins frequently provide a wider variety of components. This means you’re more likely to get all the essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs. They also tend to be easier on the stomach and faster acting.

Features to Look for in the Best Liquid Multivitamins

When selecting the best liquid multivitamin, keep these features in mind:

Complete Nutrient Profile: Ensure the liquid multivitamin covers a broad spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals. Keep an eye out for important nutrients like the B-complex vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, as well as vitamins A, C, D, and E.

High Bioavailability: Choose a multivitamin with high bioavailability, meaning the nutrients are easily absorbed by your body. Liquid forms generally have better bioavailability compared to tablets or capsules.

Pleasant Taste: Since you'll be consuming this daily, select a multivitamin with a taste that you can tolerate or enjoy. Many liquid options come in flavors that make daily intake more pleasant.

Natural Ingredients: Opt for products with natural ingredients and minimal additives. The best liquid multivitamin avoids artificial colors, sweeteners, and fillers.

Integrating West African Pure Organic Oil

In addition to liquid multivitamins, consider incorporating West African pure organic oil into your health regimen. This oil, derived from natural sources in West Africa, offers a range of health benefits that can complement your multivitamin intake.

Benefits of West African Pure Organic Oil

Rich in Nutrients: West African pure organic oil is often high in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. These nutrients support overall health, skin vitality, and immune function.

Supports Skin Health: This oil is renowned for its moisturizing and nourishing properties. It can be applied topically to support skin that is radiant and healthy.

Natural and Pure: As an organic product, it is free from synthetic chemicals and additives, aligning with a natural wellness approach.

How to Choose the Best Liquid Multivitamin

Choosing the right liquid multivitamin involves considering several factors:

Nutritional Needs: Match the multivitamin’s nutrient profile with your specific health needs. Whether you need extra support for energy, immunity, or overall well-being, ensure the formula meets those requirements.

Quality and Purity: Select products that emphasize quality and purity. Avoid those with unnecessary additives and focus on those that use natural, high-quality ingredients.

Taste and Preference: Since you’ll be using it daily, choose a product with a taste that suits you. Consistency is easier to maintain as a result.

Finding the best liquid multivitamin involves evaluating factors like nutrient content, absorption, and ingredient quality. By choosing wisely and incorporating these natural supplements into your routine, you’re taking a significant step towards better health. Don't forget to speak with a medical expert to customize your supplement selections to your unique requirements and wellness objectives.

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The Farmers' Store is known for its curated selection of fresh organic products sourced directly from proud farmers across India. TFS was set up under the expert guidance of Kavita Mukhi, who continues to act as the leading consultant to help curate the store's 2000+ products and verify their legitimacy. An extensive range of products that include fresh organic vegetables, fruits, flours like organic khapli atta, milk, ghee, oil and all necessary home staples makes The Farmers' Store the best organic store online and offline in Mumbai. Customers have trusted TFS since its inception in 2017 and remain loyal to the organic movement to date. You can walk into The Farmers' Store in Bandra or enjoy same-day home delivery of organic lifestyle.

[itsherbalagic]

Dried fruit powder is a powder made from either the whole fruit or the juice of a fruit. 100% natural, the powder provides a healthy way to add flavoring and color to any baking, meal, or beverage. Dry fruits powder is quite popular among the people of India and the USA, it is used in Indian kitchens for making various sweet dishes. Dry fruits powder is associated with healthy weight gain, make any dessert smoothie taste heavenly using organic fruit powder which is free of artificial colors, additives, or preservatives. It energizes the body from within, making it strong to fight diseases

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[ambenatural]

https://www.ambeorganic.com/fruit.html

Acerola powder is a natural food supplement derived from the acerola cherry, a type of small red berry native to Central and South America. Acerola powder is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants. It can be used as a dietary supplement to boost immunity and promote a healthy digestive system. It can also be added to smoothies, breakfast cereals, and other recipes for an extra boost of nutrients. Acerola powder has a sweet fruity flavor and can be used in place of sugar in recipes. Additionally it can be used in place of some artificial sweeteners and can help reduce sugar cravings.

[kaadutheforest]

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[root2leafseo]

Organic Amla Fruit Powder 100 Gm - Root2leaf Organic

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We take pride in manufacturing a diverse range of nutraceuticals, food and beverages, superfoods, and cosmetic products. All of these offerings are crafted meticulously using organic herbs. By harnessing the power of nature's gifts, we strive to provide you with products that contribute to your well-being in a holistic and sustainable manner.

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Find the best prices online for Wood Pressed Castor Oil from Kaaduorganics in Chennai. A transparent liquid with a yellow tint is castor oil. It is an active component in many household goods, such as paints and cleaning supplies. The majority of the medical ailments for which it has been used to treat are digestive problems. Castor oil undergoes a transformation into ricinoleic acid in the small intestine. The digestive process is accelerated by this.

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[penvisions]

stages of devotion {pink and purple}

Pairing: Younger! Joel Miller x Baker! Reader

Summary: Valentine's Day genuinely drives you insane, but you thrive on it until the energy that surrounds other holidays. And this year? This year you have Joel Miller in your life.

Word Count: 3.7k

Warnings: canon typical language, angst, strained family dynamic, feelings of inadequacy, miscommunication, single dad joel, triggers associated with the food industry, illusions to smut, let me know if i missed any but this is pretty tame

A/N: oops, this is insanely late. but it's done and it helped me through day three of organizing my personal life from my bed, where i'm kind of stuck right now. love y'all!

ao3 link || series masterlist || navigation || ko-fi

Most holidays are made up, or at least so far removed from their historical roots in order to commercialize them for the masses- the jaded thought crossed your mind as you hit submit on a massive order from your main vendor. The espresso sours in your mug, the milk separated from sitting for too long pulls your face into a disgusted frown as you look down into it. It was hours ago now that you made it, your stomach and head telling you it needs caffeine and sustenance; and quick if your headache was any indication.

Holidays were fun and kitschy, brought in a lot of money for the bakery, for your bank account and bills but it was so damn taxing. Three weeks out from the giant pink fluff ball that is Valentine’s Day and the crushing weight of the day sits heavy on your shoulders. But you smile despite it as you shut down the computer set up in the small office, grab your cardigan from

Joel did his best to change your mind on that front with his proposal to find more time for each other in your hectic lives. And it’s been working out pretty well so far. The last two months has been a blur of frantic kisses and coffee runs for the crew here at the shop, of last-minute dates spent eating take out in his truck after his shift ends and before your early bed time.

Another date is tonight, but this time you both share a meal sitting at an actual table and wine poured into large, stemmed glasses. It helps to keep you upbeat for another two weeks, the prep for the holiday pulling you in one direction and a contracted job on the outskirts of the city pulling Joel in another. The memory of the night flits through your mind, your body feeling light and a little warm as you recall the way he hadn’t been able to wait until you up the stairs that leads to further into your apartment…

What you wouldn’t give to see that side of him a little more, the desperate, needy man that is hidden beneath the hardworking, loving, devoted one he is all of the time…

But this week, there’s absolutely no time for anything other than frosting, sprinkles, and batter. Because on Friday, it’s Valentine’s Day. You’ve got a stack of cake orders that equal to one hundred, cupcakes, chocolate strawberries, cookies, fruit tarts, and everything in between. Thankfully you live in the space above the shop, otherwise there would be no way for you and Callie to get it all done. The air in your lungs was more powdered sugar and flour at this point than plain old oxygen, but it’s a small price to pay for the record sales you make every year.

This year, you have a goal in mind for the extra income. The hourly you would normally earn from the week of prep and the day itself- it’s going to go toward helping Joel get Sarah into the summer soccer camp she has her eye on. It’s upstate, the first time she will be away from her father for so long. But the way she went on and on about it at a family dinner with just the three of you, one shared look with the man across the table and you knew you had to help anyway you could to make it happen.

The phone rings just as you place a piping bag down, metal tip on a strategically placed parchment paper to avoid making an even bigger mess atop the cluttered counter. Wiping your hands on the damp towel hanging from the tie of your apron, you reach for it.

“Sugar ‘n Spice, how may I help you?”

“Well, hey there, sweetheart. Been tryin’ to reach you.” The familiar, deep voice of one Joel Miller filters over the line.

“Joel! Oh no, my phone probably died, it’s in the office somewhere underneath the order printouts. I’m so sorry.” Blowing out a wobbly sigh, you realize you can’t see it from where you’re at the counter and lean over to glimpse inside the door.

“No need to apologize, I understand how hectic it is over there. Sarah said it was a lot going on.” You can sense his mood over the phone, tired and a little stressed. You can picture him clenching and unclenching the hand not holding the phone, or rubbing at the back of his neck and digging his fingers into the hair that’s beginning to curl there.

“Yeah, it’s been pretty crazy. Just trying to build the cakes I can and get them in the freezer with a crumb coat. Gonna decorate once they’re all sorted out.” You ramble to try and counteract it, but you know that you’re more than likely just coming off as manic as your voice fills the space of the bakery kitchen over the music you play at a low volume. Callie is out handling the front counter, training the morning person on the specials and how to answer flavor profile questions for everything.

“Listen, sweetheart, I hate to do this to you…” Your heart sinks, voice trailing off as your chest coils tight- Joel’s energy transferring to you over the line.

“Sarah came down with somethin’, had to leave the job site to get her from school. She’s holed up in her room and won’t be able to make it in for her shift later. I’m so sorry, baby.”

“I hope she’s okay, does she need anything? I can make soup or bring over some stuff from here to help cheer her up?” You’re spiraling, you know you are. And Joel’s next words feel like a stab to the gut.

“No, no, that’s okay, sweetheart. I’ve got it all covered over here, we’ll get this to break. You don’t need to worry about us,” Your hearing tunnels out, his deep gravely voice distant as you respond to him with deflated words you would not be able to repeat since they don’t really even register past the line clicking off and the dial tone that mimics a flatline on a heart monitor.

It might as well be, because you’re sure your heart just broke at the implication that you didn’t need to worry about the two most important people in your life. Titles and circumstances don’t change that Joel is a single parent, that he takes his responsibility so seriously because Sarah is his lifeline and always will be. Your own father barely acknowledged you growing up, and now that you’re in the food industry he continues in his steadfast ignorance of your existence. Your brother taking the spotlight, the favorite alongside your younger sister who they dote on endlessly. In that moment, you feel like an outsider and an overlooked daughter all in one. And you don’t like it, so you bury your hurt feelings in the frosting bag you refill and continue piping the countless cakes on the speed racks surrounding you well into the night.

A week goes by with no Joel. Sarah out for her three shifts she works after school on the days she doesn’t have soccer practice. You’re trying to unload the pallet that the driver was insistent on leaving in the dining room of the bakery, a new person who you’ve never seen before. Normally, Rick is the one who has the route with your shop on it and he always stays for a cup of coffee and a sweet roll after unloading the delivery directly into the walk in and kitchen for you. You miss him, feeling the weird energy wafting off the new guy and the loss of your almost friend as you want for personal interaction after being alone and holing up in the kitchen- you haven’t been sleeping, and you feel more than a little pathetic. Still.

The phone turned to silent as you throw yourself into the holiday prep, pink and white and red swirling even behind closed eyelids. Just as your cheeks puff with a deep breath and the thud of the last bag of flour onto the stack you keep organized by date, moving the ones just delivered to the bottom, the bell chimes in front of the bakery.

The pressure of the holiday is firmly on your shoulders, people picking up their orders begins in an hour, leaving you very little time to be frustrated with the actions of the new delivery guy. Frosting needs to be made for the last rack of cakes, royal icing for the cookies that people can come in and request names on, chocolate drizzle for the strawberries that are already coated in their shells, but all of it will fly off the shelves, off the racks and through the city until the very second you lock the door promptly at six pm, maybe even a little bit later if people are queued up or last minute pop ins.

Joel hovers in the doorway to the kitchen space, his form filling the empty frame well. He’s got an almost shy expression about him and an armful of flowers while a small bag hangs from around two thick fingers.

“I locked the door, I know you ain’t really open yet.” Is how he announces himself after a moment of watching you move the wooden pallet to lean against an empty wall by the door that leads up to your personal space. You jump and spin around with a hand to your heart, the footsteps thought to be of the man he’s berates with his next words. “Delivery guy left it wide open, didn’t recognize him but he was pretty rude when I said I knew you.”

“Joel!” You place your other hand to the counter in front of you and lean over to gather your breath back, aware of him placing the items in his hands down atop it before they settle on your back in a comforting, familiar gesture.

“Didn’t mean to startle you, I’m so sorry, sweetheart.” His voice rumbles over you, so close. Closer than he’s been in the past week, just missed calls and texts checking in with you- knowing you were beyond busy with the shop. “We got your delivery, Sarah is feeling a bit better and scarfed it down quick.”

“Oh, um, good.” You shrug off his hands and stand to your full height, eyes bouncing around- never landing on him.

“Did…did I do somethin’?” He’s straight to the point, knowing that there’s no need to mince words, not when it was you- not when it was him and you together. Clear communication, clear intentions. Or so he thought.

“No, I just- you know what, yeah, you did something,” The bite in your words is sharp, digging into a confused and exhausted Joel. “You cut me out! ‘I’ve got it all covered’. Well, newsflash, Joel, I got it all covered myself. I’ve got an insane day ahead of me, so please, just-just go.”

He says your name, tone pleading as he reaches out for you, but you take a step back, eyes finally landing on him.

“I get it, it’s just you two against the world. I really do, you’re a great father, a good man- of course you are. But you need to please, just…” You trail off as you see the emotions swirl in his amber eyes- the dark brown catching the fluorescents of the kitchen since the sun is still dipped below the horizon.

Joel’s mouth opens, but the store phone rings once and then the answering machine clicks. Your father’s voice fills the tense air, adding another layer of anxiety and weight on top of your already aching shoulders.

Your mother and brother will be by in an hour to pick up some stuff, make sure to set aside some of the better lookin’ things, yeah? Don’t put anythin’ too absurd in the box, you know I don’t like that type of shit. Just plain and simple. You always do too much, stress yourself out for no goddamn reason.

That’s it, that’s the entire message. No greeting, no sign off, no mention of the holiday or your name or that he’s grateful for the free products. Just a command and a chastisement. Because charging your family once, that was enough of a humiliation to experience. The laugher and scoffing, the words ‘outrageous’ and ‘not worth that much’ echo in your head each and every time you input a new price into the computer system or handwrite a card for the display case.

“Go, please.” Your voice is small, but strong. The comparison of the man whose voice just spoke and Joel standing in your kitchen too much to handle right now.

“Okay, sweetheart, I’ll go,” He motions to the bouquet of flowers and the bag still on the counter closest to him. “Those- those are for you, for Valentine’s Day, cause I thought…cause you’re my girl.”

He doesn’t sound so sure, his words rising at the end of his sentence as if questioning it in that very moment, despite the time he put forth in choosing the items. His eyes are questioning too, as he connects them with yours. But all you can offer him is a trembling bottom lip and a tight nod of your head.

He doesn’t ask you to call him and you don’t say that you will.

You’re surrounded by pink even as your heart darkens purple, as if bruised by every strained interaction with your family, aching and lighting up in the way of this…rut with the man that turns around and disappears through the space you’ve created for yourself.

The door is opening before you even raise your hand to knock.

Joel stands there with a kitchen towel slung over his shoulder, the smell of cooking food wafting through the open door. He looks so goddamn hopeful as his eyes rove over your form, straight from the bakery where you had finally locked the door behind the last patrons. Frosting and sprinkles splotch your apron, oil darkening spots on your jeans and shines on your hands as you hold the necklace unearthed from pretty tissue paper and a simple jewelry box.

It’s gold. With the imprint of a tent right in the middle of the flat pendant.

“Joel…”

He’s ushering you inside just as the tears begin to trail down your cheeks, warmth moving up your neck from your chest to burn hot behind blurry eyes.

“It wasn’t supposed to make you cry, it was- it was supposed to make you smile.” He whispers as if berating himself for messing up the one day he promised himself he would make a good one.

“Their hap-happy tears,” Your voice warbles out, hands reaching for him as he turns around from closing the door, wrapping around his neck. You burrow your head into his chest and breathe him, his own coming around you to hug you tight to him. The gold of the necklace is cold where it swings across his neck and dips below the back collar of his shirt.

“Sarah’s mom left the day before the holiday, years ago,” The confession, the reason- it’s muffled where he buries his own face in your hair, smelling the sweetness of powdered sugar and vanilla. A perfume that lingers on your skin from the shop, even on your days off, a part of what makes him so enamored by you. The undertones of amaretto, of cherry- it’s his favorite scent in the world ever since your encounter months ago- a tent and a night of passioned shared between you two. The beginning of the connection you two share, despite everything.

“She always gets a little…melancholic I guess is the right word, this time of year. And with her getting’ her, uh, monthly right before we met- it’s been a tough couple of months for her to see all ‘o her friends turn to their moms for help with stuff she’s goin’ through.”

“I-I didn’t know,” You feel selfish, for feeling the way you do. None of it comparing to the way a child feels the loss of such an important figure in their life, a literal parent- you know all to well how much it can affect someone. Your own mother staying in the car this morning while your brother rolled into the shop like he was the reason it was standing, demanding the things he ‘had to make an insane drive for at the ass crack of dawn’ without so much as a smile or a thank you. Gone in the blink of an eye, your mother not even bothering to look into the bay windows from where she primly looked over whatever was in her lap.

“Not your responsibility to know, it’s…unless...unless you want it to be?” Joel sounds nervous, unsure of himself- such a stark contrast to how he normally speaks. He’s leaning back, large hands moving to your neck as you look up at him, his fingers gently prodding at the sensitive underside of your chin. His eyes are so deep as they scan over your face. A smudge of frosting dried high on your cheek as you feeling a little more than self-conscious.

“Wh-what do you mean?” The words are a whisper. Mind working overtime as you strip his own down to figure out what exactly it is he’s saying.

“If you were…my girl, my girlfriend…we could- we could manage it together. She adores you, asks after you when you ain’t been around for a few days or she’s not workin’ alongside you. She…she wants you in her life mor’n I’ve seen with anyone. But I’m terrified of makin’ more mistakes. Especially with her.”

Your brow furrows, lips thinning into a straight line.

“Mistake?”

“I’m not callin’ this-“ He dips down to kiss you chastely, to calm himself as much as you. “You ain’t a mistake, you’re…you’re everythin’ I’ve never let myself want, she’s been the priority. But I want to be selfish, want you in my life, sweetheart. Permanently.”

“I’ve never had a boyfriend,” You confess, memories of half formed relationships bubble up, feelings of being the one that people turn to or ask after when others say no. Of situations that fizzle out in the blink of an eye and never on your account. “No one’s ever asked that of me before.”

“I’m not asking it of you, I’m offerin’ it to you. Lemme be your first, please. I-I’ll do right by you, better than this past week has been, I promise.”

Your heart soars, the weight you carry in it lightening at the earnest way he speaks. And then you’re closing the gap to press your lips firmly to his.

More happy tears warming your cheeks- you’re kissing your first ever boyfriend.

His lips are velvet soft against you, tongue hot where it slips between your own to ignite sparks all over your skin. You moan into his mouth, swallowing the heady sound he makes in response. You’re about to pull him closer when a timer dings and you nearly jump out of your skin.

He parts with a chuckle, hands trailing slowly as he distances himself from you and moves toward the oven. The towel still over one broad shoulder acts as a barrier for his hands as he folds it just so to take a deep pan out of the oven once the timer is silenced. The smell of garlic and herbs fills the space with a fuller sense, and you realize that he’s made lasagna. An offhand comment made a few weeks ago lamenting the lack of a truly good finding in the city.

“Sarah and I put it together, we were kinda hoping you’d be by tonight after the shop closes. But she’s off at a sleepover now, guess she sensed things were a little…strained.”

He doesn’t let you help, instead you’re gently ushered into a chair at the dining table with a glass of wine while he carefully plates up two portions alongside some roasted brussel sprouts and garlic bread. When he finally sits down beside you, he takes one of your hands in his and kisses the top of it, a bashful smile playing at the corner of his lips. His eyes flash to the pendant hanging around your neck, carefully clasped by his own hands before he set to bustling around the kitchen.

“I don’t cook much, so it might be shit honestly, but Sarah got the recipe from one of her friend’s moms. Say’s she was born in Italy and it’s the real deal. Family recipe and all that.”

It’s amazing, but even if it was merely an okay rendition, the fact that he put so much effort into it would’ve made it so. You tell him just as much as you stand from your spot after the last bite and settle over his lap with a confidence that buzzes underneath your skin. Steadying hands grip your hips as you press into him and make out like a couple of teenagers right there in the kitchen, but when you rock once, twice, three times against the hardness you feel beneath the denim of his jeans the world suddenly shifts as he picks you up like you weigh nothing.

His drawling voice dips dirty promises are peppered into your skin with sucking kisses, your excited giggles and whining moans echo through the house as he carries you up the stairs and into his room.

He makes good on every single promise pressed into your skin, until you’re both gasping and panting, bodies spent and limbs exhausted.

Wrapped up in his arms, legs tangled beneath the sheets- warm, safe, and loved for exactly who you are and nothing more or nothing less. You smile as you hear the soft snores as Joel drifts off and shift just a little more securely into the plush bed, because you feel like you could float away. Happiness warms you just as his body does around you and you bite into your bottom lip to keep a giddy giggle contained.

Joel Miller is your boyfriend.

Words that slipped past a gasping breath while he was deep inside you moments before flare brightly, as if branded into the skin of your chest, curved around your heart.

You’re mine, you hear me? Mine.

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