#our dining table wallpaper

[haruakiiii]

I believe that some of the Japanese BL's out there are so underrated. Not many people talk about them and that's so sad cause some of them are genuinely SO FREAKING GOOD!!!

I recently saw 'Our Dining Table', and OH MY GOD, THEY WERE SO ADORABLE. Like, the way Yutaka cared about Tane was so cute!!! And I feel like it's the small details that people overlook. For example, despite Tane being a handful, Yutaka didn't mind at all at took care of him like he was his own family and how they both bought scarves for each other. I loved these details so much.

Enough about the rant. So, I made this really cute wallpaper to commemorate me finishing the BL. I loved working on this and hope I can do more pixel wallpapers. 🎀✨️

[shaymoo22]

Bui Man Seaside Eatery

Hungry? You're in good hands. We proudly make everything from scratch in our open kitchen using local ingredients and a whole lotta soul. Here, every seat in the house is a good one, and the warmth doesn't just come from our chef-graded oven. The warmth of our cooking is complemented by meticulously sourced ingredients in season from Windenburg farms and local partners. Let us make you a plate!

_____________________________________________________________

This lot is placed in Windenburg where the nightclub was originally placed!

Lot size: 30 x 20

Lot Type: Restaurant

Packs Used: Get Famous, Seasons, Get Together, Get to Work, Dine Out, Spa Day

EA ID: shaymoo22

______________________________________________________________

CC List:

Awingedllama: Boho living, Blooming Rooms (only used for some plants)

ATS4: Bistro Chair 3, Bar drinks, Advent 2020 Wine Bottles

Harrie: Brutalist Bathroom, Brownstone Collection Part 1 &2 Merged, Coastal Pt 4 (double fridge), Spoons Pt 1, 2, &3 (counters, door, table, and hostess stand)

Felixandre: Chateau Pt 1 (Brick wall and window frame), Grove (arches)

Little Dica: H&B Stores (letters used for signage)

Madame Ria: Basic Luxe (stool)

Marvell World: Lux Collection (wall slats)

Myshunosun: Garden Stories (outdoor lights), Gale (dining chair), Lottie (potted tree)

Madlen: Niels Wall (exterior wallpaper)

Peacemaker: Cane Living (Artwork)

Pierisim: Domaine Du Clos Set, MCM Set

Tuds: IND Collection

Other Bottles Seen on Shelf: Lilith Set by Taurus Design, RVSN On Cloud Nine Wine Bottles

Lighting: Syb - Life Livingroom Ceiling Lamp, Sim Man - Hedwyn Living Pendant Light, Simenapule - Set Vicky Ceiling Lamp

Thank you: @pixelglam

[distant--shadow]

The witch and the widow chapters 1-4 author’s notes

Ok, so first off I feel I gotta preface this by saying I am absolutely not a history buff. Kinda the opposite of one really. I was one of less than 10% of the kids in my year of 300 or so that didn’t take history at GCSEs, mostly caus a subject taught and based around names and dates etc is the definition of something not suited for my type of brain, also I hugely lost interest in it caus we moved past the fun trebuchet eras and all that real fast and it became of slog of me falling asleep in lessons caus I had a teacher whose method was putting on movies and shutting the blinds (I’d always fall asleep and he was later jailed for being a p*edophile, so that’s a thing.) Anyway, all that to say I’m not good at this shit, but as ive gotten older I have taken a bigger interest in queer history in particular, and that often if not always links into other areas such as fashion, women’s rights, religion,the arts, class, and race etc. (I’m still not good at names and dates though!)

They are outfitted and arsenalled - the stones of the wall - in a manner to rival any army; tapestries of red and gold perhaps once brandished on battlefield as banners promenading around death now retired and indoor-still-air-still as taxidermy giving colour between all of the shades of metal, burnished and polished and in some cases rusting, some still purposefully left blood-stained, swords and pikes and maces arranged in wallpaper patterns as though flowers or fans, sword-sheath beams spreading from chest-plate armour suns.

Let’s start with something easy and recent. The Baron’s armoury was inspired by a few castles I’ve visited, these rooms are always so bizarre to me. I don’t know if this is at all of the time/how they were decorated or a more recent thing, but either way it’s pretty wild but I do love the visual and metaphor of it. In this one castle I found out from talking about the carpentry to an attendant that the decorative ceiling work around the chandelier above the dining room table actually hid a trapdoor - and there was other hidden doorways for passages and to secret rooms in this castle, that’s not that unusual - but this particular trapdoor was to allow for the chandeliers to be switched out. Why? Caus they had them in multiple colours of glass, and the lady of the castle liked the chandelier to co-ordinate with her dress if they were having guests round. Aint that such a flex? Definitely some food for future thought.

Aight. Clothing. So anyone that chats fic/au to me or is in my server has probably heard me yell to go watch Kaz Rowe’s videos many times. As I’ve said this fic aint meant to be historically accurate but it does kinda straddle histories, one of which being our own; so women wearing trousers and the like at this time would still be a crime, and draw a lot of attention . Imogen in men’s clothing genuinely isn’t meant to be much of a gender thing but a thing of practicality, and she has mostly lived in the countryside or in the outskirts, so she does not get into the trouble she would should she go into the towns and cities (another reason to keep away past the potential noise, but this Imogen will happily don a dress or skirts if she needs to, she’s just usually working – and maybe it’s a bonus that dressing as a man acts as a sort of flagging for any women who might be interested lol.)

I guess here I should mention how I think this version of Imogen's powers and how they’ve manifested (along with everyone else being unaware of them) will have somewhat changed her disposition and personality, it is a lot more aligned with later campaign Imogen who has more confidence and empowerment, she hasn’t been ostracised for her abilities or particularly bombarded by them, think more like when she has her circlet on, she chooses to listen in (mostly), although of course she has still heard many terrible things (and her life has still been pretty brutal but that’s to be written still).

(it’ll be really fun in this regard getting to explore and explain this version of Laudna, but early days for giving much away on that yet!)

Her skirts are full and structured and plumed by many layers of petticoats that hide the movement of her feet across the wildflower lawn, causing her to appear to be drifting like the bees do from petal to petal, pollen dusting her pleats though ghostly her skin in contrast to the fine fabrics that she dresses for the part, black in mourning, still, bodice tight and sleeve leg of mutton, an ornate decorative layer of black lace laying over each yard of textured textile like spider webs on porcelain patterns, her husband's tableware collecting dust in the kitchen cupboard.

real impractical for how tending towards practical the Lady dares to be, hands on, too busy for errant hairs in piano key ivory and ebony windswept and loose from the high bun she pins in place with a cameo broach, a memento mori engraved in silver and inlayed with ruby eyes and tied with red ribbons. Her skin also proudly displays the age and perhaps trauma that her hair does, lines from laughter and furrowed brows and the feet of the crows that cry from the top of the chimney pots

A little note as to say that Laudna’s appearance is heavily influenced by Victorian mourning wear, with some of the clothes cuts altered to be a little bit more regency and earlier in places. (her  attire is a little outdated, further suggesting her distancing from society and fashion)

A couple of days ago Imogen happened upon a bird with an injured wing, crying helplessly and rolling in circles, feathers taking flight away from the bird that could not, settling around it as it panicked itself bald-

The bird could not live without the use of its wing, and it didn’t, whether that was by Prosciutto or a fox, only its feathers were left in a pile.

Imogen had gathered them into an empty burlap sack; taken them to one of the maids downstairs to clean, repurpose them for filling pillows.

Here’s a silly little easter egg for my p(r)oof reader. Last time he visited we was enjoying a cinnamon roll from the local bakery by the city river (as you do) and a cyclist hit a seagull. It was real distressing, the seagull was distressed too. A handfull of middle aged women stood around it not wanting or knowing how to intervene as its wing was twisted at a crazy angle and it flapped about in a pile of its own feathers, there’s still bird flu about so it is wise to not touch wild birds, and as bleak as it is I was saying to freshy that a wild bird who’s wings broken like that is gonna die, and probably slowly and painfully. Some man came along and lifted up the bird to take the bird off the path and laid it to rest behind an old bridge building, I think he must have mercy killed it too as the bird was already dead when we walked past 10 or so minutes later after finishing our cinnamon roll and giving a cautious glance. So there’s a nice happy memory thrown in there for him.

what appears to be driftwood breaches the surface, then another point, then another

the water belches

Ceviche scares, whinnying as he rears onto his back legs, the Lady leaning forward and clinging to his harness. Imogen stands in her stirrups, leaning across the gap over to the black stallion, grasping his reins and cooing

“All good, boy, all good-”

What had appeared to be driftwood lands on the surface with a slap, looking like the carcass of an old boat left to rot in the muddy bed of a dock, timber ribcaged and leathered skin cladding.

A femur surfaces, followed by a jaw.

Second easter egg for the p(r)oof is a quick one (I’m such a considerate writer, I know.) On a train ride to a loch we went to for a day out there is a stop that is on another lake/body of water, and right by the train tracks (which are at water height) there are 4 or 5 old ships stuck in the mud, most of them just the frames/structures of the old boats, mostly wood and some bits of metal, but they’re pretty big boats! It really looks like whale carcasses. I’ve always wanted to get of there and check it out, and we were gonna stop by on the way back but my health being what it is was giving me some grief that day so we missed 2 trains and then soon the daylight, so hopefully next time buddy.

There’s alotta meat and gore talk and Imogen being a vegetarian without the label for such is just another way of me playing round with all of her complex feelings about what the Lady might be doing, her feelings towards Angharad butchering and nourishing the women with these communal stews and all of that. I’ve been vegetarian myself for 20 years now, and it was all triggered by an existential crisis in my mid teens (still a huge fan of leather and blood though) – Imogen greatly cares about animals, struggles with the thought of anything being slaughtered, she is in some ways more empathetic than most because she knows those she does on so much more of a personal level, really feels how someone is reacting to a situation they are in, but also because of this she knows humans are often corrupt and vile and she is spared such thoughts from animals, only knows their instincts and the love and comfort and service they bring – and yet she will obsess over the Lady’s (potential) tooling on that saddlework leather that’s really fucking brutal if she thinks about it one way and beautiful if she thinks about it another hmmm what if everything’s not black and white.

Oh, and the stew is a homage to @picturesofthegoneworlds’ pre-campaign fic Intertwined which I am lucky enough to co-parent and her writing is hugely influential on mine.

There’s a few things being bread crumb trailed here that I can’t explain in the author notes yet, but I’m looking forward to when I can. One small detail I will give away is just a silly thing about the chapter headings. They are something of significance from within the chapter, given in its ‘proper’ name – maybe someone gets access to some books to do research at some point?

anyways, thanks @astoriacolumnstaircase for enabling me. will do another post like this for future chapters if folks find it interesting.

[historybunnny]

The Baudelaire family returned to Ireland the next day, only this time, they never had to worry about leaving.

Their new home had been abandoned years prior to them purchasing it and had been left vacant for quite some time after the previous family had fled those lands that had once been filled with such rich history. Overtime, the stories had been forgotten, perhaps almost purposely by those that occupied the neighborhood nowadays, existing only as children's fables or as myth.

One thing they did know though was that the land used to be a vegetable farm, quite a successful one too, and Lawrence intended to make it profitable once more. Already, the farm boys were put to work planting rows of cabbage, carrots and most notably, potatoes.

Hours of labor had gone into restoring the house to what it had once been before the family arrived and at last, it was returned to its original state of elegance. The perfectly laid brick was covered by thick ivy, and the grounds were surrounded by beautifully vibrant flowers, lush green plants, and tall, brilliant marble statues.

It all seemed like something out of a storybook rather than real life.

The travel horses pushed forward through the gates, and all any of them could do was gawk, unable to believe they were truly going to live here. Even the children, fussy and tired from such long travels, sensed the exhilaration from the adults and had begun to perk up with curiosity.

Ozzy, who rode with Beth in her carriage, stared up at the house in wonder, as though his little mind was trying to comprehend such a big change. "This is our new home, my little dove. We're going to live here now!" Beth whispered to the seemingly awestruck toddler next to her.

"Wooooow!" He exclaimed almost breathlessly, and though it was unclear if he actually understood what it all truly meant, Beth laughed in response, happily agreeing that 'wooow' was right.

Most of their belongings arrived before The Baudelaires, already unpacked and put away thanks to a moving crew hired on by Lawrence. In addition, he had also taken it upon himself to hire various help, like maids, gardeners, cooks, and even a personal chef, and as Lawrence stepped out of the carriage and onto the stone pavement, he could see one of their footmen waiting patiently to greet them at the door.

"Well, hello there, Baudelaires!" He called out from the porch enthusiastically.

Lawrence waved a quick hello before holding out his arms to take Atticus. "That's Mr. O'Bannon. He worked for the family that lived here previously." He explained once Winifred had situated herself.

They joined Beth and Ozzy next, and walked hurriedly up the front steps while Mr. O'Bannon welcomed them home.

Winifred audibly gasped as she entered inside, her eyes growing wide in amazement at everything around her, and once everyone had stepped through the front door, they understood her reaction at once.

After they had filed in one by one, Mr. O'Bannon offered a tour of the house and they happily accepted. He informed them of the origins of their new furniture, boasting about the craftsmanship of the Irish workers and the prestigious color schemes of the wallpapering, most notably, the newly popular Scheels green in the parlor and the dining room.

The new decor was so complimentary of the things they had brought from home, they were almost unrecognizable sitting amongst such fine things, almost as if they were new items themselves.

They had only made it through the first two floors before Atticus started falling asleep in his mother's arms, while Ozzy began to grow rather antsy. Winifred excused herself to rock with Atticus for a while and Beth, wanting to avoid a tantrum, decided to take Ozzy outside to get a better look at the water fountain out front. Which left Lawrence to finish off the tour with Mr. O'Bannon.

However, Mr. O'Bannon dismissed himself as well, needing to check how the luncheon was coming along and confirm the table was being set correctly. Lawrence didn't mind all that much, if anything, he was relieved to see how serious his staff seemed to take their jobs.

And so, just like that, everyone was off in different directions, making themselves right at home.

Lawrence, who now found himself alone, fancied himself a celebratory smoke out on the balcony. There, he smoked cigarette after cigarette while he watched over the farm hands below, reflecting how just months prior, he would have been down there in the dirt just like them. But, tilling soil and yanking weeds were a thing of the past, and someday soon, nothing but a distant memory.

Now, all there was left to do was assimilate to this new way of life.

next / previous / first

[petalruesimblr]

The Roadhouse

Download Link: Sim File Share |

Description:

Welcome to The Roadhouse – where the drinks are cold, the food is hot and the fun never stops! Whether you're a seasoned local or just passing through town, everyone is welcome at The Roadhouse – yes, even vampires! Despite the Winchesters owning the bar, we don't discriminate against creatures of the night anymore, as the brothers have retired from hunting. Let your competitive spirit soar as you challenge anyone to a variety of games and as the night heats up, let loose with your best moves on the dance floor! For a price, you can also indulge in a little late-night R&R or maybe even play hooky for the day in our upstairs rooms – we won't tell! So come on down and join us for a night of fun, laughter and maybe even a little mischief!

Details:

Price: 88,128 Lot Size: 20x30 Lot Type: Local Watering Hole Version: 1.42 Store Content: None CC Used: None Packs Needed: The Sims 3, Late Night (Wallpaper, Counter, Door, Bar Dive, Lot type), World Adventures, Ambitions , Generations (Window)

Hello! This is one of my earlier builds - a beloved bar that has become a mainstay in my gameplay. It's been a hotspot for countless bachelor and bachelorette parties, witnessing its fair share of wild antics and unforgettable moments.

Click on the ’Keep Reading’ below for more information and pictures on this lot.

Named after one of my favorite shows, Supernatural, this bar draws inspiration from the iconic Roadhouse. However it does not mirror the original blueprint of the bar and I've given it a different look to better suit the worlds I typically play in.

Featuring four bedrooms upstairs, perfect for tired Sims or those seeking a bit of privacy (wink, wink), each room offers something different: two singles, one standard and even a vampire exclusive room.

It has decent parking at the back, a variety of games for added fun, a professional bar, lively music and plenty of seating.

📣Please note that the Late Night expansion pack is required for the Local Watering Hole lot to show up and work in your game, along with a selection of bar-related decors.

This lot has been play-tested and I’ve used it in a few of my saved games. Let me know if you experience any problems on your end.

1st Floor:

Professional bar, tables and chairs, Public Sounds Stereo

Foosball table

Classic Master Darter

Bull’s-Eye ElectroPro 900 Dartboard

Bathroom

Shuffleboard

2nd Floor:

Two single rooms - bed, dresser and own bathroom

One standard room - double bed, Retro-tastic TV, dresser, small dining area and own bathroom

Vampire room - Vampiric Sanctum, small living area with Retro-tastic TV, dresser, own bathroom

[la-gotica-fantasma]

Best Thing

relationship - [Book] Newt x Male!Reader

setting - Modern AU

word count - 400

contains - Surprise Birthday Party

authors notes - It's Thomas Brodie-Sangster's birthday so I felt kindly to this idea. My first language isn't English so please spare me - NOW I GET TO WRITE THE FUN IDEA I HAD LAST NIGHT :}}}

The grass around Newt surrounded him as if it was a golden frame, setting his beautiful existence in one still picture. He stared up at the sky, his palms holding his head. Eyebrows cinching together the longer he looked up.

I stood on the back porch, looking down at him in the green of our backyard. "You look comfortable," I said with a smirk, calming the urge to laugh.

"I'm definitely not." he said flatly, his brows loosening as he turned to me and smiled. His smile dropped and turned into a dramatic frown. "I feel ants on my legs."

Snorting a laugh, I ran down the wooden steps to him. I crouched over him. "Maybe it's about time you get up." I said with a bright smile, reaching out my hand for him.

He grabbed it, his hands obnoxiously sweaty. "Thanks,"

"Of course, birthday boy."

His legs straightened, looking only slightly down at me. "You remembered," His smile was a beam, his eyes lighthouses for his soul. The exact soul he let me into.

"No shit I remembered," I giggled, wrapping my arms around his neck. "I wouldn't ever forget,"

"Are you going to spoil me rotten today," he asked sarcastically.

"Maybe with love,"

"Then it's not spoiling rotten, is it?" he said, looking up to the back of our shared house. "And if it is, I don't know how you could spoil me any more than you have already."

"Oh, plenty of ways." I said, smirking like it was a hint.

We began walking up the reddened porch steps, entering into the newly cleaned kitchen.

What Newt didn't know was that behind the wallpaper lined wall was his friends; Thomas, Minho, Winston, Alby, Brenda, Teresa, and Zart.

I walked in first, turning to Newt and giving him a bright, beaming smile. They slowly unearthed from their hiding places. "Surprise!" they all collectively squealed.

"Are you surprised?" Teresa leaned in to ask. She stood behind the dining table, her palms flat against the frigid marble.

Newt laughed and nodded, "Extremely,"

"Great!" I squealed, raising my hands to the air. "I hope you enjoy what we have planned."

"And what is that?" he asked, his English accent like an entree to his question.

"Movie night!"

[corawithfanfiction]

Russian I Chris Evans x Student!FemReader

Episode 5

MY MASTERLIST! - EVENTS! - HOME!

This is an original story and may not be copied or translated into another language without permission!

The protagonists and events, other than Chris Evans and his family, are entirely fictional and inspired by some published novels. There may be name similarities with the novel mentioned. Nothing you read in this story is true.

Author's Note: The title of the story is "Russian" and our character (Y/N) is of Russian origin, but you can think of the character's hometown however you want to associate it with yourself while reading.

Author's Note 2: It is not written to put any nation under suspicion. There is no racism, just some current news, a book I read and characters from different nationalities due to fiction. I do not intend to upset anyone.

I find myself in the car, repeating the address in my head more times than I can count. I have no idea what I'm driving for, how I'm driving. My only goal is to spend the night with Evans.

It was hard to convince my mother. At first I didn't think of lying, then I thought she would definitely object to me going to the house of a man twice my age at 9:30 p.m. I pretended to cry, I told her that something was wrong with Nancy, that - I don't even remember what I made up at that moment - I had to go to them urgently, that maybe I wouldn't even be able to come back tonight. She didn't seem to believe me, her usual suspicious look didn't leave me for several minutes. So I called Nancy and she immediately stepped into the role and helped me.

He promised not to tell anyone about it, on condition that I tell him all the details tomorrow.

In the darkness of the night, the roadside market looks like a scary abandoned gas station. A little further on, to my left, there is a huge parking lot with caravans and trucks. While I'm looking for my way, a truck turns from the gate and tries to park inside.

I pass the third car wash I see along the road and when I see the Grennwood sign on the red brick wall to my right, I know I've found the site. The address he gave me said it was the second house in the first row. Still, I check my phone again and park my car in a convenient spot.

My hands are shaky and my body is tense. I'm wearing a black dress with straps that looks pretentious. The fabric is combed cotton. I put it on thinking she'd like it, wanting to seduce her, and now… I don't know what to think.

My finger goes to the doorbell and I ring it timidly. After a short but tense wait, the dark street is illuminated by the light of the television coming from inside as the door opens.

Evans is dressed in a stylish gray long-sleeved t-shirt and beige linen pants that hug his legs. His muscles are visible even in the shirt, which is not tight. Thick-rimmed glasses cover the blues of his eyes. I smile as I look at him because he is looking at me.

"Welcome, Russian." He pulls slightly away from the door and gestures for me to pass through. The house has a cool air and an overpowering smell of air freshener. It's nothing like May in Oregon.

To the left of the main entrance is a German-style kitchen. On the left, a large living room is cut by a half wall. The LCD TV is placed on a TV unit that matches the wallpaper of the house. A movie I saw on Netflix is on the screen.

Just as I'm about to realize the moment and start to question what I'm doing, I feel warm skin on my arm. Evans bends down to pick up my bag. His face is priceless up close. His beard looks so neat. His lips are as glossy as fresh honey and they seem to be begging me to kiss them.

Chris Evans is about twenty years older than me. Even though this age difference is more than I expected, I feel like nothing can stop me from being with him.

On the dining table near the living room, the service is open, decorated with two tall candles. The deep red napkins and plate decorations in the same color suggest more than just a dinner party.

I look at the professor as he hangs my bag on the umbrella by the wall. It feels strange to see him dressed differently outside of school. His smile, combined with his gaze, which is more eager than usual, makes it clear that tonight is not just about dinner.

"You look good, Mr. Evans," I say, clenching my jaw. His smile widens and he thanks me softly. He grabs my waist with his hand and pushes me gently against the table. The place Evans touches instantly bursts into flames and I curse inwardly that my hormones are going so crazy for this man.

"And you look more beautiful than ever, Y/N." like a gentleman, he pulls out my chair and waits for me to sit down, then sits down across from me. He fills two glasses bought for wine with cherry juice, which I can smell. I can't help looking at him and giggling.

"What? Did you really think I was going to make you drink wine?" he says, laughing like me.

I don't say anything to him and watch as he fills our plates with some kind of experimental food I've never seen before. I think it's wrapped in bacon on the outside, and it reminds me of the expensive beef jerky we eat in Russia.

When he's finished serving it, he looks at me and smiles.

"What are you showing me by not pouring wine into my glass, Mr. Evans?" I hate that I can't really keep my mouth shut and I look for the undo button on my lifeline.

His smile breaks slightly. "You're right, I didn't think it was appropriate for you to drink as a teacher, but I clearly didn't behave like a teacher by inviting you to my house at this hour."

"I didn't mean it like that," I squirm. That's what I really mean. "It's just…" he interrupts when I can't think of anything to say.

"It wouldn't be bad to get a little drunk, would it?" I smile. That's not what I want to say either. But really, it wouldn't be bad.

"It looks delicious," I say, trying to change the subject. Wine or cherry juice… Evans is the only one who can get me drunk.

I pop one of the thinly sliced tomatoes into my mouth.

"Bon appetit, Russian."

Throughout the meal we don't talk much, except when I tell him how wonderful the bacon and the incredibly chopped salad are. At one point I feel his gaze on my breasts, exposed by the dress, but as soon as he realizes I've seen it, he asks me a few questions. He asks where my father is, who I live with at home, why I've never had a part-time job before and even about Dave.

My mother divorced my father two years ago because of the pressure he put on her. She didn't know she was pregnant with Y/S/N at the time, and afterwards, even though he wanted to get back together, she refused. I'm glad the two of them are not together. Because it is always better to live separately than to have a constant fight at home.

I live at home with my two-year-old little sister Y/S/N and my mother. My mother is on a long sabbatical from her job as an air hostess. She has to find someone to take care of Y/S/N soon and resume her job.

I never had a part-time job like other high school students because I had to take care of Taya when my mother was away, which never happened because I didn't have the opportunity when I was old enough to work.

I sit back with the satisfaction of having eaten such a delicious meal from such a handsome man. My cherry juice is at the bottom and there's not even a crumb left on my plate to scrape off. I wash my hands and ask where I can use the restroom. He tells me the restroom is upstairs at the end of the corridor on the right and asks if I want him to accompany me. I thank him and get up.

Before climbing the wooden stairs, I go and get my bag from the coat rack. I take out my deodorant and put the bag down.

It's darker upstairs than downstairs, so I have to turn on a light, otherwise the house will go from sensual to eerie. The bathroom, like all the rooms in general, is decorated in dark colors. A wooden under-sink cabinet, a dark brown shower cabin and a toilet with black tiles.

As soon as I've done my business and come out of the restroom, I hear Evans' voice from downstairs. He's making another phone call. I listen to him without making a sound, even though I know very well that it is not true.

"No, I don't want to," he says and listens to the other line.

"This is not going to end well, Yanus. I told you not to get involved." His eyes drift to the stairs, to me, and I instantly pull my head back. I'm sure he doesn't see.

"I'm not available, let's talk later," he says to Yanus. But I see that he doesn't turn off his phone and moves to the half wall, picking up a notepad. He rummages through my bag on the floor and finds a ballpoint pen.

"I'm writing, tell me." He writes something in a notebook in a beautiful script. "I don't care, I can't. I gotta go." I see him hang up the phone and I start to go downstairs. What's going on? What are you up to, Chris Evans?

When he sees me coming down the stairs towards him, he tears up the paper he wrote on his notepad, crumples it up and puts it in his back pocket.

I need to see what he wrote on the paper. But how? I can't sneak it out of his back pocket. And I can't show any suspicious behavior under the looks he's giving me right now.

"You were listening to me," he says. It's the same tone of voice he used that day in the hallway when he cornered me.

My hands are shaking as I think about what to say. It's not a yes or no sentence. I'm in his house, there's no way I can escape if I give it away. If what he's doing is bad and I'm not supposed to know, he can kill me with the golf clubs in the corner.

Some people have turning points in their lives. Points of enlightenment, points of truth. Mine usually happen when I'm stuck and there's nothing to do. I have an incredible burst of intelligence and somehow manage to get out of the situation.

That's what happened this time. An incredible movie scene came to mind. The ballpoint pen left a mark on the notebook Evans was taking notes in. If I can get the notebook, I can see what he wrote, and if I distract him, he might forget the notebook exists.

I do the only thing I have to do. I step towards him and I put my hand on his pants, where the belt should be, and I pull him to me and I get close to his face.

"Mr. Evans," I blow my warm breath on his lips, "your bed looks comfortable."

As the swelling under my hand increases and he starts to move, I push him a little more and lean him against the half wall, where the notebook is. I wet my lips with my tongue and press them to his. He smiles when I leave a short kiss on his lips and pull back without breaking the distance.

I run the fingers of my free hand over his face, and he grazes my hairpin, causing my hair to fall over my shoulders. As I rise up on my toes and lean into his ear, I pull my hand away from his face and push the notebook on the wall towards my bag, which is lying open on the floor. I whisper to him so that I can't be heard. Or rather, as I'm about to whisper, he wraps his arms around me and kisses me again.

The notebook is in my bag.

"Do you want to try something else delicious, Russian?"

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[creativepawsworld]

Silence - Chapter 54

Pairing = Thomas Shelby x OC

Summary = Ana is in labour. Will Tommy return in time for the birth of his child? Will John have to step up and deliver his future niece or nephew?

Warnings = Language...Grammar...Virginity losing mentioned...Alcohol consumption... Prostitution mentioned...Child Birth...

Word Count = 1,874

Note = I know it's dragging and I am so sorry. Hoping to get back in the swing now. Guess am nervous to write after leaving it so long. I liked this chapter as it shows the relationship between John and Ana and I think that's adorable personally. I'm also a C-Section mum who never experienced labour pains so I tried!

“That’s impossible it’s too early John,” I hissed hearing the words he said to Arthur who was still sitting on top of the table confused, by the request. He had a bottle of whiskey in one hand and, a glass in the other.

“I’ve seen the signs, Ana, I am a father myself. Arthur go now and find Esme too” John demands getting up and walking towards me. He placed a gentle hand on my shoulder, rubbing it softly in support. “How are you feeling? Is it like a tightening?” He asked softly, a gentle look on his face.

“More like a pressure” I exhale slowly, trying to stand up straight. I was getting nervous, and scared. Not only was it too early but Tommy was nowhere to be found and there was no way I was having this baby unless I knew where Tommy was. I heard a rustling, noticing Arthur's back as he left through the green doors in search of the women of the Shelby family.

“Do you feel like you have to push?” John asked rubbing my shoulders, his voice easy and kind. I knew it was to help me relax but that wasn’t happening right now. I was in no way ready to relax or to have this baby.

“I…I don’t know” I whispered, my hand resting just on the under part of my bump. "I mean maybe, the pressure is all pushing down on me"

“Alright, come on into the house, we need a bed for this” John nodded ushering me back towards the green double doors Arthur had just left through and into the Shelby dining room. But we didn’t stop there. He walked slowly with me through the house, speaking calmly as we made our way up the stairs and into Tommy’s old bedroom.

The green wallpaper and single bed caused memories of the night I lost my virginity to the man I had fallen head over heels in love with in this bedroom to enter my mind. The memory brought a happy, calming feeling to take over but it only lasted a few moments before another contraction hit.

“Now I’ll be honest Ana I haven’t a clue what I am to do now” John chuckled unsure, scratching the back of his head, a nervous look on his face. “But just lay back on the bed, breathe and try to relax”

“I can’t relax, Tommy is missing. How can I relax?” I asked glaring at him as I rubbed my bump. I sat down on the bed, ignoring his advice to lie down. “Where is he, John? The mission was a success. Campbell is dead, no one could have possibly told on him. Where is he? Where did he go?”

“I wish I knew Ana. But we have men out looking for him, I promise we will find him and he will be back in time to meet this new little Shelby” John tried to assure me with a nervous smile on his face.

“And if he is not?”

“We are not going to think of that now, are we? No” John raised an eyebrow looking around Tommy’s old bedroom. It was clear he was uncomfortable being in this situation but he knew he couldn’t leave. If he was right and I was in labour, I couldn’t be left alone. Not when I was this vulnerable.

“John, I’m scared” I confessed my true feelings as I rubbed my stomach, grimacing at the tightening feeling I had every so often.

“Nothing to be scared of, this is exciting. We were successful at the Derby and now we have a new family member to welcome. It's a good day for the Shelby family,” John tried to put a positive spin on the situation, sitting next to me and taking my hand into his. “I know it's hard, but I remember Polly telling me how dangerous stress is to a baby so please Ana, for my little niece or nephew…”

“I know, I know” I nodded squeezing his hand as I tried to relax.

“You know, I almost married Lizzie” John chuckled looking over at me with his blue eyes. They were not as blue as Tommy’s but they were still pretty. Full of life. Full of mischief.

“Lizzie Stark?” I asked furrowing my eyebrows and looking over at him.

“Yeah, Lizzie Stark. Asked her and she accepted and all” John nodded “I wanted a mother for my kids. They were running rings around me. Out in the street without shoes, chasing off nanny after nanny. I couldn’t keep up. I believed a mother would see them right,”

“What happened?”

“Well as you know she was a woman of a particular career choice. She serviced shall I say Tommy and myself. I thought she would do, she was a woman, she gave me bloody good orgasms and she said yes” John chuckled. I couldn’t help but grimace as he mentioned the pleasure he received from her.

“I told the family and they fucking laughed at me. Belly laughs but ultimately they were right” John sighed “Tommy did a test with her. She promised to change her ways but she lied. She was willing to service Tommy one more time even though she said yes to me… She also had other men she was keeping on, I felt like a fool” John looked over at me, squeezing my hand. “You weren’t an option at this point by the way. I don’t think you were anyway. Tommy hadn’t got his claws into you yet”

John’s words made me laugh, his story keeping me occupied as I listened to his words carefully. I didn’t know John was once engaged to Lizzie, I knew she had serviced both brothers but I didn't know she almost married one, that was new.

“I sat on this bed with our Tommy after finding out the truth. Realising Lizzie wouldn’t change,” John chuckled pointing at the chest of drawers near the bed. “He had a pipe there and I got so fucking high to deal with the pain. Not because of Lizzie’s betrayal, I suppose part of me expected that but for the loss of my wife. For the fact my kids were growing up without a mother and I had no control”

“Oh John,” I whispered squeezing his hand. My grip getting tighter as a contradiction rippled through my abdomen.

“Tommy was such a hard ass as you know, he came in gun drawn thinking I was some fucking, some fucking nobody I don’t know. He sat next to me, like I am with you now and we talked about our younger selves. Making jokes, connecting like we used to. He talked about our grandfather, now our grandfather was a right ole stingy git, worked every day of his life but not for honest money. He swindled and stole, apples don’t fall far from a tree you know. Tommy put on the voice he did when we were kids, imitating him, our grandfather,”

“But the reality was we weren’t kids anymore. Not anymore. And that hit hard that night. But that night he promised, our Tommy promised that we’d always look after each other, no matter what. And I want to make that promise with you to Ana” John turned looking at me directly in my eyes, holding my hand “No matter what happens, we have your back, you hear me?”

John’s words had me feeling emotional as I nodded looking at him. I felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. I had lost James but had gained a brother with John and Arthur. A sister with Ada. I had lost my best friend but appeared to have gained three more.

“I know your memories of this bedroom are much, much different than mine” John nudged trying to lighten the conversation once he noticed I was getting emotional. “Eh, eh” He teased playfully causing me to blush. He wanted me to be laughing and smiling, not upset or stressed.

******

John and I remained in the room for the next hour, Arthur had yet to return with either Polly or Esme. I could tell John was beginning to panic at the idea of having to deliver the baby himself, he even considered taking me to the hospital which I refused. I wanted to be here in case Tommy returned. This is where he would go I just knew it.

The contractions were coming thick and they were coming fast. I was in a lot of pain, sweat had covered my forehead. John tried to cool me down with a wet cloth dabbing it along my head, face and neck as he told me stories from his childhood in hopes of distracting me and making me feel better. But the reality was quicker starting to set in. If Polly didn't arrive soon, John would be delivering this baby.

The contractions were coming quicker, almost every few minutes. I could see by John's reaction he was about to pass out. But he held his nerve well. Feeling the need to push, I knew I had to remove my underwear, John closed his eyes as I lay back legs spread, he was preparing himself to look when Polly came rushing through the door.

“GET OUT” She yelled, John not having to be told twice fled from the room no doubt going to sink an entire bottle of the finest whiskey. I believe that may have been the longest hour and a half of his life. “You okay love? How fast are they coming?”

“Too fast Polly, god it hurts” I groaned, Polly removed my underwear. Checking between my legs to get a good look at whether or not the baby was ready to be delivered. As she was checking, the door opened once again and Esme walked in with a small smile.

“A new baby eh?” She smiled coming over to hold my hand.

“Esme I need towels and boiling water now” Polly demanded rubbing my legs. Esme nodded leaving the room to get everything that was needed to deliver the newest member of her family.

“Tommy? Is Tommy here?” I asked breathing heavily, glancing down at Polly who made eye contact between my legs.

“Don’t be worrying about that right now you need to be worried about welcoming the newest Shelby” Polly smiled continuing to rub my legs. “You're very close my dear, very close indeed”

The next few hours passed in a blur. Polly was between my legs, and Esme was at my head coaxing me through it. The breathing, my screaming, the pain, both women were honestly a godsend. After what felt like an eternity, a baby’s cry was heard echoing off the walls of the room.

I had tears of joy and relief spilling from my eyes as I tried to sit up and take a peek. I didn’t have to wait long as Polly brought a baby wrapped in a towel towards me, resting the newborn on my chest. Looking down I noticed a tiny little head, with a mop of dark hair and bright blue watery eyes as they cried softly, looking for food.

“Congratulations Mama, it’s a beautiful baby girl”

Taglist

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[the-frostiest-of-flakes]

A Proper Goodbye

Fandom: Lockwood and Co. | Characters: Lucy Carlyle, The Skull Prompt: Magic Word Count: 1168 | Warnings: None | [Read on AO3] Summary: Lucy goes to a spiritual medium in the hopes of saying goodbye to an old friend frenemy.

---

“Lucy Carlyle?”

My head shot up, eyes landing on the pudgy old lady holding back the beaded curtain that led to the inner chambers of the small, rundown house.  I’d forgotten her name long before I’d even come here, but I recognized her as the medium that had been on the brochure.  Her brown hair fell in annoyingly careful ringlets around her face, her flowery dress was vibrant and saggy, and the lines around her eyes as she smiled made her seem shrewd instead of welcoming.

Rising out of the deep groove that I had formed in the musty couch that had probably seen the backsides of hundreds before me, I shouldered my backpack and followed the woman through the curtain.

Pots and pans had been flying out of the restaurant’s kitchen and around the dining area as Lockwood, George, and I hid under one of the tables, the long tablecloth obscuring our view.

Pulling the skull out of my bag, I had glared at it as it had made faces, each more repulsive than the last.  “Stop playing around.  We’re on the job.”

“Oh, it’s ‘we’ now, is it?  Last I checked I wasn’t a member of the team.”

“Because you’re dead and I’m the only one your sorry excuse for a ghost can talk to.”  I had ignored the looks my friends were giving me.  “Now where’s the source?”

“Hm, maybe in the kitchen.  Maybe out here.  Ooh, I know!  Why don’t you go to a seance and speak to him yourself?”

I had rolled her eyes.  “I’m not an idiot, skull.  Seances and all of that ‘magic’ stuff isn’t real.”

It had sniffed.  “Alright, but don’t say I never offered you any help.”

The room was small, with faded deep red wallpaper.  The majority of the space was taken up by a round table in the center, covered by a draping tablecloth.  A tacky crystal ball sat in the middle.  The old lady sat on one side of the table, motioning for me to take the seat opposite.  I did so, the cushioning of the chair hard and rocky from so much use.  Just how many people fall for this stuff?

The lady stretched out her hand towards me, eyebrows lifting emphatically.  “That’ll be fifty up front, dearie.”

No wonder these scams managed to stay in business.  This was highway robbery!  I rifled through my pockets, pulling out a wad of money and handing it to her.  She gave me a nod.  “I expect you read my brochure before scheduling?”

“Yes.”

“Good, good.  Then you know I need something that belonged to the deceased in order to channel them.”

I fought the urge to roll my eyes.  She meant a source, of course.  Or something that could have been one.  It was getting harder and harder to come by a bonafide, active source these days.  And even if you did, they were meant to be destroyed, not carried around willy-nilly as a keep-sake.

Opening the bag at my feet, I pulled out a human skull, placing it on the table with care.  The woman stared, her eyes bugging out of her head.  “I…well.  That’s certainly the most…interesting item anyone’s ever brought me.”

“If you’re just going to judge me, I’d like my fifty quid back.”

“Right, right.  Of course.”  Clearing her throat, she took the skull, placing it squarely in front of her.  “Name?”

“Skull.”

She blinked.  “Just ‘skull?’”  When I said nothing more, she gave a small shrug, and laid her hands upon the cranium, humming a low note.  I leaned back, watching with a raised eyebrow.  So far, this wasn’t very impressive.

“Oh, spirit of the great beyond.  Oh, skull.  We wish to speak with you.  I call upon you to join us here today, and to speak with those you left behind.”

As the last word left her lips, a change came over her.  Her posture shifted to more of a slouch, and her expression grew comically repulsive.  Her eyes, now beady, bore into me.  It was good acting, I’d give it that.

“Well, well, well, look who it is!  Let me guess, you missed me so much, you went to the first crazy old lady you could find and begged her to help you talk to me.”

I’d never told her anything about the skull’s personality, or what he had been like, yet her impression was surprisingly close to home.  Had she done research somehow?  Or was this how she treated every less-than-pristine client?  I gritted my teeth, rising from the chair.  “I should have known this was a waste of time.  You’re just scamming innocent people out of their money.”

“WHAT?!”  The woman’s face morphed into an expression of outrage.  “You think this smelly old tart could impersonate me?!  Impersonate my charm?!  It’s like you don’t know me at all!”

“Oh, please.  I’m not going to fall for this.  Seances and—”

“—All of that ‘magic’ stuff isn't real,” she interrupted me.  “Yeah, yeah, I heard you the first time when we were under that table a while back.  If that horrible carpet was any indicator, that restaurant didn’t deserve its three stars.”

I froze, jaw going slack.  This was getting too surreal.  There was no way the woman could have learned all this.  Was there?

“Well?  Are you just going to stand there and gawk?  Knowing you, you were probably cheap and got the shortest time slot possible, so hurry up!  I’m not going to spend the whole time watching your stupid face.”

Shaking myself out of my stupor, I inched closer to the woman — who apparently wasn’t a fraud after all.  “It’s…it’s really you?”

“Yes, it’s me, you idiot.  But if you start crying I’ll break this connection without a second thought.”

I glared at it.  “Nice to see you haven’t changed.”

“Likewise.  I bet you’re a complete mess without me.  No interesting conversation partners anymore.”

I bit back a retort, taking a deep breath.  I wasn’t here to argue.  “I did miss you.”

“Well, of course—”

“And I wanted to give a proper goodbye.”

It blinked.  “Ghosts aren’t very good with goodbyes.  Hence the whole ‘sticking around the living’ thing.”

“Well, even so.  Thanks for helping us — helping me when we were facing Marissa.”

“I couldn’t let her pompous, sorry excuse for a type three get the last laugh, could I?  What kind of self-respecting evil spirit would I be?”

I smiled.  “Not a very good one.”

“Exactly.”

We were silent, the skull making the woman gain a contemplative crease in her brow.  Finally, it said, “Could you do me a favor?  Wherever you put my skull after this, just make sure it's not in view of Cubbins.  Even if I’m not attached to it anymore, I don’t want its empty sockets getting desecrated like that.  Ooh, better yet, give it a front row seat to some daily suffering.  That’ll be good.”

I held back a laugh, nodding.  “I’ll do that.  Goodbye, skull.”

“Goodbye, Lucy.”

[irisbleufic]

Post-Halloween momentum continues. There are now 9 chapters out of a definitive 12 posted. Set in 1973. One random misdirect during Daniel’s encounter with Louis at Polynesian Mary’s, and the entire night’s events change drastically for Daniel and Armand (and the future changes for everyone). Reckless gremlins, everyone involved.

Open Your Mouth (2024-10-25)

Test the Theory (2024-10-26)

Twist the Blade (2024-10-27)

Pretend It's Me (2024-10-28)

Trust Without Limits (2024-10-30)

Ask Me Anything (2024-11-01)

Follow Your Dreams (2024-11-02)

Spend Your Silver (2024-11-03)

Come With Me (NEW, 2024-11-03)

TEASER:

Daniel stares at the narrow house in front of him, the steep stairs leading up to the gabled front porch.  The windows have been newspapered from the inside, creepy if he’s honest.  He jogs up the stairs and slots the wrong key in the door.  That one must be for the back.  There’s only one other key, so he gets it right on the second try.  He hits the first light switch he can find, blinking as the space floods with a muted orange glow.

This is a depressing rental property if Daniel has ever seen one.  From the mediocre paintings and prints on the walls to the darker patches of wallpaper where some frames have been taken down, Louis hasn’t done anything to improve the place.  There’s a strong smell of disinfectant emanating from the chipped, but immaculate parquet floor.  He takes an inventory. Kitchenette, dining table and chairs, television, sofa.

[pollunam]

Flaws. Part 1.

Warnings: 18 + blood, and canon typical violence.

"So, Gus, I want to introduce you to a lady who will be joining you," Gabbin nodded, gesturing to open the door. I stood confidently behind her, fiddling with my gloves. I wouldn't say I was easily frightened. Try being scared when your father made you throw knives at apples atop your brother's head from childhood.

The door creaked open, revealing a smoke-filled room. Smoke swirled elegantly in the air, forming intricate patterns against dark wallpaper and faces full of hope, albeit not the most enthusiastic ones.

"Well, this is Gus March-Phillips. Maybe not the finest gentleman, but he knows his trade," Gabbin introduced.

"Welcome, milady," he smiled, adjusting his already curled mustache.

I nodded. "Lovely coat, I think I've seen it on someone else before."

Gabbin sighed heavily. "It's time for you to go, before he starts undressing me."

I smiled, pulling out a cigarette. Gus promptly offered a lighter.

"And I'm certain I've seen it somewhere too."

With that remark came two heavy sighs, and we triumphantly left the room. There was no time to think about formalities; we had a challenging task ahead, which I already knew about, but this man inspired confidence.

"Our team is quite unusual, I trust you understand that," Gus closed the car door with my suitcases already inside. The driver set off, illuminating the gravel road with yellow headlights.

"It doesn't bother me; I'm part of this 'unusual' company," I air-quoted.

"They'll like you."

"Now I'm nervous," I chuckled.

"I just can't figure out how they picked you for this assignment. You don't look like a reckless headhunter at all."

"Someone has to keep an eye on you boys."

The car stopped at the pier. The night air was fresh and breezy, blowing in from the ocean. Salty splashes danced joyfully at the shore, cresting with white foam on the sand. The sky glittered with a myriad of stars, perhaps the most romantic scene I'd ever witnessed. I stood mesmerized, watching the waves break beautifully against the pier.

"Enjoying the view?" Gus held my suitcases. "Too bad, it's time to go. I'm sure the ship's view won't disappoint."

I nodded quickly, following him.

"Finally, we've been waiting for you," someone shouted from the deck, and a head in a comical sailor hat appeared over the stern. "Good evening, milady," the stranger whistled, offering his hand. "Graham at your service."

I smiled. "Thank you for your help. This dress isn't the best attire for a ship." With one hand, I lifted the hem of my dress to climb aboard.

"Then take it off," a broad-shouldered man with round glasses appeared in the cabin doorway. His accent marked him as a foreigner. Tall and sturdy, he resembled a Viking woven from northern winds.

"Isn't that a bit forward of you?" I retorted.

"I didn't mean what you thought, mind you," he chuckled warmly.

"Then say it so you're understood."

"Affirmative, my dear."

I flared up. The big guy was clearly teasing me.

"Anders, where are your manners?" Gus shook his head. "We're not a band of brigands; we're gentlemen who never underestimate ladies. Especially ones like her."

"Are you planning to travel with us?" Anders agilely descended from the cabin. "This isn't an Atlantic cruise."

Graham whistled again. "Pay him no mind. He's big, but not the brightest."

"No problem. I just don't understand how such a massive bear isn't sinking the ship with his presence."

Anders squinted. "I find that amusing."

"I'll try to entertain you more often," I smirked.

"Good evening! I'm Freddy," a man appeared from behind, sporting a blue scarf around his neck. He smiled warmly and openly.

"I'll show you to your cabin. Space is tight, but we'll find something suitable," Gus gestured for me to go ahead, descending a small staircase inside.

The large room served as a dining area, kitchen, and bedroom with two bunk beds. It smelled of apples and wine. The beds were neatly made, and an open bottle of alcohol sat on the table, emitting a pungent scent.

"The safest bet would be one of these beds."

"Seems like there aren't enough."

"Don't worry, we've got sleeping bags."

"I can take it, no problem. I've slept in worse conditions."

"No, no. We'll do it differently," Gus grinned, "forget about the sleeping bag, it's pure mockery."

"Listen, Gus, I appreciate that, really, but it's not necessary at all."

"It's absolutely necessary, trust me. Conversation's over, just like the tour. Make yourself comfortable," he said, heading upstairs heavily, while I sat at the table, resting my head on my hands. Thoughts leapt and tangled in my mind. Well, this adventure was right up my alley: gunfire, smell of danger, and the scent of pure escapade.

I pulled out trousers and a white shirt from my suitcase and quickly changed, listening to voices from above.

"Someone needs to sleep in the sleeping bag tonight. We'll take turns after."

"I can do it, no problem," a hearty man offered. I chuckled approvingly, tying my hair up in a bun.

By the time I finished brewing tea for everyone, the ship had already set sail. Carefully, I climbed up, carrying four mugs.

"Thanks a lot!" Graham smiled, noticing me; he immediately took one cup, "need a hand?"

"No, it's alright, I'll manage."

Fredrick appeared right away, "now that's service."

"Just a friendly gesture."

Gus stood at the helm.

"Hey! Up there! Tea?"

"Leave it there, I'll get it later!" he shouted back.

I carefully placed the mug on the stair step and looked around for the Viking. How could one miss such a broad man - it was a mystery. A silhouette appeared at the stern. Anders was coiling rope, sitting on the edge of the hull; he seemed completely absorbed in his thoughts, focused on his task.

"Hi again," I leaned against the rail, offering him a steaming cup, "care for some?"

"Is it poisoned?"

"No, if I wanted to kill you, I wouldn't do it so blatantly."

"Now I'll have to be on guard," Anders smiled, taking the tea, "thanks."

I looked at the receding shore, flickering in the darkness like a fallen star.

"Why are you here? I mean, your job... it's quite... dangerous."

"It's a long story of family drama, but I'm glad to be where I am, despite the danger."

"I understand, yes," the Viking nodded, "I have a similar story."

"Where are you from?"

"Denmark."

"Ah, a true Viking," I smiled, "how could I possibly be scared then?"

"Still, don't anger me, alright," Anders also smiled, adjusting his glasses, "I like how you called me that, but please don't spread the idea."

"Deal."

We sat in silence, listening to the sound of water pushing against the hull and the wind whistling through the sails. The coolness enveloped me, but it seemed I had completely forgotten about it, imagining London engulfed in fire and war, left behind. Ahead, the horizon blended seamlessly with the ocean in a vast blue landscape.

"Aren't you cold?" Anders broke the fragile silence.

"A bit, but it's so beautiful here, I can't stop admiring."

"Better go below, it's easy to catch a cold in the ocean."

I nodded, "I'll go down soon."

Alone again, I leaned against the stern, staring at the ocean's surface. Dark as lead. I didn't feel like sleeping.

"Here," I didn't even notice Anders returning, handing me a blanket, "for the tea."

"Thanks, what will you do for two teas?"

"Save the pleasure for later. Although, you did take off your dress."

"Hey, Viking!"

He laughed, "I'm just kidding."

"Go already, or you'll catch a cold," I teased him back, wrapping the blanket around my shoulders.

"Just a tip, if you're sailing for the first time, it's easy to get seasick if you stare at the water. You won't notice when you fall in."

"My intuition tells me to listen to you, but common sense suggests testing that theory."

"Now I see why you're here," he sat on coiled ropes, "go ahead, test it."

"You're a troublemaker."

"How so?" Anders raised his eyebrows in confusion, "I've been sitting quietly, brought you a blanket, and said nothing about your clothes."

"Alright," I turned away.

In reality, I felt dizzy. I couldn't afford to collapse now, or else there would be enough jokes to fill three huge books titled "I'm the funniest person on Earth and I'm called the Giant Viking."

" You know, you really annoy me. I'd better go."

Anders slyly raised his eyes at me, "just like that? Just because of me, darling? You give up quickly."

"I've had enough of your teasing for today."

"Well then, good night."

He didn't move from his spot, not even a twitch, much like me. My legs felt weak.

"Are you alright?" Graham shouted, having taken over from Gus at his post, he raised an eyebrow, "you don't look too good."

"You all here are masters at giving compliments."

"I meant you look kinda green."

"Ah, no, that's my natural skin tone," I waved dismissively, feeling nausea creeping up.

"Alright, then can I take Anders from you? I need some help."

"No problem."

Anders stared at me intently, gripping the ship's railing.

"Five minutes, buddy," he signaled to Graham with five fingers, climbing up. "You know, my intuition tells me to just toss you overboard, but common sense," he scooped me up, throwing me over his shoulder, "suggests helping you again."

"Let me go, I'm about to be sick," I covered my mouth with my hand.

"Not on my favorite sweater. Hang in there."

"Oh God!" Everything blurred before my eyes. "I'm not kidding."

Anders sat me down on the step leading to the helm. "Don't go anywhere," he smirked.

I dropped my head back, closing my eyes. Silly rocking. Silly mission and silly Viking.

"Pour."

"What are you pouring?" I couldn't open my eyes, and that turned out to be a blessing because right after that command, water splashed over me. It eased the discomfort.

"I don't know what's wrong with your character, darling, but this is the second time in a couple of hours that I've had to come to your aid. And now I'll have to sleep in a sleeping bag instead of a warm bed."

"Well, it'll pass quickly," Graham's voice assured me, "I've been through the same."

"I warned you."

"It's okay, she'll recover," Freddie chimed in.

And I still couldn't open my eyes. I had no idea the ocean was a worse enemy than the Germans.

"Can you get up?"

"Yeah, just a minute," I sighed, gathering my strength, and slowly stood up, leaning on the railing. "I feel better, thank you, really."

"You'll feel like a fish in water tomorrow," Graham promised, "good night."

I nodded, unable to carry on the conversation.

"Let's go," Freddie offered his hand.

Anders critically observed what was happening, folding his arms across his chest.

1:0 in his favor, it seems. However, there's still plenty ahead.

[readtheuniverse]

My little home library is slowly coming together!

Me and my husband recently purchased our first house. We picked up the keys 2-weeks ago and we cracked on with some basic decorating such as painting and wallpapering some of the rooms we would be using the most (Living room, office and library!) We also got a new couch and dining table!

The library will eventually have floor-to-ceiling shelves on the back wall, but for now I have a single book case and a couple of Kallax units (which I still need to put in!)

The house is starting to feel more and more like a home each and every day and we cannot wait to make memories and start a family here.

[steadypet101]

CW: Long post

"Valentine's Day art collection (sort of)"

Happy Valentine's Day! Here are the pen traced versions of my two favorite gay hedgehogs, and here are my TMNT Mutant Mayhem first two couples with my ocs. (I would've drawn Miffy and Reagan art, but I haven't drawn their bases just yet, I'm so sorry about that.)

So anyway, I have a short little story for these three. But since we all know how the first top part goes, I'm going for the bonus Sonadow.

"Nose to Nose" - Sonic grabbed Shadow quickly in a flash by his arms, making the dark hedgehog yelped in surprise. Suddenly, his nose touched the speedy blue hedgehog's nose. Still surprised by this, Shadow is speechless by this, which makes Sonic smile.

"Oh, come on, Shads. Don't act like you never wanted a nose to nose," Sonic said coyly.

"I don't. But just to humor you, I'll go along," Shadow said with a smirk on his face.

The hedgehogs then rubbed their noses together, making their hearts soar.

"I love you, faker," Shadow said.

"I love you, too, Shadow," Sonic said happily.

Shadow chuckled. "I love you more."

"I know you do."

--

"Alinardo adorkable kiss selfie" - "Come on, Leo! Let's take a selfie together!" Lea called out to Leo from peaking her head through the curtain into his and his brothers' bedroom after finishing cleaning up his twin katana blades with a rag.

He smiled as he put his blades in the corner of his space. "Okay, we'll go and take some with my phone," he said as he stepped out of the room.

"Yay!" Lea cheered. She watched Leo take out his cell phone from his belt, open up a camera app, and gesture the girl to come. She placed her hand onto his shoulder and prepared to smile for the camera. Just then, Lea pulled Leo closer to her face and began to kiss him on the cheek. Blushing, the leader in blue smiles for the camera with his adorkable smile as he takes the photo.

After the photo was taken, Lea took the phone and took a look at it with a smile. "Aw, Leo! We look so cute together! You especially look so cute with that smile."

Still blushing and smiling, Leo has a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Y-you think I have a cute smile?"

"I don't think, I know," the human replied.

The mutant turtle couldn't help but grinned widely.

"Hey, think you can send me this photo to my phone?" Lea asked as she gave Leo back his phone. "I want to save it and use it for my home wallpaper."

"Sure. I'd would love to," Leo said warmly.

--

"Susietello surprise kiss selfie" - Susie was studying on the dining table in the Turtles' lair when Donnie was approaching towards her. "Hey, Sue. Want to take a selfie with me?" Donnie asked as he took out his phone.

"Well, I'm a little busy at the moment, but I guess I can relax my brain for a bit," the human friend said as she closed her textbook and set it aside.

They both walked towards the opening of the lair, and Donnie had his camera ready. Meanwhile, Sue was planning how to make this selfie photo more memorable as she was fixing her pastel green hair and her glasses.

"Okay, ready?" the purple clad turtle asked.

"Ready," Sue answered.

The two get close together with the timer set. As Donnie smiled for the camera, he felt a hand on his head and a small kiss on his side of his head. It was Sue, and his facial expression changed from a photogenic smile to a surprised one. The camera clicked, and they both took a look at the photo. Donnie's heart was fluttering when he saw the proof of Sue kissing him.

"Uh, did-did you just?..." he stammered timidly.

"Yeah, I did. I thought this photo would be nice instead of our usual peace signs and making silly faces each time we take selfies," Sue smiled warmly. "Sorry about that."

Donnie couldn't help but blush at this. He smiled back to her. "No. This is perfect. I love it. Thank you for that. I really mean it."

"You're welcome, D. Anything for my best mutant turtle friend ever."

They shared smiles towards each other and began to head back to the lair. Donnie couldn't stop thinking of Sue's actions to the camera. He didn't expect that to happen, but it did. He was surprised, but he was happy that his human crush kissed him. Wish it would be on the lips, though, but oh well. There's always next time.

--

Wow, that's a lot of typing. Anyways, sorry if my stories were crappy. I hope y'all like them all. I'll edit them a little later.❤️🩷❤️🩷

[mantrabay]

Far Beyond Hereafter

Team leader Renee peered out

of her faux gold window around a pulsing Friday noon.

“Almost like we’re puppets of each other down there.

Maybe everywhere?”

Albert, her partner and co-worker were apt to look down on the buzz where their joint venture, their central office, was located.

Quite often hoards of people of all age groups hung out, shrieked with joy, abandon, near the hazy plume cafe.

They were snacking and sharing purchases.

There was rainbow signage to the left of this group promoting all the companies within Renee, and Albert’s brief.

The name of their company was Hereafter Unlimited.

Close and “trustworthy” friends formed this postgraduate 7 person cluster which later evolved into quite a

mind-bogglingly complex concern.

Hair-raising hubs were hatched.

Geniuses one and all created one matrix after another of sequential self-financing companies.

Ideas among them spread like avalanches.

Songs and puns were sung.

They had “flames” or “wildfire” intensity at their fingertips.

They were at the mercy of their own brilliance.

Their aim was to bring countryside joys into every nook and cranny in their chosen capital.

There were bookstores, clubs, restaurants and other outlets named after the multifaceted rustic charms that obsessed them.

Each outlet had a communal dining area to draw in clientele.

The underlying idea behind all these shops, stores, stations

was to have a magnetic pull.

Havens, an escape hatch that would leave an out of this world impression on the visitor.

From energetic background music to kaleidoscopic screens, to elaborately sculpted tables, mahogany tint chairs, azure blue halo moon menus, kid zones in high jinx.

Cascade after cascade of hue swirls in tandem with jubilant dance trope very much in evidence.

A magic merry go round motif underpinned each inventive hub.

Once savoured, never forgotten.

Festivity a frequent festoon, mouth watering smorgasbord without rein running riot.

The element of surprise, key and kernel to atmospheres that thrived on visionary continuum.

Brains in this group were graded according to a binary system.

1 winner 0 as in loser.

A hypnotic mantra often -

“Winner, loser, hopeless chooser.”

There were even signs such as a straight finger for 1 or orb like finger sign for loser.

One might wonder aloud if this clique with their uncanny gestures would fit in anywhere else except this setting of their choice.

Hazy plume, rainbow eucalyptus, sylvan zephyr, amber leaf cascade,

lambent shroud, halcyon xanadu, wonder world cocoon, among the zany names they had thought of.

The staff each had nicknames linked to the above enterprises.

The brainstorming sessions they had had no drama or plot could “match.”

“Often have the feeling we are pawns to our ideas.”

Amber leaf sighed.

Lambent :

“This place is “dead on” for the wrong reason.

Smart is always in season.”

Lambent nodding to his “imaginary” sidekick “Shadow”

that seemed glued to his desk.

After all, they were used to that sort of thing as innovative university students.

This unusual alliance though city based had links to different areas.

But nothing would daunt this oddball eccentric clique and their very imaginative and oft bizarre aims.

They were nothing if not colorful.

They had this impressive office garnished with wallpaper having pictures of their various businesses and the names associated with them.

This franchise had been in existence now for over 5 years.

It was coping to an extent but there was an underlying desire to go beyond that.

A glorified high tek office routine secretly horrified everyone.

Lambent shroud, ICloud expert in the group was perhaps the zaniest of them all.

He had a fetish about hazes and how the term could be used.

Haze was his buzzword and

of course his very own in the ether mate.

He had a virtual sidekick called “Shadow.”

They used to speak to each other in rhymes.

“Hi there, going nowhere shadow.

I’m really stuck. Yuck!”

The other members of the group would tease Lambent Shroud.

They’d speak in groans n puns too.

You’d sense lambent was a little uncomfortable with it all.

The other members of this amazing group were all tall, had numerous quirks, and spoke with crystal clear clarity.

They stood out even when alone.

Their high IQ, articulacy, and physical presence were obvious requirements for this enterprise.

They were constantly with each other hatching plans.

But Lambent may have had a begrudging “one who leads” complex.

But was the cordiality apparent and only for appearances?

Team leader Renee is Hazy and Albert is Rainbow.

The brain sessions were more often than not impromptu.

Hazy, Halcyon and Amber would seem like cerebral archers the way they bounced informal sessions off each other.

The other pairs, bright spark subgroups would have these on the spot conventions.

“Sparks would fly.

High IQ flashes sky high.

We never ever say die.”

Eerie notion, pie in the sky.”

The smart seven chipping in one by one generating a certain heat.

Even fleeting cabals.

Their brain cliques they nicknamed “Bouncers,”

Or “Pools.”

“Blessing and a boon. Under a shimmering moon. You’ll be lifting trophies soon.”

Lambent the awkward rhymer.

Wonder world had a strained crease on his face.

“Crackpot scheme, halbaked dream, eccentric team.”

In reply.

And so the banter used to go until someone ran out of ripostes.

There were daily meetings also on security updates devised by the team.

But there was much nod and wink, subterfuge.

Amber Leaf the accountant controlled the cash flow, dividends, “watertight insurance,” wages, general outlay.

But one got the impression that there was something afoot.

Amber and sylvan nudged;

“Should we rhyme as we speak or maybe tweak til next week.

Isn’t Lambent leaning a lot on his Shadow.

The Alter Ego.”

Who is this Shadow to begin with Amber pried?

An umbrella term!

A watchful eye was maintained.

This most unusual group of mental giants were so astute that they crossed checked each others scheduling and tasks.

It all seemed so foolproof.

Turnover was quite considerable and there were really no grounds for complaint at any point.

But despite the cliques they could anticipate future trends which made sense but by the same token was spooky.

Betimes who actually did what with whom had a blurred demarcation.

When you have such active brain cells, another pseudonym for the catalyst co-op you might be forgiven for thinking at times it might seem monotonous.

“ Heck! What kind of service is this?

Fly in my soup. And that fish is off! And that’s not all.”

Sylvan Zephyr the ambassador was entrusted to diffuse awkward clients.

Shrieking and clamoring, heated exchanges over the phone subside after a protracted row.

One wonders why

Lambent Shroud had this uncanny smirk and one wonders at this stage why?

The wiles of his smiles were like a form of contagion in the region.

A comic contagion if you will was never far from the surface.

“I’ve just had this idea. We could have a different decor.

Like stick on flourishes.”

Halcyon Xanadu peeped.

Once again there’ we’re nods, some almost quasi-religious.

This may seem strange.

Another shuffle, cabal.

Lambent Shroud when not spinning joke shop rhymes, chatting with his shadow might suddenly burst into paroxysms of disdain.

Despite the cerebral nature of this undertaking each member of this esoteric business cult had their finger firmly on the economic pulse, the till.

“I keep checking my apps as asked though I leave the cash flow in reality to Amber.”

Hazy plume, who had the unenviable task of being the all-seeing-eye supervisor, and to keep the ideas surfacing from drifting into vermillion clouds.

“That’s good. Mightn’t be such a bad idea if we made a few spot checks on our hubs.”

Albert, alias Rainbow chimed.

Creativity was this seamless mesh.

But with all the paraphernalia at each desk perhaps sight was being lost of the original concept.

Maybe this might explain the present fractious undercurrent, stilted atmosphere that appeared to dwell within this epicentre.

“YAWN YAWN YAWNS.

WE USED TO DREAM MINT LAWNS.”

A vocal scat from Lambent or the uncanny “Shadow.”

Now and then at any rate.

“Muffled squeaks, awh, so sad,

yikes, bah, too bad.”

The rub, the nub, the hub.

Sometimes the puns were flaccid where they once had flare.

After 5 years the wide-eyed optimism of wanting to bring the green utopia to the steel and concrete jungle of modern city life had somehow peaked, or maybe approaching it.

This wasn’t always obvious, however.

“THUNDER AND LIGHTNING.

HOLY SQUAWKING CROWS.”

Halcyon Xandu.

“I just got a text from one of our hubs. One of the hub computers crashed and there was even some steam generated.

Volume of loud noises reported but calm was restored.”

Suddenly everybody awakened from their stupor despite the seeming hive of activity.

“As far as I can gather the crash was cleared fairly quickly.”

Xanadu again.

Tho a creeping suspicion crossed her face.

Everyone rushed towards a center spot on the floor.

A buzz quite unusual swept across the tight nuclear pulse clique.

There was always a certain surge about this place even during a lull.

All this very macabre in a mild sense conduct might seem like a scheme being cobbled together.

By someone but who knows what that someone is if a someone at all might be.

A prevailing milieu that was taut, tense, tho teasingly trivial constantly at tangents.

“Utter breathless oath,

unearthly surreal cache,

burst of universal apogee indelibly trumpets,

exalted plot as moonbeam stepping stone,

Mecca to a hue-laden vortex,

that sequesters sun-drenched harbors, gurgling stream meanders, moss-fleck tides,

mesmerizing shroud of lambent bayou,

hazy plume on silver waterfall,

scarab mountain chain at sapphire dawn.”

Sylvan Zephyr throwing down the gauntlet and eschewing his tentative role as tactful go-between.

You’ll have noticed the no corresponding taper of sounds known as rhyme.

A sleight of hand from the scheme team within the dream team was at play.

The following day wonder world cocoon did a whirlwind inspection of the various hubs.

Not best pleased.

It looked as if all the hubs were splitting up into subhubs.

The staff were being secretive in all the business operations.

Even certain ideas from headquarters which hadn’t been released yet.

Wonder world spotted rough outlines of change from the corner of her eye relating to the above tract.

Ominous thoughts lurking.

She began to detect a pattern.

“Holy charging elephants.

I smell a rat.

That’s that. Everybody get out of here.

is that clear?”

The complex jewel sensor super sensitive alarm system which had been added to by each member rang out.

Mysteriously each member incognito ( sometimes) installed extra features.

Ashen volcanic smoke left little to the imagination.

The 7 member cluster eschewedsafety protocol.

But somehow managed to escape against an anarchic, chaotic backdrop that surged at breakneck speed.

“What about our valuables, valuables?

Or are they “EXPENDABLES.”

Diplomatic Sylvan Zephyr not so diplomatic.

This incendiary incident shook the other hubs, the people in them and the surrounding area.

The thunderstruck brain camp, most of them gazed incredulously at what was unfolding.

A sky tower inferno of cinder spewing incidents, boom laden choirs with puns, warnings, alerts, rhymes, ones and zeros,

volcanic cackles, surreal demolition, and on the spot disintegrated havoc never seen before.

It ended in a gradual stepwise motion before collapsing into a gradual “Black Shadow Plume.”

This plume decided to hover over

a “Smirk” like structure redolent of “Someone.”

In many ways what was left of their business center looked like

the nirvana they as a group were trying to fuse with urban vim.

Renee nudged Albert who squinted at the corner of his eye.

They both spotted “Lambent Shroud” with a retinue that included other hub members, heading towards a country signpost!!!!

At least he was in that coveted dream lead role.

Renee opined. “I hear Lambent whispering to himself about missing something .. ..no longer a puppet? and the sidekick?”

Albert now clued in on this earth shattering denouement that engulfs layer upon eternal layer of tiered narrative.

Renee, Albert, Amber Leaf the reliable and infinitely shrewd person on money flow now swop knowing glances and scrutinise what is left of a once ornate “Landmark” project.

“Where do we all go from here I wonder?

But should we actually be asking that question at all?

We shouldn’t have the nerve or gall!”

Albert reflected with a “Stick On Smirk.”

As the local fire brigade arrives a “Haze” of a more “endowed” kind descends on Renee, Albert, Amber.

1’s and 0’s of a massive kind beckon!!!

And a nearby shop’s cash register tolls triumphant.

Three straight fingers now in sync!!!!!

This short story is dedicated to my wonderful sister Jay A Pallen.

Photographs and story all my own work

A genuine thanks to all my supporters and followers on Tumbrl

[lady-protector]

kaede's house lore walkthrough

I feel ridiculously self-indulgent today so I am going to take y'all on a guided tour of kaede's ingame house (crystal, malboro, mist, ward 19 plot 44, come visit it's nicer in person) with commentary on the decorations and lore behind them.

First off, the exterior!

before we go any further I would like you all to kindly pretend that the housing lottery DOESN'T hate me, and imagine that this is actually in the firmament. good? good.

due to its location and also some unfortunate exterior choices by my neighbors, the garden is not strictly canon-compliant, but it's close. especially the hot spring and training yard.

Foyer

here we have a large open entryway because I ran out of housing slots, with kaede's "war table" where she does all her mission planning (complete with much needed caffeine supply) and her adventuring alcove, aka the place she drops all her gear the moment she steps through the door.

of particular note: the gemseeker's pack (she's a goldsmith) and the flame armoire (a relic from her earliest adventuring days).

Kitchen

kaede doesn't cook, so the kitchen is pretty small and barebones, with at least half of it given over to alcohol storage. don't worry about it, she's fine. probably.

also from a decorating perspective, the kitchen is built over the stairwell to the unused basement, which I'm very proud of. if we ever get a housing item increase, I'll relocate the kitchen and bathroom to the basement lmao

Dining Room/Bar

the dining room features the first of our Elezen Man Portraits that kaede has scattered around her home. louisoix saved her parents at carteneau, so she has an enormous respect for the man. and overlooking the bar, on a nice warm hearth, is her portrait of Haurchefant. she wanted him to be somewhere welcoming.

of particular note: the food on the table was chosen to be lore compliant for kaede's favorite dinner guests -- the gourmet supper for herself, the high house supper set (what was served during the dinner date in 3.4) for aymeric, the alpine supper set (specifically mentioned as being special occasion food for rural ishgardians) for estinien, and the oriental supper for her nagxian co-wol, marz.

the servants are lore-compliant but they're not usually there -- they just come in every now and again to check on the place when kaede's gone.

Workshop

on the other side of the house is her crafting workshop! half of it is dedicated to her primary vocation, goldsmithing, while the other half is for less delicate metalwork (blacksmith and armorer). she also prefers to make her tea in here rather than venturing into her kitchen.

of particular note: the crystals on the floor are meant to be crafting crystals, and are wind/ice/fire/earth to correspond with the crystals required for the three crafting classes featured. the portrait of estinien is of...dubious lore-compliance. if it's actually there, she definitely just did it to annoy him. or because marz bought it and needed somewhere to store it. mostly it's there because I personally love estinien.

Stairwell/2nd Floor Hall

you might recognize that stairwell from basically any low effort gpose I've ever taken. yes I like window walls. anyway. the second floor hall is basically a trophy room -- kaede recently started keeping mementos from difficult/important battles. hydaelyn's crystal is given particular honor, while emet-selch and zodiark are banished to the far side of the stairwell so she doesn't have to think about them. it also features her paladin armor collection.

the house borel wallpaper is a little on the nose but I know what I'm about okay

Bedroom

do you know how hard it is to get a nice blue bed in this game? it's so annoying. the headboard is the footboard of an oasis canopy bed clipped into the wall, in case you were curious. I also keep waiting for them to put in a properly blue rug. anyway. also included is her letter-writing desk, and her vanity.

of particular note: the aymeric portrait is canon, the armor on the stand is the house fortemps chainmail she was given for the grand melee, the music boxes are prototypes for the ones she made for her clients in the GSM 60 quests. also she has a house borel teaset on her vanity next to her absurd collection of makeup and lotions.

Sitting Room/Library

perhaps in the hallway you noticed that the hydaelyn trophy's wings were oddly missing. that's because they are being used to frame the portrait of minfilia, who kaede cared for very much. you might also note my use of curtains instead of doors -- that's honestly just because enclosing rooms in this game makes me terribly claustrophobic. I don't think kaede is actually anti-door.

Drawing Room

one of my very favorite parts of the whole house, this room is given over to kaede's artistic pursuits -- namely, her love of piano, and her attempt at branching out from sketching into paint. she feels a great responsibility to depict the landscapes from her travels that most people will never see, and all the paintings on the wall in here are her work.

the "no entry" door goes to her bathroom, which is actually built in my FC chambers, since I ran out of space in my house. I was going to include it here, but tumblr is rude and only allows 30 images per post, sooo... some other time, maybe.

if you made it to the end of this, bless you for caring about my lizard and her lore <3

[cantevenbeachhere]

Dear Ken Diary,

Dude! You are sooooooo not gonna believe what's happened! I'm writing really big to match how big this news is!

WE'VE GOT MORE MOJO DOJO CASA HOUSES IN BARBIE LAND!!! YEEEEESSSSS! GO KENS!!!

Dude, this really is like the best thing that could ever happen to us! Like we all have our own spaces now! We have space to put things! We have places to go chill without being interrupted! We can sleep without other people's alarm clocks going off and waking us up! We can host parties! Like dude, the possibilities feel actually endless now!

And like the best part is I can still have all my friends and have my own space. I can decorate the whole Mojo Dojo Casa House like I want to! And best friend Ken can decorate his like he wants to, and Artist Ken can decorate his like he wants to, and Cool Ken can decorate his like he wants to, and ALL THE KENS CAN DECORATE LIKE THEY WANT TO!

I'm going to have a Beach room and a horse room and a movie room and make one of the rooms my closet and have a music/instruments room and a music/dance room and a workout room and oh my gosh, my dude, I can have more furniture that's mine besides a bedroom set! OH! I can buy a COUCH! I wanna big, soft couch that's like perfect for lounging. I want a couch and a recliner chair and a coffee table and a TV where I CAN PICK WHAT I WANT TO WATCH WHEN I WANT TO WATCH AND NOT HAVE TO FIGHT FOR THE CLICKER REMOTE! And I want a dining table and lots of chairs and...

I JUST REALIZED I CAN PAINT MY MOJO DOJO CASA HOUSE! OR WALLPAPER IT! WHY NOT BOTH???

Okay, Ken, let's not get way too ahead of ourselves here. Gotta like think this out and plan and stuff. This is like a LOT of big decisions all at once. But I can do this!!! I can totally do this; I can make good decisions and stick with them for more than a week. And you know what? If I want to change something, who cares because it's MY VERY OWN MOJO DOJO CASA HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOUSE!! YES YES YES YES YES YES!!

It's like really hard to write while practically bouncing up and down in excitement, ya know? I mean like, I probably should've waited to do this, but I couldn't wait! I gotta mark this in my Ken Diary because this is like a really, really big deal.

You know like, I actually didn't think this was gonna happen. I mean like, sixty something years without is like a long time, ya know? But NOW! TA-DA! I've got my very own Mojo Dojo Casa House. Not a community Mojo Dojo Frat House. My own.

Wonder what Barbie would say about that! I bet she'd be happy for me honestly. I bet she'd be happy for all of us.

...I'd love her input on things if she was here...

NO! No, Ken! Don't go there this time!

You know what, me? You're right. I'm not going to let me missing her bring down the good mood. I'm not! She would be happy for us Kens, and we're all very happy because we've all FINALLY have our own places to LIVE!

You know what? I wonder if I would want house plants, I think I want house plants! WAIT! I have a YARD now too! All to myself! Why stop at house plants? I could have outside plants too!

This is all so much and all so very very good stuff like I'm shaking I'm so excited!!!! There is sooooo much to do! I don't even know where to start!

Oh my gosh, dude, where do I even start????