#pendant buying guide

[wjdexclusives]

How to Choose the Perfect Cross Pendant: A Comprehensive Guide

https://www.wjdexclusives.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-perfect-cross-pendant-a-comprehensive-guide/

How to Choose the Perfect Cross Pendant: A Comprehensive Guide

Cross pendants have been cherished for centuries, symbolizing faith, hope, and love. Whether you're buying for yourself or as a gift, selecting the perfect cross pendant can be a meaningful and stylish endeavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the ideal cross pendant that suits your style and preferences.

1. Understand the Symbolism

Cross pendants carry deep religious and spiritual significance. Understanding the symbolism can help you make a more informed choice. For many, a cross pendant is more than just a piece of jewelry; it’s a reflection of faith and personal beliefs. Explore our cross pendants collection to find one that resonates with your beliefs.

2. Choose the Right Material

The material of the cross pendant greatly affects its appearance, durability, and price. Here are some popular options:

Gold: Timeless and elegant, gold cross pendants come in various shades like yellow, white, and rose gold. Pair them with our gold chains for a cohesive look.

Silver: Sleek and versatile, silver pendants are a classic choice for everyday wear. Check out our selection of silver chains to complement your pendant.

Platinum: Known for its durability and luster, platinum is a premium choice for cross pendants.

Stainless Steel: Affordable and durable, stainless steel offers a modern look.

3. Consider the Design and Style

Cross pendants come in a variety of designs, from simple and understated to ornate and embellished. Consider the following styles:

Classic: Simple and traditional designs that never go out of style.

Modern: Sleek and minimalist designs for a contemporary look.

Vintage: Intricate designs with an antique feel.

Gemstone-Studded: Cross pendants adorned with diamonds, sapphires, or other precious stones for added sparkle.

For those who prefer a more elaborate design, our Jesus pendants offer unique and meaningful options.

4. Size and Proportion

The size of the cross pendant should complement the wearer’s build and personal style. Larger pendants make a bold statement, while smaller ones are more subtle and versatile. Consider the length of the chain as well, ensuring it suits the pendant and the wearer’s preference. Our rope chains and Cuban chains are excellent choices for different styles and preferences.

5. Personalization Options

Many jewelers offer customization options, allowing you to add a personal touch to the cross pendant. Engravings, birthstones, or custom designs can make the pendant uniquely yours or a cherished gift for a loved one.

6. Budget Considerations

Cross pendants come in a wide range of prices, depending on the material, design, and brand. Set a budget beforehand to narrow down your options and find a pendant that offers the best value for your money.

7. Brand and Craftsmanship

Choosing a reputable brand ensures quality and authenticity. Look for brands known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can also guide you to trustworthy jewelers.

8. Purpose and Occasion

Consider the purpose and occasion for which you’re buying the cross pendant. Is it for daily wear, a special occasion, or a gift for a significant milestone? The intended use can influence your choice of material, design, and style.

9. Maintenance and Care

Different materials require different levels of maintenance. Ensure you’re aware of the care instructions for the pendant you choose to keep it looking its best for years to come.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect cross pendant is a blend of personal preference, symbolism, and practicality. By considering the material, design, size, personalization options, budget, brand, purpose, and maintenance, you can find a cross pendant that not only complements your style but also holds significant meaning. Explore our collection at WJD Exclusives to find exquisite cross pendants, Jesus pendants, gold chains, silver chains, rope chains, Cuban chains, and rosary chains that resonate with your faith and fashion.

[empty-vessel-of-a-person]

Reasons Why Zayne and MC is now being labeled as "Husband and Wife"

Note: Just my opinion. Not intend to compare with other LaDS men. Just general observation on how Zayne and MC act with each other which makes them like a Husband and Wife.

It is a canon from the main timeline of the game that they do accompany each other on business trips and M/C willingly and even volunteered herself to go with Zayne.

They are constantly in touch aside from the time MC go to N109 zone. She never tell Zayne about it.

When MC thought she is about to die in N109 Zone, she thinks of Zayne. Zayne was the only other LaDS men that was mentioned in Long-Awaited Revelry.

The Akso Hospital Staff, Captain Jenna, Captain , and Carter all knew about them.

In Wander in Wonder event, they so natural in doing stuff. It naturally come to them to do things as a team. While Zayne carve the Jade Pendant, MC works to provide food and earn them enough money to buy the jade. They don't even have to talk about it. This is why I love Zayne.

He is never a hard ass guy with "I will do everything" mentality. In his eyes, they are always a team. Even though I feel that he have much say to their relationship, he let MC do what she can for them. He doesn't take MC's individuality and right to do what she wants and he guides her instead.

In there messages/phone call/memory post, MC is almost always the one to look out for Zayne. She knows that they are both busy and she always do what she can to take care of her and he do the exact the same. I was squealing to that one where they nap together, Zayne is overflowing love for MC.

In Moonlit Dream, he initiated the intimate moment with Zayne. Some might say that MC also initiate the intimate moment with Rafayel. But hear me out. With Rafayel "they are trying to convince the maids" outside the room about their relationship. I'm not saying that what they have is unreal, but with Zayne, she initiate and willingly give herself to him. Same goes in Hidden Motive when MC willingly sits on Zayne's lap.

In Doomsday memory with Zayne, they are so deep in relationship that they are already doing groceries together. And I am kicking myself because Zayne suggested that kissing will be their everyday thing.. OMFGosh!!! This man gone from cold to hot! His character development is so subtle that even I was shock but thrilled with our progress with him.

Magnificent!

And lastly, while Zayne is not fond of MC talking with his male colleague to much, he still let her socialize with them. He isn't the type to be impolite with everyone that talk MC. He even let her plan a not so surprise party for him with his colleague. This is such a huge progress for Zayne since he prefer to be left alone.

Won't you love a guy that was ready to compromise with everything with you just to keep you happy?

[rayhalloffame]

Want to be coddled by artashi because you’re their little baby

In the mornings Tashi helps you get ready for the day, whether that be for Art’s match or running errands. She sits you in front of the vanity mirror and brushes through your wet hair. When there’s a particularly tough knot she pulls on that makes you wince she’s rubbing your scalp and rushing out an apology. She likes your hair pulled back so she can see your face, Art likes it down so he can run his fingers through it when you cuddle up to him. She settles for a half up and half down style today, ponytail tied neatly with a string bow. She admires you in the mirror while you’re distracted on your phone, one knee pulled against your chest, still stifling yawns from tiredness. Her eyes drag along the white lace set you have on, catch a second at the angle she gets of your clothed cunt. She considers letting you walk around without proper clothes all day but knows no one will get anything done, so she presses a kiss to your shoulder to let you know she’s finished. When you look up you smile at her and her heart melts. Her hand passes lovingly across your waist when you leave her to get dressed.

Art’s making breakfast and Tashi is sitting at the counter sipping coffee when you come out dressed in a tight little athletic dress that sits perfectly on your body. They both glance up at you when they hear your soft approaching footsteps. Art grins immediately, offering an arm for you to snuggle under from where he stands at the stove cooking eggs. When you reach him and attach yourself to his side, he reaches a hand to your jaw to tilt your face up toward his. He gives you a proper kiss, then a series of quick presses of your mouths that make you smile against his lips. “Good morning, baby. You look pretty,” he compliments. You blush and put your head back down to rest your cheek on his bare chest, you thank him. He finishes cooking breakfast with you attached to his hip, gently rocking you back and forth every now and again.

You go shopping and they buy you everything you want even when you insist it’s too much. You make sure to give them fashion shows in the dressing rooms to show your appreciation. If you kiss Tashi a little too long in your stall and an attendant comes to check on you, it’s no one’s business. Art carries the bags in one strong hand and when your pace struggles to keep up with Tashi’s quicker one, he guides you with a press of his wide palm to the small of your back. Sometimes Art gets stopped by fans and you start to fidget anxiously with the pendant necklace that hangs by your collarbones or the single ring on your right hand. Tashi always notices, draws you closer to her and settles you by smoothing down the loose hairs around your face.

Of course, a day is wasted without some training. Art convinces you to join him hitting balls that Tashi serves from across the court. They correct your technique a few times, and when Art catches on that you’re messing up the same swing just to feel his hands on you, he laughs, swats playfully at your butt with his racket. You’re sweaty and spent afterwards, letting Tashi wipe the moisture from your hairline and exposed back before you get in the car to go home.

The night routine is a little more challenging, especially after you’ve eaten and helped Tashi put away leftovers and clean the dishes. You’re so full and tired, how could you ever move from where you’re laid out on the couch? Your head is cushioned in Tashi’s lap, Art is rubbing your feet, and you retaliate with a whiny, “I want to stay here,” after Art’s ran his fingers up your shin to squeeze your thigh, suggesting you all take a shower and head to bed.

Tashi does fix you with a look then. She hates whining. Your cheeks flame with embarrassment and you’re sitting up almost immediately. The shower is completely for hygiene sake except when you turn your back to the water and see Art rubbing his hands down the front of Tashi’s body, mouth pressed to the back of her neck. You’re tired and they’re beautiful, so you’re happy to watch for a few moments. Tashi reaches her hand to you and pulls you into her, kisses you delicately with a hand cupped to your jaw.

Art dries you off with a plush towel afterwards, puts the blow dryer on cool to get most of the dampness out of your hair. You’re falling asleep where you stand, arms hugging yourself across your exposed chest, because of Art’s skilled fingers running through your hair and down the sides of your neck to get different angles with the dryer. Similar to Tashi, he tells you he’s done with a kiss to the side of your face, gives you a gentle pat to your backside to send you off to Tashi.

She’s waiting for you with cotton sleep shorts and one of Art’s oversized white tees. She lotions your body, presses light kisses to your joints after applying gentle pressure to relieve some of the soreness from your day. When you’re all finally settled in bed they’ve got you between them. Your head rests on Tashi’s shoulder and she traces her fingers across your scalp. Art’s pressed along your back, his arm thrown across your waist. His hand finds its way under the shirt you’re wearing and settles against your chest. His other arm is arched above your head so he can reach Tashi. He strokes her hair as well. You’re asleep within minutes. Not even your dreams are this sweet.

[witch-of-snow-and-stars]

How to Make a Charm Necklace Magic-Style

✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩‧⁺⋆⁺‧₊☽✧☾₊‧⁺⋆⁺₊✧✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

So in a recent post I talked about having a set of charms that I wear whenever I leave the house. I thought it might be a fun tutorial to detail how someone could make a similar thing for themselves! The post is a long one, so the rest of the guide is under the cut!

Step 1: Lay out all of your perspective charms and see what speaks to you and what you might want to put together. When you're choosing pieces, try to think of your goal and intent while you're putting your charms together (i.e. mine is for general day-to-day so I mostly focus the charms around safety, ease of way, and good fortune. Tailor yours to what you need). You don't have to make a necklace, just make sure that whatever you're attaching your charms to and the jump ring(s) connecting everything are sturdy enough to hold the charms' weight.

I have a 'main' components and 'auxiliary' components with the main components being the anchor points and foundation of what I'm working towards (i.e. I have my locket with sigils and my key charms as main components and I'll switch out the other parts as desired). Listed below are some ideas for options that you can combine, but use whatever feels best to you:

Lockets- I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that a locket is part of your configuration. You can fit a slip of paper with spells/sigils written on it AND if it's a scent locket you can add a bit of fabric with a perfume oil or a spell oil that would be safe to wear (check the spell oil ingredients if you're going to use a spell oil).

Bottle/Vial Charm Pendants- these are really good for wearable spell jars (you'd just have to careful about breaking them). You can buy pre-made bottle spell charms (there are a lot of options available) OR you can buy a vial pendant and do a working of your own choosing depending on your preferences/needs (there are also many options for empty vial charms you can buy). You could also keep spell powders/dusts in a vial charm (also usable for on-the-go workings).

Crystal Pendants- If you are someone who utilizes crystals in your practice, having some complementary crystals or crystals that you tend to favor can really add a kick.

Religious pendants/charms- Pentacles/crosses/saint pendants/deity pendants/etc. are all good options for this sort of configuration if they're something that features in your practice or you have a specific figure you want to invoke.

Symbol/Icon charms- similarly to the option above, charms that have animals/flowers/symbols/ whatever else you may want to invoke the properties/help of can be a good addition as well

Bells- bells have traditionally been used in different cultures for sound cleansing and to ward off negative spirits/entities. If that's something you might want (and are ok with making some noise) adding a bell might be a nice touch.

Keys- keys are useful magically for unblocking roads, gaining access, and invoking magic/energy relating to crossroads. Keys/key charms can be pretty easy to get too, so it might be worth trying to have one in your configuration.

Other meaningful charms: as it says on the tin, if it's important to you or you want to keep it on you, try it out in your configuration see if it will work well with it. In the picture above of my own pendant collection alongside more standard pieces there's an antique pen knife that can be worn as a pendant. Put whatever you want on these configurations is my point.

Tip! Some pendants like the pendant on the right have a paste/textured back that you can write on. If that's something you'd want to do, aim for something that looks like the pendant on the right. It's a solid way to hide sigil magic in your jewelry.

Step 2: Prepare the individual charms that you're going to be putting together. Clean/cleanse* everything appropriately (use mundane and magical methods), get sigils written out, anoint anything that you want to anoint, charge/enchant anything that needs it- whatever workings you need to do to the individual components of your charm necklace, do them now.

*If you're using metal pieces (especially if they're old/antique) there's a decent chance you may need to clean those pieces periodically with a metal cleaner/polish. When you clean the metal, do maintenance work for the rest of the configuration by charging/re-enchanting the other charms.

Step 3: Put your charms together and test out your configuration. Sometimes things won't work together as well together or a different component will work better in your configuration.

Ending Notes & Tips

If you put something like this on an object, make sure you focus on how you need/want to effect the object. Like, I have another variation of this on a chain on my bag, and that working is more focused on security and being unobtrusive more than anything else.

Generally I would consider how fragile your individual charms/items are and how likely breakages are to occur. You don't want to be scattering any broken glass/sharp bits and you definitely don't want to cut yourself on anything in the event of any broken charms.

Other considerations should be if individual parts are safe to wear. As previously mentioned, select for spell oils that are safe to wear and for crystal pendants that won't interact with water/skin oils/body products (i.e. selenite melts in water and pyrite will create sulfuric acid when exposed to water). Basically make sure that having this on your skin isn't going to cause any problems for you.

It can be a a good idea to change up individual charms in your configuration to tweak things to your daily needs. Using my usual configuration as an example, I'll switch out my crystal pendants or other charms if I have specific needs/events for a day (like maybe if I'm traveling I'd add more protection/safe travel oriented charms or if I had a date on I'd choose one of my love/attraction charms).

I hope this gave you some ideas for your own practice, thanks for reading💜

✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩‧⁺⋆⁺‧₊☽✧☾₊‧⁺⋆⁺₊✧✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧✩₊°.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

[yiiyiiwrites]

Please do winter warrior at winter solstice. What gifts would she give everyone?? Part two to tame the wolf? Please 🥲

Oh this is sweet :) I think winter warrior would bring a mixture of the most bizarre gifts to the most obvious. Nesta is not mated to Cassian 3461words not edited [Previous part]

[winter warrior masterlist]

❄️ Winter solstice

The heat hit you as soon as you entered the townhouse. Your fur coat still tinged with the pink hues of your blood, you'd patched the hole refusing Cassian's offer of buying you a new one. The Garments in Velaris were not as warm or heavy as the ones from the winter court.

Cassian guided your coat down your arms, a twinge of pain surging through your shoulder making you flinch. You were supposed to return in the morning, but you'd ventured into the heart of winter to buy some last minute gifts for your friends. The word felt foreign to you, but you'd come to realise that they were your friends as much as they were Cassian's.

His hand slid to yours, warmth spreading through your frosty veins. You allowed him to guide you down the hallway and up the stairs, the muffled sounds of your friends in the living room. Lights flickered against the narrow walls, Cassian nudging the door open with his foot as he dragged you and the bag of your belongings into his and yours bedroom.

The fire roared beside you, logs crackling in the silent room. Your gaze trailed after Cassian, his armour already shredded and the black swirls decorating his chest, a smirk tugged his lips.

"Is this where you give me my gift?" His brow arched, wings twitching as you stalked towards him. Always the predator in his gleaming eyes.

You traced your nails along his bicep, shaking your head and jutting out your lip. "Sorry, my love but you'll have to wait," you said, you fingers working the buttons of your undershirt. "Think you can manage that?"

He’d already gifted you your solstice present this morning, unable to keep it a secret. A silver locket, snowflake trapped between a glass pendant. Not just any snow though, it was a mixture of the Illyrian mountains and the winter mountains. To anyone else it was found anywhere, but the way the light caught the snow, you could see fusions of blue ice from the first place you met him in the winter mountains. The Illyrian frost a duller white in comparison to the crisp blue hue of your home.

Cassian grumbled, pulling on a clean shirt. His gaze wandered to you as you undressed, brows furrowing as you peeled off your shirt. He let out a deep breath, "God's they really did whip you like an animal," his whispered breath fanned against the back of your neck. He traced the three lines scored into your back, scabs stretching the healing wounds that you could feel the tight pull with every move.

"My love, you forget I am an animal." You stepped away from him, the knot in your stomach leading you back to him. "I deserved it, I shouldn't have lashed out at my sister." You kissed his stubbled jaw, patting his cheek.

"No one deserves that," he trailed after you, through the walk in wardrobe helping you reach for the lighter layered clothing you'd stored away. "Besides I'm sure your sister deserved it, the things that come out that mouth. That's an animal." His distaste for Veyna never hidden, he frequently told you what he thought of her.

You tried to push back the memories of your nails digging into her throat, even the blood spitting from her mouth as she continued baiting you. The wolf snarling, silvery gaze filtering the warm colours around you.

Blinking you, you pushed down the wolf and dressed in a tunic and trousers, inky blue velvet hanging from your shoulders. You were still getting used to wearing light weight clothing, the way your body moved like shadows and the silence of fabrics not rubbing together. The boots you wore thinner, the soft leather laced up and the sole smaller giving you less height.

“Come on,” you tugged him with you. “This is my second solstice, I think I understand the gift part much better now.”

Cassian chuckled behind you, “my love, I’m definitely looking forward to what you think as a gift.”

It was true, you’d messed up last year. Getting people what you thought was necessary, forgetting that they didn’t live in the rugged mountains. You’d hunted food to bring for the feast, only knowing what you’d read from old books in the mountains. That and you gifted them each a lock of lucky witches hair you’d bought from the keeper of forest high in the mountains.

You’d spent the last three months trying to figure out what would be a good gift. Even sneaking away to the healers quarters in the heart of the winter court to ask your sister, Senna’s advice. It was awkward, you’d never given a gift even to your family. Their life was down there whilst yours was in the mountains. The only gift you did get was from the high lord each yeah consisting of supplies and new clothes.

The winter solstice went on for a week below in the heart of the court. You had never celebrated it, your days spent patrolling the forest and mountains like usual. The wicked never slept, that’s what they’d reminded you growing up. You knew that families in the mountains had their own tradition of dinner of the night of solstice, but you didn’t have anyone close to your hut to bother with the holiday. Sometimes though when you woke the morning after, someone would leave food wrapped in a cloth on your doorstep.

Laughter echoed down the halls, the glow of yellow welcoming you into the living room. So much warmth, not just from the fire. Feyre rushed forwards and hugged you, force nearly knocking you over.

“We didn’t know if you were coming or not…” she trailed off her rambling, gaze flitting to Cassian behind you. Her cheeks turning red as she linked your arm with yours. “Elain wanted to give you her present first,” she whispered patting your arm and pointing through the misted glass at the balcony.

You pushed the door open, shutting it behind you and tucking your hands around your body for warmth.

“I knew you wouldn’t be long,” Elain said, smile tugging her lips. She clasped her hands in front of her, a habit she did for you as she realised you followed her every movement.

You don’t know why but Elain made you very aware of every bone in your body as if the wolf would jump from its cage and unleash itself. The straightness of your back and the tightness of jaw setting the dull aches of pain as you willed yourself to walk towards her.

Her gaze was always soft, just like her face and her touch. Something you were still getting used to. The way she chose her words and coated them with kindness surprised you most.

“I respect that you fend for yourself, but everyone needs a little bit of help sometimes. There’s lots of things to aid you when you’re injured.” She said, stepping aside to retrieve a brown bag.

Elain rifled through the bag, pulling out an assortment of health tonics and soothing balms. She knew you too well, knew you wouldn’t look through the contents as if something lurked in there, you peered over looking into the unzipped bag and the ribbons of bandages balled up. It must have taken her weeks to collect it all and she would have had to research certain things you knew only tied to the winter court.

“Thank you,” you said bowing your head and mirroring her smile. “You didn’t have to go to so much trouble, one tonic would have been enough.” Gods now your present paled in comparison.

“Nonsense,” Elain said, swatting her hand, you jerked back before her hand connected to your arm. Fists twisting in the fabric under your crossed arms.

As if sensing the change in mood, the house dropped Elain’s present into her hands. You looked out the corner of your eye, wondering if she’d like the gift.

“It’s beautiful,” she whispered, breath fogging the glass she held. A small flower nestled on top of a mound of snow, blue petals ruffling as a cloud dispersed snowflakes from above to fall upon them. “This is from your home?”

You nodded, “it’s from the highest peak of the mountains, only grows in snow.” It had taken you days to trek to the top, part of you needed to go that way on your patrol, but another telling you it was perfect for Elain.

“Thank you, I love it. I shall put it on my desk in my bedroom. So I can always see it.” A smile blossomed, the tip of her red nose reminding you to go back inside. She held the delicate glass, her eyes on the flurry of white flakes kissing the petals.

You held the door for Elain to enter first, scanning the balcony out of habit before you retreated into the warmth.

Turning on your heel, your met with the dark wisps and their owner. Azriel smiled down at you, he plucked a small box from the darkness swimming around him and gave it to you.

“Happy solstice,” was all he said before slinking away. He took up space by the door again, leaning against the wall and falling back into conversation with Feyre.

You pulled the thin yellow ribbon, the lid opening as you untied it. A silver coin laid upon shredded tissue, a wolf on one side and a sword on the other. You picked it up, examining the scripture on the side. The coin more of a medal nowadays, was given to patrollers in winter when they had reached a certain milestone. It wasn’t something your court did anymore, but there were still some floating around. You had never seen one though. He didn’t need to hear your appreciation out loud, he nodded to you across the room knowing that it meant a great deal to you.

“What did you get, Az?” Cassian said, his arm slipping around your waist to pull you onto his lap.

Azriel perked up at the mention of his name, he wasn’t expecting a gift and he’d told you not to get him one.

“I may have taken a days leave to hunt someone for you.” You prayed they wouldn’t ask for the gritty details, you squeezed Cassian’s arm before he could ask. “They’re being held in the winter courts tower and ready to be transported at your convenience.” You’d spoke in length with Azriel about a slippery fae who kept flitting between the courts in hopes of pleading sanctuary. Thought you’d make his gift the essence of time, hunt the fae and offer him up for questioning.

“Not today, Az,” Rhys said, stopping Azriel before he could get to work. “Solstice remember.” He patted him on the back, steering him to an armchair by the fire.

Azriel’s hazel eyes connected with yours, smile tugging the corner of his lips as Cassian was trying to coax an answer out of you. How did you find them? Wolf or warrior?

You slumped back, wincing as you back made contact with Cassian’s firm chest. “Gods, this gift giving is hard work,” you sighed, rubbing your forehead. Mor, Nesta and Amren were yet to join you, saying they’d be at the townhouse for dinner.

The rest of your gifts were piled up with the others. Yours could be spotted a mile away, brown cloth wrapped around and tied with string. Colourful shining papers and vivid ribbon bows surrounded yours. Maybe you’d have to ask where to get stuff like that, it did look pretty.

Rhys was busy giving out his gifts, the ripping of paper and gasps filling the room. He stopped before you, “if you’d allow me, I’d like to meet your wolf and help you understand the spirit better for yourself,” his words echoed in your mind, but his lips did not move. Words for you to hear alone and maybe for the wolf to hear too.

His gift meant more than he realised, no one had asked to meet your wolf or offered you help in a way that wouldn’t harm you. You nodded in thanks, his energy slipping from your mind.

You handed Rhys a thin long box, teeth sinking into your bottom lip. It was a gamble and you wasn’t sure if it made you look savage, but it was the only thing you could think of. He slid the lid off, frown settling his head, his violet eyes snapping to you.

“The talons from the naga that attacked Feyre in the spring court,” you said gesturing to the four claws rolling around the box. “The autumn court chased them through to the winter, I came across a group of them in the mountains. Could smell feyre’s scent on that one.”

The room fell quiet, all eyes on you and Rhys as he picked up one of the long sharp talons. Had you messed up? Was this not something normal, least you didn’t bring its head.

“What?” You blurted out, glancing at each of your friends around you. “I did good, right?” Cassian’s face softened, faint smile replacing the frown.

Feyre appeared beside you, palm smoothing up and down your arm. “Thank you, that must have taken a lot of courage. It’s a thoughtful gift,” she said, she took the talon from Rhys and placed it back in the box.

“Will make a good paperweight.” Rhys smirked, dodging feyre’s jab.

You settled next to cassian on the sofa, head resting against his shoulder. The heat radiating from him and the fire calmed you, twinkling lights draped the mantle piece with pine cones and branches. The scent of pine reminded you of home and all you wanted to do was bundle up in a duvet letting sleep take you. The past few weeks catching up with after your dazed hunt.

Mor, Nesta and Amren appeared in the doorway.

Nesta sauntering through the room, her icy stare focussed on you. “I���m glad to see you,” she said, stretching her hand for you to take. She pulled you up, hand clasped in yours as she led to the entryway. There was bite of frost you and eldest Archeron shared, the way it claimed you as cold and detached, made your friendship stronger. One look between you two and you knew what each other were thinking.

You knew what she’d get you, clothes. She’d been the one to give you clothes more fitting for life in Velaris, your heavy set garments no use outside of the winter court. Nesta kept to the same shade of midnight blue, that hung in your wardrobe and complimented your complexion. A long overcoat, white fur trimmings circling the cuffs and hem. Silver embroidered stars and the traditional snowy pattern of your court decorating the soft material.

“Go ahead, try it on,” she said, holding the coat so that you could slip your arms into the sleeves. You winced at your healing wounds, shoving down the ache with a smile. You twirled around, her hand holding her chin as she examined the fit, she was well know to the tailors and you didn’t put it past her that she’d designed it herself.

“I should warn you,” you whispered leaning in to lower your voice as low as you could. “This book is banned so don’t go leaving it around.”

Nesta turned the book in her hands, fingers flicking the yellowing pages. She’d mentioned the author once before, the name never left your mind and you’d been searching for it since she’d confided in you. You managed to get lucky, finding one in a second hand shop in the heart of winter. As if you were meant to find it. She raised it in air, the house hid it away till it was time to leave.

You removed your overcoat, folding it back up in its neat box and set it aside on the cabinet in the hall. Nesta and you made your way to the dining room, plates full of food lined the centre of the table, thin pillar candles tucked between the dark green foliage.

Bottles clinked in your hands and you placed them in front of Amren, the only place at the table without a plate. “I may have drained a few beasts during the coldest months,” you said, popping the cork from a bottle and pouring the red liquid into the glass in front of her.

Amren downed the glass of blood, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. A smile playing on her lips as she poured another. “Always full of surprises little wolf,” she said, raising her full glass at you. You wondered if she could tell which beasts you’d drained, but you’d leave that for another day. Letting her savour the gift.

She gifted you a weather warner, a metal device that predicted rain. You’d hated the rain ever since you’d arrived in Velaris and always got caught without shelter. Snow you could handle, rain you loathed it. How it drenched your clothes and left muddy splashes in its wake. Now you couldn’t be caught in it thanks to Amren.

The dinner rolled on, questions about your three months away and what everyone else had been up to. Your stomach and jaw ached from laughing so much. You all returned to the living room, more subdued than earlier. The wine coaxing Amren into a slumber on the window seat, Mor placing a fluffy blanket over her.

You hadn’t spent much time with Mor, she’d been busy with the hewn city before you left for winter. So you still didn’t know enough about her to get her a meaningful gift. That’s what you’d learnt, to get presents that the person would like or something they’d mentioned, to know you listened to them.

You’d settled with red lipstick that didn’t budge in the cold, only removed with cleaning balm that came with it. A winter court speciality that kept people lips hydrated in the biting cold, but added a bit of style. It matched the red encrusted gown she worn tonight, she dabbed it onto her full lips thanking you for the gift.

She handed you a flask, magicked to keep liquids warm. A welcome addiction to the supplies you needed for the coldest months.

Feyre hovered nearby, she’d asked you to wait till last to exchange gifts. She could hardly contain her smile as she finally got to her turn. You’d gifted her a wooden box, palette inside that kept paint cold and stopped them drying out, a few paints that were darkest colours which were only made in winter.

“Thank you, I can’t wait to test them out,” Feyre said, looking at the paint tubes and opening them to see the depths of colours. She set the it down, holding a finger for you to wait.

When Feyre entered the room again, you gasped. Snuggled in her arms was a scruffy furred white fox. It squirmed on her arms and leapt to the ground. Is darted towards you, snaking in and out of your legs.

“Flick,” you said, scooping your messenger in your arms. “But how did you? My general refused to let me take him.” You’d had flick since you were a child, his name given to him because his tail was forever flicking. His white fur wasn’t pure, a sandy hue to the shaggy coat.

The winter court had many white foxes they used to send messages, fast little things that blended into the snow. Flick licked your chin, teeth nipping gently at the braid over your shoulder.

“I asked Kallias.” Feyre stroked Flick, tears stinging your eyes as you buried your face into his fur.

“Thank you, this means so much,” your voice a hoarse whisper. You knew your general would have something to say to you when you returned, but you didn’t care. You’d cross that bridge when you came to it.

The evening blurred, your head heavy as you swayed in Cassian’s arms. You sank into the soft mattress, warm hands took off your shoes and pulled the sheets over you. You blinked, the bed dipping beside you and Cassian coming into view. His hand cupped your cheek and you held onto his wrist, resting the side of your face on his calloused palm.

“Your present,” you mumbled, sleep lacing your voice. The house dropped an ancient tome on the bed, his love for war and history running deep, but he’d never read texts on the winter mountains. Well till now, frost clung to the hardcover, you’d ventured far into the forest and begged the keeper of the forest for the old tome. Exchanging the scales of naga for it.

Thanks for the request :) I didn't realise how long this was but wanted to include all of the inner circle. Hope you liked it - Yiiyii

[csuitebitches]

Guide to Building a Classic Wardrobe

I was asked a long time ago by an anon for a guide to build a wardrobe. This style caters to someone mature, slightly conservative, NOT fashionnova-esque, something that will last a long time in all fashion seasons, provided you look after your items well. I live in a relatively hot climate and the coldest temperature I’ve experienced when living in a place is like 10 degree Celsius, so I will admit that I am not very well versed with living in cold climates for a prolonged period of time (I don’t think a 2 week trip to Switzerland in the summer counts as “cold”).

I have purposely built with keeping neutrals in mind. I’ve learned that its best to first build a neutral coloured wardrobe in mind, then start adding colour to it. You might find this wardrobe boring, but if you work in a corporate environment/ somewhere where you can’t showcase too much colour or creativity/ if you come from a relatively conservative/ high profile-but-not-entertainment /modest culture, you’ll find this useful.

ALWAYS keep an eye on the material of the item you are buying. If you have to buy a sweater and you live in a cold climate, buy cashmere. Yes, it will be expensive, but it will keep you warm and last longer. If you live in a hot climate, invest in tops and dresses made out of pure cotton. Material plays a huge role in the climate you live in.

I do not endorse fast fashion or over-consumerism but I understand that it is affordable. I would therefore recommend you to buy things carefully and with consideration, not just for the sake of the environment but for your wallet. It’s better to buy 1 quality item than 10 horribly made, short-lasting items.

Never mix more than 3 colours in your outfit at a time. That’s something my father taught me, and I recommend you stick to it, especially if you’re new to building a serious wardrobe.

Lastly, do not be enthralled by what influencers buy or wear. I can guarantee you that the clothes they wear on Instagram aren’t even theirs half the time. Don’t fall into the trap of micro trends.

(Pictures for this post have been sourced from Pinterest).

Underwear

Nude bra + thong/ undie

Black bra + thong/ undie

White bra + thong/ undie

Strapless bra (black)

Strapless bra (nude)

2 sexy bra sets (optional, I have these in red, pink, blue)

Nipple pads

Tops

White silk cami

Black silk cami

White plain tee

Black plain tee

White tank

Black tank

Beige tank (or whatever suits your complexion - brown/ nude)

White shirt

Black shirt (satin/ silk)

Blue shirt

Pants

Navy blue trousers

Wine/ red high waisted trousers

White trousers

Beige trousers

Black trousers

Straight leg jeans (blue)

Another pair of jeans (not ripped, blue)

White jeans, straight leg/ mom cut

Skirts

White

Black

Red

Beige (a checked print, like Burberry)

2 maxi skirts

1 pencil skirt in black (work appropriate)

Shorts

Denim (not distressed)

Tailored white shorts

Tailored blue shorts

Tailored black shorts

Formal attire

1 maxi dress - red/ black/ a neutral colour

White/ black vest and trouser set

Everyday dresses

Knit dress in black/ cream/ brown (long)

2 summer dresses, short

White peasant dress

Outer wear

Leather jacket in black/ brown

1 cardigan in black/ white

A shawl/ silk scarf

Denim jacket

Long trench coat in camel/ brown/ beige

Blazer in white/ navy blue/ black

Sweater in black/ white/ red

Shoes

Black/ white/ brown leather boots

White/ silver heels

Black heels

Gold heels

Mules in black

Home slippers

Running shoes

White sneakers

Accessories

1 brown/ black leather bag

1 tote bag

1 clutch for parties

Hair clips

Tights/ leggings - sheer and opaque in black

Socks

Jewellery

Diamond studs

Everyday pendant

2-3 simple bracelets/ bangles in silver/ gold

Signet rings in gold

Chunky hoops

Devices

Hair straightener

Hairdryer/ Blow brush (i prefer the blow dry brush)

30 mm curling wand (for long, big curls)

[sstan-hoe]

— 𝐺𝑖𝑓𝑡 𝐹𝑜𝑟 𝑌𝑜𝑢 —

𝑃𝑎𝑖𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 — bucky barnes × fem!reader

𝑆𝑢𝑚𝑚𝑎𝑟𝑦 — “it’s not much, but i got you this.” / “i could marry you right now.”

𝑊𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 — listen there is nothing here but fluff, fluffy Alpine

𝑁𝑜𝑡𝑒 — ignore Sam in the picture 😂 follow, comment and reblog!

𝑉𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑒'𝑠 𝐷𝑎𝑦 𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑡

Today was Valentine’s Day and your feelings were all over the place, you had a special gift for Bucky. For weeks you thought of something and Bucky was a hard one, but something crossed your mind.

To prepare Bucky for it you made him breakfast and put on forties music.

Slowly the eyes of the super soldier opened as the soft music hum reached his ears from the kitchen to the bedroom.

A smile placed on his lips as he recognised the song. Turning out of bed he whisked his blue henley from the floor and went to the bathroom.

Meanwhile you had Alpine sit on the couch as you tried to tie her new collar around her neck. It was a red leather band with a silver heart shaped pendant hanging from the middle. 

The pendant alone wasn't very extraordinary, it only had a little B engraved in the middle of it.

A noise from the bathroom had your ears picked up. Bucky was awake which meant he would come down any second. You fixed Alpine and looked into her blue eyes, "make sure he sees it," pointing your finger at her nose.

Alpine flipped hair tail into your face as she jumped from the couch. Huffing playfully you walked back to the kitchen to finish the table.

A few minutes later Bucky strolled in with a big smile, "good morning beautiful," he greeted you and pulled you into a deep kiss. His beard stubble tickled your skin causing you to giggle.

"Bucky! Come on, I made breakfast," you scolded as he tried to distract you. Gripping his hand you guided him to the kitchen table.

It wasn't long before Alpine jumped on the table and nuzzled her head against Bucky. He instantly scratched her neck, that was when he noticed the new collar.

"Oh, did my beautiful girl get a new collar?" He said in a baby voice and inspected the pendants.

As he traced the edges he noticed that the pendant opened. It revealed a picture of him and Alpine – taken by you. His eyes shot up to you already holding a red box with a bow, "happy Valentine’s Day Buckeru, it's not much, but I got you this."

Carefully he took the box from you and opened it. Inside the box was a necklace with heavy chains and the same pendant as Alpine had.

He took the chain from the box looking at it and gently opened the pendant. With wide eyes he laid the box down to wrap the necklace around his neck, "that's us in the Alp!" he told his cat excitedly.

Alpine purred in agreement and bumped her head against Bucky's cheek.

"I could marry you right now," Bucky blurted out and gave you the most beautiful smile. "Let me buy a wedding dress first," you winked at him.

[devildom-moss]

Valentine's Day Gifts

MC made chocolates for everyone on Valentine's Day, but it turns out that everyone also has a chocolate-themed present for MC. What did the Obey Me characters get you this year?

(All characters - including Mephisto, Raphael, and Thirteen x gn!MC) (platonic for Luke)

(SFW, but some characters are a bit suggestive)

Lucifer

He pulled out a jar of what looked like ground coffee mixed with cocoa powder. You gave him a confused look. He got flustered, realizing that he had forgotten something, and grabbed a card from the nearby table to give to you. You read the card:

Lucifer, thank you for your custom order. Making this Rose Vanilla Ground Cacao for you was a pleasure and an honor. Even without magic, we guarantee this blend will capture the heart of its recipient and soothe their soul. May your beloved be pleased with your tastes and our craftsmanship.

See brewing instructions on the back.

You smiled up at him, striking him with sudden affection. You looked so cute and pleased over his gift. Lucifer was doing his best to contain himself and hide his own joy, “I read that roasted cacao was growing in popularity as a coffee substitute. However, I couldn’t just get you something generic for Valentine’s Day. I could brew a cup for you now, if you’d like.”

“Thank you. I’d like that very much, my beloved,” you teased. His cheeks went pink.

Mammon

“Close yer eyes and turn around.” Mammon demanded.

“Why?”

“Just do it, or ya won’t get a gift at all.”

“Fine,” you complied, turning your back to him. You felt something cold around your neck, realizing what it was as Mammon hooked the clasp of the necklace. He placed his hand on your back and gently guided you across the room.

“’Perfect. Go ahead and look now,” Mammon spoke from behind you. His hands settled on your hips.

When you opened your eyes, you were standing in front of a mirror. A deep brown chocolate-colored pearl pendant, exquisitely carved into the shape of a heart, hung around your neck. It wasn’t traditional chocolate, but it was a uniquely Mammon-esque interpretation. You turned around to kiss him on the cheek. “Thank you, Mammon. It’s lovely.”

“I can’t have anyone showin’ me up today, so I wanted to get you somethin’ real special,” he spoke but he couldn’t look you in the eye. He wanted to tell you how hard he had worked to get that – how much trouble it had been, but he didn’t want to sully that sweet smile you had. “Looks good on you, my treasure.”

Leviathan

Levi had practically snuck up on you, popping up from around the corner, and screaming out your name. His entire face as pink as he stared at the ground, hand outstretched to you. He was holding two pink tickets. You could see a few hearts and Azuki-tan on them.

“What’s this?” you asked.

“I managed to get two tickets to an exclusive Valentine’s Day Ruri-chan pop-up café. They only sold 200 tickets, and you had to buy them in pairs. I thought we could go together – if you don’t mind going with a yucky otaku like me, that is.”

“I’d love to go!” You pulled him into a hug as if to squeeze the self-deprecation out of his body. He let out a squeak, but eventually hugged you back.

“Waa! I can’t believe you want to go with me. We have to try their lava cake special. It’s topped with a tiny chocolate Azuki-tan, and there are rumors that it’s baked with a magical charm that’s supposed to make lovers closer. They also have a white chocolate Ruri-chan parfait. The layers match Ruri-chan’s outfit! M-maybe we could get both and share them? Ahh! Just imagining you offering me a bite of either dessert is more than I can handle. This is going to be the best Valentine’s Day ever.”

Satan

“Ah, MC, could you grab the book on my nightstand?” Satan asked you without looking up from his current book.

“There are . . . eight books here, Satan.”

“The one on top, please.”

“Okay,” you grabbed the strange looking book. It was heavier than you expected for its size, and the balance of weight was off. A Love of Books and Chocolate was written on the cover. You handed it to Satan, but he put his hand up and set his book down.

“Open it up,” he smirked at you.

When you did, you realized that the reason that book felt so strange was because it was hallowed out and filled with chocolate bars – seven of them, to be precise. Each one had a wrapper with different cover art on it. Some of them were familiar. In fact, one of those books was setting right under the book of chocolates on Satan’s nightstand.

“They’re literary themed chocolates. Each one has a flavor that matches a popular piece of Devildom fiction. I set each corresponding book aside if you’d like to read them while you eat the chocolate – it has a long shelf life, so don’t worry about having to rush through the books. I could even read the books to you, if you’d like,” Satan informed you. It was so thought out, and you could tell that he wanted to share more of his interests with you.

“I’d love that, thank you.”

Asmodeus

“Happy Valentine’s Day, my love,” Asmo whispered into your ear.

He had crawled into your bed that morning, and was sitting over you, straddling you and smiling down at you.

“Morning, gorgeous,” you smiled up at him, still half asleep. He was already dressed and he had drawn hearts freckles on his cheeks as a part of his make-up this morning. “You sure have a lot of energy. And happy Valentine’s Day.”

“Of course. I thrive on days of love like this. Get up, and I’ll help you get ready,” Asmo gave you a kiss before getting off of you.

He did as promised, going so far as to help you get undressed and even buttoning up your shirt for you. Once you had washed up and were dressed, he asked you to sit down so he could do your make-up.

“By the way, I have something for you,” Asmo grinned and pulled out a fancy, rococo-style lip gloss tube. “Today calls for chocolate lip cream! It’s supposed to leave your lips soft and sweet – like chocolate. Can I put it on for you, MC?”

“Of course.”

He gently applied the lip cream. Asmo nodded, “I knew that color would look amazing on you! Ugh, but now I want to mess it up and kiss you! Can I? I’ll reapply it for you when we’re done.”

Beelzebub

“MC, I have a Valentine’s Day gift for you.” Beel handed you a box excitedly. He was smiling widely, as if he was hardly containing himself. Then again, it made sense that he would be so happy on a day that involved so much candy and chocolate.

“Thank you, baby Beel. That’s so sweet.”

You opened the box to find an array of chocolate syrups. They had unique flavors that looked delicious, but you were taken aback by the fourth flavor: Chocolate Lunatic Pudding.

“Um, Beel, this is a great gift, but I can’t eat this one,” you lifted the bottle slightly, trying to remind him while recalling the one time you tried a bite of Lunatic Pudding and every demon was suddenly all over you. Had Beel forgotten? You felt bad for pointing it out, but you couldn’t risk that happening again.

 “Oh, that one isn’t for you,” Beel remarked non-chalantly before leaning into your ear and whispering, “that one is for me to lick off of you.”

Belphegor

When you got home, you found Belphegor napping in your bed. Lying next to him was a thin blue box with a star map printed on the lid. You leaned over to give Belphegor a kiss on the cheek.

“Mmh, MC, welcome home.” Belphie had the wispy tone you were used to hearing when he woke up from a nap. He stretched.

“Whatcha got there Belphie?” you motioned towards the box.

“Shit, I hope they didn’t melt,” he yawned and handed the box to you, “happy Valentine’s Day.”

“For me?”

“Who else would I get chocolates for – well, aside from Beel? Take a look.”

You opened the box to find an assortment of galaxy painted chocolates – a gorgeous marble of blue, purple, and black with white flecks – and star shaped chocolates. The twins’ constellation (that they now shared with you) was painted on half of the galaxy chocolates.

“These are beautiful! Thank you.”

“You can thank me by joining me in bed.”

Diavolo

Diavolo summoned you to the student council room. When you arrived, he was sitting at his desk. A white box tied with a red ribbon was setting in front of him. Diavolo noticed you in the doorway and waved you in, “come in, MC! I called you here to give you a Valentine’s Day gift.”

He grinned from ear to ear – like a child who had just finished a drawing that he was excited to show you.

“You didn’t have to do anything special for me, Diavolo.”

“Nonsense! I wanted to do this,” Diavolo exclaimed. He pointed to the box on his desk, and it unwrapped itself, revealing a delicious-looking chocolate custard in a heart-shaped ramekin. “It’s common to make chocolate sweets for the one you desire, today. So, with some help from Barbatos, I made this chocolate custard for you. You won’t refuse it, will you?”

His eyes begged you not to refuse him. He looked so sweet and cute that you wondered how anyone ever found him intimidating. “Of course not! Thank you, Diavolo.”

“Excellent,” he laughed, “now, will you also allow me to feed you?”

Barbatos

“I’m sorry to call you here, MC. I’m sure this is a rather busy day for you, but would you do me the pleasure of joining me for tea?” Barbatos asked you at the castle doors. He didn’t show it, but he was holding his breath awaiting your answer.

“I’d be happy to join you.”

“Wonderful. This way, please.”

Barbatos led you to the garden. A vase of rainbow-colored roses sat on a table along with a tea pot, two dark brown cups on saucers, and a covered tray. He pulled a chair out for you.

On closer inspection, you realized that the teacups were actually sculpted out of chocolate. They were more ornate than most cups you had ever used. “Did you make all of this?”

“I did. The roses are from my garden, and I sculpted these cups especially for the tea I’ve prepared today. It’s my own blend of chocolate and cinnamon black tea. I’ve set aside a batch for you to take home and enjoy at your leisure, but today we’ll be enjoying an ice brew version of this blend – so as to not melt the chocolate cups. Feel free to eat your cup once you’ve had your tea, by the way. I also prepared chocolate cardamom shortbread cookies in anticipation of you accepting my invitation.”

“Barbatos, this is too much. I mean, I appreciate it, but wasn’t this too much effort?”

“Not at all. If you enjoy this tea with me, it was more than worth the effort. In fact, that adorable, flustered look on your face right now has already been more than enough,” he teased while pouring tea into both of your cups. Barbatos is the king of doing too much.

Luke

Luke was waiting outside of your first class of the day for you, eager to give you your Valentine’s Day gift. He had worked so hard on it, and he couldn’t wait to see your face – both in reaction to his gift and in general.

“Oi, chihuahua. What’s got ya lookin’ all chipper today?” Mammon greeted him.

“I’m not a dog, you rotten demon! I’m here for MC.” Luke barked back at him.

“What business ya got with them, Fido?”

“Mammon,” you sighed, “stop being rude to Luke and go on to class, I’ll see you later.”

“Yeah, yeah. Make it quick,” Mammon rolled his eyes and walked into the classroom.

“Sorry, Luke,” you apologized on Mammon’s behalf with a sheepish smile, “what did you want to see me for?”

“I baked this for you,” Luke handed you a small box. “You’re always helping me out, and I wanted to show my appreciation today.”

You opened the box to see a mini heart-shaped layer cake. The cake was pink with white buttercream and topped with a cherry and crystalized rose petals. It was almost too pretty to eat. He was so precious. Luke beamed when he saw the awe on your face. “The buttercream is made of white chocolate and the cake is cherry and rose flavored. Please eat if before Beel spots it, okay?”

“Will do! Thank you, Luke. This is so sweet.”

Simeon

Simeon had requested your presence at Purgatory Hall – “urgently” he said. However, he failed to elaborate, so when you arrived in a bit of a panic, he laughed, “oh, about that. . .”

“Simeon, you scared me,” you told him when he presented a thin rectangular box with a pink bow to you, “a Valentine’s Day gift is hardly urgent.”

“Sorry about that,” Simeon laughed again, “but I really needed to see you and give these to you today. I spent all of yesterday making them.”

You had to forgive him when he smiled so sweetly. Plus, he was giving you a present. You sighed, “next time, just tell me you want to see me. I’d be happy to visit you just for that reason.”

“You would? You really know how to make my heart race, don’t you?” He laughed the embarrassment away. He probably didn’t have to be so sneaky just to ensure he could give you a present, but he didn’t want to risk you declining him. He looked at you with anticipation, “well, aren’t you going to open it?”

The box contained seven macarons, arranged in an ombre color pattern – from a dark brown shell to beige to white. The buttercream and ganache in the center was also in an ombre pattern, going from white to pink to a deep red. They were so pretty, and if Simeon made them, you knew that he must have put a lot of thought into each one. He picked up the one with a dark brown shell and a white center and placed it in front of your mouth to feed you. “This one is dark chocolate, espresso with vanilla buttercream.”

You took a bite. “It’s delicious. Thank you, Simeon.”

“Of course, MC. I wonder, would you allow me to feed each one to you? I could tell you what flavor each one is before feeding you like I did just now.” He couldn’t get the thought of your lips grazing his fingers out of his mind.

Solomon

“MC, I made you something for Valentine’s Day.” Solomon was so cheerful as he said that, but dread filled your veins.

“Oh, Solomon, that’s not necessary. I’m happy just getting to see you today, honestly. I don’t need anything else.”

“Don’t be silly, MC. I obviously had to make something for my lover on Valentine’s Day, especially if you’re going to be receiving gifts from other people. I can’t be the only person to not get you something,” he chuckled and pulled a basket from behind his back. It wasn’t food. You sighed in relief as Solomon continued to explain, “now, the kitchen at Purgatory Hall was pretty packed between Luke and Simeon, so I couldn’t actually cook for you, but I have a lot of experience making beauty and bath products. I made mocha-scented soap, a dark chocolate and lavender bath bomb, and chocolate raspberry perfume.”

You could smell the soap from there, and it was delightful. You weren’t sure whether to be more grateful that Solomon had made you all of those products or that he hadn’t almost committed manslaughter by making you food. You hugged him tightly, “this is wonderful – much better than making chocolates!”

“I’m so glad you like it,” Solomon chuckled before placing a kiss on your neck, “you know, I could help you take a bath tonight if you want.”

Thirteen

“There you are,” Thirteen ran up to you while you were walking around the campus. “Geez, you should make yourself easier to find on a day like today, you know?”

“What?” you asked, confused.

“I shouldn’t have had to try so hard to find you on Valentine’s Day, that’s all. Especially when I finally finished working on your gift,” she feigned her annoyance, an obvious smile giving her away.

“You got me a gift?”

“Don’t act all surprised. Ta-da,” she threw her hands up, motioning towards a mechanical floating sheep that seemed to appear out of nowhere. This was undeniably one of her gadget-like traps. However, you weren’t sure how a trap made for a good Valentine’s gift – aside from that fact that it was cute. “Hey, no need to be worried. He’s 100% safe for you to use. I promise.”

“What’s he do?” you asked.

“Let me show you!” She pulled out a remote and pressed button #1 of 4 – well, actually, it was 3 numbered buttons and one red button. The sheep hovered over you and took out a large chocolate heart and a tiny hammer. It broken open the heart and confetti came floating out over both of your heads. Thirteen laughed, “pretty neat, right? The confetti is made of candy, so you’re welcome to eat it. Want to try another button? Just don’t press the red one.”

“Heck yeah,” you took the remote from here hand. The next button caused the sheep to pull out another heart and break it open. Two small clay chocolate heart charms fell into your hand – one for you and one for Thirteen. The third button dropped a bunch of individually wrapped chocolate hearts. “So, what’s the red one do?”

“This one breaks a heart filled with glitter and melted chocolate over the target. I was wondering if you’d like to try using this one on Solomon with me?”

Raphael

Even though you had made chocolates for Raphael, you hadn’t expected him to prepare a gift for you – especially not one that looked so cute and must have taken a long time. Raphael stood there in the hallway outside of your class, presenting a rather large chocolate macaron plush that required two hands to hold properly. The macaron “filling” even looked like a sheep.

“Did you make this?”

“Yes. I got back into sewing again.”

“For me?”

“Naturally.”

“Oh, Raph. It’s so cute! Thank you,” you took the plush and held it to your chest. It was so squishy and soft.

Raphael couldn’t resist smiling at you. While you were staring at the plush, you heard an airy, gentle laugh. Raphael cut himself short, returning to his placid look when you stared up at him. You had forgotten how sweet his laugh was. He averted his gaze and added, “I figured you could squish it or punch it the next time those brothers give you trouble.”

Mephistopheles

Mephistopheles requested your presence in the RAD Newspaper Club room. He unceremoniously handed you a bottle of Demonus. It was clear, even from your limited knowledge, that this was a pretty expensive bottle.

“What’s this?” you asked.

“Demonus – a special chocolate flavored edition, obviously.” What he didn’t mention was that it was an incredibly rare edition from a top-quality brand.

“I know that, but why are you giving this to me?”

“It was a gift from an acquaintance, but I have multiple cases of this one at home,” he said as if he was irritated that you wanted to know why he would give you a present. “Besides, I kind of owe you since you made chocolates for me this year. I’d hate to feel like I was in debt to you, so take it.”

You stifled a laugh at his arrogant façade. He was actually trying to be kind to you in his way. It was like taking the worst parts of Mammon and Lucifer and rolling it into one demon sometimes – but he would protest that comparison angrily. “Thank you, Mephisto. You’re being especially nice today. Although, you really didn’t have to do anything for me. I made chocolates for you because I wanted to, not so you would owe me.”

“Whatever. You can go now,” Mephisto waved you out, but reconsidered as you turned towards the door, “wait.”

“Hmm?”

He undercut his earlier air of indifference by adding, “if you like the Demonus, let me know. I can bring you another bottle or you can visit me, and we’ll have a drink together. I’m certain my collection is better than anything you would get from Lucifer at the House of Lamentation.”

A/N: surprise bonus this week~ I hope you all enjoy this one. Have a good Valentine's Day, and try to enjoy/celebrate love in whatever way in exists in your life.

[lorimnnn]

I watched ✨House of WAX✨and YOU BEST BELIEVE I'M POPPING OUT A REVERSE HAREM WITH THE SINCLAIRS ONCE I'M FINISHED WITH THE FICS I PROMISED YOU. ALL OF YOU. YOU'RE FINISHED.

Vincent the voyeur. The second you come into town you can feel eyes on you but you don't know who they belong to, and you can't shake the feeling of being watched. But he's everywhere. He's sneaking peaks at you hiding in plain sight, shuddering as he completes his sketch, pencil moving frantically over every inch of the page. He can't move fast enough.

You're in awe of all the effort he takes into making the wax sculptures and beg to meet the artist himself, and he's scared shitless that the mask will bother you but you're just impressed it's molded so accurately to his face. Let's you touch it and guides your fingers over the contours of his mask, shaking at the miniscule tingles he can feel against his weathered skin.

obviously you're attracted to him

Bo the flirt, of course. The second he sees you he knows you'll be fun. Heat licks up your spine every time he looks at you and it's a burrowing, soul-squirming, slow and steady kind of stare that makes it feel like he's looking at every part of you, not just the parts that they all usually like.

And obviously you're this sweet, shy thing emboldened by his attraction. You can't get enough of it and he can't get enough of you. It really will be a shame to kill you.

All your friends are terrified of the goofy, scraggly driver and kind of dicks to him, and you're frowning and he's feeling his heart stutter at someone finally standing up for him and appreciating him the way he deserves. Lester giggles when you ask him more questions, normal questions, almost like you're trying to get to know him. Calls you a 'pretty thing' and gives you a little pendant made from a squirrels skull for good luck, knowing what lies ahead.

And he's falling all over himself too to be the perfect gentleman. Holding your hand to help you out the truck, the touch lingering a tad too long (he's not extending this gesture to your dick head friends of course) leaning against said truck to talk to you and missing like a complete dork, falling on his face. Embarrassed but it's all worth it when you laugh

and then all three of them when you're still roaming around and you can't find your friends, not knowing they're already dead and you're the only one left. You go to the gas station to ask around and they're all there and pretending they have no idea, smirking at your flustered expression when Bo flirts to redirect the conversation, backing you into Vincent as he does. Now you're a bit intimidated. Why are they cornering you like this? Even Lester isn't doing anything apart from an occasional 'knock it off, eh?" when you're too flustered to speak

Hehe you're in for a ride

Mini rant:

No because immediately what struck me watching it is that Carly and her friends are kind of asses??? Like yes I'm all for character flaws but just being an idiot is basically your death sentence. It was karma. The only one I feel bad for is Paige. Tell me why I had hope that they would deserve to live when it was a bunch of college kids - - - you can never trust them to be protagonists of a horror movie because WHERE IN UR RIGHT MIND DOES IT BECOME ACCEPTABLE TO TRESPASS INTO AN AREA THAT CLEARLY SAYS 'CLOSED' OR KEY A WALL FOR PROOF??? like what if I went to ur house and saw it was locked and was like "oh, that's just a decoration" and to prove your window was real glass I threw a brick at it??? Same energy really Carly's boyfriend had it coming.

p.s. i've started writing a reverse harem novel based on house of wax--- it's gonna be a slow burn that's kind of romantic and has a lot of sexual tension hehe. would any of you be interested if I posted it on ao3, or posted updates here so you know when you can perhaps... buy it? i feel like it's going to be around 150,000 - 200,000 words

[gallifreyinstituteforlearning]

What are some Gallifreyan wedding traditions (eg. standard vows, laws surrounding what counts as consummation, etc)

What are some Gallifreyan wedding traditions?

This is something we know sod all about, and there's literally not even enough information to draw any kind of vaguely probable conclusion. I recommend a quick read of the below post, then come back:

Some wild theories™ continue below:

🏛️ Alliances and Contracts

Marriages on Gallifrey often serve as strategic alliances between powerful Houses. These strengthen political positions, secure resources, and ensure the continuation of influential bloodlines.

Marriages might be arranged by the elders of the Houses, making personal choice a secondary role.

Intricate contracts might be drawn up before the wedding, detailing the terms of the alliance, each party's responsibilities, and any dowries or exchanges involved.

These contracts might be recorded in the Matrix, preserving them for future reference.

💍 The Ceremony

The bride and groom traditionally wear white, the Gallifreyan colour for the personification of Death. It might be a nod to the eternal nature of their commitment.

Long hair is braided, possibly interwoven with strands representing their House colours or symbols. This might signify the intertwining of their lives.

Instead of verbal vows, the couple might exchange telepathic vows, creating a mental link that lets them share thoughts and emotions during the ceremony.

These vows could be recorded in their biodata, like tattooing yourself with the name of your beloved.

📜 Consummation and Legalities

Consummation probably isn't a physical union. It could be a merging of biodata or a psionic union.

The act could be ritualistic, involving ancient rites of the Eternals.

For the marriage to be legally recognised, it might be registered with the Capitol and logged in the Matrix.

Witnesses from both Houses might be required to sign off on the union.

🎉 Post-Ceremony Traditions

The couple might create a time capsule filled with mementoes from their Houses and personal artefacts, which is then sent to a future date as a testament to their union's longevity.

As a gift to each other, the couple might weave a part of their biodata into a shared artefact, like a pendant or a ring.

The wedding feast might be an outrageously lavish affair, held in the grand halls of the Capitol or the House estates.

Celebrations might last for days, with each House showcasing its history and achievements like an Olympic host opening ceremony.

🏫 So ...

While much of Gallifreyan wedding traditions are a complete unknown, we've had a shot at some ideas that may or may not exist, and I'll leave it to you good people to decide or make your own.

Related:

How does marriage and dating work on Gallifrey?: The cultural norms of Gallifreyan relationships.

How does divorce work on Gallifrey?: How divorces might actually work, legally and socially.

How might Gallifreyans view divorce?: How divorces might be viewed on Gallifrey.

Hope that helped! 😃

More content ... →📫Got a question? | 📚Complete list of Q+A and factoids →😆Jokes |🩻Biology |🗨️Language |🕰️Throwbacks |🤓Facts →🫀Gallifreyan Anatomy and Physiology Guide (pending) →⚕️Gallifreyan Emergency Medicine Guides →📝Source list (WIP) →📜Masterpost If you're finding your happy place in this part of the internet, feel free to buy a coffee to help keep our exhausted human conscious. She works full-time in medicine and is so very tired 😴

[saturdaynightghostclub]

The Many Lives of Arthur Llewellyn

You know how sometimes you can look at a person and just know, instinctively, that they came from some cosmic elsewhere? Their face, their clothes, their speech—it all belongs somewhere specific, somewhere other than where they are. Every now and then you come across a time-traveler, an astronaut, a lovelorn Victorian in the body of a twentysomething city-dweller. Your Arthur is one such curiosity, you think. A cursory glance would place him on a street-corner in Greenwich Village, or smoking a cigarette beneath a gas lamp in San Francisco. He’s got that foggy beatnik thing going for him. That he exists among the long-haired, strong-armed Seattleites of 1995 must mean that someone out there in the galactic mist is looking out for you; by all accounts, you should never have met this walking anachronism.

But you did, and against all odds he’s currently sitting at your dining room table and using a set of nail clippers to mend the clasp of a necklace his mother insisted was too broken to continue wearing. He suggested she take it to a jeweler, and her subsequent “Why bother” had riled him up to the point that he insisted on fixing the damned thing himself because, in his words, “Why bother? Why bother buying anything if you’re not going to take care of it? You just throw your clothes away when they get holes?”

“I can feel you staring,” he says now, without looking up. Guilty as charged, you hide your smile behind the copy of Howards End that you’re pretending to read. Maybe he’s a weary ship’s captain, taking meticulous care of what few possessions he has that remind him of his faraway home. Maybe somewhere he’s stowed a pair of red boots, made from fine Spanish leather, for safekeeping until he returns to his aching sweetheart on the shore. Maybe you have an overactive imagination.

Aunt Juley is sick, and Helen won’t come home to the grieving Schlegel family, and won’t she reconsider ending her engagement to Paul? Who cares, when Arthur Llewellyn is carefully slinking toward triumph in the battle against his mother’s gold chain? You turn a page without reading it, your eyes still trained on your boyfriend’s long fingers until, with a soft and disbelieving gasp, he holds the chain up for you to see. The clasp looks brand-new, and even if he did only fix it to spite his mother, your heart flutters with pride—he’s a sensitive one, whether he likes it or not. You happen to know that the necklace was given to Mrs. Llewellyn by Arthur’s father: an emerald pendant, her birthstone. The Llewellyns are not sentimental people (with the exception of their son, that is); according to Arthur, he’s had to practically beg them not to donate his great grandmother’s china sets on more than one occasion. As a consequence, his own apartment is full of antiques and souvenirs he couldn’t bear to see thrown away.

You move closer to him under the pretense of inspecting his work, rising from your chair to stand beside him.

“Very nice,” you say, “are you sure you want to keep going with this teaching thing? I think you’ve got a real future in jewelry repair.”

Arthur tilts his head back to look at you, placing the necklace down on the table. You run a hand through his hair, letting your palm come down to cup his face. He leans into you like a man deprived. You sometimes wonder if his immediate family’s stoicism did a little damage to the part of him that now seems to need your touch like oxygen. “Funny,” he says, “I was thinking the same thing. You think they’ve got good benefits?”

You smile, running your thumb across his sharp cheekbone. He’s been frustrated, you know, in the days leading up to the start of the school year. The school’s curriculum, which he says is “unbearably boring,” leaves little room for creativity, but he’s trying his best. He’s starting his students with The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy this year.

Arthur is flexing his hand repeatedly, probably working out a cramp from his delicate operation with the nail clippers. You perch on the edge of the table, sliding back to a full sit, before taking that hand in both of your own. Slowly, gently, you massage the tension out of his fingers while he looks on in awe. “You want to get out of here?” You ask, “It’s a gorgeous day. Take a walk with me?” He nods, allowing you to lead him out of your apartment and into the midday air, perfumed with lilac and salt.

Your building is on one of those dreadful Seattle hills, the ones you don’t realize are as steep as they are until one day you put on your favorite sundress and realize your calves look absolutely stunning. You lead Arthur up the block, ignoring his halfhearted protests until you’ve made it to the top of the hill. There, he lets his hand go to the small of your back, keeping it there as you continue to walk. After a moment’s silence, he leans over to kiss your temple. “I love you,” he says. Casually, like he has so many times. Like it’s a way to fill the silence instead of a world-bending declaration, like he couldn’t bring you to your knees at any moment with it.

“I love you too,” you say, knowing it carries the same weight for him.

“Can I be so corny for a minute?” He asks, his hand moving gently up and down your back as you walk.

“You can be as corny as you want,” you reply. Never in your life have you seen this kind of earnestness in a man. Never in your life have you even wanted it—never, until you had it.

Arthur takes a deep breath. “I’m really happy,” he says, his voice hoarse, “I’m so fucking happy.”

“Sounds like it,” you tease, nudging him.

“I am,” he finally smiles, “I am. It’s scary though, you know? I’d kind of reached a point where I thought happy was a myth. Or, no—not a myth, I just thought it was something for other people, right? Like, when they’d talk about how happy they were, I thought either that they were exaggerating or that there was something wrong with me, because I didn’t know what they were talking about—does that make sense?”

You stop walking for a moment, turning to Arthur. “You’ve thought about this a lot, huh?”

“Yeah,” he says. You respect his lack of sheepishness. “I’ve had to, you know? It’s like I’m experiencing this whole new facet of human life I didn’t know existed. Like maybe I thought I knew, and you’ve just turned everything upside down.”

You’ve got no choice but to kiss him. There, on the street corner, where it’s nothing short of edenic, you wrap your arms around his shoulders and press your lips to his, hard and sweet. He gasps against you in that way that you love, that way that lets you know you’ve taken him by surprise once again. His shock is only momentary, however, and within seconds you’re wrapped so tightly in his arms that he’s all you can feel, all around you.

“Arthur,” you say, coming down off your toes and letting your hands drag down his chest, “if this is all it takes to make you happy, then neither of us has anything to worry about.”

The boy is grinning in earnest now, eyes fixed on your face. “Oh, fuck,” he says, shattering the illusion that he is anything but a west coast twentysomething, “Jesus, honey…”

He’s running a hand over his face now, like he’s trying in vain to wipe the smile from his features. “What?” You ask, grinning something awful yourself.

“I just saw the future, that’s what,” he says, sweeping you once again into his arms, “I saw my entire life in your face, it’s all you. All you, forever.”

You can’t help but to laugh, a stunned expulsion of joy you weren’t expecting to feel. “Oh god, you’re stuck with me then?”

“There was never anything else in the cards for me, to be fair,” he says, “and just to be clear, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Arthur’s a bit of a mystic about things like that—souls and stardust and past lives—it took you by surprise at first, but you’ve grown to realize it’s maybe the thing that makes the most sense about him. Of course your out-of-place, out-of-time alien creature of a boyfriend thinks—knows, if you ask him—that the two of you are cosmically entwined. And you, for your part, know that you would rather die than deny him these little fantasies. After all, it’s you who sees a thousand lives in his face, each more complex and profound than the last. Between Seattle and England and outer space and the Pacific ocean, you find yourself hoping against your own iron-clad logic that the two of you will find each other again after this life (and after, and after, and after).

[sirhyst]

Edgar Allan Poe x gn!reader

Summary: Poe and reader go to the mall together.

Note: I relate to how cripplingly anxious Ooe is in social settings, but like myself, he has his confident or relaxed moments and I wanted to show that in this story 👍 so have reader and Poe being gooey and corny lovers. This is a massive turnaround from the nsfw alphabet lol

————————————————————————-

You and Edgar had been dating for some time now. Your usual dates consisted of both of you laying across the couch while reading or watching a movie. You loved being tangled up with your boyfriend, but you wanted to try something different.

It had only been an hour since you and Poe left the house. You were strolling around the mall, enjoying each others company. There weren’t a lot of people since it was still early in the morning, but you enjoyed the near empty mall all the same. By now you had already made a few purchases along the way, many of which Poe paid for regardless of your protests.

“Edgar you really don’t have to,” you said, your face heating up.

“Please Angel, let me spoil you today,” and it carried on like that in every store. Of course you returned the favour, which was an entertaining sight because Poe would react the same way you did.

You both had popped into a shop that had clothes, jewellery and other accouchements laid across the display counters. You didn’t realise that you had let go of Poe’s hand as you made your way towards a sweater that had caught your eye.

Poe on the other hand held up a necklace he knew would look perfect on you. He searched the store only to find you looking at a few clothes, and conveniently standing near a mirror.

You jumped when you felt his cold cheek rest against your face.

“Edgar, don’t ever do that again, you scared me,” you scolded him but gave him a goofy smile nonetheless. Edgar posistioned the necklace around your neck. Your hand gently lifted the pendant to get a better look at it. It was a simple necklace, with your initial carved into the gold pendant that dangled from the thin chain. You looked at Edgar in the mirror, a bit of his violet eyes poked through enough for you to see his loving gaze.

“Edgar,” you said in a hushed tone.

He placed a slender finger under your chin, and turned your head to face him.

“Please let me buy this for you, my beloved,” he said in his usual romantic way—the tone of voice that was only reserved for you. You two gazed at each other for what felt like hours, before you leaned in to kiss him. It was a short kiss, but no kiss was ever long enough with Edgar dearest. Your noses brushed against each other as a small laugh escaped both your lips.

The store clerks attempting to watch the whole moment transpire didn’t escape your eye. The mall was starting to fill up, and you both figured it was a good time to checkout before it got too crowded. You picked up a matching necklace with Poe’s initials, and guided your boyfriend to the checkout counter, still caught in your lovesick haze. You both paid before making your way towards the exit.

————————————————————————-

[general--winter]

Read the reader headcannons of them being afraid of Pokémon and it gave me an idea. How bout a Serena x Reader. Like the reader is a coordinator as well so they compete to see who could get the contest ribbons first. Though as time went on Serena’s Sylveon has been trying to get her make a move. You know as its ribbons enables them to know their trainer’s feelings.

author's note: This is so freaking cute. I had so so much fun with this one! I hope you enjoy!

rating: general

fandom: pokemon

pairings: serena x gn!reader

word count: 703

warnings: none

summary: Serena's Sylveon and your own Pokemon play wingman.

You and Serena were childhood friends, traveling buddies, and extreme Pokemon Contest rivals. The two of you would go toe-to-toe in every Contest you competed in together. And since Serena uses a Sylveon, her Pokemon is able to sense her deepest emotions. Now, usually, this is seen as a fantastic thing that allows Sylveon and its Trainer to bond and become an even more powerful duo. However, one specific feeling that you and Serena experience has made Sylveon incredibly mischievous behind your backs. She would inform your own Pokemon, Leafeon, about the situation and Leafeon would observe you, deducing that you felt the same. Due to this, in the past, Sylveon and Leafeon have tried to get their respective Trainers to finally admit their romantic feelings for each other. There have been brute force methods, like Sylveon trying to use Charm on you to make your feelings blatant. Subtle methods were also employed, such as Leafeon growing a beautiful and romantic garden for you and Serena to have a picnic in. Nothing worked. It has absolutely infuriated the two of them that their Trainers stew on mutual emotions and do nothing about it!

At one point, after a particularly intense Contest, you and Serena would be walking with your Pokemon, her Sylveon and your Leafeon. The two of you were specifically hunting for new Contest attire in Lumiose City that would up your “style” factor. In a crowd, however, you got separated from your friend and partner Pokemon. It was just you and Sylveon. The Pokemon would nudge your legs, and you allowed it, thinking she was guiding you in the direction she sensed Serena. After a few minutes, though, you found yourself in front of a high-end clothing boutique with Sylveon herding you inside. She bounded over to different clothes and accessories that were not really your taste, so at this point you were thoroughly confused. You would ask Sylveon, “Why are you showing me all of this? Like, what’s going on? Is Serena here?” The Pokemon would just huff in annoyance and continue her task.

You would understand, though, when you analyzed everything Sylveon was showing you. It was all Serena’s style. And it was all pretty… romantic to boot. You wondered why Sylveon would be showing you these types of romantic gifts for Serena? Unless… she knew that Serena would like it. At that thought, a blush blossomed across your face, and you covered your cheeks with your hands. It suddenly made sense looking at the past few weeks of your Pokemon’s shenanigans, Sylveon was trying to get you to buy a gift to give your friend so that you could confess your crush. You would bend down and whisper at Sylveon, “I know what you’re doing. Please don’t make me do it.” Sylveon would swipe at your hand, pressing her forehead to yours and growling. Okay, okay. Sylveon’s gonna be pushy, you thought. I’ll just buy something and give it to her secretly without saying anything.

You ended up picking out a lovely silver necklace with a stunning faux-ruby pendant (ah, Contest Coordinator budget). You figured since Serena loved wearing the color red, if you were being held hostage by Sylveon to get something it might as well be something she’ll actually use. The Pokemon bounded off in the direction of Prism Tower with you struggling to keep up. When you arrived, Serena was already sitting on a bench with Leafeon, a blush dusting her face.

“Here, I got this for you!” she would shout, standing up straighter than a pole and bowing, holding a small box out to you. In wonder, you took it, seeing a very similar necklace to yours, gold with a sapphire-looking gem. Your own blush blossoms, and you wordlessly give her your necklace. Serena stares at it in awe, Leafeon nudging her leg. She blurts out, “I really like you, you know!”

Now that really surprised you. She… likes you back? You affirm her feelings and let her know you feel the same. As you two are blushing messes underneath Prism tower, Leafeon and Sylveon giggle behind their paws on the side, watching you two finally resolve your unspoken feelings with their latest trick.

[malkaleh]

If you’re still interested in prompts; jealous Henry and Anne as Cromwell laughs too much with More?

He’s going to kill him, friend or no. It’s not that Henry distrusts his husband nor that he begrudges him happiness but he admits to loathing the way that any other might impose upon him.

Anne has never hated it more than there is only one of her husbands she might touch, embrace and kiss in public - Henry can get away with touching their Thomas a little, even if it is only in the way of two friends but she, she cannot even with the Duke of Essex’s reputation for chastity and hers for proper queenly behaviour.

She wants to push him onto the table, ride him in front of everyone so the vultures will stop circling and prodding at him, as though they have any right to him.

Thomas is laughing, which is rare to see in public - his laugh is reserved for their family, a treasure for private moments when he might put the mask he wears aside. Henry does not begrudge his raven laughter or joy - he begrudges that Thomas More rests his hand so easily upon him when he and Anne cannot do the same with him, their own husband.

“…It is hard to credit I know, but yes, I was an artists model - being young and in need of funds in Florence, Master More means that it was well looked for funds”

“It is not hard to credit, my friend - you have the look of a subject of a painting - perhaps a shepherd or an ancient scholar in Alexandria intent on his books - or a Roman Senator of great virtue.”

For they are friends, these two Thomas’ - despite the religious differences between them there is a gentle respect, an understanding there and Henry, Henry does not resent it except that he could punch More for the way he is so easy with his raven in this moment.

Thomas laughs again then, saying somewhat about how flattered he feels for such comparisons and Henry, Henry looks at Anne and they can bear it no longer.

Anne doesn’t remember how they all managed to leave the gathering - the excuses they made fading into a haze of desire and want - because she wants. Right now. She pulls Thomas between her and Henry, impatiently pulling at clothes as they take turns kissing him.

One of Henrys hands is in Thomas’ curls, the other wrapped around his chest and oh, oh, he wants. Wants to mark him, to bite into his neck, to stamp that no one should touch this man, to imprint himself and Anne onto his skin - but he won’t. They won’t. Norwich has marked their love enough, has meant that kind of roughness can never be the love that it is between he and Anne. So instead, instead he gently kisses Thomas’ neck, tugs at the pendant that hangs there, whispers about how he wishes to give him more adornments, more garb.

Anne thinks there is little more beautiful than having one husband between her legs and the other beneath her upon the table, awaiting her commands. But there is something more - she has Thomas inside her and Henry inside Thomas - Thomas pressed between them, utterly without a mask and utterly theirs - he is saying something half in Italian, half in Greek and Henry is whispering praise in Latin.

“You are so beautiful love. So very beautiful - such a precious jewel, my raven, my husband. I would not have you harmed, I would not have you hurt.”

There is something about the way Henry tells Thomas such things that truly undoes him - Anne can see it and it undoes her too, to think of being able to care for their Thomas, to protect him and to know he is there only for them.

She thinks has never been so ready when she guides her secret husband cock inside her, never felt more complete than with Thomas between them, her hands in Henrys hair, a promise that here, here she commands a king. Here she whispers promises to Henry as he is inside their husband, tells him to control his release, to be quieter, to be allowed to touch her.

She looks at Henry afterwards and there is a silent vow between them that they will buy every painting their husband ever posed for.