#personalized jewellery in London

[decorisdiamonds]

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[scorpiosbite]

when actress!reader and drew met for the first time

𝜗𝜚 ࣪˖ ִ𐙚 ────୨ৎ──── it's your first time in LA, so when your new friend madelyn cline invites you to a club in downtown LA with the rest of her obx castmates, who are you to decline.

𝜗𝜚 pairing: actress!reader x drew starkey

author’s note: this takes place in mid-2024 after the filming of obx 4 wrapped.

you stared at your reflection in the luxurious bathroom mirror, your makeup was light and your hair was straightened and open. yet you felt a bit like that saying 'a pig in makeup.' dressed in a sheer, white, long-sleeve top, a black lace bra underneath, clearly showing through, and black shorts paired with itno biker boots. your fingers, filled with chrome heart rings, sliver earrings of various jewellery brands covering your ears, yet your neck is still bare.

you sigh heavily, being racked with anxiety like this before going out was common for you. there was a reason you barely left your london home except for work. and now, here in LA for the first time and without mimi, your best friend who is the polar opposite of you and the only person who is capable of making you feel calm in these situations, you feel as though you are going to make a fool out of yourself. it's not like you don't want to meet madelyn and the rest of the obx cast, you really do, and you want to make a good impression which is why your anxiety feels worse than normal. the world sees you as this confident enigma, but only you experience this feeling of dread weighing down on your chest that tells you that you aren’t capable of more difficult roles, that you don’t deserve the fame and love given to you, that you aren’t hardworking or beautiful enough, that if people saw the real you, they would hate what they see. this feeling, this voice, is the reason you’re so recluse.

but before you can spiral any further your phone rings. madelyn's name lights up the screen. you pick up, clearing your throat, trying to settle the shake in your voice to hide your nervousness. "hi, maddie" you can hear the smile on her face through her response. "hi, y/n!! are you ready? i'm on the way to your hotel, i'll be there in like 10 minutes." the excitement in her voice eases your anxiety. maddie had dmed you on instagram a few months ago after seeing an interview of yours where you named outer banks as the show you watch during your free time while filming and since that moment the two of you became fast friends. so when you told her you were going to be in LA for the first time for work, she enthusiastically invited you to come hang out with her and her castmates. "yea, i'm ready, i'll come down to the lobby." you end the call and then rush around the room grabbing your bag and filling it with everything you may need, before giving your face and outfit a final check in the mirror before making your way to the lobby.

madelyn texted you that her car was parked outside the entrance when you reached the lobby and the hotel staff let you know that there was no paparazzi outside so you walked outside where madelyn’s driver had the backseat door open for you, you thanked him and hopped into the car and he walked back to the drivers seat and and started driving. madelyn’s smiling face greeted you. “hi, wow you look fucking stunning. it’s so good to finally meet you!” you gave her a bright smile in return. “thank you, you look unreal, and yes it’s so good to finally meet you too!” you gave her a tight hug. “fuck, y/n what perfume do you use, you smell amazing.” “aw, thank you! it’s the kayali vanilla one, babes.” madelyn laughed “what?” you gave her a confused laugh “ the ‘babes’ you’re so british!” you laughed and nodded “i forget that there’s terms we use that aren’t common here.”

madelyn pulled out her phone and started checking something, so you took the time to look out the window and take in LA during the night. “ok so chase is there, so is laci, madison, jd, austin and drew.” you felt your breath hitch at the mention of his name. “drew’s there?” madelyn gave you a knowing smirk. “yea, he’s coming.” you raised a brow. “what was that smirk for?” she shrugged and gave you a downward smile “you’ll see.” before you could question her further, the car came to a stop in front of the club. “we’re here, miss cline.” madelyn’s driver spoke up from his seat and then stepped out of the car coming around and opening the door for the both of you, you hopped out first and thanked him and waited while madelyn got out. she thanked him and then he drove off.

madelyn interlocked your hands together “excited?” you laughed at her excitement. “yea, let’s get a shot in me.” the atmosphere of the club was electric, the people around you were dancing and having the time of their lives. seeing everyone around you, you felt the anxiousness start to melt from your body. madelyn was looking around, trying to find her friends her hand still holding yours. “oh! i see them! let’s go!” she dragged you behind her, coming to a stop at the end of the table. everyone greeted you with bright smiles “guys! this is y/n. but you all already know that” she said in a singsong voice. “we’re all big fans of you.” she added as she turned to you. you smiled shyly with everyone’s attention on you. “hi.” you gave a little wave. your eyes immediately locked with drew’s, even sitting down he towered over everyone. you felt your breathe hitch and your limbs numb. you were suddenly pulled into hugs one by one by everyone else, you muttered greetings but it felt like an out of body experience as your eyes refused to stray from drew’s.

drew felt like he couldn’t breathe, he had spent so many months dreaming of this moment when he would finally see you in person. and all he could think was that the screen could never do justice to you. your energy, your beauty in real life was unmeasurable. “hi, i’m drew.” you smiled at him, a saccharine smile that made his heart stutter. “i know.” you took a seat next to him at the table while austin and jd went to get shots for the table “so y/n, what do you think of LA?” madison asked “it’s quite different to london.” you laughed. you were having trouble focusing as drew’s thigh kept bumping into yours. you thought about how badly you wanted him to use his size and strength against you. if he would throw you and bend you to his will, you clenched your thighs together at the thought.

jd and austin returned with the shots and everyone’s energy immediately skyrocketed. you all grabbed a shot. “let’s have a good fucking night! whoo!!” chase yelled and you all clinked your glasses and downed your drinks. everyone winced but you weren’t phased “what!! how did you not feel that!” austin yelled over the music that had somehow gotten louder. “that was straight tequila!” you shrugged with a smug smile on your face “i’m british, darling, you americans can’t keep up!” you laughed. drew beside you, had a look on his face that was somehow both impressed and turned on. “oh my god! i fucking love this song.” you exclaimed beginning to feel the alcohol travel through your system, taking with it the inhibitions that often consumed you. “dance with me?” madelyn asked and you nodded your head. she grabbed your hand but before she could drag you behind her you turned your head and mouthed to drew “watch me.”

drew’s throat felt constricted, his pants were becoming impossibly tight. you were grinding on madelyn and he couldn’t take his eyes off of you. you’re mesmerising and he had to have you. it felt as though time had slowed down and the two of you were the only people in the crowded club. “come on man, let’s go dance.” jd clapped drew on the shoulder. he got up and began making his way to the centre of the dance floor, his eyes still locked on you.

your eyes were closed and you were completely lost in the music when you felt madelyn whisper in your ear from behind. “drew’s walking over, don’t tell him i told you this, but he’s into you.” your eyes snapped open but before you could question her, drew was standing in front of you, towering over everyone in the club. everyone else present faded away as you took in his presence. he leaned down to whisper in your ear. “wanna dance on me like that?” you smirked, tilting your head up, slightly. “you wish.” he smirked down at you. the alcohol you had consumed throughout the night made you bold and carefree and you used it’s effects on you to the fullest. you wrapped your arms around his neck and he brought his hands to your waist, covering the small of your back.

drew’s head felt dizzy, you smelt so good he wanted to drag his tongue across every inch of the surface of your body. he leaned down to your neck inhaling the scent of your perfume and pheromones. “fuck, you smell amazing.” you smirked “yeah? want a taste?” drew threw his head back his adam’s apple bobbing as he swallowed. “fuck, y/n, don’t say shit like that.” you leaned up on your tippy toes so that you could whisper in his ear. “why not?” you came back down so that you could gaze back up at him, your eyes big and wide, innocent, like you weren’t thinking all the disgusting things you wanted him to do to you. “you don’t wanna fuck me, drew?”

you giggled as you unlocked the door to your hotel room, drew, hot on your heels. as soon as the door was open drew picked you up and you giggled drunkenly, wrapping your legs around his waist and your arms around his neck. drew’s hands came to grip on your thighs squeezing at the flesh as he devoured your lips with his, teeth and tongue clashing. you moaned into the kiss, your hands scratching at his buzzed head. drew reached out behind you and pushed the door shut. the sound of it echoing through the room but the both of you couldn’t care less. your lace panties were soaked all the way through and you could feel his cock straining through his pants, drew broke the kiss. “you feel what you do to me, baby?” you hummed in agreement already feeling fucked out even though he hadn’t even properly touched you yet “been hard from the moment i saw you walk through the door.”

“need you so bad, drew” you whined, not even caring if you sounded desperate, he was more desperate than you anyway. “yeah? need me that bad, baby? need me in that pretty little pussy?” you nodded, biting your lip “wanna be full of you.” drew groaned “fuck, you trying make cum in my pants y/n?” you giggled. drew began to make his way to the bed, with you still in his arms. he dropped you onto the plush bed and you bounced on the mattress. “are you sober enough to do this? cause i don’t want you to regret this in the morning.” you shook you head frantically. “no, i want you, i’m just tipsy, i told you i have a high tolerance.” he laughed, a low rumble that caused your core to flutter. “that you did, baby.” you spread your legs open to make room for him and he began to unzip your boots and pull off your socks before kicking off his own shoes.

drew kneeled on the edge of the bed, leaning down to attach himself to your neck, biting, licking, and sucking at the skin. your moans were breathy, almost sigh like at the feeling of his lips. his hands brushed at your waist, tugging at the hem of your sheer top. “let me see you.” he pulled it off, messing up your hair as it went over your head. he then moved to your shorts tugging them down your legs, leaving you in your matching black, lace bra and black, lace thong. “fuck, you’re unreal, i can’t believe you’re here right now.” you giggled at his words. “you’re sweet.” he chuckled and he leaned back down to kiss you. “yeah? i’m sweet, baby?” “mhmm.” you nodded as he connected your lips together again. you kissed him back with ferocity. tugging his bottom lip with your teeth, your hands stroked his covered chest, and you broke the kiss, your lips still so close that you could feel his breath on your face. “take off your clothes.”

drew groaned and his face dropped into your neck, before he stood up off the bed and pulled his shirt over his head, moving to his pants unbuttoning them and then pushing them down his legs, leaving him in just his boxers. your mouth hung open when you saw the size of his bulge through his boxers and the wet patch forming on the material. you sat up on the bed and tugged him closer to you by the waistband of his boxers, licking his clothed bulge. “poor baby, so hard, do you need me to help you?” drew whimpered, nodding his head. “need you so bad, pretty girl.” you chuckled, “want me so bad don’t you, drew?” drew’s hips bucked in response a look of pure desperation on his pretty face, oh, you were gonna ruin him. leave him a mess so that the only person he would ever want was you.

you pushed down his boxers freeing his length. his massive cock snapped up, slapping his stomach, the red tip leaking pre cum. your mouth watered at the sight of him, he’s gorgeous. “you’re so pretty and big, drew.” drew whimpered “fuck, you gonna suck me off, gorgeous?” you hummed, your hand coming up to the base of his cock, stroking languidly. “you’d like that, wouldn’t you?” drew groaned, his hand curling into a fist by his side, like he was trying desperately not to force your mouth onto him. he opened his mouth to speak, but before he could say anything, you parted your lips and began leaving open mouth kisses on his tip. alternating between sucking and kissing, drew groaned from above you, his hand finally coming up to tangle in your hair, never pushing or pulling just resting. such a gentleman you thought, but you wanted him to snap, to use you.

you breathed through your nose and then took his entire length into your mouth, your nose pushing into the trimmed patch of hair at the base of his cock. drew let out a loud groan that reverberated through the room. “fuck! y/n!” you hummed and then swallowed around his length, your tongue still rubbing the underside of his cock, before you pulled off of him to catch your breath. but before you could resume your ministrations, drew placed a hand under your chin, tilting your head up. you looked up at him with a fucked out expression and he look even more fucked out than you. “i’m gonna need to prep you, so get on your back for me, baby.” you giggled excitedly, drew reached behind you and unclipped your bra with ease and practised skill before you laid down onto the soft mattress.

your hair splayed around you like a halo, your cheeks flushed with a daze in your eyes as you gazed up at drew. he leaned over you on the bed, one hand placed by your head and the other stroking your thigh. “i’m gonna take you out after this.” you raised a brow, “oh yeah? what makes you think i’m gonna say yes?” drew smirked at you, he did love a challenge. “alright, if i make you cum three times, you have to go out with me. deal?” you hummed, mulling over the proposition. “you’re on, starkey.” drew leaned down and began kissing and biting your neck, then your shoulders then finally your tits, sucking at your nipple and squeezing the other one with his large palm. “been thinking about feeling these since the moment i saw them on my tv.” he mumbled against the flesh. you could only respond in moans. “fuck, drew!”

drew continued his way down till he was face to face with your lace covered soaked core, he nuzzled his face into your clothed pussy, inhaling deeply. “fuck, you smell amazing.” you whined impatiently, bucking your hips. drew chuckled and hooked his fingers into the band of your thong, dragging it down slowly, the material clung to your centre a sticky film connecting your cunt and the fabric as he pulled it down and off your legs, dropping the fabric onto his pile of clothes on the floor. “god, you’re so wet, baby.” drew said breathlessly. “who’s got you so wet, huh? tell me.” your cheeks flushed in embarrassment “you, drew, i’m so wet, just for you.” drew hummed appreciatively “such a pretty pussy, I knew your cunt would be gorgeous, just like the rest of you.”

before you could say anything in response, drew dove into your cunt, eating you like a man starved. his tongue flicked at your clit, as he spread your lips open with his fingers baring you for him to consume. you gasped and whined, your moans coming out broken. then he sucked your clit into his mouth and his long finger prodded at your entrance. your hips bucked and your thighs squeezed at his head. but drew just held your legs open with one hand as he doubled down on his efforts, he slipped in another finger, thrusting with fervour and you thought you were seeing stars, you had never had a man eat you out like this before. it was like drew was born to live between your legs, like he was made just for you. as he sped up his movements you felt the tightening band in your stomach about to snap. “fuck! drew! shit! i’m gonna cum!” your orgasm tore through you with a rage, as you came with a shout of his name. your back arched off the bed and your legs shook around drew’s head, thighs squeezing him. your puffy clit throbbed and your slick walls pulsating around his fingers.

drew detached himself from your abused cunt, slotting himself between your spread legs, your body was still trembling. “that’s one, baby” you could only muster a whine in response as drew grabbed the base of his cock stroking a few quick times, before slapping the head of his cock against your swollen cunt. “fuck, wait, i don’t have a condom.” you shook your head. “don’t care ‘m on birth control, wanna feel you, drew.” you said, your voice full of your need for him. drew groaned his head bowing forward, as if his was in prayer. his voice conveying his all consuming desire for you. “you’re gonna be the death of me.”

drew smeared his pre cum all over your cunt, like he was trying to mark you as his. then he pushed the tip in, your mouth hung open as a gasp escaped your plush, swollen lips. it felt as though he was spitting you open. drew stopped as your brows furrowed and your perfect face scrunched up, mouth still open. he was right, you look exactly as how you did in your sex scene. but seeing you now, in real life, in front of him, as the cause of your pleasure, the feeling was indescribable. he knew in that moment that he lived for you. to be the source of all your joy. you shook your head “no, don’t stop, i want it to hurt, i want to be able to feel you tomorrow.” he couldn’t speak, drew swore that no woman could every make him feel like you did. he pushed all the way in bottoming out, he didn’t give you any time to adjust to his size, pounding into your tight cunt with ardour. your moans and whines came out strangled, your face flushing.

drew’s hand trailed your thigh, grabbing the plump flesh, so tight that you knew that he would leave hand prints, his cock slammed into your walls and he looks so pretty above you, bottom lip bit under his pearly teeth, in effort to keep his groans at bay. sweat gathering at his forehead, that you wanted to lick off, pretty brows furrowed together. you were gripping him like a vice and he knew that he wasn’t going to last long. he brought his thumb to your throbbing clit. rubbing quick circles on the bundle of nerves, you threw you head back exposing your neck as you felt your second orgasm of the night creep onto you. “shit, baby, prettiest girl in the world, fucked out on my cock. you don’t know how long i’ve been dreaming of this.” your tits bounced with each slap of his hips against yours, his heavy balls banging against your ass, the sting adding to your pleasure.

“holy fuck, drew!” your body convulses from your second climax, tight walls clenching hard around drew’s thick cock, he pulled out quickly, flipping you onto your knees as your face buried into the mattress. you panted heavily as he pushed back into you from behind. large palms gripping onto your hips. he picked up his pace right where he left it giving you no time to gather yourself. strong hips pounding against your perfect ass, one hand left your hips that he trailed down your back to your head gripping your hair, turning your head to the side so you could watch him over your shoulder. but you struggled to keep your eyes open.

drew was struggling not to cum, he was nothing if not a man of his word, so no matter how hard your velvet walls clenched around him, no matter how perfect the sight before him was, he had to see you again. so he wasn’t going to lose his chance by fucking cumming too quickly like a teenage boy. “best fucking pussy i’ve ever had.” he praised and you squealed in response, you couldn’t form coherent thoughts anymore, let alone words. the only thing you could think of was drew, and how he was splitting you apart on his big cock. the angle of his thrusts hitting that sweet spot inside of you. “fuck! ‘m gonna cum, baby!” you cried out and drew whimpered in relief, he was teetering on the edge and the thought of having to hold on for any longer made him feel like he was going to collapse. “yeah? gonna give me number three, baby?” you pushed your ass back into him matching his thrusts as you whined loudly. drew was hypnotised as your red cheeks bounced on his pelvis, his hand leaving its place on your hip to smack down on the plump flesh, once, twice, then three times, watching it jiggle. “fuck, please rub my clit!” drew obeyed immediately bending at hip and reaching around you so that his long fingers could rub at your pulsing clit with vehemence.

“i’m cumming!” your body shook and your eyes squeezed shut as tears rolled down your eyes, you felt this wetness exploding out of you but you couldn’t focus on it, drew groaned from behind you his hips stuttering as he came with a loud moan of your name his cum pushing into your cervix. he pulled out of you and you felt the mixture of your fluids seeping out of your pussy. drew took two of his fingers and gathered the mixture and pushed it back into your sensitive cunt, you whined in response, collapsing onto your back it’s only then did you see the mess you had caused on the expensive sheets of the hotel bed. “you squirted. that’s so fucking hot.” you felt boneless, completely spent. “ever done that before?” you shook your head no “mm mm.” drew’s face was completely fucked out and you were sure you didn’t look much different. “hold on, baby, i’m gonna clean you up, ok?” you simply nodded, too tired to speak. drew walked to the bathroom and came back with a wet towel, which he used to wipe between your legs and over your sensitive cunt, before chucking the cloth somewhere on the floor, then collapsing next to you on the bed.

drew gathered you into his arms tugging you close to him, his arm under your head and the other around your waist and you snuggled your face into the crevice of his neck and shoulder. your hand coming up to rest on his chest and your legs tangling with his. you have never felt so content in your life. drew spoke in a hushed tone. “so, that was three, can i take you out now?” you giggled in response “yeah, can i tell you a secret?” drew was tracing patterns on your back. “what’s that, baby?” you smiled against his skin “i was gonna say yes anyway, but i wanted to make you work for it.” drew chuckled. “you cheeky minx.” “can i tell you a secret?” you nodded “i would’ve done anything you told me to.”

TAGLIST: @sunnybunnyy2 @percysley @wearemadeofstardust0 @idgasb @pinkpantheris @emmaaas-posts @grace-sully @chloeisbunny

god that took me so fucking long to write but i hope it’s not disappointing. thank you for all the love on the previous parts my lovelies!!

[dragon-kazansky]

Bridgerton shade of blue

Benedict Bridgerton x Female reader

Benedict bumps into you, quite literally, at a ball while trying to escape his mother's attempts to find him a partner. You decide to humour him with a dance, not realising just how entwined you would become with him. It seems the universe will find every excuse to push you and Benedict together, no matter how much you fight it.

{Masterlist}

{Next Chapter}

Season one

Chapter One - Mr Bridgerton

♡♡♡

A day late. No matter. At least you would be in London for the season, though you wouldn't be able to debut properly, much like the other ladies of the season.

It mattered not to you. You would rather keep to yourself than be shown off to the Queen in a satin gown, announcing to the ton you were eligible.

If you were to find a husband, it would be on your own terms. You swore by that. You would play the game much like all the others, but without shouting about it and making a statement.

Yes, you intended to marry. Perhaps not this year, but soon enough. It had been something you had thought about a great deal over the winter. Still, you'll see what the ton has to offer this year.

Though you were not there, you had received word that a Miss Daphne Bridgerton had been called a diamond of the first water by Last Whistledown in her gossip column.

Everyone was talking about it.

Bridgerton was a name you had heard but not quite familiar with on any personal terms. They were known for being beautiful. Handsome sons and beautiful daughters. Dowager Violet Bridgerton was very proud of her children, even when they vexed her sometimes.

But that was all you knew. It did not surprise you that her daughter would have the eyes of the ton on her. She would find herself a wonderful match, surely.

You sit at your vanity table and watch the reflection of your dear mother in the mirror as she enters the room. She saunters in and places your gown delicately on the bed. She then turns so elegantly toward you and smiles, coming to stand beside you. Her hand settles on your shoulder.

"You will look beautiful, dear."

You only smile softly and look at your reflection. You have no intention of standing out at all. You would go in, make yourself acquainted, and perhaps dance with a few friendly faces.

Within the hour, you were dressed and decorated with pretty jewels and accessories. Your mother owned a fine collection of jewellery, some of the few things she still had from the old house. Since the passing of your father, your belongings had shrunk as you moved around the country.

"Thank you, Mama." You touch the necklace with your gloved fingers gently, admiring the way it glittered in the light.

Before you knew it, you were on your way to the ball. Lady Danbury, a well-known figure in the ton, was hosting. Apparently, it was going to be quite the night. Your mother was most excited to see you dance tonight.

That is, should anyone take a liking to dancing with you.

The ballroom was well lit and full of colourful gowns and sparkly necks. Fans fluttered softly, barely brushing the chins of the beautiful ladies present. Gentleman circled the room looking for a partner to either dance or converse with.

You mother gave your arm a squeeze as she smiled, looking around the room.

"You shall find a man in this room, I am certain of it."

"Mother..." You sigh. You knew you weren't getting any younger, but you still had time to find someone for yourself. You did not want to feel the pressure of society weighing down on you because you were looking for someone suitable.

Love matches were rare, and you doubted you would ever be so lucky to have such a connection with someone. Your mother had not been in love with your father when they married, nor up until his death.

Love was rare indeed.

You scan the room, watching people dance, other converse, some take a turn around the room. There was much activity. All debutantes were here looking for a match.

"That young gentleman over there, I believe that's Colin Bridgerton. Mrs Brooks told me of that family in quite some detail." Your mother says. "Handsome, is he not?"

You hum softly as you continue looking about the room. A young woman in a bright yellow gown seems to be watching Colin Bridgerton with interest.

People star to turn toward the entrance. You move your head in the same direction to find three beautiful people entering the room.

"Ah, that there is Anthony Bridgerton, the eldest of eight. On his arm, I believe that is Daphne Bridgerton, and that's their mother, Violet Bridgerton." Your mother harpers on.

There is no denying the beauty that family holds. Each one is utterly perfect. They all look so like, yet differ in the most wonderful ways. You wonder what it would be like to have so many siblings, or any at all, for that matter.

"Isn't she beautiful?"

"Yes," you agree. Daphne was quite the sight. "She shall have no issue finding a husband, I am certain."

Your mother squeezes your arm. "Nor shall you."

You find it less likely than Daphne, but you will humour your mother for her own sake.

One such young man approaches Daphne, but after a short conversation with her brother, he scampers. You wonder what was said to leave a man looking so dejected. Surely she hadn't rejected him so easily. You begin to wonder if Daphne will have any ease at all.

You watch Anthony escort his sister around the room and decide you might do the same. No one was particularly paying you any mind anyway. You free yourself from your mother's hold and begins to drifting away from her side. She watches you go, sighing softly.

You stroll slowly along the sidelines, eyes fluttering from one couple to the next. A large group was already dancing. Everyone looked so dignified and elegant.

Not a single person was sparing you a glance. You almost expected as much. It was hard to stand out in a room full of such lovely people. You continued to watch other dance as you strolled.

With Daphne in Anthony's care, Violet Bridgerton felt she needed to take this chance to push one of her other sons in the direction of some of the fine ladies.

Colin was already out dancing.

Benedict was in her line of sight.

With a smile on her face, she began to approach her second eldest son. Benedict had been talking to Lady Danbury. However, when he caught sight of his mother coming over, he panicked. He bid a quick and barely audible farewell and hurried off into the crowds.

Violet came to stop beside Lady Danbury, knowing full well she wasn't going to chase her son down. The two ladies chuckled softly.

Not knowing his mother had decided to just let him go, Benedict fled further into the room. He was determined to put space between himself and his mother. He was so busy checking behind him, be wasn't paying attention to anyone in front of him.

It happened quite suddenly.

Benedict collided with someone. He moved so quickly, grabbing onto the other person and spinning them around to slow down his momentum and prevent them from falling over. He looked down and found himself looking into a pretty pair of eyes.

"I am sorry." You say, looking up at him. It clicks instantly that he's a Bridgerton. He looks like his brothers.

"No, no. Allow me to apologise. I wasn't looking," he says.

Benedict takes a moment to realise his hands are settled on your upper arms. He drops them instantly and takes a step back. No one seemed to take much notice, but he spotted a couple of people turning his way. People always notice his family.

You look at him silently for a moment. You feel awkward, not knowing what else to say.

"Well, good night," you curtsy and try to walk away, but he stops you rather quickly.

"Wait."

You turn back to him.

"Dance with me?" He asks suddenly. He can see his mother amongst the other faces in the crowd. She's looking for him, he is certain of it.

"Oh, um. Very well." You're caught off guard by his sudden invitation.

You take his hand and allow him to guide you to where the others are dancing. You get into position and begin. Benedict doesn't say anything for a while. He is keeping his gaze locked on the crowd. You break the silence between you by giving him your name. Benedict snaps out of his daze and looks at you.

"Oh, right. Yes. I'm Benedict. Bridgerton. Benedict Bridgerton." He gives a little smile.

"I've seen your other siblings here tonight."

"Yes. My sister is debuting." His eyes flicker back up to the crowd. Violet has spotted him she looks ecstatic. Benedict wonders if that's better or worse.

"She's breathtaking."

He looks at you again. "Yes. I suppose she is."

You get the idea that he isn't much in the mood for talking, and you keep quiet for the rest of the dance. When the music comes to a close, you curtsy, and he bows. The next piece begins to play.

"Well, thank you," you say softly.

Benedict snaps back into focus and looks at you. He takes your dance card and writes his name on it before excusing himself. You watch him go and sigh. You look at the card and see his neat penmanship.

"Benedict Bridgerton. Who would have thought." You mutter to yourself.

You leave the floor.

Your mother comes over quickly and snakes her arm around yours again. She looks delighted.

"You danced with a Bridgerton! That will certainly gain some attention for you." She sounded far too happy for your liking.

"Yes, I suppose it might."

As she begins to yap on in your ear, you turn in time to see Anthony and Daphne speaking to their mother. After a moment, they leave the ball altogether.

You wished you could do the same.

♡♡♡

@callmemana - @lilscast - @imgondeletedis - @benedictbridgertonss - @clownsdiehard - @wxnterwidow333

@sillynilly27 -

[failbettergames]

You dream of rain. You dream that the ink that is your flesh is running off the page, smeared into dark rivulets on the vellum. When you wake, you can still feel a stiffness in your back; as if your spine is being held tautly by yarn.

In the dark of the cabin, your mind enumerates sensations as your eyes adjust: The sway of the gondola. The vibration from the engine in the starboard nacelle above you, rattling slightly – still no replacement for the broken fuel intake.

The noise of water rapping against a porthole window.

Hello, delicious friends. It appears that time, very disrespectfully, has chosen to march on until it is very nearly April. The time has come to talk about our major future plans for Fallen London.

A new major storyline

Firmament is Fallen London’s next major expansion, a main story arc that adds on to the game’s ongoing progression. Acquire an airship – permanently, this time. Fly to the Roof. Explore the stalactite fields ruled by the Starved Men, the carved paths of the Moon-MIsers, the inverted jungles of the Antipelago, and more.

This expansion focuses on the Roof. Just like the unterzee gets stranger and darker as you zail away from familiar shores, so do the upper airs of the Neath contain more than what you know about. As these castles on the ceiling open to you, you will learn more.

Firmament will launch over the course of April, with a prologue becoming available on April 11th, and the full first chapter on April 18th.

While Firmament is in some ways a follow-up to the Railway storyline, we are aware of how long it takes to get to the very end of the game’s (current) highest-level story. When Firmament launches, you will be able to start it as long as you have already begun the Railway storyline and reached Ealing. While you will need to advance your railway further to access the latter parts of Firmament, there should be ample time to catch up on the Railway in between Firmament chapters.

New mechanics

The Railway arc added new advanced skills. During the Zeefarer cycle we added revamped Zee travel and the new Boon/Burden mechanic. This set of updates comes with its own mechanical expansions to the game.

New item slots

Airships make their return as full-fledged items. Much like zeefaring ships, they serve you mostly in air travel – Aerial Prowess and Aerial Armament also make their return. But we’re also adding a few other item slots, while we’re at it.

Adornment includes all manner of jewellery and accessories – rings, necklaces, earrings, neckties, brooches, and more. Previously, items in this vein would appear in slots like Gloves or Clothing, leading to the somewhat odd mental image of wearing your Pendant of Helicon Amber and nothing else. With this update, these items gain their own space, enabling more player expression and empowering players to reach slightly higher stats.

Several existing items will be shifted to the Adornment slot, slightly buffing them by allowing them to stack with other existing items. Adornment is intended to be a part of the game from relatively early on – around the later parts of Making Your Name. A new Bazaar store, selling Adornments, will be added in a future update.

Crew is a complement to both ships and airships. We’ve long wanted to give ship crews (distinct from the vessels themselves) a bit more personality. Are they experienced or green? Are they Admiralty men through and through, or a band of privateers and villains? These kinds of concepts never really fit the Companion or Affiliation slots, so we are creating a purposeful slot for them.

Crews will be made available in a future update, initially accessible to players who have a ship.

Luggage may seem like a slightly odd addition, but so much of Fallen London, and Victorian fiction in general, is about travel and the mystique of travel. A battered steamer trunk that’s been everywhere. A briefcase full of secrets. Phileas Fogg’s carpetbag. Luggage is intended as a midgame slot. In a future update, you will be able to assemble some initial Luggage items in the Bazaar Side-Streets.

New Skills

We are conscious of not adding too much complexity to the game, especially not all at once. Firmament doesn’t add a full suite of new skills, like the Railway. It adds one new skill, and two new qualities of a somewhat skill-like nature.

Chthonosophy, the study of the root of things, has already been teased – but you’ve not really been able to obtain it, thus far. It is the major new skill for Firmament, playing a role similar to the role Zeefaring had in Evolution.

Inerrant and Insubstantial join Neathproofed as its two other counterparts. Like Neathproofed, these will appear more as additive benefits; they help your checks with other skills, more so than being checked in themselves. They exist to add a little extra, to help differentiate otherwise-similar items, and to act as an occasional bonus. As part of Firmament, we are pushing to make more use of Neathproofed, and carve out that space for its new counterparts, also.

Roof Travel

I won’t go into too many details about Roof travel, other than to set expectations. Yes, there is a new map. No, Roof travel is not quite a fully-fledged activity like zailing is.

We aimed it at a sort of middle ground between Railway travel (which is convenient and fairly predictable) and Zee travel (which is a whole venture unto itself.) Traveling from point to point on the Roof mostly takes one action; very occasionally, two. But it is drastically more variable than rail travel. There’s a broad variety of different things you can encounter in the upper airs of the Neath. And as you progress this storyline, you will encounter stranger things as you travel through the air.

And other delights…

Of course, we have other things planned for the rest of 2024. Our usual festivals will run as usual. A new Estival. Monthly Exceptional Stories. Various other surprises, including a series of more grounded new stories set in London. But we’ll talk about these things in detail sometime after Whitsun, which should take place, as usual, in May.

[the-jewel-catalogue]

The Sovereign's Ring

The ring is composed of a mixed-cut octagonal sapphire in a gold setting overlaid with four rectangular-cut and one square-cut rubies, butted together in a gold strip setting to form a cross, with a border of fourteen cushion-shaped diamonds and a diamond on each shoulder, with a gold hoop.

This ring was made for the coronation of William IV in 1831. Like all coronation rings until the twentieth century, each monarch had a newly-made ring which was not kept with the regalia but with the personal jewellery of the sovereign. 

William IV left this coronation ring to his widow, Queen Adelaide, who in turn bequeathed it to Queen Victoria, together with her consort's ring. Queen Victoria left both of these, and her own coronation ring to the Crown in 1901, and all three were deposited in the Tower of London

~ Royal Collection Trust

[racinggirl]

Racing Hearts - prologue

a/n: I've spent an entire evening trying to perfect this prologue. I wanted it to give away the essence and personality of both main characters, so hopefully I made that work. I have to say that I am slightly scared, because this is my first ever multi-chapter story I'm writing, but I'm trying! Hopefully you will enjoy it.

Repost, comment or any type of support is very welcomed! It keeps me motivated 🫣

Comment down below if you want to get added to the taglist

warnings: dark!lando, confident!lando, business!lando, nothing much really, just rich people stuff.

Racing Hearts Masterlist

next chapter

Olivia

The sky was filled with a range of colours, varying between bright pinks, pastel oranges and deep, dark purples contrasting against the black from the night sky. As the wind breezed past me, the few strands of hair that weren’t tucked into my messy bun flew up in front of my face. I tightened my grip on the balcony’s railing, inhaling sharply before slowly breathing out.

I can do this. I can do this.

Tonight was one of the most important evenings of the year, the annual Charity Gala in Monte Carlo, Monaco. Me and my family lived in London, but business isn’t tied to one city, or even one country.

I’ve travelled a lot, flying to New York City for an opening of one of Harrington Enterprises newest Jewellery stores, or going all the way to Dubai to accompany my mother to one of our fabric manufacturers. They were all business trips, as was the one I’m attending on my own right now.

Monaco, home of some of the most wealthy, successful and busiest people on earth. You only lived in Monaco for two reasons. A, you were born here. B, you had plenty of money and had no idea what to do with it. Seeing as the average net worth of a Monaco citizen is above ten million dollars, I’d say ninety-nine percent of the people at this gala belonged to category B. I had to make a great impression; it was my job as the PR Director at Harrington Enterprises.

I wasn’t a stranger to a high society gala; however, I had not experienced something as extravagant as this before. High ceilings, decorated with glass chandeliers that glittered in the big open room. Waiters moving effortlessly through the crowd, holding trays with glasses filled with champagne that cost more than your average rent.

My eyes roamed the big, crowded room, searching for the man that stood number two on my list; one of the reasons my parents informed me of this Charity Gala. He was a well-known fashion icon and businessman in this world. Nate Thompson.

I spotted him at the bar, talking to the women that were nearly drooling at his feet. The man was eye-candy for every woman at this event. With broad shoulders, a sharp jawline and masculinity that made multiple men run for their money, he was one of the most successful bachelors out there.

I gathered my courage and stepped towards the man, shoulders straight with a friendly yet professional smile plastered on my lips. As I approached, Nate’s eyes met mine and he gave me one of his warm, welcoming smiles.

‘’Olivia Harrington,’’ he said, extending his hand. ‘’I’ve heard a lot about you, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you.’’

‘’The pleasure is mine, Mr. Thompson,’’ I replied, shaking his hand firmly. ‘’Such a wonderful place, isn’t it?’’ I slowly let go of his hand, keeping my posture straight and professional.

‘’Please, call me Nate,’’ he said with a wink. ‘’Mr Thompson makes me feel old.’’

As the night went on, we struck up a conversation about his newest fashion items. He spoke about different designs, as well as places for shop openings. As much as I loved the fashion world – shopping at Versace, Prada and Chanel never got boring – I had to hold back a yawn once every few minutes.

‘’Your father has done a tremendous job attaining the vacant buildings at Bond Street.’’ Nate did exactly what I expected him to do, and it surprised me how little effort I had to put into this conversation. ‘’A very, very astonishing job.’’ Nate continued speaking highly of my father’s deals.

Bond Street was one, if not the most expensive street in London. My father bought most of the houses a few years back, when the house market was at it’s lowest. It was no surprise Nate Thompson was looking for the best of the best when it came to opening his new store in London.

‘’He did, indeed,’’ I reached into my designer bag, fishing out a business card of my father’s company. ‘’It would be a perfect location for Thompson’s, wouldn’t it?’’

Nate didn’t hesitate once and reached out for the card I held out with my fingers. ‘’Pleasure doing business with you, Olivia, you’ll hear from my team.’’ A satisfied smile appeared on my face when Nate gave me a curt nod, me returning the favour by raising my glass ever so slightly.

One down, one to go.

‘’Impressive.’’ The dark, smooth voice scattered goosebumps all over my skin, it made my body react in ways I hadn’t felt in quite a while.

My eyes followed the voice, and I was met by a tall figure. A tailored black suit that hugged those broad shoulders. Dark curls that looked a perfect combination of messy and neat. Eyes, a colour that I couldn’t quite decipher. Green, blue, a hint of grey or even brown, but what I did know was that those eyes pierced straight through me, looking into the depths of my soul.

The low chuckle that rose from his throat snapped me out of my thoughts. I gathered myself and lifted my chin up ever so slightly.

Let’s tackle the number one on my list.

‘’Mr. Norris, what a pleasure.’’

Lando

Emerald green never had been one of my favourite colours, it stood out great with my tan, though. It was sophisticated, elegant and not too in your face. You’d think it would be a colour that I adored, well, you couldn’t be more wrong.

Orange was more my colour, it was fierce, available in many different shades, perfect for every occasion. Mix it with a dark shade, it stood out. Mix it with a light shade, it blended in. A perfect representation of my life.

As a racing driver, you needed dark, to stand out to be the best of the best, to catch people’s attention to gain yourself a spot in the spotlight. But you also wanted to blend in, to move through the field without getting noticed, yearning for the privacy that was so hard to attain.

In the world of business, it was similar, yet different. You needed dark so you could make money, be the best of the best, without having that spotlight. Because having that spotlight in the business world meant you needed that light more than ever, needing to blend in so you wouldn’t have that target on your back.

Combine the two, and you learn to be ahead of everyone, two steps ahead to get whatever you want, whenever you want.

I reached for a glass and raise it to my lips, my eyes staying glued to the business deal being made in front of my eyes.

Everybody that attended this Gala wasn’t here for the good sake of their heart. No, a Charity Gala was the perfect way to make it look like you’re donating money for those in need, when in fact it’s the perfect cover-up for a business deal. One that was being closed a few meters away from me.

Once the deal had been made, I made my way over with a few long strides. She didn’t hear me approach, causing her body to react instantly to my voice.

‘’Impressive.’’ I never expected Olivia Harrington to strike up a deal with Nate Thompson in just under 17 minutes. The man was harder to please than a newborn baby that needed its mom. However, I suppose when you’re looking for a new location for your shop, Bond Street was the place to be, a coincidence that Richard Harrington had exactly what Nate needed? I don’t think so.

I never underestimated the Harrington family; they were one step ahead most of the time. It’s a good thing I’m always two ahead.

‘’Mr. Norris, what a pleasure.’’ I took a hold of her hand, ignoring the way her soft skin felt against my own. ‘’Ms. Harrington.’’ Her hand let go of mine, and I grinned slightly at the subtle flush of her cheeks.

‘’Surely not eavesdropping, I hope?’’ Her soft yet sharp voice was a complete contrast to the previous shock on her face when she laid eyes on me.

‘’Merely observing.’’

My gaze flew over her body, the way that emerald green dress hugged her body in the right places, the tanned legs underneath that dress going down to the Louboutin’s she was wearing. I wasn’t one to back away from a bit of flirting, I absolutely loathed the fake smiles and pretended interest at any business event. They were necessary, for the most part, and I was amongst one of many that took part in the fake contest, but that didn’t mean I enjoyed it.

‘’I see,’’ the smile on my face was less forced this time, but I blame it on how the woman in front of me swallowed hard, a clear indication of nervousness.

A chuckle rose in my chest. ‘’No need to be nervous, Sunshine,’’ I smirked slightly. ‘’I’m not as intimidating as they say.’’ I made sure my voice was smooth and filled with confidence, as always.

‘’Nervous? Is that another of your observations, Mr. Norris?’’

‘’It is,’’ I maintained eye contact as I took another sip of the Louis Roederer drink. At least they served some decent champagne. ‘’and I’m never wrong.’’

Another harsh bob of her throat.

I was aware of the fact I was on their list of business talks. Nate Thompson may be one of the most successful men at this event, but not nearly as successful as me. Like I said before, always be two steps ahead.

‘’Now, let’s cut straight to what brought you here. Let’s talk business, shall we?’’

TAGLIST

@smoooothoperator @tapedeck-hearts @cabbyhabs @wanderingreigns @samantha-chicago @alltoomaples @ironmaiden1313 @pinkbookloverslife @onlyzahraaaa

[ador3him]

Hello! How do you think fans and friends would react to the dt dating a Billionaire business women hcs? 😭 like they dead just start tweaking out LMAOOOO

- 👻

pairing: dream team x billionaire!reader

requested? yesss by 👻 anon

authors note: this is such a good idea!!! (kinda based them off some books I'm reading atm shhh)

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

DREAM

-dreams girlfriend is the owner of a luxury event planning business (Vivian Russo coded)

-they met when dream wanted to plan a welcome party for George.

-INSTANT CONNECTION

-at first he didn't know she was the CEO, but when he found out he was a bit zealous.

-he didn't want you to pay for anything, absolutely nothing.

-and he def couldn't help but search up your networth.

-his eyes bulged at the number.

-he def flaunted you when you guys went public, the tabloids went CRAZY

-he loves to promote your business on his platform and to all his friends when they need to plan an event.

GEORGE

-george's girlfriend is the owner of an internationalal real estate business.

-when he was selling his place in London she personally worked on his place due to his online presence.

-she legit flew from the US to do this.

-george was in awe of her dedication and straight up looks.

-he asked her out after escrow because he didn't want to be embarrassed whenever he saw her if he did it before.

-obviously she went out with him, they went to a fancy Italian place near George's old place.

-when George moved she would come visit whenever she was in Florida.

-soon she relocated from New York to Florida.

-george didn't want to go public but they were seen in a restaurant by a fan and they leaked pictures.

-his fans went crazy when they found out who she was and her networth.

-george felt so bad that he made a post saying that they broke up to get his fans away from their relationship.

so sad:(

SAPNAP

-sapnap met her at VIDcon. she was a fashion blogger who owns a luxury jewellery line.

-after a couple dates she gifted him a sliver chain with diamonds incrusted into it. And he went feral.

-she was a full on sugar mommy, and they both loved it.

-they went public a bit early because they were so in love with each other.

-the fans ate it up!!

-they loved the collabs on her fashion blog when she styled him.

-he also loved it.

-and the money

-you bet the fucking house she bought for the two of them was fucking crazy. full on mansion on acreage.

-they last for ever and ever.

[wingedsirens]

GUITARS AND STOLEN JEWELLERY

hobie brown x black cat reader

You’ve been the city’s Black Cat for a while now, and it’s time for you to meet Spiderman.

There was one thing on your mind. As you scaled the drainpipe of a tall building, you went over the mission in your mind. Quick robbery, inside and out. You pushed yourself to the roof of the building, before setting your sights on the high rise apartment block.

Clad in glass, there resided your victim - Claus Parley. Shitty millionaire, even shittier person. There was no limit to what he’d done; or what he was accused of. Still, every allegation has to be truthful in some way, right?

Leaping from rooftop to rooftop, you marvelled at the city beneath you. London was ugly at best, but from up here, it looked beautiful. You enjoyed the night, especially ones this temperature. It was cold enough not to sweat, but warm enough not to freeze. It helped.

Reaching the block, you easily found a way in, courtesy to an open window close enough for you to leap to. Creeping through this random strangers apartment, you snagged a few pieces of jewellery as you left. If they could afford to live here, they were rich - it wasn’t like they’d miss them.

You’d been surveying Claus Parley for a few weeks now. He lived on the twelfth floor, ninth door along. But tonight, he wouldn’t be in - he had been invited to a strange little gala that celebrated who knows what. More importantly, that meant he was out of his apartment for the night.

His place was easier to locate than you thought it would be. You tried the handle, and sure enough, it was locked. Retrieving a lock pick from the small pocket in the side of your suit, you managed to get it open in less then thirty seconds. Rich people really needed better security.

You stole through the cool air, checking every room and scanning all of the surfaces for anything of value, before you found the jackpot. His safe was hidden in the top of his wardrobe, placed behind three shoeboxes. Placing it on the bed, you guessed the code a few times before guessing correct. Opening the door, you looked at the contents.

Several stacks of cash were stuffed messily at the side, which you gladly pocketed. Three watches in faux velvet boxes were placed in a row, and you brought them out to have a look. One fake, two real. You took the real ones and placed them in another hidden pouch, and then you found what you were looking for.

Stuffing the leather pouch into the same pocket as the watches, you shut the safe and placed it back in the wardrobe, moving the shoeboxes in front of it like how it was prior. It wasn’t the same, but you doubted he would notice. Casting one more look over the bedroom, you slipped out as quick as you came.

Getting out of the building was harder then getting in: first you had to get to the rooftop, then find an object to attach to your zip line, then getting on the zip line, and then you were on another roof. Depending on the distance between that and the next, you had to use the zip line again, or you had to vault your way over like a cat.

You were lucky this time. There was a long stretch of buildings that were flat topped, and easy to jump across. You did just that, barely getting out of breath. After about ten minutes of zipping across rooftops, you sat down, and looked at your small haul.

The jewellery would fetch a lot if you sold it to the right people. The watches would too, by the looks of it they looked like Breitling ones. And then, in the leather pocket, was your real target. You took it out and admired the piece of metal, cool and slippery in your hand.

All of a sudden, you heard a thump on the rooftop behind you. Shoving your haul into your suit, you turned around, on your feet instantly on the ground. Surveying the roof to see who your intruder was, your eyes finally settled on the guy leaning against a chimney. Most of his slim frame was doused in shadow, the only thing able to make out were the spikes that were somehow embedded on his head.

“Was wondering if I’d ever get to meet you, Black Cat.“ He said, putting emphasis on the last two words. As he walked forwards, you recognised him. He wore the some of the largest platforms you’d seen, and his trademark leather jacket, complete with the largest collection of pins you’d never seen up close. And yet, you’d seen him on the news enough to know who this man was.

“Spider Punk.” You said, cocking your head to the side, smirk playing on your lips. He mirrored your expression, almost mockingly, looking you up and down. “So, what innocent person are you stealin’ from now?” He replied, copying your head movements.

“They’re far from innocent, Spidey.” You said, walking around him, discreetly admiring his look. He was cool, you couldn’t disagree. “Well, you’ve been jumping around these rooftops so much I can’t fuckin’ tell who it was.” He joked. You sighed, pointing up.

“See that building? Yeah, there are a shit ton of millionaires that don’t even know what security is. And one of them even has his stuff in the worst quality safe I’ve ever seen. It would be a crime not to take it.” You grinned. “Still pissed?”

“I mean, I can let it slide. On one condition, kitty.” He said, walking around you. You pouted sarcastically, dropping it a second later. “And what’s that, Spidey?” Making sure you had everything with you, you slowly edged towards the side of the roof. He was new to you, and while that intrigued you, your defences were still up. He couldn’t interrupt everything you had going on.

“What are you gonna do with the cash?” He asked you, moving closer to you unexpectedly. You could hear his breathing. “Well, I happen to have someone I know who’s about to have a child, and she did not have the facilities for it. Or, the money for it. So, I’m giving some of it to her. The rest is going to a food bank. And obviously, I’m getting a cut.” You replied. He chuckled. “What, so are you some kind of Robin Hood?”

“You could call it that.” You said, leaning back on the same chimney he appeared on. “You know, I thought you’d be more impressed, that with your, um, anarchist movement.” You gestured to his badges as you talked.

“Never said I wasn’t impressed.” He said. You smirked. “Now usually, I’d ask for you to elaborate, but I’m sort of pushed for time. I’d love to continue this, but I have deadlines to make.” To be honest, you were due home in three hours, but there was something about this conversation that was putting you on edge.

“No worries, I’ll be quick.” He moved closer, and you stayed stock still. “I can’t lie, Black Cat. I’ve been keepin’ track of you for a while.” He added, waiting to see your reaction. You only smiled, leaning forward for a moment. “I can’t lie and say I haven’t been keeping track of you either, Spider Punk.” You replied, turning around in preparation to leave.

“Not my name, kitty.” You heard him shout from behind you. Turning around a final time, you looked back to him, the wind biting at your face. “What would you prefer?” You shouted back at him, still walking to the ledge. Even as you jumped, you still heard his response, carried by the wind.

You laughed. Not daring to look back, you landed on the roof with ease. Spidey it was, as per his request.

a/n: honestly i fucking hate this so much but yayy? it’s finished ig. ALSO I PROMISE I’M DOING MY REQUESTS IT JUST TAKES ME AGES I’M SO SORRY AHH!!?!! lmk if you enjoyed, honestly would love to do a part 2.

[nausikaaa]

Six Sentence Sunday

thanks for tagging me @run-for-chamo-miles @that-disabled-princess and @orange-peony!

classicstober 2024's prompts have been announced and i'm super excited because it's historical figures! my obsession with Roman non-fiction and biographies has finally paid off!

i thought it would be a good opportunity to jumpstart my writing brain by writing lots of short and snappy things. and so today, i've written 1000 or so words for Regina of South Shields, who i've had the pleasure of visiting!

i'm about to ramble, so i'm putting it under a cut. also warning, i've included photos of a tombstone and a human skeleton. if you just want to read the six sentences and not see them, scroll fast right to the bottom.

so, this is Regina. or rather, her tombstone, discovered by builders in 1878, and a reconstruction of how it might have looked when it was erected. if you haven't heard of her, which is understandable, she was a British woman from modern day St Albans (near London) during the Roman occupation of Britain. she was sold as a slave (did her family need money? was she born a slave? we don't know) and bought by a man named Barates, from Palmyra, a city in modern day Syria, who was either a soldier or at least travelling with the Roman army. they moved to a garrison close to Hadrian's Wall in what is now South Shields in the north east, and Barates fell in love with Regina. he freed her and they got married.

her tombstone is mostly important because it tells us that a Syrian man was in Britain during this time, and since her tombstone has Palmyrene script on it, and the chances he engraved his own wife's tombstone are slim, there was likely at least one other Syrian person who could engrave headstones around. which suggests that there was a whole group! the name of the Roman fort in South Shields was Arbeia, which could even mean "the place of the arabs."

it's estimated that a third of people in Britain during the Roman occupation were long distance migrants, and most were not slaves, as is often assumed. Ivory Bangle Lady, who I have also visited in York Museum and who lived around the same time, is believed to have come from Africa. and she was a wealthy free woman!

but what about Regina? well, we know she was from the Catuvellauni tribe, and that she died aged 30. we can assume she spun wool as she's depicted doing so on the tombstone, which was a respectable pastime for Roman women, and she's shown wearing lots of jewellery, so she probably led a comfortable life.

but we don't know how she felt about her marriage, as her tombstone is in Barates' words. did she love him back, or was she under duress to marry him to improve her own prospects? did they have children? did she have friends in Arbeia? did she have to learn Aramaic or Latin to communicate with Barates, or did he know Celtic? we simply don't know. so much of her personality has been lost to time.

so my challenge was to write something that pieces together various possibilities to create what could be an approximation of who Regina was. to give her some life, a voice, and at least a bit of agency.

okay. enough preamble. here's six lines:

I had grown and reached my twentieth year, and as the dark circles beneath my eyes disappeared and the warmer months led me to abandon my woollen cloak, I noticed men's behaviour towards me change. I am not the type to play at being coy- I knew they found me attractive. With my white skin, red hair, and pale blue eyes, I was exotic to them. I stood out.

I noticed Barates' behaviour change too. I realised I had a choice to make.

if you want to know more about Regina, my main source is this podcast by Mary Beard, but i also took inspiration from the book Roman Woman by Lindsay Allason-Jones.

tags: @forabeatofadrum @j-nipper-95 @artsyunderstudy @prettygoododds @confused-bi-queer @imagineacoolusername @ic3-que3n @aristocratic-otter @larkral @hushed-chorus @ivelovedhimthroughworse @shemakesmeforget @fatalfangirl @ebbpettier @you-remind-me-of-the-babe @cutestkilla @youarenevertooold @alexalexinii @shrekgogurt @bookish-bogwitch @thewholelemon @supercutedinosaurs @shutup-andletme-go @theearlgreymage @ileadacharmedlife @alleycat0306 @carryonsimoncarryonbaz @comesitintheclover @noblecorgi @roomwithanopenfire and @blackberrysummerblog

[pamet-u-glavuuu]

Tomdaya checkpoint🛂

💔who broke it off? what was the reason?

❤️who reached out first the second time?

💍engaged/ secretly married?

📸fav pic?

💎fav piece of tomdaya jewellery?

💊do you believe in the plan b tea?

🧢thoughts on Zendaya’s haaat story and the live?

💭what was tom thinking about when he talked about the most important experience in your life that has shaped you into the person you are today, if you could say one?

🍞did Z manage to taste granny Tess’s bread by now?

❌unpopular opinion

💔 Tom (reason -> communication)

❤️ Tom

💍 engaged ✅️ married 🔜

📸 It's hard to choose but this one is in my top 5

💎 piss ring aka engagement ring / orca signet ring / ZH signet ring 😉

💊 that story is so iconic so yes

🧢 she was panicking even Darnell had to intervene.. the whole situation was so funny why did they react like that if they have nothing to hide

💭 it was definitely about Z.. it can be their engagement, breakup, or his entire relationship with her

🍞 yes 😅

❌️ I think claire will be back in london.. she wil be there on closing night of R&J and she will stay there for some time before going back to LA/SF with tz 🤪

[lexithwrites]

Here's a question for the ask game (?)

Favourite Jegulus Headcanons (nsfw or fluffy)

Ask me stuff!

Fluffy:

• Regulus always wears James shirts after they start dating whilst James wears his jewellery — mostly necklaces and bracelets because his fingers are bigger than Reggie’s

• James sings along to an insane playlist in the car on short or long drives

• Regulus brings a book with him everywhere he goes

• They go to a new restaurant twice a month for dates

• Regulus can skate very well so he tries to teach James during the winter when they can go to the huge ice rinks in London — James is terrible but he loves getting to hold his bfs hand

• Regulus doesn’t always like to be touched so James will always give him that space and wait for him to initiate

• James took note of every time regulus mentioned a book he wanted to read and bought a bunch for his birthday and made it into a calendar for him to open for a month

Now I’m terms of NSFW:

• Regulus is a power bottom for sure

• James is a sub top, don’t fight me, he cares more about the other person getting off than himself getting off—he forgets he even can tbh

• Regulus is a little more reserved with sex and sometimes has repulsed episodes but James could quit sex without a second thought so he has no issue going without

• James is not innocent but he doesn’t know a lot of kink terms so it’s a funny little moment for regulus to explain something to him

• James sends regulus audios of himself getting off

• They had shower sex once and James nearly broke his arm so never again

• The ‘craziest’ place they’ve done it is over the kitchen counter���they love their bed and it’s their favourite spot

• Regulus likes tying James up for sure

• Their safe word is mozzarella — neither of them know why

[decorisdiamonds]

Explore how long it takes to create custom made jewellery in London UK. From initial consultation to final delivery, discover the process and timeframes involved in crafting bespoke and personalized pieces.

[quantomeno]

Layton Christmas Gift Exchange

The person I was given to give a gift to was @alex-r-kingston

The prompts were:

Puzzle family fluff - something warm and cozy

Layclaire

Pick a track from any game’s OST- create what comes to mind

I think I managed to get all three in this.

There are two links to songs in the story. Play them while you read the parts that follow them.

Professor Layton sat by the fireplace, alone. It was Christmas again: a time of reunions and family…

…And love.

Layton looked down at the photograph in his hands. His beloved Claire smiled back at him. With a sigh, he looked out the window and into the snowy night. Despite the warmth of the fire, Layton felt the cold wind of that winter’s day in the streets of London…

“Look,” Claire pulled his sleeve, drawing his attention away from the jewellery store window..

He turned to see she was pointing at a family: the mother and father were each holding a hand of their son as the three of them walked, laughing as the child gaped in awe at all the lights and decorations and toys on display. Claire looked up at him and smiled.

“You know Hershel,” she began. “I’ve often wondered…”

“Yes?”

She laughed and looked away. “Oh, well...” plucking up her courage she looked back into his eyes, a glimmer of curiosity in them. “Would you ever want a child?”

Hershel was taken aback, but he quickly smiled back. “I hadn’t quite thought of it…”

“Well, I think you would make a wonderful father, Hershel,” Claire said. “I could see you with a large family.”

Hershel laughed, embarrassed, but oddly flattered. “Are you sure? You know I was an only child growing up; a large family is something I’m rather… unfamiliar with. I doubt I could manage it.”

“I don’t think that matters, Hershel,” Claire replied. “You are such a calm, patient man. I think you would be wonderful with children. And I’m sure they’d all love hearing your puzzles!” Claire rubbed his arm affectionately and peered up at the massive Christmas tree that stood in the square. The family they had been watching were there too, with the father holding up the son so he could see his reflection in the shiny surface of the baubles. “Isn’t it such a gorgeous tree this year?” Claire sighed.

“You know,” Hershel rubbed his chin. “It reminds me of a puzzle…”

Claire shook her head in mock dismay. “Oh, please Hershel, can’t I enjoy the tree in peace?”

“It’s a clever one.”

With a bright smile on her face, she gazed up into his eyes again. “All right, go on. Tell me.”

Hershel cleared his throat. “Well, it goes like this…”

Layton was jolted from his thoughts by the sound of a knock at the door. He returned the photograph to its place and went to answer it.

There before him stood a young boy ― he shook his head, no, young man ― dressed in blue, arms laden with presents.

“Professor!” Luke smiled. “Merry Christmas!” He squeezed himself through the doorway, but despite his efforts he tripped, a present falling from the pile of precious cargo. Luke’s eyes were as wide as saucers as he watched it tumble to the ground before it was caught by the Professor, just before it hit the ground.

He chuckled. “And merry Christmas to you too Luke.” He placed the errant gift on the sideboard and took in the stack Luke still carried. “My word, you’re buried beneath those things! Let me help you.”

Luke blushed. “It’s like you always used to say, Professor, ‘a true gentleman never shows up empty handed!’”

“I’m glad to see you’ve been taking my lessons to heart,” Layton said with a smile. “It’s been so long, Luke. How go your studies abroad?”

Luke opened his mouth to reply, but before he could utter a word, a high-pitched cheer came from down the hall. A little girl rushed out and tackled Luke with a hug.

“Cousin Luke!” she cried.

Luke picked her up and spun her around.

“Wow Kat! You’re a big girl now!” He placed her back on the ground and she spun around, showing off her dress.

“I’m not a girl,” she said, sticking her chin up haughtily. “I’m a lady!”

Luke put on a stern face. “Yes, of course.”

“Katrielle, get back here! I haven’t finished your hair.”

Luke turned to the source of the voice. “Flora!”

Flora, focused on chasing the little lady, looked up in surprise. “Luke! The Professor didn’t tell me you were coming.”

Layton smiled as he dragged a curious Katrielle away from the presents. “I thought it would be a nice surprise.”

“It’s a proper reunion,” Flora said. “Dinner’s almost ready by the way.”

Luke’s face dropped and he cast a worried look over to Layton, memories of Flora’s previous culinary experiments flashing through his mind. He hated to think what she might have done to the ham, or worse, the Yorkshire puddings!

“The turkey is coming out in just a few minutes.” An elderly woman, an apron tied around her waist, poked her head out the kitchen door. “And hello to you Master Triton,” she winked at him. Luke sighed in relief: if the preparations were in Rosa’s capable hands, he had nothing to fear.

As the three old friends sat down to share stories, they were interrupted by yet another knock at the door.

“Who could that be now?” Flora asked, peering towards the hall. “Another surprise guest of yours?”

Layton shook his head. “It’s a puzzle to me as well.”

“I’ll get it,” Luke said, jumping up from his seat and racing to the door. From the lounge, Layton and Flora heard his voice as he opened the door.

“Hey! What are you doing here?”

“Not even a ‘hello’, Luke?” a woman’s voice came down the hall. “I thought the Professor taught you better.”

“Oh, right! Sorry…’ Luke cleared his throat in embarrassment. “Merry Christmas Emmy!”

Having recognised the voice in an instant, Layton was already out of his seat and at the door.

“Emmy! Come in!” he held out a hand for her coat. “What a marvellous surprise. Last I heard you were in the Alps.”

“Nothing gets past the great Professor Layton, does it? My latest assignment with the World Times wrapped up sooner than expected, so I thought I’d take the opportunity to visit. It’s been far too long since we last spoke and isn’t Christmas the perfect time for a reunion?”

“‘One must always show gratitude to one’s teachers’,” Luke recited. “isn’t that right, Professor?”

“Ho ho, indeed Luke.” He smiled. “Go set an extra place at the table for Emmy; there are some people I need to introduce her to.”

“Yes, I got your letter,” Emmy shook her head with a wry smile. “I’m surprised how little it surprises me to hear you’re now a father.”

Rosa had just started to carve the turkey when Emmy rose from her seat with a quizzical look and held a hand out to signal for quiet.

“Did you hear that?” she asked, peering around. “I’m sure I heard…”

This time everyone could hear it: a soft knocking at the door.

Flora looked to Layton who frowned. He went to the front door and pulled it open. There on the front step, was a bespectacled man with hair like a loaf of bread and, behind him, an older, bearded man in a red suit.

Layton blinked.

“Happy Christmas, Hershel,” the man said. “I hope I’m not… intruding…”

“Desmond…” Layton breathed. “I… Well, this is quite unexpected. Please, by all means, come in.” He opened the door wider and motioned him in. “And welcome to you too, Raymond.”

He guided them into the dining room where the others sat, speculating as to who the arrival might be. When they caught sight of the guests, they went silent.

Desmond looked around, taking in the holly and boughs of fir that lined the sideboard, the feast spread out upon the table, the fire crackling gently in the hearth.

“Quite a… domestic scene you have here.”

“Rosa, Flora, Katrielle,” Layton said. “Could you set two more seats for Professor Sycamore and Raymond?”

The three of them scurried out of the room, leaving Luke, Emmy and the Professor with the two new guests.

There was a pause. No one quite knew what to say. Raymond straightened his already pristine jacket. Luke stared down at his shoes. Desmond opened his mouth, but before he could utter a word he found himself in the embrace of his brother.

“I thought I would never see you again,” he said, stepping away slightly to face Desmond properly. Desmond avoided his gaze.

“I was afraid I’d show up here and have the door slammed in my face…” he chuckled drily. “If anything, that would have been easier to accept than a hug. I don’t quite know what to do with myself here.”

“You’re here with family, Desmond,” Layton replied, smiling.

“Come, sit down,” Luke added, motioning to the laden table. “We’ve got plenty of food!”

“And Christmas crackers,” Emmy waved one of them in the air. “I know how much you like bad jokes!”

“I have perfectly good tastes in comedy!” Desmond stuck up his nose and crossed his arms. “You Philistines just don’t appreciate it.”

Everyone laughed. Flora and Rosa returned with chairs, followed by Katrielle carrying a small stack of crockery.

“I see we’re all getting in the spirit of things,” said Rosa. She put the chair down and turned to Layton and Desmond. “Are you going to introduce us properly?”

“Of course,” Layton cleared his throat. “This is my brother, Desmond Sycamore, and his butler Raymond.”

“A pleasure,” Raymond dipped his head.

“And Desmond, these are your nieces: Flora and Katrielle.”

Emmy piped up: “I suppose that makes you Uncle Desmond.”

“Yes, I suppose it does…”

That evening was spent in a blissful glow of good food, laughter and the telling of stories old and new. As Layton caught his breath after a particularly hilarious anecdote, he looked over to the mantelpiece where the phonograph of Claire watched over those gathered. Hershel smiled back at her.

You were right after all, Claire. I only wish you could be here to see this family I have.

He raised a glass to her.

Merry Christmas, my love.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This has to be one of the sweetest and most sentimental things I’ve ever written. But it’s Christmas so that sort of thing is only fitting.

The inspiration for this came largely from the intro to the TV series Babar. I had the vague idea of Christmas dinner with everyone arriving, and tying it in with the moment with Claire at the start was planned too, but then I thought, let’s add in the music aspect of the prompts somehow. I was then reminded of those opening credits and it was exactly the feeling I wanted.

A long while ago, listening to Time Travel, I noticed it is indeed rather more cheerful sounding than, say, Iris. In fact, with the snow falling when Layton removes his hat, it almost feels like a Christmas song, and so, what better song to use for a Christmas story? Particularly one about Layton’s future after Claire.

I also had the music of the picture book minigame in mind for the first half. I felt it captured that gentle, sweet, yet wistful atmosphere. I was toying with using Memories instead, but that’s a little too sad. Luckily, The Picture Book is also from Lost Future, so it all ties together quite nicely.

Also I left out Alfendi but included Katrielle. This is just because I’ve played LMJ but not LBMR. I know very little about Alfendi. Let’s just say Layton adopts him as a teenager and he hasn’t joined the family yet.

[foxes-that-run]

Haylor Gift Tabloids

There are several stories about gifts I will combine here:

HARRY'S ONE G OF PRESENTS - EXCLUSIVE £1,000 on Taylor's birthday (handbag, earrings, cupcakes & perfume)

23 Cupcakes for her birthday (the Mirror)

Harry gave Taylor a vintage bracelet for christmas (The Sun)

Harry sent Taylor a singing Telegram to perform WMYB in country style (The Sun - x)

Taylor buying Beatles Memorabilia (Daily Star)

Taylor had booked a Italy getaway for Harry's Birthday (The Sun)

1989 roses (I’ll post that video soon because Harry was asked)

I can't find the guitar though and wonder if it was from the image used in that Dolly layout above... unless maybe to be so expensive signed merch is a guitar. I also can't find an article about the opal ring

1 - HARRY'S ONE G OF PRESENTS - EXCLUSIVE £1,000 on Taylor's birthday

December 15, 2012 | Sun, The/Sun on Sunday, The (London, England) CAROLINE McGUIRE | Page: 3 | Section: News

LOVESTRUCK Harry Styles has splashed out more than £1,000 on birthday presents for new girlfriend Taylor Swift. The One Direction star celebrated the country singer turning 23 by buying her a £400 Jimmy Choo handbag, antique earrings, her favourite perfume — and 23 cup cakes. The cakes cost £38 and he picked them up in person from a husband-and-wife firm in Warrington, Cheshire. The treats included cookies & cream, candy floss and mint liqueur flavours. The 18-year-old also handed Taylor a black and white picture of them together in a vintage frame. A source said: "Harry put a lot of thought into her gifts and really wanted to show her just how special she is to him. "The boys teased him about how mushy he's become but he doesn't seem to care."

Caption:

Gifted couple ... Harry bought Taylor scent, cakes, a posh bag, earrings and a photo of them together

2 - 23 Cupcakes

Harry’s so sweet

Daily Mirror 15 Dec 2012

SOMEONE needs to offer Harry Styles a job on the UK tourist board as he continues wooing Taylor Swift with his “Best of British” theme.

The loved-up star, 18, celebrated girlfriend Taylor’s 23rd birthday on Thursday by giving her 23 cupcakes. PUKE. (not literally, we hope).

Hazza made the last-minute order to the Custom Cupcake Company in his home town of Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, on Wednesday night.

But it sounds like he got his mum to organise it all.

Bakery owner Matt Blakey revealed: “A lady called us asking if we could supply some cupcakes.

“I told her we were bursting at the seams.

“She said it was for Harry Styles and I said, “Oh, OK, cool. Send him along’.

“Later I got a phone call from my wife that Harry Styles was standing on the doorstep.

“I didn’t think he would come to pick them up!”

On Taylor’s special day the couple were also spotted out enjoying a romantic country walk and getting intimate during a pub lunch.

Enough now. Enough.

3 - Taylor's Stylish bracelet: VINTAGE GIFT FROM SAILOR HARRY

Smart, Gordon.  The Sun; London (UK). 04 Jan 2013: 18.

HARRY STYLES is showering TAYLOR SWIFT with gifts at the right time - just as ONE DIRECTION unveil camp snaps of him in a sailor outfit.

He's handed his missus a vintage emerald bracelet to celebrate them seeing in 2013 together in The Big Apple.

Which slightly makes up for the South Pacific look he's sporting here.

The singer found the gift for Taylor at a second-hand jewellery shop near his home in Cheshire while shopping over Christmas.

At least the trip out got him out of playing those endless games of Monopoly over the festive period.

A source said: "Harry handpicked the present for Taylor while he was back home.

"He found it in a secondhand shop and she was impressed when he handed it to her.

Dodgy "He gave it to her at the plush hotel they stayed in while they were celebrating New Year in New York.

"Harry is head over heels for Taylor and even admitted he loves her while they were in the Big Apple."

Now he just needs to keep her away from YouTube over the next week.

The band have filmed a clip for new single Kiss You dressed up in the sailor clobber.

A trailer for the video was released yesterday.

One shot also shows Harry wearing a very dodgy Hawaiian shirt.

The full promo will be be out on Monday next week.

Harry's bandmate LOUIS TOMLINSON won't need to worry about any embarrassment with his better half.

He liked to stick on a blue and white striped top and boaters every day anyway ...

4 - HARRY Styles yesterday hired a cheesy singing telegram to serenade Taylor Swift — as he spent Christmas 3,500 miles away from her.

The Sun - 26 December 2012 x

The teenage One Direction star got the crooner to belt out his band’s hit What Makes You Beautiful.

He also ordered it sung in country and western style — the kind of music his American girlfriend performs.

Harry, 18, fixed up the soppy surprise in the US before he jetted back to his family in the UK on Christmas Eve.

A source said: “Even though they were apart on Christmas Day, he wanted to make sure she’d be thinking of him. The singagram was an ideal present.

“She has a great sense of humour. He knew she’d think it was hilarious.”

The lovestruck boyband singer DID get to see 23-year-old Taylor yesterday — via a Skype videocall as each opened Christmas presents in the afternoon.

The source said: “Harry and Taylor can’t get enough of each other. Any moment they can spend together, they do. But Harry is also very close to his family. He wanted to be back home with them for Christmas.”

Harry first started dating Taylor two months ago.

The pair have been snapped together in Manchester, New York, Los Angeles and the swanky US ski resort of Aspen.

5- The Daily Star: Taylor's Fab Four-tune! Picture: EROTEME

December 18, 2012 | Daily Star (England) with ED DYSON and ELLE GRIFFITHS

HARRY Styles - we've a message from Taylor Swift: She Loves You yeah, yeah, yeah...

Well, she must do, since the country queen is splashing the cash Crimbo prezzies.

We hear Taylor, 23, is on the hunt for some mega-expensive Beatles merchandise to treat hunky Hazza whom she has been dating since last month.

Our spies told us: "Harry spent GBP900 on Taylor for her recent birthday, and now she wants to repay the favour - and then some.

"She's been phoning Beatles stores in Liverpool hoping to find pieces of rare autographed memorabilia she knows Harry will love.

"A staff member at one store let slip she wanted to spend somewhere between GBP40,000 and GBP50,000."

Wow. The Fab Four may have said Can't Buy Me Love, but if you could, that sum would probably cover it. And it's no wonder the boyband heart-throb is such a fan, as the 1D craze sweeping the world drew comparisons to the Fab Four.

Harry, 18, even admitted he could see the similarities himself.

Icons He said: "We watched that film of The Beatles when they touched down in America and saw a likeness with our personalities. They loved having a laugh like us."

Luckily Mr Styles's ego isn't as big as his barnet.

He explained: "The comparisons seem ridiculous to us, because they were such icons."

Well, you might never have the influence of the Beatles, Harry, but you can at least get your mitts on plenty of their stuff.

6 - It's all gondola wrong, Harry - SPLIT AXES TAYLOR'S VENICE BIRTHDAY GIFT

January 15, 2013 | Sun, The/Sun on Sunday, The (London, England) GORDON SMART | Page: 18,19 | Section: Business

ONE of TAYLOR SWIFT's pals could be in for a free holiday in Venice. The US singer had plans for a romantic city break with ex HARRY STYLES as a treat for his 19th birthday next month. She was planning to surprise the ONE DIRECTION star with five nights at the posh Palazzina Grassi on the Grand Canal. Harry only found out about it last week - and is now feeling even worse about the whole relationship going pear-shaped. He has since organised a trip to Las Vegas with JUSTIN BIEBER - which could suggest that gondola action might not have floated his boat anyway. A source said: "Taylor organised an allexpenses-paid trip before the split. "She even arranged a private gondola for them for the entire time they would be there." Drinking limoncello in a posh hotel in Italy on your birthday would be nice. But Harry's only just become too old for Disneyland. Speaking of youthful antics, above are a few smaps from his schooldays. The lack of tattoos is the only giveaway that the pictures weren't taken yesterday. One picture that was taken recently is this shot of Taylor at the Golden Globes looking stunning in a purple fishtail gown. There was a lot being said about how busty she was looking compared to normal. Hollywood, eh? She and Harry, whose 65-day romance ended after New Year, exchanged expensive gifts at Christmas, but now they're redundant too. The source added: "Taylor isn't using the designer bag he bought her any more. She'd also sorted some exclusive birthday presents for him - new threads from Savile Row and BEATLES memorabilia. "Harry is pretty gutted about the whole thing, even though he's putting on a cool front. He's touched she went to so much trouble to arrange his birthday ahead of time." It's not total doom and gloom, though - 1D ticket sales have soared by 50 per cent since the split. Websites handling the band's 2013 tour, including Seatwave, say they noticed the sharp increase immediately after the romance ended. So Harry will rake in as much from the break-up as Taylor will from her upcoming song about the broken relationship. They need it as well.

[brf-rumortrackinganon]

re: Sussex divorce etc. I read all the time that all their revenue and expenses are ran through various companies ( 12 incorporated in Delaware and Wyoming, and Archewell). The House was purchased via a trust created for this purpose.

In the event of a divorce, do they split ownership of all these companies 50/ 50 as per california state laws? How does alimony and child support work when everything is in company names and not their personal property?

For tax purposes i see the advantage of putting everything into Foundations, companies and trusts, but it seems complications arise in the event of divorce espevially when those companies are registered out of state. Which state's laws would they satisfy? 

Further, i don't think Charles will help with the divorce ie supply lawyers and advise. FOR SURE he isn't on the hook for money because several ex-royals have tried to claim family dynasty wealth and lost which has set a legal precedent - see Tessa of Luxemborg and *Haya of Dubai. 

*Haya of Dubai got a large settlement ( roughly £1/2B) which clouds the fact that in reality she got very little. Prior to the divorce, she purchased 2 large properties for herself in UK - one is in London next to KP plus she had a fortune in jewellery collected over the course of the marriage.

Aside from her properties, clothing and jewellery, she asked for over £1B for alimony plus her children's trustfunds, child support AND security. 

Judge awarded her the properties, clothing, jewellery, children's trustfunds, child support and security. The alimony demand was slashed to less than £50M. The biggest chunk of her settlement ( almost 3/4 of entire settlement) was for security which the judge said would be at the highest level that money can buy for her and her kids' lifetimes as he agreed that her ex- Dubai hubby presented a clear and present danger for their lifetimes. 

On a different note, i still shudder at the hostage video Princess Latifa of Dubai posted to youtube before she disappeared to be reprogrammed. That video probably saved her life and or gave her bargaining chips for better treatment unlike her sister Princess Shamsa who hasn't been seen in public or by rest of her family since her abduction in the early 00s. 

[celticcrossanon]

Dear Celta, so now we know, from your last reading, what Camilla is about. She wants power for herself, not to undertake duty for the country but to serve herself and wishing her own bloodline could become the next king. I wonder why she fears William so much. Maybe knowing that William knows what she did to his mother?

Regarding the Pentacles things in your reading ~ I'm reminded again of comments I read in Quora, that Camilla is after the Greville jewelries. Who's to know if some of the items disappear into her pockets? These are personal bequeath, not Crown jewels. And upon his ascension, one of the first things Charles did was booting Angela Kelly out. She took care of all the jewels when our late Queen was alive, she knew where everything was, with her gone, who would know if this necklace or that ring or some such things were to disappear?

Remember that PR piece awhile ago about how Catherine doesn't enjoy jewelries but Camilla does? Well, I think this was Camilla trying pre-justify to the public why she wears all the awesome jewels and leave the tiny ones for Catherine to wear.

And later we saw Catherine wearing a tiny delicate tiara, which was such a little girl kind of tiara. But it was spun as Charles being gracious to Catherine for allowing her to wear a tiara which has not been worn in almost a 100 years.

Just my thoughts, of course. But that reading, it makes me feel sad for William. I hope catherine will get well soon so that he has her by his side undertaking royal duties again.

Hi AranPandora,

I think that Princess Catherine is giving her husband as much support as she can in her condition. I also think that everyone will be relieved when she is well and healed and able to come back to her duties, especially her husband, who I am sure misses her terribly when he is out and about on what should have been combined engagements (I know some of his engagements are single ones and they should be fine as they were always meant to be him by himself).

King Charles, Queen Camilla and jewellery seems to be quite a tangled topic. I remember the PR put out by Queen Camilla and I am still not sure why she did that - it was to have a go at Princess Catherine, yes, and to look better by comparison, I can see that, but I don't know why wearing jewellery is such a wonderful thing? I am obviously missing something here. I also remember King Charles saying that 'the vaults are open' at the same time, which I took as meaning that he was happy for jewels to be worn by those who wanted to do so.

I would hope that all the crown jewels are carefully listed and checked as part of their maintenance. I don't know about the Greville jewels - AFAIK they were left to The Queen Mother, who left them (all of them? some of them?) to her daughter Queen Elizabeth, and I don't know if Her Late Majesty left them to the crown, so they become part of the crown jewels, or if she passed them on to her son in turn.

The tiara who are talking about was the Strathmore Tiara, and it was a big deal to see it again (for me at least :) ). It was given to the Queen Mother by her parents on her wedding day, worn by her in her early years as a married woman, and then retired. It was passed on to the Late Queen Elizabeth when the Queen Mother died, and Her Late Majesty never wore it. We saw it again on Princess Catherine in 2023, exactly 100 years after it was given to the Queen Mother by her parents in 1923. The tiara itself is from the 19th century, so it is quite old, and history counts for more than carats with the aristocratic set, or so I am told.

For me, Princess Catherine wearing the tiara indicated that she was following in the footsteps of the Queen Mother, a much loved member of the BRF and a devoted wife. This is the woman who refused to leave London during The Blitz because she would not leave her husband, and who toured the damage wearing her best clothes and jewels because she said the people deserved to see them (i.e. they deserved to see her dressed up as a sign of respect for their suffering). By wearing the tiara, to me Princess Catherine was declaring a similar devotion to her country and her family.