#pudding already offered tart to live with her;;;

[mimina-shi]

this description is making me INSANE

if the humans and aliens end up staying together;; i am PRAYING that Tart stays with Pudding to help take care of her siblings 😭😭

[samkat10423]

Moving in Sims

For the past few days, I’ve been moving in Sims and setting up relationships. Among them was that Riddle Sim, from Twinbrook. Because I wanted to move in her niece – along with the niece’s yappy dog – I needed to make a sibling for Anna-Liza. Since I’d already saved that Racket Sim to my bin, I decided to just make him into her brother – after changing his name.  Then I gave him a daughter. This was a win-win for me, since this world comes with a generic graveyard. And I hate no-name graves. Not only did he help establish a relationship, but I got to kill him and add his tombstone to my cemetery! Go me!

Anyway, Anna-Liza is one of the town’s Censorious Triad and the editor of the town newspaper. One of the other two, card-carrying members is Madame Blanche Robichaux (shown here with her son, Marshal and his “no-good, floozy-of-a-wife,” Trixie. And Trixie’s “nasty, little flea-bitten cat.”). Trixie and Marshal were created by Webbymom of the 3 Musketeers, as part of the Sims Daily’s population thread. (She even made political pictures of him, when I whined, so he’s the mayor in this town. His “sainted” mum is CEO of the local business, while his” tart of a wife,” is a renown painter. As you can tell, by her comments, Madame Blanche is NOT a fan of her daughter-in-law or her cat, who are both actually, nice little Sims). The old lady is a Sim I found about 11 years ago, over on TSR. I liked her, because she was so ugly. I also created 2 more Sims for this family – the patriarch and a younger son. But they’re dead and fighting over in my graveyard. Prior to their deaths, the son got himself engaged to an “unacceptable” young lady, and was immediately booted out of the family. But they did bury him in the family plot – have to keep up appearances, don’t you know! - so he and his dad get to continue their feud for all eternity. (BTW, the 2 Sims suspected in their deaths are buried nearby, and all 4 of them HATE each other. So the cemetery is pretty lively at night!)

Then I moved in these Sims – Frederic D’Aimelefric and Fannie Bellefleur. These 2 were created by nengi65 for that hot pink apartment I showed you a while back. I have always liked them, because they’re not your typical “pretty” Sims. Anyway, she had them in the acting career track, but since I replaced the studio with my festival lot, I put them into Showtime careers. He’s a magician now, while she’s an acrobat. And to help them with their careers, I made him clumsy and forgetful, and her clumsy and a couch potato. I would have opted for chronic stage fright, but EA “forgot” to offer that as a trait. Stupid EA. Nengi described him as having rather grandiose visions of his own, non-existent talent, while Fannie was the stereotypical, dumb blonde. I liked that, so I kept it.

Then, replacing Amy Bull as the town fashionista, I made Felicity Plum. Cameranutz II had made a generic Sim by this name for this world, but I wanted someone with a tad more character. So here she is. She has absolutely no artistic ability at all, which will definitely help her career – or not. But since I’m not stupid enough to let her give me a make-over, it’s not my problem.

These Sims all originally came from Bridgeport – they were that Cook family. They are now known as the Thibodeaux family. The creators of this world did make a family for this world with that name, but again, they were typical do-gooder, pudding Sims. Unlike me, those ladies were not into conflict amongst their Sims. So I didn’t bother saving them. Anyway, believe it or not, other than giving these Sims some CC skins (Buckley-Ephemera Fresh skins) and those default replacement hairs that @maryjanesims3 has been so graciously sharing, and nicer make-up, these are EA Sims. (Well, I did give them some decent clothes). The first time I saw the two ladies, with just the new hair, I was shocked at how pretty they really are. So, there is hope for game Sims. The old fart is now known as Judge Roy. He’s still I the political track, and on the take. And his wife – now named Lacey – is still hoping for his early death.

This is a tiny house between the bistro lot and that Chocolate Restaurant. It was made by susieb, but I don’t think she made a family for it. Not that I would have downloaded them. Anyway, I did change out the exterior siding and the porch railing for CC that I have. And inside, I got rid of all the basegame crap and gave them some nicer stuff.

It now belongs to the 3rd member of the Censorious Triad – Muriel P. Finster. She was created by my friend, Alex – aka: Hellfrozeover – back when she was still playing TS3. While I was doing the other 2, I knew they needed a pal, and this Sim came to mind. I left her pretty much the way Alex created her, although I did change some of her traits. Since I made her the principle of my school, I decided to help her with her career, by giving her the “I despise you little rugrats!” trait.

Then, because the house has lots of room despite being on an itsy-bitsy lot, I decided she should have an adult son who’s moved back home. With his cat. To whom Muriel is allergic. Anyway, he’s a genetic resequencer working on a top-secret project. His mother has been frantically snooping through his notes, trying to figure out what he’s working on, but he’s up to her ways and has been leaving a bunch of nonsense laying around for her to find.

Next family I do, will be those Bagley’s from Riverview. I already made Ma Bagley’s husband and oldest son – who now reside in the graveyard. They’re the Sims suspected of killing the 2 Robichaux Sims. Anyway, the living ones will live out in my swamp and be moonshiners. Their houses are done, and I even gave them a still – aka: nectar-making thingie. But that will be another post.

[adenei]

Finding My Way To You - Chapter 7

AO3 // FFN

Making Things Right

Hermione woke first the next morning, Ron’s arms still wrapped around her torso. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath in, replaying the previous night in her head. Girlfriend. She was his girlfriend now. It was everything she’d been wishing for, and she was determined not to muck it up.

She carefully extricated herself from his arms and got up to make breakfast. Hermione pulled out the bacon and eggs, and placed them on the counter. This couldn’t be so hard, right? She’d seen Mrs. Weasley cook them hundreds of times. I can do this, Hermione thought. She pulled out two pans, and began peeling strips of bacon out of the package and onto the pan. It took a few attempts at cracking the eggs before there were no shells to fish out of the bowl, but she was finally successful. Hermione mixed the eggs together and waited for the butter to heat up in the pan before she poured them in. It was when she popped a few slices of toast in the toaster that she realized things were starting to come together and she couldn’t quite keep up. 

“Attempting to make breakfast this morning?” Hermione jumped at Ron’s voice when she turned around and saw him leaning against the entryway.

“Trying not to burn anything is more like it. I think I may be a bit over my head here,” Hermione admitted. “I guess I’m really not good at everything.”

“That’s not true, it just takes practice. Want some help?”

“Would love some,” she accepted his offer gratefully.

Together they worked in tandem, and Ron helped her make sure nothing burned. He flipped the bacon, and directed Hermione on when to start scrambling the eggs. At one point, she felt his arms wrap around her waist as he helped guide her when demonstrating the easiest way to flip bacon to avoid splattering bacon grease. Hermione felt her skin erupt in gooseflesh as shivers climbed up her spine. Did he have any idea what he was doing to her?

When they were seated at the table, eating the breakfast they’d made together, Ron spoke. “So I was thinking…”

“About what?”

“I want to take you out on a proper date today. Kind of like I tried to do yesterday, except you didn’t know.”

“Yesterday was meant to be a date?” Hermione almost dropped her fork at his confession.

“I know, barmy, right?” Ron shook his head.

“N-no, not at all. It was-” Hermione thought back on their trip to the museum and then lunch at the cafe. The flowers made even more sense now that she thought more about it. “It was really sweet. I don’t know how I didn’t notice.”

“So what about a do over, then? We can go back to the museum now that we’re not on a time crunch? And we can try another restaurant if you’d like?”

“That sounds wonderful. Though I was hoping there was one other thing we could do first?”

“Yeah, anything.”

“What do you think about inviting my parents here for dinner? I feel bad about how we ended things last night. I need to make things right with Mum, and I don’t think I can do that at their home.”

Ron waited to make sure she was finished. “Sure. We can find something at the grocer if you’d like? Or we could explore the other restaurants. Whichever you’d like. I know how to make Mum’s Shepherd’s Pie,” he offered.

Hermione’s face lit up. “That sounds perfect! I think there’s a bakery nearby and we could pick something up on our way back for pudding?”

“Sounds like a plan. So, should we get ready for our date, then?” Ron flashed his lopsided grin her way.

“Yes! I’ll write a letter inviting my parents while you’re in the loo? We can drop it off when we head to the museum?” Hermione asked as Ron nodded. 

Finally, it felt like they were in sync with each other again.

~o~

The day played out as perfectly as it had yesterday. Hermione was ecstatic to explore more of the museum, and they spent a little longer so that Hermione could finish seeing all of the exhibits she’d missed the day before. They stopped at a different cafe for lunch, and enjoyed eating outside on the patio, watching other tourists and locals rush by on the busy sidewalks.

Ron saw Hermione’s eyes linger over the windows of the bookshop and he laughed. “Didn’t you get your fill yesterday?”

“Well, we were on a time crunch, you know. Do you mind if I go in for a bit?” 

Ron shook his head. “I’ll go check the bakery down the street and I’ll meet you back here, okay?” She hugged him in thanks and kissed his cheek before disappearing behind the shop’s doors.

Ron had to remind himself to wipe the smile off his face as he walked to the bakery and picked out an assortment of custard tarts and chocolate cupcakes. He knew what his and Hermione’s favorites were, and he only hoped these would suffice for her parents, whom he knew were not huge sugar fans. 

He walked out of the bakery, bag in hand, and stopped outside the florist’s shop before returning to the bookstore. He knew Hermione wouldn’t be close to ready to go, and he wanted to replicate yesterday’s date as closely as possible. The florist was ecstatic to see him again and asked how his ‘girl’ liked the assortment of roses. Ron’s ears turning scarlet was all the telling that the florist needed to know it had been a successful purchase. 

“So are you here for red today?” he asked curiously.

“Er, yeah, actually. One red rose, I was thinking. Wrapped with some of that white filler stuff,” Ron said.

“Baby’s breath? Yes, of course! Let me prepare that for you. I’m so glad things worked out. Was a bit worried when I saw you with Mr. Granger yesterday. Glad it’s all sorted.”

“Do you know the Grangers well?” Ron asked curiously.

“Well enough. Hugo loves gardening as a hobby, so he comes in at least once a week to talk shop. He’s a good guy you know. Loves his daughter very much. And by the looks of it, so do you.”

“Er, yeah. You’ll put in a good word for me, I hope?” Ron chuckled.

“As long as you keep endorsing my business,” the florist let out a hearty laugh. “This one’s on the house, though. Now, don’t keep your girl waiting.”

“Are you sure?” Ron said, reaching for his wallet. He needed to give him something.

“Yes, I’m sure. Have a wonderful day, young man!” he beamed at Ron, who thanked him profusely. 

By the time Ron made it back to the bookshop, Hermione was sitting on a bench outside waiting for him. “There you are! For a second, I thought you forgot about me,” Hermione joked.

“Never! Sorry it took me so long. I needed to make an extra stop. This is for you,” Ron said, handing her the singular rose.

“Ron, you didn’t have to do th-” she looked up at him when she realized what it was.

“I don’t suppose you need to ask the meaning of this one?” Ron asked through his smile.

“No, not this time,” Hermione answered softly. “Thank you.” She leaned up on her tiptoes to place a hesitant kiss on his lips. It still felt surreal that she could do that now. Kiss him when she wanted.

“Should we stop by the grocer’s before heading back then? We’ll probably need to start dinner soon. It’s already past four.”

“Oh, yes, you’re right! I told my parents six! Let’s go.”

~o~

Ron was pulling the Shepherd’s pie out of the oven as they heard a buzz come from the intercom. “That must be them!” Hermione said. “I’ll go down and meet them. Be right back.” 

He watched her leave as he set the hot dish on the center of the table. Ron picked up his wand and used magic to set the table while he waited for them to return. When Hermione walked back in the door with her parents, they all exchanged pleasantries and prepared to eat while dinner was still warm. Her parents had brought a bottle of wine that Hugo opened and poured glasses for everyone.

As they tucked into their meals, Jean looked at her daughter after taking a few bites. “Hermione, when did you learn to cook? You never showed an interest growing up so I wasn’t expecting- This is delicious!”

“I still haven’t really learned how to cook, Mum. Ron did most of the work, and I helped chop the vegetables and peel the potatoes,” Hermione explained.

Mrs. Granger observed her daughter and then Ron for a moment before saying, “Well, it’s very well done.” Her voice wasn’t as stiff as yesterday, but there was still a chill that lingered.

“I have to agree, Ron. This is one of my favorite dishes! It’s been a while since I’ve had one as good as this!” Hugo held up his win glass as he said, “Cheers.”

“Thanks, it’s my Mum’s recipe. I’ve helped her a lot with it, so it’s one of those that’s always in the back of my mind. I was hoping it wasn’t too simple to serve.”

“Not at all, not at all! It’s brilliant,” Hugo said.

An easy quiet fell over the table as they continued their meal. After Hermione took her last bite, Ron noticed her steeling herself to address her parents. “Mum, I’m sorry about last night,” she started.

Mrs. Granger looked up at her daughter. “It’s fine, Hermione, we don’t need to discuss it now.” Ron caught her eyeing him briefly before she continued. “When you come home, we can discuss it more.”

“I-I’m not going home with you and Dad. I’m staying here, with Ron.”

“Hermione, I hardly think-”

“No, Mum. I love you and Dad, but Australia isn’t my home.”

“Well, unless you’ve kept the house in England to yourself, I don’t reckon your home is there, either, is it?” her mother retorted.

“Er, no, I guess not. I’m not sure I know where home is, but it feels the most like home when I’m with Ron.” Hermione’s cheeks tinged a slight pink at her admission.

Her mother stared at her. “Darling, I hardly think you should be trusting that judgement right now.”

Hermione opened her mouth to speak, but her father beat her to it. “Jean, I think you’re being a bit unfair.”

“Unfair? Hugo, we’ve been worried sick about our daughter for months, not knowing what happened! Only for her to show up at our doorstep to come bring us home to England, insisting that everything’s safe now! Telling tales of how she dropped out of the Wizarding school we reluctantly allowed her to attend, and finding out she spent the better part of the last year living in a tent with two teenage boys!”

“Who have been my best friends for seven years!”

“And one you’re no doubt sharing a bed with. Don’t think I didn’t notice there’s only one bedroom, young lady!”

Ron felt compelled to say something. He felt that Mrs. Granger’s underlying issues with this were related to him. He needed to talk to her. To set the record straight. She’d never been this cold to him at King’s Cross, or when he’d gone with his Dad to pick up Hermione. He looked to Hugo, who nodded. That was all he needed.

“Mrs. Granger, would you mind taking a walk in the park across the way with me?” Ron asked.

Both women looked taken aback at his question. “Ron, I don’t think-” Hermione started to say.

“Hermione, I think it may actually be a good thing. Jean, you should go,” Hugo intervened. “We’ll take care of the dishes.”

Ron stood up and headed out the door and down the stairs. He didn’t grab his jacket, but the night air was relatively warm, and he had his Weasley sweater on. When Jean met him outside they walked silently across the road and entered the park. Ron hoped that Jean would speak first, so he could get an idea of what was bothering her, but she was tight lipped.

He strengthened his resolve and decided to start the conversation. “Mrs. Granger, I know I messed up-”

“That’s an understatement!” she exclaimed as she cut him off.

“I know, trust me, I know,” he hoped she could sense the pain in his voice. No one knew how much it tore him apart than himself. “I want to make things right, or at least explain, but I can’t do that unless I know what I’ve done wrong in your eyes. There’s not a day where I’m not trying to make it up to her.”

Mrs. Granger huffed in frustration. “I wouldn’t even know where to begin.”

“Then start with the first thing that’s been bothering you, before you knew I left them last winter.”

“You broke her heart in sixth year. She was absolutely miserable when she came home for Christmas. Hermione tried so hard to hide it, but a mother always knows. I was rooting for you! Why do you think Hermione was always able to spend the summers with your family? I knew she was happiest when she was with you. Not your family. You. Do you know how much convincing it took with Hugo? And then you went and broke my only daughter’s heart by choosing her flouncy little roommate.”

“I know. I have no excuses for that.”

“That doesn’t make things better. And then she comes home at the end of term, happy that you’re on speaking terms again, but I could tell there was still something off. She seemed so hollow. Of course, now I know why. She was planning to send us away. You didn’t put her up to it, did you?”

“No!” Ron said angrily. “I didn’t know anything until she showed up at the Burrow a week earlier than expected, sobbing uncontrollably. She never even told me what she’d planned!” Ron said bitterly. He didn’t mean to, but he was still upset she hadn’t enlisted his help.

“You didn’t know?”

“No. I didn’t understand why she did it. Why she couldn’t have talked to you, and convinced you to go. That maybe modifying your memory wasn’t the only option. She was insistent it was the only way, and that it was done. She’s your daughter, I expect you know how stubborn she can be.”

He actually managed a chuckle out of Mrs. Granger. “That’s an understatement.” It didn’t last long, however. “Why did it have to be you three?”

Ron took a moment to think about her words. “To go on the hunt? It didn’t. Technically, it only had to be Harry, but Hermione and I, we talked about years ago. After what happened with the stone, we knew wherever he went, we’d go. He needed us.”

“But you’re teenagers! What could you have possibly done that adults couldn’t?”

Ron couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped his lips. “You sound like my Mum. I know it’s hard to understand, but it had to be Harry. And without Hermione’s booksmarts and ability to gather knowledge, and my understanding of the Magical world, Harry would have been dead long before he even stood a chance. In retrospect, I see that now. Hermione really did what she thought was best to keep you safe. They would have found you and killed you to spite her. She couldn’t bear it. I know how dangerous it was. I lost one of my brothers in the final battle.”

Mrs. Granger took in his words, and knew he was sincere. “I’m sorry, Ron.” She was quiet for a few paces before she continued. “You were supposed to keep her safe. She trusts you to a fault, and I saw that even after you broke her heart. She let you in again, and then you left her.”

“Mrs. Granger, it took me being poisoned in sixth year for us to make up. I know I made a huge mistake in dating Lavender, and it was all over a stupid fight with my sister, and a misunderstanding with Hermione. It blew out of proportion because I let my anger get the best of me, and if I could go back and change it I would.

“As for leaving her on the hunt, I’ll never forgive myself for that. The object we’d collected from the Ministry was evil. I know it may be hard to believe, but it spoke to me. It fed off my insecurities, and told me she and Harry were better off without me. That she desired Harry more than me. I was wearing it when Harry and I got in a row. I wanted to come back as soon as I left. I never stopped trying to get back to them.”

He hoped that she could sense his desperation. That he was telling the truth. When she didn’t respond right away, he felt it pertinent to add, “Hermione doesn’t know about the locket. We haven’t actually talked about its effect on me. She didn’t speak to me for a whole month when I came back. Even then, it took her almost dying for her to forgive me again, I think.”

Ron noticed Jean shudder. “Things weren’t easy, were they?”

“No. She may not tell you this, but we were close to starving some days. There were times when it felt hopeless, but we had each other.”

“Why didn’t she say anything?”

“She doesn’t want you to worry anymore, so it may be best if you keep this between us. You can tell Mr. Granger, too, though if Hermione finds out I told you she may have my head.” Ron smiled.

“I’m sorry you had to go through that. I appreciate your candid explanations, but you have to understand why I’m wary,” Mrs. Granger attempted to explain.

“I know, but when she almost- when she almost died, I lost myself. I couldn’t protect her. I couldn’t take her place. It nearly broke me. It may have taken me longer than I’d like to admit, but I love your daughter, more than anything. And I’ll never stop trying to protect her. I want to make her happy, and I know there are going to be times where I downright piss her off, but that’s what we do. We bicker, we fight, and we make up. I promise I’ll do my best to not hurt her like that ever again.”

They looped back around and walked in silence for a while before Jean finally spoke. “I appreciate everything you’ve told me. I’m sorry for how cold I’ve been, but you have to understand it’s my duty to protect her as best I can.”

“I know.”

“Did she really set canaries on you after you started dating Lavender?”

Ron looked at Mrs. Granger in surprise. “Er, yeah. I’ve got a couple scars on my hands from it. Should’ve known from that, but I was a barmy sixteen year old.”

“I guess perhaps we didn’t teach her quite so well on how to deal with her anger. Has she apologized to you?”

“Er...explicitly?” Ron asked hesitantly.

“I’ll speak to her.” Jean spoke with a finality that Ron didn’t dare question. “You know, it’s supposed to be quite warm the next few days. You two should visit the beach.”

“That’d be nice, but we didn’t exactly pack those sorts of clothes.”

The warm, inviting demeanor he knew from Mrs. Granger had returned. “Don’t worry! I’ll take Hermione out shopping tomorrow. Oh, and there’s a wonderful bistro I think you two would both love. I can get you reservations for tomorrow evening! You can go with Hugo to purchase swim shorts and an outfit for dinner tomorrow. I’ll take Hermione shopping with me.”

Ron couldn’t help but laugh. “Er… may I ask what you’re planning?”

“Now that we’ve cleared the air, and I know your intentions, I’m going to help you sweep my daughter off her feet, of course!”

[bluenet13]

Marty’s Promise

This story is both a response to this year’s @densi-mber Day 21 writing prompt: Densi spending the day/having dinner with their moms, and a continuation to “Little Drummer Deeks” a story I wrote two years ago for a similar prompt during the first Densimber. I reblogged that story a few days ago in case anyone wants to read it and it’s also on my fanfiction.net page.

“Do you have the salad?” Kensi asked as she awkwardly made the walk from the front door to the car, juggling gifts in one hand, and a bottle of wine in the other.

Deeks just nodded, and then grunted, as said salad almost slipped from his hands.

“Be careful!” Kensi admonished, throwing all her belongings on the trunk, and running to her husband’s aide. “I spent three hours working on that.”

“Kens…” Deeks began slowly. “Most of what’s on this salad, came already prepared on a bag. I wouldn’t say it was hard labor.” He then winced, expecting a punch that never came, instead he felt like a dick, seeing a look of hurt cross Kensi’s eyes.

Walking quickly to the car, Deeks opened the back door for Kensi to set the dish safely inside, along a bottle of scotch Hetty had gifted them and a fruit tart that was his mother’s favorite. “I’m sorry, baby.” Deeks said, moving gingerly towards his wife and embracing her in his arms. “I’m sure the salad is great.”

Kensi still pouted but she smiled after Deeks kissed her lips sweetly. “You know I can’t cook. And our mothers too. So, when they only ask for salad, that’s the least I can do.” She explained.

“Mama offered to teach you a long time ago, but you had never taken her up on that offer.” Deeks said nonchalantly, moving to the passenger side of Kensi’s SUV.

“Deeks, you know I’m not meant for the kitchen. I don’t want to disappoint your mother.” Kensi then closed the door of the car, and the couple was on their way. “Plus, we have you. We don’t need two cooks in the family.”

“We might.” Deeks said with a glint in his eyes. “When we start popping out little baby wolves.”

“Wolves? As in plural?” Kensi asked with a smile on her face. The thought of kids no longer scaring her, just making her heart long even more for that future.

“Maybe?” Deeks replied hopefully. “But I could just do with Deeks family of three if that’s what you want.”

Kensi nodded, glad that they finally stood on common ground on this topic. Her apprehensions still there –about whether they could even have kids, or what type of parents they would be if or rather when it happened– but her excitement about that prospect now more powerful than her fears.

“Time to change the subject.” Kensi directed as she parked in front of Roberta’s house.

Deeks’ sure nod echoing her sentiment. “We don’t want our unborn kids to take over dinner.” He laughed, making Kensi giggle as well, remembering how their mothers got every time the topic of kids was touched on.

Sharing a quick kiss, Kensi and Deeks got to work, figuring out the best way to carry all the things into the house in just one trip. Their hands yearning to be held together, but the countless items they had brought making that impossible at the moment. 

-x-x-x-

Ringing the bell, Kensi and Deeks were welcomed by an overly excited Roberta, a glass of wine already in one hand, explaining her glee. “Welcome, Martin, Kensi. Merry Christmas.” She greeted cheerfully, her other hand moving to position a Santa hat over Deeks’ blonde locks.

Fighting his urge to roll his eyes, Deeks remembered that it was Christmas Eve, and everyone was alive and well, which in their line of work, was never a guarantee, so there was no reason not to be his happiest self tonight. “Merry Christmas, mama.”

“Merry Christmas.” Kensi echoed her husband, setting everything down on a table, and embracing her mother-in-law in a quick hug. “Salad, wine, fruit tart and a Scotch that Hetty gave us for tonight.” She explained, pointing to each item, as Deeks moved their gifts to the Christmas tree.

The next few minutes were spent enjoying small talk until the bell rang again marking that the latest member of their little family had arrived.

“Julia!” Bertie shrieked as soon as she opened the door, pushing a recently filled glass of wine into the other mom’s hand. “So glad you could make it.”

“Thank you for holding this dinner.” Julia said, as she took a sip of her drink. “Much better than breakfast the last two years.” She added, remembering the last two Christmases and how the family had opted for brunch outside instead of a home-cooked family dinner. This one being especially important and deserving of a change as it was the first Holiday since they had all become a real family, bound by law and marriage, and not only feelings.

Making her way inside, Julia greeted her daughter and son-in-law, exchanging kisses and hugs, before walking to the kitchen to set down a vegetable casserole, a ham and a Christmas pudding that was her daughter’s favorite.

-x-x-x-

For the next hour, they enjoyed a delicious dinner, and a lot of cheerful talk, as they all relished being together on this day. When most of the food was consumed, leftovers packed, and the kitchen cleaned, the gathering moved to the living room, all of them too full for dessert at this time.

The family then exchanged gifts since they wanted to enjoy a more private moment, as Christmas dinner the following day would involve the whole team and their families.

When all gifts had seemingly exchanged owners, Deeks got up and grabbed two small bags that had been hidden behind a table. He then gave one of the bags to his mother, a nervous smile on his face.

Opening the gift, Roberta was confused as a lone pen drive stared back at her. Recognition setting in her eyes eventually, as they quickly misted with tears. “Merry Christmas, mama.” Deeks embraced his mother in a heartfelt bug, as he tried to subtly wipe some tears from his own eyes.

“It’s an old tape. I had a place turn it digital and copy it into the drive. Mama always wanted to do it, but she never quite got to it.” Deeks explained, seeing Julia and Kensi share confused looks. “For you, baby.” Deeks then handed Kensi the other bag, which she promptly opened.

Holding a similar pen drive in hand, Kensi look at Deeks with a silent question in her eyes.

“OMG, Marty.” Julia said in a low voice, finally realizing what could be inside that drive.” She then got up from the couch, and echoed Roberta by embracing Deeks in another hug.

“What’s going on?” Kensi asked, feeling like she was an outsider in whatever was happening.

“Just watch.” Julia grabbed the pen drive and connected it to the receiver on Roberta’s media table. Both mothers already comfortable around it, after many bonding nights spent together.

-x-x-x-

The tv came alive with the image of a small tree on fire as the camera fell to the ground and the picture twisted sideways. “I told you it was a bad idea.” Julia came into the frame screaming.

A tall man with a buzz cut then joined in, running towards the tree with a garden hose in hand. “Turn it on.” He shouted. Water then came and he sprayed the tree until the fire was completely put down. “Turn it off.” He directed, again. White smoke coming off the charred tree. The remains of what looked like fireworks now on the ground.

“Sorry.” A little, brunette girl said sadly as she joined the frame for the first time.

“No reason to apologize, baby girl. It was my idea.” The man said, as he lifted his daughter in his arms, moving a gentle hand to her face, and wiping her tears away.

“You should both be apologizing, right about now.” Julia scolded her husband and daughter, even as she moved towards their family and embraced them both in a hug.

After a few minutes, Julia walked to the camera, and picked it back up. “No more playing with leftover 4th of July fireworks next New Year’s Eve.” She muttered, just as the image went dark.

-x-x-x-

The image came back on a different setting, father and daughter now dressed in matching Christmas sweaters and sitting around the Christmas tree.

“For you.” Little Kensi said, pushing a messily wrapped gift into her father’s hand.

Opening it, Donald Blye’s eyes instantly became clouded with tears as he held a handmade medal on his hands. The words “World’s Best Daddy” written in what he recognized as her daughter’s handwriting.

“Just like the ones the military gives you.” Little Kensi explained happily.

“But this one is better, baby girl.” Don then kissed his daughter and sighed contently, as she jumped into his arms.

-x-x-x-

The image changed again, this time showing a young girl peeking over the kitchen counter as her father baked a cake.

“What’s that for?” The little girl asked, pointing to a bottle with the words yeast written over it.

“It’s for the dough to grow.” Don explained in simple terms. “Want to help me with the eggs?”

Kensi nodded and jumped back down to the floor, her eyes going to the recipe as she read. “four whole eggs.”

Grabbing one she went to smash it fully on the container, before her father’s hand stopped her. “What are you doing? You have to open them first.” He said.

“It said whole eggs.” Kensi said, tears already prickling her eyes.

“That means both the white and the yellow part that are inside, baby girl, not the outside crust.” Donald explained softly. “Like this.” He then proceeded to open up the first two eggs, before he prompted his daughter to do the same thing with the last two.

“Sorry, daddy.” Kensi said, shaking her head.

“It was a simply mistake, Kensi. But that doesn’t mean you quit. You just try again.” Donald encouraged. “You can do it, just like I showed you.”

Kensi was still pouting even as she doubtfully grabbed the eggs and tried to imitate her father’s actions. The task took a little longer than it had taken him, but after a few minutes it was successfully completed. “I did it!” She screamed cheerfully; her previous near accident already forgotten.

“You sure did, my girl. You’re a quick learner.” Donald said proudly.

As he continued mixing ingredients, Kensi continued asking questions and pointing here and there as she tried to get involved. “You have lots of questions.” Father said after a while.

“I want to learn, daddy… So, one day, I can bake a cake for my own little kids.” Kensi replied, in between giggles.

Donald was surprised at the comment, but he smiled, nonetheless. “You’re too young to be thinking of that, baby girl. But yes, you will. One day, you certainly will…”

-x-x-x-

“How?” Kensi asked after another half hour of forgotten family videos.

“Marty asked me for these before the wedding. At the time, I thought he would use them then, but he didn’t, and I just forgot about them until I saw the pen drive and it just came back to me.” Julia explained, the tears in her eyes, mirroring that of her daughter’s.

“Thank you.” Kensi breathed out, her heart full at the gift her husband had given her.

“You’re very welcome, baby.” Deeks hand moved to wipe away the tears from Kensi’s face, her head then settling comfortably over his chest as the couple stood in an embrace.

“What’s in the other drive?” Kensi inquired eventually, both curious and nervous at the same time.

Deeks failed to answer. He just took the drive from his mother’s hand and connected it into the receiver.

-x-x-x-

“A very Merry Christmas

And a happy new year

Let's hope it's a good one

Without any fear”

Father and son sang along with John Lennon as they sat on the front porch of a simple house. The little blue-eyed boy wearing Christmas pajamas and a Santa hat over his blond curls.

“Boys, we have already listened to this song about 10 times.” Roberta pleaded, her voice coming from behind the camera. “And that’s just today, not counting the whole month.”

The father, who was like an older looking copy of his son, nodded and stood up, moving to their tape player and changing the song. “Thank God It's Christmas” then started playing, and the young boy began as happily singing to the words by Freddie Mercury, father joining is as soon as he was back with his son.

“Come on, boys. What happened to the more traditional songs?” Roberta asked.

“I like Little Drummer Boy.” The little boy answered, smiling sweetly towards his mama.

“We can put that one up next.” Gordon Brandel added. “But, sit down with us and enjoy.” He grabbed his wife’s hand and pull her down.

“Thank God it's Christmas, yeah

Thank God it's Christmas

Thank God it's Christmas

Can it be Christmas?

Let it be Christmas

Every day”

As the next verse of the song came on, a third voice could be heard among the two male ones, as Roberta joined Gordon and Marty in their private family concert.

-x-x-x-

As the next image came, the video showed little Marty holding a Christmas stocking in his hands with tears on his eyes. “But I was a good boy.” He whispered sadly, looking at the coal that was in place of gifts.

An older looking boy then began giggling hysterically, “maybe you weren’t as good as you thought, Martin.” He said, a devilish glint in his eyes.

“Ray! That’s not something you do to your little brother.” Roberta scolded from behind the camera, as Gordon ran to his son’s side.

“Marty, no. Santa didn’t give you coal.” He tried to explain, glaring at Ray. “It was just a joke from your brother. Even though he knows, we don’t joke like that.”

“Really?” Marty asked in between sniffles, his sad, blue eyes now staring up towards his father, then sideways towards his best friend. “Promise?” He asked hopefully.

Gordon send a very angry stare at Ray, who just paled and got up, running towards the kitchen. He came back a few minutes later with a bag and handed it to his best friend. “Sorry, Marty.”

Little Marty then opened the bag, finding inside his real gifts and smiling happily as it became clear that Santa hadn’t really left him with coal.

“Merry Christmas, boys.” Roberta then said, comment directed to her husband, son, and practically adopted son, as they all laid on the carpet, playing with Marty’s new toy train, and Ray’s new remote-control car.

-x-x-x-

“Did Ray really put coal in your stocking?” Kensi asked sympathetically when the screen faded to black.

“Yeah…” Deeks muttered. “He got a big kick out of it. I don’t really remember much of it.”

“Gordon had a huge talk with him afterwards.” Roberta added. “But we know it was all in good fun.” She said giggling.

“Thank you, mama.” Deeks glared at her.

“Sorry, Martin. But it’s funny thinking about it now.” Roberta said honestly.

“Yes, it actually is.” Deeks agreed, wishing he could call Ray and talk to his best friend again.

The next few hours were then spent sharing more childhood stories until a yawn from Julia told everyone that it was already late.

“I will see you all tomorrow.” Julia said as she moved towards the door. “Thank you again for everything, Roberta.”

“Remember, 5:00 pm at the bar.” Deeks said, as he followed his wife and mother-in-law. “Merry Christmas, mama.”

“Merry Christmas, Martin, Kensi, Julia.” Roberta said, before closing the door behind her, head coming to rest on the wood, as silent tears finally came to her eyes. “Merry Christmas, Gordon.” She whispered, eyes on the sky.

-x-x-x-

“Where are we going, baby?” Deeks asked after a few minutes of driving, noticing that Kensi wasn’t going in the direction of their home.

“We’re going to the beach.” Kensi said, sounding sure of herself.

“Why?” Deeks wondered out loud, never opposing a trip to the beach, but it felt strange coming from Kensi at 10pm on Christmas eve.

“It’s time you make true on a promise you made two years ago.” Kensi said, sparing a quick look at her husband.

Deeks blanched a little, well remembering what promise Kensi was referring to, and having known deep down that this day would some day come. And it made sense it was today, after the videos had sent Kensi’s mind back to thinking about his childhood.

“Okay.” Deeks agreed, moving his hand to hold Kensi’s, as she squeezed tightly and smiled reassuringly.

-x-x-x-

“I have held you to that promise for two years.” Kensi began eventually, as they sat down on the sand. “But now it’s time.”

Deeks nodded, knowing she had been patient enough. “What do you want to know?”

Kensi lifted her eyebrows, before realizing his question was serious.

“It’s just easier. I wouldn’t know where to start otherwise.” Deeks answered, as if reading her thoughts.

“When… how… did all go wrong?” She asked tentatively. “Those videos showed a happy family. And Ray was even a part of it.”

Deeks blew out a slow breath and ran his hand through his hair. “I met Ray about 8 months before everything turned out wrong. We became very good friends, and one day, he came home, and mama discovered some bruises under his shirt. He sorta became part of the family after that.”

“Ok.” Kensi said softly, not wanting to push too hard and wanting for her husband to open up in his own terms.

“My father was never a perfect man, Kens. But he was a good father, as you saw on the videos. We didn’t have much, but he practically took Ray in, and that year he spent every holiday with us. He even got gifts for his birthday and Christmas.”

Kensi said nothing when Deeks stopped, knowing that it wasn’t easy for him to open up about this subject.

“I didn’t understand what was happening to Ray at the time, but mama told me we needed to be there for him. So, we did.” Deeks began again, back now towards Kensi and eyes on the dark ocean. “And he was there for me afterwards.”

Walking closer to the water, Deeks took off his shoes and let the cold water reach him. The chill helping the fog in his mind retreat as he considered how to better breach the hard part of the story. Feeling Kensi’s hand embrace him from behind, Deeks signed and closed his eyes.

Head resting on Deeks shoulder, Kensi kissed him on the cheek, trying to convey all her feelings through simple actions. “Take your time, baby.”

Taking hold of her hands in front of him, Deeks opened his eyes again, choosing to focus on the soft glow of the moon reflecting on the dark ocean, instead of the pain the past evoked in him. “Gordon always had a violent streak to him. Mama said it was how he was raised; times were different then. But he rarely allowed me to see it.” Deeks began again, voice low, and barely audible over the crashing waves. “Four months into the friendship with Ray, he had a work injury and hurt his back. Insurance quickly started giving us problems, and he started drinking after that. He had always enjoyed a good whiskey, here and there, but it was never like that.”

Kensi hugged him a little harder after that, wondering if it had been wise on her part to ask him to open up about this topic on Christmas Eve. But it had seen natural, as his promise had been made two years ago in the aftermath of another Holiday gathering with the moms.

“When he couldn’t get any more pills, he just continued drinking more. That led to him being laid off, after he showed up to work drunk one day and started a fight with a coworker. He came home with a black eye and broken nose, and I had never seen so much hatred in his eyes.” The last part spoken not louder than a whisper. “With money running low, he told me he didn’t want Ray at our house anymore, so we just started meeting outside, both of us wanting to escape our homes as much as possible. That’s when I first understood what was happening to him.”

“I’m sorry, baby.” Kensi said honestly, recognizing that moment as the time Deeks innocence had been shaken for the first time in his young life. Well knowing that the rest of it had been stripped away in the months that followed.

“Thank you.” Deeks lifted Kensi’s hand, and kissed it sweetly, letting it linger in front of his eyes a little longer. Staring at the ring on her hand, he reminded himself that everything he was recalling was in the past, and everything was better now. “Mama’s salary wasn’t enough to cover for all three of us, so soon after that, he began spending every night at the bar. Gambling then became his work of choice. But he lost more often than not, and that’s when the violence really started.” Deeks left the rest of it hanging in the air, not wanting to vividly explain to Kensi how Gordon Brandel would come home in a drunken rage intent on hitting his wife and son.

“Ray noticed one day. And he asked me about it. I told him it was a sport injury, but he knew I didn’t really play sports. At least not the typical kind, and what he saw, didn’t look like a skateboarding or surfing wound.” Deeks eyes darkened, recalling the shadow of fingers that Ray had seen etched on his skin. Which had then been followed by dark bruises on his torso, and more marks on his neck. “That’s how it all turned out so wrong.” Deeks finished, turning around to stare at Kensi, surprised when he saw tears streak down her face. “Don’t cry, please. Gordon doesn’t deserve your tears.”

“I’m not crying for Gordon.” Kensi explained simply. “I’m crying for the boy you once were.” Kensi then thought back to the videos, and the picture of little Marty she had seen on that brunch two years ago when Deeks had promised to open up about his past. The memory, making another thought popped into her head. “Why don’t you like to be called Martin?” She asked slowly.

Deeks closed his eyes and turned back towards the water before continuing. “Brandel was always vocal about how mama is the one that chose that name. He thought it was weak. When I was a kid, he used to call me junior, which is how his father had used to call him for the first few years of his life.” He almost spat the last words. “When he turned… violent, he used to call for Martin when he came home from the bar. It was just a game to him, and always spoke my first name in a mocking tone. I knew every time I heard that tone, pain would just follow. If not for me physically, for mama, and that was worse.”

“I’m sorry, I won’t call you like that again.” Kensi said, instantly regretting the few times she had used his given name.

“No, it’s okay. I don’t like other people calling me that, because I never know what intention they’re doing it with. But you say it with love, unlike him. When he went to prison, I changed my last name from Brandel to Deeks, and I could have changed my name too, but mama is the one that gave it to me, and I couldn’t let him have that much power over us. That’s why you should use it, if you want. It means, even now, we’re still winning.” Deeks knew it wasn’t really a game, and that in the full extent of things, he had already lost 30 years ago. The day his father had turned to alcohol to fill a void that could never be filled with such an easy escape. The day he had first laid a hand on young Marty. And the day young Marty had decided to end it all.

“Ok, Marty.” Kensi tested the name, before she kissed Deeks again.

Two years ago, Deeks would have cringed at the name, but a lot had changed since then. And with marriage, had come a bigger understanding of what mattered in life. Especially when that marriage had been at stake because of the mission in Mexico. He now had a wife, and a big family, so there was no reason to continue being stuck in the past. It just wasn’t worth it, and he was stronger than that.

“And how did it all end?” Kensi asked a final question, wanting to get a full picture, even if she well knew that Deeks had been vague about what his father’s violence had meant. But she agreed that she didn’t need to know those details.

“I shot him.” Deeks said simply. Turning around, expecting to see disgust on the face of a woman that had only felt love and admiration towards her own father. To his surprise, he found only love and admiration in her stare, and all of it directed at him. “In the months that followed, and having lost his safe haven at our home, Ray started running with some… groups.” The word gang, unspoken. “And one day, he gave me a gun and explained how to use it. I wanted to return it but remembering what my father had done the night before, I kept it.”

Recalling one of their first cases working together, Kensi remembered a story about Deeks and Thanksgiving Day, the first time he had mentioned his father, and she silently wondered how many of his comments and jokes over the years had contained partial truths hidden in them.

“I used it about a month after that.” Deeks continued, his eyes as dark as the Pacific in front of them. “It was either him or us.” He added as an afterthought.

Kensi had wanted to know more about that night, but she could already imagine how it all happened and she had to accept that was only a memory for Deeks and Roberta to know. “I’m sorry you had to go through all that, baby.”

“It’s okay, Kens. For better or worse, it made me the man I’m today. And thanks to that, I will know how not to behave when our little wolves start arriving.” He said, smiling sincerely for the first time in the last hour.

“And you will be a great parent.” Kensi said proudly.

“We both will, Fern. Our kids will be lucky to have us.”

“And we will be lucky to have them.”

They both nodded and hugged again. The chill of the night making husband and wife burrow into the embrace a little tighter.

“We will cook delicious cakes for them.” Deeks said, as they had begun walking back to the car, hand in hand. “With no whole eggs, just the inside.” He laughed, then winced as Kensi playfully punched his arm.

“And we won’t allow the older sibling to put coal into his or her little brother’s or sister’s Christmas stocking.” Kensi added.

“Brother or sister? So, you’re really agreeing to more than one baby wolf?” Deeks asked hopefully.

“I think so.” Kensi answered, equally optimistic. Stopping as they reached the parking lot, and kissing Deeks before they each moved to their side of the car. “Wolves do better in packs, after all.”

Reaching their house a few minutes later, Kensi and Deeks decided to leave all their belongings on the trunk for the night, and instead walked inside, tangled in each other’s arms.

Reaching the front door, Deeks smiled before stopping Kensi and turning her to look fully at him. “I love you, baby. Thank you for listening.” And not judging, but that part remained unspoken.

“Love you, too. And thanks for sharing.” Kensi said, and keeping your promise to me, that part also staying unsaid. With a final kiss, Kensi and Deeks stepped inside, door closing behind them, their Holiday wreath silently shaking with the wind gusts coming from the nearby Pacific…

Promises are always meant to be kept, even if it’s two years in the future. And that night, on Christmas Eve of their first Holidays as husband and wife, Kensi and Deeks went to bed feeling closer than ever before. Because that day, they had shared more about their respective pasts, and that knowledge would lead them to be the best parents they could possibly be. One day soon, they would both learn that surviving pain in the past, only means a sweeter happily-ever-after, and for them that would come in the form of little wolves and a pack to call their own.

Fun fact: A few of the stories that are part of this fic are not really fiction, but things I took from my own childhood. One day my mom was baking a cake and I almost threw the whole egg in the batter, I was like five. Back in my home country, fireworks are a big part of New Year’s Eve and my older brother did in fact burn down a small tree in our yard using it as a base for his fireworks. And that same brother put coal in my Christmas stocking when I was a kid… He would get a kick seeing his antics on this story :D Anyhow, thanks everyone for reading, and Happy Holidays and best wishes for the New Year.

[lickstynine]

Misadventures of Kit: Chapter Thirty

written with @ocsickficsideblog

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Everyone continued to eat and chat for a while, save for Kit, who was just sipping his one cup of tea and occasionally throwing out quips. Finny had taken a seat under the table, his ass on Alistair’s feet, his tummy on Riagán’s, and his front feet on Siofra’s. She ruffled his ears, sending Cillian to go get more beer so she wouldn’t have to bother the dog. By the time everyone was full, there was an astonishing dent in the buffet that had been filling up the table. There was enough food for maybe a few normal-sized people to have lunch, but that was really it. Kit stared in astonishment for a moment before helping to gather empty plates.

“What, never seen a functional family before?” Siofra smirked.

“Well… no. But I was more shocked at how much you all eat. I would actually die if I tried to eat that much.”

Siofra snorted, patting his shoulder as she set the remaining ham on the counter. “Yeah, well you’re tiny, an’ ye sit on the couch feelin’ sad an’ dramatic all day. We’re big, an’ we fuckin’ work out. Calories in, calories out, an’ all that shit. C’mon, we’re gonna watch whatever dumb Christmas film is on, then dessert.”

Kit’s jaw nearly fell off his hinges. “We’re still having dessert after that?”

“Well, yeah. It’d be a right lousy holiday if we didn’t.” Siofra shrugged, wrapping up the leftover ham before dragging him to the couch. Kit looked hesitant to take up space when there were so many family members not seated yet, so Siofra just pulled him onto her lap. He yelped in surprise, but didn’t move — she was soft and warm and remarkably comfortable. Riagán snorted and plunked down next to them.

“Ye lovebirds havin’ fun?”

“Mm… not till you go to sleep.” She grinned.

Cillian fake-gagged, squeezing into the remaining corner of the couch. “Gross!”

“At least I have a boyfriend, not a pillow I kiss at night.” Siofra said. Riagán snorted and Cillian smacked at them both with a throw pillow. He mostly just hit Riagán and Kit, since Siofra was being blocked from the front and the side. Riagán grabbed a cushion and smacked back, while Kit just yelped again.

Gran shuffled in with a mug of tea. “Boys! Not my good pillows! Beat each other with the ratty ones.”

Alistair just sat on the floor, leaning against the wall. He was starting to wish he’d just gone with Julius instead. He wanted him so badly. Siofra’s family were all friendly and boisterous, but Alistair wasn’t really attached to them like Kit was, being Siofra’s boyfriend. He was only there for Kit, and Kit seemed to have had enough of him too. He felt squeezed out on the edge again.

Kit was doing his best to play along, but he didn’t really feel any more at home than his cousin. He felt like an idiot jumping out of his skin every time a pillow flew at him, but he would’ve felt like more of an idiot asking the boys to stop. He slouched down, resting his head on Siofra’s chest, and she ran her fingers through his hair. Finny trotted into the living room, looking quite offended to see his owner’s lap taken. He laid down on the ground with a deep doggy sigh.

A moment later, Mr. Rafferty finally came to sit, taking the armchair opposite Gran’s rocking chair. He turned on the TV, flicking through channels of useless sludge until he hit the opening credits of A Christmas Carol. Kit knew every version of the story, inside and out, and before long, the familiarity was going in one ear and out the other while he stared off into the abyss. Alistair was similarly preoccupied, sitting with his chin on his knees. He kept his eyes closed, trying to blot out this other family he didn’t belong to. He was rudely interrupted by a wet nose snuffling his face. Finny was similarly peeved about his favourite human being preoccupied, and wanted attention.

Ruff.

Alistair smiled at him, letting Finny cuddle on his lap. He suddenly felt dangerously near tears, and blinked fiercely to stop himself weeping, hiding his face in Finny's fur. A large, pink tongue that smelled of gravy and mashed potatoes lapped at Alistair’s hair and the exposed parts of his cheeks. Alistair smiled a bit, ruffling Finny’s ears. “Ugh, gross,” he said fondly. Finny just licked his face again, letting out a low, cheerful boof. The sound caught Siofra’s attention and she nearly broke her neck turning to face Alistair without knocking Kit off her lap.

“Ya wanna take ‘im outside? He’s been in all afternoon.”

“Yeah,” Alistair said, desperate to escape. “Come on, Finny.”

The dog hopped up at once, wagging his tail and running to the front door. Alistair got his leash on, stepping out into the frigid winter air. Soft snowflakes were falling, and Finny was delighted, running around trying to catch them in his mouth. Alistair watched him, laughing — and then the giggles turned to tears so suddenly even Alistair was surprised. He didn’t even really know what he was crying about. It was just that it was Christmas, and he was lonely.

Finny immediately turned around, running back to Alistair and tackling him into the snow. He laid down on top of the now-prone Alistair, snuffling and licking his face. Alistair squealed and wrapped his arms around the wriggling lump of fur, half laughing, half crying. Finny continued to lick his face — that was the only way he knew how to fix crying humans. Snow was gathering on the tips of his dark ears, making them look like tiny mountains. Alistair tried to sit up, gently brushing the snow off. “Come on, it’s freezing. We should better go inside to play gooseberry.”

Finny shook himself off, hopping off of Alistair to run in circles around him. His fur kept him plenty warm, but he still returned to the front door after a minute, nudging Alistair along. Alistair laughed. “It’s like you’re looking after me,” he said, taking him back inside. Finny ran back inside, sniffing around to see if more food had come out in the interim. When he found nothing, he flopped down on the rug. Kit hadn’t moved an inch, still staring vacantly into the same spot on the wall. Gran waved when Alistair and Finny came back in.

“Hello, boys! How was the wretched tundra?”

“Bloody freezing, as expected. How’d you live out here? I thought old people got more cold,” Alistair said tactlessly.

Gran snorted. “That’s what alcohol is for. Why d’ye think the Russians are known for vodka?”

“Because it originates there?”

Gran paused for a long moment, then turned back around to watch the movie. “What a sheltered child…”

“I’m not sheltered,” Alistair grumbled.

“If ye don’t like shelter, ye could go back outside.” Riagán offered. Siofra elbowed him in the stomach.

“There’s hot chocolate on the counter.” She told Alistair. “Cilli wanted some, so we made a bunch. Knew yer fat arse would drink the rest.”

“My fat arse will,” Alistair said gratefully, going to grab a cup. Finny followed him, hoping for food. Alistair ruffled his fur. “Haven’t you eaten enough, greedy-guts? You’re as bad as your Siofra.”

“Oi!” Siofra called from the living room. Finny boofed in response, then turned back to Alistair to beg. Alistair couldn’t resist him for long, ferreting in the cupboards for a treat.

“You’re a menace, Finny. Giving me those big eyes.”

Ruff. Finny snuffled Alistair’s hand, happily crunching the treat. Alistair squatted beside him, sighing. “How come I can only make it work with you guys..? Animals. Maybe I wasn’t meant to be flipping human. My mother used to say I was half wild.” Finny licked his face.

Ruff.

Alistair stroked him fondly. “We should probably go back to the room…” Finny turned around obediently, thumping Alistair’s legs with his tail before returning to the living room. He stared indignantly at Kit, who was snoring on top of Siofra, flopping down on the rug again. Alistair flopped in a similar fashion beside him, curling around Finny like they were two dogs together. Finny wrapped his tail around Alistair, giving his face a big, sloppy lick. Siofra chuckled.

“D’you two need a room?”

“Bugger off,” Alistair said lazily. Finny licked his nose again, happy to have attention since his owner was preoccupied. Siofra just chuckled.

“He seems pretty happy with ya.”

“It’s only because Kit’s purloined you.”

“Oh, so you’re both jealous?” Siofra grinned.

“Evidently.”

“I mean, there’s space on my lap for two more. Kit is like the size’o my leg.”

“It’s a lovely offer, but I think I’ll pass,” Alistair said, rolling his eyes. “Kit’s happy there anyway. It’s nothing against you, I’m just...protective. Trust me, if you were a lanky streak of piss like Kit, your brothers would be the same.”

Siofra snorted so hard she nearly woke Kit, and her brothers laughed as well. Gran just chuckled and shook her head. Alistair grinned, curling back up with Finny. He could hear his soft heartbeat through his thick fur. The dog licked his nose more gently before curling up to sleep.

By the time the movie was over, Finny, Kit, and Cillian were all sound asleep. Siofra finally nudged the snoring red lump in her lap. “Oi. Get off, I want dessert.” Kit groaned dramatically and didn’t move.

“Come sit with me and Finny,” Alistair mumbled sleepily.

“I’m not sitting on the floor with the dog.” Kit sighed.

“I thought your fat arse would get up when ye heard ‘dessert.’” Siofra teased.

“Depends on what you’re eating.”

Siofra looked at him strangely. “Pudding, soda bread, cake, tarts. Y’know… dessert?”

“We always had just one dessert at home, they’d just be like “it’s meringues” or “it’s banoffee pie.” I am aware of what dessert is,” Alistair said.

“We had lots of desserts at parties.” Kit mumbled.

“Course ye did, Princess.” Siofra lifted him off of her, setting him in the warm spot she’d left on the couch. She kicked Cillian lightly. “Oi. Dessert.” He popped up like a jack-in-the-box.

“Dessert?”

Riagán was already barrelling past his little brother into the kitchen, while Mr. Rafferty helped Gran out of her chair.

Alistair rolled his eyes. “Like Pavlov’s dogs.”

“Yer mum’s a dog.” Siofra mumbled. Finny lifted his head and barked. He’d heard ‘dog.’

Alistair was distracted, ruffling Finny’s ears. “Ooh, you’re so clever!” Finny licked his face and trotted off to the kitchen as well. Alistair followed Finny, walking two steps behind him, as if he was the dog and Finny the human. Everyone was crowded around the counter, piling plates full of dessert. Meanwhile, Kit pattered off down the hallway, in search of his guest room. Alistair backed away from the crowd too, anxiety overwhelming the desire for dessert. He made a dash for his room. Kit was already there, rooting in his suitcase, and he yelped in surprise.

“Al! What are you doing here?”

“Getting away from everybody. It’s all a bit intense. What’re you doing?”

“Looking for a handkerchief.” Kit mumbled. “Are you really so scared of Siofra’s family that you’re avoiding dessert?”

“Not just all the people. It’s Christmas itself,” Alistair mumbled, flopping back on Kit’s bed. “It freaks me out when I see all these families being all happy and jolly together. I used to do it with Jules too.”

Kit rolled his eyes, but he didn’t comment. He needed Alistair to leave, but he wasn’t sure what to say. “I’m surprised Finny didn’t follow you.”

“He’ll be wanting table scraps. What’re you doing hovering by your case?”

“Trying to find my… handkerchief.” It took Kit a minute to remember what he’d said he was looking for.

“Just blow your nose on some bog roll. Do you want me to get some?”

Kit had to swallow a sigh of relief. “Yes, please. Meet me back in the living room.”

“Okay…” Alistair was a bit perplexed by that, Kit was the type who’d leave the room to blow his nose in private, but he left to grab some toilet paper anyway. By the time Alistair found the bathroom and got back, Kit had stumbled back to the living room, arms piled high with wrapped gifts.

Siofra had just finished fighting her brothers over a particularly large tart, and she turned to walk back into the living room. When she saw her boyfriend staggering under a heap of gifts, she nearly shrieked.

“Where in fuck did those come from?”

“What the fuck are you yelling about..?” Alistair mumbled, trailing into the room. His jaw dropped when he spotted Kit. “Fuck me! Did you loot a whole shop?”

“It didn’t all come from one shop. Even Amazon wouldn’t have the right things for everyone.” Kit huffed. He was setting down gifts by everyone’s seats, and there was a stack of several boxes where Alistair had been laying on the floor.

“Can we open them now?” Alistair asked excitedly.

“Wait for everyone to get settled. Go grab dessert or something. I know you’ll bitch if everyone is sitting here with sweets but you.” Kit said. Alistair poked his tongue out at Kit, but did as he was told. Finny was still lingering in the kitchen, trying to appeal to Gran for sweets. She rolled her eyes.

“Ye can’t eat tarts, ye great foolish beast.”

Finny barked in protest. Alistair slipped him a bit of pastry when he thought she wasn’t looking. Gran saw it, but she just smacked him with her napkin and shuffled back to the living room. There was still a fair amount of dessert left — she always made more than enough for the group she was hosting. Alistair grabbed a few more tarts and then hurried back to the living room. He was curious about the gifts. Finny padded after him, sniffing curiously at the small package that had been left where he sat.

Kit shifted nervously on his feet. “Er, if it’s alright, I’d like Siofra to go first. Since she’s the one that brought me here and all…”

Mr. Rafferty was staring incredulously at the tiny, neatly-wrapped box in his seat, still gobsmacked that he’d gotten a gift from this borderline stranger. He looked up when Siofra threw a pillow at him.

“Dad? Can I open mine?”

“Oh, uh, go ahead.” He nodded.

Siofra tore into the box at once, revealing a gold pendant with green gemstones clustered into a loose circle. The gems ranged in colour from pale and yellowish to deep blue-green, and many of the hues reflected in her eyes as she held it up. She couldn’t hide the grin spreading across her face.

“Bloody hell… this is stunnin’. Don’t tell me how much ye spent on it. I might have to kill ya.”

“Well, then it suits you. It’s a one-of-a-kind piece. I like the arrangement of gems, it almost reminded me of freckles.” Kit murmured.

Siofra scoffed. “Ya sappy piece’o shit.” She was grinning even as she said it, and she yanked him closer for a suffocating hug. Once she released Kit to breathe again, she looked around the room. “Alright, who’s next?”

“Um, let’s do your brothers. I want Al to go last.” Kit said.

Neither Cillian nor Riagán offered to let the other go first; they tore into their boxes nearly simultaneously. Cillian’s gift was a pair of blue, black, and white Air Jordans, the colours almost identical to his favourite jacket. He gasped. “Shit! Siofra, did ye tell ‘im to get these?”

She shrugged. “I just gave ‘im yer size. He did the shoppin’.”

Riagán was similarly awestruck by his gift — a glossy William Henry pocket knife that looked more like a piece of jewelry than a weapon. This time, Kit spoke for himself.

“Siofra told me your old knife broke last time you were camping. This one should be a bit more… resilient.”

“Fuckin’ hell…” Riagán was staring slackjawed into the box. “I… shit… I mean… thanks, mate. That sounds pathetic, but, I just… I dunno what to say.”

Kit just smiled and shook his head. “It’s okay. As long as you like it, that’s all I need to know.”

Siofra was bouncing on the edge of her seat, just as delighted by the others’ gifts as her own. “Dad! Yours now!”

Mr. Rafferty chuckled and shook his head. He wasn’t sure what to expect; he didn’t know Kit personally like his sons, so it would probably just be a really expensive gift card or something. His beard and lower jaw nearly dropped off his face when he unwrapped the tiny box to see tickets to Yo-Yo Ma’s Bach Project performance in Barcelona, with accompanying plane tickets to Spain for the week of the show. He looked at Kit like he was expecting it to be a joke, but Kit just smiled.

“Siofra’s told me a lot about you. I tried to find something I thought you would like. If it’s not to your interest, I can get something else.”

“No, no no no. This is… amazin’. I’m just wonderin’… why?” Mr. Rafferty was still staring at Kit in utter confusion.

“It’s nice to make people happy. I have more money than I could ever spend. Why not do something decent with it?” Kit shrugged.

Mr. Rafferty still seemed a little blown away by the whole thing, but he nodded. “That’s… I suppose that’s fair.”

Kit was already turning to smile sheepishly at Gran. “I’m sorry, I know the wine must seem a bit anticlimactic. Siofra didn’t give me much notice I was going to be meeting you.”

“Dear, yer pretty arse stayin’ in my house is enough to make my Christmas merry. Wine is just the icin’ on the cake.” She grinned, her eyes scrunching and sparkling much in the same way Siofra’s had.

Kit chuckled. “You’re too kind. Al? Would you like to help Finny open his gift?”

Alistair did as he was told silently, a little awestruck by all the other gifts. He put Finny’s paw on the package as he ripped the paper to make sure Finny knew it was his present. Finny snuffled it curiously. At first the box looked like it held fancy candy, but upon closer inspection, they were actually gourmet dog treats. Finny was nosing at the box, clearly eager to examine its contents.

Siofra laughed. “Now ye can have dessert too, ye fat furry bastard.” Finny barked at her. Alistair opened the box for him, letting Finny stick his nose in and rootle around. The dog scarfed up a treat at once, trying to eat a second one before he’d even finished chewing. Siofra let him have a second, but then she took the box before he could devour them all. Kit was hovering nervously by his cousin, watching as Finny settled down.

“Alright, Al. Your turn.”

“Finally!” Alistair said, but he sounded nervous too. Maybe it was just everyone watching him. He started tearing the wrapping paper off the top box, struggling with the sellotape with his bitten nails. It finally gave, revealing a book of cold-press cotton paper and a tray of sixteen high-end watercolours.

Alistair had been preparing a thank you on his tongue, but he couldn’t speak now. He’d have never been able to afford these himself, but he’d always wanted to try them. He leapt over the box and hugged Kit hard — and he was still only on the first box. The older boy let out a strangled squawk.

“Al! Don’t choke me yet. I’d like to see you at least open your other gifts…”

“Okay, but I’m choking you afterwards,” Alistair said, tearing at the next box. This one was something Kit had researched for hours before picking it out — a 24-inch Wacom Cintiq Pro drawing tablet.

Alistair looked like he was going to have a heart attack. “Kit, you’re fucking amazing.”

“Open the last one, then suck my dick.” Kit grinned.

“You’re awful. I love you.” Alistair couldn’t sort through his emotions when he was this excited. He eagerly opened the last box. It was smaller than the Wacom, a sleek silver Macbook Pro.

“I figured your old computer wouldn’t hold up to Photoshop very well. Or rather… the salesman who helped me pick out your tablet figured.” Kit said.

“Dude. Kit.” Alistair almost did throttle his cousin when he hugged him this time. “They’re the most perfect presents I’ve ever been given…”

Kit made a louder squawking noise, trying to pull away enough to breathe. Finny was nosing curiously at Alistair’s things, but he knew better than to lick or chew on them. Alistair went and hugged him too. “Look at the stuff Kit bought me, Finny! Now I can do art like a real artist! Isn’t he fucking awesome!”

Kit just smiled, sitting on the couch to help Siofra with the clasp of her new necklace. Finny boofed, excited because Alistair was excited. He gave the boy’s face a big, sloppy lick. Alistair romped on the floor with him, bouncing off the walls now. He was like a kid on a sugar high. Finny rolled around, delighted to be getting so much attention, while Siofra and her family settled on the couch to eat dessert. Gran was pouring wine for those who wanted it, and Kit gratefully took a glass. He leaned on Siofra, but stayed awake this time, quiet and watchful.

“What about your presents, Kit?” Alistair said under Finny.

“Me? What could I possibly need as a gift?”

“I’ll give you mine later,” he whispered. “I don’t want everyone seeing it. Don’t get excited though, like you said, you’ve got everything.”

“I mean, I have somethin’ for ye, too, but it’s also not somethin’ I can give ye in public.” Siofra grinned. Kit’s cheeks flared red, but the Rafferty boys and Gran just laughed.

“Gross, Siofra,” Alistair mumbled.

“Yer mum’s gross.” She smirked.

“True.”

Finny boofed, and Siofra smiled. “Don’t worry Finn, yer mum was lovely.”

“You knew her?” Alistair said curiously.

“No, but I did. She was quite the charmin’ bitch.” Mr. Rafferty grinned.

“Well. That’s good,” Alistair said awkwardly. Finny saved him from further conversation by trotting over to the door and whining. Alistair leapt up at once. “I’ll take him out.”

“Thanks.” Siofra smiled at him. “Take a jacket, it’s bloody baltic outside.”

Alistair grabbed the first one off the rack, which must have belonged to one of the Rafferty men, since it looked like it was trying to swallow Alistair whole when he put it on. “Come on, Finn.”

Finny boofed delightedly, barreling out the door as soon as it was open. Snow had been falling heavily, and it was up to his belly fur, but he ran through it without hesitation.

“Jesus! Look at this!” Alistair ran out into the show, shivering. He’d shoved his bare feet into somebody’s gigantic trainers, and they were offering little protection. “Fuck, my feet are cold, Finny.”

Finny’s fur seemed to be doing a stellar job of keeping him warm. He ran around chasing snowflakes for a while before even remembering he’d been let out to piss. Alistair tried to run after him, but the borrowed shoes were so big he kept stepping out of them and stepping into the snow in his bare feet. “I am losing toes here, Finny,” Alistair called, but he still didn’t go inside.

Finny eventually wore himself out, running back to Alistair and snuffling at his legs. He was full after being spoiled with snacks all evening, and not as hyper as earlier. When Alistair let the dog back inside, Siofra and Cillian were helping clean up dessert dishes, and Gran was asking Kit about his travels. He seemed a little flustered to be in the spotlight, but once she got him going on a story about visiting Japan, he rambled enthusiastically, telling her about the temples he’d seen. Alistair staggered into the kitchen with snow in his hair, his feet practically blue.

Siofra snorted. “Jaysus, who’s the Ice Princess now?”

“The bloody snow outside is deep.”

“Ya coulda taken my boots.” She grinned, “They’d fit just fine.”

“I just took the first shoes I found,” he grumbled.

“Figured. Would some hot chocolate warm ya up?” Siofra asked.

“God, yes please.”

Siofra laughed, going over to the stove to make fresh cocoa. Finny had joined them in the kitchen, hoping to catch any dropped crumbs. Alistair didn’t have food to offer, but he pet Finny’s ears. The dog wagged his tail, thumping Alistair's legs. He watched Siofra eagerly as she worked on the stove.

“This ain't for you, fat-arse. You've already had fancy treats and all sorts'o scraps.” She told him. Finny sighed, laying down right in the middle of the kitchen floor.

“Can’t he have a little bit of something?” Alistair asked.

“No. He's already had way more than usual. Don't want ‘im gettin’ sick, or fat.”

“Fat dogs are super cute.”

“They're also super unhealthy.” Siofra replied sternly. She finished the cocoa, pouring some into a fresh mug.

“Sorry, Finny. I tried.”

Finny boofed, continuing to lay right in Siofra's way. She just stepped over him and handed Alistair the mug. He took it gratefully, trying to warm his freezing hands.

“Go sit on the couch. We got plenty'o blankets.”

“Who else is there?” Alistair asked warily.

Siofra rolled her eyes. “Yer cousin. Riagán maybe, but ‘e's probably gone to set up sleepin’ bags.”

“Okay.” He mooched off to the living room, going to cuddle up with Kit on the sofa. Kit was still nursing the same glass of wine, and he yelped when his cousin sat down.

“Good Lord, Al, you're freezing!”

“I know. My feet are numb.”

“There’s blankets on the back’o the couch!” Siofra yelled from the kitchen. Gran and Mr. Rafferty had left the living room, so Riagán had taken over the armchair.

Alistair grabbed a couple of blankets, wrapping Kit up too. “Thank you so much for those gifts, Kit. You spoil me.”

“I try.” Kit mumbled, leaning on Alistair’s shoulder. He was still holding his wineglass, but he’d stopped sipping from it a while ago.

“I wish I could get you something as special,” he sighed.

“Like what, Al? You’re not being rude by not spending money you don’t have.”

“I’m just saying, I wish.”

“I wish I was in bed.” Kit mumbled. His eyelids were fluttering as he fought to keep them up, and he had to set his wine down before he dropped the glass.

“Want me to carry you?” Alistair offered.

Kit nodded. “Mm. Come to bed with me. Get warm.”

Alistair snorted. “I thought you and Siofra were having a holiday hump?”

“Tomorrow. I’m tired.”

“Glad to know I’m valued!” Siofra called from the kitchen. Alistair grinned, hauling Kit up in his arms. Cillian waved as they walked off to the guest room.

“Night!”

“Night,” Alistair said back, plopping Kit on the bed carefully. Kit held his arms out, hoping his cousin would crawl in bed with him. He hadn’t even changed out of his clothes. Alistair couldn’t resist him, climbing under the sheets beside him. “Don’t you want to change?”

“Oh… I suppose I should.” Kit was so tired, he hadn’t given it the slightest thought.

“Do you want me to just do it? It’s not like I haven’t dressed you for bed before.” Alistair offered.

“...please?”

Alistair grinned. “Okay. Stay still then.”

Kit just flopped on the bed like a dramatic ragdoll, allowing his cousin to dress him. He heard snickering and looked up to see Siofra in the doorway.

“I didn’t think nobles still needed servants to dress ‘em.” She grinned.

Kit’s cheeks flared red. “I… it’s not like that!”

“Really? Didja go quadriplegic in the last five minutes?”

“...no.”

“Then what’s it like?” Siofra asked.

Kit hung his head, clearly embarrassed. “...I’m tired.”

She snorted. “Too tired to put on yer own pyjamas!”

“He offered!” Kit cried.

“This is quite a usual thing,” Alistair agreed. “It’s just easier than forcing him up to do it himself.”

“Christ. Ye rich folk are really somethin’ else.” Siofra shook her head, but she was smiling.

“I’m not a rich folk anymore.”

“Ah, right. You’re just weird. Well, I’ll leave ye weirdos to it.” She walked off down the hall, and Kit could hear her talking to Finny out in the living room.

“She’s the weird one. This whole family is weird,” Alistair said. He didn’t sound mad, just perplexed. “They all like...love each other.”

Kit laughed so hard, Alistair had to let go of his sleeve. “Al… that’s how normal families are.”

“It’s weird! They’re not any bit of drama or resentment. Even Jules’s dad has been screwing someone else. Even his family is a bit fucked up.”

“Well, I mean, Siofra said she never liked her mum much. But it’s really not as weird as you’re making it out to be. I’m sure they fight sometimes.” Kit shrugged.

“Oh god, I bet that’s a riot.”

“You’re a riot.” Kit mumbled, flopping down on the bed with a sigh.

“Are you too tired to open my present tonight?” Alistair asked quietly.

Kit sat up, trying to smooth himself out. “Oh, no. I just forgot. Sorry.”

Alistair grinned. “Shocker. Like I said, don’t be too excited… I wish I could afford to get you something really nice.” He rifled in his case and pulled out a little oblong parcel wrapped in deep blue paper.

“I can buy myself nice things. I’m just curious to see what you thought of.” Kit took the parcel, peeling off the paper slowly and carefully.

It was a necklace, very dainty and delicate, the chains so fragile they seemed as brittle as a daisy chain. There was a rose pendant at the bottom, uncannily similar to the ring Kit wore to remember his mother: same design, colour, roughly similar in size. Alistair had bought it second-hand, but he’d polished it up until it shone like it was new. Kit immediately looked down at his ring, stricken by the similarity. As far as he’d known, the ring didn’t have a companion piece — it was an old heirloom, one of the few remnants of when his mother’s family was wealthy. He was quiet for a long time, chewing thoughtfully on his lower lip.

“How… where did you find this?”

Alistair nudged his shoulder gently. “You know, you do still have an aunt…”

Kit nearly dropped the necklace. “It’s actually…” he stumbled over his words, too choked up to articulate himself, “It was hers? Or… the family’s, at least?”

“Yep. I would’ve told you I’d been in touch sooner, but I wanted to give you this first,” Alistair said. “Máire wants to talk to you again, too.”

Kit clutched the threadlike chain, his hands too shaky to put on the clasp. He was quiet, save for small, shuddering breaths, before collapsing against Alistair, sobbing and hugging his cousin tightly. Alistair held him just as tight. “So yeah… Máire was kinda part of your present.”

Kit shook his head, burying his face in Alistair’s shoulder. “She won’t want to see me. Not like this.”

“Of course she will! She was dead excited to hear from even me, so she’ll be really happy. I showed her a picture of you and she couldn’t believe how much you’ve changed,” Alistair laughed.

“I’m sure that picture looked worlds better than I do now.” Kit sighed. He was all too aware of how corpse-like he’d looked as of late.

“Well, it’ll probably make her auntie instincts come out. She kept telling me I hadn’t changed a bit.” He rolled his eyes. “Mnn, flattering.”

“You still don’t brush your hair.” Kit was chuckling through the tears now.

“She kept trying to smooth it down just like when we were kids,” Alistair said, grinning. “She said how handsome you are now.”

“When did you go see her?” Kit asked.

“Not too long before we came out here. I found her on Facebook and we chatted for a bit first.”

Kit nodded. “Does Julie know?”

“Yeah. He’s the only thing that kept me from telling you. I almost caved a hundred times this week.”

Kit couldn’t help giggling. “You were always awful with secrets. It’s probably good you didn’t realize you were gay sooner.”

“I know, I’d have told everyone in a heartbeat. I’d have had to live in your cupboard or some shit like a fucking war criminal.”

"Virgin war criminal more like." Kit smirked. He was no longer crying, and he sat up enough to put the necklace on.

“I could’ve seen your hair during your Draco blond phase,” Alistair said, helping Kit do up the clasp.

Kit cringed. "Oh god. I think I burned my yearbook from that phase."

"What phase?" Siofra popped her head into the room, as she'd walked over to check on the boys.

"Doesn't matter." Kit replied hastily.

Siofra smirked. "I'll be nice enough to pretend I believe ya. I thought ye came in here to sleep?"

"I did," Kit said, "I forgot Al still had a gift to give me."

"Ye know I do too, right?" Siofra asked.

Kit shook his head. "Not while we're sharing a room with him. That's just cruel."

"A real gift, ye twit. I was jokin' ‘bout fuckin' bein' yer gift. I'll fuck ye anytime, holidays be damned."

"Oh." Kit blinked. "Do… do you want to give it to me now?"

"Nah. You're havin' a moment. I can leave ye two here. D'ye need anything before I go?" She asked.

"Er… I don't think so. Al?"

“No thanks. But you can do the gift exchange if you want,” Alistair said. “I’ll go piss or something if you want privacy.”

"Nah, I'm not that fussed. It's nothin' fancy. I just thought I oughta offer more than a shag." Siofra shrugged. She dug through her own bag, which was sitting on the floor, and pulled out a wrapped box. Kit opened it as meticulously as the last gift, eventually revealing a small wooden box. He undid the latch, revealing an ornate silver hairbrush, with a matching mirror and comb.

"It's lovely," he smiled, lifting the mirror and turning it over. The back had delicate scrolling detail like the brush, and it was immaculately glossy.

"Oh, good." Siofra grinned, seemingly relieved.

"What, did you think I wouldn't like it?" Kit asked.

"Honestly, I was afraid you'd already have ten."

“You are a nightmare to buy gifts for, Kit,” Alistair agreed. “Just cause you’ve got fucking everything.”

"Well, that's why I don't ask for anything!" He cried defensively.

“I’m just teasing you, dope,” Alistair said fondly.

"You're a dope," Kit mumbled, leaning against his cousin with a drowsy sigh. Siofra took the box off his lap, clasping it shut and setting it aside.

"You lot get some sleep. I'll be to bed in a while."  

“I’ll look after him,” Alistair promised.

Siofra nodded. "Ya got enough blankets?"

“For me, yes. For Kit, we could probably do with a couple more.”

"Figured. I'll be right back." Siofra stepped away, returning a few minutes later with some soft throw blankets and a handmade quilt. "This oughta do ya." She dumped the blankets on the boys, and Kit groaned dramatically. "Sorry princess, no peas in the mattress."

Alistair snorted. “That really is you.”

"Is not," Kit mumbled, "my servants know better than to leave peas in my mattress."

“Who the hell would do that in the first place?” Alistair muttered.

Siofra snorted. "Get some sleep, idiots," she said, closing the door quietly and walking off down the hall. Her brothers and father were in the kitchen, drinking beer and talking rugby, but Gran was sitting in the living room, peering through her coke-bottle glasses at a book. Siofra walked through the living room, stepping into her boots to take Finny out.

"Ye really like that lad, don't ye?" Gran's voice behind her made Siofra jump.

"I like 'im well enough." She shrugged.

"Better than enough, I'd say, if ye bothered to bring 'im all the way out here."

Siofra huffed, shaking her head and lacing up her boots. "I'm feelin' it out, Gran. I ain't committed to nothin' yet."

"Well, feel him out a bit extra for me. He's a good-lookin' one." Gran said, her magnified eyes twinkling with mischief.

Siofra couldn't help snorting. "I will. Just don't harp on about nothin' in front'o him. He had a bad breakup not too long back. You'll scare 'im off if ye get too serious."

"I'm too old to take things serious. Just have fun with 'im." Gran shrugged.

"I plan to. I gotta take Finny out now, alright? Get some sleep." Siofra bent down, hugging her grandmother tightly before standing up and whistling for the dog. Finny bounded over at once, tail wagging eagerly as Siofra clipped his leash on. "C'mon, lad. Let's see what the forest looks like tonight."

[advernia]

fic: pepper pot sinks and aromatic stoves (1/2)

— they’re down to their last potatoes when she asks what dishes he planned to serve for breakfast. - the jack of spades & alice the second; the black army.

1: part 2 can be read here (•‿•) this was written pre-luka's route release, so no spoilers here!

The first time Alice the Second steps into the Black Army’s kitchen, Seth and Fenrir were with her as guides: she’s only beginning to take in glimpses of the area when all of a sudden the two men beside her begin to bicker about something, and before the kitchen turned into the official Seth vs. Fenrir round 278 arena, she herself takes the initiative to redirect the squabbling pair’s attention by mentioning that the wide field outside the kitchen - the training grounds - sure looked interesting.

Fenrir falls for it in a heartbeat - with sparkling eyes and beaming grin, he quickly takes hold of her hand and off to the exit they go. Seth follows hot on their heels, demanding that Fenrir let go of her hand because no self-respecting gentleman just takes a lady’s hand into his without her consent.

Fenrir waves him off, but he does let go of her hand and apologize. She laughs at that.

Luka watches them go and for a moment, she looks behind her - their eyes meet for a second, lively blues chancing upon quiet golds.

                                    She steps into the kitchen for the second time that same day, when all of the Black Army’s headquarters has gone dark and quiet - it’s a shadow of its earlier state when her welcoming party had been going on: left or right, upstairs or downstairs, inside or outside; it seemed like every inch of the headquarters was enveloped in warm lights, merry company, and boisterous laughter. 

Luka’s sudden presence behind her almost makes her scream, but instead her voice comes out as a strangled yelp and in a few hurried steps she backs herself up into the nearest corner. Not quite sure on what to do or say, he reaches inside his pocket, pulls out a magic crystal, and in a flash the kitchen is engulfed in light.

It takes her eyes a few seconds to adjust to the brightness, to blink and realize that it was just him, and no one else.

Profuse apologies aside, he learns that she had wandered her way to the kitchen hoping to get herself a glass of milk; while she learns that he was going through his usual patrol duty route when he noticed her going to the kitchen. They just stand there for a moment, the silence of the night creeping in, before Luka motions her to sit down on one of the chairs.

She flusters a bit, but she does pull herself away from her corner and gingerly seats herself with her head hung low. He on the other hand walks over to the stove and opens one of the cabinets below it, crouching down and pulling out a saucepan then setting it on one of the stove burners. A bottle is procured from the refrigerator, another magic crystal is pulled out and in a few minutes, a cup of milk enters her vision and presents itself steaming before her.

She looks up, but he’s already going towards the sink to wash the saucepan - a solemn thank you escapes her lips before she takes the cup into her hands, the heat of the smooth surface creeping into her palms and chasing away the cold that bit her fingers.

He’s done washing the saucepan when he hears her murmur delicious: he sneaks a glance at her; her with the unkempt blonde hair, her with the ashen face, her with the puffy and red-tinged eyes, her with the faint rasp in her voice.

She’s still sitting there with the cup cradled close in her hands, eyes closed and a gentle smile touching her lips.

                                        It’s her third time to step into the kitchen the next day with her lengthy hair up in a ponytail and the sleeves of her blouse rolled up to her elbows. She greets him a good morning and he does the same, but his next reply doesn’t come as fast when she suddenly approaches him, bows her head down, and asks if she could assist him in breakfast preparations.

The beautifully half-peeled potato in his hand is promptly ignored.

There’s a stroke of luck since behind her and standing by the doorway is Sirius; who probably saw the whole thing unfold because he merely gives Luka a thumbs-up and a kind smile before going on his way - it’s not exactly the help he was hoping for coming from the Queen of Spades, but if their second in command was okay with it, then he might as well accept the offer.

As soon as the words of approval escape Luka’s lips, she raises her head and a smile blooms across her face, across those blue eyes.

After her enthusiastic thank you and his mumbled sure, he takes out another knife from one of the drawers, hands it over to her and together they get to peeling the rest of the potatoes he had washed earlier: they stand side by side and work at a steady pace, the soft scratching sounds of their knives scraping potato skins filling in the silence in between them.

They’re down to their last potatoes when she asks what dishes he planned to serve for breakfast.

He shrugs as he lists off a couple of dishes: banana and walnut oatmeal with the option of honey, marmalade or sweet cream on the side for the light eaters; asparagus and mushroom soup, a warm salad of red cabbage, black pudding, hazelnuts, and apples with a cider vinegar and honey dressing; grilled trout with white butter sauce, and maybe lemon meringue eclairs as dessert.

Her mouth hangs slightly agape as she stares at him.

                        Out of the five dishes he mentioned there were three that required lengthy preparation and even longer cooking times, and she’s awed that he had already done the prep work for each dish and then some beforehand - the potatoes were just given to him that morning, and since they were done peeling them he could start cooking - he’s putting on an apron when she looks at him, or rather, at the oven just right behind him.

The words spill out of her mouth before she's even aware of it.

Is it alright if I make the eclairs myself?

                        She’s a confectioner in the Land of Reason, Sirius tells Luka later when they’re doing the dishes: the former does the washing, soaping, and the scrubbing, while the latter rinses, dries, and puts the utensils away accordingly. The Queen of Spades continues to talk as the dishes grew lesser in number, saying that while the little lady may feel safe now, she may not feel comfortable in her situation just yet - the Jack of Spades tilts his head to the side, pondering on that statement.

He recalls the times he was checking on her from afar earlier, observing how she made the eclairs to his recipe: she had no questions from start to finish, to making the choux pastries up to mixing the meringue frosting, no trouble in dividing and balancing the ingredients in an equal proportion all throughout the six batches of eclairs she baked and filled, and certainly had no trouble in lining up the finished eclairs tastefully in plates - she even suggests garnishing them with mint leaves, with the thought of a cool and refreshing touch complimenting the tart meringue inside the soft dough.

Her pace was a bit slow at first, but after baking her second batch of choux pastries a fluidity seemed to creep into her feet then shortly to her lithe hands, a practiced ease gradually revealing itself as she cycled from moving to the oven then back to the counters just a few steps away - from that point onward, he concluded that her earlier pace was due to her unfamiliarity with the kitchen’s layout: her work began to flow smoothly once she had everything in place in one work area, once she had asked him how to use the oven with the aid of a magic crystal.

Her movements aside, he did notice that as she baked, her overall mood seemed pleasant - she carried on with a smile on her face, a spring in her step, and humming a gentle tune that reached his ears.

Was that what the Queen of Spades meant?

So you let me accept her offer because you thought that it would help her keep her mind off things? By doing something she usually did back at the Land of Reason? Luka asks when he hands over the last plate - the surface is flawless, traces of the well-acclaimed eclairs gone.

It’s the least we can do for her until the full moon arrives, Sirius replies with a nod.

                                        2: black pudding is a type of blood sausage that originated from the UK & ireland, commonly eaten in english breakfast. but does it exist in cradle??? i have no idea (ﾟ⊿ﾟ) 3: on another note, if it isn’t obvious that i adore canon-stated confectioner!mc then kindly allow me to remind u people every chance i can get ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) tho i am sorely disappointed that she fails to make chocolate in ray’s valentine route... does that mean she's a sugar confectioner rather than a chocolatier??? whatever the case, i still like to think she's both bc sweets are life ( ᐛ )و

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Jacksonville dating

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New Post has been published on Health bolt

New Post has been published on http://www.healthbolt.net/blog/gormet-food-recipes/

Gormet Food Recipes

Contents

Gfe (gluten free eater)

Classic comfort food

Chef john allrecipes magazine

Upcoming cooking classes

115 average rating: view profile

Fun dinner ideas

Sprinkle with chives and serve immediately. Unbaked Gourmet Mac & Cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. …

Most Tastiest Food In The World Rastelli Foods Launch the Moving Mountains Meatless Burger in the Middle East – Not a veggie burger, Moving Mountains ® allows an experience so akin to animal meat, it will convert even the most committed … And soon, that little pocket of sustenance will compete on an international scale: Lands End is headed to Cornwall itself to … Light And Fit Yogurt Calories A light, vibrant chilled soup fit for spring, Easter dinner – We’re supposed to be celebrating light, bright flavors and a return of fresh … Top each with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. Nutrition information per serving: 300 calories; 220 calories from fat … Buy Tasty Cookbook Healthy Diet Lunches For Work These healthy lunches for work are easy to make, travel well and will make your colleagues wonder how you’re affording a chef on the side. Delicious Meals To cook simply potatoes ingredients the Hash Brown Potato Latkes are a very close second! Here are variations to share with your hungry family! Note: These are great for the gfe (gluten free eater) too! Simply substitute 1/3 cup of pota… Best Meals To Take To Someone healthy frozen meals can be a good option when you’re trying to lose weight and too busy to shop and cook. "The biggest advantage for frozen meals is portion control," says Jessica Bartfield, MD … Christensen, Howard set to return to Raleigh food festival – raleigh, N.C. — Award-winning chefs Ashley Christensen and Vivian Howard will once again headline the Thrive NC food festival … Russian state TV has told people not to panic, but then told people what to pack in their nuclear bunkers (Picture: East2West News) A Russian state TV station has told people what food they should tak… www food ingredients, food and color additives, packaging, and food contact substances. Labeling & Nutrition Label claims, Nutrition facts label education, and labeling information for industry. Find and share everyday cooking inspiration on Allrecipes. Discover recipes, cooks, videos, and how-tos based on the food you love and the friends you follow. Healthy high protein dinner Recipes A perfect recipe to cook up to serve when you have people over for dinner. Fan of sticky soy … Humble tofu is one of the be… Homemade Healthy Food Recipes Banana bread is a classic comfort food that fills the whole house with warmth, but it’s not always the healthiest option. Tha… A little history to go with your meal: Piccata is a method of preparing food, not the dish as such … for a list of upcoming … healthy cuisine recipes Healthy Recipes – Allrecipes.com – Find trusted recipes for eating healthy: start the day with a wholesome breakfast, cut the carbs or calories, find the perfect main dish for your special diet. … world cuisine asian … Special Collections Food Wishes with chef john allrecipes magazine recipes Our newest recipes trusted brands … Spice up weeknight dinners with the best healthy recipes and lighter dishes from Food Network, and

Batter Fried Boiled Oysters – Real Cajun Cooking – Batter Fried Boiled Oysters can become tricky to prepare if you don’t know what to do with them first. That’s because boiled oysters from a can are already fully cooked and tend to break apart easily when mishandled. Here’s a hint: freeze the canned oysters before frying them.

“I’d say 75 percent of the pizzas are classic Neapolitan recipes,” he said … “Especially since grocery stores have started carrying more European [foods] and gourmet things like fresh mozzarella and …

Prepare a wide variety of recipes using just one convenient kitchen appliance with this Air Fryer, Griller and Roaster. Combines radiant and convection cooking to produce food that’s crispy on the outside but moist and tender on the inside.

Harissa is a fiery Tunisian chile paste that is also commonly used in Moroccan cooking. It’s comprised of dried chiles, olive oil, garlic and spices.

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Mama Biscuit® celebrates 4th anniversary with distribution in Walmart, Whole Foods (selected … launched her online gourmet …

Roaming Gourmet: Recreating White House sweet potato pudding – Hercules was referred to as highly accomplished in cookery for his time, but because it was against the law for slaves to be …

For vegetarians and vegans (and those looking to eat more plant-based foods in general), this would be a helpful substitute f…

Anderson decided to write a cookbook with recipes for what she calls “comfort food-inspired dinners for one or two,” thus eli…

Best Healthy Recipes For Dinner Top Ten Healthy Meals The top 10 healthiest foods listed below are your best foods for eating healthy meals. And since these 10 healthiest foods offer you maximum nutrition for each food calorie, your healthy meals also give you the healthiest food’s bang for your food’s bucks. Tasty Taste Recipes Member Since 2009 Recipes: 115 average rating: view profile. Christy @ Sunsets on the Side Member Since 2014 Recipes: 18. nicole @TheSpiceTrain Member Since 2014 Recipes: 12. Inside tasty kitchen. cranberry orange Bread. Sweet, tart, buttery and moist, drizzled with a lovely orange glaze. This quick bread is perfect for the season, and all you … Interesting Meal Ideas 30+ Quick and Easy Main Dish Dinner Ideas – Southern Living – Start the evening off right with these quick and easy main dish dinner ideas, like our favorite chicken fried steak or pork tenderloin recipes. … We also have several creative pork tenderloin and pork chop recipes, like our Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin and … Get out of your dinner rut and try a recipe from Campbell’s Kitchen’s collection of fun dinner ideas that are sure to put a smile on the pickiest of eaters. Get out of your dinner rut and try a recipe from Campbell’s Kitchen’s collection of fun dinner ideas that are … Simply Potatoes Ingredients the hash brown potato latkes are a very close second! Here are variations to share with your hungry family! Note: These are great for the GFE (Gluten Free Eater) too! Simply substitute 1/3 cup of pota… Best Meals To Take To Someone Healthy frozen meals can be a good option when you’re trying to lose weight and too busy to shop and cook. "The biggest advantage for frozen meals is portion control," says Jessica Bartfield, MD … Christensen, Howard set to return to Raleigh food festival – Raleigh, N.C. — award-winning chefs ashley Christensen and Vivian Howard will once again headline the Thrive NC food festival … Russian state TV has told people not to panic, but then told people what to pack in their nuclear bunkers (Picture: East2West News) A Russian state TV station has told people what food they should tak… Www Food Ingredients, food and color additives, packaging, and food contact substances. Labeling & Nutrition Label claims, Nutrition facts label education, and labeling information for industry. Find and share everyday cooking inspiration on allrecipes. discover recipes, cooks, videos, and how-tos based on the food you love and the friends you follow. Healthy High Protein Dinner Recipes A perfect recipe to cook up to serve when you have people over for dinner. Fan of sticky soy … Humble tofu is one of the be… Homemade Healthy Food Recipes Banana bread is a classic comfort food that fills the whole house with warmth, but it’s not always the healthiest option. Tha… A little history to go with your meal: Piccata is a method of preparing food, not the dish as such … for a list of upcoming … healthy cuisine recipes Buy Tasty Cookbook Healthy Diet Lunches For Work These healthy lunches for work are easy to make, travel well and will make your colleagues wonder how you’re affording a chef on the side. Delicious Meals To Cook Simply Potatoes Ingredients the Hash Brown Potato Latkes are a very close second! Here are variations to share with your hungry family! Note: These are great for the GFE (Gluten Free Eater) too! Simply substitute 1/3 cup of pota… Best Meals To Take To Someone healthy frozen meals can be a good option when you’re trying to lose weight and too busy to shop and cook. "The biggest advantage for frozen meals is portion control," says Jessica Bartfield, MD … Christensen, Howard set to return to Raleigh food festival – raleigh, N.C. — Award-winning chefs Ashley Christensen and Vivian Howard will once again headline the Thrive NC food festival … Russian state TV has told people not to panic, but then told people what to pack in their nuclear bunkers (Picture: East2West News) A Russian state TV station has told people what food they should tak… Www Food Ingredients, food and color additives, packaging, and food contact substances. Labeling & Nutrition Label claims, Nutrition facts label education, and labeling information for industry. Find and share everyday cooking inspiration on Allrecipes. Discover recipes, cooks, videos, and how-tos based on the food you love and the friends you follow. Healthy High Protein Dinner Recipes A perfect recipe to cook up to serve when you have people over for dinner. Fan of sticky soy … Humble tofu is one of the be… Homemade Healthy Food Recipes Banana bread is a classic comfort food that fills the whole house with warmth, but it’s not always the healthiest option. Tha… A little history to go with your meal: Piccata is a method of preparing food, not the dish as such … for a list of upcoming … Healthy Cuisine Recipes Healthy Recipes – Allrecipes.com – Find trusted recipes for eating healthy: start the day with a wholesome breakfast, cut the carbs or calories, find the perfect main dish for your special diet. … world cuisine asian … Special Collections Food Wishes with Chef john allrecipes magazine recipes Our newest recipes trusted brands … Spice up weeknight dinners with the best healthy recipes and lighter dishes from Food Network, and make over your midweek rotation. Check out www.cabarrushealth.org/cookingclasses for a list of upcoming cooking classes with Chef Allison. Want more recipes? … Oct 06, 2010  · healthy recipes news diets … 6 healthiest ethnic cuisines. … you’ll find lots of low calorie protein and healthy fats in Japanese cuisine. Edamame, miso soup and lots of seafood are some … healthy recipe: greek yogurt ranch – fortunately, there are healthier alternatives like this ranch-inspired recipe from Independence LIVE’s weekly healthy cooking … Top 10 Delicious Food Who would’ve thought the simple combination of cookies and cream could be so delicious … We’ve rounded up 10 Oreo desserts … If you’re currently flying solo or

DOLCE. Corica cakes are picked up by Elio fresh every morning and bought to Passione. since 1957, these Italian delicacies are made using fresh real cream, Italian style custard and the lightest pastry.

[chocolateheal]

Attending Pioneer Woman Pie Recipe Can Be A Disaster If You Forget These Seven Rules | pioneer woman pie recipe

Pi Day isn’t until March 14, but there’s addition pie-centric anniversary on the calendar. Pie Day avalanche on January 23, and we’re administration our picks for the best pie in every state. Whether you adopt a archetypal angel or go for added abnormal flavors (raspberry argument jalapeño, anyone?), bless Pie Day with one of these ambrosial options.

pioneer woman apple pecan mini pie easy recipe – pioneer woman pie recipe | pioneer woman pie recipe

Location: Greensboro, Alabama

This contemporary association amplitude serves absurd craven salads and different wraps and paninis, but the highlight are their pies, fabricated with awfully buttery crusts. Accept a allotment of attic chrism or amber chess pie while you adore acceptable chat and a affable vibe. And if you accept a ache for a absolute aftertaste of home, chef Seaborn Whatley says they’ll alike try to alike an old ancestors admired if you appear to accept your grandmother’s compound book on hand.

iStock

Location: Anchorage, Alaska

The Bear Tooth Theatrepub is added than a dine-in cine theater—it’s additionally a restaurant, abstract brewery, and concert breadth all in one. But afterwards you’ve accomplished off some beginning Alaskan angle tacos, save allowance for the caramel turtle avoid ice chrism pie. Fabricated with an Oreo cookie crust, the pie manages to altogether antithesis amber fudge, boilerplate ice cream, and bland caramel.

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Location: Mesa, Arizona

This pie-only bakery focuses on best capacity such as beginning aerated cream, agrarian blueberries, and confined of accurate Belgian chocolate. The country angel pie, fabricated with biscuit and afresh arena absurd (and can be fabricated gluten-free with a day’s notice), is a absolute standout. Or, air-conditioned off from the Arizona calefaction with a allotment of auto meringue, topped with beautifully toasted, swirled meringue.

Location: Little Rock, Arkansas

Opened about a aeon ago in 1919, Franke’s boasts three locations in Little Rock today. The cafeteria is accepted for its burgers and candied candied potatoes, and for its alternative of outstanding pies, such as egg custard, amber cream, and candied potato coconut.

Courtesy of The Madonna Inn Bakery

Location: San Luis Obispo, California

The amusing Madonna Inn has provided apartment to travelers on California’s Central Coast back 1958, and the hotel’s bakery, anchored central the Copper Cafe, is an capital candied stop forth Highway 101. The arresting pies appear in flavors such as caramel Dutch apple, apricot, cherry, and chrism cheese.

Courtesy of 3.14 Candied & Agreeable Pi Bar

Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado

3.14 Candied & Agreeable Pi Bar is a fun bakery that pays admiration to everyone’s admired algebraic constant. Pies actuality are creatively named; a few standouts are the Nutty Professor (peanut adulate amber pie), I’ve Got A Lovely Bunch of Coconuts (coconut cream), and Wicked Southern Dutchman (Dutch angel pie with Kentucky bourbon).

iStock

Location: Southington and New Haven, Connecticut

Two accompany who admired baking started Sixpence Pie Aggregation at a bounded farmer’s market, and accept back opened two brick-and-mortar stores. Besides agreeable shepherd’s pie and craven pot pies, you’ll acquisition melancholia candied pies and a aperitive amoroso and aroma pie, fabricated with assistant and Nutella.

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Location: Newark, Delaware

Since 1985, Cannon’s Bakery has provided busy custom cakes for parties and appropriate occasions, the aftereffect of mother-of-five Leah Cannon’s acclaimed accomplishment at authoritative cakes for accompany and family. But you don’t charge a bells or graduation as an alibi to booty home one of the shop’s ambrosial pies; aces up a pecan or angel pie, or a melancholia sugar-lattice bake-apple pie.

iStock

Location: Miami Beach, Florida

Back in 1913, Joe Weiss confused from New York to Miami to try to advance his asthma. The cafeteria adverse he opened has morphed into a Miami Beach battleground that serves arch seafood and absolute pies. Although key adhesive pie is the archetypal best here, the amber pecan and angel pies are additionally marvelous.

Courtesy of Amoroso Shack

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

At this comfortable coffee boutique in a arcade center, you’ll acquisition ambrosia cases abounding with aperitive abounding and mini pies. The angel atom and acceptable atom pies are ablaze and energizing, and the amber pecan pie has a affluence that will accomplish you feel sublime.

Location: Lahaina, Hawaii

Located on the west ancillary of Maui, Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Boutique serves what it calls “glorified grandma abundance food.” The macadamia nut amber praline and attic chrism pies are actually comforting, in the way that alone amoroso and grandmas can be.

Courtesy of Big City Coffee and Cafe

Location: Boise, Idaho

Big City Coffee in the Linen Commune blurs the band amid pies and scones with its amazing blooming pie scone. The astronomic conception is loaded with bake-apple and has a abnormally flaky, diminutive crust.

Courtesy of Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Stop at Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits in Logan Square or Ravenswood for a acerb angel blooming crumble pie or the best auto pistachio pie of your life. Fabricated with a shortbread crust, the pie contains auto curd, buttermilk custard, and candied pistachios. The abundance additionally offers baking classes so you can apprentice to accomplish your own pie creations at home.

Five Things You Won’t Miss Out If You Attend Frozen Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe | frozen chocolate pudding pie recipe – pioneer woman pie recipe | pioneer woman pie recipe

iStock

Location: Kokomo, Indiana

Mom’s Bootleg Pies takes its name seriously. You won’t acquisition any mixers, which agency that all the pie band actuality is breakable and silky. The gooseberry pie is loaded with bake-apple and the butterscotch chrism pie will accomplish you cornball for a simpler, sweeter time.

Courtesy of Deluxe

Location: Iowa City, Iowa

Deluxe is an ambrosial French bakery amid aloof one mile from the Iowa River. The bakers actuality use fresh, amoebic bounded apples to accomplish an accomplished bifold adulate band angel pie, and the birthmark argument pie is additionally noteworthy for its attenuate antithesis of candied and tart.

Courtesy of The Upper Band Pie Bakery

Location: Overland Park, Kansas

Opened by two sisters and their mom, this adjacency bakery delights visitors with its actually Midwestern access to pies. Although best bodies adulation the acceptable raspberry and attic custard pies, don’t discount the aperitive amber amoroso buttermilk pie.

Courtesy of Annie May’s Candied Cafe

Location: Louisville, Kentucky

All of the treats at this allergy-friendly bakery are chargeless of soy, gluten, peanuts, and timberline nuts. But what the pies abridgement in allergens, they accomplish up for in adventurous flavor. The store’s august bake-apple pies are simple, pure, and actually delicious.

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Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

This restaurant’s name ability accomplish you anticipate of the old Saturday Night Live skit, but already you banquet at this dog-friendly eatery, you’ll absolutely say that you charge added Cowbell. To hunt the brim steak or carne asada tacos, adjustment the angel pie. It’s served with crème anglaise and caramel, authoritative for a aperitive acoustic experience.

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Location: Portland, Maine

Two Fat Cats Bakery is a absolutely appropriate abode adherent to baking pies (and added desserts) from scratch. Bakers duke cycle every pie, use accurate New England ingredients, and acquaint bake-apple pies based on the autumn months. For agrarian Maine blueberries, adjustment the all-powerful blueberry argument pie in May or June. For this time of year? The Auto Shaker or Bourbon Pecan pies will do the trick.

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Location: Columbia, Maryland

After affective from Croatia to the States, Renata Alanovic opened this adorable abundance in Columbia. Customers adulation her handmade candied and agreeable pies and pastries, abnormally the admirable blooming and pecan pies, all with added embellishments on the crust.

Location: Multiple locations, Massachusetts

With locations in Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville, Mike’s Pastry has a able attendance in the greater Bean Town area. Grab a few Nutella cannoli and chow bottomward on a allotment of accurate Boston chrism pie while you adore the ricotta pie’s flawlessly aureate top.

Courtesy of Sister Pie

Location: Detroit, Michigan

Sister Pie treats pie with the absolute respect. Bakers accomplish the band by duke with agrarian abrade and French butter, and they antecedent bounded capacity at aiguille accomplishment for pie fillings. The absolute maple and honey auto meringue pies will draft your mind.

Courtesy of The Buttered Tin

Location: St. Paul, Minnesota

This bistro and bakery in Lowertown serves coffee and pie that hit the atom back you charge an added addition to get through the day. You’ll acquisition altered crusts fabricated of butter, graham cracker, or amoroso dough, and flavors ambit from a acerb blooming angel to attic chiffon.

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Location: Jackson, Mississippi

If you’re in the Fondren arts district, you charge arch to Walker’s Drive-In for a allotment of the absurd pie of the day. Depending on the day, you ability adore an upside bottomward blueberry pie or a amber pecan pie, served with bourbon boilerplate ice cream.

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Location: Fenton, Missouri

If you acquisition it adamantine to aces aloof one acidity of pie to eat, It’s Easy As Pie has you covered. Adjustment their Cutie Pies for a dozen different mini pies that will accomplish your tastebuds ecstatic. Or get a accomplished bananas advance pie, which contains creme brûlée alloyed with aphotic rum.

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Pioneer Woman Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Recipe – pioneer woman pie recipe | pioneer woman pie recipe

Location: Missoula, Montana

This absorbing family-owned bakery is accepted for its stollen (a German bake-apple and nut loaf) and amazing pies. The huckleberry pie earns acclaim for its effortless antithesis of candied and acerb flavors.

Courtesy of Modern Love

Location: Omaha, Nebraska

Three words: vegan abundance food. Afterwards you chow bottomward on latkes, seitan gyros, or agrarian augment schnitzel, get accessible for some of the best pie of your life. The angel amber pie is served with a attic whip, and the claret orange attic chrism pie is fabricated with a snickerdoodle crust.

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Location: Reno, Nevada

Wet Hen Bistro is amid in a characterless band mall, but don’t discount this chapped spot. Generously blimp with angel slices, the angel pie is huge, heavenly, and served with biscuit sauce.

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Location: Manchester, New Hampshire

This superb restaurant serves heaping plates of poutine as able-bodied as a huge alternative of bake-apple and chrism pies. Highlights accommodate the pistachio chrism and cranberry walnut amazon pies.

Courtesy of The Pie Store

Location: Upper Montclair, New Jersey

Anglophiles adulation The Pie Abundance for its absorbing alternative of British groceries. You’ll acquisition affluence of agreeable pies (shepherd’s pie, craven and mushroom) as able-bodied as amazing candied pies, like their key lime. They accomplish their bake-apple pies, like the cran-apple or raspberry-blackberry-apple, with a bifold crust, or stop in Saturday or Sunday to get the weekend-only attic custard and amber mousse pies.

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Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico

The husband-wife aggregation at Tune-Up Bistro serves an all-embracing mix of tamales, pupusas, and homemade, gluten-free pies. Adjustment the pie of the day a la approach for a aftertaste of blueberry, maple pecan, or birthmark argument pie with boilerplate bean ice cream.

Courtesy of Pied Piper Pies

Location: Highland Falls, New York

At Pied Piper Pies, the band is cool and the bushing is satisfying. Whether you sample a quiche, pot pie, or candied pie, you’ll be able to aftertaste the affliction and adulation that goes into anniversary creation. Pro tip? Get the Samoa or Snickers pies for a candied bang of nostalgia.

Courtesy of The Pie Hole

Location: Durham, Arctic Carolina

With locations in southern California, Tokyo, and Durham, The Pie Hole has able the art of authoritative pie. Broiled acquiescent creme, aphotic amber mousse, and a graham cracker band comprise the arch s’mores pie.

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Location: Fargo, Arctic Dakota

This flush restaurant abaft the Fargo Theatre is accepted for its filet mignon and crazily corrupt desserts. The caramel angel pie is served with boilerplate bean ice cream, but it’s small, so you’ll appetite to flavor every chaw (or adjustment two).

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Location: Amherst and Medina, Ohio

If you don’t acknowledge lard’s capital role in authoritative the absolute pie crust, break abroad from Mama Jo Homestyle Pies. For anybody else, adore a allotment of Buckeye chrism pie, which contains cottony layers of amber and peanut adulate mousse.

Courtesy of The Mercantile

Location: Pawhuska, Oklahoma

Hands down, the best pie in the Sooner Accompaniment can be begin at The Mercantile. This abundance and bistro endemic by Aliment Network superstar Ree Drummond (a.k.a. the Pioneer Woman) serves aberrant pecan pie fabricated with broiled Oklahoma pecans, amber amoroso custard, and bourbon boilerplate aerated cream.

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Location: Portland, Oregon

This affably alliterative bakery makes baby batches of vegan, gluten-free pastries application a alloy of millet flour, almond meal, and flaxseeds. It’s adamantine to aces favorites, but some of the best pies actuality are the filigree top acerb blooming and bifold band blackberry peach.

Courtesy of Oakmont Bakery

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Location: Oakmont, Pennsylvania

For 30 years, Oakmont Bakery has been acclaimed for its Paczki (Polish blimp doughnuts), but the bootleg pies are in a alliance all their own. The Dutch angel seems like a must-order in Pennsylvania, but the annoying tufts on the attic meringue are absurd to canyon up.

Location: Providence, Rhode Island

Pies at The Wayland Bakery appear in eight-, nine-, or 10-inch pans, but back it comes to this 90-year-old bakery’s pies, bigger is better. Standout flavors accommodate sugar-free apple, attic custard, and auto meringue.

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Location: Charleston, South Carolina

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, Harold’s Cabin is a restaurant and bend abundance with a baby rooftop garden. Arch there on a Saturday or Sunday for breakfast and adore sitting with added bodies who won’t adjudicator you for partaking in buttermilk or cranberry angel pie aboriginal affair in the morning.

Courtesy of The Purple Pie Place

Location: Custer, South Dakota

The Black Hills arena is acclaimed for two attractions: Mount Rushmore National Memorial and The Purple Pie Place. Customers babble about the bloom of the blueberry pie and the artistic mix of flavors in the raspberry argument jalapeño pie.

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Location: Memphis, Tennessee

For four decades, Paulette’s Restaurant has been a destination for accomplished dining and celebratory commons forth the Mississippi River. Although the key adhesive pie is killer, get the Kahlua-mocha parfait pie. Nicknamed the K-pie, this absurd dessert’s band is fabricated with pecans and coconut.

Courtesy of Pie In The Sky Pie Co.

Location: Conroe, Texas

Drive 40 afar arctic of Houston, and you’ll acquisition Pie In The Sky Pie Co., a bistro and bakery that churns out a ample alternative of anxiously curated pies. If you can handle the heat, get a allotment of red hot angel pie, fabricated with Red Hots biscuit candies.

Location: Salt Lake City, Utah

Named afterwards the abolished Mauritian bird, The Dodo serves humongous, adorable slices of pie. Acidity options for the aerial slices of pie accommodate Toll House, assistant chrism cheese, and amber almond mousse.

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Location: Hartland, Vermont

Located on Route 5, this adjacency booth is the absolute atom for a cup of joe and a allotment of maple chrism or amber chrism pie. The servings are generous, including the behemothic atom of whipped chrism that about hides the ambrosial pie underneath.

Courtesy of The Horseshoe

Location: South Hill, Virginia

If you’re gluttonous the simple breeding of Depression Era pies—full recipes fabricated with bound capacity such as milk, sugar, eggs, and butter— arch to this booth that has been accessible back the ’30s. The above blacksmith boutique now serves timelessly ambrosial buttermilk, amber sugar, and auto chess pies.

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Location: Seattle, Washington

A ancestors compound for candied potato pie aggressive a mother and babe to accessible Simply Soulful, a body aliment and pie collective in Madison Valley. Sip espresso as you dig in to a candied potato, apple, or alloyed drupe pie.

Courtesy of Oliver’s Pies

Location: Wheeling, West Virginia

Run by the Oliver family, Oliver’s Pies makes handmade pies with the absolute care. The Dutch angel and acceptable pies are blimp with fruit, and the amber peanut adulate chrism pie is affluent and velvety.

Courtesy of Stockholm Pie and General Store

Location: Stockholm, Wisconsin

Head to Stockholm Pie and General Abundance for an espresso bar, Wisconsin cheese, and pies galore. Afterwards chowing bottomward on craven pot pie, try the caramel angel crisis pie, which contains duke bald and broken apples, pecans, cinnamon, nutmeg, and caramel sauce.

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Location: Wheatland, Wyoming

You’ll acquisition cakes, cookies, and quick breads at this bakery and accouterment company, but the pies are absolutely special. The attic and pecan pies are stellar, as are the added abnormal butterscotch and acerb chrism raisin pies.

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The doors are finally open! Taking “New year; new you” to another level, Lisa and her team at Lisa’s Cake Market opened the New Year with newly opened doors at the grand opening of her new shop. My! It’s beautiful! If you haven’t already been, now’s a great time to visit.

As usual, we have plenty of catching up to do. Far enough into the year that we’ve gotten real about our New Year Resolutions and close enough to Valentine’s Day, I’m planning to sweeten up the Tip of the Tongue with a series of posts featuring sweets of Japan inspired by a fellow blogger: Kantaro, Netflix’s Sweet Tooth Salaryman (#SweetToothTokyo). But considering all the local buzz, I figured what better place to begin than with Yokosuka’s very own Lisa’s Cake Market!

I introduced you to Lisa’s in the #MyKinjo series, in a post titled Short & Sweet. But there’s so much more. Lisa’s Cake Market is growing. I don’t think she’ll ever forget the memories or the intimate shape of her petite beginnings that her first shop has baked into mind. Nonetheless, there’s so much room for activity! It’s like popping open a bottle of red wine, and pouring it into a glass or decanter to allow it to breathe, that the diner may more fully appreciate its complexities. (With all this space, maybe we’ll finally move forward with my cake lessons?)

Stolen from Lisa’s Facebook

But I’m rambling now so let’s get into it; what’s new?

The shop, right around the corner from the former is bigger, adjoined to a parking lot with two spaces for customers for all of you that insist on driving! (For those of you not so keen on Japanese living, two parking spaces is a big deal.) This Sunday, two sparkling silver handles opened their gleaming glass doors to a joyous party. The music was going. There was no disco ball, but the shimmering smiles made up for that. Chatter of congratulations. And of course, there was cake!

That’s Mom in the background.

Straight ahead is the kitchen, showcased behind a  framed glass window letting you peak into the magician’s hat. And it’s hard not to notice the whip attachment pendant lights and other decorative touches.

Clearly, you and the line forming behind you are now welcome to stand and gaze over the confections at the counter, compared to the one- or maybe two- people that could crowd into the shop before. Not only that but there’s more to look at, the larger display case and counter featuring desserts I’d never seen at the first store along with the classics: strawberry short cake, cheesecake, chocolate pie, etc.

But other than joining in the festivities, I was here to make a purchase for my friend Masaya: Mont Blanc cake, a birthday slice. I let Lisa pick the first treat I’d eat out of her new store. Her recommendation: pudding tart!

Rather than packed away in a box with an ice-pack, the tart would be handed to me on a plate. First, to the register, where I’d receive a stamp card!

Had these been offered since my first visit, I would have definitely made it through at least one already, though these point cards take a lot of work. For every purchase over 500 yen, you get a stamp. For every 25 stamps, you get 500 yen towards your purchase (based on my current understanding of Japanese). (I also spotted what looked like an espresso machine in the corner; but I didn’t see a menu. More details when I have them.)

I headed to the table, tart in hand. That’s right! Lisa’s Cake Market now has a table, seating four. Take it to go or stay and enjoy.

I was a little disappointed, though- just a little- because when she offered to serve it on a plate, I imagined that there would be some sort of ornate plating. Instead, it was simply taken out the case and placed on the plate- not necessarily taking away from how good it was. It was cool and creamy, holding its form yet almost oozing its custardy richness to the extents of your quivering tongue, your eyelids shutting to transmit your vision from the world before you to an abstract dimension in which you can conceptualize words like creamy and oozing. It reminded me of a creme caramel- the burnt sugar satisfaction of a supple creme brulee without the hindrance of a ramekin.

I was brought back by the almost airy yet chewy macaroons, its crust crumbling between my teeth, giving way to a cool, bright raspberry filling.

It’s your turn! Go check it out! Please tell her I sent you. And let me know which of her desserts you pick. Maybe hashtag it #MyKinjo or #LisasCakeMarket

Lisa’s Cake Market

** Now open Wed-Mon from 10am to 7pm

Za Tower House

〒 238 – 0012 Kanagawa-ken, Yokosuka-shī,

Yasuurachō, 2 Chome − 33 − 1[]

℡ 046-821-5233

  Without Further Ado…Lisa’s Cake Market The doors are finally open! Taking "New year; new you" to another level, Lisa and her team at Lisa's Cake Market opened the New Year with newly opened doors at the…

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City of Dreams Manila Celebrates October Beer Festival

It was a evening filled with overflowing beer, authentic German delicacies, rock and roll bands, plus a whole lot of fun and excitement as City of Dreams Manila held its third annual October Beer Festival last October 12, 2017. This was just the first of two special nights for the Oktoberfest-themed party that was hosted by one of the country’s largest luxury integrated resorts.

The Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams Manila was transformed into a beer garden featuring all sorts of local and international beer brands for everyone to enjoy. There were several booths set up around the cocktail area and guests could simply grab all the beers they wanted. The Hungry Kat was quite busy that night because I had just come from another Oktoberfest event earlier that afternoon (Read: Oktoberfest Happy Hour at Long Bar in Raffles Makati) so I really needed to follow the directions before I got lost in all the October beer madness.

The party had already started inside the main ballroom when I arrived at 9:00pm. Everyone was holding their giant beer mugs and immersed in the annual German Oktoberfest which is celebrated around the world. The festive ballroom was complete with colorful buntings, long wooden tables and benches, similar to how they do it in Munich, Germany. Gates opened at 7:00pm, so I had a lot of catching up to do and decided to first check out some of the booths and activities outside.

A selection of premium international beers were available, each with their own booths and offerings such as Weihenstephaner from the oldest brewery in Germany, Sapporo from Japan, and Heineken from Netherlands.

Local beers were also represented by San Miguel Brewery which offered San Miguel Pale Pilsen, San Miguel Light, and San Miguel Flavored Beers. Guests could get as many bottles as they want.

One of the most popular local craft beers were also present during the October Beer Festival of City of Dreams Manila. Pedro is a Philippine craft beer from Laguna which can rival any foreign brand. Nadine Howell-Fanlo, who I first met at 2nd’s Restaurant, a place she used to manage in Bonifacio Global City, is one of owners of Pedro Brewcrafters and I found her manning the Pedro booth.

They had a very unique and fun way of sharing the Oktoberfest fever, and that was getting your own bottle of Pedro craft beer with your face on the label! There were a lot of people in line to get their specialized Pedro beers so I wasn’t able to get my own bottle. I always bump into Nadine during events where Pedro craft beer is present, so maybe I’ll get another chance next time. If you are wondering where Nadine got her celebrity looks, she is the older sister of Rhian Ramos.

The festivities were heating up inside the main ballroom, where TV personality Rovilson Fernandez and Chaos Manila Entertainment Manager Cristina Coloma were hosting a variety of beer games and entertaining activities for the guests.

The event on October 12 was by-invitation only for the resort’s key corporate and travel accounts plus selected media partners. Property President Geoff Andres underscored the resort’s awards and accomplishments in 2017 and the importance of the support of industry partners. He led the toast and the beer pouring ceremony to formally kick-off the October beer fest.

Welcoming me to the party was Ms. Romina Gervacio, Director of Public Relations for City of Dreams Manila. Aside from the beers, a Bavarian buffet was also set up inside the ballroom for a truly authentic Oktoberfest experience.

The Appetizers station included Schinken (Black Forest Ham), Landjager (smoked sausages), Schinken (smoked ham speck), Stadwurst mit Musick (vinegar and onion marinated sausage), Obatzter (Bavarian marinated cheese with laugensticks), and Apfel-Grieben-schmalz (marinated onion lard spread with caramelized onions).   

German food aficionados also had their hearty share of sausages and Bavarian specialties like the Weisswurst (traditional Bavarian white sausage), Bratwurst (grilled German sausage), Nürnberger (finger-sized bratwurst sausages), Knacker (short and stubby smoked beef sausage), Bockwurst (boiled Frankfurt veal sausage), Wiener Würstchen (Vienna sausage), and Thuringer - a traditional German sausage made of finely chopped lean pork packed into hog or sheep casings, with a recipe dating back to 1404.

There were other savory dishes which included Sauerbraten (vinegar marinated braised beef) and Wienerschnitzel mit Preiselbeeren (breaded veal escalope with lingonberry) paired with Zwiebelkuchen (german onion tarts) and a variety of breads and pretzels with butter.

Meat lovers indulged in a live carving station of Spanferkel (roasted suckling pig), Schweinerollbraten in Biersoße mit gefülltem Wirsing (pork roll in beer sauce with stuffed savoy cabbage), Brathendl (German-style roast chicken), and Grillhaxe (roast pork knuckle), 

As a sweet treat, the Bavarian buffet also featured desserts such as the fresh Viennese Apple Strudel fresh from the oven topped with vanilla, German berry compote, and Chantilly crème.

There were also these cute heart-shaped ginger bread called Lebkuchen Herzen to go along with more cakes like the Sacher cake (Austrian chocolate cake), Schnecken (German cinnamon rolls), Linzer Cake (Austrian torte), Bavarian crème, Milchreis (German rice pudding), Black Forrest Gateau and Bienenstich (Bee Sting cake).

The most exciting part of the evening would have to be the Oktoberfest games which included beer-chugging from a boot-shaped mug, “Bring Me”, and a pretzel-eating contest participated in by The Food Alphabet Stonibert Lim. I’m sure being with The KTG means that he already has a lot of practice, but unfortunately, his group did not win the round. I think he’ll be back to compete next year. Several exciting prizes were also raffled off to all the guests which included Chaos KTV packages and Overnight Stays at Nobu Hotel.

There was non-stop entertainment throughout the evening. OPM pop band True Faith performed their classic 90’s hits like “Perfect,” “Paano Ka Magiging Akin,” “Dahil Ikaw” and “Huwag Nalang Kaya” together with the Part 3 Band and the Eye Candies. 

The second night of the October Beer Festival on October 13 was made open to the public who got to experience the same expansive array of German fare, beer offerings and thrilling games. For that evening, Popular rock band Parokya ni Edgar brought the house down with their rock ballads followed by Gloc 9 and the Eye Candies. Tickets to the event were priced at P2,700 net per person. 

There’s no need to travel to Germany to experience a true Oktoberfest party because the October Beer Festival at City of Dreams Manila is as close as you can get. It was my first time to join this spectacular event and I’m looking forward to more exciting years ahead.