#really love the shading and details of his fancy clothes

[fatuismooches]

it's just so easy to imagine dottore worrying about which plushie/toy the fragile reader would like best...

like, on days when the reader is particularly bad, dottore always make the extra effort to buy you some trinket you like? he gets nervous wondering if you would like the plushie he wants to get you and ends up buying several, just in case you don't like one of them. (Not to mention the fact that fatui agents are absolutely mortified when they see the much-feared dottore returning with a fair share of plushies.)

GOSH I LOVE THIS SO MUCH,,,,, Dottore's kind of shit at gift-giving, he doesn't know what's romantic, plus he thinks giving basic gifts is worse. Though there was that one time he drew his and your heart, extremely detailed, with all the shades of red, with each other's hand wrapped around the other's heart. Unexpectedly romantic and also not the strangest thing you've gotten! So you used to get random things that you'd never ever predict (but that's why you love him after all.) Though you've come to subtly drop more of your likes on the clones and him so you don't end up receiving fancy syringes with colorful substances or eyeballs anymore 😭

He knows you really like soft things like your pillows, and even his clothes (he wraps you in that super big fluffy coat of his from the lazzo trailer) so maybe you'd like this stuff too? For once he leaves the lab himself because he knows that he knows you better than any of his clones, but now he's not sure which one of these you'd like... you like cute things... but sometimes you don't... you like dark things... but sometimes you don't too... Now this is why he simply just isn't a good gift giver.

And then he thinks, why get one when he can get all? Like why would he do one experiment when he can run multiple trials? He looks so serious at the cashier, who was on the verge of tears during the checkout. When he returns the Fatui guards address him with respect but of course, he doesn't even acknowledge them. The agents know better than to say anything but when the Harbinger is out of sight they're like tf was that a squishmallow in the bag??? And now they're whispering very softly to each other as if the walls have ears about the plentiful rumors surrounding Dottore, like the "mysterious figure" that the Harbinger seems to hold dear...

Your favorite plush ends up being one that reminds you a bit of Dottore, you weren't even sure what it was but it seemed to be a teal fox with button eyes... but then another eye through the blackness in the middle... well, whatever it was, it was super soft and fluffy! The clones and him are just happy you're happy.

Your room is the biggest one in the lab so you can fit all of them easily, you actually have a lot of fun organizing them and even naming them! A clone even joins you so you don't get tired of moving around so much. Zandik is pleased, he never thought he'd even hold a plushie in his hundreds of years of living but things change.

(Pantalone in his office, reading the bill he recently got from a plushie store, still trying to comprehend why the 2nd Harbinger is using his money on this)

[riding-the-sunset-bird]

Hi, I absolutely love all your deep dives into OLBA with all these little details I wouldn’t have noticed could change, and have honestly made my recent playthroughs even more fun now that I’m watching out for them. I’m currently playing the Wedding DLC and picking out the player’s outfits and I noticed that if you bring your parents and Cliff, they’ll say different lines depending on what outfit combinations you choose. Could you please do a post on what combinations might lead to which dialogue?

Thank you so much!! >///< And sure, I can do that!

How the wedding outfits work is that you can choose whichever type of clothing you want (dress/romper/shirt and skirt for the dress shop or shirt and pants/shirt and skirt for the suit shop), the shade, and the color without concern, but once you start getting to the actual style, the game turns into a points system that will label your overall look at the end, which is what Cove/the parents will comment on. There are six different looks in total.

It goes like this:

Modern. [no change]

Traditional. [classic +1]

Fusion. (if at the dress shop) / In-between. (if at the suit shop) [unique +1]

-

Shiny cloth. [dramatic +1]

Matte cloth. [no change]

Textured cloth. [unique +1] (if at the dress shop) or [fanciful +1] (if at the suit shop)

-

(dress shop exclusive)

Well-fitting. [stylish +1]

Flowy. [relaxed +1]

Frilly. [classic +1]

Fitted at the top and then flowing out. (if the MC chose a dress) / Fitted top half and looser pant legs. (if the MC chose a romper) / Fitted shirt and a flowy skirt. (if the MC chose a shirt and skirt) [stylish +1]

Fitted at the top and then puffing out. (if the MC chose a dress) / Fitted top half and puffier pant legs. (if the MC chose a romper) / Fitted shirt and a puffy skirt. (if the MC chose a shirt and skirt) [fanciful +1]

-

(dress shop exclusive)

Beaded. [fanciful +1]

Laced. [classic +1]

No detailing. [relaxed +1]

Beading and lace detailing. [dramatic +1]

-

Long sleeved. [stylish +1]

Short sleeved. [relaxed +1]

3/4s length sleeved. (if at the dress shop) / In-between. (if at the suit shop) [unique +1]

Sleeveless. (if at the dress shop) [dramatic +1]

-

(dress shop exclusive)

Floor length. [fanciful +1]

Ankle length. [no change]

Knee length [dramatic +1]

-

(suit shop exclusive)

Unbuttoned jacket. [stylish +1]

Buttoned jacket. [classic +1]

No jacket. [no change]

-

(suit shop exclusive)

Unbuttoned vest. [relaxed +1]

Buttoned vest. [fanciful +1]

No vest. [no change]

-

(suit shop exclusive)

Tie. [classic +1]

Bowtie. [fanciful +1]

Ascot. [dramatic +1]

Cravat. [stylish +1]

Bolo tie. [unique +1]

No tie. [no change]

-

After you're done, the game will take whichever look has the highest amount of points and set that as the feel of your wedding outfit. If any two looks match in points, then it will take priority going off of this list (from highest priority to lowest priority):

relaxed

fanciful

stylish

classic

dramatic

unique

And these are the reactions you'll get for each one if you brought Cove/the parents along:

Relaxed Feel

(if at the dress shop)

Cove: "It's nice. Really, really, really, nice." Cliff: "Now, that's my kind of look." Mom (Pamela): "You'd look amazing in that, and you'd follow your Ma's footsteps with that kind of style." Ma (Noelani): "True, it's wonderful, and not just because I also would wear something like it."

(if at the suit shop)

Cove: "Oh, I love that..." Cliff: "Wow, I could see myself in something like that." Mom (Pamela): "Fantastic! It looks like 'Lani designed it herself just for you." Ma (Noelani): "I agree, it's lovely. You've got my eye, [MC's name]."

Fanciful Feel

(if at the dress shop)

Cove: "Oh, that's... stunning." Cliff - (No comment.) Moms - (No comment.)

(if at the suit shop)

Cove: "That's so seriously charming." Cliff - (No comment.) Moms - (No comment.)

Stylish Feel

(if at the dress shop)

Cove: "Whoa, that looks like it'd be in a magazine or on a billboard or something." Cliff - (No comment.) Moms - (No comment.)

(if at the suit shop)

Cove: "Whoa, people might think you're doing a photo shoot instead of really having a wedding with that." Cliff - (No comment.) Moms - (No comment.)

Classic Feel

(if at the dress shop)

Cove: "It's just so gorgeous. It's gonna make me cry." Cliff: "Beautiful!" Mom (Pamela): "I love it! That's a quintessential wedding [dress/romper/shirt and skirt (depending on what the MC chose)]." Ma (Noelani): "It's gorgeous, and very Pam."

(if at the suit shop)

Cove: "Yeah, I'm going to cry before we're done." Cliff: "Gorgeous!" Mom (Pamela): "Aw, [MC's name], this is exactly the kind of thing I imagined when I knew you were having a wedding." Ma (Noelani): "Oh, Pam. It does seem like something out of a dream."

Dramatic Feel

(if at the dress shop)

Cove - Cove's eyes grew wide; he was speechless. Cliff: "Wow, that's a [dress/romper/shirt and skirt (depending on what the MC chose)]." Ma (Noelani): "I think that's very much you, [MC's name], and it's so lovely." Mom (Pamela): "Absolutely 'Lani, that'd be a look that's all your own."

(if at the suit shop)

Cove: "I'm gonna have a hard time looking at you if you wore that. For good reasons, I mean!" Cliff: "Now that'll make a splash for sure." Mom (Pamela): "You've outdone yourself. I've seen many wedding designs, and this beats most." Ma (Noelani): "I agree 'Lani, [MC's name] knows how to do it."

Unique Feel

(if at the dress shop)

Cove: "I've never seen anything like that. It's great." Cliff - (No comment.) Moms - (No comment.)

(if at the suit shop)

Cove: "I didn't know a [shirt and pants/shirt and skirt (depending on what the MC chose)] could even look like that. It's beautiful." Cliff - (No comment.) Moms - (No comment.)

Another fun fact that not everyone might know is that Pamela will tease the MC at the dress shop after they've tried at least three different outfits, but yeah! That's all of it~

[joonlaksme]

October 17th

Park Jimin x Camboy

Contains: Gender Neutral Reader

Word count: 700+

Kinktober Masterlist

-

“Today, I wanted to show you these…things I found.” Jimin starts buttoning down his shirt. “For some reason, you really wanted to see my chest so I worked really hard to make it look pretty for you.”

Covering his nipples are heart shaped pasties that are a nice shade of red. All over the rest of his chest and stomach is covered in red glitter. It’s a light bringer in person than on camera but his viewers are going crazy. Men, women, and everyone in between are in love with everything Jimin but this is the first time in his 2 year long camboy career that he’s shown his chest.

“What should we do today? Any suggestions?” He leans in closer to his monitor and reads the fast messages. “Take them off? I don’t think so. I’m a bit nervous about that.” Jimin is lying but he enjoys slowly revealing himself to his fans rather than just giving them what they want. It keeps them coming back for more, pointing out a new slither of skin when they see it.

Jimin wiggles down his shorts a bit along with his underwear, his cock hitting his glitter dusted stomach. “I’ve been actually hard for a bit. I had this really…interesting dream.”

And immediately his viewers ask what it was about.

Immediately his imagination flashes with thoughts about you. Guilty, he takes his cock into his hand and strokes it, lips subtly mouthing your name before he starts telling the details of his wet dream.

“They were wearing this…really eye catching black dress. A lot of it was blurry and we weren’t even in a fancy place or a club or anything like that. We were in my room. They were dressed for me, I think.” He huffs out. “They never said a thing the whole time. They just looked at me…like they were ready to devour me.”

Jimin sits back in his chair, closing his eyes to relive and soak in his memories. He could remember this particular dream feeling and looking more realistic than his typical nonsensical ones. Edges were blurry but you were there in complete detail. “I felt weighted, too. Like I had to get on my knees.”

He opens his eyes again, this time they’re glossy. He glances at this chat and chuckles. They’re begging for him to get to the best part already, anticipating this story and what exactly had Park Jimin hard all day.

“They never took off any of their clothes but they pushed me on my bed. I remember them…” and he exhales.

He’s already close at the thought of what you did next. You, his coworker at his boring office job. His job where no one knows his secret camboy side work. Why he’s able to afford all these name brands, and the apartment he lives in at his age.

No one knew expect for you. You never held this knowledge over his head but you did look at him in a different way. You flirted with him and bent over to pick up pens a little too often. You knew the way it affected him so you would smirk and blow a kiss his way. He hasn’t been able to stop thinking about you these past few days.

He hopes you’re watching right now.

Jimin cums in his hands before he can finish his story, quickly apologizing to his viewers. His cheeks are flamed pink with embarrassment. He could usually last long than that but today seems to be the exception. For the duration of the stream, after cleaning up, he spends the last five minutes conversing and making promises to edge in his next one.

He says bye with his lips pursed and then lays back on his chair with a sigh. What a mess, both literally and figuratively. Then he hears his phone go off in a call. It’s not often that people call him so it peaks his interest and he’s standing up and grabbing his phone from his carefully crafted, wooden bookshelf. You’re calling him.

He doesn’t hesitate to answer but maybe he should have. “He-“ His voice cracks and he clears his throat, “Hello?”

There’s silence at first. A thick silence. But then you’re telling him your address very slowly. You tell him to be there as fast as he can. You finish the call by saying that you’d like to hear him finish his story. Jimin lips part but then he’s rushing to shove his wallet, phone, and keys in his pockets.

He’s so glad you knew he was thinking about you.

-

All likes, reblogs, and comment feedback are appreciated for stories like this. Friendly reminder that reblogs spread more than likes!

All rights are reserved © joonlaksme

[whoblewboobear]

We made Jace too cool and shameless. We gotta give him so deep cut nerd shit or a hobby that he’s so protective and secretive about.

The thing is, he is old. Like he’s accepted that shame is indeed a landfill emotion and no amount of judgment could make him care. BUT, I’m thinking something that if Porter or Zara walked in while he was indulging he’d get nervous and try to hide it.

Kinda like the idea of him having a little craft room where he repaints dolls and sews little clothes and things. He wears his glasses and puts his hair up to keep it from getting in his eyes. He has a fancy stool so he doesn’t get sore from sitting for so long.

One day Porter gets home from the gym earlier than usual and finds Jace in like- a room that definitely wasn’t in their house before, definitely enchanted to be hidden or something, with Jace inside humming along to his music as he plucks hairs out of a dolls head from the neck hole so he can reroot it.

And Porter is just silently watching him, completely curious and unjudging. Maybe even a little in awe of how strange it looks. He’s pretty sure there’s a doll head soaking in water, but the whole room really has a pungent nail polish remover smell so maybe it isn’t water-?

By the time that Jace notices him, Porter has barely taken in the shelf of beautiful customs. Rows and rows of dolls. He always found dolls a bit creepy even when his daughter was little he thought they were watching him when he went to pick up her toys.

Jace’s little shriek as he gets up pulls porters focus back to him just as his boyfriend starts ushering him out of the room. Waving a hand the minute the door is closed to hide it again.

“You didn’t see that.” Jace watches Porter, kind of hoping and silently pleading with him to forget it.

Oh but Porter definitely did see that. Or some of it, he’s not really sure why Jace is hiding it all anyway. It’s different but they’ve met enough people and everyone has their interests. He’s pretty sure a student he had about 4 years back would storyboard how she’d crush her enemies. She’d hide her sketchbook away, but would always turn in a panel with her written assignments. It was cool.

“We have a spare room with windows, baby,” is all he offers. The remnants of acetone still singing his nostrils. Jace just rolls his eyes, gets to his toes and pecks Porter’s lips. “You don’t think it’s weird?”

“Nah,” porter grins, leaving a lingering kiss on Jace’s temple. “Why’d you pull the hair out like that tho?”

Jace’s eyes light up a bit only taking a half beat before he starts gushing about the rerooting process and how he found a really gorgeous shade of blue hair online and wants to make a a yeti fashion doll. The more he talks the more relaxed he is, eventually bringing the door to his craft room back and showing Porter all of the moving parts. Custom clothes and redrawn faces meticulously and impeccable in quality. He walks Porter back through his earlier projects and how “bad” they were.

“I like to draw the eyes looking to the left, makes ‘em less creepy,” he offers. Pointing the detail out to Porter, going on about eye shines and the perfect glaze to make them pop.

Porter can’t bring himself to be creeped out by the dolls, Jace made them and he loves Jace. So by extension he thinks they have charm.

Later that weekend he helps Jace move his craft room upstairs where there’s better ventilation. Jace says he’s being overdramatic but Porter smiles to himself when Jace positions his desk in front of a window. He also gets Jace a lil face mask for when he’s working with a lot of acetone. One day over dinner, when the smell of acetone is still lingering on his skin, Jace explains the ‘pickling’ process and says he can make a dolls head shrink in size.

Porter truly doesn’t believe him at first when he says the heads shrink but a week later in the middle of the night Jace’s alarm goes off and he does drag a very groggy Porter out of bed to see the results. The little doll head shrank a decent amount compared to the other. He just kisses Jace on the forehead, calls him “his scientist,” and shuffles back to bed.

[eliotqueliot]

Mosaic Family Portrait, Painted

I really wanted to get this right. Did my best. Changes from the original: I wanted Eliot to be looking at Q and Teddy. And I changed the color palette for Teddy's clothes so that his pants (which always had a fancy Eliot feel) reflect the color of El's pants, and his shirt (which had a fluffy, loose, Quentin vibe) is a darker shade of the same color as Q's. Teddy's belt merges the colors from both their pants. (Also, I removed all the extraneous people from the background so that we can just focus on them, the reality of their lives together. Always wanted this to be one of the scenes in the episode.) You can see this at higher resolution with more detail at AO3. It's part of Ch. 3 of Mosaic Haiku:

Mosaic Haiku (with Art) - Chapter 3 - EliotQueliot - The Magicians (TV) [Archive of Our Own]

Also if you're curious--here's the original drawing with the photo:

Finally--I know how much you loved the drawing, @violetsarepurple-fuckyou so I wanted to try especially hard, hope I lived up to it.

[dkniade]

what are your thoughts on fontaine so far?

Oh hello! As someone who’s been gathering information from fan posts only and not the actual game (I think if I do play I’ll just play GI for the scenery and not the quests since it feels better than way. Something about burnout and wondering what kind of game actually intrigues me. Anyway)—

(Slight 4.0 spoilers…??? Mostly rambling about character design)

Fontaine sounds interesting. Well, I find it easier to let trailers/characters/quests sit for at least some time when it comes to new region and cast releases. Trying to see what makes me happy instead of just following the hype.

I feel kinda like a bard getting stories from other travelers, haha..

Seems Tartaglia got into another order-loving region’s trouble. I saw the cutscene where he starts to transform but Neuvillette interrupts him and he just kinda lies on the floor when the dust clears. Amazing

I wanna see Neuvillette cry even more. I wanna see him break down or something. It’s always fun to see a usually serious/stoic (?) character be vulnerable. Also Furina and Neuvillette’s dynamic seem interesting… It’s been compared to Hu Tao and Zhongli it seems? Blue/white vs red/black parallels…

Furina looks cute! I like the layers and shades of blue! Feel like she could use some longer pants. She’s got the💧 droplet shape all over her outfit and even in her eyes. Very nice motif. I love symbolic designs… Also I love how her eyelashes are stylized.

I’ve read that Focalors’ name in the English dub is pronounced closer to the French way of Foçalors (FOH-sa-lor) despite not having the “ç” (c cédille, or so a search tells me) in the official spelling. That’s like seeing “Français” be written as “Francais” (“Fran-KEH”) but still pronounced “Fran-SEH”, haha

Edit: Focalors’ name is from the Latin name Focalor from the Ars Goetia, so it would be pronounced with a /k/ in English after all. Though in the French version of the game it’s written as Foçalors which would make it with a /s/ in French.

Neuvillette seems to have a slight ⚖️ scale motif mixed with the French fleur-de-lis ⚜️ upside down… (Not visible in this visual but it’s the ends of his blue lapels.) Very cool detail for the Chief Justice of Fontaine. Probably had the same tailor as Dainsleif. Also I thought that he’s got similar motifs to Song of Broken Pines lmao. I like the feather in his hair.

Come to think of it before 4.0 I’ve always imagined Focalors to be a mature woman (Hydro Ningguang or something) and didn’t expect Furina and Neuvillette at all… No, actually, when his visual released, I thought it’d be really cool if Neuvillette was a woman (while having the exact same design as canon) who’s actually Focalors, haha. Handsome long-haired women in suits and fancy layers… hehe.

Since Neuvillette’s character intro card lists “??? - Hydro” initially I thought he was the actual archon working behind the scenes and Furina was like, a decoy archon at the front. From the 3.8 event I had the impression that optical illusion is a motif for Fontaine, haha. It would’ve been interesting if the God of Justice is using a decoy to deceive people, I felt. Something like an AU where Chief Justice Neuvillette is all about justice and law but has a soft spot for and tolerates Furina. And everyone thinks Furina is the Hydro Archon but actually she’s just an assistant (? Right hand woman?) and Neuvilette is the actual Hydro Archon— wait is that kinda like Arlecchino with Lyney & Lynette hahaha. Anyway—

Speaking of cool lady, Clorinde looks really handsome. The wispy hair, the sharp hat, the cold look— To me she feels like… I dunno, a combination of Furina and Neuvillette hahaha. Apparently she’s the body guard of Furina? I wonder how it’d be if Clorinde and Furina swapped clothes…

…Come to think of it, out of Furina, Clorinde, Arlecchino, Lynnette, Charlotte, and Navia, it’s only the last two that have their shoulders not covered by clothing, huh? Lynnette’s design with the black/white/teal colour scheme is refreshingly simple for a Genshin character… It’s nice.

TL;DR: apparently (one of) my type(s) of character design is just androgynous women in fancy long-sleeved jackets and long pants, a hat/other distinctive head-area decoration, with symbolic motifs and long ribbons/capes, black/navy and white base with bright blue and gold accents… Light/dark contrast between hair/face area and top-half clothing colour… (E.g. Furina with a white outfit, or dark-skinned Clorinde with a black/navy outfit wouldn’t look as distinctive to me.)

…That’s basically Eula isn’t it. Eula looks really pretty but I think she’d look better with long pants and not the belts/harnesses. Also, personally I feel the right side of her lapel and her cape doesn’t read very clearly. There’s too much going on near her upper torso (similar shapes to Kaeya). She’d look even better if her lapels are sleeker and the excessive details overall are toned down. Mmm, actually— Now that I’ve finally read her entire character story for the first time (I want to cry because of how the symbols tie into her story and personality well), I think it’d be nice if the glacier vs spindrift idea is more present in her outfit, with some dance motifs… A beautiful and proud blade that shimmers above the waves, twirling amidst the candles’ glow…

[castlebyersafterdark]

I don't understand the hate about this outfit like he looks goofy but he was cute in this!!!

omg it's my time to shine hahah i love talking costumes! firstly, mike's shirt is described as orange here by the costume designer so its not part of the blue and yellow theory really, sorry y'all! but we dont need that as byler evidence cos theyre clearly in love anyway. will was definitely judging his ensemble and my fav part is the way it says 'SURF' splashed across the back in huge pastel letters. it's an all-round cringe shirt for mike wheeler whose personality does NOT suit surfer boy style let alone fake, ill-fitting surfer boy knock off style haha. so really what the costume designers were doing is not trying to make mike look objectively bad in terms of out of context outfit, but rather its so awkward for his character and delivers the awkward vibes in as little time as possible in order to set the tone of the scene. so we can add into this...

the camera angle showing him cluelessly looking around for them

the way he's wearing sunglasses indoors, a feat only julian casablancas can pull off. mike wasnt on the concourse, he was never exposed to sunlight since he got on the plane in indianapolis and perhaps not even then lmao, no need for shades!

his goofy wave and squeaky, performative voice 'oh! oh hi will! fancy seeing you here!'

and the biggest culprit of all: THAT HAT

I mean, what is that hat? its the way its sat on his head making his hair look like a wig. major worzel gummidge vibes tbh. that hat cannot be worn with hair down, it should be with a high ponytail which makes me think is this even a man's hat? subtle costume design.

and lastly, the clothes are ill-fitting (just like his hellfire shirt which hangs off him and washes him out, making him look pallid and weary in episode 1). the orange washes him out, making his skin look extra pale (compare to the warmth of the van scene and how golden his skin looks there). the purple shirt does the same, and the vest is far too big for him. finn described the whole outfit, but mainly the flip flops as 'gross' lol, but its made worse by the sheer contrast of mike to will and el and everyone. he's so not cool here, in every way. perfect costume design storytelling!

so yeah, these details are subjective really, but then again you could say all of art is subjective. they try to create a mood and make you feel certain things when watching, and some people just won't get it. thats not a bad thing, but i think recognising when your taste butts heads with the artistic intention is very interesting! i always found mike to be a babe but i cringed so hard when he rocked up in this ensemble lmao. and i think the duffers wanted me to! compare it to how much his brown hair and pale skin suits the forest greens of season 1 and 2. mike is an autumnal colour complexion, not spring/summer pastels :)

THANK YOU for this! I love costume and wardrobes but I don't really feel like my knowledge base is adequate to deep dive beyond surface level vibes and this was a cool read.

Also yes! to the minimizing 'color theory' a little - it's a nice element for these two but I think too much stock is placed in what's a minor detail when so much more is important about these characters. And agree, Will was totally judging - even if he's into Mike, it's so clear that he's doing something out of character and awkward and trying to put on a different image for his girlfriend. I don't necessarily think the outfit is ugly - simply not Mike. That's what I'm saying but oh man, so right on every point. It's a very good storytelling tool. Yes, it's ill-fitting and the coloring makes him look off, like everything about how he's presenting himself is wrong. Overcompensation. Desaturation. I find the mistaken effort endearing, which I think is the point as well. The cringe along with the oh, Mike. He tried so hard and it turned out so wrong. You feel for him!!

(Hides though 🫣 as I'd absolutely wear the hat, I love an ugly hat. Then again - I go out of my way to wear ugly fashion on purpose sometimes because it's fun and amuses me, but that's a pointed choice haha. Mike probably thought it all was cool. I am not trying to be cool ever.)

He is an autumn boy! Fall colors and fall in general! Loved your take, very good insights. Agree agree, there's a lot of meaningful layers here and reasons for what we saw in that scene.

[delurkr]

More Little Hope models 🤩

This post has been in my drafts for a long time lol but HariboStixx on deviantart posted a bunch of extracted LH models! I come bearing some pics and commentary but go look at the rest of them because there's quite a few.

YOUNG VINCE MY BELOVED. I love him and his corduroy coat. You can get a hint of the western style seams on the front, and now I see that's a denim jacket under the coat instead of a shirt. I LOVE. Unfortunately his pants and shoes are just the ones from his funeral outfit (which is clearly a duplicate of Anthony's funeral outfit, a true fashion faux pas) so unfortunately that doesn't say what he was "really" wearing.

Passerby seems to be wearing a suit under that coat. And btw only recently did I come across a playthrough bright enough to notice that his coat has a belt that's undone and dangling at the sides. I really want to know about him and what he was doing on that night 😂 Also his pants are a good 20 years out of date but we love him in spite of it (or maybe because of it).

About time we get a full view of Wyman lol. Lookit all those snazzy buttons 😁 (They must catch on things all the time.)

Is Taylor's watchband red in the game? I don't think so but if it is it's a nice nod to Tanya's red bracelet.

David was executed because he's been flaunting his collarbones in public. Tsk tsk, David. Cloth hose though instead of the other guys' knitted ones, fun detail.

Joseph's top layer thing looks like it was a pretty fancy garment at one point. There's a lot of (faded?) detailing down the front and around the armholes, which would have to be done by hand and that's a lot of effort for something a farmer will be bumming around in. And something was ripped out of the armholes (which shows better in the game), maybe sleeves that wore out before the rest of the garment and didn't get replaced. I don't know much about clothing in this era but anyway it's such a deliberate design choice. I love Joseph's outfit and I wish the devs would post his model so we can get closeups of the proper textures on it.

I need help. Is Abraham's outfit actually blue in the game? Obviously some of the colors aren't accurately represented here but other extracts I've seen of his model are blue. It just kind of looks brown in the game to me.

DENNIS DENNIS DENNIS

Anne with red hair again. Honestly the more I look at it in-game with enough brightness it looks like a shade of red there too. I'm slowly starting to consider that Anne's hair may be red enough to be related to the fact that they adopted a red-haired kid 🤔

Lastly, vehicles. Words cannot express. How much I LOVE the Clarke's station wagon. Just, them, in that car. (Imagine road trips.) Anyway I finally have a clear enough view of it so... yes, I tried to find a real-world make, and, just like Vince's car, I don't think it exists. The lights and grills are never comparable, but ignoring the structure the vibe works for a good chunk of the 1960s, which means I get to imagine at least some of the Clarke kids learning to drive in it 😊

[victorluvsalice]

Sims 4 Valicer Outfit Fun

So, as I said at the end of last week’s “episode” of the Chill Valicer Save, the next scheduled update, of the gang celebrating SimCity Founding in San Sequoia, is actually better-suited to be posted NEXT week, as it would fall then between 4th of July (the holiday SimCity Founding is based on) and Victor and Alice’s wedding date (for reasons to be explained in the update ;) ). So this week, I’m doing a post showcasing some new Smiler looks I made recently while saving an all-human Valicer trio to my Gallery (with the Smiler I mentioned curing of vampirism with MC Command Center back in the “Happy Smiler Creation Day” post), along with a couple of Victor and Alice looks! :)

First up, we have another variant on the Valicer In The Dark AU Smiler look -- this time we have the black hat, the yellow vest, AND the yellow shoes! And also that one bracelet that seriously looks a bit like something they’d make as official Smiler merch. XD I think this is pretty much the “final” VITD look for Smiler, though don’t quote me on that. :p

Here’s another idea for a “formal” Smiler look I came up with while playing around with some of the new clothes from the recent packs -- I’m like 99% certain that ruffled yellow shirt is from High School Years. It’s got some good vibes, but I’m not sure about the pure black shoes paired with those pure black pants. It feels a little too samey. Plus I wish the top hat was in a swatch other than “brown.”

There’s a similar problem with this “fancy party” Smiler look -- I really like the fancy purple vest and yellow tie combo, but those black pants and shoes. . .little too plain for my liking! That being said, I like the eye makeup I gave Smiler in this outfit --

Something about that soft pinkish-purple “glow” really suits them, I think! Though maybe for this outfit it should be a tad darker. . .we’ll see what happens as I continue playing around with stuff!

An “athletic” Smiler, with a neon-yellow hoodie and bright yellow sneakers I knew I had to use for them. I’ve been trying to get them more “yellow and black” looks to go with The Smiler’s official color scheme -- a process hindered by the fact that The Sims 4 doesn’t have a lot of great yellow swatches. And sometimes a really good item in yellow is paired with another item in a not-so-good color. *sigh* I really wish layered items, like shirts and vests, had swatches you could customize separately! Meh.

On the other hand, the sweater in this winter look is totally them. XD Not totally sold on the pants, but the bright yellow boots are nice, and of course I like the hat, given I used it earlier in their VITD look. :p

And here’s a very casual Smiler more appropriate for the summer heat -- perhaps the shirt is a bit paler than I’d like, but it’s got a good “chill” vibe! And I like the black sneakers with the colorful shiny stripes on them. :)

Onto some Victor looks, with one that I was playing around with trying to find a VITD outfit for him. It’s a little monochrome (which, uh, I guess DOES suit his source material), but it’s got a good vibe of “was once more formal, is now a little more casual“ with the open collar and whatnot. I tend to lean toward vest-based outfits for Victor, given he’s originally from a Victorian-esque film and sometimes it can be hard for me to picture him in more casual wear.

Case in point, I’m not sold on the belted jeans here, but the blue vest with its little stripey tie works for me! I tend to default to putting Victor in blue if he’s not in black or grey -- he feels like a “blue” person to me.

Okay, I’m not sure this one is really Victor, but I honestly love how silly he looks, especially with the shades. XD It’s like, he’s trying just that little bit too hard to be cool. In all senses of the word. XD

And now onto Alice looks -- though this first one, as you can see, is less of a “look” and more be playing around with body details. Specifically, this is me slapping on one of the new birthmarks in “skin details” on her shoulder because I think, in that particular color variant, it might sub nicely for the burn scar I’ve always headcanoned her having there. The actual body scars from Werewolves never fit because those were explicitly claw and bite marks, but this. . .yeah, it at least has the right vibes! Though, of course, if anyone can point me to any actual scars that might look more like burn scars, I’m all ears.

This was a “party” look I played around with for her -- I’m not totally sold on it, but I do kind of like how this dress, at least on the top, has sort of the opposite vibes from her standard Wonderland outfit. And it’s a good color combo for her!

And here we have a summer look for a more modern Alice -- I think this is a dress she’d wear, and the white-framed sunglasses go well with it! Though I just realized, the color scheme actually roughly matches Victor’s summer outfit above. XD Well, they do say that couples do tend to start dressing alike. . .

And yeah, that is your lookbook for this week! Hope you enjoyed, and hopefully I shall see you next week for SimCity Founding shenanigans in the Chill Valicer Save! :)

[bananahkim]

(blorbo ask) 2, 24, 27, 28

Ask meme

2. Favorite character trait that your blorbo has?

Usually my blorbos:

Are a demon/monster/has monstrous traits

Are short tempered and has a complicated life

So I like demons or monsters who are short tempered/has anger issues, for some reason.

24. If your blorbo was a sim then how would they die?

Idk how sims work so I googled it and

Tom: emotional deaths/fire

TKO: emotional deaths

Also causes of deaths in the sims are bizarre af

27. Blorbo has a favorite video game. What is it?

Tom: either Animal crossing or something like team fortress 2?? Sorry I know nothing about video games

T.K.O: surprisingly, he likes to play more peaceful games like super Mario. He doesn’t really like to admit it but he wants to play games with K.O.

28. Top ten things that you love about your blorbo

I’m just going to talk about Tom

He can be both your typical immature villain ex-boyfriend and a guy who has his flaws and strengths.

He likes bunnies and cheesy boy band music, which are typically considered “unmanly” and he also wears makeup and looks good in pink. Tom usually wears punk-ish clothes in shades of red, maroon, and black but he also likes feminine things and isn’t ashamed to admit the fact that he likes them.

He seems to be…very detail oriented? Tom made sure every minor detail of the Blood Moon Ball was perfect in his standards.

He’s awkward a lot but he can be suave and appealing when he needs to be.

He’s dramatic. Marco even stated that Tom was “such a drama queen”. I know that’s not really a good trait but its really cute when he’s being dramatic.

He can easily admit that he did something wrong when someone points it out, and even though he doesn’t really know exactly what he did wrong, he tries his best to make it up to anyone he hurt.

When he’s dedicated to something he’s really dedicated. He made a whole horse carriage all by himself to take Star to the blood moon ball with him, even though he’s a prince and can easily buy a fancy carriage.

This is embarrassing but I can’t think of more reasons I love about Tom. I think the reason he’s been my blorboest blorbo for such a long time is because I want through a lot while I first started to like him, spent time watching and re-watching episodes about him, drew him, etc. I would be so sad if he no longer turns out to be my fave character.

[nostalgicatsea]

I’m weeping over how beautiful this is. The intimacy and sensuality that come with dressing your beloved was what I was thinking of with this prompt (same with magic who somehow came up with that idea separately and everyone was on board), and Alby captured that perfectly. There’s an established rapport, comfort, and trust that the act of dressing someone up speaks to; it can be as arresting as seeing or helping someone undress. 

You can tell how much they adore each other with the way that Steve’s strong hand is casually cupped around Tony’s elbow and Tony can’t keep his eyes off of Steve. He’s enraptured and who can blame him? He can’t even be bothered to look at the bowtie while he’s tying it for Steve. Not that he needs to because he’s an old hand at wearing formalwear. 

They’re so beautiful too. Look at Tony’s little curl falling over his forehead! The subtle waves in Steve’s and Tony’s hair. The detail in every strand of hair and the movement. Their clothes! The shading and fabric folds...I can get lost in them. I love the peek of pleating in Tony’s trousers and stripes on Steve’s shirt, Tony’s fancy belt. They look so debonair like matinee idols; every head will turn when they make their entrance to their fancy function! 

And the plants! I love them all. They situate this moment in a mid-century setting and add a classic charm to tie everything together while giving them some privacy. It’s like they’re in a secret garden of their own. 

What a wonderful companion piece to the MTH 2020 art Alby did. If not for Tony's goatee, you could, as Alby pointed out to the pod, imagine that the 2020 art was “Tony getting frisky and Steve's like, 'Darling, we have a function we need to get ready for!'” and this one is “the two of them getting dressed again post-afternoon delight.” (Alby, I loved what you said about it so much; I hope you don’t mind me quoting you here because it really does feel like the two pieces are in conversation with each other!)

Thank you SO MUCH for this lovely piece of art. You’re amazing as is everyone in the pod who helped make this art a reality with their donations.<3

Are the stars out tonight I don't know if it's cloudy or bright I only have eyes for you, dear

For @marveltrumpshate and the wonderful pod of people who bid on me and generously donated to some really good causes 💜

@nostalgicatsea @betheflame @captainneverever @sineala @sabrecmc @hundredthousands-art @ishipallthings @magicasen @jules-of-the-crown @massivespacewren @t0nystark1er

[capriciousleo]

hello!! i just saw your blog like 5 seconds ago haha but im also bored so heres a hc for pantalone:

how many freaking coats the guy has

LIKE WHAT

how big is his closet lmao or does he have like a million of them??

imagine getting matching coats with pantalone though and it being a subtle hint to showcase to the other fatui and harbingers to back off because you’re his and it clearly shows when you’re dripping in his money and clothing :))

probably would also give really good fashion advice too bc damn this man is fancy

more things to consider:

him pulling you into his lap and then smothering you with his coat because its cold and ooo hes nice and warm and toasty

would treat you like royalty despite only using others because it benefits him but he nevers does that to you

Thanks for your ask, anon!!💛 Everyone who reads this, feel free to share your Pantalone hcs too!! I’d love to discuss them.

I think mister has many... many clothes, hence a huge wardrobe of a size of a separate room lmaooo. But tbh idk where he could live- his own place? People assume he has a mansion or something, which for some reason is hard for me to imagine?? But at the same time I really doubt he lives w the rest of the Harbingers... that’s if they even live in the same building. 🤔 I also hc his closet room defo has gold details in it- mans would take pure gold baths if he could.

NOW. I really do like thinking that Pantalone defo would wear their s/o in something that would signify that they belong to him and only him. And he would make sure others know it too. I’m 100% certain he’s possessive. Obsessive... not so much. So yes!! I do agree- sth matching or identifying would totally be on his s/o. Perhaps... it could be a jewelry piece? Hmmm idk I wonder.

For some reason, I feel like Pantalone gives great advices in general, not only when it comes to fashion. I think he’s wise and defo knows how the world around him works- man’s literally built himself on his own. Yes, his morals may be skewed, but... there’s something trustworthy in him. Or that’s me wearing pink shaded glasses and being infatuated *clears throat*. BUT I do feel he would lowk be a tsundere in beginning before he even noticed his s/o. I hc that it’s very difficult to grab his attention unless you are around or above him in social ladder. If you are not falling in that category, but he still notices you... count yourself lucky af.

I also think he’s very tall, around 195 cm, so it would be heaven to hug him *sobs*. Hoyoverse you better make my mans TALL. It would suit him perfectly.

Pantalone would get you out of selfish reasons at first, thinking how he could use you, but with time he would fall for you. And he would even forget his initial reason for getting you now that you two are together. He will provide for you, but, ofc, he will also expect things in... return.

[gliphyartfan]

Here we have a very very pretty boy. He is so fun to draw. He could be a model. (don't think he hasn't been approached.) -He is a designer junkie. Ask what he is wearing and it's probs gonna be an Italian name. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, you name it, he has it. Only the finest materials for him.

-Totally has a beauty routine that he has perfected over the years. He knows he is pretty. (while that brought him pain in the past he can't help but want to look good forher. She deserved the best on her arm he strives to match her overwhelming beauty, but falls short no matter what. Caring for himself has become his way of worship. She loved him and wanted him taken care off. LOOK LOOK at how well he is doing. Please praise him. Pleasepleasepleasepleasejustlookathim). But unlike Cia (y/n) loved him for him, what was on the inside. So he is going to the best of the best to make her just LOOK at him. -He likes dressing up, most of his outfits are like this, his 'casual look' is just a pair of designer jeans, (youcouldn'taffordinyourlifetime). -He has caught the fashion bug and has a history of drawing. So you better believe he has sketchbook upon sketchbook of designs he himself has come up with. (one guess on who is the muse. He wants to make you feel so beautiful his goddess.)

Whatcha think? At some point today or tomorrow I'll post some things on my page about Lilah and the boys and how they ended up where they are. Including that first meeting with Time from her POV. Let me know if you are interested and I'll tag you.

Hugs and kisses, Lyric

First off, just seeing your name makes me excited to see what else you have cooking up.

(seriously, the shading is incredible, and the way you drew the details of his face is amazing!)

And Warriors? Wonderful. Just wonderful!

He doesn't have to be a celebrity in order to be treated as one when he walks down the street. (Or when he goes to really fancy restaurants, he just gives off 'VVIP')

I adore the choice in suit color. Simple, yet it gives him an easy going, but noticeable charm when he smiles. (Damn, I just know he would slay in a black suit.) With his scarf, it just brings attention to his face, and the end of the scarf just seems to wanna make people turn their head to keep glancing at him.

With the way the suit is clearly made to his size, it really brings out the muscles in his arms and legs!

Ah, such a confident expression on his face, watch as his darling's beautiful smile causes it to crumble so swiftly as he trails after her.

I like how he takes his appearance, (which HAS caused him heavy grief in the past) and starts to own it. Pushing through his past so he can consider himself worthy the one person who saw him for him.

(Ah, my HC was approved hm~? )

I really can see him simply flooding his sketchbook with pictures of clothes he would love to dress her in. A constant desire to recreate her beauty within his sketches.

My goodness! There really is nothing like inspiring incredible artists like you! I'm honored!

[hrina]

Be Sweet, Pt. I

PAIRING: Harry x Reader RATING: M (minors dni!) WORD COUNT: 6k

hey everyone! here's part one of my new enemies-to-lovers series :) this fic will be five parts in total, but i'm only posting the first part on tumblr. you'll be able to read the rest of it on patreon if you wanna sign up!

as always, reblogs and feedback are very much appreciated. i love hearing your thoughts! enjoy.

~*~

August 27th, 2021

“Who’s opening tomorrow?”

Ella scrubs a wet rag across the table closest to the door. You cast a furtive glance up at her, flipping absentmindedly through the jumble of papers on the counter in front of you. Nick’s messy scrawl catches your eye, and you pause, reading the haphazard comment written at the bottom of the page.

Customer requested a very specific shade of pink trim. See back for details.

You flip the order, scoffing at the Pantone strip taped to the other side. The square labelled Quartz Pink has been singled out, encircled in bright red. Jesus fucking Christ.

“Alice and Olly, I think,” you say, shoving the form to the bottom of the pile.

“That’s good,” Ella grunts, returning the napkin holder and the sugar dispenser back to their spots on the table. “And you’ll swing by sometime during the afternoon?”

“Yeah,” you say, drumming your fingers over the papers. “I’m gonna help Olly in the back. You know how much he hates dealing with fondant.”

“How could I forget?” Ella rolls her eyes, smiling to herself. You grimace when she tosses the damp cloth in your direction. It lands on the counter with a loud splat! You nudge it away with your elbow, shaking your head.

“Gross.”

“You’re gross,” Ella says.

“I’m lovely,” you reply. She grins.

“Where’s Alex taking you tonight?” you ask, changing the subject. Her eyes light up instantly, and she clasps her hands together against her chest.

“It’s a surprise,” she says, giggling girlishly.

You groan. “I hate surprises.”

“It’s a good thing he’s not your boyfriend, then, isn’t it?” she retorts. You snicker, and she continues: “He told me we should stop off at home to change, though, so I’m guessing that wherever it is, there’s a dress code.”

“Ooh, fancy.”

“Right?” She twists her wrist, peeking at her watch. “He should have been here by now. It’s already a quarter past seven.”

“The hospital is just down the street,” you remind her, organising the mountain of orders into a neat stack. “Give him another five minutes.”

She nods. You spin on your heel and push through the door leading to the backroom of the bakery. The large space is split into two sections: on your right, there’s a wall of ovens, and a cluster of metal racks filled with pale, unprocessed dough. On your left, tables and counters lined with all sorts of decorating necessities—piping bags, spatulas, scrapers, turntables. You make your way toward the small cabinet perched against the nearest wall and pull out the top drawer, sliding the orders inside. Olly should have no trouble locating them tomorrow morning.

When you return to the front of the shop, Ella is locked in a passionate embrace with a gangly, dark-haired man. You recognise him immediately.

“Doctor Dao,” you call out, resting your elbows on the counter. “Did you at least wash your hands before putting them all over my best friend?”

Alex and Ella break apart swiftly, but he keeps one arm wrapped around her waist. “Hey, cookie,” he says, flashing you an apologetic grin. “Didn’t see you there.”

You arch one brow, lips curling into an amused smirk. “I’ll say.”

Only then do you catch sight of the other man lingering by the door, and your smile quickly morphs into an irritated frown. Harry is watching you with twinkling eyes, like he knows the effect his presence has on you. How could he not? You don’t try to hide your disdain, especially when it comes to him.

“Harry,” you say curtly, lifting your chin in stubborn acknowledgement.

He brings two fingers to his temple—a mock-salute. “Sweetheart.”

You clench your jaw. God, he makes your blood boil. Rather than responding, you turn back to Alex, who is now smoothing his palms over Ella’s silky brown hair. “You’re late,” you tell him. “You were supposed to be here when we closed.”

“Sorry, cookie,” Alex says, and he sounds like he means it. “My last surgery of the day had a few…complications.”

You purse your lips as the annoyance melts away. “Everything okay?”

“Yeah.” He nods, blowing out a heavy breath. He looks tired. “We figured it out.”

“That’s good.”

Alex directs his attention back to Ella, leaning in and pressing a chaste kiss to the tip of her nose. “You ready to go?”

“Yeah,” she replies. “Just let me grab my bag.”

“Cool,” he says. “You don’t mind if we drop Harry off at his place, right? His car is fucked, apparently.”

Ella’s grey eyes widen. She peers over her boyfriend’s shoulder at Harry. “What happened?”

Harry waves away her concerns, chuckling quietly. He tugs on the collar of his blue scrubs, and you can’t stop your gaze from trailing across the plethora of tattoos inked into his arm. Your nose wrinkles at the sight. He looks ridiculous. What kind of doctor would agree to don such outrageous body art?

“He’s being dramatic,” Harry says, shooting Alex a pointed glare. “My car’s at the shop right now, but I’ll have it back by tomorrow evening at the latest.”

“Oh.” Ella relaxes. “Okay, that’s great. Babe—” She turns to Alex. “—when are our reservations?”

“Eight-thirty,” Alex says. “Plenty of time.”

“Awesome,” she chirps. She scurries around the counter and playfully bumps her hip against yours. “My purse is in the back. Give me one second.”

And then she’s gone.

You stare at Alex, fighting a clever smile. “Tonight’s the night, huh?” you murmur, quiet enough so that there’s no chance of Ella overhearing.

He beams, shouldering his knapsack and dragging his sweaty palms down the front of his shirt. His scrubs are a light purple, you note. The shade compliments his dark skin.

“Yeah,” he replies, gnawing anxiously on his bottom lip. “She’ll say yes, right?”

You scoff, rolling your eyes good-naturedly. “Of course she will.”

Just then, Ella bursts through the door, her leather purse swinging wildly against her waist. “Alright!” She claps once, striding over to you and planting a wet, sloppy kiss onto your cheek. “I’m off.”

“Bye,” you say, wiping her saliva from your face with the back of your hand. “Have fun.”

Alex waves at you as she tugs him out of the bakery. “See you later, cookie.”

You wink. “See you.”

Harry is the last one to leave. He glances at you momentarily, the corners of his lips quirking up into a smug smile. The look makes you bristle. He’s absolutely infuriating.

“Got any leftover almond croissants?” he asks. Silent laughter taints every word.

You point to the exit. “Get out.”

He bows his chin in farewell, approaching the door. “Sweetheart.”

“Asshole,” you reply flatly. Now that your friends are out of earshot, you’re under no obligation to tolerate him. Sometimes, you find yourself actually craving his company, just so you can drop the pretence and really give him a piece of your mind. You’re a mature adult, and you won’t ruin a social gathering because of one presumptuous dickhead, but everyone has their limits. You don’t owe him shit.

Harry chuckles to himself, and you clench your fists at your sides. He shoots you one last maddening smirk before disappearing out the door. You rush forward, latching it swiftly and ensuring that the sign against the glass reads ‘CLOSED’. Once you’ve successfully locked up, you march into the back of the shop, plucking your own purse off one of the metal counters and tugging it over your shoulder. You shut the light and return to the front, scanning the clean tables, the empty display cases, the shades drawn over the windows. Shards of the sunset stream through the cracks in the blinds, casting orange stripes along the floor.

All clear, a voice in your head whispers, and you sigh.

Finally—you can go home.

August 28th, 2021

Quick, frantic knocking rouses you from your sleep. Blearily, you sit up on the mattress, knuckling at your puffy eyes. The hardwood floor is cold against the soles of your feet when you climb out of bed. You shiver.

The insistent clamour continues as you pad down the hallway. You tug at the hem of your worn, baggy t-shirt, concealing your midriff. Ella wastes no time after you open the front door, surging past the threshold and vaulting herself into your arms.

“He proposed!” she squeals as the two of you stagger backward. You freeze, remembering Alex’s plans from the day before. His apprehension, too—the way he wiped his clammy palms against his scrubs and anxiously dug his teeth into his bottom lip. Shock ebbs and flows through your veins for a fraction of a second, but then you’re sweeping Ella into a tight hug, rocking your bodies from side to side.

“Oh my God,” you say. Excitement festers beneath the murky exhaustion clouding your mind. “He did it.”

Ella steps back, brows knitting together in bewilderment. “You knew?” When you nod, she scoffs, aiming a half-hearted swat at your bicep. “And you didn’t tell me?”

“Why the fuck would I tell you?” you retort, rolling your eyes at the demand. “Come on. Let’s see it.”

A bright grin stretches across her lips, and she holds up her left hand, wiggling her fingers keenly. You spy the ring resting on the fourth digit: a simple platinum band topped with a large, clear diamond. Grey morning light bounces off the gemstone, and it winks at you as if it knows something that you don’t.

“Gorgeous,” you breathe, gripping Ella’s wrist to bring her hand closer. You scrutinize the ring carefully, smiling to yourself. “He’s got good taste.”

“Doesn’t he?” she gushes, beaming like an idiot. You beckon her into the kitchen, and she collapses onto one of the tall stools positioned in front of the marble island. A quick glance at the digital clock on the stove reveals that it’s only eight in the morning. You groan, rubbing gentle circles against your temples.

“I was hoping I’d get to sleep in today,” you say, lips curling into a wry smirk.

Ella shoots you a sheepish, apologetic smile, sliding her purse off her shoulder and placing it on the counter. “I’m sorry, cookie. I couldn’t wait.”

“I’m just kidding,” you tell her, floating around the room to prepare a pot of coffee. “So…how did he do it?”

She launches into a frenzied retelling of the night before. Alex brought her to the same restaurant they’d visited four years ago on their first date. They ordered their food and made conversation. Things proceeded as usual until the end of the meal, at which point Alex set his napkin down on the table and excused himself to the restroom. Two minutes later, the waiter arrived with the bill. Ella accepted it graciously, scanning the thin paper and pausing at the question scrawled at the very bottom of the slip. When she snapped her head up, searching for her boyfriend in the crowded dining area, she found him kneeling a few feet away from her chair, a small velvet box nestled securely in his steady hands.

“I started crying immediately,” she tells you, groaning at the memory. “I couldn’t keep it together. It was so embarrassing.”

You toss your head back and laugh. Despite the crimson blush staining her cheeks, she joins in. The coffeemaker beeps, signalling that the pot is ready. You fetch two mugs from the cupboard and fill them with dark liquid. Ella accepts her drink eagerly, blowing cool air across its surface. You grimace as she takes a tentative sip—you’ve never understood her penchant for unsweetened black coffee. Sugar and cream are a must.

“I’m so happy for you, El,” you tell her, stirring a small spoon around your mug. “You’re going to be the most beautiful bride.”

Her eyes grow damp. You snicker quietly, reaching across the island and swiping your thumb beneath her bottom lashes. She catches your hand and kisses your knuckles softly, clearing her throat.

“Will you—?” She releases a shuddering breath. “Will you be my maid of honour?”

You stiffen at her request. Her gaze rakes over your face, like she’s searching for any clue as to how you might respond. At last, your shoulders sag in relief, and an ecstatic smile splits across your cheeks.

“Of course,” you say, voice thick. Tears gather in your own eyes, but you blink them back furiously. “I would love nothing more.”

She sets her coffee down and skirts around the counter, yanking you into another bone-crushing hug. You grin as she presses a handful of sloppy kisses to the side of your head. Her elbow knocks against your abandoned mug, and a few drops of coffee spill down the side of the cup. You laugh at her enthusiasm, pulling back and sweeping your hands over her silky hair.

“It’s probably way too soon, but have you guys started discussing anything?” you ask, arching one eyebrow.

Ella flushes pink, averting her gaze. “Um…when we got home, there wasn’t really much of a discussion going on.”

You cackle, poking at her ribs. “Oh, he gave it to you good, didn’t he? It’s a miracle that you’re not limping right now.”

“Be quiet,” she yelps, stamping her eyes shut.

You lift your hands and shoot her a teasing smirk. “I’m not judging, okay? If anything, I’m living vicariously through your various sexual conquests. It’s been months since I last got any action.”

“Maybe that should change,” Ella says, folding her arms over her chest. “You and Harry could probably fuck out your frustrations. His dick is huge, apparently.”

You balk. “Ella!”

She shrugs, grey eyes widening comically. “What? Alex told me!”

You snort, but say nothing. She watches you cautiously, examining your features for any signs of acquiescence. Any indication that you might actually be considering her lewd suggestion. You almost gag.

“Why do you hate him so much, anyway?” Ella asks, flicking an invisible speck of lint off her shoulder. “You’re not still hung up on that fiasco with the almond croissant, are you?”

“I’m not doing this with you again,” you say, and she sighs.

“Okay, I’m sorry. But can you at least try to be civil while we plan the wedding? For my sake.”

After mulling over her words, you slouch in defeat. “Fine. But only for you,” you say, throwing a stern finger in her face.

She beams. “Thank you.” Something dirty flashes behind her pale eyes. “And if you do end up sleeping with him, I want all the details.”

You shove her gently and scoff. She laughs.

“Honestly,” you start, shaking your head, “it doesn’t matter how huge his dick is. I’d rather walk across hot coals than let somebody like him climb into my bed.”

“What makes you think it wouldn’t be the other way around?” Ella snickers. You glare at her, but she just steps back, raising her hands in surrender. “Alright, alright, fine. Have it your way. But I’m expecting you to find someone in time for the big day. Don’t let your plus-one go to waste.”

You roll your eyes, thoroughly unconvinced. “Noted.”

September 2nd, 2021

“Olly!” you call, sticking your head into the backroom. “Ella and I are going on our lunch break, but Leyla will be here in, like, twenty minutes. You going to be okay by yourself until then?”

Olly doesn’t even bother looking over his shoulder, too busy piping little flowers along the sides of the rectangular cake laid out in front of him. He lifts one hand, waving away your concerns before running his palm over his short blue hair. He buzzed and dyed it just last week after claiming that he couldn’t stand how the long brown curls stuck to the nape of his neck. It took a few days to get used to the change, but now that the initial shock has faded, you have to admit that he looks great.

“Yeah, that’s fine,” Olly says, putting the finishing touches on the cake. He sets his piping bag down and turns toward you, wiping his palms against his red apron. His left ear bears a swirl of shiny silver piercings. “I’ll be out in a second.”

“Thanks,” you say, flashing him a small smile. He returns it, and then you’re spinning on your heel and letting the door swing shut behind you.

You find Ella waiting outside the bakery. She urges you along, and you squawk at her impatience.

“What’s the rush?” you ask, falling into step with her as you both amble down the sidewalk. “We have forty-five minutes.”

“I don’t want Alex’s sandwich to get cold,” she explains, holding up the small paper bag clutched in her right hand. You snort.

The two of you make it to Ridgefield Hospital in record time, mostly because Ella grips your arm and gives it a forceful tug whenever you start lagging behind. You walk through the automatic doors, ignoring the row of ambulances parked outside. The secretaries sitting at the front desk shoot you a few distracted smiles—they’ve all grown accustomed to your frequent visits by now.

Ella babbles endlessly as you enter the elevator, pressing the button for the fifth floor and waiting as the metal doors slide shut.

“I want to ask Alice and Leyla to be part of the bridal party, but I’m scared the guys will feel bad if Alex doesn’t choose them as his groomsmen. Like, I think they’d understand, considering I work with the girls and we’re all pretty close, but I don’t know.” She nudges you with her elbow. “What do you think?”

“I think you should do whatever the fuck you want,” you tell her, shrugging. “It’s your wedding. And I don’t think Olly, Marcus, or Nick will mind if they’re not part of the bridal party. Olly doesn’t care about that stuff, and Marcus and Nick already have their hands full with their jobs at the bakery. Plus, they know Alex has his own friends—not just the ones he’s met through you.”

Ella nibbles on her bottom lip, her head bobbing in agreement. “Yeah, you’re right.”

You lay a placid hand on her shoulder. “You’re already overthinking this. You’ve only been engaged for a week. Enjoy it.”

She shoots you a grateful smile just as the elevator dings and the doors glide open, and the two of you step out onto the hospital’s paediatric floor. It’s a stark contrast to the other sections of the building. Instead of barren white walls, these ones are painted with all sorts of pretty, colourful decorations—flowers, rainbows, sunsets, animals. A massive sign in front of you denotes the different divisions on the floor and where to find them: the ICU, the operating rooms, the palliative unit, the psychiatry wing, and the oncology department. You and Ella turn right, making the familiar trek to Alex’s office.

“He should be on his lunch break, too,” she says. “Unless they paged him for another emergency surgery.”

You hum in response.

Sure enough, you find Alex at his desk, twirling a blue pen between his fingers as he pores over the stack of papers in front of him. Ella knocks gently against the open door, and his face lights up when he spies her standing in the threshold. He moves quickly, crossing the room in five long strides, and plants a searing kiss onto her lips. You look away, rocking awkwardly on the balls of your feet.

“Hey,” Alex murmurs after he and Ella break apart. That’s when he notices you behind her. “Hey, cookie.”

“Hey,” you reply. You toss your thumb over your shoulder. “I’m just going to—you know, the usual.”

He nods.

The last thing you see before you turn around is Ella holding up the brown paper bag, and Alex’s face splitting into a bright, easy smile.

You meander through the halls, trailing your fingers over the rich artwork covering the walls. The end of the corridor cleaves in two; you turn left and enter a large atrium. The ceiling is high and peppered with skylights. A small cafeteria sits off to the side, clusters of families chatting and laughing together as they eat. Children sprint around the space, their arms outstretched. Some of them are dressed in normal clothes—others don pale hospital gowns, their skinny legs bared for all to see. You wrench your attention away from them, fixing it instead on the far wall.

Slowly, you cross the room, surveying the vibrant handprints stamped against the plaster. There has to be hundreds of them, you think. They vary in size—some are so tiny you could cry. Colour becomes scarcer the higher you go—the youngest children are too short to reach those levels, obviously—but still. The sight takes your breath away. You visit this mural every time you find yourself at the hospital, and every time, you unearth a new detail that you hadn’t noticed before.

You walk along the length of the wall, dragging your fingertips across the dry, smooth paint. Purples and pinks and oranges and blues. Reds, greens, yellows, browns. Each handprint is a person—a pair of little feet that scuffled over this very floor, a blank story that had yet to unfold. Briefly, you wonder how many survived whatever illnesses plagued them, and how many succumbed to their conditions. The thought makes your throat grow tight with emotion, so you quickly shove it aside.

Ten minutes pass before you’re leaving the mural behind and heading back the way you came. You’ve just rounded the corner when a strong, solid body barrels into you. You grunt at the impact, smacking one palm against the wall to steady yourself.

“I’m sorry,” you start, lifting your head to meet the stranger’s gaze. “I wasn’t paying—oh.”

Harry smirks, his green eyes glittering with mirth once he recognises you. You purse your lips, wishing the ground would just open up and swallow you whole.

“Harry,” you say, nodding stiffly.

He folds his arms over his chest. “Sweetheart.”

His brown hair is tousled, and his biceps strain against the white button-up adorning his torso. Black slacks cover his legs, and he’s wearing a pair of pristine leather shoes, ones that look like they might’ve cost a month’s worth of rent. Your teeth grate together noisily. The sound echoes in your ears.

“What are you doing here?” Harry asks, as though the two of you are old friends. You want to scoff—you’d rather stick your hand in an oven than make idle conversation with him.

“Visiting Alex,” you say tightly, stepping back. “Ella brought him lunch.”

At that, Harry straightens. “Ella’s here?”

“Yes.”

“I wish I’d run into her,” he murmurs, pinching his bottom lip between his thumb and forefinger.

You throw him a scowl. “Asshole.”

Harry cocks one eyebrow, tilting his chin haughtily. “Forgive me if I prefer her company to yours. At least she doesn’t treat me like I’m some insufferable bastard.”

“Maybe if you stopped being such an insufferable bastard, I wouldn’t treat you like one,” you shoot back, planting your hands on your hips. You tense as Harry’s gaze rakes down your body—head to toe, like he’s sizing up an opponent. His nose wrinkles in disdain, and you fight the urge to deliver a sharp, backhanded slap across that pretty, perfect face.

Harry opens his mouth, and you brace yourself for whatever retort he has prepared. What comes out is nothing overtly nasty, but it is enough to make you want to shrink away and curl into yourself until you wink out of existence.

“You smell like yeast,” he says, and tosses in a derisive sniff just for the added effect.

You recoil as the words slam into you, blinking in shock.

Asshole. Rude, arrogant, condescending asshole.

“I own a bakery,” you grit out. Harry shrugs, but says nothing else. Your lips flap wordlessly as he pushes past you, his shoulder bumping against yours. You watch him go, massaging the tender spot on your arm with shaky fingers. Your eyes fall to his ass for only a moment before skittering away, and a hollow laugh catches in your throat.

What a fucking prick.

September 17th, 2021

“Attention, everyone!” Ella stands at the head of the table, clinking her fork delicately against her glass. “I wanted to make a little toast.”

The conversation around you tapers off into silence. You sit back in your chair, focussing on your best friend. She looks splendid in her pretty blue dress, her dark hair twisted into an elaborate knot at the nape of her neck. She peers around the room, chewing nervously on the inside of her cheek. When her gaze locks with yours, you grant her a tiny, encouraging nod.

She beams, her next words imbued with renewed enthusiasm. “I wanted to thank all of you for coming here tonight to celebrate our engagement with us.” She holds out her hand, and Alex presses a gentle kiss to her knuckles. “We’re so grateful to be sharing this milestone with such a wonderful group of people.”

You inspect the other guests gathered around the table. To your right sit Alice and Leyla, the first employees you hired when you were trying to get your business up off the ground. It’s odd seeing them like this—poised and elegant, looking nothing at all like they do during the long, arduous shifts at the bakery. Alice’s blond hair has been fashioned into an intricate braid, and Leyla’s brown eyes are lined with dark kohl and smoky eyeshadow. They clean up nice, you must admit.

Next to Leyla: Ella’s older sister, Hillary. They have the same piercing grey eyes, though Hillary’s hair is a shade lighter. You didn’t miss the sour expression that trundled across her face when you waltzed into Alex and Ella’s condo. She’s jealous, you think. Jealous that Ella chose you as her maid of honour instead of her. You’ve been ignoring her resentful glares for the better half of the night, letting her bitterness pass over you like a cloud. Whatever her problem is, it’s clear that the issue lies between her and her sister. You’re not getting in the middle of that.

It doesn’t help that she’s been fawning over Harry all evening. Upon witnessing her coquettish behaviour, you glanced at Ella, brows raised, but your best friend just rolled her eyes and yielded a helpless shrug of her shoulders. At least the attraction didn’t appear to be one-sided—that would have been humiliating, you think—because Harry gave as good as he got, chuckling sincerely and flirting right back. You had to suppress the urge to retch, and sent out a quiet prayer of gratitude when Ella and Alex sat them as far away from each other as possible at the beginning of the meal.

On the opposite side of the table: Alex’s groomsmen—Milo, Sasha, and Connor. You’ve been in their company a few times, mainly on birthdays and other special occasions. According to Alex, they all met when Milo accidentally vomited during their very first anatomy lesson at medical school. Milo insists that the putrid smell of the cadavers was simply too awful to bear, but everyone else claims that he just couldn’t stand the idea of being so close to a dead body. No matter the truth, the story always makes you giggle. The four of them have been good friends ever since.

The five of them, you remind yourself as your gaze settles on Harry, who is lounging in the chair directly across from you.

Harry—Alex’s best friend. Harry—Alex’s best man.

You wanted to rip your hair from your scalp when Ella broke the news. Several images flashed through your head all at once. You and Harry inching rigidly down the aisle, arms linked. You and Harry donning the same colours, your gown complimenting the spry flower pinned to the lapel of his suit. You and Harry flanking Ella and Alex while they recite their vows, glaring daggers at each other behind your friends’ backs. Even now, the mere thought of it has you biting down on an exasperated groan.

You don’t realise that you’ve zoned out until the faint quirk of Harry’s mouth catches your eye. You blink once to yank yourself from your daze, and clench your jaw when you find him staring at you with an amused look on his face. He places his elbows against the arms of the chair and clasps his hands together. Unmistakable smugness emanates from him, as if he somehow managed to crawl inside your mind and saw exactly what you were envisioning. Your nostrils flare, and you fix your attention back on Ella, who has reached the end of her speech.

“Cheers,” she says, holding up her glass. The champagne inside sloshes and fizzles temptingly. Would she allow you to chug the entire bottle, if you asked?

Everyone around the table mirrors her movements, raising their own drinks and touching them together lightly. Quiet, delicate clanking fills the room, and the friendly chatter resumes. You nudge Ella with your elbow, shooting her a proud smile. “That was great, El.”

She beams. “Thanks, cookie.” She then picks up her fork and motions to the plate in front of her, piled high with seasoned chicken and steaming, roasted vegetables. “Let’s eat.”

~*~

“Are you sure you’ve got him?” Alex asks Sasha, gesturing to the very inebriated Connor wobbling at his side.

Sasha wraps one arm around their friend, letting Connor rest his full weight against him. He bares two rows of perfect ivory teeth, flashing a wicked grin. “Yeah. Besides, I’ve been meaning to pay him back for the shit he pulled at the barbecue last month. There’s a Sharpie in my car.”

“You’re going to draw a dick on his face, aren’t you?” Alex muses.

“Obviously.”

With that, Alex bids them both farewell, shutting the door and heaving a dramatic sigh. Ella approaches him after a moment, hooking her chin over his shoulder and murmuring something indiscernible into his ear. He chuckles softly.

“Didn’t peg you as the voyeur type, sweetheart,” a low voice says from behind you.

You jump, whirling around and coming face-to-face with Harry. He’s got a green washcloth slung over his left shoulder—the shade brings out his eyes, a traitorous voice in your head whispers—and his arms are folded neatly across his chest. Your gaze falls to the collar of his black button-up, where he’s undone the first two discs, leaving his sternum exposed. Tendrils of ink peek out from beneath the dark material.

You frown and take a step back, putting distance between your bodies. “You’re such an asshole.”

“So I’ve heard.” His lips twitch, and he rolls up his sleeves. “Now, if you’re done ogling them like a lovestruck puppy, I could use some help in the kitchen.”

You grit your teeth, but follow him into the other room. Harry grabs the rag hanging over his shoulder and holds it out for you. You snatch it from his fingers without a word, and the two of you take up residence in front of the sink. Harry plunges his hands into the soapy water, rinsing the dishes thoroughly before passing them to you. You stand as far away from him as possible while you dry each plate, your movements stiff and choppy. This is not how you wanted to finish off the night, but Alex and Ella spent the entire day preparing the food, and it was delicious. The least you can do is spare them the hassle of tidying up.

The tense silence eats at you, until you feel like you might explode. Unable to bear it any longer, you hastily blurt, “Saw you getting pretty cozy with Hillary before dinner.”

Immediately, you want to kick yourself. Where the fuck did that come from?

Harry snorts, shrugging coolly. “We’ve hooked up a few times, but it’s nothing serious.” He shoots you a mischievous grin. “You jealous?”

“Of Hillary?” you scoff, rolling your eyes. “Please. The woman’s standards are practically underground. Why else would she be interested in someone like you?”

Harry scowls, and hot satisfaction surges through your veins. Yes, the taunt was mean, but no, you don’t care. “You’re a real bitch sometimes, you know that?” he says.

You flash him a petty, insincere smile. “Only to you.”

He squeezes the yellow sponge nestled in his right hand, scrubbing it forcefully across a dirty plate. “Maybe you should find someone to hook up with. It might help get that stick out of your ass.”

“I have better things to do,” you sneer, narrowing your eyes.

“Better than sex?” He chokes on a derisive laugh.

“Yes.”

“Like what?”

“Like…things!” you snap, fingers curling into tight fists. “I run my own business, for God’s sake. And I’m going to make Ella’s wedding cake.” You announce the last part proudly, hauling your chin into the air.

Harry, however, looks unimpressed. He shakes his head, blowing out a heavy sigh. “Uh-oh.”

You pause. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

He shrugs again, but you detect a hint of malice behind the action. “It’s just…I’ve seen the way you decorate cakes. Ella might be better off going elsewhere—you know, to an actual professional.”

Son of a—

“That’s rich, coming from you,” you say, motioning to the mismatched tattoos littered across his arm. “What would you know about professionalism? It looks like you let a preschooler doodle all over you.”

Harry bares his teeth in a feral grin. “Deflection. I’m not surprised.”

You bristle at his words. “Asshole.”

“You’ll need to get a bit more creative with the insults, sweetheart. I’m growing bored.”

“Is that so?” you say. “I think ‘asshole’ suits you just fine. Maybe you should have become a proctologist instead of a paediatrician.”

“At least I pursued something I was good at. I’m not sure if you can say the same.”

“You fucking—”

“Everything okay in here?” Ella asks, floating into the kitchen. You spin around to conceal your anger, placing your hands against the counter and inhaling deeply. You roll your shoulders back and slap an artificial smile onto your face before turning once more.

“Everything’s fine,” you say, and fake a yawn, covering your mouth with your palm. “I think I’m going to call it a night. I’m exhausted.”

Ella’s bottom lip juts out into a pout. Her red lipstick has faded, leaving only a stain of scarlet in its wake. On cue, Alex walks into the kitchen behind her, setting a steady hand on her hip and cocking his head to the side. “Hey. Everything okay in here?”

You nearly snort. Fucking soulmates.

“All good,” you tell him, nodding brusquely. “I’m just going to finish up with the dishes and head home.”

“Okay.” Alex presses a soft kiss to Ella’s temple, murmuring something about needing to get out of his stuffy clothes. You whirl, drying the last of the plates with frantic, shaky fingers. In your peripheral vision, you spy Harry watching you, but the stupid bastard must possess some scrap of self-preservation, because he keeps his mouth shut. You say nothing else as you whack the rag down onto the counter and stride out of the room.

You don’t miss Alex and Ella’s hushed whispers at the other end of the hall, but a little voice in your head tells you not to interrupt them. You halt at the front door, snatching your purse off one of the metal hooks mounted on the wall. You’re in the middle of putting on your shoes when you hear it:

“I was hoping we could arrange a truce, you know.”

You twist around, palm flying to your chest. Harry is standing a few feet away, his hands still wet with the water from the sink. He clasps them together and ducks his head, and if you didn’t know any better, you’d almost think he was ashamed.

Something vile bubbles in the pit of your stomach. You gnaw on the flesh of your cheek, trying to reel your emotions back in. You refuse to give him the satisfaction of witnessing another outburst.

“Keep your fucking truce,” you spit, and wrench open the door. You shoot him one last withering look before stepping out of the condo and slamming it shut.

[taikeero]

I ALREADY GUSHED ABOUT HIM ON AF BUT ILL DO IT AGAIN !!!! I love the way you shaded his hair and the details in his eye ! His psoe is so stylish,he looks like a fashion icon hehe U did very well with the details of the patterns on his clothes,and i really really dig the fancy frame around him, it looks so sharp and cool !! THANK YOU SO MUCH !!!! I'm gonna treasure it <33

Artfight Revenge - @drullcer-soft-boy

Thank you for drawing Lyhil and for your fun character!

[revengeisourlullaby]

If I Never Knew You Pt.1

Pt.2   Pt.3   Pt.4   Pt.5   Pt.6

Warnings: 18+, eventual smut, arranged marriage plot, kinda royal au, some fighting, secret relationship, angst.

a/n: This is going to be a six part series. I’ve never done a series before, but I write so much anyway I thought why not make one. I’ll probably upload each part daily unless there is demand for them to come faster. I hope you enjoy. Requests/asks will be open if you wanna send smth to me! Although I will admit I am kinda slow in finishing requests. I have a lot to balance in my life so my apologies if I don’t get to them immediately!  

Word count: 1.8K

Loki x female!reader 

The sun shone through the window of your home, the golden rays warming up your cheeks and waking you from your slumber. Sitting up, you stretched, feeling the sleep vibrate out of your body. Tossing the sheets off your body, you swung your legs out of the bed and walked to the bathroom to begin your morning routine. Finishing with tending to the mass of hair on your head you trailed back into your bedroom to change into clothes appropriate for the day. An array of dresses always leaving you indecisive about what to wear.

Settling on an olive green one you walked towards the mirror and fastened the ties around the back of your neck. The loose sleeves draped over your shoulders, cascading down your back, and gold accents adorning the neckline. Finding your shoes, you slipped out of your bedroom, closing the door behind you, and walked down the hallway, the chatter of your family becoming more clear as you near the entrance of the main room. 

 “Good morning, mother. Father.”

It seemed you had slept in quite a bit, given your parents already eating breakfast. Your mother piped up

“There’s a portion left for you on the counter, my dear.”

Eying the food you decided you weren’t all that hungry yet. You had just woken up and your body had yet to settle. Declining, you grabbed your satchel and began to walk towards the door.

“But Y/N, you should really eat something before starting your day.”

“I’ll be fine, Mom. I promise. I’m just not that hungry right now. I’ll eat when I get back.”

Finally reaching the door, your father chimed in,

“You know, Y/N, just because you try to avoid the obvious, doesn’t mean it’s going to go away any sooner.”

Dropping your head, you sighed. You couldn’t seem to escape the duties of being a young woman in a world where royal obligations were something you were expected to partake in. Upon reaching the age of 18, you were supposed to be on the lookout for a decent suitor of a husband. The fact of the matter was, you were now approaching 22 and had yet to find someone acceptable, not only by your standards but by your parents. 

For this uniting of peoples would also be a uniting of families. You had until your 21st birthday to find a man suitable to everyone's liking and if you didn’t, arranged marriage was the next option. No one wanted to be known as the woman in Asgard who couldn’t get a man to offer his hand in marriage, yet here you were in all your glory. It was frustrating. 

If only they knew. 

“I know, Dad. Things are a little bit harder when I have to seek my parents' approval for my marriage.”

Your tone became short, frustrated at the entire situation. You already had someone, for a while now actually, but you hadn’t the guts to inform your parents because you knew they would shut him down. So you loved in silence. It was more than painful, not being able to be truly open with your lover, but you had yet to find the right time to pour out your heart to your family. Taking a deep breath, your grounded yourself and turned towards the door,

“I’ll be back later, I love you.”

Your mom got to responding before your father did,

“We love you too dear. Make sure to pay attention to who you’re around. Be safe.”

Smiling lightly you finally walked out the door and stepped into the fresh air that was Asgard. It never got old. The scent of the trees and freshwater that surrounded this place sent one into such serenity. Just being outside could allow your mind to drift elsewhere and forget about the troubles in your life. Walking as far as you could from your home you spaced out in the direction you were going. 

Coming back to when you accidentally kicked a pebble across the ground. Looking up you found yourself in one of the many gardens that surrounded Asgard. Walking to a marble bench, you scrunched up some of your dress in your hands, folding one leg under you before sitting atop it. Crossing your other leg across it and letting the fabric of your dress fall to the ground. 

Pulling your satchel into your lap, you grabbed your journal out of it and began to sketch the garden in front of you. Paying special attention to the detail of the flowers, wanting to make sure you entirely captured the essence of their beauty on paper. Lost in concentration, you failed to hear the footsteps approaching behind you. It wasn’t until you felt a hand rub small circles into your shoulder that you turned around. 

Hair fell in your face, obscuring your view of who was in front of you. Bringing your hand up to place your hair away from your face you dropped your pen on the ground. You went to reach for it, but a separate pair of hands grabbed it first.

“You seem to be quite the mess today, my darling.”

A genuine smile stretched across your features before looking up into the enchanting blue of his eyes. 

“Loki, hi! What are you doing out here?”

Sitting down next to you, careful to avoid your dress he spoke,

“Well, I was informed that a beautiful lady was sitting in the garden in front of the palace so of course, I had to go inspect the situation. And upon seeing a stunning shade of green draped over the bench, I had to introduce myself.” 

An airy laugh left your throat, blithe being showcased across your being.

“If I didn’t know any better, it sounds like you fancy this beautiful woman.”

“How could I not? Her beauty extends beyond the physical. She's incredibly intelligent and the only one to unconditionally show kindness and love to those who deserve it. It’d be incredibly injudicious of me to not be aware of that.”

“Alright, alright Loki, you’ve buttered me up enough.” you chuckled

“It’s never enough, darling. And it’s not buttering you up if it’s true, which it is. So, against your wishes, I shall continue to do it.”

You rolled your eyes and smiled. Looking down at his hands, you placed yours on top of his and gazed into his eyes once more. Glancing down to his lips and back up to his eyes, you slowly leaned in, Loki meeting you halfway. A kiss so tender you forgot it was Loki whose lips were tangled in a dance with your own. 

Loki moved his hand out from underneath yours and placed it on your cheek. You pulled away from the kiss and nestled your head into his hand, his thumb caressing your cheek allowing you to relish in the moment of being with each other. Flashing your eyes back up to his you asked,

“Shall we go for a walk?”

“Why not?”

Stuffing your journal and pen back into your satchel you untangled your legs and got up from the bench, Loki helping you stand up so that you didn’t trip on your dress. Taking your hand in his own, you two walked through the garden on a path that would eventually lead you to the entrance of the palace. 

“I’ve missed you Loki. I always miss you, I hate being away from you.”

“I know my love, I do as well, but you of all people know our predicament.”

You stopped in your tracks and turned in haste to stop him as well, making him face you. You brought both your hands up to cup his face, an idea flashing bright behind your eyes,

“Well, maybe we can change it! We can be the change to get rid of this stupid rule. I can’t imagine my life without you Loki. I don’t want to have to share my world with someone else. It’s only ever going to be you.” 

Bringing his hands up to your wrists, he looked deep into your eyes, sorrow and hope swimming behind his facial features. 

“Maybe we can, although we have to prepare for the worst...but that doesn't mean we can’t try.”

Giving a small smile, he moved his hands to the back of your head, thumb caressing your temple, and leaned in to kiss you. Giving you all the reassurance you could’ve asked for. Pulling away from each other you continued down the path hand in hand. Closing your eyes you took a deep breath, serenity washing over you. 

Opening your eyes, you realized you were closing in on the front of the palace meaning you would now be in the public eye and the last thing you wanted was more gossip to fall upon you. Looking at your lover, you stopped walking, halting him in his tracks. Forcing him to turn around and look at you.

“What is it?”

You sighed, suddenly being overcome with emotion.

“Well, if we walked any further, everyone would see us and I wouldn’t want to cause any trouble for you…”

“...Trouble? For me?”

Loki scoffed, his signature smirk following.

“Love, all I’m known for is for causing trouble, I wouldn’t mind another notch on my belt.”

You were hesitant. You loved Loki and you knew your feelings were reciprocated through him, but it was difficult breaking from the chains of what you ‘were supposed to do’. It left you in such dissonance and yet you felt in your heart to rebel so fiercely that Asgard would immortalize your change. Your silence alerted Loki and he spoke again,

“Y/N, if we are to ever make any sort of change we cannot hide in the shadows anymore. We cannot separate and scatter like roaches when the light is shined upon us. We must bask in it. That is the only way we can possibly aspire to reach our goal of loving one another in true fulfillment.”

“You’re right.”

“I always am.”

You placed your hand back in his and Loki smiled down at you. 

“Ready to have the target on your back, Y/N?”

“As long as you’re by my side, I can handle anything.”

Walking out of the secluded area of the garden, you finally stepped into the light. For the first time in the last year being open about your courtship with Loki. Asgard’s God of Mischief and your parent’s worst nightmare. You felt armored for anything to be hurled in your direction with Loki was by your side and always would be. 

The anxiety of it all had yet to drain from your bones and you couldn’t help but draft up ‘what ifs’ in your head. As if Loki was scavenging through your brain, he gave your hand an inspiriting squeeze, bringing you back into your body and out of your head. If only you knew how the whispers of your choice in partnership would rain the fires of hell all too soon.