#rosie’s works 🎧⋆｡ °⋆

[rosemariiaa]

~Caffeinated Crush~

𐙚- pairing: Paige x Azzi

𐙚-synopsis: Paige works at a bookstore, and Azzi is the girl who comes in every day but never buys anything. When a spilled coffee incident occurs, she learns Azzi is sketching her in a nearby cafe.

𐙚- this is so cuteeeee, yes i am still currently working on chapter 3 of RMH so you’ll have that soon, but for now enjoy these cuties! happy reading lovelies 💌

𐙚-themes: fluff, au

𐙚- taglist: @thaatdigitaldiary @makethemhoesmad @sierrale8ne @ohbueckers @juspeaks @imaginespazzi @pbaz7 @bueckersbitch @xxloveralways14 @d3arapril @lupinqs @pazzilover101 @ashortyluvsports @absolutelydreadful

enjoy!!!

I should’ve never let Nika get in my head.

My thumbs hover over the screen of my phone as I scroll through yet another endless TikTok, airpods blasting maybe the best R&B playlist handpicked by the queen. Anyway, the store is empty—of course it is. It’s barely 10 a.m., and no one is running to a bookstore this early unless they’re sixty or a morning person.

Not me, though. I’m here because Nika decided to call me lazy last week and the whole team agreed. Said all my NIL deals made me too comfortable, like I didn’t just have the Big East Scholar of the Year award, not to be cocky or anything but doesn’t that mean i’m smartest to ever exist? Exactly. But no, she just still had to run her mouth, so now I’m working this dumb part-time job at “Bound and Brew,” where the only exciting thing is the smell of cinnamon wafting in from the café next door.

Speaking of which, I mentally add a bagel to my lunch break checklist. Asiago, toasted, extra cream cheese—don’t judge me.

I glance at the clock on my phone. Still early. My chin rests in my palm as I lean on the counter, half-heartedly refreshing the store’s Instagram page. No new likes. Big surprise. God, I have practice tomorrow, and for what?

My earbuds buzz with a notification, but before I can check, the door chimes.

My eyes flicker up, and there she is. The girl with the brown, coily hair.

She’s been coming here for weeks now. Never buys anything, just walks around, poking through shelves like she’s on some personal treasure hunt. I’m pretty sure she works at the café next door—I always see her there, either taking orders or perched by the window with a book in one hand and a green matcha latte in the other. Matcha. It’s alright, I guess, but I can’t help the silent judgment. gatorade > tea.

Her eyes meet mine as she steps inside, and I clear my throat, pulling out one earbud. “Hey, what can I do for you?”

She smiles softly, the kind of smile that’s more polite than warm. “You’re fine. I don’t need help yet.”

Her voice is quiet, soft enough that it almost doesn’t match the confidence in the way she carries herself. She’s bundled in a gray puffer coat, her pink sweatpants tucked into winter boots. The UConn shirt under her jacket catches my eye.

She goes to my school? Weird. I’ve never seen her on campus.

I nod, going back to my phone, but I can’t help the way my eyes track her as she moves through the store. Her hands graze the spines of books, pausing occasionally to pick one up, read the back, then put it back in place.

She doesn’t rush. There’s something careful about the way she lingers in each aisle.

I shouldn’t be looking (staring) at her like this.I really shouldn’t, but her hair is just…nice. Thick curls that spring with life, framing her face like something out of a painting. And her skin? Smooth, glowing, the warm tone almost golden under the soft overhead lights.

Wow. I’m really gay.

I snap my attention back to my phone, pretending to scroll. My heart’s doing that annoying thing where it skips.

When I glance up again, she’s at the door. Leaving already. She didn’t pick up a book or anything again.

The door chimes softly as it closes behind her, and I’m left staring at the empty space where she just stood.

She’s really, really pretty.

And just like that, I’m shaking my head, letting out a breath I didn’t know I was holding. Get it together, Paige.

This is supposed to be a job, not some secret queer daydream.

By the time my lunch break rolls around, I’m practically counting down the seconds.

The café next door is my safe haven. Warm, cozy, and always smelling like cinnamon and espresso. It’s everything the bookstore isn’t. I step inside, stomping the snow off my sneakers, and head straight for the counter.

There’s no line, which is a small miracle, but then I see her pretty face again.

Brown curls, her same shirt, pink sweats, and those same bright eyes. She’s standing behind the counter, tying an apron around her waist.

Oh.

I knew she worked here! Scholar of the year i told you.

“Hi,” she says when she spots me. Her voice is just as soft as before, but there’s something about the way she looks at me that makes my stomach flip.

“Hey,” I reply, trying to sound casual. “Can I get an asiago bagel, toasted? Extra cream cheese.”

She nods, her hands already moving to jot down the order. “Anything to drink?”

“Just a black coffee,” I say. “Simple.”

She glances up briefly, the corner of her lips quirking like she’s amused. “Simple’s good.”

Her gaze lingers a second too long, and I feel the faintest heat creeping up my neck. There’s something about the way she’s looking at me, like she’s trying to figure me out but doesn’t want me to notice. I definitely noticed.

I glance at her name tag, needing some kind of distraction. “Azzi,” I murmur under my breath. It suits her.

She catches me looking, her cheeks tinting the slightest pink as she fiddles with the pen in her hand. “It’ll be ready in a minute,” she says quickly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

“Thanks, Azzi.” Her name rolls off my tongue easier than I expect, and the way her eyes widen just a little makes it worth it.

Azzi ducks her head, pretending to check the order screen, but I can see the ghost of a smile tugging at her lips. She’s shy, reserved even, but there’s something so genuine about the way she carries herself. It’s almost refreshing.

As I wait, I glance around the café, the hum of chatter and clinking mugs filling the space. A few students are hunched over laptops in the corner, and there’s an older couple sharing a slice of cake by the window. The atmosphere is cozy, intimate, like something out of a movie.

“Bagel and coffee,” Azzi calls softly, placing my order on the counter.

I step forward, and for a split second, our hands brush as I reach for the tray. Her fingers are warm, a stark contrast to the cold outside, and I swear I see her inhale sharply before quickly pulling away.

“Thanks,” I say again, trying to meet her eyes.

“You’re welcome,” she replies, her voice barely above a whisper. She hesitates, like she wants to say something else, but instead, she bites her lip and busies herself wiping down the counter.

As I turn to leave, I catch her glancing at me again, her gaze lingering on my face before quickly darting away.

I smirk to myself, holding back a chuckle. So she does notice me.

Sliding into a seat by the window, I take a sip of my coffee, my eyes drifting back to Azzi. She’s leaning against the counter now, flipping through what looks like a notebook, nah definitely a sketchbook. Her curls bounce slightly as she moves, and there’s a faint smile on her lips, like she’s lost in her own little world.

For some reason, it’s hard to look away.

I finish my bagel way too fast, but instead of leaving, I sit there for a while, pretending to check emails on my phone while sneaking glances at her. She’s busy now, taking orders and chatting with customers, but every once in a while, her eyes flicker over to me.

It’s subtle—barely noticeable—but it’s enough to make my chest tighten.

When I finally get up to leave, I make a point to walk past the counter.

“See you around, Azzi,” I say, letting her name hang in the air.

Her head snaps up, her eyes wide with surprise. “Yeah, uh—see you,” she stammers, her cheeks flushing as she fumbles with a stack of napkins.

I chuckle to myself as I step back into the cold, the warmth of the café lingering in my mind.

This job might not be so bad after all.

—

The next morning, Paige finishes practice, her muscles aching but her mind buzzing with anticipation. She now knows Azzi works morning shifts, and though she tells herself she’s just stopping by for breakfast, there’s no denying the extra pep in her step as she drags Nika along with her to the café.

As they walk in, the comforting aroma of coffee and freshly baked goods fills the air. Paige’s eyes scan the room, immediately finding Azzi at the counter, focused on a stack of receipts. Her heart skips a beat.

Paige shrugs off her hoodie, tossing it onto the back of a chair at an empty table by the window. She and Nika sit down, glancing over the breakfast menu. Paige tries to act casual, but Nika, ever observant, leans in.

“Calm yourself down and find something to get.” Nika pipes up.

“Shut up,” Paige mutters, burying her face in the menu.

Just then, Azzi glances up and notices them. Her expression softens, and she waves, a shy smile spreading across her face.

Paige beams back, her cheeks tinged pink as she waves back.

“Hi,” Azzi greets, approaching their table. Her soft voice makes Paige’s heart flutter.

“Hey,” Paige responds, a little too quickly.

“What can I get you guys?” Azzi asks, pulling out her notepad.

“I’ll have eggs and a croissant,” Nika says, glancing between Paige and Azzi with a knowing smirk.

“I’ll take some pancakes,” Paige says, handing Azzi the menu.

Azzi jots down their orders and looks up. “What would you like to drink?”

“Orange juice,” Nika answers.

“And—” Paige starts, but before she can finish, she and Nika both say in unison, “Coffee, black.”

They burst into laughter, and Paige sneaks a glance at Azzi, whose dimples appear as she smiles.

“Got it,” Azzi says, gathering the menus and walking back toward the counter.

Paige’s eyes linger on her retreating figure, her gaze drifting downward until Nika snaps her fingers in front of her face.

“Yo twin, is that the girl you keep talking about in your sleep?”

Paige’s head snaps toward Nika, her eyes wide. “What? In my sleep?”

Nika leans back, smirking. “Yeah, I heard you last night saying her name over and over again. ‘Azzi, Azzi,’” she mimics, feigning a dreamy voice.

Paige’s face flushes. “Shhh! I don’t—whatever, I just say random stuff when I’m sleeping.”

“Sure, sure,” Nika says, winking. “But you keep staring at her. And she keeps looking over here.”

Paige shrugs, slipping into her usual cocky demeanor. “Well, I mean, it’s me. Can you blame her?”

Nika rolls her eyes. “Cocky ass.”

A few moments later, Azzi returns with their food. She sets Nika’s plate down first.

“Thank you,” Nika says with a grin.

As Azzi places Paige’s plate in front of her, she hands her the coffee. But before Paige can grab it, another worker bumps into Azzi from behind, sending the coffee spilling onto Paige’s shirt. Azzi stumbles forward, gasping as she falls right into Paige’s lap.

“Yo!” Paige snaps, turning to the worker. “Can’t you watch where you’re walking? You just made her fall.”

The worker mumbles an apology and scurries off as Azzi scrambles to her feet, her face burning red.

“I’m so, so sorry,” Azzi stammers, her voice shaking.

Paige brushes it off, trying to calm her down. “It’s okay. It wasn’t your fault. But I do need a new shirt now.”

Azzi looks stricken. “I—I think I have an extra one in the back. Come with me to the bathroom?”

Paige stands, turning to Nika, who is smirking like the Cheshire Cat.

“Shut up,” Paige warns, flipping her off as she follows Azzi.

In the bathroom, Azzi motions for Paige to wait while she fetches a shirt. As soon as she leaves, Paige peels off her stained hoodie, leaving her in a sports bra and sweats. She grabs a paper towel, wets it at the sink, and wipes the remaining coffee off her stomach.

When Azzi returns, she pauses for a moment, her eyes widening slightly before she quickly hands Paige a black t-shirt.

“Sorry again,” Azzi murmurs.

Paige grins as she pulls the shirt over her head. “You’re good. Thank you.” She smooths the fabric and gives a playful twirl. “See? Good as new.”

Azzi giggles, her dimples deepening.

Paige’s expression softens. “You have a really pretty smile.”

Azzi ducks her head, her cheeks flushed. “Thank you,” she says softly. “We should probably head back before my boss notices.”

“Lead the way, Miss Azzi,” Paige says, motioning dramatically toward the door.

As Paige returns to the table, Nika raises an eyebrow. “Everything good?” she asks, smirking.

“Shut up,” Paige mutters, sitting down.

Once they finish eating, Nika and Paige pack up to leave. As they’re about to walk out, Paige glances around, hoping to catch one last glimpse of Azzi. When she doesn’t see her, she sighs and heads for the door.

Just as she steps outside, she feels a light touch on her back. Turning, she finds Azzi standing there, holding a folded piece of paper.

“Hey,” Azzi says, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just wanted to say sorry again about your shirt.”

“I told you, it’s okay,” Paige says, smiling. “Things happen. And I love my new shirt.”

Azzi smiles nervously, then holds out the paper. “Okay, um, don’t think this is weird, but it kinda is? but it’s also- anyway I wanted to give you this.”

Paige takes the paper and unfolds it, her eyes widening at the detailed sketch of herself.

“Woah,” she breathes.

Azzi shifts on her feet. “It’s okay if you don’t like it. I just did it for fun.”

Paige fakes a pout. “And here I thought you did it because you liked me.”

Azzi blinks, her cheeks flaming. “Well… that too,” she admits quietly.

Paige grins, her confidence swelling. “This is so good I could literally kiss you right now.”

Azzi’s voice drops to a whisper. “I wouldn’t mind that.”

Paige steps closer, her hand cupping Azzi’s cheek as she leans in. Their lips meet, soft and tentative at first, before deepening into a kiss that leaves them both breathless.

When they pull apart, snowflakes drift around them, settling in their hair. Paige grins. “So, if I asked you on a date right now, would you sketch me again?”

Azzi laughs, her dimples showing. “Maybe.”

“Pretty please?” Paige pleads, pouting dramatically.

Azzi rolls her eyes playfully. “Fine fine. Since you’re begging.”

Azzi glances over Paige’s shoulder, spotting Nika in the distance, pumping her fist in the air and yelling, “Go gays!”

“Isn’t that your friend?” Azzi asks, raising an eyebrow.

Paige groans, dragging a hand down her face. “I don’t know her.”

[rosylix143]

you can call me rosy ♡°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

🎧🎶 unfair (felix) ▶︎ •၊၊||၊|။||||||။၊|• 2:47

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masterlist | taglist | requests (closed for now)

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hello everyone!! welcome to my little blog here.

pronouns: she/her, age: 21, skz biases: felix and jeongin mainly but also ot8 <3

here is where i’ll be writing my fanfics, and it’ll mostly focus on stray kids since they’re my pookies for life but i’ll write for other fandoms if i feel like it.

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rules:

i’ll probably write mostly fluff, since i’m not confident in my smut writing skills lol. but if the content includes mature themes or anything suggestive, i’ll be explicit about it, so minors don’t interact or you’ll be blocked. ageless and blank blogs will be blocked too.

since i’m not writing full on smut currently, don’t ask me to write any. i’ll let ya’ll know when i’m ready for it but the time isn’t now :,(

this blog is supposed to be a safe space, so any racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, or anything hateful is not tolerated at all.

please do not steal, repost, copy any of my content. that’s not very noice, so don’t do it. otherwise, i will block you. you are ofc free to reblog my work but reposting it is a big no.

if you don’t like my content, just scroll away or block me.

feel free to chat with me. i love talking with other stays so much :3333

that’s all the rules for now. hopefully we can all have fun here <3

[jessythebunny]

🚂 Ttte Oc's 🚂

From left to right

🩵°•Jenny•°🐰

🩵Jenny is a Moroccan engine, she was build in 1930 (in my AU), and she came to sodor in 1987, and she's the number 58 tank engine

🩵Jenny works in the railway by taking the mail train with Percy, they really love to work together and she's Percy's female best friend

🩵She also in her human form, she can turn into a human bunny engine, or a normal humanised engine according to her will, but she prefers to transform into a human bunny because she loves bunnies

🩵Jenny is innocent in front of others, but when she is alone, she performs devilish acts that even Satan himself could not think of, and she always causes confusion and delay

🩵she loves collecting flowers with Rosie, and distributes them to others, and she works also as an Easter engine and her job is distributing the Easter eggs and chocolates around the stations

🩵She doesn't have any interest in love at the moment, but she really simps for James, and she loves teasing him, he's cute when he's angry, Gordon can't help but giving her solutions to calm him down, and she loves to call him some cute nicknames like Jams or cherry pie or nom noms

🩵she's Mia (@miasonyson )'s best friend, and they spend their time by chatting with echother for hours, or drawing, and many things, she's close with Duck and Oliver, and she wished to be their adopted daugther, she loves playing with Toad and Skiff in the beach, and she wants to be really useful like Thomas

💚°•Creater•°✏️

💚this is just me in real life, I'm Hiba (aka Jessy the bunny) I'm the controller who's running this silly railway AU, and I'm responsable in these humanised engines, and I'm the one who gives them the orders or tell them what to do,They call me "the emo controller" because of my gloomy personality so I guess I deserve to be called by that, The human engines have to be useful or I'll smack their asses

🖤°•Mia•°🎧

🖤character made by @miasonyson

🖤Mia is an American engine who came from America to Sodor to start a new life in there, she's a young adult and she is 23 years old

🖤In fact, Mia is a vampire and loves drinking blood, Sometimes she loses control and can drink all of that person's blood and kill him

🖤Mia has a dirty mind, and when she hear someone's moaning in pain or sickness or something, she thinks about something nasty. ngl me either have the same problem

🖤Mia has a massive crush on Murdoch, and her normal Oc has a crush on Aiden (her oc)

🖤She's getting too lazy at work, and she tries as hard as she can to escape from working, but sometimes when she escapes, the controller finds out about her and she get insulted

🖤She's addectid to Odetari's songs, she finds his songs fire

🖤she's really a huge fan of pizza just like Jenny, Hide the pizza from them!!!

🖤She's close with Thomas, Percy and Rosie and she loves to be a mother for them, she finds Diesel 10 an asshole but cool at the same time, She likes to attend Lady's magic lessons

💛°•Marina•°🧜🏻‍♀️

💛she's the sodor resident fish woman™️

💛Marina came to Sodor but she was unconscious because her wrists were cut by a ship's propeller while she was diving on her way there, She was in a hopeless situation

💛She has a massive crush on Skiff, Because he was the only one who helped and comforted her, and he was the first to see her human form after a long discussion that took place between them, and he also told her that he could transform into a rail boat and he's not actuelly a human

💛Marina suffers from severe anxiety for her life, because there are fishermen trying to catch her and kill her, so she tries not to appear much on the island to avoid any harm, and she makes sure to wear her clothes on

💛Marina is an orphan of parents, and she really hopes that she will have a sister, because she was the only one for her parents and she was feeling lonely because of that, and her parents did not allow her to swim outside the water because of the presence of the fishermen, but unfortunately her parents died because they were stubborn, and for this reason Marina suffers from axiety

💛she loves spends her time with Duck and he's her best friend, and also with Oliver and Toad, especially Toad, she would do anything for him, also close with Donald and Douglas and she treats them like her brothers, She doesn't hate Diesel 10 and she treats him very nicely, but she hates Diesel because of his rudeness, She also spends time with some female engines like Emily and Rosie and Mavis and Molly, And also close with Thomas and Percy and she plays the role of a mother to them and ensures that no disaster occurs on their part

[dre4ml4nd-st4rlight]

Masc Ball joint doll ' Star 's Choice ' for Anon. Ngl were probably going to form this one ourselves so its a little- bias ig hehe

｡･::･ﾟ★,｡･::･ﾟ☆ ｡･::･ﾟ★,｡･::･ﾟ☆ ｡･::･ﾟ★,｡･::･ﾟ☆ ｡･::･ﾟ★,｡･::･ﾟ☆

「 ✦ Base ID ‘ s ✦ 」**

╰┈➤ names : Angelo , Vincent , Snow , Calder , Arbor , Asher , Linus , Finch , Sullivan , River ,

╰┈➤ ****Pronouns : he/him , it/its , xe/xem , doll/dolls , day/days , h♢/h♢m , lost/losts , book/books , odd/odds , pillow/pillows , plush/plushies , cloud/clouds , vers/verses ,

╰┈➤ Titles : Other Dimensional Doll , ⌞ prn ⌝ who lives in the pages , ⌞ prn ⌝ who feels eternally , The Soft Dancer , Pillow Boy ,

╰┈➤ Genders : demiboy , femmasc , femboy , plushgender , interestspike , nonbinary , mascbluic , biolumistarric , cloudic , blue-idolic , bluecoloric , interestspike , ficticomfic

╰┈➤ Orientations : Achillean , MLM , gay , autoplushophile , plushophile , clothophile , objectum , achiphilia , fictozoophile ,

⋆｡𖦹°⭒˚｡⋆ other id ‘ s ๋࣭⭑ ꩜ ˎˊ˗

☾ Cis - doll ; ball jointed doll , ageless , other dimensional being , soft-spoken , autism , germaphobe , hopeless romantic , hyperemotional , sensitive , albino , changing eye colors ( changes from brownish/gold to blue at random ) , Tumblr user , ao3 user , aracial ; British + European presenting / raised , rosy cheeks ,

⟡ Trans - species ; demon + human + object head (book / plush head) , occupation ; librarian , dancer ( ballett ) , internet obsessed , Race ; Korean + KIdol , rich , time ; permaday + permanight , Perma virtual reality , transge ; perma- young adult , trans-fanfic-famous

ᯓ★ 「 ✦ Roles + Alter Functions ✦ 」. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁

dysphoria holder , attraction holder , memory manager , gatekeeper , memorative , daydreamer , fandom keeper

Calder’s role in the system is to withhold memories + feelings surrounding gender, love, and attraction when needed. If it is causing to much stress given other situations ( school, work, mental or physical help, social + familial, etc ) then h♢ will step in and remove the situation ( stop the body + other alters from feeling the emotions or even having them at all . ) Book either erases the attraction entirely , or turns it into a

⋆.˚✮🎧✮˚.⋆ Interest and misc details ⋆.˚✮🎧✮˚.⋆

Favorite colors : Blue, white, black, grey, light pink

is currently dating his jacket ( the black jacket seen in the faceclaim ) . It’s name is Smoke and char goes by he/it/char/sew prns . Angelo has been dating Smoke for many years, and xe sewed Smoke all by lostself .

hobbies + interest : masculine fashion , sewing dancing , music ( kpop , lofi , classical , folk music , generaly chill music , music with no lyrics ) , fanfiction , pillows + sleeping , libraries , books ( reading + writing + making all kinds of books ) , makeup ( looking at + doing ) , asmr , Internet ; fandoms ( kpop , M/m fic spaces , doll customization like Hexitan and Dollightful )

His room in headspace is a large bedroom with Asian and Korean influence. It is themed with his favorite colors, with some trinkets of other headmates scattered about. He has a computer where he writes the fanfic on, a large circular bed with cloudlike pillows next to a large window on the leftmost wall, and a door to a grand bathroom. There are two large shelves where many different books and CDs are stored.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩

── .✦ Photos + Aesthetic hoard

face claim

aesthetic hoard

[helloliriels]

HELLO POETRY MASTERLIST

BBC Sherlock/Johnlock poetry by @helloliriels

📃 One Thousand and One (Words on the Tip of My Tongue) :: John is processing his grief after the Fall ...

☕ Starstruck :: It seems John has replaced Sherlock's knowledge of the Solar System ...

📃 I Fight the Need :: each time you leave, i bite back 'stay' ...

☕ Moving On :: The Empty Hearse Heart

📃 The Cranberry Jumper on John Hamish Watson :: a jumper so fine!

☕ I'm Drowning (And I Thought You Knew) :: The Lying Blogger ...

📃 RED :: it's an ink that will stain everywhere i wrote your name: on my heart, in my head, on the blog i wrote instead ...

☕ A Million Things You Don't Do :: Sherlock is fed up with the things John Watson doesn't do ...

📃 Empty Hearse :: They say you were a picture of agony; When they pulled you from my side ... [🎧]

☕ Undo Me :: this might be Sherlock's undoing ...

📃 The Next Time We Say Goodbye :: John is tired of being left ...

☕ He Smiles :: a haiku series following @7-percent 's fic Exposition - An Ex-Files Special chapter-by-chapter as I read ...

📃 Welcome to London :: There is a detective out there somewhere ... [🎧]

☕ Coffee, and then Coffee :: and still here i sip tea ... [🎧podfic available ]

📃 ... But I Can't Have Him :: and more the fool, me ...

☕ I Want to Love Him in the Sunlight :: a poetry re-mix of Clueda's Juxtaposition Ch. 42 ...

📃 Boxing Day :: John & Rosie accept Sherlock's invitation ...

☕ But I Can't :: a sherlocked re-write of W.H. Auden's poem ...

📃 You Speak and World's Awaken :: John in awe of how many ways Sherlock says his name ...

☕ Without a Clue :: I thought I knew what made them tick ...

📃 Somebody's Someone :: reconsidering 'Married to his work' ...

☕ 2-B-1 :: One heart, one mind, the perfect pair ...

📃 Third is Last Place :: So when it came (my time or yours?); (One life) (I had to choose...); I hope you know (he needs you more); That I would always lose ...

☕ This Ending :: It is what it is (and what it is is shit).

📃 Endgame :: In this game of one and two ... There is no room for three ...

☕ Your Orbit :: John will always be drawn to Sherlock ...

📃 Invisible Man :: a sherlocked re-write Claude McKay's poem ... [🎧]

☕ We'll Go No More A-Sleuthing :: a sherlocked re-write of William Ernest Henley's poem ...

📃 Distractions :: Sherlock needs to solve this case, tonight preferably ...

☕ Sherlock is LIT :: a series of blackout poems made from pages of classic lit (a.k.a. finding Sherlock between the lines). I'm especially proud of THE FALL: taken from a page in Alice in Wonderland ... can you guess which? 😏

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

The HELLO POETRY collection on AO3 [🎧if podfic avail.]

[prkwook]

CUPID 💌🏹

IN WHICH our cast plays cupid for their loser (endearingly) friends who can’t seem to take their own relationship advice.

CHAPTER 002. sneaky little tax evader (smau + written) 🎧

“HI!” you greet the boy that you’ve been not-so-secretly eyeing for the past hour and a half.

“Hi!” he smiles. you internally melt and almost don’t notice the hands belonging to the boy in front of you that are giving you a book to check out. He doesn’t break eye contact once. Usually, that would be a little odd and would kind of sketch you out but there’s just something about his big brown eyes that makes you feel safe.

“Will that be all for you today?” you ask. You’re the one to finally break eye contact, but only to quickly look down so you can locate the barcode and scan it. Your eyes graze over the cover, “The Crisis of the 3rd Century? Interesting choice…” You must have a quizzical look on your face because he laughs and it’s the most beautiful sound you think you’ve ever heard. 

“I know. It's one of my favorite things to whip out at trivia night. No one ever sees it coming! First, it’s the Quadratic Formula … easy peasy … and then Boom! It’s the near collapse of Ancient Rome! Well, that and the fact that Henry David Thoreau committed tax evasion. Multiple times.” 

“Oh my gosh, no way… no one ever knows about that! Every time I reference it, my friends think I'm some sort of nerd. Not that you’re a nerd or anything.” you could’ve rambled on and on but a thought pops up and stops you in your tracks. “I'm sorry, I just have to ask. Exactly how often do you think about the Roman Empire, and I’m not talking about The Gladiator (2000) with Russell Crowe all oiled up Roman Empire. I’m talking like actual Roman Empire?”

“Trust me … you don’t want to know. “ the pretty, brown haired boy replies while trying his best to look serious. It doesn’t work though because a few seconds later, he bursts into the same laughter as before and you swear your world stops for a second. All you can do is pray that he doesn’t hear your heart about to beat right out of your chest. In an attempt to hide your rosy cheeks, you look away from him and towards the register which now displays his total. 

“Your total is going to be $15.89 today, cash or card?”

He pulls out a $20 from what seems to be an off-brand Lightning McQueen wallet and hands it to you. You take it, put it in the register, and give him back his change. He takes it from you with a smile that you’re convinced could bring world peace and drops all $4.11 into the tip jar sitting on the counter in front of you. He says “Have a good evening.” to which you reply “you too.” and watch him walk out the door, bag and cup in hand.

“Woah, your cheeks are redder than a tomato. Be honest, on a scale of 1 to 10, how down bad are you?” Taerae, your best friend, questions as he walks over from his post at Bluebird, the in-store cafe that sits right by the checkout and also happens to give him the perfect view of what just went down.

You sigh and dramatically place a hand to your forehead as if you’re swooning. “I fear I’m in love and I don’t even know his name.”

🔭 ★ mlist. previous. next.

☆★ TAGLIST:  @annoyingbitch83 @vernonburger @doiedecimal @taekwondoes @imthisclosetokms @kaynunu (bold can't be tagged ; pls check your settings + make sure u can be tagged ... ty ^_^)

want to join? -> taglist form . 🫀

[tubatututuz]

🪼🌟💫

••••

🎧 intro!! 💮

rosie || minors dni!! (nsfw, etc blog) || txt (majority of my works will be abt txt), bp, skz, twice, etc!

pronouns : she/her 🫧 | english is also not my first language!! so if something i say doesn’t make sense please correct it!!

this is my first post (other than the other posts ill be writing in the future) i can write for the groups i mentioned and more!

i recently joined tumblr!! so if im doing anything wrong please correct me as im still getting used to this 😭!!

🪐🪷⭐️

blog guidelines

i will not be writing fics between idol x idol

i draw the line at requests that mention rape, mental illnesses, odd kinks (such as piss kink, etc), mentions of abuse, etc, etc!!!

As of now i’ll only write for male x f!reader, because i don’t want to get anything misunderstood!! but ill try my best for female x f!reader !!!

💌🪭💌

🧴- fluff

🎐- angst

💿 - smut

🩰 - suggestive

TXT (Tomorrow X Together)

11:43 PM | C.YJ 💿

thigh riding with taehyun 💿

himbo!soobin 💿

🍰🩰📀

SKZ (Stray Kids)

check again later!!

🎧🩶🪐

Twice

check again later!!

🪐🎧🪷

BP (BlackPink)

check again later!!

🪼🫧⭐️

thank you so much for reading!!! ill be uploading my first few works later on!

🫶

[alphabetboyluvr]

ok i’m back.

“his forever home painting his childhood home”

EXCUSE ME WHAT??????? ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME??2!-?$:@-;?

stop making me fall in love with this man, i’m feeling tormented.

you told me to catch up BUT AT WHAT COST??? HUh??2?2? EXPLAIN TO ME!!!

if i recall correctly you said i’d be NICE! (technically it is but that’s not the point right now so anyways) IS PLAYING W MY HEART NICW TO YOU????????????? i’m like seconds away from exploding…

this is sick work.

~~~~~~~

ok so i’m updating these notes in real time and wow this story just gets better and better.

there are real tears in my eyes as i’m typing this. light by wave to earth came on and is now playing in the background. now whenever i listen to the song it will bring me back here. but you probably love that don’t you😭 JUST TAKING OVER MY LIFE!!!!

it’s the ass crack of dawn and i need to STOP or else i’ll find a way to teleport myself into this story.

excited but also equally terrified to see what the other chapters have in store.

🎧💌 sending love

p.s. love that you mentioned love, rosie and i think i saw you comment about normal people somewhere? you’ll literally so real for that. both have been incredibly life changing for me so feeling v connected to u.

also LOVE that ur a pisces🫂

mkay bye talk soon xx

welcome back!!!

ooooo isn't bd jk just the most romantic little fucker known to man? I fear i have excelled too well with him! no real man can compare!

it's funny you mention this, wave to earth are bd!jk's fave band he he. i decided on it literally a few chapters into the story, and so for that to be a song that reminds you of bd??? it's perfect!!

im currently writing for bd as we speak and it's sooooo cute :( but i am about to add a little roadblock in their way just because of who i am as a person lol

love, rosie and normal people altered my brain chemistry in such a deeply personal way. those who get them..... yeah. we're so deserving of a love like bd!jk!!!!

also... i fear you have been scammed!!!! i am a Capricorn </3 - but I'm a pieces rising he he (and am v pisces adjacent, if u ask me (we don't talk about my gemini moon.............))

hope you keep enjoying the story!! have a lovely day!!!

[aew-regression-cove]

.° ༘🎧⋆🖇˚ෆ. Miscellaneous Show Masterlist

• (🎁 = gifts for friends)

Caregiver Rosie Headcannons — (Hazbin Hotel.)

Caregiver Jefferson/Mad Hatter Moodboard — (Once Upon A Time.)

(working on a suited banner)

[jumpingjoolie]

Me and my bestie had this recent idea to make mlp ocs and just have them dating lol. Here’s the lore to them-

The gray pony is named Adeline Mary Rose but just goes by Rosy

The brown emo pony is named Caramel Kisses but prefers Monster cause she’s cool like that

Rosy is a royal pony in equestrian that lives in the crystal kingdom castle. She’s not a very known royal but she lives with princess Cadence since they’re distantly in the same bloodline. Rosy at 19 y/o started to develop attitude problems, and because her parents want to her act like a proper royal, they sent her to her distain relatives that live commonly. Rosy is cousins with Derpy, so they send Rosy to Derpy’s farm. For a while Rosy worked with Derpy in the newspaper shop, and she accidentally gave someone the wrong package. She went back to retrieve the package so she could rightfully give it to the owner, but in doing so Rosy found out that she gave the package to this unfamiliar pony that happened to go by the name Monster.

They laughed at the idea of Rosy’s silly mistake, and together they delivered the package to its rightful owner. This package was delivered to Pinky Pie, and she gave both Rosy and Monster sweet treats as a thank you. This is how Rosy made her first best friend in Ponyville! Over the time though they learn about each other and start to bond more than what regular friends do, and try understanding their feelings that develop for one another. Soon enough Rosy brings Monster to her homeland in the royal castle to meet her family. And on a romantic sunset near the window ledge, Rosy proposed the idea of the two being girlfriends, and Monster happily said yes!

They then live happily ever after 🩷🫧🎧

[neteyamyawne]

-‘๑’- Tag Index

- Na'vigation Dictionary

🌱 Spring ➺ Master lists

🌱 Style ➺ Guidlines

🌱 Support ➺ Emoji anons

🌱 Sapling ➺ Ask box

🌱 Sanctuary ➺ BYF/DNI

🌱 Blooming ➺ Taglist

🌱 Budding ➺ Prompts

🌱 Blossom ➺ Fic Recommendation

🌱 Batholite ➺ Tag Index

🌱 Breeze ➺ My OC

🌱 Earth ➺ Character ai

🌱 Water ➺ Avatar Archive

🌱 Air ➺ Taglist Forms

🌱 Fire ➺ My Playlist

🌱 Ether ➺ Writers Recommendation

🌱 Vaishnavi ➺ Myself

- Post Related

💐 : ɢᴀʀʟᴀɴᴅ / ᴍᴀꜱᴛᴇʀʟɪꜱᴛ

🌿 : ꜰᴇʀɴ / ᴛᴀɢ ɪɴᴅᴇx

🏞️ : ᴇxᴏᴛɪᴄ / ʀᴇᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴅᴀᴛɪᴏɴ

🪻 : ʟᴀᴠᴇɴᴅᴇʀ / ɢᴜɪᴅᴇʟɪɴᴇꜱ

🍃 : ꜰᴏʟɪᴀɢᴇ / ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ ᴀɪ

🌾 : ɢʀᴏᴡᴛʜ / ᴇᴍᴏᴊɪ ᴀɴᴏɴꜱ

🌸 : ᴄʜᴇʀʀʏ ʙʟᴏꜱꜱᴏᴍ /ʙʏꜰ-ᴅɴɪ

🌊 : ᴛᴏʀʀᴇɴᴛ / ʀᴇʙʟᴏɢꜱ

🌱 : ʙᴜᴅᴅɪɴɢ / ᴀꜱᴋꜱ

🌹 : ʀᴏꜱᴇ / ᴍᴏᴏᴛꜱ

🌷 : ᴛᴜʟɪᴘꜱ / ᴀɴᴏɴꜱ

🏵️ : ʀᴏꜱᴇᴛᴛᴇ / ᴏʀɪɢɪɴᴀʟ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ

🌪️ : ᴄʏᴄʟᴏɴᴇ / ɴᴀᴠɪɢᴀᴛɪᴏɴ

💮 : ʟɪʟʏ / ᴛᴀɢʟɪꜱᴛ

🍀 : ᴄʟᴏᴠᴇʀ / ʀᴀᴍʙʟᴇꜱ

🌻 : ꜱᴜɴꜰʟᴏᴡᴇʀ / ᴘʀᴏᴍᴘᴛꜱ

🌼 : ᴅᴀɴᴅᴇʟɪᴏɴ / ᴘᴏʟʟꜱ

🪷 : ʟᴏᴛᴜꜱ / Events

- Fic Related

🏙️ : ᴄʜɪʟᴅ ᴏꜰ ɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴇ / ᴍʏ ᴡᴏʀᴋꜱ

🌆 : ꜱɪʟᴇɴᴄᴇ / ʜᴇᴀᴅᴄᴏɴᴏɴꜱ

🌇 : ᴏᴜᴛᴅᴏᴏʀꜱ / ᴅʀᴀʙʙʟᴇꜱ

🌃 : ɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴀʟ / ᴏɴᴇ ꜱʜᴏᴛꜱ

🌉 : ᴇxᴘʟᴏʀᴇ / ꜱᴇʀɪᴇꜱ

🌁 : ᴡɪʟᴅʟɪꜰᴇ / ᴍᴅɴɪ

- My Moots

🎧 ➠ Sia | 🫧 ➠ Willow | 🌊➠ Dani | 🌝 ➠ Luna.

🌟 ➠ Star | 🌑 ➠ Perse | 🪩 ➠ Jazzy | 💜 ➠ Issy.

🌺 ➠ Xylina | 🐺 ➠ Loupe | 🌠 ➠ Sami | 🌼 ➠ Dalis.

🕷️ ➠ Zanabel | 💙 ➠ Blue | 🌬️ ➠ Eyrina | 🥀 ➠ Rosy.

🌸 ➠ Peony | ❄️ ➠ Keanu | 🎀 ➠ Moe | 🩷 ➠ Eden.

🦉 ➠ Oak | 🏩 ➠ Rae | 🩶 ➠ Zafrina | 🐾 ➠ Kenya.

💧 ➠ Mireya | 🌷➠ Jay | 🤍 ➠ Victoria | 🍜 ➠ Noodles.

𝐀/𝐍 : you can find fics and posts related to these, if you search these hastags 😊

©Neteyamyawne2023 | All Rights Reserved. Do not repost on other platforms, copy, steal, or translate any of my works!

[rosemariiaa]

~Snowed In, Wished Out~

˖˙ ᰋ ── pairing: Paige x Azzi

˖˙ ᰋ ── rosie’s note: hii, “little” xmas fic this is actually long asf sorry i got carried away. i really liked writing this one, it’s a little different but soo cute tehee. happy reading lovelies 💌

˖˙ ᰋ ── themes: fluff, language, sexual innuendo, alternate universe

enjoy!!!

I slam the trunk of my Jeep shut, the bags packed and ready for our weekend getaway. I glance over, watching Azzi come down the stairs in her Christmas plaid pajamas, that damn unicorn neck pillow hanging from her neck, and her pink bookbag slung over one shoulder. Her curls are wild, messy, but somehow she still looks so damn beautiful it’s impossible not to stare.

I shake my head, trying to pull myself together before she catches me looking. “You were taking forever. Are we gonna go or what?” I call out to her, tossing the last bag in the trunk and slamming it shut.

Azzi smirks and shrugs as she walks toward the car, that pillow bouncing with each step. “You’re lucky I even let you drive me to the cabin,” she teases, dropping her bag into the backseat and sliding in.

I can’t help but laugh as I move to the driver’s side. “Yeah, sure. You’re just lucky I’m not making you carry all the bags after all the complaints you’ve been giving me.”

Azzi kicks her feet up onto the dash once she’s settled in, grinning. “Psh, you’re lucky I’m even going with you. It was your idea.”

I raise an eyebrow as I slide into the driver’s seat. “Mhm, sure. That’s what they all say.”

Azzi turns to me, a smirk pulling at her lips. “Oh, all your little girlfriends? You say that to them too?” she teases, her eyes gleaming with mischief.

I roll my eyes, trying to keep my composure. “Mcht, you’re impossible.”

She just laughs, leaning back in her seat, clearly enjoying getting under my skin.

The moment I start the car, there’s this weird, heavy silence between us. We’re both trying to act like everything’s normal, but I can feel the tension thickening the air, the kind we only ever get when it’s just the two of us. I glance over at Azzi, and she catches me, of course, with that teasing grin of hers. I roll my eyes, trying to keep my focus on the road, but my gaze keeps drifting back to her.

“You’re staring mighty hard, huh?” Azzi’s voice is light, but I can hear the mischief in it. She turns her head, her eyes glinting at me. “Can’t blame you though. I do look pretty cute today.”

I bite back a laugh, shaking my head. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’re trying to get me to wreck this car.”

Azzi shrugs, leaning back in the seat and playing with the neck pillow like it’s the most interesting thing in the world. “What can I say? I’m irresistible.”

“Yeah, you wish,” I mutter, though the smile on my lips betrays me.

I keep my eyes on the road this time, but even with my focus there, I can feel her eyes still on me. I can feel the tension creeping up between us, that familiar pull. We’ve been dancing around it for so long, I swear sometimes I wonder if one of us will finally make a move. But not yet. Not today.

Two hours Later…..

I pull into the gas station, the engine cutting off as I park beside the pump. Azzi’s practically passed out in the passenger seat, head against the window, looking way too adorable for someone who’s been complaining for the last hour.

“Stay awake, ma,” I mumble under my breath, shaking my head as I get out of the car to pump the gas.

Azzi stirs, yawning, and stretches her arms above her head. “I am up and fine,” she mumbles, sounding like she’s anything but that. She pushes open the door, stepping out of the car, her plaid pajama bottoms dragging a little as she stretches.

“I’m gonna grab a snack, you want anything?” she asks, her voice still groggy.

I don’t even look up, focused on the gas meter. “Gum and blue Gatorade please,” I respond automatically, watching the numbers climb.

Azzi nods and starts walking toward the store but stops, turning back to me. “You got your wallet?”

I pause, staring at her, confused. “You’re seriously asking me that now?” I mumble, but she’s already waiting with her hand out. I roll my eyes, then pat the pocket of my sweatpants, pulling out my wallet. I toss it at her, trying not to smile at the way she looks at me with those big doey brown eyes.

“Thanks,” she says before heading toward the store, and I just stand there for a second, watching her walk off.

Once the gas is done, I lean against the car, checking my phone. A few minutes later, Azzi walks back out, arms full. One hand’s holding a bag of chips and candy, the other’s clutching my wallet. She walks up to me, handing it over without saying anything.

I look down at the wallet, then back at her. “How much was all that?”

Azzi shrugs, like it’s no big deal. “I don’t know, someone else paid.”

I blink, confused. “Someone else paid?”

“Yeah, some guy. He offered,” she says, popping a piece of gum into her mouth, like it’s nothing.

I’m still standing there, trying to make sense of it. “He just walked up and offered?” I repeat, jaw tightening.

Azzi looks back at me, completely casual. “Yep.” She shrugs again, grinning like she won something. “You don’t mind, right?”

I open my mouth to say something, but the words won’t come. I just stare at her, and she climbs back into the passenger seat, tossing another piece of gum at me before pulling out her phone.

I shake my head, climbing in after her, trying to ignore the slight irritation crawling up my neck.

We pull out of the gas station and back onto the road, Azzi sitting there with that smug, satisfied look like she didn’t just have some random ass dude paying for her snacks. She’s scrolling through her phone, one leg tucked up under her, completely unbothered.

I grip the wheel a little tighter, glancing her way. “You gon tell me what that guy said to you, or what?”

Azzi doesn’t even look up. “Not much. Just said I was cute and asked if he could pay for my stuff.”

My jaw tightens. “That’s all?”

“What else would he say, Paige?” she asks, finally glancing over with that sly smile that always makes me feel like I’m two steps behind her.

I scoff, keeping my tone light. “Dunno, ma. Maybe he asked for your number, too?”

Azzi laughs softly, her voice teasing. “You jealous or something?”

“Jealous?” I snort, shaking my head. “Nah. Just curious how you keep getting dudes to buy you snacks without trying.”

She tilts her head, studying me like she’s figuring out whether or not I’m being serious. “It’s called charm, Paige. Maybe you should try it sometime.”

“Charm, huh? That what you call it?”

“Yup.” She pops the “p” and goes back to her phone like we’re done here.

I shake my head, smirking despite myself. “You’re somethin’ else, Az.”

She hums, clearly pleased with herself, and we settle into a comfortable silence. The soft hum of the Christmas playlist she put on earlier fills the car, and the glow from her phone lights up her face. Every now and then, I catch her staring out the window, her expression soft and peaceful.

About twenty minutes later, Azzi perks up again. “Hey, can we stop for coffee?”

I glance at her. “Didn’t you just load up on snacks?”

“Yeah, but coffee is different,” she says, grinning at me like it’s obvious. “I’m trying to stay awake so you’re not suffering alone.”

I roll my eyes but take the next exit anyway.

We pull into a drive-thru, and Azzi’s already leaning forward, her eyes glued to the menu. Her curls are starting to fall out of that messy bun, framing her face in a way that’s making it harder to concentrate on driving. She’s chewing on her plump bottom lip, muttering something about whipped cream, and I don’t even care what she’s saying because, damn, her side profile is something else.

“Okay, they’ve got peppermint mochas,” she says, practically bouncing in her seat. “You’re getting one, too.”

I snort. “Black coffee’s all I need, ma.”

“Black coffee’s all you deserve,” she mutters, a smirk tugging at her lips.

I shoot her a look. “Watch it.”

She giggles, leaning further toward me, her elbow brushing mine. “You’re no fun, Paige. Live a little.”

By the time we get to the speaker, I’m more focused on her than the order. I clear my throat. “Yeah, lemme get a peppermint mocha, extra whip, and a black coffee.”

Azzi’s already rolling her eyes as she sits back. “You better not mess up my whip. That’s the best part.”

“Relax,” I mutter, pulling forward. “It’s not that serious.”

When we get to the window, a woman with a bright smile takes my card. “Hi there! How’s your night going?”

“Good,” I reply, handing her the card.

“Bet it just got better,” she says, flashing a grin that lingers a little too long.

I glance at Azzi just in time to see her jaw clench. She’s staring straight ahead, but the slight narrowing of her eyes gives her away.

The woman hands back my card, her fingers brushing mine. “Have a great night,” she says.

“Thanks,” I reply, barely holding back a smirk as I drive off.

Azzi doesn’t say anything, but the tension is thick. I glance over. “What’s wrong, ma? Thought you liked charm.”

Her head snaps toward me, her eyes narrowing. “It’s only charming when it’s not wasted on drive-thru ladies.”

I laugh, shaking my head. “Jealous?”

“Of her? Please,” she scoffs, but the way she crosses her arms and stares out the window tells me otherwise.

About an hour later, the city fades into snow-covered trees, and the roads get narrower. Azzi’s chatting now, telling me some story about Caroline and Yanna making fun of her unicorn halloween costume, and I can’t help but glance at her every now and then, the way her hands move when she talks, the way her laugh fills the car.

By the time we pull up to the cabin, it’s almost dark, and the windows are glowing with warm light. Snow blankets the ground, and the pine trees around us look like something out of a postcard.

Azzi unbuckles her seatbelt, pressing her nose to the window. “It’s so pretty,” she says softly.

“Yeah,” I agree, though I’m not looking at the cabin.

She catches me staring and smirks. “You’re gonna help me with my bags, right? Or is all that charm you’re always talking about just for show?”

I shake my head, laughing under my breath. “Get out the car, before I leave you here.”

Azzi’s laugh echoes as she hops out, and I follow, the cold air biting at my skin. This is gonna be an interesting weekend.

I park the Jeep in front of the cabin, snow crunching under the tires as the headlights illuminate the cozy log structure. The warm glow of lights from inside makes it look like a postcard come to life.

As soon as the engine cuts off, Azzi practically leaps out of the car. She runs ahead, sticking her tongue out to catch snowflakes, her curls bouncing as she spins in the cold air. She looks like a little kid, so carefree, and I can’t help but smile as I watch her.

“Azzi, grab a bag while you’re at it!” I call, shaking my head as I get out and head to the trunk.

“Nope! That’s your job,” she shouts back, laughing. Her voice carries over the crunch of snow beneath my boots.

I pop the trunk, pulling out her pink bookbag and one of the larger duffels. Glancing up, I see Azzi wandering toward the treeline, her hands shoved into her pockets, face tilted up to the sky.

I pause, leaning against the open trunk. The thought creeps in before I can stop it: Let this be the perfect Christmas. Let this be the year she’s mine. The perfect gift. Azzi, just… Azzi.

She turns back toward me, her cheeks flushed from the cold, her smile wide and unbothered. “You’re taking forever, Paige!”

I roll my eyes, grabbing the rest of the bags. “I’m carrying all your stuff, remember?”

Once I catch up to her, she’s already on the porch, brushing snow off her shoulders. The front door creaks open as we step inside, warmth enveloping us instantly. The cabin is quieter than I expected. No creaky floorboards, no howling wind, just a deep, peaceful silence broken only by the occasional crackle of the fireplace. It’s barely 7 p.m., but the exhaustion from the drive and the cold has settled into both of us.

Azzi stretches her arms above her head, her shirt riding up slightly. “So… nap first, hot tub later?” she suggests, glancing at me with a lazy smile.

I nod, suppressing a yawn. “Sounds like a plan.”

We grab our bags and head into the bedroom. There’s just one bed, but it’s not a surprise—this isn’t our first time sharing one. Still, it feels different now, and I can’t quite put my finger on why.

I pull out a white tank top and a pair of shorts, while Azzi digs around for her pink boxers and a Georgetown T-shirt. She holds it up, grinning. “You’re not gonna clown me for this, are you?”

“Not tonight, I’ll wait,” I say with a smirk, pulling on my tank top.

She rolls her eyes, tossing her clothes onto the bed. “You’re so generous.”

Once we’re changed, Azzi flops onto the bed first, wrapping herself in the soft blanket. I turn off the lights, leaving the warm glow of the fireplace to light the room.

Sliding in beside her, I make sure to keep some space between us. The bed isn’t small, but the air feels heavy, charged with something unspoken.

Azzi shifts, turning to face me. “Hey, Paige?”

“Yeah?”

She hesitates, biting her bottom lip. “Can we cuddle? I’m cold.”

Her voice is soft, almost shy, and it takes me a second to answer. I don’t say anything, though—words feel unnecessary. Instead, I scoot closer, sliding my arm around her waist and pulling her against me. She fits so perfectly, it’s almost too much to handle.

Azzi sighs contentedly, snuggling deeper into my hold. Her back is pressed against my chest, and her curls tickle my nose. The scent of her shampoo—something floral and sweet—fills my senses.

I stare at the ceiling, my arm draped over her. The warmth of her body against mine is distracting, her steady breathing calming yet unsettling all at once. My mind drifts back to the wish I made earlier, standing in the cold by the car.

Let this be the perfect Christmas. Let her be mine.

The thought loops in my head, over and over, until it’s all I can think about. I don’t know if wishes come true, but in this moment, with Azzi in my arms, I can’t help but hope.

Her breathing slows, and I realize she’s already fallen asleep. I press my cheek against her curls, closing my eyes.

The last thought that drifts through my mind before sleep takes me is simple but powerful. Please let this be the start of something real.

Next Morning: Alternate Universe

The morning light filters through the cabin’s curtains, casting a soft golden glow across the room. Paige stirs, still half-asleep, her arm instinctively reaching out for warmth—only to find the space beside her empty.

She opens her eyes groggily, blinking a few times to adjust to the light. That’s when she notices Azzi sitting cross-legged on the bed, already dressed in her pink boxers and Georgetown T-shirt. Her hair is a wild mess of curls, and there’s an easy smile playing on her lips.

“Morning, sleepyhead,” Azzi says softly, her voice warm and teasing.

Before Paige can fully process what’s happening, Azzi leans down and presses a kiss to her lips. It’s gentle but lingering, her hand brushing against Paige’s cheek as she pulls away.

Paige freezes, her eyes wide as saucers. “Uh—what was that for?”

Azzi’s brows furrow, and she lets out a laugh, sitting back on her heels. “What do you mean? I can’t kiss my girlfriend anymore?”

Paige’s heart stops. “Girlfriend?” she repeats, her voice barely above a whisper.

Azzi’s head tilts, her expression shifting from amused to slightly concerned. “Yeah? Girlfriend. You okay?” She leans forward, placing the back of her hand against Paige’s forehead like she’s checking for a fever. “Maybe you need to go back to bed. You’re sounding kinda crazy right now.”

Paige just stares at her, stunned into silence. Girlfriend?

Azzi shakes her head with a soft laugh and leans down to give her another quick peck, the scent of her shampoo and the warmth of her lips grounding Paige in a way that makes her head spin. “C’mon, get up. I’m starving, and you’re in charge of the eggs.”

She hops off the bed, her curls bouncing as she makes her way to the door. “Don’t make me come back in here and drag you out,” she warns with a grin before disappearing into the hallway.

Paige is left alone in the bed, her heart racing and her mind scrambling to catch up. She sits up slowly, glancing around the room like she’s expecting someone to jump out and yell, “Gotcha!” But the cabin is quiet, save for the faint sound of Azzi humming in the kitchen.

That’s when it hits her.

The wish.

Her wish.

Her breath catches in her throat as she remembers standing by the car, the cold air biting at her skin, and wishing with every fiber of her being that Azzi would be hers. And now… she is.

Paige runs a hand through her hair, her mind spinning. This can’t be real. Can it?

Paige sits on the edge of the bed, her hands gripping the sheets as her thoughts spiral. How is this happening? She glances around the room, her eyes catching the soft glow of the string lights Azzi insisted they bring, the small pile of their overnight bags near the door. Everything feels normal. Familiar. Except it’s not.

Her heart pounds in her chest as she replays the last few moments in her head. Girlfriend? The word echoes like a bell, loud and disorienting. She presses her fingers to her lips, where Azzi’s kiss still lingers.

She shakes her head, trying to make sense of the impossible. Last night, she’d been lying in this exact spot, holding Azzi close, thinking about the wish she made. A wish so desperate and earnest she could almost feel it in her bones. And now, it’s like the universe heard her plea and rewrote reality itself.

It feels weird—so weird it sends a chill up her spine. Like the world has tilted on its axis, and she’s suddenly stepped into an alternate universe. One where Azzi wakes her up with kisses and casually calls her girlfriend.

Not that she’s complaining. God, no. If anything, it’s exactly what she’s always wanted. Azzi is everything Paige has ever dreamed of, and now she’s hers? But it doesn’t make sense. There was no confession, no awkward “what are we?” conversation. No slow build-up. Just this—them—like it’s always been this way.

Her fingers drum nervously against her thigh as she takes a deep breath, trying to ground herself. But no matter how much she tries to rationalize it, her heart whispers the same thing over and over: The wish came true.

The thought sends a fresh wave of disbelief crashing over her. How could something so impossible just… happen? She glances at the door Azzi walked through moments ago, her voice still faintly humming from the kitchen.

Paige swallows hard. This isn’t just a dream. It feels too real for that. Too vivid. And yet, the strangeness of it all lingers, like an itch she can’t quite reach.

Am I in another universe? she wonders, her pulse quickening at the thought. It’s a crazy idea, but so is Azzi being her girlfriend out of nowhere. And what if this universe is temporary? What if it fades, or she wakes up, or worse, Azzi realizes something’s off?

Her stomach twists at the possibility. But then she remembers the way Azzi kissed her, like it was second nature. The way she smiled and teased her, like nothing in the world could be more normal.

A small, nervous smile tugs at Paige’s lips despite the chaos in her mind. Okay, fine. Maybe I’m in another universe. But if this is what it’s like? I’m not complaining.

She stands up, shaking off her unease, and heads toward the kitchen. Whatever this is, she’s not wasting it.

Paige stands at the edge of the kitchen, her breath catching at the sight of Azzi. The younger girl was at the stove, humming softly, her pink robe tied loosely around her frame as she flipped pancakes with a casual grace that made Paige’s chest tighten.

This was everything she’d ever wanted. Azzi. Here. With me.

She shook herself out of her thoughts and stepped forward, slipping her arms around Azzi’s waist from behind. Azzi froze for a moment before relaxing into the touch, tilting her head back slightly as Paige leaned down to kiss her hungrily.

Azzi chuckled softly against her lips, turning her head just enough to meet Paige’s kiss fully. Her hands moved to cup Paige’s face, holding her there for a moment before pulling back with a breathless laugh. “What’s gotten into you?”

Paige smirked, her eyes trailing over Azzi’s flushed cheeks. “Just taking advantage of my girlfriend privileges,” she teased, brushing her lips against Azzi’s jaw.

Azzi arched a brow, her laugh warm and melodic. “Oh, so you’re okay now? I was starting to think I needed to call a doctor earlier.”

“I’m fine,” Paige murmured, pressing a quick kiss to Azzi’s cheek before stepping back. “Better than fine, actually.”

Azzi gave her a knowing look but didn’t press further. Instead, she handed Paige the bowl of scrambled eggs she’d been working on. “Good. Then you can start on the eggs while I finish these pancakes.”

Paige took the bowl, grinning. “Yes, ma’am.”

The two of them moved around the kitchen in sync, a rhythm Paige hadn’t realized she’d been craving. It felt so natural, so easy. She set the table while Azzi finished plating the food, her heart hammering in her chest the entire time.

When they finally sat down, Paige tried to focus on her plate, but it was impossible. Azzi was sitting beside her, her curls falling loosely around her face, her smile soft as she buttered a piece of toast. She looked so effortlessly beautiful, so… hers.

Paige’s fork hovered over her plate, forgotten. Her eyes traced every detail of Azzi’s profile, from the curve of her nose to the way her lips pressed together in concentration as she carefully poured syrup over her pancakes.

“Are you gonna eat, or are you just gonna keep staring at me?” Azzi asked suddenly, not looking up from her plate.

Paige blinked, startled. “Huh?”

Azzi turned to her, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. “You’ve been staring at me this whole time. Not that I mind, but your food’s getting cold.”

Paige’s cheeks burned. “I wasn’t staring,” she muttered, stabbing at her eggs.

Azzi laughed softly, reaching over to nudge Paige’s shoulder. “Sure you weren’t.”

Paige glanced at her, her heart pounding. For a moment, she thought about saying something—about telling Azzi how surreal this all felt, how she’d spent years dreaming of moments like this. But she kept the words buried deep. If she said them out loud, everything could shatter.

What if Azzi didn’t believe her? Or worse, what if she did—and looked at Paige like she was some kind of madwoman? What if it ruined everything they had in this universe, this perfect little bubble where Azzi was hers?

Paige couldn’t risk it. Couldn’t risk losing Azzi, not when she finally had her.

Paige swallowed her thoughts, focusing on the fork in her hand instead of the beautiful girl sitting beside her. She’d made it this far without messing things up, and she wasn’t about to start now. They finished eating in comfortable silence, Azzi stealing bites from Paige’s plate as she cleaned up.

When Azzi pushed her chair back and stretched, her shirt riding up just slightly, Paige quickly looked away. But Azzi caught her, grinning mischievously. “Hot tub time?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Paige raised an eyebrow. “We just ate, ma. Shouldn’t we wait?”

Azzi pouted, her lips forming that little curve that always made Paige weak. “It’s fineee,” she pleaded, clasping her hands in front of her like she was begging. “Pretty please?”

Paige opened her mouth to argue, but Azzi wasn’t done yet. She leaned closer, her big brown eyes locking onto Paige’s with that soft, pleading look. “Pretty, pretty please?” Her voice was sweet, almost teasing, but the proximity made Paige’s face heat up.

“Y-you can’t just—” Paige stammered, her words cutting off when Azzi smiled and tilted her head. Paige sighed, already feeling her resolve slipping away. She gave a small nod. “Fine, fine. Hot tub it is.”

Azzi clapped, grinning as she grabbed Paige’s arm and pulled her toward the bedroom.

Inside, Paige went straight to her dresser, slipping into a blue bikini top and matching swim trunks. She turned around just in time to see Azzi standing in front of the open closet, looking adorably conflicted.

“I don’t know which one to wear,” Azzi said, holding up two bikinis. One was black, simple and sleek. The other was purple with tiny gold accents. She looked over her shoulder at Paige. “What do you think?”

Paige didn’t hesitate. “The purple one. Definitely.”

Azzi raised a brow. “You sure?”

Mhm.” Paige shrugged, smirking. “It’s my favorite on you.”

Azzi laughed softly, shaking her head as she turned away to change. “You’re so biased.”

“Maybe,” Paige teased, sitting on the edge of the bed. She tried to keep her eyes on anything but Azzi, but when the younger girl slipped into the purple bikini and turned around, Paige’s jaw almost dropped.

“Okay, what do you think?” Azzi asked, doing a playful twirl.

Paige leaned back, letting out a low whistle. “Gorgeous,” she said, her voice thick with sincerity.

Azzi blushed, waving her hand dismissively. “Stop it.”

“I mean it,” Paige pressed, her gaze lingering a second too long on Azzi’s toned stomach, the way the bikini hugged her curves just right, and how the purple made her skin glow.

Azzi smirked, noticing the way Paige’s eyes roamed. “Ready to go, or are you just gonna keep staring?”

Paige rolled her eyes, standing quickly to mask her embarrassment. “Let’s go, ma.”

They made their way outside to the hot tub, the cold air biting at their skin as steam rose from the water. Azzi slipped in first with a content sigh, sinking into the warmth. Paige followed, sitting across from her, the heat instantly soothing her muscles.

For a while, it was quiet. Peaceful. Paige leaned her head back, taking in the snow-covered trees around them and the faint hum of the jets. But then her gaze shifted back to Azzi.

Azzi had her eyes closed, her head tilted back as she let out a soft sigh of contentment. Her dark hair was damp, some strands sticking to her collarbone. Paige’s eyes roamed over her face, the curve of her jaw, her neck, and—she bit her lip, dragging her eyes away before they lingered too long.

It was like Azzi could feel Paige’s gaze because she opened her eyes and smirked. “What?”

Paige blinked, shaking her head quickly. “Nothing. You just look good,” she said, her voice quieter than usual.

Azzi’s smirk grew. “Oh?”

Paige nodded, swallowing hard. “Mhm.”

Azzi leaned forward slightly, resting her chin on her hand. “Well, are you just gonna sit there, or are you gonna do something about it?”

Paige’s lips twitched into a smile before she laughed, the tension between them thick but playful. Without another word, she shifted through the water toward Azzi, her hands finding the brunette’s thighs and pulling her closer in one smooth motion.

Azzi gasped softly, her legs instinctively wrapping around Paige’s waist. Her arms looped around Paige’s shoulders, her fingers tangling in her wet hair. “Hm you’re very bold today,” she teased, her voice breathless.

“Just taking advantage of what’s mine,” Paige murmured, her voice low, her lips brushing against Azzi’s.

Azzi’s teasing smirk melted as Paige kissed her, slow and deliberate. Azzi cupped Paige’s face, deepening the kiss, her lips soft and warm against Paige’s own.

Paige’s hands slid to Azzi’s ass, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them. The kiss grew hungrier, Paige’s tongue slipping past Azzi’s lips, earning a soft whimper from the brunette.

When Paige moved her lips to Azzi’s jawline, then down to her neck, Azzi’s breathing grew heavier, her hands tightening on Paige’s shoulders. “Paige,” she whispered, her voice shaky.

Hearing Azzi say her name like that sent a spark through Paige, her lips lingering on Azzi’s neck for a moment longer before pulling back slightly, her forehead resting against Azzi’s.

“You’re unreal,” Paige murmured, her voice barely audible over the bubbling water.

Azzi shivered, her grip on Paige tightening. Paige’s lips found a sensitive spot on her neck, and she pressed a lingering kiss there before teasing it with her teeth. Azzi’s soft moan filled the air, her body arching into Paige’s.

The heat between them was overwhelming, hotter than the water around them, consuming them both. Paige could feel Azzi’s heartbeat against her, rapid and unsteady, mirroring her own. It wasn’t just the physical closeness—it was the way Azzi melted against her, the way her name sounded when Azzi said it like that.

Azzi pulled back just slightly, her lips brushing against Paige’s ear as she whispered, “You’re not playing fair.”

Paige chuckled lowly, her hands still holding Azzi steady. “Who said I was playing?”

—————

“Well,” Paige murmured to herself, a faint smile tugging at her lips as she stared at the ceiling. “You know what happened after that.”

Her cheeks flushed at the memory of the hot tub—Azzi’s touch, her soft beautiful sounds, the way she clung to Paige like she never wanted to let go. Paige didn’t think she’d ever felt so… whole.

Now, hours later, they were getting ready for bed. The day had been perfect: warm cuddles, soft kisses, laughter as they roasted marshmallows, and shared stories. Azzi had taken dozens of Polaroids, her eyes bright with mischief as she captured silly faces and the occasional kiss. Paige had watched her with a soft smile, cherishing every second.

Paige picked up a Polaroid from the nightstand, tracing its edges with her thumb. Azzi was smiling in it, holding up a s’more like a trophy. Paige’s gaze in the photo wasn’t on the camera but on Azzi.

“I love her,” she whispered, the words soft but heavy. “God, I love her.”

Yet beneath her happiness, doubt lingered. This life, as perfect as it seemed, didn’t feel entirely real.

The sound of the shower running brought her back to the moment. Paige closed her eyes, trying to shake the uneasy thought. Then, she heard it—a voice.

Her eyes snapped open, heart racing. “Hello?” she called out, her voice shaky. No reply. But then it came again, soft and insistent.

“Go to the balcony.”

Paige hesitated but stood, her steps cautious as she slid the door open and stepped into the cold. “Hello?” she called again. “Is anyone there?”

“Hello, Paige,” the voice said, clear and calm.

Paige frowned. “Hi? Who’s there?”

The voice didn’t answer her question. Instead, it asked, “Are you happy here, Paige? Happy that your wish came true?”

A smile tugged at her lips despite the unease. “Yes. Very happy. Thank you. But… can you come out now? You’re kinda freaking me out.”

The voice chuckled softly. “This wish can last as long as you want. Your life here, with Azzi as yours—your girlfriend. But remember, this is not truly real. It’s just a wish.”

Paige’s smile faltered. “What do you mean?”

“You have a choice,” the voice continued. “You can wake up tomorrow in the real world, with Azzi as your best friend. Or you can wake up here, with Azzi as yours.”

Paige’s chest tightened. “Whatever I think tonight… will happen?”

“Yes.”

The voice fell silent, leaving Paige alone with her thoughts. She swallowed hard, unsure of what to say. “Thank you,” she finally whispered, though she wasn’t sure it was heard.

“Paige?” Azzi’s voice called from inside, breaking the silence. “What are you doing out there? It’s freezing!”

Paige turned to see Azzi standing in the doorway, her damp hair curling against her shoulders, wrapped in her pink robe.

“Just… enjoying the view,” Paige said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her.

Azzi tilted her head but let it go. “Come to bed. It’s warm.”

Paige nodded, slipping back inside. As she slid under the covers, Azzi curled into her, her warmth grounding Paige even as her mind raced. The voice’s words echoed in her head, leaving her torn between two impossible choices.

—————

Paige stirred awake, soft Christmas morning light filtering through the curtains. Azzi was still curled against her, dark curls splayed across the pillow, her hand resting lightly on Paige’s arm. For a moment, Paige just lay there, her heart swelling. She’d made her choice last night, and she didn’t regret it.

Glancing at the clock—10 a.m.—she slipped out of bed carefully, trying not to wake Azzi. She tiptoed downstairs to the closet by the front door, pulling out the gifts she’d hidden for Azzi over the past few weeks. Stacking them neatly under the tree, she spotted the boxes labeled “For Paige, from Princess.” Shaking her head with a smile, she added those too, knowing Azzi had probably forgotten.

Satisfied, she admired the setup for a moment, the glow of Christmas lights reflecting off shiny wrapping paper. The joy of the moment filled her, but she knew she had something important to do today.

Upstairs, Azzi was awake, scrolling through Paige’s iPad. Sitting in bed in her oversized Georgetown sweatshirt, her dimples deepened as she focused. Paige leaned against the doorframe, smiling at the sight.

“Good morning,” Paige said, moving to sit beside her.

Azzi looked up, her smile warm. “Good morning.”

Paige smirked. “Just need to make sure I’m in the right world this time.”

Azzi blinked, confused. Before she could ask what Paige meant, the blonde leaned over and licked her cheek.

“Paige!” Azzi yelped, swatting her arm. “What is wrong with you?”

Grinning, Paige muttered, “Yep. Right world.” Then, louder, “Maybe I am crazy, but you like it.”

Azzi rolled her eyes, laughing. “Merry Christmas, Paigey.”

“Merry Christmas, princess,” Paige said, grabbing Azzi’s hand and pulling her out of bed. “Come on. Time to open gifts.”

Azzi’s eyes lit up as she spotted the stack under the tree. “You set these all up?”

“Of course,” Paige replied, pulling her to the couch before Azzi could rush to grab anything. “But wait—I have something to say first.”

Azzi tilted her head, curiosity flashing in her eyes. “Okay…”

Paige exhaled, her heart pounding. “I love you, Azzi. Not just as my best friend but… more. So much more.”

Azzi’s eyes widened slightly, her smile softening.

“I’ve felt this way for years—since you came to UConn, maybe even before. But I was scared to say anything, afraid of ruining what we had. Last night, I made a wish, Azzi. I wished for a chance with you, and… here we are.”

Azzi stayed quiet, her gaze steady as Paige spoke.

“I prayed for this to come true because I couldn’t hold it in anymore. You genuinely mean everything to me, and I—”

Before Paige could finish, Azzi cupped her face, pulling her into a kiss. Paige’s eyes widened but quickly closed as she melted into it, her hands finding Azzi’s waist.

When Azzi pulled away, she rested her forehead against Paige’s. “I love you too, P. More than you could imagine.”

Paige blinked, her heart racing. “Wait… you do?”

Azzi laughed softly. “I’ve felt the same way for years. I was going to tell you on this trip, but you beat me to it.”

Paige chuckled, her forehead still against Azzi’s. “You were tired of waiting, huh?”

Azzi grinned. “So tired. But I’m glad it’s out now.”

“Well then,” Paige said, sitting back slightly, taking Azzi’s hands. “Azzi Fudd, will you pretty please be my girlfriend?”

Azzi rolled her eyes but laughed. “Of course, Paigey.”

They kissed again, slower this time, full of promise. When they pulled apart, Paige reached behind the couch, pulling out a velvet box.

“And now,” she said, opening it to reveal a delicate silver heart necklace, “your first official girlfriend gift.”

Azzi gasped, touching the pendant as Paige fastened it around her neck. “Paige… it’s beautiful.”

“Glad you like it,” Paige said, smiling. “If not, I’d have to return it and die of embarrassment.”

Azzi shoved her lightly, laughing. “Shut up. I love it. And I love you.”

She kissed Paige again, whispering, “I love you” between kisses.

Paige laughed softly. “You’re a good kisser.”

Azzi roles her eyes and grinned, her dimples on full display. “I know. Now can I open my other gifts?”

Paige gestured to the tree. “Go for it, princess.”

Azzi scrambled to the pile, tearing into wrapping paper with contagious excitement. Paige watched her, her heart full.

This wasn’t just a wish anymore. It was their reality. And Paige couldn’t wait to keep building it with Azzi by her side.

paigebueckers

liked by kamoreaarnold and others

paigebueckers Merry Christmas everyone. From MY MY MY princess and I.

kamoreaarnold

mom and dad WOAH

caroline.ducharme

finally

nika.muhl

we all knew already 🥱

—————

˖˙ ᰋ ── taglist:

@thaatdigitaldiary @ohbueckers @juspeaks @sierrale8ne @pattyshome @pattyshome @authentic-girl03 @pazzilover101 @imaginespazzi @makethemhoesmad @kmoneymartini @melpthatsme @d3arapril @lupinqs @ashortyluvsports @absolutelydreadful

[crazywitchkitty]

Trying to cheer myself up as the next lockdown looms in germany ... and this book did succeed.

it was a nice upbeat murder mystery in a smalltown ! 

[rosemariiaa]

~A Family Christmas Eve~

˖˙ ᰋ ── pairing: Paige x Azzi

˖˙ ᰋ ── rosie’s note: okkk, i loved the prompts in my inbox but i had two that were my favs so i out those together, i live for pazzi as moms omgg! but sadly this is the last oneshot until after a few chapter of HS, which should be coming out soon hah.. anyway happy reading lovelies 💌

˖˙ ᰋ ── theme: fluff

enjoy!!!

The living room is alive with the warm glow of Christmas lights reflecting off the shiny ornaments scattered on the coffee table. The smell of pine mingles with hints of hot chocolate from the kitchen, and the faint sounds of Christmas music play in the background. Azzi is kneeling in front of the couch, wrestling a tiny red pajama set onto a squirming two-year-old who has ideas of her own.

“Evie,” Azzi says patiently, holding up the pajama top. “Arms up, baby. Come on.”

Evie, soft curls framing her round face and lips set in a pout, crosses her arms instead. “Cookies,” she declares firmly, her voice carrying the kind of conviction only a toddler can manage.

Azzi sighs, sitting back on her heels and glancing toward the bedroom door. “Paige!” she calls out, clearly trying not to laugh.

“What?” Paige yells back from the living room.

“Your daughter’s holding me hostage,” Azzi shouts, her voice light but full of mock frustration.

Evie gasps dramatically. “Not hotage!” she insists, her little face scrunching up in indignation.

Paige appears in the doorway, her blonde hair pulled back in a loose ponytail, wearing a matching red pajama set. Her grin is immediate as she takes in the sight of Azzi kneeling on the floor and Evie sitting on the bed, stubbornly bare-armed. “What’s the problem?” Paige asks, crossing her arms.

“She won’t let me get her dressed because she wants to bake cookies right now,” Azzi explains, giving Paige a helpless look.

Evie points a tiny finger at Azzi. “Cookies now, Mama!”

Paige bites back a laugh and crouches to Evie’s level, her blue eyes sparkling with mischief. “Okay, Evie,” she says, her voice conspiratorial. “How about this—if you let Mama get you dressed, I’ll let you pick the first ornament for the tree. Deal?”

Evie narrows her eyes, clearly weighing her options before finally relenting with a dramatic sigh. “Fine,” she says, lifting her arms.

Azzi mutters a quiet “thank you” under her breath as she slips the pajama top over Evie’s head.

Just as they’re finishing, the sound of loud banging echoes from the front door. Paige groans, standing up quickly. “Oh my God. Who’s about to break our house down?”

Azzi stands, scooping Evie into her arms, the little girl’s curls bouncing as she giggles. “I have a guess,” Azzi says, smirking.

Paige opens the door to find the entire team—Caroline, KK, Ice, Morgan, Yanna, Sarah, Nika, and Amari—crowded on the porch in matching Christmas sweaters and grinning like maniacs.

“Twin!” Nika shouts, barging in first to give Paige a huge hug that nearly knocks her over.

“You can’t just—” Paige starts, but before she can finish, the rest of the team is pouring into the house, hugging both her and Azzi, and exclaiming over how festive everything looks.

“Where’s the star of the show?” Ice asks, looking around dramatically.

As if on cue, Evie wiggles out of Azzi’s arms and bolts toward Ice. “Auntie Icey!” she yells, throwing herself at Ice, who catches her with practiced ease.

“There she is!” Ice says, spinning Evie around.

The room quickly turns into a loud, chaotic swirl of hugs and laughter. Caroline helps Evie unwrap a candy cane, KK heads straight for the snacks Paige left out on the counter, and Amari spots the tree and claps her hands. “Alright, where do we start?”

“Nika, you’re slacking,” Azzi teases as Nika sits on the couch, already holding a mug of hot chocolate. “I thought you were her favorite.”

“I am her favorite,” Nika retorts, holding out her arms. “Right, Evie? Come to Auntie Nika.”

Evie scrambles out of Ice’s arms and runs to Nika, who picks her up and holds her close. “Told you,” Nika says smugly, sticking her tongue out at Azzi.

“Rah!” Evie says suddenly, spotting Sarah next.

Sarah grins, holding out her hand for a high five. “What’s up, Evie girl?”

“Moogan,” Evie says, pointing at the brunette, her small brow furrowed.

Morgan crouches down with a patient smile. “Mooorgan,” she says slowly, exaggerating the sounds. “Can you say it?”

“Moooo-gin,” Evie tries, frowning when it doesn’t come out right.

“It’s okay, baby,” Azzi teases, stepping forward and resting a hand on Morgan’s shoulder. “Morgan’s just the least favorite, anyway.”

“Wow, Fudd,” Morgan deadpans, narrowing her eyes as the group bursts into laughter.

Paige bites back a grin, watching Morgan attempt to recover her pride as Evie plants a soft kiss on her cheek to make up for it. “See? She loves you,” Paige says through her laughter. “You’re just not Nika.”

“None of us are,” Ice chimes in, throwing a fake glare at Nika, who’s still smugly cuddling Evie like a prized trophy.

“Alright, alright,” Azzi interrupts with a laugh, clapping her hands. “We still have a tree to decorate, stockings to hang, and yes,” she shoots a look at Evie, “cookies to bake.”

“Cookies!” Evie squeals excitedly, squirming until Nika sets her down. She dashes toward the kitchen, only to be intercepted by Caroline.

“Hold up, Evie. Ornaments first,” Caroline says, scooping her up and spinning her around.

Paige watches it all unfold with a fond smile, her arms crossed as she leans against the wall. She and Azzi have hosted team gatherings before, but this—everyone together, laughing, filling their home with chaos and love—this feels different. It feels special.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Azzi murmurs, stepping up beside her and bumping Paige’s shoulder lightly.

Paige turns her head, grinning. “Just thinking about how lucky we are. Look at this.” She gestures at the scene in front of them—KK and Amari tangled in lights, Sarah sorting ornaments while Ice takes an entire strand of garland for herself like a scarf, and Morgan carefully helping Evie pick the first ornament for the tree.

Azzi follows Paige’s gaze, her lips curving into a soft smile. “Yeah. We are lucky.”

“Also, you should’ve named her Christmas Eve,” Paige jokes, nudging Azzi again. “Because then it’d be Evie on Christmas Eve.”

Azzi groans, rolling her eyes. “Paige, that joke was awful.”

“No, no, it’s brilliant,” Paige insists, grinning even wider. “Tell me I’m wrong.”

“You’re wrong,” Azzi deadpans, but there’s no hiding the affectionate gleam in her eyes.

Before Paige can respond, Evie toddles over to them with an ornament clutched in her hand—a glittery silver star. “Mommy, Mama, look!”

Paige crouches down, holding out her hand so Evie can proudly place the star in her palm. “Perfect choice, baby,” she says, ruffling the little girl’s curls.

“Hey, Eve,” Nika calls from the couch. “Can I pick the next ornament?”

“No!” Evie says immediately, turning to look at her auntie with wide, scandalized eyes.

The entire room erupts in laughter, and Paige scoops Evie into her arms, peppering kisses on her cheeks. “Don’t worry, baby, you’re in charge tonight.”

Azzi watches them with a soft look on her face, her heart swelling at the sight of Paige laughing with their daughter. It’s loud and chaotic and entirely imperfect, but it’s theirs—this is home.

Just then, Evie runs to the window and presses her small hands against the glass. “Mama, Mommy! Deer!” she shouts excitedly, pointing outside.

Azzi and Paige exchange a surprised glance, walking over to the window just in time to see a small herd of deer grazing in their front yard, the snow lightly dusting their backs. The scene is serene, almost magical against the Christmas lights twinkling around their home.

“Well, looks like Santa’s helpers are here early,” Paige says with a grin.

Evie’s eyes light up. “Deers! Santa’s deers!”

Azzi wraps her arm around Paige’s waist, leaning in to whisper, “This is the Christmas magic I wanted for her.”

“Me too,” Paige replies softly, her voice filled with emotion as she pulls Evie into her arms, kissing the top of her head.

As the night goes on, the team makes themselves at home in every corner of the house. The tree gets decorated, stockings are hung, and the smell of cookies soon fills the kitchen as Evie proudly stands on a stepstool, helping Sarah and Caroline cut out shapes from the dough.

Paige sneaks a piece of cookie dough when Azzi isn’t looking, only to get swatted on the arm when she’s caught.

“Mommy!” Evie scolds, her little brows furrowed. “No eat dough.”

“Yeah, Mommy,” Azzi adds, giving Paige a pointed look.

“Traitors,” Paige mutters under her breath, though she can’t stop the grin tugging at her lips.

As the chaos swirls, Paige’s eyes narrow slightly as Morgan subtly nudges Azzi toward the dining room. “Az, can you help me for a second? These lights are tangled, and it’s a disaster.”

Azzi frowns, clearly suspicious. “Why can’t you ask KK or Amari?”

“They’ll just laugh at me,” Morgan says, pouting. “Come on, teamwork.”

Paige watches them disappear, her smirk growing as she turns back to the group. “Alright, you guys have five minutes, tops.”

“Five minutes to what?” Caroline asks, already grinning as Ice pulls a roll of wrapping paper out from behind the couch.

“To wrap Paige as Azzi’s present,” KK says gleefully, tearing a piece of tape with her teeth.

“Not this again, that’s not what we talked about,” Paige groans. “I swear—”

“Shut up it’s tradition,” Ice insists. “The wives have to be presents.”

“It’s dumb,” Paige grumbles, even as Nika swoops in to lift Evie. “Evie, do you want to help wrap Mommy?”

Evie gasps, her little hands clapping together. “Mommy’s a pwesent?!”

“Yep,” Nika confirms, pulling Evie into her lap with the red ribbon in hand. “Special delivery for Mama Azzi.”

“Traitors,” Paige mutters as Caroline and Amari start clearing space, KK expertly lining up wrapping paper. “Every single one of you.”

“You’ll survive,” Ice grins, pulling Paige toward the center of the room.

—————

Meanwhile, in the dining room, Azzi is watching Morgan fiddle pointlessly with a string of lights. “I still don’t understand why you needed—”

“Almost done!” Morgan blurts out nervously. “Just—wait here for a second, okay?”

Azzi squints at her suspiciously. “You’re stalling.”

Morgan flashes an awkward smile. “Team spirit?”

Azzi mutters under her breath as Morgan blocks the doorway again, a little too obviously.

Back in the living room, Paige stands awkwardly, her arms wrapped tightly against her body under crinkled red and white paper. Ice slaps a giant bow onto her shoulder while KK sticks the finishing tag to Paige’s chest. In wobbly toddler letters, it reads: “To Mama, From Mommy.”

“Perfect,” Caroline says, grinning at her work.

“Azzi’s gonna kill you,” Paige mutters as Evie bounces excitedly.

Amari peeks toward the dining room. “She’s coming back! Get ready.”

The lights dim slightly, and Evie squeals in anticipation as the team scurries into position.

Morgan finally gives up and pushes Azzi toward the doorway. “Go see your surprise.”

Azzi steps into the living room, freezing as her gaze lands on Paige—fully wrapped, ribbon-tied, and looking both annoyed and amused. “What… is happening?”

“Merry Christmas, Mama!” Evie cries gleefully, pointing at Paige. “Mommy’s pwesent!”

The team bursts into laughter as Paige shuffles forward, the paper crackling loudly. “Your wife is the best gift you’ll ever get.”

Azzi blinks, then breaks into a soft, helpless laugh. “Oh my God. You guys did this?”

Evie scrambles over to hug Paige’s leg, her little arms patting the paper. “Mommy’s pwetty,” she declares proudly.

Azzi walks over, shaking her head as she cups Paige’s face. “You’re ridiculous.”

Paige smirks. “So… do you like your gift?”

Azzi leans in, pressing a quick kiss to Paige’s lips. “I think I’ll keep you.”

The team erupts into cheers, Evie clapping happily as Paige grins triumphantly. “Told you I was the best gift.”

“Wrapped and all,” Azzi teases softly, her gaze warm as she takes in the chaotic scene of their family. “Merry Christmas, P.”

Paige’s smile softens, her voice equally tender. “Merry Christmas, Az.”

—————

˖˙ ᰋ ── taglist:

@thaatdigitaldiary @ohbueckers @juspeaks @sierrale8ne @imaginespazzi @makethemhoesmad @kmoneymartini @pazzilover101 @starlighttsv @lupinqs @absolutelydreadful @ashortyluvsports @melpthatsme @d3arapril @heyitssells

[rosemariiaa]

𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙧 01, 𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙧.

“I wish I was a normal girl, oh, my How do I be,

how do I be your baby?”

˖˙ ᰋ ── pairing: Paige x Azzi

˖˙ ᰋ ── synopsis: tell the truth?

˖˙ ᰋ ── rosie note: ahh first chapter! i’m really excited to see how this series goes..(i hope you guys are too). i do wanna say I will not be dropping chapters back to back just because ik each chapter will be long enough and also i have other things to do. but you never know what i have up my sleeve sooo just wait! i actually did cry a lot writing this so yw. happy reading lovelies 💌

˖˙ ᰋ ── themes: hurt/comfort, mentions of depression, some fluff

enjoy!!!

May, 2014. Virginia MN

Azzis days felt like she was wading through an invisible fog, where each step felt heavier than the last. She moved through school in a daze, surrounded by classmates and noise but feeling distanced from it all, as if she were behind a glass wall. Teachers spoke, friends laughed, yet nothing seemed to reach her, and nothing seemed worth responding to.

She leaned against her bedroom wall, her gaze fixed on the ceiling, the thoughts came like waves, too heavy to escape but too constant to ignore. At home, the silence only deepened. Her puppy was her only real source of comfort, a small warmth that reminded her she wasn’t completely alone.

Yet, even with him there, the sadness was like a relentless wave, threatening to pull her under. As she lay in bed, Azzi’s mind circled around her own thoughts, dark and tangled, the weight pressing down on her chest. Sometimes, she felt the urge to cry, but the tears would stall. Other times, they would pour out uncontrollably, as if her body knew it needed to release the heaviness she carried.

Azzi remembered words that lingered in her mind like a mantra:

“Cry. Cry for an hour, cry for a day, cry for a week. Cry until you can’t cry anymore, until the tears stop coming, until you feel better, until you heal.

Crying is your body’s way of releasing sadness; let it out and then let it go.”

But the letting go part felt impossible.

She knew she was lucky—talented, even—but that didn’t stop the weight pressing down on her, making everything she did feel more like a chore than a choice.

Sometimes it felt like she was just going through the motions: school, basketball practice, homework, repeat. But there was a deeper loneliness, one that made her question what any of it even meant. Every now and then, she’d think, Would anyone even notice if I disappeared for a day? A week? That quiet thought haunted her, lingering in the back of her mind as she navigated her days, waiting for someone to prove it wrong. But no one ever did.

Grabbing her laptop, she opened up her anonymous Blogspot account. Writing had become her escape, a safe place to let her thoughts spill out without anyone knowing they were hers. She’d been posting as @unicornpuppy35 for a while now, hoping someone out there might understand her, even if they never knew her name. A new notification popped up.

Azzi blinked at the screen, surprised to see a comment on her latest post. It was from someone called @boogers_p.

“hey, I saw your post about feeling stuck. I get that. I feel like that a lot, too.”

For a moment, she almost ignored it. Just another user on the internet, right? But something about the way they’d phrased it struck a chord. She found herself typing back before she even knew what she wanted to say.

unicornpuppy35: Oh yeah? What’s got you feeling stuck?

The reply came quickly.

boogers_p: lol, how much time u got? but mostly… everything’s just movin’, and i’m still here. it’s like ur doing all this stuff, but half the time u can’t even tell if u actually care abt it.

Azzi frowned, feeling that weird sense of familiarity in the words.

unicornpuppy35: Exactly, like a constant loop. But what’s the point, right?

boogers_p: fr! it’s like… i’m goin’ thru the motions but who even knows why.

A smile tugged at her lips. Whoever this was, they got it. They actually understood what she was feeling. And it was strange, but it made her feel just a little less alone.

unicornpuppy35: So, what’s your thing? Like, if you had to pick.

boogers_p: lol basketball. but sometimes i’m like… is this all there is?

Azzi blinked. Out of all the things they could have in common, it was basketball. Funny, or maybe just ironic.

unicornpuppy35: Wait, seriously? Are we living the same life or what?

boogers_p: guess that means we’re stuck in the same boat, huh?

Azzi let herself relax into the conversation, forgetting for a moment that she was talking to a stranger. She leaned back, fingers tapping against the keyboard.

unicornpuppy35: So, if we’re both stuck… what’s the plan? How do we get out?

boogers_p: girl, if i knew, we’d be out already, trust. maybe we keep chattin n figure it out.

Azzi laughed softly, a weight lifting from her shoulders that she hadn’t even realized was there.

unicornpuppy35: Deal. Looks like I just made a new friend.

There was a pause, then @boogers_p’s next message popped up.

boogers_p: btw, ‘unicornpuppy35’? gotta ask: what’s the story there?

Azzi rolled her eyes, smirking as she typed back.

unicornpuppy35: What? You don’t like it?

boogers_p: nah it’s cool, just funny. u like unicorns that much?

unicornpuppy35: Who doesn’t like unicorns? And I have a puppy, so it made sense at the time.

boogers_p: lol alright then, unicorn girl.

unicornpuppy35: “Boogers” is somehow less embarrassing to you?

The reply was fast.

boogers_p: hey! don’t come for my name. so do u even keep up w ball like that?

Azzi laughed, a real laugh, and typed, I mean, I love the game, especially the wcbb, but I barely keep up with men’s college basketball.

boogers_p: WHAT i can’t believe that …u at least know who Kyrie is right??

Azzi smiled, rolling her eyes as she typed, I know who he is, I just don’t watch him like that. I’m more into Breanna Stewart.

boogers_p: ohh okay stewie’s dope. but trust, kyrie’s handles r insane. hold up lemme get u the link.

Azzi barely clicked on the link before skimming, smiling at Paige’s excitement.

As Azzi sat back, scrolling through this user’s texts, a small part of her was overwhelmed by everything, like a weight on her chest she couldn’t quite shake off. It felt strange how this stranger’s blunt and funny messages could draw her out of her own head—even if just for a bit. She was used to feeling invisible, yes, her struggles buried under her quiet exterior, but this strangers presence, even from behind a screen, felt real.

A few seconds ticked by as she sank into her thoughts, that weight of loneliness and uncertainty creeping in again. She knew people saw her as the “soft one,” but beneath that, her emotions felt raw, and she wondered if anyone truly understood.

Suddenly, her phone screen lit up with rapid notifications.

boogers_p: hellooooooo? did u leave?

boogers_p: r u asleep already or smth??

Azzi’s lips turned up in a small smile. She quickly replied.

unicornpuppy35: “Geez, relax. I’m still here.”

boogers_p: “finally! thought I lost ya for a sec. kinda rude to just ghost me like that, you know?”

Azzi smirked, typing back slowly.

unicornpuppy35: “Yeah, yeah. Guess I was just thinking.”

boogers_p: “Ooooh, deep thoughts? Or like… deep-deep thoughts?”

Azzi hesitated, fingers hovering over the keyboard, but she quickly brushed it off.

unicornpuppy35: “nope, just regular deep, I guess.”

boogers_p: “good, I thought you might’ve been drafting your escape from my endless questions.”

unicornpuppy35: “ y’know you’re kind of funny , i’ll give you that. lol”

boogers_p: “ik ik. btw, where do you go to school? And don’t tell me it’s some fancy private place or whatever.”

unicornpuppy35: “Haha, what are you, a stalker? why do you wanna know?”

boogers_p: “what? nah, just curious! alright, lemme guess… you seem like a midwest kid. Iowa?”

unicornpuppy35: “nope, not even close. Try again, Sherlock.”

boogers_p: “alright, alright… new jersey?”

Azzi laughed, shaking her head at her screen.

unicornpuppy35: “nope. You’re pretty bad at this, you know.”

boogers_p: “whatever, I’m warming up! Um… cali? bet you’re like, all into the beach.”

unicornpuppy35: “keep guessing P! maybe you’ll get it right before I graduate.”

boogers_p: “damn, you’re killin’ me here. fine, one more—Texas?”

unicornpuppy35: “Guess you’re gonna have to stay curious, stalker.”

“P” sent a string of laughing emojis, clearly frustrated but amused.

boogers_p: “oh, okay, I see how it is. mysterious and all that. fine, keep your secrets.”

Azzi smiled, finding herself genuinely entertained by Paige’s playful determination to figure her out. It was nice, having someone care enough to ask.

Azzi shook her head, laughing at the sight of P typing “helloooooo?” over and over.

unicornpuppy35: Still here! Just still laughing at your terrible guesses.

boogers_p: ohhh shut up 😆 one day you’ll tell me!

As they continued chatting, Azzi couldn’t help but feel a little lighter, like maybe she wasn’t quite so alone after all.

————-

I glanced at the clock in the corner of my screen. Midnight. Crap. How had it gotten so late?

unicornpuppy35: alright, P, it’s late. I should get some sleep—school tomorrow and all 😊

I typed, hesitating for a moment before hitting send. I didn’t want the conversation to end, not when it felt so… easy.

The reply came almost instantly.

boogers_p: lame but yeah, same here. don’t oversleep, though, or I’ll roast you about it next time

I smiled softly, my fingers moving across the keyboard.

unicornpuppy35: gnn P

boogers_p: night unicorn, catch you later.

I closed my laptop, leaning back against my pillow with a soft sigh. My room was quiet except for the gentle snuffling of my puppy curled up at the end of the bed. I hated how much I didn’t want to stop talking to her—or whoever she was—but I could already hear my mom’s voice in my head if I overslept tomorrow.

Still, the flicker of warmth in my chest wouldn’t go away. For the first time in a while, I didn’t feel so alone.

————-

The warm weight of my puppy’s paws jolted me awake, followed by his enthusiastic tongue licking my cheek. I groaned, shoving him away gently before squinting at my phone.

“Crap.” 7:40. At least practice was after school today, but I still had school before then.

“Azzi!” Mom’s voice carried from the kitchen, sharp and frustrated. “Do you even know what time it is? You’re going to be late—again!”

“I know, Mom!” I called back, stumbling out of bed and tossing clothes around my room.

When I finally trudged downstairs, backpack slung over one shoulder, she was waiting, arms crossed. “Do you? Because this is becoming a habit. You need to start taking this seriously, Azzi. Coaches notice stuff like this.”

I rolled my eyes, grabbing a grabbing a piece of nutella toast from the plate on the counter. “It’s not like I’m failing or anything.”

“That’s not the point!” Her voice rose a notch, and I flinched. “You’re juggling basketball, school, and everything else. If you can’t manage your mornings, how are you supposed to handle the rest?”

“I’ve got it under control.” The words came out sharper than I intended, and guilt immediately twisted in my stomach.

She softened slightly but shook her head. “You have so much potential, Azzi. I just don’t want you to waste it. That’s all.”

I sighed, hugging the puppy briefly before heading out the door. “I won’t.”

Her voice followed me, softer now. “Make sure you don’t.”

As I stepped outside, the crisp morning air hit me, making me shiver slightly. My puppy barked once from the window, his tail wagging furiously. I couldn’t help but smile, even as Mom’s words echoed in my head.

She wasn’t wrong, but sometimes it felt like the pressure of living up to everyone’s expectations, especially hers was just all so suffocating. I jogged toward the bus stop, earbuds in, my mind already racing through the day ahead: school, practice, and maybe—if I had time—another chat with P.

The bus ride wasn’t much better than waking up. Just the usual hum of the engine and kids mumbling into their phones. I leaned my head against the window, the cold glass biting at my cheek, and zoned out. School wasn’t exactly a place I looked forward to.

By the time I walked into first period, I was already tuning out the chatter around me. The teacher called for us to break into groups, and I found myself sitting with three classmates who barely glanced my way.

“We should start with the data chart,” I said, glancing at the worksheet.

“Yeah, yeah,” one of them mumbled, already scribbling something down.

Another classmate leaned over to add something, completely ignoring what I’d just said. My lips pressed into a thin line. This wasn’t new. It was like my words existed in a bubble, bouncing off everyone and disappearing into thin air. I tried again.

“If we divide the work, we’ll finish faster—”

“Wait, no, let’s do this first,” someone interrupted, their voice cutting over mine.

I stopped mid-sentence, letting my pen drop to the table. They didn’t even notice. Just kept talking like I wasn’t there.

I didn’t bother saying anything else for the rest of the class. It wasn’t worth it.

By lunch, I was drained. I slid into a chair at the edge of the cafeteria, next to a group of friends who were already knee-deep in some conversation.

“Azzi, did you see that ridiculous shot Ty took in practice yesterday?” one of them asked, barely waiting for my answer before launching into their own commentary.

I nodded, offering a small laugh. It wasn’t worth jumping in. Every time I tried to add something to a conversation, it either got talked over or shifted in another direction.

But it didn’t stop me from noticing.

As I picked at my food, my thoughts drifted back to last night’s chat with P. They actually listened. Responded. It felt… different. Maybe that’s why it was still on my mind.

————-

By the time I got to practice, my head was already in a fog. It felt like no matter where I went, no one really saw me. At school, at home—was it too much to ask for someone to actually listen?

“Azzi, let’s go! You’re up!” Coach’s voice snapped me back. I jogged to the front of the line, grabbing a ball. Simple drill. Layups. Easy.

Except I missed.

“Come on, Azzi!” one of the captains called, exasperation clear in her voice. My jaw tightened.

I grabbed the rebound and tried again, but my footwork was off. The ball clanged off the rim.

“Focus, Azzi!” Coach barked.

I nodded, swallowing the lump in my throat, and got back in line. When my turn came again, I nailed the layup, but the damage was already done.

As we transitioned to scrimmage, it only got worse. I called for the ball—wide open on the wing—but my teammate didn’t even look my way. I sprinted to the other side of the court, yelling louder this time. Nothing.

“Azzi, move the ball!” someone shouted when I finally had possession, cutting me off before I could even make a decision.

It was like being invisible. Nothing new though.

By the time practice ended, my legs ached, and my chest felt even heavier than when I’d started. I stayed behind to shoot free throws, trying to shake off the weight.

One ball after another swished through the net, but the sinking feeling didn’t budge.

By the time I finally walked out of the gym, the sun had dipped low, painting the sky in soft pinks and oranges. My legs felt like lead, and I slung my bag over one shoulder, the strap digging in just enough to annoy me. God.

I spotted our car parked at the far end of the lot, Mom’s silhouette visible through the windshield. She was scrolling on her phone, waiting. I sighed, tugging my hoodie tighter as I trudged toward her.

As I got closer, I caught sight of my brothers in the backseat. Jose was watching something on his tablet, headphones on, and Jon was playing with a Rubik’s cube. Lucky them—they didn’t have to deal with “the talk” I was sure was coming.

The second I opened the door and tossed my bag onto the floor, Mom started in.

“So, your coach called me today,” she said, her tone sharp but controlled.

I froze, mid-seatbelt click. Great.

She said you’ve been distracted. Not focused. Is something going on?”

I stared out the window, watching the streetlights blur past. “I’m fine,” I mumbled.

“Azzi, ‘fine’ isn’t good enough. You’re not putting in the work, and it’s starting to show. You need to get your head in the game. You think colleges are going to be interested in someone who’s half-assing it?”

Her words stung, but I bit my tongue, glancing at Jose and Jon in the backseat. Jon was tapping away on his tablet, and Jose had his headphones in. Good. I didn’t want them listening to this.

“I’m not half-a wording it,” I said quietly.

“Oh, really? Because that’s not what I heard today. Your coach says otherwise.”

I clenched my jaw, willing myself not to argue. I couldn’t let this turn into something bigger, not with my brothers right here.

“Mom, I said I’m fine,” I repeated, more firmly this time.

She sighed, shaking her head. “Azzi, you can’t afford to slack off. You’ve worked too hard for this. Don’t throw it all away now.”

I stared straight ahead, tuning her out as best I could. My chest felt tight, but I refused to let it show. I nodded along, letting her words wash over me without sticking.

When we finally pulled into the driveway, I bolted from the car, mumbling something about needing to shower. The second my bedroom door shut, I collapsed onto my bed, burying my face in the pillow.

For a few minutes, I just lay there, letting the weight of the day press down on me. Then I grabbed my laptop and opened the chat.

unicornpuppy35: “hey, you around?”

The reply came quicker than I expected.

boogers_p: “yup what’s up?”

I hesitated, fingers hovering over the keyboard. How much could I even say without sounding like I was whining?

unicornpuppy35: “rough day.”

boogers_p: “wanna talk about it?”

I stared at the screen. Did I?

unicornpuppy35: “not really. just needed a distraction.”

boogers_p: “fair. ok, here’s a distraction: what’s your dream ice cream flavor? like if you could invent anything.”

I blinked at the random question, a laugh escaping before I could stop it.

unicornpuppy35: “that’s… so random.”

boogers_p: “that’s the point. distraction, remember?”

boogers_p: “but… you do know you don’t have to push it down, y’know? sometimes it helps to just let it out. Especially with me.”

My chest tightened again. It wasn’t like I didn’t want to talk—I just wasn’t sure how.

unicornpuppy35: “oh um okay, it’s just been a lot. school sucks, practice was worse, and my mom’s acting like I’m throwing my whole future away. But what’s the point in saying anything? It’s not like it changes.”

I stared at the screen, half-wishing I could take it back. But, I typed again.

unicornpuppy35: “it’s like… everybody talks to me like I’m supposed to change. like they’ve already decided what’s wrong with me and what I need to do to fix it. but how am I supposed to change when I don’t even know who I am yet? it’s like no one cares about that part.”

The typing bubble appeared almost immediately.

boogers_p: “damn, unicorn. that’s real. people are so quick to act like they know what’s best for you, but they don’t live your life. you don’t owe them anything.”

I felt a lump rise in my throat as I stared at P’s message.

unicornpuppy35: “exactly. like… they’ve already made up their minds, and nothing I say matters. but I don’t even know who I’m supposed to be yet. And then when I try to figure it out, they’re just like, ‘No, not like that.’ it’s so exhausting.”

boogers_p: “i get it. they want you to follow their script, but maybe their script sucks. you’re allowed to write your own, even if it takes time.”

My fingers hesitated over the keyboard. I feel the tears running down my cheeks and falling onto the keypad.

unicornpuppy35: “sometimes I feel like I’m never gonna figure it out. like I’ll just keep messing up until everyone gives up on me.”

P didn’t reply right away, and for a moment, I worried I’d said too much. I’m trying my best to wipe the tears that are falling, but they just won’t stop coming.

But then their message popped up

boogers_p: “ listen to me. you’re allowed to take up space, to mess up, to figure things out in your own time. screw what everyone else thinks. you’re not a project they get to fix.”

A shaky breath left my chest, and I swiped at my eyes before more of my tears could fall onto the laptop.

unicornpuppy35: “thanks, P. I mean it. you’re the only one who really listens.”

boogers_p: “anytime you’re stuck with me now, remember?”

I didn’t mind that one bit and for the first time all day, I let myself breathe.

————-

March 21, Minneapolis, Minnesota

I stared at the screen, the cursor blinking against the blank message box. Her words replayed in my mind like a song I couldn’t shake off.

“Nobody listens. Nobody sees me.”

I didn’t know what to say back, not really. Azzi didn’t just sound tired—she sounded done. And it scared me more than I wanted to admit.

My fingers hovered over the keyboard.

“Azzi…”

I typed..wanting to send but no.

I couldn’t. Not yet.

————-

taglist ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

@thaatdigitaldiary @patscorner @ohbueckers @sierrale8ne @mrsarnold @absolutelydreadful @authentic-girl03 @lupinqs @d3arapril @pboogerswbb @imaginespazzi

₊˚ෆ always lmk if u wanna be added to my taglist muah ₊˚ෆ

[rosemariiaa]

00 ᴘʀᴏʟᴏɢᴜᴇ

𐙚—pairing: Paige x Azzi

𐙚—rosie’s note: merry xmas my lovelies, this is my gift to you! happy reading lovelies 💌

𐙚—links: rosie’s bookshelf, series masterlist

𐙚—themes: time travel, angst (kinda)

𐙚— taglist: @thaatdigitaldiary @ohbueckers @juspeaks @sierrale8ne @bueckersbitch @pboogerswbb @lupinqs @makethemhoesmad @imaginespazzi @d3arapril @guesswhoitsn @xxloveralways14 @ashortyluvsports

enjoy!!!

The apartment is too quiet without her.

It’s been hours since Azzi left, her pink bonnet stuffed into her purse, the overnight bag she’d packed slung over her shoulder. She didn’t look back when she closed the door behind her, and Paige didn’t stop her.

Not this time.

Paige leans against the kitchen counter, staring blankly at the half-empty bottle of water in her hand. The sun is setting, painting the skyline outside her window in muted oranges and purples, but she barely notices. The air in the apartment feels heavy, suffocating in its silence.

Her knee aches from today’s workout—a reminder of the game she has in two days. She should be focused on that, but her mind is miles away.

Back to Azzi. Back to their argument.

The fight wasn’t about anything major. None of them ever were. But it was loud. Ugly. The kind of argument that feels like it’s about everything and nothing all at once.

“You don’t even try anymore, Paige!” Azzi’s voice had cracked with frustration, her hands clenched into fists at her sides. “You’re so scared of—of whatever this is that you’re ruining it before it can even work.”

“And you’re not?” Paige had snapped back, her voice sharp and cutting. “You’re the one with one foot out the door every time things get hard.”

Azzi had gone quiet then, her lips pressing into a thin line. It was the kind of silence that made Paige want to take it all back, but she didn’t. She couldn’t.

Instead, Azzi had turned on her heel, grabbed her things, and left.

That was three hours ago.

Paige swallows hard, setting the water bottle down on the counter. Her phone buzzes on the island, but she doesn’t check it. It’s probably her coach or a teammate, someone reminding her of the life she’s supposed to be living.

But all Paige can think about is the pink bonnet Azzi left behind. The one she’s worn every night since they were 19 and sharing cramped student apartments in Connecticut.

How did it get to this? How did they go from late-night talks in Paige’s dorm room to this endless cycle of arguing and leaving?

Paige sighs, running a hand through her hair as she drags herself toward the bedroom. Maybe Azzi just needs time to cool off. Maybe this is one of those fights they’ll laugh about later, the way they always used to.

She doesn’t even bother turning on the lights as she collapses onto the bed, burying her face in the purple blanket Azzi gave her their first Christmas together.

It still smells like her.

Paige closes her eyes, exhaustion pulling her under.

—

When I wake up, something feels… wrong.

It’s the light that hits my face first, warm and bright and all wrong for my LA apartment. Then it’s the smell—not Azzi’s perfume or the lavender candle that I keep on the dresser, but something familiar and distant.

My eyes blink open, and for a moment, I can’t seem to breathe.

This can’t be happening.

I blink again, but nothing changes. I stare at the spinning bookshelf, the neatly stacked trophies, the PS5 humming quietly on the dresser—it’s all there. The TV mounted on the wall shows the home screen I haven’t seen in years. My purple sheets are a little wrinkled, the fluffy blanket half spilling onto the floor, but it still smells like fabric softener and familiarity.

My eyes catch on the vanity across the room, where Azzi’s pink bonnet and my Bible sit side by side. My heart clenches. She always left them there.

My fingers dig into the mattress as I sit up, my knee protesting the sudden movement. This isn’t my apartment in Los Angeles. This isn’t my life now. This is… this is my senior-year room at UConn.

The student apartment. The one I shared with Azzi, Nika, Jana, and Ice.

I force myself to stand, even as my chest feels like it’s caving in. The layout of the room is burned into my memory, down to the picture frame sitting on Azzi’s side of the vanity. The photo is of the two of us, taken back when things between us were still too undefined to explain.

The blanket she likes to steal is still folded at the foot of my bed. Her favorite UConn hoodie is draped over my beanbag. A pair of her sneakers sits in the corner, her name written in small letters on the tongue.

Her stuff is scattered everywhere, like it always was, because we spent most nights sleeping in my room instead of hers.

I look around, desperate for an answer. For anything that will tell me this isn’t real.

But it is.

It’s all exactly as I left it in 2025. My senior year.

The year I ruined everything.

My phone buzzes on the nightstand. I grab it like it might give me an explanation.

October 12, 2024.

I nearly drop it. My hands are shaking as I swipe to my texts.

azzi: workout in 20 paigey, be ready when i get there

nika: tell Ice if she clogs the sink again with her hair, I’m moving out.

My breath catches in my throat. I read the texts again, trying to make sense of it, but they feel too familiar. Too real. My hands drop to my sides as the phone slips from my grasp.

This doesn’t make sense.

I glance toward Azzi’s bed. I was always glad my room was the only one with a spare bed, her bed was perfectly made like always. Her per led lights cast a soft glow over the walls, and the scent of her body lotion lingers in the air.

Memories rush back like a punch to the gut. The year we tried to be “just friends.” The year we failed. The year I let fear ruin everything we had.

I drag myself into the kitchen, needing space to think. The student apartment is quiet, but it feels like a time capsule. Jana’s mismatched sneakers are by the door. Nika’s pink Hydro Flask sits on the counter. Ice’s protein shake blender is still sitting in the sink.

Everything is exactly as it was.

But why? Why now? Why this year?

I stare out the window, the view of campus just as I remember. The ache in my knee pulls me back to reality. I know this feeling. I know this time.

I press my hands against the counter, gripping it tightly as the realization sinks in.

I’m back. Back in my senior year. Back in the year Azzi and I were finally supposed to get it right.

And I have no idea why.

My phone buzzes again on the counter.

azzi: coffee or no? answer my texts don’t be weird

Her name on my screen feels like a lifeline and a weight all at once.

This was the year it all fell apart.

But maybe, just maybe, it’s also the year I can put it back together.

———

𐙚— rosie’s note: okay psa, the chapters for this series should take too long to post, as i mentioned before i really do like this plot and it’s good for me to work with so you should’ve have to wait too long :) also hope u enjoyed muah!