#salon cosy

[blackliberationcollective]

Marseille Living Room Library Example of a large, modern, enclosed living room with a medium-tone wood floor and white walls but no fireplace or television.

[forevercaughtintherain]

Loft-Style in Bordeaux Inspiration for a mid-sized cottage loft living room renovation with white walls, no fireplace, and no television.

[chlcavalier]

[dolce-tenebra-toscana]

Me: goes to the hair salon for my usual treatment

Also me: comes out 2 hours later as a redhead

E porca miseria però 🤣🤣

I gotta admit i look super hot tho 👉👈

[fowlershow]

Library Family Room in Paris Family room library - huge contemporary enclosed bamboo floor and brown floor family room library idea with blue walls, no fireplace and no tv

[deco-maison-coussins]

Le plaid dans la déco : faites ressortir l’aspect cosy de votre salon

Associant esthétique et confort, le plaid est un accessoire pour lequel vous pourrez opter si vous voulez apporter une touche cosy au décor de votre salon.

Crédit photo: DagnyWalter via Pixabay

[mead-iocre]

Lover Girl | Leah Williamson x Spolied!Reader

synopsis: you might be spending valentines day alone

warnings: a veryyyyy spoiled girl <///3

word count: 3.5k

♡ ‧₊˚ ⋅ ౨ৎ ‧₊ .ᐟ

Picking at your nails, perfectly filed into almond-shaped, and painted in your favourite sheer blush pink colour, you frown. You hate the sight of your cuticles growing in. Looks like you are due for an appointment soon. You mentally remind yourself to give your favourite salon a call. 

Your girlfriend sighs over the phone. The screen blurs for a moment before you hear shuffling, sheets rustling. She was probably making herself comfortable in bed. The sight annoys you. Your girlfriend should be getting ready for bed beside you, in your shared bed, slipping into sheets made for two. 

Soon her face pops back up on the screen. Her back was propped up against the headboard, and she’s turned on the lamp beside the bed letting you see her face a little clearer. 

The sight also annoys you. 

Her stupid face should be right beside you. Not in some hotel room, not a whole plane ride away. 

“Quit frowning, baby” Leah breaks the brief silence. You don’t say anything, the frown on your face deepening, your eyebrows furrowing. “You’ll get wrinkles”

You relax your face immediately. 

“But you promised, Lee” You whine, thumping at the empty space on the bed beside you. “You said we’ll be spending Valentines Day together”

“I know, princess” She chides, her voice gentle. “but it’s a bit mental out here— almost all the flights at the airport are delayed”

You don’t relent. “So rent a private charter then” 

Your girlfriend chuckles, low and throaty, even though you don’t find anything funny right now. She rubs a hand over her face. “Baby, private jets have to follow the no-fly rules too”

You roll your eyes, audibly huffing at the absurdity of the situation. Did Mother Nature seriously expect you— YOU— the epitome of a lover girl, to spend Valentines day alone?!

Valentines Day was one of your favourite holidays. Top 3, actually. For a a girl whose heart beats in soft, rhythmic thumps; your world is bathed soft candlelights, scattered rose petals, and heart-shaped everything— you were the embodiment of romance. You believe in love like others believe in the stars.

And, oh, the way you give love—it’s like generosity flows from an endless river of affection. You love hosting intimate dinners with Leah’s teammates, and cosy brunches with close friends, complete with your Ginori 1735 Oriente Italiano pink porcelain tableware imported from Italy. You love writing handwritten notes, sealed with a pearly pink wax and kissed with a custom wax seal stamp with your signature. 

When you love, you love deeply. 

And that’s why it pains Leah to not be with you on one of your favourite days of the year. 

“I’m sorry, baby” Your girlfriend croons over the phone, the shitty signal of the hotel room only making the distance between you more obvious. “I’ll make it up to you next year, okay?”

She continues, “We’ll take a week-long trip so we can spend Valentines Day on a beach somewhere…."

You hum in response, nodding—albeit reluctantly. You heard what she was saying but you were still sad. It wasn’t your girlfriend’s fault that the weather was so bad that it made for unfavourable flying conditions. It wasn’t your girlfriend’s fault that she was currently stuck in a hotel room, instead of at home with you.

But that didn’t mean you had to like it. 

She tries to lighten the mood. “You still didn’t tell me how your day went. Did you—“

You cut her off. “Actually, Lee, I’m a bit tired. I think I might head to bed”

Now it was her turn to frown, her brow furrowing as she absorbed your dismissal. The screen flickered slightly, casting a soft glow on her face, but her expression was anything but relaxed. Her lips tightened, eyes narrowed in thought. Her fingers absently ran through her hair, her posture stiff. She bit her lip, clearly processing, before she cleared her throat. 

“Oh. okay, baby” She looked like she wanted to say something else, her mouth opening once before she closes it abruptly. “Yeah, yeah I’m sure you must be tired”

You rarely ended your FaceTime calls together early. If anything, you could probably count the number of times you had ended your calls early before the usual, drawn-out goodbyes on one hand. Tonight was getting added to that tally. The usual warmth in the conversation had faded, replaced by a quiet tension. You found yourself glancing at the clock, then back at her face on the screen, unsure of how to fill the growing silence.

You hated doing this to her, so you gave her this one thing. With a tight-lipped smile that barely reaches your eyes, you mumble a quiet “Night. I love you”

She mirrors your expression, although you can see the regret swimming in her eyes. Her gaze drops briefly, as if she’s trying to avoid the weight of what’s unsaid. “Goodnight. I love you. Call me tomorrow, ‘kay?”

“We’ll see. Maybe the storm will ruin that too”

Her mouth drops open at your unexpected sass. You were rarely mouthy, always so pliant and have to go along with the flow of things. “Oi, enough with the storm—“ 

End call. 

Throwing your phone to the empty space beside you, you huff audibly as you turn to fluff your 25 momme mulberry silk pillow. 

Ping. 

Ping. 

Ping. 

You ignore your phone, the glaring, physical reminder that your girlfriend is thousands of miles away. Burying your head under one of your pillows, you will yourself to sleep. Maybe it would hurt less if you stopped thinking about how you will be spending tomorrow lover-less and alone. 

♡ ‧₊˚ ⋅ ౨ৎ ‧₊ .ᐟ

You awoke slowly, the rays of morning sun filtering through the sheer curtains. Shifting beneath the covers, your body was still wrapped in warmth, but a strange heaviness settled on your chest. Blinking your eyes open, you let them adjust to the morning light. 

Reaching for your phone on the nightstand, you hope for a message, a call, something—a sweet "Happy Valentine’s" from her. 

But the screen is dark. 

Your heart sinks just a little, and you slide it closer, hoping it will come to life, but it doesn’t.

She was probably still asleep. London was five hours ahead anyway. 

The bed beside you is empty, untouched. The space where she should be feels painfully cold. You sit up slowly, the soft sheets slipping away from your body as you swing your legs over the side of the bed. Your feet touch the cool marble floor until you slip your feet into your favourite shearling slippers. Standing, you moving across the room with graceful steps, but slightly sluggish in movement. The softness of your pale pink lace nightgown, vintage Dior piece, swirl around your legs as you walk. There was no rush, no excitement. 

You walk toward the window, parting the curtains with delicate fingers, letting the morning light fill the room. You glance out at the London streets below, alive with the usual bustle. The city may be awake, but you feel like you’re in another world entirely—one that’s quieter, lonelier.

Your gaze drifts to the gifts on the coffee table— her favourite Lindt chocolates, a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers, a new watch gift wrapped in the familiar red and gold signature packaging, and a handwritten card filled with love. None of it feels as special without her. The love you’d hoped would fill the day feels miles away, even though she’s only a flight away.

You turn away from the window, and sit back on the bed. The silk sheets cool against your skin as you sink into them. You had spent weeks preparing for today—perfectly arranging the flowers that filled the flat with the soft scent of roses, every corner was filled with heart-shaped balloons and seasonal candles made special for the occasion. You had even bought a new dress for the holiday: a velvet dress in the deepest shade of rose, paired with diamond earrings that costed a pretty penny. 

Leah’s pennies, of course.

Your mind wandered back to the night when you had last seen her off at the private airport lounge, waving goodbye as your girlfriend boarded the plane. "I’ll be back soon, baby," she'd promised, her voice soft and sincere. 

Clearly that was not the case, you thought bitterly as you moved to start your day. 

You went through the motions of the day, trying to fill the empty spaces with something—anything—that will take your mind off the feeling that lingers. Luckily, you were able book a last minute slot with your personal pilates instructor, so you slip into your workout clothes, a soft pink set that hugs your body. The fabric feels cool against your skin as you pull your hair into a neat ponytail, eyes still tired from a restless night. You’ve done this a thousand times before, but today it feels different. It’s like you’re moving through a haze, your body here but your mind somewhere else. 

The Pilates studio is bright, the floor-to-ceiling mirrors reflecting the sleek décor. The instructor’s voice, calm and steady, fills the room as she guides everyone into position, but it doesn’t quite reach you. Your movements are precise, but they’re mechanical, lacking the usual grace. You can’t focus, can’t clear your mind the way you usually do. 

Instead, you think of her. 

You push through the hour, sweating through each movement, but it’s more about distracting yourself than anything else. The deep stretches and controlled movements don’t offer the release they usually do, and by the time the session ends, you’re not sure if you’ve achieved anything. You gather your things—your expensive water bottle, the soft towel—and head out, the cool air hitting your skin as you walk back to your car.

The day drags on, the clock ticking slowly. You scroll through your phone, checking it periodically in hopes of some update from Leah, but the hours pass with no word. You think about calling her, about filling the silence with her voice, but you resist. You don’t want to seem needy, don’t want to burden her with how much you’re missing her today.

At home, you head straight for the bathroom. The day has already stretched on too long, and the silence is starting to feel suffocating. You run the water, the steam filling the air. The hot water cascade over you. It feels nice, but it doesn’t wash away the ache in your chest. When you step out, you slide into the plush bathrobe that’s always waiting for you—lavender-scented and soft as a cloud.

You settle in front of your vanity and slip into your facial routine. First, the cleansing balm, then a serum, and a moisturiser after. The jade roller comes next, the cool stone soothing your tired face as you massage it in gentle upward strokes. The mask you apply next is made with organic, rare ingredients that promise to lift and brighten.You need some of that desperately right now. Allowing it to sit on your face for the recommended fifteen minutes, you flip through a copy of Vogue to pass the time, but the words blur in front of you. 

Reaching for your phone again, you stare at it as if willing it to light up, but there’s still nothing.

When you wash the mask off, your skin feels fresher but your mood remains unchanged. You slip into a soft cashmere robe next, pale pink and muted. You stand in front of your closet, looking at the endless rows of pieces, each one precisely selected to be part of your personal collection.

Then, your eyes catch it: the dress.

The one you had received weeks ago, the one you’d been imagining yourself in all day. A stunning Valentino piece in a deep, rich red. The kind of red that demands attention. The silk catches the light in a way that makes it shimmer like liquid.

It’s a dress made for a night to remember, and for the person wearing it to be remembered.

But today, it feels out of place. Today, it feels like a contradiction. You stand there, staring at it for a long moment, your fingers hovering just inches from the fabric. 

Pierpaolo Piccioli. Valentino SS25. A one-of-a-kind piece. 

You wonder if it’s just a waste to just leave it on a hanger. There’s no dinner reservation with your love tonight, no laughter shared over wine, no promises whispered under the dim glow of candlelight. It feels absurd to even consider wearing something so special when the one person who deserves to see you in this dress is not here. 

However, you had paid a lot for this dress, to have it tailored for you and the occasion, and it feels like a travesty to not put it on at least.

You can’t help but reach for the dress. 

Forget it. You put it on.

Your fingers trail over the lace again as you slip it on, the silk gliding against your skin. When you saw the model strut the runway in it, immediately you turned and whispered to your personal show consultant to schedule a meeting with the designer. It was a couture piece tailored to your measurements, every single curve, ensuring a perfect fit.

Pausing, you take a long look at yourself—and the dress—and think, Why waste such a pretty dress?

The dress clings to your body like it was meant for another life, another version of today—a version where she’s by your side, laughing, holding you close, making everything feel right. Instead, the silk and lace feel like an echo of something that could have been. You stare at your reflection in the mirror, twisting, watching how the fabric flows. You run your hands over, smoothing the fabric, appreciating the way it glimmers and glows in the mirror.

With an affirmative nod at yourself, you decide to leave it on for the rest of the day. Maybe it’ll help you feel better, maybe it won’t. But you owe it to the dress—and to yourself—not to let the day slip by without at least trying to make the best of it. 

♡ ‧₊˚ ⋅ ౨ৎ ‧₊ .ᐟ

The clock ticks, loud and constant, each second passing like the breeze in the wind. The city continues to hum with life—couples holding hands, flowers being delivered, the world celebrating love. But here you are, dressed up and alone, gazing at the lone bouquet of flowers sitting on your vanity table.

The silence in the room is almost too loud.

And then, you hear it.

A soft sound. A familiar sound. A key turning in the door.

Dashing out of the closet, you run like you never ran before. You can’t breathe. Impossible.

You fly down the stairs, barely able to stop yourself as you skid to a halt by the hallway, the door swinging open just in time.

You step toward the door, your pulse racing. Your fingers tremble as you grip the back of the sofa next to you, barely able to believe what you’re seeing. 

She’s standing there, suitcase in hand, eyes wide with disbelief—and then, when she sees you, her expression softens. 

For a moment, neither of you speaks. Leah's home. She’s here.

“I thought I’d missed it,” she says softly, stepping inside, her voice full of apology, but also relief. “I... I didn’t think I’d be back in time.”

Your eyes fill with sudden tears, the emotions that have been swirling inside you all day finally spilling over. “You’re here,” you whisper, voice trembling. You take a step closer to her, the floor cold against your bare feet but you did not care.  

Leah smiles, her eyes softening as she sets her suitcase down and reaches for you. The moment her arms wrap around you, pulling you close, you felt like you could breathe again. Her warmth envelopes you, and you close your eyes, breathing in the scent of fresh pears and mimosas. You cling to her, feeling the familiar rhythm of her heartbeat against your chest.

“I couldn’t let my girl celebrate Valentine’s Day alone,” she murmurs, her breath warm against your ear. She says it like it’s the most obvious thing in the world, like nothing could have kept her from being here with you.

You draw in a shaky breath, your heart pounding in your chest, your fingers trembling as you reach to touch her, as if to confirm that this moment is real, that she’s really here. You look up into her eyes, still in disbelief that your girl was home.

She brushes a stray lock of hair from your face, her fingers soft against your skin, and with a smile so radiant, so genuine, it lights up her whole face. She whispers, “Happy Valentine’s Day, baby.”

And in that moment, you realise that this—the two of you, together—is what makes this day perfect. The dress, the plans, the expectations—they all fade into the background. All that matters is that she’s here, holding you. 

“You made it…”

She pulls back just enough to look at you, her eyes never leaving yours, the intensity of her gaze making your heart race.

“Of course I did,” she says, voice thick with emotion. “I promised you, didn’t I?”

Her words, so simple, but so full of meaning, fill the spaces inside you. You reach up, brushing your fingers gently across her cheek, feeling the softness of her skin under your touch. She’s here, in your arms, and nothing else matters anymore.

You reach up on your tiptoes to kiss her, slowly at first, tentatively, as if testing the waters. The kiss deepens, slow and intimate. Her hands slide to your waist, pulling you even closer, her body pressing against yours as if she’s afraid you’ll slip away. Your fingers slide through her hair, the feel of it familiar, grounding, as you kiss her deeper.

You pull back slightly, just enough to breathe, but your forehead rests against hers. Her breath is warm against your skin, and for the first time today, you feel the peace you’ve been longing for. 

She smiles softly, brushing her thumb across your bottom lip. “You look incredible,” she says, her voice low and husky.

You smile, your fingers still tangled in her hair, your heart swelling with a love so deep, it fills every part of you. “Y’like it?”

“You know I do, baby” She smiles, her hands gently cupping your face as she presses a soft kiss to your forehead, her lips lingering for just a moment. And in that quiet, tender moment, you realise: this is what you’ve been waiting for. Not the day, or the dress, but her. 

Leah leans back just enough to study your face, her eyes tracing every line as if committing it all to memory, as if she’s been waiting for this reunion just as much as you have.

“God, I’ve missed you,” Leah murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper. Her fingers brush over the side of your face, so gentle, so tender, like you were the most precious gold to her.

“I’ve missed you too,” you reply, your voice trembling just slightly. You can’t remember the last time you felt so full of love. You don't know why you ever doubted that your girlfriend would ever leave you alone on Valentine's Day. “I didn’t think I’d make it through today without you.”

Leah chuckles softly, the sound like music to your ears. “Well, I couldn’t let you,” she teases, her hands running down your arms, sending a thrill through your body. “You’re stuck with me now.”

Her lips curl into a smile, and you can’t help but return it. You bury your face in the crook of her neck, inhaling the warmth of her skin, the familiar scent that has always made you feel like you’re home.

You pull back slightly, enough to look her in the eyes. There’s something raw in her gaze, something that mirrors your own feelings.

“You’re all I’ve wanted today. All I needed was you,” you whisper, your words thick with emotion.

Your girlfriend tilts her head, a smile playing at the corners of her lips. “Whatever you want, baby. Y'know that.”

Her words settle into your heart, and in that instant, you realize how right she is. It’s not the grand gestures, the fancy plans, or the expectations of the day that make it special. It’s this—her—standing in front of you, her love wrapping around you like a blanket, making everything else fade into the background.

You kiss her again, but this time it’s different. It’s desperate, it’s hungry, and it’s everything that’s been building between you for the past week. Her lips are warm against yours, her touch possessive and tender all at once.

Leah pulls back just slightly, her forehead resting against yours, both of you gasping for air.

“I love you,” she whispers, her voice thick with raw emotion.

Your chest tightens at the words, but you smile through the tears that threaten to spill once more. “I love you, too.”

In that moment, all the pain, the distance, and the time apart melt away. It’s just the two of you now, and that’s enough.

She smiles softly, her hand resting against your cheek as she gazes into your eyes, her expression more tender than you ever thought possible. “Happy Valentine’s Day, my love.”

happy (late) valentines day, my lovers (you). tell me if you hate it and I'll rewrite it

・❥・- kisses, butter

*This work is my original creation. Please don’t copy, share, or translate it without asking for my permission first. Thanks for respecting that!

[cherrynflowergarden]

જ⁀➴ birthday || dealer!matt x doll!reader

sturniolo masterlist taglist

────💌────

────💌────

matt woke up just as the first light of dawn peeked through the curtains, the soft hues of morning casting a serene glow over the room. he glanced over at his girlfriend, her features peaceful in sleep, and felt a surge of affection. today was her birthday, and he was determined to make it special. slipping out of bed carefully, he padded to the kitchen, his mind brimming with plans.

he moved quietly, not wanting to wake her, as he prepared her favorite breakfast—fluffy pancakes stacked high, adorned with fresh strawberries, a generous amount of whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup. He added a side fresh fruits, knowing how much she loved the sweetness in morning. a steaming cup of coffee, made just the way she liked it, completed the meal. as a final touch, he placed a single pink tulip in a small vase, a nod to her love for flowers.

balancing the tray, he returned to the bedroom and gently placed it on the nightstand. leaning down, he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. "doll? wake up love. happy birthday, dollie" he whispered. her eyes fluttered open, sleep giving way to surprise and delight. she sat up slowly, a smile spreading across her face as she took in the sight of the breakfast and the tulip.

"you did all this for me?" she asked, her voice still thick with sleep but laced with joy.

"of course," matt replied, sitting beside her. "only the best for my girl."

they ate together, sharing bites and quiet laughter, the cosy intimacy of the morning setting the tone for the day. after breakfast, matt reached over to the nightstand, retrieving a small stack of carefully wrapped presents. her eyes sparkled with excitement as she unwrapped each one—a delicate bracelet with tiny charms that held special meanings, a set of claw clips for her ever growing clip collection, and a beautifully bound journal for her thoughts and dreams.

the final gift was a special one — a handwritten love letter. as she unfolded the paper, her eyes skimmed over his words—thoughtful, heartfelt, and filled with love. by the time she finished reading, tears glistened in her eyes, and she threw her arms around him in a tight embrace.

"you always know just what to say," she murmured against his shoulder.

"only because i mean every word," he replied, kissing the top of her head.

the day continued with a visit to a chic nail salon, where she was indulged in a pampering session by him. he sat beside her, watching as she chose a soft pink polish with dainty floral accents. her face lit up with happiness, and he couldn't help but smile, content to see her so relaxed and at ease.

as evening fell, they returned home to get ready for dinner. she slipped into a flowing dress that hugged her figure in all the right places, while matt donned a tailored suit, his usual gruff demeanor softened by the sparkle in his eyes. they arrived at a fancy restaurant, the ambiance perfect with its dim lighting and elegant decor. over the course of the meal, they shared stories, clinked glasses, and stole affectionate glances, wrapped in the warmth of each other's company.

when they returned home, the day’s events left them both feeling blissful and content. in the quiet of their bedroom, matt drew her close, his fingers brushing against her cheek as he leaned in for a kiss. their lips met in a tender, lingering kiss, the intimacy deepening as they lost themselves in each other. the love they shared was impressive, a perfect end to a day filled with thoughtfulness and affection. wrapped in each other's arms, they knew this was a day they would cherish forever.

────💌────

an; GUESS WHO TURNED 19???? MEEEEEEEEE :3

tags; @eirianna @thebasicbiatch @katamcauley @wxnyzie @lilmear-blog @vrlixlia @star-fuck-off @embonbon @idkversace @annawilk @r0nnsblog @weluvwbb @c1ydessturniolo @vintagebishx @maddie-bell @timmdmdm @happydiplomatshepherdspy-blog @crispycitrus @faith-f1 @escapentropy @florscons @carlossainzwho @luckylampzonkland @lewisroscoelove @mudryklover @rageshots @dontworryaboutit007 @chair-things @myangelbaby555 @sheesh1311 @f1lovely @silia1raf @blahbel668 @my-dinos-life-is-good @ssturniolo92 @lilly6110 @lou-larcher5 @arminluvrr @mxryxmfooty @gabri3la-sturns @bellsboops @f1-and-shiz @emely9274 @starstrucktyrantinfluencer @kayla-hearts4sturniolo @unx100to @strnlslut

@mattslovergirlie @sarakpalsd @sweetobservationface @shadowthesim @mattslolita @cupiidk1lls @urloveanaa @t1llysblog @meatball10 @fiowerbeds

@mattsdolll @izzylovesmatt @mattsbow

[clarkeyhill]

☁️Smitten | Arthur Hill

[ You and Arthur met at an influencer party back in the summer, you hit it off really well, met up outside of work and got to know eachother. A spark erupted and you both felt comfortable enough to make a move on it, you've now been seeing eachother for 5 months and it's safe to say, Arthur is smitten with you]

Every chance Arthur gets to shower you in love, he never hesitates to do it. Being his first serious relationship his love for you is unmatched, going at any length to make you feel appreciated. You've both planned to go out for the night for a break away from work. You're scheduled to go and get your nails done so you head off to your appointment, you kiss Arthur goodbye as you leave the flat. Every time you leave him, you feel an inch of sadness even just for a minute. Being able to experience true love is all you've ever destined for and you've finally found it.

You arrive at your appointment and have a simple nail infill, you decide on a simple French tip but with emerald green tips for Arthur's favourite colour. Whilst you're out Arthur heads to the shop to grab you some flowers and your favourite drink, a peach iced tea. He picks out some tulips and sunflowers, his idea is to merge them together to make a big bouquet, two of your favourite flowers. You walk out the salon and call Arthur on your way home "hey baby, I'm just in my way back, do you need anything grabbing whilst I'm out?" You ask him, hearing beeping in the background of the call "no honey, I'm fine, just you will suffice" he replies back, you shrug off the noise "okay, see you soon!" You say, ending the phone.

You get to your flat and put your key in the door to open it, you push the door slightly and reveal a cosy looking Arthur with a bouquet of flowers and an iced tea in clutch, you put your keys in the bowl as you walk over to him. "What's this for Artie?" You ask him smiling "just because, you know. You've been supportive of my career and motivate me where possible, whilst also handling your own career and goals too and I appreciate it" he says, his cheeks a touch of pink from blushing, as if he was a school kid asking out his first crush. "Aw you know I'll always have your back baby, but Thankyou!" You give him a peck on the lips and hug him, his arms wrap around you like a warm blanket. You smell the flowers as you place them into a vase on the countertop. Looking at Arthur sitting on the sofa whilst doing so, you let out a small smile at him, blessed with such a kind and caring soul. Maybe he was smitten, but you were head over heels in love with him.

-

🫶🏻

[amandapalmer]

Sexy new author photo time! I never wear my hair down but I’m getting brave so you better believe I’m serious about getting back into being an author this year. And…while I have you here, a great excuse to talk about my upcoming book-y events. ✍️

Fate dealt me a great hand when I was working away in the Porter Square Books café a few months ago and I ran into the photographer Mark Ostow, who asked if he could take my portrait.

And boom, beautiful new author photo for me!

I am working on deals for several new books and it’s VERY EXCITING!!

And at the same time, I’ve been steeped in so many incredible and inspiring new books and made friends with so many POWERHOUSE GODDAMN WRITERS from the NY area…and hell, I have my own venue….

…so I decided to connect all the dots and I’m hosting three salon-style “in conversation” events this month at Graveside Variety, my little crowdfunded hidey-hole in Woodstock, NY.

Co-presented by our local indie The Golden Notebook Bookstore, only 50 tickets for every conversation (all tickets are $25 and help keep the venue afloat) and will include a Q&A with me and each author.

We are also curating a special book sale table for each event! There’ll be coffee and tea and tears and truth and I hope you all make the trip. This is the way I really wanna say goodbye to this iteration of this venue: with stories that don’t usually get told. With stories that matter. Come share in the moment.

I’ll be throwing down with authors:

Elizabeth Lesser (bestsellers “Broken Open” and “Cassandra Speaks: WHEN WOMEN ARE THE STORYTELLERS, THE HUMAN STORY CHANGES”)

May 12th - 12:30pm

Katherine Yeske Taylor (author of brand-new “SHE’S A BAD ASS: Women in Rock Shaping Feminism”)

May 18th - 1pm

Leslie Jamison (author of best-selling “The Recovering” and the new - incredible - “Splinters”)

June 1st @ 1pm

Get tickets FAST. Leslie’s day is nearing sold out. These are gonna be so so cosy and good. Read the books and come armed with questions !!!

All tickets here:

Gravesidevariety.com

We are at 33 Rock City Road, in Woodstock, NY

📚♥️🙏

[cool-fancier]

A Day Of Rest

Platonic BEBE x Reader

Synopsis: You planned a pampering, shopping, and karaoke day for you and the girls. Laughter and smiles strengthened your friendship, leaving everyone refreshed and grateful.

Minah, Bada, Lusher, Kyma, Tatter, Cheche, and Soweon have been struggling as an outcome of the Street Woman Fighter competition.  The lengthy hours of rehearsals and intense dancing duties had exhausted them all physically and mentally. You couldn't stand seeing them so tired as their best friend, so you thought it was time for a girls' day out to help them rest and unwind.

You called each of the girls one sunny morning and invited them to join you for a day of pampering and fun. They all agreed excitedly, and you could sense the joy in their voices as they enjoyed the break from the tough competition.

You were the first to arrive at Minah's house, greeted by her tired but bright smile. She'd been practising a difficult choreography , and her body was feeling the strain. "I can't believe you're doing this for us," she said as you hugged her.

"You deserve it," you said back. "We're going to have a great time, and I promise you'll feel refreshed by the end of it."

The entire group soon gathered at Minah's house, and laughing and talking filled the air. Bada, Lusher, Kyma, Tatter, Cheche, and Soweon were all thrilled about the upcoming day. They were aware that they needed a break, and you were determined to give them the best girls' day out they'd ever had.

Your first destination was the nail salon, where you had all made appointments to have your nails done. Each of your friends chose a distinct style, and the salon was buzzing with enthusiasm and relaxation. The nail professionals gave you all with attention, and the girls were speechless about how much they needed it.

Bada, in particular, had picked a design that consisted of her passion for dance, and she couldn't take her eyes away from her nails. "This is exactly what I needed," she murmured, gratefully looking up at you.

You went to a spa for pedicures after leaving the manicure salon. You couldn't help but notice the transformation in the group as you all relaxed in luxurious chairs. Their worn faces had been replaced by smiles and a sense of calmness.  The competition's stress had temporarily vanished replaced by utter peace.

Kyma, who had been experiencing the strain from the competition, sighed blissfully.  "I didn't realise how much I needed this," she confessed. "Thank you for doing all of this Y/N unnie, you're the best."

The rest of the day was spent shopping. You led them around boutiques and stores, encouraging them to choose something they liked. Each of them found  a unique object that made them grin. Sowoen even found a unique set of sunglasses that she couldn't help but try on, causing the entire group to burst out laughing.

The relationship between you and your girls became stronger over the day. The shared pampering and shopping experiences, along with the opportunity to enjoy one other's company without the pressure of competitiveness, provided a genuinely reassuring sense of friendship.

Tatter, who had been struggling with injuries from her dance missions, seemed to have forgotten her pain for the day. "This is exactly what I needed," she exclaimed, her face beaming with delight. "I can't thank you enough for this unnie, it means the world to me."

You all decided to go to a near park after a delicious meal at a cosy restaurant. The weather was shining brightly, and you had brought a picnic basket with of your friends' favourite snacks. The park became a haven of calm, with everyone sitting on a giant blanket, telling stories and eating snacks.

Lusher, who had been pushing herself to the edge during the competition, rested back on her elbows and took in the scenery. "I can't remember the last time I felt this relaxed," she admitted, tears welling up in her eyes.

The day was coming to an end, but you had one more surprise in store for them. You had booked a private room at a karaoke bar, knowing that it was a popular activity among your friends. Their cheeks lit up with enthusiasm the instant they walked into the room and noticed the microphones.

Bada, who was known for her loud voice, was the first to reach for a microphone. The girls joined in as she sang out a song, and the room filled with laughter and music. They sang their hearts out, forgetting all the competition's stress and worries.

Kyma, who is recognised for her dynamic stage presence, had everyone in stitches with her hilarious performance. The karaoke session was the ideal way to cap off the day, allowing the others to let loose and have a good time.

As the night drew to a the end, you took each of the girls to their houses. They all appeared to be more comfortable and revitalised, with a fresh lightness in their steps.

Sowoen gave you a warm hug. "I have no words for how thankful I am for today. It was exactly what we needed unnie."

Lusher agreed, saying, "You're an amazing friend, and we're lucky to have you in our lives."

You said your goodbyes with hugs and smiles, happy and grateful that you could bring some joy and relaxation into the lives of your dear friends. It had been a day of fun, a connection, and relaxation —a day that everyone will remember fondly.

You couldn't help but smile as you drove back home. Your friends had earned a break and it was enjoyable to see them happy and comfortable. The friendship between you had become even deeper, and everyone will cherish the memories of this girls' day out. It was a good day, and you knew you'd always be there for your pals, no matter what difficulties they encountered.

[brickeater712]

neighbours on sloane street (intro)

spreading the garodela gospel. i love the idea of two old women taking care of each other

cw: none. only fluff,,,,,,,,,,

a/n: they make me cry

snip, snip, snip. 

the sound of the scissors resound in the quiet salon. the owner is focused, clipping up and cutting down her client’s hair. 

an everyday practice for adela. 

her clients, usually, are talking about their troubles. but perhaps today is not as usual as the rest. 

“miss adela, have you heard?” adela’s client shifts their topic, all of a sudden.

adela hums. “hm?” she waits for a response. 

“the shophouse next to you. someone’s moving in today.” the girl in the chair talks excitedly. “what do you think they look like? where did they come from? oh, i wanna meet them when they arrive!” 

adela nods along, motions visible in the mirror. she wonders too, of course, but reserves her questions for the time being. but her client doesn’t catch the way her eyes flit to look outside the window of her cosy shop- she wants to meet the new person too. 

and there she sees it. out of the corner of her eye- a woman with purple hair, outside her shop. she’s looking around, presumably trying to find her new home. 

and then, her eyes settle on adela’s shop. they drift from the sign, to the glass, and finally, adela herself. but before they can lock eyes, adela quickly looks back at her client- she doesn’t want to be caught staring. 

“-you think they came here for? gosh, hopefully they arrive before i have to start on dinner!” her customer finishes rambling.

adela takes a few seconds to respond. “...i hope i see them, too.”

________________

“thank you miss adela! i’ll see you in a couple of months!” the girl waves goodbye to her, bell clinking as she leaves the shop. adela smiles and waves back. just as the door closes, the belltower rings. 

6pm, she thinks. time to clean up. 

she first moves to clean up the tea off her counter. 

…mm. there’s still some left over.

perhaps a cup of tea is enough to greet her neighbour.

cup steady in her hands, adela leaves the salon. she walks over to the shophouse next to hers, and peers in the same, glass windows that her own shophouse has. there she sees her- the beautiful woman, inside, pulling clothing out of a suitcase. 

a new neighbour, adela smiles. the shophouse has been empty for ages. she pushes the door open. without even missing a beat, the woman turns sharply to face her, with incredible reflex. her eyes are wary at first, but she recognizes her- the hairdresser next door- and loosens up just a bit.

“hello there.” adela starts, with a smile. “i heard someone was moving in today. that’s you, i assume.” 

the smile is returned. “that’s me. moved from somewhere near 5th avenue. here to set up my tailoring business” she puts down the fabric she held in her hands. “i saw you. you’re the hairdresser next door, yes?” 

adela nods. she moves forward to hand the cup of tea to the woman’s now free hands. “for you. figured you’d want something to drink after travelling here.” 

“i appreciate it.” the woman accepts it gratefully. “my name is garofano.” 

“i’m adela.”

pretty name, both of them thinks, but neither of them let it show on their faces. 

“thank you for the tea, adela.” garofano giggles.

“you can return that back to me tomorrow- i’m sure you’d like to rest now.” 

garofano hums in agreement. “indeed. perhaps you’d like to come over tomorrow instead? i’d love to get to know more about the neighbourhood.”

the invitation is warm- like a bright light in the fog. 

adela agrees. 

perhaps this is a new mundanity she could get used to.

________________

adela finds herself standing in front of garofano’s shophouse. just for the teacup, she thinks. that is, until she sees the warm smile through the window. she goes in.

garofano is humming something, a tune unfamiliar, while moving fabrics around. the creaking of the door makes her turn her head.

“adela! you’re here.” garofano beams. “is your work day over? how would you like to spend more time here?” she’s bustling around the shophouse, moving supplies here and there. “as you can see, i still have a lot of work before my shop is set up- i’d love a little company.”

adela agrees, without hesitation (much to her surprise), and soon finds herself rearranging needles in a container. she glances back, every so once in a while, to observe the older woman arranging furniture. a certain feeling blooms in her heart- she’s not quite sure what it is- but she figures that it’s all part of the new mundanity. 

they exchange little conversation, accompanying each other in a comfortable silence, occasionally broken by garofano’s humming. both of them move about, but there’s only so much work that can be completed in a day. 

the sky outside is dotted with stars when they decide to rest for the day, laying on garofano’s couch conveniently in front of the windows. adela’s brought over tea once again, steam rising in front of their faces as they sit next to each other under the calming moonlight. 

they’re close to each other- so close, their shoulders are almost touching, but adela doesn’t dare move closer, though her heart tells her to do so. 

“i wonder, what will life here be like?” garofano giggles, staring up at the sky. “it’s been such a long time since i’ve had the time to relax like this."

adela nods, following the conversation. “well, i do quite hope you enjoy your time here… perhaps, the belltower will be the only thing disturbing your relaxation.” she teases lightly, earning a laugh from the older woman. 

“it wouldn’t, for the most part. after all, when it rings six times, that’s when i know that you’re free to come over.”

it’s a subtle comment, sure, but lights a certain spark in the fog nonetheless. adela lets out the palest blush, thankful that garofano doesn’t turn her head to witness it.

by the end of the night, adela bids garofano a goodbye, and a goodnight. she stays outside the shop until she sees her disappear into the back. 

she goes to bed that night, with her worries set aside. she’ll get used to the change in her schedule- she’ll look forward to the booming of the belltower at 6 PM. and the fog lifts, just a little more. 

[chlcavalier]

[allwaswell16]

A fic rec of One Direction fan fics that have Clifford Tomlinson, the dog, featured in them as requested in this ask. If you enjoy the fics, please leave kudos and comments for the writers! You can find my other fic recs here. Happy reading!

— Louis/Harry —

🐶 Tired Tired Sea by MediaWhore / @mediawhorefics

(M, 113k, Scotland) As a B&B owner on the most remote of all the British Isles, Louis Tomlinson is used to spending the coldest half of the year in complete isolation, with his dog and the sea as sole companions. Until, one day, a mysterious stranger on a quest to rebuild himself rents a room for the winter.

🐶 Take a Chance on Me by velvetnoodle

(E, 96k, kid fic) the Strangers to Enemies to Friends to Lovers Roommate AU you didn’t know you needed, feat. Single Dad!Harry, Footie Coach!Louis, a precocious 9 year old, a band of meddling family members, an overly excited labradoodle, an extremely Done cat, and a Shiall wedding you’ll never forget

🐶 Just for Tonight (I can be yours) by @sadaveniren

(E, 42k, a/b/o) Harry, prince of Cestrescir, has been betrothed to Ludvic, prince of Yorvik, since birth. He'd accepted a loveless marriage as his duty to his country, until an accident threw him in the path of a gentle alpha

🐶 Marcel (series) by crimsontheory / @ireallysawanangel

(E, 36k, strangers to lovers) the one where Niall gave Marcel’s number to someone he worked with and Marcel wasn’t too pleased about it.

🐶 You Wouldn't Believe the Dream I Just Had About You & Me by @larryatendoftheday

(E, 21k, friends to lovers) After a back-to-school bash and a few too many drinks, Harry finds himself pregnant from a one-night stand he doesn’t remember. 

🐶 Absolutely Smitten by MyEnglishRose / @lwtisloved

(E, 20k, strangers to lovers) Louis is walking his dog. Harry is walking his cat. Leashes get tangled, and feelings too.

🐶 Like How I Pictured It by @parmahamlarrie

(E, 17k, friends to lovers) Louis Tomlinson hasn’t always been blind. As a child, his vision was impaired, but he had hopes that there would be years before he lost his sight completely. 

🐶 Between the forest and the field by bluegreenish / @greenblueish

(E, 16k, small town) the one where Harry recently moved to a village and his shy dog picks Louis' dogs to play with at the dog park. A fluffy cottage core AU.

🐶 Clumsy by lovelarry10 / @chloehl10

(E, 12k, strangers to lovers) when Cliff manages to trip over a handsome stranger, on Valentine’s Day of all days, it might just be the start of something new and exciting...

🐶 Somebody Get Me Through This Nightmare by @lululawrence

(NR, 11k, neighbors) “I am not subjecting you to my poor dog in his moment of vulnerability!” Louis cried. “That would be cruel to you, but also to Clifford.”

🐶 good, good graces by @muldxr

(E, 10k, dom/sub) the one where Harry's boyfriend Louis gets a new puppy and frequently tells the dog how he's a good boy. Harry gets jealous and decides to show Louis how much of a good boy he can be.

🐶 Just the Start by @littleroverlouis

(M, 9k, older characters) Louis is a fifty-two year old divorcé who has fallen into rut. He never anticipated a forced day of self care, and a chance meeting with a charming salon owner would shake him out of his comfort zone.

🐶 I Roll 'til I Change My Luck by larry_hiatus / @larry-hiatus

(T, 8k, friends to lovers) When Louis reveals to his Tinder matches that he uses a wheelchair and has a service dog, things tend to get even more complicated. 

🐶 Warm Chilling by Larry_you_know / @larryyouknow

(G, 7k, neighbors) Louis moves into a cosy cottage in the English countryside with his dog Clifford to look after his great-aunt's animals. 

🐶 Wanted: Dog Walker by YesIsAWorld / @louandhazaf

(G, 6k, neighbors) Louis needs a dog walker. Harry answers the ad.

🐶 Love on the b(rain) by TeamLouis / @teamlouis2023

(G, 4k, misunderstandings) During a stormy night, when Louis realizes that his precious dog has escaped the house, he has no other choice than calling his ex-husband.

🐶 To the late night double feature show by LadyLondonderry / @londonfoginacup

(NR, 2k, Halloween) “Sorry!” says someone. "I just wanted to know if I could pet your dog?”

🐶 Safe Like Springtime by cherrylarry / @beelou

(G, 1k, meet cute) the one where Harry takes his nephew to the park and runs into Louis and his Labradoodle Clifford.

— Rare Pairs —

🐶 Longer Night by @turnyourankle

(E, 2k, Louis/Luke Malak) What happened after the 'Long day' photo was taken? Probably this.

🐶 acrobatic blood by Anonymous 

(G, 2k, Louis/Nick Grimshaw) “Thought you’d gone home,” Nick croaks miserably. Louis rolls his eyes. “This is my home, dickhead.” A coming out fic.

🐶 Next Door by @allwaswell16

(NR, 2k, Louis/Rob Pattinson) When a stray cat starts coming round Louis' garden and bothering his dog, Louis and his best friend set out to capture it.

[evelynlikesfrogs]

Signs everything I thought I knew was wrong

I needed to dump my thoughts and feelings somewhere because I feel like im annoying my support group. I think my egg finally cracked Wednesday and immediately I had to start researching and buying gender affirming things. Anyways, here's my list of signs that I wish I had seen like a decade ago, please be kind I'm very new to opening up like this

Another Girl in elementary threatened me with makeup and cross dressing and I wanted it bad.

I think this one is such a major factor in why I feel like this has to be real. Its well before puberty and well before I knew transitioning was a thing. Just a natural thought for someone who’s the wrong gender

Multiple times pleading with god to just make me a girl

Still cis tho obv

Thinking if I held still for long enough in bed, some sort of magic would make me a girl and fix this wrong body of mine

I still remember the dreams where im a girl, i legit became proficient at lucid dreaming just for it.

Ah fuck the egg_irl memes are hitting too hard

My favorite game character is Bridget, listening back to the song is hitting really hard actually

Legit had an anxiety attack and took a day off work because my transfem friend said “careful, i said the same thing before i came out”

Wishing i had magic to turn myself into a girl

Playing female characters just to feel cute

Putting on leggings in highschool, then sleeping in them

Some female mannerisms

Kinda hating my poor skin but couldnt do anything about it since thats only for women am i right fellas

Mild euphoria when someone says good girl

Envisioning myself as the girl during fantasies

Jealousy over a womans body

Ive never seen any man sit cross legged at a table the way i do, idk why that one pops up but i’ve seen plenty of other girls do it

Desire to steal womans clothing to cross dress

At current moment I have no desire to bite my nails because I want them to grow out, even though I was a nail biter for 27 years

In pre school, tried to convince another girl to swap clothes with me

In pre school, loved pretending i was at a hair salon and the other girls in the school would give me a haircut. It gave me ASMR

Speaking of ASMR, I like exclusively listen to makeup, nail and hair roleplays

Feeling like i dont want to transition because I could be ugly

After realization, I dont have nearly as much of an appetite, maybe subconscious bodily sabotage in the form of overeating

Not seeing any future when I tried to plan my life better, before I ever considered the option of becoming trans

Feeling hurt when my dad made somewhat transphobic comments about my trans cousin

Wondering what my parents would do if i woke up one day as a woman and had to explain that to them

Genuine euphoria at the idea of trying on womens clothing, but thinking that i was weird and kinky

Playing with stuffed animals with my best childhood friend, a fellow girl

Hating my balls

I bet it feels good to cry, its probably cathartic

Hating body hair god i hate this so much, I’m just bad at shaving it and dont want to be covered in razor burns and have to explain to coworkers why I shaved my legs and arms

Hating my nose

Adopting a super masculine persona

Forcing myself to have a much deeper voice to not feel any of my true feelings

Actually seeing a future after considering becoming trans

Being hurt by transphobic comments at work before I realized my egg status

Was I sending what they said to my friend because i was hurt by it and wanted reassurance?

When i started drawing again, i had no desire to draw “cool badass epic shit” i just wanted to draw super cosy watercolor paintings.

God damn it i’ll say it, I fucking love pastels. Both the art medium and the color spectrum

Repression of my desire to dance and sing, or I guess express myself in any format due to internalized transphobia

“Mens fashion is so lame, girls have it so good. Im cis tho”

Pure depression my entire adult life

Wanting genuine friend connections with women in a more feminine way

Never caring about going out and buying clothes because none of them worked for me

Trying to force myself to not look at girls clothes because “thats only what weirdos do”

On this topic, how the fuck did i think this shit was normal… i wasnt watching women or anything, its not like i was being creepy in reality. I just wanted to see the womens clothes. Why is that such a bad thing for someone to want

Being jealous of my friend since he was openly wearing his girlfriend’s sweatshirt

Dude i stared longingly at a pink gamer girl chair, still cis tho

Speaking of gamers, being super jealous of C9 Sneaky that he could pass so well and was totally fine with showing that whole side of himself online. Same with Finnster.

I think i hate my voice, ever since realizing this about myself i cant help but hear my voice and think its not me

Being afraid to see a therapist because im not sure honestly

Fearing crying, but that might not be internalized transphobia and actually just be a side product of the vice grip on masculinity in society

Daydreaming about becoming a girl

General body dysmorphia

I want to cry but i cant, why cant I cry why

[vilandel]

Winter Evening 💜

Summary The thirteen children of Nozel and Vanessa prepared a little cosy evening for their parents...

A/N For @chaptersonetoinfinity A little something for Christmas, about our 1313 AU we fooled around on Discord 💜 Evanna and Felix are @chaptersonetoinfinity's OCs, Nymphea, Valentina, Lavinia and Cassandra are mine, the rest we created together

Ao3 link

♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣♣

“Are they coming, Valentina?”

“Hush, Lunabug, we are all excited, but keep quiet.”

“Aquila, have you seen Gwen?”

“She is still in her basket, don’t worry about her, Nymphea. But have seen Fefe? Wait, Felix, don’t crawl to the fireplace!”

“Don’t worry, big brother, I got him!”

“Thank you, Nat. Where is Aimée.”

“Still in her crib in the chamber, Giselle went to get her.”

“I’m back already, Lavinia. With the baby sister.”

Vanessa couldn’t help but giggle, her ear against the door of the little lavender salon, listening to all of her thirteen children doing whatever they were doing.

Still wondering why all of her babies had in mind, they’ve been in the lavender salon for… three hours or maybe just two? She couldn’t tell. But she couldn’t wait to see it. What Vanessa gathered from what she heard was that it might be some kind of surprise for Nozel and her.

Weren’t her babies the cutest?

Vanessa tried very hard to hold back her giggle, which would lead to her babies catching her. Okay, she still called all of them her babies, but only Felix, Gwendolyn and of course little Aimée were technically still the babies. The rest of them were all older, from toddler or little child to teenager. Nymphea, Valentina and Aquila even already old enough to have their grimoires so very soon already.

Time flew by so fast somehow and yet…

“Vanessa?”

“Oh, hey there, honey. How were the nobles?”

Nozel made a face, a clear indicator how awful it still was to deal with nobles, despite the current changes over the years. With first Fuegoleon and lately Asta as Wizard King, the legacy Julius Novachrono started was now clearly getting more in place, step by step. Even though some other things might never change despite the best efforts. Like snob and arrogant nobles badmouthing everyone to look better, even royalty, but still trying to get some favour from said royalty.

Something Vanessa had to learn to deal with ever since she married Nozel and became a royal. Despite being a witch and nobles trying to remember her that – as she had to be ashamed to be a witch – nobles also tried to flatter her in order to gain something from the Silvas.

Good thing that Vanessa was a master about dealing with flattery from arrogant nobles. Quite the skill needed as a royal.

“You know, I could have helped you facing the nobles, honey.”

“Normally I would have let you accompany me. But it was for born Silvas only apparently, that’s why Nebra, Solid and Noelle were with me. But… we all need time with our own families after this.”

Vanessa nodded, this sounded about right. Although she would argue that Nebra and Zora would have peace in their wild family or Noelle knowing some rest with her loud family were only her daughter was calm.

Well, luckily for him, it seemed that their children were currently preparing something…

“Where are our children?”

“Behind this door. I think they have something in mind for us. Aren’t our babies true angels?”

Nozel smiled, clearly agreeing with her. Vanessa moved a bit, so that he could hearing at the door as well.

While their children were still preparing something in the little Lavender Salon, Vanessa took a moment to admire her husband. Nozel was in his forties, but nothing in his appearance was showing it. It was like he didn’t age at all during all those years they’ve been married. As handsome as ever.

Vanessa look down at her body. As strange as it was, barely anything was showing that she got pregnant twelve times and gave birth to thirteen children. Even more that for most of those pregnancies, it went well.

Except for the twins, but that had been her fault for going the war in Spade while pregnant. She almost died, her unborn babies almost died and all of three were only healed mostly because Nozel dared to face the Witch Queen in order to save them. Thankfully, Nymphea and Valentina were born on term and healthy.

The period when Vanessa was expecting Evanna wasn’t peaceful as well. But that was because of her so-called father-in-law who stressed the family so much that Vanessa gave birth two months too early, resulting that Evanna had a very frail health during her first years. Thankfully, her sweet girl was better healthwise today and jerky father-in-law was now rotting in prison in a faraway country.

The pregnancy with Aimée had also been quite hard, but Vanessa suspected that it was because her own body was getting at its limits after twelve pregnancies. Nozel and her had agreed to definitely stop after their thirteenth little one was born. Besides, Aimée was born right on their wedding anniversary, earlier this year in September, how wonderful was that?

“What are you thinking about?”

“Nothing, handsome.”

“Vanessa…”

“Just kidding, honey. I was just thinking that we are so very blessed to have all of our thirteen sweethearts, don’t you think?”

Nozels eyes started to shine, the lavender shade somehow sparkling with thousands stars, despite his mimic not changing.

“Vanessa… there is no single day passing without me being grateful to have you and our children in my life.”

“Aren’t you the poet today.”

“I… I mean…*

“Oh, honey, no need to be flustered. I will never grow tired of your poetic words and we’ve been married for way over a decade.”

The blush was still on his cheeks, but he smiled at her. Just so handsome…

Vanessa slowly moved towards him, with a clear intention to kiss him, as the door of the salon opened, revealing Nathanael.

“Oh, you are here already? Good, so we don’t need to fetch you. But you can still kiss first.”

Nozel blushed and Vanessa couldn’t help but feel a bit hot as well. Nathanael just grinned before inviting them in.

The already cosy room was now filled with as much fluffy blankets their family had – which was a lot – mugs and pots with hot chocolate, cookies in bowls and the famous Silva pastries. A nice fire was burning in the fireplace, with cushions all around it.

Like everything in this salon, most things were in different shades of purple, with some white and silver grey, plus a few blue and pink shades, with some hues of burgundy. Kinda fitting colours for their family.

Vanessa took Nozels as they entered the room, smiling fondly as she saw all of her thirteen children stop their movements to look at their parents, a bit flustered but certainly happy to see them.

Nymphea had baby Aimée in her arms, who was so adorable in her lavender purple onesie with silver turtle on the front. The silver hair of their oldest and youngest daughters looked like melted into each other. They were already so similar, even sharing their fathers blank stare sometimes, just with different shades of purple in their eyes.

Valentina hold two year old Felix in her shoulders, rocking a softly back and forth, making her baby brother laugh.

Gwendolyn was now in Aquilas arms waggling her arms to her parents and Aquila looked like hesitating to still carry his baby sister or to let her crawl to them.

Giselle had already drank some cocoa, a fine brown moustache above her lips. Vanessa felt her heart going warm as she saw that her fourth child was hugging Gargantua, the big grey chunky cat plushie she had made while she was pregnant with Giselle. Years were passing, yet Giselle still adored that cat so much.

Lavinia was sitting at piano, smiling shyly at Nozel and Vanessa. Their music loving daughter had always been the most timid out of their children.

Nathanael closed the door behind them, before joining Cassandra and Evanna, who were sitting in front of the fireplace. Those two had always been so closed, often it seemed that they were glued to each other.

Luna smiled at them – Vanessa was still impressed how much this girl looked like Mimosa, just with silver hair and lavender eyes – one of her favourite dolls on her lap.

And finally, their tenth child, Aisling, who run towards them and practically hugged Nozels legs. Vanessa smiled at her. This little one looked so alike as Noelle or even Acier but with Vanessas hair and eye colours, which would probably always make Nozel emotional. Not to mention that he was the one who helped Vanessa deliver Aisling, in his own office at the Silver Eagles base even.

Her babies… the ten girls and the three boys…

“Mama, are you crying?”

“I’m just getting emotional, Nat. All of my babies… Oh come here, you puffy haired cutie pie!”

No time to escape, as Vanessa took Nathanael into her arms, along with Cassandra and Evanna. Not even a protest, of course not. All of her sweethearts loved hugs just as much as she did, if not even more.

“Is there any reason for this assembly?” Nozel asked as he took Aisling into his arms, letting her play happily with the fur of his Silver Eagle robe.

“Not really, papa,” Valentina smiled fondly, Felix still on her shoulders. “Just having a cosy winter evening, all fifteen of us. We know that nobles were a real pain lately and our parents deserve some relaxing time. Besides-, OUCH, Fefe, don’t pull my hair, you silly bunny.”

“Sorry, Val.”

Vanessa giggled as she sat next to Nathanael, Cassandra and Evanna. Weren’t her children just the sweetest ever? Okay, she was their mother and she loved them to infinity, she was clearly biased. But feeling that her own children loved her and their father so much that they would make sure they got relaxing moments to rest. Plus, they did this together… again, she was most certainly biased, but Vanessa couldn’t know any siblings that were such a strong team for anything than her babies.

“That is sweet of you, babies. Mama and papa won’t say no to have some cosy evening with you, right honey?”

“Certainly not.”

“But only Fefe, Gwen and Aimée are babies, the rest of us aren’t. Nymphea, Valentina and Aquila are even going to have their grimoires pretty soon.”

“Hush, Cat, you will always be my babies,” Vanessa giggled as she booped Cassandras nose.

It was true, though. Her three oldest babies will soon get their grimoires and either become Magic Knights or choose something else for their lives. Oh, her twin girls and her eldest son seemed rather inclined to join the Silver Eagles so far, but still…

Time was flying by and now the three oldest would soon reach the age were they could start to fly on their own.

Vanessa shared a glance with Nozel. Her beloved husband had the same thought as her. Yet, it still feel like yesterday as she gave birth to the twins on Valentine’s Day and to Aquila later that same year in December.

Were fifteen years soon over already?

“Don’t worry, Cat,” Valentina just said, putting Felix on the floor who toddled over to Giselle. “It’s still a while before the three of us will have our grimoires and it’s not like we’ll see each other never again afterwards. We twins and the oldest baby brother won’t miss our baby siblings.”

“Val, don’t call me baby brother, I was born in the same year as you and Nymphea.”

“Still younger by ten months, but okay.”

“We’ll always have each other…”

The smile was heard in Nozels whisper and he probably talked as much to them all as to himself. Having their happy family meant so much more to him anyone could imagine, especially after the tragedy he lived when he was barely older than the twins and Aquila. Vanessa knew that there had been a time during which Nozel never would have thought and even accept that he deserve happiness.

And yet, here he was, married to her and the father for thirteen wonderful children.

She smiled at him. And he smiled back.

“Lavinia, sweetheart, wouldn’t you mind playing some of your new music for us?”

“No, mama.”

The voice was shy, of course, but Lavinias eyes shined like a sky full of stars at the suggestion. Nothing made this girl happier than music and her family, as if it was all she asked for in her life.

As the sweet piano melodies filled the room, it felt as if a blanket of happy rest fell upon all.

Nymphea handled Aimée to Vanessa, since the baby was now starting to whine a bit, a clear indicator she wanted to be fed.

While Vanessa breastfed Aimée, Nozel now put Aisling on her feet and took Gwendolyn into his arms, who crawled over to him. Aquila gave them a mug of hot chocolate and all four joined Lavinia at the piano.

Nathanael, Cassandra and Evanna cuddled around Vanessa, Nat even booped Aimée a bit.

Felix was now cuddled by Giselle who gave him a slice of chocolate cream cake, putting a moustache around his cute little mouth.

Nymphea joined Luna, put her little sister on her lap and read with her, while Valentina went around, making sure everyone had hot chocolate and something sweet to eat.

Outside, it actually started to snow as it went darker, yet it made the atmosphere in the room even more relaxing.

It was cosy, comfortable, warm.

It was their family.