#so i did pants and a fancy coat instead

[blood-smiles]

𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐂𝐎 𝐂𝐑𝐀𝐙𝐄 —-— ‧₊ ᵎᵎ 🍫 ⋅ ˚✮

𝐘𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐄 𝐋𝐀𝐖𝐘𝐄𝐑 𝐗 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑 - !! 18+ MDNI !! yandere . yandere gets down and dirty with darling . Chocolate aphrodisiacs . handjob . probably more . DEAD DOVE DO NOT EAT..

The air was warm and the rich people laughing around you with their fancy champagne wasn’t making it any better.

You could just feel the luxury cars, expensive watches and decades of inherited fortune in their cackles.

You walked around like a lost duckling without its mother, you indulged in the chocolate fountains, the mysterious fancy meat and the delicious wine that somehow tasted like the tears of the poor.

You sipped your wine as you stared at a very particular sculpture decorated in jewels and silks, your commoner eyes never quite adapted to the strange and fantastical world of the wealthy.

You tilted your head at the abstract art, what shape did it have? You couldn’t quite put your finger on it. Was this the so called modern art? 

At least it’s a step up from taping a banana to a wall, you thought.

What kind of shape was this? A bottle? A banana? A cat? A curvy rock?

God. This was stressing you out, you were probably putting too much thought into thi—

“I see you are looking at my newest creation. This is my personal interpretation of.. the essence of.. A woman.” The voice of a man drawled in your ear, wow, a woman? You could have never guessed.

the rancid smell of the cottage cheese in his breath fanning right into your nose.

You suppressed the urge to gag and potentially throw up your fancy meat and chocolate coated strawberries on the ugly sculpture.

Instead you covered the disgust you were about to show with a tight smile.

“The curves of her body.. The jewels hanging over her childbearing hips just.. Speak to me.” The man spoke, facing away from you as he shallowly expressed his thoughts, his hands flailing around in the air as if he was the next man to change art.

To you it just seemed like a weirdly shaped rock that had been drowned in very expensive precious stones and jewelry.

But for the sake of his delusions you simply nodded along with his words, trying to distract yourself from his rotten breath.

“You are quite the beauty.. Say, would you like to try these special edition chocolates I have been working on?..” The balding male offered, passing you a single chocolate in his hand.

Well, that was awfully stingy wasn’t it? This man must be swimming in pools of money and riches, surely he can spare more than a measly square of chocolate.

Whatever, hopefully that chocolate will neutralize his disgusting pants.

Your hand reached out, eager to try the grandeur chocolate, only for a larger and slimmer hand to snatch the piece of heaven from the man’s hand.

You gasped, looking up at the aggravator, Alejandro.

The beautiful man shoved the candy in his mouth before you could even open your mouth to whine.

You turned your gaze to the artist, only to see that there was a fat glob of sweat trickling down his face. He had the most ‘oh shit. I fucked up’ look you had ever seen.

“Alejandro! Why would you do that?!” You huffed, pulling at his sleeve impatiently.

“(Y/N). Why are you taking things from strangers. Did we not go over this at home? Do I need to remind you?” Your partner scolded you, tilting his head down at you.

his hair had been styled differently for the event, his hair gathered loosely over his shoulders, flowing down his back in a straight fashion.

“And you.” He glared, his eyes narrowing into a disgusted expression. “Who the hell do you think you are to be offering your repulsive treats to my lover?” 

His garnet eyes almost glowed in anger, a small vein appearing across his jaw. His hands were balled in fists, knuckles straining his skin, veins about to pop.

Holy shit, if you were in the other guys’ shoes you would have wet your pants— Scratch that, your bladder would have unattached from your body and dropped on the ground with a loud splat.

Pretty people really are scary when mad. You furrowed your brows in a grimace, sipping your tasty wine quietly.

The artist fled in a time record, you swear you blinked and only an outline shape of him remained in his place.

You looked at Alejandro, who was staring down at you intensely. His hands shakily landed on your shoulders.

His forehead pressed against your right shoulder. Now what was wrong with him? These little mood swings he has been having lately are proving to be quite irritating.

“..That chocolate.. Was laced..” He mumbled, taking deep shaky breaths. You turned around, eyebrows high in surprise.

“W—Whu..? How do you know?” He simply raised his head, his cheeks glowing with red, eyes half lidded and desperate.

..What the helly.

“Alejandro? Are you okay? Did it have poison?!” You began panicking, grabbing him by his arms. He flinched as if your touch had just burnt him, his posture growing stiff.

He looked down, thighs rubbing together. Heat began pooling in the bottom of his stomach, the tent in his pants beginning to create a wet patch.

“..Aphrodisiac.” He simply said, air coming out in little gasps. Was the drug that strong? It had barely been five minutes since he ate it— How did it work so quick?

He let out a soft sound, leaning closer into your body warmth “..(Y/N), please h-help me..” he begged, long lashes wet with little tears.

“What? Here? Now?” You looked around, maybe this not humble abode had an unoccupied room? You knew you couldn’t leave him in this state.

Not when he was begging so nicely.

You sighed, his fingers interlocked with yours now, gently pulling him along. Your mission was to get him to a room to relieve him with hopefully no casualties.

Someone stopped the both of you, a beautiful woman in a silky red dress with a sensual slit.

“Alejandro! There you are! I have been looking for you for so long!” She giggled, getting on her the tips of her feet to peck his cheek in a greeting.

Ah, you knew her. She was one of the candidates that his parents had groomed for him.

She wasn’t all that interested in him, more like in his fortune.

Alejandro growled under his breath, pushing her away rudely. His mind was fogged with lust but even so he was physically unable to interact with someone that wasn’t you.

“Leave me be.” He cut her off, grabbing your wrist and pulling you with him, leaving the pretty woman in the dust.

You ascended up the beautiful staircase of the mansion, running into one of the many empty rooms.

Alejandro didn’t wait a moment more to strip, his hands working in his tailored coat, then came off his black button up along with his pants and undergarments.

His skin gleamed under the warm lighting, sweat enhancing his already breathtaking figure.

“..Please..” He begged, his violet hair sticking a little to his face, his glasses foggy and stained with tears.

“..aah~..” he shivered, hand coming down to stroke himself, the motion making wet squelching sounds.

He sat on the bed on all fours, putting himself on display, writhing on top of the sheets in discomfort. Even in such a ruined state he somehow still managed to look like model. God really does have favorites.

You didn’t hesitate to sit between his thighs, nails gently teasing the soft plush skin of his inner thigh.

He gasped a little, throbbing under your touch. You traced the beauty marks blessing his porcelain skin.

He was so impatient. He was about to grab your hand and just tell you to touch him. But he knew better, he was to be patient, he knew that you would probably punish him and leave him in this sorry state.

Your hand finally wrapped around his pretty shaft, veins pulsating in need. Pre-cum bubbled from his slit, your thumb cruelly rubbing over his sensitive pink tip.

He let out a high pitched cry, closing his eyes as to try to hold onto the last of restraint he had. 

“Haaan!..” he whined, eyes rolling back into his head, hands gripping the sheets so tight that the fabric could rip from under his grasp.

You sped up your pace, indulging his needs a little. The slick of his cum made your hand sticky, he smiled at that. This was one of his brandings on you, your hands were claimed by him, by his juices—By his love.

Saliva trickled down his jaw, his tongue lolling out from the sheer pleasure. Your hands wrapped around him felt like a blessing, something sacred only reserved for him.

His hips bucked into your fist with a new sense of purpose, his head felt fuzzy, like it was full with cotton.

He felt himself ascending to cloud nine, about to cum. 

“Agh—Nggg~..” he put a hand over his mouth, trying to keep his noises down, hoping that no others had heard him over the loud orchestra downstairs.

Suddenly your fingers intruded inside his ass, curling up inside his hole. He mewled in ecstasy, burrowing himself on your fingers even more.

The tips of your fingers pressed against his velvety walls, his prostrate being poked by your fingers in such a deliciously unfathomable way that he couldn’t help but let himself go.

White semen oozed from his dick, dirtying the expensive sheets in a web of cum. Tears rolled down from his eyes, chest pressed against the soft mattress and plump ass in the air. 

Slick running down his thighs all the way down to his knees. His limp dick twitching after a fulfilling orgasm.

His chest heaved, you could tell he was spent. He turned his gaze to you, opening his arms as if asking you to come lie down next to him on the soft sheets.

You dragged a hand down your face, this man truly is a handful.

The two of you went home not too soon after, but this time making sure not to accept any suspicious chocolate from anyone on the way out.

Your lover pressed a chaste kiss to your temple, silently thanking you for the strange but passionate night the both of you shared.

[daddy-issues-galore]

Reminice

90's Noel Gallagher x pregnant!wife!reader

Warnings: 18+ readers, smut, pregnancy sex, oral f-recieving, fingering, swearing, loss of virginity

Chaos. That’s how you would describe Oasis. And loud. Very loud. But you were used to it all.

You’d been friends with the boys since you were kids. Growing up on the same street as them and being a couple of years older than Liam, often meant you got asked to babysit him when he was little. It also meant you were around at the Gallagher house most of the time, which meant you were always around Noel, and although he was a few years older than you, the two of you were quite close. You were one of the few people he genuinely liked having around. He didn’t kick you out of his room or hide his guitar playing from. He’d even let you read over his songs that he’d write. You’d always fancied the pants off him, but you were too shy to ever say anything and just assumed he thought you were a mate that looked after his little brother every now and then.

It wasn’t until he was going off to roadie for ‘Inspiral Carpets’ did things change between you.

----- 1989 -----

A load of your mates had decided to throw a leaving party for Noel the night before he left (it was just an excuse to party and get pissed) and you’d decided to miss it. You weren’t in the mood to celebrate because you selfishly didn’t want Noel to go.

So, at 8pm instead of getting pissed and dancing with your mates, you were sulking on your bed listening to a record Noel had leant you as the rain came down outside, when your telephone began ringing.

“Yeah?” You answered with a huff.

“Meet me at the bench. I’m setting off now from mine.”

“Noel? Why aren’t you at that party?”

“Y/n, just meet me at the bench, will ya’.”

“Aye? It’s pissing it down-" Noel hung up before you could protest further. “Bastard.” You muttered and set about getting your stuff together before setting off to the park.

It wasn’t really a park, just a large grass land that had a broken swing set on it. There was a hill behind the swing set and at the top was a bench that you and Noel sort of claimed as your bench.

With your umbrella in one hand and a torch in the other, you carefully made your way up the hill, the rain only seeming to get worse as you climbed to the top. As you got near the top, you spotted a figure slumped on the bench. You could see it was a floppy haired Noel wearing  a thin coat with no hood, shivering.

“Noel?” You called out as walked towards him.

He looked up to you and nodded, “Alrigh’.” He shifted on the bench so you could sit down beside him.

“You could have picked a better place to meet, ya’ know.” You huffed as you sat down beside him. “’Ere.” You gave him the umbrella to hold since he was a bit taller than you.

Noel slipped his arm around your shoulders and pulled you closer to him as you both settled under the umbrella.

“Why aren’t ya’ at the party?” You asked.

“No point if you aint.” He muttered. “Why weren’t you?” He asked.

You sighed and chewed the inside of your cheek. “Dint fancy it.” You shrugged not looking at him.

Noel scoffed, “Fuckin’ liar.”

“Am not.” You argued still refusing to look at him.

“Bollocks. I know when you’re lyin’, Y/n… You can’t look at me.” Noel smirked to himself as you gaped at him. Noel looked down at you with a furrowed brow. “I thought you’d have wanted to see me on me last night ‘ere?”

You nodded, “I did… I do…” You sighed, “I just-” You huffed feeling tears form. “I couldn’t come to that party, Noel… I couldn’t, fake bein’ happy… because I’m selfish… I don’t want ya’ to leave.” You admitted and wiped your tears away. “I’m bein’ so selfish because this is an amazing opportunity for ya’, and I am so proud of ya’. But I’ve never gone a day without speakin’ to you or hearin’ ya’ play your guitar or listenin’ to ya’ and your kid argue… I don’t want to… but I have to.” You cried.

“That settles it then,” Noel sighed.

“What?” You frowned as you wiped your tears away.

“I ain’t goin’.”

“What?” You shook your head, “You have to. You can’t just not go because of me. That’s daft.”

“Knowin’ you won’t be happy without me, would make me unhappy. Your happiness is more important-”

“I am not more important than your own happiness, Noel. You have to go.”

“You make me happy, Y/n.” Noel confessed, “And to be honest, this past week... I’ve been thinkin’… maybe me goin’ was a mistake.” He mumbled the last part as he looked away into the dark.

Noel very rarely shared his feelings and when he did, you were the only one he spoke to about them. You didn’t laugh at him or call him a wimp. You’d offer him a smile and reassure him things would be okay, or you’d find a way to help him.

“Why would you think that?” You frowned up at him.

Noel shrugged, “I… don’t want to leave ya’.”

You sighed heavily, “You can’t let my silly insecurities be the reason you miss out on this. I’ll get over meself eventually, Noel.”

Noel shook his head, “It’s not that. I’ve, sort been thinkin’ the same things as you, I guess. The thought of not seein’ you every day… or, seein’ ya’ little excited grin and giggle you do when you get some new fancy gadget for, ya’ camera,” Noel smiled to himself as he pulled you a little closer into his side. “It’s terrifying… ‘casue I need ya’, love.”

Your brow furrowed as you looked up at him, “You don’t need me, Noel.”

He nodded, “I bloody do, love. You keep me sane.” He chuckled making you smile. “And… well, I love ya’.”

You gasped, taken back by his confession. The sound of the rain hitting the umbrella echoed as you stared up at Noel, your heart racing in your chest. “You, love me?”

Noel nodded, “Always have.”

You’d never expected him to say that to you. You went quiet as you looked away from him, your mind racing. Did he really mean it?

Your long silence filled Noel with regret and worry – you were never quiet for this long. “Y’know what, forget I fuckin’ said anythin’, yeah? I need to get home. ‘Ere.” He said as he practically shoved your umbrella into your chest as he stood up. Before you could react, a gust of wind took it and blew it away from you.

“Wha- Noel.” You jumped up and followed him as he started walking away. “Wait, stop.”

“Just leave it, Y/n.”

“No,” You grabbed his jacket and pulled him back, the pair of you getting drenched by the rain, “I bloody won’t. You can’t just say you love me then bugger off!”

“Why? You want to laugh in my face or somet?” He sulked.

“Of course not.”

“Then what? ‘Cause you weren’t sayin’ anythin’.” He huffed and shook his head. “Look, just drop it. I’ll see ya’ when I get back.” Noel said as he began walking away again.

“Noel Thomas David Gallagher, I swear if you don’t fuckin’ stop, I’ll clip you round the ear, so hard!” Noel stopped but refused to turn back. You huffed and grabbed his arm, pulling him back around to face you. “Dickhead, ya’ can’t just tell me ya’ love me and not expect me to be shocked.”

Noel smiled to himself. He did always love your way with words. “Yeah, sorry.”

You shook your head with a small chuckle, “You mean it?”

Noel nodded, “’Course I do. Yer just ‘bout the only person I can tolerate.” He teased making you giggle. “Ya’ don’t need to say it back. I know me timin’ is awful and that… but, I had to say somethin’. It’s drivin’ me mad… you, drive me mad.” He chuckled.

You rolled your eyes and smiled down at your wet feet. “I do.”

Noel’s brow furrowed, “You do what?”

“Love you… always have.” You smiled shyly as you looked up at him.

Noel broke out into a grin, “Have ya’?” He asked as he stepped closer to you and placed his hands on your hips.

You nodded. “’Course I have.” You smiled softly up at him. “So… ya’ gonna kiss me or what?” You asked making Noel blush.

Noel nodded and ran his hand over the back of his neck. “Uh, yeah, can do.”

Your brow furrowed, “Can do? Don’t make it sound like a bloody chore or-”

Noel leaned down and gave your lips a firm kiss, cutting your teasing off. You moaned softly into Noel’s mouth as you slipped your hands up his chest and over his shoulders until you wrapped your arms around his neck.

You pulled back and drew in a deep breath, looking up to Noel with a shy smile. A brief silence settled between the pair of you as you stared at each other, the elephant in the room (or grassland) looming over you.

“You have to go. Ya’ know that, right?” You said to him.

Noel nodded with a heavy sigh, “What about you… and me?”

You let out a heavy sigh, “It’s probably for the best if we, just… leave it.” You shrugged.

Noel’s brow furrowed, “Aye? Don’t you want us to be together?”

You nodded, “But you’re going away, Noel. You don’t need to be tied down when you’re goin’ to be off havin’ fun.”

“Then I won’t go. Easy.”

“Noel, you’re goin’. End of.” You gave him a soft smile. “We can, sort things out when you get back.”

“Come with me then.” Noel blurted out making you smile.

“Can’t can I. Off to uni.” You smiled up at him and brushed his wet hair back from his face. “If we’re meant to be, it’ll happen when the time is right, yeah?”

Noel nodded, “I’d wait for ya’, ya’ know.”

You moved your hands down to cup his face. “Me too, but it wouldn’t be fair on either of us.”

Noel nodded and offered you a weak smile. “I do, love ya’.” He whispered as he pressed his forehead against yours.

You smiled softly, “I love you too.” You gave him a small kiss.

Noel cleared his throat and looked down at his watch, “We can still make it, to that party if ya’ like.”

You shook your head as you chewed the inside of your cheek. “If you don’t mind, can we go home? Me mam and dad ain’t home for the night and I want to give you somethin’, before you leave.” You admitted with a blush.

Noel nodded, “Yeah, okay… Ya’ dint need to get me owt, love.” He smiled.

“It’s somethin’ I’ve been wantin’ you to have for a while.” You blushed.

“Oh?” Noel raised his eyebrow, “And what’s that then?” He asked.

You bit your lip before breaking out into a grin. “My virginity.”

That night as clique as it sounds, you and Noel made love. Early the next morning, the two of you headed back to his so you could help him pack because he’d left everything to last minute like he usually did. Liam wasn’t best pleased to have the pair of you moving about the bedroom making a racket, so much so he went down to sleep on the sofa after calling the two of you cunts. A couple of hours later (at a more reasonable hour), along with everyone else, the two of you said goodbye.

“I’ll call ya’ every day, love.” Noel promised as he held you close in his arms.

“No, you won’t.” You giggled and looked up at him. “Just call when you can.” You smiled up at him.

He nodded with a smile as he reached up and cupped your face. “I love you, Y/n.”

“I love you, too.”

Noel leaned down and kissed you, taking Liam and Peggy by surprise. Let’s just say, the moment Noel had driven off, you were bombarded with questions from the pair of them.

----- 1991 -----

“Where is she?!” Liam paced back and forth outside the pub as he smoked his third cigarette in the past hour.

“She’ll be ‘ere, mate. Y/n, never misses a gig.” Guigsy tried to reassure Liam, hoping to calm him down. The last thing anyone wanted was a pissed off Liam.

“She fuckin’ better not. I’ll never forgive her.” Liam huffed dramatically as he put out his cigarette and went to roll another.

“Oh, stop bein’ a dramatic fucker, would ya’.” You called out to him as you rounded the corner with your camera in hand. “Am not even that late.”

Liam frowned at you. “You said you’d be ‘ere for sound check.”

“Sound check?” You laughed, “Sound like you’re in a proper little band.” You teased making the others chuckle.

“We are a proper band.” Liam argued.

“With a shit name.” You teased.

“Fuck off, will ya’.” Liam snapped at you making you laugh.

“Fuck, your easy to wind up.” You nudged him with your elbow making him push you back as he told you to fuck off. You laughed and grabbed him by the shirt, pulling him towards you, “Come ‘ere, William.” You cooed, wrapping your arms around his neck and pressed kisses to his cheek. “I’m so proud of my little, Willy-bum.” You kissed his cheek again and again making him screw his face up in disgust.

“Get off!” He shoved you back as the others laughed at the pair of you.

“Fuckin’ ‘ell, I haven’t heard you call him that for fuckin’ time.”

You gasped, untangling yourself from Liam and spinning around. “Noel?” You gaped at him in shock. He looked completely different to when he left but the exact same. You couldn’t believe he was there.

He grinned at you, “Alrigh’, love.”

You nodded, unable to form any words.

Liam’s eyebrows shot up into his hairline as he watched you, “Fuckin’ ‘ell. Never seen you speechless.” He laughed and gave you shove closer to Noel, nearly knocking you over.

Noel grabbed a hold of you before you could fall. Liam and the others disappeared backside the pub leaving the two of you behind. Not that either of you noticed, lost in your own little world as you stood together.

Noel smiled down at you, his eyes never leaving yours. “Tell me yer not seein’ anyone.” He whispered.

“And what if I was?” You asked.

Noel shook his head, “I’d still kiss ya’.”

A smile broke out on your lips, “I’m not seein’ anyone… so kiss me all you want.”

Noel’s smile widened before he reached up to hold your face as he leaned down and kissed you. It felt like your first kiss all over again, but this time you didn’t need to worry about running out of time.

You pulled back from each other with matching dopey smiles. “When did you get ba-” “You look fuckin-” The two of you began laughing at each other.

“C’mon, let’s get a drink, yeah?” Noel took your hand and led you inside the pub. The pub was packed, so it was hard to move from one side to the other. Noel pulled you under his arm and kept you close as he led you through the crowd until he found a suitable spot. “Stay ‘ere, love.” Noel pressed a kiss to your cheek before he left you in a quiet corner of the pub and went to tackle to bar.

“Oy!” You heard Liam shout as he walked up to you with a frown, “Don’t let lover boy distract you from your job.”

“Job would imply you’re paying me, Liam.” You rolled your eyes at him but still smiled.

Liam nodded, “And you will be once we’ve made it big.”

“Not with a shit band name, you won’t.” You muttered teasingly.

“What?”

“Nothing.” You shook your head with a smile. “Don’t worry. I’ll be ready. You just focus on your singing, yeah?” You gave his hair a ruffle making him huff and push your hand a way.

“Stop.” He sulked off as you laughed at him. God, you loved winding him up.

“Not missed that mardy bastard.” Noel said with a smirk as he appeared with your drinks.

“Don’t be mean.” You giggled. “And don’t lie.” You smirked at him over the rim of your glass. “You’ve missed him.”

Noel frowned and shook his head, “Piss off.” He took a swig of his drink as he watched you. “I missed you.” He smiled softly. “Those pictures helped.” He winked at you making you blush and look away.

“Oh god,” You giggled. “You better not have shown anyone else ‘em.” You gave him a warning look.

He shook his head with a grin, “Don’t you worry, love. They’re just for me.” He looked towards the ‘stage’ where the band would be playing. “So, what’s this lot like?” He nodded towards the stage.

“Uhm,” You chewed the inside of your cheek as you tried to choose your words wisely. “Well… they’re good at playin’ their instruments.”

Noel began laughing, “Is r’kid that bad?”

You shook your head, “Look, Liam’s voice is… great.” You smiled proudly. “Surprisingly so, actually… it’s his songwriting that’s not…” You winced making Noel laugh. “He needs help.” You smiled softly at him. “They need help, Noel. Someone to write songs…and the music… to lead them…” You stepped closer to him and placed your hand on his chest and began fiddling with the button on his shirt. “They need a Noel.” You whispered as you looked up at him through your lashes.

Noel rolled his eyes, “Are you in on this bollocks?” He huffed.

“They need you Noel.” You pleaded.

He shook his head, “I’m not bein’ their manager.”

You opened your mouth to say something else, but the lights went low, signalling the start of the gig. “I need to get to the front, ya’ comin’?” You asked Noel as you pulled your camera out of your bag.

Noel shook his head, “Nah, I’ll stay ‘ere.” He took your drink from you.

“Party pooper…” You giggled making Noel grin. You reached up and pressed a kiss to his cheek before you quickly disappeared into the crowd.

Noel watched you disappear with a smile on his face. He wasn’t letting you go again.

----- 1999 -----

Noel smiled to himself as he watched you from his sun lounger. You were stood by the pool snapping pictures (like you always were) looking happy and relaxed, something that neither of you had been for what felt like years.

The recent album had been utter chaos to do. Add on top of that the two of you recently finding out that you were expecting your first child together and Liam opening his big gob to an interviewer who was more than happy to spread the news. So, Noel decided as soon as the album was finished, he was whisking you off somewhere warm, preferably with a pool or the sea so he could see you in a bikini. It was one of his favourite sights, especially now that you were pregnant. You looked like a goddess.

“You alrigh’, love?” He asked as you stood in front of him.

You hummed and pressed your left hand to your lower back. Your wedding ring glinting in the sunlight as you did, “Backs hurtin’ a bit.” You scowled.

Noel’s brow furrowed and he shifted on his sun lounger, moving his left leg off onto the floor and patting the spot in front of him. “Come ‘ere.” He held his hand out to you.

You smiled and took his hand, slowly lowering yourself onto the lounger in front of him. You let out a satisfied hum as you settled against Noel’s chest, lifting your legs up onto the sun lounger. Noel wrapped his arms around your waist and placed his hands over your belly as he pressed a kiss to your temple.

“We can go back to the room if you like. Or could book you into the SPA.” He said as he placed another soft kiss to your cheek.

You shook your head. “Not in the mood for some stranger rubbin’ their hands all over me.”

Noel smiled to himself. “I could always do it.”

You giggled, “You mean you want to have a grope.”

“I can do that whenever I want, love.” He said as he gave your breast a squeeze making you giggle and swat his hand away. “C’mon, you’ll feel better.” He gave your thigh a soft pat.

“That’s what I said to you the night we created this.” You giggled as you rubbed your bump.

You’d done the maths and worked out the night of conception was after one mega hectic, chaotic, frustrating day of recording in the studio. Liam and Noel had been arguing all day, hardly getting anything of use recorded. Noel was angry and annoyed with Liam, close to calling it quits. You’d taken him back to your shared room in the big house that had been rented to record the most recent album to calm him down – and you really did calm him down.

“Then you know what I’m ‘bout to do.” Noel said with a cheeky grin as he helped you up off the sun lounger.

Ever since finding out you were pregnant; Noel had spent more time worshipping your body (not that he didn’t already) but he’d become obsessed with you. Pregnancy looked good on you.

Noel slowly peeled your clothes from your body, pressing his lips against your sun kissed skin as he did. He gently laid you down on the bed and spread your legs wide. "Fuck," He moaned as he gently ran his lips up the inside of your thigh. He leaned forwards and ran his tongue up the length of your pussy making you moan loudly. Noel worked his tongue up and down, moaning at your taste.

You moaned rolling your eyes back as Noel sucked on your clit. “Fuck, Noel.” You gripped Noel’s hair as you began rolling your hips against his mouth.

Noel pulled back with a smirk as he lifted his left hand and ran his knuckles through your wet lips making you jump and bite your lip. Your eyes rolled backwards as you felt his wedding ring. God, it turned you on, knowing he was your husband.

He slowly coated his fingers in your wetness before he pushed two of his fingers inside of you. Noel began flicking his tongue against your swollen clit making heavy moans fall from your lips as he moved his fingers in and out of you.

You groaned, "Fuck, Noel,"

Noel moaned against you. He twisted his hand and curled his fingers as he sucked on your clit. Noel smirked as he pulled back from you, "You gonna cum?"

You nodded, "Yes."

"Good girl," Noel reached up with his right hand and grabbed your breast, running his thumb over your hard nipple as he pumped his fingers in and out of you. "Cum all over my fingers, baby."

You let out a deep moan as Noel ran his tongue over your clit, pushing you over the edge.

Noel smirked proudly as he withdrew his fingers from you and sucked his fingers clean. "Perfect." He hummed before he stood up and began to push his boxers down, letting his hard cock spring free.

You let out a low moan as you stared at his beautiful cock.

“How do you want me, baby?” He asked as he gently stroked his cock.

You bit your bottom lip, “From behind.” You blushed.

Noel’s grin widened. “On your side?”

You nodded, excitement bubbling in your chest. Noel leaned forwards and kissed you before he moved to lay on his side behind you. You bent your left leg as Noel took a hold of his cock. Your mouth fell open as Noel pushed his length inside of you. “Oh, god!” You cried out.

“Fuck,” Noel moaned loudly as your cunt squeezed around his cock. “Ya’ feel so good, love.” Noel slipped his right arm under your neck, his calloused hand cupping your breast being gentle knowing they were sensitive. He moved his left hand from your hip and slid it over your bump.

“Please, Noel,” You moaned.

Noel kissed your bare shoulder as he moved his hips back and forth. “What? Tell me.”

“Need to come.” You panted, your fingers digging into his forearm.

Noel kissed your neck as he reached own with his left hand and pressed his fingers against your clit working your clit in time with his thrusts

“Oh, fuck!” You cried out.

“Tell me… say it.” Noel panted against your ear. “Please,”

“Mine… My husband… You… Noel!”

He pressed his lips against yours and kissed you hard, his hips still moving back and forth. You kissed Noel back with as much force, your tongue tangling with his.

You pulled back from Noel needing to breath, groaning loudly as your orgasm hit you, causing you to scream out in pleasure. "FUCK!"

"FUCK, BABY! YES!" Noel snarled as he hit deep inside you, cuming hard. Noel held you in his arms as your breathing slowed down, your back flush against his chest as his hand once again rubbed your belly. “I’ll stop. I promise.” Noel whispered out of nowhere.

“What ya’ mean?” You asked as you reached up with your left hand and threaded your fingers through his hair.

“The drugs and the drinkin’.” He pressed his face into your shoulder and kissed your skin. “I’ll stop smokin’ anorl.”

“Noel,” You smiled to yourself, “You don’t need-”

“I do. For this one… for you, for us.” Noel wrapped his arms around you’re a little tighter, being careful not to squeeze you too much. “I want to be a better man.”

You hugged him back the best you could in the position you were in. “You already are, Noel. I wouldn’t have married you if you weren’t.” You smiled. “I love you.”

Noel smiled against your shoulder, “I love you too.”

[quiet-onset]

i've had some requests for more michael berzatto and fever pitch!reader, so instead of writing the whole part 2 (because I just cannot get it done for some reason), i'll post little drabbles of their time together and how she copes after he's gone. and if you have any ideas or suggestions, feel free to drop them in the asks and i can elaborate!

so yeah. this is how michael and fp!reader got into the whole situationship/fwb dilemma after the famous Christmas incident.

cw: mentions of addiction

You and Michael were not in a relationship. Christmas dinner was your breaking point, and that was it. That’s what you kept having to tell yourself. And your friends. And your family.

The first few months went largely without contact. You got some friends to help you move out of your shared apartment. You moved across town to lower the chances of running into him. You even cut down on contact with Richie, Marcus, Tina, and the others — anyone you’d met through him. As far as you were concerned, Michael no longer existed.

That’s what you told yourself. Until you saw him at the grocery store.

One of your friends was having a housewarming party, and you refused to show up empty handed. So you quietly stepped through the alcohol aisle as you searched for a wine your friend would like. You picked up a white wine and scanned the label when you heard footsteps stomping toward you. “What the hell are you doin’?”

You jumped in surprise, but his voice warmed you nonetheless. “Michael?”

“Why’re you buyin’ alcohol, huh?”

“I don’t think that’s any of your business.”

“You have an addiction.”

You snorted, “Not to alcohol.” At that, he snatched the bottle from your hands, but you snatched it back just as quickly. Your hand brushed his and a shiver ran up your spine; you took a step back. “Relax, it’s not for me. My friend’s having a party.”

“So you haven’t—”

“No.” You replied swiftly. “You?”

He shook his head, digging in his pants pocket. He pulled out three chips. “Four months next week.”

“Good.”

“Yeah.” Michael returned the chips to his pocket, but his eyes never left yours. He tried to ignore the way his heart tugged at the sight of you, but it was no use. He hadn’t seen you since Christmas, and though he told everyone that he was over it, he knew from the moment your gaze met his, he was still all in. The head over heels kind of love, the type that completely overtakes him at the mere mention of your name. In short, he was not over it. “You, uh, you look good.”

You could help the heat that rushed to your cheeks, inwardly scolding yourself at reacting so quickly to his praise. “Thanks.”

“You said you’re goin’ to a party?”

“Yeah, just a housewarming kinda thing.”

His brow raised as he did a onceover of your outfit: a dark blue dress that stopped mid thigh, flaring out a bit complete with black high heels. “Pretty fancy for a housewarming.”

“Yeah, well, if you saw his place, you’d dress to the nines too.” You chuckled, tugging your light coat closer and tying it at the waist.

“His?”

You watched his reaction with a tight chest, observed as his brow furrowed and a frown started pulling at the corners of his mouth. And even as you felt the innate need to reassure that this friend was just that, your blood burned, setting you alight at his insinuation. He’d only said one word, but the intention was clear — Michael believed you owed him an explanation. How dare he question who you hung out with? After all he put you through, he had the nerve, the absolute gall, to think he was entitled to knowing what men walked in or out of your life.

“Something you want to say about that?” You asked, tilting your head coyly.

“Didn’t know you moved on so quickly is all.” He shrugged with a feigned disinterest.

“Not sure why you think it’s any of your business.”

“All I’m sayin’—”

“Because last I checked, we broke up.”

At that, he scoffed in disbelief. “Really? ‘Cause last I checked, I had no say in the matter.”

“Yeah, you were high at the time.”

He paused and huffed, taking a moment to collect himself. He deserved that one. “And then I sobered up and tried to call—”

“And I ignored you—”

“I tried!” He snapped, taking you aback. He took in your surprised expression, the way you gripped the bottle of wine slightly tighter. He took a deep breath and lowered his voice, “I tried, sweetheart. I’m tryin’.”

And although his eyes stayed glued to yours, desperation for your love clear in the brown of his irises, his hands pushed deep into his pockets. You could see from your peripheral vision that his right hand was shifting around in his pocket when you realized: his chips are in that pocket. Just as you suspected, Michael held tight to those chips as he waited for a reply, anything, from you. He flipped them over and over between his fingers in silence, nervously awaiting the moment he anticipated. He waited for the yelling, the tears, the same look of disappointment that you gave him that brisk Christmas night.

Instead, your gaze softened. At first, he thought it was disappointment in your eyes but it wasn’t until you spoke that he realized it was something different. Regret, maybe? Longing. “I know you did. But we just… we weren’t good together. You know that.”

“No. Wanna know what I don’t know?” He stepped closer to you, and a bit of tension rolled off his shoulders when you didn’t step away. “I don’t know who I fuckin’ am without you.”

“Michael, you have your family, the restaurant—”

“My family — gotta love ‘em — is a fuckin’ mess. And the restaurant?” He heaved out a deep breath. “Baby, I’m just goin’ through the motions.”

“That’s not the point.”

“Then what is? ‘Cause this?” He cupped your cheek in his large, warm hand, and you cursed in your mind, annoyed with how your body longed to give in to his touch. “This is it for me. You’re it.”

“Michael…”

“‘S Mikey.”

A beat of silence passed as his arm slowly wrapped around your waist, pulling you closer. Your breath hitched as your chest pressed to his, warm, solid, and safe. Against your better judgment, your gaze flitted down to his lips and back up to his brown eyes. “He’s just a friend.” You admitted quietly.

He gave you a small smile, “I know, baby.”

Later that night, you texted your friend an apology for missing his housewarming party from the warmth of Michael’s bed.

[holdupjack]

Just Put On The Fleece

——————

Pairing: Hermione Granger x Fem!Reader

Warning: sexual suggestions

——————

Third Person P.O.V:

7th Year

Y/n strolled towards Hogsmeade with a smile as snow fell all around her. The lake was completely iced, she could see a few students skating atop its surface.

Snowflakes fell onto her bare arms as some students gave her strange looks at her choice of clothing. She wore just her white button-up and pants, which wasn’t up to most people’s standards when it came to this type of weather.

She didn’t pay them any kind though, instead continuing her peaceful walk to Pippins Potions to stalk up on some ingredients for her next class.

As much as Y/n didn’t feel all the nervous about catching a cold, she did however look over her shoulder every once in a while.

Before she had left to start her walk towards the Village, she had run into Ginny. Now this wasn’t unusual, since they were good friends, but she was even better friends with Y/n’s girlfriend.

Hermione Granger.

The two have been dating for a little over two years now, and to say the least, Hermione was not a huge fan of Y/n’s disregard for winter wear.

They have gotten into fights about it, but they were never huge or harmful. They were just little spits the couple had from time to time around the holidays.

Now Ginny was a little instigator, she loved to get Y/n in trouble with Hermione, and Y/n knew it. Granted, she would never say something to harm their relationship, but Y/n with no coat? Going out into freezing temperatures?

Fair game.

So now Y/n had eyes in the back of her head, almost like she was waiting for her girlfriend to appear out of thin air like a horror movie.

Y/n couldn't help but smile fondly as Hermione's concerns echoed in her mind. Always the protective one, her bushy-haired bookworm. Not that Y/n minded - it was just one more way she knew she was loved.

Reaching Hogsmeade at last, she hurried inside Pippin's Potions to escape the icy kisses peppering her skin. The familiar jingle of bells greeted her, along with friendly shopkeeper Irma Pippin herself.

"Afternoon dear! Back for more fluxweed I see. Winter rolling in already?" The old witch chuckled, taking note of Y/n's sparse attire as she gathered the ingredients into a small pouch.

"You know me Irma, a little chill never bothered me much." Y/n chuckled, exchanging a few knuts for her purchases, placing the pouch into her pocket.

"Though my darling Hermione might avow otherwise..."

Just then, the bells jangled loudly once more. Speak of the devil and so she shall appear, it seemed! Y/n turned with a smile to greet her favorite furious witch.

"Hello, love! Fancy running into you here..." Y/n chuckled nervously as she backed up slightly, almost bumping into Irma as Hermione stepped closer with a stern glare.

“Don’t you ‘hello love’ me! What are you doing out in the snow with no protective clothing!” She says with gritted teeth as the older witch just chuckled as she walked to the back of her shop, muttering ‘if you break it, you buy it’.

“Uh…” Y/n said nervously as Hermione stepped even closer.

Y/n flashes her best disarming smile, hoping to soothe her darling's ruffled feathers. "Now now love, you know a little chill doesn't bother m- oof!"

She's cut off as Hermione shoves a giant fleece throw into her arms. It's garishly orange and covered in little purple cauldrons.

"Here, now you have no excuse. Put this on at once before you catch hypothermia," Hermione huffs, fussing over Y/n until the monstrosity is wrapped snugly around her frame. Only her scowling face remains uncovered.

"There! Don't you look cozy?" Hermione states with a smirk, obviously loving the form of punishment she had procured for their way back to the school.

“I’m not wearing this.” Y/n declared as she playfully glared back at Hermione, who was not happy to hear the defiance.

“We can do this the easy way, or the hard way,” Hermione says as she grasps Y/n’s face and squishes her cheeks together.

“You’re going to make me swallow my tongue” Y/n muttered as Hermione gave her lips a quick peck and let the girl's face go.

“Now, will you be a listener today, or will I have to ‘accio’ you all the way back to my dorm?” Hermione asks as Y/n crosses her arms and grumbles to herself.

“But I don’t wanna wear this atrocious thing” Y/n whined, which made her girlfriend roll her eyes and sigh, placing her hands on her hips.

“Seriously, Y/n-“

That was all she could get out before the garment was tossed back at her, and the jingling of bells was her only indicator that Y/n had just made a break for it,

“What the- Y/N!” Hermione yelled angrily as she pulled the clothing away from her face and dashed back out into the village. Her eyes darted from left to right, soon landing on Y/n, who was standing at the end of the block with a shit-eating grin.

Y/n's mischievous antics would be the death of her, Hermione swears it. With a steely gaze, she marches purposefully down the street, fleece trailing menacingly behind like a wrathful cape.

"You think you're so clever, don't you?" she calls as she closes the distance. But Y/n only grins wider, dancing nimbly out of reach.

"Now now love, can't we discuss this civilly over butterbeers? I'm parched from all this invigorating exercise!" Y/n teases as she continues to back away.

"The only thing you'll be drinking is that foul lake water if you don't surrender yourself this instant!" She stays with a scowl as she watches the snow fall onto her lover's hair and bare skin.

But when has a threat ever stalled this rogue?

With a cheeky blow of a kiss, Y/n pivots on her heel and bolts down a side alley.

“Y/n Y/l/n!”

Hermione gives pursuit, weaving deftly through the village streets. She tries her best not to bump into anyone as she chases Y/n down alleyways and stairways to different streets. At last, she corners her favorite miscreant in a dead end.

"Gotcha!" she crows, triumphantly diving forward to wrap Y/n in her fleecy fate. But the rogue is too swift, spinning nimbly aside with a peal of laughter.

"Is that the best you've got, bookworm?" Y/n taunts, dancing just out of reach again. Her playful grin mocks Hermione's frustration to new heights.

"Why you impertinent—" Lunging again, Hermione feints one way then tackles the other, taking her willful partner by surprise. They tumble headlong into a snowbank, wrestling fiercely as the flakes fall upon their flushed faces.

"Yield, you beautiful scoundrel!" Hermione growls between giggles, wrestling the fleece around Y/n's struggling form at long last.

"Now take your medicine like a good girl." She smirks, pinning her captive beneath triumphant hips, Hermione then leans down to deliver a punishing kiss.

Well, as punishing as a kiss between two love birds can be.

"Let that be a lesson to cross me again, my darling rogue." She whispers when she pulls away, affection softens her stern eyes, and melting away Y/n's resistance completely.

"Oh very well, you've bested me, Granger. Have your victory - this time." Y/n sighs dramatically as she grins up at her girlfriend, and finally accepts her fleecy prison.

"I believe you have an apology to make, you hoodlum." Hermione chuckles, securing Y/n firmly in place as they stand up from the snowbank.

“How about another kiss instead?” Y/n asks with a smirk as she wraps the fleece around their heads and gives another peck to her girlfriend's lips. Hermione just chuckled and happily accepted this form of apology.

So deciding to be a little daring as well, and since they were hidden in a small alleyway, Hermione jumped into her girlfriend's arms. Y/n fell back into the snow, holding onto Hermione tightly as she pressed kisses onto Y/n’s face and lips repeatedly.

Hermione wasn’t this affectionate usually, at least not in public, but that didn’t mean she didn’t love these moments. Where Y/n would do something idiotic, like refusing to wear proper winter clothing, and then make Hermione chase her around Hogsmeade like they’re thirteen again.

A tender smile curves Y/n's lips as her darling bookworm showers her with affection. Moments like this make all their spirited misadventures worthwhile, reminding her anew why she fell for this fiery soul.

"I love you, you know," she murmurs between caresses, gazing up at Hermione with open adoration. It still amazes her sometimes - that such a brilliant witch could love a roguelike her in return.

But love Hermione does, with a passion to match even Y/n's flame. And so their game of chase leads ever onward, whatever obstacles life sends their way.

For now, lost in each other's arms amidst the falling snow, the world beyond fades away. No cares nor duties intrude on this perfect moment, shared alone between two hearts entwined as one.

“Do you mean it?” Hermione whispered as she stared at Y/n with a curious expression, but the tugging smile at the corner of her lips told Y/n that she just wanted to hear her say it again.

“Awe my lovely Gryffindor, I love you more than the ocean loves the shore” Y/n chuckled as she kissed her once more, earning a happy hum from Hermione.

“Aren’t you poetic today?” Hermione whispers as she kisses down Y/n’s jaw, earning a soft purr as the snow melts against her back. Y/n blushes under Hermione's teasing, always rendered bashful by her beloved's quiet charms.

"Only for you, my love. You inspire the poet in me unlike any."

Her touch sends thrills cascading through Y/n's form, setting her aflame despite the chill. How fortunate she was to have found not only a partner to match wits with, but one so generous with passion as well.

"I fear if we linger longer entwined, my good intentions may go out the window," Y/n chuckles, making Hermione snicker and throw the fleece off of their faces. She sits up, straddling Y/n’s hips as she shakes out the snowflakes from her hair.

“You are always so eager to rip my clothes off” Hermione snickers as Y/n shamelessly nods her head in quick succession.

“What do you say we retire to the Three Broomsticks for warmth and nourishment, before reckless passions overtake your mind?" Hermione teases as she stands up and hoists Y/n up to her feet. Pressing one last ardent kiss to perfect lips, Hermione dusts the clinging snow from supple curves. Offering an arm with a rakish smile, she leads them from the alley and back to the bustling thoroughfare.

“So…how about later?” Y/n asked with a smirk as they walked towards the small pub.

“Promise to start wearing your coat?” Hermione asks, looking at her with a grin of her own.

“Fine…” Y/n mumbles in defeat as her girlfriend proudly pulls her quickly into the building.

“Then maybe…you can see what’s under mine tonight”

[bananaactivity]

I love your characterisation of Carlos, do you have any more hcs about him ?

Sure

I feel like a lot of people wouldn’t like my version of Carlos. He’s not this sweet little goober who’s so smoll XD. Not there’s anything wrong with that ofc.

He’s more of a sassy rude little goober who thinks he’s always right. He doesn’t like animals unless he’s shooting them and using them to make fancy coats. Chad fixed that though because he loves furry little guys.

In my AU he had a little fling with Jay but he realized that he didn’t really enjoy “dating” people. (Also Jay is kinda a mess ngl)

Jane and him are still good freinds but Carlos is more aro ace leaning, he doesn’t label himself but he still has feelings that lean that way. Jane and Chad are his people that he holds up as people that he loves more then most but it’s still platonic.

He’s also close friends with Harry as he would escape to Hooks ship when his mom would be too much.

A theme of my AU is that the longer the core four stay in Auradon the less close they get as they become wrapped up with different situations. Carlos is the most stable of them all. He and Chad are just chilling. Mal and Evie are trying to make their relationships work then they fail and realize they want to be together but the dynamic is way different when they upgrade the relationship. And Jay is really struggling man, he just found out he loved a guy he spent his whole life beefing with, as well as that that guy is probably getting married to someone else all in the same day. And then his best friend the future king just got broken up with and immediately came on to him so hard that they did it. And instead of realizing that was kinda unhealthy they keep up a secret relationship instead of dealing with their feelings for a whole year. So yah Jay is not having a good time. Well he thinks he is ig.

Carlos curls his hair up in pink rollers with a black bonnet and puts on a red silk robe before he goes to sleep. He gifted Chad a baby blue bonnet and fluffy robe with yellow duck slippers. They’re twining and of course it’s always silly when the group has to get them up in the middle of the night and they’re slaying together. It’s giving this:

Love that for them.

Carlos nick names from Chad are Carly, Fancy Pants, Spots, Angry Little Guy, and Shooty McGee. He also sings the cruella de vil song but with Carlos name and slightly changed lyrics:

“Carlos De Vil

Carlos De Vil

If he doesn't scare you

No little thing will

To see him is to take a sudden chill

Carlos, oh Carlos

Hes like a spider waiting for the kill

Look out for Carlos De Vil

At first you think Carlos is a devil

But after time has worn away the shock

You come to realize

You've seen his kind of eyes

Watching you from atop a rock

This sneaky little rat

This killer beast

He ought to be locked up and throw out the key

The world was such a wholesome place until

Carlos, Ol’ Carlos De Vil!”

Chad’s nicknames from Carlos are Puppers, Dummy, Stupid, Blonderella, Rat boy, and Prince Himbo. He also sings a little song to Chad based on a song rats sang to his mother:

“Poor Blondarelly, every time he finds a minute, that’s the time when they begin it, Blondie Blondie,

Night and day it’s Blondarelly, cut the grass and clean the balls, wash the jerseys and dust the lockers,

Do the shining and the roll call, they always keep him hopping, he goes around in circles till he’s very very dizzy. Still they holler… Keep a busy Blondarelly!”

It’s all in good fun and I love that for themmmm!

[mugloversonly]

Santa is coming to town

Written for @steddieholidaydrabbles prompt: FORMAL wc: 860 rating: G CW: NA AO3 summary: Steve gets an invite to the Band Christmas Party.

It’s Christmas Eve and Steve’s so excited to see Eddie again. It felt like it’s been years since he last saw him, when really it’s been two weeks. The knock at the door startled him slightly. He thought he was meeting up with Eddie at Wayne’s?

He ran to open it to see...a fed? A man in a three piece suit with an earpiece stood on his porch, sunglasses on even though it was getting dark already.

“Can I help you?” Steve asked, barely opening the door. The man stared for a moment.

“Are you Steve Harrington?” He asked. Steel immediately went up his spine. His hand inched behind the door for his bat.

“Who’s asking?” The man didn’t respond. Instead he reached into his coat pocket and handed Steve an official looking envelope and a garment bag.

“Correspondence from, Theodore Munson.” He said before he walked away without a backward glance. Steve furrowed his brows as he opened it.

Steven Harrington,

You are formally invited to the Crossroads Records

Annual Christmas Party, Christmas Eve, 1986.

Dress code is black tie.

William D.

Steve tossed the bag onto the couch and stared at the message for ten minutes before his phone rang. He ran to answer it. “Hello, Harrington Residence.” He said on autopilot as he reread the letter.

“Stevie! Did you get my letter?” Eddie’s voice boomed through. Steve chuckled...he must have timed it.

“Yeah.” Steve sighed.

“So, you’re coming?” Eddie asked hopefully. He wanted to say yes, he assumed the garment bag had formal attire for him, but…

“I don’t want to cramp your style, Eds.” Steve said softly. “I’m just a regular guy, I don’t want to make it weird.” There was a long pause.

“You listen to me Steve Harrington. You are not ‘just’ anything. You are not some groupie or something. You are my boyfriend. And I want the people to know you, to see you.” Eddie answered. Steve’s breath hitched.

“Are you sure?” Steve whispered.

“I want everyone to know, that you’re mine. And I’m yours.” Steve gasped softly as a few tears escaped.

“If you say so.” Steve whispered.

“Thank you, I’ll pick you up tonight?” Eddie asked. Steve agreed on a time and they said their goodbyes.

Steve opened the garment bag on the couch and gasped. A beautiful three piece suit, complete with a silk neck tie, stared back at him. He reminded himself to thank Chrissy.

~~~

Steve stood outside to wait, not willing to give up a single moment of time with Eddie. That turned out to be a great idea when an honest to god sleigh came to a sudden halt in front of him. It was pulled by three reindeer, thankfully it had a top, and it was bright red. The door thrust open and Eddie stepped out in all his glory.

Steve imagined what Eddie’s formal wear would look like, he’s seen the magazine covers, he knew the man didn’t really ‘do’ black tie. But, he was stunning. Black suit pants and coat to match Steve’s but his had glitter in the seams. No shirt underneath, simply a few necklaces with his signature rings on his fingers. Eddie pulled him inside and he was shocked to see Wayne and Robin.

“He send you a fed to invite him too?” Steve asked the two.

“He drags me to this thing every year. I told him don’t bother sending an invite, just the suit.” Wayne sighed; resigned to his fate.

“Yeah! Talk about scary, I mean...who sends a random dude with an earpiece to hand someone an envelope and a fancy suit.” Robin said. Steve smiled at Eddie. He made sure to put Robin in a similar suit to all of theirs. Her tied was a bow tie, though.

“Sorry! I didn’t know he looked like a fed!” Eddie said as if this wasn’t the first time they’ve had this conversation. “Besides, I needed you there, Chris will stress herself out and I figured, you could relax her.” Eddie said slyly. Robin froze at that.

“Chrissy! She’s going to be there? Why didn’t you say anything?” Robin shouted. As she worked herself into a real panic, Wayne reached over to reassure her. Steve took the moment to kiss Eddie softly.

“Merry Christmas.” He whispered.

“Told you, I’d be here.” Eddie said smugly.

“And springing the party on me?” Steve asked with pursed lips.

“I didn’t want you to have time to think through that we’re going to a label party. So, there will be a lot of famous people.” Eddie rushed out.

“You’re lucky, I love you.” Steve said. The three other people in the sleigh gasped, but Steve ignored two of them. “Really?” He asked quietly. But Steve heard it, he heard the insecurity.

“Eds I’ve had a crush on you since 1980. Since the talent show in the eighth grade.” Steve said. “Even if you didn’t do what you do now, I would still want to be right here.” Eddie chuckled lightly. “Of course I love you.”

“I love you, too.” He whispered as he kissed him again. God it was good to have him home.

tags

@katyawriteswhump

buy me a coffee

[cindol]

seeing the idea of the white tiger!waka, i thought of the white leopard!waka and black panther!reader 😫

႟ ̥ͦ٭ WHITE PANTHER WAKA AND BLACK PANTHER READER ! ႟ ̥ͦ٭

wakasa imaushi x black fem reader

﹒.ᐟ 𐚁 cw— reader is blasian, enemies to lovers, readers parents aren’t very present, slightly suggestive, fluff,

tw— written in hc format, reader and waka are sixteen

wc : 915 words

a/n : okaaay ! these were suppose to be his but I decided to be a lil fun with this one and give this some backstory and fluff .

You and white panther!wakasa have a rocky relationship nobody could really get or know. You and waka were gangster enemies, with you both being young upcoming delinquents leading the two powerful gangs kodo rengo and black kitsune, the current popular gangs everybody had their eyes on so it was inevitable that you two would end up being enemies.

As much as wakasa could say he hated your bitchy prissy attitude and how uppity your vice president and the members were and or how you hated how nasty waka and kodo rengo was the both of you only did show then act. Sure, there were countless times black kitsune fought kodo rengo but there wasn’t a lot of times that could say where you and wakasa ever fought one on one other than just nasty comebacks.

When you two did argue in front of everyone it really came off as faux and more lustful than hatred. No amount of I hate you’s could cover the potential chemistry the both of you had to your right hand woman mizuki with her always being bare witness to it.

Witnessing every nasty thing you said to wakasa which made him just tilt his head in amusement and smile cockily replying saying,“oh yeah princess?” The right hand woman could see through this facade and couldn’t understand how her own fellow members and members of kodo rengo couldn’t see either.

Really the two of you could be a power couple if you both went to the same highschool together. Your fashion sense was drastically different, you embodying a black panther with how you wore a fur coat and occasionally shades like some boss bitch yakuza leader while white panther!wakasa wore just his white gang uniform pants and his leader jacket with a dangling earring on his ear lobe.

His personality was so diverse from yours yet you two came up in the same struggles of life and neighborhood, it could make sense if one day perhaps you two ended up dating in secret.

So if potentially, you and wakasa were secretly meeting in your house would that be so bad?

At first when wakasa started to come to your house it was just simply him wanting to truce because even he could use some tranquility between all this gang beef. On the surface you were hesitant to let him in, someone you would swear up and down would be your nemesis forever but you too had your limits on this hatred and beef. So this started your many talks and visits with wakasa

Going from just trying to come to an agreement over tea and Coca Cola to really knowing one another. Wakasa didn’t even know you were a dropout since middle school until he really started to speak to you. Every little thing he learned about you day by day was a new eye opener.

Everything about you was just so… exquisite. Down to your bed that had the cleanest sheets covered with a fuzzy warm jet black blanket on top and the other many black quirky items dyed or painted in this room. It’s why it didn’t make sense to the white panther how you grew up poor.

“For someone who grew up with this dirt poor ass upbringing you live a fancy life in this room of yours.” When he said that while holding one of your black cat shaped tea cups he thought for sure he’d get a mouthful from you and a nasty stare.

Instead, you’d give him a short answer.“There's a whole lot you don’t know about me, white panther.”

That made him hang with you more.

With each visit he gave to you he always ended up wanting to never leave. Now every time he saw you his insults became lazy, more like seeing an old frenemy. Any time he would see you publicly the tension was so gone and more like friends putting on a front, or a boyfriend and girlfriend play fighting and it made your right hand woman of course raise a brow.

along with your right hand woman and your female executive in the gang. They would corner you in your bedroom, finally asking the question on their minds, well your right hand woman asking the question.

“Keep it real, you and the panther kicking it together behind the scenes?”

The question doesn’t gag you, you actually saw this question coming from the two women who knew you the most so you gave a straightforward answer.“Well if I was, it’s not too bad to have some fun, no?” With a rare Cheshire like grin on your lips. You just trusted the two girls enough to tell them and know they’d keep it a secret

So while your right hand woman and executive tried coming to an agreement through meetings with wakasa’s upper level members in his gang you both would actually be wasting good time in your bedroom just with him laying his head on your lap while you watched your daily tv with tea in your hand

Because who really needed to know that the black panther and white panther were really dating?

[lolasimms]

how do you think abbu would react to being invited to lilas tea party?

Tea parties and mockery

Summary: Abby has a tea party with Lila and Levi, and it ends with her getting taunted by her 4 year old daughter. Reader is away on a work trip.

“Momma, are you going to make us some tea?" Lila comes in the room wearing one of your coats. She says it makes her look classy. The black fabric is hanging to the floor like a dress, but the 4 year old doesn't seem to care.

You were away on a work trip, meaning Abby was at home with the babies for the weekend. She’d left the kids with her dad in the morning and then dropped you off at the airport. After lots of hugs and kisses she’d left you at the front and then made her way back to her dads to get the kids. Levi was taking your absence well but Lila on the other hand was fuming, since you’d promised her a tea party earlier in the week. So here she was, getting the tea party in order for her grumpy daughter and agreeable son.

"Yes, give me a minute, honey." She makes her way into the bathroom, where a newly potty trained Levi is done. He stands up and claps, once he spots his mother. "Good job honey, now let's wash that stinky behind." She calls out, pulling the toddler off the potty.

"Eww, put on your pants Levi," Lila says as she watches her half-naked brother get cleaned up.

Abby finishes cleaning Levi and then proceeds to carry both kids down the stairs to get a start on the tea. It was an expensive lilac tea that Lila had insisted Abby buy for her since it was the plant she was named after. If she was being honest, Abby thought the tea tasted like the smell of air freshener, but she’d do anything Lila wanted. Even if it meant spending $30 at an organic tea shop.

Lila plays with Levi in the living room while Abby prepares the tea. She was told by the vendor at the store that lilac was good for relaxing and digestion. She only hoped that was true, so she could calm the two gremlins down, enough to get them to sleep at-least. She throws the overpriced tea bag into the pot and then pours in the boiled water, she doesn’t add any sugar though. She always tells Lila that real adults don't put sweeteners or sugar in their tea. It's a lie, but she’s not willing to deal with the aftermath of a 4 and 1 year old on a sugar rush.

"Alright kiddos, tea is ready."

"Yaa! Levi the tea is ready.” Lila shouts, attempting to lift up her brother but fails miserably, immediately she sets him back down. Levi loves every minute of it, just looking up in excitement at his big sister. "Okay, momma, you have to carry us." Abby looks at the hot teapot she’s holding and then back to her two kids.

"I can only carry Levi, cause I'm holding your teapot." She explains to Lila.

"Hmmpph." She pouts and crosses her arms across her chest. Abby knows she doesn't stand a chance. She either does what Lila wants, or she'll have a full-blown tantrum.

"Fine, hop on, mommas back." She squats down so Lila can hop on, and she does so happily.

Abby then scoops up Levi with the arm that is not holding the teapot. And by some miracle she manages to get them both upstairs with no falls or third degree burns. If you had been home to witness this, Abby Anderson would have been a dead woman.

Lila serves Abby and Levi the tea. As they’re all sat around a fancy tea table and matching chairs that her grandpa Jerry had gotten her for her birthday. Abby’s bulky figure cant fit in the chair, or else she’d break it. So instead she opts to sit on the floor. Lila’s teapots are white with purple embellishments coated on them, alone with matching cups.

"Momma, don't forget to hold out your pinky."

"Oh yes, baby, I apologise." She points her pinky outward as she takes a sip from the cup.

Levi is quiet as he patiently waits for Lila’s instructions, to tell him what to do. He is so enamored by her, and Abby loves the close knit bond the two of them already have.

"Okay, so momma how was your day?"

"It was nice."

"What did you do?"

"I dropped mommy off to the airport and then spent the day with you two.”

“Is mommy your girlfriend?”

“She’s my wife, and how do you know what that is?”

“Do you and mommy kiss?” Abby’s eyes go wide and she immediately turns red.

Lila starts to jump around the room, hysterically laughing and Levi runs after her laughing as well, copying his sister's actions.

"Momma, kisses mommy" Lila begins to chant, over and over again. Trying to get under Abby’s skin.

“Alright we’re never having another tea party again.” Abby playfully yells over the chanting.

"Momma kisses mommy!!” Lila continues running around her room and screaming. Levi doing the same, and Abby is just perched on the floor, smiling in amazement that she’d be stuck with these two gremlins for the rest of her life. She loved it.

—

abby

can you please come home now???

y/n

what’s wrong love, the babies okay?

abby

your daughter made fun of me because I kiss you

y/n

you poor thing, is our 4 year old giving you a hard time?

abby

yeah :/

y/n

want me to ground her when I get back?

abby

would you actually?

y/n

if she’s bullying my wife then I’ve gotta teach her a lesson :)

[tigerlyla-of-metinna]

Chapter 10: Old Friend New Life

Summary:

Geralt was given an address by Emhyr to seek the answers why he must accept the contract. There, Geralt meets an old friend and the witcher got more than he bargained for.   Spoiler: This chapter follows one of the three endings of Blood and Wine, making it the canon ending for this fic.

The address led Geralt to an antique-esque establishment that has seen better days and looked out of place among its more up-to-date, prestigious neighbors. It looks like it belonged in a different district. Or a different century. Several centuries. Without the empires’ intervention in preserving heritage structures, the council of merchants- and the capitals planning committee would have demolished the place and erected a building to match the current times.

Geralt glanced up at the shop’s sign above the gray awning, and grinned.

Vinne Exotisch

The etching below it: a goblet surrounded by grapes and an assortment of painted herbs and tubers that are generally identified as deadly poisons. There was an odd sign that did not belong, carved in the center of the goblet.

Geralt recognized it immediately. To the ignorant, it is just any other daring danger symbol. Geralt has seen them carved inside the walls of the human pens in Tesham Mutna.

The symbol of the Gharasham Tribe.

The door opened from the inside and a well-dressed young man exited, holding a wine bottle wrapped in dark brown paper that looked finer than the establishment it belonged to. Geralt grabbed the door before it closes, entered and flipped the “OPEN” sign to “CLOSE”.

A familiar cultured voice greeted him from behind the counter.

“Pick your poison, witcher, I believe I may have a bottle or two that you’ve not tried yet but I guarantee, it is far more satisfying that the usual concoctions you imbibed before a hunt, and much more intoxicating than all the wines in Toussaint.”

Geralt smiled, unbuckling his swords to rest on the counter surface.

“Well, well, you finally decided to market your mandrake brews to the public. I expected you’d be a barber-surgeon or a medic, not a vintner.”

Regis stepped out from behind the counter to shake Geralts’ proffered hand. The witcher, instead, pulled the vampire into a bear hug. After, Geralt held Regis at arms length and gave his old friend a look over, and chuckled.

“Heh, mister fancy pants! Traded your threadbare coat for some expensive threads-” he sniffed “- and smelling of soap instead of the inside of an apothecary.”

Regis gave him a full toothed grin, showing off those frighteningly sharp teeth. “Why not! In this city, cleanliness is next to godliness is the unwritten strict policy that every citizen of the empire takes into heart.”

Like the majority of the nilfgaardians, Emiel Regis wore black. His doublet is embroidered with gold threads in the pattern of elven vines partly covered by a fine short black cloak chained across and below his left armpit. He posed like a matador for Geralt.

“You like it? The outfit gives off an air of trust: which is very vital for a merchant selling exotics. Separates the snake oil salesmen from the experts.”

An eccentric expert more like, Geralt though humorously. “I never cared for doublets so I don’t know much about fashion. Try asking Yennefer. But you do look like you belong with the nobility. I can’t say the same about your shop.”

Regis waved a hand in dismissal. “Ah yes, this building is outdated, but it adds to the appeal of my exotic brews. Did you notice the sign outside?”

“Pretty hard to miss, since you advertise the tribe you belonged to. That is a dangerous symbol to wave about around these parts, even if, as you say, that nilfgaardians are so modern in their sensibilities that they think your kind are just boogeymen to scare the children to behave.”

“No humans have seen our vampire symbols, apart from yourself. And there are Toussaintous who mistook the visible ones as signs of the old gods of this world, even pray to them.”

[thekingofwinterblog]

There is no established way that elves dressed.

Don't know why you feel this strongly about it, but as it happens, you are wrong, we know pletora of ways Tolkien's elves dressed.

Tolkien himself drew a picture of Beleg Strongbow from the first age, and from it we can see that the Elves of Doriath dressed in pointed shoes with what seems to be long white socks, knee length pants, and what looks like a black doublet.

In other words, the male Elves of Doriath dressed in a style clearly inspired by Tudor england, only a bit toned down, and seemingly withouth it's more outlandish/silly features(Codpieces and those frilly necks for example).

We also know that elves seems to have prefered shoes over boots, though some elves(The ones of rivendell at the very least) used boots, though wheter it was the prefered footwear even then is another question.

Many elves also were clearly described as "Robed" in the sense of wearing actual robes, though what sort of robes and how fanciful they might be is not specified.

Famously they are also known to use enchanted cloaks, which we can presume looked pretty similar to the movie version.

Overall though, Tolkien made it clear that all of his various people dressed in a variety of styles, depending on their climate and their ancestral heritage. An elf from Doriath would probably not much resemble an elf from Mirkwood for example.

As for war, there would be a bit more overlap(though some differences as i'll go over below), as all elves dressed the same way for war, given Plate armor is not a thing in the book legendarium.

Namely iron/steel hauberks of interlocked metal rings, aka Mail/Chainmail.

All elves wore these though there is some question wheter they wore a surcoat above it as well.

It is possible that the elves did wear coats of arms above their mail shirts, but there is nothing in text as far as i can tell that auggests this, and all description of family crests and symbols suggests they carried such on their shields, not their armor.

As for their helmets, we dont know the exact style, but from what i can tell, there doesnt seem to have been any mentions of a full helmets amongst them, so there seems to have been a tradition of helmets with open faces, with fully closed off helmets being more of a dwarf thing.

Finally, there is one bit of Armor speciffically noted to be unique to Earendil, so there is a question wheter this was from his elven side, or his Human heritage, so this style would either have been the style of Gondolin, or the house of hador.

That of course being what Bilbo describes as "Panoply of ancient kings".

Now a Panoply has several meanings, as it can be used to describe "a full suit of armor", but this is a later meaning, speciffically refering to a suit of full plate armor. The older meaning, and far and away the more obvious one when you take into consideration thst Earendil's son would found numenor, which was inspired by ancienct Greece and Rome, is the the breast armor worn back during antiquity.

Now, as Tolkien made clear there was never any true plate armor in the legendarium, this rules out the early breastplates from the bronze age and the greek golden age, and instead means that Earendil either wore a greek suit of scale armor around his chest(and some form of band armor over his shoulder, be it scales, or boiled leather), or Linothorax, the kind of paper armor that Alexander the great used to conquer the known world.

While the latter is possible, there is no mention of such kind of armor anywhere in the legendarium, but plenty of references to scale armor, so i find the first much more likely.

Which means that the Elves of Gondolin(or if we're being completely literal, only it's kings) may or may not have had breast armor similar to the kind of scale armor sometimes used by the hoplites of ancienct greece.

[hypnofur1]

The Thanksgiving Problem

By Hypnofur

I laughed when I got the picture from my wife on my phone. I texted back, asking her who took it, as it was a picture of her and her friend Paulina strolling down the street together. It was clear that someone had taken it for them, as it wasn’t a selfie.

My wife Alison texted back that Paulina had some girl on the street take it for her. She said that she liked the pictures she posted to look ‘authentic’, and that meant ‘candid’ shots taken by someone else, not selfie. Had I been with Alison, I would have gone on a rant about how not only did this picture not look authentic, but there was nothing authentic about Paulina at all. I hadn’t been a fan since college, and Alison knew that. However, that rant was a lot to type, so I just let it go, and instead asked Alison if she had forgotten her coat.

She texted back that indeed she did, as she had been in Houston too long, and totally forgot that Chicago would be cold in late November. Paulina let her borrow one of her little fur jackets. Despite that, the two of them still looked so different in this picture. Paulina also had a little fur jacket on, but with leather pants and leather boots. Her hair and make up was done to perfection, and she had a “I’m not even aware my photo is being taken” look on her face that she had clearly practiced many times.

Alison, in contrast, was in jeans and sneakers and looked out of place in a fur jacket. She looked right at the camera and laughed, likely a bit embarrassed about how silly it all was. As had been the case since college, despite all of Paulina’s glam, Alison was just prettier. Her looks were natural. I had pointed out many times that she was the prettier of the two, but she never believed it. She just thought it was the husband in me talking.

What the husband in me was actually doing was killing time “babysitting” the kids. Yes, I know it is not actually babysitting if they kids are your own. But, whatever, there was one of me and two of them and they were energetic as all hell. I was actually at the trampoline park at the time of this exchange.

I was annoyed that Alison had to fly to Chicago on the weekend before Thanksgiving to be with Paulina to help her though her (latest) divorce. With that said, the original ‘ask’ was for Alison to come spend the actual Thanksgiving in Chicago with her. We were hosting this year, so luckily that was out right from the get go. So, when that didn’t pan out, the weekend before Thanksgiving was the consolation. It was only really for a night, since there was a Saturday morning flight out, and a Sunday night flight back.

Alison kept texting me though out the evening. Telling me about the fancy restaurant, etc. Paulina was loaded. I was trying to keep up with the texts, but I had baths, dinner, bed times, etc. It was busy, and I was exhausted. Again, I know I shouldn’t admit that taking care of my own kids by myself for one day was exhausting, but damn… it was. I conked out on the couch shortly after getting them to sleep.

I awoke at close to 5am. I decided I would head up to my actual bed, as the kids typically woke up around 7. I checked my phone, and saw a ton of texts and a few emails from Alison.

The first few were about a group of guys they met while out. Alison said they were the typical dumb 40 somethings out on the town. Probably all divorcees. Then she wrote how Paulina was eating up the attention. No surprise there, that was her typical behavior. Then again, I would think most women going through a divorce would try to get some attention to feel better for a little bit. No biggie.

I scanned through a bunch of the other texts, they were mostly describing the dudes. I imagined Alison was more comfortable looking at her phone than talking to these guys, so the play by play made sense to me.

She started talking about how this one guy named Joe was a hypnotist. Pretty soon, most of the texts and play by play became about that.

She texted how Paulina was teasing him, and there was going to be a demonstration right there at the bar.

The next text seemed to be fifteen or so minutes later. Alison said that she couldn’t believe it, but Paulina was actually hypnotized. Apparently, she thought she was a cat, and climbed up into Joe’s lap.

I would have actually loved to have seen that. It would have been fun to see Ms. SuperCool Paulina do something embarrassing with a nerdy dude. Fortunately, a picture of her on the guy’s lap was next. Damn, she was really on him. This was crazy.

A few minutes later, there was a text that said, heading back to Paulina’s, and a complaint that the hypnotist guy got Paulina to invite them all back. I could tell that despite the fact that this text was now like 6 hours old, Alison was nervous. This wasn’t her scene. I didn’t like it either. She (we) didn’t know these guys. What if one of them was an axe murderer or something?

The next text was like an hour later. Paulina had taken her phone, and at least announced herself via text, so I knew who was typing. She asked if I wanted to see my wife get hypnotized. It was a rhetorical question, not only because it was asked hours ago, but also because it was immediately followed by a link.

I looked at the text of the link. It appeared to be some type of dark web youtube for people that were into hypnosis in a sexy way? Hypno-fetishists, I guess? My stomach flip flopped as I realized that this Joe guy must be some sort of hypno porn producer or something. Oh fuck.

However, this was my wife, and I had to figure out what kind of danger she (and we) were in, so I had no choice but to click the link.

In the video, Alison was standing in Paulina’s kitchen. She didn’t look comfortable. She still had Paulina’s fur jacket on, as if she was going to leave at any moment. Now, I knew that she was staying at Paulina’s condo, so she really didn’t have anywhere else to go, but she was clearly trying to give off a closed vibe. Two other guys were just standing there, and the Joe guy came up to her. I assumed the third guy was now holding the camera. Meanwhile, Paulina was just standing there, staring at this little, fat, Joe dude like he was the most interesting man in the world. This all looked so unsafe.

I became wracked with guilt. How could I have fallen asleep? I should have been texting with her. I should have been there to keep her safe!

“Well, Alison,” Joe said. “Earlier, at the bar, you seemed to think this was all nonsense. I’ve got to ask, do you believe in hypnosis now, after seeing your friend fall under my spell?”

“Maybe,” Alison said. “I guess, on the right person. On someone like Paulina at least.” She said. I know she never thought of Paulina as being that bright. I agreed with that assessment.

“That’s true, that’s true,” Joe said, nodding. “Though I would argue that more people are actually in that ‘right person to be hypnotized’ group than one would think”

Alison shrugged. She looked like she so desperately did not want to be there.

“And you don’t think you are one of those people, I’m guessing. You know, from your body language and stuff” Joe asked.

“I have to travel tomorrow. I think we should wrap all of this up. Don’t you Paulina?,” Alison said to her friend.

“Paulina wants me to stay. She wants to see if you can be hypnotized. Paulina, tell her that.” Joe interrupted, without breaking his gaze on Alison.

“I want him to stay. You should try to be hypnotized Al” Paulina said, similarly not breaking her gaze on Joe.

“See? We are all friends here Alison. I’d like to be your friend. Here,” Joe said, extending his hand. “Let’s shake on it.”

Warily, Alison took his hand and he shook it, up and down, slower than a casual handshake, rhythmic, like an undulating wave through her whole arm. She clearly wasn’t sure if she should pull it away or not.

“Just follow my lead and relax,” Joe said. “Focus on the swaying sensation. Pretend it’s a soothing wave. Like laying back in a waterbed. Feeling the sensation all around you, and letting it move your body. Very good.

“As I raise and lower your arm, I want you just to focus your eyes on me. If you don’t know where to look, that’s okay. Most people look at my eyes. They say they’re sky-blue. Or like sapphires. Focus on the blue in my eyes.

“You’re doing wonderfully,” Joe said, his voice deepening into a soothing tone. “All you have to do is relax and focus on my eyes. On the sensation of drifting with the waves. You may notice by now that as you continue to look into my eyes, there is a heavy, drowsy feeling occurring in your eyes. Like staying up all night and trying to keep them open the next day. So difficult to do.

“In fact, each time I raise your arm upward, like this,” Joe said, as he raised her arm, before lowering it. “That heaviness in your eyes will become stronger. That’s fine. That means you’re doing it right and everything’s okay.”

I watched my phone as Alison’s eyes hooded, closing more with each time her arm rose.This can’t really be working, I thought as I watched the video from a couple hours ago.

“As your eyes begin to close,” Joe continued. “You feel the desire to let them close get stronger. It’s perfectly safe. Like slipping into a warm bed after a long, hard day’s work. All your body wants to do is relax and drift. Your eyes are closing all the way now. You want this relaxation. You feel it, warm and heavy, floating through your body. Feel it happening, Alison.”

Joe pulled on my wife’s hand, making her fall into him, head pressed against his shoulder. I couldn’t believe she was that… close… to a stranger.

Then Joe whispered into her ear, as I turned up the volume on my phone to max, desperate to hear what he was telling her. I couldn’t get anything though. Then, he put his hands on her shoulders and placed her in a standing position, like a limp doll. She stood straight, her hands at her sides, head down, and eyes closed.

“My friends,” Joe announced to the guys in the room, and to a degree, Paulina. “Our new friend Alison is now in a deep hypnotic trance.”

I was absolutely scared shitless. I had no fucking clue what I should do.

On the video, Joe stood close to Alison, whispering deep into her ear, and his hands wrapping her lower waist. “Alison,” he said, the microphone picking him up again, “You are deeply hypnotized right now. It feels absolutely wonderful. You’ve never felt better in your life. So relaxed, so happy. You’re in a safe place and trust me completely. In fact, you can only hear my voice.

“And because you trust me completely, you know it’s safe to believe everything that I tell you. You follow all of my instructions without question. You are completely under my hypnotic control, and you are no longer in control. Do you understand? If so, repeat it back to me now.”

“I am no longer in control,” my wife said to this stranger.

“Very good,” Joe said. “And it feels amazing. Better than anything you can remember. You love this feeling more than anything, don’t you?”

“Yes!” Alison said enthusiastically.

I saw Joe the asshole glance over at his buddies with a mischievous look. That video ended there. I felt like I couldn’t breathe.

I frantically went to the next text in the chain. This time I could tell it was Alison texting and not Paulina. She told me how she tried smoking ‘Hypno Weed’ and she loved it. There was also a quick clip of her holding a regular Aquafina water bottle that she must have been told was some kind of bong. Fuck. That was the last text, and this sure as hell wasn’t heading to a good place.

Now frantic, I tried calling several times before I received a text saying that was clearly from Joe. He callously told me how beautiful my wife was and what a lucky guy I am. He then asked if I had watched all of the linked videos.

Shit! What did this fucker do?

I quickly went into my email and clicked the first link; Alison was lying on her back naked and the phone was zoomed in on her, she had a huge smile on her face as she was getting fingered and moaning really loud. Alison then asked Joe to “put your cock back in my mouth please.” I couldn’t fucking believe it.

He quickly spun up next to her and started feeling her tits with one hand while videoing her naked body, my wife then reached out to his cock and started to jerk him off saying “I love your cock Master Chicago HypnoJoe”…

30 seconds went by before she took his cock in her mouth. He started to moan as she blew him, this lasted about two minutes before she pulled his dick out and licked it bottom to top. While he was fingering her pussy, I heard him say “who do you belong to?”

"I belong to you, Master Chicago HypnoJoe" she moaned loudly. My heart broke.

Alison played with his dick for about a full minute while he touched her all over and she moaned, grunted and started begging “Fuck me, fuck me please!” In all our years together, she had never, ever been that needy for sex. It was almost unfathomable to me. Seeing her so… wanton… affected me, I’m ashamed to say.

I realized I had started playing with my own incredibly rock hard dick, but to state I was pissed and shocked is an understatement. I could not believe what I was seeing after 12 years together, was this the mother of my children? The girl I loved dearly, so deeply under this creep’s hypnotic control? The video went black.

As sweat dripped down my brow, I clicked to the next video and Alison was on all fours as he was giving it to her from behind, her ass cheeks were spread wide open and sticking up in the air. I heard her begging for it harder, telling him to go deeper and faster. He was grunting that he was about to cum.

Alison started moaning back at him that she wanted to taste him. Out of breath, he told her to get on her knees. She quickly rolled off his cock and spun to the side of the bed, he dropped the phone and I heard moans as the video ended.

The next video again had my precious wife on her knees as Joe was sitting on the bed. I heard female moans from the person holding the iphone, and I realized it must have been Paulina. Alison was blowing Joe while he held the back of her head, she was sucking, licking, moaning and begging for more of his “hypno cock”.

I heard her mutter “I wanna taste your cum again”. He was shifting side to the side as she was clearly taking him deep, using her tongue like a pro and working towards a climax. That’s when I realized this must have been a fair amount of time after the previous video. Enough for fucking Joe to be able to get hard again.

I'm lucky to get one blow job a year, but here she was begging for him to cum in her mouth for a second time in one night! Soon I watched as she appeared to swallow his cum and he fell back, in orgasmic bliss as she worshipfully cleaned his cock.

When that video ended, I realized I had to hope and pray that this doesn't end up on some amateur porn website. But from the looks of his Chicago HypnoJoe site, things did not bode well. We are well known in our suburban community here. It could be really bad if this got out.

The fourth video was aimed at the two of them as Alison bounced up and down on top of him, they were embraced in a chair kissing passionately as she rode him. They went hard and fast for a few minutes before she started to orgasm, she let out some of the loudest cries of pleasure I have ever heard.

I texted back some swears to Joe, telling him I was going to the police. He texted back, and I could just tell he was laughing at me. He was rather confident that I would not go to the police.

He then texted me a picture of Alison using the Aquafina water bottle as a bong again. A text followed that she ‘looooves’ hitting the hypno weed.

I responded with more swears. They didn’t seem to rattle him. He just told me that she wouldn’t miss her plane, but for me to expect responses to be very limited until she arrives back in Houston. He was right, as that was the last text I got from her all day.

I was freaking out all day. I dealt with the kids, etc, but I was losing my shit internally. We were waiting at Hobby International airport at 8:30 as planned. That’s when I finally got another text.

She just said that she had landed, and she couldn’t wait to see us. Then she gave information about what departure door she’d be at so we could pick her up. She got in the car, so happy to see the kids. She gave me a warm kiss and thanked me for taking care of everything over the weekend. It all seemed so… regular.

She was talking to the kids the whole ride home. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. I began to wonder if she even knew what happened. Could the hypnotist have made her forget? Not impossible.

We put the kids to bed as soon as we got in, as it was pretty late for them. She then said she wanted to hop in the shower real quick. I always do that when I get off a plane, so that made perfect sense to me. I sat on the bed while she was in there. Images of what I saw her doing flashed through my mind. I hated them so much, but they were hot. Her begging to be fucked, etc. I couldn’t help but get lost in those thoughts, and hard.

I didn’t even hear her get out of the shower. When she did, she saw my hand on my dick.

“Were you looking at porn while I was gone?” she half joked and half admonished. I jumped when she said that, as she startled me.

“I-I, well, I” I stumbled. In some ways, I had been watching porn. By this point though, I was convinced she knew nothing of it. I just admitted to watching some ‘conventional’ porn.

“Mmmmm. Well, I’m not mad. You did a great job with the kids while I was gone. You deserve a little dalliance…” she said as she squirted some moisturizer on her hand. She then came next to me, freed my dick from my pants and started giving me a handjob.

“Why don’t you tell me about what you were watching?” she said, likely assuming it was girl on girl or something. I didn’t speak. Her hand on my dick felt really good. Of course, it wasn’t lost on my that I was getting a hand job, and she was begging for Chicago HypnoJoe’s dick 24 hours earlier.

“Did you ever imagine me doing some of the things that you were watching?” She said sexily. Again, she was completely oblivious to the truth. However, that question did me in, and I came hard. My cum shot straight up in the air. She gave a little yelp and dodged it like it was lava.

With that, I fell asleep, hard. I had been on such an emotional roller coaster over the last 18 hours. So, I’m ashamed to admit, this, but I didn’t do anything about this situation for the next three days. This is partly because they were three very busy days. We were hosting Thanksgiving, and Alison had lost the weekend to visiting Paulina. So, as the hostesss, she was behind the eight ball all week. I helped where I could, but that was largely just getting pizza for dinner. The other reason I avoided it was because I had no fucking clue what to do. I had no idea if she had any idea about this. If she did – how do I handle that? If she didn’t – would it cause some sort of trauma? I was at a loss.

Soon enough, it was Thanksgiving. My brother and his wife were over, as were her parents and her brother’s family. As always, Alison pulled it off and everything was perfect. She is an incredible wife, mother, and hostess. She did amazing job.

I had just finished carving the turkey, and we were just a few minutes into eating when the doorbell rang. As all of our scheduled guests had arrived, I had no idea who it could be. I got up to answer the door, and there was a small, private courier van in the drive way. This was not UPS or FedEx, this was a specially hired courier. I opened the door, a guy gave me a beautifully wrapped, very big square box with a tag that said, from Paulina with love. FUCK. I signed for the package to get the guy out of here, but I knew I had to get rid of this box. I figured if I could dash up to the attic, I could hide it there until Alison went to sleep. I turned to make my play… and she was right behind me.

“What’s that?” She said, taking the box out of my hand. I had no idea how she was going to react. She looked at the tag, she gave me a quizzical look. I could tell she had no idea what it was as she brought it to the kitchen counter, which was still cluttered with supplies from our Thanksgiving feast, which was now getting cold in the other room.

She quikly unwrapped the bow on the box and opened the lid. Inside, there was a big, stuffed animal turkey, and what could only be described as a ‘sexy pilgrim costume’.

“What the fuck is that?” I yell whispered. I didn’t want to attract attention from our guests, but still… what the fuck was that?

Alison held it up. There was a bonnet, and a dark brown velvet corset with a big, white cotton collar. There were brown knee high velvet boots in there too. There was a note from Paulina inside, “for some sexy fun later xoxxo���

Alison laughed. “She’s crazy – you know that” she said to me with a smile. “Maybe she thinks you have a Pilgrim fetish?” she laughed.

“Alison darling, can you be a dear…” my Mother in law called out from the dining room. It was like the woman had a sixth sense of when to best interrupt. Alison gave me a wink and went back into the dinning room. I followed, but only after putting the costume back in the box and tying the lid back on. We didn’t need her father or someone seeing that, thank you very much. We finished dinner, which was fantastic. I had a couple beers, and was soon watching the Lions with the guys. I actually forgot about the weirdo stuff going on for a while.

Early in the fourth quarter, I went to go grab another round of beers. The ladies were still in the dining room, well, all the ladies except Alison. I looked in the kitchen, and she wasn’t in there either. I glanced over to the bathroom, and the door was open, no one was in there. That was odd. I asked where she was.

“I don’t know. She got a phone call on her cellular telephone, then she just up and walked away. Rather rude. Not how I raised her.” Her mother said.

Fuck.

I doubled back into the kitchen, the box was gone. I started to panic, I ran into the bedroom. Inside, Alison was kneeling on the edge of the bed wearing the sexy pilgrim costume, with the big stuffed animal turkey between her legs. Across from her, on our bureau was her phone, she was recording herself.

“I am deeply hypnotized by Chicago HypnoJoe” she said, over and over again as she rhythmically grinded on the stuffed turkey. Her breathing got more ragged as she got more and more turned on. My own breathing was very labored as well, as I thought my heart was going to beat out of my chest. I couldn’t believe it. I was also getting hard.

“Alison, you are ignoring your guests, this is very rude!” I heard her mother yell. In what was one of the hardest things I ever had to do in my life, I closed the door and went back down to distract her mom.

Alison came out about 25 minutes later, and she was just chatting with the ladies as if nothing had happened.

When everyone left that night, I looked up Chicago HypnoJoe’s website. Sure enough, new offering on his pay side. There was a promo video of Hypnotized Thanksgiving MILFs. I saw a quick teaser clip of Alison in the Pilgrim Costume grinding on the turkey on our bed. Next to her on a split screen was Paulina in a sexy (albeit culturally inappropriate) Native American costume doing the same thing, also saying “I am deeply hypnotized by Chicago HypnoJoe” while grinding on a stuffed turkey.

Oh Shit. (But yes, I put in my credit card)

[4aceclover]

Shadow house outfits (slight manga spoilers)

Anybody who has seen shadows house knows about the outfits that Emilio and her Shadow Master's friends where but many people are still confused as to how they got these outfits or more specifically the inspiration behind these outfits

Well the manga itself actually has a cover page showcasing the shadow Masters outfits in great detail so instead of a character breakdown I'm going to do an outfit breakdown and how each shadow master's outfit is connected to their living dolls previous outfits.

This post will be a breakdown of each of those outfits as best as I can

The Shadowmasters outfits

Kate

Kate's outfit is mostly based off of a rose in both color and hair accessories, the elements of her outfit maintain

Her under shirt

Her top coat

Her dress

Her Petty skirt

White socks and red shoes

And most importantly her red rose hair clips

John

Despite the limited space we actually get a good idea of what John actually wears it's just as wild as him

His undershirt

A blue coat

His blue pants

And his white socks and blue shoes

Shirley

A more simpler outfit but still packed with a lot of importance mostly based off of the flowers of yarrow coliseum and lavender

Her undershirt

Her Petty skirt like pants

Her lavender dress

Her yarrow hair clip

Her lavender bow (fun fact about this I'll get to later)

And her white socks and purple shoes

Patrick

His outfit ironically enough reminds me of a lucky clover and his love for flowers definitely makes this outlet all the more ironic

His green top

His shoulder pads that have a white bow

His brown pants

His white socks and black shoes

(surprisingly one of the only ones to not have an undershirt)

Louise

And finally we have Louise a bit more simple but still extravagant at the same time must be pretty hard to do exercise and that kind of dress

The striped under dress

Her main dress

Her black shoes

Her signature flower is a yellow gerbera daisy which is all over her outfit, her neckline waist and shoes

Most importantly her gerbera hair clip

Each of these outfits look very extravagant and very fancy despite it needing quite a bit of assembly but where did the inspiration for the outfits come from where the shadows house get such amazing ideas well why not from the children they stole these ideas from

The living dolls selection outfits (spoiler warning)

Anybody who's seen shadows houses manga knows that before entering the house these were just regular kids and for the selection these were the outfits that they are wearing a special breakdown is an order

(for this section I'll be referring to them by their living doll and normal names they're living doll names will be highlighted in their respective color. I'm also going on based off what I'm seeing in this photo so apologies if I get a few things wrong or miss something)

Louise / Lou

As you can clearly see before entering the house Lou had a much different outfit and completely different personality

There seems to be a layer under her dress

Then there's the yellow main dress

Yellow shoes

A bow like headband

The middle of the bow seems to have something puffy in it

Patrick/ Ricky

Despite the clothes looking pretty simple Ricky makes it clear that these clothes that he was wearing were of high class (must have cost a lot of money)

An undershirt

His green vest like coat

Brown shorts

Darker brown shoes

John / Shaun

Still a bit confused on how they managed to get master John's outfit from this but here we are Shaun's outfit is the exact opposite of John

A simple white shirt

Blue overalls

Blue pants

Brown shoes

No glasses (important for later)

Shirley / Rum

Definitely a cute outfit you can see more similarities with this Rum's than the others

Lavender top dress

A gray like underskirt

Light purple shoes

Two light purple berets

A gray bow close to the left pocket

A lavender bow (important for later)

Kate / Emilico

By far this is one of the more fancier outfits if not the biggest difference in both color and design

Long pink dress

Short pink top coat

Pink cap in her hands

Two pink hair ties

Pink shoes

This is where the shadow house got the ideas for the future shadows outfits from these outfits the kids wore during the selection look at all the similarities between the color choices and the position of hair accessories for example the girls flower choices heck even the design of the outfit themselves could have been influenced by this

For example both Rum and Shirley wear short lavender based dresses while Louise and Lou both wear long yellow dresses with cute yellow hair accessories, compare that to Patrick who looks like he's wearing a green flock like coat to Ricky's outfit where he looks like he's wearing a sweater vest and seriously John and Shaun how do we go from overalls to a fancy coat

The most obvious differences being Kate and Emilco but I'm not going to explain that spoiler just yet, besides the colors being obviously different the length of the dresses are different too and Kate doesn't have a cap like a Emilico did

Fun facts

The lavender bow on Mistress Shirley's finger actually belonged to Rum before she entered the house, when she entered instead of it being replaced like Lou's bow like headband it was just transferred over to Mistress Shirley and she received a darker colored version of rummy's bow

The reason why Shaun isn't seen wearing his glasses throughout the show and manga is because during the selection he chose not to wear them in order to have a higher chance of being picked which is why Master John doesn't need glasses

Ricky's hair wasn't always swooped back it actually used to cover one of his eyes as bangs that were more skewed to one side of his face but in order to look more professional he slicked it back thanks to his sister

It confused me why they replaced Lou's accessory until I looked closer, it's not a simple bow like Rum's it's actually a bow connected to a headband and while headbands do exist in the shadows house evident by Maggie and Margaret once like hers probably don't exist so they compromised by making it a bit more simple

Isn't it a bit interesting that despite the colors in Shadow's house being all over the rainbow they purposely gave Emilico a pink dress while they gave Kate a red dress (potential for a future post)

[blueburds-but-swtor]

hand kisses

Fen/Zenith

kiss prompts

The sociable guests of the charity ball crowded the entire villa, adorned in whimsical attire that could have been straight out of a children's fantasy book. The sheer amount of people--humans, mostly, though a decent mix of alien species as well--practically drowned Fen from Zenith's sight.

The Barsen'thor stood with his Padawan across the way, near an entrance to the balcony. Zenith, keeping Felix company, tapped impatiently at his glass of fancy, high-end champagne. His nerves were all sorts of prickled and on-edge. Big crowds meant more safety concerns, better targets for someone wanting to create chaos.

Fen urged Zenith to relax a little, enjoy his time here, or make some attempt to. And, granted, Zenith was beginning to let loose--until his Jedi was promptly dragged away. Some representatives from Alderaan had been keeping Fen from him for at least thirty minutes now. Was whatever they were chatting about that important?

Felix must have pushed another glass of champagne into Zenith's hand at some point. Had he even finished the last one? No, there was still a quarter of the glass left. His attention had been fixated on Fen the whole time; he couldn't even recall finishing that much.

Somebody Zenith hadn't noticed before was chatting particularly close to Fen, going so far as to feel and stroke the collar of his coat. The Jedi's outfit was well-tailored, by no means humble. The outer coat was ivory in color, decorated in golden trim and embroidery, and his pants matched the style. Around his chest and resting over his right shoulder was a drape of deep, navy blue. He wore boots the same shade as his pants, gold trim at the top, the toes and the heels, and they rose just below his knees.

By no means did Zenith stand out in the crowd like Fen did. He kept to muted tones and added just a splash of green and a hint of dulled gold for variety. A color scheme fitting for the Balmorran people, he thought.

His gaze remained fixed on Fen, even through the sea of people. And yet for whatever reason, he felt some kind of pull on his mind--and his eyes shifted to Nadia. She was looking straight at him, her face holding a tense smile. He got the urge to walk over.

Downing the rest of his first glass and setting it aside, and without giving a head's up warning to Felix, Zenith promptly marched over. He wove through the crowd, hearing Felix following behind. Must've caught on, Zenith thought.

Nadia's smile had widened as the pair approached. "Two more of the Barsen'thor's brilliant crew," she said, turning to address the representatives from Alderaan.

"Lieutenant Felix Iresso," Felix stood in salute. "A pleasure."

The same ambassador that had been touching Fen's clothes was still considerably close to the Jedi, Zenith noted. Heat pooled in his stomach, his chest, as a wave of jealousy coursed through his blood. He was probably glaring. Felix gave him a small nudge, prompting him to introduce himself: "'Zenith' is fine. Representative of the Balmorran Resistance."

"Wonderful to meet you both," said the ambassador as they leaned further into Fen now. Zenith's jaw clenched, but they continued: "The Barsen'thor was just singing your praises! He's quite humble, really, speaking almost exclusively of his crew's grand accomplishments and hardly a word of his own."

"Truly, I wouldn't be anywhere without them," Fen said, politely pardoning himself from the stranger's grasp and walked to Zenith instead. "Especially this one."

And Zenith's heart skipped a beat as Fen took his free hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it. His face darkened with a red hot blush. Fuck. Here? Right now? Oh, he'd have words for the Barsen'thor later. His eyes wildly flicked to Nadia, to Felix, to Fen again, and he was frozen for a few seconds before Fen released his hand. The touchy ambassador had a surprised look upon their face, too. Zenith took rather morbid pleasure in their realization of Fen turning down their flirtatious advances.

"Did you bring this for me?" The Jedi's smooth voice brought him back down to reality, and Zenith noticed him gesturing to the glass of champagne.

"I, um. . ." Zenith failed to find the words. No, he had words--just none that could make it past his lips. The sudden realization hit him, once again, that he was still amidst a sea of people. All the eyes in this specific group--the ambassadors, his crew, Fen--were all on him now. "Yeah." That was all he could manage.

"Such a dear. Thank you." Fen took the glass as Zenith hesitantly passed it to him. "Ambassadors, it was delightful talking with you. I believe I should take my partner outside for some fresh air."

Even without the Force, Fen could clearly tell that Zenith needed to decompress. Thankfully, the representatives gave nods of their heads, and Nadia offered to stay with Felix and keep them some company. And relieved, Zenith and Fen traversed the rest of the crowd toward the balcony entrance and stepped outside.

Zenith was still getting used to the sights on Coruscant; it was nothing like Balmorra. His home planet was highly technologically-advanced, with all sorts of factories scattered across the planet. But the Republic's capitol world was covered in buildings; not a fresh patch of grass or soil anywhere to be seen. Sky vehicles whizzed by below in layering rows and lanes, and the city was beautifully lit now that the sun had set. Lights from building windows and some from the hundreds of vehicles stood out in the darkness, illuminating their surroundings.

Fen quietly sipped the champagne beside Zenith, looking him over with a loving gaze. "I've had my fill of this party," he muttered. "You have, too. I know."

"Had my fill the second we stepped inside," Zenith grumbled, leaning against the railing. "Everyone here can't get enough of you, though. You're pretty popular."

"They'll find another Jedi to flock to eventually." Fen took another sip. "I could feel your frustrations from across the room. That one ambassador had no concept of personal space, I'll tell you."

"They were all up in your shit, Fen. That one was giving you intense bedroom eyes. Tch, probably wrinkled that fancy coat with all the clinging they did. Should charge 'em if the rental place gives you shit for it." Zenith straightened his posture, folding his arms over his chest. "I'm gonna assume you told them in some kind of politely sugar-coated way to fuck off, though."

"I tried, yes. Nadia had also made a vague mention of my involvement with one of the crew."

"You worry about your reputation too much. I shouldn't have had to come over for them to back off."

Fen idly swirled the rest of the champagne in the glass. "I'm sorry."

"Don't--" Zenith sighed, rubbing his forehead with one hand. "It's not you I'm mad at. Sorry I came across that way." He drummed his fingers on the railing. "Subject change. Know if this glorified apartment has any private lounges?"

Fen raised a curious brow. "Fresh, polluted air isn't doing it for you?"

"Not really." A faint smirk tugged at Zenith's lips. "Lounge would be a lot quieter, too."

[fourseasonsfigs]

Junbaobao's Plog: A Royal Evening 👑

Last night Mamama said we could wear our fanciest outfits for a grand promenade around the cruise ship!

Mamama had ordered two prince outfits for us from Taobao overseas. She bought a Prince of Hearts outfit for me and a Blue Duke outfit for Hanbao. She didn't like the circular plain cape the Blue Duke outfit came with, so she ordered a separate one. Except, she bought an entire outfit, not just the cape! 😮

When she was packing for our trip, she grabbed this set instead of the Blue Duke. 🤭 But that's ok, Mamama says that Hanbao can certainly pull this off in style!

And of course he can. He looks so fancy!

Here's the front of my fancy pants outfit.

And the back!

Mamama said the sleeves are a bit long, but that's ok since they should be a bit puffy. She said I was extra, extra cute, and snuggled my ears! Teehee! 🤭

I like my fancy hat too.

Mamama says long coats with tails are the best.

Hanbao's outfit is so very fancy!

Did you see he has a magic wand?

Mamama snuggled Hanbao's kitty ears too!

The crown is even fancier than my hat!

You can see why Mamama liked the cape, can't you? It matches my outfit! It would be very regal for a Blue Duke.

Now that we are all dressed up, off we go! 🎩👑

We decided to stop by Rapunzel's Royal Table. It was pretty busy because of everyone eating dinner there, but they were happy to let us take a few pictures.

This cake looked tasty! Hanbao says the cakes I make are his favorite though 🍰

We stopped at Lumiere's restaurant next. Mamama ate here a couple times - she said it was her favorite.

This was a huge ocean scene made out of paper! Can you imagine how long that took to make??? 😵‍ Hanbao said he was tired just thinking about it.

We saw there was a very shiny and pretty piano under the staircase! I can't play the piano, but Hanbao can. 🎶 He said this was too big of a piano, though!

Mamama said if we wanted to listen to music, we could stop at the Keys Lounge to listen to the piano player there (and get a drink for Mamama) 🍸 The piano player was really good! 🎹

We went down the long staircase. The clock struck midnight, and Hanbao dashed off! He left one of his shoes behind. I wonder where he's going?

Oh, just to see a picture of a pirate! I brought him his shoe back. But he had lost the other one too! Luckily Mamama had it in her pocket, and she could put it back on for him.

Speaking of pirates, when we went back to the stateroom, we saw that the butler had made a pirate octopus out of a blanket and some towels 🐙 He's very clever!

What a fun night! We were a bit tuckered out from running all over the ship, so we just sat back and relaxed.

Tomorrow is another big day for us! We are going to another island in the Bahamas. This one is called Castaway Cay. We're so excited!

<-Yesterday's Plog

Tomorrow's Plog->

[randomwriter5000]

The Chimera: Part Four

Pairing: Nicodeme Savoy x OC (Can be read as Nicodeme Savoy x Reader) Warnings: Accuracies and inaccuracies about the 1920s, use of Google Translate, Inaccuracies about gambling, and General sadness. Word Count: 3,763

Summary: The California Chimera. Born with a genetic abnormality causing her face to be split down the middle. Not only an oddity, but a source of fear for many as she is a notorious gun for hire across the United States. After a near death experience and the death of most of her family, Chimera now goes to the bustling town of St. Louis on a job. Used to other cats eyes looking at her in disgust and fear a new reaction catches her eye. A pair of cats that look at her with curiosity and wonder. One of them being Nicodeme Savoy. Could she be biting off more than she can chew with the Louisianan?

Part Four: Good Luck?

Summary: Perhaps it is time to have fun and ask questions.

“Goddammit!” Chimera heaved a large case into her blue car. “Why is gin so heavy?” She muttered to herself, attempting to regain the air in her lungs.  

Two weeks had passed since Nico got stabbed. Despite the expectation that she would have left St. Louis after that, Mr. Sweet gave her job after job. This was abnormal, yet Chimera couldn’t pass up easy money. Digging up a grave or two, getting some alcohol, and driving it back wasn’t too hard for the gun for hire. However, in Chimera’s head, this would be her last job unless Mr. Sweet gave her a contract.

In The Brothers of Peril, a gun for hire could be taken under a contract if the company owner wanted that person to work for them for an extended period. However, they tended to be hard to get because higher-ups of The Brothers of Peril had to approve the gun for higher working for that specific company. Other reasons for the contracts being hard to get included the higher-ups not wanting their members to be stuck or having a conflict of interest.

Closing the door, Chimera looked at the grave before tossing the shovel into the passenger side. Turning on the engine, she drove onto the dirt road. Before long, The Maribel Hotel was in the distance. Instead of the fancy front entrance of the hotel, Chimera drove her car into the alley and then into the back entrance. As her cars’ headlights came into view, a couple of other cats turned to look. Unbrothered, she pulled up beside them, turned off the engine, and exited the car.

The tallest had a cigarette in his mouth as he motioned for the other two to gather the cases from her car. “What did you get this time?”

“Three graves. Giving a total of 50 Bottles of gin and 20 bottles of Vodka,” She brushed off some gathered dirt on her pant legs. “Where’s my payment?” Her eyes narrowed as her money wasn’t in their hands like the past couple of weeks.

“Mr. Sweet has it,” The older grey cat dropped the cigarette to the ground before snuffing it out. “He wants to talk to you.”

Her eyes narrowed. “About what?”

“Ask him that,” The cat shrugged, pulling out a crate of gin.

Taking a breath, Chimera walked up the concrete steps and took the back way to get to the luxurious office of Mr. Sweet. After a single knock, she was let in. With the quick glace she could take, she noted a piece of thick paper on the desk and a stack of cash. Cautiously walking into the chilling room, she sat down across from the golden cat. Taking the money into her paws, she counted the bills, ensuring she was paid correctly.

“How did it go?”

“Great until I didn’t see my money in your guy’s hands. What did you want to talk about?” Her eyes briefly glanced at the paper, seeing a familiar signature. Setting down the money, she looked at the form and saw the signature ‘Glen Balsamo.’ “When did you contact my brother?”

“The paperwork came in today,” He explained, lighting his cigar. “I’d like to offer you a year contract to work for me exclusively.” He pulled out a fountain pen from his coat pocket.

Her eyes narrowed at the contract as she read it over. The rules and specifications were simple and in line with the Brothers of Peril, yet she had numerous questions.  “You understand that you are buying my loyalty for a duration, correct?”

“Correct,” He nodded.

Her head tilted. “That means I will leave when you can’t afford me.” Mr. Sweet nodded once again. “What is your game? You have plenty of skilled fighters; Mordecai and Nico are some of them. Why would you pick someone who is part of the BP? And why did you pick me?”

“You are an unsuspecting force. You have multiple skills that my men don’t have. You speak four languages, have no problems with killing, and your reputation precedes you.” He motioned towards her.

Her ears twitched as her oddly colored eyes narrowed. “I feel there is more to that.”

Mr. Sweet smiled, tapping the cigar. “Does it really matter if I’m paying you?

“No, however, I’m allowed to do my due diligence,” She shot, looking over the contract again for any loopholes.

The contract was fair, and her brothers’ signatures boosted the legitimacy of the contract. “So, what is your answer?”

Reaching into her coat, she slowly pulled out her own fountain pen. Looking over the paper, she signed on the dotted line. “What is my next assignment?”

“Could you have at least given me a heads-up Glen?” Chimera hissed into the payphone. “You got me a good deal, sure, but what if I wanted to go somewhere else?”

On the other end, Glen sighed, rubbing his dark brown tabby fur. “Remember I called Yaya last week? Telling you to call me as soon as possible?”

‘Dammit,’ Chimera cursed internally. “I got busy-“ She was quickly cut off.

“Look, John told me how you want to go after the Red Snake,” He began. “He is in Canada. He isn’t coming back for a while.”

“That son of a-“

“He is looking out for you,” Her brothers' voice broke. “I can’t have a repeat of what he did to our family. You remember how you almost died in my arms?”

Her paw rubbed her shoulder unconsciously. “Glen, I was there when he killed Nick and Ben. You don’t have to remind me. I want justice. I want him to beg for his life when I stab him in the lung,” Fury and tears built in the cats’ eyes.  

“I can’t lose you!” The desperation and sadness in the cats’ voice sounded through the phone like an alarm, causing the female cats' ears to go flat against her head. “You’ve been pulling away. Everyone sees it. I know you will go rogue if you’re given the opportunity.” Her brother's voice broke even more as she could feel the tears pouring down her cheeks. “Please just stay there in St. Louis until we devise a plan. I promise we will get revenge on Mom and Dad's graves, just not now.”

Feeling her own tears run down her face, she sobbed, falling onto the phone booth floor.  “Please don’t cry,” Glen gave a tearful laugh. “I’d hate for people to see the mighty Chimera crying.”

“I’m sure they would also be surprised to see the Wraith crying too,” Chimera retorted, wiping her tears, then looked down at her feet.

A silence grew between the siblings. “I know these couple years have been rough. I miss them more than any words can express, but life continues on, and they wouldn’t want to see you like this,” His voice cracked. “They would want to see the girl who found joy in life despite being serious in the business. I’m not saying we need to forget about them, but we must carry on for them.”

She nodded to the phone as her tail curled around her for comfort. “Is that the same speech you gave at the funeral?” She laughed along with Glen.

“Sometimes we need to hear things twice,” He retorted as some shuffling was heard on his end. “Isn’t it midnight in St. Louis?” Glen shot.

“Isn’t it one in the morning in New York?” She retorted.

“God, you are a little shit,” He chuckled. “I love you little sister,”

“I love you too,” Chimera tearfully smiled as she hung up the phone.

Pushing herself from the phone booth floor, Chimera walked out into the crisp Missouri air and sat on the curb. The chill of the air ran through her fur as her eyes stared down at her boots. Occasionally picking and rubbing at the scuffs on the leather. The logic in her head was in a heated battle with the looming storm cloud of revenge. However, she knew that her brother was right. If she died, she would leave her last brother alone because of her selfish desires. There was also no guarantee she could find The Red Snake if she went alone. Then, the scary question snuck in.

What if she felt no change when he died? What if that looming cloud lingered? What if it never went away?Sighing, Chimera wiped the last bits of her salty tears stinging her eyes. Looking up at the night sky decorated with its crescent moon and shining stars, she took a deep breath.

“What am I supposed to do?” She muttered, looking up at the sky, only for everything to stay in place. Chimera looked down at the asphalt and laughed. “What the hell am I doing?”

“Sittin’ outside,” A voice spoke. With her knife in hand and fur flared, Chimera spun around fast enough to give anyone whiplash. Only for Nico to come into her vision

A cackling laugh escaped Nico as he walked forward. “Da hell, Cher? I thought dat you couldn’t be snuck up on?” His charming smile reluctantly made the cat relax.

The oddly colored flared fur of the cat went down as she turned back to stare out into the road. “I am normal, believe it or not,” She answered, putting her knife back into her coat. “What are you doing out here?”

“Gettin’ some fresh air,” He walked beside the cat that continued to look out to the street, occasionally picking at her boot. “Gets quite stuffy in there,” He motioned to the hotel.

“I can imagine,” Chimera answered, watching him light a cigarette underneath the street lamp. “What did you hear?”

Chuckling, Nico looked down at the shorter cat. “Worried I overheared somethin’?”

“If you did, I’d have to kill you,” She smiled playfully.

“I’d love to see dat, Cher,” He smiled, puffing the cigarette. “Nothin’ much ‘xpect you talkin’ to yourself,”

Her eyes narrowed, not feeling any lie buried within the answer. “I guess I don’t have to kill you then,” She huffed, getting up from the stiff concrete. “I should get going before I fall asleep in the frigid cold,” She stretched out her arms as she walked towards the alleyway.

“Let me ask one thing, Cher,” Looking over her shoulder, Chimera waited as she watched Nico lean on the street pole. “Can I buy you a drink? Jus’ one.”

She couldn’t help but laugh as she shook her head. “Still haven’t gotten your eyes checked, huh?” Her whole body turned to face him, showing off the soft smile that overtook her face. Looking at the doors, she shrugged to herself. “You mind getting me some vodka, Nico?”

His smile spread into a smirk, pushing himself from the light pole. “Not at all, cher,” He motioned for her to follow into the hotel and the speakeasy below.

Walking towards the elegantly decorated marigold doors, they were quickly opened to Nico and Chimera as they strode right in. Despite coming into the speakeasy on her first day upon arriving in St Louis, she never looked around much. Now, she could finally take in the decor and the multiple gambling tables. Then, there was the music that played on the stage. Jazz flowed through the speakeasy while the illicit alcohol encouraged the cats to spend at the tables. Despite her gazing, she followed Nico to the bar.

Instantly, she could see a bottle of clear vodka on the shelf. “Can I get some vodka?” She pointed at the fresh bottle, calling her name.

“Sure can,” The friendly bartender smiled, taking out a glass, ice, a bottle of vodka, and juices. “What juice do you-“

“None,” She answered quickly, taking the glass and waiting for him to pour.

“Just the vodka?” The bartender looked at her with a confused expression. “No ice?”

“None,” She started at the glass filled with the potent liquid. “Thank you,”

Nico ordered his bourbon and paid while Chimera turned to face the sea of people. Bringing the glass to her lips, she tipped her head back and downed the whole drink.  Her eyes closed before letting out a peaceful sigh as her long, thin tail curled happily. The pure alcohol was already flooding her veins and brain.

“Happy cher?” Her ear twitched as she could feel Nicos' presence beside her.

Opening her eyes, she saw the taller cat with his drink while giving her another. “I only drink as a reward for a completed job,” She explained, taking the vodka. “It always tastes better when someone else pays.”

Nico grinned as he leaned on the column. “I’ll buy you plenty more then,” He flirted.

She looked at his relaxed body and leaned back on the column. “Then you’re going to be paying for a lot then,” She hinted, watching him tilt his head. “I’m staying here for a year, so you’ll see more of me and many more completed jobs.”

“It still is a pleasure to be seein’ ya more,” Nico purred.

Shaking her head, she turned to the sea of people. “Not sure if it will be a pleasure for everyone else,” She motioned to a couple patrons looking at her in fear. “People with good eyes usually react that way,” A teasing tone could be heard in her voice.

Nico looked over to where she motioned and shrugged. “Or they see somethin’ they can’t control.”

Curious, her head tilted as she played with the rim of her still-filled glass. “Never heard a compliment like that. Let alone a compliment about this,” She referred to her split. “You are really something else, Mr. Savoy.”

“Makin’ me feel old. What happened to Nico, Cher?”

Shrugging, the cat tilted her head back, downing the drink. “Habit, I guess. People who bought me drinks were usually older,” She handed the glass to a waiter walking around the ballroom. “I guess you are older than me now that I think of it.”

His eyes narrowed before taking one last gulp from his own drink. “How old am I?”

“Twenty-seven,” She answered without hesitation. “You were born late July 1900 in New Orleans, Louisiana.”

“The hell…” His eyes widened as he waved at the bartender. “You really do yer’ research.”

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t,” She answered as a waiter placed another shot glass into her paws.

Another drink also reached the grey tomcat. “How old are you then?” He asked.

She smiled, picking at a chip in the third shot glass. “Guess,” She raised her drink up confidently.

He stared, watching her mischievous smile. “23”

The cat choked on the alcohol in the back of her throat, and her fur spiked as she coughed. “Damn,” She coughed up the last of the alcohol. “How did you figure that one out?”

Nico laughed as he gave a shrug. “Justa’ guess, cher.”

“Damn,” Chimera laughed, wiping her mouth. “Well, I guess you’re not completely right. Once my birthday passes, then I will be 24.”

“When’s dat?” He handed off his empty glass to the waiter. “Want another?”

“No, I’ve had enough,” She raised her paw. “As for my birthday… you guessed my age. I think you can guess my birthday.”

A silence came over the pair as Nico took out a package of cigarettes and joined Chimera in her people-watching. The occasional banter between the two would lead to the two laughing as if they were old friends. However, the banter usually ended with Chimera playfully rolling her eyes at Nico’s flirting and shooting him down. Then, a particular cat caught her eye. It was Seraphine at the blackjack table, seemingly reminding her of something.

“Since I will probably be working with you more, can I ask you something?” Chimera looked up at Nico, who nodded, taking the cigarette from his mouth. “Why did you try to touch my split when we first met?”

Nico blew out the smoke into already smoke-filled air. “Luck,”

“Do you also believe that have nine lives?”  He looked down at her perplexed, only for Chimera to return to her people-watching. “You’re from Louisiana. My grandma told me how a religion down there believes I’m good luck, or at least good to be around.”

Turning back to the sea of cats, Nico nodded. “It’s true.”

“Really?” She looked up at him in surprise. “I thought she was trying to make me feel better. I guess I’m swimming in compliments today,” She jested, pushing herself off the column. “Well, I’m going to take my leave. Thank you for the drinks.”

“Yer’ not even goin’ gamble, cher?” He gestured to the tables. “We can put that good luck to the test.”

Looking towards the blackjack tables, she shook her head. “I’m not good luck,” A familiar pain ran down her back, making her rub her shoulder. “Far from it, actually.”

“Worried yer’ gonna lose?” She could already feel the smirk across his face.

“Oh no,” She laughed, facing the taller cat. “I just don’t make bets I can’t win,”

 “So, yer afraid to lose.” He tempted the shorter cat as he walked past Chimera and toward the numerous tables

Her eyes followed the tomcat as he strode over and sat at the blackjack table beside his sister. Taking one step towards the exit, she stalled, hearing cats laugh. Seraphine had seemed to win the large pile in the middle of the table. The doorway was wide open, yet she turned on her heel and walked over to the blackjack table. Her ears twitched as she took a seat beside two other players. The looks of nervousness were evident as she gave money to the dealer.

Seraphine looked up and watched Chimera gather her chips from the dealer. “Y’finally decided to play with us, cher?” The excitement was evident in her voice.

“You can thank your brother for that,” She retorted as Nico smiled playfully, rolling a chip in his paws.

“First time playing Madam?” The dealer asked.

She shook her head. “No,”

After everyone got their chips, she leaned back in the chair and observed with one paw on her chips and the other rubbing her lips. The dealer started to hand out the cards to the six cats at the table. Her brain started using probability to figure out what the dealer had. As if an invisible mouse jumped onto the table, Chimerias’ eyes darted around the table.

The dance of winning, losing, small, and bug bets lasted an hour. Chimera only made small bets, only ever losing a dollar every so often. In contrast, the Savoy siblings were heavy hitters. After several small bets and finally doubling her money, she instantly pushed all her chips forward.

“Goin’ all in, cher?” Nico pointed out how most of her chips were on the green table.

Chimera shrugged, waiting for the dealer to draw their cards. She had a 20, and based on everyone else hands, no one could beat hers. Her body relaxed as she watched the dealer reveal their number 23, over 21, meaning she had won.

The dealer collected the chips and slid them to the female cat. “You’re quite lucky,” The dealer smiled as Chimera rolled her eyes at the compliment.

Nico chuckled as he nudged his sister. “Not lucky,” Chimeras’ eyes narrowed as she growled, collecting the chips before getting up from the table. “I’m going to cash out.”

Counting the chips in her arms as she walked to the checkout, the recognizable accent was behind her. “Told ya’” She turned to see Nico with a smile across his face. While Seraphine gathered her winnings.

“What?” She asked, walking up to a cat to cash out.

“You are good luck,” He answered, leaning against the wall, watching Seraphine walk over with her winnings.

Rolling her eyes, she glared at Nico. “Your sister won a bit. Luck had nothing to do with it,” She thanked the woman as she gave her money. “You can somewhat predict people’s hands if you just count the cards.”

Nico smiled, watching his sister go to the other cat to cash out. “Yer’ sneaky, but dat don’t work every time.” He countered.

Her eyes narrowed at the unrelenting tomcat. “Okay, fine, I have a tiny bit of luck. Happy?”

“Dats a good thin’ cher,” Seraphine said with a laugh, with the cash in hand. “Especially in dis business,” She leaned on the column with her brother.

Counting the bills, Chimera shook her head. “Depends on your definition of luck,” She countered, looking up at the siblings before glancing at her watch. It was past midnight. “Merci pour cette soirée amusante. {1} However, I should get going. I have to talk to someone,” Running her paw through her messy hair, she looked towards the doorway.

“Quite late out for meetin’ someone, ain’t it?” Nico teased.

Chimera looked at the tomcat with a baffled expression. “Nico, do you remember how I knocked you on the floor of an alleyway?”

He playfully shrugged. “Remind me?”

“Well,” Chimera walked over with her hands visible, having no weapons. “You are quite handsome. It would be a shame to bruise up this face,” She reached up to brush the side of his face.

“Well-“ Nico was immediately cut off by Chimera wrapping her leg around his and pushing him, effectively tripping him.

“I think I won,” Chimera looked down at the shocked tomcat with a smirk. “And that wasn’t luck, that-”

“Unprofessional.” The deadpan voice had her look over her shoulder to see Mordecai. “Do you not realize how dirty that carpet is?”

Chimera laughed as she offered Nico a hand. “No, please tell me,” Chimera sighed as she pulled Nico up from the ‘unhygienic’ floor. “Can I talk to you through? We are working together tomorrow, and I’d like to have a plan,” She glided over to the tuxedo cat, who gave her a raised eyebrow.

“What are you talking about?” His green eyes narrowed at her. “You’re working with those two.”

Turning her head, she could see the siblings smile. “I am-?”

“If you are going to flirt openly in public, at least go to another area,” Mordecai waved her off, walking past the smaller cat towards Asa Sweets' office. “Don’t be imprudent.”

“Once you stop being impassive,” Chimeria countered.

The tuxedo only rolled his eyes before walking away into the crowd of cats, continuing to gamble and drink the night away. “Well,” Chimeria turned to face the siblings with smirks displayed on their faces. “Should I assume the plan for tomorrow is no plan?”

Nico chuckled. “Dats part of da fun, cher”

{1} Thank you for a fun evening

[logarhythm-bees]

The Carousel Kingdom 🏰 CH14 Soup Store

Masterlist

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“Ooh, fancy.” Roman says after Logan casts the new disguise spell on Virgil. While to Virgil, it feels the same, the mirror tells a different story- instead of looking like Roman, Virgil’s hair is long and violet, held up in a ponytail, and their eyes are a pretty lilac-silver, the pupils white. Their skin sparkles with flecks of iridescence on their cheeks and elbows, their ears pointed, and swaying back and forth behind them is a tail- it’s deerlike, much shorter than the Innovan tails Virgil has seen so far, but when he goes to touch it and his hand phases through, he understands why.

His clothes are simple, a white cross-front shirt and black pants. Virgil whistles at his reflection.

“This looks cool, dude.”

“I understand it is a more…extensive disguise than my original proposal, but I think it is best for us to be as cautious as possible around the guards,” Logan explains, xer horn glowing a little brighter as xer settle xer own disguise, simpler versions of their advisory coat and pants, xer hair becoming longer and more voluminous, xer horn fading underneath a hat.

“Virgil? Logan? Where did you go?” Roman says, jesting. “You guys look good. If I hadn’t seen the spell, I wouldn’t have known it was you.”

“Thank you.” Logan preens. “We’ll return shortly.”

“Be cautious.” Roman says.

Virgil nods. “Hopefully the guard won’t be at the market, or at least if they’re there, it won’t be to cause issues. But I’ll be careful either way. You be cautious with Janus.”

Roman nods. “I think we can trust them, but I’ll keep an eye out. Besides,” Roman says, leaning in like they’re sharing a secret, “I think Janus is getting a crush on Pattooon.”

“I think Patton might be feeling the same,” Virgil replies, less enthusiastic about it. “Not sure how I feel about that.”

Logan, listening, looks at the storage room door evaluatively.

“...Give Janus my well wishes,” Logan says, grabbing Virgil’s attention. “Let’s head out.” 

“Heading out we go,” Virgil says, and they leave the library for the first time since they arrived.

A few streets off of the library block, Virgil brings up what he’s been thinking about. “I’m fairly sure Patton likes you too,” Virgil says quietly. “And you’re better for him than they are. Janus.”

Logan blinks at Virgil. “I- what?”

“You like Patton, don’t you?” Virgil asks, bluntly.

The glamour doesn’t show when they blush, but Virgil picks up the way Logan startles, tripping over xer feet.

Virgil feels a little bad for a second, but xe had made plenty note of Virgil’s crush on Roman, so he figured it was fair game.

“I- yes, I like Patton,” Logan replies, catching up and unphased by Virgil’s bluntness. “I simply don’t understand the implications of your statement.”

“It seems like, well, Patton and Janus,” Virgil says, “they like each other, and you’re fine with that. Like, Janus being with Patton, and not you?”

Logan blinks, then laughs. Virgil looks at xem with big confusion. He hasn’t seen xem laugh, not really, and here xe is laughing like Virgil made the best sorcery joke xey have ever heard.

“Ah-a, my apologies- for my laughing at your question, but I think we have uncovered a bit of Earth-Innova cultural variation,” Logan explains. “Here in Innova, having multiple partners is common. If all of the parties involved are happy with and aware of the relationship, we have no issue with it. I instructed Roman to give Janus my well wishes because if we are to both pursue Patton, I expect that he would not like his two partners being enemies.” Logan smiles to xemselves. “Besides, Janus has always been clever. It would be nice to know them better, besides simply seeing each other in the hallway sometimes.”

“Oh, I uh, see,” Virgil responds, “I’m sorry if I insulted you.”

“It is fine,” Logan says, shrugging xer shoulders, “I assume your world is more inclined to couplings?”

“Yeah,” Virgil replies, hunching as they approach the market. “You might want to let Patton know too, he might be a little surprised if you both go for him.”

“I’ll let him know, thank you, Virgil.” Logan says. Xe opens up the door to the market. “We’re here.”

The market is re-market-bly (Patton’s rubbed off on him after years of being friends) similar to an Earth store. Aisles of goods, and cool white lighting, a handful of cashiers cooped up at the front helping people purchase their groceries on manual register machines, with Virgil spotting a couple of them using magic to be more efficient.

However, Virgil also spots the guard.

The guard isn’t, persay, guarding- in fact, they’re arguing about which snacks to buy for their union mandated lunch- but it gives Virgil pause nonetheless. He freezes, locking eyes with one of them, who squints back.

“Hello,” Logan says, cooly. “Apologize for my friend’s staring, but he just loves armor. He’s studying plate design, you see.”

“Oh, cool!” The guard says. They have shoulder-length orange hair, straight with curls at the end. On their head are small horns, little nubs like a baby giraffe. “Out of curiosity, which is better: cacao, or sunflower essence?”

“My personal preference is for cacao. Sunflower essence is good, but a fairly common allergen. If you are sharing with your friends, I think cacao would be better.”

The guard seems to disagree with the opinion, but sees the reason in it. “I suppose that’s fair.” They say. “Hey everyone, we’re getting cacao cookies!” 

The group splits between cheering and groans. The guard winks at Virgil and Logan, then bounds off, and Virgil takes the opportunity to drag xem to another aisle.

“That was close,” Virgil says, fanning himself. “Thanks for helping me out.”

“No problem,” Logan says, looking around the store for any more guards, but that group seems to be the only one. “What do we need?” 

“Okay, uh-” Virgil starts, pulling a list from his pocket- the pockets on his jeans and on the glamour’s slacks are in the same place, so it looks to any outsider like nothing is unusual about him. “We need eggs, baking powder, and flour. Simple enough.”

“The eggs should be in the cold section, and the flour and baking powder in the dry ingredients section.” Logan says, taking the list. Xe points toward one area of the store that is painted an ice-like shade, and Virgil sees a few bottles of milk and cream sitting on one shelf. The whole area of the store seems to be magically climate-controlled to be one big non-enclosed, which Virgil thinks is pretty cool.

“Let’s get in and get out,” Virgil says, “I want to try to avoid talking to the guards again.”

And thankfully, the guards don’t try to strike up banter with them. They manage to avoid getting stuck in another conversation.

Virgil is just grabbing the baking powder and walking them towards the checkout when they come close to the knights again. But although the guards don’t talk to them, the guards still *talk*, and what they overhear…might throw a wrench into Roman’s bid for the throne.

“-really think King Remus is going to take the magic for himself?” One guard says. Another guard sighs.

“I don’t think he has another way to get the prince to come and face him.” The second guard says. “King Remus said- he wanted Roman in the throne room by tomorrow, and we haven’t found them anywhere yet.”

The first guard shifts uncomfortably. “I would miss magic.” They pick up a bag, and start walking towards the door. 

“Me too,” the other one agrees as they leave the market, “We’d still have snacks, I guess?”

Virgil stares after them. “I think we gotta tell Roman about this. That’s…not great.”

“Certainly not,” Logan agrees, touching xer horn under the glamour. “A world with no magic…we have to get Roman back on the throne soon.”

Groceries in a bag, they dash back to the library as quick as a non-suspicious person can feasibly run.