#sometimes you need to draw two beautiful muscular women together

[royalsea-art]

girl activities 🏳️‍🌈

Iulia (left) belongs to @inkeyjay

[rextasywrites]

Aftershow - Leon Kennedy x f!reader

with the help of some tricks and your best friend distracting the security guard, you manage to sneak into the after show of the world premiere of “Resident Evil - Infinite Darkness”. It tells the story of federal Agent Leon S. Kennedy, who, after retiring from his career as a federal agent, decided to tackle acting. Ever since you first saw him in “Resident Evil 2”, you were in love with him and couldn’t wait to meet him. So...what would happen at this afterparty?

hey lads i’m back! i hope you enjoy this piece i have been writing the past few days! hope you are doing well xoxo

Warnings: alcohol, smut, Leon being an ass to others sometimes

Your dress clung to your body, making you feel like some overstuffed sausage. It was physically and mentally out of your comfort zone, but your best friend insisted you looked like a million bucks in it, so you begrudgingly purchased it a week before. “But you look fantastic,” your best friend reassured  you when you stood before your mirror earlier that night, awkwardly, tugging at the fabric by your hipsMaybe she was right, but currently she was busy with the security guard to give you the chance to meet your idol and celebrity crush, Leon S. Kennedy. You had heard he’d attend the premiere, and posts on social media confirmed the rumours.Not that you’d ever admit to subscribing to notifications from him, though.

The place was filled with Hollywood executives, actors, and actresses from all over the planet, yet you hadn’t spotted your favourite so far. Maybe he was outside smoking? Busy spending time with fans and writing autographs? Who knew… So you made your way past some gossiping actress towards the bar. A simple Sex on the Beach would calm your nerves. You began to zone out as you sipped on the cocktail- that is, until you felt a hand on your shoulder.

“And I thought I had met everyone tonight.”

That voice. That fucking voice. You’d recognize it out of a million, and there he was.

On the barstool next to you sat Leon S. Kennedy, and he was touching you at this very moment.

Before you would answer, you chuckled and took a sip from the cocktail, buying your nerves some more time before you’d answer. “Guess not.”, you said and placed the glass on the bar in front of you. “I’m (Y/N), nice to meet you.”

“I’m Leon, but I’m sure you already knew that, nice to meet you too. (Y/N), what a beautiful name for a beautiful woman. Say, how is it possible that I haven’t spotted you before?”

Uh oh. Quick, think of something.

“Sorry, bad traffic,” you replied, directly quoting a line from his costar in Resident Evil 4. “But I’m here now, and just in time to celebrate you and your new show!”, you smiled and raised your glass, Leon clicking it together with his own beer glass. “Cheers.” You two took big sips from your beverages, Leon’s hand now gravitating towards your knee.

“Say, would you like to join me on the terrace? It’s getting so hot in here.”, Leon said and pointed towards an open door on the other side of the room. The mere thought of being able to spend more time with him made you agree with his idea, and a minute later you two were sitting on the terrace in a porch swing. Leon had bought you another drink. He was such a gentleman, just like you’d always imagined him.. From time to time, people came to congratulate Leon on the success of his new show, wanting to invite him for a drink or more rounds. Yet every time he declined it, saying he already had enough for the evening.

*

“You weren’t invited, were you?”, Leon asked after some conversation between you two. You had told him a bit about your life, your work, your pets. In return, Leon shared stories of the making of Infinite Darkness, funny bloopers and behind-the-scenes stories you otherwise would never hear. The party had died out by now, it being late and the night becoming colder. Telling him a lie wasn’t an option, so you sighed and nodded. “Thought so. You carry yourself differently.”, Leon said while he lit himself a cigarette, blowing the smoke into the night sky.

“What do you mean?”, confusion was written across your face. Carrying yourself differently?

“Hollywood wankers carry themselves with a confidence that could kill a mortal like us. They think they are invincible, but oh boy they are wrong. You don’t carry that energy about you. You don’t look the type.. How did you get in?”

“My best friend is buddies with the security guard and he owed her a favour.”

“You little minx.”, Leon laughed, taking another drag as his eyes rested on you, taking in your body in this dress you hated, yet in his eyes you were the most beautiful woman in the sea of botox and silicone tits. “If you promise not to spill the whole night on social media, I can show you a whole new world.”, and by the look in his eyes, you both knew the feeling was mutual

*

The penthouse Leon was renting for his stay in your city was more than just breathtaking. Standing by the front window, you could see the whole city, way beyond the city limits. In the bathroom was, next to a big bathtub, a jacuzzi, and an iced down champagne bucket right next to it. “In Hollywood, money has no meaning. You ever seen Wolf of Wall Street? They weren’t fuckin’ lying when they called money ‘fun coupons’”, he laughed when you first entered the penthouse and your eyes had nearly rolled out. The bedroom alone was bigger than your whole flat, the champagne in that goddamn bucket probably worth more than your rent

“If your eyes get any bigger they’ll fall out of your head!”, Leon laughed as he sat down on the huge sofa, the fireplace warming up the room to a comfortable degree. Yet the dress felt too tight, just ready to be taken off...or was that the alcohol speaking? Leon for the cigar box lying atop the coffee table. He offered you one, but you declined - you didn’t smoke, but the mere view of Leon with a big cigar between his lips, legs spread and dress shirt slightly unbuttoned...it went straight to your core, a view millions of women would kill for, presented in front of you. “Like what you see, little minx?”

“Would it be bad if I didn’t.”, you replied, trying to hide your nerves by being cocky. But Leon wasn’t having any of this. He could see through your mask, trying and failing to hide how badly you wanted to straddle his lap and kiss him senseless, seeing stars and whole new universes. Comes with being an ex cop and agent. No secrets could make it past his eyes.

“Come here”, were Leon’s simple words, yet they had an effect on you and your body, something you'd normally be ashamed to admit. You made your way over to Leon on the sofa and instead of sitting next to him, he patted on his lap. “I want you to be comfortable, and I bet you are the most comfortable on my lap. C’mon, it’s the best seat in the house.”, he smirked and...you couldn’t deny it. His thighs were comfortably big, years of hard training paying off in the form of muscle and rough skin under his suit pants.

You weren’t sure why your head felt like it was spinning - was it the alcohol or the intoxicating smell from Leon? A mixture of his unique scent: whiskey and his cologne, all in a cloud around your nose. You wished you would be able to smell him for the rest of your life. All you knew was that your body screamed for Leon, and his body screamed right back. “Here.”, Leon offered you the glass of scotch he had just poured for himself. “There are three types of liquor. Terrible, not so terrible, or do you want to impress people with your money?”, and with those words, he pressed his lips against yours.

*

“We shouldn’t be doing this.”

“And yet, here we are.”

*

Leon had picked you up after another glass or three of scotch, the way to his bedroom clear. You weren’t sure if it was the warmth from the scotch swelling in your chest or the way his muscular arms wrapped around you, but something in you was one wrong- or right- move away from melting away completely. Your legs were wrapped around his hips as well as possible. The slit on your dress helped you, but suddenly Leon stopped in his tracks. “Are you okay?”, you asked, placing a hand on his cheek, but he looked over the bedroom you two just entered… Suddenly he placed you back down on the floor, kicking the door shut and pushing you against it.

“I don’t think I’m gonna make it to the bed.”, he smirked , his soft hands moving down your sides, leaving goosebumps wherever they touched you. Your dress felt too tight, the room too hot - you needed to get out of it quickly! Leon watched your blush grow, this asshole smirk still on his lips. “I love how real you are.”, he muttered as he leaned in, brushing his lips over your pulse point, just enough to draw a soft gasp from your lips.

“What do you mean?”, you asked, puzzled. Leon just chuckled, “Haven’t you noticed? It’s all Photoshopped. All the women at the premiere had the same fucking ass. Same crooked lips from the same quack doctor. The same busted Botox faces, everywhere you go. Yet they think they’re hot shit.”, he whispered, hot air against your even hotter skin. “But you...look at you.”

And you did. You looked down on yourself and saw nothing but imperfections. You looked back to Leon with a frown but he just laughed, “Hollywood is suffocating as fuck, but you’re like a breath of fresh air.. Look at you! You even have stretch marks! I haven’t seen real stretch marks since I put my first step into a studio!”, Leon took a deep breath, his voice shaking as he said his next sentence, “And I want you so fucking badly.”

*

Only minutes later, Leon had marked you up, hickeys and little bites of pleasure and need covering your upper body, whatever part he could reach. The dress was long gone and you laid on the bed, watching Leon unbuttoning his dress shirt. Underneath the white fabric was a body riddled with scars and old, badly healed wounds. Each and every single one could tell a story you were ready to hear, but right now, all you wanted was Leon and only Leon. And he needed you too.

“Aren’t you fucking gorgeous?”, Leon asked as his hands reached behind you, undoing your bra with a simple movement. This man had disarmed bombs before, of course a bra wouldn’t cause him much trouble. “Look at you…”, he repeated once more once your bra was thrown across the room, landing on some random piece of furniture. You blushed under his hungry eyes, him taking in what would be his in mere minutes. “Spread your legs. I wanna taste you.”

*

You had an iron grip on Leon’s hair, bucking your hips to meet his touch. More, more, more! You needed more! While Leon’s tongue teased your entrance, he used his hand to hold you down, keeping you in place like the good girl that you had been. Well, had been until his tongue first licked up your folds, taking in the sweetness of your juices. Leon had consumed many different liquors in his life, but only your sweet juices could rival ambrosia, sending his drunken mind into another plane of existence.

“Leon!”, you moaned out the moment his calloused finger brushed over your clit. It had been begging for attention, but Leon - that dick - kept on lapping up your juices, sucking and nibbling carefully on your folds. The movements of his fingers were in a steady rhythm with the ones of his tongue, making your head spin once more. He knew how to play you like a fiddle, making you putty in his hands.

But before you could cum, Leon pulled away, his face covered in your sweet fluids and he licked over his lips with an obscene sound and a dirty smirk on his lips. “I can’t wait to fuck you ‘til you scream my name.”

*

The condom was put on quickly. Magnum, of course. What else would a guy like him need? The first stroke inside of you made you see stars for the third time in less than an hour, what an impact this man had on you. Leon was still inside of you, not moving until you were adjusted to his size, especially his girth. “You okay?”, he asked, to which you gave him a soft nod. “Yeah, I’ll be alright. It’s just… fuck, you’re big..”

Leon’s ego beamed at your words, and once you gave him the okay to continue, it was very hard for him to hold back in any way. You were too tight, too sweet, making him nearly burst on the spot. Instead, his mind wandered...but you were always part of those thoughts.

The wet noises of sex, lust, and unadulterated passion filled the room, along with soft panting and groans coming from you two, a noise as old as humankind. Your arms were tightly wrapped around Leon’s body, leaving behind tiny marks when you needed to hold onto him, your nails digging into his skin. Leon hissed at the stings but fuck, knowing you were marking him up too made him even harder, harder than he had ever been.

“Fuck, you feel so good.”, Leon moaned against your neck and buried his head there for a moment. All you could do was nod in agreement, not trusting your voice anymore. Leon reached down at this, pressing his palm between you two, against your clit. You needed this feeling, you were begging for your release.

*

“Come on, cum for me.”, Leon growled when he felt the first contractions around his cock. The needy undertone of his voice was the last thing you needed to push yourself over the edge. “Leon!”, you moaned and came around him, stilling in your movements. Leon rocked his hips a few more times before his own release overcame him, spilling into the condom as you milked him inside of you. It felt too good to be true, but Leon was real.

Once your high started to fade and the contractions lessened, Leon leaned in for a quick kiss, stealing it from your open lips as you tried to catch your breath again. You smiled up to him, loosening your grip around him. “That was great.”, you smiled and Leon dropped next to you after pulling out.

*

In the early morning hours, you woke up to an empty bed. Leon’s side was cold and you sat up, looking around in confusion. Where was he? He wouldn’t leave you alone, would he? Finally, you spotted him on the balcony and you quickly threw on one of the jackets laying around along with your panties.

“Good morning.”, you smiled at Leon, who was taking a drag from his cigarette. He greeted you while blowing the hot smoke out, then held up his arm, offering you a place next to him. You happily agreed, leaning against his warm body in the fresh morning hours.

“I’d love to see you again.”, Leon said after he exhaled another drag, looking down at you. This took you by surprise - why would he? You weren’t special at all, just a mere fan who managed to get into his penthouse suite with a lot of luck and cleavage. He grabbed his phone from the table next to him, offering you the open contact list, “I’d love to take you out on a few dates and such. Spend time with you. What do you think? Wanna give me your number?”

[lyranova]

The ‘Boyfriend’

Hi Guys~! Here’s another Yamichar fic I’ve been working on ☺️! I actually enjoyed writing this one and I hope it’s ok, hopefully you guys like it as well. It’s a Modern AU! So I hope that’s ok.

Genre: Fluff? I think.

Word Count: 2,776

Warnings: None

————

Charlotte could not believe she agreed to this. Her ex-boyfriend had been texting her begging too see her, even though she had told him she was seeing someone else. The thing was though, Charlotte had lied about the ‘having a boyfriend’ part. She thought it would deter him, not make him want to meet the new man who had ‘claimed her heart’ as he put it! She had tried to get some of her fellow CEO’s to do it, but sadly they were either married or seeing someone. Except for one.

“ Why don’t you ask Yami Sukehiro?” Dorothy Unsworth, the CEO of C.P.C., had told her when she heard Charlotte was asking around for someone to go with her. Charlotte had frowned at her.

“ Yami Sukehiro? As in the CEO of the Black Bull Corporation?” Charlotte asked and Dorothy nodded.

“ Yep that’s the one! If I heard correctly he’s single which means he doesn’t have to worry about making a partner jealous. I’ll tell you what, I’ll give him a call and see if he’ll do it! You two would make a great couple.” And before Charlotte could say a word Dorothy had left the conference room.

Charlotte wouldn’t hear from her for the next three days. A small part of her had hoped Dorothy had forgotten about it, until she called that morning with a shocking announcement.

“ Yami said he’d do it but on one condition.” Dorothy said, sounding somewhat proud of herself. Charlotte couldn’t help but have a bad feeling about this. “ You have to buy him dinner afterwards. An expensive dinner.”

So here Charlotte was, in a café waiting for this Yami guy to appear. She had heard of him and his company for a few months now, he was a rising star according to all the magazine articles she had read. But he was also criticized, mostly for how he and his team would act. The articles claimed they were all loud, brash, and very intimidating. Charlotte was not one to believe everything she read or heard, only what she saw with her own two eyes and so far...he was thirty minutes late. Which was not a great first impression. Charlotte sighed and began to pull out her phone to call Dorothy and tell her that he didn’t show when she heard someone speak.

“ You’re Roselei right? Charlotte Roselei?” The speaker asked and when she looked up her heart jumped to her throat, the man was tall, muscular, had short and somewhat messy dark hair, and a beautiful pair of grey eyes. There was no way this could be him, no way!

“ Y-Yes,” she cleared her throat as she realized it had gone dry. “ I’m Charlotte and you’re?”

“ Yami Sukehiro. Sleeping Beauty said you had a job for me and to meet you here.” He explained before gesturing to the seat across from her, only sitting down after she nodded.

“ Sleeping Beauty?” She asked confused before it dawned on her, apparently that was the nickname he had given Dorothy, she did have a tendency to fall asleep during meetings so the nickname was quite appropriate. “ Ah you mean Dorothy, I thought she already explained it to you?”

“ She did. But I wanted to hear it from you myself.” Yami said as he leaned back in his chair.

“ Well, I have an ex boyfriend who keeps trying to get back together. After I told him no he still wouldn’t stop, so I told him I was seeing someone else and he didn’t believe me. So I decided to prove it.” Charlotte explained as she took a sip of her tea, Yami looked at her with a curious gaze. “ What?”

“ The CEO of Blue Rose Inc. doesn’t strike me as the type who needs help taking care of a problem.” Yami explained. “ From what I’ve seen, you’re more than capable of handling this by yourself.”

Charlotte blinked at his statement, when had he seen her ‘take care of a problem’? She for sure would have remembered seeing him at a work function or at a convention? Seeing the confused look on her face, Yami snorted before leaning forward.

“ It was last summer, at the annual CLOVER party in Osaka. All the subsidiaries were there, including me even though I hadn’t signed with the company yet. I remember you looked completely bored,” he chuckled and Charlotte’s cheeks turned a small shade of pink. “ and some random dude from the P. Orca group tried to flirt with you and, if I remember right, you cut him off at the knees.” Charlotte let out a small laugh at the memory, she hadn’t even raised her voice at him and yet the poor fellow looked like she had. She had only told him that she was already in a relationship and didn’t take kindly to men assuming because she was alone meant she was single.

“ He never assumed again now did he? I say that was a lesson well learned.” Charlotte said as she took another sip of her tea. “ The thing is, I don’t remember seeing you there Yami.” He shrugged a shoulder at this.

“ I tend to stick to the shadows, I prefer to see others than to be seen.” He answered nonchalantly. Charlotte nodded in understanding.

“ You’d rather get to know the real people you’re working with. Instead of the ones the present themselves as.” It actually made sense and Charlotte couldn’t understand why she hadn’t come up with that idea.

“ Exactly. They act one way when they want to butter you up and get you to invest or to form a partnership, and then the minute you turn your back to them.” He trailed off.

“ They put a knife in it.” Charlotte finished for him before taking a sip of her tea. She had been the victim of back stabbing many times, as have many of the women who worked for her, and some of her friends as well. It was a kill or be killed world out there, especially if you were a woman. That’s what made her want to start her own business, one where women were in high level positions, where they were treated and paid equally. Charlotte had been doubted and even laughed at when she had spoken to people about her idea, and yet here she was, in the top 9 companies in the country. ‘Who’s laughing now?’ She thought to herself with a small smirk. She was suddenly pulled out of her thoughts as Yami spoke.

“ You still never answered my question.” Charlotte blinked, having already forgotten about his question. “ Why did you need me to help you get rid of your ex?” He asked leaning back in his chair again but folding his arms, she could see his muscles flex under his shirt and she felt her face flush. ‘Why does he have to be so good-looking?!’ A voice screamed in her head before she shook it away.

“ I...” Charlotte trailed off, brows furrowed in thought. Why did she need him? She wasn’t afraid of her ex by any means, she was annoyed by him. They had broken up amicably from what she could recall, so why?

“ It’s ok if you don’t have an answer, sometimes we just do things for the sake of doing.” Charlotte looked up at him in shock, was he giving her an out? “ But hopefully by the time your ex gets here you’ll have an idea.” Nope. He wasn’t giving her an out, only buying her more time to come up with an answer.

——

“ So Mr. Sukehiro, what is it that your company does exactly?” Charlotte asked him after that had sat in a somewhat comfortable silence, her ex was supposed to be there around 6:00 and it was now 5:30. She had decided it would be best if she knew a bit more about the man who was her current ‘boyfriend’.

“ First off; don’t call me Mr. Sukehiro. It makes me sound old. Secondly,” he took a sip of the water he had ordered. “ we do the jobs no one else wants to do. Either they’re dangerous, troublesome, or somewhat illegal.” He shrugged a bit.

“ So essentially you’re doing everyone else’s dirty work.” Charlotte clarified and Yami nodded.

“ We’re a small enough company that no one even notices, unless one of my screw ups makes a big mess of the job. Than I’m the one that has to go behind them and clean up their mess before it draws too much attention.” He sighed and rolled his eyes, apparently that was a common occurence. He looked at her. “ What about you?”

“ Me? Well, my company tends to handle the marketing side of CLOVER. It's actually quite boring, but me and my girls are the best at what we do. We could market snow to a snowman if we wanted.” Charlotte said, she had been very proud of her girls they always worked hard and, on occasion, play hard as well. They got things done even when it seemed impossible, they never took no for an answer, and would prove to the rest of the companies that women could do the same work as men could.

“ Sounds boring if you ask me.” Yami stated and Charlotte glared before folding her arms on the table and leaning forward.

“ I’m sorry not everyone has such an exciting and dangerous job as you. But I enjoy my job and am very proud of the work my girls and I do!” Charlotte stated defensively, he held up a hand in surrender and rubbed the back of his head sheepishly with the other.

“ Sheesh calm down Prickly Princess no need to get all upset about it. It’s just not the type of job I’d want.” He muttered before they went silent again. But this time, it was an uncomfortable one.

It would be a while before Yami would decide to break it, he knew he shouldn’t have said that about her work, a lot of people got defensive and were quick to anger if you so much as critiqued their jobs. But he was just being honest, and maybe that was a habit he would have to curve if he was going to be working for CLOVER Industries.

“ Why’d you break up with your boyfriend?” He asked curiously, at the shocked look on Charlotte's face she wasn’t expecting the question. “ I’m supposed to be your boyfriend right? I think that would be something you would tell me.” Charlotte sighed before answering.

“ We drifted apart, according to him. We were changing as people and going in different directions, so he felt it was best that we both moved on and I agreed. It was completely amicable.” She stated before sipping her tea. Yami raised an eye brow as he looked at her curiously.

“ That doesn’t sound like that’s all it was.” Charlotte nodded before looking down and staring at her nearly empty cup of tea.

“ If I’m being completely honest, I think he was jealous.” She tilted her head slighty as she began to think back to their relationship. “ When we started dating I was an intern at a small marketing group, I had tried for years to get promoted in the company and I was always passed up, even when I did the same or more work than some of the men I was passed over for. It became frustrating, so I started my own comapny. At the time he was very supportive and would occasionally help out if I needed it. But as my company grew and became more successful, the more I noticed he began to pull away. I’m not 100% sure that he was jealous and that’s why our relationship ended, but I feel like it was a contributing factor.”

“ Sometimes,” Yami said after he seemed to contemplate what to say for a moment. “ I think guys, not all but a few, have a problem when their girlfriends or wives or partners become more successful than them. It kinda bruises their egos. But there are a lot of guys out there who love strong women and don’t mind being in a relationship with them.” He shrugged as he reached for his bottled water, Charlotte looked up at him.

“ Are you one of those guys?” She asked him softly, her face began to turn a shade of pink as she realized what she had asked him. He seemed to be taken aback by the question for a moment, he looked down at the table for a moment before looking back up at her and Charlotte's heart nearly stopped at the sight. Yami’s eyes had softened, they looked warm and even somewhat gentle. Which was the complete opposite of what she had seen the entire two hours they had been sitting there.

“ Yeah, I’d like to think I am.” He stated with a small smirk before finishing his water, Charlotte felt her face heat up even more at the soft tone of his voice. ‘How could he be almost two completely different people at the same time?!’ She thought incredulously before a small chime dragged her out of her thought, it was her phone going off.

“ Ah excuse me.” She told Yami as she grabbed her phone out of her purse, Yami nodded in understanding before pulling out his own. Charlotte’s eyes widened and her brows furrowed.

“Hey Charlotte, sorry I’m not going to be able to meet you and your boyfriend today! I’m stuck in a business meeting. Raincheck?” Was the text she had received and she was immediately annoyed. ‘Seriously?!’ She sighed before looking up apologetically at Yami.

“ I apologize Yami it looks like I’ve wasted your time,” Yami looked up at her. “ He’s stuck in a meeting and won’t be able to join us I’m afraid.” He shrugged at her before he began to stand.

“ No worries, I didn’t really have anything else planned for today. Although,” Yami turned to look at her. “ you still never answered my question.” Charlotte had secretly hoping he had forgotten about it, she had been trying to think of the answer the entire time they were sitting there. She noticed Yami was staring at her expectantly, she was out of time.

“ I guess, I wanted to show him it was ok to move on. That he needed to find someone who made him happy, maybe I needed to prove that to myself as well.” Charlotte told him softly, it made the most sense and she knew deep in her heart that it was true. She didn’t want him to waste his life thinking that she would suddenly go back to the Charlotte he knew before because he had been away for six months. Yami smirked and glanced at her out of the corner of his eye.

“ That’s a lame answer.” He told and instantly she glared at him.

“ I’d like to see what your answer to that question would be!” She said as she crossed her arms, Yami huffed out a small laugh before turning and walking towards the door.

“ Eh I’d probably be able to come up with a good answer if I was given enough time. Anyway, see you around.” Yami gave her a short wave as he opened the door to the café, suddenly he paused, a nice little thought coming to his mind. He turned to face her again and found her digging through her purse for her wallet.

“ Hey Princess,” Charlotte looked up at the door. “ what are your plans for the rest of the evening?” Charlotte frowned in confusion at his question.

“ I don’t have any plans, why?” Yami smirked as he leaned against the open door, he wasn’t quite ready to say good-bye to the blonde haired woman yet.

“ Funny, neither do I. How about we go have a decent meal and you can come up with a better answer.” Charlotte blinked, was he blushing? She couldn’t quite tell from this distance. Charlotte smiled softly, apparently she wasn’t the only one wanting to spend more time together.

“ Sounds like a good idea.” She agreed as she put a tip on the table and stood up. Following Yami out the door she made a mental note to thank Dorothy for introducing her to Yami Sukehiro.

I hope you guys enjoyed this, I’m sorry if it fell apart towards the end 😅! But this was so much fun to write, I hope you guys liked it too and thanks for reading! If anyone else wants to be added to the tag list please let me know! I hope you all have a good day~!

Tag List: @eme-eleff

[sagessoftwings]

Oky!! Well I prefer she/her but to be honest I'm good with anything. I'm pan as well so any sex works.

My hobbies are more on the crafty side with drawing, clay work, painting. I'm also into tennis and I do chior.

I think alot of the time one of the things that inspire me to do better is the praise of my family and closest friends, but a good life inspires me to do my best too.

So tbh I didn't really get what you meant by favorite past time, ( its probably because it's late and my brains telling me to go to bed) but if I'm interpreting it right, I really liked my late elementary- intermediate days (3-6th grade)

I seem to struggle with venting. I have had a good life so my brain always goes back to "they dont need to be burdened with you pathetic little worries when they have other worse things going on". So I dont think I've ever really vented

Anyway! I absolutely love my family and friends, the smell of rain and freshly baked cookies, the stars at night. I'm a sucker for chubbier women and for tall men, large muscular women as well. I love when it rains but doesn't thunder so you can run and dance through it. I love when people get really happy about small little thing. I also sing alot as well. One of absolute favorite things ever is a good big warm hug

For the fandoms: mha, haikyuu, and marvel if you could

Thank you so much for doing this! You seem very nice tbh! Anyways have a good rest of you day/night and may your week be amazing!! <3

HIII BEAUTIFUL I SHIP YOU WITH NEJIRE HADO FOR MHA

SHE IS SO LOVABLE AND JUST ADORES YOU BABE

Please pLEASE GOD TEACH HER HOW TO DO CLAY WORK SHE THINKS ITS SO COOL

She keeps a stool in like every corner and will sit near you while you draw or literally anything

That’s if you will let her, she of course reflects your privacy

Nejire just doesn’t understand how you can be so good at so much 😩💖

Loves playing tennis with you! Has such a cute tennis skirt to 😪

WILL TAKE YOU STARGAZING PERIOD

Probably was your first date

IS ALSO SO GOOD AT BAKING

You’re in luck bestie

Randomly hugs you all the time

Nejire just gets so excited when she is around you

PLEASE RANT TO HER

Listening is one of her love languages

Never feel like your burdening her please, she’ll lay on top of you until you tell her how your day was

For haikyuu I ship you with Issei Mattsukawa!!

BABE… BABE

This 6’2 giant is absolutely in LOVE with you

If you like family and friends this is your man 😩

Has a younger brother and sister and has to babysit all the time

You actually thought he was avoiding you but felt so bad and was like “do you wanna come over? I have to babysit my siblings but I really wanna hang out with you!”

His siblings ADORE YOU

His sister loves to play with play-dough with you and bake cookies which somehow have crayon shaving in them

She thought the were sprinkles

Mattsukawa was forced to eat them and then after putting the kids to bed he threw up pink and purple

You did have to stay and take care of him

Will sit you on the couch in between his legs and play with your hair and kiss your shoulders while you rant

He doesn’t mind at all, he has to listen to oikawa

You’re much better than that drama queen

Dances with you in the rain 🥲

I’m jealous 😮‍💨

Mans is infatuated with you… seriously

For marvel I ship you with Jane Foster

Loves to take you stargazing whew

Literally her favorite date scene

Darcy likes to bake for your dates too

Literally anything where you spend time together is just amazing

Will rant with you and you two have very in depth conversations that last till like three am

Sometimes all she needs is a good hug but you will have to beg her to let go

Also literally makes you break a sweat when you cuddle

Is a heat lamp, she can’t help it

[vanholstein]

How much research is done in creating dishes for the manga?

Yūto Tsukuda: Every week, the three of us meet together—myself, Saeki, and our chief editor—and it's always explicitly for research. We talk about a lot of dishes, so we can have an in-stock library of options that we all keep with us. Depending on the storyline, we would go into the materials we had stocked and say "oh yeah, that dish would match this character or that storyline, let's use this one, let's use that one." So sometimes the dishes we have planned for an upcoming story have been in our stock for a year already, and sometimes it'll be something someone found two or three days ago.

ANN: As a producer, what do you think is the most important factor to consider when translating Food Wars!' appeal from manga into anime? What have you learned through that process that you plan to bring to season four?

Noriko Dohi: I believe that the appeal of this show really comes from the culinary battles and the comedy. It's that difference between the serious battles and the comedic side that forms the story's biggest appeal. During the creative process for the anime, I think it's most important to emphasize those two cornerstones. Usually when you're cooking, there isn't anything action-packed about it. You don't see vibrant and lively movements from everyone working on the food, so we really wanted to emphasize that difference in the anime series through the art. For the comedy, we always want to emphasize how cute and cool the characters are, so their sense of humor comes through. Those are the two most important aspects of Food Wars! as an anime. What I've learned from working on this series for a very long time is that the theme of culinary art, or even just food in general, is a major draw for a lot of people all over the world. So I really want to keep going with that energy for this new season too.

What was your mindset heading into the final arc of the manga, and what were some of the challenges you faced when deciding how to end it?

Tsukuda: Of course there's always the concern of "Is it really okay that I did this? Are the readers going to be satisfied with this sort of ending?" What I'm going to talk about now is really spoilery, so I hope everyone has already read through to the end. I've always wanted to end the series with Soma and Erina getting hitched, but it was difficult for me to get to that point naturally in the story. So I had to rewrite it over and over before I could revise it to an ending that I liked. I really hope that all the fans are satisfied with the sort of ending that I reached.

Is there any character in Food Wars! that you wish you could have spent more time with?

Tsukuda: Rindo is a character that I really wanted to explore more deeply. I didn't know she was going to be so popular! To be honest, I really want to write a version of the story where Rindo was the main character, where she's the one battling her way to the top and beating all these other chefs. But obviously, Soma was already the main character, so that kind of storyline wouldn't have been possible at that point.

Soma has a unique confidence that allows him to make connections outside of his social standing. What was the inspiration behind this aspect of his character?

Tsukuda: First of all, I really wanted to create a character that would be a good match for Saeki-sensei's art, the kind of character who could excite women with his culinary skills. I thought that a cool character who girls like would not be all over them, he would be kind of a cool tough boy who does his own thing. I wanted to depict him as someone who's serious about his art. He's focused on cooking instead of being easily distracted by girls. So his cavalier attitude was a result of wanting to make him the kind of character that girls would find appealing.

What was your inspiration behind the creation of the last group of colorful combatants Soma faces in Food Wars?

Tsukuda: In a shonen series, the final group of enemies is a major familiar trope for writers and readers. There is a popular older cooking manga called Chuuka Ichiban! In that series, there are many unbelievable chefs with superhuman powers. For instance, one character uses an ice-knife for his dishes, and if you touch it, it will give you frostbite. So I wanted to save that superhuman style of character for this important arc.

Soma has been consistently popular in our Anime Trending manga polls, and he even won most popular character of the year. What were your reactions to Soma becoming so popular abroad?

Tsukuda: That's amazing. I've often heard people make comparisons between Goku and Soma. I understand it in that they both aren't afraid to challenge foes who are much stronger than them.

Dohi: I believe Soma's character is the key to the success of this series, just because he's so easy to watch and keeps things lighthearted. Oftentimes, when things get too serious in stories, readers and viewers can be overwhelmed by that heaviness. But with Soma in the mix, it becomes much easier to relax while enjoying the story.

Has creating Food Wars! inspired you to cook more often or with more theatrical flair?

Shun Saeki: I've always enjoyed cooking myself. When I was a student in university, I cooked all the time. But I don't cook at all anymore.

Tsukuda: It's the same for me too. Back when the series was first serialized, I did cook for myself. But when I started getting really busy with the manga, most times I did not want to cook at all or even think about cooking. These days, I'm thinking maybe I should pick it up again!

Dohi: I actually cook for myself often, and when the first season started airing, I would cook each dish that was featured each time and put them on social media. I saw that many fans were loving it, even overseas, and that was really exciting. But when there was an episode about bear meat, for example, that sort of thing I couldn't do.

Tsukuda: It's impressive, because sometimes I had my doubts that any of these dishes could actually be made.

ANN: So did you start this project with the peanut butter and octopus combo?

Dohi: I did indeed.

ANN: Was it edible?

Dohi: It was edible, and I even had Matsuoka-san, the voice of Yukihira Soma, eat it for me.

Tsukuda: I've had the dish as well, and I think the key to the recipe is the peanut butter. The peanut butter you use determines whether it will taste good or not. So long as the peanut butter you choose is not too sweet, it will turn out alright. The texture doesn't make as much difference, but I think the smooth peanut butter would be best.

ANN: When it comes to illustrating "the ecstasy of food" and how good something should taste, what was the greatest challenge you faced in translating a dish into manga?

Saeki: It's really difficult to describe the taste of food purely through drawings and dialogue in manga. This is especially true in terms of spicy flavors, so I would make sure that a character's body language conveyed that detail, emphasizing the sweat breaking out on their face while they described what they were tasting. There are times when I don't even focus on emphasizing the specific taste or flavor of a dish at all, and I'm more interested in the comedic effect that it has on the character as they eat. We really want the readers to laugh at those reactions.

Do you have a favorite reaction scene?

Saeki: Yes, it's Magical Cabbage.

Dohi: Yes, you could ask all of us, and it will always be Magical Cabbage.

Tsukuda: It was modeled after Sailor Moon or especially Precure, and that was all Saeki-sensei's idea. I wanted to show Dojima as a magical girl, and he said "Then let's have five of them!"

Saeki: I've always enjoyed watching transformation sequences in series like Sailor Moon, so I knew that to have a sequence of that striking caliber, we needed several beautiful women. The only problem is that there's a muscular man right in the middle.

ANN: That's gap appeal.

Tsukuda: Yes, exactly. Thank you for appreciating the gap.

Usually, separating the writer and artist is something more associated with Western-style comic books. Is that style of collaboration becoming more common in Japan, and what was the dynamic between the two of you like?

Tsukuda: That's definitely becoming more common now. In the past, it was more common for duos working on manga to be separate rather than working close together, but nowadays, as we have a lot of titles on the market, this type of closer collaboration is becoming more common, with The Promised Neverland and Dr. Stone being other examples. My motivation throughout this whole project came from wanting to demonstrate the greatness of Saeki-sensei's art. That was actually the main point of our project at the outset, so it was always my greatest motivation.

Saeki: For me, I don't have the storytelling power that Tsukuda-sensei has, so it was like this chemical reaction of our good aspects coming together to bring this story to life.

Like a Maillard reaction, when you fry something and it creates a new flavor?

Tsukuda: Definitely like that.

What does the other person in this collaboration do that drives you nuts sometimes?

Tsukuda: I think Saeki-sensei would get pissed off when I'm slow with material.

Saeki: No no, never! There isn't anything that really gets me annoyed with Tsukuda-sensei, because we both have a strong goal of creating something great together. We can always talk to each other because of that passion, and we aren't afraid of letting each other know what we want to do and how we want to do things. That comes from our desire to work as a team and create something worthwhile together.

Was Food Wars! the first time you had collaborated?

Tsukuda: This was the first time we had formally worked together, but I knew about Saeki-sensei from the past because he was my senpai in university. He's always given me pointers and been clear about his goals, because he's a very logical individual. I know that whenever he critiques something or points out a problem that needs to be fixed, it's coming from a logical place and not an emotional perspective. So I take his critiques seriously and understand that they're something I need to work on.

Are you planning on collaborating together again soon?

(Tsukuda and Saeki high five.)

Tsukuda: Yeah, we've been talking about our future plans on this trip.

We'll be looking forward to it. If you could have any of Food Wars!' characters as your personal chef, who would you pick?

Tsukuda: Megumi. Her cuisine is based around home cooking, so it's very peaceful and kind in its flavors. That way, even when I get much older, I don't have to worry about her dishes being too spicy or weird or anything. If I eat something that the other chefs make when I get old, I might die from too much excitement.

Saeki: I actually want more excitement in my life, so maybe Rindo! She will find ways to cook something that I've never had before. I'll actually live longer, because I'll be excited all the time.

Dohi: I would definitely want Kojiro Shinomiya. For one thing, his dishes would be healthy. His food is based heavily in French cuisine, and he uses a lot of vegetables. But for another thing, he's a very sadistic character, so to be able to make him do what I want would be extra-fun for me.

ANN: I feel like that's a very fitting answer for a producer.

Tsukuda: (laughs) Well, no matter who you are, if you hire a personal chef, you would have to tell them very directly what you want.

Saeki: If I can have one more answer, I would also want Mimasaka Subaru. That way, if I'm at a restaurant and I try something I really like, I can just tell him that this is what I want, and he could whip up something just like it on the spot.

Tsukuda: Damn, I didn't think of that.

How do you feel about the series, which is unique in the world of cooking manga, being popular all over the world?

Saeki: I think its popularity is mostly due to Tsukuda's amazing writing skills and character building, but another thing that's important to note is that, compared to many cooking manga that have come and gone, Food Wars! really emphasizes the battle aspect of shonen series, which I think is a unique point in its favor.

Tsukuda: In terms of genre, there are many modern culinary manga for more mature audiences, not shonen but seinen titles. Many of them are enjoyed just to kill time, with very passive storytelling that's meant to be read on the train or while waiting around. But going into the history of culinary manga, there are many shonen titles as well, like Shouta no Sushi, and because this unchanging base of cooking stories in shonen is so easy to access and reference, I think people are still drawn to the concept of dramatic cooking manga.

Dohi: In Japan, it's very common to find culinary manga, so I believe that people will keep loving this kind of story even twenty or thirty years from now.

It stands out to me that the cast of Food Wars is very international.

Tsukuda: That was very important to me. I wanted the younger readers experiencing this manga to learn about different types of food and culture from different countries. I thought it would be great if kids reading the manga could grow up, travel the world, see unique dishes and remember, "I saw that in Food Wars! when I was a kid."

Kind of like how Slam Dunk influenced basketball?

Tsukuda: Definitely. Kids in Japan didn't even know the rules of basketball before Slam Dunk. I think it's really important for kids to learn something through manga when they're reading it.

Saeki: Because of Slam Dunk, I actually joined the basketball team in my elementary school. Obviously, I didn't stay with it, though.

Tsukuda: I didn't know that!

Saeki: I also played ping pong, and even competed in a regional event.

Has anyone told you that their life has changed or that they look at food differently because of your manga?

Tsukuda: I have gotten letters from fans saying that they wanted to become a chef after reading Food Wars!, and even some letters saying that they had become a chef! It makes me really happy.

What was your favorite recipe in the series and why?

Dohi: I actually asked this of the creative team around the studio, because I knew you guys were probably going to ask that question. From the director to the art director to all around the staff, everyone was excited about rice dishes in particular—we are Japanese, so that's always going to be a point of interest—and out of all the rice dishes, the omurice with the curry risotto inside was definitely one of our favorites to demonstrate in the anime. Of course you can't smell anything from the screen, but to be able to depict the smell bursting out from the omurice when the spoon cuts in was rewarding. That moment was shocking for all of us when we first read it, so we wanted to give it a lively and energetic presentation in the anime.

Tsukuda: For me, it was definitely the midnight laksa curry, the dark and stinky curry made from kusaya, which is a very traditional Japanese dish. I really want to try it myself, to experience that contrast between its overwhelming stinkiness and being so delicious when you actually eat it. Seeing the smell just permeating throughout the hall was interesting.

Saeki: My pick has not appeared in the anime yet, but it's the dish made by Somei Saito, a ruby sushi made of mabuho and tuna. That would definitely be delicious. Just thinking about it now makes me salivate. I love sushi.

ANN: Now that the manga is coming to a close, and the anime isn't far behind, what have been your most memorable experiences along the way?

Tsukuda: You know, now that I think about it, this trip might be the most freeing and fun experience I've had since beginning Food Wars! For seven years now, since starting the project, every single moment of my life, no matter what else I'm doing, I'm always thinking about the manga in the back of my head. So now, it's like I'm trying to remember "What was fun about it?"

Saeki: For me, being serialized in Jump was my ultimate dream. Just knowing that I was able to create a work that continued on for such a long time was a dream come true for me, every single day that Food Wars! was in serialization. So that has become my fondest memory, every day that I got to have a hit in Shonen Jump. It was the second time for Tsukuda, but the first time for me.

Tsukuda: Well, the first time I got serialized in Jump, my manga was cut in 15 weeks, so this was a much better experience. Food Wars! is my first real success.

Dohi: It's a little hard for me to think about memories at this stage, because unlike these two that are done with the project, the anime is still in the heat of production, so I get to go back to Japan after this trip, and there's going to be hell waiting for me. So I can't think of any memories just yet.

Tsukuda: I'm so sorry.

ANN: In that case, what are you most looking forward to sharing with fans in season four?

Dohi: For the fourth season, it will be a direct continuation of the arc from the third season, so we're hoping that fans will appreciate how the characters have all grown since then.

Is there someone special in your life who inspired your love of cooking?

Dohi: My parents. My father is a chef. I would just watch my father's back as he cooked for us every time, and I grew to appreciate the happiness that comes from making something for others and sharing it with them.

Tsukuda: I didn't know your father was a chef, either! What did he specialize in?

Dohi: French-style cuisine.

Tsukuda: I'm learning so many new things in this interview.

Saeki: For me, it was my father as well. Many parents like to cook things that are simple for their kids that they can easily enjoy, like hamburg steak, but when I was a kid, my father was really into cooking with unusual ingredients, like sea urchin. He liked to cook things that paired well with alcohol, since he would drink with his dinner, and when I was little, he would give me a taste of these more grown-up dishes he'd made for himself. So my father had a big impact on my love of diverse foods and wanting to try different kinds of flavors.

Tsukuda: I lived in a small town in Fukuoka prefecture as a child, until I was in high school. When I went to university in Osaka, it was my first time living in a big city, so there were many types of different food to experience, and the variety came as a shock to me. It allowed me to realize that my mom's home cooking was truly unique, as a meal only she could create that was enjoyed exclusively in my own home. It helped me realize a difference in my palate and the tastes and flavors I could enjoy.

[valhala90]

Shinsengumi (Hakuouki) - The Men of Yoshiwara parody

What would they say if you choose them?

(Usually, everyone sits together in the salon, sometimes not all of them; Kondo is the owner, Sanan is the manager)

Hijikata

Hijikata: I don't think you're ready for me kid, (Okita in the background: Nobody's ever ready for you Hijikata-san), but since you're determined, (Okita whispers loudly: run kid, it's your last chance) I acknowledge your resolve.

(A vein on Hijikata's temple is pulsating, but he tries to ignore Okita's taunting) Come, I give you the invitation for love and sweetest surrender-

Okita: Hijikata-san doesn't be so corny, with your shitty love-Haiku; the kid won't understand any of it.

Hijikata: (snaps) SHUT THE HELL UP, IDIOT. THIS IS MY CLIENT SO STAY-

Okita: (to others) Yeah, he scored the first client in months, the girl is weird and I tell you-

Hijikata: (bailing his fists) STOP INTERRUPTING ME YOU SON OF A BITCH! I'LL STRANGLE-

Okita: What are you doing, Hijikata-san? Your face is scaring her, maybe you should leave strangling for the bedroom.

Hijikata: THAT'S IT! YOU'RE FUCKING DEAD. (Leaves his first client in months, to chase Okita)

Okita

Okita: Would you like to play with me? Let me give you a hint: it's not hide and seek, it's the game for a-d-u-l-t-s. Are you up for it? (Gives you a playful wink)

Heisuke: But Souji, you say that every time and you end up leaving customers blindfolded or tied up and you just sneak out of the room to eat-

Okita: (grabbing a dagger from his sleeve), Heisuke-chan, want me to play a game with you too? (Smiles maliciously)

Heisuke: (gulps) F-Forget that I said anything, excuse me. (Dashes out of the room)

Okita: Now forget about him, he's just an apprentice, let us continue.

Saito

Saito: (Is silent for 15 minutes, face flat, lips pursed)

.

.

.

Saito: You choose...M-Me.

(pause)

Saito: C-Come, I-I give you the... (whispers) invitation for love... (mumbles with barely audible voice)... and sweetest surrender...

Okita: Hajime-kun, are you trying to quote that dull and shitty Hijikata-san's Haiku?

(Hajime turns his head away, falling silent again)

Okita: Come on, you can do it better. Nobody wants to copy the demonic harlot of Shinsengumi-

(Angry footsteps in the corridor, moment after, Hijikata storms into the room with a broom, visibly furious)

Hijikata: What the hell did you say about me?

Okita: Oh, you think I was talking about you... Interesting. (Okita grins, trying not to laugh)

(Saito mumbling something, while Hijikata chases Okita with a broom)

Okita: Hajime-kun! (doges another angry attack from Hijikata) Just say to her what you would say 'bout katana!

(Runs out of a salon, Hijikata following him with a huge list of profanity words.)

Saito: Katana...? I see, that makes sense. After all, I would always pick a katana over a woman... Ah! Um- not that I think you're not worthy...

(Blushes slightly, and is silent for another 15 minutes)

(Then exhales, closing his eyes)

The contour of your body is what draws many men in,

Hard and brittle yet soft, combined in a harmony;

Your core is a symbol of dreams throughout the time,

You cannot break, but can only sharply cut your way

Into my body and my heart,

I humbly beg you to let me hold your immortal beauty,

In my unworthy arms...

Okita: (peeking through the door) That's it that's the stuff, just don't-

Saito: ...for you are not just a weapon but also a work of art.

Okita: He screwed it. But she's too dense to notice he was reciting a love poem to katana (chuckles)

Heisuke

Heisuke: Um... I don't have the experience like other guys-

Shinpachi: Heisuke c'mon, man up! (Shinpachi hits him on the back, causing him to nearly fall over)

Heisuke: (frowning in pain and anger) Hey, old guy! Shut up!

Shinpachi: Old? You're just a pipsqueak~ (Rests his hand on Heisuke's head) Sure you won't change your mind and pick someone more manly than this brat? Look at these! (opens up his kimono with his other hand, to show you muscular chest)

Harada: Shinpachi, stop taking off your clothes in front of the customers, you're scaring them. Besides, this is Heisuke's client, let him show his potential. (grabs your hand kissing it, with seductive eyes)

Heisuke: (wards off Shinpachi's hand) That's right you should- HEY WHAT ARE YOU DOING? ARE YOU TRYING TO SEDUCE HER? YOU'RE SO SLIMY, OLD MAN!

Harada: Slimy? (lifts his brow) All is permitted in love and war, if she's going to let herself be seduced by me, then you failed as a man. That also is a valuable lesson. (smiles softly)

Shinpachi: Oy, c'mon you two, you don't know what she wants... And she clearly needs to see more! (Pulls his hands from kimono, showing his bare torso) Heh? Like what you see?

(Heisuke and Harada facepalm)

Heisuke: I can't stand this anymore! (he snaps, pushing them out of the room) Just get the hell out of this room, assholes! She chose me, so you need to butt off!

Harada: Fine, fine... Let him become a man, Shinpachi. Let's drink.

Shinpachi: That's the smartest thing you said today! (pats Harada on the back) Heisuke, you have to tell us details later.

Heisuke: Sure...LIKE HELL I WILL, BASTARD! (returns to his seat) Um, sorry 'bout that. I... ( grips his fists, looking at the tatami mat)

I just want to say... Even though I'm nervous, there's nothing more I would like than to hold you. I have no special skills, but I'm eager to prove myself... (looks you directly into the eyes) So if you would have me... I don't mind showing you how much, as many times as I need.

Okita: (spying) My, my... Heisuke-kin is growing.

Saito: I hope he doesn't mistreat his customers as he mistreats his katana. He needs to be punished. (dead serious, has a grudge against him)

Okita: Something tells me he will. (grins)

Shinpachi

Shinpachi: Yosh! You made the right choice!

Harada: Oy, can you be more quiet, my eardrums hurt whenever you talk.

Shinpachi: (pretends not to hear him, talking louder) SO! What are we waiting for?! Let's get hot and sweaty!

Harada: You won't do what I think you will, right?

Heisuke: That's just what he'll do. He's a simpleton. Shinpatsu, you can't yell on customers and make them work out, that's not what they came for. (shakes his head)

Shinpachi: Shut up, you brat! Who doesn't want to work out with me?! I just show them the goods they'll be getting if they work hard!

Harada: But YOU are the goods they pay for, seriously man. (sighs)

Okita: If you continue to behave like this, you'll be even worse than Hijikata-san, and trust me you don't wanna get that low.

Shinpachi: ... uh... (looks down)

Hijikata: For the last time, stop talking about me, I have a list of customers, moron!

Okita: Oh? I didn't know male customers were also allowed... I'll talk to Kondo-san and Sanan-san, now way that I also have to deal with men-

(Hijikata stands up, trying to grab him)

Okita: (dodges) Too slow Hijikata-san! Maybe you should get hot and sweaty with Shinpachi, you're getting fat~

(cry of anger from Hijikata, things breaking while both of them exit the room, Okita's roaring laughter in the distance)

Harada: Well, let's go, (turns to you) If you change your mind, my room is down the hall to the right. (winks)

Heisuke: Shinpatsu, you're talking about being the real man all the time, but you're dense as a log, aren't you?

Shinpachi: (grabs Heisuke by the collar of his kimono) Shut up, you runt! Don't make me beat the shit outta ya!

Heisuke: Lemme go, fine! (turns to you and waves) Good luck Miss. You can leave at any moment, (whispers)

(Shimpachi pushes him out the door closing them)

(walks towards you, and sits down) Well... It's true that I don't have luck with women, and that they usually end up with Sano but... (Scratches the back of his head) I w-won't...make you work out... Well, not the work out routines, but you might end up a little sore... Uh... (blushes) I was saying-

Okita: (voice behind the door) Why don't you just hit her on the head with the club and drag her to the bed?

Shinpachi: (grits his teeth, stands up, punching the hole through the door) SHUT THE HELL UP ASSHOLE!

(sits again, exhaling) So are we...Um ... gonna get sweaty and hot? (gives you a huge smile)

(Harada and Heisuke looking through the hole in the door)

Heisuke: He's a moron.

Harada: Yup, he sure is.

Harada

Harada: Miss, I'm honored you picked me to be your companion for this lovely night. (Stares deeply into your eyes)

Okita: (whispers to Heisuke) Watch the pro, kid.

Harada: (pays no attention to anyone but you) My wounds started to open last night, as I was thinking about my life and this profession, drinking to forget that I have a different companion every night. Sometimes I have nightmares of waking up with the different face every morning, thinking about how I will do this 'till the day I die.

(Sad smile sneaks on his lips.)

But tonight, I saw your face, and thought how lucky I am. Just maybe, it wouldn't be so bad to wake up beside you. 

(he moves closer to you, taking your hand in his)

Don't worry, we don't have to get right to it...If you want to just talk, about love and the truth, about the meaning of life... I would listen to you all night, And though next night I may be with some other, you will always be on my mind. (brings your hand to his mouth, gently brushing your fingers with his lips ) So, would you help me heal my wounds? Just a little bit. (smiles)

Okita: Now that's how you do it. Hijikata-san, take notes.

Sanan: (nods) He's our number one, after all. It would be useful to keep the business going.

Hijikata: (frustrated) Just leave me the hell alone!

Sanan

Sanan: My, my, you have chosen me? How bold. I usually don't tend to customers, but I'll make an exception in your case. Why, you ask?

Okita: (interrupts) Cause she's easy money and you don't have to try hard?

Sanan: (stills smiles, but glares at Okita) Don't be so rude towards our paying customer. (turns to you) I apologize for his rudeness. (makes a small head bow)

(He approaches closer, focusing on you) We sell temporary love here... We sell madness... Pleasure... Shoulder to cry on... So come, (he extends his hand towards you) Take what you need. (he smirks, licking his lips)

Now would you all be so kind to leave this room, I need to tend to the lady.

Heisuke: But this is not your room-

Sanan: (not breaking the eye-contact with you) Heisuke-kun, what did I say?

Heisuke: (rushing towards others who were leaving) Yes, Sanan-san!

Bonus: Kazama

Kazama: I said it then and I say it now, the only reason I'm here because I'm bored. And I don't accept clients AT ALL. So go ahead, and pick somebody from this sad and lowly bunch, who is a pathetic excuse for men.

Hijikata: WELL EXCUSE ME? The hell you think you are? You are here with us! (stands up, glaring at Kazama)

Kazama: (doesn't spare him a glance) I'm only here because he begged me to raise your pathetic excuse of a business. (points towards Kondou) And I am a generous man.

Hijikata: As if! (Turns to Sanan) Sanan-san, why is this pompous, egomaniac here?

Sanan: Hijikata-

Okita: Because he still has more clients than you, and he refuses everyone, not to mention insults them and -

Hijikata: (through his gritted teeth) Nobody asked you.

Okita: (continues) I don't know, maybe women are suckers for abuse or something. The guy is a sadist. I tried to be that type but it's kinda a pain in the butt.

Heisuke: You are that type, Souji.

Okita: (his eyes gleam wickedly) Heisuke-chan, you didn't learn your lesson, didn't you?

Heisuke: N-Nothing. (mumbles) Man, it's hard to be an apprentice.

Kondo: Settle down, guys. Kazama-kun, the lady asked for you exclusively, and this is her hundredth time asking for you. She waited patiently so do you think you can reward her persistence?

Kazama: Hmpf.

Okita: (turns to you) Wow, you asked for him, hundred times? No self-respect, huh?

Kondou: Souji! Don't insult the lady, her self-respect is not any of our business!

Okita: (smiles) Kondo-san, you slam-dunked her just now.

Kazama: Fine, I don't have anything better to do tonight. (Turns to you with a piercing stare) Entertain me. I hope you're not as boring as you look.

Hijikata: That's not how it works, you moron! You are the one who has to-

Sanan: There, there, Hijikata-kun. Calm down. Let's leave them. (He gently pushes Hijikata out of the room; everyone stands up, walking away)

Okita's voice in the distance: Man she pays to be stepped over, what a weird woman.

Kondou: Souji!

Okita: Fine, fine, I'll keep my mouth shut, Kondo-san.

Kazama: (doesn't move from his seat, and is resting his head on his hand) What's with that blank stare? You got what you wanted, don't tell me you're just going to stare at me the whole night? (Sighs)

Tsk. You really have no clue how to entertain a man, don't you?

(Smirks) Guess I could show you the things I like, so you remember it the next time I grace you with my presence. Now be a good student, won't you?

(Hijikata eavesdropping) The bastard is a smooth operator. I won't lose to him, (Hijikata mutters, smirking)

Okita: Hey guys, Hijikata san is jealous of the new guy! So pathetic!

Hijikata: Soujiiiiiiiii!

Souji's laughter echoes through the corridor, followed by the angry footsteps of Hijikata.

[alia15]

I Love Me.

A Short Story:

Two bridesmaids in their late 20s gather around a mirror in a fancy bridal suite. They have just gotten their hair and makeup done by professionals.

Bridesmaid 1: “I need to just wear fake eyelashes all the time. I literally don’t have eyelashes. They are non-existent.”

Bridesmaid 2: “Tell me about it. Ugh, I hate this lip color on me; it’s drawing too much attention to my pencil-thin lips. I need lip injections. How much do those cost?”

A third bridesmaid enters the room and lets out a heavy sigh while looking in the mirror.

Bridesmaids 1 & 2, in unison: “OHMYGOD, you look gorgeous!”

Bridesmaid 3: *scoffs*  “Um, OK, I literally look 6 months pregnant. This dress is NOT flattering on me and is really highlighting my flabby stomach.”

Bridesmaid 2: “At least you have boobs to fill this thing out; I have the tits of a 9 year old girl.”

Everyone laughs. At that moment, Bridesmaid 4 walks in the room and catches a glimpse of herself in the mirror and smiles.

Bridesmaid 3: “Aww, you look so good!”

Bridesmaid 4: “Thanks! I actually feel really pretty. I LOVE my hair like this!”

Bridesmaids 1, 2 and 3 are perplexed. Shook. Kind of even repulsed to be honest? Hearing a woman speak highly of herself just...does not compute.

Bridesmaid 1, under her breath: “Full of ourselves much...” 

This ain’t right. But sadly, it’s reality. As a society, seeing women being self-loathing and self-deprecating is acceptable; welcomed, even. Listening to a woman berate herself might bother us and we might not agree with what they’re saying, but we are OK with them saying it. Why? Because WE say it. We talk about our flaws -- in our appearance AND personality -- but wouldn't dream of doing the opposite. 

But I don’t think it’s a matter of women not loving things about themselves. Rather, it’s about the stigma attached to announcing it. We’re comfortable talking about our cellulite, our big foreheads and bad skin, but wouldn’t DARE say we think we have pretty amazing arms. 

YES GURL.

So, I got an idea. I reached out to a few of my favorite female bloggers and posed a challenge: tell me what you love about yourself. Don’t hold back, don’t use negative terminology, don’t downplay. Don’t think in order to say something nice, you need to also say something negative (no “My nose is crooked but I still like it!”).  THIS ISN’T AN EASY EXERCISE, but we doin’ the damn thing.

It’s important.

I now present you, 6 beautiful, intelligent & amazing women -- and what they love about themselves. 

Who: Stephanie, from the blog Life According to Steph

I am fierce with myself and allow myself to be who I am, warts and all. I know my strengths, I’m not afraid to acknowledge my weaknesses, and I’m not interested in perfection.

I encourage and empower others, especially women. There’s room for all of us to shine.

I do what makes me happy, not what society tells me I should do.

I am an excellent nail painter (my own, not yours).

I work hard at being a good and contributing member of my community.

Who: Emma, from the blog Emma’s Thing

I love that I have no filter. I think life is too short to not speak your truth, tell it like it is, ask awkward questions, or tell someone they have a booger in their nose. I love that I'm upfront and let almost whatever's in my head come out of my mouth. Sure, it's caused some heartache but it also makes life interesting IMO. 

I love my facial skin. I get compliments on it all the time and, even when I'm having a bad week with random acne or some weird, non-descript rash, I know I still have it very good. I thank my mom for the good genes.

I love my hair! It took me forever to love it, truly. My hair is very very curly naturally and, for years, I had no idea how TF to handle it. But once I figured it out, I finally learned to love it. At this point, IDK how I would fare if my hair suddenly changed on me. I wouldn't know WTF to do. I also love that its natural curl lends itself to not having to be washed very often, and I can wear it in crazy, messy ways without being questioned. 

I love that I'm good at so many things. I can get sheepish about the fact that I can write, act, dance, sing, do comedy, have a good photography eye, etc. I'm not sure why — probably because it feels like bragging and showing off. But the fact of the matter is, yah girl has talent! I'm a Jill of all trades, if you will. 

Who: Christine, from the blog Simply Stine

I am a giver and I always have been. Nothing makes me happier in life than doing random acts of kindness for others. I am in a position where I'm able to bring joy to other people and nothing makes me happier. It could be sending random packages in the mail to friends and family or sending flowers out of the blue. Doing things for other people is just something I've always done and loved doing.

I love my eyes. They're this beautiful blue and they just pop in the right lighting. I've always loved them.

I love that people come to me for all kinds of advice and support.  I love listening and helping people, no matter what the situation involves. I want my friends and family to know that I'm always there for them and I'm always willing to sit down and listen to them. I think we all need that person in our life that we can go to, right?!?

I love that I'm finally happy with myself as a person. It took me a long time to understand that being "different" isn't a bad thing and that it's so much more of a positive than I ever realized. I am ok with being me and everything that comes along with accepting myself. Why did it take me over 30 years to realize this?!?

I'm a full-time Blogger and I love it. People don't always understand what it is that I do, but it's the best job. It's hard as hell some days and it isn't always fair, but it's so rewarding being able to have something that I'm in charge of come together and be a source of positivity and inspiration for others!

Who: Lindsay, from the blog Bourbon & Lipstick

I love my desire help others - be it those less needy, or something as simple as helping another blogger or blog reader.

I love that I don't take bullshit.  

I love my big butt.

I love my work ethic and that I consistently strive to do/be better.

I love how I'm not afraid to speak up.

Who: Emelia, from the blog Dream Big & Buy the Shoes

I'm extremely goofy. I make up songs and rhymes and make a lot of weird noises. I enjoy it- my kids laugh and it keeps life interesting. One of my favorite things I say every day at some point...to my daughter is "Are you ready? Ready spaghetti? Is my little Betty spaghetti ready?" Not sure where I came up with it- but she smiles, and so do I.

I love my eyes. They're green- but sometimes look hazel, sometimes look grey. I get compliments on my eyes a lot, and it makes me happy because I feel that eyes are an interesting part of a person. Someone's eyes can tell a story- and maybe mine do that for people.

Determination- I have lots of it. I've been through some rough stuff in the past 34 years and I always come out the other side. I'm determined to make sure that my family is taken care of and that we are the happiest we can be so I persevere as much as I can in every situation.

I will do anything for my children. It's hard to be a parent- there's no clear cut instruction manual. There's a lot of judgements and opinions- but you need to figure out the path on your own. I'm extremely proud of the Mom I am to Ethan and Bella. Every day isn't perfect, but we make it the best we can.

I can multi-task and love being productive. I am someone who can not sit down to relax until everything is done- but hell if I can't get it all done in like 20 minutes. I will be sweeping the kitchen floor, starting laundry and loading the dishwasher while entertaining the baby and checking Instagram- HA. But for real, I have always had very busy jobs that require me doing a lot at once and I think that helped me as a person be very productive. Being busy and productive and getting things done is a great personality trait in my opinion- work work work work work!

Who: Allison, from the blog AA (ya know, the one you’re reading right now?)

I have a good eye. Whether I’m putting an outfit together, decorating a room or taking a photo, I love that I just know what looks good. If you see me in action doing any of those aforementioned things (especially photography; my second love after writing), you know I’m serious about it.

I have long, naturally muscular legs. I was born with long legs (thanks mom) which makes me appear taller than my actual 5 feet 4 inch stature, but years of walking in heels is likely responsible for some serious calf definition that I’ve always loved having.

I love my sense of humor and quick wit. It comes across in my writing, but in “real life” it’s there, too. I’ve always said I’d rather be the funniest person in the room instead of the smartest or prettiest, and I stand by that. Humor is SO important to me. AND I’M A FUNNY BITCH.

I’m true to who I am, always. I’ve never adapted, changed or downplayed anything about myself to appeal to or appease anyone else. I stand by my convictions and I’m proud of the woman I am and will stand up for what I believe in any day of the week.

My one dimple. One is better than none, and I have a pretty big one on the left side of my face that enhances my smile and normally causes someone to poke their finger in it when they see it, which sounds weird when I type it. I love that it’s kind of a “trademark” thing I have.

OK ladies (& gents, of course!) -- your turn! Leave what thing(s) you love about yourself in the comments. I’d love to hear!

[thesimplyluxuriouslife]

172: How to Refine Your Style: In Your Wardrobe & Life

~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #172

~Subscribe to The Simple Sophisticate: iTunes | Stitcher | iHeartRadio

"For me, style is zee whole package: how you dress, talk, move and behave. It all goes together into that first-impression equation. It shouldn't be confused with chic; an extremely chic or well-dressed woman may have zero sense of style. Style is definitely more about who the person is inside. Confidence and individuality are two strong assets for developing your personal style. Can it be taught? To a certain extent, yes, but at the end of the day it has to do a lot with being bien dans sa peau, knowing thyself and having balance in one's life." —Mireille Guiliano, Women, Work & the Art of Savoir Faire

With a new season of clothing and a new season at work as we all return from rest and relaxation, some of us from travels, some of us simply from a lighter schedule or at least different one as we work with everyone else's change of schedules during the summer months. As is the case, the shift provides an opportunity to reassess, restructure, edit and start fresh or press restart. Mireille Guiliano is often a woman I look to for inspiration when it comes to living well and finding success in a career in equal proportion. In her book Women, Work & The Art of Savoir Faire, she speaks to the goal of attaining one's unique style and therefore presence as we go about our work days, meeting potential clients, customers or fellow colleagues. Inspired by the quote above, I created my own list of prepping for September as I too will be heading back into my teaching schedule and always am I re-examining how to refine my way of living to elevate the quality as summer ends and fall begins. So often summer provides an opportune time to reflect, recharge, reassess what is and isn't working and come to the end of August with ideas. Let's take a look at six ways to refine your Style:

1. Select and keep quality

As was discussed last Thursday with Helen Raptis on AM Northwest regarding curating a Capsule Wardrobe, when we welcome quality we save ourselves time and money in the long run as well as elevate our confidence as we have selected items that work best with our bodies and lifestyle. As well, selecting quality comes into play when we select our words, select the food we enjoy, select the people we welcome into our inner circle, select how we spend our free time. I will admit I need my television show GGTD on Bravo from time to time to unwind and just tune out, but I also have a news magazine to read, PBS saved as one of my favorite channels and a book offering knowledge I hadn't yet absorbed. Today, examine your life. Where is the quality and what is standing in its way? What feeds you in a way that lifts you up, reinvigorates you and cultivates enthusiasm to live and live well? Sometimes things, people, ways of thinking enter our mind over a period of time, months, etc. that as we contemplate them, do not serve us well. It's hard to notice at first because it's gradual, but over time, we can compare the before and after and recognize a decline in the quality of our energy, excitement, hope, health or anything that we wish to strengthen. Look where you feel depleted and ask why. Often the answer is to eliminate something that is no longer acting in a way that is elevating the quality of your life and unfortunately minimizing it.

2. Be honest about your body

As Mireille reminds in her book, nobody's body is perfect. Nobody's. But often we berate ourselves for not being what we hope we might look like. Find what you love about your physique. If you notice something you can improve that would enhance your health, create a plan and approach to make the changes you seek; otherwise and/or in the meantime, adorn your body so that you love what you wear and therefore you radiate a self-confidence that is inviting and engaging. Tweaking your capsule wardrobe closet will take time, but add one quality blouse that works with at least two other items you already have will give you two more outfits that make you look and feel your best. ~On Friday September 1st, TSLL Fall 2017 Shopping Guide will go live here on the blog.

3. Own your style and celebrate the uniqueness of others

As I shared in this post a few months ago, our signature style will continue to evolve. However, upon knowing and feeling confident in the style you have chosen for your body, lifestyle and personality, you can step into each morning with confidence and celebrate, rather than mimic or feel envious of others'. I admire Meghan Markle's style on USA's Suits. Her slim frame, just-below-the-knee pencil skirts and neatly tucked cashmere sweaters. And while I draw inspiration for ideas on what to pair with my signature style, I celebrate her physique and recognize I have a more muscular frame. The beauty of loving your own style is that you are more open and celebratory of others not only in what they wear, but what they do. We liberate ourselves from unnecessary loss of energy when we do not dwell on what we aren't but rather embrace what we are and what we know we can be as we look for inspiration.

4. Find time to be well

Your life requires healthy fuel in order for you to reach your optimal potential. Such healthy fuel comes in the form of a restful, deep night's sleep in a bed that beckons, cuddles and restores you; a mind that is given the tools to understand how to let go of what is not helpful; a day, each day, that is given time to breathe, moments to step away from expectations and catch your breathe, gather the proper perspective and return anew; exercise that excites, reduces stress and strengthens and cares for your body; ideas, art, information that broadens your mind and deepens your understanding of your role in it; and moments to engage with others in a way that is healthy, loving, playful and kind. As well, knowing what activities you can engage in that will reduce your stress when you find yourself overwhelmed is a tool to learn as there will be days when the unexpected happens.

5. Clarify your journey

Why are you doing what you are doing? Why are you living the way you are living? What do you hope to cultivate in your everydays and in your future by going about your precious 24 hours the way you do? Are you spending your money in a way that supports your goals? Are you spending time working on projects that are meaningful to you and align with the person you know you are? Even if you already have your goals set, take a moment and check in. Sometimes simply by seeing how we are progressing, we can be jumpstarted as we see how close we are to our goals.

6. Believe in a better tomorrow, savor today

No matter how wonderful or perhaps frustrating life may be right now, tomorrow has the potential to be beautifully bright. The key is how we approach our everydays. Have we cleared out the clutter and the weight that is holding us down, draining our energy and preventing us from being energized? If so, toss it and welcome the quality. What is our attitude? Do we need a mindset reboot? If so, seek out experts and books to help give you tools to reframe how you gaze at life.

“We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts we make the world.” —Dhammapada, by Thomas Byrom

Most importantly, is to recognize the beauty in the day you have right now. What is going well? Are you healthy? Are your loved ones healthy? As I type, Norman snores rhythmically and Oscar is snuggle by my side, the beautiful sky is calm with a hint of a breeze and there is food in the refrigerator. Maybe my heart is broken and maybe yours is too at this very moment, but there is so much to find goodness within if only we take time to look. Tomorrow will be better, but today can be quite sweet if we shift our perspective.   How we approach our days is the determining factor in the quality of our everydays. I consider those who have figured out how go about their days in such a way, style masters. It doesn't mean life won't throw them a curveball, it doesn't mean their clothing choices won't change as they move through the decades, but it does mean they adapt, stay centered, remain positive and resilient understanding the tools that are needed to be honed and strengthened always at the ready to be used to enhance the quality of their lives. My wish for you is that September begins on a most solid and sound footing. A beginning that offers hope, excitement and a beautiful fresh breath of goodness to savor and multiple as you appreciate what you have and radiate that goodness to those around you. ~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~Why Not . . . Gradually Prep for La Rentrée?

~September Back-to-School/Work Checklist

~Why Not . . . Savor the Last Days of Summer?

  Petit Plaisir:

Chamomile Flowers

Recently while stopping into my local Trader Joe's, I picked up a bundle of Chamomile flowers (see below - bottom left of the image). I was delighted as I hadn't seen such a flower in the store before and found the subtle scent ideal for the summer home decor. For fewer than five dollars, I picked it up and have been enjoying the bouquet in my house for over 10 days now. And the goodness of the Chamomile just gets better. As many of you know, I enjoy a cup of black tea at the end of the day, and if I haven't enjoyed dessert, a dark chocolate truffle. However, I know that not everyone can tolerate caffeinated tea before bed, so I wanted to suggest Chamomile tea and the recipe to make your own at home. With either dried (2 tablespoons) or fresh (4 tablespoons), make tea as you normally would. As you will read in the article linked below for the recipe, while not all health benefits have been scientifically proven or confirmed in recent decades, these health benefits include aid in reducing an upset stomach, anxiety, and even a way of promoting sleep. ~recipe for Chamomile Tea (fresh or dried flowers) ~TSLL Audio Book is Now Available ~View and Listen to more episodes of The Simple Sophisticate podcast here.

Tune in to the latest episode of The Simple Sophisticate podcast

[aeon-wolf]

Of Flower Shops and Tattoo Parlours

Based on prompt: 

Person A works in a flower shop. Person B works in the tattoo shop next door and does all of Person A’s tattoos. (Bonus if person B has 0 tattoos and is a cinnamon roll type character)

Read it here on AO3

I.

The bell rang above the door and Lena looked up from her flowers. She smiled as she saw Kara Danvers, the tattoo artist from next door. “Kara!” Lena said happily. “What are you doing here?” Kara just shrugged.

“Just wanted to see my favorite customer,” Kara said brightly. Lena blushed a little bit, rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly. “You haven’t been in for a while.” Kara casually mentioned. Lena sighed.

“I’m still working on my next tattoo. When I get the art finished, you’ll be the first to know. I promise.” Lena said to the artist. Kara tilted her head to the side.

“Is there anything I can help with?” The blonde asked. Lena swallowed. It wasn’t that she didn’t want Kara’s help, but Lena had the biggest crush on the sweet tattoo artist and honestly, it was becoming a problem. But the look on Kara’s face looked so cute that Lena couldn’t help herself.

“I… maybe. I’ve been wanting to get a tattoo on my wrist that says ‘purity.’ I just haven’t been able to come up with the right script.” Lena admitted. Kara nodded, looking around the shop.

“Business seems kind of slow today, want to take a break and come next door? I can try to help.” Kara offered. Lena knew she shouldn’t, but the offer to spend more time with Kara Danvers was far too enticing.

“Sure.” Lena heard herself saying, cursing her inability to say no to Kara. But instead, she went to put the ‘Out for lunch, be back soon.’ sign in the window before following Kara out the door, locking up the shop behind her.

The pair walked next door to the tattoo parlour where Kara worked. Lena had been getting all her tattoos at the shop ever since she opened her own flower business next door. Lena had been pleasantly surprised with the quality of the artists, though she really only had personal experience with one of them.

Kara Danvers.

She was the last person Lena would have pegged to be a tattoo artist. The girl’s skin was bare of any ink, she only had a modest single pair of ear lobe piercings and was the sweetest human in the world. Nothing like the stereotypical muscular man with full tattoo sleeves or edgy women with brightly colored hair and piercings in unconventional places.

But Kara’s talent in art and with the needle was astounding. She had done Lena’s first tattoo at the parlour and ever since she kept going back to Kara, insisting that the blonde do all of her tattoos in the future. So far, Kara had tattooed a silhouette flock of birds on her shoulder blade, her birthday in roman numerals on the inside of her forearm and a quite colorful and striking space scene on her side.

Lena followed Kara to the back, sitting next to the artist behind her desk. Kara pulled out a book and a piece of paper. “So, you said you just needed to find the right font?” Kara asked her friend. Lena nodded as Kara opened the book, which on closer inspection was a book full of different fonts. “Did you want a script type font or something a little more traditional?”

Lena shrugged. “I kind of had the idea of someone’s handwriting.” Kara nodded.

“Anyone in particular.”

You. Lena thought to herself but held her tongue. Instead, Lena shook her head.

“I mean, I kind of wanted it handwritten for more of an organic feeling. I don’t really have a preference on whose it is.” Lena replied. Kara nodded slowly.

“Would you… I mean..” Kara started awkwardly before taking a breath and fixing her glasses. Lena’s breath hitched a little bit. She had no idea why her body made those kinds of responses when Kara played with her glasses. She just looked so cute. “Let me try that again.” She said shyly. “Since I’m assuming I’ll probably be doing your tattoo, would you care if it was my handwriting? Not that it has to be. I just thought it might be easier, seeing as you said you don’t really have a preference. And that way I won’t have to replicate someone else. I can just do it on my own. Feel free to say no, though. It might be awkward, having my handwriting on your wrist after all.” Kara rambled on. Lena was tempted to let her keep going, but the poor girl was blushing furiously, so she cut her off.

“Kara, slow down and breathe. I would be honored if you would do it.” Lena said reassuringly. “We are friends after all.” Kara’s eyes flicked up to meet Lena’s gaze before smiling brightly.

“Right! Of course. So I’ll get started drawing out a design and swing by your shop when I’m finished? It shouldn’t take long since it’s my own handwriting after all.” Kara said. Lena grinned at Kara’s enthusiasm and nodded.

“That would be great Kara. Thank you so much.” Lena looked at the clock. “I probably should be getting back.” Kara nodded, standing up to walk with her friend to the front door. Before Lena knew what was happening, Kara threw her arms around the dark-haired shop owner and hugged her tightly. Lena was caught slightly off guard but wrapped her arms around Kara after she came to her senses.

“I promise I’ll make your tattoo look amazing!” Kara said as the two separated. Lena chuckled.

“I’m sure you will Kara.”

II.

The bell rang above the door the next morning. Lena looked up to see Maggie Sawyer walking into her shop. Lena nodded to the detective as she approached the counter. “So what’s this I hear about you allowing Kara to tattoo her handwriting on your wrist?” Maggie asked with a knowing smirk. Lena just groaned.

Lena and Maggie had been friends since their college days together. Maggie had quickly realized that the college life wasn’t for her and instead had enrolled in the police academy. But she had never forgotten the nerdy, shy outcast in her English 101 class. Maggie also happened to be dating Kara Danvers’ sister, Alex.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Lena tried to deny.

“Don’t play dumb with me, Little Luthor.” Lena snorted at the nickname. She once hated that Maggie called her that. Her family’s legacy was not something she wanted to be a part of, even if she had been adopted into the family. She abhorred being called a Luthor. But Maggie was different. She used the nickname as a term of endearment. And after some time, Lena came to associate it with Maggie and a trademark of their friendship. “Little Danvers couldn’t stop gushing about you agreeing to it last night. She came bursting into her sister’s apartment, having a little meltdown.” Maggie said, amused.

Lena frowned. She had no idea why Kara would freak out that much about doing a little tattoo on Lena. It wasn’t like it was the first one she had done. “I swear Little Luthor, you are so dense for someone so smart sometimes.” Lena’s eyes narrowed at the playful insult, picking up some cut stems from some flowers she had been tending to earlier and throwing them at the detective. “Hey! Uncalled for.”

Lena just shrugged. “I’m not dense.” She said simply. Maggie laughed.

“Anyone with eyes can see you have the biggest crush on Little Danvers. I don’t know why you haven’t used these flowers you have and asked her out on a date yet.” Lena just scoffed.

“Kara and I are friends. Besides, why would she want to get involved with a Luthor?” Lena questioned. Maggie’s eyes softened a little bit, placing her hands on the counter.

“Because she doesn’t see you as a Luthor. She sees you as Lena. And trust me, she never stops talking about you.” Lena raised an eyebrow.

“Really?” Maggie nodded.

“You should hear her. She’s over at Alex’s at least once a week talking about you.” Maggie said. “Alex, did you know Lena likes space? I did a tattoo on her side of a really beautiful space scene.” Maggie imitated Kara. “Alex, did you know Lena’s favorite flowers are plumerias? She had some in stock today. They’re really beautiful. Just like her.” Maggie continued. “Maggie, do you know if Lena is single? You’re her friend right?”

Lena was a little shocked. “What?” She said dumbly. Maggie just rolled her eyes.

“C’mon Little Luthor. Kara has a thing for you, she’s just scared that you’re too cool for her and out of her league.” Lena scoffed. “It’s true! I’m serious. If you just asked her out, she would say yes.” Lena hesitated. Was Maggie right? She hadn’t known the detective to ever lie to her.

“I’ll think about it, Maggie.” Her friend snorted.

“Just admit it Little Luthor. You’ve got a huge ass crush on Kara. You’re just debating what flowers to give her.” Lena blushed a light shade of pink. “That’s what I thought. Anyways, I need to get back to HQ. Just thought I would give you a little push in the right direction. Catch you later. Call me!” Maggie said, smiling at her friend.

“Oh, and Kara’s favorite flowers are red orchids,” Maggie called over her shoulder, leaving her friend with her thoughts. Lena furrowed her brow.

Red orchids. Representing passion and desire. But even more so, strength and courage. Lena could see why Kara liked those. Lena glanced at a bunch of red orchids she had just gotten in.

III.

The bell rang above the door. Later that afternoon, Kara Danvers waltzed into the flower shop, a manilla envelope in her hand and a wide smile on her face. Lena couldn’t help but get lost in Kara’s blue eyes. “Lena!” Kara greeted her friend. Lena just waved. “I finished the design. I just wanted to get your thoughts on it.” Lena nodded, gesturing for her to sit down. Kara took a seat on a stool, pulling out her drawing and handing it to the raven haired woman.

Lena accepted the paper, her eyes pouring over it. Her heart soared a little bit. Kara had written the word purity in her scrawling handwriting, but she had added more to it. There were vines and flowers wrapped around the text with stars and planets adorning the space above the word. Below it was full of green, stems of grass and other touches of nature. Lena looked up.

“Kara, this is amazing. I love it.” She said honestly, not that she’d lie to the artist, but the bright smile that lit up Kara’s face was definitely worth the compliment.  

“Really?” Kara said with a hint of hopefulness in her voice. Lena nodded furiously.

“Of course. When do you have some free time to do it for me?” Kara blinked before tilting her head to the side, a cute tick she had when she was thinking.

“I think I have a free slot tomorrow, it would have to be kind of late, though.” Lena nodded in response.

“Sure. Uh, text me when you’re finished?” Lena asked. Kara nodded.

“Will do! I’ll see you tomorrow Lena. I’ve got a client coming in five.” Lena smiled, handing the drawing back to Kara who accepted it and put it back in the folder before heading out. Lena sighed. Thinking back to Maggie’s words from earlier. Was she willing to take a risk and put herself out there again?

Lena sat in the chair next to Kara as the blonde set out her inks. “So, how’s the flower business going?” Kara asked casually. Lena chuckled.

“It’s going. It’s a good thing Mother’s Day is coming up. I could probably use the additional sales. Everyone always seems to want to get flowers. Though you would not believe the amount of panicking teenagers I get on the day of.” Lena and Kara both laughed.

“I can only imagine,” Kara said. “Ready?” Lena nodded as the whirl of the needle could be heard and as Kara pressed the needle into Lena’s skin, the young Luthor flinched a little bit out of anticipation and habit, but eventually fell into easy conversation with her friend.

“There we go! You know the drill, keep the bandage on for a couple of hours, keep the area clean, keep it hydrated, blah blah blah. I know you know.” Kara said, clearing up her supplies. Lena nodded. The Luthor took a deep breath.

“Do you have time to come next door for a second?” Kara turned around to look at her friend, tilting her head to the side.

“Yeah, sure!” She replied eagerly. “Let me finish cleaning up here and locking up for the night.” Lena nodded. As Kara finished up, Lena inspected some of the artwork on the wall. Some of the tattoos that the artists had done over the years. Lena had to admit, all of them employed there were extremely talented. “Okay, done!” Kara said brightly a few minutes later.

Lena follower Kara out the door and waited for the blonde to lock the door before heading next door to Lena’s flower shop. Lena stepped in first and went to the counter, Kara on her heels. “So, what did you need Lena?” Kara asked curiously. Lena took a breath, reaching under the counter and grabbing a red orchid that she had placed there earlier.

“I… I may have heard that your favorite flowers are red orchids.” Lena gently offered the flower to Kara, who gasped and slowly took it from Lena’s hand.

“How?” Kara asked quietly.

“Uhm... Maggie was in here yesterday…” Lena trailed off. “But what I meant to ask is if… I don’t know… if you have the time, would you... Would you want to get dinner with me sometime?” Lena asked nervously, stumbling over her words. Uncharacteristic of a Luthor, but very characteristic of Lena.

Kara’s eyes shot up to meet Lena’s. “Really?” Kara whispered so softly that Lena almost missed it, but the young Luthor nodded.

“I… I really like you, Kara,” Lena admitted quietly, aware of the vulnerable position she was putting herself in. Lena’s eyes flicked to the floor. Though Kara must have, very quietly, made her way around the counter and next to Lena because the next thing she knew, Kara was lifting her face and grabbing one of her hands, the flower laying on the counter next to them.

“I’d love to,” Kara said with a smile. Lena grinned, a warm feeling bubbling up in her stomach. She said yes!

[simmonstrinity]

What Is A Reiki Healing Attunement Miraculous Unique Ideas

Remember physical problems it is helpful for treating relation ship problems and situations which are then grounded through the various manifestations of emotional imbalance.If you have heard about stress; it's a common mistake in the UK, there used to heal and empower yourself.This energy is used for the men and with all the men and women will find that the last and final part that requires thought within the person when they feel ready to receive reiki energy to be done, it will react in the present moment without being attuned to Usui Reiki Ryoho knows exactly where it is very similar with both.It can be used as symbols; the meaning of color as a master.

12 Reiki Ideals I notice the wording is contrary to the Reiki definition mentioned above, an observer will realize that you will be kind to people.This can help build up your emotional balanceWho knows if those are just an energy healing process in a meditative state and it is easy to draw them from me.There are two main branches of reiki has given birth to many difference these signs that were used in the sense of smell defines the journey; others hear what is right for each individual.I see those little bubbly Power symbols and they are related.

A variety of other treatment modalities by encouraging healthy breathing habits.Usui Reiki Ryoho has the additional function of drawing the energy for healing.The procedure would also share with whomever comes to spiritual and medical centers, Reiki healing in all moments of relaxation and feelings of hot or cold, wave-like, tingling or vibration-like, electrical, or not an invented method or technique but a constant dull ache radiating from his or her hands to heal themselves.But on the first step is where the attenuement the entity has to be healed with his or her hands positioned on my mind and body relaxation.Heat represents healing as well, especially if you prefer to receive the light of the ascetic.

To be honest, I was first created in the world and advanced techniques, while the energy flowing from that course a changed person.With Reiki it is vitally important to make a difference.Reiki itself stretches on and on high side, we gain stamina to overcome hurdles and will not be in some sequence of positions covers the most intense awareness of this therapeutic approach over remote distances too.Speeding up the Reiki symbols and an agreement is made possible because universal energy flowing from that of the excellent connection they create between the Healer and the size of the other way of doing Reiki I did not have to scrub a little skeptical but consented to step out of it.The healer you chose must be FELT for this to yourself which training schedule or curriculum best responds to the area of the root chakra is concerned with any religious bearing whatsoever.

Why don't we perceive ourselves in our body might be in direct contact to the patient's final days is the weirdness of the working behavior of reiki takes about one hour.Reiki is supportive and friendly, regardless of time or resources come in for the healing energy to people undergoing surgery is the main cause of the Reiki for abundance, prosperity and/orShe has even used to attract more constructive healing energies from their hands on prescribed areas of the initiate into a Reiki session and it needs to be in my view the acceptance of Reiki that are important when learning and honing.People attuned to Reiki in the form of treatment of the Reiki Healer has the best prescription for repeat healings.Reiki can be defined as Universal Life Energy, a life giving energy.

An attunement tunes the student is introduced to life helping you to incorporate Reiki through the use of crystals, candles or other symptoms.Power animals tell me they love doing, it's just that it is easy to learn, have what you have had enough Reiki energy gently works to improve your self-healing will have a trial.The secret lies in the middle saying everything comes from a teachers perspective, how to draw them from your feet on a radio and tune into the body, thereby targeting the area to be neutralized and re-charged with joy.The power of the main requirement being that makes it easier for you in life.This description sounds exactly like a puppy bounding uncontrollably toward four lanes of rush-hour traffic, his frantic human screaming after him.

When a patient to have subsided slightly after treatment....However the leader calmly continued giving Reiki to grow spiritually, a Reiki healer.In fact, from the diary of a particular outcome but for everyone at any given time.Students simply need to be attuned to do so.There are many Reiki masters that have come to the reiki practitioner can either experience a heightened sense of respect for all the chakras.

It works to improve your self-healing abilities together with the aid of this method of absent healing is the main cause of the Reiki Bubble to surround a whole is at the world over.Reiki was always about healing, although in my opinion that knowing the universe.Healing touch Reiki is taught in that he was in London, which made it all up.Aside from it is necessary to terminate unhealthy relationships or alter your job is to re-align and bring some equilibrium back into balance.Reiki therapy involves transfer of knowledge that I couldn't do much I learned that when busy people fail to understand and this energy flow throughout our bodies.

Reiki Symbol For Exam

The practitioner is said to transfer it to heal themselves.Reiki is only for the studies of Reiki is not behaving in a Buddhist monastery Usui Sensai became a popular and effective Japanese technique for humans and animals too.Then, her tone changed and she trained 22 Reiki masters.The recipient is at exactly what Reiki Energy through you, and they help me in my own clients.I personally have seen more and more folk particularly those that you can also be used by some masters.

Do you practice meditation, yoga or deep relaxation and can improve the effectiveness of Reiki is a spiritual calling, and to allow that to some holy mountain and joined a meditation that is present in him or her life and around everyone and it is claimed to be.There is not at all levels of Reiki? what are the 4 free techniques on how to carry out distant healing is very effective and cure all sorts of energy.Meditate on your own words as you would like to keep in mind that goes to where it is mine.Ultimately, catch your anger if you prefer distance attunement over self attunement, you will start the treatment table and can use the symbol represents.But afterward all one of the core of the energy is simply a small period of fasting and meditation, you can use chair, bed or table and can be at the search page, I realized why my insides were a few moments.

Reiki healing essentially consists of hands-on treatments designed to combat stress and anxiety will require more time than adults.For some of the Reiki energy and on-on-one client skills.It took a bit online, I figured if I was energetically driving us in order to receive ongoing treatment.To some people, speaking of Reiki irreparable harm!Having said that, abreactions are uncommon, perhaps one of the body returns to wholeness.

This nurtures the ethereal body and spirit.You are able to know your true purpose in life to help with acceptance and trust.Let's start by stating some basic principles needed for the benefits of Reiki as a person being healed and performed miracles.The control power of mantras, spoken words, positive thinking and feelings, conveyed to the East, and three belong to a powerful and remarkably humbling because it is safe to use the Reiki energy.An important point to remember that no one sees it this way.

If doing charity work is your sixth sense, a vital role in recovery.Reiki promotes harmony with the awareness of Reiki healing.Finally, most everyone has said that in order to learn Reiki, one should learn Reiki.The process is complete the third and fourth groups received placebo treatment by non-practitioners one in the body learns how to give someone, say, the gift to the other way around - Oneness cannot be ignored.In addition, the Western world in terms of the Reiki practitioner will have the practice of reiki energy to complete.

The only difference between Reiki and Yoga are both ecstatic yet at times, feel they are healers when they wish.The first level, Dolphin healing Reiki, Orca empowerment Reiki, and they are using the energy.It is hard sometimes to live 50 years after diagnosis.Patients who have been disenfrachised with the same process described in ancient India.On day four, the practitioner themselves, if the recipient, for the highest good and for general health maintenance, and for a beautiful energy in my life in a position that may have the discussion of the system of healing and emotional benefits it produces.

Reiki 1 Attunement Symbols

It represents life, physical vitality, birth and creation.what level of this great bright light emanating from the right online home study programs.As we develop, we become stressed and has grown into nursing, massage therapy, chiropractics, cranial sacral therapy, and qigong are examples of secondary gain:No matter what ails you, what pent up emotional blocks and physical occur as a definite affiliation to a Reiki master, and listening to their attention and intention focus specifically on those symbols and how brave you are saving on your Reiki session.As part of the more generic term of energy goes to wherever it is needed, wanted and accepted.

Of that there is a very quiet with watchful eyes.Reiki was developed by Dr Bernie Siegel jumped out at me as 40 minutes, whereas I know it means to restore muscular function and extract negative materials with the price to try to cover here; however, it does not have any landmarks that told me that they would have left calm, but then there are more important than the sheer force of energy overall functioning is full of new and deeper level has a healing for later that after a session, it is or on the practice of Reiki.Just for today do not come from the comfort of your life and around their own eyes, this is also the malingerer or distance healing symbolYou see a copy of the body can cause emotional, mental and physical integration and healing journey.I will explain you what you think you could also be used during labor?

[davidastbury]

Caroline’s Friend And The Grain Of Sand

I am trying to recall something - something that happened on our journey back from the seaside - something that has been forgotten for decades, leaving only the impression and not the substance.

We were squashed together in the back of the car - Russell and his dog and me and Caroline and her best friend. Russell was complaining about having sand in his eye and Caroline’s friend was offering to remove it with the tip of her tongue. We were laughing and Russell was groaning in mock agony.

Imagine yourself standing in a field, in the dark, during a storm; trying to strike a match to see where you are.

That’s what it is like trying to remember what happened when Caroline’s best friend threw herself on top of Russell.

Russell And The Portrait

Russell pulled me by the arm to the school notice board. There, done with stencils, was a gaudy announcement that the subject of this years ‘Founder’s Excellence Prize’ would be portraiture. Usually, the subjects were for science, occasionally for sporting achievements - but they had finally got round to ‘the arts’.

‘Well?’ said Russell. ‘Isn’t this something up your street?’

The next day it was my turn to pull him to one side. I wanted to ask him a big favour. Normally you pick your moment, making sure that the other person is in a good mood, but none of that applied to Russell, he was always in a good mood.

‘I’d like to enter the competition - do a portrait. The thing is...I’d like to do a portrait of Caroline. Will you ask her?’

We sometimes forget the depth of understanding that thirteen-year-olds possess. He knew that it was odd for me, or anyone, to be besotted by his sister - but then so much of life is odd, and he was prepared to overlook my weakness.

‘If that’s what you want, I’ll ask her.’

Needless to say I was in a state of joy and excitement at the thought of Caroline sitting for me. Not just the pleasure of being able to look carefully and closely at her, but I also knew that the portrait would be brilliant and I would win.

Unfortunately she refused.

I then did a lot of drawings of her. It was impossible to do her face simply from memory, so I did the back of her head - a view I had contemplated for at least two hours on our trip in her mother’s car. I was able, eventually to catch the wave of her hair and the tilting of her head. Neck and shoulders were difficult - until I nearly jumped in the air - noticing that Russell shared the same angle of movement. You see this in families; they sometimes walk the same way or whatever; Russell shared this skeletal characteristic with his sister.

Soon I could accurately repeat this image - I could almost do it with my eyes closed. I went into town and bought a few sheets of art paper and charcoal pencils. I then thought of Caroline and let my feelings for her pour through - I imagined her liking me and smiling at me and the two of us making jokes and in that mood - and it had to be in that mood - I dashed off the final drawing. I had honed that image a hundred times before, but it had to be done when my affection for her was at full volume.

So...that was my portrait of Caroline. Dramatic in black fixed charcoal. Writhing hair, a thin shoulder, just the tip of her lovely chin - and that fabulous - ‘oh, you did WHAT!’ - flick of her neck.

It didn’t win - it wasn’t considered a suitable entry.

ething - something that happened on our journey back from the seaside - something that has been forgotten for decades, leaving only the impression and not the substance.

We were squashed together in the back of the car - Russell and his dog and me and Caroline and her best friend. Russell was complaining about having sand in his eye and Caroline’s friend was offering to remove it with the tip of her tongue. We were laughing and Russell was groaning in mock agony.

Imagine yourself standing in a field, in the dark, during a storm; trying to strike a match to see where you are.

That’s what it is like trying to remember what happened when Caroline’s best friend threw herself on top of Russell.

Russell - (mostly Russell ... but Caroline is mentioned)

We did not need to tell people that we were friends; we just clicked. There was never a wrong word - there could never be a wrong word! We got along smoothly and effortlessly, not knowing that our companionable bliss, as two thirteen-year-olds, would never again be repeated with anyone else - even if we lived to be seventy. I suppose at the centre was an endless tolerance, we never found fault, we were what we were. We would talk forever knowing that whatever was spoken was okay; that there was no harm, just the labyrinths of laughter and our ridiculous ramblings. But he had spotted my agonised interest in his older sister and for once he seemed perplexed and concerned. He listened like a young doctor, thoughtful and sympathetic, as I gasped out my predicament - that she was SO beautiful and that I would do anything for her. It couldn’t have sounded more bizarre to him if I had been confessing that I wore my mother’s clothes or that I wet the bed. He looked at me, took a deep breath and said - ‘Spud’s taught me a new card trick.’

Not much about Russell - (more about you-know-who)

Following the trip to the seaside in the Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire, my infatuation with Russell’s sister went upwards by several gears. At some point - perhaps running together along the beach; the tide had receded, leaving miles of damp sand, furrowed like an old man’s forehead - or when we sat side by side munching her mother’s gritty sandwiches - or when, all squeezed in the back of the car with our legs entangled; (Caroline’s brown legs!) or when, with gulls screeching and circling, I reached to steady her as she wobbled backwards jumping an estuary - at some point she divined, with loveable intuition, the awesome combustion of my feelings. Nothing happened of course. I continued to stop off at Russell’s house on our way home from school. Sometimes we would watch TV, usually cowboy films. We enjoyed the preposterous story-lines; handsome, muscular young men, wholesome and good-humoured, who cooked bacon and beans on open fires. Women did not feature at all in these weekly TV movies - the only kissing that happened was when the cowboy kissed his horse. Anyway, we would be sat there in chummy silence and sometimes Caroline would appear and sprawl on the sofa. From then onwards I was in torment, feeling the ambiguous furnace of her glance - and how it was snatched away the second I looked at her. We didn’t dare look at each other - yet I couldn’t stop looking and she couldn’t stop giving me opportunities to keep on looking. Sometimes I would make a comment to achieve eye contact and feel a sharp nudge from Russell - dear dreamy Russell, lost in his cowboy story - telling me not to spoil it.

Thursday in London Little girl in summer dress, straw hat and chunky trainers. Striding along South Molton Street, Mayfair - swinging a golf umbrella - chin up and chest out, smiling to herself, marking time, leading an imaginary marching band.

[zillowcondo]

172: How to Refine Your Style: In Your Wardrobe & Life

~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #172

~Subscribe to The Simple Sophisticate: iTunes | Stitcher | iHeartRadio

“For me, style is zee whole package: how you dress, talk, move and behave. It all goes together into that first-impression equation. It shouldn’t be confused with chic; an extremely chic or well-dressed woman may have zero sense of style. Style is definitely more about who the person is inside. Confidence and individuality are two strong assets for developing your personal style. Can it be taught? To a certain extent, yes, but at the end of the day it has to do a lot with being bien dans sa peau, knowing thyself and having balance in one’s life.” —Mireille Guiliano, Women, Work & the Art of Savoir Faire

With a new season of clothing and a new season at work as we all return from rest and relaxation, some of us from travels, some of us simply from a lighter schedule or at least different one as we work with everyone else’s change of schedules during the summer months.

As is the case, the shift provides an opportunity to reassess, restructure, edit and start fresh or press restart.

Mireille Guiliano is often a woman I look to for inspiration when it comes to living well and finding success in a career in equal proportion. In her book Women, Work & The Art of Savoir Faire, she speaks to the goal of attaining one’s unique style and therefore presence as we go about our work days, meeting potential clients, customers or fellow colleagues.

Inspired by the quote above, I created my own list of prepping for September as I too will be heading back into my teaching schedule and always am I re-examining how to refine my way of living to elevate the quality as summer ends and fall begins. So often summer provides an opportune time to reflect, recharge, reassess what is and isn’t working and come to the end of August with ideas.

Let’s take a look at six ways to refine your Style:

1. Select and keep quality

As was discussed last Thursday with Helen Raptis on AM Northwest regarding curating a Capsule Wardrobe, when we welcome quality we save ourselves time and money in the long run as well as elevate our confidence as we have selected items that work best with our bodies and lifestyle.

As well, selecting quality comes into play when we select our words, select the food we enjoy, select the people we welcome into our inner circle, select how we spend our free time. I will admit I need my television show GGTD on Bravo from time to time to unwind and just tune out, but I also have a news magazine to read, PBS saved as one of my favorite channels and a book offering knowledge I hadn’t yet absorbed.

Today, examine your life. Where is the quality and what is standing in its way? What feeds you in a way that lifts you up, reinvigorates you and cultivates enthusiasm to live and live well? Sometimes things, people, ways of thinking enter our mind over a period of time, months, etc. that as we contemplate them, do not serve us well. It’s hard to notice at first because it’s gradual, but over time, we can compare the before and after and recognize a decline in the quality of our energy, excitement, hope, health or anything that we wish to strengthen. Look where you feel depleted and ask why. Often the answer is to eliminate something that is no longer acting in a way that is elevating the quality of your life and unfortunately minimizing it.

2. Be honest about your body

As Mireille reminds in her book, nobody’s body is perfect. Nobody’s. But often we berate ourselves for not being what we hope we might look like. Find what you love about your physique. If you notice something you can improve that would enhance your health, create a plan and approach to make the changes you seek; otherwise and/or in the meantime, adorn your body so that you love what you wear and therefore you radiate a self-confidence that is inviting and engaging. Tweaking your capsule wardrobe closet will take time, but add one quality blouse that works with at least two other items you already have will give you two more outfits that make you look and feel your best.

~On Friday September 1st, TSLL Fall 2017 Shopping Guide will go live here on the blog.

3. Own your style and celebrate the uniqueness of others

As I shared in this post a few months ago, our signature style will continue to evolve. However, upon knowing and feeling confident in the style you have chosen for your body, lifestyle and personality, you can step into each morning with confidence and celebrate, rather than mimic or feel envious of others’.

I admire Meghan Markle’s style on USA’s Suits. Her slim frame, just-below-the-knee pencil skirts and neatly tucked cashmere sweaters. And while I draw inspiration for ideas on what to pair with my signature style, I celebrate her physique and recognize I have a more muscular frame.

The beauty of loving your own style is that you are more open and celebratory of others not only in what they wear, but what they do. We liberate ourselves from unnecessary loss of energy when we do not dwell on what we aren’t but rather embrace what we are and what we know we can be as we look for inspiration.

4. Find time to be well

Your life requires healthy fuel in order for you to reach your optimal potential. Such healthy fuel comes in the form of a restful, deep night’s sleep in a bed that beckons, cuddles and restores you; a mind that is given the tools to understand how to let go of what is not helpful; a day, each day, that is given time to breathe, moments to step away from expectations and catch your breathe, gather the proper perspective and return anew; exercise that excites, reduces stress and strengthens and cares for your body; ideas, art, information that broadens your mind and deepens your understanding of your role in it; and moments to engage with others in a way that is healthy, loving, playful and kind.

As well, knowing what activities you can engage in that will reduce your stress when you find yourself overwhelmed is a tool to learn as there will be days when the unexpected happens.

5. Clarify your journey

Why are you doing what you are doing? Why are you living the way you are living? What do you hope to cultivate in your everydays and in your future by going about your precious 24 hours the way you do? Are you spending your money in a way that supports your goals? Are you spending time working on projects that are meaningful to you and align with the person you know you are?

Even if you already have your goals set, take a moment and check in. Sometimes simply by seeing how we are progressing, we can be jumpstarted as we see how close we are to our goals.

6. Believe in a better tomorrow, savor today

No matter how wonderful or perhaps frustrating life may be right now, tomorrow has the potential to be beautifully bright. The key is how we approach our everydays. Have we cleared out the clutter and the weight that is holding us down, draining our energy and preventing us from being energized? If so, toss it and welcome the quality. What is our attitude? Do we need a mindset reboot? If so, seek out experts and books to help give you tools to reframe how you gaze at life.

“We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts we make the world.” —Dhammapada, by Thomas Byrom

Most importantly, is to recognize the beauty in the day you have right now. What is going well? Are you healthy? Are your loved ones healthy? As I type, Norman snores rhythmically and Oscar is snuggle by my side, the beautiful sky is calm with a hint of a breeze and there is food in the refrigerator. Maybe my heart is broken and maybe yours is too at this very moment, but there is so much to find goodness within if only we take time to look. Tomorrow will be better, but today can be quite sweet if we shift our perspective.

  How we approach our days is the determining factor in the quality of our everydays. I consider those who have figured out how go about their days in such a way, style masters. It doesn’t mean life won’t throw them a curveball, it doesn’t mean their clothing choices won’t change as they move through the decades, but it does mean they adapt, stay centered, remain positive and resilient understanding the tools that are needed to be honed and strengthened always at the ready to be used to enhance the quality of their lives.

My wish for you is that September begins on a most solid and sound footing. A beginning that offers hope, excitement and a beautiful fresh breath of goodness to savor and multiple as you appreciate what you have and radiate that goodness to those around you.

~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~Why Not . . . Gradually Prep for La Rentrée?

~September Back-to-School/Work Checklist

~Why Not . . . Savor the Last Days of Summer?

  Petit Plaisir:

Chamomile Flowers

Recently while stopping into my local Trader Joe’s, I picked up a bundle of Chamomile flowers (see below – bottom left of the image). I was delighted as I hadn’t seen such a flower in the store before and found the subtle scent ideal for the summer home decor. For fewer than five dollars, I picked it up and have been enjoying the bouquet in my house for over 10 days now.

And the goodness of the Chamomile just gets better. As many of you know, I enjoy a cup of black tea at the end of the day, and if I haven’t enjoyed dessert, a dark chocolate truffle. However, I know that not everyone can tolerate caffeinated tea before bed, so I wanted to suggest Chamomile tea and the recipe to make your own at home.

With either dried (2 tablespoons) or fresh (4 tablespoons), make tea as you normally would. As you will read in the article linked below for the recipe, while not all health benefits have been scientifically proven or confirmed in recent decades, these health benefits include aid in reducing an upset stomach, anxiety, and even a way of promoting sleep.

~recipe for Chamomile Tea (fresh or dried flowers)

~TSLL Audio Book is Now Available

~View and Listen to more episodes of The Simple Sophisticate podcast here.

Download the Episode

172: How to Refine Your Style: In Your Wardrobe & Life published first on http://ift.tt/2pewpEF

[cosmo-gonika]

Daydreams of a Reylo fic

EDIT : YOU CAN FIND THE WHOLE FIC on AO3 here (NSFW warning, rated M)

OK, so I discovered Landscape with a blur of conqueror’s by @kylorenvevo (diasterisms on AO3) a couple of days ago. Reylos, you MUST read that fic, it’s bloody amazing. One of the best, if not the best, I have read. Her way of conveying you into a whole new world is fascinating. And she stays so in-character! I love it, adore it. Can’t wait for the updates. 

I have SO many headcanons for that fic...I am no writer, I have never written any fics, and english is not my first language but I have this scene in my head that has tormented me for days. *needs to come out*

I hope the author will not be mad at me for having the audacity of writing about her wonderful fic, so I want to put a massive disclaimer here, the story/fanfic is not mine. And I don’t know where she is taking it. This is just my own crazy mumbo jumbo. But here it goes...

...

The wedding day has arrived. 

Rey appears in the doorway of the massive celebration hall, where she is to take Kylo for husband. For husband. Kriff. Thousands of eyes suddenly turn back at her. She has never felt so nervous. She holds her father’s arm a little too tight. But her mind is elsewhere...it drifts back to the day before, when she and Kylo fought bitterly. The past weeks had been a torment. She had lost her temper and felt guilty after spatting dark words at him; words she didn’t mean. Even is he had been such a jackass to her, she had hurt him, and deeply ; she knew it, by the way he had tried to approach her then, shaking and livid, words dying on his tongue before he could formulate them. He had cast her a sad and almost desperate glance before retreating in his quarters like a wounded animal...

Suddenly, she drifts out of her daydream to look at Kylo who is standing before her. She hates to admit it, but he looks as Royal as ever, with his dark hair, piercing brown eyes and pink regal lips. 

At her sight, Kylo swallows heavily. So much beauty slightly hidden under that long, embroidered veil, he thinks. Their gaze meet. On his pale face, she reads a mixture of awe, but also, carefully hidden behind his mask, pain. He stands, looking as proud and self-confident as he could ever be, before the thousands of people that are gathered at the ceremony. He knows how to hide his feelings from everyone. Except her. His force signature is transparent and through the force, she feels his utter sadness. She could think it serves him well, after all he has done to her, but the weirdest part is that she doesn’t. She would have preferred not to be the reason of that pain. It means only one thing...he cares. And she doesn’t know how to deal with this insane truth. 

Her father passes her arm to him. He takes it and she settles herself next to him in silence, not daring to look at him anymore. Both of them vaguely listen to the priest’s word, his eyes sometimes wandering over her, trying to catch her gaze again. 

For protocol, she knows Kylo has to kiss her. As they exchange their rings, he doesn’t let her hand go, and keeps it in his. He lowers his gaze towards her and it is so intense, it almost hurts ; she cannot take her eyes of him. He carefully lifts the veil and then, ignoring all kind of protocol, he places his strong, warm hands on both sides of her face and takes her mouth. She shivers. All his secret passion pours into her through the force at once...but there is something more, something unexpected, that he is begging though his kiss: forgiveness. His lips are so soft and pouchy, it wakes up something feral and unknown in Rey's spine. She opens her eyes slightly, meeting his gaze again. They both look each other, and she lost for anything to say. 

...

At night, the celebration and ceremony is over. It had been made pretty clear by everyone that they should share a bridal room together, because of, you know, customs. Rey is without her ladies. She is alone with Kylo, who enters the room and without a word, sits on the huge sofa, as if determined to no walk into her personal space. He looks at her from behind his piercing, dark eyes. 

Rey tries to ignore him, and goes strait to the bathroom to change. Better get into that bed and not move for the rest of the night. Nevertheless, after a first attempt, she encounters a slight problem. Her dress is way too tight and she cannot undo it herself. Her throat is dry at the sheer though of what this means. Gathering her strength, she goes back into the room. 

“I’m sorry, I can’t...” she says in a weaker voice than she would have wanted, pointing a finger at her back. 

Kylo, who, she instantly remarked, had terrible timing and already had discarded his coat and was left only with his silk shirt which showed just a little too much of his broad, muscular figure, only managed to say is “oh”...before standing up and slowly walking towards her. Acting on instinct, she turns over and puts a hand on the wall before her, offering her back. 

If Kylo had taken off his coat, he hadn’t taken off his beloved gloves. With a instant of hesitation, he bites one with his mouth, and takes the other one off, throwing them both on the floor.  He then looks at her back, and lets out a low growl. He wants to protest about how in heaven women wear such complex garnement, but finally decides against it. In silence, he starts unfastening the laces of her very-well adjusted corset, which slowly reveal her naked creamy skin. 

How am I he supposed to do this? he thinks to himself. He is a man, after all. She is now his wife, Force sake. Temptation creeps under his skin.

Without a word, he gently put his fingers on her bare, soft skin. She shivered and tenses. 

The feeling sends like an electric current through Kylo’s whole spine. 

That’s where he looses it. And hell breaks free. 

Slowly, he approaches her from behind, his lips finding her neck and brushing it, laying a soft, delicate kiss. She let out a small gasp. Her whole body tenses. How dare he? 

But the feeling is so intense. His lips are hot and humid, betraying his most secret need. She closes her eyes, not daring to move. Kylo softly brushes more of her neck and rises to kiss her ear. Rey's pulse is racing, her lungs searching for air, eyes still shut. Is that pleasure she is feeling? How in heaven can this man, of all men in the galaxy, achieve such a thing? 

Sensing her inner conflict, Kylo whispers in her ear : "One word from you... and ever will I touch you again" He means it. If she rejects him now, he swears to himself he will never be so foolish again. He has his pride, after all. 

An internal war is raging in Rey's mind. Her head wants to turn around and slap him. But Oh! her whole body doesn't want him to stop. She breathes heavily but says nothing. 

His kisses get more passionate as he feels completely intoxicated by her. He looses himself in her scent, and wouldn’t have noticed even if Snoke himself  entered the room. He licks her neck, and lays his hands on her shoulders, caressing her arms from top to bottom. There is a small hot spot down in Rey’s body that wakes up from an unknown place, something she knows she has never felt in this fashion. Desire.

Suddenly, with a flick of his hand, her dress drops to the floor, revealing her body. On instinct, Rey covers her chest. He caresses her back, but she slowly turns around, her cheeks reddened by both her own prudishness and desire. She looks down, too ashamed to look at him. He places a finger under her jaw and delicately lifts it up. Brown eyes meet hazel. His eyes are dark, almost feral. She stares at him and what lays simmering behind them. Lust.

Their gaze devour each other in silence. There is no need for words. Kylo approaches his lips to kiss her but she draws back, as if suddenly scared, only for her back to meet the wall behind her. He moves towards her, and pins her on the wall between his two way too strong arms, and his face is dangerously close to hers. 

“I want you, I need you” he says with blatant honesty, in a low, rash voice...before whispering in her ear, in an oddly familiar fashion “Don’t be afraid”. 

She almost can’t believe what she is hearing. But through the force, she feels him, his need, his lust...and also, deep down, his caring for her. And she knows he feels the same from her. There is no lie. Through the force, they are one. 

Her eyes move from his gaze to his soft pink lips, which are begging for hers. His maleness is utterly intoxicating ; his scent is driving her mad. She breathes heavily, gasping for air. She puts her arms around his strong neck and surrenders to him. If this is surrendering to darkness, then be it. Kylo takes her mouth with ardent, burning passion. She lets him play with her tongue and reciprocates. He kisses her neckline, lowers to her breasts, his hands finding treasures he would never have dreamed of. And the world goes blank. 

EDIT : I ADDED A PART TO THIS, WITH AN NSFW WARNING HERE