#stella boutique

[mensministry]

"Stella the Stargazer"

Ample was commissioned to design a lovely tiny home for the Australian tourism and events company Visit Victoria.

It is based on a triple-axle trailer and features a length of 32 feet and a width of 7.8 feet. Old sections of steel were sourced from an abandoned farm shack in rural Penshurst, Victoria and they were used to build the home.

Reclaimed corrugated iron and hardwood from the same site were utilized as well, giving the tiny home a shed-like aesthetic.

The tiny home can run off the grid using a solar panel system and batteries. It also includes a generator that will work when needed. A rainwater collection system has also been integrated, as well as tanks to hold greywater and waste.

Stella the Stargazer can be booked and moves around in different locations.

Courtesy: Ample

[arcadekitten]

SURPRISE!! I made a dress-up game!! (And you can even play it in-browser!)👗 I had a lot of fun working on it and I hope you have fun playing it!! Don't be afraid to screenshot+share the outfits you put together because I'd love to see! 💖

[littlequeenies]

March 1, 2007 - Lee Starkey, her step mother Barbara Bach Starkey, her sister-in-law Flora Evans Starkey, and other people attend the Stella McCartney fashion show F/W 2007/08 at Palais de Chaillot in Paris, France.

[blogaboutapril2]

[doo-wop-city]

Stella Star at the Starlux Boutique 1966, Part 2

Many posts ago, I shared part 1 of my visit to Starlux Boutique to experience all the changes they made for 1966. Here is part 2 of this adventure. These photos were taken on February 23rd, 1966. (…Or, was that 2022?) I’m living like a queen, where the bedroom is covered in curved, streamlined Googie motifs. I’m looking to the north through the window. You may have noticed my MCM watch, which…

[cevansbrat0007]

Off the Market

Summary: Ari learns that you're not the sharing type. Which is fine by him, because neither is he.

Warnings: Mature Themes, Ari Being A Menace, Jealous/Possessive Reader, Oral Sex (mentioned), Discussions of Public Sex, Mentions of Disordered Eating, Polite Fat Shaming, Cursing, Minors DNI

A/N: This story is part of my Sweet Renegades Series. Be sure to check out the follow-up fic, A Man Starved. Not beta'd. Not beta'd. All mistakes my own. Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated.

“So?” You ask before taking another sip of your milkshake. The thick and creamy treat goes down easy, which makes the amount of time it took to get to you well worth it. “What’s the verdict?”

“Not bad.” Your companion mumbles as he eagerly gulps down his own shake. “Not bad at all. But just so we’re clear, drinkin’ one of these isn’t gonna get you out of our deal.” He stirs the drink with his straw before plucking out the cherry and popping it in his mouth. “Remember you swore on it.” He holds up his pinky finger as a reminder.

“Wouldn’t dream of it, sugar.” You tell him as a smile flits its way across your lips. Without thinking, you go to feed him your own cherry. You find yourself giggling at the way he playfully nips at your fingers, his tongue lapping at the traces of whipped cream. 

There went your big Beast of a man proudly living up to his nickname, as per usual. Thank goodness you were the only couple dining outside today.

“Hey. How come yours tastes better?” Ari pouts suddenly, sending you into another fit of giggles.

“We got the exact same thing, honey.” You roll your eyes at him before returning your attention to the menu in your hand.

“Bird?” His growl comes out soft and silky. And it immediately has you on high alert. Because you recognized that tone. 

It meant you were in trouble.

“Um, yes?” You try ducking your head behind the oversized, laminated piece of paper. Maybe if he couldn’t see you anymore, he’d just let it ride.

“Did you just do what I think you just did?” 

“Well, I suppose that depends on what you think I just did.” You sneak another sip of your chocolate shake, doing your best to forget about all the extra unnecessary calories you’re putting into your body right then. After all, you and your man had a deal. And you aimed to see it through. 

“I think you just rolled your eyes at me.” Ari rests his elbows on the table, leaning forward on his arms in an attempt to get your attention. “Now, just because I gave you a pass back the boutique–”

You blow out an annoyed breath. “That wasn’t my fault! You kept making me model the most ridiculous pieces for you, even when I knew they wouldn’t fit.” You peek out from behind your menu long enough to scan the area for Stella, your waitress. Of course she’s nowhere to be found. 

Which, oddly enough, was fine by you. There was just something about the woman that seemed to ruffle your feathers a bit. Although you couldn’t quite put your finger on the reason why. 

“Except they did fit.” Your bounty hunter surprises you by yanking the menu from your grasp. He then tosses both yours and his onto a nearby empty table. “And maybe if you would’ve allowed me into the fitting room with you earlier, we could’ve scored you another bathing suit. I still think we should go back for that sweet little black and white number. That ass was made for it.”

“It was too small. Just like the other ones.” You counter, feeling your cheeks heat at the intimate praise. The burn only intensifies when you recall the way he’d simply let himself into the fitting room after you’d vetoed your third bathing suit. It had been his pick, which meant he felt that he was well within his rights to, as he put it, “see for himself”.  

One Hour Earlier

“Baby.” He said, chuckling softly. “If a woman expects a man to wait outside and do it patiently, then perhaps she ought to give him a little show.” When you balked he’d simply shrugged and picked up an ice blue monokini before handing it over to you, silently demanding that you try it on. With him right there in the flippin’ fitting room. 

And he hadn’t felt the least bit compelled to help preserve your modesty by looking away as you’d changed. Instead, he’d had the gall to take a seat in a chair that was tucked away in a corner.

“This is completely inappropriate!” You hissed, clutching the forgotten suit to your chest. “Wh–what if someone comes by?” 

“Then I expect you’ll have to be quiet then, won’t you?” He held a finger to his lips, playfully shushing you. “That way it stays our little secret. Now, how about you model the pink one for me?”

“I’ll model whatever you want once we get back to your place.” You tried, your entire body had been practically vibrating with embarrassment. 

“Nah. I’m afraid that ain’t gonna work for me.” Ari had leaned back in his chair then, leisurely crossing his long legs over his ankles. “See, this Beast of yours is itchin’ for some instant gratification.” He’d locked his fingers together before resting them on his firm stomach. “And I ain’t leavin’ until I get it.”

“Guess we’ll be in here for a long time then, huh?” You’d responded rather snippily. “Because I’m not about to–”  

“You know, sweetheart, now that I’m thinking about it, I just realized you haven’t fed me yet today.” 

“I thought we were gonna grab a bite after..?” The knowing look that passed between you two had been enough to make you feel weak in the knees. “Umm...”

“You know how I get when you make me go too long without a taste.” His piercing blue eyes had dropped to your (thankfully) still panty clad pussy. “I’m gonna need a fix, baby. And soon.” You’d watched him cup his impressive cock through the fabric of his jeans. “Otherwise I might start gettin’ antsy.” The silky purr of his voice alone had been enough to have your thighs clenching.

“Don’t – ooh! Behave yourself, damn you!” You’d done your best to ignore the way your core had spasmed with need. “There will be no funny business in this fitting room. You are not getting us kicked out of this store, Beast!”  

“But I’m hungry now. Starving actually.” He’d pressed, a wolfish grin spreading across his features. “And all I can think about is sinking to my knees and burying my face in that gorgeous pussy. Right here. Right now.” 

You'd watched as he rose from his seat, his big body crowding your smaller one. “Wanna taste all that sweet, wild honey of yours when you cum on my tongue like a good girl.” You’d also squealed none-too-quietly when he pinned you against the wall. 

And although the man had seen fit to warn you of his plan, you still hadn’t been prepared for his boldness. Even less so when he dropped to his knees in front of you, his nimble fingers tugging at the edges of your panties.

“Ari…” You'd breathed, rising on your toes to graze your lips along his bearded jaw. “We can’t. Not here. Patience, sugar.”

“Like I told you, I’m about out.” He’d responded on the heels of a groan. “But I might be able to find some more. Maybe. But only if…”

“If what?”

“If you stay the night once we get back to Bell’s Creek. I wanna spend the rest of the evening getting all tangled up in you. Especially after I managed to work up such a sweet tooth.” Ari had brushed mouth over your covered mound, loving the way your nipples pebbled at his words - his touch.        

“I accept your terms.” You’d told him with a soft giggle as heat suffused your cheeks. “Now let me go so I can model these last few for you. It’s about time we get a move-on to our next stop -- no more kisses. Oh God, Ari! Be patient!”

“I’m not trying on another thing after I stuff my face, honey.” You mumble as you take another sip of your drink. “We’ll just have to come back another time. Plus, you’ve already spent more than enough on me.” 

“You’re worth it.” 

“You should’ve at least let me pay for half.” You start to protest, feeling uncomfortable with being doted on in such a way.

“Already said no. And you ain’t payin’ for lunch either, so you’d best not get that pretty mouth all twisted up to ask.” 

“How about we–” You find your conversation interrupted by the arrival of your waitress, Stella. 

“Hey, ya’ll!” She chirps as she comes around the corner, her blonde ponytail bouncing behind her as she finally makes her way to your table. “Sorry it took me so long to get back to you. How are those shakes treating you, hm? Pretty good?”

“They’re great.” You and Ari respond at the same time. 

“I just knew you’d love ‘em!” She responds rather animatedly, her freshly manicured fingers lightly brushing over Ari’s shoulder. He doesn’t seem to notice. But you do. Because it’s not the first time it’s happened. “Looks like you’re doin’ alright over there, handsome. Can I get you another one?”  

“No, thank you.” Your Bounty Hunter hums, his gaze locked on the menu as he works to make a final decision. “But I do think we’re ready to order.” 

“Yep.” You readily agree, even as your eye twitches. “We sure are.” 

Stella makes an innocent show of turning away from you, her gaze focused on Ari. “I bet a big, strapping fella like you would be interested in one of our steaks. Our beef is grass-fed and sourced locally. Which means it’s always fresh, never frozen.”

“Actually, I think we’re both gonna have–” You attempt to interject, only to be shut down without so much as a glance in your direction. 

“Did you happen to see our line of Skinny Gal Salads, buttercup? They come with all the flavor, but only half the calories. They’re listed on page two if you wanna take a gander while I walk your lovely friend here through tonight’s specials featuring our signature porterhouse.” 

Your waitress’ audacity hits you so hard you almost feel a headache coming on as an unexpected fury burns in your belly. A belly that could probably stand to benefit from one of those so-called Skinny Gal salads, but then again that would go against the deal you’d made last night.

Which involved you and your man enjoying a couple of worry-free milkshakes and bacon cheeseburgers. You’d promised that you would try to relax and not get so caught up in all of that internal calorie counting like you usually did.

So, like it or not, a deal was a deal and you aimed to see it through. Regardless of what your waitress had to say about it. And if the woman was smart, she’d take her hand off your man’s arm before something happened to it.

“Now handsome, did I hear you say you were visiting from Bell’s Creek?” Your waitress cocks her hip against the table while she ignores you in favor of cozying up to your Beast. “Because it just so happens that I have a friend there that I like to visit from time to time. Do you happen to know–” 

“Actually, I’ve heard amazing things about your barnyard cheeseburgers. So I think we’re gonna have two of those with bacon. Extra bacon. Please.” You tack on the last word, which is spoken through gritted teeth. 

Finally, Stella turns to you and offers a patronizing smile. “Can I interest you in a side salad with that, buttercup? It comes with a spritz of our homemade red wine vinaigrette.”

Ari sits back in silence, apparently content to watch whatever the fuck was transpiring between you and this bottle blonde heifer with a notepad. Which was fine. You were a big girl who knew how to take-up for herself when the situation called for it.    

“I want fries, sugarplum. But who knows, my friend might want one of those skinny ass salads to go with his meal. Does that sound good to you, baby?” While your eyes never leave hers, you manage to catch a glimpse of a smile from your companion. 

“I, uh, would also like fries.” He coughs. You can tell he’s trying not to laugh, which only serves to piss you off even more. “But thank you.”

“That’ll be all, honey.” You politely growl, snatching Ari’s menu from him before your waitress could use it as an excuse to touch him again. “We’ll let you know if you need anything else.”

“But you haven’t heard the specials.” Stella turns back to Ari, a soft pout gracing her plump lips. “It just might change your mind. You might find yourself wanting something…better.”

Oh, no the fuck she did not. Your man was fine with his choice. You. The burger. All of it. Be gone, bitch!  

“We’re good.” You snap, seething inwardly. “You couldn’t possibly have anything more special than what he’s already got goin’ on in front of him, right here. Right now.”

Your waitress stares you down, but you refuse to be the one to blink first. If your eyes gave up and fell out, you had faith Ari would collect them for you before safely guiding you home. Your man was a gentleman like that.

“I guess I’ll go ahead and get these orders in. Two burgers, heavy bacon, coming right up.” The smile she gives you now is much more brittle and it doesn’t meet her eyes. But you also can’t bring yourself to give a fuck.

This woman needed to remember to stay in her lane before you ran her off the road.         

“Thanks.” 

“Welcome.”

And then she’s gone. You find your glaring at her retreating form. You’re actually in the middle of fantasizing about what would happen if you took a pair of scissors to her annoying ass ponytail when you hear your name being called.

“What?” You snarl as Ari comes back into focus. And what the hell was he grinning about? Didn’t he realize that that pretty face of his was in slapping distance?

“You’re really something, baby.” He murmurs, his gorgeous blue eyes dancing with mischief. “You know that?”

“Meaning?” At the moment, you were in no mood for anyone else’s bullshit.

Ari leans forward in his chair as one of his big hands comes to rest atop yours. “I just meant…I’ve never seen you jealous before. It just surprised me a little is all.” He finishes with a shrug. “I didn’t expect for you to…to…”

“Didn’t expect for me to do what, Beast?” Your tone softens as you watch his head dip, his bearded cheeks tinged with red. He perks up when you give his hand an affectionate squeeze, flipping your positions slightly so you can lace your fingers through his. 

“Claim me.” 

Those two simple words are enough to send you reeling. Is that really what you had just done?

“It’s no secret that I like you, Bird. A lot.” His voice drops an octave as he works to explain himself. “Every time I see you, it’s like there’s something in me deep down inside me that screams mine. I guess I wasn’t sure if you felt the same way about me. Until now.” 

Was he being serious? Of course he was! This man had never struck you as the type to joke about any of this.

“I like you too, Ari. But what I didn’t like was watching our waitress flirt with you like I wasn’t even here. I almost fucked her up with my spoon for touching what’s mine.” Ari’s perfect teeth sink into his plush bottom lip, his nostril’s flaring as his mind works to process your admission.

“Say that again.” The command rumbles out from somewhere deep in his chest, compelling you to obey. “Louder”

“You’re mine, Ari Levinson. For today. Tomorrow. For however long this magical thing between us lasts – you belong to me.” You breathe, butterflies filling your belly. “You’re officially off the market, you got that?”

“I hear you, Bird. Loud and fucking clear.” The grin on his face soon proves to be infectious. “And you have no idea just how happy I am to hear you say that.” Ari opens his arms to you then, beckoning you forward.

The next thing you know, you’re up and moving before you’ve even registered what’s happening. All you knew was that your man needed you. Which meant you needed to go to him. Now.

“I always want you, Ari. Even when I shouldn’t.” You tell him as you gracefully slide into his lap, looping your arms around his neck as you do. 

“I know the feeling.” Ari murmurs, brushing his mouth over yours. “Which is why I want to do something special once we get back to Bell’s Creek. Before I have to leave again.” The startled look on your face has your Bounty Hunter rushing to finish his thoughts before you can verbalize your confusion.

“What do you–?”

“I’m only gonna be gone a few days, baby. Three, maybe four, tops.” One of his large, slightly calloused palms presses against the back of your neck, drawing you in closer to him so that he can take your lips again.   

“Oh.” Comes your lame reply.

“I’m coming back to you, Bird.” Ari rests his forehead against yours as you try to calm your racing heart. “You have my word. But I still wanna do something special for you – for us – before I go. Will you let me do that without a fight?”

“Okay.” 

“Okay.” Feeling content, Ari leans in to capture your mouth with his own once again. After behaving himself all day, it was time for his reward.

“Wait.” You place your hand on his chest, halting his advances. “You’re still mine wherever you go. I don’t care if it’s fucking Siberia.” You grab a fistful of his shirt, hauling him forward. “You’ll still be mine there too. You with me?”

“Fuck yeah I am.” Ari growls, using both of hands to cradle your face as he slants his lips over yours once again. The kiss is as passionate as it is raw. Your tongues dance together, both fighting for dominance. But this time your Beast lets you win.

Desire burns in your belly as you savor the sensual victory. You bury your fingers in his hair, tugging at the chestnut strands. Meanwhile, one of Ari’s hands goes to grip your hip, making you moan when he gently molds and kneads your curves. 

Jesus Christ! You suddenly felt as if you were wearing too many clothes. 

His lips skim along the column of your throat as you pant. You were always so fucking needy for him all the time. It made it almost impossible for you to resist him during moments like these.

You’re so lost in each other that you don’t even bother to look up when you hear footsteps approaching. “Will these be separate checks or…oh.” You hear your waitress stammer as she tries to collect herself. “I’ll, um - I'll just bring the one.”

Ari briefly pulls away, eliciting a soft whine from you. “Thanks. And while you're at it, we’ll be taking our food to-go.” 

“Bye, Stella.” You giggle as you give a little wave before playfully nipping at his jaw, not even bothering to glance over at the other woman’s face. You knew it was petty, but staking your claim on this man in front of your so-called rival felt so damn good. Especially after a day like today.

Frankly, the only way it could get any better was if you could make yourself utter those three magic words – the same ones you’d been practicing in the mirror last night. But right now they simply wouldn't come. They kept getting stuck in your throat.

Oh well. Guess you’d just have to try again tomorrow.

END

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[fangirlingfromdownunder]

A Sweet Mishap - Chapter 8

Pairing - Jensen Ackles x Reader 

A/N: I just want to start by thanking everyone for all the love on this story so far. Here's the next chapter, I hope you enjoy. Let me know if you want to be added to the taglist.

A Sweet Mishap Masterlist | Main Masterlist

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

I spend most of Christmas Eve in bed relaxing and catching up on much-needed sleep after days of long, busy shifts at the cafe paired with hours of wedding and party planning, all while trying to stay in contact with my intriguing new phone pal. But much to my dismay, and appreciation, Stella refused to let me stay alone through the night. She insisted I come over for dinner and stay for Christmas. As in her words, “It would be an atrocity for my best friend to spend the holidays alone”. So, I had no choice but to kindly accept her demand. 

As I walk towards the subway station my phone starts buzzing in my jacket pocket. I smile hoping it’s Jensen or Stella, but instead, it’s my boss. I sigh and brace myrself as I step out of the path of fast-passing pedestrians and lean against the brick wall of a fashion boutique. 

“Stewie, Hey!” I answer as brightly as possible.

“Y/N, Hi. I know I agreed to let you have today off, and that still stands. We’re closing soon anyway. But I just wanted to let you know a package got delivered here this morning with your name on it. There something wrong with the mail at your apartment? Your neighbours stealing your packages again?”

“Uh…no. Not that I know of. I didn’t order anything.”

“Ah, well I’ll leave it in my office. You have a key, you can swing by through the back and pick it up whenever you’re ready.”

“I’m actually around the corner right now. Can I swing by now before you close?”

“Sure! I’ll be here.”

“Thanks, Stewie. See you soon!” I hang up and rush down the street in the opposite direction, back towards the cafe. The sign’s already flicked to ‘closed’ when I get there, but there's light on in the kitchen so I go in. 

“Stewie, it’s just me. For the package,” I call out as I walk towards the lit-up kitchen. As I get closer, the smell of fresh bread and cookies overwhelms my senses. “You know we’re closing for two days, right?” I call out as I round the corner into the spacious kitchen.

The short, round balding man, with just a few strands of grey hair, comes into view carrying a tray of shortbread biscuits straight out of the oven. His glasses, sitting on the tip of his nose, are fogged up. “Yeah, yeah. But I got a big family to feed and a tiny kitchen to do it with. I put everything I got into keeping this place open. I may as well make the most of it.”

“Good idea. So, uh, the package?” I ask as I eye off the golden biscuits, shaped like gingerbread men, wreaths, bells and candy canes. My empty stomach growls andI clear my throat to hide it, but, despite his age, old Stewie hears it.

“Help yourself. I can spare a few. Grab a takeaway container. You can even have a loaf of bread, they’ll be done soon…Wife wants me home before dark.”

“I couldn’t. They’re for your family. I’m just here for my package, remember?”

“Listen, I ain’t no Scrooge. I know your measly salary may make you think I am, but I pay you as much as I can. Outside the holidays, we’re barely making rent. Least I can do is give you a few cookies and some bread.”

“Stewie, I know you do your best for this place and all of us. We all know it. But if you insist, I do find it hard to resist your cooking. Rudie’s great, but you’re the master.”

“No need for flattery, kiddo. Go grab your package from my office and I’ll package up some cookies and bread for you.”

“Alright, thanks. You’re the best!” I smile at Stewie as I go into his office. Mamma Jo was his mother, who passed a few short months ago. She was the light of the kitchen whenever she visited to check on things. Stewie runs the place with as much passion as she did, yet he hasn’t baked since she passed, that is, until tonight. I smile, hoping he’s finally finding his passion again. 

I spot a medium-sized cardboard box on the edge of the desk, I shake my head wondering what it could possibly be. Once I get close enough, I read the label. 

To Y/NMamma Jo’s Coffee and Chocolateria204 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

From Jensen Acklesc/o Management Beverly Hills, CA 90210

I quickly pull my phone out, snap a picture of the parcel and send it to Jensen.

Hey Superstar, this your doing? Thought you were in Texas?

I don’t wait for a reply, I put my phone away and go back into the kitchen with the box tucked under my arm and my overnight bag slung over my other shoulder. Stewie hands me two boxes of warm goods; I don’t look inside but they smell delicious. He looks at me dubiously as I attempt to carry it all.

“How far you headed, Kiddo?”

“Not far, it’s okay. I’ll manage,” I try to assure him, but he sees right through it. He gives me a look to say he doesn’t believe me; it’s the kind of look you would expect from a parent who’s waiting for their child to come clean. “My friend’s place in Lower Manhattan. She and her fiance invited me for Christmas so I wouldn’t be alone. Plus, I’m helping with the wedding planning.”

“If you help me pack all these up,” Stewie says gesturing at the cooling cookies and bread, “and clean up the kitchen. I’ll drive you.”

“I’m happy to help, but you do not need to drive me that far out of your way on Christmas Eve.”

“I don’t endorse free labor, so either you get out of here now, or you stay and help and then I drive you.”

Feeling the strain in my arms already and dreading the walk in the snow, I make a decision. I sigh and put everything down on a clear counter and then start carefully boxing up cookies. Stewie nods and starts packaging the loaves of bread, croissants and other pastries on the other tray. Once we finish packaging everything, I clean the trays, bowls and utensils while Stewie wipes down the oven and benches. Working in perfect harmony, we’re finished in no time.

It takes a few trips to load everything into his delivery van parked in the back alley. Despite his insistence that it’s all for his family, I know he’ll end up sharing with his whole block and it just makes me admire him more. 

After shutting off the lights and locking up, Stewie skillfully navigates out of the alley and out onto the busy street towards Lower Manhattan. I provide directions to the best of my ability, using my knowledge of the few times Nick has driven me with some –a lot of–help from the GPS on my phone. AsI’m looking at the map I notice a text come through from Jensen, but I swipe up quickly to make it go away so I can focus on providing directions. 

After a while, Stewie pulls up in Stella and Nick’s driveway. I thank him sincerely, collect my things and carefully trudge through the light covering of snow to get to the front door. I wave Stewie off once Stella opens the door. I’m instantly welcomed by the warm and enticing smell of roast chicken. 

“I come bearing gifts, Merry Christmas guys!” I say as I signal for Stella to take the boxes of treats. She eagerly takes them as she eyes the other box at the same time. Luckily, though the smell distracts her and she hurries into the kitchen to put the boxes down and peek inside. 

Nick peeks over her shoulder. “Sourdough? That’ll be perfect to go with dinner. I’ll put the store-bought shit back.”

“Rudie or Stewie?” Stella asks critically.

“Stewie. He’s finally coming back on board after everything,” I offer happily.

“Yay!” Stella says clapping as she reaches for a cookie, but Nick slaps her hand away.

“Dinner’s almost ready.” He looks over at my still full arms and nods towards the stairs. “Guest room’s all set up for you so you don’t have to pass out on the couch this time. And if that’s a gift for us it can go under the tree.”

“Uh, yeah. Thanks. I’ll just go put my stuff down,” I say with a smile before slipping upstairs to the guest room. I dump my bag on the floor and the box on the bed. I stare at it curiously. Then remember the text in the car. I pull your phone out to read it, but Stella bursts in.

“I tried to make it all nice and pretty and festive for my bestest maid of honor!” She says joyfully as she points out the little Christmas tree and tinsel decorating the dresser.

“It looks amazing! You’re the best,” I say brightly, yet distracted. 

“You didn’t have to get us anything you know,” she says as she gestures at the box. “You being here and organising the bridal shower and helping with the wedding is more than enough. I know money’s tight at the moment.”

“Good, 'cause it’s not from me…Jensen sent it to the cafe. Stewie called and told me to pick it up, hence all the pastries and cookies. I wasn’t meant to go in today…”

“Jensen sent you a gift?”

“I’m not sure if he did or if he got his management team to. Maybe it’s an NDA and warning? He’s in Texas and it says California so…” I finally look down at my phone screen.

It was and I amI wanted to put my address, I didBut with no NDA my agent was against itBut I promise it’s from me

“He says it’s from him, his agent just wouldn’t let him put his address,” I explain, half to Stella and half to make yourself believe it. As I’m talking another text comes through.

Open it yet, Sweetheart?

“He asked if I opened it yet?”

“Well, what are you waiting for?” Stella urges as she pushes the box closer to me.

I touch the tape but then withdraw and text him back.

Should I not wait until Christmas?

After a minute his name pops up on my screen. I look hesitantly between the phone and my best friend. She nods understanding and stands up. “I’ll be downstairs, but I want details when you’re done!”

I nod and shoo her out quickly before leaning my back against the now-closed door.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Taglist: @stoneyggirl2 @hobby27, @n-o-p-e-never

[kifkay]

Jobs the Winx pick after they’re done adventuring [NewGen au]

the Winx, although still friends and partners, had officially disbanded! now they’re off to their solo adventures. this is an AU, where not all of the Winx-Specialists pairs ended up settling down together - because, let’s be honest, high school sweethearts rarely do.

Stella:

In her mid-to-late thirties, Rhodos abdicates and officially passes down the crown of Solaria to Stella.

Stella and Brandon are still dating and very much in love.

Before becoming Queen, Stella tries out a lot of occupations — she owns a fashion boutique, starts in a couple of (failed) movies, runs a couple of charities which help repatriate Domino survivors.

Once, she even directs a documentary about the Winx and the Specialists. It ends up having very… controversial reviews, but the Team thinks it’s fun.

As queen, Stella advocates for friendly relationships between Solaria and many of the other planets - including Domino, Andros, Zenith. Even Eraklyon, although her and Sky don’t get along much these years.

Her and Brandon foster a girl, Mara, whom Brandon had rescued from a branch of a weird cult that settled in Solaria. Despite previously agreeing to at least hold off on having children, they love Mara to bits and are very protective over her.

Bloom:

Previously: Travelling Architect. Her one true calling. Bloom vastly enjoys being able to travel planet to planet, and come up with breathtaking architectural designs. This also gives her an opportunity to visit her girls more often.

As of now: Domino Palace Archivist. Queen Daphne’s mysterious illness has re-surfaced. Furthermore — it is progressing alarmingly fast. The royal family must be prepared for the worst, and so the second-born princess is called back to the castle urgently. For the next five years, Bloom serves as the Archivist of Domino’s records and history, as well as being low-key groomed to take over the realm - at Daphne’s own insistence.

In that period, Bloom finally moves on from her decade long on-and-off again situationship with Sky. She marries a warlock curse-breaker Saffi, with whom she has a daughter — Vanessa Mari.

Bloom also inherits her mother’s seat in the Company of Light and holds quite an important position there. Helia, who inherited Saladin’s seat, becomes her close ally and friend. Their family spend many weekends together, vacationing on beaches and having picnics.

Flora:

Currently: Guardian Fairy of Linphea, focusing on protecting various eco-systems of her home-world.

She is more of an alchemist and a researcher these days, rather than an active combatant. Flora arrives in places that have been de-stabilised by either extreme bouts of magic or human intervention, and seeks to heal them.

On a mission to a particularly messed up place which reeks of dark magic corruption, Flora meets an old friend — Mirta, who has been commissioned as a dark magic consultant! They get dinner afterwards, and well… it just goes great after that.

Flora is loving being a step-mom to Mirta’s daughter <3

Musa:

She becomes a musician and a singer, like she always wanted. Musa doesn’t reach amassing success, but she has a loyal fan base who love her for her amazing lyricism and vocals.

Tecna serves as her manager for quite some time, until she resigns for… reasons.

Musa was so sure she would marry Riven one of those days - but then he starts acting weird. Distancing himself. Holding secrets. Eventually, the specialist makes a huge spectacle of publicly severing all contact with the Team - and her. They break up, because of course they do.

Then, Riven goes off the grid. Completely disappears.

Time goes by, Musa stops touring and becomes a music composer. Her clientage is huge and spans many planets.

She has two daughters, one son, one husband and one ex (not Riven), who succumbs to a horrible, magically corrupting illness which, seemingly, comes out of nowhere.

Aisha:

Her and Nabu are going strong. She is the crown princess to the throne of Andros and he is her consort.

Being back in the palace of Andros — constantly reminded of horrible treatment and stifling loneliness she has been subjected to as a child — is hard on Aisha.

She starts regressing, becoming more withdrawn from her friends and acquaintances. Aisha is still a rebel at her core, willing to stand up and fight for what she thinks is best — but. she is just. so tired.

Nabu is always at her side. They have happy times; times, when the darkness and the apathy retreat to let Aisha breathe.

Aisha acts as Andros’s ambassador. Her, Stella, Sky and Bloom & Helia (who had both inherited seats in the Company of Light from their parents/grandparent) often work together.

They have two children, Manar and Sagar.

In recent years, Nabu had gotten ill. loosing his energy, his strength, his magic. none of the healers can explain the sudden shift in a seemingly healthy man; they only theorise that he might be suffering previously-latent repercussions of his comma and entanglement with the Dark Circle.

Aisha spirals again and distances herself from everybody but her closest family.

Tecna:

like Stella, Tecna alternated many professions.

throughout their years at Alfea, Tecna - thanks to her well-rounded and all encompassing education in Zenith, which included music theory, - has helped Musa in her artistry. Giving feedback, searching for gigs, sharing artists she might learn from online.

when Musa officially starts her music careers, she asks Tecna to be her manager - to which the girl readily agrees.

Tecna also freelances on the side: developing flying software for the Red Fountaine, writing codes and whatever else she finds interesting. Zenith tries desperately to get her to work for them, but she is not really interested.

Tecna is not interested in any romantic relationships, but stays close with almost all of her friends. Even Riven!

After years of working together, Tecna resigns as Musa’s manager. It’s a clean break and neither is terribly upset: Tecna is Musa’s kids’ godmom, for Dragon’s sakes! They stay close, although Tecna is awfully tight-lipped about her “new project with Timmy”.

The project Timmy and her are working on is — well, neither Internet nor any planet has records on it.

Currently: Tecna is working her way up as a Zenithian lab researcher. She doesn’t seem to be making much headway, but Tecna doesn’t lose hope. Eventually, she’ll get where she needs to be…

The Specialists will be up next! hopefully, the text is coherent enough <3 trying out something new

[ss-shitstorm]

Saw your tags on the pet food recall, are there any foods you especially recommend, at least as a supplement to kibble? My dog (heeler) gets the raw coated Stella & Chewys mixes with the freeze dried bits and steamed chicken twice a day and usually some of whatever meat is being made for dinner. She's been doing well, but I'm always looking for suggestions of how to do better and improve her diet.

I've genuinely never had an issue with Stella and Chewy's in my entire time doing this aside from the occasional texture weirdness (which if you've got a picky dog could suck bc S&C isn't exactly cheap) but honestly what you're doing sounds great. If you *have* to feed a kibble then they're one of the best brands you could use. If you are looking to toss something else into the mix then OC Raw and K9 Kravings are both wonderful raw brands. They're complete meals, but you can easily use them as toppers for kibble by reducing the amount of kibble to compensate for the topper you added and that way your pup isn't getting bitch slapped by as many complex carbs. If you don't want to feed any raw then My Perfect Pet makes really good gently cooked frozen protein blends you can use in the same way.

I do have to warn you that pet food companies get bought, sold and traded like pokemon cards in the 90's, so a brand being reliable is not a guarantee they will stay that way. Mega food corperations like Mars and Nestle have a practice of buying out smaller pet food companies, then waiting 4-8 years before changing anything to lull customers into a false sense of security, then drastically fuck with the recipe in a wholly bad way to cut costs. It's a very good idea(if not essential) to periodically check up on both the ownsership of the brands you use *and* their ingredients to detect fuckery before your dog's GI tract does it for you. If there's a smaller, boutique pet food store in your area that carries higher end stuff, they might be able to tell you who bought what, since the companies are usually required to inform them.

anyways, good health to your and your little aussie bottle rocket

[pengweng-quack]

Being a Witch with Vampires

Carlisle Cullen x Witch!OC

Summary: Stella (A witch) and Carlisle (A vampire), and how they blossomed from roommates to friends(?) to partners

Chapter 3/7

Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7

Notes:

This was inspired by this fanfic on tumblr by lis-likes-fics titled "In My Defense, I Was Left Unsupervised"

This is also on Ao3 under the same title and same username too if you'd like to read it there (https://archiveofourown.org/works/53448940)

Posting is random lol, hope you guys enjoy this story

Word Count: 2921 words

TW for this chapter: Hints of substance use (no direct mention)

Timeline: New Moon

Masterlist

“Go enjoy a day out with your friends.” Carlisle urged her

“You’re not gonna stop until you make me agree, aren’t you?” Stella asked, her eyebrows raised at him

“Yes.” Carlisle giggled

“Fine.” Stella agreed, rolling her eyes at her persistent vegetarian vampire

And that might have been Stella’s worst mistake.

Her friends, people she’s met at Carlisle’s work and in her small flower boutique, had invited her out for a night of drinking. Stella wasn’t gonna be joining at first, but Carlisle persisted in convincing her to do so.

When she got home the next morning, she was confused as to why no one greeted her when she entered the house. Or as to why the house was empty in the first place. It was an unusually sunny day in Forks and she doubted that any of the Cullens would willingly step out the house in fear of exposing their secret

There was a growing pit in her stomach that was bothering her as she rushes back to the car and drove to Bella’s house, possibly knowing that Bella has some answers to her question

Parking in front of Bella’s truck, she quickly knocked in the house, and waited for someone to open the door. Chief Swan opened it for her, and she knew she had to explain the situation to him

“Is Bella here?” She asked, controlling every sense of nervousness in her in an attempt to look collected

“Upstairs, but I doubt she wants some—

She didn’t let Charlie finish talking and rushed to Bella’s room. Where she was staring quietly on the window of her room. Waiting for something, or someone perhaps

“Bella.” Stella quietly called, sitting on her bed

“You’re here.” Bella said, having some sense of hope in her eyes

“They’re not with me.” Stella confessed immediately, watching as the small spark of hope in Bella’s eyes disappear

“They—” Bella asked, realizing what the Cullens have done “—They left you too?”

“Left?” Stella asked

“They left.” Bella said, answering the growing suspicion that she had “Edward said that he didn’t want me anymore.”

Stella could only laugh at what was going on. Carlisle had never left her before, and she had never had the thought that it might happen. Maybe this was her long-awaited punishment for abandoning Sam without hesitation and joining Carlisle instead. Perhaps this was fate's twisted way of telling her that Carlisle isn't her mate. Whatever it was, she could only laugh at herself for allowing herself to let down her guard and trust them.

~~

“I heard what you did.” Stella said, sitting down on her couch as she passes Bella a glass of wine

“I don’t want any—

“If you want that sort of adrenaline rush so bad, then I’ll help you!” Stella scolded “At least have someone that you know help you with your decisions.”

“I can’t—

“It’s safer if I accompany you. We’ll do things together, hell, I’ll even get you to cliff jump with me and you’ll be safe.” Stella continued “Ju-just don’t do this to yourself alone Bella. You don’t deserve this.”

“And you don’t deserve this either.” Bella softly argued “They shouldn’t have left you to deal with me. You came with them; you should have left with them too.”

“But they did, didn’t they?” Stella hissed “They left us alone, Bella. And it’s about time that we accept fully that the people we love can and will just do that.”

Stella has never dropped the word ‘love’ when talking about the Cullens in fear that the magic within her would count it as an offering. She needed to be careful, not wanting to hurt any of them. But now that they’ve hurt her, it’s only fair that she could get them back somehow.

“You know what they are? They’re filthy, self-centered liars that never thought of anyone else other than themselves!” She continued, doing her best to conceal her tears. She needed to be strong, for both her and Bella “They’re selfish! And vile! And mean! And everything that a typical vampire would be!”

“Starting tomorrow, we’re gonna do a shit ton of crazy things together.” Stella announced, putting down her wine glass “You want to drink? Then we’ll get bat shit drunk together. Want to carelessly drive? I’ll take you to where I’ve been doing that. Want to kill someone? I’ll do a bit of my magic to allow you to do so. We’re going to do this together. We’re going to deal with this together.”

“Can we visit Jake tomorrow?” Bella shyly asked. Stella didn’t like the wolves’ scent but she agreed, giving Bella her freedom to do whatever she wants

~~

“Bella!” Stella called, rushing in the Cullen’s house the moment her gut feeling told her that she was there after doing something stupid

“You did something!” Stella yelled “Without me! I told you we’d do this together!”

“Do this together?” A familiar sweet voice asked

“Alice?” Stella called, putting Bella behind her in case it was some trick

“She’s here, she’s real.” Bella assured her once Alice stepped out to reveal herself

“Jacob.” Stella said, smelling the wolves’ scent “He’s here.”

“I couldn’t help myself.” Jacob said

“Alice, let’s go have a chat really quick.” Stella invited, sensing that the two needed a chat on their own. They quickly stepped out the house

“Who initiated the leaving?” Stella asked

“Edward.” Alice answered immediately, knowing that angering this certain witch with her won’t do any good at that moment

“Why leave me?” She asked again

“Carlisle wanted you safe and in peace.” Alice answered quicker than how she did the first one “Thought that Forks was the town you needed for it.”

Stella could only feel enraged when she founded out the truth. The very vampire that she fully trusted was the sole reason why she was in pain.

“We really didn’t want to leave you behind. Please know that.” Alice started “Even Edward knew that you were needed there with us. But Carlisle’s decision was set.”

“Send him this particular message when you see him again, will you?” Stella asked. Alice nodded and waited for her message “Fuck you.”

“That’s harsh.” Alice said, before seeing the death glare on Stella’s face “And well deserved, I supposed.”

~~

In the airport, Stella was looking forward to seeing Bella and the Cullens. She was simply doing it to see Rosalie again since she had missed her. Or at least that's what she told herself was the reason she was there as it was unavoidable that she would run into Carlisle after seeing Rosalie.

She missed him.

No, she didn’t.

He’s dead to her.

“Stella.” Bella called out, getting her to see them all again. Stella rushed to her, pulling Bella in for a tight hug

“You’re alive.” She muttered as she pulled away from the hug

“Yeah, I am.” Bella said, rubbing her back

“Rosie.” Stella said, averting her attention from Bella to Rosalie, who was anxious in seeing her again

Stella went and hugged Rosalie, resting her head on his shoulders and feeling the cold touch that all vampires shared. Reminding her that someone spent multiple centuries helping her when she was in need to be cooled down, physically and mentally. And was the exact same person that left her, turning her into the cold, untrusting witch that she is now

Carlisle watched as Stella hugged everyone. Everyone except him and Edward. When they left her, he knew what sort of treatment he would get from Stella. And he was deeply regretting even thinking of leaving her. But what could he do? He was scared. Every time Carlisle would look into the witch’s grey eyes, the same grey eyes that he wanted to get lost in all those decades ago, he would only see how lifeless she looked at that moment. That moment where a vampire’s venom, something that he had in his system, overpowered his confident witch.

He was reminded, that someone like him was the reason why she was in deep pain at that moment.

A vampire like him was the reason why his Stella was in pain.

“Let’s take you home.” Rosalie invited her

“I don’t live there anymore.” Stella quickly declined

“Spend the night?” Rosalie invited her again. Knowing Rosalie was in denial about the possibility of not being able to have Stella around in the same manner she had before saddened Carlisle. And he was the one who was at fault.

“I made plans with Charlie.” Stella said, shaking her head no at her offer.

Carlisle knew that if he had been human at the time, his heart would have missed a beat, and he would have felt his heart drop

He was losing her.

To a human.

“Dad?” Bella asked

“Yeah, asked him out for a friendly dinner. Someone needed to give some information to him. Even if it’s not the truth.” Stella answered “And possibly clean the Cullens name to him as well, who knows.”

Carlisle was at ease, hearing the friendly dinner come out of Stella’s mouth. He wanted, no, needed, a second chance. A second chance to prove that he’ll never leave her. A second chance to show her that he is worthy of her love.

Just a second chance.

Because he was a coward in his first one.

“You don’t have to do that.” Carlisle said quietly, shocking everyone “We’ll explain our sudden disappearance ourselves. You don’t have to do that for us anymore.”

“I’m doing it for Bella.” Stella coldly said, shocking everyone with them. “Not everything is about you anymore.”

Everyone was aware of Carlisle and Stella's quick reconciliation. They were curious as to how upset Stella was at their leaving after seeing how cold she was with Carlisle. Or if it was just with Carlisle.

“Let’s go home.” Edward invited to everyone, knowing that the atmosphere between all of them was getting thicker as they spend more time together

The coven members knew that at that moment, they needed to act for their coven leader and his confident witch

“I told Charlie that you were with me.” Stella told Bella; it didn’t take much to figure out that she wanted to leave already, only doing what she told Charlie

“I-I’ll come home with Edward.” Bella answered to her “You should get some rest yourself. Looks like you haven’t slept properly.”

“Of course, I haven’t slept properly.” Stella hissed at her “Don’t act like you’ve gotten sleep much more than I did.”

~~

Carlisle went to stay near where Stella has decided to reside. It was a small house, just enough for her. Much, much different from the Cullen’s house. He was going mad from his own actions. He needed to do something.

He made the decision to lurk when he smelled her blood when she picked Bella up from the airport. It was different, but still as intoxicating as it was when they first met. It meant that she was doing something, anything, to forget them.

Edward hid what Carlisle was doing to everyone, lying and saying that he was picking up more shift because he couldn’t be in a house without Stella.

He’d leave when he had shifts, only to come back with a stray animal always in the place where he stays. He had a feeling that Stella knew what he was doing, and was just too kind to kick her out.

He’d sit next to her when she was asleep, admiring her calm and resting nature. He’d leave just before she woke up, making sure that he’d leave her room the same way as he got in it.

After almost a week of lurking, Carlisle noticed a change in Stella’s blood. It was slowly starting to smell like before. She had dropped whatever she was doing to herself and it was making an effect.

After a shift, he has made his way back to his usual spot, only to see a deer for him to feast on, but it had a note attached on its antlers.

‘Talk to me in person instead of lurking like some stalker – Your Stella’

Stella knew what Carlisle had been doing, she’d been hyperaware of her surroundings after an attempted attack from Laurent. She decided that she was gonna ask him to leave then and there but his presence calmed her. Even though there was a distance between the two.

She decided that she’ll do it tomorrow. She just really needed this one night of peace.

She didn’t wake up to any nightmares that day.

On the day that she has decided that he’ll ask Carlisle to leave, she felt his thirst. He’s stayed there without leaving like she was some princess and he was a guard protecting her and immediately went to the hospital for his shift. She quickly went to the forest, finding a deer to offer for him to feast on.

‘An offering,’ she convinced herself.

‘It’s not like she cared,’ she added.

Stella knew that Carlisle sneaks in her room when she goes to sleep. She wanted to call him out, yell at him to leave. But his presence calmed her, she didn’t know what he had done to her, but she’s suffered too much already. It wouldn’t hurt if she was to use him for herself.

She stopped meeting with those sketchy guys at alleyways after being in the flower shop, wanting to clean her blood.

‘Maybe if she cleaned her system, Carlisle would leave her alone,’ she convinced herself again, adding that to the list of lies that she’s said this past week alone.

The one night that she noticed that Carlisle wasn’t near her place, the guys from the alleyways came to her place, asking why hasn’t she visited them. She lied, said that she felt sick. They’re suddenly starstruck by something behind her, they quickly bid her thank you’s and goodbyes before running away from her house.

Carlisle scared those men. Stella wished she wasn’t so prideful so she could turn around and face him already, give him some sort of gratitude before asking him to stop lurking and just leave her alone. But she waited until he can make his exit, before turning around to “check” what had caused them to leave.

It was a sick game of catch, the one waiting for the other to slip up so they could call it quits and discuss, like proper grownups. Both Carlisle and Stella were careful and calculating, they were just waiting for the other to slip up.

But Stella wasn’t patient, she wanted to hear what he wanted to say.

She needed to hear it.

Grabbing one of the deer for his meal, she grabbed a note and stuck it on the deer’s antlers and called it a night.

‘Talk to me in person instead of lurking like some stalker – Your Stella’

~~

My Stella, I owe you a lot after our sudden disappearance. Never had I thought that our departure would cause such pain to you. I always saw you as a strong woman, much stronger than me I must say, so I just assumed. I should have given you at least a goodbye instead of cowering behind that night out. Leaving you has been my biggest mistake. I needed you every day. Just as much as you would have needed me. I messed up and I know that it’s beyond repair. I know that there is little to no chance that you would be able to forgive me, I would even say that I deserve to feel the wrath of your pain and anger because you experienced it. But I still want to apologize, for all the pain I’ve caused you. No words are enough to explain how sorry I feel for what I’ve done to you, and no words would be able to change your mind about your perception of us. But I believe that I owe you this apology. Take it as some sort of parting gift, I guess. I would understand if you would want to let go of what we had for the past 300 years, maybe even go back to Italy for Sam. I’m sure he will be delighted to see you again. Just tell him that I’ve taken you against your will, let me be damned among your kind. You deserve a life filled with peace and happiness. You deserve to live. You deserve to love and be loved. I wish that it could be me that gives you what you deserve. Yours truly, Your Carlisle

Carlisle reread the letter one last time, debating whether he’ll send it to her or not. If ever anyone from his family finds out that he’s hiding from talking to her in person with an email, he will be judged, especially with Stella offering that they could talk in person. But he didn’t have the heart to go face her, not when he figured out what Stella has done to herself in hopes of forgetting him.

Carlisle figured a lot of things out when they got home. Despite being a witch and being granted immortality, her body was still very human. Anything wrong that could happen in a human could happen to her, and she knew.

She was hurting herself, all because he was a coward.

He knew that he needed to let her go. He’s caused too much pain to Stella.

He deleted the last line of his message before sending it to her.

[smolvenger]

A Court of Mischief and Purpose Chapter Twelve (Loki x fem! Reader Hiddlesverse Crossover Series)

Series Summary: Based on Sarah J Mass's A Court of Thorns and Roses series with the Tom Hiddleston characters. You are a woman of 1880's in Aldwinter in Essex, England, dying of tuberculosis. Never to be married to the local Lusty Vicar. When Loki appears to you and offers to heal you...if you spend a week of every month with him

Chapter Summary: In which there is the Starfall Ball of Asgard

Word Count: 4K (blessedly short for what I have been writing lately, so enjoy!

Chapter Warnings: Brief mentions of babies, insecurity, jealousy and one guy being an asshole to Sif, but overall a very fluffy chapter!

Series Masterlist

A03//My Ko-Fi//My Etsy Shop//Masterlist//Wattpad

Taglist: @asgards-princess-of-mischief @jennyggggrrr @five-miles-over @fictive-sl0th @ladycamillewrites @villainousshakespeare @holdmytesseract @eleniblue @twhxhck @lokisgoodgirl @lovelysizzlingbluebird @raqnarokr @holymultiplefandomsbatman @michelleleewise @wolfsmom1 @cheekyscamp @mochie85 @fandxmslxt69

A/N: A nice fluffy breather before the chapter when shit goes down! I have no life outside of this, so Enjoy!

The weeks flew by. Though you were worried about the slowness. Thomas and Jonathan were struggling through the spellbook, even with the translation. Loki had to be allowed in to help with certain words. Then not only was the spellbook but the intricate creation of the dagger. Then not only the dagger but the tracking invention of Thomas to where sometimes he had little burn stains on his fingers.

Yet…you enjoyed the repetition again. The normality. You now progressed with Loki to where changing light around helped! It wasn’t useful, but it was something. Objects could be used sensed and moved. The fire was now controlled from your hands to hit where you aimed. Even Sif-Sif-though you could never beat her, you got very close to once!

But now, all that people seemed concerned with- well, openly concerned with, was the Starfall ball. After frequenting the shops, you and Stella were wide-eyed at what beauty and bizarreness lay in the boutiques of Asgard. Yet you grew to appreciate it, be drawn to it. How silly both of you would look wearing frilly bustles amidst all of them! So you both picked your dresses after trying multiple ones from multiple shops.

The day before, you never saw so much bustle as the palace did. Not since the Coronation. Servants ran to and fro. Many ask the AllFather and AllMother questions.

Their footsteps and a crash distracted you in training where you looked away and hit a flame away from the target towards a duplicate of Loki’s.

You turned and saw the copy cowering in a corner.

“Oh, I am so sorry!” you cried

“At least it wasn’t actually me,” the god quipped.

Then it came to physical training You all were training to where you were sweating outside under the sun. Yet there was the delicious smell of the roast meats they carried through the halls. It made your stomach rumble as Jonathan asked for which punches. The curiosity of how food was made nearly got your mind off when trying swords with Hal.

Once it ended, Loki led you, Jonathan, and Robert to see the kitchens right after. The others said they would be occupied until the ball with other concerns. You walked down to see the herbs hanging from the ceiling. You heard a roaring fire. So many servants it was crowded. Then you turned to see Sif, leaning against a wall and folding her arms as she observed…which meant…

You turned your head and there in an apron on a table, kneading wet dough was none other than Stella.

“Why, what are you doing?” you asked.

“Merely baking! One of the servants needed some time away-she just had a baby. So I offered to help!” She answered.

Robert let out a laugh, smiling as he folded his arms to look. Sif gave him a warning glare to keep his mouth shut. Jonathan merely looked at her, the blonde hairs loose from her braid from movement. Yet her face was bright from the warmth and her smile genuine. He swallowed lightly.

“My dear, you are a guest here, you have no need to do anything,” Loki said.

“Oh no, I want to help! I want to show my appreciation! I want to be of use, to pay back everything all of you have done for me- what they all have done for me. Brigit here always makes my breakfasts from the day I arrived-” she gestured to a red-faced, stout woman with her grey hair in a bun putting dough over the fire- “so why not help her back?”

Robert looked at the flour that caked her hands, her apron, dress, and even some on her face.

“Do you want to get dirty?” Robert asked.

“She has another dress!” you laughed.

“Yes, and I’ll have plenty of time to change and prepare. Brigit will dismiss me in time, they know,” she reported.

Part of you felt a little guilty. Already so used to the servants doing everything. Back home, you always washed your own dishes and folded your own clothes. Here these people were making sure you had to never lift a finger for your own needs…Stella was right.

“Is there anything we can do to help? We are down one servant after all!” you said.

Stella nodded. Brigit walked over with her hands over her wide hips. She then handed over baskets full of silver flowers.

“The main hall could use more flower decorations. Seglinde always did that, but now she’s nursing her little one, AllMother bless her-they always need more hands there.”

“I have a gift of moving things around! I can put them in higher places- we all will be glad to!” you agreed.

The other seemed fit. Though Loki showed slight hesitation- he was their prince after all - he found a mere wave of his hand helped every flower be where it should be.

Two hours until the ball began. You and Stella both gathered in her room to prepare. She sat on a chair with a vanity and mirror that was in your room. Her face was washed and a blue shawl over her undershift, she combed through her hair. She now had a comb made of silver, little stars around the line then descending into the bristles. She then lifted, twisted, and set the strands into a bun. You kept handing her the pins to keep it in place. Just a few strands you curled to fall off her face. It didn’t take too long since her hair was only several inches past her shoulders.

“My, how nervous I am!” she confessed.

She walked over to hand you your necklace, helping you seal it from the back. A golden one that seemed like a shell on its strand.

“I am too- nervous but excited!” you agreed.

You glanced at the vase where it sat on a table. The blue flowers are still fresh and cared for. If it was Stella’s care for them or Loki’s magic that still made them look so vibrant, you didn’t know.

Once your necklace was good, you turned back to her. A naughty smile on your lips.

“May I guess it’s a certain fellow named Mr. Pine who is the cause of these nerves? The very gentleman I see you sometimes walking and talking with in the garden?!” you teased her.

She folded her hands, quiet for only a few seconds before she replied.

“Mr. Pine is- is a gentleman. He has been very kind to me this past month.”

Stella absent-mindedly just swiped at the few strands that snuck out.

“And he certainly is handsome!” you cut in, bursting into laughter. You began to undo the buttons of your own earth-toned day dress. You set it down on the bed, neatly next to the book both of you were currently reading.

“He…he is,” she agreed.

You got to the last button, moving to undo the bustle behind you.

“Oh, you’re besotted with him, Stella! Admit it!” you teased.

She turned over to you.

“But what of you being besotted?” she nudged with a smile.

You paused. The bustle is still on you.

“What do you mean?” you asked.

She had a small smile, her voice still quiet and soft, though her words, prodding.

“Whenever there’s training and Loki must fight with someone, you keep ogling him!”

You gave her a light swat on her arm and she laughed. You finally took off the bustle, leaving your own corset, shift, and last petticoats only on.

“Well, are you besotted for him?” she asked further.

Taking in a deep breath, you looked at her. A hand fluttered up to your neck, your mouth felt dry.

“He is a handsome man too like Jonathan, like all of them are. He certainly is…nicer than I thought at first. Not as villainous as I took him to be. A decent leader. He’s not perfect, though. He is vain and jealous of his brother so much that he makes poor choices. He has a devious streak and is fond of doing all sorts of things to get what he wants. But…but…oh, Stella, I don’t know what I think about him…” you sighed out.

“Well, you have time to figure it out,” Stella assured you. “I’m sorry if I asked-”

“Oh no! Don’t be! I just don’t know about him lately. He is a handsome man, and he can be pleasant…but no more,” you said.

She looked at the two dressing screens in the room.

“Alright…let us change to look like Asgardian ladies…” Stella said.

Finally, you both went behind each screen to dress. You hesitantly took off your layers of clothes- but when in Rome, do as the Romans do as they say. There was a shorter underskirt and shift without sleeves to wear under.

Then there was your dress-long and flowy and in a lovely shade of your favorite color. It was quite simple to get on. Quick, even. Such a nice material that felt soft to the touch. It had something like a belt in the middle made of the same material. The sleeves were off the shoulders. It is lovely and exposed, especially for the necklace. Long, drapelike sleeves that fell down from your arms like cascades. The skirts themselves both had layers that fell diagonally and then met the underskirt onto the floor. You found it was very swishy and twirly, perfect for dancing in. Then simple flat shoes- comfortable for the night of celebration.

“Are you ready?” Stella called out.

“Yes I am!” you announced. “Now three…two…one!”

Both of you walked out of the screens to see each other and then in the mirror. Bursting into more giggles and gasps of delight.

Stella’s was blue without question. Hers had no sleeves and exposed shoulders but a belt of gold and little embellishments down the skirt. Both of you stood amazed in the mirror. Both of you added whatever little touches needed to be done (“You must wear this necklace, Stella!”). So different. No petticoats or stockings but…you both looked like real Asgardian ladies now.

You complimented each other, and then with a big breath in, you headed out in time for the party to begin. Down so many flights of stairs you lost count and breath. Through the marble halls and out into the large courtyard. Flowers draped everywhere over the palace, on each column and corner.

The Starfall ball was beautiful. It was an open space with the stone floor and the sky above you. The skyline of the city was visible. Lights were floating in the air with magic. There was chatter and laughter. Servants brought on platters of delicious food and wine. You even noted a table had the bread your friend baked herself. Court musicians played with strings and harps- such beautiful music like you never heard. People sipped at their wines and ales politely. It was early for drunkenness (you would have to keep an eye on Hal). All were thrilled just to be invited to Valaskjalf.

How comfortable it was kept. You didn't feel like you wanted to escape inside from the chill. It was warm and comfortable- for it was a night one had to be out of doors. People wanted to be out and see the stars. To admire each other in their finery. Already there was a hall near the sky where there were dances. So many people clasped hands. Sometimes kissing cheeks lightly. It was so lovely and warm and special. Despite the jewels that seemed to drip from the bodices of several women, they seemed relaxed. You and Stella were awed by it.

Many people chatted like chimes. What did the people of Asgard do at balls? You didn't know if there would be a cigar room or a card table for the men like the dance hall back home? But so far, people were enjoying dinner, and getting partners. Musicians began the first dance as they went out to the courtyard. You sat down, far too hungry to think about dancing with such food.

But you noticed Stella excuse herself to go over somewhere.

Sure enough, you found your first friend. Dressed in blue Asgardian finery, Jonathan sat quietly in a corner sipping his drink. Watching, but stiff in his posture. Even for him.

"Why, what are you doing here, Mr. Pine?" Stella asked.

"I've never been one for parties- large ones. Sometimes I'd rather spend an evening with a good book,” he said.

"What kind of books? Do you have a favorite?" asked Stella.

He smiled, the tension in him relaxing.

"I have a few working through my old collection of them at last. When there's time. I am reading The Seven Pillars of Wisdom. It wasn't published in your time, but would you like to know what it is about?"

"Please do. Mr. Pine, what are books from the future like? What is the story?" she questioned eagerly.

"I shall tell you Stel-er, Miss Harris- I'm sorry..."

She shook her head, a small laugh in her voice.

"No, you can call me Stella now. We've met for long enough,” she assured.

He gave her a certain look, his small smile and focused eyes. You saw Stella’s breath hitch and her stop in place as he spoke.

"After I tell you what it is about- would you like to dance?"

"I'd be delighted,” was her reply.

Jonathan told her all about it. She listened to him with a focused, calm face. Deeply interested in every word he said. She only glanced at you when they went out to dance, you giving her a large smile.

Sif was already drinking wine as she walked out of the table. Some fellow with a toothy smile, greasy red hair, and leering eyes, said "Why, hello there, Sif! How about a dance?"

She gave him a gesture you were certain was vulgar. Then walked away. Drowning her wine before she gave it to a servant.

Still, he kept being at her tail, begging her. Deaf to her refusals. She kept got out her knife kept to her leg beneath her Navy blue dress, the slit fashing out and showing the blade. You could tell it was everything in Sif not to murder him right there and then. Even if she would be sent to prison that minute.

She then hurried over to Robert. He was swaying to the music, dressed in grey Asgardian wear. Sipping away at a drink. "Hey! Doctor! Dance with me! Please! Thor already has several in line and he won't leave me!" Sif demanded.

Robert nearly choked out his drink.

"Are you certain?" he asked.

"Yes! Please!"

She grabbed his hand, leading him to the floor as the next one began. It seemed to work- the fellow left Sif alone. Though you had to admit- they did dance naturally well together.

Indeed Thor was surrounded by many hopeful and ambitious princesses and someday queens to be. But he loved the attention and was smiling at it. It seemed he already had his dance partners for the whole evening planned out. Though at one point he did dance with Sif, and she smiled at him tenderly, gently. He smiled at her- with the same smile he gave to everyone. But as he left for the next girl, there was something of…sadness in Sif’s eyes.

Thomas even danced with you and you were amazed at how good he was, his black clothes with golden embellishments. All of you took a few lessons before the ball. The Baronet was the quickest to master them. Smooth, efficient, sweeping. He was born with wings on his feet like Hermes.

“Why, Miss, you were such a pleasant partner! It was a pleasure indeed!” he praised you.

Hal enjoyed the party but he was not a good dancer. He was inches away from stepping on your toes and apologized every time. You noticed his red clothes had a wine stain on them.

“Please forgive me, my lady,” he sighed.

“Oh- it’s alright Hal! As long as you have fun, it’s the point!” you said as they returned back to the party.

“Though, my lady- when indeed do these stars fall prettily as the good folk speak?” Hal asked.

From the party, Loki emerged. Decked in his signature color of green, though with bits of what seemed like gold armor. The finest Asgardian leather. Even if he wasn’t heir to a crown, no one would doubt his connection to the family.

“It’s in about five minutes,”

“Why, where have you been?”

“Making sure all was well with Mother and Father. There are some potential princesses and even princes Father thought I should at least be introduced to.”

You felt yourself get tight on the inside. You fought back the sour feeling.

“Though…I have missed all of your company. Why, YN Darling…would you like the next dance?” he asked.

You gave him a smile, though your stomach fluttered.

"Yes, I would,” you answered.

He opened his hand and you accepted it.

As he led you through the opening movement as the strings picked up, something hit you. You knew the steps but with Loki, it felt…natural. Easy. Free…youcould look into his eyes and keep doing it and not miss a step.

At one point you had to move like a waltz…and this meant him sweeping your arm in a half embrace as you kept a hand on his shoulder. You felt his touch and the warmth of his breath. He said nothing…but nothing needed to be said. You did look into his blue eyes. Just like Hal’s, Roberts, Jonathan’s, and Thomas’s. But his look on you was...soft, sweet even. Your own heart is racing. You start to feel a little dizzy, a little out of your body. Yet you kept dancing. You wanted to keep dancing with him.

That familiar light-headedness and ache settled inside you. You never wanted to stop dancing with him. It was all happening so quickly in time, but your mind was racing miles ahead.

Your mental shield flew up. You know you couldn’t give in to this feeling. It's infatuation at most, nothing more. Just what dancing with a good-looking and charming man will do to you. But no more, you told yourself.

The few minutes of bliss that will bring on so many months of torment. The little, cruel voice in your head, wiggling out in the corner of the beautiful dance.

You aren’t good enough for him. For anyone, it said. You hated that voice. You hated you felt this way. Hated that you hated it. That everything was so confusing at least…and frightening at most.

But for now...the little cruel could be dim. The movements of your body had to shut it out, making you move rather than dwell.

Yes, give in a little bit for now. Just a few minutes of happiness...nothing more. And then it will be done. The moment will be over. And you will not have this again, ever...so enjoy it. He is a friend to me, and nothing more, you told yourself, only half believing your own lies.

"You look as lovely as the stars above us,” was what he said as you went back to continue the next round of the dance.

"Thank you,” was all you could say.

All of a sudden there were gasps and points. The dancers on the floor all halted. Their chins lifted up above. Both of you paused your dance, despite the continuing music, and looked up.

The stars were finally falling through the sky. Many of them shone, leaving their dust as a path. So many- that it seemed the night was even brighter than the moon could ever make it. Their light sparkles dust through the reaches of the inky black sky like a ballgown. And so many of them! More than you could count, or even imagine!

You glanced over at Loki next to you. Starlight illuminated, everyone. And him. How beautiful everyone looked with the silver light overall. Including him.

The AllMother applauded and the others followed suit. Her eyes went over to the crowd, barely stopping at which faces she knew.

“Well- you all know the tradition. If we want luck until the next Starfall, you must keep dancing! So dance! All of you! Keep dancing!” she said with a smile.

"Now- if you wish good luck, keep dancing!" advised Loki in a hiss.

You gave him a nod, and you kept dancing.

Everyone poured onto the floor, even the AllFather and AllMother danced together. Stella opened her hand for Jonathan and she led him down as they picked up with the others. Thor was with a beautiful woman with dark hair and a triumphant smile like a cat that got the cream. He accepted it and she led him onto the floor. Sif and Robert were already dancing. You heard her mutter "shit! Keep dancing!" and before Robert could process it, their dance continued forcibly continued.

“I could use my magic to have it rain spiders on everyone and listen to them scream!” Loki teased.

“Don’t.”

“Or…” he continued.

You raised an eyebrow at him.

“Or…what else could you do?”

With his magic, he made it seem as if a few of those little stars fell down. Twinkling their lights, their glittering path of stardust through the crowd. They circled through, all delighted. One went around you, circling over your skirt. You held it and twirled it out and laughed- you heard him laugh too.

People reached out their hands. The glittering stardust a path through the air as they went through before they vanished like fireworks.

“That was stunning!” you said.

“You’re welcome…but we should keep dancing.”

As the stars swirled about lightly in the courtyard and above the sky, you danced with him. Light illuminating from above. Music guides your every step. Your limbs felt so light, and you were a little breathless. You felt the corners of your face lift up in an easy smile, and you saw one on Loki too.

Everyone paused a moment when the dance ended to admire the stars as they glittered and decorated through the sky. Shooting forth and falling through all sorts of patterns. All of the party guests couldn’t help oooing and ahhhing.

You had never seen anything so beautiful in your life. To think, after everything you went through...you could see this. This beauty. It made you glad to be alive, to be here.

Then, after some time, they paused and settled in the sky like normal. Applause broke out, even if the far galaxies could not hear them.

You stayed the length of the ball. Both you and Stella were bleary-eyed and your feet felt weary, your steps heavy from all the dancing. But both of you were so tired you broke into silliness, fits of giggling, and recalling everything that happened. She had a servant bring a cot and you both slept in the same room, recalling everything. The buzz of excitement wore through until it ran its course and sleepiness took its place. You both drifted off to sleep at a late hour.

You had never had a nicer time, the more you thought about it.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ─── It seemed everyone had slept in. It was the afternoon when Hal and Robert insisted on an emergency meeting. All of you went into the secret meeting room. The two had a book. “We were curious…and tired of sitting around and waiting. Guilty even. So we both researched what could help Thomas’s tracker…so here! We finally found a key to Thomas’s invention!” Robert announced.

All of you gathered forward as Hal brought the book forth and opened it. They went to a certain page. It showed an orb glowing in a bright, light blue. Then next to it an illustration of the cabin.

“Twas Loki who said only certain magic may assist the invention. And this certain magic has revealed himself as an orb,” Hal said, pointing to the pictures.

“The orb came from the cauldron- the very one we suspect Grendel had that revived him and kept him alive. It said here…if asked for, it will call out to the cauldron and give a signal. And the cauldron will respond,” Robert finished a triumphant smile on his face.

“And where, on the other hand, is this orb?” Loki asked.

“The Aevi cabin that resides in Jotunheim,” Hal answered.

Robert lifted up a finger in warning.

“But there’s a catch…” he said.

Robert pointed to the text. You began to feel tingly all over, despite the slight weariness from the late night.

“It says here that the cabin will reject all those who don’t have magic. Perhaps the being was a spellcaster who wanted to use it and only wanted it for themselves. And most Frost Giants aren’t magic wielders…so it was placed there. Those who cannot use magic will be blocked out, unable to enter…”

There was a pause. All eyes went to you and Loki. You both took in a breath as the trickster god's eyes met yours. Then he released it in his usual smile and half laugh like an exhale.

“Well, my dear, it seems as if the two of us are headed to Jotunheim.”

[arcadekitten]

God I adore the new dress up game- brings me back to the Girls Go Games dress up ones I played when I was little- also all of the outfits are really cute

Also-

They’re on a date :3

I'm so glad, that was exactly the feeling I wanted to capture!! ♡ I'm happy everyone's been feeling so nostalgic about it, thank you :')

ALSO CUTE!! Sheep and star go on date, what will happen I wonder?

[littlequeenies]

Lee Starkey, Ringo Starr, Jay Mehler, Barbara Bach and Mary and Stella McCartney attend the launch party for Mary McCartney’s new book ‘Mary McCartney: From Where I Stand’ at Michael Hoppen Gallery on October 21, 2010 in London, England.

[blogaboutapril2]

[doo-wop-city]

Stella's Like a Queen at Starlux

I’m enjoying myself in orange tweed on a relaxing day at one of the Starlux’s One Bedroom Suites with Two Beds. These photos were taken on February 23rd, 1966. (…Or, was that 2022?) Starlux is one of the few motels that is open all year long. I’m here in the middle of the winter, and the weather makes my hair even poofier than its natural self. my orange outfit is a perfect compliment to the…

[shaisimz]

Stella Leone

Stella Leone, 56, is a name every sim knows. American/British Ex-Supermodel, world-wide famous fashion designer and now modeling agent, she has held her reign over the fashion world since she was 17 years old. Owning her own luxury couture brand, Stella Haus of Fashion never misses an appearance on any runway or red-carpet appearance. Her modeling agency, Leone Models, has been behind the biggest names to walk the runway and bring back the hot in haute couture. Her clothing lines are featured in every luxury boutique, while she has four agencies across the world: Windenburg, San Myshuno, Ciudad Enamorada, and San Sequioa.