#thank god i went into the office this week and spoke to people

[ghosts-of-love]

someone tell me to go outside pls

[pxtched]

𝐓𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮.

╰ Miguel ohara one shot(?), fluff and tiny bit of angst

You can tell Miguel was having a rough week, You haven’t seen him come out of his office for hours. Who ever visit’s pays the bite and get yelled at. You sighed as you see another spider person run out of the office.

You quickly come in the office, You weren’t afraid of him. You were his lover for Christ sake! You walk towards him, webbing up to his platform so you can be next to him.

Miguel almost assumed it was another newbie walking inside so he was about to throw a desk at them but once he recognized your scent, His shoulders relaxes a bit.

“What’s wrong? You been in a terrible mood all week, You sure you don’t need a break?” you ask him, worried for him. He sighs and tells you “I’m fine, I just want to get this done with as quick as I can, I’ll be home tonight. I promise.” Without even looking at you.

You nodded, “I’ll be making dinner” you tell him. Then you left his office and went back to your shared apartment. You cleaned up, made dinner and only served your plate as you put the leftovers in the fridge with the others. You knew he wouldn’t come, it would slip out of his mind.

But, you can’t get mad at him. This past week has been tough, Anomalies back and forward causing him to stress out late at night and early in the morning all day. Then dealing with new people, god it gets tiring for him.

He wishes that he can just go home to you and take a break like he deserves, but this week says otherwise.

As his lover, you have to help him out. What other way is to help him relive his stress?

The next day, you walk to him in his office. Miguel quickly apologizes “I’m sorry, I know I promised but I—“ you quickly shush him up and put your hand on his back. “It’s okay, i understand. Miguel, let’s come home now.” You spoke softly in his ear.

Miguel sighed out of relief but remember about the stuff to do “I would love too but—“ “don’t worry about that now, Take a break miggy..” You ask him, trying to convince him.

You can see Miguel thinking, but he shakes his head. You forgot how stubborn he can be. “Mi amor, lo siento but i can’t. I have to make sure that this is done and…” Miguel was going back and forward in his mind, the stress wasn’t helping him.

You noticed this immediately and calmed him down “Hey, Hey. Look at me, It’s okay. Everything is gonna be alright, don’t think about it too much.” Miguel looks at you with glossy eyes as his breathing calms.

Miguel gulps as some tears fell out of his eyes, you wipe them off and smile at him “It’s gonna be okay, I’m here, I understand that you can’t come home. don’t stress about it okay? I don’t want to see my Boyfriend be stressed out and overwhelmed. You matter too you know?” You tell him with a smile on your face.

Miguel smiles and rested his forehead on yours as he close his eyes, making the tears he swore to hold back slip out. “Thank you, so much. How am I so lucky to have you?” He says as he pulls you for an embrace. “you don’t need to thank me, this is what I’m supposed to do. As your lover” you tell him as you hug him back.

“I’ll be home okay? I’ll make dinner, even if you don’t come I’ll still make them for you. Always” you tell him and leave to go home. Miguel watched you leave with a smile on his face.

Later the same day, You were at home just watching TV to ease your boredom. You then hear the door opening and it’s Miguel, He looks tired but so relieved to be back home.

He examines everything, he smells the cooked food you made for you both. His plate was still hot, looks like you just made it.

“Miguel!” You smile and go up to him to give him an embrace he so desperately needed. He embraced you back nuzzling his head in your neck, smelling your shampoo and conditioner.

You give him a few kisses all around his face, every small kiss you gave him means everything to him “You hungry?” You ask him as you pulled away to walk to the table, he nodded and followed you. “What did you make for dinner today?” He asked as he watched you uncover the plate that was in tinfoil and handed to him.

“This! also I made some arepa’s for the side” you exclaimed happily, Miguel study’s your face. He misses being home, he misses the comforting feeling of being in home with you. He smiled and take the plate from you.

He sits down on the couch, with the plate in his hands. You went back to your spot the couch, while he was gone you were just watching a random show on the tv, he didn’t mind. He just missed you. He missed home.

He puts his head on your shoulder, and just smiles. “I love you so much.” You look at him and kiss his forehead “I love you more Miguel.”

At night, he was out cold. You smile at the big man snoring slightly as he slept with you, you give him a kiss on the nose mumbling a “goodnight” then cuddling him and slowly fall asleep.

A/N: i feel like this man would be out COLD once he gets on the bed, literally wrapped in blankets as he gets the rest he deserves.

[footprintsinthesxnd]

Good Girl

So this has been the long awaited ‘Kinky Ron’ fic requested by @ronsparky which sparked the whole creation of the discord chat with @malarkgirlypop. It is finally here and will most likely be in two parts of people want to see what happens. I’m sorry this fic took so long Jess but I hope you like it. Warnings: sexual images, swearing, Winters being awkward, kinky Ron, themes of war

Bastogne had been cold but Haguenau wasn’t much better. The wind bit fiercely at her face, freezing the tip of her nose and chapping her lips as she marched, head down, hands balled into fists. She couldn’t believe it. How was it when something went wrong it always seemed to be her damn fault? It’s not like Easy was her company, she was just a Corporal for Christ's sake but for some reason known only to God, Ronald Speirs had it in for her and regardless of the situation he would call her for a little chat.

Her boots sounded loudly up the corridor, snow and mud flaking off on the rotten wooden floor. First Sergeant Lipton greeted her with a small smile from beneath his mountain of blankets, his voice weak and shaky as he told her to take a seat.

“Just stay calm, Y/n. I’m sure it’s not as bad as it seems.

“That’s easy for you to say, Sir,” Y/n reminded him of the last time Speirs had called her to his office and Lipton had nearly lost his head to a flying plate.

Heavy footfall from the left caused Y/n to stand, her hand swiftly saluting the three offices as they entered the room. Winters and Nixon nodded at her before heading out, still deep in their conversation and leaving her with Speirs who looked as though he was about to blow his top.

“Y/l/n, with me. NOW!” Y/n trailed along like a dejected puppy, her head hanging low as she waited for the onslaught that was to come. Speirs slammed the heavy, oak door behind her but she didn’t jump. This exact situation had happened enough times that it barely phased her anymore.

“Corporal, why do you think I’ve called you here?” Speirs asked, leaning against the desk in the centre of the room. He had his overcoat off and the sleeves of his jumper rolled up, revealing the bulging veins of his arms as he glared at her.

“No, Sir,” Y/n replied innocently and she noticed the very subtle change in his eyes. She was in for it now.

“Well funny enough I didn’t expect to find one of the finest medics in the company having a snowball fight with some of the replacements. We’re in a war zone for fuck sake. You’ve been through Bastogne, I’d have thought you could have been trusted, could have been relied on but…”

“Sir, it was just for a few minutes. We were back from the line by our billet. The boys are homesick, Sir.”

“HOMESICK. FUCKING HOMESICK! How long has it been since you’ve seen home, Corporal,” he demanded, his eyes wild and his jaw shaking with the effort to not explode.

“Nearly two years, Sir,” she muttered, toeing her boot into the floor.

“And how long has it been for them? Two weeks? If anyone should be homesick it’s us. The Toccoa men. The men who have been through hell and back and are still fighting. I rely on you to set a good example and if I can’t trust a medic. Well, who the hell can I trust?”

Y/n picked at the cuff of her frayed uniform, “will that be all, Sir?”

“Yes, you may go.”

Y/n saluted the Lieutenant before heading to the door, she was pulling it closed behind her when Speirs spoke. “Do you want a drink?”

“I’m sorry, Sir?” Y/n raised an eyebrow as she peaked around the edge of the door.

“A drink? I managed to find some half-decent whiskey that Captain Nixon had yet to drink. Would you like a glass?”

Y/n wasn’t sure what to say, she wanted to get the hell away from his harsh glare as soon as possible but she was also curious. Why did he suddenly want to have a drink with her? For all Y/n knew he couldn’t stand the sight of her.

“Ummm, alright. Thank you, Sir.”

Y/n took a seat on the dark, leather sofa to the left of the desk, cautiously on the edge in case she was mistaken and needed to make a run from an angry Lieutenant.

“Here,” Speirs hesitantly passed her a glass of the amber liquid and she took it gratefully, the alcohol burning her throat pleasantly as it slipped down. She hadn’t had good alcohol since the celebration when Easy received their jump wings. The rest of the time it had been lukewarm, foamy beer.

“So, how are you holding up?” Speirs watched her from afar, his dark eyes boring into her as he waited.

“I’m fine. Thank you, Sir.” How else was she supposed to reply? She couldn’t exactly tell him how much she hated the God-awful hell hole and could wait to be back somewhere that was warm and allowed her to feel her limbs once more.

“Good. That’s good.” Speirs swirled the orange liquid around his glass, having not taken a drink yet and instead glared at the liquid as if someone gave him a sour aftertaste without consuming it.

“Sir, is there something you wanted to discuss?” Y/n wanted answers, there were only so many times she could avoid his eye contact and swallow nervously.

“Not especially. I just… wanted some company.” Speirs admitted, turning to look out of the window onto the deserted streets below. Y/n sat very still, her eyes tracing over his frame, strong shoulders tensed, large hands leaning splayed against the window frame.

“I can feel you watching me,” Speirs spoke in a hushed tone but Y/n knew he heard her small intake of breath. “I always know when you're watching me.”

“Sir, I…”

“Don’t deny it. I watch you too, you know. I watch when you stock supplies, I watch you when you throw back your head and your eyes crease as you laugh. I watch you more than you realise.”

By this point, Speirs had turned to face her and Y/n didn’t know whether to be flattered or terrified as the lieutenant approached her.

“Sir?” Y/n couldn’t help the unsteadiness of her voice and her eyes grew wider as he knelt before her, his hands tracing up her thigh.

“We can’t deny ourselves of human touch, Corporal. Desires of the flesh”

“Lieutenant Speirs…Sir… I,” Y/n gasped as his hand slipped up further under her jacket, fumbling with the belt that secured her trousers. With his body hovering over her, Y/n couldn’t remember how to breathe, the air entered her lungs in short, sharp gasps as she felt his fingers travelling along the soft flesh of her stomach.

“Please,” she whispered, feeling completely pathetic but no longer able to care. “Please just touch me.”

“Oh Darling, I thought you’d never ask.”

Y/n wasn’t sure what happened next, the order of events was a blur but soon enough she was moaning into Ron’s neck, her hips rolling in time with the rhythm of his fingers against her clit. She withered beneath him, nails wracking down his clothed back but Ron didn’t seem to notice. The knot in Y/n’s stomach was tightening and she could feel her thighs beginning to shake with the effort of controlling herself from reeling off a string of profanities when the door flung open.

“Speirs, could you…” Lieutenant Winters stood frozen in the doorway, the apple in his hand long forgotten and his cheeks blushed the colour of the hair on his head. He gulped and Y/n felt herself trying to clamp her legs shut and move away from Ron but the grip he had on her hips was firm and unwavering.

“Yes, Major Winters?” Speirs asked as if he wasn’t seconds away from giving Y/n the orgasm of her life.

“I’ll come back at another time,” Winters shook his head avoiding eye contact with Y/n and pulling the door closed softly behind him. Y/n felt herself let out a breath she didn’t know she’d been holding and glared up at Ron who was just smiling smugly at her.

“Ron, I swear to God…”

“Now, now or I’ll forget to play nice,” Ron winked at her and Y/n thought she could fall apart just from that one action. Her mouth snapped shut and Ron snickered, “That’s what I thought. Good girl.”

Tags: @iceman-kazansky @yeahcurrahhe-e @lieutenant-speirs @sharpshootershifty @liberteuniteegalite @msmercury84 @mayhem24-7forever @blvestxr @dustyjumpwjngs @theflyingfin @jump-wings @kafka-ohdear @kmc1989 @mads-weasley @docroesmorphine @liptonsbabe @lena-basilone @sweetxvanixlla @hesbuckcompton-baby @ronsparky @allthingsimagines @whollyjoly @bucky32557038ww2 @panzershrike-pretz @xxluckystrike @malarkgirlypop

[riptideripley]

His Queen

gif creds: @keenzinemugstudent

Summary:You were special to Miguel,everyone knew it. But tonight he wanted to prove how special you are to him.

wordcount:1,148

“Oh my lord (your name) your new suit is so pretty” Jessica told you making you smile. “Thanks Jess,I designed it myself actually.” “You need to become a suit designer here,after I seen what you did for Pav I was intrigued” you giggled at her comment and gave her a hug. “Well I’m gonna go check on Miguel,also don’t forget to give me baby updates!” you reminded her and she nodded,watching you walk away to your husband’s office.

You and Miguel had only been married for 3 months,he recruited you a year ago after seeing your intense powers and skills. Your story was similar to everyone else,bitten by a spider and all that. But what made you different from some was your similar powers to Miguel. You also had claws like him which confused people but nonetheless they enjoyed having your help fighting. You stepped into his office and since he doesn’t have a spider sense like you,it was easy to creep up on him.

You crept up and jumped on his back,making him tense up but relax when he realized it was you. “Hi mi amor” “Hi loveeee” you responded planting a kiss on his cheek. “How’s work going?” you asked climbing onto his thigh and relaxing. “It’s going well,almost finished so we can go on our date” he said smiling and kissing the top of your head. He had been working hard all week to make sure he took you on a date to the new Mexican restaurant near his apartment,since you were super excited about it. Just then you heard Hobie’s voice appear,”Oh my god you lovebirds,but uh Pavi needs help with his suit again.” he spoke making you mentally roll your eyes. You got up off your husband’s thigh and kissed his forehead,following Hobie to find Pavi.

You finished with stitching up a hole on the side of Pavitr’s suit,making sure it was stitched correctly. “Alright there you go! Now be more careful.” “Yes ma’am I will!” “And tell your girlfriend I said hi” you told him as he smiled,going on about his day. You did your signature handshake with Hobie before heading home to your shared apartment with Miguel,seeing a pretty navy blue dress on the bed with a note. ‘Put this on and meet me in my office’ read the note,you placed it down and went to the bathroom to shower. Once showered and moisturized,you slipped on a black lace matching set knowing it was his favorite. You slipped on the dress and immediately fell in love with it,the way it hugged your curves and all the other right places. He has good taste in clothing.

You went to your husband’s office and saw him there in a dark navy blue suit,something you never saw him in before. It’s not often that he dresses up but when he does,you love it. The way the suit hugged his muscles,the pants tight around his print. You snapped out of your thoughts when he pulled you into a warm embrace,making you smile. “Estas lista para ir querida?”(Are you ready to go dear) he asked you,kissing your forehead. You nodded and smiled when he took your hand,walking you out of his office and to the restaurant.

_After dinner_

You two were heading back home and you could tell there was some tension between you two. The entire dinner he had been staring at your figure,constantly trailing down to your breasts and rubbing your thighs. As soon as you two stepped into the apartment,he was kissing all over you. He carried you to the bedroom,laying you on the bed as he ripped the dress off you. He began gently biting your thighs,not wanting to pierce your skin due to his venomous bite,slowly creeping up to your clit. You shivered and whimpered as he blew cool air onto your sensitive clit,soon licking at it. He began sucking your clit,using his fingers to spread your folds open. “O-Oh my god Miguel-“ “Not my name muñeca” he whispered. You whined when he stopped,watching him take his clothes off. “Shit Miguel it’s too-“ “You can take it I promise baby” he reassured you. ‘ain’t no way he’s serious right now..that thing is almost 14 inc-‘ you were snapped out of your thought to him pushing the tip in your aching hole,making you immediately bit onto the pillow next to you. He chuckled at your actions and pushed all 13 and a half inches inside of you. You screamed in the pillow as he moved slightly,not wanting to move that much so you could adjust since it was your first time with him. “¿Puedo mover el amor?”(Can I move love?) he asked before moving any further. You nodded and he started off with slow strokes,which resulted in soft moans from you. He wanted more so he started picking up his pace,making you automatically arch letting out a loud moan. “S-shit Miguel!” you squealed,feeling his webs tie your hands above your head as he lifted both your legs onto his shoulder. Your eyes rolled back feeling overwhelmed with pleasure,his thrusts getting deeper and harder. “Mantén tus ojos abiertos para mí amor”(keep your eyes open for me love) he whispered in your ear slightly grunting at the end. Your eyes fluttered open as you looked at him the best you could,his hand trailing down to your clit rubbing it ever so slightly causing you to shiver a little. He continued his movements,sending shock waves of pleasure through your body,as he enjoyed the sight of you losing yourself in pleasure. You turned your focus back on him when you heard a slight whimper from his lips,sensing his orgasm. You decided to tease him a bit by moving yourself up back and forth making you move on his dick. “S-shit mi amor..” he whispered softly,throwing his head back as you smiled continuing your actions but speeding up,matching his rhythm and pace. You felt your orgasm approaching,making you roll your eyes back as you let out nothing but whimpers and moans. “Just like that..fuck-“ you heard him mumbled out but before you could say anything your orgasm hit you hard. You let out the loudest moan known to mankind but soon felt spurts of cum inside of you,loads of it.

Miguel panted as he got you out of his webs and gently removed himself from you,laying next to you. “I-I love you Miguel” “Te amo mi reina(i love you my queen)” he whispered back softly,pulling you onto his chest as you two drifted of into a deep sleep.

[louloulemons-posts]

Oil At The Coffee Shop XII

Eddie X Fem!Reader

Summary : Eddie and Reader go on a date.

Word Count : 2k

Warnings : not proofread, FLUFFFFFFF, it’s sickeningly sweet, talks about eddies mom, cute uncle wayne, some swears.

Fic Masterlist

~ / / / * \ \ \ ~

You loved him. Shit you loved him. You and Eddie had been officially dating for just over a month now. The month of December rolling around a lot quicker than you hoped.

The first snow had fallen a few days back and people slid down the street to hide in the warmth of your shop. You’d never made so much hot cocoa in your life.

Christmas shopping was also something you had been struggling with, what do you buy for Eddie? You’d give him the whole world if you could. Sadly that was unrealistic.

You saw him almost every day now, and you loved that company. You saw him most days before you started dating, but this was another level, it’s like your heart hurt when he wasn’t around.

You had decided you’d head home for a few days, shutting the shop on December 23rd and opening back up on January 2nd. It was almost two weeks, but in all honesty you needed the break.

Your regulars had already been informed and happily smiled and said they’d miss the good company. Nobody was mad, like you’d worried they would be.

“Hey, you okay?” Max asked.

“Oh yeah Honey I’m fine, just lost in thought. What do you need?”

“I was just wondering if I could take a break, I know I’ve had my lunch it’s just the cold and my legs-“ she rambled.

“Max,” you placed a hand on her shoulder, “It’s okay, go rest. I’ll drive you home tonight, the both of you.”

She smiled at you, going to rest her knees for a little while. You knew it was bad, she hated asking for anything, so if she had too - god that poor girl.

Walking to the counter, you smiled at El as she served someone, wishing them a good day. “Everything okay out here?”

“Mhm, it’s been a bit slow today.”

“Well it’s cold out, and people love the snow.”

“Not me, well it’s pretty but I’d prefer to be inside and wrapped in a blanket.” You laughed, looking around the shop, it was only half an hour until closing time. “You know what, let’s close up. I can’t see us getting anymore customers today.”

“What? Are you serious?”

“Yeah, it’s a snow day. Max isn’t feeling great. No point wasting power. Let’s get you two home.”

You and El cleaned up as quickly as you could, she was right it’d been slow today, but that was okay. “What are you guys doing?” Max asked, limping slightly.

“Cleaning, now you Honey, sit,” you said, helping her on to a comfy couch, lifting her legs so she could rest fully. There wasn’t much mess so you were out in 30 minutes time.

“Come on then, let’s get you home.” The pair climbed into the car and you went on your way. It wasn’t a long drive to the two girls homes, you helped Max out of the car and spoke to her mother briefly.

She was unwell herself at one point, but Max said as soon as she was hurt she stepped up. Got better, took care of her, not the other way round.

~ / / / * \ \ \ ~

Driving through town you smiled when you destination came into sight. Munsons Mechanics. Parking up and climbing out, Wayne greeted you.

“Hey Honey! How’s it going?” he smiled.

“Good thank you Wayne, is Eds around?”

“Just doing some paperwork up in the office.”

“Do you mind if I?”

“Oh course not Honey, you go straight through. Come visit again soon.”

“Only if you make me sweet tea,” you teased. “You got it.”

Making your way to the office, your knuckles tapped on the door a couple times. “Come in,” Eddie called. Walking in you smiled at the sight, Eddies overalls were tied around his waist. His thick curls pulled back in bun - a hairstyle that you’d come to adore.

There were bits of oil on his face and hands which made you chuckle. “You busy?” you asked, as he hadn’t looked up. His face was covered with a grin at that point, “Well hello.”

“Hi there.” Eddie pushed himself up and walked to you, hands coming to rest on your waist. “Are you alright Swe-hmph,” you cut him off, connecting your lips to his.

Wrapping your arms around his neck you pulled him closer, you took control of the kiss, leaving Eddie speechless. “What time do you get off?” you asked, almost a whisper.

“Uh … umm,” he looked down at his watch, face flushing, “anytime now, just have to finish this paperwork for a client, why?”

“Did you want to go out, like a date?”

“You’re asking me out?” he smirked.

“Yes I am Mr Munson, so what do you say? Go on a date with me?”

“Course, can I clean up first?”

“Mhm, there’s no rush.” You kissed his cheek and went to chat with Wayne whilst Eddie finished up the paperwork.

Soon enough he had run down the stairs to meet you, finding you laughing with Wayne. “You stealing my girl old man?” he joked.

“Oh hush,” his uncle rolled his eyes.

“You ready?” you asked Eddie.

“Whenever you are.”

“Wayne you coming home now?”

“Nah, going for a drink with Phil. I’ll be home later, you?”

“Not sure yet, but I’ll call.”

“Okay son, you kids have fun.” You kissed the older man on the cheek, taking Eddies hand and walking to your car.

“So do I get to know what this date is?” he asked. “Nope,” you popped the ‘p’, smirking at him. “Oh you tease.”

“Says you.”

“We both know you love my teasing.”

You face flushed at that, you both loved and hated it at times and Eddie was very well aware of that. The pair of you headed in to the trailer, Eddie running to wash up and you lay on his bed.

You hadn’t even realised how relax you were until Eddies voice woke you up, “You comfy there Sweetheart?”

“Mhm, we should spend some nights here, it’s so soft.”

“If you want to do that we can,” he leant down to peck your cheek whilst your eyes were still closed.

Peaking a look at your boyfriend, you watched as he climbed out of his overalls, and slid off his shirt. “Hey!” he called out as he saw your peeking eyes. He threw the shirt in your face making you giggle.

“I wasn’t doing anything!”

“Of course you weren’t.”

“What can I say, it’s a nice view.”

“You dirty little thing.” You simply shrugged, not denying it, he was beautiful. You could look at him for hours.

“Come on you, let’s go,” Eddie pulled you up from the bed, pecking your lips, leading you out of the trailer. “Sooo can you tell me where we���re going?”

“Not a chance.”

“Aww why not?” Eddie whined.

“Because it’s a surprise,” you laughed at his pouting face. “You’re horrible to me.”

“That’s not what you were saying last night.”

“Watch it,” he growled.

“Sorry sorry.”

“Mhm, little tease.”

~ / / / * \ \ \ ~

The drive didn’t take too long, and Eddie became more and more confused. You’d had to drive out of the main town, coming across a whole bunch of other cars and people who all looked very excited.

“Am I getting initiated into a cult? I know people think I’m already in one, but I don’t know if I want to make it the truth,” he said.

“Oh shush, just trust me.”

Parking up you leaned over and pecked his cheek, “Let’s go,” you smiled.

“It’s a good thing I like you so much,” he sighed. “Come on Munson, let’s go!”

“Yeah I’m coming,” he laughed at your eagerness. Going to your trunk you pulled out a black scarf, hanging it around the boys next. “Uh what’s this for?”

“Keep you warm, you really need a winter coat.”

“I have one.”

“A leather jacket doesn’t count.”

“I don’t get cold.”

“Mhm sure, tell your icy cold feet that at 3am.”

“I said sorry!”

“I know I know. Now come on.”

Your gloved hands held his bare ones and you dragged him in the direction that the other people left. The further you walked the more fairy lights were hung up in the trees.

Soon enough Eddie could see what you were here to do. He breathed out, “Ice skating.”

“Yeah, well you mentioned it and then a lady at the shop said her granddaughter was coming here with her friends.”

The curly haired man smiled at you, leaning down and pecking your lips. “Good surprise?”

“Great surprise. I did tell you I haven’t done this in years though so I doubt I’ll be much good.”

~ / / / * \ \ \ ~

“Tell me about your mom,” you whispered, lay on Eddies bare chest, drawing patterns on his skin. “She was wonderful, kind, beautiful.

“She really loved me, put people above herself even when she got sick. She was the one who encouraged me to play guitar, made me fall in love with Lord of The Rings. She made me who I am.”

“She sounds lovely.”

“She was. You know when the lake by our old house used to get cold enough it’d freeze over. She used to take me out skating, we’d spend all day out there. It’s one of my best memories with her, just sliding around and laughing.

“I miss her.” You kissed his chest, leaning up to look at his face. “She’d be so proud of the man you’ve become, so proud of how strong and kind you are.”

~ / / / * \ \ \ ~

“I’ve never been, so let’s hope we go home in one piece,” you laughed. The pair of you walked hand in hand to grab skates, handing over your shoes and taking a number so you could take them back later.

Sat on a bench Eddie knelt down to help you with your laces, “There we go,” he said, squeezing your ankle, lovingly. “You ready gorgeous?”

“Let’s go Sweetheart.”

Hand in hand you went to the ice, sliding on, the feeling underneath your feet wasn’t what you’d expected. Eddie seemed to get the hand of it quickly, “I thought you said you hadn’t done this in years!”

“What can I say Sweetheart I’m a natural,” he laughed, taking both of your hands and leading you on the ice. People were here with their families, friends, all smiling, even those who’d slipped over.

You slowly became more confident, allowing Eddie to let go of one of your hands. “There you go Sweetheart, you’re a pro!” he praised, the pair of you gaining some speed.

A younger couple were doing some tricks in the middle of the ice, spinning quickly, dancing together. “We should try,” Eddie motioned to them.

“No no no,” you laughed.

“Why not?”

“Eddie come on.” He gave you a grin, reaching out for you, but you were too quick. Skating away from him, squealing as you went with Eddie close behind.

Sadly you weren’t great at skating so couldn’t get far, before he wrapped his arm around you waist. Unluckily for Eddie he lost his footing, making him slip onto his ass. You following straight behind.

Pushing up off him, you made eye contact, the pair of you bursting into a laughter that came from your stomach. Smiling, covered with a rosy flush, Eddie reached out for your face.

“God you’re so beautiful,” he spoke, so gently, you barely heard him. “Eds-”

“I love you.”

Your eyes went wide, “W-what?” you stuttered. “I shouldn’t have said that I’m sorry,” he said quickly, as if he hasn’t meant to say the previous ones. “No no! Please don’t apologise. Do you um .. do you mean it?”

“Do I mean it?” he scoffed, “Sweetheart I’ve been in love with you since I first saw you, I was so scared of it I tried to push you away!”

“You love me,” you smiled.

“I do, I love you.”

“I love you too Eddie.”

You lips brushed against one another, giving each other sweet but passionate kisses. “As much as I love you Sweetheart, I’m pretty sure my ass is freezing to the ice.”

~ / / / * \ \ \ ~

A/N : this genuinely may be my favourite part of this whole fic, it just made my heart so happy 🫶🏻

Thank you so much for reading 🤍

Taglist :

@corrodedseraphine @flawiette @witchwolflea @emxxblog @plk-18 @vintagehellfire @lma1986 @squidscottjeans @eddiesguitarskills @nanas-lasagna @halialex1119 @goth-cowgirl-03 @corrodedcoffincumslut @micheledawn1975

[thewritersofdeceased]

"AND I HATE TO DO THIS TO YOU ON YOUR BIRTHDAY. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BY THE WAY." PRONOUNS: THEY/THEM, GENDER NEUTRAL REQUEST? NO.

FOUR YEARS. Four birthdays spent in the basement of the man known as "THE GRABBER". A sad sigh escaped as he ran a hand through his messy, appy hair. There were knots all in it. He hated it. Badly. He sat with his back to the wall, his eyes looking to the bar and window. Though when he blinked and reopened his eyes, there were lights. Blue and red flashing lights. He stood to his feet quickly, hissing out in the pain they were in. The Grabber had broken his ankles. After all, he tried to run and escape when he got the chance the first time. He let out a yelp after he almost fell, landing on his knees. That'd leave a scrape.

Not bothering to get up, Griffin began to army crawl towards the basement door, hearing the voices of officers. Or detectives. Or both, he couldn't exactly tell. He tried to shout for help, but without actual good water in his throat, it was rather difficult. The boy stumbled to get up, using the door as guidance before he began to pound his fists on it. He stumbled backwards, a soft whine escaping him when he fell back onto his behind. His eyes were wide when he noticed the basement door opening. "Down here!" A voice called, pushing the door open and only gasps escaping officers and detectives. He felt someone pick him up, bringing him outside and into the light. Though someone caught their attention. "GRIFFIN!" A voice called out. A person. A friend who would constantly search for Griffin during his years of being in that cold basement. Y/N ran towards where Griffin was, the ambulance. "Officers, Can I go with him, please!?" They questioned, looking at the officers, detectives and ambulance people. Though only a detective waved them off, leaving Y/N to quickly get into the ambulance with Griffin in it.

After a while of driving and explaining everything, the hospital was in sight of Y/N. Thank god... When the ambulance had stopped, Y/N was quick to get out of the way of paramedics, who took the stretcher with Griffin on it and began to head inside the hospital. Y/N debated on following, knowing how badly their parents would be worried if they didn't go home. Taking a quick breath in, they ran around the ambulance and towards the automatic doors that opened as soon as their foot was near it. They couldn't wait. Well. Most people had already planned their appointments and everything, leading the line to be mainly empty. Y/N looked around, back and forth before taking steps towards the desk.

A woman looked up to them, speaking before looking back down at the work they were doing. "Hello, do you have an appointment?" She asked, typing something into the computer about any valuable information she had been given. Y/N was taking shaky breaths before speaking. "No... But is there a way you could notify me if a boy by name Griffin Stagg gets better at all? Or tell someone who works with him to call my parents!?" They spoke fast, rushed. The worker lifted her head, her eyes narrowing. "Griffin Stagg? I thought he was missing." She repeated before Y/N spoke with a slightly harsher tone of voice. "Well, he was! Look, he'll explain everything when he's actually y'know- NOT BLEEDING OUT!? Is there a way you can get my parents or me informed at all!?" They questioned, slamming their hands down on the desk with a harsh glare in their eyes.

"What's your family's house number?" The woman questioned, Y/N saying it before looking at the woman. "We'll let you know when he wakes up or wishes to see visitors. Goodbye." The woman spoke, leaving Y/N to only turn on their heel and begin to quickly leave the hospital.  

A couple weeks went by without any messages. Though a phone ringing caught the attention of Y/N after weeks. Standing quickly to their feet from the couch in the living room, they almost tripped from the carpet before running towards the phone. Taking it off the ringer, they held it to their ear with widened eyes and a piercing feeling of hope in their chest. "Hello? Is this the L/N household?" The voice asked-

[anxious-witch]

Inertia 7

Summary: Newton's first law expresses the principle of inertia: the natural behavior of a body is to move in a straight line at constant speed. In the absence of outside influences, a body's motion preserves the status quo.

Jan choose a direction of his life the moment he walked out of his parents house and cut all contact with them. He didn't want anything to do with them, or God anymore. Even his soulmark he wished he could leave behind. But when Nace Jordan joins the band, with a mark matching his own, can Jan keep going the same way he did? Or will the force make him change a direction?

Pairings: Jan Peteh/Nace Jordan

Warnings: None, I think? Please do tell me if I'm wrong I'll edit ot immediately

Notes: AO3 link

urprise! Early update of the last chapter. Thank you everyone who made it this far, especially people who consistently commented throughout. I have several things to say before you jump right in.

1) I am aware JO didn't actually preform at the EMA, but since this is already and au and I really liked the concept of the scene, it is here. Just roll with it 2) There will (hopefully) be two fics following this one, one with the focus on Bojan and the other on Kris. I am not sure exactly when I'll be writing and post them though, since December is quite busy, but until then, at least this is finished.

Anyway, this part is pretty much all fluff and very cheesy at the end, but I figured we all deserved it after all the angst

I believe that witness is a magnitude of vulnerability. That when I say love what I mean is not a feeling nor promise of a feeling. I believe in attention. My love for you is a monolith of try.

The woman I love pays an inordinate amount of attention to large and small objects. She is not described by anything. Because I could not mean anything else,

she knows exactly what I mean.

Once upon a time a line saw itself clear to its end. I have seen the shape of happiness. (y=mx+b) I am holding it. It is your hand.

What Space Faith Can Occupy By TC Tolbert

Jan wondered if light green walls of the therapist's office were suppose to somehow elevate the space. Made it seem more colorful.

Personally, it only reminded him more if a hospital.

Still, just as in all previous sessions, he had to remind himself he wasn't there just for himself. Kris had been genuinely worried after his breakdown. Jure and Bojan didn't know about it, but they likely suspected something had transpired.

He would need to tell Bojan about him and Nace eventually. But that, at least, was a problem for future Jan.

There was also Nace to think about. In the past three weeks, there had been slow, almost painful progress made between them. Still, he was trying. That counted for something, right?

He turned his attention back to the matter at hand.

His therapist was a young woman, Jan would guess somewhere in her thirties. She hat jet black hair and looked perfectly put together. She reminded him of Kris in that regard.

Which made sense, considering he only got a spot so quickly due to Kris' connections. Jan really, really didn't want to think about how he managed that.

"So, Jan," Nina said, "do you want us to continue on where we stopped last time, or do you have something from this week you'd like to discuss?"

Her voice was unkind, or even cold, but Jan still had to force himself to talk sometimes. His trust issues weighted heavily on him in moment like these.

"Well, no. Except that Nace and I actually went to play basketball, but I mentioned we will last week anyway."

Nina patiently waited for him to continue. When he didn't, she spoke again.

"How was it?"

Jan sighed. It was awful. Jan felt genuinely bad for even going along with it, considering how much Nace hated any sport that you had to play with the ball. It ended when Nace didn't manage to catch the ball one time Jan threw it. It hit him in the face and made his nose bleed.

Jan supposed there was a metaphor there somewhere.

"It wasn't great. Nace is...really bad at basketball."

She quickly wrote something down and Jan tried his best not to feel judged.

"And how did you feel about it?"

"Shitty, I guess. I didn't make him play, but it kind of felt like I did."

Nina tapped her pen to the notes.

"From what I have here, it seems Nace usually initiates these activities and they seem to be activities you like. Am I correct?"

Jan shrugged.

"Yes."

"And what do you think about that?"

How many times could she ask him that? Wasn't she supposed to tell him what to think about that? Jan felt increasingly annoyed.

"Why do you keep asking that? If you want to say something, then say it."

She pursed her lips.

"I am not here to tell you how to feel, Jan. I am here to help you verbalize it."

That was the dumbest fucking answer he ever heard.

"I already said I feel bad about it. What more do you want me to say?"

"Have you thought about doing the same for him?"

Jan paused. He haven't. Or well-he had, but he wasn't really sure there was an activity Nace liked that they could do together.

"I don't know if we have anything in common. Other than music, I mean. I know he is trying, but maybe this wasn't a good idea, after all."

Nina nodded, his face neutral. Always so goddamn neutral.

"Have you talked to him about it?"

"What, and break his heart? He'd just try even harder. I don't-"

I don't know what to say to make him give up on me. Jan clenched his teeth.

"I think you should consider trying one of his activity. Surely, there is something he likes that you don't hate."

Jan took in a deep breath. He was fighting the urge to mess up his nails even more, but if he started bleeding during practice again, even Bojan will notice.

"I guess. But that doesn't solve the main issue, does it?"

Nina sighed.

"Alright. How about you think about it, and we talk about something else for the rest od the session?"

Jan agreed and they moved on, but the thought stayed with him. Was he simply not putting enough effort?

The question haunted him enough for him to drive to Nace's apartment few hours later. He only sent him a text asking if he was home, and once he got a confirmation, he sat in the car and drove here.

It was probably rude, but Jan figured that if Nace had an issue with him being rude, they wouldn't be here in the first place.

It wasn't until he rang the doorbell and heard the barking did he remember Nace had a dog. Ollie.

He knew that, of course. It was just that the two of them usually met outside of Nace's apartment and several times they came here, Ollie was being babysat by Nace's sister.

Well. Jan supposed it was bound to happen to or later. If Ollie hated him, did that mean he was immediately disqualified from soulmate status?

Nace opened the door, trying to keep Ollie from rushing into the hallway. Jan felt caught off guard, despite the fact that he was the one who rang the doorbell.

Nace was wearing a tank top. Had Jan ever seen him in one before?

"Please get in before he runs out, I don't feel like trying to catch him."

Jan quickly stepped into the apartment and Nace closed the door behind him. The Nace carefully let Ollie come closer.

Jan kneeled down, offering his hand for him to sniff at. He liked dogs well enough, but he was always at a bit of a loss on what to do with them.

Cats you had to build a bond with. Usually just being in their general vicinity was enough at the start. You let them come to you. Even if you offered them treats, you had to leave them at the same distance at first.

Dogs? Dogs were unpredictable. They could love you or hate you your smell. Or whatever it was that they could feel around you.

"Dogs can always tell if a person is good or bad", his brother used to say. Jan, who had dogs both love and hate him for no clear-cut reasons over the years, couldn't quite agree.

Dogs could feel something, certainly. But that something was only a first impression and they choose that intangible thing as a base to be loyal or not.

Cats, at least got to know you first before making any judgments.

Ollie sniffed his hand and cocked his head to the side, as if trying to gauge if he was alright or not.

"Hello," Jan said awkwardly.

Ollie came closer, nudging his snout against his hand and Jan carefully petted him on the head, waiting to see the reaction. When he started wagging his tail, Jan felt relieved.

Nace's dog hating him wasn't something he wished to deal with. There were plenty of other things that made him want to turn back and run away.

"He seems to like you," Nace said softly.

One bad call he share with his owner, Jan thought grimly as he stood up.

"That's good. I think we should talk."

Nace sighed.

"As much as I love how direct you are, that sounds very ominous."

Jan simply took his shoes off and shrugged off his jacket.

Ollie followed them as they went into the living room. Jan wondered if they were creating some sort of bad karma for the place, having all their fucked up conversations here.

Or perhaps he spent too much time around Bojan and his superstitiousness was starting to rub off of him.

"Do you want something to drink first or-"

"How about we just get this over with and then after you can offer me stuff if you want me to stay?"

Nace awkwardly sank into the couch, far enough that Jan would have to stretch to be able to touch him, despite his long arms. Was it for his own comfort, or for Jan's?

They were closer physically since they talked the last time. Sitting closer, hand brushing against each other, squeezing each other's shoulders on occasion. That sort of thing.

Now, though, there was no of that. As if Nace was already getting used to the distance. Which Jan supposed was fair, even if he felt a familiar burning at the soulmark.

Before Jan could say anything, though, Ollie jumped on the couch and attempted to nuzzled at his chest. Jan felt thrown off balance a bit as he petted him, which only prompted Ollie to settle in his lap.

"I don't think I am doing this whole thing right," Jan confessed, not taking his eyes off Ollie.

"Could you please be more specific?"

Jan scratched behind Ollies ear. Matej's dog liked that. Ollie made a content sound so Jan continued.

"You keep putting so much effort into liking things that I like and trying them out. And I-I mean I can do it too, but I don't know if it's even right. Like, shouldn't we already have matching interests? Is it even healthy if we both have to change?"

He took his hands off Ollie and clenched them in frustration. He hated how his tongue always felt like lead when he was supposed to talk about these things. He harshly pulled at his hair and tied it back with the tie around his wrist.

"This works like any other relationship would, Jan."

Jan scoffed.

"Does it? I don't remember any of my friends tailoring their interests to fit me."

Nace took in a deep breath. Jan learned he always did that when he was frustrated, like he was stopping himself from saying anything before he was ready.

"Really? Kris never tried listening to metal for you? He knows you favorite brand of tea on accident? You always keep ear plugs in your car if he gets overstimulated because, what? You did that before you were friends?"

Jan felt speechless.

"That's-

"Different? Yeah, of course it is, because this is Kris we are talking about."

Nace sounded resigned. Hurt, even. Jan slowly looked at him, but now it was Nace avoiding his gaze. He was staring at his hands, his expression troubled.

"I don't mean to say discard your and Kris' friendship. I think it's amazing you have him, but I'm jealous. Not because I think there is anything going on, but because you seem to allow others to get close to you while keep me at arms length. And I don't know what to do at this point to change your mind."

Jan's heart squeezed painfully. He never heard Nace so resigned. He was always the one to try and find a solution and not give up.

He gently set Ollie on the couch, despite his small, protesting whine. Then he stood up sat closer to Nace. Close enough that their shoulders touched. This time, he was the one to take Nace's hands in his.

"I'm sorry. You are right."

Nace's head slowly rose, like he barely dared to be hopeful and look at Jan straight on.

"I was, well I am scared. We said we'll be friends, but I don't think I can be your friend. From the moment we met, I kept you at arm length and for one single moment I didn't, we ended up hooking up. You terrify me, Nace."

Nace's breath stuttered. Jan leaned his forehead against Nace's and closed his eyes.

"I had all but convinced myself everything about soulmates was bullshit, that all that was stories and people kept confirming them because they were desperate for it to be true. But that was all it was, a placebo effect. And then you came along. Shattered everything I thought I knew."

For a moment, there was silence. Then Nace's hand touched his neck, just a bit below the soulmark. Jan took in a deep, shuddering breath.

"May I?"

"Yes."

The first time Nace touched the soulmark, Jan was too terrified to even appreciate the sensation. But he did now. The feeling was warm and safe. Jan expected his heart to race, but instead it calmed down, as if soothed by Nace's touch.

Something about a gesture made something deep inside him uncoil and words just started pouring out of him.

"When I was fifteen, I started secretly listening to metal. The first time I did, I felt so guilty, I ended up crying and not allowing myself to eat for a day, as a penance. For weeks, I had been worse off than if I had never listened to it. It took me months to gather the courage to try again."

Jan hoped Nace would understand he was saying. He wasn't sure he could say it outright. Nace hummed.

"You are afraid, but you also know that doesn't mean this is bad because you are afraid."

Jan nodded, but Nace didn't say anything immediately after. When he finally spoke, he didn't say what Jan expected him to.

"When I was twelve, I was bullied a lot because of my weight. I remember being terrified of going to school. The only place I felt safe in was the church, because nobody bullied me there. I felt safe. Even if the conditions and rules weren't perfect, it was still better."

Jan opened his eyes, almost indignantly.

"I am not a church."

Nace cracked a small smile.

"No. But you are a safe space, even if the conditions and rules you impose aren't perfect."

Jan's answer was to kiss him. Not roughly, like he did before, but softly and slowly. Giving Nace time to pull away.

He didn't, instead he kissed him back and pulled him closer. One of Jan's hands curled around Nace's nape and the other reached for his wrist. He knew exact moment he touched his soulmark, because Nace shivered.

The only way Jan could describe the feeling was that the bond between them sang. Like the world slightly tilted and found a perfect balance.

Like they were perfect together.

Jan had to pull back from the kiss, fighting a near overwhelming fear that washed over him. Nace didn't let him go far this time, instead pulling him in a hug.

"It's okay."

Nace's voice was soft, and he was warm and comfortable and it was almost unbearable.

"I know it's fucking okay," Jan said, his voice breaking.

He buried his head in Nace's chest and hope he didn't feel the tears soaking his shirt. Nace didn't say anything after that, he simply held him as he cried.

Until the tears dried out and the fear slightly pulled back. Still, some doubts remained.

"What if the rules and conditions can't be improved anymore? What if this is just...who I am?"

He pulled back a bit, to study Nace's face as he answered. Unexpectedly, Nace grinned.

"Well, if a church gets a new priest-"

Jan rolled his eyes at the awful joke.

"You've been hanging with Bojan too much."

Nace was still grinning.

"A priest can also recommend new way of worship-"

Jan groaned loudly and pushed Nace back, so he landed on his back, laughing openly. He had a beautiful, infectious laugh that Jan couldn't help but laugh along as well.

"Please don't use church metaphors anymore. They are awful."

Nace stretched his arms over his head, exposing his muscles and tattoos even more. Jan couldn't help, but let his gaze linger on them.

"Make me."

Jan was never the one to avoid temptation. And Nace had always been so tempting. Almost like a red apple in a garden without color. Jan leaned down and kissed him again.

Nace melted into the kiss and reached out to him again. His hands reached Jan's hair and Jan tense slightly, but Nace gently pulled at the tie, until his hair spilled from the ponytail.

Jan was distracted enough by the kiss to let him. He wanted Nace closer and-

They were interrupted by a loud, insistent whine. Jan pulled back enough to look in the direction it came from, finding Ollie looking at them with the saddest expression he could possibly muster.

Nace burst out laughing, his whole body shaking.

"I think he doesn't like me hogging his new favorite."

Jan chuckled, sitting back up. He held his hand out and petted Ollie gently, immediately receiving a lick on his hand.

"Maybe I could have some sort of tea, if the offer still stands," Jan said, not looking away from Ollie.

"It absolutely does. I have mint tea Kris mentioned you liked."

Traitor, Jan thought, giving away my secrets.

"Nace?"

"Yeah?"

"Which one is your favorite?"

Jan turned his head to look, catching a surprise that flitted across his face before it melted in a soft smile.

"Probably chamomile."

Of course. The calming thing one always drank when they felt unwell to soothe and comfort. It fit him.

"I'll remember that."

With that Nace went into the kitchen, and Ollie brough Jan a ball he could throw for him. Jan took in a deep breath, feeling as if he just climbed a mountain. Whatever happened after this, he had a feeling he could handle after.

As terrifying as it could get.

Jan was nervously tapping his fingers against the wheel, resisting the urge to bite his nails. It was not a smart thing to do while driving.

"Are you really not going to tell me where we are going?"

He chuckled a bit at Nace's pleading tone. This really was an unusual role reversal for both of them, wasn't it?

"I told you, it's a surprise."

Nace huffed and settled back in his seat. Jan sneaked a glance at him when he stopped at the red light. Nace had his arms crossed over his chest, his warm brown jacket tightly wrapped around his biceps.

"One would think I am taking you to get shot," Jan teased, turning his gaze back to the road as the light changed to green.

Nace laughed at that, at least, his shoulders relaxing.

"No, I just-I am not used to surprises. You barely gave me any hints on what to wear!"

Jan smirked.

"I said wear something comfortable that you don't mind getting dirty."

He could feel Nace's unimpressed stare on him.

"Very helpful."

Jan chuckled and took a left turn, parking to the side. Nace immediately started glancing around, trying to gauge where they were. Jan couldn't help but think it was kind of cute.

He unbuckled his belt and got out of the car, waiting for Nace to do the same. When he did, he led him to a nearby building.

Nace was frowning, trying to piece together what they were doing. Jan decided to take pity on him.

"It's a pottery class."

His head immediately snapped towards Jan, his eyes widening.

"You are taking me to a pottery class??"

Jan swallowed, growing nervous all of a sudden. Did he misjudge? Did Jure mix something up?

"Jure mentioned you wanted to try it since your sister did pottery. I thought..."

"No! I mean, yes, I love the idea!"

He sounded so eager, so terrified that Jan would change his mind and snatch the offer away from him. Jan felt bad. Was he truly treating him in a way that made him think he'd play him like this for a joke?

"Alright then. Let's go."

There were people inside already, and their teacher quickly introduced himself. He gave them instructions on hand-building techniques with clay, saying they need to get used to that before they can move to the pottery wheel.

The process was messy and Jan underestimate just how bad he was at shaping the clay. When Nace looked over and saw his wonky cup, he doubled over laughing.

Jan side-eyed him, before taking a bit of clay and smearing it over Nace's shirt. Nace gasped.

Then he grabbed a piece of clay and smeared it over Jan's cheek. Jan slapped his hair away, trying to rub it off.

"If this gets into my hair Nace, I swear-"

Nace laughed again and someone shushed them.

"Can you two please let the rest of us work?" A blond man left of them said.

He was short, with blind hair just below his ears. He was frowning at them intently, reminding Jan of an annoyed cat.

His tall, tattooed friend-or partner, how could Jan know, really-gently pulled him by the sleeve.

"Lovro, com'on. They are just having fun. Look at this."

The man, well maybe even a boy, with how soft his features looked, immediately turned to the other man. He looked at him like...oh.

Jan looked at Nace, who was clearly eyeing the situation, seeing if Jan could handle it or if he needed to get involved.

Jan was hit by the sudden realization of how much he had come to care for him. Despite all the back and forth and his own grievances, he was-

He stopped his thoughts before any bigger words came to mind. It was still too early to think that. But maybe it wouldn't be, eventually.

Jan never thought of himself as someone who could settle down and yet that spark of hope still lived, nestled deep in his chest.

Maybe.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" Nace asked, titling his head to the side.

Jan shook his head.

"Nothing. Let's try to shape these into something decent before we do that...wheel thing, yeah?"

Nace smiled, like a sudden light igniting in the dark.

"Yeah."

As Jan tried to save his clay cup, he suddenly felt bolder. He could ask, right? At worst, Nace will refuse, but when did Nace refuse him before? Jan cleared his throat.

"You could...come over after, if you'd like. You didn't meet Igor yet."

He didn't look up as he asked the question. It would be easier to take a no when he didn't have to worry about which expression he was making.

"You want me to come over?"

There was that tone again. Like Nace was shocked by this. Like Jan wasn't trying to do better for weeks now. He supposed he'd just have to keep trying.

"If you'd like to, yes. I did get some chamomile tea recently."

He sneaked a glance in Nace's direction. His eyes were soft and his mouth was lightly open, as if in wonder. Jan's heart started beating fasted.

"I would like that," Nace said quietly, looking directly at him.

Jan had to look away, but he couldn't help but smile slight. There was slight fear in his stomach still, but there was no ringing of the church bell, or an urge to reach for a necklace that wasn’t there.

He was still himself and he was still in control of it all. Simply taking steps in the right direction. It had been as if he was in inertia for very long time. After being stuck for so long, it was hard to get back into motion, but once he did, he knew it would get easier.

All he had to do was keep moving.

All Jan could hear was a drum of his own heart as they waited for the host to announce them. Thud. Thud. Thud.

It was finally time for them to preform at EMA. To try and get chosen to represent Slovenia at Eurovision. The importance, the fragility of the moment made all the colors more intense, almost as if they were in new, swirling patterns.

Jan took a look at his bandmates. Each of them in a different outfit that fit them perfectly. Bojan, in his loud combination of green shirt and pink pants, that he somehow managed to pull of regardless.

Kris, in a gold sleeves shirt and lighter pink pants that match. Of course-Kris always knew how much attention to draw to himself. Not too much and not too little.

Jure, with sky blue button up that perfectly fit his sunshine personality and darker purple pants for contrast.

All of them looked amazing, really. But it was Nace that Jan couldn't look away from.

Nace, who finally wore color. A purple suit with a silver shirt underneath. The suit had intricated details that made Jan want to run his fingers over the material and feel it's shapes.

When he arrived, he was always pale beige in their mix of chaos and color. Slowly but surely, that changed. And here they were now.

Jan shuffled closer to him, almost as if pulled by an invisible force. He could feel it, but he found it more comforting now, rather than scary.

"Ready?" He whispered, smiling at him.

"Ready," Nace answered, briefly brushing his hand against Jan's.

"And next up, we have Joker Out!"

They stepped on the stage as the people clapped and Jan could feel the adrenaline fully hitting him. He couldn't concentrate on whatever Bojan briefly said before he started singing.

All Jan could focus on was playing. His fingers slid over the strings just as perfectly as they did the very first time he nailed a song when he was sixteen.

Everything else faded away, like looking at the world through a sort of fog. Only music existed. Even Bojan's singing was slightly muted in that moment. Like Jan was alone with his guitar.

Then his gaze slid to Nace and he found him already looking in his direction. Nace, who still had the ability to be in Jan's bubble that one else could touch.

He didn't mind the company, though. Not anymore.

He sent him a little wink and watched as his cheeks turned slightly red. Then he turned back to the audience and took a deep breath. Then let the bubble snap and all the sound and sensations rush back to him.

Because there was never really a need for the bubble at all. Not when he was at the safe space.

There was no divinity here. None other than the music itself, that they shared with the audience.

When they played the last note, there was a thunderous applause and part of Jan already knew. He could feel it in their bones that they won.

The knowing of being at the right place, at the right time. With just the right people, too.

The rest od the night passed in a blur. Jan knew he talked to people, but later he'd be unable to recall what he said. He'd remember the high of the announcement that they won and all of his friends rushing into a group hug.

It wasn't until they all changed back to their everyday clothes and were waiting for Bojan in the cold, that the realization finally started to sink in.

"We won," he whispered into the night air.

"We did," Kris said, smiling.

Whatever makeup they put on him made him look more ethereal than usual. He looked more content than Jan had seen him for awhile.

"What is Bojan doing for so long?" Jure wondered, his eyes lingering on the doors they all cane through.

It was odd. As much as Bojan paid attention to his looks, he never took this long.

"I'll go check," Jan said, getting to his feet.

Jan felt slightly guilty, over how little he talked to Bojan outside of the practice in recent weeks. Being caught up in the whole soulmate dilemma, he didn't take the time to pay as much attention to his friends.

Well, that was another thing he could start fixing now.

He found Bojan in the changing room, completely dressed, but staring off through the window.

"Bojan? Is everything okay?"

Bojan flinched, as if woken up from a very deep sleep. He blinked at Jan, confused.

"Ah, yeah! Yeah, I was just a bit lost in thought. Did you guys wait for me for long?"

Jan stepped closer, putting his hand on Bojan's shoulder. Bojan leaned into the touch, breathing out slowly.

"Are you sure you are alright?"

"I-" Bojan bit his lip, his gaze jumping around the room almost frantically, never staying for long and completely avoiding Jan's face.

"I just...this is a lot. It feels enormous. And of course, of course I am happy we won. It just feels like we set a new course all of a sudden, if that makes sense. Like it feels like my life already changed."

Jan pulled him into a hug. Bojan took in a sharp breath and then relaxed, hugging him back. They just stayed like that for a moment.

"I know. It's terrifying but it's going to be okay. You have us, alright?"

Bojan's arms tightened around him for a bit.

"Yeah."

They were silent for a bit and Bojan already pulled away from the hug when Jan spoke again.

"I actually owe you an apology. With how I reacted when you brought up soulmates for all these years."

Bojan shrugged.

"It's fine. I figured it was a sensitive topic."

Jan shook his head.

"Yes but it's not an excuse. I am sorry, Bojan. You were allowed to be excited at prospect of meeting them without me putting you down for it."

He rubbed tips of his fingers against the nail of his thumb. Resisting the urge to mess it up more.

"I won't say I completely understand, even now with Nace. I still very much love being independent from him. But I am saying I understand more."

Bojan smiled, reminding Jan that if Nace was the light in darkness, Bojan was certain a sun, his rays bringing about a new day.

"Thank you for saying that. I am excited to meet her, one day. Whenever destiny decides we are ready."

Jan rolled his eyes, more for the dramatic effect than anything else. That was still extremely cheesy, but it was very on brand for Bojan.

"Sure, lover boy. Now, can we go before the rest of them freeze outside? It is December, y'know?"

Bojan laughed and grabbed his bag. He dramatically pointed to the door.

"To wherever destiny may lead us!"

Jan cracked a smile, unable to keep up the brooding persona.

"To whenever destiny may lead us," he repeated quietly.

Then he stepped over the threshold after Bojan and for the first time in many years he knew everything would be alright. As long as he had his family, soulmate included, by his side, everything would be alright.

No matter the challenges that awaited them.

[b0ard1ngsch00l]

(boss crush anon) thanks :D i'll start with context, im 28 and hes 48..funnily enough i had a dream recently where i was back in high school and he was my teacher LOL, thought that was relevant. ive had this crush for a few months now and have been writing about every little interaction i have with him. one of your posts that rly spoke to me was "i want to mean something to him", bc girl no joke ive written that exact sentiment about him before. every time i talk to him feels special, i get a legit high thinking about seeing him every day. hes so painfully handsome and nice to me, sometimes when he sees me his whole face just lights up and he gives me this HUGE smile. hes also the only person i work with who calls me by a shortened version of my name <3 one of my other coworkers even noticed that he did that and i was like 0///0 yeah he has a nickname for me so what?

there was an after-work happy hour that i went to once, i brought a friend and asked her to watch how he acted around me bc he can be hard for me to read sometimes, i cant see his behavior objectively when i have so much wishful thinking going on lol. she told me later that when we walked in, he made a beeline straight for me right away, and seemed sorta shy when talking to me. she asked how i was doing at my job (i was new at the time) and he said something like "shes awesome! every day that shes here is a great day!" and my face mustve been beet red..he kept showing up in our conversations with other people and standing near me, something ive noticed he does a lot in group situations. just recently, we had an premiere with lots of people and since i was on the clock i was standing by myself in the back of the room, watching in case someone needed anything. fr he comes over and stands RIGHT next to me. there was no one else around that area, he chose to stand right beside me while we watched the premiere.

he was out of the office for a whole week once (work related reasons) and i angsted so hard..not seeing him on weekends is bad enough but this was like 10 days and i was going feral. we followed each other on instagram after that happy hour and during that week he was gone he randomly liked one of my posts late at night. i have to wonder if he was missing me too..the next day he came by my work area to ask "whats new?", like he just wanted to catch up after being away which i thought was sweet. yesterday he was teasing me about hiding some of our work halloween decorations in my car to scare me (cute lol), today he was showing me how to tape a package with a confusing tape dispenser and our hands brushed multiple times while handing the tape back and forth, and god only knows whatll happen tomorrow!!

hes so wonderful and i rly want to know more about him, i want to be around him constantly and any time i get with him is instant dopamine. hes intoxicating and i feel selfish wishing he'd break a million rules for me (boss/employee relations, 20 year age gap, and yeah you guessed it hes also married) but i just cant help myself......im not planning on making a move bc i love my job too much to risk getting fired for that, but if HE did you know id reciprocate in an instant. but im glad to just know him even if things remain the same as they are forever, as much as i wish theyd escalate. THANK YOU for letting me get this all out of my system, theres even more i could say but this is long enough lol. have an amazing day, G <333333333

This was very enjoyable to read thank you! The way you both are seems sooo cute! I’m so glad you can relate to me <33 I so get you, and everything you’re feeling yk. It’s hard being obsessed with middle aged men who deep down you know you can’t have😭 but also there’s no other feeling like it and it’s kinda the best! Any time you need to rant about him I’d love to hear!💕

[islandtarochips]

Operation Red Tide: Chapter One

Arthur’s Note: This is the fanfic crossover after the events of MW Reboot. And before the MW2. 

Summary: General Kalani had received an important call from one of the Commissioner Officers in Fiji. Asking for assistance. The General knows her two soldiers are busy at Urzikstan but she knows her other two will take the job and finished it through. 

This fic will only be based on MY OCs and @deeptrashwitch OCs. And I want to say thanks to Witch for helping me with the title and letting me use some of her OCs! For this fic shows how two different teams have met. Enjoy reading it!

Words: 2635

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Suva, Fiji October 10, 2020 9AM

The sun was brightly shining as it shone down to the town center of Suva. The people of Fiji were busy celebrating the Independence Day of their island home.

There are food stalls, some games and most fun of all are the float parades! Many citizens are marching on the road, holding their flag up high with pride. And some floats that are driving by with people on top of it as they wave down to the rest of them who are standing on the streets.

Celebrating in the main cultural center of Fiji!

A PERFECT distraction.

Somewhere up town, away from where the people are at. 

In broad daylight at the port area where the police and the ambulance showed up at the scene. The officers were handcuffing the criminals while the investigators were busy looking around the place. With only a few dead bodies laying around with body sheets on them.

Showing two men standing and staring at the scene. As they watch many people taking the dead bodies away from there. The bodies of some of their lost officers who had died and some criminals who died as well during the crossfire.

One of the men had turned his head to the other man. Before he spoke.

(Arthur’s Note: When you see one of the words or sentences that are highlighted in Italic. It means they’re speaking in their cultural language.)

“One of our investigators had said that the warehouse was COMPLETELY empty.” 

The man was wearing a blue collar t-shirt with a black bulletproof vest around his chest. And was wearing light blue jeans with black shoes.

He then turned his gaze back to the scene. While still telling him from whatever their team had told him.

“No drugs. No money. No NOTHING. Not even their bosses are there. It's like...they cleaned up everything that we were supposed to find this cartel leader.”

The other man sighed. Who was wearing that black and white aloha t-shirt. Even wearing a black bulletproof vest as well. Black jeans and black shoes.

He rubbed his face with frustration. “This is a disaster. This trafficking is getting out of hand and we JUST missed it.” He sighed. “Let’s just hope that we’ll catch up to them before they reach out to other islands.”

His partner agreed before they heard one of their team members was calling out to them.

“Officer Veiliutaki! We have found something in the warehouse!” The officer called out the man with his last name. Getting his attention.

The two started walking while following them. They entered the warehouse and went in the back of where the room was at. Which is the room that they didn’t even notice before investigating around the area.

“Wait, I’ve never seen that room before. Why didn’t we see it?” The man asked as he looked at the door.

The other man, who is named Veiliutaki, looked at it as well. It looked like it had camouflage within the walls. “They must’ve constructed it to hide it before even starting this trafficking shits.”

And soon as they step inside this secret door. They were shocked. Seeing so much money laying around on the table. But they’re not just money. They are-

“Laundering money…” Veiliutaki softly said those words.

They’re real alright and a LOT too. It seems like these criminals have been hiding their trafficking business so well. For God knows HOW long they’ve been doing this.

Weeks? Months? Maybe a YEAR?

But how could they pass so low and quietly without them knowing?

Veiliutaki walked around the table before grabbing one of the stacks of money that was on there. And then saw a big map on the wall. Showing between the South and North Pacific Ocean and the United States and Mexico. He stared at the map seeing so many red circles and lines on each island and then at the states.

The red circle from the island of Samoa to Kiribati and one to Hawaii to Mexico. He even saw that there’s a sticky note about the schedules on the side next to those islands. Saying about what kind of package that these criminals are delivering.

He took one note from where Samoa was at and read it. And his eyes widened.

Human and Drug trafficking.

His partner walked up closer to the map and saw a paper on the table. He picked it up and scanned the information. “It seems like these are the places that they’re going to. Two ships though. One is going to Samoa and then to Kiribati. While the other one is heading to Hawaii and then to Mexico.” The man continued to read the schedule. “And they left about…..two weeks ago?!”

The partner was shocked to see this intel. The traffickers had already left a LONG time to deliver. And there’s no way for them to stop them in time.

The leader of this case is already stressing out as he slowly rubs his face. “They must’ve reached Samoa already. And they’ll be heading to Kiribati.”

“The ship that was going to Hawaii might be half way there. Damn it.” The man said as he was crumbling the paper in his hand with annoyance.

Veiliutaki starting to get FRUSTRATED. And he wanted to know HOW do these criminals get away with their delivery so easily. Someone has to be behind all of this.

But the intel that they have gotten from hadn’t mentioned ANYTHING about them leaving so early. They must’ve known that they were coming. But HOW?

“Sir.” The Officer grabbed Veiliutaki’s attention before giving him something crumbling up. “Found this in the trash can. Thought this might give us a clue.”

He took it and opening it before he noticed it was an envelope. He examined it before he froze to see the stamp on it. The color red symbol that belongs to someone that he thought was LONG gone.

“Jone? What is it?” His partner asked with concern. Seeing his boss was slowly looking pale.

Veiliutaki just stared at it before gripping onto it.

He turned his heel and walked out before ordering the officer to get the others. To gather all of the money and give it to the bank.

While his partner followed behind.

“Hey, what’s going on?”

“I’ll explain to you later. Right now we need to track that SHIP.”

The man looked at him with a confused look on his face. As he stopped him. “Just hold on for ONE second. That ship had already reached Samoa and it will go to Kiribati. While the OTHER one is almost to Hawaii and will go to Mexico. They’re already far away from OUR reach. We won’t stop them in time before they head towards that area!”

Veiliutaki had looked into his partner’s eyes with a little hope in his. “WE won’t but I know someone who WILL.” He patted the man’s shoulder before continuing to walk.

The man was a bit puzzled before he followed the boss. “Really? WHO?”

“An old ally.”

---------------------------------------------------

O’ahu, Hawaii Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) October 11, 2020 11AM

“Of course, Laswell. I accepted that Sergeant Blast and Doctor Kalani will stay. So they can assist Commander Karim and her people.” Alana, the General of the Marine Corps, had said to Laswell. With a small smile on the corner of her lips.

“Just as long as you keep me up with those reports about them.”

The General heard the CIA woman chuckling from the screen.

“Of course, General. I’ll make sure to let you know how they are doing.” Laswell said as she smile from the screen. “And…Alana?”

Alana responded with a hum as she looked at her dear friend.

“...thank you. For your help. I…I know you’re still upset with me-”

Alana raised her hand for her to stop talking. “Stop right there, Miss Laswell.”

Laswell paused as she looked at Alana with a small nervousness in her eyes. She waited for the General to speak.

“I’m not upset. Not anymore. I…had still brought that past with me. And let it affect me to be angry at someone else. Which…YOU don’t deserve that.”

Laswell was a bit surprised to hear this from the General who had held her anger from all those years.

“And I…want to say that I’m…I’m very sorry for how I treated you. You don’t deserve that. You’ve worked hard to help your team and mine. And I appreciate that.”

“Oh? Is the cold old General actually apologizing?” Laswell teased her as she showed her grinning teeth.

Alana rolled her eyes. “Don’t make me take those words back, Laswell.”

The two women laughed a little as they started to feel the atmosphere getting lighter. Even though they’re just talking through the screen and they just finished the toughest mission. But...they could tell that it’s becoming less stressful.

“So, what are you going to do now? Since the mission has already been taken care of.” Laswell asked as she leaned back on her chair.

Alana did the same on her own office chair as she sighed softly. “Well, I DO have lots of paperwork to sign. So I guess I’ll start with that one.”

“Uh huh. I could see why you have three cups of coffee over there?"

Alana could see Laswell pointing beside her through the screen. Seeing three cups of large coffee on her desk. She chuckled a bit before taking one of the large coffees as she showed it to her. “Well, I need to get my energy somehow. With a bit of SPICE.”

Laswell gasped dramatically. “General Alana Kalani. Don’t tell me that you add something in your coffee? It’s too EARLY for that!”

She started to laugh at Laswell’s dramatic gasping and comments about her drinking in the morning. As she smirked at her. “And what are you going to do about it? Putting this in your report? I’m a fucking General. I can do the fuck I want.”

The two of them laugh wholeheartedly before calming down a bit.

Laswell smiled softly at Alana as she leaned forward while crossing her arms. Laying it on the table. “I missed talking with you, Ala. It’s been a while that we’re like this.”

“Careful, Kate. You don’t want your wife to be mad at you for having an affair with me.”

“HA! As if! You know I won’t do that to her.”

Alana showed her soft smile as she took a sip from her coffee.

Then she saw the corner of her screen that she got a call.

A familiar name.

“Alana?”

Alana looked at Laswell. “Sorry, Kate. I need to take this call. Maybe we can talk sometime later?”

Laswell nodded with a small smile. “Sure. We’ll keep in touch.”

“Thank you. And tell your wife that I said hi.” After that Alana hung up on the call and answered the other.

Soon it showed a Fijian man on the screen.

“Officer Jone Veiliutaki. In what do I owe the pleasure? Unexpectedly.”

The man chuckled as he smiled to see the General. “Hello General, I hope that I’m not interrupting anything.”

“Not at all. Just talking to an old friend.”

“Ah. I see. Well…uh…I know you will not be happy to hear this one from me. But…I need your help.”

Alana scoffed a bit to hear her old ally saying that she will ‘not’ be happy to hear something from him. Even when he’s asking for her help. “Jone. What made you think that I won’t be happy? You know that you and I have been working side by side before I joined the ranks.”

“Yes…I know. But…” The Officer was silenced for a bit as he tried to explain this to the General. “Alana…he’s BACK.”

The woman looked at the Officer with confusion showing on her face. “What do you mean?” Alana then saw Jone brought out a crushed up envelope and showed it to her in the front of it. She froze in her seat. Her eyes widened in shock and she could hear her own heartbeat.

The red symbol. That shows the head shaped like a dragon. Facing to the side as its snaky tongue sticks out and fangs show.

That symbol had made Alana’s vein cold.

“Taniwha…”  She mumbled to herself. “It can’t be. HOW?”

“That’s what I’m questioning too. I know that you and your team have already ended this man.” The Fijian man started to type something on his laptop. “One of the CIA agents had gotten SOME info from that criminal group's records and got some intel from them too.” 

The Officer continued explaining as he showed each picture of the criminals that were helping with the trafficking. “According to them. They don’t know who he was. They just follow the orders and get their money.”

Hearing a scoff from the General. She wasn’t surprised that the people are always going for the money without questioning the masters. Such greedy bastards.

“So we don’t know if it’s true that it might be him or someone else taking his place.”

“Which means they don’t know his or her name?”

Jone nodded. “Yes. And it’s getting even harder now that there are two ships already sent out. And Taniwha is the sneaky one. They have left TWO weeks ago without us knowing.”

Alana was sighing as she rubbed the bridge of her nose after receiving that info. “TWO ships left about TWO weeks ago? How can you let them slip away?”

The Fijian man cleared his throat in an awkward manner. Since he’s feeling slightly embarrassed that he and his team hadn’t even noticed this. “Ahem. We uh…didn’t even know until today.”

Alana rolled her eyes as she gave that disappointing look. “Well then, that’s nice to know. I’m sure those two ships have already done their jobs.”

“Almost. One ship has already landed on Samoa and it will soon go to Kiribati. While the second one is heading towards Hawaii.”

“And where EXACTLY they’re landing on Hawaii?”

“In Honolulu. Where it’s almost close to where your base was at. They should be there in a few days.”

Alana leaned back against her chair as she crossed her arms. Putting one hand over her chin while closing her eyes to think. She was trying to figure out how to stop the two ships.

“After delivering from here and from Kiribati. Where else are they going?”

Jone showed the map on the screen to zoom in where Mexico was at. “To Mexico. Not only that. They might cross the border to the US. For we already got some intel about them working with those smugglers.”

Oh great. Just what Alana wanted to hear. She sighed. “Alright then, I’ll help you to stop these traffickers. Except that two of my soldiers are far away in Urzikstan to assist the ULF.”

“I understand.”

Then she raised her finger to him. “BUT. I do have other two members who will be available. I will send them with some other soldiers to assist you.”

“But what are your plans to stop the two ships?”

“We’ll just stop the one that was heading here. It won’t be long I’m sure of it. And after that we’ll head straight to the other one before it reaches Mexico. After they deliver it to Kiribati.”

The Officer nodded. “That’s a good idea and sounds simple. But do be aware about the SECURITY in those two boats.”

The General agreed. She knows that there will be some securities when it comes to delivering something illegal. But who would stop her and her team from kicking their asses? “Of course, we’ll be VERY careful.”

Jone grinned a bit to hear that from the General. “You’re going to make some messes are you?”

“What made you say that?”

He laughed a bit as he shook his head. “You still have that small humor inside of you.”

Alana chuckled. “I may be up in my ranks. But I'm still the same." She looked at him with a small smile. "It’s good to see you again, Jone. I’ll make sure that they'll be stop.”

“Vinaka, Alana.”

“Sa donu, Jone.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Characters:

General Alana Kalani -> Me

Tagging Opt In/Out:

@justasmolbard @alypink @dirtfullofwork @kaitaiga

@deeptrashwitch @sweet-samnang @welldonekhushi

[edgessunflower]

Chapter 13

Leaving the jungle

You toss and turn as you sleep, Damian walks back in from rebandaging his waist to see you locked in the fetal position quietly crying as the nightmare happens. He feels his whole soul ripped out of his body as he slowly puts his hand on your shoulder gently shaking you as your body shakes with sobs as the dream continues until you jump up and your eyes shoot open in fear as you curl your knees to your chest "It felt so real...I" he pulls you to him as you shake and sob hiding your face in the crook of his neck until you slowly feel safe again and fall asleep on his chest with his arms wrapped tightly around you as he stares at you asleep, "I'm going to get us home i promise you" he kisses your forehead as he eventually falls asleep until you both wake up that next morning and clean your wounds and rebandage them all until you suddenly hear a loud noise immediately standing still in fear until it is quiet and a voice yells out one that makes both your eyes widen "Guys! Are you here?! The chopper saw the roofs and reported it to us! There's a boat not far away!" you both run out and see the person that neither of you have seen in nine weeks "LAVI!" you both run down and hug her tightly as the boat pulls up and you are taken out and away from the jungle. You both ask Lavi of everything that happened after the two of you went missing and what she tells you not only has the two of you crying and thanking her nonstop but it truly showed that someone cared and wouldn't give up on both of you "I had went to the house that day but you guys were gone so I went on the trail and while I was walking, I heard screaming and the water flooding... I managed to tie myself to a tree with vines and waited before walking ahead and finding two separate effects you two wore, one was a bandana that I had seen him wear and the other was the sunglasses you wore on your head when we met...I just knew something had happened and immediately went back to my place and called search teams, we searched for two weeks before going to a small military camp and explaining how much we needed more help...at first they weren't having any part but after four weeks and when I punched the commander they all quickly agreed to mount multiple searches throughout the jungle" the two of you were in disbelief after hearing her story and after the boat stopped and the two of you were taken through town to the military camp to be helped, you both hugged her tightly before people in town stopped in front of the two of you to give you water and food before an older woman sat in front of you and spoke to you "God truly saved both of you, he knows that one can't live without the other" you smile as you both talk to her and share a hug learning her name was Evita. You both arrive at the military camp and everyone is amazed that not only that the two of you were even found but that you were both alive as the two of you were taken in a tent where doctors and nurses were waiting as lavi stared down the cold hearted commander "I told you they were alive" he rolls his eyes as she stands right in front of him, he speaks in spanish saying something that makes her snap as a nurse opens the tent for the two of you to talk to her when you both see lavi grab and hit the commander with a gun and hold him on the ground "YOU WERE GOING TO LET THEM DIE WITHOUT GIVING A DAMN LIKE YOU'VE DONE BEFORE AND IF ANYONE ISN'T GOING TO SAY ANYTHING I MIGHT AS WELL SINCE I AM THE ONLY REAL DAMN HUMAN HERE" the commander is taken by a law enforcement officer after he cuts lavi's face with a knife and even points a machine gun at her before military officers pull the gun away, she has the cut stitched and you all smile at each other as the officer tells her he would be arrested for multiple charges learning how much the two of you affected lavi and her life.

[roman-catholic-mass-readings]

18th April >> Mass Readings (Except USA)

Thursday, Third Week of Eastertide 

or

Saint Laserian (or Molaise), Bishop.

Thursday, Third Week of Eastertide 

(Liturgical Colour: White. Year: B(II))

First Reading Acts of the Apostles 8:26-40 Philip baptizes a eunuch.

The angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, ‘Be ready to set out at noon along the road that goes from Jerusalem down to Gaza, the desert road.’ So he set off on his journey. Now it happened that an Ethiopian had been on pilgrimage to Jerusalem; he was a eunuch and an officer at the court of the kandake, or queen, of Ethiopia, and was in fact her chief treasurer. He was now on his way home; and as he sat in his chariot he was reading the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit said to Philip, ‘Go up and meet that chariot.’ When Philip ran up, he heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ ‘How can I’ he replied ‘unless I have someone to guide me?’ So he invited Philip to get in and sit by his side. Now the passage of scripture he was reading was this:

Like a sheep that is led to the slaughter-house, like a lamb that is dumb in front of its shearers, like these he never opens his mouth. He has been humiliated and has no one to defend him. Who will ever talk about his descendants, since his life on earth has been cut short!

The eunuch turned to Philip and said, ‘Tell me, is the prophet referring to himself or someone else?’ Starting, therefore, with this text of scripture Philip proceeded to explain the Good News of Jesus to him. Further along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, ‘Look, there is some water here; is there anything to stop me being baptised?’ He ordered the chariot to stop, then Philip and the eunuch both went down into the water and Philip baptised him. But after they had come up out of the water again Philip was taken away by the Spirit of the Lord, and the eunuch never saw him again but went on his way rejoicing. Philip found that he had reached Azotus and continued his journey proclaiming the Good News in every town as far as Caesarea.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 65(66):8-9,16-17,20

R/ Cry out with joy to God, all the earth. or R/ Alleluia!

O peoples, bless our God, let the voice of his praise resound, of the God who gave life to our souls and kept our feet from stumbling.

R/ Cry out with joy to God, all the earth. or R/ Alleluia!

Come and hear, all who fear God. I will tell what he did for my soul: to him I cried aloud, with high praise ready on my tongue.

R/ Cry out with joy to God, all the earth. or R/ Alleluia!

Blessed be God who did not reject my prayer nor withhold his love from me.

R/ Cry out with joy to God, all the earth. or R/ Alleluia!

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! The Lord, who hung for us upon the tree, has risen from the tomb. Alleluia!

Or: John 6:51

Alleluia, alleluia! I am the living bread which has come down from heaven, says the Lord. Anyone who eats this bread will live for ever. Alleluia!

Gospel John 6:44-51 I am the living bread which has come down from heaven.

Jesus said to the crowd:

‘No one can come to me unless he is drawn by the Father who sent me, and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets: They will all be taught by God, and to hear the teaching of the Father, and learn from it, is to come to me. Not that anybody has seen the Father, except the one who comes from God: he has seen the Father. I tell you most solemnly, everybody who believes has eternal life.

‘I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the desert and they are dead; but this is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that a man may eat it and not die. I am the living bread which has come down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live for ever; and the bread that I shall give is my flesh, for the life of the world.’

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

--------------------------------------

Saint Laserian (or Molaise), Bishop 

(Liturgical Colour: White. Year: B(II))

First Reading Acts of the Apostles 13:46-49 Since you have rejected the word of God, we must turn to the pagans.

Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly. ‘We had to proclaim the word of God to you first, but since you have rejected it, since you do not think yourselves worthy of eternal life, we must turn to the pagans. For this is what the Lord commanded us to do when he said:

I have made you a light for the nations, so that my salvation may reach the ends of the earth.’

It made the pagans very happy to hear this and they thanked the Lord for his message; all who were destined for eternal life became believers. Thus the word of the Lord spread through the whole countryside.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 88(89):2-5,21-22,25,27

R/ I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord.

I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord; through all ages my mouth will proclaim your truth. Of this I am sure, that your love lasts for ever, that your truth is firmly established as the heavens.

R/ I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord.

‘I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant: I will establish your dynasty for ever and set up your throne through all ages.

R/ I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord.

‘I have found David my servant and with my holy oil anointed him. My hand shall always be with him and my arm shall make him strong.

R/ I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord.

‘My truth and my love shall be with him; by my name his might shall be exalted. He will say to me: “You are my father, my God, the rock who saves me.”’

R/ I will sing for ever of your love, O Lord.

Gospel Acclamation Matthew 23:9,10

Alleluia, alleluia! You have only one Father, and he is in heaven; you have only one Teacher, the Christ. Alleluia!

Or: Matthew 28:19,20

Alleluia, alleluia! Go, make disciples of all the nations. I am with you always; yes, to the end of time. Alleluia!

Or: Mark 1:17

Alleluia, alleluia! Follow me, says the Lord, and I will make you into fishers of men. Alleluia!

Or: Luke 4:18

Alleluia, alleluia! The Lord has sent me to bring the good news to the poor, to proclaim liberty to captives. Alleluia!

Or: John 10:14

Alleluia, alleluia! I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my own sheep and my own know me. Alleluia!

Or: John 15:5

Alleluia, alleluia! I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me, with me in him, bears fruit in plenty, says the Lord. Alleluia!

Or: 2 Corinthians 5:19

Alleluia, alleluia! God in Christ was reconciling the world to himself, and he has entrusted to us the news that they are reconciled. Alleluia!

Gospel Matthew 9:35-37 The harvest is rich but the labourers are few.

Jesus made a tour through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom and curing all kinds of diseases and sickness. And when he saw the crowds he felt sorry for them because they were harassed and dejected, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is rich but the labourers are few, so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest.’

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

[rossalotus]

Midnight dinner

Koutarou used to close his restaurant at midnight. It was late enough and he was tired. One day, however, he forgot the “open” sign on and stayed in the back, cleaning his kitchen, when he heard someone entering and made his way to the front, ready to tell the costumer he was already closed

The man that had just entered was crestfallen, clearly tired and still in his working clothes. Koutarou could tell by the briefcase in his hand that this man probably left the office at this hour. Poor guy, Koutarou didn’t know him but he knew he didn’t deserve to hear the restaurant was closed for the day, that was for sure

So Koutarou did the usual and said “Irasshaimase”, smiling at his customer

The man looked up and Koutarou’s breath was taken away. Sure, this man could use a good night sleep and at least two liters of water but those were for sure the prettiest eyes Koutarou had ever seen

The man smiled at him. “Can I have a beer and a miso ramen?”

“Rightaway sir” Koutarou replied, noticing how sweet the man’s voice was

As he cooked, the man spoke to him again. “Are you always open at this time? You saved my life, I just got out of the office and I’m starving! There was nothing open, could you believe it?”

Koutarou wanted to say he did believe him, in fact, his own restaurant wasn’t open at this time but the relief and happiness in the man’s voice stopped him from doing so. Instead, he replied “Yeah, it’s hard to find something open at this time. I do it for people like you.”

The man raised his glass. “To you, master, savior of us hungry and tired proletarians!”

Koutarou laughed as he placed the ramen in front of the stranger. “That’s saying too much! I’m just a fellow proletarian.”

The man laughed and god wasn’t it the most beautiful laughter Koutarou had ever heard?

The night went on and they chatted about random things, about life, work, anime. The man introduced himself as Keiji and Koutarou knew he wouldn’t forget that name. He left with a “will be back sooner than you think” but though Koutarou started opening late after that, it had been a month and he hadn’t shown up yet

Koutarou wasn’t complaining, in the sole four weeks he started to open late, he already had many regulars. Business was good but it was already good before that, this wasn’t the point of opening late

That night, a man he had never seen before showed up. He had messy black hair and was extremely tall. The man leaned over the counter and ordered karaage. Koutarou didn’t pay too much attention to him, just working on his order and placing it in front of him

“Thank you, Master. I’ve got something for you.” He placed a small keychain with the Hollywood sign on the table, along with a box with Hokkaido snacks. “Keiji said to tell you he’s sorry he couldn’t come yet, they sent him to Hokkaido for a conference and then another in the States. He sent this through a colleague that came back early but he still has to go to Europe before coming back” 

Koutarou’s face lit up. So Keiji remembered him! He kept his word he’d come back. Shit, was he blushing? Judging by the smug smile on the face of the man in front of him, it seemed to be the case. He didn’t care, though. Keiji remembered him, it was all that mattered

Two weeks later, he was almost closing and heard someone entering. God Keiji looked even more stunning than Koutarou remembered.

“Master! Sorry for taking so long to come back, hopefully Tetsu gave you the small gifts I sent and I brought something else for you to make up for it.”

Keiji placed a small Tour Eiffel on the table and Koutarou remembered he had briefly told Keiji on their first encounter that one of his dreams was to watch the Tour Eiffel light up. Keiji looked at Koutarou and smiled. Less than a second after that, the small tower lit up

“I know it’s not like the real thing you always wanted to see but…”

“Thank you, Keiji. You didn’t have to.” Koutarou said, the brightest smile on his face. This might not be like the real one, but this was great, it was what Koutarou wanted.

“Oh but I did.” Keiji said, a smirk on his face. “Afterall, rumor has it, this restaurant only started to open late after my first visit.”

Koutarou blushed and scratched the back of his hair. What could he say? He got busted

“No need to be so shy, Master. I am actually here for more than your delicious ramen. I want to invite you for drinks after your shift. If you want, of course.”

Koutarou smiled. “I’d like that very much.”

[thegodwhocums]

polythiest asks: 19, 11

Oh my gosh! I meant to reblog @flamingkorybante 's responses but you're right, I posted an ask meme! Ok let's do this.

19. How have your Gods affected your life?

Hoooooo… more than I can say. When I was about 13 and just getting into Wicca, which was all I could find (it was like 2001), I tried plugging into the Celtic pantheon and Brigid in particular and it just never clicked. I made some futile efforts towards Artemis when I was older, and Athena, and Apollo, all Strong or Logical or Independent or Rational gods that look like white people in the picture books, and nothing clicked. Dead air, no signal. Closed that chapter, moved on.

In 2007, I became a professional drag king and started describing myself as transgender and genderqueer. In 2011, I started thinking about Dionysos. I found that strange, internally, bc what does the party god have to do with my uptight, basically straightedge ass? Drunken debauchery? No thank you. Then I read Hermaphrodeities by Raven Kaldera (I'll let someone else explain who that is). That book described a Dionysos I could relate to - queer, mixed divinity, mixed race, an outsider, mad; someone with the freedom that I in my Spartan anhedonia craved. In February 2012, my partner channeled the god and he spoke to me. I still have the exchange.

Since then I would say that Dionysos has been instrumental in me taking steps to become more comfortable in my skin, my brain, and my heart. I have made friends, built relationships, and been places that never would have occurred if not for the shared enthusiasm for D. (Some good, some bad, of course, but all definitely influential.) He was with me as I prepared for surgery, and his mentor Cybele was there to receive our blood offerings when Rocket and I had healed. He was with me onstage, in the doctor's office, in forests and mountains and fields, as I mythologized my suffering and found a way through. He was with me when my mental health bottomed out and he was with me on the hotline when I begged for help not dying. He was with me as I went onto head meds, and then he was quiet, and when I went back off head meds he was there waiting for me. I think my heart has opened, I have become kinder, and my spirit has become freer with the help of Dionysos. I am still learning to love and enjoy my body, and he is still there helping me to do so.

There are other deities but he has always been at the center of my practice, and in many ways of my world.

I have an ancestral practice as well, so if we want to include those spirits as "deities," they have helped me buy a house for my chosen family (and the house next door as we grew!), find financial stability, keep my family safe, and quiet those who would do us harm. Seriously, if I were to embed one piece of advice in this response, it would be that your ancestors want you to thrive, let them help you.

11. Do you pray? If so, what do your prayers look like?

For a while I had a daily devotional practice, but at this point in my life prayers are more for special occasions. I don't usually need to ask the gods for anything - and usually I know what they want me to work on or bring them, so the only purpose in communicating is to say thank you. When I do that, the format is usually:

light a candle particular to that deity

burn some incense

purify myself some way (it varies)

invoke them by name and with a series of epithets

read or sing a prayer or hymn (orphic, etc), or a poem

say what I need to say

sit quietly for a while

say "thank you"

bow

put out the candle

The one regular practice I do have is that every week I change out the water in all the offering glasses on both altars (personal deity altar and house ancestor altar), and when I do that I do invoke each entity or family line and say thank you. I usually dust and reset or redecorate the altars monthly.

[whats-wild-to-you]

Dark Horse (100 Days sequel)

[?]

[Jay’s POV]

“A business trip? To Jeju? That’s odd.”

“Well, it came up last minute, I couldn’t get out of it!”

“Does it have anything to do with you storming off last night?”

My hand froze mid-air, and it took me a couple seconds to regain composure.

“No, it does not.” I spoke slowly and resumed packing.

“I see.”

I could tell Soo-jin wasn’t buying my story, but this half-assed excuse would have to do for now. I would tell her everything once I found out everything.

“I’ll only be gone for two days. For now, my lawyers stopped the show from airing, so we have a couple more days to figure things out.”

“Okay. Be careful!”

“I will. I love you!”

“I love you too.” Soo-jin said but it sounded less sincere than before.

I needed to find answers. Fast. I was running out of time. Not because of the anonymous threat but because Soo-jin’s patience was slowly wearing out.

I walked out the door, tightly gripping my travel bag. Byung-ho was already waiting for me at the airport, and we boarded the plane as soon as I got there.

“Do you have any idea where to look?”

“I have an address. It may be an old one, but we’ll check it out first. Then we’ll see from there.”

We landed in Jeju and got in the car that was waiting for us. I was gripping the piece of paper that had the address on it tightly. It was the only clue that I had, and I was praying to God that it would lead us somewhere. 

“What did you tell Soo-jin about where you’re going?” Hyung asked while the driver navigated through the streets.

“Business trip to Jeju.”

“You told her we’d be in Jeju?” He shrieked, his eyes bulging out of their sockets.

“Why? You think she’d take the next flight and follow us?”

“You think she wouldn’t?”

“Whatever you’re insinuating, you’re wrong! Soo-jin trusts me!”

“And yet you’re keeping secrets from her.”

“This is different. Okay?”

Byung-ho hyung sighed, looking out his window. Soo-jin has been wary the past couple days, but it was understandable. Everyone was on edge. 

“I’m not lying to her! I’m just not telling her certain things for her own good!”

“Whatever you say.” Byung-ho responded while the car stopped in front of an old house. 

No way are there people living there.

“Looks abandoned.” Hyung remarked, confirming my thoughts, while getting out of the car.

A man approached us, eyeing us suspiciously.

“Are you looking for me?”

“Wh-”

“This is my house. I live here!”

“Oh, sorry. I received this address a long time ago. Do you maybe know the previous owner?”

The man shook his head but took out his phone, searching for something.

“Maybe the real estate office can help you locate that person. That’s their number.”

I took out my phone and quickly saved the number. “Thank you!”

Byung-ho hyung and I got back into the car and drove towards the city while I called the real estate agency.

‘No. But I know where she works!’ The lady on the line proudly announced and I breathed a sigh of relief.

I told the driver the address and he took us there.

“I’ll wait here.” Hyung said but faltered when I looked pleadingly at him.

People were walking past us, some were there to pick up their kids, some were there to drop them off.

I walked down the hall, peeking into every open door, until I heard a familiar voice behind me.

“Where is Daehyun. His mother is here to pick him up!”

“He went to the toilet Ms. Yoon.” A kid answered.

I turned around, walking towards her. The light streaming in from outside made it so that I could only see a dark silhouette.

When I approached her, I opened my mouth to greet her, but she beat me to it.

“What the hell are you doing here?”

[Soo-jin’s POV]

“Come to Jeju with me!” I exclaimed standing in front of Ri-Na. I knew she was home, because she had been texting me about being off work for a week.

“What? Now?”

“Yes! Pack a few things, and let’s go!”

“Why?”

“Just, you know, because. Let’s do something fun on your time off.” I avoided her glare, fiddling with my phone, checking it every few seconds.

“What’s wrong?”

“I think Jay’s cheating on me!”

“What? How would you ev-”

“He stormed off this morning, saying something about a business trip to Jeju.”

“I don’t und-”

“When he left, I went back to the bedroom. His work phone and briefcase were still there, so what kind of business trip is this?”

“Ok, stop! You’re jumping to conclusions. Take a moment and breathe.”

“I thought I’d text Mr. Kim and ask him, but it’s been two hours and I still don’t have an answer. That can only mean one thing. Mr. Kim is covering for Jay!”

“Okay, that’s just ridiculous! Mr. Kim is probably busy. And Jay, I- I don-”

“Right. You can’t explain it either!”

“But going to Jeju is a bit much, don’t you think? I mean, you don’t even know where he is on the island.”

“Oh my God, do you think he lied about being in Jeju? And is actually someplace else?”

“Have you ever considered calling Jay?”

I stopped dead in my tracks, processing her words.

“Call him!”

I quickly pulled my phone out and called Jay. It kept ringing and after a while the call was redirected to voice mail.

“That’s it! You’re either coming with me or I’m going to Jeju by myself!” 

Within minutes Ri-Na had packed everything she’d need for a day, and we rushed to the airport.

[Jay’s POV]

From my peripheral view I could see hyung slowing walking up to where I was standing. My feet were firmly planted in place, even after she cussed me out, threatening to call security.

Hyung placed a hand on my shoulder, softly pulling me way.

“Hello Byung-ho oppa.”

“It’s good to see you, Seoyeon. I’m sorry if we made you uncomfortable, we’ll leave right away!”

“I won’t. I have questions!” I blurted out, unaware that a small crowd of parents was watching us.

“You have questions? You? I have be-”

“Not here!” Byung-ho chimed in and led us into an empty room, closing the door behind us.

“I know this isn’t ideal, but maybe now that you’re both here you can talk about the stuff you couldn’t in the past!” He said, leaving the room after looking at me meaningfully.

“I didn’t come here t-” I started but she cut me off again.

“I think I know why you’re here, we have tv’s here too, you know?”

‘You what?’

‘I want kids!’

‘Kids? Plural?’

‘Yes. Why? Don’t you want kids?’

‘Sure, but we’d have to get married first.’ Since I came from a broken home, I didn’t want anyone to experience that same shitty life. Seoyeon came from a tight-knit family. And in the future, I wanted my own family to be intact too.

‘Of course!’ Seoyeon beamed at me, taking a sip of her wine. ‘My father was smitten when he first met you. I told you how hard it is to impress my father!’

‘You did. So? I guess we’re getting married then!’

‘Well, when you say it like that it sounds like you’re about to close a business deal. Could you be less romantic?’

‘You want romance?’ I teased her, grabbing her hand, intertwining her fingers with mine.

‘Not here! People can see us.’

‘Make up your mind woman!’ I smirked, watching her give me one of her come-hither looks. Immediately my hand shot up and the waiter came with the check. I paid and led Seoyeon out the restaurant. Thank God there was no traffic, so we made it back to my apartment fast.

But there was a surprise waiting for us there.

‘Father?’

‘I thought you were working, but now I see you were having fun instead!’

His condescending look towards Seoyeon had my blood boiling in seconds. Instinctively, I hid her behind my back, locking eyes with my father.

‘I took care of everything at work, even drafted up contracts for the meeting in a week.’ I thought I saw a twitch in my father’s face when I responded to him harshly, but then again, he remained calm even when provoked.

‘Fine. That’s good actually, because a new business deal has come up. I want you to look into it!’

‘I’ll do it tomorrow.’

‘You’ll do it now! I’m sorry Ms. Soon, but it’s important work.’

Behind me I heard Seoyeon agreeing timidly.

‘I’ll walk you out!’ I offered, hearing father clear his throat.

‘It’s okay, Jay. I’ll call you tomorrow.’ With a small smile she bowed before my father and took off.

‘We’ve been through this, haven’t we? She’s no match for you! Why are you dating her, when you’ll never marry her?’

‘I’m okay with you ordering me around at work, but what I do in my personal life is none of your business.’

‘You really think so?’ Father laughed, walking over to the bar and pouring himself a drink. ‘You’re my successor, you’re the future. And who you’re with determines whether you get to keep the company or get approved by the board.’

‘Is that why you married Mrs. Choi?’

‘Yes, I admit it. She’s influential. She brought in investors, raised our market value. You’re the one who’s going to profit from that!’

‘So you’re telling me to marry someone who’s going to benefit my company? I would never do that!’

‘If you’re really serious about her, I’ll have to appoint another Director.’

‘Go ahead! See if I care!’

“How are you?”

“Busy. As you can see. What is this about? You didn’t track me down to ask about my day, so spill it! I have stuff to do!”

“I-”

“I wasn’t me.”

“I never said it w-”

“Then why are you here? It’s been years since I last saw you. I’m surprised you were even able to find me!”

“Look, I’m sorry!”

“About what?”

“About everything!”

Her features softened, and she looked at me curiously. “I have an appointment in an hour. Until then we can talk.”

I nodded, leading her out of the room. The parents and their kids were gone, and Byung-ho was leaning against the wall of the building, soaking up the sun.

“I knew you loved kids, but I’d never imagine you becoming a kindergarten teacher.”

“After I left Seoul, I wanted, no, needed a career change.”

“You look well. Listen, I’m-”

“It’s okay. Who are we kidding? Your father was right. You did the right thing.”

“He pa-”

“I know. I heard. I’m sorry. I know he was a difficult person to be around from what you told me, but I could see that you admired him.”

I nodded, unable to speak.

“You look well, too. Happy.” She remarked, smiling her signature smile. It made me reminisce about the past. Seoyeon was the first woman I was serious about. The first woman I considered marrying and starting a family with.

I thought it would be easy, but then I was faced with a choice. Continuing my fathers legacy or find happiness.

A small voice inside my head said that I was still young, I would meet more women. So I broke up with Seoyeon. Casually, the way I always did it.

The memories of the last we met are still vivid in my mind. She was crying, confused about what went wrong and why I was suddenly breaking up with her. I felt horrible because I couldn’t give her a good enough reason.

‘Please! Tell me! I need a reason to hate you. Because right now I still love you and it hurts not knowing.’

I shook my head, got up and left her crying alone in our favorite restaurant. ‘You deserve someone better.’

“Are you …” I started but cut myself off.

“Why don’t I invite you over for coffee? You too, Byung-ho oppa.”

***

[secret]

[jodilin65]

TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 1991 It’s so hard to believe I’ve only been here for 23 days. It seems like so much longer.

Kim and I have continued to have great times together. Can you believe she bought me $75 roller skates?! They’re so nice too. They’re the boot kind and they’re indoor skates rather than my old outdoor sneaker skates. The boots are white with neon pink wheels. Since I got my schedule pretty much normal, I’m gonna go roller skating this Thursday night.

Next, she’s talking about a new spring jacket. You know me, I never ask and she won’t take no for an answer, but it feels weird. Only my parents would buy me stuff like that. But then again, Brenda bought stuff here and there till she came into money problems and I helped her out. I was more than happy to return the favor, but not for crack.

Kim may have gotten a job at the doctor’s office where I went to follow up on my asthma. He gave me a new inhaler and in between that and the clean fresh air, my breathing better. Also, my skin looks and feels better and my hair is growing faster and my hair always grew like a weed to begin with.

This Earth Day thing has hundreds of people spending many hours cleaning up the Mill River. They wait till I leave to do it.

I spoke with Jenny who called earlier and we had a nice chat. Bill hasn’t called back yet but I’ve spoken with Hank and Nervous and have yet to speak with Jessie, Steve or Brenda. I’m not sure that I will but I’ve got to contact Jessie to arrange for her to either bring the bathing suits she borrowed up here or mail them. I don’t know yet when Tammy’s coming up yet or when Mom and Dad are.

Oh, almost forgot, I spoke with Andy yesterday and I played him new edits.

I do have more to write about but I’m in one of my phases where I’m not in the mood to write so, I’ll continue updating later.

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 1991 I had a really good talk with Kim last night and she bought me something that cost between $20-$40 and has 20 or 30 pieces and also 5-6 colors but insists it’s a surprise. She says I’ll love it and that she can’t wait till I see it. She also said it was something I mentioned once or twice when we first met. She kept giving me all these weird clues and even drew part of it from two different angles. I still have no idea what the heck it is, but I guess it’s music-related.

Tammy also called to tell me she may be here the weekend after next but she’ll soon let me know for sure. Lisa still has strep throat and I spoke with her, too, briefly. Tammy also said that a cat she’s been feeding had two kittens under Lisa’s bed. She may give them to me, but I have to wait 6 more weeks before they’re done nursing. I also told Tammy how Kim feels about Mark and how she feels about me.

TUESDAY, APRIL 9, 1991 Kim came over and we chatted for a while. This week she’s gonna take me to get the discount form for the heat/AC bill. Also, I’ll go to SS and welfare about my food stamps. I don’t need to sign up for next winter’s fuel assistance program till this July or August. I will not transfer banks till my book of checks run out and I’m now on my last book. The other thing I’ve got to do is get a new address label for my license. Thank God I don’t need to renew it till ‘93 or ‘94. All I have to do is get this little sticker you stick on the back of it. I remember that when I moved to Oswego St. Of course, moving back to Woodside Terrace, all I needed to do was peel the sticker off.

I watched a little TV earlier with Mark and when Kim was here I played her the slurred edits. Of course, she was amused. I mean, they are so funny. I’ll never get sick of any of my edits although I need to start doing more which I’ve got to send to Andy along with other stuff. Old stuff that he never got that got edited right after he got the tapes I made for him and that was quite long ago. I think the last thing Andy got was Donna A so I’ll pick up from there if that’s where I left off.

I’ll write more about my hair and weight later. I may verbalize it a lot but haven’t written about it in a long time.

MONDAY, APRIL 8, 1991 Damn, am I bored! I wish Kim were here more often. I guess I’d still much rather be bored here than in Crack Alley. I am, however, going out Wednesday and Thursday nights.

Shadow didn’t go roof climbing today but he sure did once again yesterday. I made the perfect leash for him too, or so I thought. I took an old necklace that wasn’t too tight, nor was it loose enough for him to slip it off over his head. Then I tied a long ribbon securely to the necklace but he managed to snap the necklace in half. I’ve got to get a real leash.

Other than that I did nothing spectacular today other than walk to the store to buy smokes and watch A Current Affair.

There is something me and Kim are working on. The same fun project as what we did with that Dr. Statz. You know, snooping. Of course, as I mentioned before, the doc is gay. Or bi, I should say, but is married to some rich lawyer. Well, it’s this cop and you know I’ve always had a thing for them. I don’t know her name, therefore I’ve given her the name Jamie. Like I said long ago, every now and then I’m attracted to one where you can tell. Remember? It’s once in a million years with a feminine one and once in a billion years with a half-butchy one. Never a diesel butch. Well, maybe I should keep that last line and change the rest. Every 15 years with a feminine one and every 50 years with a half and half. You can tell but she’s pretty at the same time and Kim agrees.

Kim tried snooping around yesterday but couldn’t get her alone. She did hear Jamie say how much she hates Springfield and when she has kids, she’s not raising them in Springfield. Kim then asked her if she was married and Jamie said no and then quickly changed the subject.

Kim is like me. We both know things instantly about all kinds of people. Things that most people never know unless they’re told or find out somehow someway. My gut feeling is that she’s spoken for. She’s a cop. Not that God would allow me to have her anyway and if he did I’d dump her real soon of course. Or, of course, she’d dump me if I didn’t dump her. Anyway, it all comes down to what I said before about snooping and playing detective. It’s fun and the chase is always better than the capture. I like to be wondering and guessing even though I know I’ll never have her.

Oh. I never mentioned how I ran into her, but it was by asking for a light at the ER while waiting for Brenda to pick me up. I also think I may have seen her a little over a year or so ago late at night when Andy and I were out. Another thing is, and God I hope to hell I’m wrong, but I think that when I was dragged into jail for calling that pig, she might have seen me there.

I’ll keep writing about what happens (nothing).

SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 1991 I just spoke with Andy who’s still doing just fine and loving Phoenix. He reminded me that our clocks here go ahead an hour but they don’t change out there. Weird, huh? He’ll now be 3 hours earlier.

I played him the slurred edits, where I had the pause button partially down. They are so funny. I may do more editing later now that I have two tracks in working condition.

I fell asleep near 5 AM yesterday morning and woke, as usual, 4 hours later with an attack. Not a killer one, but a very annoying one. Kim is picking me up a refill on Alupent on her way to Springfield to work at Baystate. I’ve got a doctor that Kim called to follow up with this Monday.

Also, I stopped my Theodur like a jerk, but you know I hate any kind of drug. After the Navane, I’ve been really paranoid although that too has been better since I moved. What a major curse Springfield was.

Kim is so great and so sweet. She’s everything I look for in a person. I feel I can never express how grateful I am for all that she’s done for me. It’s like being rescued from Valleyhead. She’s a person that comes rare and is far and few between. I will just repay her by being a good friend.

Also, I was right from the very beginning as I may have mentioned before. She is very attracted to me and who I am. It’s amazing too, as I’ve always said, “Is there anyone out there who’s sane and upper class but yet will accept me for who and what I am?”

Sure enough, as we both agreed, we’re a lot alike. Not all serious, not all nuts. We’re both half-sane, half-insane. Also, she’s like me in always wanting to help others. I feel guilty, though, as I have no money to give her if she needed it. She doesn’t need it but part of me wishes we could swap incomes for a week or so, so I could do for her what she’s done for me. I wish she were here with me now. I could use the company and I’m bored but I don’t do walks at night even though I can usually defend myself quite well. I did cruise up and down Elm St. a bit today at around 2:30. It was 80º today and I got a great breeze through my windows, even though Kim and I have yet to figure out how to open the skylights. Thank God cats are sure-footed as Shadow went roof cruising for an hour or so. Can you believe it? I was scared shitless for him at first but even though he enjoyed it and was not hurt, I’m getting him a leash. That way he can also accompany me on walks. I tried taking a big ribbon and tying him up to one of the posts on the deck but he just kept slipping it off of his neck and going about his tour.

I feel so happy and safe since I’ve moved, but at the same time, a little lonely. I miss my friends and I can’t lie, you know me, but the urge for a lover is picking up here and there. I hate that feeling. I’ve learned now, that those feelings don’t mean I’m weak and yes I know you can be with someone and still be independent, but I still wish I could want to be alone 100% of the time. Oh well. I couldn’t get someone if I wanted to as I’ve written about 10 billion times before.

Getting back to Kim, sometimes I wish she were here to give me a hug and just hold me, but I try to keep my feelings inside. There’s no point saying anything. The last thing I need to do is make her feel depressed or burdened in any way and I don’t want her to feel used. I only hope I haven’t talked too much already. I also feel like a jerk cuz all my bottled-up frustration came out earlier today when I had that attack. Sometimes that’s the only way to vent it out, though, and get it out of me, rather than trash my place or something stupid like that. Those days are over and I haven’t slashed my wrists since age 17 and even though I was trapped, a minor and couldn’t and wouldn’t hurt the ones hurting me. Like I said, they’re over.

I don’t want to lead Kim on either, as I am not attracted to her.

Time for some hot chocolate.

I want to be a singer!!!

Wait till I tell Kim about that call.

FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 1991 South Deerfield…

Boy, do I ever have lots to write about. Yes, I’ve finally moved and man oh man is it quiet here. No people yelling. No horns honking. All you hear 2-3 times a day, but only during the day, is a train passing by. It runs right by Kim’s apt. I like trains, though.

Today is my father’s birthday. He’s 60, but he says he still feels young. No one in the family looks their age except for Tammy.

Tammy had told me she was writing a farewell letter to Mom, but she and Dad could call to keep in touch with Lisa, Becky, and Sarah. However, she must have spoken to them or maybe only Dad cuz he said earlier tonight that Tammy said she was gonna drive up this weekend but Lisa got sick.

I feel like I’m on some luxury vacation in a big beautiful hotel. I mean this place is huge! I never thought I’d laugh my ass off about the Woodside apartment. I had so much fun using my dishwasher, Jacuzzi, trash compactor and my washer and dryer.

It also is easier to breathe here for sure and the temperature was 72º today. Therefore, I had my big window door open and other windows and I got a hell of a breeze. We are more up in the mountains and cuz it’s further north, it’s colder and it snows more in the winter.

Shadow loves it here. He seems much happier here and causes less trouble. No more eating my napkins or going in the pails.

Like I mentioned before, we each have our own stairwells. There are 30 stairs that go straight up and Shadow loves it when I toss his balls down and he chases them. His litter box is down there too, along with Gloria’s pictures. I keep him there at night with a bowl of dry food. His canned food is up in the kitchen. And, of course, the toilet paper in the bathroom.

The day before I left, Jai came over and we had a great visit. I saw his place too and says he and Jenny will come up sometime. Also Steve and Jessie and hopefully Brenda, too. Also, Nervous came up the day before I moved and helped Kim and I drain the waterbed. It really was easy and lots of fun. I really enjoyed Nervous visiting, too.

Later…

I just finished listening to my stereo. I used that $488 fuel assistance check but I got a great deal on it anyway. It’s sort of like my old stereo which Brenda now has. It looks a lot like it and it came with the same kind of stand. I got it all for only $275 and that includes a turntable, dual cassette, AM/FM radio, and the CD player. The CD player was a separate unit. Editing works out great and the only thing I hate is the continuous play. I can’t rewind a tape while I’m listening to another. I have one speaker on top of the bedroom. The bedroom is the only one with a lower ceiling and is basically in the center of the place. The cathedral ceilings slant down over that and the rest of the place. The bedroom ceiling does slant too and part of it is straight. It’s super hard to describe. You have to see it.

Earlier, I had pork chops for dinner with Kim and Mark.

Mark saw the place since it’s all been fixed up and decorated and he freaked. Kim saw it when I got it all done 2 days ago. I love to decorate. I guess it’s the creativity in me and also being artistic.

So that’s it. Other than that, I spoke with Tammy and Hank, painted my nails and drew a picture.

[anglophiletraveler]

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas!!

I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas!

*****

Well this little story turned out completely different from what I had in my head.  It was created for the Deano Bingo event!  Hopefully you’ll enjoy it.

***********************

Twas three weeks before Christmas when all through the PR firm, not a creature was stirring, but alas not to worry for there was one human, four gods and a vampire stirring merrily about.  Christmas music was playing in the background while Dawn, Ty, Olaf, Axl, and Mitchell were decorating the JPR office with Christmas decorations, while Anders stewed in his chair, trying to ignore all of it.  

Mitchell was carefully placing strings of lights on the tree.  This was his thing.  He was very finicky about how the lights were placed on the tree, which everyone has learned by this third year of Mitchell’s and Ander’s relationship, so they just leave him to it.  He looked over at Anders typing away on his computer, eyes squinting, still trying to think of what to get Anders for Christmas.  Usually he has most of his shopping done by now, but this year he’s stumped.  Dawn’s voice drew him out of his thoughts.

“Bloody hell! The ice pack broke in my cooler, so now all of my lunch is ruined!  Grrr my lunch is a dripping mess!  Bloody hell Anders!  I keep telling you we need a small refrigerator for the office,” Dawn was blaming Anders now.

Anders was still typing, “What’s that Dawn?”

“My lunch is ruined because my ice bag broke in my cooler!”

“Oh I’m sorry to hear that.  I guess you’ll have to get a new cooler,” Anders thought he was helping.  Dawn just shook her head at him.  But Anders tucked the thought away in the back of his mind for a Christmas pressie for Dawn since he drew her name for the family gift exchange.

“Here let me help you with that mess Dawn,” Ty went over and helped Dawn clean up the soggy mess.  

Anders looked over at his brother helping his fiance, “Oi Ty!  Is Mike coming over for this Christmas debacle that you people are making me sit through?”

Ty sighed, “No Anders, I think he went Christmas shopping with Michelle.”

“Chur, bro!  That’s the best news I’ve heard all day!” Anders was smiling now.  “Dawnsie don’t worry about your lunch, I’ve just ordered pizza for the lot of you.”  Anders got some happy grumbles at that.

“Hey, does anyone know what I can get Michelle for Christmas?  I drew her name and I have no clue what to get her,” Axl spouted out.

Dawn spoke up with a smile on her face, “Well I’m sure she can always use a new broom to fly on, I mean to sweep with!”

Everyone’s eyes got wide in shock that Dawn would say such a thing, but Dawn was rather proud of herself!

“Nice one Dawnsie!  I think you deserve a raise for that one!” Anders said.

���No doubt! That was awesome Dawn!” Mitchell was laughing.

Dawn smiled and nodded, “I do have my moments!” Then she was thinking, “Axl, I’m sure Michelle would love a gift card to that shoe store she loves so much!”

Axl smiled, “Aw yes! Thanks Dawn!” Axel looked around at everyone with a puzzled look on his face, “So just where is this family gifts exchange supposed to be?  Who is hosting this year?”

Anders quickly said, “Not it!  Mitchell and I did it last year.  What about you grandpa?  You hosting?”

“I don’t think my imaginary beach shack will hold everyone,” Olaf said.

Ty spoke up, “It’s Dawn and I’s turn at our place. There should be enough room for everyone, plus we have the back garden for the bar-b-que.”

Mitchell shook his head, “I don’t think I’ll ever get used to warm temperatures and bar-b-que on Christmas Day.  Just not right.”

“Oh guys, I forgot, I brought my famous brownies along with me, so everyone dig in and enjoy!” Olaf pulled out the questionable brownies and put them on Anders’s desk.  

“Well in that case Mitchell, you and I better go pick up the pizza now, so we don’t get pulled over for use of drugs!  I’m going to pick up some coffee while we’re out, does anybody want some?”

Everyone raised their hands, so Mitchell took the coffee order before they headed out to get the pizza. Anders slipped his suit coat back on and grabbed his keys, “Right, so I hope this mess is done by the time we get back, and absolutely no singing fish or twerking Santa this year!” 

Olaf smiled to himself as Anders and Mitchell left the office because he just thought of what to get for the person whose name he had drawn in the family gift exchange.  

Anders and Mitchell were in the car buckling up when Mitchell noticed a smile on Anders’s face.  “What are you smiling about?”

Anders chuckled, “Nothing.”

Mitchell shook his head, “Liar.  I know you better than that, Anders Johnson.  What are you up to?” 

Anders tried to look all innocent, “I haven’t the faintest idea of what you’re talking about John Mitchell.”  He leaned over and kissed his partner.  “Now, let's go, I’m starving!”

**********************

There were very few things in life that John Mitchell was anal about, and Christmas decorating was one of them, which took Anders totally by surprise. Anders could really care less, but seeing the beautiful look on John’s face while he was concentrating on every bit of ribbon and tinsel was worth it.  At the flat, there were beautiful wreaths on the doors, greenery roped on the balcony railing with red bows and white lights, Christmas scented candles scattered about, baskets of multi-coloured ornaments mixed with pine cones. Last year, Anders had talked Mitchell into getting a pre-lit artificial tree so that Mitchell wouldn’t have to obsess quite so much over the lights.  He still added a couple of extra strands of lights to make it perfect!  Mitchell also added just the right touch of silver tinsel placed in various places, but never, ever clumped together, just how his mum did it when he was still a wee lad. Their first Christmas together, Mitchell had convinced a reluctant Anders that they needed to buy an ornament for their first Christmas together.  Anders didn’t think they needed it since they weren’t married, but secretly he smiled whenever he saw it on their trees after that.  The couple had started collecting Christmas tree ornaments from the various places that they travelled to, and also started collecting Christopher Radko ornaments as well.  Anders had never been one to think about the significance of Christmas ornaments until his life with John began to flourish. When he was growing up they were lucky just to have a tree, never mind any special ornaments.  But the year John graduated from nursing school, Anders found a special stethoscope ornament to commemorate the accomplishment.  There was also a special ornament with their names on it along with the year it was bought, every year from the Make A Wish Foundation - that was Anders' idea, but he would never admit it.  

The one thing that John struggled with every year was where to hang their stockings.  He couldn’t never figure out the right spot for them since they didn’t have a fireplace.  Every year Anders tells him to give it up.  They’re big people after all and don’t need stockings anyway.  Last year John declared that if they ever move to a bigger place, it has to have a fireplace on it for the stockings.  But for this year, they are taped to the sliding patio door.

Early Christmas morning the alarm on John’s phone went off earlier than it normally did so that he could get up ahead of Anders and start cooking for the day.  He turned off the alarm and quietly rolled out of bed and slipped on some sweats and a t-shirt.

Mitchell was rolling out pie dough for the mince pie and apple pie that they would be taking over to Ty and Dawn’s place later. This always made John feel a little closer to his mum, all of the memories of her rolling out her pie dough, or cookie dough at Christmas time.  It was the one of the few times of year when she made everything extra special for her family.  By the time Anders woke up, the pies were baking and John was almost finished cooking a full Irish breakfast of rashers of bacon, big fat sausages, eggs, beans, mushrooms and toast.  Their first year he had cooked black pudding, but Anders quickly put a stop to that tradition!  Yes, John Mitchell was in his glory cooking Christmas morning breakfast!  

As he was plating the food he felt Anders arms around his waist.  John smiled and turned in his arm, “Morning love.  Happy Christmas!”  He leaned down to give Anders a tender kiss, but of course Anders turned it into a much longer kiss.  When they finally separated, Anders raised an eyebrow, “Happy Christmas, Love.  Everything smells delicious.  Look at all this food!  Bloody hell I’m going to be in a food coma before we even get over to Ty’s!  Are the pies in the oven?”

Mitchell handed his plate to Anders, “Yes they are.  They should be coming out in about 20 minutes, so let’s tuck in.”  They walked over to the table that John had set for them with a pot of tea.  Mitchell turned on some Christmas music and lit some candles on the table.  

“Ah yes, the one time of year I get to drink tea with my breakfast,” Anders lamented.  

“Oh it’s not that bad.  I bet deep down you even like it, not that you would never admit to it,” the brunette responded back.  John barely lowered his head and closed his eyes briefly.  Anders had noticed him do this before and wondered if he was saying a quick prayer of thanks.  “What are you looking at?  Tuck in before it gets cold now,” Mitchell scolded Anders.  Anders smiled at Mitchell.  “Now what are you lookin at?” Mitchell asked.   Anders shrugged, “Oh nothing.  I just think it’s cute when you use phrases like ‘tuck in’.  It sounds so Irish.”  John just rolled his eyes at Anders.

After breakfast, they both dropped on the couch. “Ta Mitchell, that was delicious, but I’m so stuffed.  I couldn’t eat another thing,” Anders moaned.

“Does that mean you don’t have room for mimosas?”

“No that does not! But you sit here, you’ve cooked all morning.  I shall go get the booze!” Anders managed to get up and grab the pitcher of mimosas out of the fridge and brought it over along with two champagne glasses. 

Mitchell picked up one of the snow globes that lived on the coffee table during the holiday and gave it a shake so that he could watch the small blizzard on ice skaters inside.  He had a small collection of three of them so far, but this particular one played music.  He wound up the key on the bottom to listen to it play ‘White Christmas’ while the ice skaters skated in a small circle.

 Anders stood silently while he witnessed the scene.  He knew John missed snow, especially around the holiday.  Their first Christmas together John was appalled at the Christmas BBQ that took place.  Anders cleared his throat so as not to scare John as he joined him, “Here we go love!  Two champagne glasses filled with mimosas!  A toast! To us and another wonderful Christmas because I have you in my life.”  The two clinked glasses.

“Aw Anders, that’s so sweet.  Thank you.  I love it when you get sentimental!” John said.

“Well please don’t let my secret out.  Shall we open pressies?” 

Anders had an excitement about him, and it made John curious.  He furrowed his brows and squinted his eyes, “What are you up to Anders Johnson?”

“Nothing!  I’m afraid I didn’t get you much this year.  I ran out of ideas of what to get a vampire for Christmas,” Anders tried to be serious but it was obvious that he was full of poo.

“Whatever, Anders,” Mitchell got up and brought over the gifts for the two of them to exchange.  “You know, love, every year you get harder and harder to buy for.”

“Oh nonsense, you just don’t try hard enough,” Anders was getting all cosy on the couch next to his lover.  “So how about you go first, open this one.”  Anders handed John a wrapped box that was so generic looking that it could’ve been anything.

Mitchell tried to shake it but didn’t hear much moving around.  “Hmmm, it’s not heavy.  What could it be, I wonder.”  He tore off the wrapping paper and then lifted the lid and discovered lots of tissue paper. Mitchell raised an eyebrow to Anders and pulled the tissue paper off to reveal a black kitchen apron with the picture of a fork with a large sausage on it, with the saying ‘When you put my meat in your mouth, you’ll want to swallow’.  Mitchell gasped loudly, “Anders!  What the fuck! I can’t wear this!!”

Anders was cracking up, “Sure you can!  It’s for when you’re cooking naked so you don’t burn yourself again!  Don’t worry, there’s another one under all that tissue.  I had such a blast looking at all of these aprons online, I couldn’t buy just one!” Anders was still giggling.

John dug through more tissue paper to find another black apron. He read it and then smiled, “Mr. Good Lookin Is Cookin, yeah I like that one.  I can actually wear it in mixed company, so thank you, baby.  Okay, now you open a gift,” he handed Anders a gift.

Anders unwrapped the gift which was obviously a book, but it made Anders start laughing right away, “Viking Cats!  There’s seriously a book on Viking cats!  That’s hilarious!  Look at these different poses they put these cats in!”  

“I know, isn't it funny?  I thought you’d get a kick out of it, babe.”

The couple were taking their time with their gift exchange, enjoying the holiday music playing in the background, drinking more mimosas and exchanging lazy kisses between them.  

One of the stockings had fallen down from the sliding glass door which got their attention.  

Ross looked at Anders, “Oh, I guess we forgot to see what Santa left in our stockings.”   He got up and picked up Anders stocking from the floor and sat back down.  Anders noticed that Ross’s hands were shaking, “Here, I guess you better see what Santa brought you.”  Anders stared at the stocking.  He noticed that it almost seemed empty.  He looked up at Ross and tilted his head, wondering.

In a soft voice, Ross asked “Babe, aren’t you going to check your stocking?”

Anders swallowed hard and reached into the stocking and felt something all the way to the toe of the stocking.  Anders gasped and closed his eyes.  He pulled the small object out and found a small box that was wrapped in Christmas paper.  He slowly unwrapped it to reveal a small blue velvet jewellery box.  A tear dropped on the box.  Mitchell had slid down on the floor on one knee and placed his hands on top of Anders and opened the box to reveal a platinum band with two square diamonds set down in the band.

John looked up into Anders’ blue eyes, and in a soft voice, “Anders, I love you with all that I am.  I want to spend eternity with only you. I want to wake up next to you every morning for the rest of our lives.   Will you please do me the honour and marry me and be my husband?”

Anders was stunned at first, although he didn’t know why, especially with the Christmas present that he bought for Mitchell.  He quickly wiped a tear from his cheek, and the god of poetry quietly said just one single word, “Yes.”

Mitchell gasped and his eyes quickly turned into those puppy dog eyes with tears in them.  He carefully removed the ring from the box and placed it on Anders’s left ring finger.  They both had a light hearted chuckle at the sight of the ring on Anders’s finger in front of them, like it appeared magically before their eyes.  John quickly grabbed Anders’s face in his hands and pressed a hungry kiss on his lips full of love.  John placed kisses all over Anders’s face as if he’s afraid that he will disappear.  

“I love you Anders.”  

“I love you John.  I can’t believe that you’re mine.  I can’t believe that someone loves me and puts up with my shit like you do.”    

Mitchell pulled back and looked Anders in those unbelievably blue eyes of his, “I will always love you Anders.  I’m yours and you’re mine.”  

Anders pulled Mitchell’s t-shirt off and ran his fingers slowly over the wide span of John’s muscled shoulders and chest of black hair.  It was as if Anders was seeing him for the first time.  He caressed his face in the chest hair as if he was worshipping the brunette.  It was obvious that emotions were running high, but not emotions of lust or raw sex.  They were emotions of powerful, enduring love and tenderness.  John pulled Anders’s t-shirt off of him so that now they were skin to skin, hands caressing each other until finally John picked Anders up in his arms and carried him back to the bedroom.  There may or may not have been a small squeak when John picked Anders up.  

************************** 

A couple of hours later, Anders and Mitchell lay in each other’s arms breathing heavily, eyes red from tears that flowed more freely than they ever did before, and bodies slick with sweat.  Even though they had reached more than one climax, they still couldn’t get enough of one another, still couldn’t keep their hands from each other, still couldn’t keep their lips from each other.  

Mitchell finally spoke first, “Mmmm, can we just stay here all day?”  He moved his leg over Anders’s legs to trap him.

Anders’s hand moved over John’s arse to pull him closer, “I wish we could but, if we don’t get moving soon, Axl will start calling us like the child that he is.”

Anders’ phone buzzed from a text.

“Just like that,” Anders said.  

Mitchell reached for Anders’s phone since he was closest, and looked at it.  “It says, ‘we’re ready’.  What’s that supposed to mean?”

Anders took his phone back from Mitchell, trying not to look like he was hiding something.  “Uh probably just that the food and everything is ready for us to get there.  We better get showered so we can go.”  He leaned over to lay one last, long kiss on John’s lips.  John grabbed Anders’ hand and kissed it where the ring now lives.  “Alright, you go get started and I’ll be right in.”

***********************

Anders and Mitchell were finally loaded up in the car with the pies and the gifts for the gift exchange.  Mitchell had a reindeer headband on that bounced around whenever Mitchell moved.  Anders was shaking his head at it, “Are you really going to wear that thing all day?”

“You betcha!  I bought you an elf hat.  You’ll look adorable in it!” Mitchell pulled it out of a bag to show Anders.

“There is no way in fuck that I am putting that thing on!” Anders pretended to be scowling.

“Aw come on, you’ll look so cute in it!  Like that one dwarf from that movie we watched the other night!” Mitchell was pushing it now.

The expression on Anders’ face turned instantly, “I do not look like a fucking elf Vlad!  Besides, it will clash with my new ring!”

John smiled, “Well, if you put it that way!”  He loved the way that Anders would look at it and watch the light reflect from it.  Finally John noticed that Anders was driving down a different street than where Ty and Dawn lived, “Hey are you lost or what?”

Anders tried to look innocent, “Hmmm, oh I just thought I’d take the scenic route.  It’s a nice neighbourhood, don’t you think?”

“Yeah, I suppose so.  All the houses are so new compared to what I’m used to in England and Ireland.”

Soon Anders pulled into the long driveway that was lined with overgrown trees and bushes.  Finally the driveway ended at a stone cottage.  It was obvious by the overgrown bushes and grass that nobody had lived here for a while.  

“Anders what are you doing?  You can’t just pull into someone’s drive like this! Turn around!” Mitchell was slowly starting to freak out.

“Oh bloody hell John, hold onto your knickers.  I just wanted to look at the house.”  He parked the car and started to get out.

“Anders!  Stop!  What are you doing!”  He saw Anders start walking around the house, looking in windows.  Mitchell got out of the car to go stop him.

Anders walked up to the front door.  “Let’s go inside and check it out,” Anders said.

“Anders, are you out of your bloody mind?  You can’t just walk into a stranger’s home!”

Anders looked at Mitchell and turned the door knob and opened the door, “After you, love.”

Mitchell gave Anders a weird look, but he went inside and Anders followed him in.  

Anders looked at Mitchell, “What do you think?  Do you like it?”

“Well, I guess… I”

Then all of a sudden the whole family jumped out and yelled, “Surprise!” at Mitchell.  Mitchell jumped out of his skin, and looked at Anders, “What the fuck Anders?”

Anders was laughing and handed a key to John, “Welcome home, love.”

Mitchell looked down at the key, “Bloody hell mate! You, you bought this place?”

“Well, technically we bought it.  But yeah, took me forever to find a house in Auckland that looked like it came from Ireland.  And oh, by the way, you jumped the gun on me with the proposal.”

“What do you mean?” Mitchell asked.  He looked around at their family all standing around looking at the two of them.

Anders dropped down on one knee and pulled a ring box out of his coat pocket, and opened it to a white gold, Celtic band with an emerald in the middle.  “Will you marry me, John Mitchell?”

John covered his mouth with his hand and turned around to look at the family waiting for an answer.  Then he looked at Anders, kneeling before him, “Yes, of course I’ll marry you, you egg!”

Everyone cheered while Anders slipped the ring on the ring finger of John’s left hand.  They were both laughing so hard and kissing each other.  They finally clued the family in on John’s earlier proposal which made everyone laugh even more.  Unbeknownst to John, Anders had arranged to have the family Christmas gift exchange at their new home.  The couple walked into the family room so John, his mouth still wide open from the shock, could see more of the house.  John was staring at the Christmas tree, “Is, is that the Christmas tree from j:pr?”

Everyone laughed at Mitchell.  “Yeah we broke into the office and stole it so that there would be a tree here,” Axl said.  The room had a couple of card tables and chairs set up for the food and drinks.  Anders showed John the kitchen, “It’s going to definitely need updating, but Mike said he would help us out with that.”

John was running his hands over the counters and the stove with a big smile on his face.  

Anders took John’s hand, “C’mon, let’s go upstairs and I’ll show you the rest. Oi! Watch your head on the beams when we go up the stairs.”   

Mitchell started to go up the stairs, and instantly had to duck to avoid getting a concussion on the beams, “Bloody hell you weren’t kidding about these beams.  We will have to do something about that.”

Anders chuckled, “I told you babe.”

“There must have been dwarfs that lived here before.”

“Haha, very funny Vlad.  Okay so up here there are three bedrooms and one small bathroom.  Over here is the master bedroom, but I think there’s room to put a master bath in if we cut through the closet and maybe take a foot or two from the bedroom on the other side.”

John was looking at the master bedroom, and then the bedroom on the other side of it.  “I don’t know Anders.  I’m not much of a DYI guy.  Have you asked Mike about it?”

“Yeah, he seemed to think that it would work.  I’d like to work on this first, but the more I think about it, I think we should start with the kitchen and the bathroom downstairs.  What do you think?”

“Yeah, I think you’re right.  I still can’t believe you bought this place!  Anders, how did you find this house?  This has to be the oldest house in all of New Zealand!”

“I don’t know about that, but it’s definitely up there in age.  I just had the realtor keep an eye out for something like this.  This place just fell into her lap the day that everyone was decorating j:pr so I had to move fast.  Do you like it?”

John was shaking his head in amazement, “I love it!  I’m blown away that you were able to buy this without me knowing about it.” John leaned down to kiss him tenderly.  

“Well, don’t get too excited dracula. I did get this place pretty cheap, but that’s because it needs a lot of work,” Axl was hollering up the stairs for the couple to come downstairs.  “I guess we better get down there before they tear the place apart.”

John stopped Anders from leaving, “Anders, thank you for the house … our home…and for this,” he held up his left hand and then wrapped it around Anders’s left hand, “great minds think alike!”

Anders smiled, “I guess so,” he leaned up and kissed John one more time before they headed back downstairs.

Olaf handed them both a beer when they made it downstairs, “Happy Christmas to the wonderful couple and to the future Mr. and Mr. Johnson, or will it be Mr and Mr Mitchell?”

John looked at Anders, “Definitely Mitchell!”

Anders objected, “Oi! What are you talking about, I can’t change the name of my business, we have to be Mr and Mr Johnson!” 

John was shaking his head, “No fucking way Anders am I going to be John Johnson!”

Olaf jumped in, “Oh Anders, John does have a point.  John Johnson does not have very good vibes to it.”

Ingrid gasped, “I’ve got an idea!  Why don’t you two boys hyphenate the name!  You know, Mitchell-Johnson.  That way all issues would be solved!”

Mitchell squinted at Anders, “I suppose I could handle being John Mitchell-Johnson, if you can handle being Anders Mitchell-Johnson?”

Anders smiled at John and reached up to give him a long kiss.

“Ahh see problem solved.  My work here is done,” Ingrid was proud of herself.  

Axl came up with a plate of food, and a mouth full of food, “Oi! Mike says the food is ready and everyone needs to eat!”

Mitchell looked at Anders, “What? Mike is grilling?  Here?”

Anders smiled at his fiance, “Of course babe, it’s Christmas!  Oh which reminds me, we left the pies and the gifts out in the car, so we better go get those.”  The couple headed out to the car while everyone started eating.  

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Everyone was sitting around eating their Christmas bbq and laughing and enjoying the gift exchange that was underway.

Ingrid had Ty’s name, and gave him a gift bag which contained a gift card to a nice restaurant and a couple of tickets to a local play.  “Oh wow, thanks Ingrid.  Dawn and I will enjoy that!”

Ingrid smiled at her friend and former roommate, “You are most welcome.  I hope that you and Dawn enjoy the play.”

So then it was Ty’s turn to give his gift to the person he got, which was Anders.  “Anders, your gift is in your office.  It was too big to put in a box and wrap.”

“What is it and why is it in my office?” Anders asked.

It’s a small office refrigerator that you desperately need in the office!” Ty said.

“Oh I see, don’t you mean an office refrigerator that Dawn needs?  So that’s really a gift for Dawnsie.” Anders answered back.

“Well I think it’s a great idea Anders.  At least that way my lunch won’t get soggy anymore!” Dawn stuck her tongue out at Anders!

Next Anders got up and gave Mike his gift, “Merry Christmas Mike.” Mike looked at the envelope that Anders handed him and opened it, “Hmmm, a weekend away for two at the Paihia Beach Resort & Spa.  Just what I’ve always wanted.  Thank you Anders.”

Michelle came over and grabbed the gift card away from Mike, “Yes, thank you Anders!” Everyone laughed.

Mike had then handed Ingrid her gift which was a new purse, “Oh thank you Mike, I love it!  Am I safe to say that Michelle picked this out?”

“That’s a pretty good guess, Ingrid,” Mike replied.

Olaf went next since Ingrid had already given Ty his gift.  Olaf seemed very proud of himself, and handed Dawn a wrapped box.  “Thank you Olaf,” she unwrapped to find a new lunch cooler.  

A disappointed Olaf spoke up as Dawn unwrapped her gift, “I guess since Ty bought the office a refrigerator, you don’t need that for your lunch now!”  There was a collective ‘awwww’ in the room at Olaf’s thoughts.

Dawn tried to smile at Olaf, “Thank you Olaf, that was very observant of you.  And I will still use it to take my lunch to work in or whenever we go on a picnic.  So no worries, I will definitely use it!”  She got up and gave Olaf a kiss on his bald head to make him happy.

Anders had gotten up to get him and John another beer.  He came back and sat down in John’s lap and looked at him smiling, “You happy love?”

“I am very happy love,” John pulled Anders down for a long, slow kiss that of course was met with the standard wolf calls, and ‘get a room’ yelled at them.

Anders pulled back from the kiss, “Actually this is my room, and the whole house is our room, right dracula!”  Mitchell just shook his head at Anders.  They’ve been together three years and he still calls him dracula.  

The last part of the gift exchange continued.  Dawn had Mitchell’s name and gave him a large box to open. 

Mitchell ripped open the paper like a little kid and opened the box to find a new pair of fingerless gloves, and a beautiful white cable knit jumper.  “Oh wow Dawn, thank you.  It’s beautiful! I don’t have anything this colour.”

Dawn smiled, “I thought you’d look smashing in it!”

“I second that thought,” a smiling Anders said.  John looked in Anders’s blue eyes and could feel the heat behind them.

Mike walked over to the couple just as Anders was about to place another kiss on John, “So, Anders, Mitchell, just let me know what you need help with in getting this place ship shape, and I’ll help you out,” 

Mitchell cleared his throat, “Oh wow, thanks Mike. We appreciate that,”  

“Yeah, no problem.  What do you think you’ll want to work on first?” Mike asked

“Well, as much as we’d like the bedroom and ensuite done first, we think the kitchen and the downstairs bathroom should be done first,” Anders told his big brother.

“I can help a little bit.  I do know the right end of a drill unlike this guy sitting in front me,” Mitchell said.  

“Well, I’ll take a look at all the projects that you want done.  It probably makes sense to get the kitchen done first, but then again you don’t want to live in a construction mess forever in your bedroom.  I’ll let you know what I figure out,” Mike put his hand on Anders’s shoulder.

“Oh and let’s make sure Anders doesn’t go flying into a pile of lumber this time,” Mitchell had a sharp edge to his voice now.

Mike shook his head and walked away.

Anders walked over to whisper something to Ty and then came back to pull Mitchell outside so they could get away from the crowd.  He placed his hands on Mitchell’s face to lower him into a kiss.  When he ran out of breath he pulled away and sighed, “I love you for saying that to Mike.”

“Well, it needed to be said.  Everyone looks all cheery, warm and happy today, but I know how your family works, Anders, and how quickly they can turn on you,” Mitchell’s whiskey eyes had a bit of fire in them at the moment. “So no to Axl working on the remodelling.”

“You’re not going to get an argument out of me on that subject.  One slit throat is enough for one lifetime.  Anyway, my dear fiance, don’t we need to start planning a wedding date or something?”

Wrapped in each other's arms they seemed to be dancing to their own music, “Mmmm I like that.  When we get home we will have to look at our diaries and find a date where we can run up to the justice of the peace and exchange our vows.  Have I told you how adorable you are in your elf hat?” Mitchell leaned in to kiss Anders behind his ear, “You should wear it to bed tonight.”  

“I suppose that can be arranged.  I wish we could spend the night here, but with no mattress or anything,  I’m afraid the flagstone will be a bit bumpy and cold to lay on.”

Mitchell smiled back at Anders and pulled him back closer, “We’ll get plenty of opportunities to christen the house in all of the rooms.  I can’t wait to begin our new life together here.  Romantic dinners together in front of the fireplace. Oh Anders we can hang our stockings on the fireplace next Christmas!! Oh and we’ll have to get a dog and a cat.”

“What? A dog and a cat?!  Aren’t you happy with the fish?” Anders asked.

Mitchell raised an eyebrow, “It’s kind of hard to cuddle a fish.  Besides, now that we have this large back garden, we’ll have plenty of room for a dog.”

Just then it started snowing!   Mitchell held out his hand to catch some flakes and was laughing one of those beautiful, big laughs of his, “Can you believe this Anders?  It’s fuckin snowing! It’s almost like magic!”  He stuck his tongue out to catch snowflakes on it!   

Anders looked around John and noticed that Ty and Dawn were leaning up against the house smiling at them.  Anders’s eyes were sparkling and he had a smile on his face, “Well look at that! Snow in Auckland at this time of year.  It is almost like magic!  Merry Christmas, John.”

John’s eyes were twinkling like the stars in the night sky, “Merry Christmas, love.”  The two lovers stood kissing each other as the snow fell around them.  And to all a good night!

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