#that I've been looking forward to for OVER A YEAR

[woso-dreamzzz]

Heart: Christmas

Mapi León x Ingrid Engen x Child!Reader

Summary: Christmas with Sunshine

"You looking forward to it?" Frido asks as she crouches down at your side in training. "Santa's coming soon. Have your mummies made you write your letter yet?"

You look up from your colouring book, pausing in the movement of dragging the pink crayon over the mermaid picture. "We did them with our teacher," You answer, nodding to yourself as you switch from pink to purple.

"Has it been sent yet?"

You frown. "Where is it meant to go?"

Frido laughs, fondly pushing your hair out of your face. "To the North Pole."

"Oh." You look down at your colouring book. "I've never sent a letter before. Santa always just knows what I want." You rub at your chest, where the Santa Heart from last year beats.

You hadn't needed to write him a fancy letter to send off to the North Pole. He had just known you needed a special new heart like how the doctors knew and how Ingrid and Mapi knew.

He just did and he'd delivered.

He'd gotten you the new heart that's been in your chest for nearly a whole year now.

You frown a little, trying to work your mind through the idea of sending a letter to Santa.

"Does everyone send a letter to him?"

"Oh, yes," Frido says, nodding her head as she hands you the orange crayon you'd pointed at," Everyone."

"Even you?"

"Even me."

"What did you ask him for?"

"I asked...I asked for my boyfriend to cook us some good food?"

You scrawl the orange crayon across the little crab at the corner of the mermaid page. "That's a good idea." You swap your crayon for green to colour in the seaweed. "And everyone has sent their letters already?"

"They have."

"Can I ask what other people asked for?"

"Sure, let's go."

Ingrid smiles from a distance as Frido leads you around the pitch while everyone takes a water break

She can't quite imagine what her and Mapi's life would have been without you now that it's coming up to a year since you had received your new heart.

She can't imagine what would have been different if she hadn't met you in that hospital bed. She can't quite imagine what the team would be like without you around either, a little breath of fresh air with an even smaller camera in your hands clicking away at every possible moment.

The same little hands that hold your favourite camera now tug at Ingrid's shorts until she looks down.

"What did you ask for in your Santa letter?" You ask.

"Huh? My Santa letter?"

"Yeah, Ingrid," Frido says pointedly," The Santa letter that everyone writes and sends off to Santa."

"Oh, yeah!" Ingrid catches on quickly," That Santa letter! Well...I asked Santa to make sure that me, you and your Mami have a good day on Christmas and get to sleep in before presents!"

You nod along with a little furrow in your brow, like you're trying to commit it to memory or something.

You grab onto Ingrid's legs quickly, squeezing them into a hug before hurrying off across the pitch to where Alexia is talking to Irene and Marta - no doubt to ask them the same question.

You don't ever really explain why you went around asking everyone what they wrote in their Santa letters and Ingrid's content to let her curiosity go unquenched with that one.

It's not an overwhelmingly pressing issue to her. It's one she only thinks briefly of when the team come over for a Christmas party before everyone goes home for the holidays.

You're sat at the little coffee table in front of the tv, enraptured by another kid's movie that Alexia's set Mija up next to you to watch.

Mapi sits next to Ingrid on the sofa, filling up her wine glass again when she thinks Ingrid isn't looking.

"Do we think we got her everything she asked for?" Mapi asks, worrying her bottom lip with her teeth," I don't want her to have anything missing from her pile."

"We've got everything," Ingrid assures her," Trust me. Absolutely everything she asked for, we've gotten her."

"Even that Barbie camera that prints off the photos? I don't remember wrapping it! Do you think they'll still have it in the store?" Mapi stands up suddenly, the words flooding out of her mouth so quickly that Ingrid nearly struggles to keep up. "I'll head out now and check. Don't wait up for me. I might be a while."

Ingrid pulls her back down. "My parents got it for her. It's in the pile."

"Definitely?" Mapi checks. "They confirmed it? They bought her the actual one she liked, yeah? Not like a knock off version?"

Ingrid laughs. "They got her the proper one. I checked."

Mapi finally breathes a sigh of relief at that, settling back down into her seat for a moment before slipping off the sofa to join you and Alexia's daughter on the floor with the movie.

"You know I love you right, sunshine?" She mumbles into your hair and you peer back to look at her.

"I know," You say," I love you and Mama too."

"Yeah?"

"Uh-huh! I'm glad Santa gave you to me."

"I'm glad Santa gave you to us too."

You turn then, fully into Mapi's lap as you look at her.

"I wrote a letter to Santa," You say," My teacher helped. Is it too late to send?"

Mapi shakes her head. "It's never too late to send. Why don't you go and get it and me and Mama will get ready to post it?"

The letter is written on a tiny scrap of paper when you return from your bedroom, holding it out in front of you as you wait for Mapi and Ingrid to prepare the envelope for it to go into.

You decorate it with little stickers and Ingrid helps you write Santa's address on it before bundling you up in your coat, hat and scarf to walk down to the post box on the street.

"Mama," You ask," Can you lift me please?"

Ingrid lifts you up easily in her arms so you're just tall enough to reach the post box to slip your letter inside.

"And Santa will get it before Christmas? I'm sorry I left it late," You ask as you're tucked into bed that night.

"You know," Mapi says as she pulls the covers all the way up to your chin," Every night before Christmas, Santa's elves go to all the post boxes in the world to check for his letters and they bring them all back that night!"

"Really?"

"Really," Ingrid agrees, gently locking the door to Starshine and Moonshine's cage," And Santa reads them with a mug of warm milk and cookies so he can prepare for Christmas."

"So he'll be able to make sure he can definitely do what I've asked for?"

Mapi smiles, crossing her fingers and hoping that what you've written in the letter is something that's already been bought for you. "What did you ask for?"

"For everyone else to get what they asked him for. I took it back to school and my teacher helped me write what everyone wanted so Santa doesn't forget."

"You're so sweet," Ingrid says.

"And Santa will make sure everyone gets what they wanted?"

"He will. I'm sure he's so grateful that you reminded him."

You nod, settling down in bed. "Good. No one should be sad on Christmas."

[burrowlvrr]

— NOT LONG AGO, joe burrow.

PAIRING: Joe Burrow 𝔁 Black!Wife!Reader

GENRE: Husband & Dad Joe

SUMMARY: In which — Joe and Y/N can't believe how far they've come. From taking a pregnancy test in a dorm room, to washing dishes while the babies watch a movie.

NOTE: I got a MacBook and forgot how to act, writing on this thing is so much fun Lord help me. I thought this was kinda cute, shows a lil different side of our couple but its low-key the shortest thing I've written so far, unfortunately :( but enjoy and ignore any errors! <3

UNIVERSE: Tenderhearts & Touchdowns!

The house was unusually quiet, a rare reprieve in the Burrow household. The twins, Hudson and Elijah, were snuggled up on the couch under a thick blanket, captivated by the colorful characters on the TV screen. Their little giggles and whispers occasionally broke the stillness. Outside, the cold December wind howled, but the warmth of their Cincinnati home kept the chill at bay.

Y/N stood at the sink, sleeves rolled up, scrubbing the last of the dinner plates. The glow from the under-cabinet lights cast a soft radiance over her face, and she hummed a tune under her breath, content in the moment.

Joe appeared in the doorway, leaning casually against the frame, his hands shoved into the pockets of his sweatpants. His gaze lingered on her, a small smile tugging at his lips.

“Hey,” he called softly. “Why don’t you let me handle these? Go hang out with the boys for a bit.” He nodded toward the couch where their sons were quietly enjoying the movie.

Y/N glanced over her shoulder, her lips curving into a smile. “Y'know how this works, Burrow. I wash, you rinse.” She handed him a freshly cleaned plate, their fingers brushing briefly.

Joe chuckled, stepping forward to take his place beside her at the sink. “Fair enough. I just hate seein' you doing all the work when you’ve been chasing after them all day.”

“I like this part,” she replied softly, dipping her hands back into the soapy water. “It’s peaceful. Plus, we’re a team, remember?”

Their routine continued, the rhythmic sounds of dishes clinking and water running filling the air. The moment felt perfect in its simplicity.

“Remember when we found out?” Joe started, his voice carrying a note of nostalgia. Y/N looked at him briefly, shaking her head as she let out a soft giggle.

“How could I forget? You ran nearly three miles across campus to get to my dorm, Joe.” She replied, and he shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly before asking, "How do you think I got the Heisman?"

★

Back in 2019, Joe and Y/N were basically still kids. Seniors in college, but still kids. Y/N had finals coming up for her Bachelor's degree, and word around campus was that Joe would be nominated for this year's Heisman. They were both rather successful in their academics and sports--but this, no level of success could prepare a college student for a positive pregnancy test.

She sat on the floor of her dorm room, her back pressed against the bed-frame, knees pulled to her chest. Her breathing was shallow and erratic, her hands trembling as she clutched her phone. The pregnancy tests were on the bathroom counter, both of them untouched—her mind racing in panic, holding her back from using the tests alone.

When Joe picked up, his voice was steady but laced with concern. “Y/N? Hey, babe. What's up?”

She tried to speak, but all that came out was a choked sob. Her breathing quickened, and she could feel her chest tightening.

“Y/N,” Joe said, his voice firmer now. “Breathe, okay? I’m coming. I’ll be there in ten.”

The line disconnected before she could respond, and she stared at the phone in her trembling hands, her tears falling freely.

Meanwhile, Joe was already running. He bolted out of the locker room, his duffel bag slung over his shoulder, his cleats barely tied. The cold air stung his face as he sprinted across campus from the football field to the girls’ dorms. Students turned to watch as he sped past, but he didn’t care.

By the time he reached her door, he was panting, his chest heaving from the exertion. He pushed it open without hesitation and dropped his duffel bag to the floor. The sight of Y/N, curled up and trembling, hit him like a punch to the gut.

“Y/N,” he breathed, moving toward her. She stood shakily, meeting him halfway, and threw her arms around his neck. Her sobs were muffled against his chest as he wrapped his arms around her.

“Hey, hey,” Joe murmured, his hand rubbing soothing circles on her back. “What’s wrong? Talk to me.”

She pulled back just enough to meet his eyes, her tear-streaked face breaking his heart. "I think I—I'm pregnant." She choked out, a hand going to her mouth to try and cover the hiccups.

"I'm too scared to touch them, Joe." She sobbed, and he nodded, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. "It's alright, Y/N. I'm here now."

They stood there for a moment before Joe left a kiss on her tanned forehead, brushing a stray curl away from her face and tilting her chin upward. "I'll stand right beside you. I'll even hold your hand if you want me to."

Y/N playfully rolled her eyes, "Now's not the time to be humorous, Burrow." She roughly wiped her tears away before making her way to the bathroom, turning around with a waiting expression—hoping Joe was on her heels, which he was.

She took both tests while Joe stood a few inches away, looking away out of respect but still turning around to check on her every few moments. Y/N quickly washed her hands, taking the tests and grabbing Joe's hand, leading him to her bed. They both sat on the edge, the two plastic tests lying in between them. Face down.

At least six minutes had passed now, and Joe couldn't stop his leg from bouncing. Y/N stared at them as if they might explode, her hands trembling slightly.

"You should check." Joe said, breaking the silence, his voice low and steady. Y/N whipped her head in his direction, "Me? You check it!"

Joe shook his head by then decided against arguing. He sighed, leaning over, and then hesitating for a moment. His fingers hovering over the tests, "Okay, but...don't we kinda already know?"

"Just look, Joe." She snapped, her voice higher-pitched than usual. She squeezed her eyes shut out of fear, as Joe flipped the tests over and freezes. His jaw tightened, but he doesn't speak right away.

"Joe," Y/N whispers, her heart pounding in her chest. "What does it say?"

"Positive." he says, barely above a whisper.

The words hit her like a freight train. She slumps back into the couch, her head in her hands. "Oh my God," she mutters, her voice cracking. "This can’t be happening. I can’t—"

"Y/N," Joe starts, but she cuts him off, her words tumbling out in a frantic rush.

"My mama is going to kill me," she says, sitting up straight now, her hands flying. "You don’t understand, Joe. And my daddy's always lecturing me about ‘staying focused’ and ‘not ruining my future.’ This is exactly what he meant! They’re never going to forgive me for this!"

Joe stands, walking over to her and crouching down. "Hey," he says softly, placing a hand on her knee, but she jerks away, jumping to her feet.

"And what about graduation?" she continues, pacing the room now. "Three months, Joe! We graduate in three months! Do you have any idea how much a baby costs? Diapers, formula, doctor visits… How are we supposed to afford that?"

Joe stays quiet, letting her vent. She turns to him suddenly, her eyes wide. "You don’t even have a job lined up yet! And me? I don’t know if my internship is going to turn into anything. We have nothing, Joe. Nothing!"

"Y/N," he says firmly, standing up.

She doesn’t stop. "I’m not ready for this! We’re not ready for this! I can’t—"

"Y/N!" he says louder, his voice cutting through her panic. She freezes, her chest heaving.

He takes a step closer, his voice calmer now. "Listen to me. I know this wasn’t the plan, okay? I get it. But I am going pro. You know I’ve been working toward the draft, and my agent is confident I’ll get picked. I’m gonna make it, Y/N. And when I do, we’ll be okay."

She stares at him, shaking her head. "Joe, the draft isn’t guaranteed. What if something goes wrong? What if you don’t get picked? What if—"

"I will," he interrupts, his tone steady. "I will. I’m not just doing this for me anymore—I’m doing it for you. For us. For this baby."

Her bottom lip quivers, but she doesn’t say anything. Joe steps closer, taking her hands in his. "I know you’re scared. Hell, I’m scared too. But we’ve got each other, and I’m going to do whatever it takes to make sure you and this baby are taken care of. I promise you that."

Tears spill over her cheeks as she looks at him. "You’re so sure about everything, but I’m not. My parents are going to see this as the end of my life, Joe. The end of everything I’ve worked for."

He nods, brushing a tear from her cheek with his thumb. "Then we’ll prove them wrong. We’ll show them that this isn’t the end—it’s just a new beginning. You’re still going to graduate, Y/N. You’re still going to chase your dreams. And we’ll figure the rest out together."

She exhales shakily, leaning into him as he wraps his arms around her. "I just… I don’t know how we’re going to do this."

"One step at a time," he says, his voice firm but gentle. "We’ll start by telling our parents. Together."

She pulls back, giving him a doubtful look. "That’s easy for you to say. You’re not the one who has to hear my dad’s lecture about how I’ve ���thrown my life away.’"

Joe chuckles softly, trying to lighten the mood. "Yeah, but I’ll be right there with you. And if he tries to kill me, I’ll just tell him I’m going pro—maybe that’ll distract him."

Despite herself, Y/N laughs through her tears. "You’re ridiculous."

"Maybe," he says, grinning. "But I love you. And I love this baby, even if it’s the scariest thing that’s ever happened to me."

She looks at him, her expression softening. "I love you too."

He pulls her back into his arms, holding her tightly. For the first time all night, she lets herself believe him.

★

Back in their kitchen, the married couple laughs in unison as they recalled the dinner where they told both of their parents. "Oh my gosh! Daddy almost jumped across that table at you!"

"I was scared!" Joe laughed loudly, covering his mouth when he saw Hudson's head pop up over the top of the couch. "Your dad is very intimidating."

"Well, you survived." Y/N insisted, "And we both know I thought my life was over." Joe playfully frowned, "You were pacing so much before that dinner, babe. I thought you were gonna burn a hole in the carpet."

She flicks a bit of water at him, rolling her eyes. "Well, excuse me for being a little freaked out. It wasn’t exactly a normal Tuesday, you know? We were graduating in three months, broke as hell, and had no idea what we were doing."

Joe nods, his smile softening. "I remember how scared you were about telling your parents. But you know what I remember more?"

"What?" she asks, handing him a clean glass.

"How you still managed to push through all that fear and finish your degree on time. You didn’t let anything stop you, not even two babies kicking your ribs during finals."

Y/N shakes her head, laughing. "Don’t act like you weren’t freaking out too. You spent half the night staring at that pregnancy test like it might change if you looked hard enough."

Joe laughs, drying the glass. "Okay, fair. I was terrified. But I knew we’d figure it out. And look at us now."

Y/N glances around the kitchen, her eyes lingering on the family photos on the fridge—the twins’ school pictures, a shot of the four of them at the beach, and a drawing labeled Mama, Daddy, Hudson, and Elijah.

"Yeah," she says softly, her voice thick with emotion. "We’ve built a pretty amazing life, haven’t we?"

Joe sets the towel down and wraps an arm around her waist, pulling her close. "We have. And those two little terrors in the living room? They’re the best thing that ever happened to us."

Y/N leans into him, resting her head against his chest. "I still can’t believe we were worried about not being ready. I mean, we weren’t—but we figured it out."

Joe kisses the top of her head, his voice low and full of love. "That’s because we’re a team, Y/N. Always have been."

Before she can respond, a loud crash comes from the living room, followed by giggles and a triumphant "Wasn't me!"

Y/N groans, pulling back. "Moment's over."

Joe laughs, grabbing a dish towel. "I’ll check on the damage. You finish up here."

As he heads toward the living room, Y/N watches him go, her heart swelling with gratitude. She turns back to the sink, rinsing the last plate as the sound of Joe’s playful scolding echoes from the other room.

She smiles to herself, thinking back to that night all those years ago. It had been terrifying and uncertain, but it led to this—a life full of love, laughter, and a chaos she wouldn’t trade for the world.

[valiasims]

WIP#41

Hey everyone!

Happy New Year for all of you! I hope you have a great year ahead of you and that all your wishes come true in 2025! It was a year ago when I first thought about making cc and starting this hobby. It was in January last year when I started working on my first cc set and I was so excited! There were a lot of obstacles I had to face but I've learned a lot through this year and our little community has grown and we're reached many milestones I didn't think I'd reach. We're over 9000 followers on Patreon and I am beyond grateful that you seem to be interested in what I do. We've also reached 300 patrons at the end of the year and I'm so thankful for you as well, who support my work, thank you so much! I appreciate every comment you leave, cannot thank enough!

After my emotional message I'll leave a few thoughts about the current wip photo as well to show you how the set is coming along. First of all, I'm not making bedroom items this month because I won't have enough time because I'm visiting my family in January. So the bedroom will come next month!

 Some of you suggested I should separate the top part of the window (the arch) so it can be used above the doors and the windows can be used by themselves. At first I was gonna make two versions of the windows, one with the top part, one without but I planned another top design so it would have been a lot of objects. I decided to separate them which was a little bit of a hassle because I already designed them in the frame but it works better this way. They can be varied more, for example the small windows can be used by themselves in bathrooms.

These windows are slightly wider then 1 and 2 grids because I found it two small and didn't like their size so I used 1.25 for the single window and 2.25 for the double. This makes them easily snap together without using free placement (ALT) but WITH using half-tile placement (turning on with F5). I think it's a good compromise.

Oh, sorry if this is too long but I have a lot to say. :D I mentioned there is two widths: the single and the double, also there are 3 heights, you can see them on the first picture. All of them come in the 2 width sizes. The small top parts are the arched and the criss-cross designed window. Those come also in these 2 widths.

I think that's all I wanted to say. :D I'm sorry for the long rambling, I promise this isn't as complicated as I've described and once you have them in your game you'll see how you can use them. Let me tell you, this set is making my head ache. :D There could be so many sizes, shapes and I don't want to make excessive amount of windows but enough to offer variations for different scenarios. It's a little overwhelming. I hope you will find these useful though! Despite working on them for so long and getting a little bored of them after the 10th similar looking window I like them in game so I hope you will too! But I'm looking forward to make something cute and cluttery next.

If you read all this, congratulations! You can see how these windows are living in my head right now! But I think I'm finally done with them and I only need to finish the doors!

[farmhandler]

lil prompt: wade gives logan and laura (and himself ofc) an at home spa day bc god knows they could both use it. (optional: with vanessa's help)

“I’m not good at this. Why do you keep making me do it?” Logan asked.

Wade sighed explosively, as though Logan's utter lack of interest in painting Wade's nails was a personal failing.

“Laura needs a role model now more than ever. How will you help paint her nails if you can’t even paint mine?”

"I think I could do a better job with my eyes closed," Laura said. Her eyes were, in fact, closed due to the cooling mask Wade had forced on her first thing when they'd come over. "Why do I have this on?"

"Your eyebags could give mine a run for their money," Wade said.

“She’s fucking eighteen years old," Logan said. "She doesn’t need my help painting her nails. And I'm pretty sure our 'eyebags' are genetic.”

“Then what about me, daddy?” Wade said, fluttering his lashes at Logan. Logan kicked his leg under the table.

Wade wasn't to be deterred. He wiggled his fingers imploringly, waiting, and Logan decided, fuck it, and he tried. Genuinely, really tried to paint Wade's nails, and paint them however he liked.

"Painting outside the lines," Wade said as he watched him make no attempt to try and keep the paint on his nail. "Your technique intrigues me, Peanut."

"Shut it. I've got this," Logan muttered. He finished painstakingly drawing a little star on each nail and then scraped away the paint around Wade's nail afterwards with tissues. He figured cleaning up this way was better than trying to be precise on the first try and failing anyway.

Wade kept a straight face the whole time. Then he lifted his nails and bit his lip, hard.

“Oh my god," he breathed. "What are those?"

"They're stars. The blue background is a night sky." Logan pointed the bottle at him. "You fucking do this shit with this tiny ass little brush. I'm not made for precision."

"You're telling me, sweetie. The edges of my nails are awful. They’re so bad. I love them,” Wade gushed. He smiled at Logan with genuine glee, and Logan felt warm all over in a way he fucking hated, because he'd been feeling it a lot more lately.

Then Wade’s phone rang.

“Can you answer that for me, sweetums? I’m currently very wet and trying to harden up.”

Shaking his head, Logan leaned forward and answered the call without looking. It was Vanessa, letting them know she'd found the LED lamp for the nails Logan had bought not knowing they needed a stupid lamp to work. Why they asked him to do this shit when he obviously didn't know what he was doing, he'd never know.

When she showed up, she also had a bunch of other shit Logan didn't want to have anywhere near him either.

"Sorry I took so long. I had to go to a couple places to find the lamp." Vanessa swept past Logan after tugging him down for a kiss on the cheek by the door and set her bag on the table. "You started without me?"

"Just some nail painting. And giving Laura's eyes a rest."

"My eyes are freezing," she said from the couch.

Logan sat down next to her, because it felt safer to do so. Laura hated this stuff as much as he did. Or at least he assumed she did. He'd never asked.

"You have any idea what all this is?" he asked her, once she lifted the mask from her face. Laura hummed.

"Some of it." She handed him one of the samples Vanessa had dumped from wherever she'd gone. "You should use this."

"Nighttime eye cream?" he read aloud. "And this is supposed to do what?"

Wade was sitting waiting for his nails to dry, so Vanessa walked over and ripped open the packet. She then dabbed the cream under his eyes and rubbed it in. When Logan tried to yank his head away, she grabbed his chin and made him sit tight.

"Come on, put up with it for five seconds," she said. "Trust me, you'll like this one."

The scent wasn't overpowering, which was a plus. Still strong, but that was most things. The cream had a surprisingly soft texture. Once she was done, he wasn't going to admit it felt kind of nice, but he didn't need to. Wade grinned at Logan like a loon.

"You don't have to look so fucking smug about all this," Logan muttered.

"You lost the bet, so I don't even need to pretend," Wade said cheerfully.

"Because you cheated," Logan hissed.

"And I didn't get caught!" Wade clapped his hands together, apparently deeming them dry. "All right, now let's get serious."

About half an hour later, Logan really was regretting letting Wade get away with cheating.

He had an itchy mask on his face, his hair was pinned back by a headband with kitten ears on it, and Wade could not look any more pleased if he tried. Logan had assumed the nails that needed a lamp to cure them were for Laura or Vanessa, but everybody insisted on putting them on him. So he sat there while these sparkly pink nails dried, and the facemask did whatever it was doing on his face.

Logan hated it, but Laura...Laura was laughing. She's been laughing. She thought Wade was funny, but Vanessa and Wade together really set her off. Logan had never seen her laugh so much.

Logan exhaled. Maybe regret wasn't the right word. And maybe he didn't hate it.

"You ready for your mud bath?" Wade asked, sitting down next to him.

"You'd better be joking, bub."

"Only slightly. I do have a hot tub that's been bath bombed with your name on it. And all the supplies I need to work on your feet while you do. Don't worry: I have fully and mentally prepared myself to pick the fungus out of your toes."

"Ew," Laura said to their right. Vanessa was in the middle of pulling her hair back to join the face mask crowd.

I'm not doing that, Logan almost said, and then looked at Laura, and Vanessa.

If he let the night end now, sure, he'd be more comfortable, but...well, he didn't hate all this.

The candles were nice. Wade had picked really subtle scents, and nothing too fruity or overly clean. They reminded Logan of his cabin, the one he hadn't visited in years. After a rain, when the forest surrounding it smelled heavy and sweet in a way he couldn't explain to anyone who didn't get it.

"Yeah, all right," he said. Wade looked surprised.

"You okay?" Wade asked, inexplicably. He scooted closer to Logan and touched his knee. "I really won't force you into it, if it's that bad."

"It's not." Logan touched his hand. Their nails looked completely mismatched, especially his. On his gnarled hands, the pink stood out badly. He lifted them into the light for inspection. "I could use a bath. You coming in with me?"

It was both a tease and a genuine question. Wade laughed, startled, still grinning that shit-eating grin.

"And fondle your toes directly? Absolutely."

Logan thought back to that kiss on his cheek. So he kissed Wade's cheek, and when Wade made a soft sound of surprise, Logan shifted his mouth a few inches over to Wade's.

Now Wade looked stunned. Someone cleared their throat behind them.

"No fondling," Logan said, rising to a stand.

"A little fondling," Wade said, finally recovering enough to speak. He leapt up and followed Logan.

[kira-quartz]

Thanks for the tag, @terra-sketches! ^-^

Last song: Say Anything by X Japan

Fav colour: Purple (not too picky about the shade)

Last movie: The Garfield Movie (my siblings' idea. Not impressed with how little effort the fried rodent put into his Garfield voice!)

Last book: Daisy Jones & The Six (still reading it, but I haven't had much time for the last couple of days because Stuff is going on + I've been trying to finish some projects ^^;)

Last show: Superstore

Sweet/spicy/savoury: Depends on the thing.

Relationship status: Not even thinking about it, except maybe hypothetically sometimes.

Last thing I googled: Something like "sims 4 trait conflicts".

Current obsession: YGO (and Carryshipping) as usual, my OCs, X Japan (threatening to spill over into Visual Kei in general)

Looking forward to: Season 2 of Dunmeshi, the weather cooling down so I can start going for walks again, finishing Plushie!Zoi so I can post him, seeing what TS4 packs we get this year, finishing my YGO save so I can start actually playing the game again, posting more art, probably a pile of other stuff I won't remember until hours after I post this XD

Tagging: @dancingkirby, @lizzylizzyinatizzy, @liberationwasboundtohappen and pretty much anyone else who wants to do this - I just want to get to know more cornflakes in general, ^-^

Ten people I’d like to get to know better

tagged by @quiteboared

last song : Youth by Lee Know from Stray Kids

fav colour: lavender

last movie: Mufasa (watched it yesterday, ngl not the best movie very predictable T-T)

last book: Ballad of Sword and Wine book 3

last show: arcane season 2 (obsessed oh my god might start writing some jayvic to fill that hole in my heart like every other doomed yaoi )

sweet/spicy/savoury: spicy all the way and sometimes savoury. don’t like sweets at all

relationship status: forever one sided

last thing i googled: “side effects and treatment for a concussion” kim dokja be going through it

current obsession: where do i even begin T-T (orv, arcane, ouran high school host club,skk, qjj and link click) (consumption of art is my purpose in life)

looking forward to: i wanna say link click s3 but recent events make me a little scared to say that. let’s go with releasing this new fic i’ve been working on for a while. it’s a bit different from my usual work so i’m excited!

This was fun, thanks for tagging me!

Hope y’all don’t mind the tag, don’t feel pressured! @you-can-be-what-you-want-to-be, @lyrebirb , @why-i , @nelkey , @starlight-in-a-bottle , @convenientlybookish

[geekgirles]

In Defence of Beauty Marked

I've been giving it some thought, and I feel that nowadays we judge Beauty Marked too harshly instead of acknowledging it had flaws and virtues. Maybe we even focus on the wrong flaws.

From what I've seen, the episode's main criticism seems to be its heavy-handed message on feminism, especially how the writers use Sam to deliver it. To be precise, people dislike that Sam signed herself up for a contest she had no interest in just to make a point, which I've often seen was perceived as an example of her "not being like other girls" and looking down on more traditionally feminine things like beauty pageants.

While I admit this issue could have been solved by simply making the pageant mandatory and Sam rebelling against something that was imposed against her will, the truth is, Sam's as much of a proactive character as a reactive one, so it makes sense for her to go out of her way to make a point. So the fact that it was a voluntary event really worked against Sam's point in the first place.

I also have the feeling the Phandom's less forgiving reaction towards this episode might be a result of how, in recent years, more and more people have begun to denounce how femininity is often vilified in media. A campaign that I 100% support!

After all, beauty pageants are vilified for the wrong reasons, more so in the 2000s, where most shows featuring them either played it straight (Jake Long, Pucca, The Fairy Odd Parents), or had one of the characters denounce it as sexist (aside from Danny Phantom, Shake It Up also comes to mind). Now, I must admit I'm not their biggest fan either, but at least I understand beauty queens aren't inherently vapid idiots (for all I know, they can be wonderful people and have a degree in astrophysics), and focus my vitriol towards all the abuse happening backstage (pageant parents are a special kind of evil). However, in itself, beauty pageants aren't necessarily a bad thing, just a different kind of competition.

Just like there's nothing wrong with having more tomboyish interests, characters (and real-life people) who care about "girly" hobbies still have a right to exist outside of being the butt of some joke or the writers' punching bag. After all, we're people. We have layers and contradictions and that's beautiful.

I, myself, happen to be a hopeless romantic who loves dresses and skirts, and shopping for bargains, and cute and adorable things. But at the same time, I can be pretty foul-mouthed, I love myself some badass and even gory action scenes, I love weird animals as much as "cute" ones, and I prefer sneakers over heels any day of the week.

However, I feel people tend to misplace this sentiment onto Sam, seeing her as a proponent on "classical" femininity being bad. And they seem to treat this episode as proof, even though that's not what's going on at all.

Without going on too much of a tangent, the thing about Sam is that she's actually quite feminine herself. It's just that the Angry Goth Aesthetic and her design sometimes eclipse that. Ironically, her design also highlights that feminity.

Out of the major teenage girls in the show, the only ones wearing a skirt are both Sam and Valerie, just like they're also the most accesorised ones—with Sam wearing a choker and a bracelet on each wrist, and Valerie wearing her headband, necklace, earrings, and bracelets. And would you look at that! The girls whose designs include some of the most feminine elements also happen to be the ones spending their free time kicking ghost butt!

Layers, people!

Even outside from that, Sam's also been shown to have other girly traits or interests: even if she was embarrassed to admit it (which is normal for 14-year-olds), she was looking forward to the homecoming dance; she has great sympathy for living creatures (mostly plants and animals), and AGIT went as far as to confirm she's a horse girl; she's usually seen with an adorable plushie spider backpack and bat slippers; she has great maternal instincts and the potential to be a very doting and loving mum...

Her problem with the pageant wasn't that it was feminine. In fact, at no point does she look down on the other girls for wanting to participate in it (she only got mad at Paulina for giving her a make-over that wasn't her style, and the feeling was very much mutual). Deep down, moments of hypocrisy aside, Sam understands that every girl has her way of being herself, which is something Dora openly mocked her for.

Sam was against the pageant not because she doesn't like girly things, but because Dora had quite openly stated how she intended to strip the girls of their agency in order to mould them into perfect little princesses—which we later learned actually meant turning them into submissive, mindless drones for her brother to marry.

Dora: Well, here's a statement. (holds a hand out towards Sam, standing beside her.) It says I'll never win in this outfit." Sam glares at Dora and puts her hands on her hips. Dora: Still, Ms. Manson has a point. (She walks towards the girls, now all standing in a row.) You girls are unique individuals with strong opinions and independent minds. Sam: You're darn right we are. Dora: It's my job to make you forget that and mold you into happy little princesses. (She smiles with her hands clasped together)

The point of the episode wasn't "femininity is bad", rather "objectifying women is bad".

A message which was exemplified all throughout the episode through the boys' actions, something that actually annoyed all girls, not just Sam, right off the bat, as soon as Dora announced she'd be appointing one of them as a judge.

To be completely honest, something I haven't really seen many people talk about is the absolutely horrendous attitude Tucker and Danny adopted during this episode. I hate to say this, because I love them both dearly, but they were such pigs! Literally the only one who acted as less of a feminist than these two this episode was Aragon, and that's because being a misogynist is his whole shtick.

While it's framed as they getting carried away because they're finally popular with the girls, it still doesn't change the fact that Danny and Tucker spent almost the entire episode (or the entirety of it, in the latter's case) reaping the benefits their new position as pageant judge (and his best friend) to get special treatment and dates out of the contestants.

Doesn't that sound eerily familiar?

A judge (and his best friend) abusing his position to get favours and dates with beautiful girls, who in turn only accept because they hope in doing so they'll get first place.

With the rise of the #MeToo movement, that can get uncomfortable to watch. I mean, even if it was clearly meant to be a humourous moment, Danny literally snapped his fingers to get the girls to act as his bodyguards and to sic them on Dash.

It really says something when the most chivalrous guy this episode was Dash. No, seriously. Even if he clearly wanted payback from Danny hogging all the girls all week, he at least came to their defence when Danny seemingly chose Sam as the winner the first time. An action which, even though we as the audience know isn't what happened, can easily be interpreted as Danny playing favourites with his best friend, yet still be shameless enough to extort dates and favours from the rest of the contestants.

That is definitely not a good look.

I guess what I mean to say with all this is that, while Beauty Marked is far from flawless and didn't exactly pass the test of time, its message and Sam's involvement in it is actually one of the few things that aren't all that bad.

[hueningstar]

If youre not uncomfortable with it… dont you think Beomgyu is so stepbro coded like… imagine him trying to restrain himself from fucking his stepsis only to lose it because he’s such a pervert 🫣

Endless Desire

Summary : Beomgyu gets caught red-handed stealing his stepsister's panties, leaving him flustered and unable to explain himself.

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A/N : My first ask yipeeee!!! I really hope that you'll enjoy it dear anon and plss don't hesitate to ask for more🤗🤗

────୨ৎ────

Pairing : Stepbro!Beomgyu × Stepsis!reader

Warnings : panty stealing, a lil teasing, dub con, unprotected sex(wrap it b4 u tap it)

MDNI

────୨ৎ────

It's a lazy afternoon, the house is empty... you're lounging on the couch in those little shorts that always drive Beomgyu crazy, unaware of the effect you have on him.

He's been trying so hard to be respectful, to act like a proper older stepbrother... but every time you bend over to pick something up, or whenever your shorts ride up just a little too high, he can feel his restraint slipping...

And then one fateful day, when their parents are out and about, you hear some strange noises coming from Beomgyu's room.

Curious, you push open the door to find him sitting on his bed, surrounded by your laundry... and in his hand, he's holding one of your favorite pairs of panties, fingers buried deep inside them as he frantically jerks off.

His eyes widen in shock as he meets your gaze, frozen in place with obvious guilt written all over his face - the precum glistening on his hard cock making it clear just how long this secret obsession has been going on...

He swallows hard, trying to come up with an excuse, but his mouth goes dry as he sees the realization dawning on your face. You take a step forward, closing the door behind you... He swallows again, his eyes flicking down to his erection wrapped in your underwear.

He stammers out, 'I-I can explain...' but his voice trails off as you slowly walk towards him, a small smirk playing on your lips. You stop right in front of him, close enough that he can feel your breath on his face.

Your hand reaches out and gently plucks the panties from his grasp, holding them up and examining them as if they're something precious. 'These are my favorite,' you say. 'I wonder how many times you've touched yourself with them already...

You hold the panties up, letting them dangle in front of his face. 'You like my panties, don't you, Beomgyu?' you ask sweetly, your voice dripping with innocence even as your eyes glint with mischief.

He nods mutely, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water as he tries to form words.

You sigh, taking a step back and looking between him and his obvious erection. 'You know we shouldn't... but seeing you like this...' tosses the panties aside and slowly approaches him again 'One little kiss won't hurt, right?'

Before he can answer, you close the distance and press your lips to his, ignoring the voice in your head that's screaming 'BAD IDEA!' His arms wrap around you, pulling you closer as he deepens the kiss.

His kiss is desperate, hungry – years of pent-up desire finally unleashed. One hand tangles in your hair while the other slides down to grip your waist possessively. You can feel his hardness pressing against you, a testament to his need. When he pulls away slightly, his breath is hot against your ear.

'I've dreamed of this...' he whispers, nipping playfully at your ear lobe before stealing another kiss. His voice is husky with desire as he continues, '...telling myself I'm crazy, that I shouldn't...' he then presses kisses down your neck '...but seeing you now...'

He trails kisses along your collarbone, one hand slowly sliding up your side. His touch is igniting fires everywhere he goes, making your breath catch in your throat. 'I should stop,' he murmurs against your skin, but his actions say otherwise...

'Beomgyu...' you try to protest again, but it comes out breathy and wanting. He catches your hands, pinning them above your head as he settles between your thighs. His voice drops to a whisper, rough and commanding 'Stop fighting. Everyone wants what they shouldn't.'

He captures your lips in a bruising kiss, swallowing your whimper. His tongue invasion is demanding, plundering your mouth like he's conquered territory to claim. One hand leaves yours briefly to tear off the rest of your clothes, while the other squeezes the newly exposed flesh.

'See?' He hisses, breaking the kiss to look down at you. His chest is heaving, his eyes wild. 'You're not pushing me away. You're not telling me to stop.' He hooks his arms under your thighs and pulls your legs up, opening you wider.

With a grunt, Beomgyu thrusts forward, burying himself inside you in one hard stroke. He sets a brutal pace, pounding into you without mercy. The bed creaks and shakes with each thrust, your head bouncing on the pillow as he fucks you like a man possessed.

His hips smack against yours as he drives in deep over and over, chasing his own pleasure now. One hand grips your thigh, holding it high, while the other palms your breast roughly. Mmm, this is what you needed, isn't it? he pants, his eyes locked on yours.

He can see the answer in your dilated eyes, the way you're clinging to him, nails digging into his back. He curses and wraps his arms around your thighs, pulling your legs even higher, hitting impossibly deeper. 'Damn it, you always feel so good...'

Beomgyu leans down to capture your lips again in a messy, desperate kiss, swallowing your muffled cries as he continues his relentless assault. He reaches between you to rub tight circles on your clit, knowing exactly how to touch you to drive you wild.

Your moans grow louder as Beomgyu's expert fingers work your clit, the dual stimulation quickly pushing you towards the edge. His cock feels so good stretching you, hitting that spot deep inside that makes your toes curl. You can feel your orgasm building rapidly.

Sensing how close you are, Beomgyu redoubles his efforts, his hips moving like a piston as he pounds into you. He breaks the kiss to whisper harshly in your ear, 'Come for me, baby. Squeeze my cock with that tight little pussy..'

As the words leave his lips, he slams into you one final time, pushing you over the edge. You cry out his name, your entire body convulsing with pleasure. He follows shortly after, his own release pulsing heat deep inside you as he grows still. 'Fuck...'

He pulls out slowly, his thick, sticky member glistening with your combined fluids. He reaches down and spreads your legs wide, revealing your trembling, used pussy to the cool night air. 'Look at you... so fucked out, can barely even move. You're mine now, little girl.'

He runs his fingers through the slick mess between your thighs, scooping up the evidence of your union. He looks up at you with a wicked grin, his eyes glinting mischievously in the moonlight. 'Round two?'

────୨ৎ────

[greendayauthority]

"In the weeks leading up to 29th September 2004, BBC Radio One in the UK were running a competition. 100 lucky competition winners would get to see Green Day up close and personal perform a taped gig at Maida Vale Studios in London to celebrate the release of their brand new album, American Idiot. I managed to win 2 tickets because I'd correctly answered that 'One light, one mind, flashing in the dark' were lyrics from Minority, quicker than the 1500+ others in the BBC chatroom on that afternoon in early September 2004. The BBC chatroom mod moved me to a private room where they took my details. I was over the moon. I'd been a massive fan since 11 years old, running 2 Green Day websites in the UK. I couldn't quite believe that here I was now, 21 and getting to see them at such a small venue. The smallest previously had been at the Brixton Academy.

Unbeknownst to many of the successful ~100 competition winners, a runner at BBC was calling said competition winners looking to find 'the UK's number 1 Green Day fan.' Fortunately, when I mentioned 'I've been a fan for 10 years, run Green Day websites and know that The Network were in fact Green Day,' she said 'can I come see you for an interview on Friday?'

She arrived on the Friday, with a gift of 'The Network - Money Money 2020' on CD (I already had a copy, and she conceded that she probably should have guessed that!). She interviewed me for a couple of hours about all things Green Day and it was later aired (post 29th September) on BBC Radio One under a headline of '15 Minutes of Fan.'

Fast forward to the 29th September 2004, BBC asked me to arrive at Maida Vale earlier to get some soundbites for their production. I was introduced and spent time with Zane Lowe inside the venue as the competition winners queued outside. As I was sitting down inside the venue, I heard Mike Dirnt talking in a room not too far away and my urge was to get up and find him. BBC asked me not to and there may be a chance shortly. Begrudgingly but in highsight probably a good decision.

After 30 minutes or so, we were wrapped with the soundbites. Zane asked me to follow him. He said stay relaxed and you can stick around. We walked into the main studio at Maida Vale and immediately I saw the equipment out. Tre was sitting on his stool talking to his tech. Zane introduced me to Tre, he saw my Green Day shirt said hi, gave me a hug and asked how I was. He made me immediately feel at ease and I realised right then what Zane had done and what he meant. No sign of Billie or Mike yet.

After speaking for 10 minutes or so (inc Bill Schneider who asked if my shirt was official as he'd never seen it), everyone started making their way out of the studio room and towards a back room. Nobody asked me to leave. I quietly followed. Before I knew it, I was sitting on a couch in a room with about a dozen people including Billie, Mike and Tre (and Jason). I said hi and shook hands, I tried to act relaxed but inside my stomach, it was a shit show. They were preparing for the gig, I was handed a Budweiser and I tried to stay out of the way. They were all kind, professional and in that very moment I did my very best to NOT be Green Day's biggest UK fan; because that would have never got me in that room in the first place!

After 5 minutes, Zane said good luck to the band and to enjoy it. They embraced, I shook their hands and left with Zane. We went back to the studio room and I took my position right in front of Billie's mic stand. Shortly after, competition winners began streaming in to join me in the room. 10-15 minutes later, Green Day were on.

After the gig, Billie handed me his pick. Surreal but unforgettable experience."

— SpuddyUK on Reddit

[papiliovolens]

Happy New Year everybody! (It's officially 2025 in my time zone)

I'm wishing you all a wonderful start to the upcoming year! (Maybe I can finally stop procrastinating this year...)

Pluuusssss

It's been one year since I posted STTMH's first chapter! To celebrate, I sat back to reminiscence the very first thoughts I had about writing STTMH.

When I first began writing it, I had no idea what to name it, so it sat under the lovely title of "Classic's Adventures" for a while. In my writing docs, it still titled that cause I was too lazy to change it *glares at classic*

One of the very first scenes I ever daydreamed of was Classic's first meeting with Nightmare! It changed a bit as time passed (as all scenes do), but it remained usually true to my first visions! Some ideas included having Classic teleport to Dream and accidently interrupt the twins fight that way, and one was where Other played a role as well

When I first began writing STTMH, I got through each chapter in a week, but after I got further and further along, I found myself slowing down, because I went from spending four hours on a chapter to over 10 on average! (This does not include brainstorming and just staring at the screen btw- only the time actively writing)

Nowadays, I typically spent 2-3 weeks periodically working on it, brainstorming, and running through writing blocks in sprints. Then I got through 3-4 days of writing 2000 words a day.

Rough draft done, I spend a few days going through each paragraph and rewriting each. THEN I do my final revisions and edits, and viola

next chapter is posted

Writing STTMH has been so much fun this past year, and it's been so exciting these past few months as I've started to interact with you guys a lot more

It's gone from this small idea to a huge project with drabbles, fanart, easter eggs, and so much more

Thank you all so much for your ongoing support and taking the time to reading!

I am looking forward to what the next year will bring!!

[genshingorlsrevengeance]

Major Blog Update: Inbox Cleared, Life Updates, a big thank you and More!

First of all the big one:

The deed is done...The Inbox is dead.

Long live the inbox.

To get a fresh start, I've deleted the current inbox of all my asks.

The inbox memes, the nightmares...they're finally over...

ANYWAYS, feel free to send in any request you may have as per usual, just figured I clear that damn thing finally out considering I've had asks that are three years old in there.

Right now I'm really getting into Honkai: Star Rail since Natlan kinda killed my enjoyment of Genshin, but those gals I will still love and write for (I mean, I'm sure as heck not changing the blog url) so don't feel discouraged if you came to this blog because of my Genshin content. And of course my other fandoms are still good to rock and roll!

One last thing before the cut:

I want to thank EVERY ONE of you for following this blog and sticking around with my goofy ah for so long.

I genuinely get excited to read any message or request you put under my posts or inbox, whether it be feedback or joking around! And I know we have the memes going on about me being drowned, please know I do genuinely take the time to look at every single one that comes in everyday, even if I didn't say anything or respond. And it means the world to me that ya'll like my writing enough to continue asking of me.

You all are the reason I even put the effort I do in this blog for so many years, from my newer followers to those who have followed me since my first blog. I could not ask for a better group than ya'll.

From the bottom of my heart, thanks, and let's have a great year together!

ANYWHO: For those who care enough, this is what's been going on with me for the last few months.

Work:

As for why I've been absent for a while: simply put because I work a retail job. Thankfully nothing too bad, it's just normal scheduling and it IS work I very much enjoy and get paid relatively well. My love for writing is still very strong as is my simping, so no worries, I don't plan on going anywhere.

I DO greatly apologize for making everyone wait for literally ANYTHING, doubly so if you had an ask I didn't get to yet. I wanted to honestly save everything into my drafts, but alas I could only choose some select ones.

You're more than welcome to send it back in, and since things have calmed down I SHOULD be getting to them a lot faster.

Genshin:

In regards to what I said earlier about Genshin: Natlan kind of killed any enjoyment I had playing, characters were REALLY unappealing to me, it made my friends stop playing so therefore I stopped as well as that was the major reason I still had it installed. I don't really plan on adding anyone from Natlan or anyone else from that game in the future, so apologies if you were looking forward to that from me specifically.

Star Rail has been filling the hole in my heart and honestly? I have a lot more writing freedom writing the gals from there, but again, don't feel afraid to send me any genshin request! I still simp for my Mondstadt women after all.

Other things I've been doing/Ideas for the blog:

I've also been playing games (and getting distracted) with my irl friends and trying to catch up on my hobbies to prevent myself from burning out, Minecraft has been a big thing lately for me again: specifically Pixelmon LMAO.

For 2025 though, I plan to at least post an imagine once a week starting next week since things are still settling down and I have to get my work schedule.

I might also start posting (Eventually) my personal writing projects here to get feedback and possibly go to AO3 to post my crossover series since Tumblr isn't really the place to be doing so (Chief among them my FE3H AU: House Isekai), or if demand is high enough I'll post it here.

Oh, and with this major update I have once again updated my banner, not that it's really important, just that I put a good amount of effort in it, more than you'd think for how simple it is. I also want to see if anyone even gets my reference LMAO

Once this post goes live, I plan to add a few new characters, starting with the Commander from Girls' Frontline but we'll see how it goes.

I think that's all I got for right now, so see ya soon guys!

- Chris

[laswells-ashtray]

Okay, here me out on this. Gonna do this anonymously cause social anxiety is scary and I've never left an ask before, first time for everything I suppose. :')

I was randomly just watching the missions for MW3 cause I loved the concepts of some of them, just hated how most of it played out (Like how did Graves survive being blown up? Or how it felt like the story was rushed at points). Then I remembered the mission where Price got trapped in that silo thingy with the poisonous gas stuff that I cannot remember for the life of me what it is called (Think the mission was called Reactor,if you wanted to look it up if I don't explain it that well). Loved that mission cause to me it showed that Price wasn't this almighty powerful captain that doesn't get injured that badly compared to everyone else in 141.

Had a random thought of just the in-between part of when Price passed out to when he woke up on the helo. Was scrolling through the random posts and when I got to the one where Mac had met Price's team and stuff all I could think about was what if Gaz or Soap or anyone who's met Mac just tell Nik or Laswell to call for grandpa. I find it hilarious just the thought of Price's subordinates panicking over the fact that their captain, (and practically father figure sometimes due to how often he mother hens them), had inhaled poisonous gas then passed out and wanted help from someone who's known Price for years. Then cue Mac just showing up on base in Price's office or calling Price really late at night being like "You have 5 seconds to explain what happened and how in the world you got into that situation Mister. I do not care that you're a captain now I still hold seniority over you Price, I will pull that card you little shit." Cause despite the fact that Price was a pain in the ass when he was Mac's sergeant he still cares for the stubborn Brit's wellbeing.

Sorry if I started ranting, I love cod and finding the posts have made me do my happy stims. :) Especially reading the silly ones, always makes me feel better when having a bad day.

Made me get my glasses for this one, in a good way I'm just blind as shit. A little bit. Also never apologise for ranting, this is a safe place for ranting, rambling and threats of bodily harm but only if they're polite about it.

Firstly, I know exactly what mission you're talking about because I can't get past the second juggernaut and had to rage quit because I was giving myself a stress headache.

Secondly. I've missed writing more Mac if only because I have to write so English-ly for everyone else.

When the door opens, John doesn't look up. He assumes it's Nikolai coming to check on him, Ghost popping his head in to call him a twat again or one of the sergeants asking how he's doing. He doesn't expect to see the same, worn soles of some battered old boots that he's been trying to convince Mac to get rid of for over ten years park themselves on his desk.

Nor does he expect to see Mac watching him, arms crossed over his chest, and a look of blatant fury on his face that makes the hair on the back of John's neck stand up.

His chest is still tight and there's a familiar ache in his throat, he's too old to be getting fucking gassed anymore. Whatever cancer he'll be riddled with in ten years is not worth it.

"Well?"

He isn't stupid enough to answer that, leaning forward with his elbows on the desk. If Mac didn't look ready to deck him, he'd likely be lecturing John about "uncooked joints on the table".

"Jus no gonnae say a fucking hing tae me? Dae a luk like a store dug?"

He groans and ignores the rattling behind his ribs, running a hand over his face as he prays that maybe, just maybe Mac will go easy on him.

"What have you been told?"

He doesn't bother asking "and by who?" because he doesn't want to be annoyed at any of them, and it was likely Kate.

"Ye inhaled a fuck ton ae somehin ye shouldnae 've and a hud to hear about it fae someday else."

He nods, looking at the older man wearily. "That's about it, didn't think you'd need a play-by-play."

Mac lowers his feet off of the edge of the desk and drags his chair closer to the desk with a grating scraping noise that makes john wince.

"Right, lad. Genuine question, are ye a fuckin tit?"

It appears to be just that, a genuine question if the way Mac is arching a brow at him means anything. The Scot doesn't allow him the opportunity to answer before talking again.

"Ye must be, cuz we both ken launchin heed first intae somethin filt wae somehin that mangles ye is some biblical arsehole-ity, John."

John briefly considers slamming his head on the desk. It'd do no good to explain that it was for the mission, Mac would probably just skelp him over the back of the head for implying that wasn't something the retiree already knew.

"You did worse back in the day."

MacMillan only narrows his eyes at him, clenching his hands into fists on his lap.

"Dae ye take me as a gid fuckin example wae these things, son?"

John shakes his head, staring down at the desk in front of him.

"Swear tae fuck, ye pull a stupid stunt like that again and a'll huv yer fucking knees wae a crowbar. Christ, is yer self-preservation that far oot the fuckin windae?"

That has John looking back up at him through narrowed eyes, everyone kept jumping down his throat about it as if they wouldn't have all done the same for the sake of a mission. It was part of the job.

Mac slams his hand down on the edge of the desk, irritation washing over his face in waves.

"Dinnae fuckin luk at me like that, crabbit wee git. A get tae rip intae ye fir stupid shite like this or did ye forget that? The fuckin heart attacks ye put me through fir years and ye huvnae changed a bit? Ye canne be dain that tae every, ye might act like an ignorant arse but ye've got folk aroon here that actually don't like the thought ae attending yer fuckin funeral, ye daft cunt."

Maybe the older man can see the exhaustion that's settled in John's bones, wearing him away from the inside out. Or maybe this is just how MacMillan felt years ago, it might just be an inherited trait that presents itself alongside the captain title.

"Get tae bed, son. We're talkin aboot this the morra. And tea wae lemon fir yer throat, ye sound like ye've been gargling shrapnel."

[merrock]

HAPPY JANUARY !

Happy 2025, Merrockites! Can you believe that another year has come and gone? I've got your monthly mod post right here, though, to kick it off strong! Click under the cut to see what's on January's calendar, some important things to note that have changed or are being worked on, things we all need to work on together, and some mod notes! xx

ON THE CALENDAR !

DECEMBER 31 -- New Year's Eve Party (OOC: December 29 - January 4): see post for info!

JANUARY 1 -- Polar Plunge (OOC: December 29 - January 4): see post for info!

JANUARY 10 -- houseplant appreciation day: join the florists at Lavender Lane for a houseplant planting day, where you can put your own little plantling in a pot to take home! (or buy more!)

JANUARY 15 -- national hat day: share a post to our #merrocksocial tag of your character in a hat to celebrate national hat day this year.

JANUARY 25 -- Winter Gala (OOC: January 22-28): info coming after the current events!

JANUARY 31 -- fun at work day: do something fun at work! (or go find fun.) have a pizza party, go bowling, catch a matinee, have everyone show up in pajamas, just have some fun!

RULES & CHANGES

as usual, the rules have been gone over with a fine tooth comb! please take a few moments to read them!

we have added a rule asking players not to use AI for writing! I don't truly believe this has ever been an issue here, but as AI slowly seeps more and more into the real world, we want to remind writers not to use sites like Chat GPT or anything else to do your replies. this is going to be a hard rule -- if we find someone is doing this, we will ask you to leave. (please note, if you use aids to help you write due to disabilities, this is different.)

big plots / happenings cannot happen during big events or major holidays. this is because those things are for everyone, and your thing is for you, we want everyone to have their time! we will allow plots to overlap with mini events moving forward.

characters can be picked up two weeks after you begin activity on your last pick-up. this is just to assure that you have had a full two weeks of activity (not just from your join date!) before bringing someone new in.

the writer cap has been upped to 25, with 5 extra bonus spots when that cap is reached, which means we will sit at 30 writers. if we ever feel we can handle more, we will address that.

moving forward, face claims must be over the age of 23. this is just to give us a little leeway from resources that might be on the line of 18! characters can still be 21 and 22.

because we have opened a few more spots, the new rule is after you reach three characters, all further characters must pick up wanted connections, unless the character is bipoc (black or indigenous), trans/nonbinary, disabled, or over the age of 50. we still encourage you to consider picking up WCs with your first three if it is possible, though!

NOTE: the last two rules are new and will be administered moving forward, this means if you are not meeting them, you are fine and grandfathered in, you're good!

OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF !

I'm going to trial and error some things through the Times! Namely, posting ads for businesses that are hiring, and allowing you guys to submit confessions and tips about things happening in town. We'll talk about that Sunday!

You may also notice some minor formatting changes to things like the Weekly post on the Times, acceptances, event information, etc. This is just for ease and to get you the info you need.

Our bulletin board will now list each month's mini events with small descriptions; these mini events can be written out (if you would like!) any time during that month. Info for each will be provided on the 1st of the month.

I'll come up with a task in February! I haven't decided yet if we will do one a month, or cut back a bit to one per season, etc. But I do need a wee break and will be taking it; if you are looking for something to do, I recommend checking out our task page and doing some of our development prompts!

AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT !

One thing that might seem silly to you guys, but actually means a lot to admins is just interacting with mod posts -- liking event posts, important announcements, etc. It helps us know "hey, okay, they see this, that's good!" and lets us know it's something you appreciate and/or enjoy in the group.

Please tag and be mindful with triggering subjects! All triggers should be marked in the format of "trigger tw" so that people can blacklist if need be. Our trigger list can be found here, but when in doubt, don't hesitate to ask me, any time.

Be mindful with your replies. Remember that while you might have more muse for some threads, if you are letting others sit idle, that could actually harm someone else's activity -- and in turn make them not want to write with you moving forward. This goes for writing multiple characters, too, they all need your love!

A WORD FROM THE MOD !

It's a new year. For a lot of people, a new year means a new start. For Merrock, we are hoping the same. Let's leave the past in the past -- give everyone a clean slate and a fresh start. Are there writers you just haven't plotted or interacted with? Take the opportunity to reach out. Plots that you've let fall to the wayside? Maybe it's time to fix that! Let bad feelings go... and let's just take a deep breath and start the new year off with a goal of really, really focusing on building up our sense of community. I've said it before, but... comment on one another's OOC posts, like their socials and tasks, respond to plot calls, message people back when they reach out to you, just be kind to one another, it's what makes this group as special as I know it is. As admin, I am going to work hard this year on figuring out what works for our group. We are cutting back a wee bit on the amount of events that we have so that people can get more enjoyment out of them, and allowing more freedom with mini events, as well as implementing a couple of plot drops. I'll be removing features that just haven't really worked well for us in the past, trying to get more feedback on things like tasks and themes for events, etc. I am always open for feedback and constructive criticism. But I do ask everyone to remember that I am one person doing my best, and a human being. Kindness always wins, and I will always, always give that back to you guys, too. xx

HAVE A GREAT JANUARY !

[phpruitts]

'You have no idea how badly I wanted to give you something like this.'

Phoebe bites down on the plush of her bottom lip. There's a smile pulling at the edges of her mouth— just thinking about how Rafael had been thinking of her.

He looked at Phoebe and wondered how to make her life easier. This girl he wasn't even technically dating, but still someone he cared for. Still someone he was willing to buy a fucking Mercedes for. There's a pang in her stomach. And then, her brows raising when—

'you work so hard at everything you do, Phoebe. You work harder than I do, and …'

Phoebe's eyes round.

"Rafael Dahar, I do not work harder than you." the very idea of that seemed ... ludicrous. "You operate like, two massive ... businesses, you handle a bajillion dollars."

He accomplished so much! Yes, dancing was physically exhausting, always, and emotionally exhausting, often, but even Phoebe and her extra shifts were nothing compared to the scope and scale of Rafael's work. Still. Just hearing, for once, someone say something like that— it pierced right through Phoebe's heart. She'd packed up her little backpack alone, when she decided to leave her mother, just fifteen years old and underweight and wary and scared. She packed up her little backpack and duffel alone, when she finally decided the bruises and berating and the syringes and the dull, twilight life she'd led with David was not survivable. Moved to a new city, a new state with essentially nothing.

Nothing but medical debt, honestly.

Raf didn't know all of this, but it felt so fucking good just to hear some sort of validation now that she'd started to get her life in order.

Another shaky exhale, and this time Phoebe does smile again.

Maybe Raf didn't know all of this now, but maybe— maybe some of it she could share sometime. Help him to understand why this meant so much to her, after a lifetime of nothing.

'You deserve something like this… you deserve everything.'

Phoebe's knuckle sweeps over his cheek again. An even wider grin overtakes her at his next words. He wanted to do dinner as soon as possible. Rafael would bring the wine, his nice clothes, and he'd even bring her flowers, too.

Another pang strikes her heart.

"The gift is for you!" Phoebe's eyes crinkle. "You don't have to bring me flowers. Though— I tried looking at like, wine charts, and explanations of brands, and it was still way out of my scope, so maybe ... I will let you make sure I don't accidentally pick out something that tastes like bug spray."

"...And I can wear that black silk dress you got me."

She's still blinking away tears, but the look in Phoebe's gaze is nothing but warm. Warm, hot, honestly, blazing with affection and awe. They were sitting close. Mostly bare, and thoroughly undone and stripped, but Phoebe just— really needs to be even closer. She shifts forward. Leans up into Rafael's chest again, the smooth shell of the FOB still clutched inside her palm.

"Do you know that ... you're the kindest person I've ever met."

"This is literally the kind of thing that changes my life."

Rafael felt all of the air leave his lungs, mid kiss.

Phoebe had changed Rafael’s life. She’d made him kinder, more considerate — a hell of a lot more patient. And one day, he’d find the right way to tell her. He’d find the words.

It made him unbelievably happy to know that it was a life changing gift. That she’d indulge in extra groceries, on her own schedule, just because of him. She could go shopping with friends, take it out to brunch whenever she wanted, without having to worry about catching the bus or wasting money on an Uber.

“I’m happy I got to give it to you,” Rafael admitted. “You have no idea how badly I wanted to give you something like this. I don’t know. I can’t think of anyone who deserves it more, honestly? You work so hard at everything you do, Phoebe. You work harder than I do, and …” Rafael trailed off. He shrugged. “You deserve something like this… you deserve everything.”

Rafael smiled gently. The kind of smile that was reserved for Phoebe, and Phoebe alone.

“Let’s do it soon. As soon as we can,” Rafael finally said. He didn’t have his phone in front of him, couldn’t check his calendar, but he’d clear everything out to have a fresh dinner made by her. Already, Rafael was savoring whatever it is she made — a nice, juicy steak — or freshly made pasta. Or a beautiful, flaky salmon — or … a frozen pizza. As long as it was shared with Phoebe, he didn’t care.

“I’ll bring the wine,” he offered. “And I’ll wear something nice.”

Rafael faced her. He continued to rub at the wetness beneath her eyes.

“I’ll bring you flowers, too.”

Did Phoebe know? Could she tell in that moment that there was a chamber in his heart that belonged entirely to Phoebe?

Did Rafael even realize that?

[casino-lights]

WIP Wednesday - show me your WIPs! anything, fic, art, VP, whatever you're working on!

I was tagged by @hightowerqueen! I haven't been tagged in one of these in literal years my god 🥹 I'll tag @issilya, @local-gonk-droid-union, and @elvhendis if you have any current wips you'd like to share!

I've been chipping away at a post-battle drabble that got away from me for weeks and I think it's almost done so here's a snippet from that!

Lidia spotted him on a table, shirtless and wrapped in bandages, with a healer tending to him. He moved sluggishly and only when told, but his posture was still straight and his voice was still clear. He looked… decent.

She chided herself again for being so worried. Of course Illario was fine. Of course he made it with only minor injuries. Why wouldn’t he? He always had demonic luck. Why worry about him, Illario the traitor, Illario the liar, Illario the cheater, heartbreaker, manipulator–

“Lidia?”

She looked back at him at the sound of his voice, realizing her fingernails were starting to dig into her palms. She grabbed a stray coin off an empty card table and turned it over a few times in her hand as she made her way toward Illario.

He smiled at her approach, winced as he turned too far, and gave a slightly smaller and surprisingly sheepish grin when she reached his side. “Stay right there,” he said, holding out his unbandaged arm. “That’s always been my good side.”

Lidia rolled her eyes. “You couldn’t possibly say hello, or ask me how I am, or ask after your cousin, could you? Do you even care?”

“I–” He hissed sharply and cursed as the healer pried something off his right side with a sticky sound. He leaned forward at the same time Lidia did, blocking her view of whatever was removed from him, and flashed another forced half-smile. “Of course I care, but I trust your delightful bluntness. I’m certain you would have told me the second you saw me if he was dead. I’m also certain you would look like you’ve been crying.”

She scowled and crossed her arms, angrily spinning the coin between her thumb and forefinger. “You’re a bastard.”

“I’m not, strictly speaking, but I never did get to know my father as well as I would have liked, so I’ll give you–” He cut himself off with another wince as the healer removed another piece from him. Once more, Lidia leaned forward to look, and once more, Illario intercepted her, this time by reaching for her arm.

“Don’t touch me,” she snapped, pulling away from him.

“If there’s one thing I can say about you, it’s that you never gave me mixed signals. I always know exactly where I stand. I love this about you - have I mentioned that?”

“You have. A pity I can’t say the same about you.”

[notmaplemable]

Thoughts On 2024 & Plans For 2025

Hello folks, it's Mable.

It's been while since I've really done anything but random shitposts, so I wanted to just get my thoughts about 24 and my plans for 25 out of the way.

Honestly, 2024 was a bit of a rough year when it came to my writing and this blog too honestly. I feel like I started 20 projects, and dropped them after not even getting very far. And the projects I had before that were either barely updated or dropped entirely.

Now there are reasons I wasn't able to get as much done as I did in the year before. Mostly the new job I got in February taking up a lot more time than my previous one did. But there was plenty of time last year for me to get something done and I simply just didn't.

And I'm not happy about that.

I do quite enjoy writing, and I really do feel like I didn't do nearly enough of it last year. Really I feel like I wasted a lot of time chasing around random ideas rather than focusing on a few that I really liked or had really good potential.

So I'm going to do more this year. I'm going to be a little less lazy and, maybe more importantly, only focus on a few projects this year. With no new projects coming out.

Which projects am I dropping and which am I keeping? I'll let ya'll know in a few weeks probably. I haven't 100% figured that out myself honestly.

I will say that Ghosts of Summer and Norther Ranger will be kept.

As for my regular blog posts, I'll probably go back to what I was doing in 23 with timed posts instead of just posting whatever comes to mind when I feel like it.

As for the smut blog... I don't fucking know man.

My goal is to write at least 250k words of fiction this year, not including shitposts and the like.

I want to do better this year, for myself.

With that, I'm also taking a short hiatus to start planning things out. I'll be back on the 16th.

Though, even if I don't think I did as well as I could have over 2024, I want to thank everyone for sticking around. I hope you all had great years and I look forward to writing more bad lancaster fics.

See ya'll when I get back.

[cinnamontails-ff]

New Year Writing Tag

Happy New Year everyone!

I love this time of year for how it invites reflection and a general (re)assessment of where I am as a writer. I've seen a few "new year writing" tags floating around, but didn't love their focus on numbers, so I decided to make my own. Feel free to use the template if you're interested, leave stuff out, etc!

What's been your biggest learning point this past year?

Readers are fickle, and winning yourself an audience is not the same as maintaining it. Still, there will always be people who love your work, exactly the way it is.

How has your writing developed this past year?

I think my grasp on the English language has definitely improved! I find I'm more comfortable with varying my sentence structure, and the fact that I'm finally getting the hang of punctuation also definitely helps haha That said, I've been leaning into my overwriting tendencies. MA was supposed to be 150k words and now it's gonna clock in at nearly 200k. And that's ok because it was a difficult project and I'm proud of myself for pulling through, but I definitely need to rein myself in, moving forward.

Good writing habits?

Finally installing automatic backups through my writing software! Also, investing in a nice keyboard for the first time in my life. Life-changing.

Bad writing habits?

Pushing too hard rather than taking a break because my general modus operandi in life is "Work hard now, so you can relax later" - except, I never let myself get to the "later" part.

Favorite thing you wrote?

Chapter 20 of "Magistrate's Advocate". If you know, you know, but it was a very unusual, very challenging chapter for me, and I love how it came out.

Favorite reads?

"A Sorceress Comes to Call" by T. Kingfisher

"Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang

And my re-reads of "Guards, Guards" and "Small Gods" by Terry Pratchett, but what else is new :D

Biggest win?

Making friends through writing. Connecting with people in a way that goes so much further than storytelling. Getting to go to the wedding of someone I met through fandom (and then try to explain to the other guests how you met :D). Sitting on a riverbank in a European city with a lovely reader for 4h straight, receiving the most beautiful fountain pen as a gift. Really, everyone who's made me feel like they care about me just as much as they care my stories ❤

Goals for the new year?

Finish the translation of my original novel.

Stop beating myself up over the things I have not achieved.

Forget AO3 statistics exist.

Shamelessly re-read my own fics over and over again.

Your favorite words of the year, aka the words you check each chapter for, making sure you didn't repeat them 788 times?

"little", "gaze", "look", "smile", "quite", "absolutely", anything to do with "shoulders", "hands" and "eyes".

Seriously, what is it with me and shoulders?

What are you excited for in the new year?

I've just recently started a writing group with a handful of lovely people I met through fandom, and I am extremely excited for it! It's hard to find a group of like-minded people, and while I love the focus on positivity in fandom, I really miss being told where my writing still needs work :D

No-pressure tags (and feel free to pick and choose your favorite questions!): @davenswitcher @obsessedwhyyes @larvasmoon @wobblyweasels @roguishcat @amoremagnificentbastard @lady-vincent @ladyduellist @canon-in-too-deep @khywren @karinamay @bananaiguana and everyone else who loves their new year's reflections!