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jasonp01 · 4 months

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Role of Technology in Preschool Education

Technology has revolutionized many areas of toddler's life, including the way we learn. In the past, preschool education was just limited to traditional methods like storybooks, chalkboards, and hands-on activities. Today, technology has completely changed the methods of learning and teaching of the preschool curriculum. From interactive whiteboards to learning apps, technology has made it easier for teachers to retain their students' attention making the classroom a more interesting place to learn.

Preschool education is a very important part of child's growth. During this stage, children learn the basic ideas and skills that will help them do will in school in the future. In recent years, technology has grown to be a crucial part of preschool education. It given teachers and students a wide range of tools and resources to help them learn. In this blog, we'll talk about how technology can help young students in their preschool learning.

Advantages of Using Technology in Preschool Education

Bringing technology into preschool education has helped students in many ways. The following are some of the advantages that we have recognized.

1. Engaging and Interactive Learning

Preschoolers have a limited attention span and may quickly lose interest in learning. The use of educational applications, games, and interactive whiteboards has been shown to improve student's ability to grasp complex ideas. Students have more fun from lessons that include technology. Thus, this technique can make education more exciting and interactive for students.

2. Improved Fine Motor Skills

Preschoolers are still developing fine motor abilities, which are required for tasks such as writing and drawing. By giving opportunities to use touchscreens and handheld devices, technology can support the growth of these skills. Using drawing apps on tablets or touchscreen devices, for instance, can help promote the development of fine motor skills in toddlers while they have fun.

3. Better Memory Retention

Preschoolers have an extraordinary ability of learning, yet their memories are often fragile. By offering interactive and interesting learning experiences, technology can help to boost memory recall. For instance, playing memory-based educational games can help preschoolers retain information and concepts more easily.

4. Personalized Learning

Due to the advancements in personalized learning technologies, educators can now customized lessons as per the specific needs of each student. This strategy ensures that every student, regardless of academic ability, receives the assistance and resource they requires to succeed.

5. Better Communication

The use of technology can improve communication between educators and parents. With messaging applications, educators may offer parents regular updates on their child's progress and share resources that can be used at home to reinforce learning. This strategy strengthens parent-teacher relationships and promotes parental involvement in their child's education.

At The Growing Patch Preschool, we understand how important it is to give our young students the right exposure to technology for their academic success. Because of this, we've added technology to our teaching methods to helps our students learn better. The Growing Patch Preschool is proud to be the Best Preschool in Fresno that incorporates technology in the teaching. We are confident that by using technology, we can lay a solid foundation for our student's future success. Thus, look no further than The Growing Patch Preschool If you're looking for the Best preschool in Fresno that offers a cutting-edge learning environment.

Best preschool in Fresno, Preschool in Fresno

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mykreatecube · 8 months

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Creative Ideas for Designing a Playful Children's Room

Step into the realm of endless possibilities and youthful imagination as we embark on the exciting journey of designing a playful children's room. This isn't just about arranging furniture and choosing colors; it's about creating a haven where every corner is a canvas for dreams and every element sparks joy. Whether you're a parent seeking to transform a nursery or a caregiver looking to refresh a child's space, this guide is your invitation to infuse creativity and magic into the room where laughter and adventure rule. So, let's dive into the world of whimsy, where each idea unfolds as a pathway to a space that not only reflects the vibrant personality of its young dweller but also becomes a stage for the grand theater of childhood.

In the following sections, we'll explore a myriad of creative ideas – from colorful wonderlands and whimsical wall murals to cozy reading nooks and flexible furniture fun. These ideas are more than just decor; they're a celebration of the spirit of childhood, encouraging exploration, fostering creativity, and laying the foundation for a space that grows with the child. Ready to embark on this adventure of design and joy? Let's begin the journey of turning a child's room into a magical sanctuary where every day is an opportunity for play, learning, and delightful discoveries.

Colorful Wonderland

Infuse the room with a lively color palette, incorporating sunshine yellows, ocean blues, and playful pinks. Use vibrant bedding, curtains, and accent pieces to create a cheerful and energizing atmosphere. This not only adds visual appeal but also sets the stage for a room full of joy and positivity.

Whimsical Wall Murals

Transform plain walls into a gallery of wonder with whimsical wall murals. Consider nature-inspired scenes, fantasy landscapes, or even characters from their favorite stories. These murals not only add visual interest but also become a backdrop for their growing imagination.

Cozy Reading Nook Retreat

Create a cozy reading nook by incorporating a soft rug, plush cushions, and a dedicated bookshelf filled with captivating stories. This space encourages a love for reading and provides a quiet retreat where little ones can immerse themselves in the magic of books.

Playful Storage Solutions

Conquer clutter with playful storage solutions. Use colorful bins, themed baskets, or quirky storage chests to make organizing toys and belongings a fun activity. Label each container with colorful tags or pictures to make tidying up an engaging adventure.

Themed Adventures Spaces

Elevate playtime by creating themed zones within the room. Designate corners for different adventures, such as a jungle safari, a space exploration area, or a princess palace. Rotate themes periodically to keep the excitement alive and spark their creativity.

DIY Wall Art Projects

Get hands-on with DIY wall art projects. Create personalized artwork by framing your child's drawings or paintings. Consider collaborative projects like handprint animals or paper crafts. Not only does this add a unique touch to the room, but it also becomes a cherished display of their creativity.

Flexible Furniture Fun

Invest in flexible furniture that adapts to changing needs. Consider modular shelving, adjustable desks, or multi-functional pieces that can grow with your child. This ensures the room remains functional and stylish as they transition from toddlers to pre-teens.

Interactive Walls

Turn walls into interactive elements by incorporating writable surfaces, chalkboard paint, or even a magnetic wall. This allows your child to express their creativity freely, whether it's drawing, writing, or creating ever-changing displays of artwork.

Magical Lighting Touch

Enhance the room's ambiance with magical lighting touches. Consider string lights, themed night lamps, or glow-in-the-dark elements. These subtle additions create a cozy and whimsical atmosphere, especially during bedtime, making the room feel like a magical haven.

Nature-Inspired Decor:

Bring the outdoors inside with nature-inspired decor. Incorporate elements like tree-shaped bookshelves, floral bedding, or animal-themed wall decals. This not only adds a touch of the natural world but also creates a calming and nurturing environment for your little explorer.

Read More for Playful Children Room Inspiration: Creative Design Ideas

Conclusions

In the delightful journey of transforming a children's room into a space of wonder and joy, the amalgamation of color, creativity, and functionality emerges as a key theme. Each idea, from the vibrant hues of a colorful wonderland to the interactive allure of DIY projects, contributes to a room that not only looks enchanting but also serves as a catalyst for imaginative play. As we conclude, the essence lies not just in decor but in fostering an environment where little ones can explore, learn, and create lasting memories. May the room be a canvas for their dreams, a cozy retreat for bedtime stories, and a place where the magic of childhood is beautifully preserved.

In crafting a space that evolves with the child's growth, incorporating flexibility, whimsy, and a touch of nature, the goal is achieved – a room that reflects their uniqueness and becomes a haven of laughter and discovery. So, here's to the joyful moments, the shared stories, and the countless adventures yet to unfold within the walls of their playful sanctuary. Happy designing and may the room be a constant source of delight for your little explorer!

#kids room #kids room interior #Playful children Room

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interior-desiner-noida · 8 months

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Interior Designing Ideas For Kids

Designing a space that sparks joy and creativity for kids is like crafting a magical world within the walls of their own room. As parents, we want our little ones to feel inspired and comfortable in their personal spaces. Let's explore some simple yet enchanting interior design ideas that can transform any kid's room into a haven of imagination and joy.

1. Colorful Wonderland

Start by choosing a vibrant color palette that reflects the lively energy of childhood. Bold and cheerful colors like yellows, blues, and greens can create a visually stimulating environment. Consider using removable wall decals or washable paint for easy changes as your child grows.

2. Whimsical Wall Decor

Bring the walls to life with whimsical and playful wall decor. Think about incorporating themed murals, wall stickers of favorite characters, or even a chalkboard wall for doodling. This not only adds a personal touch but also encourages artistic expression.

3. Multifunctional Furniture

Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes to maximize space and functionality. Choose beds with built-in storage, convertible cribs that transform into toddler beds, or desks that can also be used for arts and crafts. This not only saves space but also adapts to the changing needs of your child.

4. Cozy Reading Nooks

Create a cozy corner dedicated to reading and storytelling. Use soft cushions, bean bags, or a small tent to make it inviting. Add shelves for storing books and make sure the lighting is warm and comfortable to encourage your little one's love for reading.

5. Themed Bedrooms

Consider designing the room around a specific theme that your child loves. Whether it's outer space, underwater adventures, or favorite cartoon characters, a themed bedroom adds an extra layer of excitement. Use bedding, wall art, and accessories to bring the theme to life.

6. Interactive Learning Spaces

Incorporate elements that stimulate learning and creativity. Magnetic boards, chalkboards, and corkboards can be used for educational purposes. Additionally, consider a designated area for art supplies or a small study desk to inspire a love for learning.

7. Glow-in-the-Dark Magic

Enhance the nighttime experience by adding glow-in-the-dark elements. From stickers on the ceiling to bedding and wall decals, these magical touches can create a calming and enchanting atmosphere as your child drifts off to sleep.

8. Personalized Touches

Include personal touches that make the space uniquely your child's. Display their artwork, frame special drawings, or create a gallery wall of family photos. This not only adds a sentimental touch but also reinforces a sense of ownership and pride in their space.

9. Interactive Floors and Rugs

Consider adding interactive rugs or floor mats that encourage play and exploration. Whether it's a hopscotch pattern, a world map, or a puzzle, these additions can turn the floor into a canvas for imaginative play.

10. Open Play Spaces

Finally, ensure there's enough open space for play and movement. Avoid clutter by organizing toys and belongings with storage bins and shelves. A clutter-free environment allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable play experience.

Conclusion

Designing a kid's room is an opportunity to create a space where creativity, imagination, and joy can flourish. By incorporating these simple interior design ideas, you can transform your child's room into a magical haven that reflects their personality and nurtures their sense of wonder. After all, a well-designed space can play a crucial role in shaping the way our little ones perceive the world around them.

#Interior Designing Ideas For Kids #Designing a kid's room

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firstbabyarrival · 10 months

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Fun and Engaging Ways to Start Teaching Your Toddler the Alphabet: A Journey with First Baby Arrival

Introduction: At First Baby Arrival, we recognize the immense joy and anticipation that come with the arrival of your first baby. As your dedicated companions on this beautiful journey, we offer a curated selection of premium baby products and unparalleled services, ensuring your experience is truly memorable. In this blog, we'll explore the exciting world of early childhood education by providing fun and effective ways to start teaching your toddler the alphabet.

Our Commitment

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Embrace parenthood with confidence by choosing from our carefully curated collection of premium baby products. From cozy blankets and adorable clothing to essential gear and innovative toys, we prioritize safety, comfort, and style for your little one.

2. Excellent Services:

Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional services tailored to your needs. We strive to make your shopping experience seamless, offering detailed product descriptions, expert advice, and prompt customer support for your complete satisfaction.

3. Competitive Rates:

Parenthood comes with its share of expenses, and we believe that every family deserves access to high-quality baby products without breaking the bank. Enjoy competitive rates on all our items, coupled with special promotions and discounts, making your journey into parenthood affordable and enjoyable.

Why Choose First Baby Arrival

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Our team of experts meticulously selects each product to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety, durability, and functionality.

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Navigate our website effortlessly with a user-friendly interface designed to provide you with a hassle-free shopping experience.

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Your satisfaction is our priority. Reach out to our responsive customer support team for assistance at any stage of your parenthood journey.

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Join Our Community

Become a part of our growing community of parents who trust First Baby Arrival for their baby's needs. Follow us on social media, sign up for newsletters, and stay updated on the latest products, parenting tips, and exclusive offers.

Fun and Engaging Ways to Start Teaching Your Toddler the Alphabet

1. Alphabet Blocks and Toys:

Introduce your toddler to the alphabet through colorful blocks and toys. Encourage play and exploration as they familiarize themselves with each letter.

2. Alphabet Song and Rhymes:

Sing the alphabet song together and incorporate fun rhymes. Use music and rhythm to make learning enjoyable and memorable.

3. Letter Recognition Games:

Play simple games that involve identifying and matching letters. Use flashcards or create your own interactive activities.

4. Alphabet Books and Storytime:

Explore alphabet-themed books during storytime. Point out letters and objects that correspond to each letter in the story.

5. Letter Tracing and Drawing:

Practice letter recognition through tracing and drawing. Use large letters on paper or a chalkboard for a hands-on learning experience.

6. Alphabet Puzzle Play:

Invest in alphabet puzzles that allow your toddler to match letters with corresponding pictures. It's a tactile and visual way to reinforce letter recognition.

7. Educational Apps and Games:

Introduce age-appropriate educational apps and games that focus on the alphabet. Interactive digital tools can add an extra layer of engagement.

8. Outdoor Alphabet Hunt:

Take the learning outdoors by going on an alphabet scavenger hunt. Look for objects that start with each letter of the alphabet.

Celebrate the Magic of Your First Baby's Arrival with First Baby Arrival

We're more than just a store; we're your partner in creating lasting memories with your little one. Explore the world of parenthood with First Baby Arrival, where quality, service, and community converge to make your journey truly exceptional.

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hahaalaine · 11 months

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According to the toddler anything can be a contact sport, now including drawing on the chalkboard together

#mom posting

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braeveries · 1 year

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“do that again. that was cute.” / miguel to julia

Julia's heart races as she pivots on her heel to find Miguel's unexpected presence in the doorway of her classroom. A rush of warmth floods her cheeks, causing her to inadvertently release her grip on the banner she had been struggling to hang above the chalkboard. With a mixture of surprise and anticipation, she observes Miguel's confident stride as he leisurely makes his way toward her, every step accentuating the impeccable fit of his dark navy suit that elegantly contours his well-defined physique.

As he draws closer, Julia's gaze lingers on his chiseled features, and she can't help but admire the effortless charm he exudes. Her voice, barely above a whisper, trembles with a mix of emotions as she addresses him, ❛ Did we happen to have a conference scheduled for today? ❜ Her soft inquiry hangs in the air, intermingling with the fluttering of her pulse as she carefully descends from the toddler-sized chair that had momentarily elevated her attempts to reach the banner.

#decimatlas #decimatlas : miguel ohara #interaction : julia briggs #hehe

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velocitypon3 · 1 year

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[gallery ids="1287,1288,1289,1290,1291"] THE ULTIMATE STEP STOOL FOR TODDLERS AND KIDS: Introducing the Avenlur Date 4 in 1 Kitchen Learning Tower Montessori Style! This patented design provides the ultimate convenience for busy parents. It's quick and easy to assemble, super lightweight, and can be carried from room to room with ease. Plus, it's easy to clean with just a damp cloth and mild liquid dish soap., self-confidence, and skill development, this toddler counter stool is a must-have for any parent. A CHALKBOARD FOR LEARNING AND IMAGINATION: This Montessori learning helper tower for toddlers is not only functional, but fun too! It comes equipped with a chalkboard, providing your little one with more space for coloring, games, and developing their imagination. The tower is designed to fit child standards and prevent scratches and falls, ensuring your child is safe at all times. Made from non-toxic birchwood plywood and featuring a safety rail, this stool is both stable and non-slip. CONVERTS INTO A TODDLER TABLE: The Avenlur Date 4 in 1 Kitchen Learning Tower Montessori and Waldorf Style is more than just a step stool. It can easily be converted into a toddler table, perfect for studying and drawing. No tools are required, making it quick and easy to switch between functions. This feature is a great addition for parents who want to provide their child with a multifunctional learning space that can adapt to their growing needs. KIDS KITCHEN STOOL HELPER: The Date 4 in 1 Learning Tower Montessori and Waldorf Style is the perfect solution for parents who want to involve their children in the kitchen. It's perfect for use at the counter, bathroom sink, or anywhere else your child needs a boost. With its sturdy and safe design, your child can climb up with confidence, while the feet kickstands and anti-slip mats ensure stability. The tower can withstand up to 150 lbs and provides your child with all-round protection. MULTI-FUNCTIONAL HELPER STOOL, TABLE, CHAIR: This toddler step stool tower is designed to help your child explore their curiosity and teach them everyday skills. With a platform height that allows them to safely reach counters, tabletops, or the kitchen sink, they can observe and learn from mom and dad. The Avenlur Date 4 in 1 Kitchen Learning Tower Montessori and Waldorf Style is more than just a stool; it's a multi-functional helper stool, table, and chair all in one. AVENLUR'S COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY: At Avenlur, we're committed to the safety and sustainability of all our products. We use only the highest quality, non-toxic materials and regularly quality check our production. Certified in safety and composition, our sustainable playsets fit perfectly into any room in your home. With Avenlur, you can be confident in your child's safety and proud of your commitment to sustainability. THE PERFECT GIFT FOR YOUR CHILD: The Avenlur Date 4 in 1 Kitchen Learning Tower Montessori and Waldorf Style makes the perfect gift for any child. It's designed to grow with your child, providing them with a multifunctional learning space that adapts to their changing needs. Whether they're studying, drawing, or helping you in the kitchen, this tower is the perfect way to involve your child in everyday activities and teach them important life skills. [amz_corss_sell asin="B0BBDB5JX5"]

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bruuluuu · 1 year

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depressed-simmer · 2 years

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🎀Little Girl Room 🎀

CC LIST:

Paintings

Barbie dream house

Chalkboard & Chalk + Coloring Books + Crayons *Kiddies DECO*

[MLS] Circle Rug

Pillow Unicorn

Wigwam (armchair)

Toy basket

Starlight Bedroom Desk

Scholarly Deco Sim

Airplane kit deco sim

Thayer Nursery

The Tailored Suite Bedroom

2SIS Baby Bum Table Lamp

Rainbow kids wall hanging

Coffeeset and dollspram (Patreon Exclusive)

AnYe Star pillow

AnYe Tibro wooden storage drawers

AnYe Tuva bunny

AnYe Victor cushion

Doll's tea set

Doll camping-van

Drawing

Barbie books

Octo plush

JaK Book

Dog Plush Toy (Patreon Exclusive)

Wallpaper

Princess in the Clouds - Paintings

Katies Kids Room

Nocturne Dollhouse Storage

Anna's Toys. Flower

Bedroom Scandi Dresser

Decors and children's toys Pictures

Decorative Sport shoes (Patreon Exclusive)

Kids backpacks

Naya toddler pillow

Lilla Toddler Bedroom

Blythe dolls

Letter deco

Paisley Avenue book conversions

Roarsome Kids Bedroom

Berlingot BadBig 1 and 2

Arcane Illusions Unicorn Deco

Toddler Set 3

Wall Decals

Bunny chair (Exclusive for Patrons)

Rainbow table Lamp (Patreon Exclusive)

Kids Room Teddy Bear Cubby

Baby doll and Toy service

End table (donation needed)

Magical place single bed mattress

Delicata Kids paintings

Barbie Fur Makeup Case

Children Art

Chuu esther (Patreon Exclusive)

Kawaii sand clock (Patreon Exclusive)

Petit chef set

The kids' room Pencils

♡ thank you cc creators ♡ : @laskrillz, @aroundthesims @mlsim @satsu-sims @starrysimsie @thedevilliers @simandy @13pumpkin31 @miablacksims4 @bknysimz @soloriya @simmerkate @sims41ife @syboubou Severinka_ and more

❤️ @emilyccfinds @simbfinds @bwisim-cc @ninasims @sierrathesimmer @blewis50

#ts4 #thesims4 #the sims 4 #thesims4cc #ts4interiordesign #ts4 child room #ts4 interior design

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hardcasey · 3 years

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Party Hardy

Won’t Fade into the Background - Part 7

Pairing: Boost x Reader

Summary: The Wolfpack attends their first house party and an accident brings you closer to one of them.

Word Count: 3.2k

Ratings/Warnings: T, warnings for alcohol consumption and smoochin'

A/N: This is a follow up of sorts to the last chapter with Sinker. It was inspired by the story of how Alan Alda met his wife, which is very funny and cute. I thought the premise fit our resident stinky boy, Boost, which is how I ended up with whatever this is. Enjoy~

They could feel the pulse of the bass two floors below their destination. The Wolfpack - sans their leader, who was too busy ‘writing reports’ (aka being a party pooper) - climbed up the narrow stairway to reach the party Sinker’s girlfriend and her roommates were throwing in their apartment.

They all could tell what door it was without Sinker even telling them the room number, the lights flashing under the door were a dead giveaway. There was a couple outside the door, a human woman leaning up against the wall and chatting up a pretty green-skinned twi’lek. They didn’t spare a second glance at the passing troopers, save for a quick nod that Sinker returned.

He was about to knock when Comet piped up, “Uh, are you sure this is a good idea? We could just head back to the barracks, it’s not too late.”

“What, are you scared?” Boost teased, nudging his brother with his shoulder.

Comet pushed Boost away before replying, “I’m not scared, I’m just… We’ve never been to a civvie house party before. I don’t know what to expect.”

“Just think of it like going to 79’s, only with less rules,” Sinker reassured him before knocking on the door. It swung open immediately, one of the people near the door opening it and inviting them in.

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” Comet muttered under his breath as he followed his brothers through the doorway.

The party was packed, humans and non-humans alike crammed into every available space, chatting and drinking and dancing to the loud music that blared through a set of speakers. The air was slightly hazy from the group of people tucked in a corner and passing around a joint. The three troopers stood in the doorway for a moment, stupefied as they took in their surroundings.

“Alright, I just messaged my girlfriend to let her know we’re here. She said to meet her at the bar,” Sinker informed them.

“Wherever that is,” Boost sighed, standing on his tiptoes to try and see over the sea of people.

Comet decided on a different tactic, instead flagging down a nearby Mirialan who had a drink in their hands. “Hey, do you know where the bar is?” He asked, having to shout to be heard over the music.

The Mirialan pointed towards the back of the room and gave Comet a cheeky wink, the rest of their friend group giggling behind them. Comet blushed and was about to respond with something flirty when Boost grabbed him by the collar and started tugging him towards the bar.

It took a while as the clones squeezed through the crowds of people, but eventually they made it to the bar, which was really just a fold out table stacked with booze. Sinker’s girlfriend was nowhere to be found, so the group decided to grab a drink while they waited.

~~~

You stood behind the makeshift bar, bouncing in place to the beat of the music as you mixed up a drink in the cocktail shaker. One of your roommates had shoved a pair of huge novelty light up sunglasses onto your face at some point in the night and you had a bunch of plastic bead necklaces around your neck, your collection growing as more and more people offered you them.

You had volunteered to work the bar tonight, hoping to show off the skills you’d picked up after taking a mixology class you’d found a coupon for. You thought you’d be tired of making drinks by now, but it was surprisingly fun. You got to chat with everyone as they waited and you’d even gotten a few tips. There was also the added benefit of having access to all the booze you could want, and even though you knew you weren’t really supposed to get drunk off your own supply, who could blame you for taking a few shots here or there?

Maybe you were drunker than you realized, though, since you swore you were seeing double all of a sudden. Wait, make that triple. A group of three identical looking men moseyed up to your table, and you blamed the alcohol in your system for how long it took you to not only realize they were in fact three separate people and not one guy, but also that you knew one of them.

“Hey, Sinker! How’s it going?” You greeted the white-haired clone loudly, straining to be heard over the thumping bass.

Sinker greeted you and introduced you to his fellow clones, his ‘brothers’ as he liked to call them. The two of you had interacted only a handful of times - usually he was too busy macking on your roommate in her room - but he’d always been polite and kind.

“This is Boost,” Sinker pointed his thumb towards the clone sporting a set of wild-looking double mohawks, “and this is Comet,” he pointed to the clone with a shooting-star tattoo on his temple.

You waved at them with both of your hands. “Well, Comet, Boost, and Sinker, can I get you anything to drink?” You motioned to the chalkboard listing all the drink specials you were offering, each one of them complete with a little drawing to go with it. It had taken you much longer than you cared to admit to make it, but it had been worth it in the end.

The boys crowded around to get a better look at the drinks listed. “Naboo Sunset… Jedi Mind Trick… Outer Rim… These are some fancy drinks, I’ve never heard of ‘em before.” Boost commented as he read the names aloud.

“Well what liquor do you prefer? The Naboo Sunset and Outer Rim are tequila based and the Jedi Mind Trick has vodka.” You’d had this same conversation several times tonight, enough you could recite what was in each drink without thinking.

“Which one is the prettiest one?” Boost asked after thinking about it for a second. He wasn’t choosy with his liquor, couldn’t afford to be when all he had access to was whatever someone put in front of him at 79s.

Comet raised an eyebrow at his brother. “Really?”

“C’mon. You’ve seen some of those crazy drinks people order at 79s! The ones with all the colors. This could be our only chance to try one for free.” His head shot up all of a sudden as if he just remembered something, “Wait, these are free, right?”

You couldn’t help but laugh at their antics. “Yup, totally free. Though I do take tips in the form of credits or in particularly cool bead necklaces.”

“Sweet!” Boost pumped his fist in excitement, making Comet roll his eyes, though he couldn’t contain the smile on his lips.

“If you want something colorful you should try the Naboo Sunset. It has a bunch of different colored liquors layered on top of one another. Very pretty,” You suggested.

“Okay, I’ll have that one,” Boost agreed. “What are you getting, Com?”

“I’m torn between a Jedi Mind Trick or an Outer Rim. What about you, Sinker?”

Sinker considered for a second. “You get the Jedi Mind Trick and I’ll get the Outer Rim and we can share them.”

“Okay, one Naboo Sunset, one Jedi Mind Trick, and one Outer Rim coming right up.” You told them as you started grabbing bottles.

Just as you began mixing Boost’s drink, you saw a flash of red in your peripheral vision as your roommate ran past and all but tackled Sinker. Had he not been a soldier you were pretty sure he’d be flat on his back right now, but he was strong enough to catch her with one arm as she launched herself at him.

“Hey, babe,” he said with a lopsided grin as he spun her around, “I brought the ice you asked for.”

“My savior!” She said as he set her back on her feet, pecking him on the lips before taking the ice from him and quickly handing it over to you to deal with so she could go back to hugging her boyfriend.

You rolled your eyes at them as you cut open the bag and dumped the ice into the almost empty ice bucket. When you turned back to your task, you caught Boost and Comet’s eye and the three of you exchanged a look.

“I’m really gonna need that drink if we have to deal with this all night,” Boost quipped, making the three of you burst out into laughter.

“I’m on it, darling,” you reassured him as you hurried to make their drinks.

The boys kept you company as you worked, sharing silly stories that had you nearly crying with laughter. You had the three drinks ready in record time, though by the time you finished it didn’t seem like SInker would be able to pry himself away from his girlfriend long enough to take a sip.

“Well, I guess you get both drinks then,” you told Comet as you handed him his and Sinker’s drink.

“Be careful mixing alcohol, vod,” Boost warned before taking a long sip from his brightly colored drink, layered with shades of pink, orange, and yellow. His eyes had lit up like a toddler being handed a cookie when you gave him his glass, and by the way he was sucking it down he was enjoying it immensely.

“Or… you could go and bring one over to that Mirialan over there.” You pointed with your chin to motion towards the Mirialan they had met when they got here. “They’ve been making eyes at you this whole time. Plus, I know they really like the Jedi Mind Trick,” you offered with an eyebrow wiggle.

The two clones both turned to look at where you were pointing, and the Mirialan gave Comet a little wave. Comet waffled around for a bit until Boost elbowed him in the side and told him to go live a little.

“You’ll be alright without me?” Comet asked.

“Yup, I’ll be hanging out with our new friend here. Now go get ‘em, tiger.” With that, Boost shoved his brother towards the Mirialan. Once the two of you were alone, he turned to you, “Hope you don’t mind me keeping you company. The only other people I know here just ditched me!”

You laughed at his choice of words. “Of course not. If you want, I can teach you how to mix drinks.” He’d had a lot of questions for you as you prepared the drinks, wanting to know what every item did or what every step was for, so you thought he might find it fun. Plus, you could use a buddy at the bar now that things were slowing down somewhat. It seemed like everyone who wanted a drink had already gotten one and you only had to deal with those coming back for seconds.

“Sure! That sounds fun,” he said, rushing over to join you on your side of the table.

~~~

You weren’t sure how many hours had passed, but you and Boost made a countless number of drinks, some for the partygoers and some for yourselves. At some point in the night the two of you had sunk to the floor behind the drink table, both tired of making drinks and too busy talking with each other.

“What is this party even for anyway?” Boost asked between sips of the water you had forced him to drink. You’d given him your big light up sunglasses and the rim of the glass clanked against them as he brought it up to his face, knocking the glasses askew and making Boost frown dramatically.

You adjusted them for him before answering. “Uhh, I think it’s a birthday party.” He gave you a look as if to say how could you not know so you added, “It’s for a friend of a friend and I’m four Naboo Sunsets in, don’t give me that look.”

Boost nudged you with his shoulder as he laughed, and you were suddenly aware of just how close the two of you were, snuggled up together with your head on his shoulder. When had that happened? Not that you were complaining. All of the clones were attractive, but something about Boost was especially so. He was unapologetically himself, loud in both personality and looks. You’d asked him about the mohawks at some point and he’d told you they started off as a dare but he’d gotten attached. His brothers apparently liked to tease him about his crazy hairstyle but he wore it with pride. He said his hair made him stand out, which you could guess was important when you shared a face with millions of others.

The area behind the bar was a flurry of activity as your other roommates scrambled around grabbing snacks to pass out to everyone. One of them grabbed a cake from the fridge and started putting candles in it.

You got Boost’s attention and pointed it out to him. “See, I told you it was someone’s birthday.”

Not ten seconds after you said it, your roommate grabbed it off the counter and was ready to bring it out to whoever it was for when someone else bumped into them from behind, sending the cake flying. Everyone in the vicinity watched in horror as it sailed through the air before landing upside down on the floor with a splat. There was a chorus of shouts as everyone realized what had happened, the person who caused the accident apologizing profusely while others lamented the loss of the cake.

Once everyone got over their initial reactions, things settled down and your roommate rushed out to explain what had happened to the cake’s intended recipient. Everyone else in the room started debating what to do with the ruined cake.

“Are you really just gonna throw it out?” You asked sadly. You’d been eyeing that cake all morning and couldn’t wait to try a piece.

“Well yeah, it fell on the floor,” someone else responded.

“But there’s still a bunch of good cake left!” Not all of it was touching the floor, just the top portion. From your side you could hear Boost agree with you.

“If you want to eat it, be my guest.”

You thought about it for a second and looked over to Boost. “Wanna eat some floor cake?” He asked, handing you a fork.

You grabbed the fork and smiled at him, the two of you shuffling over to where the cake had fallen before digging in, careful to only eat parts that were safely away from the floor, and since it was a triple decker cake, there was a lot to choose from. You grabbed a big piece, making sure the cake to frosting ratio was acceptable, and held it out to Boost.

He gobbled it down in one bite. “Mmm, gourmet,” he joked, flashing you a huge smile before offering you a bite. “For you, my dear.”

You giggled in between bites of cake. “The dirt really adds a certain something.”

The two of you carried on like that for a while, ignoring the stares sent your way. You wished you could have blamed your suspect judgement on the alcohol, but you knew you would have probably done this when you were sober too, so you had no excuse. But you were happy you had someone by your side who was just as weird as you.

~~~

Sinker nudged his girlfriend. “Hey, I should check in with the guys. Just to make sure they are doing okay.” He hadn’t checked in with them in a while and was feeling a little guilty for abandoning them for so long.

“I think I saw Comet making out with someone a few minutes ago.” His girlfriend offered with a yawn. It was getting late and the party was starting to wind down. It was far less crowded now and there were people passed out on the couches nearby.

Sinker looked around and sure enough he found his brother in a corner, wrapped around the Mirialan they’d encountered earlier. Good for him, he thought, happy Comet had been able to come out of his shell after being so nervous about going to the party. He hated having to be the one to break them up, but it was getting time to head back. Wolffe had kindly reminded them they had an early morning training drill the next day as they were leaving for the party, his way of telling them to be home at a reasonable hour.

Once he had collected Comet, he set off to find Boost, knowing that out of the both of them Boost was way more likely to have gotten into trouble. After asking around a bit, they were pointed in the direction of the kitchen. Sinker ducked his head in the doorway only to find what felt like the worst case scenario, his brother surrounded by a huge mess. It took a second for his brain to process the fact that you and Boost were feeding each other bites of cake from the floor.

“Please tell me you didn’t cause this,” Sinker sighed.

“Nah, we’re helping clean up. Didn’t want it all to go to waste.” Boost explained from his position on the floor, his legs sprawled out and tangled with yours. That was an interesting development. He’d met you a few times and thought you were very nice, but he’d never in a million years have put you and Boost together. You seemed too… normal for his brother, though apparently that wasn’t actually true.

Sinker’s girlfriend poked her head in as well. “Awe, cute! Now smile you two, I want a picture,” she said before snapping a quick photo.

“It’s time to go, Boost. We gotta get up early tomorrow.” Sinker told him.

Boost turned to you. “I should help you clean up first. Like actually clean up.”

“I don’t want you to get in trouble with your C.O. Don’t worry about it,” you assured him.

“Okay,” He hesitated for a moment before starting to get to his feet.

“Wait!” You called after him. He turned back towards you and you took the opportunity to snatch the front of his shirt and drag him into a kiss. It started off tense, with you catching him by surprise, but he melted into it, his lips sweet with the taste of frosting. When you broke apart you added, “I had fun tonight. We should do this again sometime.”

“Y-yeah,” Boost agreed, stumbling to his feet. Sinker and Comet were all but dragging him away but he resisted long enough to ask. “Wait, I don’t have your number.”

“I’ll give it to Sinker,” your roommate offered, and that was enough to get him out the door. She closed the door behind them before joining you on the floor. “I’m gonna show that picture at you two’s wedding,” she teased, a shit eating grin on her face. “Y’know, you have me to thank for introducing you. I expect you to name your first child in my honor.”

“Shut it,” you told her, taking a piece of cake and mushing it onto her cheek.

#boost x reader #clone trooper boost x reader #boost #clone trooper boost #star wars fanfic #clone wars fanfic #reader insert #i had a lot of fun with the silly drink names lmao #true love is eating cake of the ground with each other

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bridgyrose · 3 years

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The fandom is being way too harsh on Taiyang

And honestly, it really needs to stop. I'm getting tired of seeing the same "Taiyang is a neglectful parent" or "Taiyang is abusive and doesnt know what he's talking about" when it comes down to who he is as a person. And honestly, I think it all comes down to the fact that what we've been told and what we've seen have left gaps to fill in that some people have sorta filled in with their own headcanons. Since this is a long post, going to put the rest under the cut.

For instance, one of the first mentions that we get of Taiyang was back in vol 1 after Yang and Ruby get to Beacon. Yang mentioned it was going to be like one big slumber party, to which Ruby immediately responds "I dont think dad would approve of all the boys." Right there is our first glimpse that he's so far just a normal dad and probably gave Ruby the birds and bees talk just before she went to Beacon just on the tone alone. Either way, that's about normal for a parent.

Then, we get to the Yang's burning the candle speech. And this is where we see a lot of people condemning Taiyang immediately. Below is the full transcript:

Yang: Ruby and I grew up in Patch, an island off the coast of Vale. Our parents were Huntsmen. Our dad taught at Signal, and our mom took on missions around the kingdom. Her name was Summer Rose, and she was, like... Super-Mom: Baker of cookies and slayer of giant monsters. And then... one day she left for a mission and never came back. (looks down as she says this, and Blake looks sorry for her) It was tough. Ruby was really torn up, but... I think she was still too young to really get what was going on, y'know? And my dad just kind of... shut down. It wasn't long before I learned why. Summer wasn't the first love he lost; she was the second. The first... was my mom. (Blake looks amazed at this information as Yang keeps talking) He wouldn't tell me everything, but I learned that the two of them had been on a team together with Summer and Qrow, and that she'd left me with him right after I was born. No one had seen her since.

Blake: Why did she leave you?

Yang: (sighs, then turns to the chalkboard) That question... Why? (gets off the desk and walks to the chalkboard, picking up a piece of chalk) I didn't know an answer, but I was determined to find out. It was all I thought about. I would ask anyone I could about what they knew about her.

As the reminiscent blonde starts drawing on the board, the scene shifts to a flat-painted flashback of a young Yang, with orange bows holding her brunette pigtails, looking at the photo found in a smashed picture frame.

Yang: (off-screen) Then, one day, I found something. What I thought was a clue that could lead me to answers, or maybe even my mother.

The next shot shows Yang walking down a long winding path through the towering trees shedding their leaves with a little creaking wagon pulled right behind her, a little sister in a crimson hood sleeping soundly inside.

Yang: (off-screen) I waited for Dad to leave the house, put Ruby in a wagon, and headed out. I must've walked for hours. I had cuts and bruises, I was totally exhausted, but I wasn't gonna let anything stop me. When we finally got there, I could barely stand, but I didn't care; I had made it. And then I saw them. Those burning red eyes...

In the shadows of the worn-down house the siblings had arrived at, beastly red shapes glow from the darkness.

Yang: (off-screen, while her younger self looks petrified) There we were: A toddler sleeping in the back of a wagon and a stupid girl too exhausted to even cry for help. We might as well have been served on a silver platter. But, as luck would have it, our uncle showed up just in time.

As the Beowolves leap into the air to devour their young prey, the familiar sound of a gun-scythe follows the sight of them all being cut into pieces by a caped warrior. His bird-haired silhouette fades away to present day, where Yang has just finished drawing a clockwork eye.

Yang: My stubbornness should've gotten us killed that night.

From this alone, we get a few things: the first was that Taiyang wasnt in a great spot. Losing two of the women he loved for different reasons shut him down in grief. The other thing we learn is that while Taiyang did tell Yang a little about Raven, he didnt say much. Which did fuel her steps to find out more. And when she thought she could, she waited until Taiyang left the house from there, packed up Ruby, and left.

Now, this is in no way to take all the blame off Taiyang, because honestly, he does still share the blame with Yang with everything happening here, but it still leaves us with a lot of blanks to fill in. And there's a lot of people who do take Taiyang leaving the house to be him leaving Yang in charge of Ruby and leaving the kids unattended. However, we only have one side of this. We dont have Taiyang's side, and frankly, we probably never will. But until then, we have no idea if Yang was left alone or if she was even left in charge of Ruby, or even why Taiyang stepped outside. It could be something as simple as leaving the house to do yardwork or could've been him stepping outside to meet up with a babysitter before heading to work. We dont even know how long after Summer's "death" it was, just that Yang and Ruby were young.

Which also comes down to the fact that Yang isnt blameless for it just because she was a kid. She knew what she was doing, planned for it, and if Taiyang was working off a schedule or routine, it wouldnt be hard for her to plan for it. Hell, if Taiyang never knew she found out about the shack in the woods, unless he saw her preparing for something, there's no way he could've known. And until we do get his side of everything, we just dont know what really happened. And getting his side wouldnt contradict anything either. This isnt meant to be an idea where either Yang is wrong or delusional, or Taiyang is a perfect parent. Both Taiyang and Yang can be right about events, Taiayng could've done everything he was supposed to be a good parent, and Yang could've still left without him knowing.

The next issue seems to be with his talk with Yang in vol 4, which... also seems to involve a lot of headcanons of Taiyang calling Yang stupid. The transcript is as follows:

Taiyang: You're still off balance.

Yang: What?! No I'm not!

Taiyang chuckles.

Yang: Honestly, I'm kind of surprised.

She lifts her robotic arm, looking down at it with a smile.

Yang: I thought it would be just this huge weight, but it feels... natural. They did a great job with this thing.

Taiyang comes in from offscreen, delivering a left hook right into her face. Yang's upper body rears back both from impact and surprise. She's ready to block his right hook, however, and uses the turning momentum to deliver an elbow jab. Grinning the entire time, Tai blocks it and then dodges all the kicks she follows through with. Yang switches to punches, but Tai is too on point for her. While she uses her left hand to block an elbow thrust, Tai has grasped her robotic arm and pulled it forward. The position puts Yang in the position of having her balance rely on the weight of one leg.

Taiyang: I wasn't talking about your actual balance.

He sweeps her forward leg, sending her onto the ground on her back. He leaves her there and walks over to Zwei, who happily gets the top towel for him.

Taiyang: Although, that could use some work too.

Taiyang takes the towel and give Zwei a rub on the top of his head. Zwei hums happily. Arms spread on the ground, Yang takes a breath before speaking.

Yang: Meaning?

Taiyang: (toweling off his sweat) I saw your tournament fights. During the Vytal Festival.

Yang: Let me guess. (in mocking accent) "I was sloppy."

Taiyang: No, no, you were predictable. And... stubborn. And... maybe a little boneheaded.

Yang sits up and spins to stare at her father.

Taiyang: Do you realize that you used your Semblance to win every fight after the qualifiers?

Yang: (spinning to have her back to him) So what? How is me using my Semblance any different than someone else using theirs?

Tossing the towel on the ground, Taiyang moves toward Yang.

Taiyang: Because not everyone else's is basically a temper tantrum. (laughing and crouching by her side) I'm serious! Once you take damage, you can dish it back twice as hard, but that doesn't make you invincible! It's great when you're in a bind, but what happens if you miss? What happens if they're stronger? What then? Now you're just weak and tired! You've always been one to burn brighter than everyone else, whether it was with your smile, or, well, I remember your first haircut.

He playfully tugs the hair on the back of her head. Smiling, Yang bats him away. He chuckles and gets up, walking away a few paces with Zwei just behind him.

Taiyang: But you gotta keep your emotions in check. Keep a level head, and think before you act. Your Semblance is a great fallback, but you can't let yourself rely on it. It won't always save you.

Now, the thing with this, is that he isnt entirely wrong. Yang did use her semblance to win both rounds after the qualifiers, which did make her predictable. He's also not wrong that at the time, if any of her opponents were stronger than her or could take the hit, considering the drain her semblance is on her aura between taking the hits and then activating, it wouldnt take much longer for her to lose either of those fights. But he never once says that Yang was dumb, or not acting strategic, or that she should never user her semblance. What he does say is that she shouldnt rely on it as a fall back. That she should take another look to see around the obstacles, which continues in the next part of his talk:

Taiyang: Don't be. Raven was great in so many ways - her strength, her ambition, her dedication to whatever cause she thought was worth fighting for.

He turns around.

Taiyang: I'm proud of how much of her I see in you. But, I'm glad I don't see all of her in you.

Yang: Why?

Taiyang: Your mother was... a complicated woman. Like everybody, she had her faults, but those faults are what tore our team apart. And, it did a real number on our family. You both act like the easiest way to tackle an obstacle is through it. (pointing at Zwei) That strength is all that matters in a fight. But if you just take a second look, then maybe you see... (walking toward her, stepping around Zwei) there's a way around as well. (extends hand) Come on - one more before dinner.

He knows Yang has a habit of using her strength to go through obstacles instead of finding another way around. He knows Yang is smart, he knows she can fight, but he also knows that her semblance is very emotion based. Even with meta knowledge, we can see that she gets angry once her semblance is used and her eyes shift to red with anger. Sometimes her eyes shifts before her semblance is active. And we know she fights strategically. Her whole fight with Neo was trying to figure out Neo's fighting style. But his whole point is that there are still things that she misses when she does fight and that she her strategy usually has her semblance as a fallback. Granted, we really only have 5 fights (6 if we count the breach with the grimm) where she's had to rely on some sort of strategy to win. And one of those still had all her teammates to back her up.

So while a lot of people dont think Taiyang knows what he's talking about, he absolutely does. However, he's only commenting on the fights he knows about and the fights he's seen, which was a grand total of 3 of the Vytal Festival. Which isnt a lot to talk on, but still is good advice for Yang. Now, that isnt saying its perfect advice, because he isnt prefect and uses a lot of the wrong words like how he describes Yang's semblance as a temper tantrum, while not wrong, isnt very accurate, even if it was a nod to Yang's first haircut.

And then there's the V4 E4 which has been stated by CRWBY to be the kind of relationship the VA's for Taiyang and Yang have, and that's a lot of hit or miss. Honestly, I can see how it's assholeish, but on the other hand, due to my own personal experiences, I'm willing to give that one a pass considering the two laugh at the end of it.

But what really gets me is the end of that particular scene when Port and Oobleck leave.

Port: I hesitate to ask, but is there any word from young Miss Rose?

Behind Taiyang, Yang moves into visibility at her bedroom window.

Taiyang: Not yet.

Oobleck: Have you thought about going after her? Trying to bring her home?

Taiyang: (sighs) I've got to... look after some things.

As Taiyang glances toward her bedroom window, Yang moves out of sight again and squeezes her right upper arm, looking dejected.

Taiyang absolutely worries about his daughters. And the fact that it's very much implied by the scene that Taiyang is taking care of Yang or at least trying to be there for her, that says a lot. He knows he should be going after Ruby, but he still has Yang to be there for too. And while he did make a few missteps in an earlier episode between giving the arm to Yang when she wasnt really concerned about getting a prosthetic at the time, and saying that she's still moping around, its one of those things where he's trying but he's not perfect. He understands losing part of himself, but he doesn't understand it the way Yang does. And in his way, he's doing what he can to be there and help. But with Yang not exactly saying what she'd want and just dismissing Taiyang with a lot of it, there wasn't much he could do to try to do better besides be there.

It also comes down to the fact that he's not neglectful of Ruby by letting her go off. When he saw the note at the end of vol 3, he rushed down, calling out for Ruby's name. He clearly is worried about her, but the question I have that inevitably comes up is: after he brings Ruby home, then what? And I have yet to see an answer to that question. It's always "Taiyang is a terrible parent for letting Ruby go off on her own across the world" or "Taiyang should've gone after Ruby and brought her back home" but there's never an answer to the "and then what?" He brings Ruby home and then... keeps her under lock and key? He brings Ruby home and then... denies her from allowing her to leave to get her own answers? And unfortunately, I dont think we'll ever end up with an answer on that that doesnt include Taiyang basically becoming a helicopter parent or keeping a watchful eye on a 16 year old. Which, ironically, can end up being more abusive to a person than having another adult follow behind and keep an eye on Ruby.

The last thing I want to touch on is Yang's talk with Weiss in vol 5.

Yang: (sigh) I know she's our teammate, but I'm not just going to change my mind. I'm sorry, I just... I don't think you know what it's like to be left. You have a giant family, recitals to perform at, dinners to attend. I didn't have any of that. My mom left me. Ruby's mom left too. Tai was always busy with school and Ruby couldn't even talk yet. I had to pick up the pieces. I had to keep things together. Alone. (pause) Weiss, if you have something to say, then say it.

And as much as it is tragic that Yang felt like she had to pick up the pieces and keep things together, its still vague enough that she never actually goes into detail on what she actually ended up doing. And it wouldnt surprise me if Taiyang ended up falling into his work after Summer "died", being there enough to take care of the kids but not really being there. It doesnt make him neglectful, just makes him human and dealing with grief. None of the Xiao Longs really seem to deal with grief or emotions in a healthy way, Ruby included. And honestly, that's something people need to take into consideration is that grief effects people in different ways. Acting in grief isnt necessarily a bad thing, but it's definitely something where there are wrong ways to deal with it, and honestly, it does feel like Yang, Taiyang, and even Ruby of recent, just havent dealt with grief in a healthy manner.

TL:DR: Taiyang isnt a perfect dad, but he's one that is trying. We dont know enough of the gaps to know if he is abusive or not, and while it's easy to use headcanons to fill in the gaps to give the narrative we want (such as Yang raising Ruby), its ultimately something we'll probably never get the full story of until it's relevant. And even then, getting Taiyang's side of how he acted after Summer's death would serve to add to the story as a whole of what we know and not contradict anything we've been told. Taiyang loves his daughters and is trying to be there for them. At best, he's an okayish dad who has made a lot of mistakes with trying to be there for his daughters.

#discourse #not throwing this into the main tag #yeah i'm aware i'm probably kicking another hive #but like #condemning Taiyang to be neglectful or abusive by neglect is really pushing it to me #we just dont know #lots of blank spots #lots of vaguing from Yang #maybe it'll become more relevant in vol 9 since she's going to have to face her own issues at some point #parents are allowed to make mistakes #keeping watch on little kids is essential #but not knowing the whole story is something that shouldnt allow for immediate dismissal of the idea that maybe he didnt do anything wrong #and things still went wrong #until then #its all just headcanons #and even if he was neglectful once #unless Ruby and Yang condemn him for it #its not our place to say that he cant change or that him trying doesnt matter #this isnt a post for arguing either #so I'll ignore anyone trying to argue against all of this #its just an analysis piece and me getting my own thoughts out there #rwby analysis

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prurientpuddlejumper · 4 years

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A Lipless Face That I Want to Marry, Ch. 4

<- Chapter 3 | Chapter 5 ->

Summary: Chilton’s recovery is slow and painful, and he is a cranky traumatized bastard who might be determined to push you away.

1,878 words

Twelve days. Six surgeries. Fifteen blood transfusions.

“Did you bring me something to eat?” he whined. Considering he could barely lift his voice above a whisper, it was an impressive feat that he could whine. “Tell me you smuggled something edible that does not go into a tube through my nose.”

“I’m sorry, honey-bear,” you pouted. “But you know I can’t until the doctors OK it.”

“I am a doctor.”

You rolled your eyes. “You’re still at a high risk of going septic—no outside foods covered with outside bacteria. Besides, they won’t let you eat solids yet, anyway.”

“Sanguinaccio dolce. Mango smoothie. Crème brûlée. Yamakake Soba...” he listed off non-solid things you ought to have snuck in for his enjoyment.

“And how would I get them in there?” You rapped your knuckles on the clear acrylic of the hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber.

He scowled. “This is not a zoo. No tapping the glass.”

You grinned and pulled a chair alongside the chamber so you were sitting next to him.

“Did you bring the laptop?”

Slinging the messenger bag you were carrying off your shoulder, you pulled out a smooth rectangular object and held it up proudly. “That I did. I’m ready to write if you’re up for it,” you said, but added with some hesitation, “Are you sure you want to do this now? You should be resting, and… I don’t know if it’s a good idea for you to relive what happened.”

“I am sure,” he snapped. “I may drop dead at any moment, so we will finish this now. While I still draw breath.”

You stiffened imperceptibly in your chair. The reminder that, despite making it this long, he was far from out of the woods was an unwelcome dagger in your chest, which you quickly plucked out and stuffed away in the box of things you weren’t going to think about.

“As for the wisdom of my reliving it—I feel his teeth every time I close my eyes. I may as well profit from the experience.”

Dr. Chilton was growing anxious that it had been nearly two weeks since his encounter with Francis “The Red Dragon” Dolarhyde, and he had not yet had the chance to publish on the subject. He had wasted far too much time being unconscious and dying—he needed to send a letter in to the American Journal of Psychiatry before some know-nothing crackpot took a swing.

He was the foremost authority on the Dragon—the only person to have communicated with him and lived who was not, himself, a fugitive for murder (or a blind girlfriend, but he doubted Reba was going to publish anything). This was his achievement. His way of staying relevant. The definitive analysis of the Red Dragon for the Journal, and then a spectacular ending for his book once he had his own hands to type with again. No one would take this opportunity from him.

After living with Frederick Chilton for over three years in relative domestic harmony, there were times you forgot what you ever used to dislike about him. Why you hated him so intensely when you first met.

This was not one of those times.

As you took dictation from your glass-encased fiance, you felt a crushing wave of empathy for the man’s poor secretary. He was demanding and fussy, making you read back every sentence to him line by line and mercilessly correcting any mistakes or omissions. He spoke slowly because of his weakened lungs and raw throat, and the thick glass and lack of lips made him difficult to understand, especially with nurses walking through and machinery beeping and whirring in the background—but when you tried explaining that to justify a transcription error, he took it as a personal affront.

You had to support him no matter what, you reminded yourself. This was much harder on him than you. You can always leave if you want you; he can’t. So when he was frustrated and cranky, you were patient and kind.

It took five hours and ten rewrites to get through two thousand words he was satisfied with submitting for publication, and you were nearly crying by the time you left.

***

Thirteen days.

High protein intake is critical to a speedy recovery in burn patients, but Frederick’s mangled digestive system could not tolerate protein very well. Keeping his kidney off the precipice of failure was a tightrope walk involving dietitians planning his every calorie intake, and daily blood work monitoring.

As a medical doctor, Frederick Chilton was aware of, and understood, these things. However he still rejected them as excuses when you once again did not bring him any outside food.

“Then what is the point of you coming?” he snapped, and immediately wished he had not. You stood frozen in the doorway of his recovery room unsure what you did wrong. You were right, of course—his throat felt like he had fellated broken glass. As much as he longed to chew something flavorful, with texture, he could not have swallowed solid food anyway. He closed his eyes. Softer, he asked, “Did you bring the March issue of the Journal of Psychiatry?”

You let out a held breath, unfreezing, and pulled the magazine out of your bag, presenting it with an upbeat flourish. “Delivered to your doorstep.”

“Would you read it to me?” He sighed, humiliated. It was not only that he could not hold the publication—even if you were to flip the pages for him, with only one working eye and no reading glasses, it was hopeless. He was completely dependent on you.

A cough shook his body as if to punctuate how completely he was broken. Useless. Weak.

The metal feet of the visitor’s chair scraped on the white floor like nails on a chalkboard as you dragged it close to his bedside, making him wince until you settled down and helped him browse for an article of interest.

He could barely make himself care about the content of the study. As you read, you rested one arm on the mattress right next to his, where it lay helplessly prone alongside his body, and he could feel the warm weight of you sinking into the cushion. The pressure was uncomfortable on his inflamed tissue, but soothing to something deeper. God, he wanted to be soothed. He wanted so badly to feel any kind of comfort. Anything to latch onto. He closed his eyes and got lost in your voice. For a moment, he could almost forget about the searing pain in each of his limbs and pretend he was at home, in his bed, with you.

The soothing, steady lull stopped, and he opened his eyes, horrified to find you looking intently at his ruined face. His nostrils flared painfully. “Do not stare,” he warned.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to,” you said. “I finished the article. I thought you fell asleep.” You searched for somewhere else to settle your eyes—the metal bar at the edge of the bed. Your lap. A flower arrangement.

You made such a show of not staring at him that he was even more certain that you had been. He was hideous. Perhaps that entertained you. You were probably already planning for Halloween. Red-hot thoughts swirled around his head like cinders.

Before you could get through a second article, a nurse came in with a tray of mushy hospital food. Humiliation stung deep for you to even see the damned tray, and it annoyed him that you did not immediately excuse yourself. There was no way in Hell he would allow you to watch such a disgusting, embarrassing process—being spoon fed like a toddler, the nurse wiping off his toothy chin of the spillage meant to be kept in check by lips.

“Go home,” he grumbled, leaving no room for argument.

You had barely been there for half an hour.

***

Fourteen days.

“Do you want to look at venues?” you offered, tucking him in with the extra blanket you had a nurse bring because he was cold.

“Venues?” he repeated with clear exasperation. He let out a weak cough.

“It’ll be fun! It’ll take your mind off things.” You grabbed your laptop off the plastic visitor chair where you’d left it, and excitedly held it up so he could see the screen from his prone position. There was already a search typed into google with preview images of scenic gardens glowing with string lights and towering ancient library ballrooms.

“I thought it went without saying our wedding date is… postponed.”

Your shoulders deflated. “I know, but… you’ll be out of the hospital by next year,” barring complications, “so we can use the time to plan. We were going to have to postpone anyway if you couldn’t pick anywhere that was good enough for your standards,” you teased.

“It is pointless.” He laughed bitterly, humorlessly, and your brief smile dropped.

“It isn’t… pointless.”

“I will not be able to visit any of the locations.”

“But we could make a list of places you want to visit when—”

“Stop!” he hissed.

“Oh,” you said quietly. “OK.” You sounded small. Too small.

“I… uh...” Frederick tried to say something. Something to make you sound less small and wounded. Fragments of thoughts and half-formed apologies stuck in his sore throat. Fuck, his skin hurt. Parts of it were starting to heal, but in the short-term that only made it worse, because now it itched, too. Pain. Itch. Guilt. Cold. You deserved so much more than him. “You should go,” he said at last, finally settling on the only way to make it better.

“Wh-what?”

“Just… go,” he croaked.

“I’m sorry. I won’t bring it up again. What do you want to talk about? Or, I can shut up and we can listen to music, or...”

You were apologizing. Again. Because he was being an asshole. It disgusted him how weak he made you. You used to be so fierce. Stubborn and unstoppable. But being with him was slowly killing your fire.

“Get out of this place. I want to be alone.”

It was better this way, he thought. It was better for you to get away from him.

You stared at him silently across what now felt like a vast distance of white laminate flooring. His beautiful, pale, mismatched eyes were fixed on the ceiling, hard and uncompromising. He blinked rapidly.

You wished you knew what was going on in his head. You wished you could fix it for him. But right now, as much as it pained you, he wanted you to leave, and maybe that was the best you could do.

“OK,” you relented. “I’ll be back tomorrow, all right? I love you.”

The only sound as you packed your laptop away and slipped your coat over your shoulders was his ragged breathing, the beeps and tones of hospital machines, and the occasional cough. He waited until you were almost out the door before replying, “I love you, too.”

#Frederick Chilton x reader #frederick chilton #hannibal #Raúl Esparza #angst #recovery angst #hospitals #here have your daily serving of pain #my writing

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crimsonbluemoon · 5 years

Note

6, 3, 7 H2OVanoss! You know me heh ( •ॢᴗ•ॢ⋈)

Ahhh Owlbun! So I hope this fits the perimeters of a cute-meet cause I don’t know if it does but I think it does? Idk, its cute, please enjoy this mess of a story. >.> It’s a diff style than I normally do, but….hope it works out!

AU: Coffee shopTrope: Meet cutePrompt: “You had no idea, did you?”

Pairing: H2O Vanoss

If Evan was being honest, he hadn’t expected the chalkboard wall at his coffee shop to make much of a difference. The Owl Cafe was a staple in the community, and he had an okay group of regulars that liked to come in and check out his new blends on the daily. There were ones he knew by name, like the 6 year old girl Momo who loved Brian’s hot chocolate, or the late-night writer Kryoz who always seemed to appear when the place was deserted. Some regulars he didn’t catch names for, so he titled them as he saw fit; Runner man, vlogger teen, cute sweatshirt guy. All had their place in his cafe, which was steady in its sales. He wasn’t rolling in cash, but it was enough to pay Brock and Brian, so he felt that he was doing alright.

The chalkboard had been something of a whim. A friend when he was younger had a wall in his bedroom with chalkboard paint that Evan had always enjoyed drawing on before bed. When he’d bought the cafe two years ago, he hadn’t really remembered the fun times he had scribbling across the bedroom wall. He was too focused on payments and attracting customers to stroll down memory lane. That had changed three months ago when bumping into Lui, the two speaking about their times as a child. The wall came up, of course, and Evan couldn’t let the memory go for days after. Lots of his customers had children, and college kids were always quick to bore when waiting for coffee. So one night, after a really good week at the shop, Evan went out and bought the paint in order to make his wall next to the waiting area a drawing board.

The result was amazing; people loved coming by and adding their own doodles to the wall, filling it with different styles of art or funny sayings. There were always the punks who tried to draw dicks or write derogatory marks, but street justice tended to stop the crimes far quicker than Evan or his friends picked up on them. Evan enjoyed looking at the board at the end of the night, seeing what secrets it held from the customers he served. He tried to guess who drew what, or where each blurb of inspiration writing came from. Was the struggling mother of three the one who drew the calm beach? Did the preppy college girl express her darker thoughts in the corner of the board? Or was that old couple who shared a coffee really sweet enough to write their 70th anniversary with a heart around it? All of the pieces of the board was a collection of minds, hearts, and souls, and the nights didn’t feel complete for the shop owner without gazing at them in appreciation.

His favorite part was the confessions; like an anonymous message board, people left words of secrecy every day. Evan felt it was a safe way for customers to express themselves without having to reveal their identity, and so far he hadn’t gotten any confessions that worried him. Brock always enjoyed reading the romantic ones where someone would claim their love for a friend, an ex, or a person they could never have. Brian’s favorites were the weird claims; he made Evan keep the ‘I like smelling feet’ confession up for three days. Evan couldn’t really say he had a type he sought out, because all of them were fun to read. If anything, he liked taking in the handwriting of the confessions, seeing whose were quaking with fear or more broad with confidence that only anonymity provided.

It was nearly two months into owning the board that a message caught his eye; it didn’t have much color or outlandish design to it, so Evan wasn’t sure why it stuck out to him so much. But the writing just…looked different. Friendly. A little messy but with long enough strokes to show some care went into it. The words only took up a small part of the board.

I come here every day because I think the owner is nice. And maybe cute? I wanted to ask for his name, but I’m too nervous.

Evan blinked in surprise, feeling his face heat up when he read it again. Someone…confessed about him? It was sort of risky, since this was his shop and he could have checked in on the board at any time, but it was also endearing. Someone was too shy to approach Evan, but felt strong enough about him to confess on his wall? He read the line two more times while he cleaned off every other drawing and confession, leaving the words in the middle of the board. Slowly, his eyes dropped down to the basket of chalk at the bottom of the wall, fingers twitching by his side. Despite having it for months, he’d never actually written on it. He left designing the morning greeting to Brock, as he was the artistic one of the three. But now…

He kept the confession where it was, drawing a little circle around it with the red chalk. Then, with block letters bright enough to catch any returning customer’s attention, he wrote out a simple reply.

It’s Evan. Nice to meet you.

He didn’t think about the teasing Brian would rain on him, or how unlikely it was for him to get a response. The confessions were meant to be anonymous, not openers for conversation. So sure that his words would be left unanswered, Evan didn’t look once at the board the following day, trying to keep focused on making his customer’s happy. Any time he wasn’t working, he rushed into the back, trying to stay occupied so he didn’t stare at the wall. The day dragged on forever, but when the final customer was out the door, Evan nearly fell flat on his face vaulting over the counter to move to the board.

“Desperate much, buddy?” Brian’s shout from across the shop went ignored when Evan scanned the wall, looking for any sign of a response. At first, the words around the response were disheartening; nothing connected to what he’d said. The drawings were still cute, and he wanted to read the confessions, but his heart slightly dropped at the sight. Had he scared off the anonymous messenger? He felt his frown start to capture his lips, but then his eye picked up on something. A blue circle had been wrapped around Evan’s words, and a line of chalk was drawn to the left of the board. Curious, his eyes tracked the line. Like thread in a maze, Evan was led to a familiar handwriting.

Your name fits you! I’m…Jonathan. Is that okay?

“Jonathan.” He rolled the name around in his mouth, his smile small when he finished. He knew instantly what his new secret penpal was asking, and he found the red chalk from before in order to scribble out his answer.

That’s totally okay. I bet your name fits you, too, though I’m not sure who you are. Care to give me a hint?

And for the next two weeks, the hints poured out.

I like to wear blue a lot. Luke says it matches my eyes. But I think yours are prettier.

Evan counted seventy three customers with blue eyes who wore blue that day, but it did little to limit his search.

I saw you drop that lady’s coffee on purpose. She deserved it for treating Brock like that. You’re a really good boss.

The incident had been in the morning around rush hour, which probably meant his penpal was at least his age.

You only wear hats when you clean the mocha machine; it really looks good on you.

Except this was something he did at night, so maybe he had different shifts throughout the week?

Whenever little Momo comes in, you always give her the best smile. Sometimes I wish you’d smile at me like that.

Evan’s face hurt from how many smiles he gave out that day, but there had been nobody who hinted at knowing why he’d been grinning so much.

You’re so beautiful. I really want to ask you on a date.

Evan’s face flush red for the rest of the night.

After the days of trying to piece together just who ‘Jonathan’ was, Evan was almost ready to throw in the towel. The little banter between them was fun, and peeks of Jonathan’s personality came out with doodles or smilies at the end of his sentences. He mentioned his friends, his dog, and if Evan closed his eyes, he could almost make out a voice to the words. Everything just felt so familiar about this guy, like he was already seated comfortably in Evan’s life. But he just couldn’t come up with a name, or anything to sink his teeth into.

So, with a shot of courage (Brian may have supplied the alcohol) and nothing to lose, Evan wrote out one final message.

Anything but coffee, and I’ll say yes.

Evan tried not to look at the board, just like the first day, hoping he wouldn’t scare away his crush by staring the wall down. Brock and Brian helped distract him, jokingly picking out old men and toddlers as ‘his secret admirer’ before laughing at the outlandish suggestions. Evan tried to smile and joke with them, but his shaking hands when giving out the orders always proved how nervous he was. Each time a customer came up to him, his back tensed, wondering if it’d be his penpal. But they never were, always asking for sugar or a bag for their half eaten muffin.

When the last minutes of the day ticked away, and just a few regular souls lingered in the cafe, Evan finally broke. He left Brian and Brock behind the counter to walk up to the wall, hands shoved in the pockets of the apron to hide his twitching fingers. Slowly, his eyes scanned the board, trying to find the blue handwriting he’d grown to adore over the couple weeks he’d gotten to see it. But there was nothing; his crush hadn’t replied.

“I scared him away.” Evan sighed and pressed his head to the chalkboard, eyes closing in defeat. His shoulders slumped down, unable to hide his disappointment. He’d just wanted to know who this guy was, because starting to fall for a chalkboard he technically owned was starting to feel a little creepy-

“Um.” An unsure voice made Evan bite back a groan, trying to keep his composure. Even if he was being ghosted by an anonymous customer, it didn’t mean he could ignore his other ones. Pulling back from the wall, Evan turned to catch sight of a familiar face. Cute sweatshirt guy had been a regular for months, always polite but never one to really engage in much conversation with Evan or the others. He always contributed it to the slight stutter in his speech, which only seemed to come out in longer sentences. It was actually kind of late for cute sweatshirt guy to be at the cafe; he’d bought his coffee close to an hour ago, and though he normally left right after, he’d seemed to linger now. He’d been one of the people who’d come up to Evan, looking like he was going to burst out in a confession, only to ask for creamer.

And sugar.

And a new cup.

…And more creamer.

For a coffee he always drank black.

“Wait.” Evan’s breath hitched in his throat as his eyes widened on the blue gaze nervously watching him, fingers curled into the worn down sweatshirt that was identical in color.

“Yeah, I’m-that was me. Jonathan. Who you were-I’m the guy tha–that, um, fuck. Luke said I should’ve just-but the wall was…was our thing.” Jonathan’s face lit up in color at the confession, the nervous laugh that poured out loud and uncontrolled. It echoed from the emptiness of the cafe, and both men jumped when Brian swore and knocked over a stack of cups in surprise. Tagging that as future Evan’s problem, he turned his attention back to Jonathan, who looked ready to let his sweatshirt swallow him whole. The smile he gave only lifted half his mouth, proving he didn’t feel confident. “You had no idea, did you?”

“None,” Evan admitted, hands pulling out of his apron at the defeated look that sunk over Jonathan.

“Right, that’s- I don’t have to ask you on a date if this isn’t what you…if I’m not who you-”

“Ask me!” Evan cut him off fast, not wanting to let Jonathan feel rejected for a second longer. He rushed forward, snagging hands that tugged the end of torn sleeves to entwine their fingers. Blue eyes widened above him, but Evan refused to let his racing heart of reddened cheeks stop him from repeating his confession from before. “Anything but coffee, and I’ll say yes.”

“Dinner? Can I-would you like to get food with me tomorrow?” Like a puppy, Jonathan’s body perked up at the possibility. Evan laughed before lifting their hands to cup Jonathan’s cheeks. He pushed up onto his toes, feeling the slight intake of his customer’s breath before he answered with a kiss.

But just to be safe, he wrote ‘yes’ on the chalkboard the next morning.

#kihoori #H2O Vanoss #H2O Delirious #VanossGaming #OTP boys #<3 #Crimson drabblez

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