#tree service Austin

[stellartree]

Enhance Your Landscape with Stelllar Tree Services Texas

For beautifully maintained trees, Stelllar Tree Services offers high-quality trimming, care, and removal services in Texas. Their certified professionals focus on preserving tree health and enhancing property aesthetics. Let Stelllar Tree Services transform your landscape with trusted tree solutions.

[austintreeamigos]

Tree Planting in Austin, TX: Bringing Green to Your Land scape with Austin Tree Amigos

In the bustling city of Austin, TX, greenery brings beauty and balance to urban and residential landscapes. Trees not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of any property, but they also contribute to a healthier environment by improving air quality, supporting wildlife, and offering shade. With a commitment to sustainable landscaping and environmental stewardship, Austin Tree Amigos is proud to offer comprehensive tree planting services to meet Austin’s diverse needs. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to enhance your yard or a business owner aiming to create an inviting outdoor space, we’re here to help you plant trees that will thrive for generations. Visit Us: https://austintreeamigos.blogspot.com/2024/11/tree-planting-in-austin-tx-bringing.html

[mssalo]

safety - Part: I

Summary: After years of isolation, Joel Miller's life revolves around control and keeping danger at bay, his past as a soldier leaving him constantly on edge. But when a sweet, soft-spoken young woman starts working at the supply store, her innocence stirs something inside him. Despite his efforts to remain detached, Joel becomes obsessed with keeping her safe from the dangers he’s certain are lurking everywhere.

As his protective instincts morph into darker desires, the lines between safeguarding her and possessing her begin to blur.

Warnings will vary by chapter depending on the content.

Warnings: Dark!Joel, 18+ MDNI, Obsession themes, Stalking, Joel has major Trauma/PTSD, Mentions of military past, Manipulation, Power dynamics, Joel needs a hug and therapy. As per usual.

4k

Enjoy!

Part II Part III Part IV Part V

· · ───────────𖥸──────────· ··

Joel Miller wasn’t the type of man who sought peace or ease.

He’d spent too many years living a different kind of life-one built around routines of survival, discipline, and a level of alertness that never quite faded.

Now, back in Texas, he carried that constant vigilance like a second skin.

He’d settled in a small, secluded home just outside of Austin.

The area was quiet, isolated, the kind of place where nobody asked too many questions.

The locals respected boundaries, and Joel had made his clear. He kept to himself, lived a simple life, and preferred things that way.

People complicated things—something he wasn’t interested in anymore.

Most of his days followed a routine that he clung to with the same intensity he had in the service.

Early mornings were spent with coffee and silence, the smell of pine trees drifting through the windows of his old, weathered cabin.

Afterward, he'd take to the woods, either hunting or just walking trails he knew as well as the lines in his hands.

Out there, he could let his mind focus on something tangible—the tracks of a deer, the feel of the rifle in his hand.

There, his senses sharpened again, always on alert.

Joel’s awareness never dulled, not even after all these years.

Every noise, every shift in the wind or crunch of leaves beneath his boots, kept him on edge.

He was always scanning his surroundings, ready to react.

He knew it wasn’t just about the hunt.

It was the way his brain had been wired, after all the years of needing to be ready—whether it was for survival or something worse.

It wasn’t paranoia, just the reality of a mind that had been trained for danger. He told himself.

He didn't see many people. He didn’t want to.

But the thing about always being on edge was that it left little room for rest.

At night, the memories clawed their way in—images he’d rather forget but couldn’t.

Sleep was shallow and rare.

Even when he managed to drift off, he was often jolted awake by some phantom noise or sensation.

And once he was up, it was hard to shake the feeling that something or someone was out there.

He’d get up, check the locks, sometimes even patrol the perimeter of his land just to make sure.

In the quiet of his cabin, with only the crackling of a fire or the hum of the wind for company,

Joel would pour himself a drink.

Whiskey, usually. Something to dull the noise in his head, to take the edge off the constant tension that never quite left him.

But he never drank too much. He couldn’t afford to. He needed to stay sharp, always ready—just in case.

His life wasn’t complicated, and he liked it that way. He didn’t need company or connection, not anymore.

He kept things simple: survival, routine, and the solitude of the Texas wilderness.

It asked nothing of him, and in return, he didn’t have to share the parts of himself he’d buried long ago.

· · ─────

Waking up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat had become part of his routine, and after tossing and turning for hours, Joel would get up, make coffee, and try to focus on the small tasks that anchored him.

The sun was just beginning to rise as Joel Miller pushed the key into the ignition of his truck, the familiar rumble beneath him a small comfort in an otherwise uneasy world.

He had always been an early riser, but lately, the habit had turned into more of a necessity.

Driving out into the quiet Texas morning was one of those tasks.

The roads were mostly empty, and Joel preferred it that way—less to watch for, less noise, fewer things to trust.

He liked things simple.

Routine. Predictable.

After everything, it was easier to stick to what he knew, to keep the world at arm's length.

It was safer.

His hands gripped the steering wheel tightly, his knuckles turning white as his eyes flicked from side to side, scanning the road ahead and the landscape around him.

There was no telling who or what could be out there, even in a sleepy Texas town.

He wasn’t stupid enough to let his guard down, not after everything he'd seen.

Trust was a currency he couldn’t afford to spend, not anymore.

He kept the radio off, preferring the silence. It gave him space to think, to process.

Most of the time, though, it just made him more aware of the quietness around him.

Every little creak or snap of a twig was magnified, every shadow cast by the rising sun something to take note of.

He didn't trust the peaceful exterior of the world anymore.

Too much could change in an instant.

It was exhausting, always being on edge like that, but Joel had learned to live with it.

He couldn’t imagine doing things any other way.

As he drove further down the road toward the camping&outdoor supply store, he caught a glimpse of something moving in the distance—a flicker of motion between the trees.

His heart quickened, and his foot instinctively lifted off the gas pedal.

He slowed down just enough to check the rearview mirror, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the tree line.

Nothing. It could’ve been an animal, but Joel’s mind didn’t let him settle on that.

Even when he convinced himself it was probably just wildlife, he remained alert, tension rippling through his muscles.

"Could be anything," he muttered under his breath, gripping the wheel tighter. "Ain't takin' chances."

The camping store was a bit of a drive, but Joel didn’t mind.

The solitude of the open road helped him clear his head, as much as his thoughts would let him, anyway.

Hunting was something he could still rely on.

He didn't need anyone else for it, and it gave him an excuse to get away from people.

He wasn’t much for conversation these days, always keeping interactions short and transactional.

He liked the supply store too; the guy who ran it knew not to ask too many questions, just handled the sale and let Joel be.

It suited him fine.

As the store came into view, Joel exhaled, his mind already running through what he needed to pick up.

The truck tires crunched against the gravel as he pulled into the lot, parking in a spot that allowed him a clear view of the entrance and the surrounding area.

Old habits.

Joel turned off the ignition and leaned back in the seat, taking a moment to observe the store.

His hand absentmindedly reached toward the glove compartment, where his gun was stashed, just in case. He didn’t need it often, but knowing it was there kept him grounded.

After a few seconds of scanning the area and feeling satisfied that nothing was amiss, he stepped out of the truck.

The supply store wasn’t busy, just a couple of people browsing inside.

As Joel stepped into the store, the familiar scent of leather and canvas greeted him. Country music hummed low in the background, and the quiet atmosphere brought him a sense of calm.

The simplicity of the place was something he appreciated—straightforward, nothing complicated.

Just the way he liked it.

His boots thudded softly on the wooden floor as he made his way toward the back, scanning the shelves for the hunting gear he needed. It was his routine, one he kept to himself.

The sudden crash jolted him like a gunshot.

Joel’s instincts took over, his body reacting before his mind caught up.

His hand flew to his side, fingers brushing the handle of the knife he always kept on him. His eyes darted around the store, scanning for threats, muscles coiled tight and ready.

He felt that old familiar rush of adrenaline—the kind that came from years of having to be on guard every second.

His heart pounded, the edges of his vision sharpening as he prepared for the worst.

But then, he saw her.

Just a girl. Bending over, trying to gather the gear she’d knocked to the floor. No threat. No danger. Just her.

Joel exhaled slowly, the tension easing out of his shoulders as the world settled back into place.

He let go of the knife, though his pulse still hammered in his ears. He hadn’t been expecting someone like her to trigger that reaction. Not here. Not now.

But for some reason, he couldn’t look away.

She was clumsy, but calm—no panic, no rush to fix what she’d done.

It was as if she was used to things slipping from her hands, not bothered in the slightest. That softness, that ease, it drew him in like nothing else had in a long time.

And even though the tension from the noise had faded, he found himself still rooted to the spot, watching her.

His eyes trailed over her, catching the way her long, soft looking, hair tumbled down her back, how her tender fingers fumbled with the items before her.

She was a mess of soft edges, and he hadn’t seen anything that soft in years.

He’s not used to that.

His world had become hard, sharp, filled with things that made sense, with people who didn’t get too close.

People like him, always on edge, always prepared.

She stood up, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, and for the first time, Joel saw her face.

Young. Too young. Early twenties, maybe.

Her cheeks were flushed a soft pink, her lips parted in what looked like mild embarrassment as she glanced around at the mess she had made.

But it was her eyes that hit him the hardest.

Doe eyed, wide, bright, completely unguarded.

So easy to read.

She looked right at him, her gaze catching his, and Joel’s breath hitched in his chest.

What was this girl doing? Looking at him like that?

She wasn’t supposed to look at him that way—not with that kind of openness, that kind of… trust.

Her blush deepened as her gaze flickered to the ground, but not before Joel saw it creep up her neck, warming her face.

She was blushing because of him.

When was the last time that happened?

“Oh! Sorry,” she said, her voice light, soft, but not the irritating kind of soft.

It was smooth in a way that made something settle in Joel’s chest. Normally, he hated small talk.

People’s voices grated on him. But hers didn’t.

Her voice wrapped around him, warm and gentle, and for reasons he couldn’t explain, Joel didn’t hate it.

“I didn’t see you there,” she continued, letting out a nervous laugh, her hands brushing against the fallen gear.

“I swear, I’m always knocking things over.” She smiled shyly, that blush still clinging to her cheeks, and Joel’s chest tightened again.

She was yapping—just rambling on in a way that would’ve made him turn his back on anyone else. But he couldn’t move.

He was locked in place, listening to her soft, musical voice as if it was something he hadn’t heard in years.

Maybe because it was. Maybe because no one ever talked to him like this anymore.

Most people avoided him.

They saw the hard set of his jaw, the cold glint in his eyes, and they stayed far, far away.

And that was just how he liked it. Less mess, less trouble.

But not her. She was still standing there, babbling about how clumsy she was, her voice a soft hum in his ears.

Joel felt something shift inside him, something he wasn’t sure he liked. He didn’t know her.

Shouldn’t care about her babbling, or the way her scent—something fresh and sweet—drifted toward him, making his head swim.

But here he was, standing there, drinking in her voice, her scent, like he hadn’t been around anyone like her in years.

Which, to be fair, he hadn’t.

Joel cleared his throat, forcing himself to speak, though his voice came out rougher than he’d intended. “Don’t worry ‘bout it,” he muttered, his words gruff, but his feet still rooted to the spot.

Her smile widened, and her eyes lit up.

The warmth in them caught him off guard. He wasn’t prepared for that.

“Thanks for not laughing at me,” she said with a small, bashful laugh, her fingers fiddling with the edge of her jacket. “Most people would’ve.”

Joel’s brow furrowed. “Why would I laugh?”

She shrugged, glancing at the gear still scattered on the floor. “I’m kind of a mess.”

Her words didn’t sit right with him. How could someone like her—someone so soft, so full of light—call herself a mess? He is a mess.

But before he could respond, she smiled again, her lips curving up in that sweet way that made his chest tighten all over again.

And that scent… God, he couldn’t place it, but it clung to her, swirling around him like a warm blanket.

His mind raced, cataloging every little detail about her.

Her soft pretty eyes. The way her smile made the corners of her eyes crinkle just a little. The way she smelled, like fresh air and something sweet. Vanilla?

He was reading her, studying her like he used to study his surroundings, picking up on every detail.

But none of it made sense. She didn’t make sense.

Normally, he’d be long gone by now. His thoughts already moving on.

But she was still talking, still smiling up at him, and instead of walking away, he just… stared.

She cleared her throat again, glancing down at her hands before looking back up at him.

“Do you work around here?” she asked, her voice a little softer now, a little shyer.

Joel blinked, realizing he hadn’t said a damn thing in what felt like minutes.

He shook his head. “Nah, just pickin’ up some things.” His voice sounded foreign to him—rough, cold, not at all the kind of tone that matched the warmth she was giving him.

But she didn’t seem bothered by it. Instead, she tilted her head slightly, her lips curving up in that smile again.

“Oh, cool. What are you picking up?”

Joel stared at her, unsure of why she was still talking to him, still smiling at him.

But he found himself answering her anyway. “Just some gear. Hunting stuff.”

Her eyes brightened, her smile widening even more. “Oh, hunting! That’s cool. I’ve never been, but I always thought it seemed kind of… peaceful, you know? Just you and nature.”

Peaceful? Joel had never thought of hunting as peaceful. Necessary, sure. But peaceful? Not in the way she was describing.

He grunted, not sure how to respond, but she just kept smiling, her voice still light, still soft.

“Oh, gosh,” she said, standing up with a bundle of fallen gear in her hands, a sheepish smile on her face. “I could never hurt an animal, though. I don’t know how people do it. Like, I get hunting and all, but... me? No way. I’d be useless out there.”

Joel’s brow furrowed, still caught between the sharp edge of his earlier reaction and the softness of her voice.

“Right,” he muttered, nodding slightly, feeling more awkward than he had in years.

“Well,” Joel grunted, his voice a little rougher than intended, “it ain’t about enjoyin’ it. It’s necessary. You do what you gotta do.”

And for the life of him, Joel couldn’t understand why he didn’t just walk away.

He should’ve. He should’ve grabbed what he needed and left.

But something about her—her scent, her smile, her softness—kept him rooted in place.

He wasn’t good at this. Talking. Interacting. Especially not with someone like her—someone who looked at him like he wasn’t something to be avoided.

But she was smiling at him, her eyes wide and innocent, like she wasn’t aware of how the world really worked.

Before he could say anything else, he saw her blush deepen, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her jacket.

She was nervous, but not in the way people usually got around him.

She wasn’t scared. She wasn’t backing away.

She was blushing because of him.

Hm?

As the awkward silence stretched between them, Joel cleared his throat, the sound rough and abrupt.

He hadn’t realized how long he’d been standing there, just staring at her while she kept talking, her soft voice filling the space between them.

He needed to go.

This whole interaction had lasted far too long, longer than he was comfortable with.

His chest tightened with a mix of confusion and frustration, and he could feel the tension creeping into his limbs, urging him to move, to walk away.

She was still smiling at him, her eyes bright, completely unaware of the storm brewing inside him.

“Right,” Joel muttered, his voice gruffer than he intended.

“I should… get goin’.” He nodded awkwardly toward the hunting gear in his hand, using it as an excuse to leave.

Her smile faltered for just a second, her eyes flickering with a hint of confusion.

“Oh, sure! No problem,” she said quickly, her voice still sweet, but there was something softer in it now, like she wasn’t quite sure what she’d done wrong.

Joel could feel her eyes on him as he turned away, the tension in his shoulders growing with every step he took.

He forced himself to keep walking, not allowing himself to glance back, not letting himself think about the way her scent still lingered in the air around him.

As he pushed open the door of the shop, the cool air hit his face, a stark contrast to the warmth that had been building inside him.

He needed to get out of there. Now.

“Have a good day!” she called after him, her voice still light, still warm.

Joel didn’t respond.

He just kept walking, his boots heavy against the gravel as he made his way to his truck, his mind already trying to shove the whole interaction into the back of his mind.

It shouldn’t have affected him like that.

Joel climbed into his truck, the door creaking as it shut with a heavy thud.

The sun was setting, casting a golden light over the horizon, but his mind was somewhere else entirely.

His hands gripped the steering wheel tightly, his knuckles turning white as he sat there, staring straight ahead.

He let out a slow breath, trying to shake off the strange feeling that had settled deep in his chest.

That girl—he couldn’t get her out of his head. It didn’t make sense.

Her smile. The way her cheeks flushed when she looked at him.

The softness in her voice, the way she smelled—fresh, sweet, and somehow... so pure.

His brow furrowed as the memory tugged at him, gnawing at the edges of his mind like an itch he couldn’t scratch.

He hadn’t felt like this in years—hadn’t felt much of anything, to be honest.

And yet, there it was. Something stirring inside him, something he couldn’t ignore.

With a grunt, he turned the key in the ignition, the engine roaring to life.

He needed to get his mind straight, back to reality, back to the things that actually mattered.

Surviving.

Not some girl in a supply shop.

It couldn’t be because of her.

But as he shifted the truck into gear, his grip on the wheel tightened even more.

He couldn’t deny the physical reaction in his body—the tension building low in his gut, the heat rising through his chest.

Joel shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his breath catching for a moment.

He hadn’t even noticed it before, hadn’t allowed himself to.

But now, as he adjusted himself, the realization hit him with a force that nearly knocked the breath out of his lungs.

He was hard.

His heart pounded in his chest, the weight of it settling low in his gut.

How long had it been?

He couldn’t even remember the last time he felt like this, the last time his body reacted this way.

But it couldn’t be because of the girl in the shop, right?

“Jesus.” He clenched his jaw, the muscles in his neck tightening as he fought the urge to dwell on it. “There was no way.”

She was just a kid. I mean, a woman sure. But so young, soft, innocent.

Completely the opposite of everything he was—everything he’d become.

Joel’s grip on the steering wheel tightened even further, his mind racing.

This was wrong. He shouldn’t be thinking about her like this, shouldn’t be feeling this way.

But the more he tried to push it down, the more it rose to the surface.

Her voice, the way she’d blushed when she looked at him, the scent of her clinging to the air around her like a warmth he hadn’t known he needed.

Joel shifted again, trying to shake the thoughts from his head. He’d drive home, clear his mind, and forget about it.

Forget about her.

But as he drove down the empty road, the tension in his body only seemed to build. It had been years. Years since anyone, or anything, had made him feel like this.

And the truth gnawed at him, whether he wanted to admit it or not.

It was because of her.

· · ───────────𖥸──────────· ··

moodboard:

· · ───────────𖥸──────────· ··

New series incoming!! Thank you for the nice comments, they make me the most motivated to keep writing. :)

[austintreeservice]

Austin tree services

A Guide to Evaluating Your Tree Removal Needs

When it comes to managing trees on your property, it can be difficult to know when it’s time to call a tree service for assistance. Whether you’re dealing with a dead tree or one that’s simply in the wrong place, tree removal is often necessary. But with the cost of tree services, it’s essential to have a solid understanding of when tree removal is the best solution. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of evaluating Austin tree services . We’ll explain how to diagnose a tree’s health, how to determine whether a tree is in a hazardous location, and more. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to make the right decision every time and find a tree service that meets your needs.

The Process of Professional Tree Removal

Tree removal is an important part of landscape maintenance and can be done safely and professionally with the help of experienced tree care professionals. Professional tree removal is a complex process that requires the use of specialized equipment and techniques to safely remove trees from any location. It is important to understand the process involved in professional tree removal in order to ensure a safe and successful outcome.

The first step in the process is to assess the condition of the tree and determine if it is in need of removal. A professional arborist should be consulted to assess the tree’s condition and determine the best way to safely remove it. After assessing the tree, the next step is to select the best method for removing it. This may include using cranes, chainsaws, ropes, and other specialized equipment.

Once the method of removal has been determined, the tree care experts will begin the process of removing the tree. This includes cutting away any large branches, removing the tree’s trunk, and cleaning up any debris. The tree will then be carefully lowered to the ground and safely disposed of. Depending on the size of the tree, the process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days

Benefits of professional tree removal services

Professional tree removal services provide a number of advantages that can make the process smoother and safer. Here are some benefits of working with a professional tree removal company:

Removing a large tree is a dangerous task that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Professional arborists are trained and experienced in the safe removal of trees and can ensure that the job is done correctly and without any damage to nearby property or people.

Professional tree removal services can often save you money in the long run by providing faster and more efficient services than doing it yourself.

A professional tree removal company can help you create a more attractive landscape and remove trees that are blocking your view or taking up valuable space.

Professionals can help you identify any potential hazards posed by a tree and can help you recycle or compost the tree if it needs to be removed.

Working with a professional tree removal service can give you peace of mind that the job will be done correctly and safely.

[notsopersonalcharlie]

Honey Belle

Biker!Bucky Barnes x fem!reader fluff - Part of the Biker!Bucky Series

One part lead-up to the future and one part how Bucky and belle met.

Warnings: Mentions of sex and alcohol, discussion of a past relationship that bordered on abusive (non-binary reference), more car talk because i love mini coopers.

Note: My apologizes because i lost all my progress on this when i was about halfway through. Also I just have brainrot about them now sorry in advance.

"No no no no, please baby you can make it its just a litt-" The engine shuddered and then gave out. You groaned, banging your head against the steering wheel as you pulled off to the side of the quiet street. It was getting stifling in the car very quickly. The heat wave was precisely why you needed to take Baby Blue in. Your phone showed another mile and a half on the map you saved. This shop was in some dead end town, but it was the only one that had agreed to service the vintage coop.

"Couldn't have saved me the walk?" you asked to the car as you grabbed your bag and hauled it over your shoulder. You scrawled a note to leave on the windshield and began down the straight road. The trees on either side provided some shade, but there was no sidewalk, so as you continued you could peek back at your car and to check on any oncoming traffic.

The first signs of life you saw came ten minutes into your walk. You hadn't gotten far. It was sweltering and you had to leave straight from work, so your shoes were the least comfortable thing to walk in as you sweat.

Two motorcycles were headed your way, and to your surprise they both stopped. One was wearing a light brown leather jacket, and he pulled off his helmet immediately. He had blond hair and a kind looking smile, but you were also alone in a mysterious location with no signal.

"Hey, you alright?" You stared at them, and took a step back when he took a step toward you.

"Uh-"

"You had an appointment at the Howling Commando? Twenty minutes ago? Blue vintage Austin Mini Cooper?" The other guy had popped up his visor, but hadn't taken off the helmet yet. His blue eyes were sharp, watching you. You took another two steps back.

"Buck, lose the helmet," the blond guy admonished, "We work there, you said when you called that you were worried about the heat and the engine, so when you no-showed we thought you might have gotten stuck. I'm Steve. We talked on the phone the first time I think, and then you talked to Yelena to get the details." The other guy pulled off his helmet and you thought your heart might stop. Sure the blond, Steve, was handsome in a clean cut preppy kind of way, but this guy looked like he walked out of one of the fantasy books your read as a kid. Dark eyebrows slanted over his bright blue eyes, his scruff adding to the rugged look he was sporting. He waved, a shy smile slicing away the fear you had held entirely. It changed his face, you wanted to make it happen again.

"Bucky. We'll get you all fixed up."

-/-/-/-/-

"Belle, ya home?" You looked up from your laptop. You hadn't been able to pull yourself away from the document you were building for the new hires.

"Yeah- I- oh shit. I forgot to start dinner." You turned to find Bucky stepping through the doorway from the kitchen. His grease stained tshirt was tossed over his shoulder already, leaving all his tattoos on display. One in particular always caught your attention, the sketch of a mini cooper right over his heart.

"How many time do I gotta tell you?" He asked, dropping the shirt in the hallway before coming over to you. You stood, tilting your chin to look up at him as he wrapped one arm around your back and cradled the back of your neck with the other.

"You don't have to worry about that stuff, honey. I'll take care of dinner. Finish up your work, it'll be done in no time."

"I need a break, baby, seriously. I'll help." His eyes narrowed.

"You sure?" You nodded, turning back to hit save and taking his outstretched hand to go back into the kitchen. You chopped veggies while he marinated chicken and he told you about his day at the shop. It was a familiar routine by now, three years into your relationship, but you couldn't help but feel the guilt in your stomach again. He spent all day on his feet.

"Hey, lose the face." You looked up at him.

"What?"

"I can feel your thoughts from over here." He set down the spices, rinsing his hands and patting them dry before coming over to you and wrapping you up in his arms. He was anything but weak, and carefully lifted you onto the unoccupied part of the counter and stood between your legs, looking you dead in the eye. You blinked slowly, trying not to fall into the trap of his icy-blue silence. It was impossible.

"I just feel bad is all, you spend all day on your feet and working and then you come home and make dinner. It feels, not fair." Bucky tilted his head to the side, eyebrows up. It was a conversation you had all the time, and you knew how he felt about it. He did serious very well, even if you knew there was a smile lurking just behind it.

"You know that's not how I feel. I love taking care of you. You work so hard every day trying to change the world for the better. I go dick around with my friends all day playing with cars." You snorted.

"I'm serious! My number one and most important job is taking care of my girl. I will make you dinner every night for the rest of our lives together, if that's what it takes to prove it."

"You don't have to do-"

"Nope, you're banished from the kitchen. Go feed Alpine. Get lost." You laughed, taking his face into your hands before he could lift you back off the counter. His lips were warm and soft, and his hands wrapped tighter around your middle as you tilted your head to deepen the kiss before pulling away. You rested your forehead against his, breathing in the smell of motor oil and coffee.

"I love you, James Barnes." He gave you that sweet smile, the one that transformed him into an entirely different man.

"I love you, honey belle. Now get the fuck outta my kitchen."

-/-/-/-/-

You woke up and stretched, yawning as your rubbed your eyes and sat up. And then you became aware again that you were not in your own room and you were laying in an empty bed. You glanced around, noting the distinct lack of a tall tattooed biker who had left hickeys on your chest and had all but fucked you to sleep the night before.

In his place lay a small gray cat, it sat up when you did and surveyed you before jumping gracefully off the bed and leaving out the open door. You stood up, glancing at yourself in the mirror. You were wearing a shirt that said the Howling Commandos Garage and Bar on the front. It was well worn and soft, with little frays on the bottom and the collar. Your hair was a mess and you smoothed it out before following the cat into the rest of the apartment. Your clothes which had been strewn across the living room were neatly folded in a pile on the back of the couch, and there was a note scrawled on top.

Had to head off to fix up your baby. Coffee in the pot. Stay if you'd like. Bucky

Bucky looked wistfully down the block at his apartment building.

"What is your deal today, Barnes?" Sam asked. He was newer, and Steve had brought him in to tend bar, but also help with the books at the garage. Bucky grumbled that they didn't need new people, and Steve returned with patience that just because Bucky didn't want to make new friends, didn't mean they didn't need new staff.

"He's got a crush," Steve laughed from the other side of a pickup.

"I'll have you know I sealed that deal," Bucky shot back. There was a thunk sound and then Steve appeared over the hood, rubbing the top of his head.

"What the hell are you doing there then?" Bucky shrugged.

"She was still asleep. I left her coffee and a note." Sam snorted.

"See her never."

"Her car is literally right in front of me."

"She's gonna take it somewhere else," Sam shot back. Bucky's eyes narrowed, dropping the wrench he had on hand. He was starting towards Sam when a new voice echoed through the garage.

"I would really appreciate it if you fixed my car, not got blood on it." You strolled in the front of the garage and Bucky considered falling to his knees and begging for you to stay with him forever. You were wearing your jeans and sandals from the night before, but on top you had on his Howling Commandos shirt with the original design and logo. You were holding one of the mugs from his kitchen and had an easy smile on your face.

"I thought I'd come check on the progress on my baby. Maybe learn a thing or two." Steve smirked at Bucky and turned back to his work. Sam had suddenly made himself scarce into the office.

"Sure thing, but can't let you learn too much, you might notice some things going wrong just so you can stop by to see me." You nudged Bucky with your elbow, taking a sip of coffee as you followed him back to your car.

"I don't know, I think I could have other reasons to stop by and see you."

-/-/-/-/-

You woke up to sunlight coming in through the open curtains. Bucky was sound asleep on his stomach, face pressed into his pillow and his arm thrown over you. After a moment of relishing the cuteness of him keeping you close while he was asleep, you slipped out of his grasp and headed for the kitchen.

It was mostly clean, and you started a pot of coffee for the morning before tidying up just a little bit more. Bucky had slipped in after you fell asleep. He was working the bar when you left full of a burger and with kisses pepper to your nose promising he'd be home soon. The rest of the staff had ribbed him endlessly while saying goodnight to you.

You grumbled to yourself about having to wake Bucky's whining ass up to take you to work when you noticed something on the counter. Your car keys. Trying not to get your hopes up, you peeked out the front windows and let out a squeal when you saw your car sitting in the driveway, a comically small bow on the hood.

"Wha-Who's there?" Bucky ran out in just his boxers, fists up prepared to fight an intruder apparently, but instead got a chestful of you.

"She's done?" It took him a moment to register what who you were and what you were referring to.

"Huh? Oh. Yeah, belle, she's done." You threw your arms around Bucky's shoulders, squeezing him tight.

"Thank you thank you thank you! She'll run for another three years? No problems?" Bucky held you tight, sleep already returning as he nuzzled against your neck.

"Even better. She should be alright for at least another five to ten." You pressed kisses to his face and then his hands, and kissed him goodbye for the day. Your outfit for the morning was already hanging in the bathroom and it made your morning to not have to pack extra clothes for the bike. Instead you put your coffee in a to go mug, your lunchbox in your purse, and headed for the door. The car started up with a hum and you patted the dash, turning on your favorite radio station and rolling down the windows on your way to work.

-/-/-/-/-

You sighed on your way into your apartment. Bucky said he was headed over after you left, and now you had to clean up and start on dinner. Work had been exhausting, and you had found yourself fixing other peoples' work first thing in the morning, which put you back on your own deadlines.

Still, you tossed your bag onto the black hole chair of random items in the bedroom and changed out of your work clothes into something comfy for movie night. You had bought all the ingredients for homemade pizzas over the weekend when you were ambitious about when you were going to get out of work.

"Five minutes on the couch," you muttered to yourself, "then back to work." Five minutes quickly turned into doom scrolling until Bucky knocked on your front door.

"Shit." You jumped off the couch and started pulling things out of the fridge frantically to make it look like you had already started the process. The knocking grew frantic after a minute and you rushed to the door. Bucky's eyes were wide, but he relaxed when he saw you were fine.

"Sorry, I didn't hear you." His soft smile melted your nerves a fraction, and he leaned down to press a kiss to your lips.

"You had a long day, I understand." He followed you into the kitchen, and you frowned at the array you had pulled out. Sure you had the pizza dough and sauce but also a jar of pickles, some miso, and a block of tofu.

"What were you planning on making?" Bucky asked, examining the contents of a mystery tupperware.

"Uh..." You considered coming up with a lie about cleaning your fridge, panic welling back up that he would be upset you had gotten sidetracked away from making dinner.

"I... I'm sorry, I panicked when I heard you because I hadn't started making dinner and I knew you would be hungry so I just started pulling things out of the fridge and I..." you could feel yourself beginning to ramble into a spiral.

"Woah! Woah, belle, calm down. It's okay!" Bucky came around the counter, hands on your shoulders to ground you.

"It is really okay, belle, I know you had a long day. You don't have to make me dinner. I mean it. You work long hours and clean up other people's messes all day." You could feel tears prickling at the corners of your eyes and looked down at the logo of some motorcycle brand on Bucky's shirt.

"You just work all day at the shop and I know that can be exhausting, so I just wanted to make you food so you'll be..." you trailed off. So he would be what? Had never gotten pissed at you because dinner wasn't on the table or that you didn't get him his drink before yours. He had never thrown his empty can in your direction when you didn't get a new one for him before it was empty. Bucky called your name, pushing your chin up to meet his eyes. They were big and blue and full of concern that grew when he saw the tears in yours.

"Honey, where is this coming from? We could have ordered takeout for all I cared?"

You swallowed and took a deep breath.

"My ex, they were blue collar. Worked in construction. They didn't... they thought I should do all the housework and make dinner since I sat at a desk all day. They would get... angry when I didn't or said I was too tired or it wasn't ready when they got home or I ran out of their favorite drink and... I just want you to be happy." Bucky's frown had deepened and the concern in his blue eyes had turned to anger.

"Where are they now? Who would ever do that to you?" His head turned to see if he could spot any memory of them in the apartment. To your surprise it made you laugh to see him be so protective over something that wasn't there.

"Long gone. I moved states away to leave them. It's why I've been working so much, honestly. When I switched positions I had to do it for a cut, since at the headquarters I was making more. I don't regret it for a second though." You were looking at him now, sincere. If you never moved you wouldn't have been looking for an apartment when your car overheated and you had to go to the Howling Commando. You would have never met Bucky or found an apartment a few blocks away from the bar and him.

"I'm glad you made it here too," he said finally. He wrapped his arms around you, big arms keeping you safe and his chin on your head grounding you to him.

"I know you spend every day working super hard with people you don't really like. I know you love what you do, but I would never hold any of that against you. I spend every day working with my best friends for as long as or short as I'd like. If you never cook me dinner again, I would still be happy as long as we get to sit down and eat together." He paused, and you could feel his heart beat a little faster, a shift in his posture. For the first time:

"And I love you." Your heart leapt, the tears that you had been wiping against his tshirt flowed again.

"I love you too, Bucky."

-/-/-/-/-

You texted Bucky on your way out of work, and blessedly got into your own car with air-conditioning and seatbelts. Not that you didn't trust Bucky or that you didn't like to ride with him, but it was nice to have a seat to sit in.

You began the journey home, it feeling a little longer than it had for the last few weeks when you clung to Bucky's middle with your eyes closed. You were most of the way home when a telltale rumble of motorcycles started up behind you on the long empty road. It reminded you of the first time you rode with Bucky, down this very same road when your car broke down and he took you back to the shop with him while Steve waited with the car. He had said, after securing his extra helmet to your head, that it would be only time you ever rode without the proper shoes or pants on. You had responded cheekily, since he was hot and it didn't seem like it could hurt the speed at which your car got fixed, that he was suggesting that there would be another time. He had followed that with a quick, "I have your phone number. I find another time."

The bikes were getting closer, four of them, and to your surprise Bucky wasn't with them. Steve and Sam rode on either side of you, offering salutes. You couldn't identify who the two behind were but you could tell one of them was Yelena or Natasha. It was not a regular procession, though when they did see your distinctive car when out riding, they always did stop by for a wave. Instead of leading you home, Sam and Steve guided your car to the parking lot at the Howling Commando. The fairy lights were up for the summer and a few of the regulars were already outside enjoying the weather.

"I was going to go home first you know," you whined at Steve, tossing your blazer into the passenger seat before getting out of the car.

"I think this is more important," he said, turning you away from the bar and toward the shop. The garage doors were open, but inside was obstructed by the shadows from the sunset. When you stepped in you froze. The cars and equipment had all been cleared out and a beautiful flower arrangement was across the floor, Bucky was standing a few feet away, looking nervous as the first time he came to pick you up for dinner. He spotted you and swallowed, standing up straighter as you walked towards him.

"Bucky..." You didn't have the words to say as you joined him in the array of flowers.

"Belle. I love you, I have loved you since the minute I saw you on the side of the road. From the second you wrapped your arms around me on my bike for the first time. The first night we spent together and every night since then I have known that I would spend the rest of my life with you. I promise I will make dinner every night if that's what it takes." You grinned at the little inside joke, tears pouring down your cheeks as he got down on one knee.

"Make me the happiest idiot in the world and marry me?"

"Of course I will. I love you."

[fangirlingfromdownunder]

1st Day of Christmas

A Sneaky Christmas Surprise

Summary/Prompt - “Did you break into my house??” “You refused to put up any Christmas decorations! What choice did I have?”

Pairing - Jensen Ackles x Reader

Christmas Masterlist | Masterlist

A/N: Here we go! Day 1! Let’s hope I can keep this up for the next 24 days! I hope you enjoy this. 

You’ve been working as a makeup artist on the set of Supernatural for a few years now. Being so well versed in the talent of creating realistic bruises and bloody scars anyone would assume your favourite holiday is Halloween, but it’s actually Christmas. You love sappy Christmas movies, carols and most of all decorating. You’d just been counting down the days until it became socially acceptable to erect your tree. As soon as Thanksgiving weekend finished you had it out of the box and in pride of place by the widow covered in sparkling lights and beautiful ornaments. You would’ve had it up earlier if your boyfriend hadn’t threatened to stop sleeping over if you put it up any earlier than that. You love him, he is the sweetest and most caring boyfriend you’ve ever had, but his Christmas spirit tends to lack a little. But this year you’re determined to get him in the spirit. 

You’re awakened from your reverie by a knock on the makeup trailer door and then the familiar creek of the metal hinges. Then two strong familiar arms wrap around your middle from behind.

“Hey Sexy. You ready to head out?” he asks in his deep, Dean voice.

You turn around in his arms and notice he’s still fully in costume. “Sorry, Dean. I already have a date. Let’s see if we can’t find him somewhere in here,” you tease as you reach for a makeup wipe to clean off the intricate SFX makeup you applied earlier. A few wipes later you start to recognise Jensen as himself again. As a final touch, you drag your hands through his short hair to loosen up the gel and soften the look. You take a step back and admire your work. “Yep, there he is.”

“You know, Jared gets jealous he has to scrub off his own makeup. But I just tell him it’s his own fault for picking an actress instead of a makeup artist.”

“Don’t be mean. Gen is lovely, and Jared can come here anytime and I’ll do it for him too if he wants.”

“No way. This is my special service, plus I know you don’t get paid to stay here late like this.”

“I thought what we did back at your place last night was your special service. And you know it isn’t about the money, I love what I do here.”

“I know you do. That’s one of the things I love about you. Come on, at least let me buy you dinner and then we can go back to my place for some of that other special service.”

You throw the dirty wipes in the bin and then grab his hand urging him to stand up. Once he does you shut off the lights, lock up the trailer and walk hand-in-hand out to his car. He drives to your favourite local takeout place while you both share stories about your day. 

Once you’ve picked up dinner he drives back to his apartment. You generally love his place; it’s so much bigger and more spacious than yours with an amazing view. The only thing that makes it lose its appeal is that it’s never festive for any holiday. You’ve always lived in Vancouver so your apartment is your home whereas you know he doesn’t see Vancouver as home; his apartment is just a place he crashes while he works. His true home is Austin, Texas. But you’re determined to spread and share a little Christmas joy with him before you inevitably part ways for the holidays once filming finishes. 

What he doesn’t know is that you had a little spare time today, as you were only needed on set in the morning, and you only came back to keep up a facade. So you snuck his car and house keys from his trailer and went on a little Christmas shopping spree before going back to his place to give your purchases a new home. You were very happy and proud of what you managed to accomplish in such a short time and on your own. And it makes coming over to see his reaction all the more exciting.

As he pulls into his driveway you have to try really hard to contain your excitement and nerves; you know you’re not the best actor. You have no idea how Jensen can just turn into a completely different person in an instant when you struggle to keep a poker face to contain little white lies. You hold the bag of food while you wait for him to come around and open your door so he can take it. He takes the food and helps you get out before passing the food back so he can unlock the door. As he flicks on the lights he notices the big fibre optic tree by the window, and little ornaments carefully and strategically scattered around the place. 

He turns to you as you join him inside. “Was this you? Did you break into my apartment?”

You nod sheepishly. “You refused to put up any Christmas decorations, what choice did I have?”

He takes the food and places it on the kitchen bench before pulling you into his arms for a tight hug. “It looks great, Sweetheart. But you could have just asked, I would’ve helped.”

You shake your head. “You already said you didn’t see the point because this isn’t your home.”

“Here with you, it’s starting to feel more like home every day. I spend more time here than in Texas now. There’s a lot we need to discuss, but first, I’m starving!” 

He kisses you and then pulls away to gather plates, cups and cutlery while you spread out the food. You dish out the food onto the two plates, while he pours some wine into the glasses and then takes them over to the coffee table. He sits on the couch and starts flicking through the channels while waiting for you to bring the food. You go through this routine almost nightly in either your or his apartment. You know that’s one of the many things you need to discuss, but right now you just want to enjoy a sappy Christmas movie and some yummy dinner with your boyfriend in his now festive apartment. 

[fdelopera]

And harassing Jewish people attending shabbat services at a random synagogue in Austin, TX is helping Palestinians how, exactly?

"Peaceful protest" my ass!

How fucking DARE you goys harass Jews at our places of worship.

The reason these goyishe idiots are choosing this synagogue as a place to harass Jews is the same reason the Neo-Nazis in Pittsburgh chose Tree of Life to carry out their mass murder in 2018.

Both synagogues are visibly, unmistakably Jewish.

This has nothing to do with fighting for the Palestinian people.

You goys don't care about the Palestinians at all, do you?

All you want to do is harass and murder Jews.

How many dead Jews are enough for you? How many dead Jews do you goys need?

The Free Palestine movement is being co-opted by Jew-hatred. And if you goys don't push back against this Jew-hatred now, you will delegitimize this movement. You will hurt the Palestinian people. And you will get a lot of Jews murdered in the process.

Great job, goys. Great. Fucking. Job.

[nikkeisimmer]

Narrator: Here’s a 64x63 lot out in the middle of nowhere on the outskirts of Hidden Springs.

It’s nice sunny day and Admiral Tosh Nakamura is standing in the middle of the lot wearing a flightsuit and chaps (a g-suit).

Hopefully it makes sense to somebody, because it sure as hell doesn’t to me. Having finished up their term of service in the United States Navy, he’s decided that he’s going to settle down here and earn some money in order to live comfortably for the rest of his existence. Considering the fact that he’s done his forty years of service, he pretty much can’t get called up again.

Evidently he won’t be alone either.

Vice-Admiral Meg Austin, former Judge Advocate General is now retired after thirty years of naval service and she’s decided that she’s going to take some time and spend it with friends while she figures out what she’s going to do with the rest of her life. Does nobody figure this stuff out while they’re in the service?

Accompanying her are Captain Kimber Benton with twenty years in (who is still subject to call-up), Lieutenant Colonel Sarah “Mac” Mackenzie, Captain Harmon Rabb Jr. Lieutenant Commander Jack Keeter and Commander Phil Burrows. Yes, it’s an odd-numbered situation, but well, Phil’s nuts. That pretty much explains everything he does.

It should be fine as long as he’s not haranguing the commode. But one thing I still want to know is: Who the hell decided to let him in the cockpit of an F-14 Tomcat?

The Watcher has given them pretty much nothing other than five apple trees and a lettuce plant. Yeah, that’s going to really help them out. And they’d better nurse that lettuce plant because if it gets eaten by deer, they’re not getting another one.

But thank goodness for the Navy and their pension. They will receive the equivalent of §2.5M each for their separation and they will receive §18,500 a month for the rest of their lives, which means §55,500 a season. That should be enough to get them started. But the only thing is that they can’t build their house without getting good at being handy around the house. Frankly gaining the handyman and inventing skills is the only way they can start building and the inventing work table. That means that for every wall section they create they have to have at least a Level 2 skill level and unfortunately it would have to be one section a day, no matter how much money they have. If they have mastered the handyman and inventing skills, then they will be able to complete a room in a week, which means that they will have to all work together at getting this done. Each of them will have to learn how to become handy and invent things. Nope, it’s not going to be easy. But where will they sleep? How will they eat? I guess they’re going to have to pick a spot on the ground...and if it rains, it’s going to be miserable. C’est la vie.

ADM Nakamura: My back is going to hate me in the mornings.

Watcher: Looks like he finally got out of that flight gear. That's half your problem, Admiral, 50 pounds of flight gear on your torso's bound to make your back ache.

CAPT Benton: What exactly did I get myself into?

LCOL Mackenzie: I don’t know how I’m going to work this around, but I know Harm’s to blame for this.

CAPT Rabb: I’m so dead.

CDR Burrows: Oooh...I can go fishing, and biking and…

LCDR Keeter: Oh, man, I stepped in it...now. This is not going to be comfortable even with Meg around.

VADM Austin: Texans are supposed to be tough, but camping out in a temperate rainforest isn’t one of them. The temp is going to get down to 42 at night. This is going to be miserable.

Narrator: Should we give them sleeping bags?

NAAAAAAAAAAAH! 😝

[mountainsandmayhem]

Blueprints of Love 1.4

(Joel Miller x f!reader)

Summary: Whitney is an architect for a luxury home builder in downtown Austin. She probably shouldn’t have favourite subcontractors but Tommy from Millers Contracting would be at the top. When Tommy has to take some time off to welcome a new baby, Whit has to work with his older brother Joel, but maybe it’s not as bad as it first seems?

a/n: slooooooow burn. Check each chapter for warnings. No outbreak. Joel is 32 and Sarah is 7. Present day, not 2003. And when you get to the bedroom door lean, this gif is EXACTLY what I mean 🥵

Warnings: ⛔️ 18+ only ⛔️, kissing, talk of divorce and abandonment, slight dirty talk, flirting, touching

It’s a pool party, so a swimsuit under Jean shorts and a tank top should be appropriate.

But Joel would be there and….

The black bikini has too much side boob, the yellow bikini shows too much ass.

Finally settling on a pink tie up bikini,that covers everything appropriately, just as Anna arrives. An open bar was mentioned twice in their invite from Tommy, so they decide to Uber together. Their car parks outside of what they assume to be Tommy and Maria’s house and they both comment on how nice it is; an updated split level in an older neighbourhood, big beautiful trees lining the streets. They go in the gate to the backyard, as per the sign on the front door.

“Well,” Anna whispers. “We know no body.”

Tommy waves from across the backyard and jogs over. He grabs the gifts from both their arms, “thank you so much for coming! You didn’t need to bring gifts. I’ll introduce you to everyone.”

If one thing was true, it was that the Miller genes were STRONG. They met male cousins who were all equally as handsome as Tommy and Joel, and the female cousins were intimately gorgeous. Whit tried to focus on the introductions but she couldn’t help looking for Joel; and when she found him a small “fuck me” escapes her throat.

He’s sitting spread eagle on a pool lounger with 3 little girls around him, holding the guest of honour, Daisy. One of the girls stands beside him with her arm around his neck while the other two are on the lounger, all looking down at the baby. This was a whole different Joel. Soft and supple. He smiles and talks with the girls before he kisses the one standing beside him on the head. Whit looks back to group as they go flying past Whit and into the house.

“Last one in is a rotten egg.” One says.

“No fair, Sarah! You got a head start!” The other two cry out in protest.

Joel never takes his eyes off the baby, bouncing her gently.

- -

“Stop looking at him.” Anna whispers as you both head back over the self service bar. It’s been well over an hour of the two of you talking with the Miller family. Joel hasn’t put Daisy down as watches the girls jump around in the pool.

“I swear my uterus is trying to find a way to evict my IUD, Anna.” Whit says, making her Gin and Tonic a double. “I don’t see any water at this bar….and this gin is going to make me do something drastic.”

Anna had hit it off with Austin, an incredibly charming cousin that Tommy knew Anna would like. “Come sit by the pool with me and Austin from Austin.” She laughs, “Maybe he’ll take his eye off Daisy once he sees you in that bikini.”

Even thought she knew this was a pool party, her whole body shivers at the thought of Joel seeing her almost naked, “I’m going to go to the bathroom and find a way to fill my water bottle first. Take my drink?” Anna bounces off to sit with Austin by the pool as Whit heads for the back door of the house.

Once she’s in the house she spots the half bath on the landing, she also notices 2 small sets of stairs; one that goes up to the kitchen and another that leads to the basement. Whit locks the bathroom door and makes sure everything is tucked in properly, last thing she needs is a nip slip at a baby shower. After washing her hands she looks up the few stairs from the back landing that leads into the kitchen.

“Tommy?” Whit calls as she slowly heads up the stairs.

Great…no answer. Tommy won’t mind if I just get water.

Just as she steps into the kitchen, Joel comes out from the hall in just swim trunks.

“What are you doing?” He demands, his abs flexing with every word.

“S-shit. I was just going to fill my water bottle. I didn’t think Tommy would mind.” She’s holding the water bottle up while wiggling it from side to side like it’ll make this situation less awkward. Her eyes shoot to the ceiling to avoid ogling his body.

He grabs it out of her hand and stalks to the fridge. That’s when she notices the pictures of the little girl that had her arm around Joel all over the fridge.

Holy fuck, this is Joel’s house and I think that’s his daughter.

“S-sorry,” Whit stammers. “I didn’t mean to overstep. I assumed this was Tommy’s house and him and I have a different -“ she knows she’s about to start rambling but she can’t seem to stop.

Luckily, Joel cuts her off with an “s’fine” as he thrusts the water bottle back in her hand, their fingers briefly touch and Joel’s brain screams at his stubborn and guarded heart.

Just let your damn walls down with her, what the fuck.

They stare at each other for a moment before Joel softens his features. “Really, it’s fine. You startled me.”

They smiled at each other before he continues. “Thank you for coming. I’m sure it means a lot of Tommy and Maria. However, I have 3 little 7 year olds who I promised I would rocket launch before they leave.”

Before she’s even fully outside she’s pushed back in by Nat; if there is a female version of Joel, it’s his cousin Nat. She was tall and muscular, in a sporty and feminine way, she had long curly black hair, sun kissed skin and those signature Miller eyes; deep chocolate brown. To add insult to injury, she might be nicest person Whit has ever met. During their conversation earlier she was kind and insightful. Asking her all sorts of questions and sincerely listening to her answers.

“Whitney. Can I talk to you for a second?” She whispered.

“Sure.” Whitney realized her response came across as a question so she quickly followed it up with an “of course.” Nat stood on front of her, oozing an almost intimidating level of confidence.

“About Joel…” she starts.

“Oh god. He hates me, doesn’t he?”

“If he hated you; you wouldn’t be here.” She says flatly.

Whit raises an eyebrow in response.

“I was born 4 days after Joel. We have always been best friends. The last few years Joel has been very black and white. You’re either in or out. No in between, and almost everyone gets the latter of the two.”

Whitney nods, unsure where this is going but could do a little dance knowing Joel doesn’t hate her.

“Between me and you, he seems to have an in between with you, and I think that scares him. I’ve caught him staring at you a lot today, but when I asked him about you...” Nat bunches her eyebrows together and crosses her arms to do her best grumpy Joel impression, “drop it Natalie.”

Whit can feel herself blushing as she laughs a little at the almost spot on job Nat does of her cousin.

“Look,” she’s speaking just above a whisper at this point. “All I’m saying is to be patient with him. He never lets people in anymore, but when he does - he’s the most loyal and trustworthy person to have in your corner.”

Nat heads back out to the party with a wink, leaving Whitney all sorts of confused.

Joel might have kid, he apparently keeps looking at me, and I should be patient.

Her feet take her to Anna, plopping down on the same lounger as her and pulling her in. “So this is Joel’s house, not Tommy’s. And I’m pretty sure the little girl in the purple swimsuit is his daughter.”

Anna goes to respond before she’s cut off. “But that’s not it. Nat just told me that Joel has ‘in between’ with me.”

“I’m gonna need an explanation.” Anna says.

A splash of water hits both of them, interrupting their gossip session. Austin is perched on the edge of the pool looking at them while Joel tosses the girls around like they’re made of paper. Granted they’re 7, but he never seemed to tire as those girls keep coming back for more.

“What?” Anna giggles, batting her lashes.

“Those girls just got a 5 minute warning from Nat. You two are next.”

“You can’t catch us both.” Whitney taunts.

“Watch me.” He flicks more water at the 2 of them.

Whitney doesn’t make it a habit to brag about her accomplishments, but she’s not about to let this man she just met think he has an advantage over her. “I’ll be watching you fail. I went to university IN ENGLAD on a partial rugby scholarship. There’s no way you’re taking me down, little man.”

Joel turns his head slightly to make sure he’s hearing this correctly.

Whitney? Playing rugby?

“Alright,” Austin counters. “I’ll get Joel to take you then.”

Joel and Whit lock eyes, neither of them will let their guards down to do anything, but god they wished they could be that close to one another. Heat spreads through Joel’s body as he pictures wrapping hands around the soft skin of her waist, laughing with her as she would try, and most likely fail to fight him off. Meanwhile, goosebumps erupt over Whitney’s skin as she imagines how the cords of his muscles that line his body would feel under her as she wrapped her strong legs around his waist, refusing to let go as he attempts to throw her in.

Luckily, they’re both saved by Maria and Daisy. Whitney eats up the baby cuddles as Maria apologizes for the rowdy Miller clan. As the baby changes arms to Anna, Whit finds herself searching for Joel again. She finds him down on one knee, wrapping that same little girl in a towel before dramatically throwing her over his shoulder and taking her into the house. Her little feet kicking as they laugh together.

“Earth to Whitney?!” Tommy says robotically, waving her hands around.

“Huh? W-what?”

When did Tommy walk over? How much of this conversation did I miss.

Her cheeks flush as Tommy looks at her with one eyebrow raised up. Another one bites the dust, he thinks to himself.

“Burger or hot dog, for the 4th time!” He laughs.

“Tommy you know communal food freaks me out!” She says, trying to sound incredibly spoiled.

“I’m sure Joel will let you sneak into his kitchen before anyone else touches the food. I’m making both of you burgers.”

Those 3 little girls come running out of the house, yelling good bye to everyone as they head towards Maria.

“Bye, auntie Maria!”, a big bear hug between her and these 3 little ones breaks out.

The 3 girls hug Whit next even though they have no idea who she is. If one thing is clear, it’s that the Millers might be loud, but no one loves bigger or harder.

Nat jogs over while Whitney collects her hugs, “lord help me for agreeing to take all 3 of these girls for the night! Joel was just giving them handfuls of gummy frogs.”

Soft Joel is killing me today.

Nat and her husband corral the girls like bouncy balls as they leave for the night and Tommy waves Whit over, signalling it’s time for her secret sneak into the house.

Joel is standing in his kitchen, and much to Whitney’s dismay, he’s put a linen button down shirt. He still has his swim trunks on and his wet curls slicked back.

“Heard you have a thing about communal food.” A small smirk appears on his face.

“I just had some bad experiences in college with shared food, so I avoid it.” She laughs.

“Mhmm, well, help yourself princess.” He says when a little bow.

“Hey,” she laughs, “if everyone could just be like me….”

“Lord help us all.” He lets out a laugh, the same sing-song laugh he had back in her office with Anna.

“Mr Miller, did you just make a joke?”

“S’Joel, sweetheart,” he says, handing her a paper plate.

Princess. Sweetheart. God dammit.

Whit feels herself blushing and immediately busies herself with the task at hand. Joel saunters around to her side of the island, opens the fridge and cracks his beer. He leans on the counter across from her sweeping his eyes down her body.

Her hair is up in a loose bun with a few strawberry blonde curls dangling around her neck, where he notices a small tattoo along her hairline.

What I wouldn’t give to kiss that little triangle tattoo.

His eyes sweep down her see through white tank top, the ties of her pink bikini peeking out. Her Jean shorts cover her round cheeks, and Joel has to stop himself from thinking about how small the bikini bottoms must be to not be poking out. He continues to sweep down her strong thighs and toned calf’s.

Fuck she has great legs.

Whitney is looks over her shoulder at him just as his eyes sweep to her toes, painted the same colour as her bikini.

“You ok over there?” She asks, shifting her weight to one foot, popping her hip out towards Joel. She’s not dumb, she knows he was checking her out. His eyes dart up to meet hers.

Don’t look down.

“No. I’m hungry and someone s’taking her time.”

“Who?!” She says in sarcastic shock.

“Miss Whitney,” he says in a mocking tone, “did you just make a joke?”

“You can’t just steal my bit, Mr Miller.”

“I didn’t, I don’t know your last name.”

She looks back down at her plate. “It’s Willis, unless you’re my college degree.”

“Care to elaborate?”

“No time,” she turns to face him. “Someone is apparently starving.”

Joel takes one step to be face to face with her, their front almost touching. He brushes past her right side, reaching behind her for the salad bowl.

“Miss Willis…” he whispers into her ear before shifting to brush past her left side to grab the potato salad. “I always have time for you.”

He straightens out again, sends Whit a devastating wink and heads outside.

Holy. Shit. It just got really hot in here. Thank god I’m leaning on this counter top or I would have fallen over.

- -

After they eat, the early evening sun prompts Whit to remove her tank top and unbutton her shorts, folding them open the waistband, as she lays beside the pool talking with Anna and Austin.

Her exposed skin catches Joel’s attention. “Double gin and tonic,” Maria says quietly to Joel. “Don’t be a dick. Go talk to her. I’ll deal with Tommy telling you she’s off limits.”

“I ain’t gonna do that, Maria.” Joel says as he heads inside to clean up.

As the sun begins to set, the Miller clan invite the girls to stay.

“Stay and play cards. Later we’re having a fire.” Tommy says, “I’m sick of always beating the same people!”

Whit already knows that Anna and Austin have other plans, probably of the naked variety, and the scarcity of Joel has her feeling like she’s about to overstay her welcome, so she heads out front and calls an Uber.

“Whitney?” Joel calls from the front door.

“Hey, sorry, I couldn’t find you to say goodbye.” Whit rubs her arms in the chilled night air. “Thank you for having me.”

Joel will never have this chance again and he’s kicking himself for not gluing himself to her the second Sarah left. He can see that she’s freezing as he steps towards her.

“I - umm,” he plunges his hands into his front pockets.

Is Joel Miller nervous?

“I w-was hoping you’d stay?” His cheeks flush a little, he’s definitely nervous.

“Anna left, it feels like a family thing now.” Whit is freezing, trying to stop her teeth from chattering. “And I didn’t bring a jacket or anything.”

“I have sweaters,” he says softly. “Please stay?”

If she leaves I’m never going to recover from embarrassment.

Fuck, he looks so good right now with his big soft eyes. And what I wouldn’t give to be wrapped in one of his sweaters.

A small “ok” comes out of Whits mouth as she holds up her phone, displaying the cancelled Uber ride.

“Come on, you’re freezing.” Joel places his hand on the middle of her back and leads her through the front door.

- -

“Here.” Joel holds open a green button up flannel. As she stands in the doorway of his bedroom.

He clears his throat as she spins and slips her arms into the ridiculously oversized shirt. “So, gonna finish that story about your last names?”

Joel is right behind her, pulling the flannel up her body. The smell of cedar and leather hits Whits nose as turns her head slightly looking him over her shoulder. “Short story, I was married and now I’m not.”

“No chance.” He laughs. “I want the real story.”

Whit spins around and leans her hip on the door frame. “I’ll give you the condensed long story if you promise to answer a question for me.”

Joel puts his hand on the doorframe by her head and leans in. Whit looks up at him with eager eyes, trying not to look at his plush bottom lip. “What’s the question, Willis?”

Her cheeks flush but doesn’t break eye contact. “Nope. Blind trust, Miller.”

He rolls his eyes and pokes his tongue inside his cheek to fight a smile. Whitney’s stomach muscles clench at how handsome he looks when he pretends to be irritated.

“Yes or no?” She whispered, reaching up to fix the collar on his linen shirt. This time she can’t help but look at mouth, wetting her lips a little before looking back at those gorgeous eyes.

Fear of letting anyone in gets the best of him. “No.” He replies, “let’s go outside.”

“Ok.” She spins on her tippy toes and heads down the hallway. Joel follows, noticing how his flannel is so long that it looks like she’s wearing nothing underneath.

He groans as they reach the kitchen. “Ok, yes. Fine.” When she spins to face him she has a big beautiful smile on her face and Joel comes to the crushing realization that he’ll do anything to see her smile like that forever. “You win.”

She hops up to sit on the counter, wrapping the flannel around herself and bites her bottom lip to try to stop her grin.

“If I win, Miller…” she says mischievously, “that means you lose. You know that right?”

Joel pinches the bridge of his nose, popping out one knee and placing his other hand on his hip. “You’ll be the death of me, Whitney Willis.” When he makes eye contact with her again she’s straight faced and pulling her hands into the long sleeves of his shirt.

I’m really going to bare my soul here. Shit.

“Ok…” she takes a big breath. “We were young, fresh out of high school, and we were in love.” Her eyes jolt away from Joel’s, focusing on her knees, “I was moving to England for university while he stayed here, so like all logical 18 year olds, we got married.”

Joel took a big step towards Whit, standing close enough that she could feel his heat radiating on her bare legs. “We made it work despite the ocean separating us. He came to me when he could, I couldn’t come to him because of rugby. But I was incredibly happy, everyone around us was supportive. I was going to have the perfect life.”

Whit felt like she had razor blades in her throat. Joel wants to reach out and touch her. Just a gentle rub on her arm so she knows it’s ok.

I’m here for you.

Her eyes flick up to Joel’s, who is looking at her softly, before darting back to her knees. “After graduation I landed an internship in New York, it would have lead me to my dream firm…And he was going to Columbia for med school. Last minute he changed to Baylor and I changed all my plans. I found this job and it started right away, so I flew straight here from England and started laying down roots to really build our lives together.”

Whit looked so sad and it was eating Joel up. She hadn’t looked up from her knees so he stepped right up to her, his hips pressing into her knees. She finally looked up, opening her legs slightly and grabbing the hem of his shirt with one hand.

Puppy eyes. Warm, chocolate brown puppy eyes.

“First day at this job he called me to ask for a divorce and said he wasn’t coming to Texas.”

“Whit,” Joel says softly as he places a hand on her soft thigh. “I’ll kill him. Just give me his name.”

Whit can’t help but breakout into laughter, resting her hand on top of his. “It’s really ok. It lead me here.” She stammers, “I m-mean, like, in Texas. At this job.”

Joel stares at her for a few seconds until she smiles at him. “Ok,” he says. “My turn I guess - what’s your question, Whitney?”

Whitney clears her throat. She’s not sure why she’s nervous about this. She just told a man she barely knows that she was ditched by her husband.

“Was one of those girls today your daughter?”

Joel clenches his back molars together, causing a vein in his neck popping out. The hand on Whits thigh moves as he crosses his arms in front of him.

Those goddamn biceps again.

She can’t help it, like a moth to a flame she reaches up to grab his arm, her other hand still holding the hem of his shirt. “Joel, you don’t have to answer if it makes you uncomfortable.”

“I don’t cross lines of work and personal, Whitney. I know Tommy tells you about his life, but I’m not like that. I like to keep things separate, mostly for her.”

“So she is your daughter?” Whitney opens her legs a bit more, hoping he’ll inch closer.

“Yes.” He breathes.

“Short story?” She says, dropping her hand from his arm to his side, pulling him in more.

“She’s 7. Her name is Sarah. I am the only parent she has.”

Whit’s mind is turning. She has so many questions, but isn’t going to push Joel. Nat said to be patient, so that’s exactly what she’s going to do. She pulls Joel in all so he flush with the counter, whispering a “thank you” as she slides herself into him.

His large hands come to her waist. “What for?”

Their bodies move closer. “For trusting me with that.” She says.

They’re so close now. If each of them just reached a little bit their noses would graze.

“Stop looking at me like that, Whitney.” He whispers into her lips.

“Looking at you like what?” She replies breathlessly, licking her lips.

His eyes flick down, watching her plush bottom lip dampen with her tongue. “Like you want me to kiss you.”

She smiles a little, reaching her nose towards his. “Would that be so bad?” She says through a shaky exhale.

Joel and Whitney’s lips collide. The kiss starts off hard, like they’re tattooing themselves onto the other. Joel’s hands rub down her body, coaxing her legs to wrap around his waist. Whit parts her lips slightly as a small moan escapes her, that sound is enough encouragement for Joel to push his hips into her harder, slipping his tongue along her bottom lip, nudging her to open her mouth more.

Slowly, they both melt into the kiss, Joel flicks his tongue against hers. She moans again as she tangles her hands into the back of his hair. “Fuck, I love that sound.” He says quickly before sliding his hands under the lower back of her tank top. Her legs lock tighter around him. Both of them have imagined this moment countless times.

Joel’s lips move to her jawline, making a line of wet kisses towards her throat. Whitney moans a quiet “don’t stop” as her fingernails gently scratch at the back of his head.

“JOEL!!!” Tommy yells from the back door. Both of them freeze, not ready to let go. “WE ARE PLAY BULLSHIT, LETS GO!!”

“Fuck me.” Joel groans, bringing his forehead against Whits.

“Better deal in 2!” Whit yells back, winking at Joel.

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter (Coming Soon)

[heartstringsduet]

All the pretty places (pt. 1)

I thought if I abandon half of the Tarlos honeymoon fic I would just post the half I'm okay with as drabbles here every two days. These are for you @alltheprettyplaces. (sorry I couldn't commit to writing more of this for now)

The engine of a red convertible comes alive with a low purr, the key chain with a little tricolored flag tinkles a little tune as it bounces against the board. The seats lowly vibrate under them, coming alive. TK takes Carlos hand and squeezes it. Its warm and solid and alive.

“Are you ready for Italia, babe? Gelato, espresso, spaghetti?” TK asks, pronouncing everything with a thick accent he thinks is Italian. Carlos looks over at him, a bit pale, exhausted, but the smile is genuine. He pulls TK’s hand over to his mouth and gives it a kiss. “I’m ready.”

They’re in the garage of the airport rental service still. The flight is sitting in their bones, the time zones adding hours they shouldn’t notice but do. He knows Carlos hasn’t slept, hands gripping the divider tightly, the other holding TK’s hand softly. It’s only the second time he’s flown. TK hadn’t slept either, his last flight rearing its head in wild flashes. The last week was all flashes too, few of them ones he wanted to hold onto, but one he wouldn’t trade for anything.

Here, it feels like a warm breezes is coaxing them out and into a new part of life together.

The gold of their rings is waiting to reflect the sun of Italy.

“Now you only got to let go of my hand or we won’t make it out the garage until our honeymoon is over,” Carlos says.

TK groans histrionically. He really doesn’t want to let go, any distance to much, but Carlos has a point. He follows the urge to kiss his husbands smile-dimpled cheek, then slides his hand up onto his forearm and himself back into the soft leather cushion of his seat. 

Sunlight burns his eyes when they emerge from the cool, gloomy garage. At first, Rome doesn’t look much different from the fieldy stretches of Texas, but something about the trees that whir by, the air, warm but drier than Austin’s and smelling sweetly of grass, instantly makes TK realize that they’re actually here. They’re actually in Europe. They’re actually on a honeymoon. Carlos actually married him. Will it ever feel like less of a miracle? Will he ever take what luck has put in his path for granted?

Carlos’ muscles move, gentle as a wave under his fingers as he takes a turn. 

TK looks over, wind rushing through the open roof of the convertible untangling his husband’s hair, sun touching skin like it wants to kiss it tan again, softness in his features that TK worried would stay looking haunted.

No, he won’t take it for granted. Any of it.

[austintreeamigos]

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[911-on-abc]

RWRB Buddie (Part 2?)

okay so here is how it would actually go

Buck (the first son) and Maddie are invited to The Republic of Texas to attend the royal wedding of one of Eddie's sisters

Buck is being bratty (when is he not?) and his bad mood is only made worse when Prince Eddie asks Maddie to a dance

So there he is, glaring at Eddie, with a little bit too much to drink, and he can't help antagonizing Eddie when he gets the chance.

The cake goes down.

Buck gets back to DC and is read the riot act by Margaret and Philip because not only did he make an international embarrassment of himself, but Texas and the US are in the middle of negotiating an oil trade agreement and this just made the talks ever more tense.

Bobby texts him "Really Kid?"

So here is the plan put together by the White House and the Palace: Buck and Eddie are actually really close friends! This was just a bit of teasing that went a little too far! No problems to be seen here! Look they are so close!! Buck's actually coming to visit!!

So Buck's shipped off to Texas

It's humid, it's hot, and Buck feels like he is going to boil over

It doesn't help that Eddie is late to their meet up ("Sorry guys my sparring session went late") with his hair still slightly damp and curling from the quick shower he must have taken beforehand

It definitely doesn't help that Eddie questions his lighting choices for their contractually obligated instagram story together.

But that night when Buck sneaks into the kitchen of the guest wing of the Austin palace he meets Christopher for the first time

Buck is in the middle of introducing Christopher to the magic of stove s'mores (stick a marshmallow on a chopstick and roast it above a burner ur welcome), when he looks up to see Eddie leaning on the doorway with the dopiest grin on his face

"You're teaching my kid to play with fire?"

Buck sputters and apologizes and Chris giggles as Eddie steals a chopstick out of Buck's hands and starts making his own and the post that goes up on Buck's instagram has the caption "Making late night s'mores with my favorite Diaz (and Eddie)"

Things are awkward on the ride to the studio for their first televised appearance together the next day.

So maybe Eddie isn't a total asshole, but he's still an asshole, he has to be, because Buck still doesn't like him... right?

The interview happens, they head to the hospital, and you know how it goes... bang bang, Buck and Eddie are stuck in a confined space together, at least thank god there is no grenade

"Why do you hate me anyway?"

Buck tells Eddie how he brushed him off at the Olympics. Eddie tells Buck how he wasn't in a good place in his life. Shannon was pregnant, he was being shipped off to mandatory service, and Buck may have been a dick but Eddie was a dick first, so he's sorry

and next thing you know, they're BuckAndEddie

Buck heads back to DC and they text a bit and Buck calls about the turkeys and Christopher demands that his dad puts him on FaceTime so he can see them

Then they are calling every night and Buck texts Eddie videos of animals to show Christopher because he thinks he would like them

(and Eddie is falling, falling, falling)

The New Years Eve party happens.

Buck kisses some girl, Eddie leaves to the rose garden, and Buck finds him standing underneath a tree FaceTiming his son

"I love you mijo, Happy New Year." "I love you too dad" Buck hears as he ducks under a branch to join Eddie beneath the tree

Buck tries to start up that banter that they've quickly grown so used to, but Eddie. Eddie snaps. And he grabs Buck's face and his lips are on Buck's and just as Buck realizes what is going on and starts to kiss back, Eddie rips himself away. And then he flees.

[djmarek-rapidcityweddingdj]

Spearfish South Dakota Wedding Celebrations - Austin & Natalie's September 2023 Wedding

Spearfish South Dakota Wedding Celebratinos - Austin & Natalie's September 2024 Wedding

Love stories have a unique way of bringing people together, and Austin and Natalie's journey is no exception. On a warm September day in Spearfish, South Dakota, amidst the serene backdrop of The Barn at Aspen Acres, their love story reached its pinnacle. This charming wedding celebration, filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments, was made even more memorable by the musical magic spun by DJ Marek. Join us as we recount the magical day of Austin and Natalie's wedding celebration in the heart of the Black Hills.

The Barn at Aspen Acres: A Rustic Dream Come True

Nestled in the heart of Spearfish, The Barn at Aspen Acres is a rustic wedding venue that captures the essence of country charm. With its sprawling acres of greenery, towering pine trees, and the picturesque barn itself, it's a place where dreams of a rustic fairytale wedding come to life. Austin and Natalie chose this idyllic setting for their special day, and it couldn't have been more perfect.

As guests arrived, they were greeted by the breathtaking beauty of the venue. The barn doors swung open to reveal an enchanting world of romance and rustic elegance. Wooden beams adorned with twinkling fairy lights and rustic chic décor set the stage for the day's festivities.

The Love Story Unfolds

Austin and Natalie's love story is one that inspires hope and reaffirms the belief in true love. Their journey began years ago when they met in college, a serendipitous encounter that would shape their lives forever. Friends turned into confidants, and soon, they realized they had found their soulmates in each other.

Their love story was beautifully woven into their wedding celebration, from the heartfelt vows they exchanged to the tender glances they shared throughout the day. It was evident to everyone present that Austin and Natalie were meant to be together.

The Role of DJ Marek - A Spearfish South Dakota Wedding Entertainment DJ

Every wedding celebration has its heartbeat, and for Austin and Natalie's special day, that beat was expertly curated by DJ Marek Rapid City Wedding DJ Services. Hailing from Rapid City, South Dakota, DJ Marek brought his unique blend of musical talent and charisma to the occasion.

DJ Marek's music selection was nothing short of exceptional. From setting the mood during the ceremony to energizing the dance floor during the reception, he demonstrated an innate understanding of the couple's musical preferences and the vibe they wanted to create. The playlist was a harmonious mix of classic love songs, foot-tapping tunes, and crowd-pleasers that kept the guests on their feet all night long.

One of the highlights of the evening was Austin and Natalie's first dance as a married couple. DJ Marek played their special song, and as the couple swayed to the music, it was as though time stood still. The dance floor was their world, and the joy on their faces was a testament to the magic of the moment.

Haley Mercedes Photography Captures the Memories

The person responsible for etching these moments into lasting memories was Hailey from Haley Mercedes Photography. From the intimate moments shared between Austin and Natalie during their first look to the stolen glances between family members during the ceremony, Hailey's attention to detail was evident in every photograph. She had a way of blending into the background, allowing the day to unfold naturally while she documented it with finesse.

A Night of Celebrations

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the barn came alive with the sound of laughter, music, and dance. DJ Marek's seamless transitions between songs kept the energy high, and the dance floor remained packed throughout the night. It was a celebration of love, friendship, and the beginning of a new chapter for Austin and Natalie.

The heartfelt toasts, the joyous laughter, and the heartfelt embraces between family and friends made the night truly unforgettable. The bond between Austin and Natalie and the love they shared with everyone present was palpable.

A Grateful Farewell

As the night came to a close, Austin and Natalie bid farewell to their loved ones, thanking them for being a part of their special day. The magical wedding celebration at The Barn at Aspen Acres, Spearfish, South Dakota, with music provided by DJ Marek, was a testament to the power of love, music, and the beauty of rustic charm.

In the heart of the Black Hills, a love story unfolded, and a new chapter began. Austin and Natalie's wedding was a reminder that love knows no bounds, and when you find your soulmate, life becomes a beautiful journey filled with moments to cherish forever.

As we reflect on this magical celebration, we are left with the belief that true love, like a well-curated playlist, has the power to touch our hearts, uplift our spirits, and make us dance to the rhythm of life.

Austin and Natalie, may your journey together continue to be filled with love, laughter, and hapily ever after!

Spearfish South Dakota Wedding Vendors:

Ceremony & Reception - The Barn at Aspen Acres in Spearfish, SD

DJ Services & Ceremony Music: DJ Marek - Rapid City Wedding Ceremony & Reception DJ

Photography: Hailey Mercedes Photogrpahy in Spearfish, SD

[deadpresidents]

Brújula

He was coarse and obnoxious.  A big, overbearing, profane, restless, ambitious Texan who pushed and prodded and wheeled and dealed his way from poverty in the Texas Hill Country to the most powerful office in the world. She was soft-spoken and eloquent.  A gentle, quiet, polite, and comforting presence for her father, her husband, her children, and her country.  As the social fabric of the United States began to tear during her husband's Administration, she found a way to literally beautify the nation. On November 17, 1934, Lyndon Baines Johnson was a 26-year-old secretary to Congressman Richard M. Kleberg, the member of the U.S. House of Representatives from the 14th Congressional district of Texas.  Johnson was a tall, gangly, anxious, antsy young man.  So driven was Johnson that he made sure to personally answer every letter which arrived in Kleberg's office -- whether the Congressman deemed them important or not.  Johnson had started his career as a teacher, but it was politics that he was drawn to and politics which he was obsessed with.  Very few people truly knew Lyndon Johnson, but everyone who came in contact with him knew that he was somebody.  Lyndon's confidence in himself was never quite as high.  Throughout his entire life, Johnson felt he needed to press on further and faster in order to prove himself. On November 17, 1934, Claudia Alta Taylor was 21 years old.  When she was born, Claudia's nurse said "She's as purty as a lady bird" and the nickname had stuck.  Almost nobody called her "Claudia", she would always be "Lady Bird" and it was a fitting name.  Lady Bird's mother died when she was just five years old and her beloved father, a wealthy man actively engaged in business, couldn't provide all of the attention she must have hoped for.  What he could provide for his lonely daughter was opportunity.  Although she came of age in a time (during the Great Depression) and a place (southern Texas) where women rarely received a thorough education, Lady Bird was able to make the most of her intelligence and determination.  Not only did she attend college, but Lady Bird graduated from the University of Texas with two bachelor's degrees -- one in history and one in journalism.  Following her graduation, Lady Bird hoped to teach in an exotic locale such as Hawaii or Alaska, "But all that never happened because I met Lyndon." On the night of August 1, 1934, Lyndon and Lady Bird met for the first time, introduced by a mutual friend, Eugenia Boehringer Lasseter in Austin.  Though their initial meeting was brief, Johnson asked Lady Bird if she would meet him for coffee the next morning and she agreed.  Lady Bird nearly had a change of heart on the morning of August 2, 1934 and was close to leaving Johnson stood up on what was supposed to be their first date.  That morning, Lady Bird was scheduled to meet with an architect in downtown Austin who the Taylor family had hired to remodel their mansion, the Brick House in Karnack, Texas.  The architect's office happened to be next door to Austin's Driskill Hotel and Johnson -- sitting alone inside the hotel's coffee shop -- spotted Lady Bird walking by.  Johnson urged Lady Bird to join him and when she did, one of the more unique marriages and partnerships in American political history truly began. Lyndon Johnson hated wasting time.  His entire life seemed like a race against the clock.  Most of the men on the Johnson side of his family tree had lived relatively short lives before dying of a heart ailment.  Johnson always felt that he would not live long, and he often lived each day as if he were going to die that night.  Whether it was in the jobs he worked prior to entering public service or in his political career, Johnson wanted results and answers, and he wanted them immediately.  In his personal life, Lyndon Johnson was really no different. As they enjoyed coffee and breakfast at the Driskill Hotel during their first date, Johnson peppered Lady Bird with dozens of questions and bombarded Lady Bird with his own feelings, goals, worries, and intentions.  Lady Bird was a well-refined, polite young lady with impeccable social skills, so she must have been taken aback by Johnson's unabashed energy and intensity.  Yet, she was also captivated by Johnson's passion.  After breakfast, Lady Bird accepted an invitation to take a drive through the rural areas surrounding Austin.  An early version of LBJ's legendary "Johnson Treatment" persisted throughout their whirlwind afternoon together.  By the time Lyndon dropped Lady Bird off -- after spending just a few hours together and meeting her for the first time only 24 hours earlier -- he had proposed marriage. Lady Bird said no to his immediate proposal.  Not only did she barely know Lyndon Johnson, but earlier that morning she had even considered skipping their coffee date.  But while she declined Johnson's marriage proposal, she didn't deny her interest in him.  Later, she would say of their first date that Lyndon "told me all sorts of things that I thought were extraordinarily direct for a first conversation...about how many years he had been teaching, his salary as a secretary to a Congressman, his ambitions, even about all the members of his family, and how much insurance he carried.  It was as if he wanted to give me a complete picture of his life and of his capabilities."  In truth, that's exactly what Lyndon wanted to do.  Although she turned down his proposal, Lyndon and Lady Bird spent several days together that week before Lyndon returned to Congressman Kleberg's office in Washington.  Johnson couldn't leave her alone because he wanted "to keep her mind completely on me until the moment I had to leave for Washington."  By the time Johnson went back to the Capitol, Lady Bird had met Johnson's parents in Johnson City and Lyndon had met Lady Bird's father in Karnack. Lady Bird's father, Thomas, was an old-fashioned Southern gentleman and Lady Bird was his youngest child and only daughter.  A successful businessman and self-made man, Thomas Taylor didn't seem like the type who would mix well with impatient, boorish Lyndon Johnson from the Hill Country.  Lyndon himself was full of nervous energy as he and Lady Bird drove to Mr. Taylor's Brick House mansion near the Texas/Louisiana border.  He was worried about whether the wealthy Mr. Taylor would look down on the Johnson family's hardscrabble roots and hoping to conduct himself in a way that would impress both Lady Bird and her father. Thomas Taylor told his daughter exactly how he felt about Lyndon Johnson.  After Taylor, Johnson, and Lady Bird had dinner at the Brick House, Mr. Taylor excused himself and asked to speak privately with his daughter.  With Lyndon no doubt concerned in the other room, Mr. Taylor held nothing back.  "Daughter," he said, "you've been bringing home a lot of boys.  But this time you've brought a man."  Mr. Taylor adored Lyndon Johnson. Scheduled to return to Washington, D.C. the very next day, Lyndon again proposed to Lady Bird that night.  Once again, she turned down the idea of a quick marriage, but she encouraged him with a kiss before he started his long drive back to the nation's capital.  They had only known each other for a few days and she had declined two marriage proposals during that time, but Lady Bird "had a queer sort of moth-and-flame thing" she later said.  "I knew I had met something remarkable, but I didn't know quite what." Once Lyndon Johnson returned to Washington, he continued his pursuit of Lady Bird Taylor.  If he didn't talk to her on a long-distance telephone call from Congressman Kleberg's office, Johnson wrote a letter to her every single day.  Lyndon was always consumed by work -- particularly answering the Congressman's correspondence -- but things had changed after his visit to Austin.  Johnson would still work on the mail as soon as he arrived at the Capitol each morning, but before he did anything else he would find a quiet room and write his daily letter to Lady Bird.  To his co-workers, it seemed that every conversation or event or issue would remind him in some way or another of Lady Bird.  It was so unusual for Johnson to put so much focus on one of his own interpersonal relationships that the people he worked with at the time would distinctly remember the change in his ways even years later after he had been President of the United States. Back in Texas, Lady Bird Taylor was having a similar experience.  "I had never before considered myself a lonely person," she later said.  But she "had spent so much of my life by myself that I had gotten used to being alone."  The whirlwind that was Lyndon Johnson made an immediate impact on her.  "Lyndon came into my life and in one week's time he had become so much a part of me that when he left, I felt his absence terribly.  It was embarrassing to admit that so much could happen in such a short time.  Here was this man I barely knew talking about marriage and I was seriously considering the idea." While Lyndon kept pressing the idea of marriage, Lady Bird's heart agreed with Johnson while her mind told her that perhaps she should wait.  She still barely knew the man, and being married to the secretary of a member of the United States House of Representatives wouldn't have provided any woman with a sense of security.  Lady Bird had inherited money from her mother's estate and her father was a wealthy man, but she was unsure of how Lyndon might be able to support her.  She was also unsure about being a political wife, telling Lyndon in one letter, "Oh, I know I haven't any business -- not any proprietary interest -- but I would hate for you to go into politics." Lyndon was certain of two things that he wanted and needed in his life.  One was politics and though he was just a Congressional secretary, he was also intensely studying how Congress worked and building a foundation and network of political contacts back in Texas with his voluminous correspondence from the office of Congressman Kleberg. The other want and need was Lady Bird Taylor's hand in marriage.  On October 23, 1934, Johnson wrote Lady Bird a letter from Kleberg's office that expressed both of those wants and needs.  "This morning I'm ambitious, proud, energetic and very madly in love with you," wrote Johnson.  "I want to see people -- want to walk thru' the throngs -- want to do things with a drive.  If I had a box I would almost make a speech this minute.  Plans, ideas, hopes -- I'm bubbling over with them."  The hope that bubbled most intensely was his dream to walk down the aisle with Lady Bird. An overlooked aspect of Lyndon Johnson's life and character is his sensitivity.  In later years, that sensitivity was highlighted by insecurity and moodiness.  In the autumn of 1934, that sensitivity allowed him to articulate his feelings to Lady Bird with astonishing clarity and demonstrated an impressive ability to recognize and express exactly what he was doing and why he was proposing marriage so quickly: "I see something I know I want.  I immediately exert efforts to get it.  I do or I don't, but I try and do my best.  You see something you might want.  You tear it to pieces in an effort to determine if you should want it.  Then you wonder why you want it, and conclude that maybe the desire isn't an 'everlasting' one and that the 'sane' thing to do is to wait a year or so, and then if you still want it, to decide at that time whether or not you should make an effort to get it." At the beginning of November 1934, Lyndon Johnson couldn't wait any longer.  It was obvious to him that Lady Bird loved him, and he knew he loved her.  Lady Bird was still turning down Lyndon every time he pleaded with her to marry him immediately.  They had only known one another for about three months, but Lyndon forced the issue by pulling his Ford roadster into the long driveway at Lady Bird's father's mansion, the Brick House, in Karnack, Texas.  "Let's get married," Lyndon said.  "Not next year, after you've done over the house, but about two weeks from now, or right away.  We either get married now or we never will  And if you say goodbye to me, it just proves to me that you just don't love me enough to dare to.  And I just can't bear to go on and keep wondering if it will ever happen." Lady Bird was still torn and turned to her father for advice.  "Bird," said Mr. Taylor, the successful businessman who admired the guts and determination of Lady Bird's suitor.  "Some of the best deals are made in a hurry."  Thomas Taylor's words seemed to validate one of Lyndon Johnson's frequent exhortations in his letters to Lady Bird, "Why must we wait...to begin to do the things we want to do forever and ever?".  On the evening of November 16, 1934, Lady Bird Taylor finally said, "Yes", and agreed to become Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson. Just because Lady Bird agreed to marry him didn't mean that Lyndon was satisfied.  The very next day, November 17, 1934, the newly-engaged couple drove nearly 400 miles to San Antonio, Texas.  Lyndon had a friend in San Antonio who owed his political career to Johnson.  Dan Quill had been appointed postmaster in San Antonio after Johnson recommended his nomination to his boss, Congressman Richard Kleberg.  Johnson knew it would be difficult to find someone who would agree to marry him and Lady Bird on such short notice, but Quill was determined to return the favor for Lyndon.  As the couple drove to San Antonio from Karnack, Quill used his influence to acquire a marriage license for Lyndon and Lady Bird on almost no advance notice.  More impressively, Quill was able to talk an Episcopalian priest into marrying a couple that the priest had never met and who had only been engaged to be married for a few hours. With obvious reluctance because he had no prenuptial meetings with Lyndon and Lady Bird, the Reverend Arthur E. McKinistry nevertheless officiated a wedding on the evening of November 17, 1934 at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in San Antonio.  Quill served as Johnson's best man, a surprised local friend of Lady Bird's served as Maid of Honor, and there was just one other witness to the ceremony.  When Reverend McKinistry asked for the rings, the wedding ceremony was paused as Quill ran across the street to Sears, Roebuck and brought back a selection of wedding bands for the couple to choose from.  After paying $2.50 a piece for the temporary rings, Lyndon and Lady Bird places them on each other's fingers and were officially proclaimed husband and wife. The Johnsons -- lanky Lyndon in a perpetually rumpled business suit and petite Lady Bird in a basic lavender dress -- celebrated their wedding with a dinner at a restaurant on the rooftop of St. Anthony's Hotel two blocks south of the church.  They spent their first night of marriage together at San Antonio's Plaza Hotel.  The next morning, the newlyweds drove to Corpus Christi and caught a train to Monterrey, Mexico for a brief honeymoon.  One of the earliest pictures of the couple shows them standing in a boat while visiting the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco.  For Lady Bird, the honeymoon was an eye-opener in many ways.  A passionate lover and advocate of natural beauty and wildlife, Lady Bird was thrilled to explore the scenery and culture in Mexico.  The honeymoon, however, also gave her an indication of the live she was beginning.  Lyndon spent a significant amount of time talking about politics and itching to get back to Washington.  As Lady Bird would later say, "I was a born sight-seer, but Lyndon was a born people-seer.  He indulged me on that trip, but the truth is he wasn't much intrigued."  After Mexico, Lyndon and Lady Bird moved into a one-bedroom apartment in Washington, D.C., and their life together truly began.

It is impossible to do justice to the story of the relationship of Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson in just a simple essay.  It is worthy of (and has been the sole subject of) entire books.  There are so many levels, so much depth, and such extraordinarily complexity to their marriage that a definitive history requires thorough study and an ample commitment of time and space.

We do know that Lyndon Baines Johnson was not always the greatest husband.  Just as apparent, however, is that Lady Bird Johnson was indeed one of the greatest, most influential, most loyal wives in American political history.  As First Lady, she not only understood her position in her home, but recognized the opportunities that she had to serve her country.  "The Constitution of the United States," Lady Bird said, "does not mention the First Lady.  She is elected by one man only.  The statute books assign her no duties; and yet, when she gets the job, a podium is there if she cares to use it.  I did."

Exceedingly capable, Lady Bird expanded the role of First Lady and marshaled all of her intelligence, ability, and beliefs in order to become a transformational activist in American life.  Every First Lady since Lady Bird has played an influential role in the lives of Americans, and that's not solely because of Lady Bird but mostly so.  Whether it was her campaigns for environmental protection and conservation, beautification, her support for civil rights, or her advocacy for those suffering from poverty or social injustice, Lady Bird was a force for positive change.

It is her most important role, however, which is often overlooked.  Lyndon Johnson was not easy to live with.  His larger-than-life personality and overflowing ego was constantly engaged in a see-saw battle with insecurity, a lack of confidence, and an overpowering fear of failure.  In every election that Johnson ever contested, there came a point where he was dominated by the thought that he would lose and all but decide to quit the race before Election Day.  In almost every one of those elections (and he only lost one election in his long political career), LBJ fell seriously ill shortly before Election Day.  Whether it was due to Johnson's tendency to work himself to exhaustion or partly due to a psychosomatic condition is not completely clear, but Doris Kearns Goodwin would later write that "Personal rejection was so unbearable to Johnson, so mortally threatening, that withdrawal was necessary...Episodes of rejection, actual or apprehended, seem[ed] to cripple Johnson's faculties and even, at times, interrupt his normal state of physical health and vitality."

It was Lady Bird who could calm him in troubled times.  While Lyndon Johnson is remembered as a political maestro, particularly in legislative politics, Lady Bird had great political intuition and knew how to handle Lyndon himself.  LBJ could be cruel and coarse -- not just to his colleagues and staff, but to Lady Bird.  In a 1994 interview with The Washington Post, Lady Bird admitted as much.  "Our was a compelling love," she said.  "Lyndon bullied me, coaxed me, at times even ridiculed me, but he made me more than I would have been.  I offered him some peace and quiet, maybe a little judgment."

That humility was not false humility; it was Lady Bird's characteristically earnest belief.  Yet, she arguably offered him more than he offered her.  When he was sick, she helped care for him.  When he was depressed, she helped make his life as easy as possible.  She motivated him in a way that nothing else could -- not even his intense drive to prove himself or ceaseless ambition for the power to help change things.  If Lyndon Johnson was a hurricane -- a force to be reckoned with, Lady Bird Johnson was the quiet breeze and warm sunshine which helped settle everything in the storm's wake.  I'm not sure Lyndon Johnson made Lady Bird more than she could have been, but I'm positive that Lady Bird helped LBJ become who he was.

In many of the books and interviews that I've read about the lives and times, accomplishments and failures of Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson, I have frequently come across the word "anchor" to describe her influence on the 36th President of the United States.  The intent of that description is to demonstrate how she helped LBJ remain grounded.  It's a positive label, but it's not the word that comes to my mind when I think about their unique relationship.

Instead, the word that comes to my mind is a word that Lyndon Johnson probably heard many times when he was just out of college and teaching at a small school for impoverished Mexican children in Cotulla, Texas.  The word is "brújula" and it is the Spanish word for "compass".  Lady Bird wasn't Lyndon's anchor.  She was his "brújula" -- the compass which helped him find his way.

Lyndon Baines Johnson could never stay in one place, so an anchor wasn't what he needed.  LBJ was always on the move, always going somewhere.  Perhaps that's why he knew he needed Lady Bird before she realized how she felt about him.  He recognized what she could be for him, and he couldn't let her get away.  For Lyndon, in a life full of historic accomplishments, it might have been his best decision.  Until the day he Lyndon Johnson died in January 1973, whenever he was lost, whenever he was disoriented, whenever he found himself wondering where he was, where he was going, and if he could go on, there was Lady Bird -- his brújula -- to guide him on his way.

[eulchu]

https://www.tumblr.com/georgenootfound/716770868585463808/austin-better-be-careful-or-dream-will-finally

Austin barks up George’s tree every chance he gets LMAOO he doesn’t care about places he should or shouldn’t be 💀

it's ok he's doing community service by being so pathetically after george it's really entertaining