#waffle the largest king

[vex-bittys]

*Casually breaks in with the intention to give the lamias treats in THE MOST disrespectful way possible >:) + flowers for Vex <3* - gold

*Vex sniffs at the flowers, nibbling the pretty petals because... I mean... flower petals... They go in the mouth! Within a matter of moments, Vex is covered in itchy hives because for some reason, despite her love of flowers, she is allergic to many of them! Waffle, the King lamia, and Edgar, the nursery caretaker, slowly escort her away. She's still smiling because flowers are great, hives or no hives!

*While Vex is indisposed and her assistants distracted, you put your nefarious plot into action. Flipping the mini fridge, you stuff McNuggets into snoring Corny mouths. You lasso Papythons with fancy scarves with flames embroidered on them. Honey Bos blink as a new disco light illuminates their nests, and a few new MP3 players pre-loaded with music slide across the floor to bonk into them.

*A cascade of rubber duckies invade the Krait play pools, and curious Pygmies are buried in avalanche of crinkly foil balls and prey-type toys to chase. Kings blush bright red and flare their hoods as they each receive a new book and a "HERO" sticker on their cheeks. The Corals slither over grumpily to complain the noise and have pretty shiny objects tucked into their pockets, leaving them speechless and grateful but still pretending they're just grouchy from the noise.

*The Chains get a special gift, books with photographs of exotic places, and colorful sticky notes so each Chain can mark the places he's seen. Many of the sticky notes end up on the Chains, just so they know which color is theirs of course. The Mambas are hissing and lashing their tails once you get to them. They refuse to be disrespected!!! Once you show them the colorful glitter lotion you've brought though, they become more cooperative and join in making a huge sparkly lotion mess.

*You scurry away before Edgar and Waffle return to make you clean up the chaotic mess.

[moonstone-reading-nook]

The Stormlight Archives: The Way of Kings

While I commonly engage in literature of all genres, there are few who hold as special a place in my heart as fantasy. There is something about a fictional world of great scope and scale, built meticulously to feel both lived in and varied as our own, that deeply intrigues me. Several months ago, I completed my read through of the highly regarded Wheel of Time series by beloved fantasy author Robert Jordan. That is what introduced me to Brandon Sanderson, who completed the final three novels in the series following Jordan's passing. While not able to entirely recapture the Jordan's uniquely thorough writing style, I believe Sanderson to have done an outstanding job in wrapping of the story based off of Jordan's extensive notes, putting the pieces together in a final novel that exceeded my expectations in every regard.

I have read several books in the time since; several non-fiction psychology books, as I've been struggling with my mental health, as well as addressing some classics I have yet to read: most notably The Catcher in the Rye. However, my mind was continuously drawn back to Sanderson. After the year it took to read through all 14 novels and the prequel of Wheel of Time, I had made myself hunger for another meaty fantasy series I could bite into. So I decided to read Sanderson's largest series, The Stormlight Archive, a series planned to be 10 novels with the 5th to be published in December. My plan going forward would be to read one novel of the Stormlight Archive, then read a classic or two before I returned to the series, which I'd repeat until I caught up. And so, having completed the first entry, I wish to put my thoughts to (digital) paper. These are my thoughts, opinions, and analysis of The Way of Kings.

The story of The Way of Kings is divided into three major plotlines, jumping between them while sprinkling in occasional smaller POVs across the world. One plotline follows Kaladin, former soldier turned slave, desperate to save the slaves he as been placed with to serve as manual labor and distractions against enemy forces. Closely tied is Dallinar's story, following the brother of a murdered king whose death started the war Kaladin is now trapped in. He struggles with a commitment to follow the Words of book named blasphemous that his late brother told him to him to read in his final words. Teachings that draw him much ire from the competing lords as he finds himself more and more determined to end the war quickly. The final one follows Shallan. More disconnected from the other two, Shallan serves as a ward under Dallinar's niece Jasnah, planning to steal her magic catalyst, a fabrial, for her own gain, but finds herself conflicted, as she realizes she truly wants to be a scholar alongside Jasnah.

All three plotlines have unique themes, as well as overlapping ones. A major overarching theme is commitment and doubt. All three characters struggle to fullfil to promises they made to themselves due to increased doubt surrounding viability, morality, and hope. Kaladin begins to doubt his own philosophy, that those who take lives to protect lives are different from those who simply take, and his ability to save his fellow slaves as he subjects himself and his men to harsher conditions as he tries to build hope. Dallinar doubts his own sanity as visions of the past appear before him, urging him to follow the Words that even his son begins to believe are acts of mental instability, and Shallan waffles from her goal as she grows attached to her Master, though begins to doubt her morality. All eventually choose to commit with varying results. I believe this goes beyond typical character conflict that all great characters must face, or overcoming the lie they believe, because they all revolve around their commitment. Kaladin has sworn to protect time and time again, but has consistently failed to do so. Dallinar has committed to doing as his visions have told him: uniting the Alethi, a goal that seems increasingly impossible. Shallan has committed herself to her family, to steal Jasnah's fabrial to save them from financial ruin. It is these promises they have made that drive their turmoil, but they do not serve as mere falsehoods. They serve as tests of conviction, and demonstrate how difficult even goals believed to be noble can be to uphold.

Other themes I found were the co-existing value and naïvety of trust and honor, as well as how the world has been twisted by a lack thereof, by an egotistical philosophy. Dallinar upholds himself as a man and his men as people of honor, as compared to the effective yet cruel rival Brightlord Sadeas. While doubtful, Dallinar chooses to trust those around him as much as he believes is safe, despite this leading him into incredibly dangerous positions. Additionally, Kaladin's honor is initially mocked by his fellow bridgemen, but it slowly turns into a beacon of hope to follow, even as their accomplishments only gain them severe punishments. The bridgemen are treated as subhuman, property able to be bought and sold for a set price, and easily thrown away, though fighting against this all seems futile, as this is simply how the world is, and those in power see no reason to change it.

Additionally, mental health seems to be central to the series as a whole. Kaladin evidently suffers from intense PTSD and depression, with Dallinar likely harboring that same depression. While only hinted at in this novel, I have been told that Shallan also has DID, which is, unlike usual, presented very well. The disorder are all treated accurately and with respect, and show those weighed down by them still managing to push on and build something for themselves.

Most central though seems to be the idea that a single human life has infinite value, humans have also made the world a cruel and terrible place by prioritizing themselves over others at all costs. The only way forward is to take the first the first step with morality and honor, even with it's terrible consequences in the world we have created, because if no one starts, there can be no one to follow.

My thoughts on the novel are overall very positive. I found myself very emotionally attached to the characters, particularly Kaladin, and several moments hit me like an emotional freight train. The world and magic system are both astonishingly unique and endlessly interesting. I find the world holding to be some of the best I've seen in fantasy novels. That being said, I'm not particularly fond of Sanderson's writing style. I find it at times to be overly simplistic, simply stating what is happening without any notable flourishes in style. I found some of that to be the same in his first Wheel of Time novel, but by the time I reached the final installment, he had found a wonderful balance of his own while recapturing some of Jordan's. I should not have expected that style here, especially as this novel was written 4 years before A Memory of Light, and yet I still found myself a small bit disappointed. That being said, I don't find the style egregious, just mediocre. The world, characters, themes and conveyance of emotion more than make up for it, and I look forward to the next novel with great anticipation.

Next, I plan to read 1984, a novel I am shocked I have yet to read, as it aligns well with my interests and I previously greatly enjoyed Orwell's Animal Farm. It's far shorter than Stormlight Archive novels, so it should not take me nearly as long. I am busy enough to not have too much time for reading anymore, but I am making an effort to carve out time. I hope to be posting again soon.

[momobackpacker]

Discovering the Netherlands: A Tourist's Guide to Unique Highlights and Culinary Delights

Introduction

The Netherlands, a country renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historic cities, and vibrant culture, offers tourists a unique and memorable experience. Beyond the iconic windmills and tulip fields, there are distinctive aspects that set the Netherlands apart. Additionally, the Dutch cuisine, influenced by its rich history and global connections, is a delightful journey for food enthusiasts. In this guide, we'll explore the lesser-known highlights and the diverse culinary landscape that make the Netherlands a must-visit destination.

Unique Highlights :

Cultural Festivals

Keukenhof Flower Festival: Celebrate the arrival of spring amidst the breathtaking tulip fields in Lisse. Keukenhof is the world's largest flower garden, showcasing millions of flowers in various vibrant hues.

King's Day: Join the orange-clad crowds on April 27th to celebrate King Willem-Alexander's birthday. Experience the lively atmosphere filled with street parties, concerts, and a city-wide flea market.

Local Traditions

Sinterklaas: Embrace the festive atmosphere during the Sinterklaas celebration in early December. Witness parades, gift-giving, and the arrival of Sinterklaas, accompanied by his mischievous helpers, the "Zwarte Pieten" (Black Peters).

Carnaval in the South: Discover the southern provinces' vibrant Carnaval celebrations, marked by colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and lively street parties.

Lesser-Known Attractions

Giethoorn: Explore the "Venice of the North," a charming village without roads, where canals replace streets. Glide through the serene waterways on a boat and discover picturesque thatched-roof cottages.

Hoge Veluwe National Park: Immerse yourself in nature at this vast national park, home to diverse landscapes, cycling trails, and the Kröller-Müller Museum, boasting an impressive collection of Van Gogh paintings.

Dutch Cuisine:

Must-Try Dishes

Bitterballen: Indulge in these savory, deep-fried meat-based snacks, often served with mustard. They are a popular accompaniment in Dutch pubs.

Stroopwafels: Savor the sweet delight of thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup. Enjoy them fresh from street markets or local bakeries.

Popular Cafes

Café Hoppe (Amsterdam): Immerse yourself in the historic ambiance of one of Amsterdam's oldest cafes. Enjoy a traditional Dutch jenever (gin) or a local beer.

Bakkerij van Vessem (Utrecht): Delight in freshly baked goods and aromatic coffee at this cozy bakery, known for its commitment to quality ingredients.

Traditional Restaurants

De Kas (Amsterdam): Experience farm-to-table dining in a greenhouse setting. De Kas serves dishes crafted from seasonal produce grown in their on-site garden.

Gulle Waard (Winterswijk): Explore Dutch regional cuisine in this charming restaurant, offering dishes inspired by the Achterhoek region's culinary traditions.

Conclusion

The Netherlands, with its unique blend of cultural festivities, local traditions, and hidden gems, promises an unforgettable travel experience. Paired with the diverse and delicious Dutch cuisine, your journey through this captivating country will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for its rich heritage.

[linxkly]

Another grian liveblog! i really enjoyed the last on i did so here’s another :)

(this ended being really long I’m so sorry)

grians merch! go check it out! I bought one and I’m very excited for it to come

HE DID IT my boy pressed the record button I’m so proud of him

I love the little yell of happiness he did away from the mic after he said that

Hermitopia!!

thank god he’s addressing the whole “grrr im being forced to watch another series thing”

THE HERMITS ON HOLIDAY BUT THE CAR BROKE DOWN OR SOMETHING IS SO PERFECT OH MY GOD

THE STORY THE LORE

the hermits have been busy busy busy

poor grians the leader of all this

return of the grian empire, but he learned how to share and collaborate with others

he’s visiting Katherine!!

aww he didn’t actually interact with her :(

OLI AND HIS LUTE ELYTRA I CANT

oh no the rocket shortage begins

that’s,, a lot of scaffolding

like,,, a lot a lot of scaffolding

but it looks cool from a distance!!

built height empire,,, but they’re all tiny

I like it, picasso

bouncing villagers!

aww noooooo pls don’t crash the empires economy I like their barter and trade system

they’re getting gunpowder from jimmys place

apparently this whole storyline was fabricated just so grian could get on this server and annoy timmy

oh poor impulse has been left behind bc he don’t got no wings

ah. he has taken a stack of jimmys gunpowder. he know owes???? timmy

they’re going to joeys instead now

but before they leave tumble town they’re placing an intelligence test,,, in the form of a button on top of tnt,,, with a sign saying press me,,, in an empire where jimmy and scar are hanging out,,,

oh no

grian feels bad for impulse, and now they’re walking together

grian has found joeys gator villager

he is confused

he has found the pesky bird villager!

THE LAG JOKE

OH NO THE LAG,, JOEYS GUNPOWDER LAGGED INTOHIS INVENTORY

grians elytra broke, oh how the turn tables

impulse left grian

impulse grian and cub are now chatting about the AWFUL LAG ON THE SERVER OH NOOOO

THE RETURN OF TAG??

oh no they’re playing tag on the empires server

LORE VILLAGERS

grian that’s respiration. not unbreaking

LORESICALS??

oh no grian you let the villagers out

AVADAKALORE I CANT

WINGARDIUM LEVILORESA

STUPIFILORE

EXPECTO PALOREM

EXPELLILOREMAS

ALOHOLOREMA

he spent so much time yelling lore spells he forgot which enchant he was trying to get

unbreaking loresome???

these puns are giving me AHA flashbacks

HE GOT UNBREAKING III

kdbdjfjf you can hear impulse underground cheering

I love seeing all the hermits work on the same thing all at once this is incredible

ooh visit to pix

he’s using pix’s machine to age his copper

he gets to press a button!!

poor guy is worried about breaking David

there’s a sheep trying to eat his waffle

oop he’s borrowing fwhips sign style

building timelapse of a hermit induction machine and tag look at him go!

hermitssss stop bringing your lag to other servers!!

GRIAN WHAT WERE THOSE SOUNDS

scar snuck up on him

they’re messing with the lasso jimmy gave scar

I like the idea of the worlds largest bubble

clearly there was a mishap in communication rip scar

ooooh scar becoming the first hermit!

hermitgeddon??

awww he’s little!!!

just a tad smol

“IM A LITTLE BOY WHY AM I A LITTLE BOY”

oh poor fwhip saw things he shouldn’t have

awww little grian!!

they’re bdubs!!

imagine being smaller than a goblin lol

THEYRE SHORT KINGS

all the hermits have been busy busy bees

ok ik it’s shocking they’ve done all of this so fast but I have to keep reminding myself that this is at least 10-13 people working on hermitopia at around the same times ofc it’s going to be pretty quick

but it’s just still so immpressive

it’s cubs turn to be hermitified

THE JANGLER HAT??

hermits vs empires tag oooh

go watch grians vid for the full tag explanation, bc if I’m completely honest, I don’t really get it

grian is a hermit irl??

episode ends with grian laughing about his irl height rip

and that’s a wrap! these are so much fun to make :)

Idk how often I’ll do these but I might do them for sausage bc he uploads at normal times for me it’s nearly 3am I might pass out after uploading this lmao

[elisabeth515]

Brussels Time!

(Part 2)

(Part 3)

I’ve just been to Brussels last weekend since the Royal Crypt in Laeken was opening on the Sunday. It’s been a great trip: I managed to buy a bunch of chocolate and had some Belgian waffles, visit one of the largest WWI collections in the world, as well as having a great time in Atomium (will definitely go there again if I didn’t realise that Our Lady of Laeken closes at 5pm). So, I’m just going to do some photo dump here.

I will be dividing it into several parts: this part will be focusing on more general travelling in Brussels stuff. The next part will be more historical stuff. Unless specified, the mention of “Albert” will be referring to Albert I, King of the Belgians.

1) Bruxelles-Midi/Zuidstation: This is where you will arrive if you take the Charleroi airport shuttle bus to Brussels (which was what I did because my flight lands at Charleroi), or the Eurostar (the line via Lille); they got Tintin in it (he’s part of my childhood)

2) Get a MOBIB pass—this will be very helpful for you if you intended to take a lot of the public transport in the city

3) Obligatory Manneken Pis picture to show that I’m actually in Brussels. Personally, I don’t recommend staying too long at this place because there’s just so much people clustering around and space is limited.

4) Dear Brussels: WHY DO YOU SEPARATE ALBERT AND ELISABETH

Here’s a closer look of Albert

The building near him is the Royal Library of Belgium (KBR). The current building was built in 1960s and named after none other than the man himself—very fitting honestly, considering that he loved books and is an avid reader (and he had a good grandson). The library was also called “Albertine” because it’s near Place Albertine, which is also related to Albert. Accessing the building is free, but library reading room requires a reader’s card which is €5/day and €25/year for the general public (*they offer discounts for university students who study in Belgium). I ended up sitting somewhere at the lobby to work on my philosophy essay since I was totally unaware of that.

5) Sts. Michael & Gulda Cathedral: just like other cathedrals in Brussels, it’s free entry but please be mindful of the etiquette of visiting places of worship. I actually didn’t expect that I’ll be there but I just stumbled into it because it’s looks like a cool place.

Stay tuned for part 2!

[cherrystylinston]

Milk butterchews

You woke up to your stomach cramping up. You were sure that Mother Nature has visited to torture you for the month. You saw your boyfriend,Harry sprawled out on the king size bed beside you. You went to the washroom and did your business. Then you came back for a good night sleep.

The sun was rising through the largest window beside your bedside. You turn to find your boyfriend staring at you with those beautiful emerald eyes. Harry coos, “Good morning m’baby”. You blushed. Even though you and Harry were together for more than a year now, you would still blush hard whenever he called you baby, his baby. “Good morning bub” you reply back. Harry just cuddled you closer. Your head was on his chest. His hands were around your waist. He was cooing sweet nothings into you ears to get you to wake up.

Harry wanted to leave for work soon but he wanted to hold his baby a little longer too. But if he didn’t get his arse up now, he would be late for the interview now.

Harry asks , “What is your plan for the day m’baby?”.

“I have to complete the project for m’graduation. So I’m meeting some friends to discuss something in the cafe near sees shop bubby” you say.

Then Harry got out of bed and kissed your forehead. He needed a quick shower before he went for work. Normally you would shower but considering the bloody condition down there you decided not to join him today.

You want downstairs to make a quick breakfast. You made waffle with a lot of chocolate chips for sees shop which you and Harry loved. Both of you ate while having small talks. The Harry left for work.

You took a slow hot shower to remove the knots on your back. Then took care of your lady business. Then you took off to meet your friends at the cafe to discuss about your project. You met your friends Sienna and Joseph at the cafe. You guys ordered some coffee and some deserts and discussed the finalisations regarding the project. Then you returned home.

Your back was aching. And your stomach was cramping. You wanted to cry. All you wanted to do was cry to Harry and watch your favourite movie while eating milk butter chew and have a long night of sleep.

You were holding back tears. But then you decided to take a hot steamy bath to soothe the nerves. You filled the bath with dried rose petals and some strawberry bubbles. You stripped off your clothes and got in. The hot steamy water did soothe your nerves and removed the knots on your back. You got out and got dressed.

You went down to sit on the massive Ivory couch on your guys’ living room. You were sprawled out on the couch with a pack of potato chips on your bloated belly.

You heard Harry’s car coming down the driveway. The you heard the keys rattling. You heard his shoes.

Then Harry appeared down the front door with tired eyes after working for a long day. Harry hugged you tightly and then kissed your temple.

Harry’s lips were pouty. You kissed his pouty lips. “Take that pout of your lips bubby” you said. “I have a party to attend baby. Please please please accompany m’baby”, Harry asked you.

“I’m tired baby. My back is aching”,you said thinking he would take the hint. “Please baby after getting back from the party I will rub your back and give you a massage m’heart”, Harry said and pouted. He used your favourite nickname knowing your would agree. “My pouty bastard” , you thought.

You agreed nevertheless. Harry went to change into his party attire. He wore a silk shirt and black skinny jeans with Gucci boots. Your belly was bloated because of your period so you wore a maxi dress. You and Harry got into your guys’ car and drove to the party location.

You and Harry entered the party. Everyone at the party were having the time of their lives. You saw Niall and Amelia chatting up,at the foyer. You waved at them and they waved you back. You saw Perrie and Jade. They hugged you. You guys were talking. Harry saw some music producer he wanted to meet. So he excused himself.

You were talking to Pez about her new baby boy and motherhood. She was showing pictures baby Axel. You were cooing over baby axel’s pictures. Perrie asked , “When are we getting a baby styles y/n?”. You cheeks heated up. Jade and Perrie were laughing their asses off at your reaction. “Shut up girls” you said. Jade said she wanted a drink. So you accompanied her.

When you returned Perrie pulled you aside. Before you could ask her what was up. She said , “Love you leaked through your dress.” Your hands went instinctively to your back side. But she assured you that due to the lighting it was not that tad visible.

You thought you should suck it up and enjoy the party but now you definitely wanted to go home and sleep in your comfy bed in your pjs.

Harry wa still talking to the music producer. So you went up to Harry. “Hey bubby. I want to go home. My back is aching. Please bubby”. Due to the lighting at the party harry could not see you clearly.

“ Y/N I need to talk to him about the next music video I am releasing baby. Can we leave after half an hour” Harry said. “ Please baby it’s an emergence I want to go home” you said.

“Y/N I said I am busy. Can you stop bothering me? Stop being so annoying for gods sake” he whisper yelled so that the music producer would not over hear his harsh tone.

Your eyes filled with tears. “Fuck me hormomes” you thought.

“Screw you ,Harry” you yelled at him with tears in your eyes.

You left the party. You called Ronald, your and Harry’s driver. And asked him to drive you home. He happily obliged.

You reached home and went to your guys’ bedroom You took off your dress and got into your pjs. You used your makeup remover and took off your makeup. You thought of the way Harry talked to you and tears started rolling down the apples of yore tear stained cheeks.

You thought of sleeping in the couch and decided against it owing to your aching muscles in the back. You decided to sleep in your guys’ guest room.

You slept once your head hit the pillow because of your long day and your period medications.

Harry came home. He was sweating profusely. He was nervous. He wanted to apologise to his baby. He was definitely out of order, calling the love of his life, annoying. As soon as he got out of the car, he quickly ran up to the bedroom. But he did not find you in the bed.

Harry started panicking. He thought you left him. But your stuff was there and he ran up around the house until he heard the sound of the air conditioner running in the guest room. Then he saw his baby with tear stained cheeks sprawled out on the bed. He wanted to apologise but he didn’t want to wake her either. He returned to your bedroom to change into comfortable clothing.

He went into the bathroom and then he saw the period medications. Harry mentally cursed himself for being such an ass to his baby. He quickly checked the period calendar he had for you. Then his eyes landed on the stained underwear and maxi dress. Now he felt way worse for not talking care of his baby when she was clearly not comfortable.

The next morning you woke up to the smell freshly made pancakes. You rubbed your eyes and woke up. You felt damp lips place kiss on your forehead. You didn’t reciprocate the kiss like you usually would do. Harry whispered , “Good morning m’love. I’m sorry m’heart. I’m really sorry. I feel awful for shouting at you. I’m really sorry baby. You can shout at me all you want. I’m really sorry m’baby”.

Harry’s pupils dilated with regret waiting for you to yell. But you didn’t. You slowly walked up to the bathroom leaving him surprised at your silence.

When you returned form the bathroom. Harry was not in the guest room . You went downstairs and your stomach started grumbling to the sweet smell of pancakes and maple syrup.

Harry was flipping the pancakes. He was only wearing his boxers. His eyes were a bit red and his face did not hold the golden glow which would always be present.

Harry saw you and gave an awkward smile. You hated this feeling . Uncomfortable in front of your own boyfriend. He placed the pancakes on your plate.

You ate in silence. He started making small talks after apologising. Buy you didn’t reply to any of his sweet gestures.

Your stomach was craving some of your favourite chocolate. So after finishing your pancakes. You went to the cabinet in the kitchen where you and Harry kept the chocolate. But to your surprise it was empty. You were disappointed. Your eyes started to water. But you didn’t want to cry infornt of Harry. So you went back to your guys’ room to take a bath.

Harry saw what you were looking for. He quickly went to the sees shop down the street and bought you your favourite milk butter chews. He then stopped by the flower shop and bought you the daisies which you love.

Harry knocked on the bathroom door. “Baby can I come in?” Harry asked. “Yes Harry” you said. Harry was happy that you let him in but you didn’t call him bubby his bubby, he made a mental note that you were still upset about last night.

“Baby can we talk?” Harry asked. You simply nodded. He sat beside you near the bathtub you were sitting in. Harry cupped his hands on your cheeks and looked into your eyes and said , “M’heart I’m really sorry for calling you annoying last night. I hated sleeping without you by my side and waking up without you near me. I’m really sorry you are no where near annoying. I didn’t check your period calendar, I’m really sorry baby. I hope you can forgive me darling.” His eyes were watering at this point.

You didn’t want your bubby to cry. You hugged him tightly. “ I forgive you. But don’t repeat it again” you said. But then you realised you were naked. You looked into Harry’s eyes and averted your eyes quickly. Heat rose up to the apples your cheeks. Harry was blushing too. He gave you the towel he put in the dryer for you.

You quickly dressed up in your favourite hoodie and a cotton shorts and went downstairs. Harry stood with a cute smile and gave you the daisies which he bought for you. “I’m sorry baby” Harry said . You said, “It’s okay Harry” and accepted the flowers

But the smile in Harry’s face disappeared. His eyebrows turned into a frown and his lips turned into a pout. “What’s wrong?” You asked. “You didn’t call me YOUR bubby” he said. Just to mess with him you said, “Okay HARRYYYYY”.

“Heyyyyyyy baby please call me your bubby” Harry pleaded with cute pouty lips which you wanted to kiss.

You went into the kitchen and harry followed you like a lost puppy trailing behind you. You opened your fridge and there it was your favourite box of sees milk butterchews. You eyes lit up. You quickly grabbed the box. And popped one into your mouth. The yummy flavour melting on your tongue.

“Thank you bubby” you said. Harry’s face lit up like a Christmas tree. And he kissed you, you kissed him back.

He pulled away out of breath and whispered, “M’heart you just taste like milk butterchews”.

You both giggled loudly.

Note:Hey guys this is my first time writing an imagine. It is not proofread. Send your guys’ request. If you loved this please give me your feedback. And like and repost. Hope you guys love this 💙

All the love,

S🌹

[alexracheltravel]

We Went Chasing a Waterfall and We Only had enough energy for this terrible joke

Today was day two of our Cambodian tour. We enjoyed our tour of Angkor Wat so much that we booked a second day with the same company and the same guide. Nak, our guide, was incredible over these two days and we appreciate him greatly.

After breakfast, we left Siem Reap and went north to Phnom Kulen, a national park, Cambodia's largest protected forest (or jungle. Unclear about the difference) and a holy site with historical and religious significance. It was a long drive and we spent it talking to Nak and our driver about various Buddhist rules and rites. For example, it is no longer illegal to eat meat in Buddhism. Now, the only animals that are not allowed include: dog, snake, bear, elephant, tiger, and leopard. This, of course, only refers to observant Buddhists. As far as we know, monks must abstain from killing animals, chopping wood, holding money, and even starting fire. We noticed parallels between these values and the traditional values of Judaism.

The first stop we made was a touristy viewpoint, in which we stopped and posed in front of a cliff face, gazing at the vast valley below. It was easy to see the beauty that Cambodia had to offer, with picturesque views and a skyline that could rival any country.

It wasn't long from there until we got to a very religious site. The reclining Buddha of Phnom Kulen drew crowds from around Cambodia and the rest of the world. It was a pilgrimage to go there. We spent some time on the temple grounds. Villagers played music. Children ran about. Pious individuals kneeled before their idols, clasping their hands and bowing again and again, muttering their prayers under their breath. We climbed a long set of stairs up to the top of the mountain. The Buddha was carved centuries ago, straight into the mountainside. It was about eighty feet long and portrayed the Buddha in a sublime state of Nirvana. At the end, we banged a gong, a ritual that signified our thanks to the Temple. Nak said it was a "good deed." We should have told him about the word "mitzvah." Along the way down, Nak introduced us to some street food that villagers made for the tourists. We ate waffles made from rice, and a coconut filled crepe called "khanom bueang." They were delicious and vegan!

We returned to the car and made our way down the hill towards a site called "the river of 1000 lingas." This specific site was important to Cambodian and Khmer culture, as it was the place where the first king of the empire declared his rule. The lingas were religious objects that purified water, the same way a mikvah might prepare one to bathe. The most interesting part was that the riverbed contained so many carvings, not just of these religious pillars (which represented phalluses) but also of the gods: Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. It was not a long trip, but the serenity of the river and the calmness of the water relaxed us before our next exciting excursion.

Waterfalls! Yes! Phnom Kulen is home to a large, hundred-meter high waterfall! Visitors to the area gathered to the pool to take a dip. The water was cold, but perfect on the 87-degree day. We dipped out heads below the waterfall and felt the rush of the water hit our bodies. Is this what our island vacation will feel like?

Alas, it was time to leave the national park, and we hopped into the car and drove down. We ate a mediocre lunch, and then moved on to the last sight of our tour: Banteay Srei. The name translates to "citadel of women," but like many of these temples, they have other names, and this temple was among the earliest temples in all of Siem Reap. While it was quite dilapidated, many of the ancient carvings were still intact, or restored, showcasing incredible intricate images of gods, carved into brightly-colored stones. It quickly became one of our favorite temples that we had seen over the two day period.

We said goodbye to Nak, and our driver for guiding us over the last two days. He really made our trip special. We breaked in the hotel, showered, relaxed, and then, Alex had one last trip for his bucket list.

Cambodia's street food contains many delectable treats, but among them is one unique one: insects! For $5 he grabbed a bag of insects: grasshoppers, crickets, mealworms, larger mole crickets (or pillbugs), some roach-like creature, and tiny frogs. Yes, the latter are not insects but they were still part of the package. The morsels we're all along the night market, and customers can pick and choose which they wanted. They came mixed with fried Thai basil, scallion, and hot sliced chili. Mixed and combined, the treats were flavorful, seasoned, crispy, and aromatic. To be honest, the crickets and frogs tasted best. The mealworms were too soft and the others were too big. But all were part of the true Cambodia experience.

An easy dinner at the hotel and an early night followed. Tomorrow we make our way to Thailand.

Alex: On our tour today you said the Banteay Srei temple was one of your favorites. What did you most amazing about that temple? I mean I liked it too but let's tell the people what you think.

Rachel: First off, I did like it the most, but for different reasons than I did like Angkor Wat. The first and what feels the most obvious is the incredibly intricate carvings, each with a story from Hindu mythology.

A: I liked that part too and we saw some of that at Angkor Wat, and that was my favorite aspect of each temple. This one was not my favorite but I think it was absolutely worth seeing even if it was off the beaten path. It is not in the main temple area of Siem Reap and is about 45 minutes away. It certainly felt worth traveling to!

R: Agreed. And I think it paired nicely with the reclining Buddha we saw earlier in the day.

A: I did forget to check out where the Buddha was facing. Did you know that he faces Angkor Wat?

R: Yes I knew that. I think the other thing that felt nice was starting to better understand how to identify some of the gods in all of the carvings—today, Angkor Wat, and all of the other temples. Especially for the Hindu gods.

A: We even got a crash course and lesson on how Ganesha, the elephant god, got his cool head. I like this mythology, but I certainly don't believe in any of it. But it's really cool to see it as a part of history, and how it is inscribed into the architecture of the buildings.

R: I think in general this day 2 of our only two full days in Siem Reap allowed us to experience a lot of what the area had to offer.

A: What I am happy about is also seeing tourism return. Little by little I have seen more people every day since we arrived. Two days ago there was practically no one around at 8pm. Now, it feels like a real tourist city. That's good for the people who make a living here but I think I'm ready to ditch town.

R: Agreed!

[buckybarnesbingo]

3 Prompt Summaries

fantasy creature,  ice cream,  jail - suggested by @liquidlightz

@rebelmeg - so, this is what bucky gets for taking his pet dragon out for ice cream.  jail.  it's really inconsiderate, actually, he didn't even get to finish his ice cream cone.

@wolfnprey - No one said anything about mermaids having a sweet tooth. No one said they get possessive either. After watching Bucky's exploration of the human world end with him cramming a gallon of cotton candy ice cream down his throat, the last thing Steve expected was to wind up paying a bond to get said merman out of jail all because Bucky did not take kindly to the ice cream server offering Steve free samples.

@caiti-creative-corner - Bucky just wanted to pick up some ice cream for his partner.  Now, thanks to a mistaken identity, he's got to get out of jail before sunrise. Or the cops were in for one very big surprise.

@polizwrites - When he ordered a unicorn sundae from the brand new (and extremely sparkly) ice cream parlor down the street, the last thing Bucky actually expected was to have an actual-factual unicorn show up as well.  To be fair, it seemed as surprised as he was, and more than a bit of chaos ensued.  It nearly stabbed the Animal Control officer before Bucky was able to calm it (no, him - DEFINITELY a him) down and now he sat with the magnificent creature  in the largest enclosure at the shelter, wondering what in the hell to do next.

@somesortofitalianroast - Bucky wasn’t really sure why there was a unicorn in the ice cream parlor on the boardwalk. He was even less sure how he ended up arrested for the trafficking in supernatural creatures. All he wanted was a banana split and to sit on a bench and watch the ocean.

@lbibliophile-mcu - Bucky glares at the - unfortunately familiar - wall of the holding cell. It's not his fault that the anti-collision auto-correct on his teleportation periodically deposits him on the wrong side of a security door. But the guards who found him this time are new, so it always takes a little while for the higher-ups to convince them that 'no, he wasn't breaking and entering', 'yes, it was an accident' and 'yes, magic is a thing that happens - specifically to one James "Bucky" Barnes'. Of course, he could just teleport out of this cell. But they know who he is and have started the paperwork, and it is really a whole less hassle all round if he just sits tight for another hour or so and waits for this whole mess to get sorted out. However bored he is. Except... he can't leave, but that doesn't mean he can't bring something in... A few seconds  later, the cameras show him lounging back on the bench, taking a large bite out of a triple-serve ice cream.

@liquidlightz - merge this fumbling magician Bucky with Poliz' one and you get a unicorn appearing in the holding cell :unicorn:  so much more paperwork !

@huntress79 - If Bucky had to choose one thing that the serum, no matter what version, made better, he probably would have named the ability to eat almost obscene amounts of ice cream without any side effects. In the first few months after showing up at the tower, he and Natasha spent many a night tasting almost every ice cream flavor available in the greater New York area. But then, a certain God of Mischief chose Bucky as his latest "victim", taking him from the line at the ice cream parlor two blocks down from the Tower directly on a trip to a realm filled with dragons, and faes, and whatnot else (sure, Bucky had read the Tolkien books, but come on, Smaug had nothing on that magnificent, golden-red giant they encountered on their first day). And of course, Loki had to make it even worse, and go and try to steal some of the dragon's hoard. Everyone knows that it only ends bad! Well, it did, at least for Bucky - who ended up in a dark, smelly cell in the king's underground jail, while Loki was nowhere to be found. Was it too much to ask to get the largest bubble waffle filled with pistachio, vanilla and lemon sorbet without getting interrupted or kidnapped? Jeez...

More under the cut!

Chicken, Tall, Pearl - suggested by @ariasfandom

@rebelmeg - bucky loved going to his grandma's farmhouse as a kid.  it was full of adventures and things to see and animals to play with.  well.  all except for pearl.  pearl was mean.  and pearl, the biggest, tallest, crankiest chicken that bucky had ever seen, seemed to harbor a real and visceral hatred for bucky himself.

@wolfnprey - It was Sam's insistence that led Bucky to visit Clint on his family farm. It was Sam's dare that got Bucky pecked by a bunch of overprotective hens when he tried to help collect eggs. Again, Sam's fault that Bucky wound up stuck in a tall ass tree because the asshole scared Clint's dog and somehow the dog wound up in the tree.  So when Bucky wound up finding a lizard that Clint's daughter called Pearl cuddling up to his face in the morning, he knew it was Sam's fucking fault then, too.

@liquidlightz - Bucky loved to trade pearls with his new found friend.  He'd search the ocean floor and gather a few to bring to Steve, who in turn would bring him what he called chicken.  It tasted so different from fish and Bucky was hooked.  The taller the chicken the more pearls Bucky would give Steve.  In his world these had value, but Steve was planning to give them right back one day, he was just designing the perfect necklace to make out of them for Bucky.  In the meanwhile, he could do with eating veg and potatoes so he could give Bucky all his chicken.

@huntress79 - Like in so many other things, the animals of Wakanda were just as unique as the country itself. The rhinos were scary at first, but once you knew the trick, you could turn them into giant balls of fluff in no time. The goats, though just as stubborn as those Bucky remembered from childhood summers spend with relatives in Indiana, were the biggest source of entertainment in the village, hands down. But truth be told, the biggest surprise were the chicken. Sure enough, they could work up a cacophony of sounds in a heartbeat like any other chicken on this planet, but for some reason, Wakandan chicken were way taller, with legs as long as some supermodel, and the shells of their eggs almost resembled pearls, so sparkly.

@somesortofitalianroast​ - a chicken on a tall dresser with mother of pearl drawer knobs....

@ribbonsflyingoutthewindow​ - There's a whole comedic fic in there somewhere.

@bookdragon13​ Bucky trying to wrangle up a chicken on Clint’s farm and it ends up on the dresser somehow? Somehow I can also see Bucky buying a tall chicken statue made out of pearl kinda like the dog statue Joey bought in Friends

paintball, drive-in, cherry chapstick - suggested by @wolfnprey

@rebelmeg - bucky's first date with the love of his life was... perfect.  it was everything a first date should be.  they played paintball like kids, no-holds-barred and laughing like hyenas.  then the drive-in movie, a double feature while they ate popcorn and blushed while they held hands.  and the kiss at the end of the night... bucky could still taste the cherry chapstick on his lips, and he couldn't stop the smile that spread across his face.

@liquidlightz - Bucky loved and hated paintball in equal measure.  He loved getting to run wild and show off his skills, not just shooting, but agility and camouflage. The darn helmet these venues required you to wear played havoc with his hair though, and the cold wind and dust from crawling around made his lips dry and there was no way he was showing up to his date later this evening with chapped lips.  Steve was taking him to a modern drive-in, reminiscent of the old days, and that was just going to end  in hours of making out, at least.  He paused out of sight behind a tree and pulled out his plum-flavoured chapstick from one of his many pockets, which may have also been housing a comb, mini conditioning spray, and whatnots.  Re-applying every 20mins should hopefully do the trick.  Putting it away again, he checked the charges left in his rifle.

@huntress79 - Tony Stark was, despite his repeated protests, a lot like his father Howard, at least to Bucky. It was most obvious with the things he invented, but apparently, the same brain was also good with coming up with new, crazy ideas for team bonding events. Like taking a whole lot of individuals trained on various weapons to a paintball area. After some discussion, Bucky, Wanda, Clint and Scott ended up on Steve's team, while Nat, Rhodey, Peter and Maria Hill made up Tony's team. And holy moly, everyone, except for Peter, treated it like an actual mission. Within moments after splitting up, Steve was dispersing tactics, Clint was checking the wind, and Scott was trying to get the ants in the floor to cooperate. Wanda was watching the whole shindig with a fond smile, while reapplying her cherry-flavored chapstick. And Bucky? His mind was already on his evening plans - a nice date with Sam, consisting of dinner at a small seafood restaurant near Battery Park, a movie at the summer drive-in and tied off with (hopefully) some adult action in either of their apartments at the Tower. He only hoped he would survive these crazy "war games" first.

@somesortofitalianroast - Bucky wasn’t really sure why they were playing paintball. Well, “play” paintball. With him, Clint, Nat, and Tony all with exceptional marksmanship skills, it made no sense. It made even less sense for them to have the paintball “game” at an abandoned drive-in movie theatre, which just so happened to be located on a lot that included several acres of woods and lake with a dock. Until Steve mentioned that he had a tube of cherry chapstick and Bucky could taste it. But only if he won.

[hagleyvault]

In 2015, a coalition of U.S. Senators from New England, led by Maine’s Angus King, passed a resolution declaring that September 25, 2015 would be “National Lobster Day”. The resolution has been re-introduced and agreed to in Senate every year since.

The resolution’s language for honoring the lobster has changed over the years. While the 2015 text noted that "Lobster Newburg was featured on the menu at the inaugural dinner celebration for President John F. Kennedy”, that distinction has since been dropped from the resolution. This year’s version includes new material that was not present in 2015, such as the lobsters’ value in “inspiring children’s books and characters in television shows in the United States”, language that was added in 2019, as well as its inclusion in “trending recipes such as pho, gnocchi, hummus, and fried lobster and waffles”, language that is new to this year (replacing last year’s “deviled eggs and burgers”).

We’re choosing to celebrate the lobster today because of Harry Hackney, the “Lobster King”, proprietor of Hackney’s Lobster Palace in Miami Beach, Florida and Hackney’s Lobster Palace in Atlantic City, New Jersey, which advertised itself as “the Largest Sea Food Restaurant in the World”. This postcard commemorated Hackney’s win of the Grand theme prize win for their float in the Miss America Pageant Parade on the Atlantic City boardwalk on September 3, 1940. The Hackney’s Lobster Palace float was a blue and white sailboat manned by Hackney’s lobster-suit clad waitresses.

This item is part of Hagley Library’s John Margolies collection of travel photographs and postcards (Accession 2017.254). John Margolies (1940-2016) was an American photographer and architecture critic with a fondness for novelty architecture. This is his personal collection of postcards and photographs from across North America. These materials primarily cover the United States’ most popular tourist spots along with various businesses. There is heavy coverage of the Northeast region of the United States, where Margolies lived most of his life. Postcards are primarily from the first half of the twentieth century, and photographs primarily span circa 1890-1920s. Postcards cover a wide range of subjects from famous attractions to local businesses, and photographs are almost entirely local businesses, many being interior views of family owned businesses with their owners.

[lucyhblack]

I had this mental image a long, long time ago (that of the Cornys being treated like sausages by a Papython dressed in an apron and chef's hat) and this exact passage written several and several months ago.

The story just didn't develop (I only had that stretch in mind and nothing else) until today. I just sat and wrote it. Without any planning! It just flowed from the mind to the keyboard.

(And there is proof that stories have a life of their own and want to be told)

So there it is. A small snippet of what I imagine to be one day at the Vex adoption store.

Thank you @vex-bittys for creating such a fun universe and allowing us to play with it!

Summary: It was a beautiful sunny day at Vex's Lamia Bittybones Adoption Center and Clinic

It was a beautiful sunny day at Vex's Lamia Bittybones Adoption Center and Clinic.

After several days locked up due to the rains, the dark clouds had finally dispersed and the lamias could go out and enjoy the sun. And enjoy they would.

The Kings had already gone out with some Papythons to check the back garden and see how the plants had fared and the possible care they would have to give to the flower beds.

The Pygmys left next. They spread out quickly, happy to have more space for their zooms. In a short time they entered a friendly competition to see who could go faster and dodge the largest number of remaining pools of water (needless to say that in their excitement many forgot that they should dodge and soon it was confusing even for them if the competition was for deflect or pass through as many puddles as possible).

Even Edgar had taken advantage and taken the current clutcher for some fresh air. He set up a small children's pool with Waffle's help and watched with affection the young Kraits gliding in the few inches of water inside.

The day was heating up fast, so he didn't care about the gentle breeze blowing, but even if the heat of the sun wasn't enough, the Kraits' counterpart, a group of FireRing puppies (all huddled safely in the older skeleton, and away from spatter caused by his brothers) they pleasantly warmed the air (a little uncomfortable for the feathered skeleton that carried them, but what was a little discomfort to see the happy faces and hear the chirps of the babes?) and protect the lamias more delicate.

His son Quetzl, a rare winged Papython hybrid, is happily strolling through the garden, avoiding the puddles and wandering Pygmys, happy to just be outdoors and be able to spread his wings after the last few days confined.

But not all lamias were enjoying their “new freedom” from the prison of bad weather outdoors. Some preferred to stay inside, enjoying the sun from a drier and more comfortable place.

This was the case with the Mambas who had gathered in front of one of the store's large front windows, dragging soft cushions and positioning themselves in them as a particularly expensive display of jewelry. They enjoyed the sun safely, away from possible puddles of cold water or mud (the mud could be beneficial to the skin they had read, but after a bad experience with worms trapped in rib cages, they all agreed that it was better to try the muds the type that came in cosmetic pots and not the natural one found in gardens).

They took turns in positions that were not always practical, but that always captured the sun's rays perfectly to make their well-polished scales shine.

In the other window a large barbecue grill had been set up and a full size Papython with an apron and a chef's hat turned over, with the help of a silicone spatula, several Cornys that slept on the grill. Below them, at the bottom of the grill, a group of miniature FireRings rested, enjoying the sun without worrying about the dangers of water splashing by Pygmys aimlessly and giving the illusion that the barbecue grill was really burning (that in a way, it really was).

The fact that they were being heated, both above by the sun, and below by the fire lamias (which perfectly regulated their temperature so as not to burn or overwhelm their friends above or themselves), made the blue noodles purr with satisfaction (more than one with a noise very similar to hot fat sizzling on the coals).

Above them, in a corner of the window, someone had attached a poster that could be read outside the store:

“Hot Corny free!”

"Adopt before they pop!"

Surrounded by drawings of smiling blue corncobs.

The ad should be working because one of the small noodles had already found an owner (who had received it nestled in a hot dog bun and a pun: "Sorry kid, but there is no more spice for extra accompaniments").

The skelepuppers, Honey and Poff had also left early, accompanying a small group of Corals who were going to explore the garden to see if there was anything interesting brought by the winds, or dug up by the rain, to be added to their treasures.

The Corals, of course, made it clear that THEY were accompanying the young to supervise them on their adventures (and if they secretly expected some praise and pats as rewards for their work, nobody really needed to know).

The puppies spent a few hours exploring the garden with the other bittys and after a while they rushed in to offer Vex a beautiful flower each, who would have been even happier with the presents had the pups not left a trail of muddy paws behind .

While Waffle took two squirming puppies for a bath, Vex cleaned up the dirt left by them. The Kraits were subsequently summoned and with their abilitys they set up a kind of cleaning station, almost a jetty for bittys, at the entrance for when the other residents decided to go back inside (Of course, those who used it most ended up being the Kraits themselves who could not resist an experience with water and bubbles. They said it was all a quality test, but they didn't even cheat the baby Butter).

Belle and her gang had also left and with mud war paintings and flower “helmets” they had ambushed one of the flowerbeds, leaping over a full-sized King who had inflated his hood of true fright at first, but soon entered a the kidding and let himself be “captured” by the smaller lamias.

Upon hearing the commotion some Chains had appeared worried and now watched amused the dramatic King lying on the floor regretting his luck while Belle, the leader of the Commanders, stood on her ribcage and proclaimed her defense to the kingdom of weeds against the cruel giants that plucked them. Some other Kings looked somewhat divided between laughter and concern (of being the next targets).

Lieutenant Cherry, Belle's right-hand man, watched everything from a strategic point on a fence that bordered a flower bed, gave the alert of enemy attack when a group of Pygmys came together and charged against Belle's troops in defense of the giant friend (who was beginning to realize that him would probably be lying on the floor for some time).

Soon there were mud and small, harmless bone attacks flying through the garden while the two “armies” clashed under the watchful eyes of the rest of the “gardeners” and the fans composed of the Chains, the babys (that Edgar had to control so they could just watch and not run to play. Although the attacks are harmless he didn’t want to risk any of them being run over by some more distracted adult) and the Corals who stopped looking for treasure and started watching with interest, offering some not so innocent advice and incentives (quickly silenced by a fierce look from Edgar who did not need impressionable young people to learn such language).

As the garden turned into a small war field, the Honeys Bo finally woke up and emerged from their warm nests to discover that the dark clouds were gone. They looked a little cross-eyed at the bright sky and the floating white clouds and with smiles of satisfaction packed their things and went to the front of the store, spreading out in the entrance with their mp3's. Soon they were dozing again, lulled by the lazy movement of the clouds and their soundtracks of choice.

Chains had spread throughout the store and beyond. Some had gone out and scanned the surroundings (to see if there were any bitty nearby who had had a problem with the rains and maybe slip in their soul bonds, who knows?), or around the house to check if there was any damage. These were later attracted to the Commanders' war cries and now watched the battle with amusement.

Some of those who went to look around the neighborhood came back a while later, alone or accompanied by some Chain that had not been able to reach the store before because of the rain, or some Bitty who was injured or had his nest/den damaged by bad weather and were temporarily homeless (and at least one dragging an adopter to sign the adoption papers while his soul shone with the new bond).

Those who stayed in the store spread out to help the other lamias or Vex herself by temporarily taking over the reception while it cleaned up the mess of messy, but good-hearted, puppies. They even guiding one or another adopter or visitor through the store (and more from one to the bathroom to clean up when they decided to take a look at the back garden and was hit by a stray mud missile).

A group joined the Honeys Bo at the front, hoping to feel their soul's call by a passerby and at least three thanked Vex and other lamias and left the store shelter to begin or resume their travels in search of their Soulbonds.

Vex, after cleaning the dirt and arranging a small vase for the two flowers given as a gift, went to check on Waflle with the puppies, leaving the reception with a Chain that was talking to a visitor and inviting him to take a look at the Mambas (almost like a salesman persuading a customer to take a look at a pair of diamond earrings from an exclusive line).

She went to look at the bathroom, but didn't find them there. Passing the kitchen she heard a commotion and decided to take a peek inside.

The skelepuppers were sitting at the end of a table, each equipped with a wooden spoon that they scraped in a large bowl between them. Baby Butter was further back with his own wooden spoon and his face and little hands all soiled with the contents of the bowl.

Waffle watched them fondly and with a little frustration. He had just bathed the two puppies (a task not so easy) and although the two managed to keep the dirt restricted to the face (nothing that a damp cloth would not solve) the same could not be said of his son who had smeared himself whole. Apparently today would be his day to bathe messy puppies.

Syrup was in its place at the top of Waffle's skull, and although, from time to time he turned and looked at his son with pure love, he was more focused on the rest of the kitchen leaving the watchman / baba service to his companion.

The Mamba watched the Papythons prepare the meals of the day, giving occasional orders and handing out tasks like a tiny Gordon Ramsay (but without the name-calling).

He had taken refuge in the kitchen with Butter early, the promise of treats being the best tactic to keep a child well-behaved and indoors (Butter was a very good puppy, but still a puppy and a much bigger one than Syrup, which sometimes made it a little difficult to control. Nothing that an incredible Mamba and an even better father couldn’t handle. But even Syrup had to admit that preventing a child, no matter how well behaved, and who had passed the last few days trapped between four walls, do not run outside and immediately throw yourself into puddles, it was a big challenge to be done without some dirty/sweet tactics).

But as soon as he entered the kitchen, and saw the larger lamias at work, he couldn't help but notice that the Papythons (even though they were very hardworking and competent in their jobs) urgently needed some help. And who would be better to help them than he, a wonderful and super competent Mamba? So he started to command them.

The Papythons were astonished with gratitude (in other words they had no idea how to deal with the little bossy snake and its smiling baby), staring at him paralyzed as he wandered around the kitchen inspecting and giving tips and orders (some half-senseless. They were not cooking no veal and it was certainly celery and not turnips) until the gigantic King appeared, with a grumpy puppy under each arm, and seeing the Papythons' desperate face (who absolutely did not want to be rude to someone who was obviously trying to help) came to the rescue.

Depositing the puppies on the table and helping his son to climb, he leaned over to pick up a bowl with leftover cake dough and whisper to one of the orange lamias that they just worked normally and when Mamba gave an order they just shouted “Yes Chef!". Straightening up, he took the bowl to the chicks and gave each one a spoon.

After that, things flowed like water. Syrup rose to the top of Waffle's skull and with a privileged view began to dictate more and more orders. The Papytons just shouted their agreement and continued to work normally (although some of the commands like: “Stir this soup more willingly!” and “Watch the egg point!” were really followed) little Mamba was swelling with pride when see everyone working so diligently under your command.

Waffle just delighted in the pleasure of his little love and the contentment of his son and puppies with his makeshift snack.

Vex watched in amusement for a few minutes. Syrup when he noticed Vex, shouted that the food would be ready in 5 minutes, while a Papython in the background made a movement with his hand indicating that it would take longer than the five minutes predicted by Mamba. She left them after that and went back to the reception, just in time to take a call about an old adopter wanting to pay a visit later and maybe get a new mate.

Before long, she would go to the back garden and give a "cease fire" when announcing lunch. The fighters would go through the car wash to get in and eat.

Edgar would collect the babys (letting the Kraits babies enter the car wash accompanied by adult Kraits. Not that they needed it, but it would be a good experience for the little ones to see what kinds of things they would be able to do, and more, as adults) and also would enter.

The Chains would enter, or the Papythons would take the lunches to them and the Honeys Bo and take the opportunity to have lunch under the sky, forming in a mixture of various warm and inviting shades of orangein front of the store.

The Mambas will take a break from their show and the Cornys... well they will continue to sleep, but they will still eat (somehow) their meals. Papython "cook" will remove the FireRings from the bottom of the grill and they will have lunch by the pool with the Kraits while these tell how their newest invention works.

Later on, there will be new visitors and potential adopters. The Corals will polish their new treasures and perhaps some will find their way, unconsciously, to the nest of some other lamia (and hopefully, the hands of some adopter).

When the afternoon progresses, and the weather gets a little cool, the Honeys Bo and the Chains will come in and seek the warmth of their nests or a companion for an afternoon nap. It may be that new Chains appear and others leave, being attracted by a mysterious and insistent pull on their souls.

The Pygmys will play with their hunting toys and may be able to convince some Mambas and even some Kings to join together (the Kings throwing the toys for the Pygmys to catch and the Mambas to attack).

The Commanders will gather in their nest, plotting new battle plans while Cherry takes inventory of their spoils of war (a toy mouse washed but still stained with mud, 2 snail shells, several helmets half shattered and already withering, a bag of seeds, some candy wrappers and several paper clips that they picked up on the way back to the nest).

The Cornys will return under the anti-poison refrigerator (or more precisely, they will be replaced by the helpful Papython who had taken them out that morning) where the Grillbitty (who had spent the day at the bottom of the kitchen oven, sleeping in perfect peace and quiet thanks to the comfortable and soothing noise from the oven flames. He loves his companions Corny, he really does, but even he needs a break from all the snoring, puns and fart pads every now and then and with everyone trapped in the same space for the past few days, he more that he needed some time alone and in silence) awaits you with his warm welcome.

Perhaps more at night, when the last visitor leaves and the store closes, Vex will go to the recreation room and put on a movie to watch. Honey and Poff will curl up on each side, while the Papythons distribute soft blankets and hot chocolate to the lamias who decide to join them.

Or maybe she reads a little while the wind is blowing outside. The Kings curled around her listening intently, their hoods vibrating softly to suppress the excitement with the story or the new word learned.

Edgar, with Quetzl wrapped around his neck, can bring the babies, who will sleep before the end of the story, but until then they will hear ecstatic and thirsty to absorb more about the world, real or imagined, contained in the pages.

Regardless of what she chooses, Waffle will sit with your baby in your arms and your love around and enjoy the peaceful night and the pure happiness of being with those she loves. He and Syrup will watch the baby Butter coo for colorful figures on TV or let out occasional “Mwah!” at strategic moments in history.

But this is later, for now Vex welcomes a new adopter, listening carefully to be able to help them find the best lamia companion possible.

It's just another day like so many others in the store. The sun is shining outside, birds are singing, flowers are blooming and bittys are up and having fun. On days like this, Vex is sure that many of his dear noodles will find a good home and a happy family, and even those who not (by choice or because it was not yet time), they will always have a safe place in the store and good friends to share.

A welcoming home and a loving family was what Vex's Lamia Bittybones Adoption Center and Clinic really was.

*

Comments, questions and criticisms are welcome and thank you for reading!

[jayankles]

Root of your New Problems

Pairing: Mafia Boss!Sam x Waitress!Reader

Word Count: 13,018

Dedicated to @onethingthatkeepsmealive Thank you for everything, for being patient, for donating. I love you and I hope this is okay <3

Summary: You work in a restaurant, life was okay, nothing really special until a handsome but rude customer comes into the diner. Turns out this handsome but rude customer was a Mafia crime boss. Just your luck. He is the root of your new problems when someone follows you and makes an attempt on your life.

Rating: Explicit

Warnings: Explicit sex, (fellatio, cunnilingus, riding, penetrative sex, dirty talk), fluff angst, dark fic, stalking, shootings, mafia stuff, talks of abortion (if I’m missing anything please let me know.)

Written for: @goodthingshappenbingo​ / @badthingshappenbingo​ / @spnonewordbingo / @samwinchesterbingo​ / @spngenrebingo​ / @spnkinkbingo​

Admiring / Tearful smile / suitcase / mafia boss!sam / hospital au / dirty talk

I’m sorry I took such an unplanned break, maybe I needed it but I hope this will be the start of something that can keep the fics rolling out. I hoping for maybe once a week but I’ll try for more but who knows.

Feedback is gold and appreciated

Hustle and bustle. That was the life you lived. Working in a big city was always a rush but thankfully, the cafe that you worked at was located in a busy environment but not enough to knock you off your socks and make you want to rip your hair out.

You got to know a few of the people that came in as regulars, chatting with them if you had the tiniest of moments to spare or as you were serving them. Just as you were doing now, but you were unceremoniously interrupted by the bell above the door rang that for the umpteenth time that day, you looked up and instantly smiled at the customer that came through there.

A man in a suit. A tall drink of water with flowy locks that sat on his shoulders, he scoured the vicinity of the cafe and locked his eyes with your seating area, he made his way over to a seat that someone was already sitting in. You looked on, eyebrows crinkling when the other man scurried out of his seat, easily finding another. What the hell was that all about?

“Hi.” He had simply said, making no effort to help you clean the table he had just made someone vacate. What a fucking asshole! Forget that he looked like a god, if he was rude, there was no way that you could ever be into a dude that acts like that. Not even if he was the king of the world. It was a shame that you couldn’t treat him the way that he had probably treated everyone he came into contact with. (But if you did, you would definitely be out of a job.) So instead you said this...

“Hello, there, Sir.  What can I get for you?” You smiled sweetly, even though he hadn’t even acknowledged your presence other than saying a simple greeting.

The man took out his phone from a hidden pocket on the inside of his, probably expensive, jacket and began typing. He had no desire to even look at the menu you tried to provide him. “Egg white omelette and a large coffee.” 

Writing down the order on your notepad, you nodded and asked if that was all that he wanted. Standard questions to be asked when working in a restaurant.

“Did I say anything else?” He almost snapped at you but brushed him off handing the order to the chef and started to work on the coffee. With that, you placed the largest cup of coffee you had onto the table and slid it over to him, careful not to spill a single drop of his drink.

“Your omelette will only be a few more minutes can I get you any condiments?”

Finally, he had looked up from his phone, his whole demeanour changing from disinterested to something akin to hungry and hunting a prey. It was making you uncomfortable, there was something about him that was making you uneasy even before he looked at you like that.

The bell behind you ding dinged, signalling that the order was ready. Thank god. Nodding your thanks to the chef, you turned back to the scary customer, placing his order in front of him, almost immediately ready to head back to your safe place behind the counter. Wow, you never would have thought you would say that about the dull boring counter that you had to stare at five days of the week.

You made your rounds around the tables and booths, offering them more coffee and grabbing their bills, occasionally gaining a tip that may or may not help you, depending on whether or not they were regulars or considered wealthy in that specific area.

When you got to the booth, you took a deep breath and smiled at him, keeping most of your attention to the man’s plate and away from direct eye contact, seeing the man’s nostrils flare in anger in your peripherals.

“Is everything okay over here, Sir? Can I get you some more coffee?” You asked the man, making sure that you were at a safe distance.

“Sam, please, Sir makes me feel old. Another coffee though would be lovely.” He looked down trying to find a name plate but he couldn’t. You also couldn’t believe this whole attitude turn around, Sam definitely freaked you out. Nodding, you poured the coffee almost to the brim of his cup and turned your attention to any of the other customers. “Well, little lady. You know my name but I have no clue of yours.”

When you were about to give him a fake name, your boss walked out, asking for you to bill another customer. “My name is Y/N. Excuse me, I have another customer waiting. I’ll be back with you soon.”

Sam smirked, a nasty one at that but it made him weirdly attractive. Stop it. “I’ll await your next visit, Y/N.”

After waiting on a few tables and taking their orders, your boss called you over, when you got there, a stunned look adorned his face.

“What is it?” You asked, putting your customers payment in the till before leaving a thank you message in return for the tip he had left.

“Do you have any idea who that is?” Should you? Max cried, his voice sounding panicked like you had never heard before. You had heard his screaming to other about orders and tardiness but this was something else. Max sounded scared, like he was purely terrified of this man, enough to let this man eat here for free and that was speaking volumes to you.

“Nope, not really. He’s just a rude ass guy who is acting like he owns the place.” You didn’t really care who it was really, you just wanted to serve have him pay the bill, maybe tip you and have him leave as quickly as possible.

He scoffed, frantically waving his arms around, “that’s because he practically does. How have you been here for most of your adult life and you have no idea who Sam Winchester is? Jesus Christ, Y/N. What is the matter with you?”

You held in the eye roll, but if this guy had so much power over everyone in this town then you were in trouble. A lot of trouble. How could you not have any idea of who he was, it should have been obvious from the get go. It paid to be naïve, you had absolutely no idea of what that man was capable of.

“Whatever I’ll just go about my day like I usually would because he is just another customer, just as important as everyone else in this joint.” You shrugged, not really caring about what he was about to tell you.

“Wrong answer. You give him whatever he wants when he wants and you have to top it. And don’t worry about your other customers, Lucy can take care of it.”

Jesus, this was going to be a long shift. (Emphasis on long.)

If you weren’t playing close enough attention you would have missed the groan that Lucy released. She was definitely not happy about taking over your shift but you made yourself a promise that you would talk to her after this Sam left the restaurant, you’d let her go home a little earlier and take over for her. Oh, the joys. 

After a week of Sam coming into the café, the tips became bigger and bigger, but you were getting more and more attention from him and it may have been possible that you were letting him get closer to you. You were letting yourself connect with the man. The man that you found out was, not only a part of the mafia, but their leader.

You were also surprised when the unwanted attention from hooligans that came into the café, whether it was a college frat boy or a grown ass man that just wanted everyone to know about his dick and what he can do with it. It was ridiculous, even to the point where the attention was drawn to you when you finished your shift and headed home.

“So how about you let me take you out on a date?” Sam asked the next evening, a glimmer in his eyes as he scraped the whipped cream from the side of his mouth, ready for his next plate. Honestly, you had no idea how the man ate so much and didn’t have a stomach ache. But his question wasn’t going to go unanswered he would just get an answer that he didn’t want.

“And what makes you think I would say yes to your proposal?” you replied, serving yet another plate of waffles taking away the old plate, retreating almost instantly but you spun around on the heels of your feet. “You think you can buy me? Is that what you think?

“I don’t want you to buy me, I want you to seduce me. Seduce me with your words. Not your money and power because I am not a woman who can be bought. If you want me, give me something that cannot be bought, something a value to me that I can treasure. Because I am not your little play toy that you can throw away as soon as you get bored of me.

“Have a nice day, Sam.” You finished with a wink and a smile and with that, you clocked out of work, collecting your earnings and left the café.

It was the strongest you had ever felt, you had no idea how exhilarated you would feel after your little speech but your heart was racing and your palms were still sweaty. You got this. It was like a magical weight had been lifted off of your shoulders, even if you were terrified that it come crashing back down on top of you.

When you got back home to your studio apartment, your shoes were off, bag hung up along with your coat. You were ready to fall straight into bed, waiting for your eyes to close as soon as they hit the pillow but when you did so you couldn’t drift off as easily as you thought. Tossing and turning, you just couldn’t get your body to cooperate with your tired mind. You had even watched a few episodes of the latest show, scrolling through all of your social media’s but it still wasn’t doing the trick. Finally, it was the hot milk that you made you succumb to a restful few hours.

You went to work the next day with an uneasy feeling in your stomach, maybe you had crossed the line with the mobster boss. He had the power to do anything he pleased with you and you basically told him to seduce you or fuck off.

No sign of Sam. Maybe he just wanted you for god knows what reason, you would rather not think about it and get to work, get your mind off of the subject. But when you opened your locker, a piece of paper fell out of it. Oh goodness, were you fired? No, Max wouldn’t fire you like this would he? Dammit.

Y/N,

You were right. It was wrong of me to try and buy your affections.

I now know that you are different from everyone else. That is why I’m attracted to you, there is something about you. Something that I cannot fathom what being around you does to me.

I am no Shakespeare. I am no Nicholas Sparks. I am no other romantic novelist.  I don’t express too much emotion to do with personal life but with you. But I am trying, and that has never happened before. Not before you.

I have tried to write this a hundred times but they never seemed right. I even tried to use a ghost writer but that never worked out either because they didn’t capture your essence but I’m not doing very well in that department either so you are just going to have to trust me and have patience with me because I will get one of these letters right. One day. It just won’t be today but I can hope that you will read my future letters.

Sam.

That man. Sweet and dangerous. What a combination. A combination that could love you dearly or kill you harshly; you weren’t ready for either option. Everything was bad. Everything was so bad.

The days passed and you received more letters like that. Getting no more articulate but still sweet no less, one about how your beauty had compared to none other than anything that he had seen before, which you had rolled your eyes when you thought about how corny it was but it made you smile nonetheless.

Your boss had refrained from giving you any instructions when it came to Sam, and you had an idea that it may have been due to a word or two that was shared with the man in question. There was suddenly like a tension when it came to you and your boss but that wasn’t going to stop you from doing your job. A job you needed so desperately.

Sam came into the café and sat in an empty booth, it must have been deemed his because only one couple had sat there all day. He greeted you with a goofy, teeth flashing smile, he must have been in a good mood. He droned on about getting possession of a property last week so it may have been something to do with that or he had successfully destroyed someone else’s life but that is none of your business. Only his.

“Hey, Sam. How are you today?” You said happily, his smile contagious making you do the same.

“Better now that I’ve seen you.” His usual response when coming into the café, a response that you were sure you would soon get tired of but it still had the same affect on you.

“Is it the same as usual then?”

“Exactly, but throw in a chocolate muffin and slice of pizza. I’m feeling extremely hungry today.”

You repeated the order to him and when he nodded, you put his order in and got to work on his coffee, waiting for his food to be prepared and cooked.

“Did you get my letters?” Sam asked a little shy, seeming off from his usually overconfident self.

Setting down his cup of coffee, you nodded, telling him that you did and that you were very flattered by their contents. “Your food shouldn’t be too long.”

You served other customers, taking their orders and putting them in for the chef but there was nothing else you could do other than wait for the food to be cooked before you could serve it to your customers.

Sam had stayed longer than usual, outstaying all the other customers until it was just you and him, all other staff apart from your boss but even he had grown tired of waiting and gave you the keys to lock up the café behind you.

“What’s on your mind handsome?” You asked, taking a seat after you had taken away and cleaned his penultimate plate.

“You. Always you.” Was what he wanted to say but he wouldn’t say it aloud not when he was one of the most notorious mafia boss’ there was. So instead he said, “nothing but business. You know what would make it better?”

“What’s that?”

“A night with you.”

You pressed your lips together and shake your head. Of course he would go there. Rolling your eyes, you rose from your seat and sauntered away. Pulling out your pen, you leaned against the counter making sure you had your denim clad ass on show to tease him. You wrote on the pad and tore off the paper before waltzing over to the booth where Sam now held his head in his palms.

Curling your fingers around his, you pulled them away from his face. Before you could get a word out, he was already apologising for taking it to far. Pressing a kiss to his cheek to silence him, you whispered in his ear, “go home, Sam. Call me tomorrow. I get off at noon, if you’re not too busy that is. Sam had asked for the bill not long after your suggestion to meet him after your shift tomorrow.

*

It was nearly noon but you started at six in the morning, you were exhausted, especially due to the morning rush but you were full of energy thinking about what you and Sam would be doing in a few long awaited minutes. You were ready to take the next step, to take control and hangout with him instead of just fucking each others brains out. At least that was what you believed he thought - you shouldn’t jump to conclusions, maybe that wasn’t what he wanted but you had enough experience with men to know what they expect. And you were starting to get that feeling that when Sam hadn’t shown his face in the diner

Untying the rope at the small of your back, the apron loosened its grip on you, allowing you to take it off and put it back in your locker. Luckily all you had to do was change from the diners custom grey and blue polo into one of your tops that you kept in there; at least it was a cute floral one that fell off the shoulder.

Grabbing your purse, you flung it over your shoulder and stalked your way outside of the diner after a quick wave goodbye to Max and even Lucy, telling your boss that you would see him in the afternoon tomorrow and your co-worker in a few days time when your schedules would once again clash.

You were playing with the hem of your top, walking down the street to your car before you felt an arm wrap around your waist and a hand covering your mouth, pulling you towards their chest and into an alleyway. You attempted to scream anything to break free of his hold, you were ready to throw a punch but stopped quickly when you realised that it was only Sam.

“Why would you scare me like that. Fuck sake. Why can’t you come to me like a normal person? You know face to face.” You shoved his shoulder away from you, putting your hands on either side of your face to calm down. Why he would think it was okay to act like a creepy kidnapper? You couldn’t know why.

He tilted his head and rose his perfect eyebrows. “Baby, I’m far from normal.”

“Why? Are you kinky? Is that why you tried to kidnap me? Is it for your sex chamber?” The random questions spilled from your mouth without you thinking and now that you thought about it, it sounded ridiculous.

“I did not try to kidnap you but I shouldn’t have scared you like that. I’m sorry. And as for the kinky thing – you’ll just have to find out later on.”

“Ah so you limit your kinks per day, smart move. I like that in a guy.” With your lips pursed, you nodded in comprehension.

“Listen, I didn’t mean to scare you but I think someone was following you. I’m just trying to protect you.” He said, true desperation spilling from his mouth, he was exceptionally concerned and that worried you all the same. If this big, bad mafia boss was worried, you knew that you should do the exact same thing, maybe worry a little more. 

“I believe you. But you could have gone about it another way, you know, one where I don’t almost pee my pants?”

“Is there any indication of anyone wanting to hurt you in any way?” He asked, pulling out his phone and tapping away on his touchscreen keyboard.

Your heart was racing, something wasn’t right. Something had happened and you had no idea of what it was or why someone was following you. Why would they do that? You tried to rack your brain of why but nothing came to mind. “I’m just a waitress. Nothing special. I was only a cleaner before that and that doesn’t get any attention. Is it because of you?”

You asked him out of interest, not really expecting an answer but he still gave you one.

“It’s a possibility.” He said bluntly, shaking you to your core. “My line of work is dangerous and there are always people that want me dead and that includes the people around me. Nothing is going to happen to you. Not when I’m around.”

That was an answer that you did not want at all. Not one bit. You wanted to be safe and you couldn’t be because there was a threat against your life because you were talking to a man who just so happened to be a gangster.

But now that you knew a threat was out there, you had no clue what to do. If you stayed with Sam, you could get hurt but if you stayed away from Sam, you could still get hurt. It was a lose - lose situation.

“I know that you’re scared right now.” Sam started but you interrupted before he could even finish.

“Scared are you fucking kidding me. That doesn’t even begin to cover how I’m feeling right now. You think that you know how scared I am. Because you don’t. I’m terrified because someone is after me. For what? You, probably information about you that I don’t have because I don’t fucking know you.”

“Come with me.” He quietly demanded. “I just need you to trust me to do at least try and keep you safe.”

“I feel like I’m dead either way so I might as well.” Ah yes, the bitchy maybe a bit too sassy inner dialogue. She was a real beauty when you were scared out of your wits.

Sam rolled his eyes, gripping your wrist and pulling you closer to him. “Stop thinking about death, you’ll live if I have anything to do with it.”

“Fine.” You huffed, but your heart was almost beating out of your chest. Being so close to Sam and not being able to do anything about it. Your eyes flicked over his lips, spotting the peak of his tongue licking at his top lip. Still there was nothing you could do about it other that fantasise about what his lips could do, how they would feel on your own lips and your body. “Just look after me. Don’t let anything happen to me.”

“I give you nothing but my word and protection. I will do whatever it takes. Even if I have to do something that you may not like.”

Of course he meant kill a man or woman but he didn’t want to say it out loud to you. If it was any other person, he would have come out with it, been blunt about the situation. Sam wouldn’t have even cared about a stalker, it didn’t concern him most of the time. But you were different. This time someone had stalked you because he simply came to the café that you worked in. It was his fault, this time it was on him and he didn’t like it.

Sam had checked if the coast was clear, after a few seconds of surveillance he came back, yanking your arm once again. Crossing the street, he pushed you into a car that you could only assume was one of his. He hadn’t told you otherwise and you were not about to argue with the man who had both physical power and economical power.

When Sam was sure that no one was following you, he pulled into the next turning, parking in a space where you were surrounded by other cars. Just in case someone had seen you with him.

“I need you to stay in the car just for a few minutes.” He reached over, pulling open the glove compartment to reveal a gun. Your whole body tensed, shuffling back in your seat and shriveling into yourself. “Climb into the back and stay down.”

He covered you with the blanket, then exited the car. With your heart in your throat, you followed his instructions and stayed put. There was no way you were going to move one inch, not when there were two threats outside of this car. The stalker and the gun that Sam had.

Clenched fists, you curled your legs into your stomach, waiting for everything and nothing to happen at the same time. But you still weren’t ready for the gunshots outside of the garage. The shot’s echo ran through the garage, ricocheting through your whole body, you started to shake, scared of what had happened out there. What if Sam had got caught in the crossfire and you were next? What if Sam had shot an innocent person? All those what if’s running through your mind.

Five minutes had passed, still no sign of Sam. Of course, whilst you were in the car, Sam had taken care of the situation. Although he had been shot at, Sam took the final shot and killed the stalker who he noticed was part of his rival’s gang. The man had pleaded for his life, but Sam had no sympathy for the man who had stalked and prayed on women, Sam even knew that the man had abused other women, sexually and physically. The man didn’t deserve to live. Not at least in the eyes of the mob boss and that was enough information he needed to do what he did.

When Sam had returned he almost made you jump out of your skin, yanking the door open and checking you over to see if you were okay. There was a tinge of anger that softened as he tried to calm your shaking body. Of course, you were scared out of your wits but there was nothing you could do about what was happening in the world you were living in.

Sam was quick to get out of there and to wherever the hell he was taking you.

*

“But do I really have to stay here? I’m fine and the man is gone. I’m assuming you took care of him so I have nothing to worry about.” You said, a little whine in your voice, as you spread the butter over the two slices of bread. You didn’t want to stay in the safe house, you just wanted to go back home, even if it was to the studio apartment that you could only just about afford.

“Listen, Y/N. I’ve told you three times now. Don’t make me repeat myself again. While I take care of business, it will be safer for you to remain here. You are here for your own protection and that is final.” He was angry, of course he would be, he had already mentioned the importance of you remaining in the safe house. It was for your protection but you didn’t get it, not really. But still, something in his voice made you exponentially upset, something you couldn’t even rationalise inside of you, he was trying to protect you and all you could think about was being caged in the safe house like an animal.

Not saying another word, your nostrils flared and you purse your lips. Huffing, you continued to make your sandwich, cutting it in triangles like your mom used to. When you had plated it up, you grabbed a bottle of water, heading upstairs. And, not being familiar with this space, you walked into every other room, struggling to find your room. Not so great when you’re angry.

Sam had left you in your room to calm down, listening out for the creaking of the wooden floorboards when you used the bathroom or explore the current house. He sat in the make do office, sending out texts and making a few calls to his brother and his subordinates. He found out that one of his men had been beaten to death in retaliation to the hit his rivals took earlier in the day. Of course, he hadn’t been too happy about that but at least his guy was in the hospital with a few broken ribs, a swollen eye and a dislocated shoulder and not six feet under, down in a ditch where no one would find him.

When he thought it was appropriate, Sam took the liberty to lock up his office because you didn’t need to see what was in there, he wasn’t going to let you get involved even more that you had done. Entering the dark kitchen, he flipped on the light and decided to make you a cup of tea. He had seen you drink it on multiple occasions at the café when your customers had stressed you out or made you angry enough to have tears in your eyes. He didn’t want to be the reason that you had those tears – or any tears ­– in your eyes, he didn’t want to be the cause of your problems yet here he was causing tears to spring to your eyes and he felt even worse that he brought a stalker to you. Sam shook his head and got back to work making you the tea, he really hoped you would be okay, or even accept his token of apology.

Checking in your newly assigned room, he noticed you were quiet even though he had asked you how you were; you had just shrugged your shoulders. Nothing would come out, it was as if your voice had been taken from you, but with what had just transpired, you didn’t need to talk. You just needed time to adjust to this huge change in your life that had happened so suddenly. Fucking mobs and their rivalries with each other.

“I shouldn’t have spoken to you like that.” He had difficulty putting it into words at how sorry he really was, but he couldn’t say them out loud. He knew he may have been too harsh, but he just wanted to keep you in the clear, to keep you safe. He was the one that got you into this mess after all.

“Okay.” Was all you could say, nothing more could pass your lips, there was nothing more you could really say after someone had threatened to shoot you for not listening to them, for wanting to redeem your freedom and not be confined in a space away from everything you grew up with. Everything you were used to was now gone, all because of Sam Winchester. Sam Winchester, the mob boss, the dangerous man that no one wanted to encounter.

“I brought you up a tea. I know that it shall not make matters any better but all I can hope for is the first step to forgiveness.” He spotted a tiny nod, and Sam took that as an opportunity to settle the cup onto the nightstand and left the room, just waiting.

*

After the spat that you had with Sam, you finally forgave him. Even if he had given you a scare.

You had moved safe houses three times within the last five months, this place that you had been in the longest. This may have been your favourite one of them all, despite moving so far out of town, you were in another state but it allowed you to feel a little more safe and secure. With that Sam had pulled a few strings and got you a job in one of the local diners, a partial appearance change and a new name later, you only hoped that no one but Sam would recognise you. 

Speaking of the Devil, he had walked through the doors of the diner. Tall, dark, and handsome he still was. Quickly, you hide your smile, trying not to get distracted or have Sam notice that you had already seen him,

Sam had been sure to sit in a seat that had a whole view of the diner, but in someplace where he was hidden from a direct view of the window.He was concealed but could see everything from his vantage point. Where he sat was indeed in your sector, but he knew that.

Regardless of the diner not being busy, you took your time getting around to Sam’s table. His order already memorised, you had already written it down before you made it to his table and he opened his mouth. You slipped him a note, heading back for the kitchen to hand the chef his order.

Finish in an hour. Meet me out back.

Sam smirked and slipped the note inside his inner pocket. He couldn’t wait for this hour to be over. There was something about the glimmer in your eye that made Sam a little stiff in his crotch, the newspaper was a handy tool to cover his growing tent.

*

Walking through the door, Sam was on you in an instant, pushing you into the wall as soon as he had slammed the door shut. His hands and lips were everywhere; lips tracing all exposed areas of your skin and his hands skimming over your body, pulling you closer to him.

His fingers traveled to pop the button of your jeans, you did the same for his pants then pushed the suit jacket he wore off his shoulder, revealing his broad shoulders encased by his white shirt. Bringing his lips back to your, you devoured him as he did you, your fingers toyed with the buttons on his shirt, clumsily pulling them open.

He was rough, biting at your skin, at your lip. Your mouth hung open as his fingers dove into your underwear, pushing them against your soaked lower lips. He stepped back and you whined at him. Sam pulled his shirt from his shoulders, revealing a perfectly chiseled body from the gods themselves. He tosses his shirt carelessly onto the floor. Whilst he was preoccupied with his attire, you pushed your unbuttoned jeans down your hips along with your underwear. 

Yanking off his boots, you peeled your top from your skin and added it to the pile of clothing on the floor. With you naked and under his heated gaze, Sam was just down to his underwear, you aggressively pushed them down over his thighs to where they now pooled at his ankles. You silently moaned at his size, taking him in as your hands reached out and caressed his stomach, his abdomen rippling at your feather light touches.

Your hand traveled to his neck so you could pull him into a heated kiss. His lips attacking yours for a moment before your lip caught in between his teeth causing you to moan into the little gap between the two of you. Your free hand grips his hips and push him onto the bed so that he sits near the end, enough to give you space to kneel.

Within a flash, your straddling his hips and pressed your mouth against his. The little kisses turn sloppy but not any less passionate. Rolling your hips against his caused the perfect amount of friction between the two of you. He groaned low in his throat as you repeated the motion; a positive reaction. You smile as you press your lips to his once more before pushing him onto his back, where you trace his jaw with feather light kisses, making a descent further down south.

He goes to stop you but you quietly hushed him.

“Let me take care of you.”

“Oh, baby.You can whatever the hell you want with me. Just tell me what you want and you can have it.”

With one final kiss to his stomach, you stop your ministrations and sit back in your haunches. “Maybe I just want you to wreck me with your tongue until I’m sated and spent.” You say nonchalantly, like you hadn’t been planning to say that all day but you continue to explain the perfect night in your mind. “And then we could go for round three and we both get what we want. But first, I’m gonna suck you off. You’ll be so deep in my throat that I’ll almost forget how to breathe. It’ll so fucking good when you come because then I’ll just have to swallow it down... How does that sound?” You seductively run your fingernails over his thighs.

He practically moans “Oh my god, Y/N, you’re freaking perfect!”

Remembering that he had put a pause your actions, you asked, “you want me to stop?”

“Fuck! God no!” He almost shouted, nearly whimpered as you gripped onto his cock.

You squeezed a little as you moved your hand up and down over him, your motions slow and calculated. Seeing as his eyes were trained on you, you decided to put on a little show for him. Dropping to your knees on the floor, you saw that Sam was now on his elbows, watching your every move.

Without another thought, you took the crown of his cock into your mouth, tasting the salty precome that slid from his slit. He moaned, encouraging you to give him little kitten licks to the tip of his cock, the velvet head of it slipping easily into your mouth. You took him deeper, pumping at the base of his dick, where your throat couldn’t take anymore.

“God, you’re so good at that, baby.”

Sam’s head fell back onto the covers, you could tell he was struggling to keep himself from canting his hips upwards. Your head was bobbing up and down along with your fist, saliva dribbling down and out of your mouth, coating Sam with your spit.

“Oh, fuck! Such a dirty girl, Y/N.” Sam groaned as he threaded his long fingers through the strands of your hair and gripping onto it firmly.

You heard the tone he used in his voice and knew he was close to blowing his load so you cradled his balls in the palm of your hand and squeezed them with a little added pressure. The combination of your movements had Sam’s balls tightening and nearing his orgasm. You decided to push down further on him, he was hitting the back of your throat now.

Quickly, he sat up and knotted both of his hands in your hair, trying to get you off of him but you stood your ground, releasing his balls and clutching onto one of his thighs, crescent moon shapes appearing as they dug into his thick, muscular thighs. You hollow your cheeks and increased your pace. Finally he allowed himself to release his load into your mouth, the salty taste lingering before you greedily swallowed it down. Sam hips thrusted into your mouth once more and you came off of his dick with a wet pop and licked your lips, your thumb wiping at the corner of your mouth, taking off the remnants that stuck to you.

He grabbed your face in his hands and pulled you up into his lap so you were once more straddling him, you stopped him though.

“What is it? What’s wrong?” He was genuinely concerned, maybe you couldn’t go further that he wanted to.

Looking into his eyes, you searched for any uncertainty. “Nothing, it’s just…”

His thumbs stroked over the apple of each of your cheeks and waited for you to continue.

“I had your dick in my mouth and you wanna…you know.” You almost whispered.

You were clearly embarrassed but Sam pulled you closer and kissed you anyway, softer and sweeter that the first one that the two of you shared at the beginning of your encounter. When he pulled away, no matter how sweet it was, he still left you breathless. “I don’t care, you don’t have to worry your pretty little head about that, we’re just going to enjoy it, together, you understand?”

He waited for your confirmation and dove straight for you again, the tenderness all but forgotten as you were all teeth and tongue, moans and groans as your mouths forcefully clash together. He slid his tongue at the seam of your lips and you opened your mouth for him. Sam groaned as he got a taste of himself on your tongue. Your arms wound around his neck and you pulled him closer, eager to have him as near to you as possible.

Your breaths mingled until the need for oxygen became too much and you had to part, your forehead slanted against his as you tried to control your breathing.

“If you don’t sit on my face,” His eyes almost black, hooded with lust as he looked into your eyes. “I will spank you so hard you won’t be able to sit for a week.”

From the expression alone, you could have got drunk, you gained the confidence again to answer him with a giggle. “Well, to that romantic soliloquy, I’m going to have to say fuck yeah! I hope your tongue has special qualities to it and make me satisfied with it.”

“Yeah? You doubt me?” Sam bit his lip as he awaited your answer, you gave a quick nod and kissed him again. Slowly. “You better prepare yourself, little lady, because you are in for one hell of an experience.”

Unwinding your arms, you lightly gripped onto his shoulders and pushed him down so that he was lying underneath you. Without breaking apart for long, you tucked a strand of hair behind your ear and maintained contact with him, your lips grazing over the corner of his mouth to his jaw, to the sensitive spot you found behind his ear.

“You coming up here or what?” He inquired with a deep groan.

You gave him one final kiss on the lips before you started to crawl over his body, your pussy sliding over his cock, causing him to hiss and the pleasure in the movement was borderline painful. You apologised before lifting yourself off of him and moving towards the front of the bed where his head was resting.

Gripping onto the headboard, you stood above him and looked down into his eyes, you saw the pure and utter desire in them. His eyes darted from your eyes to your soaked pussy and back to your eyes again, a hunger that overtook his hazel orbs. Leisurely, you lowered yourself so that you gradually got closer to Sam’s face, you wanted to drag this out for as long as you could so that he had a chance to back out if he didn’t really want to do it - or if you didn’t want to do it. It got to the point where he got so impatient he grasped your thighs and pulled you onto him, the sudden contact eliciting a high pitched gasp, almost like a squeal.

He didn’t dive straight it, no, he wanted to drag out where you needed him the most, albeit a bit apprehensive of being in that position with someone for the first time. Your pussy was so close to his face that you could feel his breaths, but every time you went to sit a little closer he would push you further. Not allowing you to take the reins.

He turned his head to the side and kissed the meaty flesh of your thigh, biting it softly and licking over the slight sting he had caused. He had only just begun but your body was already on fire.

“Sam, please.” You pleaded, feeling Sam’s fingers flex a little,his untreated nails digging into you thighs, you took that as a sign that he was going to do what he wanted and not what you wanted. He was the one that was giving the orders, in his daily life and in bed with you. You couldn’t believe you had waited this long to take the next step in your - would you call it a relationship? You had no idea what the two of you had but at least it was something. “You know what I need. You know what I want.”

“Exactly.” Without uttering another word just yet, he craned his head to the other side, blowing hot air from his mouth onto your dampening core before repeating his actions to your other thigh. When he was good and ready, only then would he start his torture - or pleasure, you didn’t know. Sam’s hands moved from your thighs to your ass, pushing you up a little and you could feel his scruff against your heated skin. You wiggled as you felt the tiny hairs prickle your flesh. “Just because I know what you want doesn’t mean I have to give it to you. You should know that. This is my world and you’re just living in it.”

Closing your eyes, you missed Sam’s tongue flick out and lick his lips. He completely caught you off guard, inching you closer to his face in a flash. His mouth was hot against your core just seconds before he dove in, his tongue darting straight out and dipping into you. Shaking his head, he looks as if he was vibrating, the tongue parted your folds as the wet muscle entered into you.

The pressure on your pussy was perfect, so perfect in fact that you couldn’t help but buck your hips into his face. He hummed in delight but then stopped shaking his head when you clutched a handful of his hair between your fingers, pushing him away for him to breathe and for you to look him in the eye and tell him that you needed him somewhere else, somewhere more sensitive.

“Please?” You begged trying to sound as sultry as possible, hand rubbing over your thigh, trying your best to sell what you had to offer.

Sam smirked; he knew exactly where you needed him. His tongue peeked out once again and licked a long stripe over your pussy. He notices you rocking against his face, convulsing. And you moan as the tip of his tongue flicks against your clit. It’s not long before the coil in your lower abdomen tightens, threatening to snap as he sucks your clit into his mouth, not letting up until he’s ready to do so. He suctions and rolls the little bundle of nerves between his lips and you can’t help the quivering of your thigh and your whole body for that matter.

“You like that, baby? Yeah, you fucking love it, don’t you?” He grunted in between breaths and eating you out. 

“Fuck, Sam!” You grip tightly to his hair, shoving his face deeper into your pussy, almost to the point where he can’t breathe. But he knows that you are worth it.Knows that whatever you are about to give will be worth the few seconds he has without breaths. Sam squeezes at every available piece of skin that he can get; your hips, your tits. When he gets to the latter, Sam plays with the breasts, pressing them together before taking and nipple and rolling it between his thumb and forefinger. You gasped at the sensation, the action on the brink of being too painful for you to handle but you just jerk on top of him.

The movement you make and his tongue and his touch. It was everything that you could ever want but you didn’t want to come yet, everything would be over too quickly, and you didn’t want that to happen. Sam is there though, moaning at your taste when you come. He’s there lapping at your juices when they spill from your insides. He pulls away, allowing you to come down from your high, he smiles at you deviously, looking at you straight in the eye, you see your arousal on his chin.

Your breathing has evened but you don’t have much more time to recover as he lunges for you once more, your first orgasm not enough for him. Still sensitive, your hips don’t know whether to move away from him or move closer to him. It seems the latter has won. Your hands rush to be in his hair again, clutching onto it for dear life, almost too hard so that he winces, retaliating with a bite of his own at your inner thigh.

Before you know it, his tongue is shoved deep inside your entrance as his nose bumping against your clit. He eases in and out of you, he closes his lips around your clit and sucks as if his life depended on it. One of your hands release Sam’s hair, but when you do, he quickened his pace and your eyes roll to the back of your head, your thighs boxing him in and drawing him in closer. 

You grope at one of your own breasts, as your second impending orgasm is drawing near, that same feeling returning. Another flick to your clit and he awkwardly shoves two of his fingers inside your dripping cunt. He curls his fingers in a come hither motion, finding your g-spot easily with his digits, stroking your walls that were clamping down on him. His coarse stubble was scratching against your inner thighs, only intensifying the fire building in your lower belly. You come once again that evening, enjoying the bliss that you’re in as you collapse next to him, trying to calm your erratic breathing.

Both Sam’s and your chests are heaving, exhaustion ready to take over your body as you curl into him, tracing patterns onto his tattoo that you had only just noticed. He wipes his mouth with the back of his hand to remove your arousal that is still glistening from his chin, you look up and see that Sam has a goofy grin on his face.

“What are you smiling at?” You ask with a furrowed brow but a slight curl of your own lips.

He turned his head to look at you and brought his hand up to cup your face in them, “can I kiss you?” He inquired, not answering your question but you nodded your head anyway. Sam leaned forward, thumb stroking of the apple of your cheek, drawing you closer to meet in the middle.

His lips slant against yours and you immediately open your mouth to him as he silently asks for entrance. You moan as you taste yourself on his tongue and see why Sam wasn’t so weird about it earlier.

When he pulls away your eyes are closed and you struggle to open them after such passion has already been exerted and you have barely even started. He gently presses another kiss to your lips and your eyes flutter open, instantly connecting with Sam’s brilliant hazel orbs.

“You taste that?” You nod. “That is why I was smiling.”

His hand moves from your face and skims down your body, over your luxurious curves but stops short of your thighs, his hand resting on your hip. With him touching you, your body was on fire, a trail of heat left behind. His kisses were so intoxicating that you had to go back for more. Lewd moans spilled from your lips as you felt Sam’s hands spreading your legs so he could circle his fingers around your clit before he dipped them into your entrance, his thumb now brushing against your clit, applying the smallest amount of pressure to make you feel the effects. Soon enough, his fingers started pumping in and out of you, curling them until he was buried inside you knuckle deep and finding that sweet spot within you once again.

With an idea sparking inside your mind, you bite at Sam’s bottom lip before continuing the passionate kiss. Your hand wanders down Sam’s body, over his chest, over his abdomen, over his cock. You caress his cock before taking him in your hand, dragging your hand up and down, your thumb rubbing over the tip of his cock. When you broke apart from your kisses, you barely spoke above a whisper. “I wanna feel you.” 

With a final few pumps of his fingers, he withdraws them, leaving you empty and wanting more but it is hardly noticed. He kisses you once again before pulling you onto his lap so that you were straddling his stomach. “Go for it, baby.”

“You have a condom?” Sam stretches out an arm to the nightstand next to his bed and pulls out the shiny foil packet, ripping it open with his teeth and handing the rubber over to you. Shuffling back, you now balance on his thick muscular thighs. Grabbing his growing erection, making it stand upright instead of resting against his stomach, you pinch the top of the condom and smoothly roll it down on his cock. When that was done, Sam offered you one of his hands, intertwining your fingers together. Placing a hand on his chest, you lifted yourself up, hovering over him. The hand that was on his chest came to grip his cock and line it up with your entrance.

Slowly, you sank down on him until he was buried to the hilt inside of you, the blunt head of his cock hitting your cervix. Subconsciously, you threw your head back in ecstasy, your eyes rolling to the back of your skull. Your body automatically quivering, hips rolling, your clit brushing over his pelvis.

“Fuck! You feel so good, baby. So fucking tight.” Sam grunts. He mumbled something about wrecking that pussy but you had only just heard it over yours and Sam’s panting, choosing to ignore it and see if he would live up to his confident words.

You sweep your hair back out of your face and tuck it behind your ears as it blocks your view from him and his gorgeous body. Yes, you are objectifying him but who wouldn’t? What he doesn’t know won’t kill him besides if he owned a mirror, he would know or he is totally modest, or blind. The smirk on his face told you he just knew what you were thinking, he knew he was hot as hell.

You realise your fingers are still linked when Sam squeezes them, you squeeze back and release them, guiding both his hands to your hips. Grinding down on him, you feel the full length of him pressed inside of you, pressed against your inner walls. They clamp down on him as his pelvis juts up to meet yours and you know that that is your cue to start bouncing, moving, anything that will satisfy the both of you. But you wait a little while longer, this moment between the two of you was something different, something that you hadn’t felt before.

Sam’s fingers dig into your skin and you’re sure that there will be bruises but you don’t care, you want to be marked by him; he has ruined you for all men anyway. You lean down to attach your lips to his and the new angle creates a whole other level of pleasure, the waves that flow through you make the coil in your stomach tighten once again. You can feel your next orgasm approaching and you know you won’t last long.

You never broke the kiss, only deepened it before it became sloppy, tilting your head to the side and pulling his face closer to yours. His tongue swiped at your bottom lip and you obliged his silent command to open your mouth. Your tongues battled for pure and utter dominance, flicking against each other every few seconds to gain the upper hand.

When you finally pulled apart, he chased your lips and started to sit up but you pushed him down. Your lips going to his neck to suck a hickey, he had already marked you, it would only be fair to mark him as he had with you.

When you pulled away, you were happy with the mark, dark and purple and all yours. Dragging your hands down his chest, you trailed them down to his abdomen, his hands move to your thighs and gives you free reign. Finally, much to Sam’s approval you start to bounce on him, going up until he’s almost out of you, just the tip inside, but then you crash down on him. You do this and your nearly there, nearly over the edge but you need that little extra push and Sam knows it too. He reaches between your bodies and instantly connects with your clit, rapidly flicking over it.

“Ahh, Sam, don’t stop.” Reverting back to grinding, you feel the familiar clenching of Sam’s ball at your ass and you know you are both about to explode. “Right there, fuck, keep going, keep going, keep going!”

You rock your hips and Sam thrusts upwards and deeper into you, with one final magic touch of the pleasure button, your orgasm rushes through you as white spots start to cloud your vision. Tumbling over the edge, your pussy clamps tightly around Sam bringing him into his own finish, shooting white hot ropes of his come into the condom but he isn’t done with you yet, he flips you so that you are on your back and he’s hovering over you, his forearms supporting his weight so that he isn’t fully on you.

He’s managed to stay inside you and you feel full and sweaty, as the suds roll down your face and build on your chest. You know he wants to go once more before he is finished with you and you are totally okay with that. You are totally okay with the predatory gaze in his eyes that he holds with your and you know he’s about to attack.

He dips his head and you think that he is going to kiss you again but he doesn’t, he buries his head in your neck and repeats your earlier motions, sucking on any skin that is available to him, licking over the small wounds he has made as a soothing gesture to calm the almost pornographic moans that are leaving your throat.

Sam starts pumping his hips, driving himself deeper and deeper into you. He creates another new angle, hips rotating and grinding and dragging, it all feels so fucking good but his rhythm is interrupted, Sam stops his actions and pulls out of your soaking wet pussy. Flipping you onto your front, he presses his hand in between your shoulder blades, your chest to the mattress below you. You were almost positive that there was a hand print left in its wake.

He takes this time to remove the condom and replaces it with another, he’d deal with the old one later. But right now, he was focused on fucking you as hard as he can because he knows that he is on the brink of another orgasm; he just wants to fuck you first.

Ass in the air, Sam’s hand drags across the length of your back, squeezing your hip and giving your ass a harsh smack before he grabbed his cock and pushed it inside you once more. He starts his punishing rhythm once again, fucking you from behind and making your whole body shake and shiver. Clenching your fists around the sheets, you almost curl your body at how good it feels.

When he pulls just one more orgasm from you, Sam’s whole body explodes, grunting and groaning as he comes. The mob boss falls on top of you, his dead weight crushing your body under his. Rolling you both onto your sides, Sam finds your clit and starts to rub at it, ensuring that the waves of your orgasm have passed and all that is left is the aftershocks, ready to wear off.

Coming out of your daze, you only just realise that Sam has already slipped out of you and jumped off the bed. He discards both of the condoms in the trash in the bathroom coming back with a warm, wet washcloth to clean you up. You thank him, eyes glossed over as you snuggled into the pillows.

“Why haven’t we done this sooner?” You ask, clutching onto his biceps as he removes all the evidence of your activities. He tosses the washcloth haphazardly on the floor and tucks you into his arm.

“You wanted to be wooed. This is all on you.” He kisses you soundly, tracing patterns on your naked body as you both finally drift off into a peaceful sleep. You’re too tired to even think of a witty response.

*

Sam picked you up everyday after your shift even if it had been a late shift going all through the night. He didn’t mind and you didn’t have to ask. It was endearing, sure, but if you were being honest there were some days that you just wanted to be alone and walk to the house by yourself. As you were told multiple times, you knew that wasn’t possible. It wouldn’t be possible anymore if there was still this rivalry between the two gangs. No matter how many people each of them had exterminated, nothing would stop this until everyone or everything was dead.

Sam had been away for a long time and even though he had sent another one of his crew members, you were still scared for Sam. At first, he had sent his brother, Dean, then suddenly he stopped coming too. You had only recently learned that the new driver was called Bobby. Through his grumpy demeanour, you saw that he was somewhat a softie but there was still an edge to him that made you weary, almost terrified of him. But you knew that if Sam had trusted Bobby then you would be safe, that you would have nothing to worry about.

After two days of being driven about by Bobby, you asked him the question that had been burning through your mind. “Bobby, if you don’t mind me asking… where’s Sam at these days?”

“Unfortunately, I’m not at liberty to discuss anything of his whereabouts.” Came his gruff reply but you were sick of being ignored, of being in the dark.

You weren’t going to take this bullshit anymore. “If you don’t tell me right now, then I swear to whoever is listening, that I will jump out of the moving car and kick up a storm until I know what the hell is going on.”

Bobby pulled the car over and checked over the back seat and grabbed your chin between his fingers, a little too violently. “You listen her, little girl. The less you know the better off you’ll be. Understand? The world you’re living in now ain’t no sunshine and rainbows. The real world is filled with death and murder. No happy endings. So get your head out of your ass and grow up.”

His words had shook you to your core, you had no idea what to say of how to react. How could you have been so stupid to end in this whirlwind of a criminal life?  Of course you had to fall for a guy that was in the craziest business of them all. Looking out of the black tinted windows, you sat back in your seat, your bottom lip quivering but you refused to let any tears fall. That would have been unbecoming of you.

Later that night, with Bobby stationed outside of the safe house, you heard the jingle of keys before the twiddling of the doorknob. With sharp ears and feline feet, you quickly hid away in your closet. Even though there were signs that someone you knew was coming into the house, there was still doubt in your mind, something telling you not to take any chances, not when Sam wasn’t here to be with you and protect you.

“Y/N?”

You sighed when you heard the familiar voice of Sam’s brother. It was like a whole weight had been lifted off of your shoulders. You could get back to talking to someone other than yourself. Putting down the knife that you had hidden in the closet, you compose yourself and call out that you would be with him in a moment.

Greeting Dean, you stepped into a small embrace before offering him a coffee. When all the pleasantries were exchanged, you led Dean to a seat and took a deep breath. You had to pluck up the courage you had to ask about where Sam was and if you could see him. But before you could speak, Dean had already interrupted your thoughts bringing them to life.

“So, Bobby told me that you kinda exploded today on the way home from work.” He scrutinised your face and spotted the small finger shaped bruises that had already formed on your face. “See he already warned you, huh?”

You nodded, taking a sip from your coffee before you spoke. “Yeah. I just wanted to know- I just wanted to know where Sam was and why I hadn’t seen or heard from him. I just want to know whether or not he’s okay. I pushed too hard and got pushed back. Not one of my best days.”

Dean’s eyebrows rose within a fraction of a second but you caught it, you also caught the tiny smirk that was on his lips but you never questioned it. Never questioned anything they did anymore because if you did you figured that you would only get hurt.

“Get dressed. We’re going for a drive.” Dean demanded, before he pushed back the chair back and shoved his arms through his jacket, tossing it over his shoulders. “I’ll be waiting in the car. Don’t take too long, you won’t wanna miss this drive. Go.”

A single nod and you were flying up the stairs. What clothes you had, were shooting across the room. You changed out of your work top and switched it out for an old tee and a hoodie you think you had stolen from Sam and ungracefully slipped into your tennis shoes. Checking the time on your phone, you saw that only a mere two minutes had passed. Time to get into the car and pray for your own safety and answers about Sam and his whereabouts.

The car ride was almost silent, apart from Dean’s soft humming of a Metallica song. Somehow, over the past week or so of riding in the car with Dean, you found out that he was a huge metal head, you had finally learned the difference between Metallica and Led Zeppelin, and even Bon Jovi. Who knew it was more than one guy?

“Listen. Hit me if you want but could you tell me something? Anything about Sam? Even just to say that he’s fine or if he never wants to see me again. I just need to know something. Please?” Quickly but clearly, you uttered your words to Dean, your fingernails scraping across the pads of your finger, as well as the cuffs of your hoodie. All of what you said was risky, your heart beating a mile a minute but you just wanted- no you needed those answers, even if Sam just didn’t want to see you ever again.

He chuckled, Dean actually chuckled at your words- at your tortured words. “Just be quiet. You can wait a few more minutes, can’t you?”

You swallowed but bit at the inside of your cheek before nodding at the dark man. Moments had passed and Dean had turned into a road where he came to a stop. Oh no, this is how you died. Down a dark and dingy alley. This couldn’t be the last place you saw before you left this earth.

“Let’s go. Chop, chop.” Dean demanded, the car door creaking open before it slammed shut behind him; you quickly followed suit, the deafening sound of the car lock screeching in your ear.

Opening the heavy doors, the light that shone through blinded you. The stark white against the pitch black of night. A few nurses and doctors were first to pierce through your vision, they were the first things that you saw when your vision had readjusted.

“We’re here to see Steve Buchanan.” Dean mentioned to the receptionist. He nodded, wiggling his fingers over the keyboard after he had given you a once over with a disdainful look on his face. The monitor flashed and the man swiped a finger - indiscreetly - over his nose, a not so secret signal, you presumed.

“You know where to go, Sir.” The man tipped his head and continued to scour whatever was on his phone. He was obviously so done with his job but you didn’t know what to expect in this hidden hospital, one that you had only just found out about a few moments ago. For all you knew there could have been a gun pulled on him under the desk. It was better just to go along with things than to question them. You learn things like that the hard way.

But who was Steve Buchanan? You racked your brain for any mention of the name but nothing was coming to you. You had absolutely no idea who the man this Steve was. Maybe he was the reason that Sam couldn’t see you. Was he a rival? A friend? Family? Hopefully, this visit would be the one where you would get some answers, you prayed that it wasn’t one that would have you ask more questions.

You were quiet when Dean lead you to the elevator, not daring to make a noise when you traveled through the hospital. Mutters, wheels rolling and the scuffling of feet could be heard, a few beeps here and there but other than that it fell on deaf ears.

Six rhythmic taps on the door brought you out of a daydream, your feet working on autopilot as you followed. The door Dean knocked on opened and you immediately stopped playing with a thread in your pocket, your jaw almost falling off of your face.

You felt as if you had been hit in the stomach then slammed to the floor. Unable to do anything. You took a few deep breaths trying to make sense of it all. Taking a step back, you shake your head, you didn’t want for this to be true. You took off, finding the nearest nurse to ask where the toilets were.

“Straight down the hall and to the left, darl.” She responded, you missed the look of concern she had for you on her face. You couldn’t even thank her, the bile in your throat rising. You could barely breathe.

Finding the bathroom, you fell onto your knees in the first stall. Seeing him like that wasn’t what you expected, all the bruises and wires, cuts and tubes. It wasn’t what you wanted to see and all but hoped that you would never see it again. Everything that you ate for breakfast and lunch. When the contents of your stomach had completely emptied, you sat back on your haunches, your temple on the wall just waiting for the wave of dizziness to pass.

You hated that Sam looked so vulnerable, so helpless. And you couldn’t do anything to help him.

Everything from your head to your throat to your stomach was aching.All you could think about was the pain, the pain of what Sam was going through, of what you had just experienced.

A few moments later, you still hadn’t moved from your space until Dean’s voice had sounded through the door. When he didn’t get an answer from you, he carefully came through into ladies bathroom.

“I know it looks bad but it did look worse at the beginning of the week.” Dean joked as he rubbed a hand over your back. A quick chortle followed before it stopped. He must have realised how stupid he sounded, but the fact that he was making jokes did cheer you up a little. Just a little.

“Why didn’t you- anyone tell me sooner?” You sniffled, wiping your tears and your nose on your sleeve.

“Because we know about the baby, sweetheart.” Dean simply said, making your stomach drop. “Sam had someone keep an eye on you, you picked up the pregnancy tests at the pharmacy. And you’re throwing up right now so I think my deductions are correct. You’re pregnant.”

*

“I didn’t think you would change my life the way you did but I don’t think I can do this anymore.” The tears were streaming down your face, you didn’t want this life anymore. You couldn’t bring a child into the world that their father lived in. Not when there was such anger and hatred, blood and violence. It just wasn’t worth it, no matter how much you loved Sam. No matter how much you have come to love Dean and Bobby, too.

This was the hardest decision you would ever have to make but it was probably the most important one too.

“What are you talking about?” Sam scoffed, running a hand through his hair before he reached out to take hold of yours. It took everything inside of you to pull it away but you had no strength to do it; so you let him take it. “You’ve been acting weird ever since I got out of the hospital. You can talk to me. No harm with come to you.”

“You can’t promise that. You couldn’t even protect yourself. How are you supposed to protect us?” You almost snapped, pulling your hand from his to rub over your face, trying to get rid of the ever flowing tears but they just wouldn’t stop. “And I know you know about the baby, so don’t play dumb.”

“You’re keeping it?” He asked incredulously, extremely confused about your decision to keep his and your child.

“You may be a killer but I’m not. I wouldn’t kill this baby. Because that is not who I am.” You rose from your seat and you didn’t hear if he had answered, but you didn’t know that he was too stunned to even think about a response. He knew that you were right about being a killer, he accepted it because that was what he and his family were. But he remembered who the fuck he was. Remembered everything his father taught him, everything his mother taught him, even remembered what Dean had taught him. All the family values he possessed. 

He wouldn’t want this baby to grow up in a world that he had been caught up in. It was his fault that he had continuously pursued you. He should have known that this would have happened but you were just so hard to resist especially after making him work, after making Sam almost beg on his knees.He shouldn’t have done it but he did and now he had to pay for the consequences. If he had a chance to stop it he would. That was exactly what he was going to try and do. 

“Is that what you think you’ll be doing if you abort this baby?” He didn’t even give you time to respond. “You will be saving them from imminent death. A death that we may not be able to stop if people find out about this baby. The others will take their anger, their frustrations out on our baby and there will be no remorse at all because that is what they do. They live and breath the smell of blood because it is what gives them an edge, a sort of power, a blood lust that they haven’t been able to control. Not even when it comes to women and children.

Storming up the stairs, your feet angry and quick, you grabbed your suitcase and filled it with all your belongings. You didn’t take too long, you barely had anything a value. A few days clothes maybe a week. Unframing the only two photos that you had in the house, you carefully dragged your finger over the picture. You and Sam posing in the snow. You don’t know how but you held Sam’s entire weight on your back long enough for Dean to capture the picture. The second was a little more candid. The two of you in the diner and he had cracked a corny joke and it was just an awful one that you had heard way too many than you cared to admit but after a moment of silence you couldn’t help but laugh at his attempt to carry out a successful pick up line.

The thought made you smile, but then you remembered how angry Sam had made you moments ago. The way he had just naturally assumed that you would get rid of the baby. There was no way in hell that you could do that right? Or maybe there was a chance that you could do it, you couldn't bring a child into this world. A world of war and massacre. But women gave birth everyday. Women can also make the decision to get an abortion. Maybe you were just angry with him because he hadn't asked what you were going to do about the baby, how he hadn't even considered talking to you about your options, about what the two of you should do.

When you deemed the suitcase filled with your most valuable belongings, you took a deep breath and glanced around at the room that had become part of your home. You were going to miss this place, miss the memories, miss the people. All good things must come to an end. You just wished that they came to an end to make room for new, better things. This was it. One final look and you were on your way out of here, to wherever the wind took you. It was a new adventure, you kept telling yourself. It was a new adventure and you were going to be fine. Whatever you do, wherever you went, you were going to be okay.

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[vex-bittys]

would it be weird to ask for a 'bad owner' drabble? like in the style of a regular matchup except the prospective owner, while on the surface seeming completely friendly and nice to the lamias and just looking for a loving companion but underneath has bad intentions? something like "i'd like a tough boy who can help me at my job!" and they're actually looking for test subjects (maybe you/the more perceptive lamia notice something shady about them and stop the attempted adoption, or maybe not)

Doing His Best

The Lamia Bittybones Adoption Center connected human and monster adopters of all shapes and sizes with lamia bitty companions that matched their personalities. No two adoptions, and no two days in the shop for that matter, were ever the same. Honey the Pappy puppypapri waited attentively at the front desk on a crisp autumn morning, waiting to see what the new day would bring.

The bell above the door jingled. Honey perked up, ready for his first customer of the day. Vex left him in charge today, and he wanted more than anything to do a good job. The visitor approached the desk, but before Honey could so much as utter a greeting, a feeling of dread swept through him. The person who had entered shop had an aura of darkness surrounding them that chilled Honey to the marrow.

The young puppypapri couldn’t stop himself from shrinking away from the stranger when they stepped in front of the desk. His reaction only made them laugh, a dark and humorless sound.

“Aww, there’s no reason to be scared of me,” said the person kindly, then suddenly their tone changed and they yelled ”BOO!” at him, causing his ears to shoot straight up in the air in fright.

“C’mon, little guy, I’m just playing around,” the person said, slapping Honey on the shoulder.

Honey hated the way the sensation of their unwanted touch lingered on his arm. He wondered if he should call Vex, but she trusted him to take care of the shop, and that meant handling any adoption request that came through the door, even if the person creeped him out. He vowed to show them around, do the very best job he could do, and make Mama Vex proud of him.

Regaining his composure, Honey told the potential adopter to follow him. He led them over to the Mamba nests first, hoping that the confident and cocky lamia bittybones could handle the stranger’s abrasive mannerisms. The puppypapri began his memorized speech about Mamba characteristics and care while the Mambas took up positions for their individual displays, but the visitor interrupted them, jabbing the nearest Mamba in the ribcage with an invasive forefinger.

“Are these ones venomous?” they asked, jabbing the Mamba several more times with the offending finger.

Honey watched the irritation on the Mamba’s features transform into outrage. He grabbed the rude stranger’s hand and pulled them away quickly before the Mamba had a chance to demonstrate just how venomous he was. Good Boys did not let an adopter get bitten by an angry Mamba, no matter how much the situation justified it. Maybe it would be better if he introduced the visitor to a more even-tempered lamia?

Keeping a tight grip on the stranger’s hand lest they decide to try their poking tactic on a grumpy Coral or a King, Honey escorted them to the play pools in the rear of the shop to introduce them to the Kraits. The Kraits never bit anyone. Honey sincerely hoped it would stay that way.

The visitor seemed to be very interested in the Kraits. When the black and white banded lamias crowded around to meet them, they crouched down to get a better view. Honey breathed a sigh of relief which was cut short by the person grabbing a Krait by the tip of his tail and lifting him into the air! Honey snatched the Krait away from them, unable to believe their inappropriate behavior.

“These are the ones with the Void venom right?” the visitor asked, reaching out to pick up another Krait. The usually friendly lamia bittybones scattered. Frowning, the person leaned in and used an outstretched finger to yank at the mouth of the Krait Honey held, exposing the Krait’s fang. The Krait wiggled free and buried his face in Honey’s shirt. Honey had had enough!

“How many of these can I order?” the oblivious jerk asked.

“None!” Honey shouted, setting the terrified Krait down. He planted his little paws and straightened his back, puffing out his chest and facing the stranger, though they towered over him even at his full height. “You can’t have any lamia bittybones!”

The person’s calm demeanor melted away into the crackling tension of barely restrained violence. They stepped forward aggressively, invading Honey’s personal space and attempting to force him backwards, but Honey stood his ground, even when they loomed over him, looking down their nose and sneering: “Yeah, what are you going to do about it, pipsqueak?”

Honey fought off the urge to retreat, to tremble, to hide. Instead, he placed his hands on his hips and matched the stranger glare for glare. “If you don’t leave right now, I’ll… I’ll bite you!” Honey growled, showing off his very small but very sharp teeth.

The stranger snorted derisively. Honey thought he had failed, and he didn’t know what else to do. Would they attack him? Would they kidnap the Kraits? Angry tears welled up in Honey’s sockets; he felt powerless. In a last desperate attempt to protect the denizens of the shop, Honey flailed his little paws in what he hoped was a competent and dangerous manner.

The person suddenly went pale and began to back away, nearly falling into one of the pools before turning and fleeing from the shop entirely. Honey hurried to the door and watched them running down the sidewalk as fast as their legs would carry them. Honey stared down at his paws in silent wonder. He did it! He defended the shop while Mama Vex was away, and his legs were only shaking a little bit!

“And don’t come back,” Honey whispered under his breath. Walking back to the front desk, Honey treated himself to two of his Good Boy candies. He’d sure earned them today!

Unbeknownst to Honey, Vex and Waffle had arrived back at the shop just in time to see the stranger terrorizing Honey and the Kraits. Waffle tried to lunge forward to help Honey, but Vex stopped him. It would damage Honey’s confidence to be rescued. Still, when the person had glanced up over the top of Honey’s head, they’d seen two gleaming crimson eyelights framed by an imposing cobra hood.

Though the bully had no qualms about picking on Honey, they certainly didn’t want to cross a massive lamia like Waffle. As soon as the intruder made their escape, Waffle melted back into the shadows, allowing Honey to claim the victory. Waffle and Vex snuck back out of the shop and circled the block. The person had been unpleasantly surprised to collide with a very disapproving, extremely large full-sized King lamia.

After giving the person a very stern warning to stay away from the adoption center, Vex and Waffle strolled through the rear entrance to the shop, pretending they had just returned. Neither of them mentioned seeing the stranger or Honey’s display of courage. When Vex asked if anything had happened in their absence, Honey smiled to himself, and answered simply:

“Nothing I couldn’t handle.”

More Drabbles | INDEX | Read on AO3

[gegenji]

FFXIV Write 2019 #25: Trust

Written for Prompt Twenty-Five of @sea-wolf-coast-to-coast‘s daily writing challenge for September!

Now this is a word that also fits Chachan super well! I waffled over a couple ideas for it before this one struck me and I set to writing. Somewhere along the way it took a bit of a turn I didn’t expect but... hopefully the result is still enjoyable in its own way.

And hopefully gives Gria a little more depth than “I’m amazing and everyone should love me.”

[All FFXIV Write 2019 Pieces]

===========

Gria Gai couldn’t really believe it but… the Pixie was actually starting to feel a little bit… bad for their Mortal.

Chachanji had been here several suns now. Had hunted an invisible beast in order to make an outfit that would scale with him and show off the fashionable fae’s creations via glamour on the largest stage possible. Had played game after game with the Pixies and the Fuath, had done patronage after patronage for the Nu Mou, and even swung by the Amaro to give them a nice petting now and then. He had even established himself a little temporary home near the village so he can do his nasty smith-work away from everyone else.

There was a key word in that, though: temporary. The home was supposed to be a temporary thing – a place for the Dwarfafell to stay and do his Dwarfafell things – until it was time for him to go back home. That was Chachanji’s understanding of it, at least, and all the fae seemed content to let him believe that. Always pushing off when this nebulous day would be behind promises of “after we’re done playing” or “after a few more patronages.” And each time, he’d smile and nod.

Always trusting them, always doing what they asked of him.

But Gria was starting to notice it now in Chachan’s eyes as the suns passed – perhaps due to the pact they had made back in his forge in that other land, or perhaps just due to having spent so much time with the Lalafell. There was a lurking, building sadness that he seemed to be doing his best to hide. A hint of quiet forlorn-ness and yearning to go back to where he came from. Sometimes it could be detected in his tone, if only barely, when he timidly mustered the courage to asked once again when he could go home.

And each time they told him: once they were done.

Which was a bit of an unfair response; fae were never done. Pixies would always find more games to play, the Fuath would always devise more pranks to pull, and the Nu Mou would always be looking for more of that joy wrought by patronage. He had to have figured this out by this point. Had to know that.

And yet he would just smile and nod, raising no complaint, and Gria could see that sadness grow a little bit deeper.

It was actually starting to frustrate the Pixie a little bit, now that they saw it – couldn’t un-see it every time. Why didn’t Chachanji just put his foot down and say he was done? That he had played and helped enough, and that it was time for him to go home. Plenty of other Mortals that they had trapped here had eventually sought to leave once again – even Urianger! And he had stayed for a long time!

Of course, several of those who sought to leave ended up as leafmen in the process… But still! They tried!

Gria didn’t want him to leave, of course. Chachanji was their Mortal, after all, and should be happy and even grateful about spending time around them. And – to his credit – he did seem to enjoy being able to help the fae out, that he helped them all smile. That he helped keep them safe and happy in his own little way. And that was perhaps part of why it took Gria so long to notice this – even as perfectly perceptive as the Pixie was, and how bad the Dwarfafell was at hiding things.

But that quiet resignation and sadness stabbed at the Pixie’s heart like a cold iron spear every time they noticed it now - and they did notice it. And Gria didn’t like it. Not one bit. Made even more painful since Gria knew their Mortal was trusting them to keep up their promise to get him back home. Believed that they’d get him back home.

And so Gria actually found themselves wondering how they would actually manage to do that. It had taken some pretty intense persuading to get most of the other Pixies to help bring Chachanji here in the first place. Getting them to so willingly send him away again with all the fun he provided (whether he was aware of the games and pranks or not) would be an even harder task. Not to mention they would likely be more keen to just make the Lalafell into the biggest leafman ever instead once they finally got bored of him.

Which, while it was an appealing idea, it also left an oddly dissatisfying taste in Gria’s mouth at the same time.

Their Mortal was special. That was obvious, as Gria themselves had chosen him so that was a given. And so he deserved something more than that, better than that. As befitting one someone so generously bequeathed the distinction of being of Gria’s Mortal.

And besides, while looking for a way for the Lalafell to go back home, they could also figure out an easier way to bring him back again. The King’s Mortal seemed to be able to come and go as they pleased, after all, so there was no reason Gria’s couldn’t! Not to mention the capable Pixie could always visit Chachanji back in his land and see all the exciting stuff there. Stuff that most other fae would never get to see.

So, really, finding a way for Chachanji to return wasn’t that bad at all, now that Gria thought about it a little! Not a problem! And that would certainly cheer their Mortal up a great bit with such a magnanimous gesture.

… They just needed to figure out how to make that happen first.

Hm.

[exploringatlanta]

Holiday Fun in Atlanta

The holiday season has officially kicked off and your Ultimate Atlanta Holiday Guide is HERE! Stay tuned for posts about where to catch Santa, enjoy local holiday shopping and go ice skating around town.

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights - Atlanta Botanical Gardens. 11/16- 1/11/2020 5-10pm. $19+ (non-members). Become a member and get access to the preview night event on 11/14 and also discounts on tickets! The best light display in town, over 1 million lights and 200 show-stopping color changing topiaries transform the garden into a must-do holiday event. New this year is the all-new music and motion for Atlanta’s favorite holiday spectacle, Nature’s Wonders, the largest curtain of synchronized light and sound in the world. Highly recommend buying tix in advance to secure family plans on premium nights/weekends.

Magical Night of Lights - Lake Lanier. 11/22- 1/5/20. $42+ per car. Holiday pricing 12/20-30. Enjoy 7 miles of lights, including the 12 Days of Christmas display! Visit Santa’s Elves at Work, the North Pole Express, Jack & The Beanstalk, scenes from The Wizard of Oz, the Poinsettia Candelabra, the stunning Icicle Tunnel, and the Carousel too. Don’t miss the Holiday Village with winter-themed carnival rides, fire pits, s’mores, specialty winter drinks, and more!

Fantasy in Lights - Callaway Gardens. 11/16-1/5/2020. $21+/$10.50+. Named “Top 10 Places to See Holiday Lights,” as named by National Geographic Traveler, experience an amazing light and sound show! 8 million lights, 15 scenes, Christmas Village with kids activities, Grinch Holiday Dinner Show, Character Breakfast, Story Time with Mrs. Claus, pictures with Santa, shopping, and train rides. Also check out the specialty nights like Fantasy & Fireworks on 12/31. 

Lights of Life - Marietta/Life University. 11/28- 12/31. $5-$10. One of the most affordable and always delightful light displays OTP, check out Life University’s iconic holiday scenes in lights. The 65 foot tall rendition of Santa and his sleigh is the tallest display in the Southeast!

Holiday Shows/Events for Adults:

Invasion: Christmas Carol - Dad’s Garage Theatre. 11/29 - 12/28. $25+. An Atlanta must, this show is the ultimate holiday improv experience. What happens when a new character gets introduced to a classic tale? With new characters added each night - each show is unique and will keep you laughing into 2020!

Miracle on Monroe. 11/29-12/29. The extremely popular holiday themed pop-up bar is back at it’s original midtown location this year. Get there early for your spot immersed in all things Christmas, enjoying yummy sips and eats. The bar’s ‘halls’ are decked to the max and patrons can enjoy themed cocktails in custom Miracle glassware including Santa’s Pants mugs and reindeer Collins glasses.

Merry Funkin’ Christmas - Venkman’s. 12/6 9:30pm. $20+. Join Wren and the Wravens who perform an eclectic blend of retro soul, pop and R&B, to make sure your holiday season is cool and funky.

After Dark Holiday Party - Fernbank Museum.  Friday 12/13 7-11pm. $10+. Enjoy live music, drinks/eats and the Festivi-trees as you explore two floors of decorated trees showcasing celebrations around the globe in the holiday exhibit, Winter Wonderland. And take advantage of after-hours, kid-free access to all indoor exhibits, and the special exhibit, Traveling the Silk Road.

Atlanta Santa Speedo Run - Midtown. 12/14 2pm. $30+. One of the most hilarious ways to raise $ for an amazing local charity. Proceeds benefit Bert’s Big Adventure! “Wear a little, give a lot!”

Winter Edition Atlanta BeltLine Pub Crawl. Sat 12/14 12-4pm. $30+. Bundle up and socialize with drinks at 5 bars along the beltline and yummy eats.

Puddles Pity Party & Friends Holiday Jubilee - Center Stage. 12/29 6:30p. $20+. Atlanta’s own, join the sad clown with the golden voice at this fun holiday themed show to remember!

Family-Friendly Shows/Events:

Stone Mountain Christmas - 11/16 - 1/5/20. $31+. At this holiday themed event, enjoy park attractions including Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, and more! Then, immerse yourself in holiday magic with evenings full of festive music, millions of dazzling lights, spectacular shows, and visits from some of your favorite holiday characters!

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer - Center for Puppetry Arts. 11/13 - 12/30. $15+. One of the hottest tickets in town for families, don’t wait to get yours as they will sell out. This year your ticket includes 3 activities: the performance of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™, a Create-A-Puppet Workshop™ where you can build and perform with your very own Sam the Snowman Rod Puppet, and admission to the Worlds of Puppetry Museum. Discounts for members!

Christmas Canteen - Aurora Theatre. 11/14-12/23. $20+. This original holiday classic show is at the Aurora! Brimming with songs, comic sketches, trips down memory lane and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, it’s the holiday show with something for everyone.

A Christmas Carol - The Alliance Theatre. 11/16 - 12/25. $17.50+. Celebrate the holidays with the beloved Dickens classic in this Broadway-scale production with beautiful live music and an all-star Atlanta cast.

Disney Junior Holiday Party - The Fox Theatre. 11/19 6pm. $25+. Fans can enjoy a greeting with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Santa photo app, DJ hosted holiday games & music, holiday snacks and beverages.

Waffle Palace Christmas - Horizon Theatre. 11/22-12/29. $30+. A fun new holiday show in the heart of Little 5 with heartfelt southern humor scattered, smothered and covered in a spicy holiday sauce. The charming characters from the sell-out Waffle Palace show are back for a second holiday helping; full of fun, laughter and Christmas cheer.

Holiday Events - Georgia Aquarium. 11/23 - 12/31. Annual lighting of the tree (two dates) include hot chocolate and holiday treats, holiday carols, and a penguin waddle. Also set your date for breakfast with Santa and more. Celebrate the holidays at the worlds largest aquarium!

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas - The Fox Theatre. 11/24 2pm/7:30pm. $45+. This neoclassical new-age music group blends classical music with elements of new age and rock for a modern and exciting rendition of traditional Christmas music.

This Wonderful Life - Aurora Theatre. 11/29 - 12/23. $20. Innovative one-man show, this hilariously touching stage adaptation of one of the most popular and heartwarming films ever made will star Atlanta’s own Jeremy Aggers.

Old Fashioned Christmas - Historic Dahlonega. 11/29 - 12/31. This #FREE event features the picturesque town lighted up for the holidays, shopping and eating. Sleigh rides, musicals, annual tree lighting party, Santa and more! 

Cirque Dreams Holidaze - The Fox Theatre. 11/30-12/1. $50+. With 3 unforgettable performances, this critically-acclaimed extravaganza is both a Broadway musical and new Cirque adventure wrapped into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family.

Vinings Jubilee Tree Lighting - 12/5 6pm-8pm. FREE! Gather the whole family together to be merry and bright with live holiday music, cookie + ornament decorating, train rides, pictures with Santa, and more!

The Nightmare Before Christmas - Center for Puppetry Arts. Friday 12/6 & Sat 12/7 8pm Free movie screening for members/museum admission for non-members. Spooktacular stop-motion movie to get you into the holiday spirit!

A Christmas Carol - Aurora Theatre. 12/6 - 12/22. $30+. Anthony Rodriguez will guide audiences through the traditional tale of Mr. Scrooge and the troop of Dickens’ characters in a one-man presentation of A Christmas Carol with a twist in this limited, four-week engagement.

Madeline’s Christmas - Horizon Theatre. 12/7- 12/31. $12-$15. The little girl from Paris embarks on a holiday adventure! Family-friendly holiday favorite.

The Nutcracker by The Atlanta Ballet - The Fox Theatre. 12/7 -12/24. $40+. Classic holiday ballet that is a must-see every season! Stunning performance by Atlanta’s best dancers. Runs 2 hours with a 25 minute intermission.

Candlelight Nights at the Atlanta History Center. 12/13 & 12/20. $20+. Candlelight tour of 3 historic houses, visit Santa, shop a holiday market with local crafted items, food/drinks, and more! Great event to learn more about Atlanta and holiday traditions.

Victorian Holiday - Oakland Cemetery. Sat 12/14 10am-4pm. FREE to attend, Tour of Eternal Homes ($16). Shop the holiday market, purchase wreaths, visit with Santa, and more.

Yacht Rock Revue Holiday Spectacular - Coca-Cola Roxy. Sat 12/21 7pm. $35+. Rock the season with this amazing performance at the new Battery by Atlanta’s kings of smooth. Rock around the Christmas Tree at this awesome annual concert!  

The Elf on the Shelf Musical - Cobb Energy Center. 12/23 12pm/5pm. $33+. The beloved holiday tradition that continues to capture the hearts of children and their families everywhere, comes to the live stage for the first time ever! 

[her-culture]

Where to Go in London and Why You Should Travel There Now

I am studying abroad in London this summer, and, while I am taking courses to fulfill my journalism major, I also have the great opportunity to explore the city and get accumulated with the place I’m calling home for the season.

London is a safe city. It is the United Kingdom’s capital as well as the most famous city, with over 8 million inhabitants. With all of these daunting stats, it still has a low risk safety index, according to Geo Blue.

I have scoped out the city with my roommates and friends in the program, and we have some great recommendations for your next travels.

Food

Queen’s Head - Located in Piccadilly Circus (the Times Square of London), Queen’s Head is a local pub that offers a great variety of traditionally British foods. I loved the fish and chips here, as even the mushy peas had flavor and texture. It’s a great place to just hang out with friends and grab a bite.

Little India - According to TripAdvisor, this is the best place in London for Indian food, and the country is known for this cuisine. Mr. Kay (who is famous on TripAdvisor) was our waiter, and he recommended different dishes based on spiciness preferences. It was so delicious.

Ceru - This tapas restaurant is really chill and modern style. Try a diversity of dishes with your friends. The food is great, and the ambiance is quaint but fancy. It’s a nice place for a quick bite but also for an intimate meal.

Waterstones - This place is super cute. It’s part cafe and part bookstore. Do your homework here, grab a coffee, and chill within the shelves of books. I felt like home at this place, and it’s right by my internship in London so I will definitely be returning often.

Duck and Waffle - This restaurant is a bit on the pricey side, but the view over the heart of the city is to die for. The dishes are traditional British with a twist. You can also share the plates here.

Muriel’s Kitchen - This is great for brunches! It’s a lively British bistro, offering a bit more pricey dishes, but they have it all--healthy, hearty, and delicious. Everything looks great. Try out the pancakes or banana bread. The ingredients are all locally sourced. 

Going Out

Ballie Ballerson - Bring out your inner kid again with this awesome bar and ball pit place. You reserve tickets for two hour slots that includes all access to food and drinks. It’s so much fun and right in Shoreditch so after you can head over to some great food places or if you want more partying there’s plenty of choices.

Box Park - This is a great place in Shoreditch. It offers both food and drinks, and there’s a lot of variety. It’s an outdoor place but there are covered areas so you won’t be cold at night. Shoreditch is better known for people in their 20s, as it’s full of art and graffiti, so you won’t feel out of place.

The Slug - This is more for students that go to Imperial College or are part of the Boston University programs. The music is a lot of throwbacks. There are a lot of really young people here, as the ambiance is more student-centric.

The Roxy - If The Slug has throwbacks, The Roxy has even more. Save your money and go before 10 for free and then at 10 on a Thursday it’s half priced pitchers. It gets crowded within the hour and is a lot of fun.

White Ferry Victoria - Pub quizzes are a big thing in London. They’re practically offered every day somewhere. White Ferry Victoria is fun, even though most teams are a bit older. They offer housemade pizzas too, which are delicious, and the trivia is fun even if you’re guessing. The money to enter (£1 a person) goes to charity.

Exploring

Borough Market - This is one of the largest and oldest markets in London. Today, the market mostly sells specialty items and foods to the public. There are also often events there, like the annual pizza tasting festival.

All of the museums - You can enter museums in London for free. It’s pretty awesome. There are certain exhibits you may need to pay for, but if it’s a subject you’re interested in, it’s worth it. I highly recommend the Design Museum. I loved seeing all the graphic designs. The Science Museum is interesting as well as the Tate and the British Museum.

Abbey Road - You have to live like the Beatles for at least a minute while you’re in London. Dress up! Be Paul, George, Ringo, or John. Have fun and laugh at the other tourists too.

Soho - This is a really cool area. As soon as you’re out of the tube stop, you walk across a bridge and enter the area near the London Eye. There’s a big fair in the summer that is ongoing and has performances that vary each day. There’s some great places to also eat around here. It’s right by the Thames so it’s a nice walk too.

Hyde Park - It’s such a pretty park! You could run around it or just go for a stroll with friends. Take a book or work even and just sit and enjoy the place. There’s also a paddling pool if you’d like to take a quick swim.

Kensington Palace - Go back into the past and learn about the monarchy and its long-lasting impact on British life. The current exhibits are on Queen Victoria, Diana’s outfit designs, and the King’s State Apartments.

As amazing as London is and all the great opportunity it offers, I would also recommend traveling outside the city to the outskirts like Brighton as well as out of the country to places like Edinburgh and Paris.

Safe travels!

[siodium]

hEYYY GUYS I’M BACK IN SG my waking hours have been garbage tier for the past two days but i don’t think it’s jet lag?? probably exhaustion since i was busy throughout the two weeks and didn’t get much rest

i’m still in the middle of editing pics so pls enjoy some market aesthetics and a kinda long post about my last day in netherlands while it’s still fresh in my head

25 / 5 / 2019

i woke up really early in the morning to finish packing bc the bus was picking us up at 10 am and my tired ass didn’t want to pack the night before

since there were around 9 hours to spare until my flight (at 9 pm lol), my friend and i planned to visit the albert cuyp market in amsterdam!! it’s the largest and most popular daily market in netherlands i think

ended up taking two other course mates along bc i guess they didn’t have anything else planned and waiting around in the airport for 9 hours+ wasn’t really the best idea

we were lucky that it didn’t rain even though the sky was particularly dark

there was so much food!!! and a lot of souvenir shops but they didn’t sell anything particularly appealing and part of me wanted to save up in case i spot some stroopwafel magnets or something

i didn’t but honestly they should make some

had slight regrets of getting lunch at albert (it’s a supermarket btw) bc i was too full to try all the food at the market but...... maybe it was better for my wallet that way

in the end i settled for some delicious BATTERED FISH CHUNKS (3.65€) and PISTACHIO ICE-CREAM (1.50€) mmmm i was super deprived of fish during my entire trip so that was good!! and also i really wanted to have the ice-cream-in-a-cold-land experience

my friend got FRIES WITH SATAY SAUCE from one of the stalls so i tried some!! the fries themselves were good but the satay sauce basically tasted like peanut butter which was...... weird in a not good way

then i realised that i don’t even eat satay with the sauce so idk how the sauce is supposed to taste like lol

we found a nice chocolate shop and they had really pretty-looking chocolate bars but!!! i’m afraid they’ll melt by the time i get back to sg so i didn’t buy any

i really wanted to get these for some ppl tho ahaha

oh and there was a guy...... who looked like ash......... i couldn’t help but take a photo... yeah maximum creepy i know

like all the touristy destinations there were more stroopwafel stalls and so i succumbed to my Tin Desires and bought another tin of stroopwafels

IT WAS CHEAPER AND HAD A NICER DESIGN THAN THE ONE I GOT AT THE WEDNESDAY MARKET!! i should’ve waited dammit

i can already hear my dad’s disapproving remarks bc i’m basically paying an extra 2 to 3 euros for a tin... that would eventually rust lmao

why do i need so many tins anyway?? nobody knows but i must have them

this is gonna sound mildly disgusting but every time we were near a fruit stall my jacket would be covered in flies

there were two possible reasons for that: (1) my jacket is filthy from being worn too often and/or (2) the yellow colour makes me look like a mango or something

idk i’m inclined to believe it was the latter since my pants were spared and i’ve worn the same pants for almost two weeks

shout out to my friends who were constantly removing flies from my back where i could not see (☞ﾟヮﾟ)☞

the stalls were starting to pack up at around 4–5 pm so we took it as our cue to return to the airport

had dinner at leon but ummm would not recommend their fish wrap bc they were so dry...... i feel like all (i.e. two) of our meals at the airport have been disappointing ://// especially at the price we’re paying for?? if you gotta eat at schiphol airport i’d probably suggest the burger king... sounds like the safest option imo

(WHERE’S THE SAUCE)

after dinner there wasn’t much time left until our flight so we just did some last minute shopping at albert

some flight things:

the food on my return trip wasn’t as good... i think it was a really bad idea for them to give me beans ;; my stomach hurt so bad during the first few hours

HEY HEY HEY I SAW THE AIR STEWARDESS GIVE OUT ICE-CREAM BUT THEY DIDN’T GIVE ONE TO ME whYYY

and they didn’t serve me bread or drinks the whole trip... i mean i knew why but still......

watched cafe funiculi funicula on the plane and it was surprisingly good??? it’s got a death parade vibe... much feels wow if you do end up watching the movie you can guess which part/case turned on the waterworks hahah

later i picked johnny english reborn (i.e. the second season bc i watched the first one on my departing flight) to recover from the feels but i couldn’t finish the movie so no spoilers pls

plane landed in sg at around 4 pm on sunday!!

dad wanted me to get dom for my relatives aND I ALMOST BOUGHT A $200 DOM PERIGNON (bc that was the only ‘dom’ i know from watching that one gintama episode) WHEN HE WANTED A $50 D.O.M

the thing that saved his wallet was my inexperience bc i tried to purchase at the departure hall instead of the arrival hall so the salesperson stopped me hahah

i also took the opportunity to visit the pokecen in hopes of finding a gengar but there wasn’t any

got myself a pyukumuku carabiner instead with the only S$10 that i brought with me overseas!! i remember wanting one a while back for some reason

aaa it’s been a long two weeks but i will miss the netherlands

surprisingly i didn’t actually miss home that much even though it was my first time being away from home for so long??

not sure if it was bc i was too busy to think of home or a conscious decision i made so that i could appreciate the most of my trip

well apart from the fact that i was quite salty about how my phone kept acting up every time i tried to take photos and i didn’t bring my camera so i lost a lot of photo opportunities wehh

anyway pls stay tuned to my back logs~