#we added secret limes

[huewrite]

Vote please?

I got this fan art. This fan art reminded me that it is still possible the story might make it to top 25. I really want it to make it there.

If you haven't already? Please consider voting for the Reincarnated Shapeshifter's Godly Feast, found on Tapas. I think it's a really great novel and there are real life recipes in there.

Thank you!

[littlesistersti]

[vanteguccir]

── ୨୧ !　DRESS TO IMPRESS IN REAL LIFE

matt sturniolo x reader

SUMMARY: Where Y/N, Matt's secret girlfriend, participates in the 'Dress to Impress in real life' video.

WARNING: None.

REQUESTED?: Yes, by an anon.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: That is my work, I DON'T authorize any plagiarism, copy, or "inspiration"! | English isn't my first language, so I'm sorry if there's any grammar error.

A/N²: I added and changed some dialogs that didn't happen on the video, so the fic ended being more complete.

　　　༻✦༺ 　༻✧༺　༻✦༺

The triplets were buzzing with energy, their house a hive of activity as they set up for their newest video; Dress to Impress, real-life edition. Each round had its own theme, and the first one was Summer Vacation. Y/N had been roped into joining as a surprise guest, and secretly, Matt couldn't have been more thrilled.

The boys had already pulled out all the stops with their outfits. Chris sported a chaotic ensemble: a bucket hat with panels of clashing colors, lime green slides, and denim cargo shorts.

Matt was rocking a relaxed, dad-on-vacation vibe, complete with an oversized straw hat, patterned swim trunks, and a shirt that screamed, 'I don’t care, I’m on island time'.

Nick had gone full beach prep with a striped tank top, sunglasses that were almost too tiny for his face, and a retro cooler box tucked under his arm like an accessory.

As the camera rolled, Y/N was still getting ready in Matt’s bathroom, leaving the boy's to discuss who went better between the three of them.

"Alright." Chris said, pointing a finger at Nick’s cooler. "I’m just saying, if you don’t actually have anything in there, that’s a waste of a prop."

"It’s called committing to the bit, Chris." Nick shot back, adjusting the towel draped over his shoulder. "The cooler is the vibe."

Matt, who was adjusting his sunglasses, glanced toward the bathroom door, his face lighting up as if he could sense Y/N’s presence through the walls.

"Y/N better bring it. I know she’s got something amazing up her sleeve."

Nick rolled his eyes, looking at Matt with a boring expression.

"Why do I feel like you’re already planning to give her every win, no matter what she’s wearing?"

"Because I am." Matt replied bluntly, grinning like the lovesick puppy he was.

The door finally creaked open, and all three boys turned as Y/N emerged. She had nailed the summer vacation aesthetic, wearing a flowy, tropical-patterned sundress, bikini top below it, oversized black Prada sunglasses perched on her nose, and sandals that matched her outfit perfectly. She’d even added a straw beach bag for good measure.

"Okay, Y/N, I see you!" Chris exclaimed, clapping his hands together.

Y/N laughed, grinning widely before twirling to show off her look.

"Alright, that’s tough competition. You actually look like you're ready to spend the day at your beach house." Nick gave a low whistle, his blue eyes traveling from her face to her feet and back again. "But I'd say you're in fourth place. You're ready for the beach, not for any summer vacation."

"Fair." Y/N shrugged, take a quick peak at her outfit again before looking at Matt. "What do you think?"

Matt's eyes seemed to be shining like the whole cadence of stars, wandering through every detail of her choice of clothes.

"Are you kidding? That’s... that’s so good. You look like you stepped out of a summer vacation catalog or something." His voice sounded slightly high-pitched with excitement. "Nick's just jealous."

"What? No, I'm not!"

Chris rolled his eyes, already sensing where this was going.

"Oh, here we go."

"Like, if I saw you on the beach." Matt continued, ignoring his brothers entirely. "I’d probably just pass out. That’s how good you look."

"Okay, Matt." Nick said, holding up a hand. "We get it. Obsessive fucker."

The room filled with laughter, Y/N shaking her head but unable to hide the grin spreading across her face, her cheeks heating up.

"Right, first round? I'm second." Matt declared, gesturing toward himself. "Obviously, Y/N was first because, you know, she's Y/N." He gave her a little smile. "Then Nick was third, and Chris was fourth. That’s the average."

"Yeah, unfortunately." Nick muttered, throwing his hands up.

"Well." Chris turned dramatically to the camera and pointed. "They can vote."

Nick, not missing a beat, leaned closer to the camera, his voice dripping with mock confidence.

"Oh, I already know they’re gonna vote for me. Mine’s obviously the best. Unless..." He paused for dramatic effect, raising an eyebrow. "These girls wanna sleep with Matt and vote for him."

"What?!" Matt’s eyes widened in pure shock as he whipped his head toward the camera, looking utterly scandalized.

Y/N’s eyes flicked between Nick and Matt, her lips tightening slightly trying to suppress a laugh. It was impossible not to be amused by Nick’s antics.

She knew Nick wasn’t wrong, Matt’s popularity with their audience also had to do with his charm and, let’s face it, how good he looked on camera. There probably were plenty of girls who’d vote for Matt purely because of his looks, even if one of the other boys dressed better.

Nick continued without missing a beat.

"It’s the straight man advantage! You guys..." He gestured wildly at the camera. "Are gonna discriminate against me because I’m gay, and I don't like 'yall back."

At that, Y/N couldn’t help but burst into laughter, shaking her head.

Matt, still recovering from Nick’s bold accusation, raised a hand defensively.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold on a second." He looked straight into the camera with that intense, sincere gaze that Y/N loved. "Just for the record, I’m completely off-limits. Completely."

The way he said it, firm and definitive, sent a wave of confidence through Y/N. Her lips twitched into a small smile as she crossed her arms, clearing her throat to contain her reactions, trying to play it cool.

Nick, however, wasn’t done.

"Oh, yeah? You really think they care about that?" He teased, smirking as Matt shook his head in disbelief.

Chris rolled his eyes, still laughing.

"Nick, stop trying to guilt-trip them into voting for you."

"I'm not doing anything." Nick replied with a wink, sending the group into another fit of laughter.

"Now, bring the runway on, boys!"

The camera cut to Chris, who had appointed himself the first to strut down their makeshift runway that started from the stairs.

He walked in quick steps before stopping in the center of their camera lens, dramatically fanning himself with an imaginary hand fan.

"Where did you even get the idea of the imaginary fan?" Y/N teased, laughing with the others.

"Shh, it’s part of the vibe." Chris replied, flipping his bucket hat backward with flair. He strolled toward the camera with exaggerated confidence, striking a series of ridiculous poses. "Yeah, you’re welcome." He said as he walked off-camera, leaving the other three in stitches.

Nick went next, cooler in hand.

"Get ready to witness greatness." He said, lifting the retro cooler above his head like it was the Holy Grail, showing it off.

"You go, queen!" Y/N cheered, nodding her head while watching him.

Nick smiled brightly, placing it down carefully and reached for the towel draped over his shoulder, unfolding it with slow, deliberate movements. Too slow.

"This is taking forever." Matt groaned, crossing his arms.

"Nick, it’s been 30 seconds. Just lay the towel down!" Chris yelled.

Nick ignored them, carefully smoothing out the towel on the floor, his face the picture of focus. Once he was satisfied, he walked down the "runway", throwing some expressions to the camera before almost gluing his face to the lens, taking his glasses off.

"Iconic." Y/N said between laughs.

"Thank you, thank you." Nick replied, bowing before dramatically kicking the towel aside as if to signal the end of his performance, his right hand fanning himself as the last act.

Matt was up next.

"Alright, let me show you how it’s done." He said confidently. Grabbing his sunscreen, he opened the cap and squeezed a dollop onto his fingers, dabbing it on his cheeks like football player stripes.

"Well, you gotta stay protected, I guess." Y/N muttered, smiling with how Chris was rooting like crazy.

Laughter escaped her lips as Matt sauntered toward the camera, showing off the sunscreen like it was a designer handbag. He struck a confident pose, holding the product up, before walking back off the camera with an over-the-top smile.

Finally, it was Y/N’s turn.

"Your move, Y/N." Nick said, gesturing grandly toward the imaginary runway.

"Alright, alright, give me a second." She said, thinking fast.

She reached into her straw bag, pulling out the pair of oversized sunglasses that she had thrown there at some point, dramatically placing it on her face. Then, grabbing a small beach towel she had tucked inside the bag, she draped it over one arm like a sash.

"What’s happening here?" Matt asked, intrigued.

Y/N strolled onto the "runway" with slow, exaggerated movements like a madame arriving at a five-star resort. Halfway down, she pretended to feel the heat, pulling an actual bottle of water from her bag and taking a sip before fanning herself with her hand.

"It has to have the fan move!" Nick applauded, grinning to the scene before being interrupted by Chris’s comment.

"Of course, I created it."

At the end of the runway, Y/N stopped, tossed her sunglasses off dramatically at the ground, and struck a ridiculous pose with one hand on her hip and the other shielding her eyes as if she was shielding her face from the sun.

"That was solid!" Chris exclaimed, clapping.

Matt, meanwhile, was in awe, hands on his head.

"Are you kidding? That was really good. A thousand points. Game over. Y/N wins. Everyone go home."

Nick scoffed.

"Matt, stop simping for two seconds so we can keep this contest going."

"I’m not simping." Matt argued, clearly lying. "I'm just stating facts."

"Shut up, Matt."

　　　　　༻﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡༺

For the Mix-Matched Madness theme, the camera panned to the boys standing in a line, proudly displaying their chaotic ensembles.

Chris was clad in a bright red varsity jacket over a striped shirt, camo pink shorts, and mismatched knee-high socks with chunky boots.

Matt decided for plaid shorts layered over one plaid pant leg, a pastel blue and yellow sweater vest, and a floppy dog-ear cap.

Nick went to a plaid jacket layered over a striped shirt with a perfectly coordinated tie, and matching sweatpants and sneakers.

"Guys, I’m clearly superior." Nick started, raising his eyebrows as he adjusted his glasses. "My outfit is actually intentional, look at this synergy! It screams fashion-forward."

Matt groaned, rolling his eyes and looking at Chris with a 'is he serious?' expression.

"Nick, you’re wearing matchy-matchy plaid in a mix-matched challenge. You’ve missed the assignment!"

"It’s ironic." Nick shot back, crossing his arms. "I’m doing intentional matching. If I were in a real runway right now, people would actually like my outfit."

Chris scratched his head, looking between them.

"Isn’t that kind of cheating, though?"

Before the debate could escalate further, Y/N stepped into the frame, causing all three boys to give her their attention.

Her outfit was next level: a bright purple sequined crop top paired with one lime green legging on her right leg and a fluffy, neon orange sock on the other. She wore a skirt made of layered, clashing floral patterns that didn’t quite match the fuzzy checkered cardigan she threw on top. To finish it off, her accessories included a leopard-print beanie - the one she stole from Matt's closet -, oversized sunglasses, and two entirely different shoes, a silver stiletto on one foot and a Croc on the other.

The boys gawked.

"Okay, now that’s mix-matched madness." Chris said, pointing at her.

"Girl, you look like you fell into a thrift store... and it worked." Nick added, looking both impressed and slightly annoyed.

"How can you still look so good while wearing... that?" Matt asked, pointing at her outfit with his hand while shaking his head in disbelief.

Y/N twirled dramatically, holding out her skirt as she grinned at the camera.

"Thank you, boys. I like to call this 'chaos with confidence'." She invented the random name, throwing a quick kiss to the lens.

Chris threw his hands up.

"Alright, I’m officially placing second now."

Nick groaned, shaking his head dramatically.

"No way. She’s great, but I’m still winning. Look at this tie!"

Matt laughed.

"Nick, your tie doesn’t save you from breaking the theme. You’re disqualified."

The scene cut to the "runway", where each of them showcased their chaotic outfits with an equally chaotic performance.

First up was Nick. He confidently strutted forward, reaching for the end of his tie. With exaggerated flair, he lifted it as if someone were pulling him forward, his face a picture of mock shock and drama, stumbling forward.

"Ey, keep going!" Chris hollered, nodding enthusiastically.

The moment he reached the end of the runway, he grinned mischievously, running his hand dramatically through his hair and tossing a sultry look at the camera before taking off his pink glasses.

"Work it, Nick!" Y/N chimed in, her laughter mixing with the chaos.

Nick turned on his heel with a laugh, sauntering back to the start and throwing a praying gesture, ignoring how Matt laughed, mockingly imitating his act.

Next, Matt stepped up, adjusting his floppy dog-ear cap before suddenly spinning it backward.

"Showtime." He muttered under his breath, earning immediate chuckles from the others. He walked to the camera with a cocky stride, crossing his arms and bending slightly to the side.

For the final move, he pivoted and moonwalked his way back to the start, nearly slipping on his mismatched shoes but recovering with a grin.

"Did you see that? Effortless." Matt declared, earning boos and laughs from the rest.

"You almost ate it, Matt." Y/N teased, shaking her head.

Chris stepped up next. And, of course, he brought drama.

"Hold my jacket." He said, then immediately shook his head. "Actually, no. The floor will."

With exaggerated aggression, he ripped off one of his red lobster gloves, throwing it to the ground with flair. The glove was followed by his belt, which he unbuckled and tossed with equal energy.

"Oh my God." Y/N looked at the camera with wide eyes.

"What is happening?" Nick cackled, practically doubling over, slapping Y/N's arm.

Chris wasn’t done. He walked up to the camera with an intense expression, holding his hands out and touching the screen, acting as if zooming in.

"Enhance." He said, squinting into the lens. Then, as if the camera wasn’t worthy, he spun dramatically on his heel, walked back, and threw off his varsity jacket mid-stride before striking one final pose.

"Now that’s how you do it." Y/N joked, looking at the camera. "Like and subscribe if you want Chris to make a strip tea-"

"Y/N!"

For Y/N's turn, she adjusted her oversized leopard beanie with a dramatic flair and tilted her sunglasses low on her nose, revealing a dead-serious expression underneath. She strutted forward slowly, dragging her stiletto along the ground for added effect. When she reached the camera, she whipped her head to the side, making her orange fluffy sock the star of the moment.

But it didn’t end there. Y/N suddenly crouched down into a deep squat, raising one hand in the air and striking a pose like she was ready to pounce. The boys immediately broke into cheers and laughter.

"Yes, queen!" Nick shouted, jumping in the place and clapping, laughing loudly.

"She nailed it." Matt said with a proud grin, nodding his head.

Y/N slowly stood, turning to the side as if the camera had disappeared, and walked off like nothing had happened.

"Thank you." She said nonchalantly, tossing her hair over her shoulder as the others applauded.

"Alright, I officially retire." Nick said, throwing his arms to the air in a surrender gesture.

"Same." Chris picked up his lobster glove from the floor, grinning.

Matt sighed, smiling at Y/N's figure.

"She’s unbeatable. Let’s not do these challenges anymore if she’s in them."

　　　　　༻﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡༺

The scene cut to the next category: Rock Concert. The boys had gathered in front of the camera, each flaunting their edgy outfits.

Chris leaned casually against the wall, dressed in all black with his bandana tied around his head. His sunglasses were perfectly placed, and a Bluetooth speaker hung over his shoulder like a statement piece.

"Clearly, I’m the embodiment of rock concert aesthetic." He said confidently, adjusting his speaker strap.

Nick crossed his arms, giving Chris a side-eye. He was sporting his long-sleeved shirt adorned with skulls and intricate spiderweb patterns paired with black cargo pants and chunky boots.

"Please." Nick retorted. "I’ve got literal death on my shirt. That’s as metal as it gets."

Matt, standing in the middle, smirked. He wore a black leather jacket over a white shirt, complete with a silver skull belt buckle and leather pants that practically screamed rockstar.

"Yeah, but have you seen my belt?" He argued, lifting his white shirt slightly to show it off. "This is peak rock concert material. I even coordinated it with my jacket."

"Okay, but who do you think the crowd would look at first?" Chris challenged. "The guy with the bandana, all black, and sunglasses? Obviously me. The speaker only makes it better."

Nick rolled his eyes.

"You look like you’re trying to be a cool dad sneaking into a concert." He teased.

"Alright, alright." Y/N interrupted from off-screen, stepping into the camera frame and effectively stealing the show.

Y/N’s outfit was on another level. She wore a black 'Bon Jovi' cropped top with silver detailing that matched the chains on her leather mini skirt. Fishnet tights peeked out from under the skirt, leading down to a pair of knee-high combat boots that added an extra edge to the look. To top it off, she wore a cropped leather jacket with studs on the shoulders and accessorized with chunky silver jewelry and a black choker.

The boys fell silent for a second, staring.

Y/N smiled brightly at them before turning to the camera, raising her right arm and making the 'rock and roll' gesture by raising her pinky and index fingers and lowering the others.

"'Cause we all just wanna be big rockstars and live in hilltop houses driving 15 cars..."

"Girl, what the fuck?" Nick widened his eyes, looking from Y/N to the camera with a look that screamed 'are you guys seeing this?'

Matt laughed loudly, recognizing the song from one of the TikTok trends that Y/N had been obsessing over the past few weeks, being quick in imitating her position, and starting singing with her.

"... the girls come easy and the drugs come cheap, we'll all stay skinny 'cause we just won't eat-"

"Okay, that's enough of that." Chris interrupted the pair, gesturing to them while shaking his head in disbelief. "So, Y/N wins."

Nick groaned dramatically.

"Let's take her out right now. I don't wanna play with her anymore."

Matt couldn’t stop smiling.

"Can we just talk about how she’s nailing this? Like, can we get her to join the band we don’t have?"

Y/N laughed, giving a mock bow.

"Thank you, thank you. Now, let's just be clear, I already won." Y/N said with a sly grin, stepping forward. "You'll all lose time if you keep discussing who's the best between you three."

"How can you be so sure?" Chris crossed his arms, carrying a superior instance.

"Because I actually listen to rock." She said, shrugging like it was obvious. "AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Kansas, Asia... should I keep going?"

Nick groaned.

"Okay, that’s true, but it doesn’t count!"

"Doesn’t count?" Y/N repeated, feigning offense. "I think you’ll find that the fact I actually know rock makes me the winner by default." She turned to Chris. "Tell me. Have 'yall even listened to ‘Highway to Hell’ all the way through?"

Chris hesitated, playing with his earphones.

"Uh... I mean." He looked at Nick. "Probably?"

Y/N laughed, shaking her head.

"Thought so." She crossed her arms. "So, I don’t need a skull belt, all-black everything, or death on my chest. I’ve got the actual music taste. Rock is in my veins, boys."

Nick groaned dramatically, throwing his head back.

"She wins. I hate it, but she wins."

"Alright, fine." Chris muttered. "But we still look better."

"Not a chance." Y/N teased, spinning in place again and winking at the camera. "This outfit screams rock goddess."

　　　　　༻﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡༺

The boys were now proudly sporting their "Zoom Meeting" outfits. Chris held up his MacBook, Matt adjusted his glasses with a goofy smile, and Nick tugged at his black tie, looking down at his bright heart-shaped boxer shorts with fake professionalism.

"Alright." Chris started, addressing the imaginary Zoom meeting in front of him. "Gentlemen, let’s get to business. As you can see, we’re all clearly dressed to impress."

"Except for Nick." Matt teased, nodding toward his brother's boxer shorts. "The hearts? A little too much, don’t you think?"

Nick scoffed, feigning offense.

"Excuse me, at least I have this tie that says I’m both professional and emotionally available. A winning combo."

Matt rolled his eyes and gestured to his own look.

"Meanwhile, I’ve got balance. Business on top, relaxation on the bottom."

"That’s literally the whole theme." Chris pointed out with a smirk. "You’re not special, Matt."

Y/N watched from her spot leaning against Matt's bathroom door, her legs crossed as she sipped from her mug of coffee that she made while waiting for them to get ready. She was dressed comfortably yet stylishly, rocking an oversized beige knit sweater that draped perfectly off one shoulder, paired with black leggings and fluffy white socks. Her hair was tied up in a loose bun, with a few strands framing her face. Despite the boys' chaotic energy, she was nailing the whole "effortlessly cool" vibe.

"Y/N, you’re way too cozy for a Zoom meeting." Chris said, pointing at her as he adjusted his loose white shirt.

"Well." Y/N said with a playful grin. "Unlike you guys, I know how to mix comfy with class. You all just look ridiculous."

Nick gasped, dramatically clutching the box in his hands.

"Ridiculous? Ridiculous?! Look at this tie! I’m the epitome of professionalism!"

Chris leaned toward Y/N, pointing at Matt.

"What about him? He’s literally in boxer shorts."

Y/N rolled her eyes, sipping from her mug to hide her smile.

"You're all wearing it, dumbass." Her eyes lingered on Matt's red boxer shorts for a moment too long. "It’s really interesting that someone would think boxer shorts are appropriate for a Zoom meeting, actually."

Matt smirked, striking a random pose.

"Are you jealous?"

"No?" She said quickly, shaking her head. "I mean, it’s not like anyone else on the Zoom would see them, right?"

The other two brothers caught on instantly, grinning like Cheshire cats.

"Y/N." Nick teased. "Are you saying you wouldn’t let your Zoom co-workers see your boxers?"

"Nick!" She exclaimed, throwing an exasperated look at him. "That’s not the point!"

Chris chimed in, laughing.

"Yeah, Matt. She’s definitely jealous. She wishes she could wear boxers to a meeting."

"I do not!" Y/N huffed, crossing her arms, though a smile tugged at her lips. "I just... don’t understand why he’d even bother wearing the shirt if he’s just going to go full casual anyway."

"It’s called commitment to the aesthetic." Matt said, walking over to her and placing a hand on her shoulder, discretely squeezing the exposed skin. "Something you clearly wouldn’t understand."

"Oh, I understand commitment." Y/N shot back with a smirk, meeting his eyes momentarily. "But let’s be honest, none of you are winning any awards for those outfits."

"Excuse me?" Nick said, pretending to be outraged. "I’m clearly the winner here."

"Winner?" Chris scoffed. "You’re wearing socks pulled up to your knees, bro. That’s not even close to a win."

Y/N chuckled as she watched them descend into a full argument over who had the best Zoom look, but she couldn’t stop her gaze from flickering back to Matt’s outfit. Something about the casual confidence he exuded - boxers and glasses - had her feeling just a little possessive and turned on.

"Alright." She announced, clapping her hands to get their attention. "If you’re all done arguing, let’s see who can really sell their look with a runway walk."

The boys' faces lit up, and they quickly got into character.

Nick was up first, confidently sliding across the wooden floor in his socks, arms spread wide like a figure skater. As he came to a stop, he reached for his boxer shorts and dramatically lowered them until they hit the ground, shouting a little "Oh!".

Matt immediately yelped.

"Nick!" He yelled before lunging forward to cover Y/N's eyes with both hands.

"Matt! What are you doing?!" Y/N laughed, trying to swat his hands away while Chris doubled over in hysterics.

"Protecting your innocence!" Matt declared, keeping his hands firmly over her face.

Nick, unfazed, quickly pulled his boxers back up and began walking toward the camera with exaggerated confidence, tugging at his tie and making ridiculous faces as though he were a real model.

"You’re unbelievable!" Chris murmured through his laughter, wiping a tear from his eye.

"Well, we've got 2 strippers now-"

"Y/N!"

Nick turned dramatically to face her and winked.

"You’re welcome for the show."

Next, it was Matt’s turn. He walked to the middle of the floor, cracking his knuckles with a sly grin before suddenly dropping to his hands and knees.

"Uh, Matt?" Y/N asked, raising an eyebrow.

"What...?" Nick added, genuinely confused.

Then, without warning, Matt lifted his left leg to the side like a dog at a fire hydrant.

The realization hit everyone at once, recognizing the movement from one of the rounds of DTI that Matt and Chris played, and the room erupted into cheers and laughter.

"That was perfect!" Chris shouted, clapping his hands.

Matt stood up, brushing imaginary dirt off his shirt with a smirk, and walked toward the camera with crossed arms, striking a serious pose like a model in a high-fashion commercial.

"Okay, that was actually cool." Y/N admitted, giggling as he walked back to join them.

When it was Chris’s turn, he shook his head with a grin.

"I’m sitting this one out." He said.

"What? Why?" Nick asked, incredulous.

Chris shrugged.

"I’m already the main event. I’ll let Y/N steal the spotlight this time."

Y/N’s eyebrows shot up.

"Oh, so now I have to go?"

"You got this!" Matt encouraged, nudging her toward the runway.

"Fine." She said, standing up and straightening her oversized sweater dramatically.

Y/N walked off the camera and took the book she'd been reading the past few days from the coffee table, walking back to the frame before delicately putting it on her head like a balancing act. She strutted confidently toward the camera, balancing it all the way, then stopped to pull out her mug, striking a victorious pose before taking a slow, exaggerated sip. The boys erupted in applause.

"You can call me Barbie now." She started, turning to the boys while opening a wide smile before pretending that her hand was a microphone. "On top of the world where I can see everything before me reaching up to touch the sky-"

"Okay, singer girl, pipe down a bit." Nick raised his right hand, exchanging perplexed looks with Chris, who was laughing.

"Okay, she wins." The youngest admitted, shrugging in defeat.

"Unreal." Matt said, looking at her with obvious pride. "You’re way too good at this, Y/N."

"Okay, okay, she wins. No one can top that." Nick nodded at Y/N. "But I think Chris gets second place in this one."

"No, I give you number one." Chris insisted, pointing to Nick while Matt just observed.

"I can't accept that. I'm just happy Matt's wearing his blue light glasses again." Nick's voice turned dramatically high-pitched, clearly imitating the fandom.

Before anyone could react to him, Matt ripped his glasses off of his face, bending it backward until it snapped, small pieces flying everywhere.

"Matt, why would you do that?" Y/N yelled, looking at him with wide eyes and open mouth - just like the other two - before pouting, looking miserably at the shattered pieces. "I liked that one."

"I don't like those stupid jokes." Matt simply replied, looking unfazed at his brothers and Y/N.

Nick and Chris kept looking from Matt to the camera and back, their expressions full of shock.

"You're going to buy another one just like that one, I don't even care." Y/N ordered, crossing her arms and looking directly at Matt, raising her eyebrows as if to say 'dare disobey me.

"Fine." He sighed. "Sorry."

　　　　　༻﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡༺

Extra - comments:

"okay but can we talk about matt literally saying ‘I’m off limits’? someone tell me what’s going on here 🤡"

"nick casually calling out matt girls for voting on matt only bc they want to sleep with him had me SCREAMING 😭"

"why was Y/N blushing when matt said he was off limits? I SEE YOU, GIRL!!!!"

"the dynamic between Y/N and matt is giving major dating vibes"

"wait, why does matt always seem to hype Y/N up just a little more than chris and nick? like, we get it, dude. she’s awesome. but tone it down, or we’ll all start connecting dots 🤨"

"as a fellow rock fan, I have to say Y/N listening to AC/DC and bon jovi automatically makes her my fave"

"not Y/N convincing matt with zero effort to do the rockstar trend with her 🤧"

"I’m not saying I ship Y/N and matt... but I also kind of ship Y/N and matt. the way he looked at her with that dress??? man, I know that look"

"matt breaking his glasses and then Y/N ordering him to buy another one and him ACCEPTING IT???? and saying sorry???? omg that's just girl boss right there 🙏🏻"

[inbabylontheywept]

The Fridges. Oh My God, The Fridges.

This is a continuation of the last piece I wrote on the weird shit that happens in classified facilities. The building I work in has somewhere around 30-35 people in it. It also has around 20 fridges. There's kind of a saga that goes into this, so I'll start with the first part: The Hoarding.

The building has an insane overabundance of space. They just keep adding new rooms every time an old room needs an update, so it just sprawls on forever. There's also an extremely limited ability to get anyone who does not work full time in the building, into the building. This means that while we work on missiles, we also clean our own desks and vacuum the floors and mop and all of those other tasks that most places would consider "non-engineer work." This is fine if it's something anyone with a body can do, but this causes problems when you're looking at the physical limits of engineers. Namely, we are not very muscular people.

Thus, if something needs to get manhandled into a space, it gets manhandled by whatever group of nerds you can bribe, threaten, or guilt into joining you. When a fridge dies, it is a motherfucker to remove it from the building, so they often just...didn't. What they did instead was get the fridges onto dolleys, which isn't too bad, wheel those dolleys to the elevator, and then park them in a relatively empty part of the basement that we shall call The Graveyard of Fridges. This wasn't originally meant to be a permanent solution, but when you have space but lack muscles, it can become permanent really fast. Eventually, someone realized that you can padlock the fronts of the fridges and use them as document storage, which has the added perk of meaning that the people on site don't have to assemble more filing cabinets. Everyone here hates assembling filing cabinets. It's fucking terrible. (It is worth noting that in this era, you would occasionally get directions to a secret file that looked like "1970's model, lime green, left crisper.")

We will call this the peak of the Hoarding Era. It is followed by the Mechanical Engineering Era.

Around 2015, it was realized that the group needed engineers familiar with industrial machinery, and not just standard electronics, so mechanical engineers (MEs) began to get hired. The new ME's made it a sort of rite of passage for proceeding new hires to repair an old fridge. So the site went from having 4 functioning fridges and 15ish being used for document storage to around 15 functioning fridges and 4 used for file storage.

Every time a fridge got fixed, people just put them back on the dolley, wheeled them back in the elevator, and got them wedged in their personal office spaces. If you were a bigwig, you might be able to get dibs on your own personal fridge, and if you were a new guy confined to the cubicle jungle you might have to share one with four or five other guys. But it was still a ludicrous amount of fridge space.

And that is how a base with 35 people on it wound up with 15 fridges.

[emero0]

Ight im analyzing Bake no hana or “flower of transformation” cus its in my brain

Spoilers for mizu5 (obv but heres your warning)

(Lyrics from project sekai wiki)

This is mostly line distribution but feel free to add more

So the first lines are about mizuki (obviously)

Probably about people looking at them weirdly and how they’re used to it — and how they’re cute but its “wrong” its “a sin”

Also this is a music thing but enas lyric “its off” is off beat with the song as well

Then more about mizuki crumbling and breaking sown with their secret because it was revealed before they could reveal it themselves

Next, i find it interesting how every time this lime is sung its by kanade, mafuyu, or both (+kaito)

Which could be in reference to the fact that neither of them were there when everything went down

They also seem to take on more narrator roles like in the beginning

Following this, Ena sings this line every time as well — likely in reference to her not being able to say anything to mizuki and being unable to take back the look on her face when mizuki found her—a face that could be seen aa disgust or “ugly” - “makeup” because its not how ena truly feels

(Which btw—i believe was mainly in part to “oh shit i just found out the secret ive been patiently waiting for before i was told and now i feel awful” and not “oh my god mizuki is trans” or whatever your interpretation of that is considering THEY STILL HAVENT CONFIRMED ANYTHING—which is slightly frustrating but alas we can wait)

Next, either mizuki not wanting to go back because they are tired of running—or even (and im leaning towards this one) they cant go bavk to being a kid, to being “how they were”,

“Blossoming” into this flower, they cant go back and not be trans, theyve bloomed into who they are, even if its “off” and “a sin”

(Im trying not to push trans stuff (NOT /neg) and just look at it as it is but its really hard to see it another way for me /lh —a trans person)

Next, another song thing—when mizuki tells everyone to disappear—they do

No one else sings except kaito, and then when they sing “stay with me” they come back

Then they repeat lines with kaito which could mean something-but it may also just be adding kaito to make it different the second time around because music theory

Nearing the end—this may very well be 1: mizuki not knowing the future and mafuyu-ing into sekai

But it could also be a nod to the player—not knowing the future-and until they do mizuki not showing up in the “real world”

And finally—the curse of being born the way they are, they’ve had enough of running (away from their problems, their mistakes) and have essentially done the game equivalent of —well— disappearing

Overall i really want a full version and i think what we have so far is very interesting—i dont have jpsekai so im probably missing some stuff-but i have seen mizu5 so thats where most of this came from

(Will be avoiding most social media tho cus the arguments over this are—interesting… tumblrs been good so far tho ^^’)

[atinycafe]

LIME SORBET — ch 03 [studio.log]*

PROMPT; reader finally comes back to s. korea as she finished her training in los angeles, ready to debut as a solo artist under kq ent! exciting right? well her sunbaes seem to like that idea too.

FEAT; alpha!ateez x omega!idol!reader

IN THIS CHAPTER; reader spends her night in the studio, only to wake up 2 a room filled w alphas who r intrigued by her.

WARNINGS; suggestive!! the gang is horny, visualization of what they want to do to reader, but it's not really explicit

WRD COUNT; 8.4k

NOTES; reader is so cute when she's sleepi + mingi princess fans arise + we see her in a bra like okay girl.. + san is so delulu he got me cryin + woo is an ass man in case u don't get it; the boys get HORNY, like embarrassingly so + absolutely no second proofreading cuz im lazy

TAGLIST; @marievllr-abg @cookiechristie @sugarrush-blush; lmk if you want 2 b added 2!

In the depths of Maddox's abode, nestled within his personal studio, the girl found herself immersed in the world of musical creation. The clock struck 3am, yet time seemed to lose its grasp as she surrendered to her insatiable passion. Six hours had effortlessly slipped by, as if fueled by an unstoppable force of excitement that refused to be tamed.

Within the dimly lit space, her senses were heightened, every fiber of her being attuned to the melody that flowed from her lips and echoed through the soundproof walls. The room hummed with energy, a symphony of musical notes and the intoxicating aroma of freshly brewed coffee and vibrant cans of Red Bull. The fusion of caffeine and adrenaline created a swirling concoction, at times threatening to overwhelm her, yet she reveled in the exhilarating rush it provided. It was as if the very essence of her anticipation had taken flight, dancing on the precipice of euphoria.

With each take, her voice soared, effortlessly embracing the emotions etched within the lyrics. Fatigue attempted to wrap its heavy arms around her, but she stubbornly resisted, fueled by an unwavering determination and an unwavering belief in the music she was creating. Sleep became an inconsequential concept, a distant memory overshadowed by the sheer thrill of her craft.

The studio walls bore witness to her transformation, adorned with discarded drafts and crumpled sheets of paper, testaments to the countless iterations and refining of her art. She was a vessel of creativity, pouring her heart and soul into every syllable, weaving a tapestry of sound and emotion that would soon captivate the world.

As the hours slipped away, her mind swirled with a variety of emotions. Excitement coursed through her veins like a surging electric current, occasionally flirting with the edges of nausea. The very thought of her forthcoming album ascending to new heights sent a rush of adrenaline to her head, causing her heart to beat in perfect harmony with the rhythm of the music. It was a heady mixture, a blend of exhaustion and exhilaration that mingled in the depths of her being.

In the stillness of the night, surrounded by the symphony of her own creation, she became a conduit of artistic expression. The merging of sleep-deprived delirium and boundless passion resulted in a raw, untamed energy that propelled her forward. With each passing moment, she grew more resolute, refusing to surrender to fatigue or doubt. This was her moment, her chance to etch her mark upon the annals of music history.

As the night wore on, and the world outside slumbered, the intimacy of Maddox's modest abode revealed itself. The walls, though not grandiose, seemed to hold secrets within their confines. The space was small, cozy even, and the proximity to Maddox's sleeping quarters made every sound he produced perceptible. Amidst the melodies she crafted, she found solace in the faint symphony of his snores. His rhythmic breaths became a comforting backdrop, grounding her in the reality of their shared creative sanctuary.

'Cause if the water dries up and the moon stops shining

As she poured her heart into the lyrics, a cascade of thoughts and emotions tumbled through her mind. The words she penned held a deep longing, an unspoken desire for a connection that had eluded her. In the depths of her creative sanctuary, she allowed her imagination to roam freely, conjuring up visions of what it might feel like to be truly loved.

Stars fall, and the world goes blind

Memories of past relationships flickered briefly in her mind, wisps of summer love that had faded like distant echoes. They were fleeting encounters, mere glimpses of what could have been. But now, with the pen in her hand and the music in her soul, she yearned for something more profound, something that would transcend the boundaries of time.

Boy, you know I'll be savin' my love for you, for you

Closing her eyes, she surrendered to the ethereal realm of her imagination, letting her thoughts drift towards the three alphas she had met just a week ago. Her mind painted vivid portraits of their potential, each one possessing unique qualities that stirred her curiosity. In this realm of boundless possibilities, she allowed herself to explore the untrodden paths of affection and romance.

'Cause you're the best mistake I've ever made

But as the melodies swirled around her, her shyness began to creep in, shattering the enchantment she had conjured. Her mind swiftly delving into vivid and provocative imagery. In a sudden rush of self-awareness, she tossed her pen aside and removed her headphones, as if needing a physical break from the whirlwind of emotions. Her face, now cupped in her hands, she rubbed away the traces of her daydreams, attempting to chase away the lingering images that had captivated her.

But we hold on, mm, hold on

She knew that these reveries were a temporary escape, a fleeting moment of vulnerability and exploration. Yet, they fueled her artistic expression, infusing her lyrics with a yearning that seemed almost tangible. The lyrics became a mirror of her deepest desires, a plea for honesty and authenticity in love. With each word she crafted, she hoped to find someone who could treat her with tenderness, touch her with intention, and unlock the door to her heart.

There's no pot of gold in the rainbows we chase

In that very moment, as she sat there, her mind whirled with a blend of anticipation, hesitation, and a hint of excitement. She couldn't help but wonder if her words held the power to beckon the love she craved. Her song became an invitation, an open door to a future that existed solely in her dreams.

But we hold on, mm, hold on

With a sigh, she took a deep breath and let the thoughts dissipate, like morning mist evaporating beneath the sun's warm rays. She knew that her journey toward love was just beginning, and these words were her declaration, her manifesto of hope and vulnerability. The pen may have been discarded for now, but the fire within her burned brighter than ever, ready to ignite the flame of love when the time was right.

In the hushed confines of their dorm, bathed in the soft glow of dawn's gentle light, the boys stirred, their sleep interrupted at an unusually early hour. It was all thanks to San, the charismatic force among them, who had roused them from their slumber with unwavering determination.

The previous day, as they lounged together in the comforts of their shared abode, their big-eyed alpha, adorned with a magnetic charm, had caught sight of a story posted by his cherished omega (he claimed her as his omega, unyielding in his conviction, regardless of their limited interaction. Though their connection remained one-sided, he refused to falter in acknowledging her as his own!!). In her endearing shyness, she had requested their social media accounts, an invitation for simple communication that sent a wave of adoration rippling through the alphas. Overwhelmed by her captivating allure, they had almost instinctively wished to whisk her away, to shield her from prying eyes within the sanctuary of their dorm, for fear that others might glimpse the untamed beauty that resided within her.

With their own private accounts, meticulously curated to shield their true identities from all but their trusted inner circle, the three boys ventured into her digital realm. Concealing his true identity, Wooyoung ingeniously employed one of his selcas as his profile picture. Under the pretense of running a Wooyoung fan account, he skillfully masked his own involvement, ensuring that only a select few would recognize his true affiliation. San, donning the visage of Kai from EXO, his own idol, and Hongjoong, his profile pic a simple yet enigmatic all-black image. Each detail meticulously planned to ensure that their presence remained concealed from the wider world.

As San chanced upon her story—a selfie snapped within the familiar confines of Maddox's studio, she accompanied it with a concise caption: "pullin' an all nighter, fighting, 1st album coming soon bb!!!", a cluster of petite emoticons adorned her visage, adding a touch of whimsy to the frame— he sprang to his feet in a whirlwind of excitement, his head narrowly missing a collision with Mingi's chin as he propelled himself forward. The image of her pretty face filled the screen, delicate locks cascading around her visage, while her glasses, whether a fashion statement or an aid to her vision, delicately perched upon her nose, lending her an air of innocence that stirred something profound within San. Unable to resist, he discreetly captured a screenshot, already having crafted a dedicated folder solely for her in his photo app.

Summoning Wooyoung from his place in the living room, San began to passionately recount their newfound opportunity to meet her in person. The trio of alphas, who had previously crossed paths with this captivating omega, yearned for the chance to be in her presence once more. The distance separating them felt like an unbearable chasm, their hearts aching with longing, yet they understood the necessity of patience. Having learned of her recent settlement in South Korea and her contract with KQent, they recognized that she needed time to unwind and find solace after a demanding week.

The remaining members found themselves irresistibly drawn to their uncharacteristically high-pitched squeals, converging in the living room. Some opted to nestle on the floor, forsaking the available seating options. In the midst of the excited pair's animated discussion, Yeosang's dulcet voice, with its unmistakable baritone undertones, gently broke the fervor.

"What's all the excitement about?" he interjected, his words carrying a blend of curiosity and soothing melody.

"Our omega," San exclaimed, unable to contain his glee. His smile widened to such an extent that his eyes involuntarily closed, plunging him momentarily into darkness. Within the fleeting blackout, a vivid image materialized—a radiant smile from her—only to dissipate as he opened his eyes, leaving San flushed with a warm blush. He was obsessed. He blinked, he saw her.

Jongho, ever the skeptic, rolled his eyes at San's exuberance. "Oh my God, not again. Spare me for just a minute, my head is already throbbing," he lamented. The youngest alpha had already glimpsed at her pictures from San's instagram account, having surreptitiously explored the depths of his brother's phone. He sought to put a face to the enigmatic individual captivating San's attention. Even though the pictures were candid, their unpolished charm revealed glimpses of her unadorned life. Jongho couldn't deny her beauty, but his weariness was palpable. San's infatuation was understandable, and Wooyoung's as well, but Hongjoong? It felt like an overwhelming influx of emotions for him. It was just too much. And they never shut up about her!

"Guys, I truly couldn't care less right now. We're waking up at 5am, and we must be at Maddox's place in less than ten minutes. It's an urgency, I feel like I'm gonna die," Wooyoung declared, his arms crossing defiantly over his well-defined chest. The gravity of his words was evident, as he foresaw the reaction of the other alphas who hadn't yet encountered his beloved.

"NAHHHHHH, YOU MUST BE OUT OF YOUR MIND IF YOU THIN—" Yunho's outburst was abruptly quelled by the eldest alpha's measured intervention.

"Okay."

"Yeah, exactly. Seonghwa, tell him—" Yunho turned to him, an air of bewilderment etched across his face, "What?"

Seonghwa, the composed and sage-like oldest of their pack, emitted a weary sigh as his fingers delicately threaded through his tousled locks. "Okay first, let's all acknowledge that a mate bond is quite intricate when it happens to an already formed pact," he began, his words carrying a profound weight that resonated within each individual present. Hongjoong's all sat them down, as soon as they got home that day, talking about how she could be their destined mate, having spurred the need for this crucial conversation, a topic that demanded their collective attention. San and Wooyoung, their faces alight with uncontainable joy, illuminated the room as they reveled in the tantalizing prospect of the ethereal girl potentially becoming their soulmate.

"Are you not even slightly curious about what she's like? After all, she could be our soulmate—that's a connection far from trivial," Seonghwa concluded, his voice carrying the wisdom of countless ages.

A deep and contemplative silence blanketed the room, as each alpha weighed the implications of his words, even those who had already crossed paths with her. It was clear that surface-level attraction alone would not suffice; a deeper understanding was essential. And so, with resolute determination, they reached a unanimous decision—on the morrow, they would convene to embark on an unforgettable rendezvous with this captivating omega, unmasking the layers that shrouded her essence.

"Hurry up, bro! If you don't open that door, I swear I'll kick it down myself," Woo exclaimed, frustrated by the tremor in his leader's hands preventing the key from entering Kyungmoon's door. Joong was stressed okay?? It had been a week since he met his lovely girl, he needed to take some time to breathe and Wooyoung's high pitched voice wasn't making it easier for him.

Jongho swiftly delivered a sharp slap to the back of Woo's head, reprimanding him for his lack of proper and polite language.

At last, the door swung open. Surprisingly, Yeosang was the first to step inside, forcefully making his way through. He paused in the hallway, taking a deep inhale.

"H-holy shit," he whispered, his voice barely audible. The alluring scent of the omega permeated the apartment. His eyes rolled back momentarily as he dropped to one knee. Being exceptionally sensitive to smell, the euphoric sensation coursing through him was beyond imagination.

"It seems she's asleep," Hongjoong murmured, savoring the tranquil but sharp pheromones that floated gracefully above him. It was a scent he could easily grow accustomed to.

Omega scents differed from those of other biological "genera" such as alphas and betas. Their fragrances were more potent, designed to attract as many potential partners as possible. In the past, it had been one alpha per omega, a long-established tradition. However, the mistreatment and endangerment of the omega species had altered the dynamics. Now, it was an omega for an entire pack, comprising alphas and betas. As time passed, scientists discovered that omega scents grew more concentrated, and their pheromones had a stronger effect on individuals than their predecessors.

Upon presenting, omegas began wearing specialized collars to mitigate the strength of their scent. However, the collars merely served as a display, indicating whether an omega was unmated or not. Mated omegas proudly discarded their collars, showcasing the mark left by their partners.

To address the issue of scent control, omegas learned to subdue and manipulate their pheromones as if it were second nature. Alphas possessed a similar ability, using their own pheromones to demonstrate dominance or provide comfort to a distressed omega. This control was entirely conscious and deliberate, except in moments of extreme emotions or, as one might guess, during sleep.

Yeosang's delicate nose began to bleed, a trickle of crimson staining his upper lip. His eyes dilated to such an extent that the coffee brown hues vanished, replaced by a captivating abyss. Sensing his distress, Seonghwa swiftly positioned himself in front of Yeosang, retrieving a tissue from his pocket. Placing it firmly into Yeosang's trembling hand, he offered a comforting pat on the back before moving past him.

Leaving Yeosang to catch his breath at the entrance, the others knew he would eventually regain composure. They recalled moments when he would become overwhelmed at fan meetings and concerts, the amalgamation of scents triggering debilitating headaches that rendered him unable to function once the events concluded. However, with time, he had grown in both self-control and the utilization of a specialized gel that he carried with him—a tube always at the ready.

After carefully wiping his nose with the tissue provided by his hyung, Yeosang uncapped the tube. Squeezing a generous amount onto his index finger, he proceeded to apply the gel beneath his nose. Settling amidst the abundance of sneakers, he closed his eyes and inhaled slowly, allowing the lingering essence of her scent to envelop his senses. Though not as potent as before, it still lingered, a tantalizing presence that left a trace on his tongue, reminiscent of a refreshing concoction of freshly squeezed lime and sweet condensed milk on a scorching summer day. And he hadn't even laid eyes on her yet, but the yearning to feel her beneath his fingertips, to taste her lips, was already fervently alive within him.

Leaning his head against the adjacent wall, Yeosang attempted to suppress the torrent of thoughts cascading through his mind. How was this even possible? Was this the sensation of having a mate? His cheeks flushed a rosy hue, a thin layer of perspiration forming upon his brow as he fought the overpowering urge to rise, rush to her side, and whisk her away to a world of eternal seclusion.

The vulnerable alpha dreaded the impending moment when his eyes would finally gaze upon her, aware that his self-control would crumble in an instant. He needed to regain his composure swiftly. Clasping his head in his hands, he tightened his grip on his hair, silently growling at himself for the inevitable embarrassment he believed awaited him in her presence. Awkwardness plagued him when meeting new people, an innate characteristic he couldn't help but succumb to. Now, envisioning the sweet, enchanting omega who had captivated his senses with her unbeknownst allure, he found himself on his knees for her even before her awakening.

Unable to bear the weight of her presence, he rose to his feet and deliberately veered left, contrary to the path his pack brothers took. He made his way towards Kyungmoon's location, deciding that focusing on the task of rousing his slumbering friend was a far more productive pursuit than wallowing in overthinking within the confines of the bathroom. The mere thought of clawing at the door for even a second of her attention seemed inconsequential in comparison.

"Wait Joong-ah don't wake her up yet, I wanna take a pic," Wooyoung whispered sharply, his words resonating within the intimate connection of their pack's shared mind.

"What the fuck Woo that's so weird," San grumbled, feeling an undeniable urge to retrieve his phone and do the exact same thing as his brother. Sure, he had taken a screenshot of her story, but she had posted it willingly, and she even requested his Instagram account! It was as if she knew he would come across her story and find her utterly adorable. Perhaps she had intended to send him the picture privately but hesitated out of shyness. In the grand scheme of things, taking a screenshot of her story didn't seem like such a significant transgression.

"San in his delulu era," Yunho chuckled, his laughter reverberating through the backchannels of their shared connection. San blushed, realizing that he hadn't closed the pack link before indulging in his overthinking. He whined and pouted at his older brother, grumbling about how he knew nothing and that he shared a profound connection with the slumbering omega in the room that none of them could possibly comprehend.

Approaching her with utmost gentleness, San took in the sight of her petite figure draped in an oversized black ESSENTIALS hoodie. The soft fabric of the hood cradled her bangs delicately, accentuating her endearing presence.

San's eyes lingered on the ethereal beauty that graced his sight. Her delicate features, bathed in the soft glow of morning light, seemed to possess an otherworldly radiance. Her flawless complexion was akin to the finest piece of glass, adorned with a natural flush of warmth that accentuated her captivating charm.

A cascade of silken tresses framed her face, tumbling in gentle waves that danced with each breath she took. The strands, so dark, like a moonless night, glimmered softly. They caressed her cheeks in a tender embrace, further enhancing the angelic grace that she embodied.

But it was her smile, that tender curve of her lips, that bewitched San the most. It was a smile that spoke of innocence, of genuine happiness found in the simplest of moments, such as the dream she must have been in at the moment. A smile so small yet so impactful.

As San's gaze intensified, he became acutely aware of her scent, a delicate and intoxicating fragrance that filled the air around her. It was a scent that captivated the senses, a symphony of citrus notes intertwined with a hint of warmth and sweetness. The gentle waft of her pheromones mingled with the morning breeze, leaving a trail of enchantment that lingered in the room.

The other alphas present in the room found themselves in a state of awe and disbelief. They were stunned by the sheer beauty before them, unable to comprehend how someone could possess such breathtaking allure. The collective breaths in the room seemed to catch, as if the air itself was held captive by her presence.

They couldn't help but feel a pang of discomfort as they observed her slumbering form, tightly wedged in front of the studio equipment. A wave of concern washed over their hearts, causing a sense of unease to settle within them. How had she ended up sleeping in such an uncomfortable position? It was evident that she had been working tirelessly, pushing herself beyond her limits. Their poor little omega, not even a day in, and she was already overworking herself.

The sight of her cramped posture tugged at their heartstrings, fueling a deep sense of protectiveness within the alphas. They exchanged worried glances, their brows furrowed with genuine care. This was not how they had envisioned her first day, and they couldn't bear the thought of her sacrificing her well-being for the sake of her goals.

Gently, they tiptoed closer, careful not to disturb her peaceful slumber. Soft whispers filled the air as they debated on the best course of action. Should they wake her and offer her a more comfortable place to rest? Or should they let her sleep, knowing that she needed the rest?

San gently shook her shoulder, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through his body. The sensation coursed from the point where their skin made contact, making his knees weaken momentarily. "Bunny, wake up," he whispered, his voice filled with affection and longing. Crouching down before her, he softly nudged her crossed arms on her chest with his nose, yearning to rouse her from her slumber but careful not to be rough with her delicate form.

As his nose brushed against the black fabric of her hoodie, a low growl rumbled deep within San's chest. The others turned to him, their confusion evident in their faces, their bodies poised to react if they sensed any danger or harm befalling their omega. The only fear that gripped their hearts was the possibility of her being injured.

"What is it?" the leader asked impatiently, his gaze fixed on San, trying to comprehend the sudden shift in the usually gentle alpha's demeanor.

"Her scent is so overwhelming, I didn't notice the other man's scent on her," San snarled, his voice laced with possessiveness and anger. The room grew heavy with tension, and a nauseating feeling settled upon the others. Their little omega, in the embrace of another? It was unfathomable, a concept they refused to entertain, for it threatened to shatter the fragile equilibrium within their pack. The surge of jealousy and anger fueled their pheromones, causing the air to be saturated with an intense energy, growls echoing throughout the room.

"Oh calm down, I gave her my hoodie, after all those years, I'd think you'd recognize my scent," a familiar voice chimed in lazily. Maddox entered the studio, his presence diffusing the mounting tension. He yawned and stretched, his eyes fluttering shut for a moment.

The room breathed a collective sigh of relief as the tension dissipated, making way for a blush to color the alphas' cheeks. Their omega remained blissfully unaware, still peacefully asleep. "You guys imprint on her already or what" Maddox yawned again, this time covering his mouth with his hand, his gaze drifting to the MacBook resting next to San on the table.

San, feeling thoroughly embarrassed by his earlier outburst, turned his attention back to his omega, determined to wake her gently without further disturbing the delicate balance within the pack. However, Maddox interjected, his focus still fixed on the files the omega had been working on the night before. "That won't work," he muttered, his eyes scanning the digital pages. "She sleeps like she's in a damn coma. You need to use that big alpha voice to wake her up. I remember only her father's voice could actually rouse her for school." A nostalgic smile played upon Maddox's lips as he recalled the image of the formidable alpha attempting to wake his soft daughter with the utmost care, eventually resigning himself to growls and stern commands.

The rest of the pack chose to overlook Maddox's uncanny knowledge about her, realizing they had already embarrassed themselves enough. Yunho spoke up, his voice gentle yet firm. "We can't do that. It's disrespectful to her if we use that voice without her consent." He understood the power alphas possessed, the ability to command any omega with a certain tone of their voice. Some alphas saw it as natural and didn't hesitate to employ it for various purposes, but the younger generation recognized the discomfort it could cause an omega and refrained from using it without their agreement.

Maddox grumbled in frustration, closing the multitude of pages she had opened. "Cute, but I really need her to wake the fuck up. I have so many questions about what she did," he grumbled, a tinge of exasperation in his voice. "How many songs did she record yesterday? What the fuck..."

Realizing that none of the alphas had budged from their positions, Maddox turned to them, his expression deadpan. "It's either that, or I throw her off the damn chair," he stated flatly. A low snarl inadvertently escaped the youngest alphas' mouth, resulting in a swift slap from the elder pack members. Kyungmoon, being older than them all, demanded their respect, and they were quick to comply.

Rolling his eyes, Kyungmoon approached her chair. As soon as San caught sight of his movement, he instinctively tightened his embrace around his beloved omega, enveloping her baggy jeans-clad thighs with his massive arms, as if shielding her from any harm. With a frustrated huff, Mingi stepped forward, gently nudging Maddox aside.

Bending down to be at eye level with her, Mingi hesitated for a moment before parting his lips, a firm yet tender command slipping from his mouth. "'Mega, wake up."

At the sound of his voice, tinged with a hint of authority, the adorable omega finally blinked her eyes open, still groggy from her meager three hours of sleep. Mingi's face was so close to hers that she could feel his minty breath against her skin. She locked eyes with him, her own still halfway closed, and with a radiant smile, she murmured, "Princess," before drifting back into slumber, soft snores escaping her lips.

Mingi found himself overwhelmed by a whirlwind of emotions, his heart pounding so fiercely that it felt as if it might burst from his chest. Every fiber of his being trembled, and his cheeks burned with an intense blush that seemed to consume him entirely. He stumbled out of the room, his mind in a haze, unable to form coherent words. In the pack link, his thoughts raced, replaying the precious moment when she had gazed at him with such tenderness, her doe-like eyes filled with affection, as she whispered his nickname. The intensity of his feelings was so potent that it felt as if he could spontaneously combust from the sheer weight of his emotions. Mingi now understood the profound infatuation his pack brothers harbored for her. She had an undeniable power over them, and he realized with both joy and trepidation that she would undoubtedly be the cause of his eventual downfall.

As Mingi stumbled out of the room, his face flushed with embarrassment and his heart in disarray, Maddox turned to the other alphas, only to notice that they were all equally affected by the endearing moment they had just witnessed. Yunho and Seonghwa had their hands pressed against their faces, their fingers trembling with the sheer adorableness that had unfolded before them. San buried his face in the omega's thighs, his ears and the back of his neck turning a vibrant shade of pink, betraying his own overwhelmed emotions. Wooyoung and Jongho averted their gazes to the ceiling, trying to distract themselves from replaying the scene repeatedly in their minds, though a small, subtle smile played on the youngest alphas' lips. Hongjoong sat on the couch, seemingly unfazed as he lazily scratched the nail polish on his pinky, but Kyungmoon, ever perceptive, couldn't help but notice the growing bulge in the leader's pants. Maddox, taken aback by the sight, accidentally spit out the water he had been drinking, managing to turn away just in time to avoid drenching the electronic devices, but unfortunately showering the poor omega in the process.

The room erupted with the omega's whines, her voice piercing through the previously silent atmosphere as the cold water splashed against her skin, instantly capturing the attention of every alpha present. Their hearts ached at the sound of her distress, their protective instincts urging them to offer comfort and reassurance. Their alpha instincts compelling them to provide solace and make things right.

"What the fuck, Maddox?" she wailed, her frustration evident. "Can't even sleep properly in this damn house."

Standing up and shaking off San, she didn't his lingering grip on her sleeping form, her focus solely fixed on Kyungmoon, her expression a mix of annoyance and desperation. She swiftly removed her hoodie, leaving her clad only in her bra and jeans, oblivious to the way every pair of eyes followed her every move, their gazes locked on her with a mix of surprise and raw need.

The emotional rollercoaster they just went through had been like no other. First the jealousy, then how she was adorable, and lastly pure horniness.

The curve of her stomach, gliding effortlessly from under the confines of her bra, ensnared the attention of Hongjoong, the esteemed leading alpha of the room. His experienced eyes, like a connoisseur of beauty, were drawn to the elegant contour that beckoned his gaze. The delicate lace of her undergarment, while intended to provide a sense of allure and sophistication, unintentionally exacerbated his already heightened state of arousal.

A twinge of discomfort gnawed at Hongjoong as he struggled to find a more suitable position, seeking respite from the undeniable physical reaction that her captivating form had stirred within him. With meticulous care, he shifted his weight, his eyes never straying from her mesmerizing figure. Yet, try as he might, the discreet adjustments failed to provide the relief he so desperately sought.

In a valiant effort to compose himself, Hongjoong focused on the intricate details of the room, mentally recounting the soothing hues of the decor and the subtle patterns etched into the furniture. However, the tantalizing presence of the omega before him proved too formidable a distraction, commanding his attention with an unwavering grip. He found himself caught in a precarious balancing act, yearning to sate his desires while mindful of the propriety demanded by the situation.

The enchanting sight of small moles adorning her soft skin captivated Seonghwa's discerning gaze, weaving a spell that rendered him momentarily breathless. Each tiny mark seemed to possess its own unique story, an intimate secret shared only by her and the heavens above. His yearning to explore those delicate spots with tender kisses overwhelmed him, imagining the intoxicating sensation of his lips brushing against the canvas of her skin.

In his mind's eye, Seonghwa envisioned a gentle dance of affection, as he traced the path of those enticing moles, leaving a trail of feather-light pecks in their wake. He could almost taste the sweetness that lingered on her flesh, relishing the imagined flavor that would be unveiled with each loving touch. Imagining the soft strokes of his omega's fingers gently caressing his hair, he reveled in the anticipation of the tingling sensations that would ripple through his scalp, a testament to the depth of their connection.

Yunho's attention was drawn to the striking contrast between his own veiny and robust hands and the delicate frame of the omega standing before him. In that moment, he couldn't help but imagine the possibilities of their union, envisioning the way his substantial hands would envelope her waist with a possessive grip, his fingers seamlessly finding their place in the contours of her perfect love handles.

His mind became a canvas of fantasies as he pictured himself leaving trails of electrifying sensations in his wake, exploring the territory of her body with a blend of strength and tenderness. Yunho recognized the power he held, knowing that his size and stature were capable of delivering overwhelming pleasure, yet he remained acutely aware of the need for care and respect in his actions.

In his musings, Yunho marveled at the way her petite form seemed to fit flawlessly against his own, as if their bodies were destined to intertwine in a passionate embrace. The thought of their connection, of his hands guiding her and igniting a symphony of pleasure, stirred a fire within him that burned with both intensity and reverence.

In a moment that transcended the boundaries of mere perception, San was struck by an electrifying realization that sent shivers cascading right through his very dick. The delicate tapestry of her soft and innocent aura, an ethereal essence that had captivated him since their first encounter, now bore a captivating mark of temptation—a seductive black lace bra that adorned her form with a beguiling allure. It was a revelation that set his heart ablaze, igniting a torrent of desire that coursed through his veins with an irresistible intensity.

As his gaze lingered upon the intricate details of her lingerie, a mix of sensations and emotions unraveled within San's psyche. The contrast between her angelic visage and the provocative undergarment created a mesmerizing dichotomy, a collision of purity and seduction that stirred a primal yearning within him. The soft caress of lace against her supple skin seemed to beckon him closer, inviting him to uncover the secrets concealed beneath those delicate layers.

With each passing second, San's fascination deepened, propelling him into a realm of uncharted desires. He yearned not only to explore the physical contours of her body, but to embark upon an intimate odyssey, delving into the recesses of her mind to unearth the forbidden thoughts that lay dormant. Like a moth drawn inexorably to the flame, he longed to unravel the enigma she embodied, to partake in a journey of discovery that would leave no hidden desire unexplored.

Wooyoung was spellbound, unable to tear his eyes away as the oversized hoodie slipped off her slender frame, unveiling a breathtaking sight. The subtle arch of her back, accentuated by the fabric that clung to her every curve, left him in a state of awe. It was as though her very presence commanded attention, demanding admiration for the sheer elegance she exuded.

The allure of her figure, embraced by the snug embrace of her jeans, stirred a deep desire within Wooyoung. The contours of her backside, a tantalizing glimpse of sensuality, held an irresistible appeal that he couldn't resist. With each movement, she seemed to glide effortlessly, casting a hypnotic spell on anyone who had the privilege of witnessing her graceful presence. Wooyoung found himself rendered speechless, his eyes fixated on her, as he yearned to explore the depths of her enigmatic allure.

In that suspended moment, the world faded into insignificance for Wooyoung. He was completely consumed by her magnetic charm, unable to resist the pull she exerted over him. The urge to reach out, to trace his fingers along the contours that beckoned him, surged through him with an undeniable intensity. It was a silent plea, a longing to unravel the mysteries hidden within her captivating form.

Jongho stood in the corner, his eyes transfixed on her collarbones, captivated by their delicate prominence. In that moment, time seemed to stand still as he imagined marking her skin with tender love bites, leaving an indelible imprint of their passionate connection. Her collarbones, a testament to vulnerability and strength, held an irresistible allure for Jongho, who yearned to leave his mark on her like an artist etching his masterpiece.

As he observed her, his mind painted vivid images of their intertwined bodies, fueled by a primal desire to possess and protect. Jongho's fingers twitched with an unconscious longing to explore every inch of her, to trace the contours of her skin and map the pathways that would lead them both to untold heights of ecstasy. He imagined the intoxicating scent of their mingled sweat, the rhythm of their breaths syncing in a symphony of desire.

Jongho's gaze, intense and unwavering, revealed his unspoken intentions. The fire within him burned bright, threatening to consume everything in its path. He yearned to be her sanctuary, the one who could unlock the depths of her desires, and together they would traverse a journey of untamed passion. In his mind, he had already claimed her, and with each beat of his heart, the intensity of his longing grew stronger, leaving him unable to resist the primal call that reverberated through his veins.

Their momentary thoughts were abruptly interrupted as she turned towards Maddox, her expression filled with annoyance, and flung his damp hoodie at him. "You're such a cunt!" she pouted, her dissatisfaction with her own attire apparent. "Give me one of your t-shirts. I don't want to wear my corset. It's uncomfortable, and I still want to sleep," she declared, her eyes fluttering open and closed, evidence that she hadn't completely shaken off her sleepiness. The boys, momentarily distracted from their wandering thoughts, found themselves savoring the sweetness of the moment, allowing themselves to imagine a scenario where she would come to them, begging for a shirt.

Just as Maddox was about to suggest that she take one of his own, his gaze met Hongjoong's, positioned just behind her. Maddox, being older than Hongjoong, knew it and held him in high regard, respecting him as a perfect colleague. Yet, he couldn't deny the effect of the rapper's lingering stare, which left him feeling somewhat uneasy. Recognizing the biological underpinnings of such a reaction, given his alpha nature, Maddox tried to brush it off with a sigh. "Stop taking my clothes, they reek of your scent. Go ask someone else," he lied, offering an exaggerated eye-roll, assuring the omega standing before him that he wasn't entirely serious but allowing her to believe there was a kernel of truth to his words.

She tilted her head and stared at him, her confusion evident. "Who else?" she inquired. Just as she finished her question, Yunho gently touched her shoulder, stepping forward to retrieve his hoodie from the lower front of his chest, revealing a black t-shirt that made his milky collarbones shimmer against the silver chain adorning them. If the omega had been well-rested, she would have blushed uncontrollably, her heart racing within her chest. However, exhaustion had claimed her, and she simply accepted the hoodie from his outstretched hands, her fingertips grazing his longer ones, causing a faint shiver to run through him. She offered a soft bow before turning towards the door. Just as she was about to depart, she glanced back at the room and inquired about the time. "It's 7:36 am," San cheerfully chimed in. She nodded and directed her gaze to Maddox. "Wake me up in 30 minutes. I'll be in your bed."

With the tall alpha's hoodie in her grasp, she made her way down the hallway, heading towards his room. Along the way, a thought crossed her mind to stop by the kitchen, which was conveniently adjacent to the room. As she ventured forward, the soft glow of daylight streamed in through the windows, casting a warm radiance throughout the space. Eager to don the borrowed garment, she began pulling it over her head, only to find it stubbornly clinging to her neck, momentarily obscuring her vision. Undeterred, she continued to tug at the fabric, inadvertently veering off course.

In her haste to envelop herself in the hoodie's comforting embrace, she struggled momentarily, the fabric refusing to yield, momentarily obscuring her vision. Undeterred by this minor setback, she persisted, unaware of the subtle shift in her surroundings. Lost in a drowsy haze, she collided unexpectedly with an unfamiliar obstacle—a solid wall that seemed out of place in her mental map of the house. Confusion clouded her fatigued mind as she fumbled for an exit, desperate to find her bearings.

But before she could make further progress, her hands were gently seized by another, guiding her with practiced ease. Startled, she raised her gaze and found herself locked in the enigmatic eyes of Mingi, his expression unreadable. Intimidated by his presence, she hurriedly offered her apologies, expressing gratitude with a respectful bow, and swiftly made her way to Maddox's inviting bed. As she glanced down at her petite frame swallowed by the oversized hoodie, she realized it cascaded down to her knees, enveloping her like a protective cocoon. Anticipating the comforting solace that awaited her beneath the covers, she resolved to shed her confining jeans, unaware of the two sharp intakes of breath behind her. With a haphazard pull of the zipper and a deft maneuver of her legs, she discarded the denim, allowing it to fall away as she gracefully slipped into the plush sanctuary of the bed. And there, in the soft embrace of warmth and dreams, she succumbed to the sweet embrace of slumber.

She stirred from her peaceful slumber, roused by the melodious strains of music that filled the air. Blinking her eyes open, she found herself in a state of half-consciousness, still tethered to the realm of dreams. The melodic notes wafted through the room, their gentle vibrations resonating within her soul, beckoning her to awaken fully.

As she gradually shook off the remnants of sleep, her senses heightened, and she recognized the familiar tunes that now danced around her. It was the unmistakable sound of the last song she recorded the day before. Each note and lyric seemed to caress her being, whispering promises of inspiration.

Eager to immerse herself in the enchantment of the music, she cast off the drowsiness that clung to her like a fleeting memory. With a sense of renewed vitality coursing through her veins, she reached for her phone, hoping to catch a glimpse of the time that had conspired against her precious sleep. The digits illuminated the screen with a damning truth—9:04 am—an unwelcome reminder of the hour she had been robbed of.

Oh this fucker.

Indignant at the intrusion of her slumber, she snatched the pillow she had rested upon and sat up, her gaze scanning the room for her unwitting accomplice in this temporal crime. To her right, amidst the symphony of sizzling pans and culinary artistry, she spied Wooyoung and Seonghwa, their culinary passions interwoven with a graceful dance. Further down, Jongho and Yeosang engaged in a hushed exchange, their words cloaked in mystery. Oblivious to her presence, they sat at a regal marble table, absorbed in their discourse. San and Yunho, on the other hand, found solace in the digital realm, their camaraderie evident as they maneuvered through virtual landscapes, softly nudging each other, wishing the other to lose. Meanwhile, Hongjoong and Mingi, tethered by the ethereal notes streaming through their AirPods, bobbed their heads in perfect synchrony, their attention fixated on the music that enveloped their senses, coming out of the familiar MacBook Pro.

Behind the rappers, Maddox remained captivated by the luminous glow emanating from the computer screen. With both hands planted firmly on the armrests of the couch, his gaze traced an enigmatic pattern, his thoughts ensnared by the digital world unfolding before him. The flickering images danced across his vision, weaving a tapestry of intrigue and inspiration.

A feral growl rumbled deep within her chest, a primal instinct urging her to unleash her frustration. Gripping the pillow tightly in her hand, she channeled her pent-up energy into a swift and powerful motion, hurling it with all her might toward Kyungmoon. The cushioned projectile soared through the air, guided by a vengeful determination, until it found its mark with unerring precision.

The impact was swift and resounding—a perfect headshot. Kyungmoon's eyes widened in surprise as the pillow collided with his unsuspecting form. Feathered wisps danced in the air, suspended for a brief moment, before gracefully floating downward like ethereal confetti. The room fell into a hushed silence, the weight of the strike reverberating in the space.

A chorus of laughter erupted, a melodic symphony of amusement and camaraderie. The men turned their attention to the impulsive assailant, their eyes gleaming with mischief and mirth. The omega, a glint in her eyes, relished in the spontaneous act of rebellion, savoring the taste of victory. Her lips curled into a playful smile, her spirit emboldened by the cathartic release.

A melodious chirp of delight escaped the young singer's lips, an innocent and joyous sound that pierced through the air, captivating the attention of all the men in the room. Their eyes turned towards her, their senses heightened, as if drawn to the magnetic pull of her presence. Unbeknownst to her, a heady cocktail of pheromones began to waft from her, subtly stirring the primal instincts of the alphas in the room.

In response to her joyful exclamation, a deep rumble resonated in the space, a contented sound that slipped from the alpha's throats. It went unnoticed by the omega, its significance lost in the flurry of activity. Yet, it held a primal meaning, an unspoken declaration of satisfaction and possessiveness.

Within that moment, a delicate dance of instinct and desire unfolded, unseen and unspoken. The room became an arena of subtle exchanges, a microcosm where primal connections and magnetic forces intertwined. Their gazes lingered a moment longer, their hearts quickening ever so slightly, attuned to the unspoken language that pulsed beneath the surface.

Maddox rose from the floor, his hand gingerly massaging the spot on his head where the pillow had made contact. His disheveled hair stood as a testament to the force of the blow, yet a mischievous glimmer danced in his eyes, undeterred by the playful aggression. "What the fuck was that for, you bitch?" he exclaimed, his tone laced with mock indignation.

Unfazed by his theatrical response, she met his challenge head-on, a defiant smirk playing on her lips. "That's for not waking me up, you dick," she retorted, her voice laced with a playful edge. Her tongue darted out in a teasing gesture, a playful taunt that showcased her feisty spirit. "I need to finish what I was working on," she added, her determination shining through her words.

Maddox, still rubbing the sore spot on his head, protested in defense of his failed wake-up attempt. "I tried waking you up, he—" he pointed accusingly at the leader with a mix of exasperation and amusement. Hongjoong, his smile soft and eyes brimming with adoration, watched the playful exchange unfold. His intervention had allowed her precious sleep to continue undisturbed, a decision that Maddox now found himself at odds with. "He forced me to let you sleep more," Maddox explained, his voice tinged with alarm.

The omega's gaze shifted toward Hongjoong, her eyes narrowing playfully at the leader who had orchestrated her extended slumber. His expression betrayed the depth of his affection, the love that radiated from his being. The mischievous spark in her eyes intensified, and she playfully tilted her head. "If you need to throw a fucking pillow, don't hit me," Maddox urged, his voice filled with a mix of jest and mock seriousness. "Aim the weapon at him!" he added, gesturing towards Hongjoong.

As the playful banter continued to unfold, Hongjoong found himself captivated by the sight before him. His gaze lingered on his beloved omega, devoid of makeup, with faint traces of fatigue evident in her puffy eyes and disheveled lips. Strands of hair cascaded around her, reaching toward the ceiling as if attempting to touch the heavens themselves. In that moment, the world around him faded into a blur, and he became lost in the depths of her soulful gaze.

His heart quickened its pace, the rhythm echoing in his ears as if keeping time with his racing thoughts. The intensity of his emotions threatened to overwhelm him, yet he couldn't tear his eyes away from her. Her radiant smile, a beacon of warmth and affection, sent a jolt through his being. It was a single moment, a fleeting exchange of unspoken devotion, yet it held the power to still his very breath.

The words of the moody beta went unheard, his attention solely fixated on the enchanting presence of his precious girl.

Her laughter filled the room, a melodic symphony that danced through the air. "Well, if it's the leader, I can't complain, can I?" she playfully remarked, her voice laced with affection and mirth. With a mischievous sparkle in her eyes, she let herself fall back onto the soft bed, the impact causing a satisfying thud.

Hongjoong, caught in the rapture of her infectious laughter, felt his heart swell with adoration. The intensity of his emotions threatened to consume him, and he needed an outlet to release the overwhelming surge of feelings that coursed through his veins. Excusing himself with a faint smile, he retreated to the sanctuary of the soundproof studio.

Inside the secluded confines of the studio, Hongjoong closed the door behind him and took a deep breath.

[the-writer-nerd-ro]

I made up a birthday for Sara Pena everyone say happy birthday Sara Pena

Last Minute Surprise Party

Sara Pena normally had her schedule planned pretty precisely, with room to slot in parties as new gigs popped up, but this particular Thursday, June 29th, was suspiciously free.

“Do you want to do date night on Thursday?” Hunter Richardson offered, looking at the “shared” calendar on the fridge. Occasionally she added things like dentist appointments and bi-monthly cousin game night, but it was really Sara's calendar.

Sara looked up from the dining room table, where she was adding things to a Pinterest board labeled “surprise party inspo.”

“Hm? Oh, Thursday? Yeah! I didn't have anything planned for Thursday. What were you thinking?”

“We could go to that karaoke bar you like.”

“Really? You hate that place.”

“Yeah, but you love it.”

“Oh, okay, if you're sure.”

“We could even invite Petunia and Marian, if you want.”

“Ooh, a double date.” Petunia and Marian weren't official but the way Hunter and Sara had been meddling they might as well have been.

“Yeah,” Hunter said with a small smile. Sara was too busy pinning to notice that there was anything more to the smile than excitement about the double date.

“I’ll ask Petunia, you ask Marian,” Sara said.

Hunter had already asked both of them, but she nodded in agreement, her smile only growing a little more.

Hunter leaned over Sara’s shoulder and pressed a kiss into her cheek and then down to her neck, briefly eyeing the open pinterest page.

“It’s going to be great,” Hunter promised, having to turn away to hide her growing excitement.

Sara wasn’t suspicious about any ulterior motives. She trusted Hunter more than anyone else in the world, Hunter would never keep a secret to hurt her.

Hunter was hoping Sara would appreciate this particular secret. She'd lived with Sara long enough to pick up on her context clues, but she was wary about misreading some signals and doing something Sara hadn't outright asked for.

She'd voiced her concerns to Marian and Petunia and both of them had said it was probably fine. You only turned 31 once, after all, and that deserved to be celebrated.

Sara continued to act like it wasn't her birthday all day Thursday, though she did curl her already wavy hair and she wore her nicest, newest sports bra to karaoke. It was black with thin rainbow stripes running horizontally across the front and back, a subtle but undeniable bit of pride at the tail-end of pride month. The hot pink t-shirt she wore underneath and her lime green pants weren't as subtle. She was also wearing a chunky necklace covered in clay beads that looked like pieces of fruit to tie the whole thing together and imply that both she and her drink were fruity, as well as a pair of lemon slice earrings as an homage to Hunter.

Hunter was dressed a little bit like Winona Ryder in Beetlejuice, so they made quite a pair. Comparatively, Petunia and Marian looked incredibly normal. Petunia was wearing a blue floral dress and Marian was wearing a custom racerback tank top that advertised his lawn maintenance business and denim cut-off shorts.

Hunter texted underneath the table: I invite you to my girlfriend's birthday dinner and you dress-up as a billboard? Smh

Marian just sent a winky face back.

They ordered their drinks and some appetizers to split before taking a seat near the stage.

“I love the vibes in here,” Sara said, “it would be a great place to party.”

“Then let's make it a party,” Hunter said, taking Sara's hand and squeezing it. “Happy birthday, Sara without an H.”

Sara blinked in surprise. “How'd you know?”

“I just know you,” Hunter said, trying to be sappy, before adding, “you've been pinning surprise birthday party ideas for two weeks now, and I reached out to your friend Nora on Facebook to confirm the date.”

Sara blushed. “That's so thoughtful, to plan all of this for me.”

“I was worried you'd be upset that I went behind your back, I know there's probably a reason you didn't tell me your birthday to begin with.”

Sara shrugged sheepishly. “It's dumb.”

“Dumb reasons are valid too.”

“It seems like birthdays are just an excuse to party, and I have all the party in my life I could ever ask for. But something small, and personal like this is the best surprise I could have asked for.”

Hunter let out a sigh of relief. “That's good, because it's about as much party as I can manage.”

Sara leaned over and planted a kiss on Hunter's lips. “It's perfect. And don't worry- you don't have to do karaoke with me. It's enough to have you here, cheering me on.”

And, as Sara did a Shania Twain song that Hunter personally hated, no one was cheering louder.

[jessilynallendilla]

Dylan Hollis Baking Quotes Without Context Part 6

“We’re using it in linguini form, which I’ve never seen-eugh" 

“Dates are inevitable” 

“I don’t know where this is going, I don’t think I want to” 

“You mix this up to make it all green and disgusting. Charming” 

“This is just not right” 

“Now we’re going to plate this monstrosity” 

~”Peaches and linguini. Hearts of palm. Dates too~” 

“Now on goes our frozen swamp cream” 

“These are fresh eggs. From the business end of the chicken” 

“Ooh it’s wet!” 

“This is roughly four cups of crumbs and tears from artisan bread makers” 

“Now into a separate bowl goes two chicken eggs. Well, thank heavens you specified, I was at risk of using my locally sourced ostrich eggs” 

“We start with two large packs of lemon Jello because one would be too easy and three’s a felony” 

“Once you get to this color you are severely dehydrated” 

“Lemon lime fever dream” 

“Pour this into something, preferably the garbage” 

“This person has been to a dark place.” “Ugh it lingers.” “Seen bad things.” 

“You hear that, Henry?” tosses skeleton. “Long live Christmas!” 

“Make sure to take off the diapers, not very nutritious.” 

“Optional cup of chocy chips. Optional my ass!” 

“If you leave it in too long you risk pregnancy” 

“I call that a cup. No need to be precise, your in-laws will still find a way to insult you.” 

“We don’t cook with pot hash anymore for the same reasons we don't attempt to cure indigestion with lobotomies” 

Sheri is the popery of liquor. It was once very fashionable back when people bathed once a week and wondered why there were rats in their wigs.” 

“Smells really festive, like Febreze in a crypt” 

“Just a tablespoon of rum.” pours whole bottle, proceeds to drunkenly stumble into oven. 

“This looks like I microwaved a squirrel.” 

“Are you supposed to eat this for Christmas or for punishment?” 

“I’m sure people loved it back then when they ate lead paint and wood chips.” 

“You don’t have to use the whole box, you can beat a few and suck on the rest.” 

“Sorry I’m late I took the wrong exit at Cape Canaveral and ended up getting probed for free.” 

“Oh boy it’s butter on butter, nobody tell Paula Dean, she’ll bust in like the Kool-Aid Man” 

“Apparently these are named after the seed of the Buckeye tree which kills humans and cattle. Ohio you do you.” 

“Oh, the fifties, where when breakfast was a verb, baseball was relevant, and I would have had to have a wife” 

“Pinch of salt-”spills it-”Screams” 

“This looks like 10W40” 

“You can still buy powdered creamer if you like the taste of wood glue” 

“Finally alternate adding the dry and the motor oil” 

“For years I have searched for a gelatin mold that is edible and for years I have done so in vain” 

“C’mon Pepto!” 

“This book contains five secret cornbread recipes believed to be the lost sacred texts of Nebraska. Bake them all, die!” 

“Two boxes of cornbread mix. By the power of the Midwest!” 

“Sprinkle with water to avoid dry spots. What type of Nebraska voodoo is this?” 

“It reeks!” 

Stressed laughter “My house smalls like Hidden Valley.” 

[the-darkness-does-not-bargain]

I love Lemon Drop Boy, can we maayybbee get a little snippet of chapter 2?

Here you go! This is the most recent part I've added. This chapter is just not giving me much right now, sadly 😞

/////

Styling her daughter’s hair was one of Yanxia Young’s preferred methods of bonding, and she never seemed to understand or accept Beatrice’s ambivalence to it.  Still, she submitted herself to the curling iron because it also meant that she and her mother weren’t fighting.  But as each pristinely curled lock dropped lightly onto her shoulders, she heard her phone vibrate loudly against the polished wood of her mother’s vanity.

“Be sure to keep that in your purse tonight,” her father said.  In the mirror, she could see him attaching diamond cufflinks to his wrists.  “On silent, preferably.”  

Beatrice barely heard him.  She was too focused on the name, or rather, the initial that had appeared on her screen.  “Who is A?”  Her mother asked.

“Just someone new I met this semester,” she responded, trying not to give away how much her fingers itched to grab the device and hide it away.  Fortunately, she knew the text was too small for her mother to read, but she still let out a small sigh of relief when the screen turned off again.

“A new friend?”

“I think so,” she said with a secret little thrill.

“Speaking of your friends, the Villaumbrosias won’t be attending tonight,” her father continued, shaking his head with a small grin as he put on his tie.  “Josef is still holding that grudge against Bernard Emié, after nearly a decade.  But I’ve invited them to our family celebration on Christmas Eve.”

“Is Lilith still planning to apply to the University of Navarra?”  Her mother asked.

“She is, although her parents are trying to convince her to study here instead.”

“She should study where she intends to work.  That’s the best way to go with law school.  It’s different for your field.  You can study anywhere.  Have you started your applications yet?”

“I have,” Beatrice said, though it was mostly a lie.  She’d gotten as far as compiling the list of programs she would be applying to, but then she got distracted by other things.

One of those things sent her another message, and she begged off her mother’s attempt to do her makeup in order to retreat back to her room and read it.

18:43, A: How many lime wedges 🍋‍🟩 do you think I can fit into my mouth at once?  Hans says 5 but I know I can do better.

18:50, A: It was 8! Now he owes me €10 😌.  On an unrelated note, my mouth hurts.

[soukokumychildren]

Au Short

Well, this idea has been kind of buzzing around in my head for a long time but only recently with the help of another song, (of course...incidentally both of them have the name "Villian" as their title), I finally decided out the entire write and just went at it for like--two full hours or such lol. Anyway, here it is, I'm really proud on how it turned out! :D (Ps...this is far in the future and MASSIVE spoilers for my au...but heck it.)

It was a glorious night, stars obscured by a gloomy whirl of clouds hovering near to the tallest of Yokohama's skyscrapers. The structures were illuminated with tiny lights, all buildings alive and bustling, the outside even more so, with traffic moving home from work and parties being held all throughout the night, the ocassional vibration from a club not unfamiliar as you got used to the bustling surroundings. But somewhere in Yokohama, across the bridge, held warehouses.

And a certain man that stashed a secret organization away in one of those said warehouses was bristling. Because a pest was found among the buildings. The said certain pest was a man that went by the name Doppo Kunikida, bound by ribbons that felt like several layers of leather keeping his arms close to his sides. Red electricity zapped across the fabric, but it didn't affect its current prisoner. Kunikida lowered his head, dirty-blonde hair covering his gray eyes from view. Usually, it was neatly tucked back into a ponytail, but currently, it was scruffy, and strands stuck out from everywhere. He breathed heavily, the squirming he did achieved nothing to escape the bonds. The man looked down at his red necktie, black shirt and lime-yellow vest. But he wasn't looking at himself. He was looking down at his feet, where a green book was located, Japanese letters sprawled across its front, reading: Ideals. But not even his skill could aid him in this position.

He squinted at the distinct shape of his rectangular glasses, as they had clattered to the floor a minute ago. Footsteps approached, and his head snapped up. But without the aid of glasses, and the darkness surrounding, he was practically sightless.

"Isn't this quite the predicament?" Said a voice that usually was doused with the tone of singsong, but instead, sounded amused. And…cold. The shape bent over, retrieved the glasses, and held it up in front of Kunikida. His breath caught as he blinked rapidly. "Huh?" He asked after a moment, seeing the shape unfold the glasses and slip them onto his face. When the dirty-blonde adjusted, he shook his head in shock.

A much sharpened image of a brunette stood there. A bandage obscured his heavily scarred left eye, the remaning one red and smoldering with a burning anger that didn't quite reach his features. The scar on said eye ran down to the corner of his mouth, and it was deep. He smiled, arms crossed over his chest, a brown jacket covering a gray turtleneck, rolled up to the sleeves to reveal more bandages wound around his arm to wrists. A new addition had been recently added-a pair of black gloves concealing his hands. Another jacket, a seeming dark green draped over his shoulders, a black opal in a golden pendant strapped to his right shoulder.

"It seems we found a little roach running amidst in our territory." Dazai said silkily. Kunikida looked over his surroundings once he spotted boxes, more crates piled up haphazardly around the area. He couldn't read the inscriptions from his current standing point. His eyes followed the trail of black cloth to a man concealed half by shadow, and his eyes widened. Akutagawa Ryunosuke. The man had precariously cut black hair with slight bangs, piercing gray eyes, and hair that draped the sides of his face, framing his cheekbones. Their ends were white as if they were dipped in some sort of reverse-colored ink. The coat he wore had a sort of extended form of turtleneck that was wider than average, a sort of beige color that was relaxing on the eyes. Brown straps decorated his chest, winding around his shoulders and back. His coat was torn at the edges. Akutagawa rose his arm and lightly coughed into his hand, before providing Kunikida with a glare that seemed less menacing without eyebrows.

"You…" Kunikida snapped his head back to Dazai, who merely grinned wider.

"So, Kunikida," Dazai said silkily, lifting his wrist to check how taunt the bandages across his arm were. "What could someone like you be doing at a place like this at this hour?" Kunikida was acutely aware of the duel scythe blades attached to Dazai's sides, held by an endless supply of chains.

While the dirty-blonde thought of something to say, Dazai had answered for him. "Oh, so you've thought that you caught onto me being suspicious?" Dazai asked, red eyes glinting with malice as he met Kunikida's gaze. "Took you a while, it really did. I suspect all the others knew except you." Kunikida's eyes narrowed. "You aren't the Dazai I know." The brunette tutted, stepping closer to Kunikida, and suddenly, his back was bathed in a silver glow from the moon behind him, gracing the night with a full shape, albeit a bit obscured from the clouds that loomed over the city.

"Oh but I am, you see. I'm the very Dazai you know, love and appreciate." Kunikida scoffed, and Dazai shot him a look, void of emotion, though his eyebrow twitched upward. "But I wear a mask, you see. Always hidden behind the several masks I’ve programmed myself to adapt to. It just seems you were always too slow to catch on.~" "Like hell! Reveal who you really are!" Dazai gave him an unamused expression, sighing, and working the fingertip of one of his gloves off. "You really are useless. I sometimes do wonder why the Agency thought you were a good hire," he sighed breezily. "How absolutely DARE-" But he was promptly slapped with leather fabric to the side of his cheek, shutting him up immediately. His eyes landed on a shape that shouldn't have shocked him to his core, but still shook him nonetheless. Strong legs dangling off a large crate, swayed, gray boots meeting up to the mans knees. He wore a shirt crisscrossed with belts horizontally and vertically, with a tie laid over his chest and held to his black shirt with a gray clip. Sleeves rolled up to show scarred arms that had black bandages wound around the wrist with black gloves overlaying them to a point. Ginger hair rolled off the mans shoulders gracefully, a cross between masculine and feminine, sharp, cerulean hawk-like eyes wandering to find Kunikida's gaze. More scars decorated his cheeks, a black hat perched on his head with a brown based rim, a chain rolling off the lip, a blue crystal glinting in the moonlight. He raised his brow, just a hair higher, when Kunikida looked at him, baffled. Aghast, even.

Dazai slipped his glove back on. "Come here, my love." Dazai commanded, voice booming across the warehouse. Chuuya barely hesitated, sliding off the crates and leaping down gracefully, and striding over to Dazai. He scrunched his nose, giving Kunikida a glare as he went to Dazai's left side, protecting his blind spot instinctually, despite being shorter and less imposing at Dazai’s side. A magnificent maroon wing stretched and spread behind Dazai, incasing his backside in a protective, feathery shield, light pink feathers embedded on the underside of Chuuya’s wings.

“Chuuya!” Kunikida suddenly yelled without thinking, and the redhead let himself slowly look at the man. “Atleast you have some sense of decency! Tell him to let me out immediately! I beg you!” Chuuya sneered. “Don’t Chuuya me like you know me, Kunikida.” He said, with a tone so full of venom, that the dirty-blonde shuddered. “What…?” Kunikida asked, exasperated. “Don’t think for a second that you’re my friend.” Chuuya stated simply, yet darkly, his feathers rustling as he sidled up closer to the brunette. “Not here, and most certainly not now.” Kunikida was taken aback, and he tried to slide backwards uneasily, but the ribbons of black cloth extended to his legs, rendering him immobile.

“What do you want?!” The dirty-blonde burst out, starting to feel the endless cycle of terror start to take hold over his brain. “Simple,” sighed the brunette. “You’ve treaded and trespassed across our territory. You must pay the price, as you know. People like us don’t take things lightly.” Dazai’s grin widened, and his expression darkened. Kunikida recoiled physically, eyes widening with a stroke of fear.

“Let’s see…what kind of punishment can I inflict on you that would be…fitting.” Dazai cocked his head in Chuuya’s direction. “Be a good dog and fetch me something appropriate for this occasion, will you?” The brunette asked, closing his eye and waving his wrist. The redhead studied him for a moment, his eyes narrowing to dangerous slits, before slipping away behind a big crate, and returning swiftly with a pistol in hand, crafted out of dark-gray-blue metal.

Dazai took the weighty weapon of artillery, and nonchalantly twirled it by the trigger hole with a finger, smiling to Kunikida. “What the hell are you doing?! Don’t you work for the Agency!?” Kunikida blurted out desperately, eyeing the pistol with pure terror. Dazai’s smile cracked. He doubled over. And threw his head back, releasing a disturbing cackle of laughter at Kunikida’s desperation. Chuuya gazed at him emotionlessly. “But of course I work for the Agency!” Agreed the brunette, amused. “Doesn’t mean I can’t do anything on the side, now. Hmmmm?” “If the President knew about this—!” “He works with us in this organization as well. I appreciate the effort though.” No shine of life glinted in Dazai’s eyes, an eerie aura rolling off him in waves. “You—“ Dazai cocked the gun, aimed and pulled the trigger, shooting a bullet through Kunikida’s right shoulder. A blast of blood spewed from the other side, scarlet as it splashed like a fountain, the bullet going right through. Kunikida howled in pain, writhing in place, still held firmly in one spot by Akutagawa’s ability, Rashomoun. “Be a bit more quieter, will you? Your voice is starting to grate upon my ears.” Dazai said cooly, snorting.

As the dirty-blonde gasped, shuddering in agony, blood seeped into his clothes. He raised his head to glare at Dazai. “You….are a monster…” “Thank you for the compliment,” chimed Dazai, and then unloaded another bullet into Kunikida’s foot when he saw it trying to maneuver closer to his ideals. It penetrated through his shoe easily, providing no protection from the bullet. The man cried in agony, and Dazai merely watched, unbothered by the fact he had shot his co-worker twice with bullets. Blood spurt out of his foot. “But I think I warned you to stay quiet, didn’t I?” Kunikida grimaced as he looked back up, catching Chuuya snarling deeply at him.

“Hey Akutagawa,” called Dazai, tilting his head in the man’s direction. “Why don’t you escort our guest from the grounds?” “Huh? Wait!!” The dirty-blonde, regardless, writhed again, refusing to leave. Not until he recieved answers. A beat held between before Dazai held his hand up to stop Akutagawa from undergoing the task.

“Let me guess,” Dazai overly sighed, pressing fingers to his temples. “You want to know why I’m doing this, right?” Kunikida opened his mouth to speak, but Dazai went over him, walking around Kunikida in circles. “You’ve heard rumors and decided to see if they were true. The all great and liable Dazai Osamu running an underground criminal organization? And right from under the governments nose?” He gasped dramatically. “Oh my, that sounds like a bunch of hocus pocus, huh?” He chuckled, as if this were some hilarious sick joke. “But,” He grasped at Kunikida’s uninjured shoulder from behind, grinning against the man’s backside. “You had to find out, make sure the rumors weren’t true. So you wanted to catch me in the act, didn’t you?” He circled Kunikida once more before settling back infront of him, Chuuya at his back and keeping close with his partner. “Yes, but—“ Kunikida began, and was once again interrupted. By…clapping. Dazai was clapping. “Well, congratulations. You’ve caught me.” He flicked his hand upward. “Release him.”

Akutagawa did so, but after a moments hesitation. Kunikida nearly fell, dizzy from the blood loss, but he forced himself to keep himself upright. Suddenly, he was tossed an object, and he clambered and fumbled with the item before he got a good grasp on it. …The gun he was shot with. Kunikida looked up, confused. Dazai spread his arms wide—even catching Chuuya off guard, hence the fact his eyes widened.

“You’ve caught me doing something illegal, Kunikida,” Dazai chirped, as light as a feather, grinning widely. “Shoot me. As someone who works for the government, it’s your job, is it not?” The manipulation tactic was working. Kunikida was hesitating, and he wasn’t moving. And he was flabbergasted. Or maybe he couldn’t.

After several heavy seconds of silence, his arm dropped to his side, though a little exaggerated, shaking his head. “It’s against my morals.” Kunikida choked, gripping the pistol tightly. He didn’t know what to do. Dazai’s grin widened, his arms returning to his sides. The man was breaking down. “But I have to,” Kunikida said, dropping to his knees, landing on his hands. He didn’t even regiester the pain in his foot nor shoulder anymore. “But if the President is also here, then….what…?” Dazai watched the dirty-blonde fall apart with a sadistic smile, arm sliding around Chuuya’s waist. The redhead leaned into the touch, tilting his head into Dazai’s shoulder and tucking his wings. “Kunikida,” he said, loud enough to capture the dirty-blonde’s attention. “This organization kills, but we kill for the greater good.” Perhaps it would ease Kunikida. Perhaps it wouldn’t. “This organization alone balances this city out more than the Port Mafia or the government ever could. We deal with stronger threats than the Agency can handle,” his voice boomed, and Kunikida stopped shaking, just to listen. “But you kill—” “People die all the time, Kunikida.” “….” The dirty-blonde looked up, a set of blue eyes and one red one staring down at his hunched-over form. “We’re doing things for the better, not for worse. These people hurt other people, the ones we take care of.” Kunikida opened and closed his mouth like some form of flabbergasted Venus fly trap. “We may not be as kind as the agency. But we do it to protect this city—nothing more, nothing less.” “I can’t be certain of this information!” Barked Kunikida, snatching up his ideals. “You could be lying to me!”

Dazai’s grin was smothered, quickly turning into a frown. He crossed his arms again, side stepping into Chuuya. “I suppose you’ll never be sure.” He looked back to Akutagawa. “If you please, escort him out of our estate. We’re done here.” Dazai whisked away, Chuuya following as they turned towards the crates, walking away. “HEY!” Kunikida screamed, and Akutagawa’s tendrils wound around his legs and yanked him backward, before throwing him out of the warehouse, the door closing behind. As soon as Kunikida regained footing, the doors were already closed, and the possibility of gathering answers was no more. (By the way, if any of you are wondering where they're located and I wasn't very descriptive of the area, here's a link to a drawing I did a good bit ago.)

[mycochaotix]

hi mycopal :) I'm enjoying your blog and admiring your set up, seems very hightech. I'm also reading about cultivating a local (Australian) psilocybin variety we often find in pine forests. Could you point me in the right direction for more info to get started with a simple at home set up for beginners? thanks again for your good work :)

Hello there mycopal! Thanks for reaching out! I appreciate your kind words :) I’m super proud of my lab area! It has taken two years to put together by saving 25-50 a paycheck lol!! Humorously my roommate doesn’t like that i commandeered a whole room … haha, but here we are ;) What mushy are you looking to cultivate? Pscilocybe Tampensis or P. subtropicalis maybe? :)

note: my opinions and advice are based on my own experience and studious research :) there are MANY ways to skin things with… skin… lol; as such, my way should work for most but may not and there are many other mycoeducators with varied approaches that offer great insight in their own right :) I have a few vids on youtube (still new to content creating there and working on adding more) if you wanna see more of what I do as I outline it below! At the end of this long winded MCX response I will provide supportive resources for your consideration in order they are addressed in this response.

🍄Tip: get some nasalpharyngeal swabs so you can actively swab and store mushroom genetics you find in the wild for later reararch ;)

Pretext: I live in a (technically) tropical area so what i do with my research areas may be different than you! I am not sure how much of what im about to detail has been considered by you… but if youve considered it then disregard :) i like to break things down like you’re new new new incase theres any detail to miss.

Introductory Answering your Q: Basically you have to consider a handful of generalized steps for cultivating any fungus; and find TEKs (ie: guides by other mycopal’s that have yielded them success) and make your own tek— I always say that the mycojourney is coming up with your own tek, cobbled together from current teks that speak to you and also are appropriate for your resource availability :) after you get through my response you’ll have homework of studying resources but also: finding TEKs for your specific strain you want to work with :)

My preferred supplies-

Genetics: Dont know about the laws and availability where you live, but formal vendors (like innoculatetheworld ; sporeworks) and informal mycoeducators (who sometimes vendor spores) like PGT and Boomershroomer; are the only spore sources I trust (outside of my own stock;).

Boomershroomer makes quality inflatable monotubs and if you order one of her tubs she sends genetics with it! A little ‘secret’ ;) to be aware of!

PGT has a shop online thats only open sometimes but has a cool collectible trading card system for his genetics (buy the card get the microscopy supply with the card).

ITW and SW are generally up 24/7 and are more formal vendors that also sell microscopy stuff.

I currently use and recommend using 6qt shoebox totes for grow container (the kind that you buy in 5-10 packs from Walmart that have gusseted lids that allow some air flow for ‘sneakers’ to be stored hehe). Note that you can use 12/24/48/72qt etc, but I have no experience with those and they require larger set ups with fans, humidifiers, etc. i prefer less is more :)

I always promote a company called Microppose :) they do amazing filters and just started their own monotub production I think :) my fave substrate is CocoBliss coconut coir pith, and I use lab grade nutritional additives like: gypsum, lime, malt extract, and yeast off amazon in various stages of my process. For grain bags, before I made my own, I only trust: spawnmagic.com ; for my grains I use Producers Pride: Whole Oats (like what is given to horses) from the feedstore :) a 50lb bag has lasted me two years, no lie. I dont use bags, but jars for grain: i use brand: Ball, glass mason jars for spawn containers prior to moving spawn into a tub with substrate. I use Aozita wide mouth masonjar plastic lids (off Amazon) for my jars as they can be modified with filters and then pressure cooked safely and come with rubber seals :)

Now to go into detail to answer your question:

Here we go-deep breath-: lets talk cultivation and research starting:

1. Genetics: (a) multi spore syringe (mss) (can be injected into a grow bag but isnt ideal and may not produce viable strains) (recomended to use mss on agar to isolate your own colonies), (b) spore print/swab (requires agar) or (c) liquid culture (LC) isolate syringe (best option for immediate injection-inoculation of grain containers/bags with best chance for healthy growth and fruiting without time and hassle of the steps I outline further :)

1a. If you are able to work with agar (either make your own or buy premade sterilized, one time use agar plates): then you will start your journey by MSS->Agar->Isolate separate germinating colonies off mss agar plate to new plates (those become your mother isolate plates for each specific strain isolate for whatever strain youre working with). The mother plate should become your cold storage, reference plate as you study growth and fruiting characteristics of the colonies you isolate :) at that pont: You can then use some excised pieces of the mother plate (if in a rush, or if able to wait, till gen1 plates (transfers from mother plate to new plates that become duplicate isolates of the mother plate)) to inoculate a jar or two and also inoculate other plates to continue to ‘run the mycelium out’ / ‘chase the mycelium’.

1b. If you are not able to do agar work then I strongly suggest you seek genetics that are LC syringe. Basically, LC syringes are when mycopal takes a 2nd gen+ plate and moves some of that mycelium to sterile sugar water and lets the mycelium grow out in that water till its all filled with reproduced mycelium and can be sucked up into syringes for better more assured propagation of genetics ;)

Side thought: Spore swabs and spore syringed are dice rolls :) [Spore germination discussion incl quote from TMC- https://at.tumblr.com/mycochaos/uscrybal-commented-on-a-comment-i-made-quoting/pjzr0c86nlyt]

2. Grain spawn: once you have genetics hammered out, next is grain spawn. Grain spawn can be … well, any grain. Really. Mushrooms can colonize and fruit off of wet cardbord… 💯🍄😂, so what “type” of spawn is more about whats available in your area imo. Youll need to sterilize any grain spawn, unless using a premade bag thats already sterilized or taking chances with uncle bens (or similar) rice baggies that arent sterilized but are arguably cleaner than grains scooped out of a bags of grains from a mill or feedstore.

2a. Grain bags: milo, millet, rye berries, corn kernals, rice, whole oats, really any grain or berry that has a husk can be used :) some species prefer specific grains most work on all kinds of grains with varying levels of efficiency. Some grains are more or less robust and some do better when moistened and or pressure cooked than others :) i make my own grain but exclusively use glass mason quart jars :)

2b. Grain jars: my preference. I have recent grai. Jar prep and creation reels/shorts on my instagram and some on this tumblr if you wanna see specifics :) generally I do 15psi, 10 minute venting, for 1.5 hours for my grain and I do not soak grains, only low boil them for 30 min to soften husks and extract some grain nutrients to then use that liquid ‘grain soak’ run off for agar nutrients :)

2c. Uncle Bens rice bags: i dont do this and dont have any good advice on it. I have a UB tek link or two at end for consideration and there is a whole reddit mushroom sub i think r/unclebens (?) for this

2d. All in one bags: i also do not use these and do not recommend them generally. If you have never had a flush and are literally first timing it, then all in one may work fine :) but as much of the process you can source or create yourself the cheaper and often better, imo!

3. Substrate & Spawn-to-bulk (S2B): many mycopals have their own substrate preferences, but for me I prefer shaved coconut coir pith. I generally do a coir block 650g, 500g vermiculite (from garden store), and 50g gypsum + 50g lime for my substrate. I do not sterilize it, but I do heat pasteurize my substrate for at least 12 hours. In an air tight, insulated cooler (like for sodas at a party). You can also cold pasteurize. I like how Boomershroomer and PGT do their sub and learned from them then tweaked it for my own preferences :)

When my jars are fully colonized and observably free from contam, I will S2B using a clean butter knife :) I kinda cut down into the grain in pizza slices then swirl the knife around as I let grains that spill out mix with my substrate and basically do 1qt spawn to 2qt of substrate, saving maybe 10-15% of the spawn and substrate till end to make a special psuedo casing layer once bulk of spawn and substrate are mixed and compacted. Then I do a last sprinkling of the remaining grain like a baby lasgana and cover that with substrate.

Casing layer explainer: A casing layer is a layer of material applied on top of the colonized substrate in mushroom cultivation. It can help improve yield, reduce certain types of surface contaminants, and maintain humidity around the fruiting bodies. In my experience, using an organic sphagnum peat moss mixed with lime powder and filtered water has produced successful tubs without the need for pasteurization or sterilization. Before I used that i just used left over substrate as a casing layer :) — While some species require a specific type of casing layer after substrate colonization, most do not require one. However, adding a casing layer can be beneficial for improving yield and humidity control.

There are different ways to apply a casing layer. Some people apply it as part of the spawn to bulk (S2B) process, while others apply it only after the substrate surface is fully colonized or slightly before pinning. Personally, I have used a casing layer when colonizing pasteurized wheat/rye straw to provide an even fruiting surface for mycelium. I have also experimented with an organic peat and lime dust casing layer (no pasteurization or sterilization), which has helped retain humidity and has not resulted in any contamination. Personally, I've worked some APEs in that past that had a casing layer applied in the same instance as the S2B occuring, essentially the compacted bits colonized faster than the looser casing layer. Where I always use casing layer, is if I use spawn to colonize pasteurized wheat/rye straw, if only to provide an even fruiting surface for the mycelium! But, even then... most cubensis can fruit solely on pasteurized straw, with no casing layer!

4. Colonization and Fruiting:

4a. Youll need to find a TEK based on whatever substrate container you settle on using :) what ive outlined so far is my own tek, using 6qt shoe boxes and the materials ive outlined above. The substrate chamber/container can be a flat container/tote or could be fruited out the top of a grain bag/all-in-one bag OR could fruit off the side of a bag (if its a species like Oyster mushies that prefer side fruiting). I personally use unmodified tubs and will leave lid on my tubs while colonizing and then take lid off and replace with cleaned, upside down, misted 6qt tub that rests on the edges of the right-side-up tub to create a mini climate that allows more passive air flow, allows light to filter in from high angles promoting fruits growing upwards towards the light. Light isnt needed until pinning, and is a secondary trigger to pinning but a primary factor in pigmentation of fruits and growth direction of fruits.

Colonization of most mushroom fruiting fungi is generally between 68-80F, every species and even some varieties within those species, may have specific temp needs. The way mycopals control for this is many things that I dont have to use fortunately :) ‘Martha Tents’ are something to consider. Some use heating pads and humidifiers depending on where they live and where they are compared to the sea💯. I dont have any experience with martha tents or doing more than using my home A/C, a closet, and a heppa room filter to control my temps in the closet and with lots of trial and error…. I now leave my home at 72F, my closet warms to about 74 with the door shut and a/c at that temp, so i let plates, jars and tubs colonize at 74F and then I will move the tubs to open closet with more air flow and is closer to 72F when I am moving to fruiting :) Ive tried to be clever in how I use my space… so i use wire racks and know higher up on the rack is hotter and less air flow whereas lower is cooler and often more air flow.

Something I havent really gone into yet in this response is about sterility, aseptic environments, personal and environmental hygiene. All important to condsider…

4a. Heres my explainer on that:

Strict aespetic and hygiene techniques are not 100% and even using fancy laminar flow is not 100% contamination free potentials! Common contaminant sources include airborne spores, dust, and environmental factors. Pets that roam around your cultivation area could carry spores on their fur or paws, which may be released when they move through your space. Additionally, some fungal contaminants, like Kahms yeast, can present in distinctive ways and there are dimorphic fungal molds that have one or more alternate morphologies, main dimorphism being mold with a secondary yeast form (whence the mold spores get into human lungs, for example with blastomycosis perhaps) as an alternative reproductive presentation within its life cycle (based on temperature and environmental variables). It's essential to understand that spores and other contaminant-genetic cells are incredibly tiny and (in the case of most spores) can suspend in the air, waiting for air currents, light, or vibrations to move them around. Wet spores and bacterial cells oftentimes require animal assistance or liquid splashing/spritzing/spraying to move around, but can often hitch rides of natural environmental variabes (currents of wind, water, dirt, etc). Humans also carry a range of bacteria and fungal organisms on their skin, which can contribute to localized environmental dust and potential contamination when working in hyper sterile or attempted hygienic environments while researching fungi :)

4b: Primordia, Pins and Fruiting: Pinning is a colony activity (that impacts all sides of your cake once colonized) that shifts metabolic processes of the mycelia to pinning and fruiting, this is why when you start getting heavy side pins you rarely get any flat-surface pins and fruits (all the energy goes into what pins form and fruit, first). Additionally, I believe my suggestions will be effective in controlling for environmental triggers to pinning, it is important to note that side pinning can also occur due to other factors such as genetics or substrate composition.

You can reduce the microclimate from being created that promotes side pins, during the process, by ensuring that the substrate is firmly compressed, once S2B occurs, and then sprinkled with a .25" casing layer of the same substrate material (or peat+lime casing). I press my base spawn+cvg mix firmly, and ensuring that the surface is even with least amount of inconsistently level substrate surface. This early compression, keeps the cake against the wall for as longer than doing little to no compression of your spawn+sub. You should ensure your colonizing mycelium isnt exposed to the same lighting you would for fruiting, but light is only a secondary trigger to pinning, FAE+Temp Drop+Humidity pooling/then drying are the primary triggers for pinning once colonization has completed.

5. Harvesting and Dehydrating: i twist and pull my fruits, some will cut at base, some will float their cake with water and then cut or twist and pull at that poimt :) harvesting is preferential imo. I dehydrate fruits 125F for 24 hours in Air Fryer o. Dehydrate mode :)

Resources and foundational TEKs:

Genetics: innoculatetheworld.com, sporeworks,com, boomershroomer.com, pgtmycology,com

Casing layer post w/screencaps: https://www.tumblr.com/mycochaotix/723941213220339712/mycochaos-oldacnt-plzfollownew-one-of-my

Growing gourmet (book): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-CsyZenWzF8kHLviXM8pencZ4FAHDedh/view?usp=drivesdk

PF tek - Check this site out, gives a great layout of "PF TEK" and also BRF cakes as part of that TEK - https://www.fungifun.org/pmwiki.php/English/Pftek

HOw to make easy (cvg) bulk substrate (boomer shroomer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7M6YHfaMyQ8&t=3s

how to make plates, slants, and LC - north spore - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4bzQQkh71Q&t=487s

pgt LC basics - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqwjUq31KgU&t=284s

Southwest mushrooms - mycelium grain spawn and LC - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxlJJpu3O_g

How to sterilize equipment such as petri dishes - MIcrobehunter microscopy - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVtEBtxkhGk

mycelium inoculation in the lab - southwest mushrooms - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ng_Wq9PnEVI&t=560s

Mushroom Cultivation, how it should and shouldnt look: https://www.shroomery.org/forums/showflat.php/Number/17231150

Recognizing and dealing with contamination: https://www.shroomery.org/forums/showflat.php/Number/23130868

Sterilization vs Pasturization - http://www.differencebetween.net/science/difference-between-sterilization-and-pasteurization/

Mushrooms, Molds and Mycorrhizae: A Fungal Immersion Course Part 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD1IL2dBLQ8

Mushrooms, Molds and Mycorrhizae: A Fungal Immersion Course Part 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bam3tF_a7M

Mushrooms, Molds and Mycorrhizae: A Fungal Immersion Course Part 3 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AiIUGGKjuwU

Mushrooms, Molds and Mycorrhizae: A Fungal Immersion Course Part 4 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLfwruf2xVA

Guide to Oysters, Gourmet, Freshcap - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZAjz6bZjpg

Cooking Oyster mushrooms, TGS - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qb2KF6kvhA

5 gallon bucket tek - oyster mushrooms - gourmet - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45b2t7fqhjA&t=60s

Mycophilia YT 'All About Aborts' discussion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9C8x_32Saxg

Bacterial colony morphology - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JZAFUPckUg

Mycelium morphology : how to select healthy mycelium when breeding mushrooms -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leUpfsonVxc&t=1s

mycotrophic - agar xfers/sectoring off healthiest growth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMxGwkj9Wn4

DayTrippers Microscopy library of contam and healthy mycelium examples: https://www.reddit.com/r/ContamFam/comments/nnquol/microscopy_of_healthy_mycelium_and_contamination/

PH trich conversation pt 2 DT: https://www.reddit.ccom/r/ContamFam/comments/jldtuw/my_garden_of_contam_free_grow_it_is_all_about_the/

DayTrippers Trip Tips - apply PH casing layer to prevent trich: https://www.reddit.com/r/ContamFam/comments/m3unbr/daytrippers_trip_tips_video_tutorial_on_how_to/

Trich contamfam library: https://www.reddit.com/r/ContamFam/comments/115gyj2/trichoderma_the_green_monster/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

If FAE is a problem: not pinning, getting Cobweb, Stroma Overlay! “READ THIS”: https://www.reddit.com/r/ContamFam/comments/jur5ar/daytrippers_trip_tip_why_cant_i_get_this_if_fae/

DayTripper’s Trip Tips: Two cultivation tricks to solve common problems of insufficient Fresh Air Exchange and Overlay growth in monotubs: https://www.reddit.com/r/ContamFam/comments/10w1yxm/daytrippers_trip_tips_two_cultivation_tricks_to/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3

[blazeismyname]

Pieces from the first part of my Flower Hsubands fanfic that I'm too afraid to release. I might release it if this post gets enough likes though- (I'm mostly joking but maybe):

"He laughed. "Isn't it obvious? We're dead."

I looked over the grass and rolling hills, speckled with lime green and cyan.

"Is there anyone else here?" I added. If this were heaven, then surely one of the others would be here.

"No, this is a land for you and me. And I've been waiting here... alone," he said. He solemnly placed his head on my shoulder. "I've missed you."" -conversation between Jimmy and Scott directly after Scott lost his final life in 3rd life

"“Scott, you’ve known about this longer than me. How do you feel?” I asked.

“Strange. I’m a whole new me. This is the consequence of getting reborn. But strangely enough, I feel like I’ve always known this was going to be the consequence. I feel like... I always knew I wasn’t going to be fully me anymore,” Scott explained. 

"Do-” I hesitated. “Do you think this’ll end badly?”

Scott had a look of concern and questioning. “Why would it?”

“We’re different people… What if we hurt each other?” I worried. 

Scott shook his head. “No- We still have our cores. And at our cores, neither of us is one to hurt people on purpose. Plus, I will always love you.”

“I will always love you too…”" -First person from Jimmy, Scott and Jimmy talking about being reborn

"“So, boys, have you started thinking about who you’re bringing to the Rivendell Ball this weekend?” King Aiden asked.

Scott kicked, thinking. “Can I bring another boy?”

Xornoth sighed. “We know you’re gay.”

King Jack chuckled. “Do you think we discriminate?” He gestured to his husband.

Everyone went silent. I thought about the Rivendell Ball. It was the ball where young princes, princesses, and those in between take their current loves and celebrate another year without the fall of empires. It was super prestigious and only happened once a year. Many of us were old enough to go this year, and I was nervous. I didn’t even have a da-

“I’m asking Jimmy,” Scott declared." -Scott deciding to take Jimmy to the Rivendell Ball

"That sounded delicious. “Mm! At least it isn’t another seaweed pancake. They’re good, but I want something different.”

“Now I need to try these mystical seaweed pancakes,” Scott laughed." -Scott and Jimmy talking about Lizzie and Jimmy's breakfast habits

"My face turned sombre as I embraced him. “Would it help if I shared an embarrassing secret?”

“Jimmy-” He wiped his tears. “Is it serious?”

“Not too serious. Just kinda… Funny? I mean, considering our past life and everything, it’s definitely abnormal for a reborn,” I replied.

“Funny?” he puzzled.

I took a breath and took off my shirt like it was some grand reveal. “I have boobs.”

Scott blinked hard for a second, as if in disbelief. “You’re trans?”

“Yep! This fish ain’t cis!” I giggled.

He burst into laughter and hugged me. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”

“I was embarrassed-” I stammered. “Especially with the fact I was cis in my last life.”

“Hey! It’s ok, nothing to be embarrassed of,” Scott smiled. “Now you’re the B and the T!”" -Jimmy trying to cheer Scott up by telling him that, funnily enough, he isn't cis in this life

"“Hey, boys! We’re just waiting for Joel!” Lizzie greeted. “And there he is.” Joel swam up through the water entrance in the middle of the floor. His hair was soggy and I let out a little laugh at that. Lizzie helped him out of the water. “You forgot about the roof entrance, didn’t you?”

“I forgot about the roof entrance!” Joel face palmed. Then he pointed at me and Scott." -Joel being a sopping wet cat

"Scott helped me up and wiped the mud off my face with a handkerchief he dipped in the water. “Maybe this is why fish don’t have wings.”

“Hey! I’m a fully capable fish!” I argued. " -Fish really shouldn't fly

"Xornoth has come in late with Joey and almost didn’t get in because Joey insisted on being shirtless. It was all resolved because Xornoth had brought an extra shirt, knowing this would happen." -I had been hyping this up forever just for a small mention

"I looked around us again. Xornoth and Joey were doing Cod knows what. I don’t think either of them knew how to dance. Then they fell to the floor. Scott took a hand off of me and put it over his mouth to cover his laugh.

“You’re related to him?” I teased, pointing at Xornoth.

Scott shook his head jokingly. “Nope, where’d you get that idea?”" -Xornoth and Joey proving that if Xornoth wasn't evil, this would've been a match made in heaven

"He ran as I tried to grapple with what just happened. We were just friends, so why did he kiss me?

Then, looking up, I saw a broken face across the room. Scott, his face was distraught and filled with agony.

I stumbled over my words. “I-”

“Jimmy.. Did you ever love me? Or was I just… An obligation?” Scott asked, marching closer.

“I love you- I- He-” I tried to form a sentence but my head wasn’t clear.

A tear rolled down Scott’s pale cheek. “Enough!” He put his hands out in frustration. And then he gasped. And so did everyone else.

I felt a sharp pain in my chest. I looked down. Right through me was a blood-stained ice spike. Ice could so easily be broken, and yet it had been running straight through me. Straight through me. The air around me had gone cold. The kind of bitter cold you can smell, that hurts your nose. The tears I cried from the pain and sadness turned to salty ice. And my skin turned pale and my breath clouded as my life gave way to the ice.

“Scott… He kissed me…. I don’t even like him… I love you,” I managed to let escape on my dying icy breath." -This whole scene directly after Sausage kisses Jimmy (IT HAPPENED IN CANON SO I HAD TO)

[halliescomut]

Secret Crush on You Ep 14

-It's cute that Nuea really wants to make sure Toh's parents approve of him. I don't think he's ever encountered people who didn't like him before.

-Toh's mom=actual queen.

-Sky...of course perfect for winning over parents and I love that she was so happy for Jao.

-Careful Som, your jealousy is showing.

-Daisy is so precious. I love that Touch was so clear with him, that he likes Daisy for who he is, however he wants to present. Also, surprised to see Daisy say that they're trans. I feel like in BLs we see a fair amount of trans actors and characters, especially in comparison to 'traditional' (read straight) media, but not much discussion around it.

-I do love the drunkies, I will say that. They work hard all week, they deserve to let loose if they want.

-Oh no...."It's Friday Nuea, what about my lessons?" Jesus Lord, Papa Toh is gonna catch them making out I just know it....I pray it's just making out....

-Fuck I was right....I can't tell for sure, but the vibes I get from Papa Toh are far more 'I do not wanna see my kid making out with anyone' and not homophobic or 'I dislike Nuea in particular'. At worst I think it's a case of 'No one is good enough for my baby.'

-I am very confused about this dropping the lime scene. I rewound it twice and still can't figure out what's going on.

-Nuea & Papa Toh confrontation....please don't murder Nuea and bury him in the garden!!! He loves Toh!!

-These nosy fuckers eavesdropping so obviously.

-I was right!!! Papa just didn't want to see it (which is fair).

-Papa Toh is really just grouchy, much like Nuea's Dad. "I hate that you're handsome." What? -- OMG!!! Papa Toh is grouchy because Ma also thinks Nuea is handsome!!! Amazing!!!

-I don't know what the competition is, and I'd say they're playing tops v. bottoms, but we all know that Som is the top, let's not be ridiculous.

-Aww, match hats....so cute. And important, it's very important to protect against sun damage!!

-Like...I know it's product placement, but I like the face wash ad, I don't care.

-Some true words of wisdom from Mama and Papa Toh. Very sweet.

-Yes Sky- Lock it down!!! (Also, again with the cool shirts, the teeny birdies, I love it.)

-I absolutely love Sky's elementary school friends dragging him. That's true friendship.

{Return EDIT: I really loved the whole sequence of Sky taking Jao to the places that have been important to him and introducing him to people he knows and cares about, but it wasn't until I was writing the Master post for all of my little watch alongs that I realized, it's not just about giving Jao a chance to learn more about Sky and his life, since they haven't known each other their whole lives, he's specifically going around and introducing him to everyone that matters to him to show Jao how important he is to Sky and to reinforce that he's not ever been and never will be ashamed of him. And that's just so damn precious!!!!}

-OMG That present was so cute!!!! Jao you romantic little peach!!!

-Everybody watching and 'awwwwing'- adorable!

-Sweet university memories. So cute.

[I just went to title this post and thought somewhere I had combined two episodes into one post because Viki auto plays, but no I just labelled my last two posts as ep 12, but they were 12 & 13.]

-I keep forgetting that this show gets very spicy sometimes and I'm watching at work...

-Aww....Nuea added Toh to the stalker wall 'because their crushes aren't a secret anymore'. That's so precious and weird. God, I can't handle it.

And we're up to the finale!!!

Score for this ep- absolute 10/10, 11/10 even. So good, so sweet. I love it!!!

Awkwardness rating- I think only like 4/10, the dad seeing them make-out, kind awkward. And then the stalker wall made a return, but awkwardness was heavily reduced since Nuea decided to make it a couple's stalker wall.

*Edit: Turns out this was the finale, and it did feel quite finale-ish while I was watching, but Viki listed 15 episode, but the last episode is just a 'Making of--' thing, so...

Final thoughts of the series as a whole: I really liked it. Like a lot. It's honestly like a 9/10 for me. It is hard to push through the secondhand embarrassment sometimes, so I can see why people struggle with it. Also, the summary on most sites is doing nothing to sell it, for real. As many different types of queer representation are present in this show, it definitely should be hyped more.

I dunno, I may make another post if I have more in-depth thoughts, but I 100% recommend watching. It's fun, silly and full of heart.

[gendervapor14]

two fights for freedom ~ chapter twenty: chains

“I almost don’t believe any of it.” She admitted, leaning against the interrogation table. “How long have you been in cahoots with this fishman?”

“Since we got here.” He replied for what felt like the hundredth time. “And it’s not cahoots. We’re just friends. He told me your tangerines are the best around, actually.”

“Oh, great, so happy to have his raving review.” She muttered. “This really doesn’t help your case, though.”

His brow twitched. “Help my case? What do you mean?”

“You’ve been keeping this from me? From all of us? And we didn’t find out about it until now? Until it had to be exposed in this…chaotic shitstorm?”

A half-shrug and a puff of smoke. “I figured it wasn’t really important.”

Bell-mère scoffed. Clearly didn’t agree with that logic. “You keep dangerous secrets.”

“It’s not a secret. It was never a secret.”

“Then why didn’t I know about it?” She leaned in close enough for him to pick up the scent of her. The earth and sea and citrus. He felt the warmth of her too, or maybe that was his own blood racing. Maybe it was her hand on his cheek, giving him a stern, playful pat. “Why don’t you tell me anything? What are you so afraid of?”

“How am I supposed to bring that up?” His hands fisted nervously from where they were perched against his ribs, arms folded tight. “Hey, Bell-mère, by the way, I’m friends with this fishman who’s friends with the guy who almost killed you.”

Her lips tensed before her touch grazed from his cheek to the underside of his chin. Tipped his head up to meet her eye more directly. “Why do you assume I’ll always hold you in bad faith?”

“Why wouldn’t you?” He retorted, “I’m some strange guy who washed up and offered to help you out of nowhere. You said it yourself, I keep dangerous secrets.”

i drank like... an insane amount of caffeine yesterday and churned out two more chapters for this so YES we are back on we are back with this story. i may have hit another road block but that's fine that's an issue for future gen to worry about. for now, enjoy ♥

title: two fights for freedom rating: M category: F/M, gen content warnings: graphic depictions of violence status: incomplete, twenty chapters, 59,979 words relationships: rosinante/bell-mere, cora & law, rosinante & hatchan, bell-mere & rosinante & law & nami & nojiko, rosinante & genzo, bell-mere & genzo characters: rosinante, bell-mere, law, nami, nojiko, genzo, nako, hatchan, arlong, arlong pirates additional tags: canon divergent, fix-it, everybody lives, pre-arlong park, angst with a happy ending, angst and feels, fluff and humor, hurt/comfort, suggestive themes, sexual tension, limes (yes i'm bringing limes back), eventual smut, romance, slow burn, financial issues, broken bones, references to depression, alcoholism, mental health issues, canon backstory, mentioned doflamingo, non-canon backstory (giving bell-mere a backstory), found family, medical inaccuracies, blood and injury, trafalgar d. water law is a little shit, developing friendships, past child abuse, nightmares, self-harm, fake marriage, selective mutism, PTSD, more tags to be added later summary: freedom for one means adventure. exploring all the world has to offer, while avoiding the occasional haunting. freedom for another almost costs an arm and two daughters. a home, a village. perhaps freedom is best sought back-to-back. {a cora and bell-mère lives au}

♥

[kbmfoods]

The Secret to Delicious Pav Bhaji: Crafting the Perfect Pav Bhaji Masala

Let me take you on a little journey. Imagine this: A rainy evening, the smell of freshly toasted pav in the air, and in front of you, a steaming, flavorful plate of bhaji. That is the magic of Pav Bhaji—the ultimate comfort food that brings people together with its rich flavours and soul-soothing warmth. But have you ever wondered what makes a good Pav Bhaji truly unforgettable? It's all about the masala, well, let me spill the secret—it's all about KBM Pav Bhaji Masala!

The Making of a Perfect Pav Bhaji Masala

Now, you're wondering. "Can't I just pick any masala off a shelf and be done with it?" Of course, you can. But let me tell you, that special something in KBM Pav Bhaji Masala is what sets your bhaji in the air. It all depends on the right masala to create these layers of flavour that do this dance in your mouth—sweet and spicy, together, all at once.

The Ingredients – All About Freshness

To make the perfect Pav Bhaji, you will require potatoes, tomatoes, onions, peas, and bell peppers. Fair enough-the magic happens with the KBM Pav Bhaji Masala. Our blend has everything you need: the richness of cumin, the warmth of coriander, the punch of red chilli, and the tanginess of amchur. It's a symphony of flavours packed in one easy-to-use masala.

How to Make Delicious Pav Bhaji at Home

Let's cook! Here's how you make that perfect, street-style Pav Bhaji at home.

1. Start with a Mixture of Veggies: Boil potatoes, peas, and bell peppers together until they are tender enough to mash. And this gives the *bhaji* its thick, comforting texture.

2. Sauté onions and tomatoes: Now, heat some butter in a pan (because butter makes everything better!) and sauté the finely chopped onions till they are golden brown. Then add the tomatoes and let them cook down till they are soft.

3. The star ingredient: Now it is time to sprinkle in the magic – KBM Pav Bhaji Masala. A simple mixture of it in the dish sets off the transformation. The fragrance will start filling your kitchen.

4. Mix it all up: Now toss in your boiled vegetables into the pan and blend in with the onion-tomato mixture. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the spices soak in with every bite.

5. Garnish and serve: A little extra butter and some fresh coriander leaves pressed in and a squeeze of lime to bring it all together; serve with toasted golden browns of pav buttered. 

And voila! Your platter of Pav Bhaji is sure to conquer even the most hardened of street food critics.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Bhaji

Here are a few secrets to take your Pav Bhaji to a whole new level:

- Don't be stingy about butter: Use lots and lots of it. It's key to that rich, indulgent taste.

- Tomatoes are your friend: The more ripe and juicy your tomatoes, the better your bhaji will taste. It gives that subtle tanginess, balancing out the spices.

- Squeeze some lemon: A dash of lemon juice right before serving gives the bhaji a fresh, zesty kick.

Flavour Enhancements with KBM Masala

You would be wondering what all the furore regarding KBM Pav Bhaji Masala is. It is because our blend is expertly prepared from highest quality spices that ensure perfect flavour in every bite of pav bhaji. Unlike masalas whose flavour might be overpowering or pale, the balance between bold and harmonious that they achieve cannot be superseded by KBM Masala. 

Plus, it's versatile! Want to add a twist to your bhaji? Throw in some grated cheese or top it with chopped onions for added crunch. The masala works wonders with any variation you want to try.

Homemade Spice Mix – The KBM Difference

You can also try making your own Pav Bhaji Masala at home, but that is by no means a cakewalk. The magic of KBM Masala lies in the fact that we have done all the hard work for you. We have mixed the spices in just the right proportions so that you need only add this to your recipe and watch it all come together. Trust us on this one; we have perfected it so you don't have to.

Wrapping It Up – Indian Comfort at Its Best 

So, there you have it-the secret to mouthwatering, unforgettable Pav Bhaji is all in the KBM Pav Bhaji Masala. Only a sprinkle of this spice mixture will give you a delicious comfort meal that is laced full of an authentic Indian taste and shows why street food is India's favourite.

Why settle for less than good when KBM Masala will have your Pav Bhaji hit every single time? It's time to make a list of all ingredients, collect the family and present this drooling meal to everybody.

[latinflavorsblog]

6 Latin Sauces That Go Well With Any Meat-based Dishes

Sauces and dips are the reasons why your homemade tacos taste so much delicious. Especially when it comes to Latin sauces, we can’t help but think about their vibrant colors, smoky flavors, and spicy taste. All these Latin sauces have their own essence, instantly improving your homemade Latin dish's taste. Whether it’s the salty and savory Jugo sauce, the spicy and versatile chimichurri sauce, or the smoky and sizzling salsa sauce, all these sauces significantly enhance the deliciousness of your favorite meat-based dishes. However, not every Latin sauce can be paired with a meat-based dish. Let’s talk about some famous Latin sauces that you can consider pairing up with meat-based Latin cuisine.

Salsa verde:

To begin with something fresh and spicy, you can count on this vibrant green Salsa Verde sauce. Made with authentic Latin chilies, herbs, limes, and cilantro, this Salsa verde sauce can be eaten with both vegetables and meats. However, this salsa Verde sauce is a must-try if you want to enjoy some steaks or salami-made dishes. With its tangy flavor, it can make your favorite steaks taste much more delicious. You can also pair up this sauce with grilled chicken items. This sauce is a must-have for meat lovers, complementing the taste of those delightful grilled steaks.

Mole:

It’s a Mexican sauce that goes well with any meat-based Latin cuisine. This sauce can complement your favorite Tamales, chicken or pork Turkey, homemade steaks, and enchiladas with a perfect blend of roasted cocoa, corn, toasted nuts, and authentic chilies. Famous for its sweet and spicy taste, this sauce can infuse your favorite meat dish medium. Since this sauce has special ingredients like cocoa and toasted nuts, it might taste a bit bitter. However, that doesn’t make it taste awful; such slight bitterness makes this sauce more unique and flavorful.

Salsa Maggi:

Adding a few drops of Salsa Maggie sauce can make any dish tastier, be it some tacos or homemade steaks. With a thin consistency, this salsa or jugo Maggi can elevate your cooking experience. Similar to soy sauce, this sauce comes in a dark color. You can use this sauce to marinate various meat dishes. Well known for its salty taste, this sauce is the secret ingredient behind those delicious Latin cuisines. If you dislike all those spicy hot sauces and want to try something completely different, this salsa sauce will be your favorite.

Pesto:

Known for its vibrant green color, pesto sauce is a must-have for meat lovers. This seasoning sauce can add some earthy flavor to your favorite meat dish, made with premium ingredients like smashed garlic, basil leaves, cheese, pine nuts, salt, and olive oil. Unlike any other seasoning sauce, this pesto sauce doesn’t make your food unnecessarily spicy. Rather, it improves the taste and flavor of your food while improving your digestive system with its organic ingredients. You can pair this sauce with any meat dish, including pork. Also, you can use this sauce as a dip while eating those crispy homemade nachos. This sauce goes well with any snack items, making it a must-have kitchen essential.

Guasacaca:

If you are looking for a creamy, garlic-flavored seasoning sauce, Guasacaca is the perfect choice. Prepared with avocados, parsley, Chile peppers, garlic paste, and vinegar, this authentic Latin sauce can spice up any meat dish seamlessly. When paired with grilled chicken, this sauce perfectly complements any grilled dish. This sauce melts in your mouth instantly with a thick and creamy texture. Be it some grilled steaks or barbequed chicken, this sauce can be used as a dip with any meat-based dish.

Chimichurri:

This tangy sauce complements any cut of meat. Its thick green texture adds more taste to all kinds of meat dishes. Made with garlic paste, fresh cilantro, olive oil, authentic red chilies, vinegar, and salt, it is a must-have for every grilled dish. You can also use it to season various meat-based beverages, making it your go-to sauce for meat cuisines.

Final Thoughts

With the right selection of Latin sauce, you can improve the taste and flavor of any meat-based dish. These flavorful sauces can enhance your love for meat without impacting your digestive system. Whether enjoying homemade tacos or steaks, these sauces can complement any meat-based dish. Just remember to buy them from authentic food shops like Latin Flavors. Also, check the ingredients before ordering them online.