#wlw age gap stories

[redjadethewriter]

Blank the Series: The Novel vs The Show

After finally sitting down and reading the source material for the series, I must admit that I had expected it to be more provocative. However, to me, it was more like reading a soft-core erotica - nothing too outrageous. I hesitate to even classify it as soft-core, but that’s the best way I can describe it. Of course, anything involving BDSM is bound to stand out.

Despite my initial reservations, I found myself engaged in the love story between Khun Nueng and Anueng. The story, although a bit too PG-13 for my taste, held my attention. In my analysis of the series, I primarily focused on the character interactions, their internal struggles, insecurities, and how these factors influenced their actions and decisions.

Being a crone, I naturally gravitated towards examining Khun Nueng’s character more closely, as I found her to be the most relatable. However, I must acknowledge that Anueng is a well-developed character as well. She serves as a reminder that, regardless of age, individuals can possess cunning and resourcefulness.

While Anueng may appear childish around Khun Nueng in the series, after reading the novel, I gained a deeper understanding of why she expresses herself in such an over-the-top and annoying manner. It’s because she wants to elicit a reaction from Khun Nueng, as it seems to be the only way to make her “look more human” or act like it. In the novel, Khun Nueng rarely shows facial reactions unless she’s prompted to do so, which Anueng does often. Otherwise, Khun Nueng would simply hide behind her stoic mask all the time.

Interestingly, Khun Nueng’s go-to response to anyone expressing a romantic interest in her is, “Are you worthy of me?” as a tactic of scaring them away. This phrase serves as her motto, even though she doesn’t have any specific criteria for determining who would be worthy of her love, mainly because she has never truly loved anyone. So, when Anueng challenges this line by asserting, “I’m not today, but I will become worthy,” it deeply shocks our ice queen, both in the novel and in the series. It’s something she never expected.

As I’ve mentioned before, Khun Nueng finds herself in quite a bit of trouble because she has met her match in Anueng. They are contrasting yet compatible characters, and that’s what I find intriguing. They possess similarities that draw them closer together while also reflecting their deepest flaws. In a striking revelation, I realized their insecurities were actually quite similar, but in reverse. Anueng becomes jealous because of her insecurities about being young and not having much to offer, constantly worrying that Khun Nueng might end up with someone her own age who has a more established life. On the other hand, Khun Nueng frets about being too old and the possibility of the young girl eventually growing bored with her, changing her mind, and leaving.

Khun Nueng exhibits striking similarities to her grandmother, both in the series and in the novel. They share an icy demeanor, a controlling nature, and a toxic fixation on perfectionism. Despite leaving behind her privileged status, these traits have carried over into her more humble life as an artist. I now understand that her choice to rebel against her grandmother was not all simply out of spite, but a deliberate decision to assert her own identity.

While Khun Nueng desires her grandmother to acknowledge her responsibility for Song’s death and their collective suffering, she also longs to discover her true self. Above all else, Khun Nueng yearns to experience a wider range of emotions. She craves the taste of disappointment, having never truly felt loved or experienced the exhilaration of a racing heart. In the show, she exemplifies this by placing her hand over her heart and feeling it race in the presence of Anueng.

Khun Nueng lacks ambition. Although she pursues a career as an artist to sustain herself, she does not envision it as a long-term path. She wishes to continue using her artistic talents, but without the constraints of working for someone else. Her yearning for freedom outweighs any financial concerns, despite her constant struggle to make ends meet. In fact, Khun Nueng embraces the hardships that come with being a “starving artist.” Her upbringing with her grandmother shielded her from feelings of disparity and anguish, making the challenges she faces now exhilarating rather than burdensome.

Khun Nueng remains unimpressed by materialism and possesses a practical approach to life. She values essentials like food over fancy clothes, which captivate Anueng in the novel. Khun Nueng refuses to let those who flaunt their status and wealth sway her, as she cannot be bought.

Overall, Khun Nueng’s character is complex and multi-faceted. Her resemblance to her grandmother, with her stoic demeanor, her secret pursuit for emotional depth, her lack of ambition, and her indifference towards status all contribute to her unique persona.

While watching the series, I noticed that the first episode started the story at a much later scene from the novel. In this scene, the characters were already familiar with each other. Initially, I was confused because I wondered why Khun Nueng walked the girl to the bus-stop and knew which bus Anueng needed to get on. The wordplay exchange between them, especially with Anueng stating she was running away and asking to stay with Khun Nueng, added to my confusion.

As I continued watching, around episode 2 or 3, I noticed the girl had a lot of drawings that Khun Nueng had made for her. Being the analytical person that I am, I figured they must have met multiple times before. My confirmation of this came later when I read the story.

To explain Khun Nueng’s constant worry for the girl’s safety and her habit of always walking her to the bus stop, we found out that since the day they met, Khun Nueng had discreetly made sure Anueng got home safely at late hours. She would even follow Anueng from a distance to her house. From day one, our favorite dead-face character had been the protector, constantly concerned about the girl’s well-being.

I would like to highlight the similarities between Khun Nueng and her younger sister, Sam. However, before discussing their similarities, it is important to address the issues that arise between siblings. The reason Khun Nueng behaves more like their grandmother is because she received the most attention from her. Sam acknowledges this fact, admitting that although both of them were loved by their grandmother, she never had her undivided attention. This observation became clear to me while watching Gap the Series, as Sam was the one who received the least amount of attention. This dynamic only changed when Khun Nueng left and after Song passed away.

Even until the very end of their grandmother’s life, Sam tried to convey this, trying to get Khun Nueng to reconcile with their grandmother. Episode 6 showcased their close relationship, despite their occasional conflicts. I also understand the perspective of sibling favoritism, as Khun Nueng received the most scrutiny and was molded by their grandmother to potentially take her place in the future. This is why I see such striking similarities between Khun Nueng and their grandmother. However, Sam and Khun Nueng are undeniably similar as siblings. Sam has a tendency to express her jealousy openly, while Khun Nueng displays it in a manner that is passive-aggressive. Both of them struggle to admit their jealousy and have a tendency to hurt their partners in the process, as they refuse to acknowledge their own flaws and weaknesses.

Sam undergoes a transformation. We witnessed her growth in Gap the Series, and in Blank the Series, we see Sam attempting to show her love for Mon by baking a pie from scratch. This action surprised Khun Nueng, especially considering she could have easily purchased one from a top-tier bakery. However, Sam wanted to infuse her love into the pie.

We observe a similar act of love in episode 6, but this time it is Khun Nueng cooking home-cooked meals for Anueng instead of going out to eat. This is why I concluded by saying, “Girl... you are lying to yourself.” Cooking for someone is an incredibly personal gesture, and I don’t do it for just anyone. Therefore, I know fully that she constantly deceives herself.

In conclusion, the novel and the series share many similarities. Although there were some necessary omissions and alterations to the timeline and character interactions, I hope these changes will be seamlessly integrated in season 2, maintaining the steady pacing that has been established. Based on the first 6 episodes, I have a sense of what elements they might keep and what they may change. However, I do hope that they don’t stray too far from the meaningful aspects of the original source material, which I won’t go into detail about. I must acknowledge that the novel was clever in incorporating elements that kept me engaged until a satisfying conclusion. Therefore, if I see these same qualities in the series, I will be truly impressed, and the show will prove itself to be deserving of my attention.

I appreciate the good content.

Thank you.

[pixiemoonmagic]

The Azure Well of Kesh Nakael.

Art based on my novel The Lady's Maid.

The Lady's Maid Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Map of the Northern Tethiri Desert.

Redbubble shop for prints and swag

The Lady's Maid is a high fantasy romantasy novel.

(3/20/2025)

[aquicktripp]

Exposure Therapy - Part 1 of 2

Rating: M (no smut)

Themes: queer relationships, lesbian relationships, age-gap, student-teacher friendship, student-teacher relationship, unsupportive parents, homophobia, no contact, death

word count: ~6,000

+++++

Today was supposed to be the first day of the rest of Amy Lawren— no, Miller’s, life. Instead, today has morphed into some kind of terrible situational comedy where everything goes wrong. She's had to endure the usual suspects: sleeping through her alarm but then discovering it hadn’t actually been set, spilling coffee on her freshly ironed shirt while rushing out the door, and of course, Joey missing the bus for his first day at a new school. So… maybe tomorrow will be the first day of the rest of Amy’s life. 

Morning Edition plays quietly in the background as the two of them silently wait at a stop light. While they’re only running a few minutes behind, Amy drums her hands on the steering wheel willing the light to change at any time, please. The reporter on the radio is interviewing some semblance of a politician about what sounds like the poor state of the economy but Amy is too preoccupied with the tension radiating from Joey to focus on what’s being said. 

The last year has been rough for both of them but Joey has put on a brave face. So brave, in fact, that he’s stopped opening up to her almost completely. Their interactions are stilted and brief, often leaving Amy at a loss for what she could possibly say or do to mend their relationship. 

But today was supposed to be a new beginning for both of them and Amy misses her nephew, despite him being right beside her. So she tries, “I’m sorry for not getting us going on time. I was up late preparing for a big meeting and must’ve forgotten to set the alarm.”

He doesn’t look away from his cell phone, “It’s whatever.” 

Two words are better than his usual grunt, Amy muses. The light finally changes and there are only a few moments before she has to make the right turn into the school. So she presses her luck just a little further, “Are you nervous for your first day?” 

Amy can see him shrug in her periphery as he says, “Not really.”

Again, two words are better than nothing, and a feeling of boldness blooms within her, “Do you need me to come in with you?” She knows the question is a mistake before the last word leaves her lips. 

Joey does put his phone down this time, turning to shoot daggers directly at her, “No, Amy. I read the email and will just go to the office like it says to do.”

If his tone didn’t give away that she’d gone too far, then the use of just her first name certainly does. So instead of responding, she nods, pulling the car up to the main entrance of the very same high school she graduated from almost 20 years prior. 

Joey is nearly out of the car before it’s fully parked but Amy can’t let him go in without saying something. She wants to tell him to have a wonderful day, that she is proud of the man he is becoming, that she is sorry for all of the heartache, and that she’ll make it up to him someday, somehow. She quickly grabs at him, capturing his ever-growing bicep in her grasp. Their eyes lock and he looks at her expectantly. Amy realizes then that it’s been weeks since she’s seen the full blue of her nephew’s eyes, just as blue as hers, and as her brother’s. What she sees staring back at her though, causes her heart to sink. The lack of vibrance in them takes both her breath and her resolve to speak up completely away.   

Instead of a heartfelt goodbye, she clears her throat, “If you need anything today, just find your Uncle.” He nods, shrugging off her touch. “I love you,” she calls out as Joey slams the door behind him, walking in the direction of the office and not once looking back.  

Feeling downright defeated, Amy drives away, heading in the direction of downtown, if it can even be called that, to start her own first day. Well, not really. Can it still be considered your first day if you spent your weekends, school vacations, and summers trapped there? Perhaps then, this is Amy’s first paid day. 

Walking into her father’s office, she’s greeted by Sheila, the long-time receptionist for Miller & Associates, who stands, walking around her desk with open arms. “Oh honey, welcome home!” She says, enveloping Amy in a welcomed, albeit suffocating hug. 

“Thank you, Sheila. It’s good to see you,” Amy replies with limited air in her lungs.

The much older woman loosens her grip and steps back, allowing them to look each other in the eyes. It has only been a few weeks since her last visit but Sheila still examines her thoroughly, as if she had just spent the last two decades away from home. 

What Sheila sees, Amy is unsure but whatever it is, it causes Sheila to smile lightly and say, “I just want you to know, I’m here if you or Joey need anything. At all.”

Her sincerity feels heavy in Amy’s chest and she can feel the tears starting to well but crying in her father’s entryway is certainly not an option. So Amy does what she has trained herself to do and pushes through, “Thank you, Sheila. We appreciate that, truly.”

Amy’s answer must be satisfactory because Sheila squeezes her arms one last time and returns to her desk, flipping open the spiral black planner that her father refuses to trade in for a computerized system. “He arrived about 10 minutes ago and is waiting for you in his office. He said that when you arrived, I was to remind you about the 9 a.m.”

Amy holds back a scoff. As if she could forget the appointment that she had organized and that she had been up all night preparing for. Leave it to her father to think she would just waltz into the office on her first day back without any care in the world before a meeting with a potential new, high-profile client. 

Since Sheila is one of her all-time favorite humans on this planet, she opts not to shoot the messenger. “Thanks, Sheila”, she says with as much positivity as she can, “I’ll let him know I’m here. Pray for me,” Amy winks as she walks back towards the offices. 

The space itself isn’t huge, as far as offices go, and much smaller than the multi-level office building her previous firm occupied in Midtown Manhattan. The converted Victorian home held enough room that they were able to have a cozy welcome area, one large conference room, a handful of offices, and of course, a kitchen area that functioned as the copy, mail, and break room. It takes less than 30 seconds for her to walk up the staircase and all the way back to her father’s office, the largest but somehow stuffiest, of the five to choose from. As she approaches, she finds the door slightly ajar and she knocks lightly before stepping into the room. 

Once inside, she finds her father, Jim Miller, sitting behind a large oak desk. A coffee cup in one hand and the local paper folded in the other, he doesn’t look up as he greets her, “You’re late.” 

“My apologies, sir. I was up late preparing for this morning and the alarm didn’t get set. We had a rough start,” Amy tells him as she moves to sit in one of the armchairs facing his desk. 

He hums, “Don’t let it happen again.”

“Of course not,” she says quickly. Then she is forced to wait for him to finish whatever article he has deemed intelligent enough to read completely through. 

Her eyes wander around the room, taking in the decor that hasn’t changed much in the 30 years her family has owned the building. While her father hasn’t done any significant updates, he’s allowed her mother to come in sporadically over the years. She’d add new little touches, like a photo of him and someone locally famous or a framed article about a successful win but never anything too personal. The only family photo in the room sits on Jim’s desk, facing him.

The picture is of the five of them; her parents, herself, and her two younger brothers, James The Fourth and Stephen. It was one of Amy’s favorites, taken the summer before her senior year of high school, on the observation deck of the Empire State Building. They had taken a trip for her to visit NYU, her now Alma Mater, much to her father’s chagrin. It was one of the last photos taken of their family before her father found out about Amy’s sexuality. From before he decided that because she was attracted to women, she was no longer worthy of becoming the next Miller of Miller & Associates. 

Her father clears his throat, “Are you ready?”

Amy nods, “Yes, sir.”

He checks his Rolex, “We have just under an hour. Head to your office, get situated, and be back here at 8:30.”

“Yes sir,” Amy stands, walking back towards the door but pauses, “Sir?”

He’s already shuffling papers from a file folder across his desk so again, he doesn’t try and meet her eyes, “Sheila cleared it out in preparation for your arrival. Do not forget to extend your gratitude.”

“Yes, sir. Thank you.” 

With that, Amy walks across the hall to the “it” her father was referring to: her office. The office that had been specifically picked out for her when she was six years old because it was across the hall from his. The same office that had been built out for her that same summer nearly 20 years ago, a surprise that her father had arranged, for when they returned from New York. 

Prior to their trip, Amy had spent nearly six months designing and planning her office with her father (but mostly Sheila). She had been expecting it to be completed much later on, likely after undergrad, but Jim had wanted her to have it before then. So she could get settled in, he had said, to get comfortable by his side. 

James IV, better known as Jimmy, had drunkenly told her once that he had never seen their father open the room and it was well known around the office that the door was to remain shut at all times. The Cedar Creek Rumor Mill had it on good authority that many years ago, a first-year associate had asked their father during the office Christmas party if they could move down and take the office over. Their father fired them on the spot. Allegedly, of course. 

It has been 18 years since Amy has walked through this door and unsurprisingly, it’s unbelievably difficult to reach out and twist the knob. She inhales deeply, calling on every last bit of nerve she can and pushes her way inside. 

She takes in the sight before her, recalling the small details of the brightly painted room, a stark contrast to the somber tones of her father’s dark wood theme. She had wanted her office to be inviting to everyone and not pretentious. Amy Miller, Esquire was going to help people, regardless of their economic standing and she wanted them to feel at ease. 

The walls had been painted a light gray, while white ornate trim surrounded the lone but large, bay window. Her view was decent, overlooking the recently renamed Miller Park and the adjacent First Baptist Church, where her family has been members since it was erected, literally. 

After it had been decided that Amy was returning to Cedar Creek, Sheila had reached out, asking her if she wanted to update any of the decor to something more akin to today’s trends. Amy had declined, opting to keep the similar, but less robust versions of her father’s furniture. Amy’s set was considered to be the daughter of the set featured in her father’s office by the local manufacturer. Admittedly, she hesitated to let it go. 

Sitting down in the smooth light leather chair, she was satisfied with her decision not to change anything. This was finally her office and she was going to enjoy it the way her teenage self would have wanted her to. 

Pulling her laptop out of her bag, Amy gets to work refreshing all of the preparations she had completed the night before. 

“Welcome home, Ames,” she says aloud, to no one.   

***

When Amy arrives home, promptly at 5:30 p.m., as she demanded when negotiating her return with her father, Joey is seated at the kitchen table. He has a school book open and is steadily jotting down notes. From the looks of the new additions to the open-faced cabinets, he’d unpacked several boxes, even going as far as breaking down and neatly stacking the empties by the back door.  While his initiative mostly catches her off guard, it gives Amy hope that, perhaps, things are feeling a bit more normal for him. 

She can’t help the smile that spreads across her face as she holds up two bags, “Dinner?”

He looks up from his notebook and for a brief moment, joy reflects in his eyes as he asks, “Chinese?”

“You know it,” Amy says, bringing the takeout to the table. Joey moves his study materials out of the way and honestly, Amy isn’t sure why she’s trying to get her feelings hurt again today but she takes a chance, “What are you working on?”

Joey gets up, returning with two paper plates, setting them down in front of the containers, and starts to dole out dumplings and Lo Mein for each of them. 

“Chemistry,” he says nonchalantly. 

“Yikes,” Amy replies, picking up the spare ribs and giving them each two. 

“Not really, I like it.” 

“Is that so?” Amy says, genuinely. Not that she should be shocked by this news, her brother had been an engineer after all and Amy herself had a knack for the sciences. 

But all Joey says in return is, “Yep,” before sliding his notebook back over towards him and beginning to eat. 

Amy had, what she would consider, a good day at the office with her father. He didn’t scold her once during any of their meetings together and they’d managed to pass by each other twice in the hall without verbally lashing out. 

She uses that momentum as courage to venture a little further with Joey, “Is that work that was given to you to get caught up?”

He murmurs something that resembles confirmation but doesn’t seem as though he plans to say anything further. Well, at least she had tried. A change that their therapist will be pleased to hear about later this week, Amy is sure. 

She’s reaching down into her workbag to pull out a notebook of her own to go over her hours for the day when Joey speaks again, his deepening voice startling her just a touch. 

“A team project was assigned today.” Amy looks up, giving him her undivided attention. She tries to smile encouragingly and it seems to work. He continues, “Each team has to pick a different experiment that demonstrates a concept that they’ve learned so far this year.”

“Oh man,” Amy says softly as her chest fills with guilt at the role she played in forcing him to change schools halfway through the first semester. 

Her parents had wanted to ensure that she and Joey were settled by the holidays. Not because they were looking forward to spending time as a family but because it would mean they would be able to attend the required gatherings together. This way, the Cedar Creek Elite, would have less to contribute to the Rumor Mill, if all of the remaining Millers were seen participating as expected. Her parents’ desire to have them home was purely for their benefit, not for Joey’s and certainly not for Amy’s. 

Joey either doesn’t understand the sullen expression on her face or he simply ignores it because he keeps speaking, “Well, so my teacher gave me a study guide so I could catch up.”

“That was nice of them,” Amy says. 

Joey hums in agreement, “Yeah, she seems pretty nice.”

“What’s her name?”

He thinks for several moments and then honest to God laughs, “I actually can’t remember.”

Amy can’t stop herself from lightly chuckling along with him, “Well that’s okay, I’m sure you heard a lot of names today.” 

He nods in agreement, “So many.”

Amy’s heart is exploding with excitement at their extended conversation but she is still hesitant to push him too far. She doesn’t want to spook him.

“Anything else fun happen?” Amy asks casually. 

Joey shrugs, “Not really. Uncle Jimmy gave me a tour during first period, which was supposed to be Spanish, then I had Chemistry and Calculus before lunch. My last class was Photography, which was also pretty fun. I’ll need to bring my camera next time though.”

She replies a little too quickly, “Sure, no problem." She tones it down, "We’ll get it unpacked tonight.”

He grins, “Awesome, thanks, Amy.”

Some of the wind is knocked out of Amy’s sails at the name but she won’t let it take away from the exchange as a whole.

Joey’s voice cuts through her internal celebration, “A couple of kids at school said our house is haunted.”

Amy huffs, “It isn’t.”

“How do you know?” Joey asks tentatively.

“Does it feel haunted?”

He pauses, “No, I don’t think so.”

“Well there you go,” Amy says. “Besides, when I was in school, the rumors were that it has some kind of weird anti-curse energy, not that it’s haunted.” Joey couldn’t look more confused if he tried. “Look, just know that it’s fine, and don’t believe everything you hear, okay?”

“They said a man died in here, a doctor or something?”

Amy laughs, “Probably several people have died in here Joe, The House has been around since the Civil War but I know who you’re talking about, Dr. Mitchell.”

Joey shakes his head up and down, “Yeah that was the name they said. They said something about the attic,” Joey’s eyes move towards the ceiling. 

Amy’s eyes follow, “You wanna go check?”

“What? No!” Joey exclaims. 

Her laughter grows, “I’m just kidding. There’s nothing up there, remember? We’ve both been in there together.”

“I know,” he groans, “but they said he like, you know,” and attempts to gesture a rope.

Amy cuts him off, “I’m not sure if that’s what happened but I do remember my grandpa telling me about the day he died. He was very young when it happened but it was kind of a big deal.”

“What happened?”

“He died. In the attic.”

He gapes, “What? You just said you didn’t know for sure.”

She smiles wryly, “I said that I didn’t know how he died. He did die in the attic though, they just never really knew for sure how. A lot of people said it was an accident.”

“Was he married?” Joey asks.

“Yes, to his nurse and she went on to do really wonderful things for the town. Dr. Mitchell, ” Amy added, “he was allegedly quite the jerk. Grandpa Miller said that he acquired the house under shady circumstances and the house ‘made it right’,” she finishes, holding her fingers up for air quotes. 

Quizzically, Joey asks, “Made it right? What does that mean?” 

Amy shrugs, “Your guess is as good as mine but legend has it…”, she pauses for dramatic effect, taking in Joey’s mesmerized look. “Legend has it that The Emmett House was built specifically for the Underground Railroad and as a thank you, one of the freed women blessed the Emmett House and those who would live here in the future.”

“What kind of blessing?”

“Happiness,” Amy says simply. 

Joey hums, his eyes are brimming with dissatisfaction at her answer but nonetheless, he nods and returns to his notebook. He stays silent while they finish their meal, scribbling notes in between bites of Chinese. He doesn’t say anything else until he asks her if she wants to watch a movie with him and the question is music to Amy’s ears. 

As she stands to follow Joey into the den, she pauses, turning back to gaze at the large eat-in kitchen. Amy had spent the most money in this room, as expected, and rightfully so. The warmth she felt from being inside The Emmett House was unmatched, despite the heavy history that came with it, and she hoped that she had done the home justice with her renovations. She wanted her and Joey to be happy here and with every day, it seemed as though a little bit more of that happiness was returning to them. 

***

“We’re presenting our experiments in class this morning,” Joey announces randomly on a Friday morning two weeks later. This is his third day in a row having breakfast with her but today is the first he’s spoken. She nods, hoping he’ll continue, and to her surprise, he does, “Families are invited to come tonight at 6:30 to see them too. You don’t have to stay but could you give me a ride?”

She starts to frown but thinks better of it. Smiling instead, she replies, “Of course I’ll come, Joe.” She pauses to give him a chance to reply but he continues chewing, “And hey, I’ll even give you that ride too.”

At her quip, he smiles, his mouth full of cereal, an event that’s been happening more and more frequently. He swallows before saying, “Great.”

“Great,” Amy parrots. “What’s your experiment about, by the way? You haven’t said.” She’s getting braver with her questions, less hesitant to scare him off. 

Joey huffs and rolls his eyes, “I’m not gonna explain it to you if you’re gonna see it tonight, Ames. That’s a waste of breath.”

She laughs and holds her hands up placatingly, “You’re right, you’re right. I’ll wait for the big reveal then.” 

He had started calling her “Ames” again one day last week while calling out for her upon his arrival home from school. He had stayed late for some extra tutoring, per his text earlier that day. His Chemistry teacher, who had identified herself as Ms. Greene, had texted shortly after Joey confirming their tutoring session as well. Amy had readily agreed for him to stay, promising to have pizza waiting for them. 

Amy had been elated that he was taking an interest in his school work but even more pleased to hear her nickname from him once again. It had been far too many months since she’d heard it from his mouth and she had been starting to forget what it sounded like. She understood though, that it was probably hard for Joey to use the term of endearment. After all, his father and mother referred to her that way Joey’s entire life. Or maybe he was just growing up, either way, she’s glad to hear it again. 

“Mrs. Greene asked me to tell you specifically to come tonight,“ he says offhandedly, on his way out the front door a bit later. 

“She did?” Amy asks, her eyes narrowing in suspicion. “How come?”

He shrugs, “Dunno.” To Amy’s delight, he continues unprompted, “After class the other day she asked if my guardian was coming tonight and I told her I didn’t know. When I said that, she said that it would be a good idea for you to come. I think she just wants to tell you how good I am at chemistry.”

“How good you are?” He grins, “And how good is that, exactly?”

Joey’s smile is the largest she’s seen since last Christmas, since “before”. “See you tonight, Ames,” he says, closing the front door behind him. 

Some days, Amy wonders if Joey is her child, the way her own mischievousness manifests in his everyday actions. His wit is similar to hers and Jimmy’s, not as every day as his father, Stephen’s, although he too would have his dry moments. What Amy doesn’t have to wonder about though is her love for him. She knows that she loves Joey just as much as she would if he was her own.

*** 

Hours later, Amy is sure that she has forgotten to wake up from a rare, late afternoon power nap and is still dreaming. Otherwise, how else would she explain that it is somehow 2005 and she is standing in the doorway of the very same chemistry classroom that she occupied her own Junior year of high school? 

Luckily, the walls are a lot less… piss yellow, an unfortunate trait of the entire science wing during her time there. She takes the change in paint color as a sign that it’s likely this isn’t a dream and enters the room behind her nephew. 

Inside, the crowd is fairly large, filling in all of the empty spaces of the rectangular room, with science benches evenly spread throughout. Joey looks back at her, an excited look on his face. Amy can see Jimmy in her periphery standing in the far left corner of the room. She nods in Jimmy’s direction, indicating for Joey to head that way. 

He turns forward to navigate the throng of people but quickly turns back, “Oh perfect, I can introduce you to Mrs. Greene, she’s talking to Uncle Jimmy.” 

“Perfect!” Amy calls back, genuinely thrilled to finally put a face to the name of the only teacher she specifically knew of thus far. Joey has failed to mention the names of the others but to be fair, she’s also failed to ask. Amy makes a mental note to bring it up to him on their ride home.

As they approach, Amy can only see a portion of the back of the woman’s head, most of it blocked by the equipment setup within the chemistry bench. All that’s visible is a mane of curly brown hair, neatly pinned in a half-up-half-down style, accented with an honest-to-god bright orange Scrunchie. 

Jimmy finally meets her eyes and he lights up at the sight of the two of them. Amy always loved being greeted by her brothers, who were always so happy to see her growing up. And now, seeing Jimmy so frequently the last few weeks has made her question how she was able to stay away for so long. 

Amy can see that he calls her name, “Ames!”, but the sound doesn’t meet her ears over the din of the room. The woman in front of Jimmy visibly stiffens at his outburst, likely startled by the boom of his naturally loud voice, just like their father’s. Unlike their father’s though, Jimmy’s voice was also naturally kind and full of warmth, qualities that their father worked to eliminate from his own. 

Jimmy excuses himself and starts to walk towards them but Joey puts his hands up, signaling that they are heading in their direction. Amy can faintly hear Joey telling Jimmy that he wants to introduce Amy to Mrs. Greene. Jimmy nods his head in understanding, stopping to stay where he is to wait for them.

Didn’t she refer to herself as “Ms. Greene” in their text exchange though, Amy muses? She’s probably not married and just doesn’t have the heart to correct anyone. At least, that’s the way Amy has been handling the misuse of her salutation. She’s been on team “Fuck It” since her divorce was finalized six months ago, so she stopped correcting people. She chalked it up to a win-win situation. Less embarrassment for them and less small talk for her. 

Mrs./Ms. Greene still doesn’t immediately turn around to face them and if Amy wasn’t mistaken, she’d swear that just before she finally does, the woman inhales so deeply that her shoulders touch her ears before slowly returning down to their proper positions.

Amy’s heart begins to race then, in response to what, Amy cannot immediately pinpoint. It’s as if her mind is still searching but her heart has already remembered, hammering with anticipation, waiting for her mind to catch up.  

They reach the end of the table and finally, Joey calls out to the woman, “Mrs. Greene! I want you to meet my Aunt Amy.”

The woman finally turns to face them and Amy, for fuck’s sake, must really still be sleeping because what she sees in front of her is a ghost. Staring back at her is the face of someone that she never thought that she would see again in person. A face that she did sometimes see though, in her dreams, when she was particularly homesick or stressed. Someone who Amy saw for the last time, in this very classroom, the day before her senior year was set to start.  

Mrs. Greene steps around the large table and into Amy’s full view. Mrs. Greene, or Mrs. Smith, well, actually, Diana, as Amy knew her back then, had hardly changed at all. Sure, her dark hair was showing signs of graying but there wasn’t much else. She had always looked younger, Amy recalls, remembering the surprise she felt when learning her chemistry teacher was nearly 10 years older than she was. The entire class had been shocked, really, after Diana had made them all guess her age on their first day together as an icebreaker. At the time, Amy would have guessed that she was freshly out of college, not a grown woman with a Master's Degree and several years of teaching under her belt. 

Amy doesn’t know what the hell to do in this situation. A situation that she admittedly still allows herself to fantasize about, when she is feeling particularly low. For nearly 20 years she has imagined what it would be like to see Diana Smith again, for the first time since that late August evening in 2005. However, she’ll also admit that she never envisioned two members of her immediate family being present during their reunion, so any of her previously rehearsed scenarios are completely out of the window. Amy will have to improvise and to do that, she’ll need to do what she does best: take control. 

Squaring her shoulders and setting her jaw, Amy thrusts out her hand in offering towards Diana — Mrs. Smith — Greene, whatever. Diana takes it and as they’re shaking, Diana’s brown eyes fill with what looks like relief. Amy also thinks she sees tears forming in Diana’s eyes or perhaps the ones forming in hers are clouding her own vision. Either way, she needs to dampen the emotion pooling in her stomach and the tension she feels creeping in around them. She releases Diana’s hand, instantly relieving some of the pressure but it doesn’t completely dissipate. 

Amy clears her throat, looking towards Joey as she says, “We actually know each other, Joe. She was my chemistry teacher too, back in the day.”

His eyes light up, “Really? That’s so cool.” He directs his attention to Diana, "I didn’t know you were kind of old, Mrs. Greene.”

“Joey!” Amy scolds as Diana and Jimmy burst into laughter.

Diana’s laugh is a melody that causes her skin to prickle as the sound meets her ears. It was a sound that never failed to fill Amy’s body with warmth and this apparently still rings true. The three of them chuckle together as Amy’s mind spins completely out of control. 

Diana’s voice cuts through her catastrophizing thoughts, “It’s nice to see you again, Amy.” 

The sound brings Amy’s gaze to Diana’s and all Amy can do is tell herself that now is not the right time. She manages a stilted, “You too.”

Jimmy checks his watch, letting Diana know that it’s 6:30 on the dot, prompting Joey to rush his goodbyes, quickly leaving to join his partner. Amy tries to wish him luck as he walks away but she doesn’t think he hears her. 

Diana excuses herself from Amy and Jimmy but turns to Amy before walking away, “Can I speak with you after?” Amy opens her mouth to respond but Diana says quickly, “About Joey.” Amy nods silently and Diana smiles softly, “Thank you, I’ll find you.”

With her heartbeat racing, Amy watches Diana walk to the front of the classroom. She thinks that she listens to Diana’s welcome message and then watches two dozen teenagers present a wide array of chemistry experiments. However, as Diana approaches the front of the classroom again and thanks everyone for coming, Amy realizes that she hasn’t been paying attention to anything or anyone around her for the last 90 minutes. She paid so little attention in fact, that she has absolutely no idea what Joey’s experiment was. 

Her speech over, Diana leaves the front of the classroom and immediately heads in Amy’s direction. As she approaches, Diana waves off several people looking to speak with her, keeping her eyes fixed in Amy’s direction. Diana and Joey reach Amy and Jimmy simultaneously and Amy takes the opportunity to delay their potential private conversation by keeping the focus on her nephew. 

“Great job, Bud,” Amy says, and he beams at her. She will really need to make an effort to try and figure out what his presentation was about. To say she feels terrible is an understatement. 

“Thanks, Ames!” He says.

Jimmy and Diana follow suit in offering their praise before engaging each other in a school-related discussion. Joey takes this as a sign that he’s no longer needed, turning to Amy and letting her know he was going to hangout with his partner Sam, and to find him when she was ready to leave. 

After a few beats, Diana seems to notice that Joey has left and shifts her body to include Amy in their conversation. 

“Great turnout this year, Diana,” Jimmy says casually. 

Diana hums in agreement but suddenly, her expression changes into one of seriousness, “I’m glad you’re both here though, really. After,” She pauses, as if she’s trying to choose the right words, “… everything that has happened, I figured you’d like to know how well Joey seems to be settling in.” 

Again, all Amy can do is nod and Jimmy gives her an odd look before speaking for both of them, “Thanks so much, Diana. We’re really glad to hear that. He’s a great kid.”

Diana nods emphatically, “Yes, he is! Joey seems to be naturally gifted with science too, which has been delightful. It’s been quite a long time since I’ve had a student pick things up so quickly.”

Amy can feel Diana’s eyes on her as she finishes her statement, which is far from lost on Amy. Still, though, Amy struggles to think of something to say that doesn’t involve bringing up the past. When she comes up empty, she manages a very generic, “I’m really glad to hear that, thanks for letting us know.”

“Excuse me, Principle Miller?” Another parent interrupts their little triangle, requesting to speak with Jimmy and of course, he agrees, excusing himself and stepping several feet away from them with the other man. Now, for the first time in two decades, Amy and Diana are alone. Well, as alone as they can be in a room with 50 other people.

When Diana finally does speak, her voice is meek and unsure, the complete opposite of her speech just moments ago, “Look, Amy—“

Amy can’t seem to hold it in any longer though and cuts her off, “I can’t do this,” but Diana’s eyes are pleading and Amy has waited so long to finally hear something, anything, to justify Diana’s actions back then. So she walks it back and takes some of the bite out of her tone, “Right now. Here. This isn’t the place.”

Diana’s eyes are still disappointed but there is also a hint of understanding in them. 

“Okay,” She says. “Then where?”

Amy doesn’t know how to answer her. She needs to process this entire evening, needs to go back through the last two hours to try and make sense of all of the emotions that have unexpectedly sprung up inside of her. Emotions that she had worked hard to deal with and thought that she had long since moved past. Apparently, though, those emotions were simply dormant, waiting for the right moment to be released. And that moment turned out to be a crisp Friday evening in November of 2023. 

“I’m not sure,” Amy says honestly and Diana nods, a look of defeat trailing across her features. Amy hates the way Diana’s face falls even further at her response but what Amy hates, even more, is that she can feel herself backsliding so easily, “I can text you though, I guess since I have your number?”

Diana brightens, “I’d appreciate that. That is my personal cell, yes. Please use it whenever you’re ready.”

“Okay,” is all Amy can muster and she cannot remember a time in recent memory when she has been at such a loss for words. 

Amy gives Diana a curt smile and turns to leave before she loses all of her resolve but a hand on her forearm stops her. Diana looks up into Amy’s blue eyes, their slight height difference exaggerated by Amy’s heels and Amy’s heart feels as though it’s going to beat out of her chest. 

“It is Ms. Greene, by the way,” is all Diana says before fixing a smile across her face that doesn’t quite reach her eyes and walking away.

On the ride home, Amy doesn’t ask Joey the names of his other teachers. 

++++++

Read Part 2: www.aquicktripp.com

[angelic--kitty]

riding dilf!arle after a long day of work, ughhhhh😫😫😫😫

riding dilf!arlecchino

warnings: smut (mdni), fem!reader/transfem!arle, wlw content, implied age gap (reader is in her early 20s & arle is in her mid-30s), bondage w/ a belt

a/n: sorry it's slightly short. this has been sitting in my box forever, but i wanted to share something with you dilf!arle likers since it's been all rabbit!arle lately

arlecchino was a busy woman. not only raising children but keeping a position of power at work, dealing with people who acted more childish than her own kids.

but you. archons, she adored you.

how you would run to her when she returned from a long, stressful day. greeting her with a kiss, taking her coat, helping her make dinner for the children.

and, of course, putting them to bed together, her hand on your waist the entire time you read their bedtime story.

and, once the children finally lay down to sleep, that is when she whisks you away for the real fun.

she's stuffed your panties in your mouth to keep you quiet, your hands bound behind your back by her expensive leather belt while you bounce on her cock.

she can see your thighs straining, your head falling back as you moan through the fabric when she rubs the gummy spot in your pussy. "feeling good, aren't we?" she teases, grabbing the fat of your ass, pulling you further down her length.

you whine, grinding your hips to elicit a rough grunt from her. "that's it- fuck-" her head tips forward, nails digging into your skin. she leans back, readjusting you on her lap. she tiredly sighed, pushing her hair back to expose her forehead and the sweat glittering against her skin.

she removes your panties from your mouth, watching your saliva stick to the fabric and create strings connected to your tongue. she tosses them aside, pulling your chin up to look at her.

"let- ah- let me ride you, please please please-" you whine desperately for her. she knows it's partially you being insatiable, but partially knowing you can see the exhaustion etched into her features.

her lips brush yours, eyes looking up for yours. "go on then."

she unties your wrists, allowing you to shakily brace yourself with her biceps, her hands moving up to your waist, leaning back to admire your pretty body on her lap. she can feel you squeezing around her cock, hear your cute little moans everytime you sink down, the bounce of your tits.

you were perfect, such a sweet girl for her.

"ah- arlecchino- ah-" your whines turn into a melody, her eyes looking up with affection and lust as you treat her to such a tantalizing display.

"good girl."

[wolfstarlibrarian]

9 books to read in 2025 (sweet + spicy)

Thank you SO much to @eyra for tagging me! I love an excuse to talk about books.

I had SO much fun reading these books I'm excited to share them, so pretty please let me know if you read any of them? I might put anon asks back on because I'm so eager to discuss them. Also, all of these books have HEAs.

Also, I'm working on related marauders lists for almost all of these, so stay tuned!

🌶️ = the more peppers the spicier it is

🍭 = the more lollipops the sweeter it is

Captive Prince: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

This series is one that ifykyk. It's a dark, dramatic, sexy mlm series set in a pseudo historic age and WOW. If it was a fic it'd come with tons of warnings and tags, but there's also an underlying softness between the main characters. Lots of angst and drama and characters you can't help root for. DEFINITELY an 18+ rec so please proceed accordingly.

Johann: Vampire Mates: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🍭🍭🍭🍭🍭

I already rec'd one of the books in this series here, but this one is tied for my favorite. A modern soulmate/vampire au that's got humor, the CUTEST cinnamon roll who's inexperienced (and hundreds of years old), a russian mobster, and just enough angst to make me you ache.

Boystown Heartbreakers: 🌶️🌶️ 🍭🍭🍭

If you're a wolfstar fan, then you'll absolutely adore this friends-to-lovers modern story about a hairstylist who is so worried about dating his DROP DEAD GORGEOUS best friend. All the internal turmoil paired with a book boyfriend you'll absolutely love, and lines that actually had me laughing out loud makes this one of my top reads for the year.

The Charm Offensive: 🌶️🌶️ 🍭🍭🍭

This one totally surprised me with how well it dealth with mental health issues in the middle of a VERY charming story about falling in love with someone (when it's literally your job to help them fall in love with someone else). A bi-awakening and oblivious pining gem. If you want more fics that feature a reality show check out this rec list.

Myles Below Freezing: 🍭🍭🍭🍭🍭

Okay can someone alert the Hazelnoot server? Because this one feels like a cross between Solntse and Sweater Weather. Myles (a cinnamon roll, nerdy Remus IMO) has to solve a murder mystery at the South Pole while trying not to fall for the sweetheart Russian Alexei. The banter is incredible and honestly my friends and I need a second book about the lesbians in it. Forced proximity, oblivious DATING, anxiety rep, action and chase scenes, cuddling, and locked-in together all in one.

Sapphire Sunset: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🍭🍭🍭

If you don't know Chris Rice, he's the gay son of Anne Rice (author of Interview With A Vampire) and thank god he's followed in her footsteps because his romance books are SO good and intense and yet fluffy? It's a ton of drama about an ex-marine and a hotel heir and a family scandal for the books. Feels delightfully like an age-gap modern Drarry book.

Lightning Born: 🌶️ 🍭

A friend recommended me this Frankenstein mlm retelling, and I was like "ew, no". However, I was completely surprised by how much heart it had, and how much it reminded me of R/S. Amnesia (due to ya know, dying), forbidden love, some serious angst, and thankfully a HEA that includes lesbians getting to live out in the tropics.

Honey Girl: 🌶️🌶️ 🍭🍭🍭

This is the only book on the list with wlw as the main pairing and by god, it's beautiful. The writing style gripped me on the first page and I've been recommending it to everyone since I've read it. Imagine waking up in a hotel room in Vegas, by yourself, with a wedding band on your finger and a note. The whole book feels like an intimate love letter and it should absolutely be on your TBR.

On Writing

No spice or sweetness in this non-fiction book, because it's a book by Stephen King on writing. Whenever I talk to anyone who's struggling with their craft I always recommend this book. It's short, to the point, and will leave you feeling much more confident in your abilities while helping you improve your writing. 10/10.

⭐

Okay well I hope you enjoy these recs! I've turned on anon asks so please share your thoughts or your own recs as I'm always looking for new books and fics to read. (We'll just ignore how long the TBR list is already...)

Tagging: @thedrarrylibrarian @wolfstarwarehouse @wolfstarmicrofic @pancakehouse @imsiriuslyreading @lavenderhaze @rainbowrowell @gayliketheancients @brandileigh2003 @mrtellmeafckingsecret @imjusthereforwolfstar And ANYONE ELSE who also love books

[guzhufuren]

Thailand 🇹🇭 A Guide to Some of the Best Queer Asian Shows

Full list here.

1. KinnPorsche mafia boss/bodyguard; action; kidnapper/kidnapee side couple

Kinn, a son of a prominent mafia head, is ambushed by an enemy, and meets Porsche, a bartender who comes to his rescue for a price, thus beginning their reluctant relationship as boss and bodyguard, which soon turns into something more.

iQIYI

2. Bed Friend friends with benefits; office setting; trauma

King and Uea work in the same office. After a company outing ends in a drunken hook-up between them, Uea and King agree to keep seeing each other on a strictly physical basis. With no strings attached, will these two be able to keep things between them simple and carefree or will their emotions eventually get the better of them?

Uncut 18+ on iQIYI or GagaOOLala or cut on YouTube

3. The Sign reincarnated lovers; fantasy; thai mythology; police

The story of the love between Phaya and Tharn who used to be mythological creatures Naga and Garuda in their past lives, and were forced apart. But fate intervened, and two men were reincarnated in new bodies. Now, they work together as partners in the Special Investigations Unit to uncover violent crimes and supernatural mysteries while their love is tested by mystical forces and past enemies.

YouTube

4. I Feel You Linger In The Air period drama; time travel; bittersweet

Jom, an architect overseeing the renovation of a rundown villa, continuously dreams of a man he's never met. When a twist of fate transports Jom to Chiang Mai in the 1920s, he assumes the role of a servant to the affluent young master Yai, the mysterious man from his dreams.

GagaOOLala or YouTube

5. You're My Sky sports; university setting; coming of age

Thorn, a young basketball player follows his senior Fah to university as a result of the promise they’d made — to become national basketball champions. However, to his dismay, he finds that Fah has already given up on basketball. --- Aai has to work in pairs throughout the semester with San, 1 year footballer; in order to receive a scholarship to study in Japan, Ai must be willing to do everything to get an A grade. --- Track running requires the compatibility of the team members to be very high. Vee, who became the new racquet 4, has to speed up training to fit in with the team as quickly as possible, especially with Dome, spending extra time together to train. Is love actually a major obstacle on the path of being an athlete?

Viki

6. Cutie Pie (+Cutie Pie 2 You, Naughty Babe) arranged marriage; secret identity; crack

The sons of two companies, Lian and Kuea, have been engaged to each other since childhood. One decides he doesn't want the arranged marriage anymore while the other decides to win him back.

Cutie Pie: YouTube & Cutie Pie 2 You: Uncut 18+ on iQIYI or cut on YouTube & NB: uncut on IQIYI or cut on YouTube

7. Until We Meet Again reincarnated lovers; forbidden love;university setting

Two boys who couldn't be together in one life find each other again in another.

+ Between Us university setting; swimming club; trauma

A parallel story to Until We Meet Again. Win and Team get to know one another through the swimming club, and eventually develop a relationship. They grow their connection as Win helps Team deal with his childhood trauma.

UWMA: YouTube & Between Us: Special: YouTube & Between Us: Uncut 18+ on iQIYI or paid YouTube or cut on YouTube

8. Step By Step office setting; boss/employee; slowburn

Jeng is a marketing manager and son of the owner of the company. Pat is a new team member. Jeng develops a secret fondness for his new subordinate, but in this position, he has to be strict and picky with Pat.

Uncut 18+ on Viki or GagaOOLala or cut on YouTube

9. GAP The Series wlw; office setting; boss/employee; class difference

Long after Sam first came to Mon's rescue when they were kids, Sam is unambiguously Mon's idol. In order to be near Sam, Mon gets a job working under her. When they finally meet again at the office, Mon is surprised by Sam’s icy exterior, so different from the image she'd had of her. Mon and Sam aren't just different in demeanour; they stand apart in class and age.

YouTube

10. Lucky My Love wlw; office setting

In the pursuit of love, Nabdao has been doing everything. She has got her fortune read. She's gone on a string of blind dates. Unfortunately, no one seems to be on the same page as her. She starts to think that perhaps her gorgeous and caring boss Pheem could be the one for her. Then Vela, her new team leader, comes into the picture and shakes things up with her observant and affectionate care.

YouTube

11. La Pluie soulmate alternative universe

In an alternate universe where Thailand is perpetually rainy and soulmates exist, La Pluie traces the story of Saengtai, who suffers from sensorineural hearing loss every time it rains. The only voice he can hear then is that of his soulmate, but he is adamant about not giving said soulmate a chance due to having seen his parents’ (who are also soulmates) relationship deteriorate.

YouTube or iQIYI

12. I Told Sunset About You (+ Last Twilight in Phuket, I Promised You the Moon) coming of age; childhood friends to lovers; high school setting

Two childhood best friends-turned-rivals meet again, awakening an old rivalry and old feelings. They now have to navigate their lives together and the growing attraction toward each other.

Viki (ITSAY) & YouTube (LTIP) & Viki (IPYTM)

13. Ghost Host, Ghost House crush at first sight; ghosts; grief

Kevin's passion is the challenge of hunting ghosts. He returns to Thailand after 10 years to stay with his aunt's family, but he didn't know that he'd come to stay under the same roof as those hunted ghosts. There he meets Pluem, a young gardener working for his family and a spark ignites between them.

YouTube or GagaOOLala

14. Something In My Room ghost/human; mystery; bittersweet

Looking to start a new life in a new house with his mother, Phat feels something uncanny in his room, which turns out to be the ghost of Phob. Phob wants Phat’s help in solving the mystery of his death before it’s too late.

I recommend watching the extended uncut version on KissKH or Dramacool, but you can also watch cut version on YouTube

15. Manner of Death crime; mystery; dark

A forensic pathologist Bunn is threatened to identify a manner of one victim's death as suicide — something that is not true according to the autopsy performed. The prime suspect seems to be a man named Tan who denies all involvement. They team up together to find the real murderer.

WeTV

16. Triage time loop; hospital setting; crime; mystery

As a resident in the emergency room, one should be indifferent when not saving a patient's life. But Tin got the chance to reverse a random patient's death for the second, third, and countless times. To help Tol and save his life.

AIS PLAY

17.  Love Mechanics cheating; university setting

A love story that starts one night in a club — between Mark, who is drunk and carrying the painful burden of his one-sided love, and the boy who he bumps into and mistakes as the object of his affection. They spend a night together and gradually Mark falls for Vee, although he knows Vee has a girlfriend. Will the love between them make it?

WeTV

18. Wedding Plan wedding planner/groom; lavender marriage; wlw side couple

Nuea is a professional wedding planner. Sailom happens to be the perfect man for Nuea based on his visual considerations for a man. But the universe has an unimaginable sense of humor as Sailom and his fiance Yiwa turn out to be Nuea's new clients.

Uncut 18+ on iQIYI or cut on Youtube & iQIYI (special episode)

19. Laws of Attraction lawyers; crime

When working-class man Tinn's niece fails to receive justice for her untimely death, he encounters Charn, a cynical morally corrupt lawyer. As Tinn and Charn team up to delve deeper into the case, they form a close bond despite their ideological differences. The series explores Charn and Tinn’s fight for justice, even though they were on opposite sides of the fence at the beginning.

YouTube

20. Secret Crush On You “nerd”/popular guy; queer friend group; university setting

Discover the secret of a nerdy young man, Toh, who fell in love with a popular third-year senior. Because his dream is so far from reach, observing is the only thing he could do. But what happens when one auspicious day the world devises an opportunity for Toh to make himself known to his crush Nuea?

YouTube

21. To Sir, With Love period drama; family drama; rich man/lower class man

A powerful family suffering from internal power struggles is now facing an even greater secret threat, the oldest son and heir is gay.

YouTube

22. My Only 12% best friends to lovers; slow burn

Cake and Seeiw, next-door neighbors and childhood best friends, navigate their feelings towards each other as they grow up.

YouTube

23. Show Me Love wlw; beauty pageants

Meena moves to Bangkok to achieve her singing dreams. She chances across Cherine who asks Meena to join her in a beauty pageant. The girls' journey for the crown begins and a romance between them sparks.

YouTube

24. Pit Babe omegaverse; alpha/alpha; car racing

Babe is the number one race car driver and an alpha with special abilities who only has sex with other alphas. Nerdy naive alpha Charlie approaches Babe to ask for his help to become a racer himself. Babe agrees to help Charlie realise his dream, but it will come with a price.

Uncut on iQIYI or cut on YouTube

---

You can watch many shows for free on YouTube, and watch others on the streaming websites by setting VPN to Thailand. In other cases I recommend paying for subscriptions to show appreciation and support of content in order to get more of it in the future, but if you can’t, watch on KissKH (better quality), Dramacool or get files from MkvDrama. Enjoy!  🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

[kabr0ztrousers]

Kabr0z Writes Episode 13: Tiptoe through the tulips 

Also entitled: do conventionally attractive dryads count as monster fucking?

Find the rest of the anthology here!

CWs: whipping; outdoor fucking; tribidation; bdsm dynamic; age gap if you think about it; power imbalance; graphic wlw fucking; cannabis use; alcohol use; mild foot worship

Author's Note: Another standalone episode today, do you folks prefer the standalone stories or the multi-parters? Vote in the poll at the end

Also, the ideas pad is getting raided pretty hard recently - my DMs and asks are open for any ideas, requests, whatever! Ask and you'll probably get something!

##########################################

Another year, another village garden competition to win. It's a bit of a tradition for you now. Every summer, the last Saturday in June, the village mayor, priest, and the chair of the local rotary club would do the tour of the village and rate all 40-something cottages on their gardens. You tended to win. From your immaculate rose bushes, to your lush gardenias, to the rows of tulips flanking your garden path, there simply wasn't anyone who could beat you. 

Granted, you're a nature-witch, which does come with advantages even if you have to budget for mouse bones. Most of the people here would laugh at you if you told them, so you never did, and you find yourself attributing your perennial prowess to a green thumb and a closely-guarded fertiliser recipe. Which was, you suppose, half right.

This year was different. You knew there was a new arrival in the village, news gets around in such small communities, especially ones with an average age of 65 and about two television sets per square mile. You made sure to scout the new house the morning of the contest, see what you're up against.

Your jaw dropped. Trellises of flowers and hybrids you'd never even read about. Plants you knew for a fact would fight to the death growing happily next to one another. There was even mint. Mint! Growing in the ground! And behaving itself to boot! There's only so much as can be done with knowhow and horticulture. Something is at play here.

You returned home and set to work sprucing your flower beds up. It'd take a miracle to beat that newcomer, but you were known for those. In an hour your roses were all blooming. Your tulips had formed ranks and stood to attention. Not a twig, not a leaf, not a single blade of grass was out of place. You'd broken out the good newt entrails to do this, you weren't so easily beaten.

The judges approached. Three old retirees, mopping their brows and fanning themselves with their clipboards. You made some smalltalk as they stood on your path, scrutinising your hard work and taking notes. You snuck a peak at the pieces of paper on the boards. You could only ever read the Reverend Green's handwriting, and it did look good for you, but they haven't been to the other cottage yet. 

When they left, you tagged along, under the guise of a pleasant stroll and still pleasantly chatting. Under the surface, your mind was racing. Even your teachers would have had a hard time pulling off what you saw, and both Grandmother Oak and Auntie Juniper would have scorned at such a frivolous use of magic. Even as it was they always called you vain for your garden, and at least most of yours is done with trowel and rake, rather than grimoire.

You turned the corner, discussing the local bus routes with the mayor, and saw her. That was how she did it. 

She stood in a sundress. Pale face and fair hair gleaming in the afternoon sun. You saw as she let you into her garden she was barefoot, as you expected, glimmering green eyes meeting yours as she smiled a smile as old as the hills, maybe older.

She was a dryad. No doubt about it. You're surprised you hadn't realised sooner. 

Your gaze faltered and you distracted yourself looking at her flowerbeds, trying desperately to avoid being recognised by her. 

You knew you already had been 

You made your excuses and hurried to the village square. A cup of tea and some deep breathing later, you were ready.

The three men took their position on the steps of the village hall, before making their proclamation.

Third place was Mrs. Simons.

Second place, you, as predicted 

First place: Acacia Rosewood. 

You don't think you've heard a more obvious false name in a while, and your teacher was calling herself Grandmother Oak.

You stepped up to receive a small box containing a silver plastic trophy and a bottle of wine, enviously eying the gold plastic trophy and identical bottle Acacia was given

"Come over later" she whispered so faintly you thought you'd imagined it. Her voice like the breeze in the treetops "We have a lot to teach one another"

You'd been warned not to cavort with ancient nature goddesses, especially ancient Hellenic nature goddesses.

But on the other hand, your mother didn't raise a coward.

It's a waxing gibbous moon tonight. Plenty of light to be getting on with, so you cut across the fields instead the road where the whole village can see your nocturnal comings and goings. You're carrying your bottle of wine, along with some fresh bread, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Either fitting offerings, or a nice snack for later. 

You reach her cottage, and knock on the door

"I'm here" came a voice from behind you. Warm and sweet, ancient and powerful. "I called in a favour from the winds so we'll have good weather for the night. Unless you've upset uncle Zeus?" She laughed 

"No, but he might get jealous of the..." You read the side of the bottle in your basket "2023 merlot and the supermarket brand olive oil" it was your turn to laugh now

Acacia took the basket off you and took your hand in hers, leading you around the back of her cottage.

The garden here was no less spectacular, flowers of all colours, manicured shrubs, climbing vines on trellises, in the centre stood a willow tree, fronds hanging down majestically.

Acacia sat under the tree and pat the ground next to her

"You're a witch then?"

You sat "Yes, of the Blackthorn coven, though I haven't been to meetings for a while"

Acacia wasn't great at feigning interest. She deftly opened the wine and took a swig before passing the bottle to you.

You felt like you were at school again. Drinking cheap red wine out of the bottle with a beautiful woman, the only thing missing was... Wait.

You smelled the air, and looked ove at Acacia as she sparked a lighter. That's what you were missing. She took a long rip from the bong she'd produced from somewhere and offered it to you.

The smoke and the wine went to your head. You could feel the warmth in your belly and the spinning in your head lowering your inhibitions. You could see she was feeling it too. She looked at you through half-lidded eyes, slowly biting her lips.

You help her drink the last mouthful of the wine, bringing the bottle to her lips and tipping her head back as she drains it. There's always more wine, but this is more important.

You're above her now. On your hands and knees in front of her. She taps your nose with one of her long, slender fingers "boop!" She giggles, and you kiss her. Long, slow kisses. You're worshipping her. Kissing her lips, her face, her neck, then collarbone. Slipping off her dress now. Kissing her sternum, her breasts, belly, then her pubis and finally you're between her thighs. 

It smells of honey and sap. Sweet and warm. You kiss the insides of her thighs, savoring the smell of it. You can see it glistening in the half light. The moisture seeping from between the lips. Her hands are in your hair, massaging your scalp as you kiss her sensitive legs.

Then they grip. You squeak as you feel the grasping hands pull your hair slightly

"Do you want to taste it?" Acacia's voice is different now. Like the creaking of tree limbs. Darker, deeper, "Do you?"

"Yes" you breathe

"Beg"

"Please, let me"

"I am your goddess, mortal. Beg properly" She boomed

"Please, goddess, let me worship you"

"That is sufficient, for now" Acacia buried your face into her pussy. The warm honey flowed down your chin as you ate, your tongue exploring her, swallowing down her essence as she rode your face. She wasn't letting up. Rubbing you harder and faster against her cunt as it twitched and gushed against your face.

She cried out. Holding you down as her juices flowed over you, coating you in sticky sweetness. Then she let you drop.

You both caught your breath a moment, then Acacia stood up "Bow for me, my mortal, grovel at my feet"

What could you do but obey? You crawled over to her on your hands and knees and started kissing her feet in the grass. She lifted a foot and you followed it, kissing her toes and licking the sole clean. Then she stepped to your side. You could hear her walking around you, the anticipation making you wet under your dress, waiting for her to touch you.

You looked at her

"Who said you could look upon me?" She was grinning as she spoke, a voice like a branch being rent free of a trunk by the wind "Ten lashes, for your impudence."

She grabbed a willow switch off the tree with a snap. "This will do nicely" 

You whined as she lifted your skirt. A finger traced the wetness escaping your slit "Bad girl. Is the thought of getting whipped turning you on? Well you're in luck"

Swish. Whack. Yelp

"One!"

Swish, whack, swish, whack

"Two! Three!"

You cried out with each impact, the sounds of pain giving way to arousal

"Four! Five! Six!"

You're shaking now, each stroke sending jolts of pain and pleasure shooting up your spine

"Seven! Eight! Nine!"

Tears are streaming from your eyes your pussy twitching in time with waves of stinging from your bear ass. 

The last strike didn't come. "Beg"

"Please!" You sobbed

"More" Her mouth was beside your ear

 "Please, pleasepleaseplease" your whines slurring into each other as you stuck your rear end out 

Whack! 

You screamed into the dirt. "Thank you, goddess, thank you so much"

Acacia knelt down behind you. You could feel her gently kiss the welts she left on your skin "Good girl, for that you get rewarded" her fingers caressed your folds as she kissed your stinging skin. Gently opening you up and pushing into you. Your whimpers turned to moans as she fingered you, faster and faster, drawing your mousture out and covering you in your wetness. 

She rolled you over and straddled you, rubbing herself against you. Your moans and gasps intertwined as you approached your peaks. You could feel the heat in her pussy against yours as they rubbed over one another, rubbing her clit with yours. You kissed as you felt her jerk and grasp at you. Her orgasm brought you over the edge, groping and grinding on one another, your juices mixing and coating both of you. 

You ground into one another, coaxing climax after climax out of each other until you sat, exhausted in one another's arms, panting and kissing. You fell onto your sides, still holding on to each other and let sleep take you.

You woke in a bed, it wasn't yours. Bleary eyed you padded out of the room and saw Acacia in the kitchen, still naked, cutting the bread you brought last night and pouring some oil into a bowl

Breakfast looked good 

######################################

And after that crime against verb tenses, comes the promised poll and a reminder that if you want me to cover a topic, kink, or situation, please let me know

The losing side won't go away, fret not, I just won't prioritise them as much

[andiberzatto]

In progress stories (going to try and release them over the weekends) :

Sydney Adamu x Kasama Server OC! : awkward flirting after Carmy stands Syd up in favor of Claire. (WLW)

Frank Castle x Reader Smut! : face sitting

Frank Castle x Reader: neighbors in an apartment complex, slight age gap

Carmy Berzatto x Reader: arguing during service because Carmen gets jealous turns into confessional after service.

Frank Castle X Reader: age gap, she’s the waitress at the diner Frank frequents.

Sip and Savor: Part 2 - Sydney confronts carmy about avoiding the drunken kiss with their favorite wine shop owner.

Frank Castle X Reader: Cop AU! Frank comes home from shift. Heavy Dumbification.

[redjadethewriter]

Age Superiority and Toxic Views on Age Differences in Blank The Series

Yes, I'm back to ranting about this series. You would think I had enough by now, but there's so much to talk about that my mind goes rampant, thinking about it. Okay... Let's get into it.

First, age superiority is a silly thing. I'm not gonna lie; it erks me.

Storytime to start this off.

Once, I shared with someone the secret to my youthful appearance, saying, “I hang around a lot of young people.” This statement made him laugh uncontrollably, likely because of the sly grin on my face as I said it. However, my words were both a joke and a reflection of my true beliefs. I hold a great deal of respect for the younger generations and have cultivated a mindset that values respect for all individuals, regardless of their age, gender, culture, or ethnic background.

My guiding motto is simple: “I respect those who respect me.” If someone shows disrespect towards me, it matters little what their status, wealth, or accomplishments may be—I will not tolerate it. In such situations, I prefer to turn my back and walk away, as no one is deserving of my time and energy, not even in pointless arguments. Overcoming highly emotional states and the passage of time have taught me this lesson.

As time goes on, some things can be learned, while others require dedicated effort and experience to truly grasp. My effort has always been about becoming aware, and the only way to gain awareness is through knowledge and experience. However, some go through life not learning from their mistakes or grow from certain experiences. Some choose to ignore the surrounding people, not listen to them, or have a superiority complex, especially around younger folk or someone who’s less fortunate. This triggered me in Blank the Series. Look, I understand certain cultures its ingrained in us to respect our elders. I come from a background as such. It may not be an Eastern Asian background, but it parallels on a similar level.

Okay, let me share my opinion on something that bothered me in the series, even though I know the story intentionally crafted it that way. In the novel, I can understand why everyone would treat Anueng like a child. After all, she was written as only 18 years old, and in my country, we still consider that too young. However, in the series, she was 20, almost 21. At that age, I had a lot more freedom compared to her. I had a job; I was going to university; I was going out, drinking, and even hooking up with older women facing no judgment from my parents or society. Although the standards in my country may be more relaxed, it’s not something that would shock anyone, I know.

So, when I watched Anueng, an adult woman, being treated as less than an adult, it really bothered me. Yes, she acted annoying most of the time, but I understood she used it as a way to get a reaction from Khun Nueng and to hide her true feelings. It was her way of wearing a mask, just like we all do. I mean, who really acts like themselves in public?

Throughout the show, I witnessed a scared Anueng who simply wanted others to see her as an adult and not subject her to abuse, control, or assumptions about her best interests. She wanted to be able to decide for herself and express her true feelings. And let me tell you, I’ve worked in retail and have interacted with people of all ages, from 18 to senior years. I’ve talked to them, listened to them, and got to know them. And using age as a measure of superiority is just plain dumb. I’ve met older people who make unwise choices and never learn from them, while I’ve also met young people who are wise beyond their years. So, I never judge a book by its cover.

Some young people I’ve had the privilege of getting to know have had experiences just as crazy as mine, if not crazier than someone twice their age. And then there are those who still have a lot to learn. That’s why I never assume their level of experience. And that’s also why older women who dated me were okay with pursuing a relationship with me. They saw my book was thick, filled with experiences and wisdom or… I was just a good…cough… LOL!

So, in the series, when Khun Nueng invited Folk to the amusement park, I couldn’t help but interject. Assuming Anueng would be bored with the adults infuriated me. I coughed and said, “Excuse me, but she’s an adult, too.” It’s unfair to assume that a 20-year-old wouldn’t enjoy the company of 36-year-olds. “What the fuck are you talking about,” I thought. That girl would have a blast with me. I’m sure she would have had an awesome time with Khun Nueng if she wasn’t falling for the Fah’s cruel antics to gain the love of her daughter after abandoning her most of her life.

Rant moment about Fah:

“Excuse me, I don’t care if you gave birth to Anueng. You're a dang stranger to her and you have to earn her love. At this rate, you’re just a child yourself, pretending to be a mother.” I’m not sorry for saying it, but Anueng deserves so much better. If Fah truly wanted to be a part of her daughter’s life, she would have defied her own mother and been there from the beginning. But she didn’t. She only showed up when Anueng turned 20, after all the difficult times were over, and suddenly wanted to play the mother role. Hell no. Even if there wasn’t a romantic involvement between Anueng and Khun Nueng, Khun Nueng acted more like a mother figure than both the biological mother and grandmother did. Family doesn’t have to be defined by blood relations. I can easily envision a scenario where a lonely artist adopts a mistreated, abandoned girl, and they become a genuine family. Then, the royal grandmother would throw a fit over Khun Nueng adopting a daughter. Oh my, that would just cause a stir.

But back to age insecurities.

Even to this day, as a 38-year-old, I still ride rollercoasters and explore various interests. It’s why young people are drawn to me everywhere I work and go. I have a wide range of interests that appeal to people of all ages. I can spend hours talking and listening to 19-year-olds and those in their twenties without any of us getting bored. It’s all about having charisma that goes beyond the norm.

Moreover, it was clear to anyone that Anueng truly desired to spend her birthday with Khun Nueng. However, following Fah’s orders, Khun Nueng attempted to distance herself from Anueng. This action deeply hurt Anueng, especially because she expected someone she loved to offer support and not to push her away. I couldn’t help but exclaim, “Oh, my gosh! It’s her birthday! Can you please respect that she’s an adult? It’s her special day, and she wants you to acknowledge that!”

In romantic relationships, simply being in the same space as the person you are interested in, even with no activities, is not boring at all. However, it is important to note that Khun Nueng has never experienced being in love or loving someone before, which justifies her ignorance in this matter. Nevertheless, I cannot stress enough that Anueng is not naïve. She can sense that Khun Nueng’s feelings for her run deeper than she lets on. This is why it was incredibly frustrating for her to get Khun Nueng to be open and honest about her emotions.

Eventually, in the end of episode 4, Khun Nueng reached a breaking point. She grabbed Anueng by the arm, preventing her from walking away, and expressed her desire for her to stay. Furthermore, in episode 5, she attempted to convince the family that Anueng wanted to remain in Thailand and even volunteered to help her study and prepare for the university entrance exam. Ultimately, her efforts succeeded.

Spoiler alert: Since I read the novel, I’m going to reveal the chaotic age insecurities Khun Nueng has. I don’t think they will use the scene in the series, but Anueng and Khun Nueng go on a run together. Khun Nueng basically can’t keep up with her and automatically goes into doom and gloom about getting older and not being able to physically keep up with Anueng’s stamina. I laughed so hard at that passage in the book that I cried because I couldn’t breathe from laughing so dang hard. I’m like, “Woman, how long has it been since you’ve done legit exercise such as running?” Because I know that being an artist, you are not active in heavier impact exercises. “Girl, please. At 36, I was running circles around ladies younger than me. I could sprint 3 miles and lift 50 to 75 pounds daily, like the bitch of steel.” I’ve met 40- and 50-year-old women that could break me in half. So, please… don’t feed me that bullshit. Age is not a factor in performance; it’s keeping up with activities and pushing your body to work that keeps you mobile and strong as fuck to take on a lady in her 20s with no issues. I’ve known 70-year-olds that can out-bench ladies younger than them. No one can use the excuse of age with me.

Now, I can see certain challenges that come with being in a romantic relationship with someone younger. One major factor is the ability to connect with them, considering the generational gap. Different time periods bring different mindsets. Khun Nueng, 36, probably grew up in a time when same-sex relationships were deemed unacceptable. I can relate to that. Being 38, I witnessed the tail end of a time when it was dangerous to be a lesbian. Nevertheless, I understand her concerns about being forgotten. In episode 6, she expressed her fear that Anueng will eventually make new friends, flirt with other people, and move on. But honestly, I can’t help but think and laugh. “Yeah, right! No one’s ever gonna leave you, let alone forget about you.” A woman like Khun Nueng leaves an indelible mark on your soul. Her eyes pierce through you like daggers, leaving you exposed. She’s fierce and full of spice. No one will forget Khun Nueng for generations to come. She’s absolutely crazy, in the best way possible.

Khun Nueng…Just openly love that girl already, and stop torturing yourself like a masochistic princess. We all know you’re head over heels for her. She’s an adult, so let go of your worries. Thank you.

[pixiemoonmagic]

The Lady's Maid - Chapter 2

Click here for Chapter 1

Click here to see a map of the region

The Lady's Maid is a high fantasy sapphic romantasy novel.

By: R. B. Mangold

The following morning was a quiet one. The celebrations were preparing for their final day and the Contran and his retinue were readying for their journey north to meet with King Tzored in Zaer. Like so many mornings before Mahrie helped Dranora get ready for the day. Today Dranora would be wearing her fine purple and gold gown with lavish makeup to highlight her features. Though Dranora had been spurned by her husband she was determined to leave a lasting impression on his memory as he left with his concubines in tow.

Mahrie could not understate the severity of the insult which Urstrar had inflicted upon Dranora. Dranora and Mahrie should have been preparing to travel with the Contran but instead they were sending him off with a farewell wave as his caravan left the city. Dranora was the Contrina and her absence in the King’s presence would affect her standing within the circles of the nobility. 

As Mahrie dressed Dranora and brushed her hair she could feel the tension in Dranora’s body. The woman felt rigid and Mahrie had to meter out the blush she applied to Dranora’s cheeks as the anger Dranora was clearly holding back was causing a natural red to burn in her cheeks.

At the sending off, Mahrie stood back with the other servants and watched as Contrina Dranora stood alone. In the past, at such farewells, Dranora would wave but today, the Contrina stood firm and refused to show any concern or affection towards the husband who had spurned her so brutally. Such passive aggressive spats were common in the nobility and royalty, especially when the political stakes were set so high. It saddened Mahrie to think that Dranora would likely spend the rest of her life in her own isolation, forced to live with a man she no longer loved and with children that were not hers.

Since Zaer had taken over the region the practice of concubines had diminished. It was considered proper etiquette for the husband to receive the blessing of his wife before taking a concubine. However, for reasons that had confounded Mahrie, and frankly most of the Contran’s advisors, he had chosen to do so without consulting his wife. Mahrie speculated that Dranora was right and that her own words of reassurance, that he would one day return to Dranora, were categorically false.

This truth left Mahrie with an uncomfortable thought, Dranora had set her passions towards her. That primal voice within Mahrie’s mind had taken permanent roost in her thoughts and it was clear that a part of her wanted to embrace such an opportunity. However, despite her own desires there were still the looming threats that came with opening herself up to Dranora. Dranora had promised her protection. At best such a tryst could be a chance, even if fleeting, for Mahrie to experience passion and intimacy again and to finally be free from the self imposed isolation she had put upon herself. However the other end of the spectrum included scandal, exile or far worse.

After they’d seen the Contran off Dranora retreated to her personal garden. The Contrina’s Garden was off limits to most of the staff and the guards patrolled it from outer walls that were obscured by high growing shrubbery. It was intended as a refuge for the Contrina, a place, like her chambers in the Contrina’s Tower, that were hers and her’s alone.

The Contrina’s Garden was large enough to accommodate a brisk walk and walled on all sides for privacy. In the main court of the garden were two fountains, one at each side and a bathing pool filled with blue and white water lotuses. At the far end of the court, near the bathing pool, was a large sandstone alcove with pillows, sofas and even a bed, which the Contrina would use on hot summer nights.

“I feel relieved,” Dranora sighed as she sat on an ornate stone bench which faced the larger of the two fountains. “I’m glad that Urstrar is gone. I heard Loshan say they would be heading to war and that over the next month he would be mustering the city's troops and marching them north to follow.”

Apparently the rumors had been true, Mahrie thought. She had heard throughout the palace that Tzored was preparing another push into Nuran territory. The desert kingdom to the northwest was impossible to strike anywhere but along the Emosan River which meant that a large host of troops would be needed. Over the last two decades King Tzored had turned Zaer into a war machine and much of the nation’s resources were committed to the waging of war against Nur. With such a dire focus on waging war with their neighbors it seemed likely that Nur would fall within the next year or two. This was just Tzored’s latest push into Nuran territory.

Loshan was a name that Mahrie knew well, he was Urstrar’s personal general and the field marshal to his troops. After the celebration was completed it was likely that the call to arms would be made and that all the men of age, likely from fifteen to thirty, would be drafted into service. Thankfully Vrena’s husband, Hamam was thirty two and would be spared the first wave of conscription as long as a second draft wasn’t called.

“And good riddance,” Dranora practically spat the words. “If he and his harlots are overrun by the Nurans all the better.”

Mahrie could tell Dranora meant that. It was unlikely to happen, Nur was on the defensive and Urstrar’s concubines would likely stay in the rear camp and have ample time for retreat if the main army faltered. The only two advantages the Nuran’s had was that they were on the defensive and that they had tamed petradons, winged saurians that a soldier could ride, which gave them the ability to attack from the air.

“Perhaps the goddess will hear your plea,” Mahrie added. She wasn’t normally a religious or spiritual person, that had been Izmelda’s realm. However, her recent experiences were making her reconsider such things.

“Ansueala be praised,” Dranora chimed in and kissed her two forefingers on the left hand, a gesture that Ansuealan worshipers made at the end of a prayer.

“I feel so free,” Dranora continued. “At first I was so angry that Urstrar was leaving without me, I still ‘am if I’m being honest. But the burden of all that negativity feels as though it left with him. I feel as though I’m on the precipice of something new, that I’m my own person again. Which is something I haven’t felt since before we were married.” Dranora turned to Mahrie and asked, “Do you not feel it as well?”

“I suppose I do,” Mahrie nodded in reply. They were on the precipice of something new but unlike Dranora, Mahrie felt the edge of danger on the horizon.

“Mahrie, I want to go out,” Dranora said as she stood and began taking off her jewelry.

“Out?” Mahrie raised a curious eyebrow.

Dranora placed her bracelets and necklace on the stone bench and then crossed over to the edge of the bathing pool. She slid the elegant dress she’d worn for her husband off. As the delicate garment fell to Dranora’s ankles revealing the woman’s nude figure Mahrie’s breath hitched in her chest. Mahrie had seen Dranora in the nude many times both to dress and bathe her mistress. In the past it had always just been part of the job, something that came with being the Lady’s Maid. But after the previous night, after Dranora’s confession and the warm yet delicate kiss, things had changed and Mahire now saw her mistress in an entirely new light.

Internalizing her sudden urges, Mahrie quickly went about doing her normal duties. She gathered up the jewelry that Dranora had discarded and placed it in the pockets of her dress. She then knelt over to collect her mistress's dress but her efforts to ignore the beautiful nude figure were thwarted when her mistress looked up at her from within the shimmering pool.

“You’re flushed,” Dranora pointed out.

“I’m just warm,” Mahrie replied with a half truth. It wasn’t a particularly warm day. Winter was already fading and the region was known for its mild and often warmer climate. This sudden wave of heat was a clear response to the desire that was now welling up in Mahrie’s chest.

“As you say,” Dranora shrugged in the water. 

Slipping beneath the surface Dranora swam away leaving a cloud of cosmetic dust behind as she went. The shimmering silhouette of Dranora’s body left Mahrie short of breath and slightly dizzy. Though she was on the older side Mahrie was hardly venerable, so it was a shock that she felt so out of sorts. Then again she hadn’t been so aroused and enticed in what felt like a lifetime. She sat at a bench near the edge of the pool and took a deep breath before folding the garment she had retrieved and placing it in her lap.

After a few moments Dranora surfaced and pushed back her wet dripping hair. Standing in the shallows the water only concealed her from the stomach down and the sight of Dranora’s shimmering breasts in the morning sunlight was enough to send Mahrie spinning again. Mercifully, Mahrie was already sitting down so hiding the sudden dizzy spell was easier this time.

“I need a few things from the apothecary and I’d like some books about the Tethiri Heartland,” Dranora announced and then frowned as she cleared the water from her eyes. “You really don’t look well,” Dranora added when she saw Mahrie’s even more flushed face. “You should join me, the water will help you cool down.”

“I couldn’t,” Mahrie stuttered and then leaned on her right arm. In all her years working for Dranora she’d never offered for Mahrie to join her. If Mahrie hadn’t been sitting she likely would have collapsed on the spot.

This was not going to work, Mahrie thought. It was clear that Dranora was still interested, though they had yet to speak about the previous night. Mahrie also knew in her heart that she was interested as well, afterall her body hadn’t responded so passionately in decades. However, her mind was still unsettled on the matter and so she did her best to push the thoughts aside and instead focus on her work.

“With your permission, I can go out and gather those items for you,” Mahrie offered in an attempt to change the topic.

“I’d like to go with you,” Dranora added quickly and wadded to the edge of the pool and stepped out. Her dripping nude figure shimmered in the morning light sending warmth rushing through Mahrie’s veins.

Mahrie quickly stood and retrieved a robe from the alcove and then held it out so that Dranora could put her arms through the sleeves. Mahrie then reached around Dranora’s waist and tied the robe. In doing so Mahrie’s chest brushed against Dranora’s back. They had been in close proximity so many times but everything felt electric now. With the tingle of desire welling up within her Mahrie again considered her options, resign her position or embrace the desire she was trying desperately to hold at bay.

“I’ll notify the guards that you’ll be traveling into the city-,” Mahrie began.

“That won’t be necessary, I’ll go with you incognito.”

In the five years of her service to Contrina Dranora her mistress had never once requested such a thing. The city was safe, some districts were safer than others, as in most cities, but Mahrie was no bodyguard and had no training in martial skills.

“I want to see the city with you and see how you and our citizens experience it. Very few people have seen my face up close and with a shawl and an unassuming dress I should be able to blend in. Besides, you’ll be with me and we’ll only take enough coin to purchase what we need so as not to draw suspicion.” 

“I may not be able to protect you,” Mahrie admitted. She never felt good about admitting a deficiency, especially in her professional life, but it was obvious that Dranora was drawing on their friendship and not their professional relationship for this request.

“I don’t expect you to,” Dranora replied and turned to Mahrie. “Today is a new day and I intend to explore new sides of myself and see the world in ways I was never allowed to. I won’t let this potentially limited freedom go to waste.”

Mahrie stifled the urge to sigh and conceded. “Very well.”

“Good,” Dranora nodded with a devilish smirk. “From now on when we’re not in our assigned roles as Contrina and Lady’s Maid you will call me Nora. Today I just want to be your friend and to spend time with you.”

“As you wish, Mistress…” Mahrie paused at Dranora’s raised eyebrow and then corrected herself. “Nora. I’d like that as well.”

It didn’t take long for the two women to ready themselves for their citybound excursion. Mahrie dressed herself in a tan and beige travel dress with floral patterns and Dranora borrowed one of Mahrie’s older off white dresses which had geometric blue patterns running along the hems of the skirt. It was strange to Mahrie seeing Dranora dressed in such common clothing. 

Putting Dranora’s long dark hair in a single braid, as Mahrie did with her own silver hair, made the Contrina look as though she were just another maid from the palace, albeit a very beautiful one. Mahrie knew Dranora would still catch eyes, but with a bit of luck she would not draw attention to herself. She was the highest ranking woman in the city but today they hoped she would just be another beautiful woman. A gossamer shawl draped over Dranora’s hair helped to tame some of her natural beauty, but to Mahrie it only added to her feminine mystique.

To elevate any suspicion from the guards, Mahrie went to the current captain on duty, a man named Mosek and let him know that she’d be going out with one of the other maids and that the Contrina was resting in her suite. Their alibi secured, the two women slipped out of the servants entrance when no one was looking.

The city was still abuzz with the celebrations. Now, on the final day, there were military displays where troops marched in in their uniforms and onlookers waved their yellow and silver Zaeran flags or handkerchief to show their patriotism. Mahrie led Dranora, who was all smiles at the sights and smells of the city and festivities, to the market district. There the covered streets were shaded from the now warming afternoon sun.

The city of Kesh Nakael was the gateway to the lands south of Zaer. Kesh Nakael had always been a trading hub as the Golden Road ran south to the Tethiri Heartlands to the southwest and the Bay of Sarosa to the southeast. As such the market was full of wares from around the known world.

Their first stop was the apothecary where Dranora purchased vials of oils and ointments. Next, they went to the bookseller and leafed through a few books. Dranora found the text she’d been interested in, Mathrina’s Guide to Sarosa and the Tethiri Heartlands. 

It was well past noon when they’d finished their shopping and were heading back towards the palace when they passed a curious looking shop that Mahrie had never seen before. Colorful crystals hung from a cloth awning sparkling in the sunlight and a young woman, whom Mahrie guessed was from Sarosa due to her dark black, red and copper tinged hair, called out to them.

“You ladies have a powerful aura,” the young woman, who looked as though she were in her mid twenties stated. “Powerful indeed, an aura that at first glance looks mundane and unassuming but upon further examination bursts with profound and intense shades. You share a prismatic bond.”

Dranora looked at Mahrie and grinned, “We have to know more.”

“It’s just superstition and fortune telling,” Mahrie whispered. 

Mahrie had never been to Sarosa, but she had heard that their culture was deeply ingrained in crystal worship and superstitions.

“I know,” Dranora shrugged, “But what’s the harm?”

“Three zheks and I can tell you all you need to know about your bond, ten and I’ll imbue crystal bracelets with the power of your aura.”

Dranora produced ten small silver coins and placed them in the fortune teller’s hand. The woman nodded and in her thick Sarosan accent directed the women to the door, “Come, we have much to discuss.”

Calling the shop small would have been a fantastic understatement. The small box-like room barely accommodated a small round table with four chairs and a cabinet full of crystals and jewelry. The entire room was covered in deep red fabric which draped from the ceiling and hung on the walls. In the center of the room was a lantern that had hung from the ceiling and had a shutter on it that cast points of light throughout the room in the shapes of astrological signs, stars and the symbols for the mystical elements found in many fortune telling traditions.

“Please, sit,” the fortune teller instructed.

After taking their spots across from the fortune teller the young woman produced a satchel. She then lit a candle and placed it in the center of the table. “Please, select a crystal,” she held her hand out to Dranora first.

Dranora reached in and produced a shimmering teardrop crystal. The woman then shook the satchel and held it out to Mahrie who then withdrew a hexagonal cut crystal.

“Interesting,” the fortune teller murmured.

“You,” the fortune teller addressed Dranora, “Are facing troubled times, your heart breaks and your world is in great turmoil. However, do not despair, with the rain comes the fresh dawn in the morning and the promise of new growth in the days to come.”

“And you,” the fortune teller looked to Mahrie, “You are guarded and have stood behind a shield of protection for far too long. Your world is a safe one, but in holding up your shield you have allowed much to pass you by. You have languished long behind your protections; they can serve you better when applied in the defense of others.”

“Now,” the fortune teller looked back to Dranora. “Hold your crystal up to the candlelight so that it may cast its prism upon the ceiling above.

Dranora did as instructed and a prismatic blotch cast upon the ceiling above. At its apex was a rose colored rainbow which bled into an orange and then purple tone.

“The spectrum of the lovers” the fortune teller said with a happy sigh.

“And now you,” she nodded to Mahrie.

Mahrie held her crystal above the candle and a prismatic blotch bloomed on the ceiling where Dranora’s had just moments ago. The colors were identical.

“It is as I suspected,” the fortune teller nodded.

“And what is that?” Dranora asked with baited enthusiasm.

“Your aura shows that you both hold lives of great importance and that your bond is strong, passionate and holds great gravity. The colors in your aura indicate that your bond, if properly cultivated, could lead to great change for you and those around you… perhaps even to those not in your sphere of influence. The crystals show a bond of love, romantic and filled with vibrant passions. Are either of you considering a romantic connection with the other.”

“How?” Mahrie blurted as her cheeks grew warm. “How could you know any of that?”

The fortune teller stiffened and leaned back in her chair folding her arms in a defensive posture. “As I said, your aura tells me much and the crystals fill in the rest… but,” the fortune teller offered to her sceptical client, “I can tell that or you that won’t be enough. I watched you enter the market and I watched you shop. For those with a trained eye you can see such subtle hints. How you both talk to each other, how you look at each other and how you touch each other. However, you chose the crystals and your aura projects the rest. I am but a messenger from the cosmos here to tell you that your passion, your connection, dare I say your romance, will lead you to new and exciting realms of reality. There will be danger, there will be trials, but the scales show that you stand to gain more than you will lose if you are cautious in your approach.”

“Then the crystals are encouraging a romance… between us?” Dranora asked.

“They are,” the fortune teller nodded and reached out. “May I?” She nodded at the two crystals they held.

Dranora and Mahrie both placed their crystals in the fortune teller’s hand and she began fastening them with bracelets beaded with seed sized beads. The pattern was in the same rose, orange and purple colors that the crystals had produced in the light.

“Of course you both have free will, the crystals are meant as a guide, nothing more. It is not a guarantee of success, but the promise of a spark, a spark that can ignite a fire that will light your life in new ways and banish shadows in your worlds that may hold peril.”

The fortune teller handed Dranora the bracelet with Marhie’s crystal and Mahrie the one with Dranora’s. “The crystals will protect you. For yours,” the woman nodded to Mahrie, “her crystal will help ward and wash away the anxieties you’ve felt for so long and which have kept you defensive for too long.” She then nodded to Dranora, “And for you, her crystal will offer protection and caution as you navigate your troubled path. Wear them on your left wrist, the wrist closest to your hearts.”

“Thank you,” Dranora smiled and slipped her bracelet onto her wrist.

“Thank you,” Mahrie added and placed her bracelet on as well. 

Mahrie was still skeptical of crystal magic, but she felt a sense of intense connection to her new trinket. The crystal, which Dranora had chosen out of the satchel dangled Mahrie’s her wrist. It felt sensual and intimate that it had been picked by the woman who was quickly consuming her heart.

“We should be on our way,” Dranora stood and thanked the fortune teller once more.

They made their way out into the crowd and headed towards the hilltop palace. As they went they saw couples holding hands and smiling with amorous romance. As they walked they passed a couple, two women, who were holding hands and walked in the opposite direction. The sight of the sapphic couple made Dranora smile, a smile that quickly graced Mahrie’s face as well.

“May I hold your hand?” Dranora asked.

Mahrie’s first instinct was to object, to say it was too risky, but then she thought of the shield and how isolated she had become. As the fortune teller had said, she had free will and she could embrace change and let it wash away the dry stagnation she had been enduring. Or she could keep to herself and remain alone in a desert of her own creation. 

With a deep self-reassuring breath she nodded saying, “Yes, I’d like that very much.”

© 2025 R. B. Mangold, All Rights Reserved.

(3/19/2025)

[johnpriceslamb]

🎀 - less than 500 words

𝓐𝓡𝓣𝓗𝓤𝓡 𝓜𝓞𝓡𝓖𝓐𝓝

❥︎ arthur w a feminine! gf

꒰ ❥ mini drabble ꒱

❥︎ shy greetings and sweet actions

꒰ ❥ Mary-Beth being a giant tease and a flirt to reader . hyper-feminine! reader . fem! reader . many pet names in use . awkward-written ending . quick luv stori . reader is mentioned 2 be physically shorter than characters mentioned below . reader has a dada and a mama . 2.3k words ꒱

❥︎ presents from whom

꒰ ❥ hyper-feminine! reader . fem! reader . reader is implied to be physically shorter than characters mentioned below . love sick Arthur . 1.2k words . Very quick mention of wlw Sadie ꒱

❥︎ untitled (🎀)

꒰ ❥ hyper fem reader as usuuaaaal . fem ! reader . > 100 wordiez ꒱

❥︎ untitled2 (🎀)

꒰ ❥ mini babble . hyper-fem reader as usual -.- arthur being a bit jealous is a bit of an understatement ;3 . > 100 wordiez ꒱

❥︎ beloved caregiver

꒰ ❥ fem ! reader . little ! reader . Arthur Morgan if he was a caregiver/papa . fluff fluff fluff . cowboy papa ?! . reader is mentioned 2 have hair that allows itself to be brushed easily . OOC Arthur -.- . mini head cannons ꒱

❥︎ my hero

꒰ ❥ Hyper-fem(?) ! reader . female ! reader . reader is mentioned 2 be physically shorter than characters mentioned below . gun-slinging mention . brute cowboy bf x shy princess gf . arthur morgan being a complete nut over u . harassment . attempted assault . not proof-read :P . very rushed ‘m sorriiii!!! . 1.6k wrds ꒱

❥︎ may I please sit on your lap?

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . afab ! reader . reader is physically shorter than chars mentioned below . suggestive themes implied . wrds . not edited . not proof-read . Javier ver touchy . google translated Spanish . John is very drunk . 1.4k wrd-count ꒱

❥︎ always forever

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-fem ! reader . Arthur Morgan is a die-for 4 his sweetheart gf . OOC ! Arthur Morgan . reader is mentioned 2 be physically shorter than character mentioned below . not proof-read . 1.0k wrdz ꒱

❥︎ caught (🎀)

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . reader is mentioned 2 be physically shorter den him . OOC ! Arthur maybe ? . flufflfufffluff . not proofread nor edited . ~ 500 wrdz ꒱

❥︎ fawn

꒰ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . reader is mentioned 2 be physically shorter than characters mentioned below . crybbie reader sorraiiii . Karen’s a meanie pants but she loves reader . 1.1k wrd count. ꒱

❥︎ his fairy

꒰ ❥ hyper-feminine ! reader . female ! reader . reader is mentioned to be physically shorter than characters mentioned below . lovesick Arthur Morgan . super-shy reader . rugged cowboy bf x mini baker gf . fluff . Age gap implied . 7k words ꒱

❥︎ angelique

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . reader is mentioned 2 be physically shorter than characters mentioned below . 1k wrd count. ꒱

❥︎ threaded elegance

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . very suggestive content w/ javier . close proximity . reader is mentioned to be physically smaller than said chars . poorly google translates spanish >.> . not proof read nor edited . wrd count/1.2k ꒱

❥︎ opposite attracts

꒰ ❥︎ In which Arthur Morgan becomes your hubby at the end of the year / mini series ꒱

𝓒𝓗𝓐𝓡𝓛𝓔𝓢 𝓢𝓜𝓘𝓣𝓗

❥︎ Charles Smith as a caregiver (🎀)

꒰ ❥mini drabble ꒱

❥︎ Charles w a feminine! gf

꒰ ❥mini drabble ꒱

❥︎ ︎may I please sit on your lap?

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . afab ! reader . reader is physically shorter than chars mentioned below . suggestive themes implied . wrds . not edited . not proof-read . Javier ver touchy . google translated Spanish . John is very drunk . 1.4k wrd-count ꒱

❥︎ threaded elegance

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . very suggestive content w/ javier . close proximity . reader is mentioned to be physically smaller than said chars . poorly google translates spanish >.> . not proof read nor edited . wrd count/1.2k ꒱

𝓙𝓐𝓥𝓘𝓔𝓡 𝓔𝓢𝓒𝓤𝓔𝓛𝓛𝓐

❥︎ may I please sit on your lap?

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . afab ! reader . reader is physically shorter than chars mentioned below . suggestive themes implied . wrds . not edited . not proof-read . Javier ver touchy . google translated Spanish . John is very drunk . 1.4k wrd-count ꒱

❥︎ knight and shining

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . reader is mentioned 2 be physically shorter than characters mentioned below . VERY SUGGESTIVE . No actual NSFW . 1k wrd count. ꒱

❥︎ threaded elegance

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . very suggestive content w/ javier . close proximity . reader is mentioned to be physically smaller than said chars . poorly google translates spanish >.> . not proof read nor edited . wrd count/1.2k ꒱

𝓙𝓞𝓗𝓝 𝓜𝓐𝓡𝓢𝓣𝓞𝓝

❥︎ may I please sit on your lap?

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . afab ! reader . reader is physically shorter than chars mentioned below . suggestive themes implied . wrds . not edited . not proof-read . Javier ver touchy . google translated Spanish . John is very drunk . 1.4k wrd-count ꒱

❥︎ threaded elegance

꒰ ❥ female ! reader . hyper-feminine ! reader . very suggestive content w/ javier . close proximity . reader is mentioned to be physically smaller than said chars . poorly google translates spanish >.> . not proof read nor edited . wrd count/1.2k ꒱

𝓙𝓞𝓗𝓝 𝓟𝓡𝓘𝓒𝓔

❥︎ Papa Price (🎀)

꒰ ❥ mini drabble ꒱

❥︎ …Daddy. (🎀)

꒰ ❥ mini drabble ꒱

𝓖𝓗𝓞𝓢𝓣

❥︎ Ghost as a caregiver (🎀)

꒰ ❥ mini drabble ꒱

❥︎ sick days

꒰ ❥ littlespace ! reader . fem ! reader. afab ! reader . caregiver ! Simon Riley . sickiesickie reader :c . da snifliez . reader is mentioned 2 be physically smaller den simon . not proof-read . OOC !!! simon . 1.3k words ꒱

𝓚Ö𝓝𝓘𝓖

𝓚𝓡𝓤𝓔𝓖𝓔𝓡

[angelic--kitty]

milf!yae miko thoughts. because we could all use a little miko in our lives

warnings: nsfw (mdni), wlw content, milf!yae miko, degradation, oral, finger sucking, fingering, spanking, mentions of milf!ei

listen, milf!miko is her own brand of wise, yet mischievous. you most definitely assume she's younger than she actually is when you first meet just based on how she loves to tease.

you notice her tired, hooded eyes fall heavy onto you, weighing you down with her sultry gaze from above her wine glass. and, she's bold. she isn't afraid of the age gap, if anything, it intrigues her.

and she knows you love it too.

of course, being older than you (and oh, so charming), she's got plenty of experience with women. she knows exactly how to make a woman sing for her, knows exactly where to press and rub, when to be soft or rough.

and while she does love to play with you, her favorite thing is to teach you. digging her manicured claws into your skin while you finger her, shoving your head closer to her as she instructs you on how to eat her out. she loves that you're so eager to please.

but what use would all her experience be if it was wasted? of course, she treats you to plenty of attention after. she'll eat you out, pulling away to slap your clit, tell you to pay attention to learn how to really eat a woman out.

she'll swipe her fingers through the mess you've made, shoving them past your lips while her claws lightly scratch your tongue.

she's got slight crows feet that scrunch up when she grins wickedly while you squirm. you love the tiny spots of gray beginning to appear in her hair and fur. you appreciate her wisdom, and all the stories she can tell you.

and, archons, do you love her tongue.

she's also partial to punishing you (should you misbehave). there's something she loves about bending you over her lap and spanking you, making you count, laughing when you sniffle and whine for her.

oh, and milf!miko is definitely letting ei play with you. that's a given. good luck with that, because even with her older age, ei is a powerhouse with a heavy strap.

[welcome-to-the-end-of-eras]

Live Read - The Hymn to Dionysus

IT'S TIIIIIIIIIIIME.

Spoiler-free observations:

I WISH there was an option to get the UK cover in the US. I do actually like the US cover a lot I just like the UK cover better, and I like how much it would match with my copy of The Kingdoms

So from the description, it looks like Dionysus is going to fully be a character??? Like interacting directly with Phaidros??? Is it like a Percy Jackson scenario where they have like human forms and shit??? Inch resting.

It makes me SO HAPPY seeing the list of Natasha Pulley's work almost takes up a full page at the front of my book

The new narration style is very interesting tbh, I don't know if it's because he's supposed to be a child at this point and children are a lot more straightforward, or if it's just how he always is???

The prologue sounds a lot more like the typical narration style so I think it probably is meant to be a bit more childlike in the beginning

Maybe this is me being delusional but...is she talking about the pulleyverse as a whole in the prologue??? Starting in the middle, with bits artfully left out to Reveal Unto You Later??? Is this like the very beginning??? It is the earliest chronologically so ig it must be???

"But I was distracted by a green bird and money was boring" HE'S SO REAL FOR THAT-

I'm liking the way that everything is being explained upfront. It's probably out of necessity since the average person can conceptualize life in Victorian London or Soviet Russia a lot easier than Ancient Greece, but it also does feel a lot more child-like that really hammers home the idea that the story is in its beginning

Wait wait wait, Helios is 15??? I've been picturing him as a grown man this whole time??? Damn this is about to get sad.

This is probably going to be my shortest live read yet because I'm already getting so invested that I can't keep up

Also Helios and Agave using a KITE for the lightning rod to get rid of the baby gave very much Agatha and Missouri vibes. She's also used the word "filigree" like four times now. Inch Resting.

I really don't know how to word this eloquently but the ship turning into pear trees that eventually saved Phaidros' life reminds me of the mechanical pear tree Thaniel took from the workshop, and how Grace made the workers cut them down, and all that fun stuff. Surely that wasn't the original intention (unless Ms. Pulley is playing the long game), but the connections make me happy

Also Phaidros lowkey hallucinating for a decade because he was in such close contact with a god is giving The Salt Miracles a little bit.

Pls Phaidros is such a dad with his little knights I adore himb

My brother in christ how is your biggest op a 15 year old kid named Jason-

I like the way the narration style slowly shifts to a more adult tone while keeping the overall personality consistent (Natasha Pulley best writer on earth confirmed???)

So does Agave remember Phaidros at all??? Does she know that him breaking rank is what caused Helios to die??? Does she know that it was him and Helios who stole the baby she wanted dead??? Pls I need to know

I hope to god there are wlw in this book. Idk why I've been thinking that but I WILL start foaming at the mouth.

"...even Jason, unfortunately, failed to vaporize" MY BROTHER IN CHRIST-

Are the marvels the same sort of thing as the statues from tbs??? Helios assumed they had gears and shit but nobody has ever opened them to check???

He made Phaidros-specific sign language for "where the fuck is Jason" WHY IS YOUR BIGGEST OP A CHILD-

Wrong, he has two ops; Jason and all of Athens.

I’ve tried explaining why age gaps in the pulleyverse are generally not the toxic evil kind that people generally dismiss without a second thought, but most of the time it comes off long-winded and defensive when I don’t mean to be defensive. The way Phaidros describes his partnership with Helios just gave me the PERFECT way to word it tho: Pulley is extremely aware of the way age gaps can affect both people in a relationship, and she really does not shy away from the insecurity it brings out in people, making it very realistic and easy to empathise with while not falling back onto toxic stereotypes

“…I said, with evil in my heart.” SOLIDARITY MY BROTHER!!!

Take a shot every time the word “filigree” comes up jesus christ-

Phaidros is a little PRICK leading that guard around on errands instead of doing anything useful, I love himb sm

He gave him a mask??? Welcome to the cult of Dionysus babey

“…and I would make him eat his fucking mask” GIRL CHILLLLL MY GOODNESS

“Make him eat his mask” my brother in Christ he made you eat your WORDS!!! And now you’re in PRISON!!! Dumb bitch (affectionate)

Lowkey I’m LIVING for the chaotic x orderly dynamic they have going on, I think it’s hilarious and very cute (but also I like the idea that over time Phaidros will learn to let loose more and Dionysus will develop more of a sense of duty and honour)

“He sounded genuinely cheerful, the bastard.” I fucking LOVE Phaidros being a grumpy bitch, thank you Ms. Pulley’s brother for convincing her to make him more of a bitch

“…he would take that as a hilarious challenge and try to lick me.” PLS WHY DO YOU THINK HE’S A DOG-

Also is his name not actually Dionysus??? Does he have like a birth name and then decide to become Dionysus permanently??? This vow is 100% getting broken and I’ll definitely find out but I must say I’m interested af now

Imagine how awful it would be if you came back from a war and the government was so “happy” with your performance they forced three creepy strangers to live in your house. That’s so fucked.

Wait wait wait, didn’t a pack of wolves in tbs die the same way as the wolf and the fox here??? My theory about the marvels is looking pretty good 👀👀👀

Is Dionysus doing all of this??? And, better question, is he AWARE he’s doing all this??? Because it seems to me like he genuinely has no clue what all the stuff with the wine and the madness is, but those are quite literally the hallmarks of Dionysus, and he seemed very aware of the ship turning to ivy and all that jazz??? I’m very confused

WHAT DO YOU MEAN THERE’S GHOSTS IN THE FOG 😀😀😀 WHAT’S THAT ABOUT 😀😀😀

Chemicals in the ground are making people sick…but it’s actually a god…hmmm…it’s giving alternate thlovk ending…

“…where is this rancid shame coming from, who did this to you?” I’M LEVITATING

I haven’t counted the pages yet but I think Phaidros is the new record holder for “pulleyverse narrators refraining from mentioning their love interest” which is fun.

…well now I feel bad for calling the triplets creepy

I’m slightly more than halfway through the book now and that makes me extremely sad, I don’t want to be finished with it

Wait is Katsu like…a mini marvel??? Is that pretty much what he is??? And they just put him in a little fish tank and let him take socks and have beef with next door’s cat???

(I got wrapped up again and am almost finished oops)

So Phaidros canonically has never seen his reflection in a mirror in his life, and we STILL have more canon information about what he looks like than Thaniel. That’s so fucking funny to me-

Okay!!! Book finished!!! And…holy shit!!! I forget how genuinely blown away I can be by Natasha Pulley’s writing until I read something new she’s written but my god was that good. It had almost an eldritch horror vibe to it while somehow also being pleasant that I really enjoyed??? And obviously I was a Percy Jackson kid (if you couldn’t tell by the everything about me) so I’m thrilled about the Ancient Greek elements and the elements of stories I could recognise from all that strewn throughout. But the characters were utterly and completely brilliant, the story was so expertly crafted, and obviously this is standard with Ms Pulley but it’s just especially poignant rn. I don’t think I can be more eloquent at the moment but. Yeah. 100000/10, no notes (except there were quite a few spelling mistakes in my copy but I kinda love it)

Edit a few days later: the way I completely thought I got this post out of my drafts 🧎‍♀️‍➡️anyways no new opinions really, the aftg worms are still eating my brain, but I really REALLY want to get back into doing my pulleyverse headcanon posts so if anyone wants to send me any requests I would be very grateful.

[bookcub]

January 2025 Reads

i went a little wild this month reading (and literally did nothing else outside of work) so here is what i read with 1 sentence review and grade each

witch of wild things by raquel vasquez gilliland - i enjoyed the complex family dynamics and magic system but didn't care about the romance. grade: B

rani choudhury must die by adiba jaigirdar - this read like a bad 90's romcom and i ended up skimming most of it. grade: D

counting down with you by tashie bhuiyan - this is a cute and straightforward ya romcom with complicated family dynamics. grade: B

a show for two by tashie bhuiyan - i have discovered i don't like type a characters and their arcs anymore but at least the family stuff was interesting. grade: C

full shift by jennifer dugan - i wanted more girl werewolves but ultimately found this unfulfilling. grade: B-

lightning in her hands by raquel vasquez gilliland- disappointing for the friends to lovers storyline but the sisters' relationship and mc's growth were very engaging. grade: B

firekeeper's daughter by angeline boulley - this didn't quite live up to the hype but i really enjoyed the themes and the mystery. grade: B

witch hat atelier by kamone shirahama (vol 1-4) - a great manga for me to start with, familiar plot with lovely characters and a lovely art style. grade: B+

what happened at midnight by courtney milan - i loveeeee courtney milan but this novella was more forgettable although the themes of abuse were handled respectfully and terrifyingly well. grade: B

unlocked by courtney milan - not many can pull of childhood bully and victim romance but there was so much grovelling and actual repair done that i was fully impressed! grade: A-

a kiss for midwinter by courtney milan - sex ed IS sexy and i thought the set up for this novella was really interesting. grade: A-

the duchess war by courtney milan - my least favorite of the series but milan has never written a bad book in her life so it was still good. grade: B

the countess conspiracy by courtney milan - a new contender for best milan book??? could it be??? i was up until 2am finishing this. friends to lovers done RIGHT. overall grade: A+

the heiress effect by courtney milan - the romances in this were sweet but i really was invested in the sisters' relationship the most. grade: B+

the suffragette scandal by courtney milan - the characters had really interesting histories but i wish they had a little more chemistry. grade: B+

a knot in the grain and other stories by robin mckinley - too many age gap romances, i actively skipped one because the narrative constantly called him a man and her a girl. *shudders* grade: C-

the year i flew away by marie arnold - this was very intense and had a great message although the pacing was a little wonky. grade: B

talk sweetly to me by courtney milan - a lovely coda concluding the duchess war series

unveiled by courtney milan - like many romances, this moved way too fast for me but i did like it overall, especially the personal struggles. grade: B-

pegasus by robin mckinley - wow, i love re falling in love with a book i adored as a child. too bad i'll never get a sequel. grade: A+

cheer up: love and pom poms by crystal frasier - this read like a really good outline of a story but the scenes moved to fast to sit with the emotion. grade: C

the poet x by elizabeth acevedo - acevedo has a way with words that seems magical. and on theme with this month, loved the family shit, didn't care about the romance.

the reappearance of rachel price by holly jackson - i keep forgetting i love a good mystery and this fully delivered. grade: A

is love the answer? by uta isaki - a cute ace coming out book and a really good second manga for me! grade: B-

the grace of wild things by heather fawcett - a year after starting this, i finally finished. an interesting remix of anne of green gables. grade: B-

satisfaction guaranteed by karelia stenz-waters - another reread that remains probably my favorite wlw romance. grade: A

bonus: halfway through the spear cuts through water by simon jimenez and it's intense and sooooo good!

[guzhufuren]

hi!! i was hoping you could help me find a ql to watch w my sister, im looking for one that is comedic/wacky, i tried searching and only found dramatic shows. i like your sense of humor, so i trust u with funny business lol

i made you a list of my favourite ql comedies! since you like my sense of humor, i picked those that got a belly deep laugh out of me many times. all those are either comedic on purpose, so absurd they become comedic and total crack, or just tv shows that have incredible humor at times

sorted in the order with funniest ones placed on top, country placement included. i'd start with 1-4, they are a safe bet to laugh lots. heads up, 1, 10, 13, 16 have darker or angstier elements later on. only one gl because it's still a developing genre and has much fewer options for now. sorry that i don't have gifs for newer shows

overall in this list we got ancient chinese romcoms, mafia bread kink, gay seizures, identifying missing people through sneezing, omegaverse mama-papa kink, and so much more crazyass shit

Comedic QL Shows

China 🇨🇳

1. Meet You At The Blossom period drama; fantasy; scum lead/sunshine lead

A young lord of marriageable age meets a cold-blooded assassin. Jin Xiaobao, the cheerful heir of the wealthiest family in Jiangnan, sees a beautiful woman fighting in a forest and falls in love with her at first sight. This “woman”, however, turns out to be a disguised icy young man named Huaien. When Huaien learns who Xiaobao is, he hatches a plot – hoping to use Xiaobao's feelings for him to access the Jin family's riches. But his plan backfires when Huaien starts to develop real feelings for Xiaobao.

YouTube or GagaOOLala or iQIYI or Viki (switch to chinese dubbing on yt and iq)

Japan 🇯🇵

2. Love Is Like a Poison lawyer/conman; cohabitation; partners

An elite but socially awkward lawyer takes in a genius con artist. Together, they secretly solve complex legal cases using unethically obtained evidence.

Netflix

3. Ayaka is in Love with Hiroko! wlw; office setting; age gap; misunderstanding

Ayaka, a young office worker, is madly in love with her senior team leader, Hiroko. As Ayaka tries to make her attraction known, Hiroko consistently misreads the situation, thinking that Ayaka is a straight girl.

GagaOOLala

4. Mr. Unlucky Has No Choice But to Kiss! lucky guy/unlucky guy; university setting

College student Fukuhara has bad luck that causes problems everywhere he goes. One day, Shinomiya, a student with super good luck, helps him out. Now, in order to divide the luck between them, Fukuhara needs to be with Shinomiya all the time.

Viki or GagaOOLala

5. Cherry Magic!   mind reading; secret crush; office setting

By still being a vіrgin at 30, Adachi gains a magical power – the ability to read other people’s minds by touching them. At first, he’s overwhelmed by his new ability, and it’s not proving to be helpful to him. But that all changes when he accidentally touches their office’s most perfect guy Kurosawa, who he learns has romantic feelings for him.

WeTV

6. Kieta Hatsukoi (My Love Mix-Up!)   misunderstanding; high school setting

Aoki has a crush on Hashimoto, the girl in the seat next to him in class. But he despairs when he borrows her eraser and sees she’s written the name of another boy — Ida — on it. To make matters more confusing, Ida sees Aoki holding that very eraser and thinks Aoki has a crush on him!

Viki

7. What Did You Eat Yesterday established relationship; growth; food

The story follows Shiro and Kenji, a middle aged gay couple living in Tokyo. Shiro is a serious and reserved lawyer, while Kenji is cheerful and outgoing hairdresser. Shiro's regular routine is that after work, he buys groceries at a mart, goes home and makes dinner for himself and Kenji.

S1 & New Year Special & movie & S2

8. A Man Who Defies the World of BL breaking the 4th wall; comedy; university setting

It suddenly dawns on Mob that he lives in a BL world! So he must turn down any hot guys who approach him.

Viki or GagaOOLala (S1) & Viki or GagaOOLala (S2) & Fansubs (S3)

South Korea 🇰🇷

9. Love Tractor farm setting; farmer/city musician

Sunyeol, a city man with zero ability to survive in the countryside, comes to his grandfather’s rural home. In front of him appears Yechan, a passionate and kind young farmer. While learning about rural life and assisting with farming tasks, Sunyeol gradually finds himself drawn to Yechan’s warm and straightforward nature, while Yechan helplessly falls for Sunyeol.

iQIYI

10. Boys Be Brave! perfectionist/chill slacker; secret crush; roommates

Giseop is Jinwoo's slacker friend - and secret crush. So when Giseop asks to crash at his place, his heart tingles to be near him everyday. But as the short stay turns into permanent mooch, how long can Jinwoo keep his true feelings under wraps and hold back from confessing?

Viki

11. Choco Milk Shake animals turned to humans; roommates

One day, two handsome strangers enter Jung Woo’s house and claim they are Choco and Milk, the reincarnation of his childhood pets, a dog and a cat. The arrival of the two embarks on a new beginning and the quest to discover love.

YouTube

Taiwan 🇹🇼

12. See Your Love injured rich man/caretaker; deaf character

Zixiang is sent to Taiwan for business negotiations but gets attacked. He hires Shaopeng to take care of him, and takes this opportunity to escape from his family responsibility while also falling for Shaopeng. Zixiang's assistant Jonathan acts as a stand-in for his boss, and Xinjia, the assassin hired to get rid of Zixiang, repeatedly fails to take out his target.

GagaOOLala or Viki or iQIYI

Thailand 🇹🇭

13. KinnPorsche mafia boss/bodyguard; action; kidnapper/kidnapee side couple

Kinn, a son of a prominent mafia head, is ambushed by an enemy, and meets Porsche, a bartender who comes to his rescue for a price, thus beginning their reluctant relationship as boss and bodyguard, which soon turns into something more.

iQIYI

14. Wandee Goodday doctor/boxer; friends with benefits; fake relationship

Because of a broken heart and drunkenness, doctor Wandee becomes involved with boxer Yak and their relationship develops from friends with benefits to something more profound.

YouTube

15. Knock Knock, Boys! roommates; ensemble show

Four boys move into a sharehouse and get closer after getting drinks. Almond makes a wager with his three roommates. If one of them manages to hook him up with his crush, he'll cover one year of their rent.

WeTV

16. My Stand-In stuntman/rich heir; scum romantic interest; transmigration

Stuntman Joe didn't realise that his lover Ming had always seen him as another man's replacement. Joe, reincarnated into another's body after an accident, reconnects with his ex Ming, who was looking for Joe for a long time.

iQIYI

17. Pit Babe omegaverse; alpha/alpha; car racing

Babe is the number one race car driver and an alpha with special abilities who only has sex with other alphas. Nerdy naive alpha Charlie approaches Babe to ask for his help to become a racer himself. Babe agrees to help Charlie realise his dream, but it will come with a price.

Uncut on iQIYI or cut on YouTube

*You can also watch most of these shows for free on KissKH

[happypotato48]

GMMTV 2024 PART 2 Unhinged Tangent Thoughts (Only The Queers Though)

Ossan’s Love Thailand รักนี้ให้ "นาย": oh here we go again for the third times. i'm still skeptical about it and Chakrit Yamnam definitely is not an ossan yet but... damnnnnn my inner slut for older men sense is tingling, i know gmmtv just gonna keep doing this boring BL idol pairs nonsense, but like can we get more older gays/age gap BLs? i haven't seen Chakrit in ages and that man still so damn fine! he and our honorary uncle earth could've been something that thai BL is currently lacking, a sloppy hotmess Daddies. but alas that will remain a dream for now.

The ​Heart Killers เขาจ้างให้ผมจีบนักฆ่า: i haven't watch the Eclipse yet and really didn't liked both Star In My Mind and Hidden Agenda and definitely never gonna watch Only Friend (seen all the sex scenes though.) i loved the chaotic energy the trailer giving and i'm always a sucker for black comedy (don't know if this show gonna be that but fingercrossed) when it done correctly. also this show better serve us so many leather bad boy looks. i may have not be completely sold on this show yet, but i'm horny for it.

สายรหัสเทวดา Perfect10 Liners: "Too Many Cooks repeated for several minutes" i'm going to be there for forcebook and juniormark but like wtf in frash glee hell is this, most of these mofos are pushing 30. let them be adults god danm it, i know that the target demographic for gmmtv is young adults and teenagers and that they really love/good at??? school settings. but come on let's our peter pans and wendies fly free. they're probably bored out of their fucking minds by now.

Us รัก��องเรา | GMMTV 2024 PART 2: i'm gonna be a good little homo and let's all the great wlws do all the talking for this show. i'm not keen on the sibling's lover stealing trope but hey as the great Lucille Bluth one said, good for her.

Thame - Po (เธม-โป้): HEART THAT SKIPS A BEAT: hehehe, Est is so pretty, ok i'm sold i'm easy like that. i was never into any boy bands as a teen, but there like a lot of former thai boy bands members that came out as gay in recent years so maybe i shouda had. anywhoo i probably not gonna mind the singing and dancing in this show since most of them going to be done by singers/dancers and not actors turned idols.

REVAMP THE UNDEAD STORY: i'm really not into serious vempires so this show is kinda meh for me. the goofy ones though those i'd have eat up. this one probably a pass for me.

แฟนที่ทันตแพทย์ส่วนใหญ่แนะนำ Sweet Tooth, Good Dentist: all my blorbos are here we get mark, baby ohm, poon, and หมอjim. ahhhhhhh!! i need it now. i also don't mind dentists like most people especially when they're good looking guys, those handsome doctors can put anything in my mouth😉

เพราะแฟนเก่าเปลี่ยนแปลงบ่อย The Ex-Morning: is this going to be our second coming BL? idk i never there for first one 😝this show either going to be a good meta commentary about the whole business that gone down or its head going be so up it own ass that will take several bottles of lube to get the head out to see the sunlight. we'll see.