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sparkles-and-trash · 2 years ago

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a friendly little autumn survival guide ~

I am in no way any type of health professional, I am however a chronically ill person who have survived all the autumns that have yet come my way, I even quite love them! But there is no denying this time of the year can be tough on those of us who already have a little extra to handle, so I figured I might as well share those little things I do to keep my head above water this season!

one. Starting your day ~

I know this advice is old as time itself, but it's not for no reason! How your day starts largely affects the rest of your day, so it's important to do what you can to make it enjoyable.

Personally I like to eat breakfast (I usually have pancake batter in the fridge that I make every three days, but anything from bread to cereal is great, as long as there is some nutrition. I like to have it with a cup of tea and watch a light and fun show, like Bob's Burgers or New Girl, whatever I'm currently watching!

Even if you don't have time for this type of morning, there are tons of little things you can do to get your mood up, like listening to music out loud while getting ready, plan outfits you're excited to wear the night before, or read a few pages of a book you're currently into!

two. Traditions

Autumn might not be the time you think of first when you hear traditions, but that's why it's important to make your own!

Small things like having designated fall movies (mine are LOL and Knives Out!), tea and snacks you only enjoy during these months, and even music you that resonates with the season!

three. Routine

Another old and overused advice, but I think people often make too much out of it!

It doesn't have to mean having your entire day planned out, but having a few things you do every day, at the same time, preferably something you enjoy, can do true wonders!

four. Games and TV

A force not to be underestimated.

Make yourself a list with shows and movies that bring out comfort, joy and nostalgia, and have them ready to be put on whenever you feel like you can really use it!

The same can be said for video games, story based ones can be great fora sense of accomplishment, chill ones are great to get time to roll on while just turning your brain off, or online multiplayer ones can do wonders if you're feeling isolated!

five. Use the outside

Nature in fall is amazing.

Going for walks is amazing, at all times of day, but if that's something you can't do, for any reason (all are valid), there are many other ways to enjoy nature and the outside.

Sitting outside, just for a few minutes can do wonders, like on your balcony or porch, or even sitting by the window, preferably with it open for a while so you truly get that fresh air on your face.

Trust me, it makes a real difference!

six. Journaling

This really changed things up for me.

Just putting some of my thoughts down on a page, writing by hand, and having something to look back on when things get chaotic.

I write down everything from how my day's been and why, to just little lists and memos, and it's amazing fo my adhd, and for my sense of time and productivity.

seven. Video Dairies

This is kinda weird, but hear me out!

Filming little clips trough the day, just a few seconds each, when you do something you enjoy, see something pretty, or do something that makes you feel accomplished in any way, and then put them together at the end of the day.

They don't have to look pretty, but they carry a big comfort for me, they help me keep track of my days when all of them seem to blend into one big blur, and they help me appreciate some of the mundane, but beautiful things in my life.

eight. Activities you've missed

Autumn is a time where we tend to spend a lot of time inside.

This can feel like a bummer to a lot of people, but there is silver linings. Picking up old hobbies and interests can be very rewarding, and can connect you to old feelings, goals and enjoyment!

If you need a refresher, there's tons of good, and free classes available online, especially on youtube!

nine. Keep in touch

Fall can be isolating, and for some of us, just going outside or talking to co-workers or other students isn't really an option.

Online communities can be wonderful for this, there are fandoms and communities for anyone and anything these days.

Connecting with people you already know is also important, and there are loads of ways to do that. Sometimes you have to take the initiative, sure, and that can feel draining, but if you're in a different position than your friends, they might be busier in their day-to-day life than they realize, and as long as these are friends that gets excited to hear from you and often say yes, taking initiative doesn't have to be a bad thing!

ten. Ending your day

Similar to the first point, how you're ending your day is more important than you think.

Winding down and letting yourself relax before bed is so important, as is sleeping in a healthy environment. Fresh air, sheets that get changed regularly, a dark room, and no loud videos or bright phone screens right before you close your eyes are great tips.

I also find a little skincare, some body lotion, and a good brushing of my hair helps me wind down and sleep better, but that's a personal thing, mostly!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Like I said, I am no professional, and these tips are not for everyone. I just wanted to share some of the things that works for me, in hope that maybe one of them could make one person feel a little better!

Reblogs are okay <3

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quillsareswords · 5 years ago

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Breathing Room

Damian Wayne

Of course the little dog here is basically my sweet baby girl Rogue with a different name (Baby/Babe because I'm sure all of you at home have dogs you'd like to substitute names for), who sends all her love and puppy kisses to all of you! Ugh this was fun to write. So goddamn fluffy I could call Build-a-Bear a competitor.

Reader is a Titan.

Requested:

Prompt List // Masterlist (in bio)

"If I die, I'm leaving my dog to you."

Damian turns halfway to give you a suspicious glance over his shoulder. Then, he turns back to the fire place, where he's successfully stoking the flames currently living there.

The animal in question is the next victim of his scrutiny, laying perfectly peacefully on the corner of your blanket that's been left unused on the couch next to you. He points, you nod, he rolls his eyes.

"Awe! What? You wouldn't take my poor baby girl in?" You're borderline incredulous. "Did you hear that Baby? He doesn't love you!"

He scoffs, then pushes himself to his feet and joins you on the couch once more. The little dog lifts her head to look at Damian, almost accusingly.

You pet her gently. "Don't mind him, Baby, he's just jealous because I love you more," you soothe, babytalking the eight pound pooch like the spoiled princess she is.

"Firstly, you aren't going to die, it's only a snow storm," he argues, "and secondly, even if something were to happen, of course I'd take in your large rat."

You gasp and lightly slap his chest. "Damian Wayne!" you shrill. He chuckles loudly. "You take that back right now! Apologize!"

He rolls his eyes, knowing that if he doesn't, you'd probably give his spot on the bed to Titus, who's listening to the entire exchange from the giant pillow on the floor. He reaches across you, lays a hand on her little head, and says clearly, "Baby, I am sorry for calling you a rat. You are clearly small not-dog."

You sigh in exasperation and defeat. He laughs, though it's obvious he's trying not to and failing miserably. "What am I going to do with you, you scoundrel?"

His arm lays across your shoulders as you shiver for the second time in the last five minutes. "Well, you can first let me chose what movie we watch since I started the fire for you."

You can't help snuggling closer to him. "Firstly," you mock, "I could have started the fire myself. Secondly, I'll let you pick the movie if you let me pick the genre."

"Deal," he relents.

Two comedies and a horror film later, you hear the front door downstairs unlock, with a roaring chorus of arguing voices behind it.

When Kori and Dick invited you and Damian to a Titans Winter Vacation, you had been a little skeptical. You hadn't been a Titan for very long, and you weren't as familiar as you'd like to be with any of them.

However, you'd known Damian for years, and he insisted it wouldn't be as bad as you thought. He wasn't entirely keen on the idea either, but you'd eventually agreed that it'd be nice.

They'd rented a cabin up in the mountains. It was three stories, with six bedrooms, five bathrooms, two living rooms, a home theater, and a game room. You especially loved the balconies on every level. That provided a truly glorious view of the Smoky Mountains.

Though, when you heard it was six bedrooms, you knew that meant sharing a room. You only really slept alright by yourself or with Damian, so it concerned you that you'd most likely be sharing a bunk bed with Raven, as you and Damian were seventeen. But, because Dick knew you wouldn't be doing anything more than cuddling, he was more than happy to let you and Damian share a queen-size in the loft, directly above Garfield and Jaime's.

To sweeten the deal even further, everyone was in perfect agreement that you should definitely bring your dog. She was very sweet and quiet, and perfectly mannered. You didn't worry about taking her anywhere. It made you feel even better that Damian was taking Titus.

So here you are now, tucked into Damian's side on a plush plaid couch in the loft, Baby curled up next to you and Titus sprawled at your feet, listening to Gar and Raven and Cyborg come shivering in through the front door.

"Holy hell, it's cold as balls!" Gar shouted, kicking off his boots at the door. You were about to call down to ask how town was, but he was already sprinting up the spiral staircase.

Damian sighed, though only loudly enough for you to hear. He thought of the loft in it's entirety as yours, even though the bedroom was an entirely separate room, kept private by a thick door.

Garfield paused by the couch to lean over and pet Babe, which she gladly accepted, before zipping over to the firepalce to warm up.

"How was town?" you ask. Damian grabs the remote and backs out of the movie, which was already rolling credits.

"Eh, it was okay. Grocery store was neat, though. Had a candy section that was lit."

You laugh softly. "Get all the groceries?"

He nods. "Yeah, but their produce section was so confusing."

"Are you sure you aren't just dull?" Damian quips. You roll your eyes and flick his ear as you sit up. "Hey!" he chirps.

"Ha!" Garfield shouts and points boldly, though he looks as though he's about to hurdle the railing behind you. "Damian got in trouble!"

Damian, the tough, mature man he is, flings a pillow toward the green boy with as much force as he can while slouched against the couch back.

"Watch the fire, you dufus," you scold, laughing, as you slide toward the steps with Baby at your heels.

"Ha ha! You got in trouble agaaiinn!" Garfield sings. Then he shrieks, and then there's a green bird diving over the wooden railing and Damian's shouting something that has you scooping up Baby and hustling down the stairs to stay out of his way.

• • •

Your bedroom is dark, and because you both like the curtains pulled away from the floor to ceiling windows overlooking the drop of the mountain your cabin is perched over, it is quite cold.

Too cold for your liking, even pressed against Damian's back and Babe curled into the small of yours.

It's been fifteen minutes of listening to Bob's Burgers play on the television over your shared dresser and the collective body heat still isn't enough. So, in a desperate attempt to chase the chill off, you half unwind your arms from his waist, and slide them under the hem of his tee shirt to press them flat against his side and his back.

While you're sighing in relief, he's jumping and sucking in a breath of absolute shock. He all but gasps, "What are you doing with your ice cold hands up my shirt?"

You almost laugh at the tone of absolute offence he's using. "I'm cold! We can't all keep the same core temperature as the sun, Wayne."

"Well Jesus, you could have at least warned me," he grumbles, rolling in your hold to face you.

You fall asleep pretty quickly now, wrapped up in his arms, legs tangled with yours beneath a heavy quilt.

• • •

You're always the first ones up. Well, not always, but for the past four days that you've been on the trip, you both have. It's usually Damian, and only Damian, but you aren't far behind once your main source of heat leaves you alone in bed with sunlight beaming into the room.

You, Baby, and Titus all follow him down the spiral staircase and through the main common room, dining room, and the intermediate stretch between the two staircases and two bedroom doors.

He turns on the coffee pot for the rest of the team while you start the kettle and set out tea bags and mugs for the two of you. While he's still fiddling with the settlings on the machine, you let the dogs out to the small fenced yard off to the side of the huge cabin.

The machine spurs to life just as you're lifting yourself up onto the countertop of the kitchen island. "Are you gonna make pancakes and eggs?" You keep your voice low, considerate of Raven in the room on the left and Jamie and Garfield in the room on the right, all still sleeping.

"I wasn't planning to," he answers, leaning against the counter by the gas stove, where the steel kettle is still heating up.

"But you promised. . ." You just out your bottom lip and tilt your head just a little, soft eyes oh so slowly grinding away at that steel cover he keeps locked around his heart.

After exactly forty two seconds, he caves in. "Did the Happy Bunch even get the ingredients yesterday?"

Your sweet begging facade switches on a dime, now housing a devious glint in your eyes. "Of course they did, I put it on the list."

He sighs, loudly. He lets the dogs in before he goes around the kitchen, gathering all things necessary for the pancake mix you love so much.

It's twenty minutes later when Kori and Dick are opening the basement door and emerging from the hall downstairs, Kori's hair just as unkept as every morning and Dick's shirt just as wrinkly as the night before.

"Sometimes I think you only love me for my pancakes," Damian chides playfully, having yet to associate the creaking hinges with the basement door.

"I won't deny it," you laugh, grinning down at the bowl you're stirring with more dedication than is probably necessary.

"Damian, I didn't know you cook," Kori states, with enough surprise that you're a little taken aback.

He turns to look at her over his shoulder, still dicing strawberries without looking and making your nerves twitch while he does it. "Only occasionally."

"Hey hey, watch what you're doing, boy," you sound a little too much like someone's grandmother, but you're really a little aghast that he hasn't steeled himself yet.

Damian reserves a certain part of himself around most people. It's a part of him you're allowed to bask in only after years of assurance and affection. You wouldn't be so surprised if it was only shown to Dick, but it was Kori he was speaking to, eyes still a little glittery and smile still lopsided and prominent.

In a moment of adoration and maybe a little pride in him, you hum, "Only for me, of course."

To yours and even Kori's awe, he chuckles. "Only when you force me, you mean."

You recover faster than she does, and cover yourself with a laugh. "I wouldn't call you promising me strawberry-blackberry pancakes forcing you, but if you wanna try and save a little face . . ."

Kori turns to Dick, with a look on her face that is silently asking if he's seen the same thing. His eyes flit between her, you, and his youngest brother, before they settle on you. He seems a little less jarred.

"Gezz, what'd you do, (Y/N)? Drug him in his sleep?"

With Garfield's arrival, Damian's smile fades off and he resumes quickly dicing strawberries on a wooden cutting board.

You mumble into your batter, "I'm starting to wonder."

• • •

At 11:15 in the morning on the sixth day, a war commences.

While you and Damian decide to hide out the still-raging snowstorm in your cozy little loft with your faithful hounds, half the team is out in the snow, hurling handfuls of snow that vaguely resemble spheres at one another from behind artificial snowbanks.

Though eventually, you decide the total war out in the front yard is far more entertaining than anything on his Hulu or Disney+. So, you pop a bowl of popcorn and brew your third batch of tea, and sit backward on the couch to watch out the massive windows that take up most of the front wall of the common room.

Over the porch roof, you can watch all the atrocities of battle play out from the safe warmth of your loft together.

Though, some time around three, Damian reminds you that you have plans to drive into town to explore, and asks if you'd rather stay and finish the battle.

An hour later, you and Damian stand at the front door, dressed to brave the weather, having bid your dogs goodbye as you left them in the warm safety of your bedroom.

Damian's hand is on the doorknob, but he seems hesitant. "Are you ready?"

You flip up your hood and pull your scarf up over your nose. "Yes."

He hauls the door open, and with your hand in his, you quickly cross the porch, jump the steps, and make it halfway around to the driveway, when you hear somebody shout, "Civilians! Open fire on civilians, they're both wicked!"

Damian spins on his heel to threaten the entire group, but you beat him to it when you see Jamie, snowclod wound up, aimed right at you.

Silence falls over the battlefield like the snow still drifting down at an alarming rate.

You point a sharp finger at him. "If you do this, I will never forgive you," you declare lowly. "I swear to every god in existence you'll wake up with your head sewn to the carpet."

He stops. Narrows his eyes. "You're bluffing."

"Am I?"

A moment's debate. You can image the Scarab waving you off with we can take her. But oh, that thing has never seen you with a grudge.

He swivels on his feet and hurls it at Raven, who's been hiding behind the snow that'd been shoveled off the sidewalk that morning.

You take Damian's hand again and make a break for his car.

After the drive to Downtown Gatlinburg and three or four hours spent roaming the streets, you're already talking about living there. In all honesty, he isn't so opposed to the idea of buying a home in the area. You seem so in your element here, and the town and the scenery surrounding you is so breathtaking.

But you know you'd never be able to drag him out of Gotham. Perhaps a vacation home, or maybe retirement.

You decide to stop in to a little cafe in a place called The Village, which is a collection of shops surrounding a lovely courtyard off the main stretch of Downtown.

It's crowed inside, so you decide to stand out by the fountain while you sip your steaming drinks and converse about the little shops you liked best so far. You are particularly fond of a candy shop, and he would very much like to check out a blade shop a block or so down the way.

Your teeth chatter as you talk about wanting a souvenir, something small to keep on a shelf, and finish the rest of your hot chocolate.

"Are you that cold?" his question is simple enough, but his voice is so soft and so drenched in concern it catches you off guard.

You laugh lightly. "I'm okay, just might need another hot chocolate before we set off again," you shrug, jamming your hand into your pocket has he takes the paper cup from you and nods.

"Well, I'm sure that can be arranged." He smiles.

There's something in his eyes, though. It's subtle, in the little wrinkles between his eyebrows, and the redness of his nose and his cheeks. As much as you like the way it looks on his honey crisp complection, it's starting to worry you. Not the blush he gets from the cold's kiss, but the slightly out of character openness he's been exhibiting. You like to think that maybe he's growing out of hiding his louder emotions, for his own sake, but you can't take the risk that it's something else.

He returns to you with an offering of mint hot chocolate. He smiles again when he greets you, and the pair of you set off back toward the sidewalk do a little shopping.

"Hey, Dame?"

"Hm?"

You wind your arm around his elbow with your free hand. "Everything okay with you?"

He turns his full attention on you. "Yes, of course. Why do you ask?"

You take a sip out of your hot chocolate. "I don't know, you've just been acting a little differently the last few days." His eyebrows crease in a worried way, and you get the sense he's disappointed. "In a good way, I mean," you correct yourself quickly, "I just want to be sure it isn't for a bad reason."

He shakes his head and takes a deep breath. You turn out onto the sidewalk, and start making your way farther up the street. "No, there isn't anything wrong," he assures. "I can't exactly explain it, which I'm not entirely okay with, but it's been. . . nice, this trip. The land is beautiful, the air is much cleaner than in Gotham, the people here are nice." He turns to face you again. "And you seem a lot more comfortable with the Titans. I'm glad; I'd feared you wouldn't bond with them at all, truthfully, and they're all far more bearable with you around."

You nod as he speaks, eyes jumping past him to the signs on the building fronts every once in a while. There's something he isn't saying, and you know it.

"And. . ." He sighs. "And you."

You pass him a quizzically quirked brow.

His voice lowers and he lays a hand over yours on his arm. "I love you so much, (Y/N). I can't even find the right words anymore."

Your eyes lock with his and you stop walking. Your lips part because your jaw goes a little slack, and your wide eyes reflect all the neon colors of the signs in the window on your right.

It isn't the first time he says he loves you. And you know it won't be the last, but he hardly ever says it so freely. It always behind closed doors in the softest moments, when you're both vulnerable or so drunk on love for one another neither of you can think straight.

You can't remember the last time he's been so open about in in front of anyone else, and it only ripens your concern.

You pull him closer, eyebrows slanting together. "Damian, I'm serious, are you okay?"

Now he's the one with one eyebrow reaching for answers. "Pardon?"

"I'm sorry," you blurt, "you know I love you from here clear to Alpha Centauri but you're really starting to worry me."

He laughs at that. Then, his eyes are as soft as his smile, and his hands smooth down the sides of your arms before they rest on your forearms. "(Y/N), I promise you there is nothing wrong with me now that hasn't been for the past seven years. Am I not allowed to let once in a little while, and allow myself a little breathing time?"

You hadn't realized you were so tense until you relax under his touch with the assurance. "Of course you are," you reply after a pause. You take one hand off your hot chocolate to rest it on his chest, coincidentally over his heart. "I just worry sometimes. I don't want anything to happen to you, Dame."

"I know," he says. He gingerly takes the paper cup from you and sets it on the bench you hadn't noticed before. He pulls you into his arms, enveloping you in a warmth like sunshine and a scent that's too particular to Damian Wayne to be mistaken. Your arms wind inside his open coat to the hoodie he's wearing underneath.

A long moment passes in relative silence. Your eyes are closed, ears perked to the drifting sounds of uncaring passersby and the rumbling of passing cars.

"I really want to slip my hands under your shirt right now," you mumble into his shoulder. "But if you tell me not to, I won't."

He grunts.

And for a moment, you ponder weather or not that was a denial. You silently make your choice and close your eyes again.

He leaps under your touch. "Damn it, (Y/N)!"

#damian wayne blurb #damian wayne headcannon #damian wayne imagine #damian wayne x reader #damian wayne #teen titan reader

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leelee10898 · 6 years ago

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Born to Love you: Felt good on my lips (3/?)

Leo & Alicia... A closer look at how these two frisky love birds came to be, and the moments in between. If you have not read the OG when Leo met Alicia.. you should do so, events in this story will coincide with it.

This is from the CGW(Cordonians gone wild) AU. A collaborative effort by @ao719 @speedyoperarascalparty @cocomaxley @riseandshinelittleblossom and myself. Find out other adventures HERE

It was a warm spring day, Leo had decided to take advantage of the weather and show her some sights on the coast. They pulled into a small diner on a back road for a little lunch.

“So I didn't really peg you as a diner guy.” She grinned as they slid into a booth by the window.

“To be honest, I would rather eat a burger over lobster any day.” he answered handing her a menu. “This is ok, right? Did you want to go someplace more fancy?

She arched her brow at him “In case you haven't noticed, im probably nothing like those women at court.” she rolled her eyes. “This is perfect.” her reaction bringing a wide grin to his face.

They looked over the menu and ordered. Both getting a burger and fries.

“so tell me more about the mysterious Prince Leo.”

“What do you want to know?” he folded his hands on the table.

“Leo. What's it short for?”

“Oh, ah well. Leonard. My mother would call me Leo when I was small. It kind of stuck.” His eyes darting down to the table.

“Tell me about her. Your mother, what was she like?”

He hesitated, he never spoke about his mom to anyone. It had been years since he brought her up. He sat in silence for a few minutes

“Leo?” her voice pulled him from his thoughts.

“Oh, sorry. My mom? Well, my father chose her during his social season, she was new to court. I was born shortly after they were married.”

He picked up a fry popping it in his mouth.

“Ok, but what was she like? Do you look like her? Did you two have any special things you did together?”

Leo straighten up, feelings he pushed down long ago began to come to the surface.

“She had long brown hair, brown eyes. Her smile was warm and welcoming. She loved me, but she wasn't happy with her life.”

“Leo, i'm sorry I didn't mean to. I didn't know.” she apologized.

“No, its ok. I just. I Haven't spoken about her to, well anyone.” Alicia reached out grabbing his hand, her warm smile calming him immediately.

“she sang me to sleep every night,I remember that. She enjoyed the simple things in life. She left court because she wasn't cut out for this life. Me,being the heir. she couldn't take me, by law. In a way I guess that's where I get it from.”

“I think those are good memories to have of her. She gave his hand a squeeze. “Ok. Enough of this. Lets get outta here. I have someplace I think you'll like.” He stood tossing money on the table, grabbing her hand.

After a short drive they pulled into a private beach area. Alicia's eyes lit up at the sight of the pristine beach in front of her. The water as blue as Leos eyes, the sand a sparkling white. “Wow. This is. This sort of amazing.”

“You like it?”

“Yeah, I do. It's probably the most beautiful thing I've seen here so far.” she turned towards him smiling. “Well, maybe 2nd most beautiful thing.” she shot him a sly smirk, turning and walking towards the ocean. He chuckled to himself

He closed his eyes, saying an internal prayer. lord help me, I am trying to behave.

He silently groaned tilting his head back. He ran up to her “My family uses this to host the beach party for social season. Docks are that way.” He pointed “That's where we host the Royal Regatta. It was my father's favorite event.” his eyes dropped for a second. “But. That's not what I wanted to show you.” she looked at him inquisitively. He lead her down a trail through a small wooded area, he pulled the brush back as they stood in a clearing, they could hear the roaring waters just up ahead. Alicia's face lit up, her smile reaching eyes as he nodded his head. He walked out first wanting to see her reaction.

She walked out to a beautiful waterfall, the waters so clear you could see to the bottom. The flowers in full bloom on the nice spring day.

She was silent, unable to form words at its natural beauty. Leo walked up next to her, his hear lowered close to hers “You know, there's a legend about these falls. It starts with two lovers.”

Her eyes met his as he told her about the legend of the falls. “that's so heartbreaking.” she pouted. “It is but, they say that if two lovers climb to the top and jump in together, they'll get the blessing of the lady of the waterfall.”

“oh really? So what if two people who are not lovers jump in together, then what?” she challenged him.

“I don't know.” he answered, not really sure of what to say. He rarely had someone have a come back and he wasn't used to this.

“I see. Well, then that settles it.” she sighed taking off her shoes and socks. she started unbuttoning her jeans sliding them off her legs.

“wha. What are you doing?”

“come on, don't act shy. Were jumping in.” She motioned towards him.

“What? You seriously want to jump in from up there?” Leo shouted.

“Hell yeah I do. Are you scared or something?”

“No. NO, I just. I'm surprised, most girls would have freaked out at that.” He chuckled as he pulled his shirt over his head, now stripped to his boxers.

Leos eyes ravaged her body. He had seen her in her bra on a small phone screen, but the real time view was stunning. He let out a low growl under his breath, discreetly adjusting himself.

She stood on the opposite of him, taking in his toned muscular body. She bit her bottom lip, shaking her head trying to break the thoughts. “Ok lets go.”

They climbed to the top, overlooking the drop off. “So what are we doing here?” He questioned.

“We're testing something." She smirked "Two non- lovers jump in. Since we're just friends we should be safe right?” she looked at him.

“In one theory yes. In another." He paused for a moment, trying to hide the smile tugging on his lips. "We become lovers.” he smirked.

“Well, I guess we will have to test this out then, since. Since it'll never happen.” She gave him a playful look as she grabbed his hand. “One. Two. Threee!” She shouted as they leapt over the edge plunging into the water. They bobbed up laughing hysterically as he dunked under water tickling her sides. “Ahhh. Leo!” she screamed, laughing afterwards. He emerged and she splashed him “Oh you're gonna pay.” he dove at her, tackling her into the water. She squealed and laughed as they wrestled.

He grabbed her by the waist pulling her into him, she put her arm around his neck pretending to put him in a headlock “Alight, alright. You win.” she dropped her arm hooking it around his neck, bringing the other over as they locked eyes. They slowly moved in, lips inches from each others when the loud ringing of a phone pulled them from the moment. “We should probably get that.” she unlocked her arms from his neck making her way the the shore, leo following after. They checked their phones it was Liam for Leo. He called him back

“what's up Liam? No, I am not coming to dinner tonight. Regina can not call a family dinner on a non-family dinner night. You know I hate lamb. Well, tell Regina I already had plans. What noise? Don't worry about where I am. Goodbye Liam.”

Leo tossed his phone onto his clothes. “its hilarious when you and Liam bicker, and i've only seen it once.” she giggled.

“ so, you're not going to dinner with your family?” He looked at her a cocky grin spread across his lips “Nope, we are going out.”

“We are? Where to?”

“I know a good place, its a bar a few towns from the palace. They have excellent food.”

They put their clothes back on heading back to the palace for another shower and change. They quietly crept through the halls, avoiding running into Regina. They were almost in the clear when they heard “Leo?” Leo grabbed her hand once they rounded the corner they ran into the garage. Leo handed her a helmet here. “What. What's this for Leo?” she stuttered.

“Were taking the bike. Have you ever been on the back of a bike?” she shook her head no.

“Ok, It'll be fine, just hold onto me and move with me ok. Seriously we gotta go. Now. Or Madeleine's gonna catch up.”

She put the helmet on and climbed onto the back of the bike. He started it up as Madeline came through the garage door and they speed off. Madeline watched as he pulled away with Alicia on the back. She did not know who it was, she huffed turning around and going back in.

They zipped through the roads, everything a blur but the rush was amazing. Her arms wrapped tightly around his waist, her body pressed against his back. Leo couldn't help but smile, that almost kiss playing through his mind. Fucking Liam, had to ruin the moment. It was probably a good thing, he thought. He was trying to behave, he told himself he wanted to be her friend, but the more he got to know her, the more he wanted to pursue her. In that moment he decided to follow her lead, if she made a move or gave off signs she wanted him to do something, then he would.

They pulled into a small bar, it did not look nearly as upscale or crowded as the one Anitah and her went to in the capital. They walked inside, “let's grab a booth and then I'll get some drinks.” they got settled into a booth he found out what she wanted and he approached the bar. “Leo, haven't seen you in a while, where you been?” the bartender shook his hand. “Yeah, I've been in Santorini for a while. How you been Doug?”

“Oh, can't complain. So what can I get you?”

“I'll have a beer and I need a Malibu bay breeze.” Doug eyed him, “since when do you drink fruity shit?”

“I don't. Its for my friend.”

“You've been here all of 5 minutes and already have a friend?” he grinned shaking his head as he worked on the drink. “I brought her with me smart ass.”

He grabbed the drinks and headed back to the booth. “Sorry, the bartender was giving me shit.” he chuckled.

They sat around talking and joking. Leo not wanting to drink a lot since he was on the bike and driving.

“I don't get it. How do you not have a girlfriend? You are an amazing guy, funny, smart, charismatic, thoughtful, hot…” she blushed at the last word.

“You know, you keep telling me im hot, you're going to give me a complex.” he chuckled.

“Im serious Leo.”

“I don't know. I don't really know why I guess. It's just not something I ever worried about.” He took a sip of his beer. “It was decided for me that I was to marry Madeline. We got engaged, Regina picked the ring, I wanted no part. I handed her the box and walked away.”

“Wow, that's rough.”

“She didn't care about the ring, or me really. She cared about the crown. I guess at some point she became clingy, she was convenient.” he grimaced at the words. “Wow, that sounded really shitty.”

“It sounds like the whole situation was just one fucked up mess.”

“It was. I'm not going to lie to you, I have had my fair share of women. Mostly one night stands. I haven't been with a woman more than twice before I move on. The only person I have been with multiple times, was Madeline.”

“But isn't that lonely?”

“Maybe? I guess I never really thought about it that way. Whenever a woman finds out who I really am. They change. They get caught up in the what ifs of the glitz and glamorous life.” He sighed. “I dont think ive ever told anyone this before. What is it with you? I feel like i can tell you anything and you won't judge me.”

“ well, that's because I won't. I think you're a really great guy Leo.” she reached over grabbing his hand. He scooted forward “you amaze me you know that. I have never met anyone like you. You are smart, funny, fearless, fierce, beautiful.” a familiar feeling washed over both of them, their lips inches apart again, her eyes locked with his and then, her phone rang, pulling them from the moment again. Leo dropped his head and chuckled.

“Sorry, I should probably take this.” She got up and stepped outside. Leo sat there lost in thought. Twice they almost kissed, twice they were interrupted by phone calls. He wanted to kiss her, but he didn't want to because he wanted to jump into bed with her. He wanted to get to know her, everything about her. He felt a connection with her, he couldn't explain it, and it scared the hell out of him. They had only known each other a few days, but she definitely had all of his attention.

“everything ok?” He asked as she slid back into the booth. “Yeah it was my mom, she had a question about and order we got at the bakery.”

“Oh, so you work with your mom? I am an asshole, I never thought to ask what you did for a living.”

“its ok. I am a pastry chef by choice. I did not like the environment in a restaurant kitchen, baking was always my nirvana.”

“You're a chef? That's amazing.”

“when I graduated from culinary school, I went to work in one of the fancy restaurants in NYC as a sous chef. I hated it. My mom offered to make me partner at the bakery and I accepted.”

“wow, that's amazing Alicia. I can imagine you are good at what you do. Maybe you'll cook for me once?” Leo smirked as they walked out the door to the bike. “Maybe.. if you play your cards right.” She winked at him. His willpower was quickly crumbling. He knew he promised Liam but she was making it very hard.

They drove back to the palace, her arms still wrapped tightly around his waist. She could feel the ripples of his muscles through his shirt. The thoughts that ran through her head she knew she shouldn't be having. She was leaving in two months, and she was not one for a one night stand. They pulled into the garage, parking the bike and putting the helmets up. Leo walked her to her room. They stood in front of her door “Thanks for today, I had a really great time.” she hugged him. “so did I. There is more I would like to show you, that is of you want.”

“Of course. that would be great. Thank you Leo, really you have been amazing.”

She stood against the door. An awkward quiet settled over them. Their eyes locked, she bit her lower lip, hoping he would make a move because she was to scared to. When finally he leaned in pressing his lips to hers. His tongue tracing a line between her lips, her hands flew around his neck as she melted into the kiss. Their tongues dancing together in perfect harmony. They pulled apart as he rested his forehead against hers. “Good night Leo.” she breathed out. “Good night Alicia.”

Alicia closed the door behind her, her back against it as she slid down onto the floor in shock. She touched her hand to her lips, that kiss.

Leo wore a wide grin his entire walk back to his quarters. He kissed her, he finally kissed her. Those lips, that kiss. It was everything he hoped for and more. It was perfect, it was almost like a spark ignited between them.

But it left more questions for him. What happens now?

Tag: @annekebbphotography @carabeth @moneyfordiamonds @give-me-ernest-sinclaire @3pawandme @indiacater @ooo-barff-ooo @ownworldresident @tornbetween2loves @perfectprofessorherokid @stopforamoment @editboutique @wannabemc2 @zaffrenotes @enmchoices @lauradowning29 @lodberg @smalltalk88 @gibbles82 @heatherfilliez @drakesensworld @nikkis1983 @sweetest-marbear @classylady1234 @daniv2278 @rainbowsinthestorm @jared2612 @liamxs-world @notoriouscs @blubutterflyy @captain-kingliamsqueen @whenyourheartskipsabeat @lynne1993 @coldcollectornight08 @be-still-my-aching-heart @dcbbw @explorer-of-gems @kennaxval @hopefulmoonobject

#born to love you cgw fic #cgw trr au #cgw trr #cgw squad #cgw #leo x alicia #leo trr #choices trr #trr fanfic #the royal romance #cordoniansgonewild #cordonians gone wild

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thispabulum-blog · 2 years ago

Text

The Potential to Flee

What's the Tea? Tuesday

Tuesday is a blur. Did I exist on Tuesday? Who's to say. Cuddlebug and I had talked about him coming over and spending the night on Thursday, but then he found out he had to work on Friday, so the plan was to come get me once he was done with work.

And yet.

Wednesday I was at home being productive, when a cute and whiny Cuddlebug messaged me to let me know that he was done with work for the day and asked if he could come pick me up because he missed me. I think living alone is hard on him, and his best friends have COVID. I have a hard time saying no to him, unfortunately, so I told him to give me a minute to pack and then he could come get me.

At his house, he made us some pasta and we watched Better Call Saul - we're in the last season before the current one, and it's really good. It'll be difficult once we catch up.

Thursday he woke up early to go to work, and had a long and busy day, so he came home ready to crash. He took a nap, ate leftover pasta, and watched more BCS. A comfortable existence.

On Friday he got up early to go to work again, and I made myself some pancakes and eggs and bacon for lunch, which I ate while watching The Masked Singer until he got home.

I had promised the boy burgers, so we geared up for a Kroger run. I wanted to make him my favorite recipe from the Bob's Burgers Cookbook, the "A Good Manchego is Hard to Find Burger" (because it is both of our favorite cheese), and I told him if he'd shell out for the cheese ($17.99/lb ffs) I'd be happy to cook them. I even bought him some ice cream.

While we were shopping, he decided that he didn't want to eat burgers without his favorite Dublin Cream Soda, so he looked at/called a few stores until he found one that had it, and we made a 15-minute drive across town to buy all of it that they had in stock (it was only 5 bottles, unfortunately).

Once we got home he went to play vidya while I cooked, which took a while - shallots don't caramelize quickly. Of the burgers, he said "definitely one of the best things you've cooked for me. Very up there with the best burgers I've had anywhere" and this boy eats a lot of burgers. We watched more Saul until time for bed.

Saturday morning I woke up to (not because of) Clickety Clackety Boyfriend playing his spreadsheet simulator 6 feet away from my head.

Once I started getting hungry I asked if he wanted to eat cinnamon rolls and watch Better Call Saul, which he enthusiastically agreed to. So we got through an episode or two and then he went back to spam-calling landscapers to try to get his lawn and trees done, while I took a shower and started getting ready for my date with Item 9!

We had very vague plans: hang out and spend the night. So he came and picked me up at Cuddlebug's house.

When in doubt in social situations, start explaining the plot of a film. It's my go-to tactic for passing time or warming up to someone.

My understanding, from a combination of flawed memory and reading through my old blogs and messages, is that in 2013 Item 9 and myself went out on 2 or 3 in-person dates, had a few Skype calls where we'd stare at each other's cute faces and watch movies together, then kinda drifted apart over the holidays (both working in retail), and before we knew it we were both in monogamous relationships elsewhere. I couldn't recall if there was anything of substance there, as I mostly just remembered us being kinda smitten with each other - not that there's anything wrong with that. Frequency-wise, I tell Cuddlebug he's cute more often than I say anything else to him. But I don't think I could tell you anything about his actual personality or interests at that time. And I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before, but about a year or so after our last date, he messaged me on Facebook. I saw from his profile that he was engaged, and so I felt weird about him reaching out. I was pretty harsh with him, telling him that we hadn't been very close and didn't have much in common, so I was happy for him but wasn't really interested in talking.

When I started talking to Item 9 again this time around, it was largely out of novelty, curiosity, and coincidence. Hey, isn't it funny that we went out before and now we're both single again at the same time. It was nice to have a guy I could pretty much guarantee wasn't a catfish or a complete nutjob or asshole. But again, I wasn't sure what chemistry there might be in person.

Anyway. We drove back to his place, where he showed me around. It's almost eerie how similar his bedroom is to Cuddlebug's - just a bed with two flat pillows, and a desk (his has a tv and an Xbox instead of a computer). Though he's recently divorced so he gets a bit of a pass on that.

We hung out for a bit, made out for a bit, and talked about what we wanted to do. He had suggested maybe an arcade, or dinner and a movie, or thrift shopping, or a fourth option I don't remember (I think it might have been staying in and playing video games). I wasn't sure what movies were even out in theaters, so we checked some showtimes and landed on Vengeance, which I'd heard vague things about. We watched a trailer and I was totally sold (it helped that there wasn't anything else that I wanted to see at all, except Thor). So he bought us tickets and then we hung out for a while longer until we decided we should get dinner before the movie.

He ended up taking me to this Thai place he really likes, and it was...okay. My Pad See Ew noodles were way overcooked to the point of being kinda gummy and gross, and I unpleasantly cronched down on a bit of eggshell at one point. But the flavors were on point and the server was really nice. I feel a little bad that it's his favorite place, and I hope I can take him for some better Thai food at some point.

After he paid we boxed up our leftovers and drove back to his place to deposit them in the fridge for later. Then we found nice cuddly ways to occupy our time until we needed to leave for the movie.

On the way to the theater, I dropped my phone down the side of the passenger seat, and figured I'd wait until I got out to try and grab it. Then as I was opening the door to get out of the car, the handle cut my finger (and I subsequently forgot about the phone)! It was bleeding and he was super apologetic about it, but I told him not to worry, we'd ask for a band-aid when we got to the theater, since any place of business is gonna have to have a first-aid kit for employees anyway. Nbd. They did, and the girl was super nice and helpful about it.

Once my finger was bandaged, we waited in the concession line where he spent an obscene amount of money ($12, I think?) on a whiskey & Cherry Coke slushy for himself and a Monster for me.

Why do I continue to caffeinate when I know better?

I sat through all the same trailers as when I went to see The Black Phone with Meeko Neko (Smile, Barbaric, Don't Worry Darling), which made me a little worried that this movie was somehow going to be spooky.

We made out a lot less during this movie than when we went to see Jaws together the first time we dated. A nonzero amount, but definitely less.

The movie was SO GOOD!! I highly recommend it. I was sad that I didn't have my phone until I got back to the car, because I needed to immediately tell several people to please go see it. In general I say don't watch trailers, because they spoil too much.

We went back to his apartment and played a video game that for the life of me I can't remember the name of (Spacelines from the Far Out, I'm told). Then his controller died, so I ate my leftover Thai food and we cuddled and watched a few episodes of Adventure Time and then a few YT videos about the first 4 Hellraiser movies.

Dates + Hellraiser = 100% success

I had a hard time sleeping because of caffeine and being in a new place and general excitement. He's really so great! He makes me feel both cute and hot, which is my favorite combination. He's a tiny bit older and a tiny bit taller than me. It seems that 8 years, 1 marriage, 3 kids, and 1 divorce later, he's become really compatible with me.

He put on Frasier and passed out after 2 episodes, and I stayed up playing on my phone for a while. I had stupidly neglected to bring my phone charger (because Cuddlebug was using it when I left), and he's an iPhone guy, so I just ran down my battery until the next morning.

I got about 5 hours sleep, and waited a good hour after I got up before I woke him up as well. We had good cuddles and then ran to Starbucks and Albertsons to get stuff to make breakfast. I got to meet his brother (whom he lives with) and then I taught him how to make pancakes, which he was excited for because he knew the kids would love it.

Trick #1: Use ice water for mixing your batter

Trick #2: Mix until just combined; don't worry about getting rid of lumps

Trick #3: Let stand 5 - 10 minutes before using

Easy peasy. They all came out perfectly. We also made some bacon in the oven (425 for 15 minutes) and scrambled eggs. We ate that and watched some more Kill Count videos, and then he gave me a nice massage and I got ready to go.

Side note that's apropos of nothing except chronologically: While I was making pancakes I got a notification on my phone - let me just say I hate this entire tangent already because it's so dumb and I hate that it's occupying my mind at all - from Instagram saying that Baymax had liked my most recent Instagram post (a picture of myself and Cuddlebug). I was like huh, that's weird. We still have not spoken (which isn't entirely true because I did send him a quick Happy Birthday message on his birthday a couple months back but he certainly didn't respond), and when his online presence dropped off kinda sharply after we stopped talking, I figured he'd just blocked me on everything. At first I was a little confused, and then decided I was overthinking it and he'd probably just liked it without thinking about it while scrolling or whatever. But he has also liked two Instagram posts I've made since then.

I did a small amount of ill-advised digging, and it seems like A) he's still with his fiancee, but B) he may or may not have been living in his car recently. She also posted a TikTok that may or may not have been passive-aggressively aimed at me? And some vague drama posts of her crying and saying stuff like "you left me when I needed you" and "only real love can hurt like this" so yeahhh that sounds like some super healthy stuff. Don't date 20-year-olds.

Anyway. Back to my Adult Date.

Item 9 drove me back to Cuddlebug's house, where the two dudes got to say hi to each other and shake hands, and then Item 9 had to go run errands and such - Dad Life.

We had interrupted Cuddlebug in the middle of playing 40k, so he went back to that while I hung out and then took a shower before our very own date night, where he was super excited to treat me to burgers at a place we hadn't been to.

A friend of his had recommended two restaurants as potential replacements for his former favorite burger place (which declined in quality and increased in price after a change in management). He picked one and we made the drive over.

When we got there, it turned out to be a very douchey mostly-bar, with lots of dartboards and pool tables and not any actual tables that I could see. We walked in and he turned to me like "I say fuck this place, how about you?" so we immediately walked back out. As I said when we got back into the car, "The vibes were not immaculate".

We drove to place #2 with high hopes, and stood next to the empty hostess stand for about 5 minutes until a bartender walked over to us with menus and said the kitchen was closing for dinner in 20 minutes. We didn't want to be those people, so we left as well. That one we'll try again another time, it looked okay.

Then came the fun game of sitting in the car in the parking lot, already hungry, trying to find a place to eat (not too expensive, that we hadn't been to together before, and open after 9pm on a Sunday). I suggested a 24-hour breakfast place I love about 20 minutes away, which I'd been wanting to take him to.

I'm happy to report that it was a much more successful endeavor! I did a build-your-own scramble, which was biscuits topped with white gravy, scrambled eggs, hash browns, cheese, sausage, and mushrooms. I let him try some of mine and he agreed that I made the better choice and he's definitely getting that next time.

Very full and pretty sleepy, we drove home and watched the first episode of Venture Bros (my suggested replacement now that we've finished Rick and Morty) before going to sleep.

I had a very cute wake-up on Monday morning. I was very slightly awake, and I heard a small noise from the other side of the bed, so I peeked over my pillow to see if Cuddlebug was up yet. He was facing me but looking at his phone, and when I looked at him he made eye contact with me and his face lit up in this big smile.

What a cute boy.

We cuddled and did our own stuff for a while, then went out for sushi lunch, where he peer-pressured me into ordering more sushi than I could eat while attempting to explain the concept and lore of Eve Online - sometimes I like to give strangers/servers the impression that we're on a really bad first date by making a guy ramble about super nerdy shit. Fun hobby of mine.

After lunch we went back home briefly, and then headed back out for errands. First was the game store to sell some games and buy some games. Then to Wal-Mart for all the necessary household purchases: trash bags and Cheerios. Then an adult store for adult items. Then home, where we both crashed for a couple hours.

Post-nap, Cuddlebug needed to do some assessments for job application stuff. There was a 30-question Excel quiz that stated he could use any source for help, so he used me. Then more Eve, some BCS and ice cream, and another episode of Venture Bros before sleep.

A good week.

#online dating #dating #okcupid #poly #relationships #Spotify

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