#Cloud vendor selection

[ourjobagency]

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the cloud has emerged as a transformative technology that empowers businesses with flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Migrating to the cloud is no longer an option but a necessity to stay competitive. 

[mudassir-iqbal]

ERP Selection: Key Factors & Best Practices

Choosing the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your organization’s efficiency and growth. With so many options on the market, it is essential to approach the selection process strategically. In this article, I tried to detail the most important factors based on my experience and best practices to consider when selecting an ERP…

[millyh23]

Bound By Love

Jana Fernandez x Reader

Word count: 7.5k

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Y/N was greeted by the warm, soft light of the Barcelona morning filtering through the blinds. She blinked awake, stretching slightly before realizing that Jana was still wrapped around her, her face nestled into Y/N's shoulder, breathing peacefully. A smile tugged at Y/N’s lips as she ran her fingers gently through Jana’s hair, savoring the quiet moment.

A few minutes later, Jana began to stir, lifting her head and giving Y/N a drowsy smile. “Buenos días,” she murmured, her voice still soft with sleep.

“Good morning, sleepyhead,” Y/N replied, brushing a loose strand of hair from Jana’s face. “I thought you’d never wake up. I might’ve had to eat breakfast without you.”

Jana gasped dramatically, pretending to look scandalized. “You wouldn’t dare! Who would make sure you don’t burn the toast?”

Y/N laughed, giving Jana a playful nudge. “I’d manage! Barely. But let’s just say the toast would be a little… extra crispy.”

They lingered in bed a little longer, chatting and laughing about nothing in particular, before finally heading to the kitchen. Y/N reached into the fridge for the ingredients to make pancakes, feeling Jana’s arms sneak around her waist from behind.

“You know,” Jana said, resting her chin on Y/N’s shoulder, “watching you cook is pretty cute.”

“Yeah?” Y/N grinned, flipping a pancake. “I’m not so sure about that. The last time I tried, you were the one who saved us from the smoke alarm, remember?”

“Maybe, but it’s cute that you try.” Jana planted a kiss on Y/N’s cheek before grabbing a plate to start setting up the table.

Once breakfast was ready, they sat together, sharing the pancakes and stealing bites off each other’s plates. The kitchen was filled with laughter and teasing over who could make the better pancake, though both of them secretly knew Jana was the reigning champ.

Later, they strolled through the local market, hands entwined as they browsed the stalls, picking out fresh fruits and chatting with the vendors. Every now and then, Y/N would catch Jana looking at her with that soft, adoring smile that made her feel like the luckiest person in the world.

At one of the flower stalls, Y/N suddenly stopped. “Stay here,” she said, letting go of Jana’s hand for a moment and selecting a small bouquet of yellow and white daisies. She handed them over with a playful wink. “For the most beautiful girl in Barcelona.”

Jana’s cheeks turned pink as she accepted the flowers. “Thank you,” she whispered, pulling Y/N in for a quick, gentle kiss.

When they returned to their apartment, Jana found a vase for the daisies while Y/N took out a sketchbook. She’d been practicing her drawing lately, inspired by all the colorful architecture and art around Barcelona. Sitting by the balcony, she began a sketch of the view, and after a moment, Jana came over, resting her head on Y/N’s shoulder and watching as she worked.

“You’re really getting good at this,” Jana murmured. “Maybe I should frame this one when you’re finished.”

Y/N chuckled, setting her pencil down. “It’s not that good yet, but maybe one day. I have the perfect muse, after all.”

Jana laughed, then tilted her head up to kiss Y/N, both of them wrapped in the simplicity of the moment. They spent the rest of the afternoon lounging on the balcony, sharing stories, watching the clouds drift by, and just basking in each other’s company.

As the sun began to set, they took one last stroll through the city before settling in for a cozy night at home. Curled up together on the couch, Y/N felt a deep sense of peace and happiness, knowing that every little moment—whether it was cooking pancakes or just watching the world go by—felt perfect as long as she had Jana by her side but was she being loved or suffocated.

Y/N had always prided herself on being resilient, especially since joining Barcelona and finding a place she could finally call home. But every now and then, the lingering doubts and insecurities from her past found their way back, like whispers she couldn’t ignore.

Today was one of those days. She’d been scrolling through social media earlier, catching sight of comments from Arsenal fans criticizing her transfer, questioning her loyalty, and downplaying her accomplishments since moving to Spain. Their words were biting and harsh, hitting her harder than she cared to admit.

As she walked into the living room, she took a deep breath, plastering on a smile as she saw Jana setting up a movie on the TV, all cozy with blankets and snacks. Jana looked up and beamed, patting the spot next to her on the couch. “I thought we could watch that new movie you’ve been talking about.”

Y/N nodded, forcing herself to focus on Jana’s excitement. “Sounds perfect.”

But even as they settled in, she felt a heaviness in her chest that was hard to shake. She rested her head on Jana’s shoulder, silently trying to calm her mind, but the negativity gnawed away. She felt like she didn’t deserve any of this—the love, the support, the fresh start in Barcelona. What if the people doubting her were right? What if she was just fooling herself, and it was only a matter of time before everyone here grew tired of her too?

“Hey, you okay?” Jana asked suddenly, breaking Y/N from her thoughts. She looked down, her brow creased with concern. “You’re quiet.”

Y/N blinked, her heart skipping a beat. “Oh, yeah. Just tired, I think. Training was intense today.” She offered a small smile, hoping it would be enough to ease Jana’s worry.

Jana seemed to accept her answer, though she still watched Y/N carefully. “Alright, but if there’s anything on your mind, you can talk to me, you know that, right?”

“Of course,” Y/N replied, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. She wanted to tell her—she really did—but the words just wouldn’t come. She hated feeling this vulnerable, especially with someone she cared about so deeply.

Throughout the movie, Y/N tried to immerse herself in the plot, but the insecurity loomed large, like a shadow she couldn’t shake. She could feel Jana glancing at her every so often, probably sensing her distraction. Y/N silently scolded herself. Jana deserved her full attention, not the doubts that threatened to consume her.

When the credits rolled, Jana turned to her. “Do you want to go for a walk? Clear our heads a bit?”

Y/N hesitated, knowing it was Jana’s gentle way of checking in. But she forced a bright smile, hoping it looked more genuine than it felt. “Actually, I think I might just turn in early tonight.”

Jana’s face softened with understanding. “Alright,” she said quietly, brushing a hand over Y/N’s cheek. “Just know I’m here whenever you want to talk, okay?”

“Yeah,” Y/N replied, trying to keep her voice steady. She placed a gentle kiss on Jana’s forehead before heading to the bedroom.

Once she was alone, she let out a sigh, sinking onto the bed. Her reflection stared back at her from the mirror on the opposite wall, and she felt an ache she couldn’t quite name. She thought she’d left all this behind—this fear of never being enough, of disappointing the people around her. But tonight, it felt as raw and present as ever.

As she lay in bed, Y/N closed her eyes, trying to push away the thoughts. She knew she couldn’t keep hiding this from Jana forever. But for now, she would. She didn’t want Jana to see her like this—unsure, vulnerable, and trapped in her own head. She would work through it alone, just as she always had.

The night was quiet, with only the soft hum of Barcelona beyond the apartment windows. But in Y/N’s dreams, things were anything but peaceful.

In her mind, she was back on a field—her old team’s voices echoing around her, harsh words spilling from fans she didn’t know, and her every attempt to kick the ball met with stumbling mistakes. She could feel their eyes on her, each look laced with disappointment and disdain. Her teammates, including Jana, were turning away, leaving her behind as she reached out, unable to find her voice.

She bolted awake, gasping as her surroundings came into focus. She was still in bed, the comforting warmth of blankets around her, but her heart was pounding, and her chest felt tight, each breath growing shallower than the last.

It took her a moment to realize that she was hyperventilating.

“Y/N?” Jana’s voice was gentle but filled with concern as she sat up, reaching for her. Her eyes widened as she took in Y/N’s state. “Hey, hey, it’s okay. Look at me.”

Y/N tried to ground herself, but the rush of anxiety was suffocating, her mind spiraling back to the images of disappointment and rejection from her nightmare. She couldn’t get air into her lungs, her hands shaking as she gripped the bedsheets.

Jana’s hands were warm and steady as they gently cupped Y/N’s face, tilting it so their eyes met. “Breathe with me, okay? Deep breaths, just like this,” she instructed, taking a slow, deep breath for Y/N to mirror.

Y/N tried to follow Jana’s steady rhythm, her breathing shaky at first but gradually slowing as Jana kept murmuring soft reassurances, her touch grounding and safe.

“That’s it, you’re doing great,” Jana whispered, her voice calm and full of love. She brushed a few stray strands of hair from Y/N’s forehead, her thumb tracing soothing circles along Y/N’s cheek. “You’re safe here. It was just a dream, okay?”

Y/N’s breathing finally evened out, though her heart was still racing. She felt a fresh wave of embarrassment wash over her as she realized she’d woken Jana with her panic. “I’m… I’m sorry,” she whispered, her voice hoarse.

“Hey, there’s nothing to be sorry about,” Jana replied, scooting closer until she was fully wrapping her arms around Y/N, holding her close. “You’re going through a lot. It’s okay to let it out.”

Y/N buried her face in Jana’s shoulder, letting herself lean into her warmth. For so long, she’d tried to keep her insecurities hidden, but in that moment, it felt like every wall she’d built around her fear was crumbling.

“It’s just…” She took a shuddering breath. “Sometimes I feel like… like I’m not enough. That everyone’s going to realize I’m just… a disappointment.”

Jana pulled back slightly, just enough to look Y/N in the eyes, her gaze full of understanding and tenderness. “Y/N, you’re not a disappointment. Not to me, not to the team, and certainly not to anyone who knows the real you.”

Y/N managed a shaky nod, but her throat still felt tight. “I just… I’m scared. I don’t want to let anyone down, especially you.”

Jana’s expression softened even further as she leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to Y/N’s forehead. “You could never let me down, cariño. You’re strong, and you’re talented, and you deserve to be happy and loved just as you are.”

She hugged Y/N close, whispering comforting words, each one like a balm to Y/N’s frayed nerves. Gradually, Y/N felt her muscles relax, her breathing steady as the remnants of her panic faded in Jana’s embrace.

They stayed like that for a long while, with Jana holding Y/N and rubbing her back until she could feel Y/N finally begin to settle. The once-tense silence was replaced by the soft sounds of their breaths, now calm and even, filling the stillness of the night.

When Y/N was ready, Jana pulled her gently back to bed, never letting go of her hand as they lay down together. Y/N felt a peace she hadn’t known in a long time, her head resting against Jana’s shoulder, feeling the steady beat of Jana’s heart.

“Thank you,” she whispered, feeling the weight of her gratitude, knowing she wasn’t alone in facing these fears.

“Always,” Jana whispered back, brushing a kiss over Y/N’s hair. “We’re in this together, no matter what.”

Y/N tried to shake the creeping unease that had settled in the pit of her stomach. Training had been rough today—one missed shot, one fumbled pass, and suddenly, she was convinced everyone was watching, waiting for her next mistake. She could feel her confidence wavering, her doubts coming back louder than ever.

When she got home, Jana was already there, she got to leave before the media team grabbed her for some tiktoks, cooking dinner with music playing softly in the background. As soon as Jana saw Y/N, her face softened with concern.

“Hey, love,” she greeted, setting down a wooden spoon to give Y/N a warm hug. “Long day?”

Y/N hesitated, trying to put on a brave face. “Yeah, just… one of those days, I guess.”

But Jana could tell that something was weighing on her. She took Y/N’s hand and led her to the couch, sitting down beside her and pulling her close. “What’s really going on?” Jana asked, her voice calm and gentle.

Y/N sighed, the words tumbling out before she could stop them. “I just… I feel like I can’t get it right. Like I’m going to mess things up, and everyone will realize I don’t belong here.”

Jana listened patiently, her eyes never leaving Y/N’s. When Y/N finished, she didn’t say anything at first, just gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. “You’re not alone in feeling like this,” Jana said after a moment, her tone soft but full of conviction. “And I get it. It’s hard, carrying these doubts. But you know what? You’re one of the most talented, driven people I know.”

Y/N offered a small smile but still looked unconvinced. Jana didn’t push, instead shifting closer, keeping her hand on Y/N’s as she spoke.

“I know what it’s like to feel the pressure and to think that every little mistake means the end of everything,” Jana continued, her thumb rubbing gentle circles over Y/N’s hand. “But you don’t have to be perfect to be worthy. You’ve earned your place here, on this team, in my life, in everything.”

Y/N let out a shaky breath, her eyes drifting to their joined hands. “I just… sometimes, I feel like people are just waiting for me to fail.”

Jana nodded, her gaze thoughtful. “Maybe some people are. But those people don’t matter, Y/N. They don’t see you the way I do, or the way your real friends and teammates do.” She paused, making sure Y/N was following her. “Do you want to know what I see when I look at you?”

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat, her voice barely above a whisper. “What?”

Jana’s eyes softened, filled with a warmth that made Y/N’s heart ache. “I see someone who’s resilient, someone who doesn’t give up even when things get tough. I see someone who makes everyone around them better. I see the woman I’m lucky to love every single day.”

Y/N felt the tension in her chest loosen, a sense of relief washing over her. Jana’s words weren’t just comforting; they were real, genuine, and full of belief in her.

“But I know it’s hard to silence those voices in your head,” Jana added, leaning forward and pressing a soft kiss to Y/N’s forehead. “So whenever you feel them creeping back, just remember: I’m here, and I believe in you. And maybe… maybe it’s time to start believing in yourself, too.”

Y/N nodded, feeling a surge of warmth and confidence. Jana’s presence grounded her, reminding her of what truly mattered. She knew the journey wouldn’t be easy, but with Jana by her side, she felt like she could face her fears head-on.

As they sat there in comfortable silence, Jana looked at her with a soft smile. “Tomorrow, let’s go back to the basics. You and me, one-on-one training. Not because you need it, but because I want you to feel the joy of it again—the part of football that’s just about you and the ball, not about anyone else’s expectations.”

A smile finally broke through Y/N’s serious expression. “That sounds perfect.”

Jana kissed her hand. “Good. Because you deserve to feel proud of yourself. I’m proud of you, and I always will be.”

Y/N was accustomed to keeping her guard up, to relying on herself and offering her love carefully. But when it came to accepting love in return, that was a different story. Every time Jana showered her with warmth—whether through a simple compliment, a thoughtful gesture, or even something as small as a soft look—it stirred something complicated within her, like she was waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Tonight was no different. They’d just finished dinner, a quiet evening spent together. As they cleared the dishes, Y/N felt a warmth on her shoulder and turned to see Jana’s hand resting there, her expression soft and inviting.

“You know,” Jana began, her voice light, “sometimes I think you don’t fully believe me when I tell you how much I love you.”

Y/N’s breath caught. She tried to brush it off with a smile, but Jana’s gaze was steady, and Y/N could feel her walls wavering. “I… I know you love me,” Y/N replied, her voice uncertain.

Jana nodded, her eyes understanding. “But I don’t think you believe that you deserve it,” she said gently.

Y/N looked away, feeling exposed. “It’s not that I don’t want to believe you,” she admitted. “It’s just… sometimes it feels too good to be true. Like maybe if I let myself believe it, it’ll slip away.”

Jana’s grip on her shoulder tightened, reassuring. “Love isn’t something you have to earn or prove you’re worthy of, Y/N,” she said. “It’s something I give you because I want to, because I see you for who you really are and I love every part of that.”

Y/N’s gaze softened, but the self-doubt lingered in her expression. Jana noticed and took her hands, guiding her to the couch, where they both sat in the quiet comfort of their shared space.

“Think about all the times you’ve been there for me,” Jana continued, her voice gentle and grounding. “The times you’ve given me love and support without me ever having to ask for it. I didn’t question it because I know your love is real, and that’s how I want you to feel about mine.”

Y/N let out a shaky breath, looking down at their intertwined hands. “It’s just hard to feel… enough,” she admitted, barely above a whisper.

Jana moved closer, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair behind Y/N’s ear. “You are enough,” she said, each word steady and full of conviction. “You’re more than enough, and I’m so lucky to love you. And I’m even luckier that you’re here, willing to be with me, too.”

A small smile crept onto Y/N’s face, and she felt her resistance melting away. Jana was patient, warm, her presence like a steady flame that refused to falter. “It’s not just about letting me love you, Y/N,” Jana continued, her voice barely above a whisper. “It’s about letting yourself see what I see.”

Y/N felt the emotion swell in her chest, her heart pounding as she allowed herself to truly take in Jana’s words. “And what do you see?” she asked, her voice vulnerable, almost childlike.

Jana’s eyes softened as she spoke, her hand gently brushing Y/N’s cheek. “I see someone brave, who doesn’t let fear stop her from going after her dreams. Someone who cares deeply, even when she tries to hide it. I see someone who’s strong and kind, who’s been through so much but keeps going.”

Y/N blinked, feeling her throat tighten with emotion. She realized she wanted to believe Jana, to let herself lean into the love offered to her.

Seeing her hesitation, Jana leaned closer, pressing a soft kiss to Y/N’s forehead. “Just… let me love you, Y/N. No conditions, no expectations. Just as you are.”

For the first time, Y/N didn’t argue or try to hide. She let herself lean into Jana’s touch, feeling her walls come down one brick at a time. As they sat there, Y/N felt an unfamiliar but comforting warmth settle over her, a feeling that whispered she was safe, she was enough, and she was loved.

And this time, she let herself believe it.

Two years had flown by since Y/N and Jana first became something more. Y/N could still remember the nerves, the initial barriers, the slow process of letting herself be loved. But now, after countless memories, adventures, and quiet mornings together, she couldn’t imagine her life without Jana. It wasn’t just that she loved her; it was that she wanted to love her forever.

The realization hit Y/N one quiet afternoon. Jana had been laughing at something on her phone, sprawled out on the couch in her favorite hoodie, her hair loosely tied back. Y/N watched her with a fond smile, feeling warmth bloom in her chest. Suddenly, she knew. She wanted to propose.

As Jana headed out to training later that evening, Y/N got to work, her mind whirling with possibilities. She wanted to make it perfect. But how? Jana deserved something meaningful, something that spoke to their journey and all they’d built together. She pulled out her notebook, jotting down a few ideas.

1. A quiet, intimate proposal: Just the two of them in their favorite spot by the coast. They’d often take weekend trips to the seaside, a place where they could escape the noise and simply be together. Y/N imagined them sitting on the sandy shore, the waves crashing softly in the background as she got down on one knee.

2. A football-themed proposal: Football was something that had brought them together. Maybe she could plan something on the field, but after hours, when it was just the two of them under the stadium lights. Y/N could already picture Jana’s face, laughing and surprised, realizing that this was not just another training session.

3. A surprise with friends and family: Jana’s friends and family were incredibly important to her. Y/N knew how much Jana loved sharing her joy with those she cared about. Maybe she could organize a small get-together disguised as a regular gathering, only to turn it into the moment where she asked Jana to be hers forever.

But as she wrote each idea, she found herself going back to the first. There was something beautifully personal about it, just them and the world around them, with no expectations or pressures. It felt like their entire relationship wrapped up in one simple, perfect moment.

Over the next few weeks, Y/N carefully crafted her plan. She picked a weekend when they both had time off and quietly reserved a cabin by the coast, somewhere secluded but scenic. She spent evenings writing down her thoughts and rehearsing what she’d say, though every time she tried to practice, she ended up flustered, laughing at herself in the mirror. Somehow, she knew she’d end up just speaking from the heart when the moment came.

And then, there was the ring.

Y/N wanted it to be special. She found a jeweler who custom-designed rings, and together, they crafted a simple but elegant band, with a subtle engraving on the inside: "Siempre, mi amor"—"Forever, my love."

The ring was beautiful, and holding it in her hands, she felt the weight of what it symbolized: a lifetime of love, laughter, support, and growth. She could already picture sliding it onto Jana’s finger, the look of surprise and joy in her eyes, the moment they’d share that would mark the beginning of a new chapter.

Finally, the weekend arrived, and Y/N could hardly contain her excitement. She had packed their bags, planned the perfect dinner, and slipped the ring box into her coat pocket, hoping Jana wouldn’t notice.

As they drove along the coast, with the sun dipping low and casting warm hues over the ocean, Jana reached over, giving Y/N’s hand a squeeze, her face soft and happy. Y/N felt her nerves settle, a smile breaking across her face. She was ready—more than ready—to ask Jana to spend forever with her.

And as they arrived at the cabin, with the sound of the waves just beyond, Y/N knew that the moment she’d been waiting for was finally here.

The sunset over the coast was breathtaking, casting golden hues across the waves as they broke against the shore. The cabin was tucked away just a short walk from the beach, and as soon as they’d arrived, Y/N suggested a stroll along the sand before dinner. She could feel the ring box resting in her coat pocket, its weight both thrilling and grounding.

Jana seemed relaxed, happily taking Y/N’s hand as they walked toward the shoreline. They walked in comfortable silence, with only the sound of the waves and the calls of distant seabirds. Y/N glanced over at Jana, her heart swelling as she watched her take in the scene, looking utterly content.

“Do you remember the first time we came here?” Y/N asked softly, stopping to take in the view.

Jana nodded, a small smile playing at her lips. “Of course. I’d never seen you so at peace before,” she replied. “It was the first time I really felt how much you trusted me.”

Y/N’s heart stuttered at her words, the reminder of how far they’d come. “I think… it was the first time I let myself trust anyone,” she admitted. “You’ve given me more than I ever knew I needed.”

Jana turned to her, her brows knitting slightly, sensing the weight in Y/N’s voice. “Is everything okay?” she asked gently.

Y/N took a breath, her hand slipping into her pocket to feel the ring box. Her heart was pounding, and she knew there was no perfect moment beyond this one. With a small smile, she nodded.

“More than okay,” she whispered. And before she could overthink it, she slowly lowered herself onto one knee in the soft sand, pulling the ring box out and holding it up toward Jana.

The expression on Jana’s face was one Y/N would never forget—a mixture of surprise, joy, and a love so pure it nearly took her breath away.

“Jana,” Y/N began, her voice thick with emotion, “you taught me to love myself, to trust, to open my heart when I didn’t think I could. You’ve given me laughter and comfort, and there’s no one I’d rather face life with. I want to be by your side, through all of it. Forever. Will you marry me?”

Tears welled in Jana’s eyes as she looked down at Y/N, her lips curving into a smile as she whispered, “Yes, Y/N. A thousand times, yes.”

Y/N’s heart soared as she slipped the ring onto Jana’s finger, feeling a rush of happiness as she stood, only for Jana to pull her into a deep, heartfelt embrace. They stayed there, holding each other close, swaying slightly in the sand as the sun continued its slow descent.

After a long moment, Jana pulled back slightly, looking at the ring, her fingers tracing it with reverence. “I love it,” she murmured, meeting Y/N’s gaze. “And I love you.”

“I love you too,” Y/N replied, her voice barely a whisper as she leaned in, capturing Jana’s lips in a soft kiss.

The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them standing by the shore, two hearts joined in a promise of forever.

Excitement buzzed between Y/N and Jana as they walked into the Barcelona training facility the morning after their engagement. They’d spent most of the night talking, still a little in awe of what had just happened. Now, they were ready to share the news with the people they loved.

Y/N gave Jana a sideways smile as they stepped into the locker room. “Ready to drop the bombshell?”

Jana grinned, squeezing Y/N’s hand before they split up to join their teammates. “Let’s see how long it takes them to figure it out.”

The morning training session was like any other—or at least, that’s what everyone else thought. Y/N couldn’t help the smile that kept creeping onto her face, and she caught Jana beaming at her from across the field more than once.

It wasn’t long before their friends started to notice something was up.

Bruna, always the observant one, jogged over during a break, her eyes narrowing playfully. “Okay, what’s going on with you two? I don’t think I’ve seen either of you stop smiling all morning.”

Jana tried to look innocent, shrugging. “Can’t a girl just be happy?”

Bruna raised an eyebrow. “You’re practically glowing. Both of you are.”

Y/N exchanged a quick look with Jana, her heart racing as she pulled off her gloves, revealing the subtle but beautiful ring glinting on her finger. She held her hand up casually, watching Bruna’s face as realization dawned.

“Oh my god!” Bruna’s eyes went wide, and she let out a shout of excitement that immediately drew the attention of the rest of the team. “You’re engaged?!”

By now, all of their teammates were gathering around, eyes wide with curiosity and excitement. Jana held up her own hand, showing the matching ring on her finger, and the locker room erupted in cheers, laughter, and squeals of excitement.

“Oh, you two are perfect together!” Mapi exclaimed, pulling them both into a tight hug. “Finally, someone made a good decision!”

Patri shook her head in disbelief, hugging Y/N tightly. “You kept it a secret for a whole day? How did you manage that?”

“It was hard,” Y/N admitted with a laugh, glancing over at Jana. “But we wanted to surprise you.”

In true team fashion, the celebrations continued well into their break, with their teammates insisting on hearing every detail about how Y/N proposed, where it happened, and exactly how many times Jana had cried. Laughter filled the room as Jana recounted the proposal, her cheeks turning pink as she tried to give Y/N a playful glare every time she shared one of the sappier details.

Finally, Alexia called for a group picture, gathering everyone around Y/N and Jana. They stood arm-in-arm, their teammates cheering and throwing their arms around them. In the photo, Y/N and Jana stood in the middle, holding each other close, both of them smiling as if they couldn’t quite believe this was real.

As they headed back to the field, Y/N looked around at her teammates, each one congratulating them with hugs and kind words. It felt like she and Jana weren’t just building a future together, but that they had the support and love of everyone around them too.

As the session wrapped up, Y/N caught Jana’s hand, leaning in to whisper, “Looks like our family just got a little bit bigger.”

Jana smiled back, her eyes shining with love. “And I couldn’t be happier.”

A few weeks after their engagement, Y/N and Jana found themselves sitting at a cozy café with wedding magazines scattered around their table, notepads filled with ideas, and a checklist that seemed to grow by the minute. They’d spent hours talking about their vision for the wedding: a celebration of love and friendship with their closest family and friends, somewhere beautiful yet intimate.

Jana leaned forward, flipping through one of the magazines and pausing at a picture of a rustic, coastal venue. “Imagine getting married by the sea,” she murmured dreamily, her fingers tracing the photo.

Y/N smiled, reaching across the table to take her hand. “Wherever it is, it’ll be perfect. As long as you’re there.”

Jana chuckled, squeezing her hand. “Sappy already. You’re getting an early start.”

They laughed, flipping through more pages and discussing color schemes, flower arrangements, and their favorite foods to serve. But there was one thing they both agreed on from the start: they wanted their friends by their sides, especially the ones who’d been part of their journey.

Later that week, after training, they gathered a small group of their closest teammates in the locker room, hearts racing with excitement. Jana looked around, grinning as she started, “So… we have something to ask you all.”

The teammates—Alexia, Mapi, Patri, and Bruna—looked at each other, curious expressions on their faces. Y/N took a breath, meeting Jana’s gaze for a moment before turning back to their friends.

“We’d be so honored if each of you would stand with us as bridesmaids at our wedding,” Y/N said, her voice warm and genuine. “You’ve all been there for us through so much, and it wouldn’t feel right without you by our sides.”

For a moment, there was silence as their friends processed what they’d just asked. Then, all at once, excitement erupted.

“Oh my god, yes!” Mapi practically shouted, pulling both Y/N and Jana into a bear hug. “You’re not getting rid of us now!”

“Are you kidding? I would be honored!” Patri said, her eyes shining as she hugged Jana tightly. “Thank you for including us.”

Bruna beamed, looking genuinely touched. “This is going to be beautiful. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Alexia, ever the sentimental one, pulled them both in for a quiet hug, smiling softly. “I’ll be there, every step of the way. It’s an honor, really.”

The rest of the evening was filled with laughter, ideas, and plans as they all talked about dresses, music, and their own hopes for the wedding. Each of the soon-to-be bridesmaids shared their ideas for everything from the bachelorette party to the types of flowers they’d love to see, and Y/N couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. This was her family, a group that had seen her through thick and thin, and now they’d stand beside her on one of the most important days of her life.

As the night wound down, Y/N looked over at Jana, her heart swelling as she took in the sight of her fiancée laughing and chatting with their closest friends.

This wasn’t just about the wedding—it was about the life they were building together, surrounded by people who loved and supported them both. And for Y/N, it was more than she’d ever dreamed of.

The sun peeked through the trees, casting a warm glow over the seaside venue where Y/N and Jana’s wedding was set to take place. The air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore. It was the perfect day for a celebration, and everything felt magical.

Inside the venue, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. Y/N stood in front of a large mirror, her heart racing as she took in her reflection. The white suit tailored beautifully, delicate embroidery with lilac details shimmering in the soft light. She felt beautiful, but more importantly, she felt ready to commit her life to the woman she loved.

As she turned to her bridesmaids, a smile broke out on her face. “Can you believe this day is finally here?”

Mapi, in her lilac dress, nodded enthusiastically. “We’ve been waiting for this! You two are going to be incredible together.”

Alexia was busy adjusting Y/N’s tie, laughing and teasing her in the process. “Just remember to breathe,” Mapi said, her own excitement evident. “You’ve got this!”

Meanwhile, Jana was in a nearby room, surrounded by her own bridesmaids. The atmosphere was equally filled with joy and anticipation. She wore a stunning dress that hugged her figure perfectly, her smile radiant as she reflected on everything that had led to this moment.

“I can’t believe we’re finally doing this!” Jana exclaimed, looking at her reflection. “I’m about to marry my best friend.”

“Just remember, when you see Y/N, you’re going to lose it,” Bruna teased, giving Jana a playful nudge. “Make sure to keep it together!”

As the ceremony approached, Y/N’s nerves began to kick in. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, envisioning the moment she’d finally say “I do.”

When it was time, the bridesmaids walked down the aisle, each of them looking stunning and filled with joy. Finally, it was Jana’s turn. The music shifted, and she took her first step, the world around her fading away as she focused on the love of her life standing at the altar.

Y/N's eyes lit up the moment she spotted Jana, her breath hitching at the sight of her. It was as if time stood still, and all her worries melted away. With every step Jana took, a smile crept onto her face, and her heart swelled with love.

As Jana reached the altar, they exchanged soft smiles, an unspoken understanding passing between them. The officiant began the ceremony, and Y/N could hardly pay attention to the words, lost in the depth of Jana’s gaze.

They shared personal vows, each pouring their heart out in front of family and friends. Y/N’s voice trembled with emotion as she spoke about their journey, the struggles they’d faced, and the unwavering love that had brought them to this moment.

“I promise to always support you, to encourage you, and to love you fiercely, no matter what life throws our way,” Y/N vowed, her eyes shining with tears of joy.

Jana reciprocated with equal passion. “You’ve taught me so much about love and acceptance. I promise to always be by your side, to cherish every moment we share, and to grow together through everything life brings us.”

When they exchanged rings, it felt like the world had fallen away, leaving only the two of them in that moment. The officiant pronounced them married, and they leaned in for a kiss, sealing their vows with laughter and tears of happiness. The crowd erupted in applause and cheers, and it was as if the world had exploded into colors and joy.

After the ceremony, the reception was filled with laughter, heartfelt speeches, and dancing. Their friends celebrated their love, and the atmosphere was electric with happiness. Y/N and Jana shared their first dance as a married couple, the world around them fading as they focused only on each other.

As they swayed to the music, Y/N whispered, “I can’t believe we made it.”

Jana smiled, her eyes glistening with joy. “We did, and it’s just the beginning.”

The night continued with dancing, laughter, and endless celebrations. Y/N felt like she was living in a dream, surrounded by love and joy. As she looked around at the people who had supported them throughout their journey, she realized just how lucky they were to have each other and their amazing friends.

Later in the evening, Y/N and Jana took a moment to step outside, the cool breeze brushing against their skin as they looked out at the ocean.

“Look at us,” Y/N said, wrapping her arms around Jana’s waist. “Married.”

Jana chuckled softly, leaning her head against Y/N’s shoulder. “I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Underneath the stars, surrounded by the sounds of waves and distant laughter, they shared a gentle kiss, knowing that this was only the beginning of their beautiful journey together.

The sound of waves gently lapping against the shore filled the air as Y/N and Jana stepped onto the sandy beach, hand in hand. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over everything and creating a picturesque scene. They had chosen a secluded island for their honeymoon, a place that felt like paradise, where they could bask in the warmth of their love without a care in the world.

As they walked along the shoreline, the soft sand beneath their feet, Y/N turned to Jana with a playful smile. “Can you believe we’re finally here? Married and on our honeymoon?”

Jana’s face lit up, her eyes sparkling with joy. “It feels like a dream, doesn’t it? I still can’t believe how perfect the wedding was. And now… this.” She gestured to the breathtaking view around them.

They stopped for a moment, the sun setting behind them, and Y/N pulled Jana into a tight embrace. “I’m so grateful to be sharing this with you. You make every moment feel special.”

Jana snuggled closer, resting her head against Y/N’s shoulder. “And you make me feel loved, every single day.”

After a leisurely stroll, they settled on a cozy beach blanket, surrounded by fluffy pillows and a small picnic basket filled with their favorite snacks and a bottle of champagne. Jana uncorked the bottle, the sound echoing in the stillness of the evening, and poured them both a glass.

“To us,” Jana said, raising her glass with a smile that made Y/N’s heart flutter. “To our love, our adventure, and a lifetime of happiness together.”

Y/N clinked her glass against Jana’s, her heart swelling with emotion. “To us,” she echoed, savoring the moment.

They sipped their champagne, laughing and chatting about everything and nothing at all. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, Y/N felt a sense of peace wash over her. It was as if the world had faded away, leaving just the two of them in their own little paradise.

After finishing their snacks, Jana leaned back on the blanket, her fingers tracing shapes in the sand. “You know, I can’t believe we’ve come so far,” she said softly. “From friends to lovers to… this.”

Y/N lay beside her, propping herself up on one elbow to gaze into Jana’s eyes. “I’ve loved every moment of our journey. You’ve made me a better person, Jana.”

Jana smiled, her cheeks flushing. “You’re perfect just the way you are, Y/N. I fell in love with you for all the reasons you doubt yourself. You’re strong, kind, and so talented.”

Y/N felt her heart swell at Jana’s words. “I just… I can’t help but feel lucky. I get to spend my life with you.”

As night fell, they lay together on the blanket, the stars twinkling above them. Y/N pointed up at the sky, excitement in her voice. “Look at all those stars! It’s like a blanket of diamonds.”

Jana chuckled, glancing up. “You know, I read somewhere that the best time to make a wish is when you see a shooting star.”

“Then let’s make wishes!” Y/N exclaimed, closing her eyes tightly. “I wish for endless happiness with you.”

Jana smiled, squeezing Y/N’s hand. “I wish for every dream we’ve ever had to come true.”

The two of them lay in silence for a moment, basking in the comfort of each other’s presence. The soft sounds of the waves created a soothing background, making Y/N feel as if they were the only two people in the world.

Eventually, Y/N turned to face Jana, her expression serious yet soft. “Jana, I want you to know how much you mean to me. You’re my everything, and I promise to love you fiercely every day for the rest of our lives.”

Jana’s eyes glistened with tears of happiness. “You have no idea how much that means to me, Y/N. I feel so blessed to have you in my life. You make me feel alive.”

With a gentle hand, Y/N brushed a strand of hair behind Jana’s ear, her touch tender. “I will always cherish you, always support you, and always be your biggest fan.”

Jana leaned forward, capturing Y/N’s lips in a sweet kiss, their hearts entwined in that moment. It was slow and tender, a promise of forever sealed between them. As they pulled away, they rested their foreheads against each other, their breaths mingling in the warm evening air.

“Let’s make this honeymoon unforgettable,” Jana suggested, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Y/N laughed, intrigued. “What do you have in mind?”

Jana grinned, her excitement infectious. “How about a midnight swim? Just you and me, under the stars.”

“Sounds perfect,” Y/N agreed, her heart racing at the thought of sharing such a magical experience.

They stood up, hand in hand, and made their way toward the water. The moonlight danced on the waves, creating a shimmering pathway as they entered the cool ocean. The water embraced them, and they laughed, splashing each other playfully, feeling the exhilaration of being alive and in love.

As they swam, Y/N pulled Jana closer, their laughter echoing across the water. The connection they shared felt stronger than ever, solidifying their bond as they splashed and twirled in the waves.

After what felt like hours, they finally emerged from the water, breathless and full of joy. They wrapped themselves in soft towels, the night air warm against their skin.

As they lay back on the beach, gazing up at the stars once more, Y/N turned to Jana, her heart full. “I can’t wait to create a lifetime of memories with you.”

Jana’s smile was radiant. “With you, every moment is an adventure. I love you, Y/N.”

“I love you too, Jana,�� Y/N replied, her voice soft yet filled with conviction.

And as the waves continued to roll in, carrying their laughter into the night, they knew this was just the beginning of their beautiful journey together.

Bound by love, bound for life.

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

The End

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Hidden Treasure 1

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as dubcon/noncon, obsession, and other possible triggers. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: your quiet life is interrupted by a tempestuous man. (reader is Blair from Follow You Anywhere)

Characters: Thor

Note: I just did it, okay?

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me <3

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Asking for more or putting ‘part 2?’ is not feedback.

Love you all. You are appreciated and your are worthy. Treat yourself with care. 💖

You lay out the hand-sewn coin purses along the left side of the table, completing the array of your hand-made and repurposed goods. It’s a good day to sell, sunny but not too hot, the early days of spring when people are eager to get out. At least it should be. Despite your selection, you’re not the most personable vendor along the square. 

The last detail is the hand-painted wood sign. You did it yourself; an antique frame you added a gold hue to and filled with a thin sheet of board. It isn’t much but it tells people what they’re looking at; handmade and renewed goods. 

You fold your hands and hover behind your table. You’re a one-person operation. It’s your own table, your own money, your own everything. It brings in enough for you to live. Just you and your cluttered apartment. 

The coin purses and the sleepers you sew by hand are the more popular sellers. Anything for children goes first, you notice. Everyone seems to be having them. The older crowd radiate towards the old candlesticks you polished to a shine or the glass-shaded lamps you tediously re-wired. Most try to haggle but your prices are fair enough. 

You peer around at the produce stands, the soap and candle makers, and the crocheted stuffies of your fellow sellers. You do a bit of window shopping but never follow through on your wandering eyes. You don’t need to waste the money on the pretty new things, you have lots of lovely old things. 

The traffic picks up and you busy yourself with the browsers. A woman with a stroller buys several of the infant dresses and headband, a group of older ladies peruse the aged hardcovers and pick out a few, while a couple comments on the brass-based lamp with the dangling chain. You do your best to smile through the transactions. 

The rises higher in the sky towards its apex. The steady flow keeps you busy, with some time in-between to work on fixing the binding of one of the old editions. You like to keep yourself distracted, thinking can be dangerous. With how much time you spend alone, it’s hard to avoid. 

As you lock up the cash box and tuck it back under the table, a shadow passes over, large than any other. For a moment, you think a cloud’s passing over the sun. You look up at the sky as a broad figure stands across from you.  

You don’t know how you didn’t see the man’s approach. He’s huge. Tall and wide. He doesn’t seem the type to be interested in your selection. Still, he leans in to eye the embroidered coin purses and gives a rumbling hum that sounds like distant thunder. 

He picks up one with primroses sewn into it. His thick thumb brushes the threaded design and his large hand makes the coin purse look even smaller. You tap your fingers on the table as his eyes flick up and meet yours. 

“Hi, uh, how can I help you?” You whittle out of your tight throat. It’s not often a lone man finds interest in your things. You cater to a more femme audience. 

“This is nice,” he remarks, “do you make these?” 

“Uh, yes, I do,” you give a tight-lipped smile, “I just embroider old used purses.” 

“Just? That’s splendid work,” he brings it closer to his face and looks down his nose at the little flowers and leaves, “my mother would love this... mother’s day is coming, eh?” 

“Oh, um, yes, I suppose,” you agree. “It’s five dollars. Cash only.” 

“Mm,” he traces his thumb over the metal clasp as he taps his back pocket with his other hand, “don’t think I’ve any on me. Could you hold this for me?” He offers the coin purse, “I’ll find the ATM.” 

“Sure, I could do that.” 

You take the coin purse, fingers brushing his rough skin, and you set it aside. 

“Thank you,” he smiles broadly, blue eyes twinkling as lines creases around them and across his forehead. 

He reluctantly trails away and you watch him go. His golden hair is longer than most, twisted into a low bun behind his hand as a few strands dangle freely around his face. He wears a denim jacket over dark red tee and grey jeans, along with a pair of scuffed brown boots. He stands out even in his casual attire. 

You shrug off the encounter and turn to your next customers. More baby clothes. The women chat about a baby show and you point them to the newborn sizes, telling them about the fabrics you use for each. They buy a few bibs along with the sleepers and diaper covers. 

You back up and sit in the folding chair, drinking deeply from your bottle of water. You don’t know if it’s the interactions or the sun making you dizzy. It’s close to noon. You always start to feel it around this time.  

The hours surrounded by strange faces and buzzing voices are clustering in your head and chest. Only a little longer; the market only runs until two. If the world didn’t require money to survive, you might never leave your apartment. Yet your table is the only means you have to keep walls around you. 

You sit a bit longer and get up again. You’re okay. You should’ve eaten before you left the apartment. How silly of you to forget the overnight oats you had put in the fridge just the night before. You do forget quite a few things. 

The market thrums with the late morning rush and you brace yourself for the final stretch. If you can clear off half the table, you might not have to come back next weekend. You’d be all too content to stay in your own little world, the one beyond is too loud and too bright. 

🕰️

You fold your table up and push the hook around the peg to keep it shut. You fold up the chair as well and lean both with your boxes. As the market clears out, you pull up your small two-door and load your wares into the back hatch. 

You peer over at the other vendors and their vans and trucks. Crews of half a dozen or more pack away goods and chatter just as loud as the previous crowds. It’s an isolating moment. You don’t mind going unnoticed but sometimes you feel so small. 

As you put a box in the back of the car, your keys slip off your finger. You bend and feel around the tire to retrieve them and sense a shadow above you. You clasp your hand around the keyring and stand-up suddenly, turning to face the figure behind you. There’s no one there. 

You peer around but find nothing out of the ordinary. You return to your task and pause. You don’t remember putting that box away yet... 

You shake your head. You’re just tired and forgetful. Your cardinal vices. Your mind wanders too much to rest, too much to keep order. 

You put the last box away and close the hatch. You get in the driver’s seat and turn the engine. It putters softly but it runs well enough. The old car has gotten you through the years just fine. There was a time that tiny thing was your home. 

You pull away down the lane parallel to the edge of the market square and pull out into traffic. You drive without seeing, led by habit as you stop at signs along the way, turning around corners mindlessly. You stop and wait to pull into your building’s lot and notice the large storm grey jeep behind you. It strikes you as peculiar; you enter from a back street to avoid the rush. 

You steer into the lot and the jeep continues down the street past the building. You forget it as quickly as it rolls beyond the faded brick. You find your spot, parking pass dangling from the mirror, and shut off the engine. You linger and take a breath. You're hungry and tired. 

You leave your things in the car and go upstairs. You slow as you pass your neighbour’s door. You saw her yesterday, she was in trouble about something. The police came as she hid from her boyfriend in your apartment. You didn’t even know she had one. You tried not to be nosy but she seemed real upset. 

Your cheeks tinge as you stare at the numbers on her door. She’s the only person who’s ever been inside your apartment. You don’t welcome people in, not into your home or your life. You hadn’t meant to let her in but you were so tired and confused, you couldn’t stop her. 

You cringe and continue down to your door with one last glance over your shoulder. You put the key in the slot and turn with a grind. You scurry inside and quickly lock the door, afraid she might once more emerge and follow you inside. Or that man, the big one with the beard. 

You twist the latch back into place and put your keys in the tray on the cramped shelf. The apartment is dark, the windows shrouded in black fabric, and you flip on the overhead light to guide you down the hallway. The walls are made tighter as their lined with endless shelves and tables, all filled with your collection of curiosities. 

You go to the fridge and take out the mason jar of steeped oats. You sit and eat the soft, pasty oats and the berries. You didn’t add enough cinnamon. It doesn’t matter, your stomach greedily mulches it. You put the kettle on and wait for it to steam. 

As you pace around, you hear a loud rumble. An engine. You don’t think much of it but you go to the window to peek out around the dark fabric. A woman walks a large dog past a grey jeep parked along the curb. Is it the same one you saw before? 

The question doesn’t pique your mind much. That’s the way of the world, you find. It’s a lot smaller than it seems, yet to you, it’s inexorably vast. It’s too fast, too unpredictable. You retreat as the kettle whistles. 

Your apartment is small and warm and safe. The world can’t follow you back here. Not if you don’t let it in and you won’t be doing that again. 

-🕰️

You decide, against your better instincts, to go to market. The weather is nice and it wouldn’t be so bad add a few extra bucks to your nest egg. You never know what might come up, or what you might find! Too many times you stumbled upon an antique you just couldn’t afford. 

You go through your usual ritual. You set up the table and the chair, and arrange your things in the same way around the wooden sign. As you put your boxes to the side, you hear a rattle at the bottom of one. You look into the crate and notice the silver ring. How’d that get in there? You didn’t bring any jewelry. 

You put down the box and reach inside. You take out the ring and turn it. You’ve never seen it before. There’s a strange stick symbol on the flat face. Maybe another language or a run of some type. You turn it in your hand and tuck it in your pocket. You’ll have to give a closer look at home. 

It’s early and a few stragglers trickle in, but they all walk by your table without pause. 

You sit and take out the jar of oats. You remembered today. You’d woken up with a hunger so deep, you almost ate before you left. You know better than to eat too early. Instead, you had your tea and got yourself moving. 

You stir the blueberries in and eat slowly, trying to measure your bites so you don’t feel sick after. You watch the other vendors, some still setting up, and lazily swallow down the thick oatmeal. It feels like it might rain after all, there’s a touch of damp in the air. 

You finish up and put the jar away. As you wipe your mouth with your sleeve, a woman’s voice trills and pricks your ears. Silver hair with a few wisps of gold peak out from her silk headscarf. The teal fabric matches the pattern of her blouse, tucking into a finely pressed skirt. She’s not alone, she has her arm hooked through another. 

Her companion is younger than her. His golden hair is pulled half up at the crown of his head as he towers over her lithe frame. You squint, they might be related. As they approach, you get a whiff of deja vu. 

“Yes, it was this one, mother,” the man’s voice is deep. 

“How lovely, look at all these treasures,” she slips her arm free as she approaches, “hello, dear, is this all yours?” 

“Mhmm, yes,” you stand up, “are you looking for something in particular?” 

“I think we’re just browsing,” she smiles brightly, her lips painted a gentle shade of rose. 

“A coin purse,” the man says, “with prim rose? Do you recall?” 

You look at him. Faces aren’t easy for you but his voice strikes something in your mind, and his size. You haven’t seen a lot of men that big, only the one in your neighbour’s apartment. You think you remember holding something but the customer never came back. 

“This one,” you point to the coin purse, set back in the row. 

“Yes, that was me,” he chimes, “mother,” he pulls the primrose purse to the top. She takes it and he looks back to you, “I apologise that I didn’t return, there was an emergency and I had to be off.” 

“It’s okay,” you shrug, folding your hands together. 

The woman is looking at you. There’s something in her gaze that makes you squirm. Her eyes linger just a bit longer before she aims them at the purse, admiring the embroidery as she feels it beneath her thumb. 

“Yes, I do like this one,” she says. 

“I brought cash this time,” the man booms and reaches into his pocket, “five, I believe you said.” 

“Yes,” you accept the bill from him, his skin rough as his fingertips touch yours, “thanks. Erm, did you need a bag?” 

“For this? No,” she wiggles the purse playfully and reaches for the man, her son, with other hand. She caresses his knuckles as she faces him, “you were right. Very beautiful.” 

He smiles broadly, proudly almost. It’s just a purse. You hide your discomfort as you grip your arm at your elbow. 

“Thank you,” the woman chirps back at you, sending another grin in your direction, “you might see us again.” 

She hooks her arm once more through her son’s and leads him to the next booth. You peer after them as her attention clings to the purse as she continues to feel it between her fingers. She leans into his arm as she speaks to him quietly. They seem close, it’s sweet. Your own mother had never been so affectionate. 

You look away before the scene can pluck in your chest. It doesn’t matter. You’re grown up now. That’s all behind you. 

[chroniclesofskz]

Finding Harmony

Y/N stood at the window of her sleek, modern apartment in bustling Seoul, feeling like a fish out of water. The vibrant cityscape stretched before her, with towering skyscrapers glimmering under the afternoon sun, a far cry from the peaceful Cotswolds she had left behind in England. Memories of idyllic rolling hills and charming cobblestone streets flooded her mind, making her heart ache for what she had left behind. Her father had been offered a prestigious position as the CEO of a new music company, a position that promised lavish perks and a high-profile lifestyle. While the job was a dream come true for him, it felt like a nightmare for her, thrusting her into a world of noise and frenetic energy that she wasn't prepared for.

For weeks, she’d grumbled in frustration, resenting the move that had uprooted her quiet life. “What’s wrong with the Cotswolds?” she often muttered under her breath, feeling like a captive in her own home. Her father, determined to assuage her discontent, hired a bodyguard named Mr. Kim—a stoic but kind-hearted man who had a reputation for being fiercely protective. While his presence was meant to offer her safety, Y/N felt stifled; she longed for independence, not the shadow of someone else following her every move.

One particularly dreary afternoon filled with gray clouds and dreariness, her father handed her his sleek black credit card, an invitation to a shopping spree in hopes of lifting her spirits. “Take Mr. Kim with you,” he insisted, his voice warm but firm. With a reluctant sigh, she agreed, knowing that arguing would only frustrate them both. As she prepared for their outing, she carefully selected her outfit—a mix of old money sophistication that hinted at her upper-class upbringing; knee-high boots that peeked out from under her chic plaid skirt, a cozy sweater vest layered over a crisp white shirt, and a delicate gold chain glinting against her collarbone. The look was polished yet age-appropriate—perfect for someone trying to blend in yet stand out in a city known for its fashion.

With her Louis Vuitton backpack swung over her shoulder, tightly grasping her matching scarf, she stepped out into the cacophony of the streets. The sounds of honking cars, chattering crowds, and street vendors bustling filled her ears, creating a sharp contrast to the serene sound of birds chirping back home. But as the hours flew by, shopping transformed her annoyance into reluctant amusement. New outfits, decadent skincare products, and the latest makeup trends began to fill her sense of style, slowly molding her new identity. She could see her walk-in wardrobe taking on colorful life, her reflection painted in hues she had only dreamt of.

After what felt like an exhausting marathon of shopping, Mr. Kim observed her senses awakening to the city, and recommended they take a break at a nearby café. “You’ve earned it,” he said with a supportive smile. Nodding grudgingly, Y/N followed him to a cozy bar that was rumored to be popular with the youth of Seoul. The anticipation of the unknown filled her with dread; what could possibly go wrong?

As they entered, she felt her heart sink as she caught sight of the karaoke stage illuminated in neon lights. “No way,” she whispered, horror evident in her voice. She hadn’t sung in public since she was twelve, her childhood dreams crushed under the cold weight of her father’s high expectations to make her a part of a girl group. The idea of stepping back into the spotlight made her stomach twist with anxiety.

They settled into their seats, trying to engage in small talk among the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and applause from those performing. Just as Y/N was starting to feel comfortable, the DJ took the microphone, his exuberant personality shining through as he called for volunteers to join him on stage. With a sinking feeling, she watched as Mr. Kim stood up with newfound vigor, an enthusiastic fire in his eyes. “Hell no!” she protested, her voice sharp and tinged with disbelief, but to her horror, Mr. Kim, acting with authority, insisted, “As your bodyguard, I can make you do this.”

Before she could protest further, the DJ grabbed her hand and pulled her to the front of the stage as if she were caught in an inevitable current. The stage lights blazed down upon her, and panic coursed through her veins. Questions swirled in her mind: What if her voice cracked? What if she forgot the lyrics? With each second that passed, the adrenaline rushed, rendering her momentarily frozen.

Suddenly, out of the corner of her eye, she spotted the members of Stray Kids—an electrifying boy band known for their hit songs and charming personalities. They had come in for a fun night of karaoke, and the sight sent another wave of anxiety racing through her. What if they laughed? What if they thought she was just another wannabe star, crammed into the same mold that had suffocated her passion so many years ago? However, her thoughts were interrupted as the DJ leaned over and whispered to Mr. Kim, eagerly awaiting the tempo to change. “Play ‘Since You’ve Been Gone’ by Kelly Clarkson,” he instructed.

“What?” Y/N thought, wide-eyed and incredulous. She was caught off guard, feeling faintly dizzy as the song began to play. She had loved that song back in the day, often belting the lyrics in her room while dreaming about becoming a singer. But now, standing in front of a crowd—especially with Stray Kids watching—her confidence was non-existent. She felt the weight of the spotlight pushing down on her, and her heart raced.

As the music kicked in, she felt a rush of panic settling over her. The first lines tumbled awkwardly from her lips, her voice shaking. She could feel eyes on her, and she suddenly became hyper-aware of how exposed she felt. The initial cheers from the crowd felt like daggers, and she could sense the awkwardness creeping in. However, as the tempo increased and the chorus neared, a flicker of determination sparked within her.

Summoning every ounce of courage, Y/N closed her eyes for a moment, letting the music wash over her. It was time to free herself from the fear that had held her captive for so long. Impulsively, she shifted her stance, letting the rhythm guide her, her feet moving in sync with the beat. As she began to dance and infuse her performance with energy, the skepticism from the audience melted away, replaced by enthusiasm.

The crowd responded instantly, cheering louder as Y/N found her footing. Each note soared with newfound confidence, her voice weaving through the lyrics, hitting every note and effortlessly dancing across the stage. She felt free, unencumbered by her past fears, and with each verse, she grew more animated. The vibrant lights illuminated her transformation, and for that moment, she was no longer Y/N—the girl who felt lost in a new city; she was a performer, a force to be reckoned with.

The performance took on a life of its own. After finishing "Since You’ve Been Gone,", the whole room erupted in applause, the infectious energy pushing her to continue. Without even thinking, she jumped into another song: “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing” by Tori Kelly. The crowd remained captivated as they cheered her on, spurring her to dance even more passionately, forgetting her inhibitions.

As she stepped off stage, breathless and euphoric, a palpable wave of adrenaline raced through her. A boy approached her, his charismatic smile disarming her instantly. “You were incredible!” he gushed, and Y/N felt her cheeks flush with warmth. “I’m Felix,” he introduced himself, his animated enthusiasm radiating off him. As they chatted, her initial nerves faded, replaced by laughter and curiosity.

Mr. Kim observed from a distance, his knowing smile and approving nod confirming that they shared something special. It seemed as though he’d orchestrated this encounter—hoping Y/N would open up in a way she hadn’t anticipated. Despite her reluctance, she enjoyed Felix’s presence, his genuine compliments slowly removing the last vestiges of her insecurities.

They talked effortlessly for hours amidst the noise of the bar, discussing everything from music to their favorite foods, and life in Korea versus England. Felix’s laid-back demeanor made her feel at ease; he didn’t push her to open up more than she wanted, respecting her boundaries yet leaving her curious about him.

“I’d love to see you perform again,” he said, his eyes sparkling with interest. “You have a real talent. Have you thought about singing professionally?”

Y/N hesitated at the question, the old familiar feelings creeping back in. “I used to dream about it,” she admitted, her voice softening. “But my dad… he has big plans for me, and I’m not sure I want that life.”

Felix nodded, understanding sparking in his expression. “Sometimes you have to find your own path, even if it means stepping out of someone else's shadow,” he replied thoughtfully. There was a depth to him that resonated with Y/N, filling her with a warmth she hadn’t anticipated.

Over the following months, Y/N and Felix found themselves gravitating toward each other. Karaoke outings became a cherished ritual, each visit intertwining their lives further with friendship—and perhaps, something deeper. They explored the unique flavors of Korea together, visiting quaint street markets adorned with colorful lanterns, indulging in spicy tteokbokki, and standing in awe of ancient temples hidden amidst modern architecture.

One brisk evening, as they meandered the charming streets after yet another night of singing, the chill in the air made Y/N tuck her chin into her scarf. Felix stopped to face her in the soft

glow of a nearby streetlamp, creating a cozy halo around them both. His eyes sparkled with a mix of hesitation and intensity, as if he were weighing unspoken words on his tongue. “Y/N,” he began, taking a step closer, “there’s something I’ve wanted to tell you.”

Her heart raced, caught between excitement and nervousness. This was the moment she had been anticipating and dreading all at once. “What is it?” she asked, her voice steady yet soft.

He hesitated for just a moment, searching her eyes as if trying to find the right words. “Since the first time I heard you sing, I’ve been captivated by your passion and spirit. You shine in a way that's rare, and I believe you should be sharing that with the world… not just in karaoke bars, but everywhere. You'll look back one day and wonder why you let fear hold you back.”

Y/N felt a swell of emotion rising within her; she had never thought of herself in that light since moving to Korea. Felix’s encouragement cracked through the shell of insecurity she wore like armor. “Thank you, really,” she replied, her honesty reflected in her gaze. “But it’s complicated. I’ve let go of that dream for so long. My father has this vision for me, and I’m… well, I’m scared.”

Felix reached out, gently drawing her closer, his warmth and comfort enveloping her. “You have to follow your heart, no matter what. That is the only path worth taking. If it’s something you love, you’ll find your way,” he urged softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

In that moment, the air thickened with unsaid sentiments. Y/N felt her heart hammering against her chest, as if it were trying to break free from all the restraints she had built around it. “It’s just… it feels so safe to hide behind my father’s plans,” she confessed, vulnerability spilling from her lips.

Felix moved even closer, his breath warm against her face. “And the greatest adventures often start outside of our comfort zones,” he encouraged, his voice a gentle caress. She caught a glimpse of sincerity in his eyes, kind and reassuring.

With the world around them fading into obscurity, Felix leaned in and kissed her deeply. His lips were soft yet insistent, their warmth igniting something within her. It wasn’t just his kiss—it was everything he represented: freedom, potential, and passion. Y/N melted into him, feeling the burden of doubt lift from her shoulders. This was the beginning of a beautiful discovery, not just with Felix, but also within herself.

As they pulled apart, breathless and slightly dazed, the reality of the moment washed over Y/N. Their gazes locked, and she could see the promise of something more than just friendship in the depths of his eyes. “I’ve never felt this way before,” she murmured, staring into his warm brown eyes.

“Well, there’s a lot of life left to live, and I’d love to help you explore it,” he replied with an encouraging grin, his fingers intertwining with hers. “Let’s take on this city together.”

Days turned into weeks, and with each rendezvous that followed, Y/N began to rediscover her love for music. Felix encouraged her to practice singing, teasingly daring her to unleash her voice, and she found herself gaining more confidence with every note she sang. They would gather in his cozy apartment, filled with laughter and the sound of shared playlists that melded their tastes into one harmonious blend. She felt a sense of belonging she hadn’t realized she craved.

With Felix by her side, she also searched for avenues to express her talent. After many discussions, she finally decided to take a leap of faith. Encouraged by Felix and Mr. Kim, Y/N decided to audition for a local music competition that showcased rising talents. Although fear crept back in, threatening her resolve, she found the strength to push past it.

The day of the audition, she stood backstage, her heart hammering in her chest as she watched the other contestants. It was a colorful mix of hopeful artists, each waiting for their moment in the spotlight. As Y/N approached the stage, memories of her father’s expectations and the fear of failure flickered through her mind, but she remembered Felix's words: “Follow your heart.”

Taking a deep breath, she stepped into the flood of stage lights, the audience blurring before her as she thought of all the nights spent practicing, of all the support she received from Felix, and of the way the music made her feel alive. She selected a powerful ballad, something that spoke to the journey she had taken. As she began to sing, her voice soared, rich and confident, wrapping around each note like a warm embrace.

The audience was captured by her performance, the energy palpable as they swayed and cheered with encouragement. Midway through, she

caught a glimpse of Felix in the crowd, his smile radiant and filled with pride. Seeing him standing there, his features illuminated by the stage lights, was the final push she needed. She embraced the moment, letting go of her fears completely. This was her chance to reclaim her love for music, to break free from the shadows, and to truly embrace her own identity.

As she finished the song, the applause erupted like a storm, a tidal wave of affirmation washing over her. Breathless and overwhelmed, she stepped off the stage, emotions swirling inside her. She had done it—she had faced her fears and emerged victorious. The thrill of being embraced by the crowd filled her with a sense of belonging that she had longed for since arriving in Korea.

Felix rushed over, his eyes sparkling with excitement and admiration. “You were incredible! I knew you had it in you!” he exclaimed, pulling her into a celebratory hug that felt warm and grounding. She buried her face in his shoulder, a mix of relief and happiness surging through her.

Days passed, and the competition results were announced. To her astonishment, Y/N made it to the final round and, more importantly, was embraced by the community she had once felt so isolated from. The newfound confidence had seeped into every aspect of her life, altering her dynamic with her father and pushing her to have difficult conversations about her dreams and passions.

When she finally spoke to her father about her aspirations, he listened with a mix of surprise and pride, realizing how deeply music resided within her. It took time, but he began to understand that this was not just about him; it was about Y/N finding her own voice and path. They began to reconcile, forging a new understanding and a bond built on genuine support.

As for Y/N and Felix, their relationship flourished, blossoming into a love defined by mutual respect and encouragement. Karaoke nights turned into songwriting sessions, adventures, and shared dreams. Every stage she graced became a reminder of her journey—a testament to her resilience.

One crisp evening, back where it all began in the same bustling bar where she had first stepped into the spotlight, Felix took her hand and pulled her close, whispering, “This is just the beginning for us, Y/N. Let’s make a lifetime of music and memories together.”

With a smile that lit up her face, Y/N knew he was right. She wasn't just singing for herself anymore; she was singing for all the dreams that had once seemed so far away, as well as the incredible love story that had blossomed amidst the chaos of a new city.

And with each note she sang, she felt more like herself, finally harmonizing with the world around her—no longer just a girl from the Cotswolds but a woman determined to write her own narrative, as vibrant and beautiful as the city she now called home.

The End.

[yoonia]

𝖙𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖎𝖌𝖍𝖙 𝖋𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖘𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖓𝖆𝖉𝖊 — 𝔯𝔢𝔤𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔯𝔶

💕 this is the masterpost of my creations that I shared through my 𝖙𝖜𝖎𝖑𝖎𝖌𝖍𝖙 𝖋𝖆𝖑𝖑 𝖘𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖓𝖆𝖉𝖊 event. each theme will be presented in three separate corners based on the submitted requests sent to me as part of the main event. links to the other parts connected to this event, including the afterparty items, will be linked below!

⇝ 𝖒𝖆𝖎𝖓 𝖗𝖚𝖑𝖊𝖘 ⇝ 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖆𝖋𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖕𝖆𝖗𝖙𝖞: 𝔪𝔲𝔰𝔦𝔠 𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 ⇝ 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖆𝖋𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖕𝖆𝖗𝖙𝖞: 𝔞𝔯𝔠𝔥𝔦𝔳𝔢

📜 𝔞𝔲𝔱𝔥𝔬𝔯'𝔰 𝔠𝔬𝔯𝔫𝔢𝔯 This corner includes the visual moodboards as my gift to the authors who have submitted their fics, based on the story or summary and how I perceive them

✎ "a taste of his magic" author: @shadowkoo; fic title: The Taste Of Sin

✎ "sense of duty" author: @cybrsan; fic title: Vignette: Duty

✎ "taking chances" author: @beomcoups; fic title: The Athlete

✎ "vigilante" author: @yoongihan; fic title: Vigilant(e)

✎ "is anyone there?" author: @livingformintyoongi; fic title: When The Lights Go Out

✎ "a lover's redemption" author: @writtenwhalien; fic title: A Lover's Redemption

✎ "stellar behaviour" author: @lo1k-diamonds; fic title: Stellar Behaviour

✎ "the vendor girl" author: @kithtaehyung; fic title: Minted

✎ "meet the Yoons" author: @monamipencil; fic title: Mr. & Mrs. Yoon

✎ "dance with me?" author: @raplinesmoon; fic title: On The Ropes

✎ "stranger in the night" author: @ressjeon; fic title: fish out of water

✎ "silk tie" author: @bts-ruu; fic title: Silk Tie

🖋️ 𝔶𝔬𝔬𝔫𝔦𝔞'𝔰 𝔠𝔬𝔯𝔫𝔢𝔯 This corner includes visual moodboards based on the stories that I wrote and selected/requested by readers. Some may include spoilers and snippets or bonus scenes based on the headcanons that were sent to me

✎ "one last time" character: jungkook x reader, taehyung x reader; fic title: About Time

✎ "welcome to club la rouge" character: jungkook x reader; fic title: In Motion

✎ "the journey begins" character: seokjin x reader; fic title: of bears and bonds

✎ "tears of the sea" character: taehyung x reader; fic title: The Forsaken

✎ "two steps behind (or ahead?)" character: yoongi x reader; fic title: the bedroom hymns

✎ "dinner with mista joonie" character: namjoon x reader; fic title: blooming wallflowers

✎ "our imperfections" character: namjoon x reader; fic title: the (im)perfect ending

📸 𝔨𝔭𝔬𝔭 𝔞𝔢𝔰𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔱𝔦𝔠 𝔠𝔬𝔯𝔫𝔢𝔯 This corner includes gifts for my lovely followers based on their biases, core aesthetics, and other themes that have been submitted to me

✎ "moonstruck" requested by: anon; core aesthetic: dark academia, artist/group: jungkook (bts), heeseung (enhypen), lee know (stray kids)

✎ "clouds" requested by: @/closer-to-jungkook; core aesthetic: noir, artist/group: jungkook (bts)

✎ "piece of peace" requested by: anon; core aesthetic: retro-pastel, artist/group: j-hope (bts)

✎ "daydream" requested by: anon; core aesthetic: dark autumn, artist/group: yeonjun (txt), wooyoung (ateez), jungwon (enhypen)

💕 thank you so much to everyone who had joined this birthday event by submitting their works, ideas, and requests. It has been a lovely experience to be able to hear your voice and share the love for fanfics and music through this. I hope we can get to experience something like this soon in the future!

xoxo, 𝕯𝖎𝖆

[bulkyphrase]

Marvel Halloween Rec Week 2024 - Stony Tuesday

Day two of Halloween Rec week! Here are some of the best spooky Steve Rogers/Tony Stark I read this year.

How to Lose a Super Soldier in One Easy Step by and_backagain, jibrailis (Stony, Explicit, 18,248 words)

Summary: Rogers jerks backwards, shock registering on his face, and Tony thinks, welcome back to the land of the living, Cap, looks like you're sticking around. Or, a Pushing Daisies AU.

In Love with a Strict Machine by Carsonian (@carsonian) (Stony, Mature, 12,805 words)

Summary: After an honourable discharge from the War, Steve is relocated to a suburban neighbourhood where he stands out as the only Monster around. Soon after, T0ny, a Cyborg he knew briefly during the War, moves in next door. Steve's long carried a hidden flame for the man, and decides to take their paths reconnecting as a sign to finally make a move. (A.K.A. the Halloween fic where Steve is Frankenstein's monster, Tony is a cyborg, and they are pathologically drawn to each other.)

More below the cut!

The Moon and the Sea by dirigibleplumbing (@dirigibleplumbing) (Stony, Explicit, 81,058 words)

Summary: Steve has lived his whole life in the coastal California town of Nublado. He’s spent the last few years trying to move on from a traumatic event in his past, and he finds new joy when he befriends—and quickly falls for—reclusive local billionaire Tony Stark. Then Tony abruptly breaks things off and won’t reply when Steve reaches out. Steve’s friends Clint and Nat have his back, at least. But… is someone following him everywhere? What’s with the human teeth Steve and his friends found while they were out fishing? How did the Scarlet Witch know so much about him? And why are there so many crows around?

The Official Avengers Movie Night Movie Selection Bylaws by phenominable_snowman (@phenominablesnowman-blog) (Stony, Mature, 18,020 words)

Summary: It was just little things at first. Elevators opening on the wrong floor. Wild temperature fluctuations. An odd, glitchy babble from J.A.R.V.I.S. that went from amusing to annoying to alarming and then righted itself without explanation. Tony nursed a persistent migraine. His body ached. He slept, but he never felt rested. He was sure there was something lurking on the edge of his periphery, but whenever he gave in and looked, it was gone.

The Lost and the Wretched by Veldeia (@veldeia) (Stony, Teen And Up Audiences, 58,023 words)

Summary: After his reanimation, Tony has yet to find a reason to continue his existence that isn’t hatred or bitterness. After decades of captivity in Arcadia, Steve doesn’t know if he even has a soul anymore. When the vampires of the Covenant of the Shield organize a mission to rescue Steve, it is a new beginning for both of them.

so long, traveling song by Anonymous (Stony, Teen And Up Audiences, 7,672 words)

Summary: The gem burns hot, singing the tender skin in the center of his palm, and he can see the possibilities unfolding in technicolor around him. A thought, and he wouldn’t be able to feel the pain. A thought, and he’d tear the whole building to the ground, turn the Hudson River to coffee, rain frogs down from the sky, send clouds of locusts upon the hot dog vendors on the street. Wood splinters crunch underfoot as Tony walks slowly into the husk of the mansion, unworried about the possibility of it crumpling down on him. The problem with the place is that it refuses to stay as stagnant as his memories of it; rain has already began to bleach color from the exposed wood, the ceilings to bulge oddly under pressure. Stop, a voice somewhere far away warns him, something like the Watcher’s voice, something like Stephen’s. Stop now. A thought, and he can fix all of his worst mistakes. Possibilities shimmer effervescent in front of him, momentarily gold under the power of the gem. A thought, and he can make this better for everyone, make it a world worth living in. A thought, and he can come home. 

[rayas-ryoiki-tenkai]

feeling things for 261. So have some 236 angst with 261 spoilers (was I thinking about billies "the greatest" while writing this? Yes. Yes I was)

Sometimes, Satoru liked thinking about his youth.

It wasn't much eventful. He didn't get his clothes muddy from childish messes, neither did he scrape his knees during a rebellious game of football on neighbouring roads. None to call him a disrespectful godforsaken brat for silly little pranks.

No pesky classmates and their shenanigans. No ugly squawks from street vendors. No one to glue to his side and ask what song he was listening to.

For it to be so tasteless, so timidly hollow as if acknowledging its existence had dire consequences. It mustn't fit for a body like his.

As a child grows, their bones ossify to lock in the crutch of a growing future. Wiggle room, so bony parts could shift to best fit for the adulthood that was shaped by their own hands. Gojo felt he was born with his bones complete.

Satoru cranes his neck to catch the glare of the sun head-on. He knows the golden hour colours the blue of his eyes the best, much too used to filling the role under the spotlight. Perhaps, in a strange way, Satoru felt he only existed as such: through the eyes of others and nothing more.

The weight settles on his chest but it's nothing new, so he chooses to pull a smile instead. It's hilarious, really. Knee-slapping, even. Within the churning of responsibilities that carved on his skin in slashes, Satoru's thinking of a regretful childhood.

What would it have been like if he bled a little from cycling over a cracked curb? Would it have hurt the way he'd seen on a passing child once?

Would someone pull his head into their chest with a consoling "who's a strong boy?" without it dampening his breath?

Satoru coughs a dribble of blood, though he intends it to be a bubbling laugh. Someone did cycle with him. Satoru can still feel the greedy arm he'd wrapped around his waist, clear days in the blue spring, twin birds of black and white chasing each other tree by tree.

Satoru liked thinking about his childhood, for that selective moment where his best friend let him have one.

Energy warps in insignificant swirls around him. His body feels light even if fate keeps him lying in his own blood, a sadistic call from gravity. The sky looks unhelpfully bland, though Satoru finds it to be pleasantly stimulating. No clouds to pose as backdrop. No aerial flybys scribbling autographs with the trail of their engines.

Devoid of extravagance. It's simple. Dull. Gojo wishes there were more sights to see like this one. Perhaps, there'll be more down south.

You were wrong, Suguru. Satoru sighs to himself. I couldn't have been the strongest. Not when I lost to you.

Satoru lifts his hand to block the sun in his eyes. His wrist falls short in a grievous loss of blood. Crimson drops on the tainted skin of his cheek. Strength slips from each of his dying cells.

The call of the strongest was a curse beyond one's he'd exorcised. Even as his limbs roll with a cry of their own, the camera rolls, and he is to fill the role of centre-stage until somebody rolled out his puppet corpse. Satoru briefly recalls the doings of his body after a supposed death, and Yuta's wide eyes at his reaction to doing whatever the hell they wanted.

So much for strongest. Even in ripping through the higher ups with the claws of the collective vengeance after Jujutsu society, nothing changed. The grumps were dead. Maliciously killed to feel the death equivalent to the magnitude on their hands. Still...

"Please, don't bear the burden of being a monster alone."

Nothing changed. The burden never lessened. Never shared. To belong to him and him only. And nothing changed.

I'm sorry, Yuta.

Satoru doesn't cry. Though the burn of his disappointment stings bad enough to spring a few tears in his eyes.

I'm sorry.

A plane cuts through the sky. The burden never lessened on his shoulders. Gojo passes it on to someone else.

[ghostygirl23]

Fantastic Four Fanfiction: The Inhuman Saga rewritten, Pt. 1

So, a while back, I was reading some of the older Fantastic Four comics, right? And I read the Inhuman saga, and I was.. kinda disappointed? I dunno. But I do know that I ended up thinking about it more, and I started dreaming, and now I have this, the first part of my personal rewrite of the Inhuman saga. I love the Fantastic Four with all my heart and I am SO EXCITED about First Steps, so I thought now was a good time to post my first foray into fanfiction. Sorry if the formatting sucks, I don't use Tumblr much. I don't know if there will ever be any more parts, but.. yeah.

>~==4==~<

   New York City. Ask any of its residents, and they'll tell you there's no place like it, which might be why they stay despite all the alien invasions. 

   Oh, sure, sometimes the sun is blocked out by spaceships or sentinels or whatever the heck Tony Stark built this week, but nothing beats the hustle and bustle, the din of honking traffic and street musicians and hot-dog vendors that don't give discounts even if you know them by name. Giants of steel and glass stand firm against the sky, gazing down gently but firmly upon the river of bobbing heads below. Most eyes face forward, but there are a select few whose eyes are turned towards the clouds, hoping for a glance at Iron Man or Spider-Man or whatever weird man might be passing above. 

     And, today, those upturned faces are rewarded: a comet of glowing fire streaks above their heads, leaving a trail of rippling gasps in its wake as its brilliant form is reflected in the windows at its- no, his- left and right. The Human Torch of the Fantastic Four flashes the onlookers his signature grin as he dips down over the crowd, stirring splashes of oohs and ahhhs and look,Mom!'s as he barrel-rolls above the flowing masses. Where the current wanes, he- apparently having drunken his fill of adoration- flashes a quick salute before combusting brighter to speed up, leaving a red-haired woman with the fortune (or maybe lack thereof) to be just below him to hold onto her hat so that the hot wind won't blow it away. She watches, silent, as the brilliance of the teenager's form becomes smaller, smaller- she would have kept watching, but someone bumped into her back and shouted obscenities, reminding her to keep moving. She turned her back on the distant star and swerved though the busy streets in a winding path, becoming part of the flow once more. 

•••

Of all the possible ways to clear one's head, Johnny Storm thought flying might just be the most effective. 

It had been a slow morning. Reed had been stubbornly undisturbed in his lab like usual, Ben was out with Alicia for the day, and Sue was (appropriately) who-knows-where, so he'd been left to his thoughts. Alone. Lately, that hadn't been a very good thing. He'd called some friends, but everybody he'd called had been busy or occupied or working or whatever, and an attempt to set up a second date with a girl he'd met a while back had crashed and burned, and not in the cool way. So, there he'd been left, feeling lousy. TV hadn't helped. But then he'd remembered some self-help book that Ben had had in his room (which Johnny had swiped as potential blackmail upon noticing that the lug was embarrassed about it) that said excersize was a good way to relieve stress, and so here he was, and to his surprise, it had mostly worked, even if the book definitely hadn't had "burst into flames and fly laps around the city" as one of its recommended activities. 

Hah. Maybe he shouldn't have been surprised. There was nothing like riding the air, feeling the power of his fire pushing him up and around and anywhere he pleased at a speed he once only achieved riding in painstakingly souped-up cars. Not to mention, adoring fans below would occasionally scream his name or snap his picture as he passed- there was no confidence booster like that. 

     As he thought that, he twisted into a  lazy loopty-loop, coming to rest for a moment with his back down and his arms to his head before twisting back down. His eye wandered, following motion. He shot a wink at the shoppers at a bodega he noticed below- ooh, one of them was a girl. She cheered for him and waved. Hah! Niiiice. Maybe he'd circle back later and get her digits. As if she'd stick around anyway, his doubts whispered, but he brushed it off. She was already out of sight a second later, anyway, and he now had more exciting things ahead, anyway. 

 That bodega was a sight that meant more than just a really good Cuban sandwich- it meant the best part of his chosen route was just ahead. He watched as the streets below him got sparser and less well-kept, glanced to the sides as the buildings to his left and right aged and then disappeared. And when they finally did, he paused for a moment, thrusting out his blazing hands to slow himself and switch from a horizontal to a vertical position. Once that was done, he rubbed them together in anticipation.

The old abandoned Navy yard. When it was empty, it was a great place to let loose for training. Old brick buildings could work as decent target practice, he could practice flying around and between all the abandoned machines... Heck, sometimes he came here just to see how fast he could get hot enough to melt old scrap steel. Debatably, though, it was a lot more fun when it wasn't empty. Of course, you had your urban explorers and your rebellious high-schoolers (Including him, until recently), and, yeah, they were cool and all. Sometimes he'd see someone he knew and hang out for a minute. But the other type who liked abandoned factories? Criminals. The type with big crews of cronies wearing newsboy caps who needed spaces to hole up where they wouldn't have to put their names on rent checks. Oh, if Johnny needed a distraction, then here would be the place to find it. 

... Although, ok, admittedly, the idea of gangsters in old buildings was one he had mostly from movies, but, eh, he'd figure out if it was just a cliche eventually. He'd only had his powers for, like, what, three months? Four? Five? It felt like longer.

In any case, if the goons were all regular people, he could probably scatter them and grab the fuzz himself. Maybe he'd even have himself a little battle if there was a supervillain at the helm, though that might require backup. Still, he cracked his knuckles in anticipation. Honestly, he was probably getting his hopes up, but oh-ho, he'd keep an eye out all right. 

Fwoosh! Fire swirled around him as he dove back into motion, flying lower this time now that there was no one to run into. This time, the walls on either side of him were made of crumbling stone brick, many containing holes and collapsed sections. His head was on a swivel. On his left, he passed an old rusty crane. On the right, a storehouse, and then a collapsed wall. 

And then a bent lightpole. 

And then zome funky machine he didn't recognize. Dead.

Loose bricks. One fell off an old wall as he passed closer than he meant to. 

A half-gone archway. 

Oh, some graffiti! That was new. Not... interesting, but new. 

And water. He'd made to to the docks. 

Nothing. Man. He swerved around and back towards one of the the bigger factories, glanced through old frosty glass windows and holes in roofs, and tried not to be dismayed when all of the buildings were empty of anything but rubble and broken things and shadows, none of which were moving. Well, the shadows did move when he flew up into the air, but that didn't count. That was just how light worked.  

   Well, that was good, he guessed. Obviously, he didn't want there to be crime in New York. That was the whole point. But.. a little excitement would be nice. He could use a distraction. He sighed, hovering. It was probably better to head back to the Baxter building at this point, anyway. Maybe the other three were back-

AAGGH! 

    Johnny whipped towards the scream before he even gave himself time to process it. His flames crackled behind him. That was a girl's scream! Shoot, he must have missed some loiterer from school after all. He didn't have time to feel guilty, though: he spotted her, a redhead in a white summer dress. An old wall was crumbling on her. He dove, fire flickering out on his arms seconds before he grabbed her and flew to the side. A trail of dust followed him and her out of danger, followed instantly by a tooth-chattering crash as the giant cement blocks collapsed one on top of the other. As it settled, he finally turned to the girl he held. 

"You alright?"

She was breathing hard, which was probably why it took her a second to get any words out. Up close, he could see her eyes: alert, and a blue almost as deep as the color he wore. She had to squint to look at him through the glare of his flame, but she seemed determined to look him over anyway. He noticed, and his face settled into a cocked grin. Gee, she was pretty. 

"Sorry about the brightness. Just a downside of being this hot."

Apparently, that comment took a second to register. One, two, three seconds- had that been too corny?- but then she snorted, and the tension broke. 

"Will you put me down, please?" 

"Yeah, sure."

    He noticed her accent immediately, not that he recognized it. Her English was clear, but had a heaviness to it, and.. maybe a melodic tone? Hard to place. And her hair- it had a black stripe dyed in it, almost in line with her eyes. With her hair color, it reminded him of, like, a tiger or something, which was kind of funny considering how very not dangerous the rest of her looked. And she spoke kinda stiffly, considering she was his age. It was.. alluring. Intriguing. Strange, but but hardly weird in this city. He found himself wanting to know where she was from, who she was. Full of contractions- a beautiful mystery. 

     He wasn't too far from the ground, so he let his flames die slowly, dropping both of them gently to the ground. As he set her down, he noticed with surprise that she wasn't wearing shoes. He raised an eyebrow, but then just as soon shrugged mentally. After all, He had better things to worry about now that his good looks weren't hidden by fire. He leaned casually against a rusty pole. His corny line form earlier had gotten something- he'd continue on that track. 

"Say, you know, this place isn't exactly a stellar place to hang out. I could fly you home if you like- or, if you'd rather, we could get coffee. On me. Pretty girls don't have to pay."

Not even a smile. Shoot, that line always got at least a smile! Instead, she was still just staring at him, as if he was the one who looked out of place here. It was... Actually starting to make him feel a little self conscious, actually. Did he have a stain on his uniform? He he glanced down just as the girl finally spoke. 

"Where do you live?"

"Huh?"

Of all the questions Johnny had been expecting, that wasn't one. It was as if she was firing his own thoughts at him. 

"Why do you ask?"

She saw him hesitate and repeated, enunciating clearly:

"Where do you live?"

No less confusing the second time. The question did make a couple of things click; he hadn't wanted to assume, but if she didn't know the answer to that question, there was no way she was from New York. Why ask, though? Maybe she was making small talk? The intensity of her expression didn't seem to match that idea. He saw no real reason not to answer truthfully, though, so... 

"Um. Here. This city. In fact, uh.."

He shuffled over to the girl's side to point at the skyline. She didn't seem particularly happy with the development, which stopped him from getting any closer than a couple feet, but she held her ground, which he decided meant he could continue. 

"There. See that tower with the big four on top? I live there- I'm part of that four." He tapped the emblem on his chest, voice full of pride. "We're only, like, the most famous superhero team in the city." 

... And the only one, as far as he could remember. 

"The name's Johnny Storm, also known as the Human Torch. At your very willing service."

He said his superhero name with a flourish and even ended with a little bow, but her frown didn't budge even a little bit. She only watched the tower, then him, quiet and contemplative as a stone statue. He resisted the urge to figet in the awkward silence, but she seemed to have no such instinct. 

Gosh, did he want to make her smile.

"Sooo... Do you, uh, want that coffee? Or.." 

There was another lull in the conversation as the mystery girl considered that, too. He watched her turn and look behind her at... A different pile of rubble? Oh, no, she was probably staring into space to think or something, because when she looked back at him, it was with a question on her lips. 

"Can you promise you'll keep me safe?" 

"Of course." 

Heavy question, easy answer. With how alert this girl had been, her odd clothes, lack of shoes, and now a question like that... Was she in trouble? Escaping something? Was.. flirting a good idea right now, actually? 

"In that case, yes. Take me."

He looked up from his thoughts to find her approaching, and a grin slid back onto his face. Ok, concerning stuff aside, yeah, he couldn't deny that this had been the reaction he'd been hoping for. Watching her for permission, he catiously scooped her up in a princess hold, giving her time to settle in and himself time to make sure his hold was good. His time as a superhero might have been short so far, but  countless hours spent rescuing people meant he was used enough to this kind of contact now for it to not mean anything. He wondered now if that would change. 

"Don't worry about getting burnt, by the way. It kinda spooks people sometimes, but I can keep it off my arms and away from my chest and stuff if I need to, even in the air, so it shouldn't hurt you. Ready?" 

She nodded, apparently not phased. Oh, he liked that in a girl. 

"In that case, FLAME ON!" 

He blazed into motion, shooting into the air like a rocket. As air began to woosh past them, only destined to get louder as they sped up, a thought occurred to him.  Oh, he should ask while he could.. 

"What's your name, by the way? Y'know, since you know mine."

At that, she finally smiled a little. 

"Crystal. My name is Crystal."

Johnny almost laughed. Crystal was a funny name for a girl who was anything but clear. 

[delighteddistractions555]

To Live Despite Being Cursed 3#

Chapter 3: DEMONS ARE SO STUPID!

Another day in the Celestial Realm. This time it was a day off for Nezha. Erlang had been summoned by the Jade Emperor for some confidential meeting or whatever with a few other select members. The First Heavenly General adjusted his black cloak before turning to his son. The latter laid back on the couch in a simple pink T-shirt and loose white pants. “Knowing my damn uncle, this meeting might take the whole day. You’re taking care of yourself and staying at home in the meantime right, Lil Lotus?” The unicorn hybrid nodded, “I know baba. I’ll be fine at home with my lazy but lovely ladies~” He smirked at his serpent pets sunbathing themselves on their day bed. 

Erlang chuckled as he ruffled his son’s mane one more time before he left, “I’ll be back for you soon, my baby boy~” Nezha’s fur went even more pink as he swatted away the offending hand. “BABA! Cut that out!! I’m not a little godling anymore!!” The elder snickered, “Still are to me short stuff. I guess I’ll be off unless my little colt wants a hug and kiss goodbye from Baba~” Nezha forced himself from the couch so he could shove his annoying father out the door. “SCRAM! You’re going to be late!!” The demigod laughed as he was pushed out by his embarrassed child. Xiaotian followed suit and Nezha slammed the door to prevent his dad from sneaking in the last word. 

The lotus deity grumbled to himself as he reclaimed the couch. “Hmph, clingy bastard. It’s not like I’m going to disappear!”

Somewhere else in the Celestial Realm…

A flash of gold and silver lit up among the clouds of Heaven. Stepping forth from the light were what appeared to be two immortals. One dressed in golden robes and sporting a well-kept mane of orange hair. The other one is slightly smaller wearing silver colored robes and a shimmering blue ponytail. The two immortals briskly walked through the gates of Heaven, nodding to the guards respectfully. As they entered the capital city they greeted the other immortals or deities that crossed their paths. Giving wide smiles and cheerful “Ni haos!”.

Yet the moment the duo ducked into an alleyway-they erupted into demonic laughter. “OH MY GOSH-WE TOTALLY FOOLED THEM!!” Cackled the golden immortal, who was actually the golden demon Jin. One half of the infamous rookie thief duo. Jin’s companion snickered as he studied their heavily enchanted robes, “Well those kitsune know what they're doing. These robes have been impeccable in passing us off as celestials.” The silver immortal, who was actually the silver demon Yin, the other half of the demon thief duo. 

Jin wrapped an arm around his younger brother, “I know right!! Then again, if there was ever a species that could fool those stuck-up heavenly immortals, it’s gotta be kitsune. Now let’s plunder these suckers for their goodies!” Jin was about to run off but Yin held him back, “Hold up! As much as I want to grab as many baubles and shiny what-nots right now. We still gotta pay those kitsune for letting us borrow their stuff.” The blue demon held up a “shopping list” given to them by their client. 

Jin smacked his forehead, “Right! Well, we might as well make our way to Lao Tzu’s lab.” The two thieves briskly made their way through the streets. Only giving the occasional nod or greeting to any passerby, now fully focused on their mission. Well, as focused as an earthly demon that lived a hardscrabble life could be in a gilded world among the clouds. Jin couldn’t help but ogle every pretty maiden or shop window showcasing fine wares just as pretty. While Yin helped himself by swiping the occasional vendor treat or an immortal's piece of jewelry. 

It took a while to locate the lab honestly. Even with directions from their mysterious client, the capital’s buildings seem to blur into one seamless maze of pristine marble gilded with gold. If they were to find any more creatively unique buildings, then they would have to leave the capital and explore the outer reaches of Heaven. Alas, their mission and livelihoods demanded that they stuck to the main city. Now was sadly not the time for sightseeing or petty theft. Well, the thievery would come after they completed their jobs. 

Yin had the bright idea of pretending to be newbie delivery men needing directions to Lao Tzu’s lab. With the disappearance of a cart and a considerable number of crates filled with various magic wares. The duo posed as delivery men and managed to get clearer navigation to their destination thanks to the locals. Eventually they arrived at the lab which while no less impressive as the city-looked utterly mundane to the robbers after scouring countless of marble/gold replicas. “FINALLY!! I thought we wouldn’t find this damn joint!” Jin growled as he settled down the arms pulling the cart. “You would think these rich snobs would decorate their homes with something OTHER than just gold and marble!!”

“Maybe it’s just city protocol dude. I’m sure there is more architectural freedom outside the Jade Emperor’s main hub. After all, the way almost everything is the same seems to scream true that the big Jade guy upstairs is a control freak.” Yin theorized as he began analyzing the lab for a way to break in. Jin shuddered from this, “No wonder people hate him. I definitely would! Some ultimate snob believes he’s the center of the universe and has the right to control everything while doing nothing!” He scoffed as he took out a satchel containing their necessary supplies. 

The golden demon held up a large bottle of glowing green he tossed to his silver counterpart. The younger sibling grinned deviously as he held it up, “Time to kick off the party.” The bandits double checked the property to ensure no one was home. About half an hour later if anyone was inside the lab, they would be startled as part of the walk began rapidly dissolving before their very eyes. A huge chunk of the wall melted away by the acidic green goop used by Yin. 

Maniacal laughter echoed through the chamber as the demons strode in without a care in the world. Yin already began listing off the stuff their client wanted. Which Jin would grab and stuff into one of their sacks of endless inventory. The sacks came from a deal with an old, greedy dragon who thought he would be receiving a trainload of gold. Only to be delivered a trainload of coal. It was already too late as the sibling scammers had already beat it back to Megapolis far away. Soon the burglars had everything they came for.

“Time to ditch and get to some shopping of our own!!” Jin crackled as he ran out the hole with the sack over his shoulder. Yin stepped through, turned around, and then placed an enchanted ball of clay before the hole. Uttering an incantation, the clay expanded to cover the entire opening before masking itself to match the rest of the wall. Now no one could tell there was a break-in. With their mission accomplished, the brothers left the lab so they could begin their real fun.

“So, where to begin brother? I saw a couple of shops where we could easily shoplift.” Yin cackled evilly as he rubbed his hands greedily. Jin laughed, “Ooh, that would be fun. BUT, I have a much bigger prize in mind…” Yin paused, “It’s not the Jade Emperor’s treasury right?!” “HEY, HECK NO DUDE!! I know I have loony ideas sometimes but I’m not THAT CRAZY!!!” Jin protested before he explained, “I meant something that will generate permanent wealth. Something that will lift us from dirt status to top demon dogs. Something that will give us power, prestige, and everything else we could ever want!” 

“Godhood?” The silver demon snorted skeptically. The golden demon scowled, “Ha, ha, godhood is sooooo obtainable! Brother dearest, hear my plea. Why don’t we get ourselves the Lotus Unicorn as our steed?” Yin was beyond flabbergasted, “Uuuuhhhh, do you have a plan at least?!” Jin rolled his eyes, “Alright, hear me out! You know how the gods have one stable master in charge of all the horses? Well I’m pretty sure he must have enchanted bridles and such to keep all those insane magical horses in check. Sooo, why don’t we grab the strongest bridle we can find. Hunt down the lil unicorn’s place, then take him ourselves?!” The elder thief laughed wickedly.

The younger thief crossed his arms and closed his eyes as he mused it over in his mind. After five minutes he opened his eyes, “Well, let’s give it a shot. But let’s grab a couple of sleeping bugs to knock out the beast first dude. I don’t think getting in a fight with a full grown stallion that won whole wars is going to be a picnic.” Jin blinked, “Oh, yeah, right!!” The disguised demons asked for directions to the stables, lying about needing to rent a horse and they were on their way…

.

.

.

Nezha lazily opened an eye to check on his snakes. The daybed revealed that they have reverted to their golden shear form in their sleep. He closed his eyes again, savoring every peaceful moment of his day off. As devoted as he was to duty, a break every now and then was a welcome reprieve. Laid back on the couch, he began to daydream. In his daydreams he was not some unfortunate cursed to be a unicorn. He was the proud defender of Chentang Pass. A mortal but powerful champion for his people who kept the peace between the seafaring humans and the sea-dwelling dragons. 

In his fantasy he had everything he ever wanted as a child. Respect from the townspeople, his family being proud of him, Ao Bing still as his best friend, the dragons and humans getting along. In his dreams he was busy vanquishing a grotesque demon that made the huge mistake of targeting his village: The demon was a wretched giant of hideous red skin and black spikes all over its body. With a long, winding tail with numerous  spikes over it, it kept flinging at Nezha in vain. Nezha wore shining red armor, his usual weapons on hand or feet. Appearing as a young man without a single trace of any equine features. 

“This is where you die, demon!” The warrior roared as he aimed a great ball of red fire that finished the hideous creature off. The villagers cheered as they rushed out of hiding to hail their noble defender once more. Nezha returned a polite bow before flying off to the seashore. There he saw Ao Bing, alive and well instead of pale and bloodied. The dragon prince smiled serenely at him, “Been taking care of those rogue demons haven’t we? I hope you have been careful.” Nezha proudly tossed his head, “HA! I don’t need to worry about anything, Bing! Thanks for the concern though. Do you want to have a race?”

His best friend smirked before morphing into his dragon form. “Last one to the Yellow Sea owes the other lunch~” He taunted before suddenly pushing past him in a flurry of freezing wind. “HEY!! Not so fast, cheater!!” Nezha protested but laughed all the same as he ignited his fire wind wheels at full speed ahead. Clouds seem to rush past them as the two friends soared through the air. The sun shining brightly, the air brisk and fresh with sea salt, the lighthearted laughter shared between the two boys. Nezha pushed further ahead in order to win. He could see the Yellow Sea within his reach. Almost there-

Only to be jerked back by a shining golden bridle that suddenly clamped onto his mouth.

“WHAT THE BUCKING, BLAZING HAY?!?!” The adult equine deity of reality neighed out in alarm as he registered the unwelcome metal clutching his snout. In an instant he ripped off the hideous contraption and kicked the offender clear across the room. The wall cracked from the powerful impact, piling bamboo and bricks onto the demon that dared tried to muzzle him. “JIN!!!” Screamed the second demon which snagged the attention of the infuriated unicorn. “How dare you…” The celestial stallion hissed, baring his fangs, as he slowly approached the second demon. 

Yin backed up against the wall. Fumbling through his clothes for something to save him from the wrath of a deity that ultimately underestimated. Nezha growled dangerously as he loomed closer, “Mistaken me for a horse haven’t we? Just some fancy horse that you could easily take as your damn pack mule for riches and fame, hhhmm? You really think that just because I’m part equine that you could-“ Suddenly the intruder tossed a glowing splash potion at Nezha. Causing the celestial to disappear in an explosion of light as he was teleported to an unknown location. Yin quickly ran towards his elder brother, helping the injured demon get up.

He carried his sibling to the couch, ignoring the blood already staining the other’s fine robes. “This house should have some healing supplies…” The silver demon muttered to himself as he began searching the rooms for any sort of medical supplies. Eventually he found a medical kit in the bathroom which he grabbed for Jin. Returning to his brother he took out the bandages first to stop the bleeding. Removing the ruined robes, wrapping up his sibling’s torso, and then handing him a potion of healing. Jin fluffed down the entire thing, wincing a bit as the magical liquid got to work on repairing his body.

“Man, that definitely was one of my worst ideas. I guess not even enchanted bridles work on that overpowered dude…” The golden demon moaned as he rubbed his extremely sore sides. Yin sighed, “I think it’s best we leave. The unicorn knows about us now and it’s not too difficult for a celestial to find a way back to Heaven. That potion only teleported him to the Mortal Realm. It won’t be long before he gets back and reports us.” Jin groaned as he cursed himself for not going after something easier like a courtesan’s jewels or a noble’s vault. “SCREW UNICORNS! They suck dude!!! But I don’t really want to go home empty-handed…”

Jin suddenly sat up from the couch, “WAIT A HOT SECOND!!! Wouldn’t his own weapons be a good defense from that crazy stallion?!“ Yin’s face broke out into a wicked grin, “Well, it wouldn’t hurt to have some type of protection in case the dude comes after us.” Jin cackled as he carefully stood up with support from his brother. “Well let’s grab what we can find and then make like the Monkey King before the horse comes back.” Jin said as his eyes trailed over to the shining, golden shears on the daybed…

Meanwhile, on top of a noodle shop in a sparkling mortal city. A unicorn humanoid groaned as he slowly stood up. Immediately the strong smell of pollution, sweaty human flesh, the sharp tinge of metal, and various aromas of foodstuffs hit his nostrils. His ears assailed with thousands of different voices and sounds competing with the city on who could be the loudest. He looked around to see dizzying towers, concrete, glowing holograms, more concrete, several bizarre human vehicles for flight, and even more concrete. Realizing where he was he facepalmed, “Damn. I’m going to kill those demons for this…” 

[ourjobagency]

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, the cloud has emerged as a transformative technology that empowers businesses with flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Migrating to the cloud is no longer an option but a necessity to stay competitive. 

[ellagrace20]

Cloud Migration and Integration A Strategic Shift Toward Scalable Infrastructure

In today’s digital-first business environment, cloud computing is no longer just a technology trend—it’s a foundational element of enterprise strategy. As organizations seek greater agility, scalability, and cost-efficiency, cloud migration and integration have emerged as critical initiatives. However, transitioning to the cloud is far from a lift-and-shift process; it requires thoughtful planning, seamless integration, and a clear understanding of long-term business objectives.

What is Cloud Migration and Why Does It Matter

Cloud migration involves moving data, applications, and IT processes from on-premises infrastructure or legacy systems to cloud-based environments. These environments can be public, private, or hybrid, depending on the organization’s needs. While the move offers benefits such as cost reduction, improved performance, and on-demand scalability, the true value lies in enabling innovation through flexible technology infrastructure.

But migration is only the first step. Cloud integration—the process of configuring applications and systems to work cohesively within the cloud—is equally essential. Without integration, businesses may face operational silos, inconsistent data flows, and reduced productivity, undermining the very purpose of migration.

Key Considerations in Cloud Migration

A successful cloud migration depends on more than just transferring workloads. It involves analyzing current infrastructure, defining the desired end state, and selecting the right cloud model and service providers. Critical factors include:

Application suitability: Not all applications are cloud-ready. Some legacy systems may need reengineering or replacement.

Data governance: Moving sensitive data to the cloud demands a strong focus on compliance, encryption, and access controls.

Downtime management: Minimizing disruption during the migration process is essential for business continuity.

Security architecture: Ensuring that cloud environments are resilient against threats is a non-negotiable part of migration planning.

Integration for a Unified Ecosystem

Once in the cloud, seamless integration becomes the linchpin for realizing operational efficiency. Organizations must ensure that their applications, databases, and platforms communicate efficiently in real time. This includes integrating APIs, aligning with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and enabling data exchange across multiple cloud platforms.

Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Strategies

Cloud strategies have evolved beyond single-provider solutions. Many organizations now adopt hybrid (combining on-premise and cloud infrastructure) or multi-cloud (using services from multiple cloud providers) approaches. While this enhances flexibility and avoids vendor lock-in, it adds complexity to integration and governance.

To address this, organizations need a unified approach to infrastructure orchestration, monitoring, and automation. Strong integration frameworks and middleware platforms become essential in stitching together a cohesive IT ecosystem.

Long-Term Value of Cloud Transformation

Cloud migration and integration are not one-time projects—they are ongoing transformations. As business needs evolve, cloud infrastructure must adapt through continuous optimization, cost management, and performance tuning.

Moreover, integrated cloud environments serve as the foundation for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, data analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT), enabling businesses to innovate faster and more efficiently.

By treating cloud migration and integration as strategic investments rather than tactical moves, organizations position themselves to stay competitive, agile, and future-ready.

[bloomingweddingdecor]

Wedding Planning Made Simple: Essential Tips for Staying Organized

Planning a wedding is an exciting yet overwhelming journey. From choosing the perfect venue to selecting the right decor and managing countless details, staying organized is essential for creating the day of your dreams. Whether you’re planning a lavish destination wedding or a traditional Hindu or Punjabi celebration, keeping track of everything will help minimize stress and make the process enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to stay organized while planning your wedding and how the right tools, professionals, and mindset can make all the difference.

Start with a Clear Vision

Before diving into the logistics, take some time to envision your perfect wedding day. Consider the style, theme, and atmosphere you want to create. Are you dreaming of a beachside ceremony with a destination wedding planner near me, or a vibrant traditional event with stunning Punjabi wedding decor? Having a clear vision will help guide your decisions and ensure every element aligns with your expectations.

Set a Realistic Budget

One of the most crucial steps in wedding planning is establishing a budget. Outline your priorities and decide how much you’re willing to spend on each aspect of the event. Include categories like venue, catering, attire, event decorations, photography, and entertainment. Don’t forget to set aside funds for unexpected expenses. A well-structured budget will prevent overspending and keep your finances in check.

Create a Detailed Wedding Planning Checklist

A comprehensive checklist is a lifesaver when planning a wedding. Break down tasks into manageable steps and set deadlines for each. Here’s an example:

12 Months Before: Set the date, book the venue, hire a wedding planner in Toronto.

9 Months Before: Choose your bridal party, start shopping for attire, book key vendors.

6 Months Before: Finalize guest list, send save-the-dates, plan decor.

3 Months Before: Order invitations, schedule fittings, confirm details with vendors.

1 Month Before: Finalize seating chart, confirm guest count, pack for the honeymoon.

This timeline will keep you on track and ensure nothing is overlooked.

Use Digital Tools and Apps

Take advantage of wedding planning apps and digital tools to stay organized. Platforms like Trello, Google Sheets, and WeddingWire offer customizable checklists, budget trackers, and vendor directories. These tools make it easy to collaborate with your partner and wedding decorators near me in Brampton, keeping everyone on the same page.

Hire Professional Help

A professional wedding planner in Toronto can be a game-changer, especially if you’re short on time or planning a large event. They bring experience, connections, and creativity to the table, helping you bring your vision to life without the stress. If you’re planning a destination wedding, working with a destination wedding planner ensures every detail is managed, even from afar.

For specific cultural elements, hiring experts in Punjabi wedding decor or Hindu wedding mandap decorations can help maintain authenticity and elegance. Local wedding decorators near me in Brampton are also invaluable for transforming your venue with style and efficiency.

Keep Important Documents Organized

Create both digital and physical folders for essential documents like contracts, invoices, and receipts. Organize them by category—venue, vendors, attire, and decor—so you can easily access them when needed. Tools like Dropbox or Google Drive offer secure cloud storage and easy sharing with your planner or partner.

Communicate Clearly with Vendors

Effective communication with your vendors is key to a smooth planning process. Confirm every detail in writing and keep records of conversations and agreements. Schedule regular check-ins to stay updated and address any issues early on.

Schedule Regular Planning Sessions

Dedicate specific times each week to discuss and work on wedding plans. Consistent planning sessions prevent last-minute scrambles and help you stay organized and focused.

Prioritize Self-Care

Amid the excitement and stress of wedding planning, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Schedule downtime, enjoy date nights, and lean on your support system. A well-rested and happy couple is the foundation of a beautiful celebration.

Final Thoughts

Staying organized while planning your wedding takes effort, but with the right approach, it can be a joyful and rewarding experience. By creating a clear vision, using helpful tools, and working with experienced professionals like a wedding planner in Toronto or decorators specializing in Punjabi and Hindu weddings, you’ll set the stage for a memorable and stress-free celebration.

Whether you’re planning a grand destination wedding or an intimate gathering, Blooming Wedding Decor is here to bring your dream wedding to life. From stunning event decorations to cultural touches like Hindu wedding mandap decorations, our team ensures every detail is perfect. Contact us today to start planning the wedding of your dreams!

[xaltius]

CompTIA Certifications: Your Gateway to IT Success

Introduction

In today's technology-driven world, IT professionals play a crucial role in driving innovation and business growth. To validate their skills and stand out in the competitive job market, many individuals seek industry-recognized certifications. CompTIA certifications have emerged as a popular choice, offering a comprehensive pathway to IT success.

What are CompTIA Certifications?

CompTIA, the Computing Technology Industry Association, is a non-profit trade association that develops and delivers vendor-neutral IT certifications. These certifications are designed to assess an individual's knowledge and skills in various IT domains, including networking, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

Benefits of CompTIA Certifications

Enhanced Career Prospects: CompTIA certifications are highly valued by employers worldwide. Earning a CompTIA certification can significantly boost your job prospects and open doors to new opportunities.

Increased Earning Potential: Certified IT professionals often command higher salaries compared to their non-certified counterparts. CompTIA certifications can directly contribute to your financial growth.

Industry Recognition: CompTIA certifications are recognized and respected throughout the IT industry. They serve as a testament to your expertise and professionalism.

Skill Development: Preparing for and passing a CompTIA certification requires a deep understanding of the relevant IT concepts and technologies. This process helps you develop valuable skills that can be applied in your daily work.

Vendor Neutrality: Unlike vendor-specific certifications, CompTIA certifications are vendor-neutral. This means they are not tied to a particular product or technology, making them more versatile and adaptable to various IT environments.

Popular CompTIA Certifications

CompTIA A+: This entry-level certification is ideal for IT professionals who want to build a solid foundation in computer hardware and software.

CompTIA Network+: This certification validates your knowledge of networking fundamentals, including network infrastructure, protocols, and troubleshooting.

CompTIA Security+: This certification focuses on cybersecurity and equips you with the skills to protect systems and data from threats.

CompTIA PenTest+: This certification validates your skills in penetration testing, a crucial aspect of cybersecurity.

CompTIA Data+: This certification focuses on data analysis and validates your ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data.

How to Prepare for a CompTIA Certification

Identify Your Goals: Determine which CompTIA certification aligns with your career aspirations and current skill level.

Choose Study Materials: Select high-quality study materials, such as textbooks, practice exams, and online courses.

Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all the exam objectives.

Practice Regularly: Take advantage of practice exams to assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.

Join Study Groups: Connect with other candidates to share knowledge and motivation.

Opting certification courses: Enroll the CompTIA courses from Xaltius Academy.

Conclusion

CompTIA certifications offer a valuable pathway to IT success. By earning a CompTIA certification, you can enhance your career prospects, increase your earning potential, and gain recognition as a skilled IT professional. If you're looking to advance your IT career, consider pursuing a CompTIA certification.

[nancypullen]

Well, Hey There!

Gosh, I let the last few days get away from me and this poor ol' blog paid the price. I don't even have anything exciting to report, I've just been puttering - a bit in the yard, a bit in the house, even did a little Xmas shopping, but mostly a whole lot of nothing.

A decision was made that we would not be joining the Y, so I'm trying to discipline myself into at least a 30 minute dance workout every day. Let's just say I'm not very disciplined. There's a treadmill in the garage that works perfectly fine and I really don't mind turning on some music or a podcast and killing 30 minutes on it. Unfortunately I can always find something else that I want to do more - like reading, painting, watching a murder show, writing limericks, picking fuzz out of my navel, watching clouds, naming birds at the birdfeeder...see? Busy, busy. Speaking of that treadmill, until recently it was blocked by that desk/hutch combo that I bought at an auction for 7 dollars.

I finally painted it and got it moved into my craft room!

I'm still organizing it and will probably switch the items on the shelves until I'm satisfied. I'll move that basket out from under the desk too. I suppose it's the lighting, but the handles and knobs really do match. Know what my favorite bit is?

The bottles.

Those are just old Starbucks bottles. I painted the lids with the same paint I used on the desk and then sorted my buttons into them. I need a couple more for black and brown, so I have to keep drinking.

I'm tickled with the extra storage (the drawers are so tidy!) and I love it when organization can be pretty.

The drawers have glues, scissors, blank cards & envelopes, cardstock for printing my dead people, etc. The shelves hold everything else I use for my silly cards.

My paper is sorted in those clear bins on the right - I only bought four, so it's sorted into florals, patterns, holidays, and "special" stuff like maps, sheet music, and that sort of thing. I didn't have to buy anything else, the baskets and stuff were hanging around the house waiting for a job to do. The wooden crate holding markers, colored pencils, and paint pens was gifted to me from Tyler & Jamie's wedding.

Remember that Goodwill print that I was turning into a witchy picture? I finally stopped dabbling with it and put it back in the frame. First I painted the frame black, and because I ruined the original mat (oops) I had to fish around and find one that would work. Nothing I had on hand fit the print and I wasn't about to buy a new mat, so I edged the print with gingham and lace (my answer for everything) and slapped it in the frame.

Poor photography skills, but you get the idea. What was once a prim and proper street scene is now giving Halloween vibes. now it can go into the back of a closet with the rest of them. Why do I do this?? I should take them all and donate them back to Goodwill and let them find homes. I'm home alone. For the last two days Mickey has been out day and night snapping photos of Summerfest, Denton's big bash marking the end of summer. I hope Mother Nature sees it and turns the heat down. It's been drizzling on and off today, so I'm sure everything is steamy. No, thank you. Hard pass. There will be a handful of vendors selling stuff I don't need, no decent food or food trucks, a decent selection of bands playing at different times and on different stages, a great area for kids with slides and bouncy houses, and at the end of the night, fireworks. I may go sit on the front porch later and take a peek at the fireworks. I was spoiled by attending the Wilson County Fair every August , that was always the official goodbye to summer for us, even though the weather didn't break until a month later. Annnd speaking of weather, I saw that The Old Farmers' Almanac issued their winter forecast. I was disappointed.

We're up there under "Mild,Wet". Every year I cross my fingers for "Cold, Above Average Snowfall" and it never happens. Thanks to Climate Change I think it's going to become rare if not extinct.

Oh well, I need to tidy up a bit and then choose a movie to watch with the girls. This is who I mean by "the girls."

They keep begging for the BBC version of Jane Austen's Persuasion, so it looks like tonight is the night. I'll try to think of something more interesting to write about tomorrow. The rest of the week may be a wash. We're getting the grandgirl on Monday and returning her Thursday, so I'll be busy and tired. It's her last week before school starts so there needs to be some fun. She's had a great summer, vacation and camps, but we'll have some Grancy-style fun. Look at these cute sprinkles I picked up for back-to-school cupcakes. Perfect for a first grader!

I'll have to see if there's a movie playing that she might be interested in, and I'll bet she'd like to go on a treasure hunt in Target with me. The rest of the time it will be Barbies, pool, books, and probably some arts and crafts. The only things that she requested I add to the grocery list (I asked) are apples, pretzels, and pizza Lunchables. I have a feeling her parents may want me to get some veggies and good protein into her. Grandpa sees nothing wrong with that list. If I turn my back he'll have her at the 7-11 getting a blue Icee right before dinner. Anywayyyy, I'm rambling. I'll wrap this up by saying that I hope your Saturday evening is a delight. If that means running wild with friends or being in your jammies by sundown, I hope you love every minute of it. Sending out loads of love tonight. Take what you need and pass it on. Stay safe, stay well. XOXO, Nancy

[dentsoftware-dentalsoftware]

Importance of Dental software

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Think of DPMS as your digital assistant, streamlining these tasks and freeing up valuable time for what matters most: focusing on your patients' smiles.

Here's how DPMS can revolutionize your dental practice:

Boost Efficiency: DPMS automates tasks like scheduling, billing, and recordkeeping, allowing you and your staff to dedicate more time to patient interaction.

Ditch the Paperwork: Say goodbye to overflowing file cabinets! Electronic records save space and make patient information readily accessible.

Enhanced Patient Communication: Improve communication with features like automated appointment reminders and online patient portals.

Smoother Financial Management: Streamline billing with automated processes and insurance verification, leading to faster and easier collections.

Inventory Management Made Easy: DPMS helps you track dental supplies and equipment, reducing waste and ensuring you have what you need when you need it.

Data-Driven Decisions: Generate insightful reports on patient demographics, treatment trends, and practice performance, empowering you to make informed decisions for your practice.

Choosing the Right DPMS: Cloud-Based vs. On-Premise

There are two main types of DPMS: cloud-based and on-premise. Understanding the differences is crucial for selecting the best fit for your practice.

Cloud-Based Dental Practice Management Software:

Imagine accessing software through the internet. Your data is securely stored on the vendor's servers and is accessible from any device with an internet connection.

Benefits:

Easy Setup and Maintenance: No software installation or server management needed. Updates are automatic.

Scalability: Grows with your practice – easily add users or features as needed.

Accessibility: Access patient information and manage your practice from anywhere, anytime.

Ideal for: Smaller practices, solo practitioners, or those who value flexibility and remote access.

On-Premise DPMS:

Traditional software installed directly on your practice computers. You have complete control over the data stored on your servers.

Benefits:

Customization: May offer more customization options for specific workflows.

Data Security: Some dentists prefer having complete control over their data on-site.

Drawbacks:

Higher Upfront Costs: Requires purchasing software licenses and server hardware.

IT Maintenance: Relies on in-house IT expertise or external support for updates and maintenance.

Scalability: Scaling up can be complex and requires additional hardware and software licenses.

Ideal for: Larger practices with dedicated IT staff or those who prioritize complete on-site data control.

The Bottom Line:

The best DPMS choice depends on your practice size, budget, and IT capabilities. Cloud-based solutions offer ease of use and scalability, while on-premise systems provide more customization and potential data control. Consider your priorities and consult with DPMS vendors to find the perfect fit for your dental practice.

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