#Spring Island Soft Serve

[cleoluvrr]

black magnolias III - rafe cameron x reader

i gave you all my light, and i got nothing to show for it

WARNINGS: mature content; domestic violence, coercion, classism, religious trauma, manipulative behavior, stalking, toxic relationship, blackmail

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you let yourself fall into a routine of work and studying for your finals, ready for summer to come and take away at least some of your worries. your job would be full of tourons ready to blow their vacation money on whatever they could fit in their hands and you’d have more hours to be available.

the pogues had been blowing up your phone since you left that day, begging you to come back so you guys could work it out. all of their numbers were muted until further notice, and jj was blocked. it was for the best, you thought. if they wanted to work it out that bad, they knew where to come find you.

your job was amazing; a boutique on figure eight where both locals and tourists frequented. magnolias was owned by a sweet, older black woman, miss josephine, who grew up in the cut just like you, working as a tailor alongside her mother. her mother long dreamed of having a store of her own to sell her designs, though it never a possibility back then. however, when the opportunity presented itself, miss josephine bought the boutique just for her mother. it was the first black owned business on this side of the island, and the story always brought a smile to everyone’s faces.

“you remind me a lot of my younger self, y’know.” she would always say. it made your heart swell for her to see herself in you, for her to talk about how much potential you had. 

you’d known her since you were a girl, always walking by her store and staring into the window on the way home from school.  the employees on the other side of the glass wearing handmade uniforms, the fifties aesthetic enchanting to your young mind. the blush pinks and whites caught your eye, the vintage look of the clothes inside tugging at your soul in a way that made you think it was your destiny to work at this store.

so, when the opportunity presented itself, you took it. it was going on your fourth year at the store and you had no plans on leaving anytime soon. magnolia’s was the reason you decided to stay close by for school, choosing something only an hour’s drive away so that you could still work there.

miss josephine had been more of a mother to you than the woman that gave birth to you, at least in recent years. she was more understanding and less judgemental than your mom could ever be. instead of drugs or partying, the store was your escape.

as you tidied up a table that had been picked at by customers throughout the day, the sound of the bell at the door chiming caught your attention.

“hi, welcome to magnolias!” your customer service voice was chipper and sweet as you greeted whoever entered the shop behind you. rnb music played from the speakers above, the soft music filling what would be awkward silence throughout the store. 

heavy footsteps approached, hard-bottomed shoes clicking against the wooden floor with each step. the smell hit you first; the expensive cologne giving away your guest before their mouth even opened to speak. you froze mid-fold, fingers stiff around the fabric in your hands.

“so,” rafe said. “you do still work here.”

slowly you turned to meet his face, a million thoughts racing through the fog your brain produced anytime he got too close. 

the khaki slacks he wore fit nicely, the material showing off the muscles of his toned thighs. his biceps strained against the sleeves of his shirt as his arms crossed in front of his chest. the man had a golden tan, the late spring sun serving his skin well the past few weeks. it was clear that he’d had a haircut not too long ago, the cropped hair shorter than it was the last time you saw him at the beach. you wanted to reach out and run your hands over it like you used to. you wanted–

jesus, forgive me.

the thought was fleeting as you stopped yourself from letting your mind travel any further.

“what are you doing here?” you tried your best to keep a smile on your face, not wanting to raise an alarm to your coworkers.

rafe tilted his head at you, a lopsided, mischievous grin gracing his lips.

“am i not welcome here?”

no

“i didn’t say that.” the words came out of your mouth faster than you could form them. you didn’t want your boss to overhear you, the woman always lurking around where you couldn’t see her.

His brows raised, waiting patiently to hear your explanation.

“it’s just…you’ve never been in here.” your voice was soft, only loud enough for him to hear. “and this is a women’s clothing store.”

he shrugged. the tall man’s eyes fell from your face, the icy-hot feeling of them taking in your uniform-clad body giving you chills.

“nice dress.”

“it's my uniform.” the response came out harsher than you meant but you didn’t feel the need to correct it. “is there something i can help you with? or are you just here to bother me?”

the music substituted his words for a response as you were met with silence from the blonde, his eyes still traveling the length of your figure. your throat bobbed as you swallowed thickly, the sound of saliva traveling down your esophagus echoing in your head.

rafe took two steps forward and you took one step back, the second one blocked by the table behind you bumping into the back of your legs. his eyes landed back on yours, something hidden behind the familiar blues.

“rafe–”

“why don’t you show me around?” his head swiveled around to glance at the front of the shop where you stood before focusing on the hall in the distance that led deeper into the store. “what’s back there?” he nodded in that direction.

“clothes.” you smiled curtly, trying your best to look like you were giving your best customer service. 

some of your coworkers had now started sneaking glances towards you and rafe, a few of them lingering just within earshot to listen in on the conversation.

letting out a breathy chuckle and extending his arm, he directed you away from the table.

“why don’t you show me?”

the two of you stood there in a silent standoff for a few moments, the muscle in your chest pumping blood at a pace you weren’t sure it could handle for much longer. you finally gave in after a long thirty seconds, eyes rolling as you slid past him to walk down through the decorated hallway.

rafe asked you so many questions. every display you passed he would stop to stare at the mannequins like the two of you were at the smithsonian museum, the man treating you like a tour guide and making you explain everything to him.

people were giving you puzzled looks, the sight of rafe cameron sifting through frilly pink skirts leaving them just as confused as you were. you lost track of time at some point; so much so that when you finally glanced at your watch you gasped at what was displayed.

your shift was over.

“well,” you cleared your throat to capture his attention. “it’s time for me to go, so…if you plan on buying anything just let one of my coworkers know.”

rafe didn’t get the chance to protest before you left him on his own in the depths of the store. it was rude, sure, but you had to get away from him. 

you felt like you were suffocating.

much to your surprise, and dismay, rafe had not departed after you announced the end of your shift. you nearly stumbled over your shoes when you stepped outside and found him leaning against the side of his truck. he smiled at you, arms uncrossing as he pushed off the vehicle and stepped towards your frozen frame.

“why are you here?”

“you sure ask that a lot, y’know?” his nimble fingers reached up to freshly shaven face. he wore a ghost of a smile as he looked down at you, still dressed in your uniform.

you gripped the sides of your dress, the skirt wrinkling under the force of your hands. 

“need a ride?”

that was the absolute last thing you were expecting to come out of his mouth. brows shooting up in surprise, you eyed him suspiciously. your tongue ran over the front of your teeth as you looked him up and down. it was his turn to go under inspection.

“why would i get in a car with you?”

he opened the passenger side door, presumably for you to take a seat inside. you didn’t budge.

“cause you need a ride.”

“i can find a ride…actually,” you loosened the grip on your skirts, palms opening to smooth out the lines left behind. “i would rather walk–”

“get in the car, y/n.” the smile was gone now, his voice sharper as he urged you to take his offer. he was never truly asking if you wanted a ride, he was giving the illusion of a choice.

a scoff rose from your throat. the audacity of him was almost funny to you.

“i’m not getting in a car with-”

there was hardly time to react before he was on you, a stong hand wrapped around your forearm as he roughly guided you to his truck. your instinct to fight against him was smothered by the shock of his manhandling, the sound of a car door slamming snapping you out of your disoriented state. 

your jaw dropped as you watched rafe come around the front of the vehicle and enter the drivers side. there was no time to open the door before rafe was speeding off from the front of magnolia’s, the revving of his engine making the seat vibrate beneath you. 

“rafe!” you said after you gathered the words from your jumbled up mind. “you can’t do that! that’s like…th-that’s kidnapping!”

the older man laughed dryly, head thrown back dramatically before landing back on the road. 

“i’m giving you a ride home-”

“you manhandled me!” you interrupted. was he being serious? “and i said ‘no.’ that’s the definition of kidnapping.”

he cooly looked at you, the expression on his face completely different from the one he had just a few minutes ago when he forced you into his car. 

“you’re being dramatic.”

exasperation was all you felt, the emotion filling you the brim as you stared at him with wide eyes. you pulled out your phone and clicked on a green icon, fingers ready to type out three numbers that would likely do you no good, but it was worth the try.

“i’m calling the police.”

before you could press enter the device was snatched from your hands. you watched rafe shove it into his pocket furthest from you, head shaking side to side as he denied you any contact to the outside world for the remainder of your time with him.

“no you’re not.”  he stopped at a red light and took the opportunity to look at you once again. his eyes were piercing and sparked a feeling of intimidation in the deepest pit of your stomach. “we’re gonna talk.”

you knew that you guys would have to have a conversation eventually, you just never thought it would be so soon.

honestly, you hoped that you could avoid it at all costs, but that wasn’t realistic. kildare was a small island and you were bound to run into each other eventually. it was surprising that you were able to circumvent him for as long as you did, but you knew there was always a risk stepping into figure eight. seeing him at the beach was unexpected, and you never thought that he would show up at your job like that.

you folded your arms across your body snugly, still feeling unsure about being in such close proximity to him.

“you, uh, y-you really did me wrong, y/n.” it was obvious that the thought of what transpired all those months ago still angered him deep down, but he held on to whatever was bubbling up inside of him.

you gulped, afraid of what he would say next.

“it’s hard for me to–to trust people…you know that.” rafe continued, head turning briefly to confirm he had your ear. “i trusted you.” he sniffed instinctively, fingers coming up to wipe his nostrils. it had become a habit of his; even after giving up the blow.

you hummed in response, unsure of what to say.

“i trusted you and y-you…you broke that. you broke my trust for those pogues–”

“those pogues are my friends.” your eyes were sharp as razor blades as you stared him down from your place in the car. “i’m a pogue, rafe.”

“see–i’m trying…i-i’m trying to talk to you and you’re just..you’re just snapping at me.” he said. your lip curled up in disgust but you went quiet once again, reluctantly allowing him to finish. 

rafe took a long pause before he continued his speech, jaw ticking in annoyance from you reminding him of your social status.

you hated how he talked about pogues, especially since you were one yourself. he could pretend you were different as much as he wanted, but you both knew the truth.

“but i can admit that i’ve done you wrong, too.” the words sounded painful, but he got them all out without stopping or stuttering. “i can admit that i wasn’t there for you when i should’ve been, so it’s my fault that this happened in the first place. at least–a little bit.”

you tore your eyes away from the window to face him, the flesh of your bottom lip stuck between your teeth as you worried it. you couldn’t believe what you were hearing.

this was the most accountability he’s ever taken in the time that you’ve known him–it was the only time he’s ever taken accountability, actually.

“i’m trying to be better–i want to be better.” rafe looked at you and you could see that he was being genuine. “so–so you don’t have to forgive me; not right now. but i…i forgive you.”

 still unsure of what to say to him, you blinked. you released your bottom lip from the wrath of your teeth, flesh swollen and pink from the abuse.

rafe’s eyes flicked down to your mouth, drawing in a deep breath before forcing himself to keep them on the road. your own gaze followed his and you were shocked to see your house at the end of the cul-de-sac, rafe slowing to a stop outside of it. your mother was home, her white sedan parked in the gravel driveway.

“i was serious when i said you can always come back.” he turned off the car, letting the engine die before turning his body to face you fully. he looked strangely soft, something he rarely let himself be around you in the later years of your crumbling relationship.

“what is there to come back to, rafe?” you finally spoke after letting him sit in silence for a few minutes. the sun was beginning to set behind your hours, the golden light dimmed by the tinted windows of rafe’s truck. still it reflected into the man’s eyes, the color enhanced by the star’s shine.

he blinked at you, long lashes brushing against the tops of his cheeks. you sighed and reached a hand up to scratch at the nape of your neck.

“my friends would hate me. i can’t just ignore the stuff you’ve done to them.”

“what have they ever done for you?”

“they were there for me when you weren’t rafe!” you snapped at him. “you were never there when i needed you.”

he palmed over his buzzed hair frustratedly, head shaking side to side in…confusion? denial? you weren’t sure.

“and i’m sorry for that, really, i am. i’m here now, though. alright?” rafe extended an arm over the divider to place a hand on yours, his fingers squeezing in a way that was supposed to be reassuring.

you released a heavy breath from your nose, head leaning back against the window as you stared at your ex-boyfriend across from you. you didn’t remove your hand from his; the warmth was comforting in a way that made you feel guilty.

“where are they anyway? your ‘friends’?” 

“we aren’t talking right now,” your voice was barely audible. “not that it’s any of your business…”

he tsked at you, disapproval clear from his demeanor. 

you moved to open the car door, free hand pulling on the handle. rafe held you back with the hand still in his grip. his eyes were deep and serious as they swallowed you whole.

“you still have my number?” you nodded hesitantly, not wishing to admit it. his head moved up in down in tandem with yours. “i’ll always pick up the phone. you come to my house; i’ll always open the door. okay?”

slowly he released your hand, taking your silence as understanding.

you watched from your porch as the dark truck pulled off from your home, the vehicle turning into a dot the further away it got. the phone in the pocket of your dress was heavy with the weight of a ten-digit number that had been collecting dust for almost a year. it weighed heavy with the unanswered messages of the friends that you hadn’t spoken to in weeks.

[onepiecepetalfanfics089]

Enchanted~..

Chapter 3

Yandere! Strawhats + more x witch Fem! Reader ✨

_______________________________

“Ohh? So you’re hiding something now are you? I guess you don’t want people to see, so just let me see!”

Raising an eyebrow, a smirk now sprawled across your face, the feeling of eyes followed your every movement.

Multiple of them.

But at that moment, you weren’t focused on that. At that moment you were determined. Quickly, you uttered the words of your spell and surprise, surprise. A light forest green beanstalk spring beneath your feet to just meet his hight.

His observation haki wasn’t expecting that now wasn’t it?

For some reason, he didn’t stop you. Shocked expressions were plastered on everyone’s face from just your first step of what you were going to do. Staring into his red pink eyes meeting with yours, his constant muttering and talking (which you tuned out) was the only thing you could really hear now as you then grabbed his scarf abruptly and pulled it down with all your might!

GASP

….

silence…

You stared up at the sight before and then..your eyes softened.

“..seriously..? That’s It?..you had me thinking it was a huge scar or something!”

You laughed, now giving a closed eyes smile. His face was full of utter shock in surprise.

..what?..you weren’t scared..? You thought it was..not ‘that bad..?’

A soft smile rested upon your lips, letting out a soft chuckle, you sighed.

“There’s nothing wrong with you..that kind of beauty never really scared me anyways..”

…

Beauty..?

Slowly..his eyes watered..

Tears.

That was a natural response in the body but something else was going on..something was wrong.

__________________________________________

The sea was sparkling, the air was fresh, everyone was laughing and chattering, everything just seemed utterly perfect.

It had been about a week or two since you joined the infamous ‘strawhat crew.’ You were absolutely welcomed with open arms. Delicious food was served to you at all times, though sanji had to put tissues in his nose every time he got close to serve you, you honestly didn’t know why though?

Yeah, It had been exactly two weeks since you left that island you’ve been stuck on for years. The one you constantly dreamed on, dreamed of leaving, dreamed of living finally.

But something just..didn’t feel quite right.

You didn’t know how to describe it or how to even begin to describe this feeling, yes you were having the time of your life, making memories with these people you’d never thought you’d make, but something just seemed..

Off.

When you tried to tell Nami and Robin about, they simply just brushed it off, saying you were just home sick.

You could remember sitting in front of the mirror, feeling their hands tangle and brush through your hair while you stared longingly at your reflection.

Brush

Brush

Brush

Your curls easily ran through brush, and by now it was surely untangled. Yet, they still kept brushing..

The silence in the room was loud, almost deafening. So quiet..yet so peaceful you could call it, taking a deep breath and glancing at the window where you could see the water move, you decided to start a conversation, you needed information since you were now a pirate right?..

“So Nami, what island our we heading to next?..im very curious..I’ve never been anywhere new before..”

You softly spoke, almost a little embarrassed by the truth but you weren’t afraid to admit it. Just that sentence alone had you thinking.

By thinking, you remembered.

The nostalgia..oh the nostalgia..

Would you ever see a place like your original home again? You could almost feel the soft grass on your feet when you would run out and play in the sun. Feel the petals of the soft, beautiful flowers and plants you used for your spells. Hear the birds sing as you would lay in the garden, reading books upon books to cure you curiosity.

“-N..Y/N..!”

You jumped a bit, finally snapping out of your trance and not even noticing the fact that you just spaced out..

“O-Oh? Yeah sorry! Could you repeat that?”

You said, hearing a soft chuckle escape Robins lips as you saw in the reflection of the mirror that Nami had her eyebrow raised. A smooth, tan arm then sprouted from the back of the chair you were sitting in. Slowly, Robin turned your head with her pointer finger to face her, making your eyes look into her sky blue ones. She was truly beautiful..

“We’re heading to Jaya island..we need information on the other place we need to go, Skypia.”

Your ears perked up, did you hear that right?..Skypia?

Ever since you were young, you dreamed about hosting there. So many books you read about this strange world you lived in..ones you’ll never forget..

Although you had no idea what the place looked like, you kind of knew exactly what to expect. The culture and place itself was fascinating.

“Skypia? Really? I’ve only heard about that place in books! And we’ll get to go to another island before that?”

So far, being a pirate was great! You knew they explored the seas and what not, but the fact you could go so many places just perfect for you..for your need to explore..

For your need to be curious..

But, something told you that..your curiosity wouldn’t be the best thing..in fact..it told you it could possibly be your downfall..

There was only one way to find that out right?

A slow sigh escaped your lips. Just what was bugging you? Everything here was great! Yes, the crew could be a bit..overbearing at times..

They wouldn’t leave you alone for a second but hey, maybe they’re just excited for a new crew mate right?..

And you were happy to spend time with all of them! You kind of couldn’t really keep a schedule because there was so many of them..but no matter what you did on the ship it involved them.

For example, reading with Robin was always peaceful..but eventually it would get too quiet..so you would go ask to be with Zoro. You watched him work out sometimes, even joining in if you were THAT bored..but napping with him was always a pleasure..

Playing with luffy, watching Nami do her work with naps, talk with Chopper while he was in his office and so on so forth..but you just now noticed, they never really gave you time to yourself..

Hmm..

You decided to simply tell the one you were hanging out with you were busy, what’s the worse that could happen right?

…

..

It was now lunch time, everyone was eating peacefully now, Sanji flirting with you, Nami and Robin..usual..Zoro taking close glances at you every five minutes..the usual?..Usopp feeling the need to get your attention every second..the usual..

The only remotely wholesome behavior was Chopper’s really, getting every chance he could get to sit on your lap or get some of your sweet, sweet attention..cutely though of course.

This was definitely normal behavior..for them. In all the books you read however, this wasn’t exactly right though..but like Robin said, “books aren’t always realistic..”

Cutting a small piece of your food, you bit it off from your fork casually, chewing before speaking.

“So, once we get to Jaya island..where exactly are we going to get the information?..”

You asked, looking around at the table for your answer. Luffy, with his cheery grin answered in an excited tone, tearing a piece of meat off the bone.

“Me, Zoro and Nami are gonna try to go around and see what information we can find!”

Chuckling at his enthusiasm, you couldn’t help but glance up at him from under your eyelashes. This boy..

This pure boy with the big grin, so excited about everything, it’s like he could do no wrong or be mad about anything!

Right?…

“Ah yeah! Nami told me about that earlier..so since it’s the first island I’ve been on besides home….”

When you mentioned the word ‘home�� you saw the crew stiffen up..even Sanjis eyes widened before he continued to pour some tea into Nami’s cup..

Strange.

“I’m gonna go solo and explore! I’m sure it’ll be exciting don’t cha’ guys think?”

You said with a light hearted laugh, sipping your cup of tea. They all went silent for a while, staring at you intently or something else. Usopp and Sanji especially looked rather..zoned out.

Blinking and setting your cup down back on the table, you looked around curiously. Why in earth were they so..quiet?..this was very odd.

Nami seemed the first one to snap out of it.

“Uhm well…although we know that’ll be fun for you..”

“It’s a stupid idea. You might get hurt.”

Zoro butted in, his tone blunt as he now locked his gaze on you. Raising an eyebrow you waited for someone else to back you up on this yet..

No one did.

Sighing softly, you had gotten rather..tired of their protectiveness in the past few months..but you would never say that out loud however. Something deep down told you not to.

“Well, that is very sweet that you guys..care so much..I’ll be fine! You know I can fight, it’s not like town is known for how dangerous it is or anything..”

Squinting his eyes, Zoro looked as if he was about to say more, but Robin soon chimed In with her smooth voice.

“She’s right you know? Plus, we could get very useful information if there were more of us in different places..”

A smile was brought to your lips, thanks Robin!

It soon faltered a bit once you saw her give everyone a look. A look you couldn’t really..describe. Like a message, a code someone could decipher.

Luffy let put a low grumble, trying to stare that ‘it want safe and, I’ll miss her!’ But of course that didn’t work.

Finally, you would get SOME peace right?

.

.

.

.

The sound of your shoes clicking on the pavement as you walked was oddly soothing. Even though you knew this place wasn’t the most beautiful thing in the world..you were fascinated.

The sounds, the smells the people. Everything you could get your eyes on interested you. Of course you had to take up from Nami and go on a shopping spree, new clothes were just too hard to resist! You knew they would freak once they saw them!

Since the day was sunny, your curly hair was out up into a ponytail to match the heat, humming calmly along with the tube you had in your head.

A yawn slowly escaped you as you felt your eyes flutter softly.

“Hmm..who knew shopping and exploring all day could get me this tired out....I wonder..”

You said, feeling your eyes wonder across the street to grassy clearing. The crew wouldn’t mind if you stayed for just a little longer right?..a girl did need a nap!

Walking into the meadow of flowers, you smiled fondly, picking one up and twirling it in between your fingers. It was daisy, an English daisy. The most common but still beautiful. You tried to find beauty in almost everything..everything or anyone.

Gently setting the bags and your flower down, you plucked a handful of the flowers and uttered the words of your spell..

Shroop~!

A giant, yet lovely flower surrounded you. Enclosing on you and your bags with a little pollen bed for you to rest on. Slowly stretching you felt yourself slowly smile..finally feeling the most peace you could feel at last..

………………………………………………………………………….

A yawn slowly escaped you..what time was it?..waving your hand in an almost dismissive manner around, the flower slowly sprouted, its petals revealing the outside world at last.

Blinking a few times to get adjusted, you finally started to realize..

It was..

EVENING?!

Sundown and you’d still hadn’t come back to the ship!

Oh good lord what were they going to say now??

Even though you’d hadn’t been on the ship that long you just knew deep down..

You were screwed.

Quickly grabbing all of your stuff, you ran out of the meadow to the ship. While you were running however, you passed a man.

Not just any man though..

His aura..his vibe, felt different..

You looked at him, eyes slightly squinted once you were able to spot him clearly.Your eyes locked.

He was tan, big lips and beard with a big bottle of sake you assumed. A red ball necklace around his neck. He smiled. Wide too, revealing his missing and crooked teeth as you caught a glance of the golden ring on his finger.

You shivered..

Something about him didn’t seem quite right..like..

You were going to see him again soon..

Or were you just talking crazy?..

..

.

Lifting up the huge bottle, he took a long sip, the liquid slowly dripping down his chin and down to his neck as he wiped it off.

Still keeping that sane grin, a loud laugh escaped him. Remembering your face clearly as watched the people on the street pass by.

“Well,nice to meet ya too missy! I feel like I’ll be seein’ ya soon too..”

..

…

Did you get to the ship sooner than you expected? Yes. But did you still get very much scolded? Of course.

And they seemed very serious..almost possessive..

Just brush it off Y/N..

Brush it off..

These people were good.

Just something about the way Zoro immediately pulled you into his arms, forcing your head to meet his chest so you could feel his racing heartbeat while the others continued to chatter and scold endlessly at you for taking too long no matter how hard you tried to explain..

Yeah, they definitely weren’t leaving you by yourself..

Anytime soon.

Finally, once you got to the woman’s quarters, you couldn’t stop thinking about the eventful day you had..

Surprisingly, Nami and Robin met you do your night routine by yourself..

If you didn’t know any better, you’d suspect that the whole crew were talking about something while you were gone..

Stop it Y/N! This is crazy talk!

You thought yourself, letting out a soft groan, staring at the ceiling.

But it doesn’t hurt to check..right?..

There was a spell you knew..a powerful one that showed your future or fate..yet, it did great damage to your energy sometimes..but you had to know..you had to know if..this behavior was normal.

Sitting down in a circle full of cards you summoned, turned face down. You closed your eyes and took a deep breath..

“Secrets, secrets show yourself..show my fate,show my true self..for better or for worse I’ll know my fate..I’ll not have to alternate!”

Smoke soon filled the room, all of the cards soon floated and submerged into your head out hand. Taking a deep breath, everything went back to normal. Slowly fluttering your eyes open, you felt your shaky hands slowly start to turn the card over..

Would this finally be an answer?..

“Y/N! Come down to hang with us! We’re all gonna play a drinking game!!”

Luffy called out, causing you to blink.

Why at this time!?..

Glancing over at the card in your hand..you sighed softly, closing your eyes for a split second before gently setting it down on the floor.

Maybe it was best to not read it until later..maybe it was best to try to have some fun right now..the night was young wasn’t it?..

Getting up from the floor, you yelled down a ‘coming!’ Before hurrying down to the lower deck.

Little did you know that underneath that card..was a picture of a rose..a glittering red rose being reached out by many,many hands. Possessive hands, needy hands.

Though, that couldn’t mean anything serious..

Right?..

End of chapter 3~..

———————————————————————

A/N:HIIII MY LOVES~! I hope you enjoyed this chapter! And yes, I did publish it late and yes it was TECHNICALLY on a Sunday 😭 but this chapter was basically getting to know Y/N, I promise other characters like all the strawhats, and more (wink, wink) will be shown more as much as their characters! I hope this is king enough honestly 😭 but I really enjoyed writing this and I must say, I’m so glad to be back! For now I will be working on my requests to try to get them back open again and since I have A LOT in waiting, then I will be getting back to this, which will be shortly so dont worry! 🌸💕

And don’t think I forgot to tag you @theg0ddesspersephone 🍀!

Until next time my pretty petals!!~

[peoniesnro]

In Another Universe

#5. A beautiful memory

Synopsis - When you are just another iteration of Park Jimin’s girlfriend in a different universe.

Park Jimin × Reader

Genre- parallel universe (duh)/ kind of fantasy/ strangers to ??/ SMUT/ maybe romance/ angst/ fluff /Infidelity

Warnings - Language/dirty thoughts

Word Count - 11k

a/n- This is a bit early and serves as a bridge between the previous and upcoming chapters. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you for reading! ♥️

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“You want me to do what?” You shout, placing your palms on the kitchen island. A little bit harshly that a soft bang echoes. Jimin just seriously stares at you. Not even flinching at the sound.

“Park Jimin. Tell me you’re not serious.” You say again as he doesn’t reply. Jimin gives you a tight-lipped smile. “I am spring roll. I am very serious.” Says finally, expression still very serious.

He must be losing his damn mind.

You sigh, exasperated. “But I know shit about business Park. What do you expect me to do there?” You throw your hands in the air. Jimin sighs too. Leans forward a bit over the kitchen island. Interlaces his fingers together.

“Listen Lil, just because Liya doesn’t remember this day, that doesn’t mean that other people too. They are gonna wonder what happened to Kim Liya. She has a business to run, and I don’t want everyone she knows on my doorstep asking where she is. You need to cover her life on her behalf while you are here Lil. I’m sorry, but you’ll have to.” He looks directly at your eyes.

You groan as you look away from his face. Eyes landing on the document on the island. Your ticket to disappear every other day without getting into any trouble. Written proof that you have CFS. You don’t even know what that means. As Jimin explained that means you are experiencing profound fatigue. Which means you’ll need special consideration. The letter is from a non- existent GP. But the hospital he works exists. In your world. Everybody knows it and as long as no one decides to contact this doctor and check for themselves, you are safe. And you know that nobody would walk that length for you. Except for Key. Oh, she is going to be thrilled when she sees this.

Jimin, in that case, did a god damn good job. This letter seems astonishingly legit. He did all that with the details you provided about the hospital. And he did that within a day. Impressive. Scary. Makes you realise he is a fucking CEO. Owns a damn business. Has connections. Still, sits here with a pout on his lips when you call him an asshole. Fuck! He is adorable.

Funny how you don’t see him as the powerful businessman he is. But rather just a man who is couple years older than you. A friendly one. Hot one. Caring one. Looks intimidating sometimes but makes you quite comfortable. See, he is a funny thing. Makes you wonder how he is when he is at work. Is he like this with everyone? Probably not. Maybe he is a very serious boss. You may not know very much about him yet, but you know he must be a successful businessman. He needs to be a responsible and serious leader to accomplish that.

Still, you can’t believe it. Can’t imagine him being, this impressive, grumpy, wise boss when he sits here with you in his sweatpants. His hair all messy and tousled. His plump lips still in a pout. You can’t believe him being a CEO of a company when he always comes up with stupid ideas whenever he is with you. Exactly like now, when he wants you to attend a damn board meeting in place of Liya. As the CEO of The SE, which is apparently the biggest publishing group in this Seoul, South Korea. A part of the Kim Group. You didn’t know what that is until Jimin explained. According to that explanation, Liya’s father owns the half of this country. And he wants you to pretend be his daughter and attend this broad meeting. When you barely understand the basics of business.

You turn back to Jimin. Ready to tell him to fuck off, and you can’t do it at all, but he beats you to it.

“Oh, c’mon. You said we’re friends Rollito. Friends help each other.” Whines. Looks like he might stomp his foot under the island. He doesn’t. Instead, gives you puppy eyes.

That friends part does something weird to your heart. Why did you ever tell you are friends now? Is a good idea though. You’re back to arguing over silly matters. Nobody avoids anyone. No guilty conscience. Just friends.

It was a close call. You were on the verge of spreading your legs for Park Jimin. Getting fucked and become the other woman. Woman who he cheated on his girlfriend with. If that ever happened that would have made you want to drown yourself. Can’t imagine living with such a burden on your shoulders. Even the things that happened made you want to go through a purification to get rid of your sins. Made you think how much of a bitch you are for wanting to kill Kim Taehyung for cheating and doing the same thing with his best friend.

The way thing turns out is good. Very good in fact. Even though you feel heavy whenever he or you mentioned you are friends. It will go away someday. This heavy feeling. It will.

You watch the way Jimin is still giving you puppy eyes. Makes you roll yours as a reply. “Oh, fuck Park Jimin. You’re so annoying. Can we go back to being strangers. I don’t want to be your friend anymore. You’re opportunistic.” You huff when he gasps in disbelief. “An opportunistic?” Clutches his heart and winces. “Can’t believe you’re saying such horrible things to me after I helped you.” Reaches for the document on the table. Takes it in his hand before continuing. Brandishes it in front of your eyes.

“See, I helped you. Don’t be a selfish ass and do this for me in return.” Puts the paper back. You are the one gasping in disbelief now.

“Yah! I didn’t ask you to do that.”

“So what? You could have solved the problem by yourself?” He looks way too smug for his own good. “Yes of course, Park. I’m fully capable of solving my own problems.” You tilt your chin up. His smug look gets worse. “Oh yeah? Do you need rem—”

“No thanks. I’ll do it.” You stand up. Take the letter. “Because we are friends and friends help each other.” Say as you push the chair back. With a screeching sound. “But I want you to know Park, that I can solve my problems most of the times. I’ve been doing that all my life. You’re the one who butts in to everything.” You’re saying the absolute truth. You could have solved this problem by your own. It would be hard. Jimin made it way easier. Still, you would’ve found a solution in the end. You’re grateful for him helping though. Just don’t want to feed his ego.

Jimin opens his mouth to retort when you interrupt him. Point your finger at him. “And just remember if your girlfriend’s damn business went to bankrupt, it’s all on you Park. All on you.” Look him in the eye when they disappear in his cheeks. Like always. You like that a little too much. How mesmerizing.

Jimin is grinning. And then chuckling.

“Fine.” Says through his chuckle. “Trust me, you don’t have to do anything. Just sit at the executive chair.” Stands up too. Rounds the kitchen island to walks towards you. Stops. Smiles again. Ruffles your already messy hair. Only for a second. And then he is going away.

Your heart stops for that second.

Oh fuck! You need to get laid.

...................................................................................................

You bite your thumbnail while gaping at the pristine glass building through the window. The building itself is enormous. Shines under the cold winter sun. Majestically. A modern architectural masterpiece. And you are to pretend the owner of that building.

Holy fuck!

This is The SE group. Liya’s father owns this. Liya manages it. She is amazing. The thing is, you don’t think you’re that amazing. Even looking at the building makes your stomach turns and churns awfully. Cold beads of sweat appearing on your forehead. You can think about twelve million things that can possibly go wrong. Oh, shit this is a bad idea. A terrible idea. You start chewing your thumb nail even faster. Habitual flaws that you were unable of letting go. That’s why you have perfectly manicured nails on your other fingers but the right thumbnail looks like it survived seven wars. Can’t help it.

You keep gaping at the building and chomp your own finger when Jimin’s hand reaches for you. After he sighs heavily. It makes you slightly startle and jump in your seat. He grabs your wrist. Makes you stop chewing your nail off.

“Fucking stop it Lil. You gonna hurt yourself.” Says as he yanks your hand down. You turn to look at him. He has a scowl on his face. Is starting at your hand. You follow his gaze. Look at your poor finger. Are about to say that you can’t help it when he cut you down by wiping your finger clean. With his hand. A simple and innocent act. Yet, your nervously beating heart stops again. Just like how it did when he stroked your hair. You shift your gaze back to his face with your eyes wide.

Did he just wipe your finger? Isn’t that gross?

Apparently, it’s not. Not when he is completely unaware and unfazed. Is stroking your finger gently. As if he wants to soothe it. Oh, you and him trying to sooth things are not good. Especially, when you feel these strange sensations in your tummy and your heart is squeezing. In a very bittersweet manner. That’s why you clear your throat and retrieve your hand from his soft grip. Look back at the building.

“I can’t help it.” Say finally. Avoid looking at him. Still, can feel his burning gaze on your face. “Yeah, but it’s bad.” He mutters and shifts in his seat. You just nod. Want to change the subject and the sudden heavy atmosphere.

“This is really bad Jimin. How am I going to pretend like a fucking CEO when I don’t even know which floor my office is. What if I ended up in the bathroom instead?” You question wearily. Finally finding the courage to look back at him. Meet his gaze. He chuckles.

“Office is on the top floor. And you are not gonna miss it Spring Roll. Your secretary, I mean, Liya’s secretary will meet you when you enter the building. She is expecting you. All you have to do is act like you own the place.” He sounds like it’s all easy. Well, it’s easier when it’s said. You’re the one who have to do it for real. You whine pathetically as you slump down. Drowning yourself in the comfy leather seat. You absolutely don’t want to leave Jimin’s car.

Jimin gives you a soft look. Unbuckle his seatbelt so he can lean toward you. You don’t like this. He is way too comfortable with you. How can he be like that? Isn’t he afraid, you’ll mess things up again? Maybe he doesn’t feel like how you feel. You shouldn’t feel this way either. But you do and he makes it worse. You wonder if he solved his horny ass problem. Finally fucked his girlfriend that he will be not horny for a year.

Well, you haven’t solved yours. You still have your horny ass, and he should keep his distance. You wish he would but of course he doesn’t. Brings his face inches closer to you. Breath fanning your face. It makes your nipples ache and panties soak. How pathetic? Suddenly, you want to leave his car.

“You don’t have to do anything Lil. Trust me it’s going to be all okay. Just sit at the meeting and then call your driver when it’s finished. He’ll take you home and all done. Everyone’s happy.” Squeezes your thigh. Makes your skin burn and tummy flutter. You’re crying internally. It’s a painful and deep desire that he ignites within you. You want him to stop and not, at the same time.

Jimin keeps his hand on your thigh for a long minute before reclines from your personal space. How you are glad. It’s not wise to be here with him. Better if you get away even though you’ll have to manage a business. Besides he says it’ll be okay. You’ll trust him with this. So, you nod at last. That makes him grin.

“Yeah? That’s my girl.” Says proudly. You on other hand, are back to stare at him with wide eyes.

Who’s who now?

What the fuck does he think he’s doing. You want to get away from here. Fast as you can. You hand is already on the door handle when he speaks again. “You’re a damn good friend Spring Roll.” Says happily. And you feel that disappointed ache. Fuck it. What’s wrong with you? You need to be on this just like him. That’s how you are going to survive this until you find your answers. Yes. You need to be his friend. So, you take a sneaky breath. Turn to him and scowl.

“Fucking opportunistic.” Mumble and exit the car. Take one final look at him when he wishes you luck. Wait there until he drives away.

How beautiful his little smile is.

...................................................................................................

You didn’t mess up. Surprisingly so. Yes, you sat there at an opulent conference room with an ashen face and clammy palms. Yes, you stupidly gape at all professional looking fellas there, whenever they asked something from you. Still, you managed to get through that with yes and nos. Even got the false impression that running a business isn’t that hard when all you have to do is say yes or no. In the end, you managed. Better than you thought, and you could pat yourself on the back for being that good. Being good at acting like you own the place.

Only minor issue you caused was calling Liya’s secretary Mrs. Seong. She appeared stunned. As if you had called her by a insulting name instead her real one. Turned out that apparently Liya just calls her by her first name. She herself told you that. Asked you what is the matter with you. And then of course she nearly had a heart attack when you refused to let her go to bring you a coffee. She is older. Probably good ten years older than you. Doesn’t sit right with you to call her by her first name. And then send her to bring you coffee? You were horrified.

You are extremely relieved now when you finally exited the pristine building after you called your (Liya’s) driver. Jimin had given you Liya’s phone despite your protests. Said it was okay. You are Liya while being at the office. That’s how he managed to get you inside this navy-blue Cashmere knee length skirt and the white turtleneck sweater. A winter coat to keep you warm. Knee high boots on your feet and very expensive looking bag on your hand. You and Jimin made sure that you emulate Liya in every possible way. From your clothes to hair. You thought you did a good job. Jimin thought you did a very poor job.

You smile to yourself when you notice the sleek, white car parked in front of the building. Even though everything went impressively well, you still don’t wish to linger here anymore. Especially, with Mrs. Seong bombarding with you hundred different questions. She just won’t accept your excuse of wanting to meet your boyfriend as a good excuse to cancel lunch plans with a client. An important one in that case.

“It’s a good excuse Mrs. Seong. I need to have a private life as well. You get me?” You sternly say as walking briskly towards the vehicle. The woman in the bob cut following close behind you. “But this is a very rare chance, Miss Liya. Didn’t you want to have another chance with Owen Scott?” Her high heels clatter against the cobblestone floor. She doesn’t let you just disappear. Makes you annoyed. You don’t know what this deal is or how important that is. No that you care anyway. Jimin wanted you to be here. At this one meeting. You have no intention of going through another painful business meeting. Lunch or not. You sigh as you reach the car. The driver gets out to hold the door open for you.

How uncomfortable?

“Please can you reschedule this lunch for me Mrs. Seong. I can’t ditch Jimin today. This is important. Trust me hm? Please give Mr. Scott a good reason.” You finalize and turn to get into the car. Rudely ignoring her protests. You’ll let Jimin deal with this later.

You mutter a soft ‘thank you’ to the driver as you almost get into the car when a voice, which does not belong to the woman, interrupts you. You take the foot you place inside the car back. Turn around. Eyes going wide and then a huge grin breaking out on your face as you recognize the man in front of you.

“Jungkook?” You nearly squeak in excitement but catch yourself right at the time. Eyes raking on his broad figure and then landing on the person next to him. The girl with the purple hair. “J!” You exclaim again. Happily. Jungkook looks the same as you remember. J has cut her hair a little bit shorter. Daring. You like her.

“Noona.” Jungkook squeak loud enough for all of you. Takes a step forward. Nearly touches you when J yank him back. He frowns at her first. Then smiles at you again. “What are you doing here?” Asks excitedly. Both him and J have two banana milks in their hands. You hide your amused grin while shrugging. It feels extremely wrong and weird to lie all over again. “Work, I guess.” You look at The SE building. Their eyes follow you. “Oh, you work here?” J wonders. Her eyes squinted and takin a good look at the glass establishment. Jungkook does the same.

You don’t want to take credit on someone else’s behalf after all. Hence, why you are about to tell yes and let it go. But then J suddenly gasps. “Wait? Aren’t you own this?” She gestures to the building. Well, you don’t at all. You don’t even own a doll house to be precise. And then regarding this building, Liya doesn’t own it either. Technically, it’s her father’s. Yet, you just nod anyway. Easier that way.

Jungkook lets out a low whistle. His eyes in a faraway land. “Can you fuckin believe we clubbed with a bunch of freaking CEOs” Asks from J when she shakes her head. Almost in a pure disbelief. “All thanks to Joonie. I love him. Too bad the bugger is already in love.” J sighs dreamily. You guess they are referring to Kim Namjoon. The acquaintance of Hoseok. Jungkook nods in assent. “Too fucking bad. Even if he isn’t J, J, you still have no chance against me.” Mutters. He looks dreamy just like J. “Wanna bet?” J breaks the stupor and snaps her head to him. Now she looks very serious. Jungkook scoffs. “Fuck yeah, how much?” Challenges.

You think you can watch their bantering for a whole day. There’s a low laughter emitting from inside your cheat. Unfortunate, how a throat clearing interrupts you. You turn around, suddenly remembering the bob cut woman. She is scowling. Displeasure evident on her face. “Your ride Miss. Liya.” She turns toward the car. Driver still holding the door open for you.

Ah yes! The ride.

“Ah yes. I better get going now guys. See you sometime later? Huh?” You grab the door and say to the two people. They are both watching you intently now. You give them a soft yet polite smile. Bow. J reciprocates your actions. Jungkook doesn’t. Takes a moment. Then suddenly, completely out of blue, thrusts his banana milk to you. Surprises you more than a little. Even makes you stumble backward at the intensity of how he jolted his hand out. A soft oh leaves your mouth when Mrs. Seong clears her throat again. This time in warning. You take a look at her disgusted face. And then back at Jungkook.

He is looking at you expectantly. Eyes big and mouth forming a cute ‘o’. You don’t think it’s normal to offer drinks to people like this. So, you don’t think it’s normal to accept them. Yet, he has this eyes that makes it difficult to say no. So, you take it. Chuckle. Ignore the sounds Liya’s secretary is making. “Thank You Jungkook. It’s very nice of you.” Smile awkwardly. Raise the drink hesitantly. J is giving Jungkook a murderous look. “I’ll... go then. See you.” You mumble again. Are about to get into the car. And Jungkook interrupts you again for the hundredth time for these past few minutes.

“Noona wait! Do you like... want to hang out with us?” He blurts that out that all three of you including J and Mrs. Seong, echoes a ‘what?’ in unison. He grins. Why is he so random? “Well, uh… are you heading home now?” Scratches the back of his head. “Yeeeaaah….” You drag that one word hesitantly. Yet, answer before your brain can evaluate it properly and comes up with the best answer. Fuck, you gave the wrong answer. Jungkook is beaming. “Then join us. We can have fun.” Nods to himself. J grabs from his oversized black t-shirt. Hisses.

“What the fuck Jungkook? You can’t ask a fucking CEO to hang out with us like that. Woman probably has tones of works to do.” She looks at you. Then back at Jungkook. Well, you have no work, but you nod. Jungkook visibly deflates. A pout on his lips. “Who cares if she owns a business or not. If she wants to she can.” Mumbles through his pout. “You really have work Noona?” Asks again. You are about to say yes and disappear when he bridges the distance between you two. Startles you and Mrs. Seong. So do to the two men stand guard at the entrance of the building. Ridiculous, how you have to hold a hand up to stop them from coming to you.

“It’s going to be fun. And you owe me a banana milk.” Jungkook peers at your face. You open your mouth in disbelief. Did he just fucking give it to you and asks you for a new one. “You can have it back.” You hold the drink back up to him. He whines. “Oh, c’mon.”

J hisses again. “Fucking hell Jeon.” Almost succeeds dragging him away from your space. Almost though. He shrugs her off. “Isn’t it boring to work all the time?” Doesn’t give up on bugging you. The thing is it’s almost working. Hence, your partially defeated sigh. He knows he is wining. Comes up with some more funny reasons why you should go with them. In the end you give up. He has eyes you can’t say no to.

“Okay Fuck. Let’s go. Not like I’m gonna die.” You try to appear annoyed. Fail when Jungkook is grinning from one ear to other. Step away from the vehicle when Mrs. Seong stutters on her word.

“But Miss Liya... Did…didn’t... you say… what about Mr. Park.” She takes few steps with you when you start to walk away with the intruders.

“I’ll call him Mrs. Seong. Don’t worry. You can go back to work.”

You are not going to call Jimin since he will not expect that. He has works to do. No time to worry about a pretend girlfriend. Not like you really have plans. That was a lie. Besides, it’s okay to have a little fun. Jungkook and J are nice people. You like them. You chuckle excitedly. You’re buzzing with excitement. Jungkook mirrors you. J shakes her head in mock disbelief. Finally joining you to walk side by side.

………………………………..………………………..………..............

“What are you doing wandering around the city?” You slurp the last bit of Jungkook’s banana milk from the straw.

“Eh...” J responds noncommittally. That’s not really an answer. You gape at her face. “Eh?” Repeat what she said. “We are just wandering around. No purpose.” She says. Shrugs. “So, like what? You have nothing to do?” You are curious to know. Look between J and Jungkook. They walk with you in the middle. “We have, normally.” Jungkook answers in place of J. Grabs your full attention.

“What do you mean normally?” You question further.

“Well, normally means if we are at our part time jobs or classes.” J states. You are now annoyed you have to turn your head every time. Yet are happy to know they both can relate to you. Only if you could tell them. “Yeah? Then is this mean you don’t have lectures or work?” You turn to Jungkook even before he answers. Know he is the one who is going to answer your question.

“Oh, we do. We have a class.” He says casually.

“So?” You turn to J.

“We skipped.” She states and points toward a Tteokbokki stall. You gape at her when she starts to rush toward the stall. “Kookie, you want some don’t you?” Asks from Jungkook yet yanks from your hand. Dragging you to the food stall. You are shocked. Do they just happily skip lectures. Like that? Aren’t they worried? You and Key are always worried. So, you voice your concerns. “Aren’t you worried about failing?” Jungkook is the closest to you. “We manage.” He replies before taking your other hand in his. Now they both are dragging you toward the stall.

They manage?

How unfair that there are people who can manage everything. When you are struggling with everything. They seem happy. Jungkook and J. Extremely so. Makes you feel happy too. You watch as J places three orders. Old lady in the stall hustling to give you your food. The smell makes your stomach growl despite not being hungry a second ago. You’re suddenly very hungry. But then that hunger vanishes in a finger snap at J’s next words.

“You gonna pay for us? Won’t you Miss Liya. You won’t make two broken college students pay for you?” She takes the first bowl of Tteokbokki with both of her hands. Bows deeply to the old lady. Looks at you expectantly. Oh, fuck. You have no money. You refused Jimin’s money when he tried to give some to you. The plan was to head home straight after the meeting. God, this is a stupid idea. Why did you ever agree to come here. You feel your throat goes dry as you scramble for a practical excuse.

“Yah! Don’t do that. We invited her.” Jungkook bellows. You absolutely love him.

“You did! Not me. Then pay for us idiot.” J screeches at Jungkook. Click her tongue. You are starting to feel worried that she is starting to be annoyed. For real. But then Jungkook is looking unfazed.

“I will. For her. You can pay for your annoying ass.” He shoots you an affectionate glance. You feel uneasy. Very uneasy. Don’t want to be cause for a fight between two best friends. How humiliating? You can’t figure if they are fighting for real or not. You shouldn’t have come. J clicks her tongue again. Harder than before.

“Then you should write that damn essay by your own annoying ass.” States with her head held high. You look away from her when the vendor gives you another bowl. You take it with a slight bow. There’s an eerie silence. They both glaring at each other. Until Jungkook sighs. “Fuck okay.” He mumbles. Apologetically smiles at the old lady for his vulgar language. Pays for all three of you. You feel extremely bad.

“Gosh, I hate your annoying ass J, J.” He pouts so hard again, poking at his food. J laughs wickedly. “But you love me.” Is excited of the taste. You take a bite too. Very awkwardly and hesitantly. It actually tastes pretty good. That’s why you think Jungkook is really mad. He looks angry. Brows furrowed. Scowling. You open your mouth to apologize even though you have no other options when J beats you to it.

“He isn’t angry don’t worry. Just loves his food little too much.” She snorts after say that. You snap your head to Jungkook. Eyes meeting his when he peers at you from over his bowl. Does he really look angry because food is good? Apparently, he is. The smile he gives you confirms that.

……………………………………………..………………………..............

You and J stare at the soft plushies inside the UFO catcher through its hard glass. Noses nearly press against the cold material as you cheer for Jungkook. His goal is to win the blue penguin. It’s so fucking adorable that your gums ache. Jungkook is weirdly competitive, having already lost around 5000 won for nothing. He doesn’t listen to you or J. Is adamant about wining the price. He is going to pay ten times more for the plushie at this rate. Still, he doesn’t listen. Stubborn.

“To the left. Left, left, left…”

“Fuck Yeah.” You and J both roar when the claw catches the plushie for the sixth time now. You have to fight off the urge to hit his back in excitement. Jungkook lets out his own noise of triumph.

“Now ladies, I’m gonna win this fucking stupid penguin for real this time. If I don’t J, then you can call me cutie pie all you want.” He declares. Tip of his tongue poking out from between his pink lips. Eyebrows turning into a straight line at how hard he concentrates. You take a deep breath and hold it. As if you need to stay stony for him to win. J does the same. Watching intently the way claw moves upward with the blue plushie barely within it’s grasp. Jungkook very slowly moves the claw to the left.

“Slow. Take it slow.” J whispers in his right ear. He nods. Looks like he is defusing a bomb.

“A little bit more. Move it a little more.” You whisper in his left ear. He nods. Again. Beads of sweat appearing on his forehead.

“NOW.... NOW.....”

The way you and J shout makes a woman next to you lose her balance. She catches herself and grimaces at you. You bow to her in apology at the same time the plushie drops into the hole at the bottom. J yells through the top of her lungs as she throws her arms around Jungkook’s neck. Grabbing him to her and nearly choking him to death in the process. He doesn’t mind dying, however. It seems. Not after he won a stupid plushie. He hugs J back in elation. You don’t mind either. Until this very moment, despite all the exciting things you’ve experienced. You tried your best to stay in the Liya’s character. Now, though at the bubbling sensation of triumph. Even though it’s Jungkook’s and is stupid, you break the character happily.

You don’t even realize that you are jumping up and down, hollering. Laughing heartily. You don’t mind at all when Jungkook lets J go and hugs you instead. Picks you up from the floor easily. Making you squeak. Squeezes the life out of you before putting you down. Takes the plushie from the prize bin. Still, grinning happily. Holds the toy to you. His eyes are back to those shiny doe, Onyxes. The eyes no body can say no to. You look at his face and then at the plushie. Dumbfounded. It takes you a moment to understand that he is giving the prize to you. Realization makes your eyes wide. You gape at his face for a second before averting your gaze to J. She is grinning yet rolls her eyes.

“Yah! Are you fucking serious Joen? You give that to her when your best friend is right next to you?” Punches his arm. Playfully. Still, it makes you shake your head furiously. With your hands waving in front of your face. “No, no, I don’t want it Jungkook. You won it. You should keep it or give it to J.” You say embarrassingly when J snorts. Jungkook does the same. “Trust me, Noona, she doesn’t want it. Just being a pain in the ass.” He assures you while pushing the plushie into your chest. “Yah!” J hits Jungkook again. Protesting being called a pain. Especially, in the ass. You are not ready to accept a gift like that. Feels wrong for some reason. Then again, Jungkook made you come here to hang out with them in the first place. That’s why you shouldn’t be surprised when he pushes the toy into your hand forcefully. And tells you to shut it rudely when you try to reason.

……………………………………………..………………………..……......

“You don’t look like a CEO.” J asks offhandedly. You are sitting on a bench under a Gingko tree. Cold air playing with your hairs. Once again, slurping on three banana milks. Jungkook sits next to you. J sits next to Jungkook. So, you have to lean forward to look at her.

“That’s fucking rude J.” Jungkook gives her an annoyed look. She dismisses it. “What? I’m curious. Just look at her. No offense Miss. Liya, but you look nothing like a business owner.” She leans forward as well. Says to your face bravely. Well, of course, you don’t look like a CEO because you are not. Hell, you probably are younger than both of them. Still in your second year at college. And you forgot to be Liya since some time ago. Character was broken.

You feel horrible for eating on Jungkook’s dime, receiving a gift and now to have this drink on him again. He insisted though. But you feel humiliated. Should have taken that money from Jimin. Well, this is your sign to find a job here.

It's fair, in the end, that J thinks you don’t look like an owner of a leading business. All you can do, however, is give pathetic excuses. “Well, I’m a human J. And I know how to keep things separated you know?” You say calmly. Smiling at her. Jungkook nods in assent. As if he knows you. “I am a business owner when I work. Now? I’m a person like you guys. A stupid human who forgot her fucking wallet.” You shamefully mumble the last part. Why do you feel like you are scamming two innocent old people. Jungkook hums disapprovingly around his straw. Takes a good gulp. Then turns to you.

“Don’t say that Noona. We invited you.” He looks pure. Makes you guilty.

“You did.” J corrects him again.

“All right! I fucking remember.” Jungkook harps on.

“I did, Noona. So, it’s okay.” He pats your back, causing you to snort. “Okay but I’ll make sure to buy you something nice soon.” You pat his thigh in return. J peers at your over Jungkook’s large frame. Pouting. “What about me then?” Gesturers to herself. Jungkook mumble something about her being undeserving of anything when she smacks his head. “Ouch you little gremlin, don’t… buy her anything Noona... Not even… Yah!” Rest of his words die on his tongue as J starts to pinch him. They start fighting like two angry cats. Leaving you with no choice but to hold onto Jungkook so he won’t accidentally break J’s neck. Or yours. Your laughter disturbs the peaceful melody of wind.

“Okay shit. Stop it now.” You grab Jungkook’s arm. Trying to control your laughter.

“Jung-”

“Oi! Spring Roll!” Your words and their silly fight all stop at the same time. All three of you turning your heads around to where the sound came. In unison. A livid and exasperated Park Jimin seeps into your view. He is scowling deep. Hands in his pant pockets.

Oh!

“Jimin?”

“Mr. Park?” All three of you exclaim again. In unison. Jimin briefly looks away. Tongue poking the inside of his cheek. Lets out a humourless chuckle. Then his eyes are back on you. Oh, they are dark. Closes the distance between you like he is the wind and stands before you tall. A beat of silence pass. Everyone keeps gaping at Jimin. But he is piercing his gaze through you. There goes your heart beating fast. There goes your mind spinning fast.

Why the fuck is he here? How does he know where you are? Is this a coincidence?

You almost start to believe he is gone mute when he leans down. Takes your hand. Your heart stops again. Breath tangles in your throat.

“Let’s go.” He says with a certain authority. You would have liked it in a different context. Inside a private space. In this context, however, it makes your beating heart calm down instantly. Your breathing turns normal. A scowl, which is similar to Jimin, plastering on your features. He can’t just barge in and tell you ‘Let’s go’. Who does he think he is?

“Baby let’s go.” Jimin mutters again. And just like that your heart is back to racing. Lungs are protesting to breath properly. He thinks he is your boyfriend. Because, you are Liya. He probably is worried about you running the things. You inhale a shaky but sneaky breath. Nod. Get to your feet before turning to Jungkook and J. Both are still gaping at Jimin. You bow to them. Grab your things with the plushie and your banana milk.

“Thanks for these Kookie.” You shake them in your hand. “Let’s hang out sometime later.” Say again and mutter a goodbye to both of them. Bowing again and they do the same after getting up. You miss the death glare a pair of eyes send toward Jungkook. So do they. All busy while waving good-byes.

“Bye Noona!”

“Bye Miss. Liya!”

…………………………………………..………………………..………......

“What the actual fuck do you think you are doing?” Jimin practically yells in your ear. At the very moment Jungkook and J are out of your sight. You wince visibly. “The fuck Jimin. Why are you yelling?” Take a step away from him. Frowning. Jimin opens his mouth to say something. Then decides against it and takes you in for a moment. Takes in your expression which is torn between annoyance and fear. Blows a breath out. Groans. Mumbles an apology. You’re still frowning, however. And pouting.

“Hey Lil, I’m sorry.” He apologizes again as he takes a step toward you. You take a step back.

“Fuck, Lil, I didn’t mean to yell. But you can’t just ditch your secretary and go off with random passersby.” This time he doesn’t take any steps. So, you stand your ground. “They are not some random people. You know them.” You point it out. Watch carefully to see if he remembers. He has a poker face on. “Oh, c’mon that’s J and Jungkook. We met them at the club. Hoseok knows them.” You tries again.

“I don’t care who they are Lil. Hoseok knows them, not you. Not me. You can’t just walk away with fucking strangers…” Jimin hisses through his gritted teeth. Takes a deep breath in. Places his hands in his hips. “And how the fuck you know them just because you met them at a club? You met them this one-time Lil, and you think you know them? How old are you to act like a toddler who gets lured by a candy?” His eyes land on your drink and gift. Gives you the urge to hide them behind you. You badly want to argue. That’s how people meet new people. There’s a first time for everything. Everyone is a stranger once, just like Jimin and you were. Still, you think he has a valid point. Makes sense to say that you don’t know them. It is reckless.

So, you sigh in defeat. Speaks with defiance. “All right, I got it okay?” Just don’t want to accept he is right. “But I’m not a fucking kid Jimin. I know what I’m doing. I’m an adult who can manage herself very fucking well. And fully capable of making my own decisions. And… and… they are good. I had a great fucking day.” Your actions speak the opposite of your words. Especially, when you stomp your foot on the turf. Hug your blue penguin. Jimin huffs at that. “And is very irresponsible.” Mutters.

You click your tongue. Need to turn the winning hand of this argument towards you. “Well, as you can see, I’m perfectly fine. So, tell me Park, did you just run here looking for me? How did you even know where I am?” You feel this satisfactory bubble in your tummy to see Jimin’s annoyance instantly replaces with something akin to embarrassment. “Huh?” You push him more.

“Run here? Looking for you? What do you think? That I have nothing to do? That I have time to run after your stupid ass?” He scoffs while tilting his head to the side. “I was just passing by and saw you.” Says. Looks away from you. Then again, even when you don’t know him, you can read him well. You know he is lying. It’s very scary how you know it. No time to be scared, however. There’s a battle you’re winning. You quirk your brow. “Oh, like that? What a coincidence Park. And then you abandon your work to come here and drag my stupid ass away? How considerate of you.” You say wryly. “Were you driving through this park?” Add that question to your list. Take a good look around. “Where’s your car?” You know you’re winning.

It's very obvious that there’s no way he could just spot you while passing by. Didn’t he tell something about ditching the secretary? He needs better preparations if he plan to tell blatant lies. You keep staring at his face. With a quirky eyebrow. You can taste the win now.

And you do win when Jimin sighs heavily. “Okay, fuck, Seong called me.” Admits it finally. Shifts his eyes to yours again. Looks ashamed. Recovers quickly, however. “Are you saying I shouldn’t be worried when she told me some two passersby dragged you away. And they looked like straight out from hell.” Takes the winning side to him again. You open your mouth in annoyance. “Don’t say that. Jungkook is fucking hot. So is J-” Don’t get to finish that line when he chuckles.

“Yeah whatever.” Mutters and turns around. Starts to walk away while you stand there stupidly. Oh, the nerve of him to be like that. You catch up to him with quick steps. “So, you did run looking for me Park. Why? How did you find me?” Your trails of inquiries makes him stop. He drops his head low. Closes his eyes shut and opens them again. “I was just, worried...” His voice finally changes to soft.

“You are supposed to be Liya Lil. Don’t you think it is weird for someone so busy like her to just run away with two kids? And you had Seong cancel a very important lunch because you and I have plans, and then you toss them away and go with a random man? How does that might seem to people?” He is making sense again. You hate it when he makes sense. And there’s part of you, feel that twisted ache to know he was worried about your pretense ruining. Not about you. Just like you thought. You guessed that might be the reason, yes. Yet it doesn’t hurt any less. “And you didn’t even bother to give me a fucking call?” Asks again at your silence. You force yourself to push that ache away.

“Sorry I was irresponsible. But I already told you I’m not gonna use Liya’s phone for anything else than calling the driver.” You did say that when he gave you the phone. A good thing since it aids you in winning. You don’t want to win anymore though.

“Why are you so stubborn? Then you should have answered my calls.” Jimin turns completely to face you.

He called you?

“I put the phone on silent. Sorry.” You mumble. This time it’s you who walks away, leaving him to stand there stupidly.

………………………………..…………………………..………………......

You look around the high-end store filled with various electronic devices. The shop is in the same mall you once visited with Taehyung and his poor girlfriend. You and Jimin stepped onto friendly ground back again, while you were on your way. It was him doing most of the talking until you cracked up to one of his silly jokes, however. Still, you are not that friendly. There’s a residue of an unpleasant argument lingering between you. A residue that can easily ignite the fire again in any moment. That’s why you wish he had brought you home instead of here.

A boy in a white cap, who had disappeared somewhere inside the store, emerges in front of you again. A white box in his hand. He hands that box to Jimin over the counter with a pleasant smile on his lips. Jimin takes it. You look at the huge QS printed on the box lid. Nobody has to be a genius to know that it’s a phone. And definitely you don’t have to be a prophet to see what he is about to do.

“Why do you need a phone?” You very suspiciously and annoyingly lean toward his ear. At the same time, he unboxes the box and a sleek mobile comes to your sight. Jimin ignores you completely. Instead, talks with the cute boy in the white cap like you don’t exist. So, you wait patiently until the boy fumbles with the phone. Setting it up. And finally, slip the phone toward you this time. You’re not surprised at all. You knew Jimin was doing this all along. From the very moment you enter this shop. Stayed silent because you didn’t want to jump into conclusions. And make a fool out of yourself. That doesn’t mean; however, that you’re not allowed to fume with sudden rage.

You push the phone back toward the boy before you turn to Jimin. “You’re not buying me a damn phone Park. I don’t want it. I’ll buy my own after I find a job.” You state as sternly as you could. Jimin gives you a very unimpressed glance.

“What job?” Asks cockily.

“The job I’ll find soon.”

“Well, pay me back when you find that job then.” Says causally. Pulls his wallet out. “She is buying that.” This time says to the boy. It’s a very sudden reaction how you grab on to Jimin’s hand quickly. “No, I am not. I’ll buy my own. I mean it.” Hiss through your teeth. Trying so bad not to cause a seen here.

Jimin’s unimpressed look changes into a pissed off one. “Jesus Lil. Why do you always have to be so fucking stubborn? Just take it and pay me back.” He shrugs his hand free from your vice grip. Takes that same golden card out. Pushes it to the boy, who looks like he is currently watching a cringy comedy movie. The last of your concerns right now though. So, you nudge Jimin out of the way. “No, don’t make the payment. I’m not buying it.” Say to the boy. Practically leaning toward him over the counter. Ready to snatch the card away. “She fucking is.” Jimin grunts that out. Behind you. Just before his hands slips around your chest. Under your breasts and around your rib cage. And lifts you up like you weigh nothing. A yelp escapes your mouth as he turns you away from the counter.

Did he fucking lift you up like that?

You go through a split second of shock. Mouth agape and eyes wide. Only for a half second though. When that half second passes you are seeing red. “What the fucking hell Park Jimin. Put me the fuck down.” You are hissing like an angry old cat.

“Stop being stubborn like a goat then.” Jimin hisses. His grip tightening.

You can fight his grip. Of course, you can. At least try to do so. The thing is you can see two women gaping at you with disgust, from your reddened peripherals. It’s shameless to act this way in public. You think it’ll be worse for Jimin. So, you just take a deep breath in. Ask him to put you down again, in a much calmer voice. He relents. Keeps his hands around you anyway. You give up.

“I’m gonna fucking kill you, Park.” Mutter under your breath. Yet you know he heard that.

He chuckles.

…………………………………………………………..……………...........

The sky was already dark when you exited the lavish shopping mall. Not uncommon to face sudden rainfall during the last month of the year. At least not uncommon in your world. You guess it applies in this world as well. That’s how you find yourself, sitting on a bench in front of a convenience store. Savoring an ice cream bar. Staring into the water drops kissing the earth graciously. Your anger evaporates due to the coldness in your tongue. Blending with the cold rain drops. And washing away. You feel calm now. Much calmer than before Jimin bribed you with the idea of sweet treats. How weird that he knows how to handle your moods. Is it because of Liya?

It's not that you’re completely on good terms with him now. Still, it feels relaxing to be here. With Jimin’s warmth next to you. The warmth that fight against the coldness of your ice cream and winter air. And rain. The warmth that is enough to melt you down. The warmth that is like an invitation to lean against him. You don’t. Think it’ll be too much. Him just sitting next to you is enough. As weird as it sounds. You like this feeling. Like the way cold breaths swirls inside your lungs. Like the smell of the rain. It’s better when you can smell Jimin’s earthy cologne. What a combination. Jimin and rain. You like the way his knee is touching yours. Like the small electrocutions it sends through your body. You like being next to him. How scary?

You take a look at him. Apparently, he didn’t want any ice cream. But it’s very odd and wrong to eat by yourself.

“Are you sure you don’t want some?”

“Why are you taking that stupid toy with you everywhere?”

You both ask at the same time. Fall into silence. His eyes land on your ice cream, which you’re holding in front of his mouth. Yours land on the blue plushie, which is clutched by your other hand. You are about to answer that when Jimin takes a bite from the ice cream. Makes you grin. Puts you in a good mood. You take your hand and the ice cream back. Inspect the plushie.

“It’s cute, isn’t it?” Show it to him.

“Cute my foot.” Jimin looks away. Your good mood sours. Grin disappears. “Yah! Don’t be fucking mean. It’s cute. Besides, it’s a gift.” You clutch the plushie tight again. Jimin doesn’t look at you. “From who? Jungkook?” Asks in a very passive-aggressive tone. You hum in reply to that question. So, he looks at you. Scoffs. “It’s fine when he buys you something but it’s not when I do?” Gestures to his chest with his finger.

“Oh, c’mon. We both know that’s not the same. This is a fucking… I mean a fucking adorable plushie. Not an expensive phone.” You hold the toy higher. Brandishes it.

“So what? You want me to buy you a toy?” Jimin’s expression morphs into something aggressively endearing.

“No… I don’t… Let’s not talk about you buying me things, Jimin.” You ignore the way Jimin is at wit’s end. “He didn’t buy me this. He won me this.” Say before going back to taste your ice cream. Jimin snaps his head toward you at that.

“Oh yeah? Like it must have been fucking hard.”

“Of course, it’s hard. You know these claw machine shits are rigged right? So, it’s hard to get a price.” You don’t know why you are defending Jungkook. Maybe, you’re enjoying the adorable bewilderment in Jimin’s face. A little too much. Like always.

“I can win something for you too then.” Jimin blurts that out. It’s you who snap your head to him now. His wide eyes tell you that he didn’t mean to say that aloud. It’s out in the air anyway now. Not that he can turn the time around. You gape at him in pure disbelief for a minute.

Why on the earth does he wants to win something for you? Is he jealous? Can’t be. Probably Jungkook is pinching his man ego. Yeah, that must be it. You’re certain. Hence, your loud snort and the head shake. Just because you find it hilarious that Jimin is getting riled up and competitive with a man who he doesn’t even know properly. Jimin, on the other hand, gasps loudly at your reaction. Apparently, reads you wrong.

“What? You think I can’t?”

“No, I didn’t say that, Park.” You give him a horrified look. Your playful mood vanishing to the cold air.

“You don’t need to use words all the time Lil.” He mutters irritated. That makes you feel really bad. Wasn’t your intention to belittle him at all. Are about to explain when he stops you. “Don’t say a word. C’mon we are going, and I’ll show you what I can.” He is already in his feet. Your horrified and saddened expression turns into a judgmental one. Is he serious? He calls you a toddler then acts like this. His irritation spreads to you.

“Are you serious Jimin? Can’t you see it’s fucking raining?” You point out the obvious. Don’t make an effort to stand up. He says nothing but gapes at you. Pushes you to snap. He annoys you to no end. But in a good way.

You don’t want him to do anything to be honest. It’s just he is getting on your nerves by acting childishly. Maybe, you match his energy just fine. You both are childish.

“Okay, fine. You’re fucking ridiculous.” You stand up. Go closer to him. Brain searching for a good idea to challenge him. That’s when your eyes lands on the plum tree behind him. A winter-blooming plum tree. There’s not many blooms. Just one. Out of reach of the hand. Will need little more than jumping to pluck it.

There you go!

A wicked grin breaks out on your face. See, childish. Point your finger toward it. Jimin turns around to see what you’re gesturing at. There’s no need to use words all the time. Indeed. He knows what you’re asking for. Gives you a bewildered look again. “You want me to fuckin pick a plum bloom for you? How’s that similar to winning anything?” Pulls his brows together. Squints his eyes to assess the tree.

“Well, it’s too high. You think you can pick it? That’s the challenge Park. The flower is the price.” You explain smugly.

It's weirdly stupid. Your challenge. Yet is better than watching Jimin lose his entire wealth on a claw machine. Just because some random kid hurt his ego. How pathetic. He sighs heavily. Takes his time and just when you are about thinking he just got his brain power back, he disappoints you.

“Fine, stay here.” Now his look is torn between stubbornness and reluctance. You watch him carefully when he shed his jacket off. Loosens the buttons of the dress shirt. Rolls the sleeves up. You two can be a dangerous duo together, can’t you? Is he really going to get drenched just because of a stupid challenge? Maybe you should cut him some slack. Convince him not to get drenched in the rain. Don’t want him to suffer after all.

He has already stepped into the rain, however. Stubborn. Childish. Adorable. Impish. The cold rain drops start kissing his figure graciously now. Slowly but surely soaking his warm body in coldness. He bridges the distance between the store and the tree in just five steps. Stands under the tree. Turns to look at you. His soft hair staring to fall into his face under the stream of rain. His white shirt becoming see through.

Fuck isn’t he beautiful.

There comes that tug at your heart. A painful tug. You blame it on the guilt of letting him go into the rain. That is the only thing. There’s no longing at all. No there’s none. Still, the tug is too powerful to ignore. You can’t ignore it. Makes you tremble. Makes your heart shatter. Again, in a bittersweet manner.

You find yourself being bewitched by a certain blonde man under a plum tree. He is utterly bewitching. Enchanting when he stands there in the rain. You shed your own jacket and place all your belongings on the bench. Next to Jimin’s jacket. Willingly, follow Jimin’s steps. Let the rain drops freeze your bones. Walk toward him. Never leaving his gaze. As if his eyes are the compass. Don’t take your eyes away until you’re in front of him. Can feel his warmth again. Oh, you missed that. Even for few seconds. You missed him. Turn your head up. Look at the bloom.

“Why are you here?” Jimin mumbles softly. “It’s my challenge.” Adds that too. You smile.

“It’s okay to ask for help sometime, remember? A win is a win, Park. Hoist me up. I’ll pick it, this is teamwork. Friends helping each other. What kind of a friend am I, if I don’t help you?” Takes your eyes away from the bloom. Stare into his soft brown orbs when you say it. Yes. You’re here because you’re friends. You should say the word more. That way you’ll get used to it sooner. The ache will go away soon.

Jimin just stares back into your eyes. You think you can see the stormy clouds in his eyes. Gloomy. Raise questions but he doesn’t let you ask them. “But that’s cheating.” Comes closer to you. You have to battle the urge to close your eyes at the sensation of his hot breath in your face. Battle the urge to look at his plump lips. You can feel your head start to buzz in an addictive way.

“No... It’s not.” You match his soft mumble.

“How?”

“I don’t know. Just let me help you. Hm?” Why are you whispering? You honestly don’t know how to answer his question. Or what he meant by the question. So, you allow yourself to get lost in his enchanting gaze.

Until, he distracts you by nodding. And then bending down to grab you from your hips. Lifts you up without a word. For a second time this day. Higher this time, however. Higher and higher. You stretch your hand to touch the flower. Request him to hold you little bit more high. It is a bit of a struggle. A struggle that needs to bite your bottom lip and merge your brows. In the end, still, you pluck the bloom with your fingertips. Triumphal noises leaving you.

“Got it.” You shout. Excited. Flower secure in your hand. Look down to find Jimin looking up at you. Amused glint in his eyes. Amused grin on his lips. Where are those gloomy clouds? Why do his eyes shine like that? He doesn’t put you down until you ask. But when he does, you think you shouldn’t have asked. Every minute you spend in this world, probably, is becoming the destruction of your sanity. Why do you crave his presence so much? His touches so much? Even when they are just innocent. It’s so damn hard to tear your gaze away from his glinting eyes. From his stretched lips. You do. Somehow. Hold the bloom for him. He takes it. Rolls the stem in his fingers. Now stretches his lips into a full grin. And you find yourself bewitched again. Unable to look anywhere but him. Unable to contain your own grin. So, you grin when he does. Chuckle when he does. Laugh when he does.

There’s nothing funny to laugh about. The thing is you feel content enough to laugh. Guess he feels the same. This is not normal, is it? Well, you don’t care about normalcy. Not when Jimin gives the flower back to you. Holds it out to you.

“You won that.” You never thought you could speak that softly.

“It’s a gift Spring Roll.” He places the flower behind your ear. Steals your breath away. Makes you want to cry for no reason.

Why?

Why would you cry over a stupid gift. See, it’s a stupid gift but you already know you’re going to preserve it for so long. So, so, long.

…………………………………..…………………………..………………

Jimin walks silently behind you. Just a few steps away from you. Hands in his pockets. He and you both are drenched to the core now. Initial plan was to wait until the rain eased. But your challenge changes it. Hence, your decision to walk back to the car in the rain. Jimin can’t believe he was so adamant about winning you something. Wasn’t that immature of him. It is and he knows it. He knew it. Simply was too annoyed to think things through. Or jealous.

No. Nope.

He wasn’t jealous at all. Why would he be jealous for you? Ridiculous. Nah, it was something else definitely. And he doesn’t wish to find out. It’s all fine this way. Just like it’s fine till he never tell you that he knew it was Jungkook who took you away all along. A man with muscles, tats and piercings is engraved in his mind. Fine till you never know that it wasn’t simply because he was worried that he ran looking for you. Will never tell you about the unpleasant twists in his guts he felt. About how restless he had been since the moment Liya’s secretary contacted him. You’ll never know how badly he wanted to reshape Jungkook’s sharp features when you called him ‘Kookie’.

Kookie?

You barely know the man and already call him by a nickname. And then you call Jimin, ‘Park’? Don’t you know him better than Jungkook. Oh, how he wants to punch something when that comes to his mind. He takes a deep breath in. Allowing the cold air to soothe the rage which started to bubble up inside him again.

Well, whatever happened, you’re here now aren’t you. That’s a good thing. He is the one who walks behind you. Eyes gracing over your every curve. Devouring you with his eyes. This is good and bad at the same time. He shouldn’t ogle at your figure like this. Especially, not with the thoughts whirling inside his head.

Then, how can he not? How can he look away from the way that blue skirt hugs your ass like a second skin. It’s drench material clings to your curves. It’s impossible to look away. The way your hips sway when you walk.

How fucking beautiful you are.

How fucking hot, you are. Hot in a criminal way. God, he wants to grab your ass. Knead the plump flesh in his hands. Maybe, spank. Will you like that? Will you drip down if he does that? Or to make you straddle him, and then grind on his hard dick. He wants to mold your ass cheeks when you do so. Control your movements. Have you pliant and whiney. Wants to hear his name chants through your mouth desperately. He can’t tear his gaze away now. It’s plastered into your drenched figure. His brain is malfunctioning. All the blood rushing down to his dick. Making him hard painfully.

Shit, what’s wrong with him?

The thing is, he just knows how your soft skin feels. Knows how it feels to press his hard onto your ass. Has done that before. So, it’s not possible, not to think about it. He badly wants to do it again. Grind against you. Press his hard body against your soft one. Smell your sweet scent. Fuck his dick throbs when he thinks about how you ground back on him.

Fuck, fuck this is where he should stop.

Jimin closes his eyes shut. Begging his improper sinful thoughts to go away. When he opens them back again, it slightly makes him jump to see you looking at him. With furrowed brows and pouting. Eyes narrowed. Fuck, now he doesn’t know what is worse. Is it that he wants to grind his dick against your ass. Or is it that he wants to kiss that pout away from your lips.

Holy shit! He wants to kiss you.

That urge is almost uncontrollable. Uncontrollable, when he finds you to be angelic with your stray wet hair strands framing your face. He likes how drops of water run down your beautiful features. How they gather on the tip of your nose and then fall down. It’s ethereal the way how rain kiss your lips. Unfair. He should be the one to do that. To taste it.

“What are you doing, Park? You’re not staring at my ass, are you?” You turn around. Break Jimin’s beautiful day dreams. Start walking backward. Facing him. He is grateful for the rain that you’ll not see the flush in his face. You have the flower in your hand now. Everything’s drenched. Is so glad that plushie is drenched, however.

“As if you have one to look at.” He retorts. Finding his voice hoarse. He blame it on the rain. That makes you scowl at him. And flip him off. Makes him chuckle. “Look at the road while you’re walking lady.” It isn’t that he simply worried about you tripping over something. Part of him is worried now he can see your plump lips and breasts. Good thing your sweater isn’t see through. He will definitely cross the line again. Isn’t he like a horny teenager? You should put back your coat on. Just for the sake of his sanity. You don’t. Just talk back. Say something about having a perfectly pretty ass before you turn around. He can’t argue on that. It’s pretty. Your ass. You’re pretty. Pretty it hurts. He sighs softly. Needs to stop this. You’re friends now. He has a girlfriend.

He can’t mess things up again.

He can see the car in the near distance now. You’ll reach it in probable twenty steps. There was something in his mind he wanted to ask from you all throughout the day. Couldn’t do it because of Liya’s meeting. Still, he needs to ask you to join the party. Convince you to come if you refuse. This isn’t a good time though. He calls your name anyway. Makes you turn around and stop again.

“What?” You inquire.

Jimin grabs the back of his neck with both of his hands. Watches how you carefully and suspiciously rakes your eyes on him. See, no need to use words at all. You know he is about to pull the friends card again.

“Fuck no Jimin.” You groan. Even before he opens his mouth. Nearly turn around when he grabs from your wrist.

“Oh, c’mon Spring Roll. What kind of friends are we if we don’t help each other.” Whines, ignoring your burning glare. Uses your own words against you. “Okay, if you do this me favor. I’ll help you land a job here.” Bribing you always work. Doesn’t know where that came from.

“I don’t want a job through nepotism.”

“Who said anything about nepotism. I’ll just help you to find a one. Like a good friend.” Bargains. Sees the way your mind whirls around through your eyes. “Please Lil?” One more push and you accept the defeat. Sighing heavily. Pouting. Fuck, he wants to press his lips into that pout. Wans to make you lose your breath. Taste you. Make you moan into his mouth.

“Fucking opportunistic. What is it?” You frees your hand away from his grip. Give him a moment to pull himself together. It’s not like you freed your hand. It’s he allowed you to do that. Jimin pushes himself to give you an answer. To stay focused.

“Well, you know Hoseok is throwing this new year party and-” He starts finally. Only to get disrupts by your annoyance laced honey voice.

“Jimin….”

Despite your loud and angry screech, he finds himself laughing. You’ll come. He knows that.

………………………..…………………………..…………………………..

You stare into your new phone and the plum blossom next to it. Placed on your rusty coffee table in front of your old couch. You made sure you bring them with you to your world. And were very careful not to crush the petals in your sleep. Are glad you didn’t. You pick the bloom up. Smell it. Even now, your heart is picking up the speed. You recall how Jimin looked at you under the plum tree. Standing in the rain. The glint in his eyes. His breaths. Touches.

This is so wrong. You may not do physical touches anymore. Yet it is still wrong to find your heart swoon at the sight of him. To feel so warm with him.

You sigh. Put the flower back. Maybe you should throw it away. Can you? Fuck, you can’t. It’s precious. Too precious. In the end, it’s a memory. Memory to preserve. Good or bad. Moral or immoral. It’s still precious to throw away. Like the memory of Park Jimin. Like every small moment you spent together. And the ones you’ll spend in the future. Like this party he made you agree to go.

Memories are not that easy to toss in a garbage can. Gosh, how will you ever be able to throw the memories away with Park Jimin? When this thing ends? How will you do that? The pathway you’re walking is not going to lead you to a pretty place. It’s better if you can throw the memories away from the beginning. So, it’ll be easy in the end. So, it will not hurt.

You pick the flower again.

Throw it away. No beautiful memories to preserve. No memories to hurt you in the end.

But it’s a beautiful one. It’s the memory of Jimin under the rain. It’s the beautiful memory of feeling him walking behind you. Slowly. It’s the memory of his glinting eyes and sinful smile. Park Jimin isn’t just a memory. He is a beautiful memory. A beautiful memory you can’t throw away. It hurts more to throw it away.

You get up from the couch. You can’t throw it away. Even though it’ll hurt you to look at it one day. If that’s the price, you’ll pay it. You place the bloom inside a little jewelry box. The flower will wilt away. But your memories will not. They will hurt you, but it’ll never wilt away. Will never turn ugly. Will reamin painfully beautiful.

Park Jimin will never turn ugly in your memories. He will forever remain beautiful. As a memory to preserve.

A beautiful memory.

Chapter Index

…………………………..…………………………..………………………

Taglist - @chimmy-licious @smoljimjim @graydolan12 @sugas-baby-girl @likemeforme

[crescent-moon-deity]

✩☽⋆The Realm⋆☾✩ ~ Currently Inaccessible ~

An overlay/Map of Moon's realm with imagery for how it looks. ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Realm Facts: ~ It is always night in the realm. The sky is lit up with dancing stars and something replicating the northern lights. Enough so that the land remains illuminated. ~ The realm is completely self sustaining and doesn't rely on Moon. ~ The weather changes daily. ~ It is unknown how vast the realm truly is, but it's said to be multiple universes contained within, the visitors are just contained to one area. ~ Moon is aware of everything happening within her realm. ~ That's all for now...

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Safe Zone ~ The safe zone is everything connected to the realm center . It is unknown what lays in the ocean and beyond.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Realm Center ~ This is where every entrance to the realm leads. Whenever someone enters the realm, this is where they'll end up.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Living Quarters ~ If you reside in the realm long enough it will erect you a place to live. It will be completely customized to you and your preferences. Everyone's living spaces are in this area. This is also where the public amenities like the kitchen reside.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Tavern ~ The creatures work hard in the tavern to serve it's patrons. Everything is free but the creatures enjoy tips of shiny things, rocks or shells. Moon always keeps the tavern supplied for the people of the realm. It's all things from earth. She'll be dammed if they get into her alcohol supply.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Market ~ A small market the creatures have set up. A variety of things are offered here from food, drinks, stones and magic artifacts. The objects change daily and are a mix of earthly items and things from other realms. Trades preferred, Money Tolerated.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Arena ~ A place to fight! Not to the death of course, Moon doesn't want to deal with the bodies. Rumor has it that if you win, she may grant you a wish. The terrain in the middle changes every time, so you never know where you'll be fighting.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Hot Springs ~ A relaxing hot spring for anyone to use. It is nice and private with rocks and trees surrounding the island it's on. Moon has never confirmed if the waters are imbued with magic or not, but it feels like they are.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Beach ~ The black sand beach is a nice contrast to the ocean. It seems to stay warm at all times and is incredibly soft.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Bridge ~ A bridge that is more often than not, not complete. It will connect and form to allow access to the restricted area for those Moon has deemed worthy. If someone not granted access to this area tries to cross wile the bridge is complete, the creatures of the ocean will claim them.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Ocean ~ A bioluminescent ocean. Magic flows like the waves in it. It is safe to be in until 5km out, after that the restricted zone begins. Unknown creatures horrors live in the deep beyond the Safe Zone.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Restricted Zone ~

Anything that isn't connected to the Realm Center is considered the Restricted Zone. This is an area in the realm that few have access to. Only those that Moon has deemed worthy are allowed in this section. This is also the area that houses Moon's precious collections.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Kalaren's Quarters ~ The section of the realm that Kalaren lives. It contains a manor, a training arena, private hot springs and some plants.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Pax's Quarters ~ The section of the realm that Pax lives. A grand castle is where he chose to reside. His own soft sand beach surrounds the area. He has his own small garden and hot springs.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Moon's Quarters ~ The area of the realm that Moon keeps her important collections. This includes the garden, library, alchemy lab, the cellar and her own small living area and private hot springs and waterfall.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Garden ~ Moon has a vast collection of plants that spans over half the outskirts. Many of the plants are magic, poisonous, carnivorous or some combination of the three. While the plants are dangerous in their own right the biggest danger is Moon of you mess with her plants.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Library ~ Moon's collection of books is stored here. Everything is protected by a thick layer of magic so nothing gets damaged. In the back resides a locked room that only Moon has access to.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Alchemy Lab ~ While unassuming on the outside, the lab is incredibly vast and seems to span endlessly when you enter. This is where Moon's main consciousness resides most of the time. Moon keeps it locked at all times and doesn't allow other in. Exceptions have been made.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

Cellar ~ A vast collection of alcohol from all the realms she's been to. The cellar itself seems to be almost endless rows of various drinks. Anything in the main area can be replaced. In the lower levels there is a locked room containing alcohol from collapsed realms, the last of it's kind and irreplaceable. At the bottom of her cellar there is a sitting area overlooking the ocean. Moon is often found here enjoying the atmosphere.

[fantasyfan20]

HELLOOO HAPPY FRIDAYYY!! My brain has been fried from school work, but I am officially on spring break, so you can bet I’ll be here :D

Here’s the next part of my spirit mini series! I hope you enjoy it! Feel free to leave a comment and tell me what you think :3

The Gloating Narcissist

The Little Prince was sitting in the rose garden, admiring the flowers and listening the stories of the stars. They had so much to say about the kingdom and its inhabitants. The creatures of Light, the Children, the ones that lived in harmony and helped each other. But whenever he asked them about the creatures of Darkness, they only said this:

“Although they live alongside the Children and the other Creatures of Light, they are dangerous. You must be careful.”

The Prince understood the danger, but he was still curious. Why did these Creatures of Darkness exist? What purpose did they serve? Perhaps I should ask one of my new friends, he thought. They will know something. The Prince looked at the clouds behind the entrance to the Desert, and noticed lights moving about in the sky. They seemed to be dancing in a beautiful celestial display! Maybe there’s a performance of some kind, he thought.

The Little Prince stood up and started his trek toward the dancing lights, ready for his next adventure! As he was approaching the entrance to Starlight Desert, one of his friends appeared. She waved hello, and started walking with him. Once they reached the clouds, she took his hand so they could fly over together. It’s nice to spend time with my new friends, the Prince thought. They landed on soft sand, and he took a moment to take in their surroundings. There were a few rows of seats below them, and a large and impressive stage. But the strangest thing about this place was the abundance of mirrors placed around the rows. Whatever were they for?

The Prince heard a sound coming from the stage, and his friend pointed to a man standing there. He was wearing a simple performer’s outfit, and he seemed to be encouraging an imaginary audience to shower him with applause. How strange, the Prince thought. There is no one else here. Then the man ran to the front of the stage, enthusiastically waving his arms, accepting the applause that only he could hear. The Little Prince and his friend clapped, both of them wondering what kind of performance he had put on.

The performer, who had just noticed the Prince and his friend, was pleased to see that he had an audience.

“A traveler from afar is here to admire me,” he thought to himself.

“I am the handsomest, best-dressed, richest, and most intelligent man on the island,” he declared to the Little Prince.

He bowed, once again feeling pleased that his flawless performance was appreciated.

“But you’re the only man here,” the Prince said, observing that he in fact was the only person there, besides the Prince and his friend, who was looking around in confusion.

“Please keep applauding!” the man called out to his mostly imaginary audience. The Little Prince and his friend clapped again, looking at each other in confused amusement.

“The grown-ups are certainly very odd,” he said. His friend nodded in agreement, her braids bobbing up and down.

The Little Prince wondered if he would meet more grown-ups as odd as this one.

Yayyy next part done!! This was fun to write, I like adding details to the Prince’s interactions with the spirits. I hope you guys enjoy it! :D

[vii3000]

Gameplay characters lookbook .2.

fit 1. Hat Ea | Glasses @pralinesims | Hair greenteahoney i think | Top busra-tr | Pants @saruin| Shoes @charonlee | Nails @ohmybunnny | Bracelet @waterblue

fit 2. Benie @reinasimsstory | Hair same creator in fit 1 | Top @babyetears | Skirt @atomiclight | Tights Ea | Shoes @charonlee | Nails @saruin

fit 3. Hair same creator | Top Ea | Shorts Sm sims | Socks I'll have to check but their name starts with s | Shoes Sm sims

Character info (for fun ) -

Name? Lei Castro, named after her great grandmother

Age? 23

Birthplace? Sim birthplace would be San Myshuno irl birthplace would be New York either way she's a city girl

Ethnicity? Mixed heritage (Chinese and Irish mother, Filipino father)

Fav season? Summer

Hobbies? watching ghost hunting videos, swimming, taking care of flowers and trees in graveyards, summoning ghost and obsessing over Ghostface & Michle Myers

Religion? She believes in many things from different religious scriptures but belongs to no religion

Special Interest? She is mostly interested in anything involving the occult or mythology (Mostly Greek , Chinese and Haitian folklore)

Fears? anyone who dislikes cats and soft serve ice cream

Ideal partner? Preferably male and hopefully a vampire or a ghost

Pet? Cute ragdoll cat named fish

fit 1. Hair @lam-z | Top @gigglecoffin | Skirt @babyetears| Shoes @miro-sims

fit 2. Hair @greenllamas | Top + undershirt @charonlee | Pants sunberry | Shoes @charonlee

fit 3. Hair @greenllamas| Top idk | Accs ( Nails, headphones, glasses, waist beads and nails) @miro-sims @greenllamas @arethabee @gigglecoffin | Shorts @tina-sims | Socks - Shoes @greenllamas

(forgot to check for the backpack but its prob rimmings or miro maybe reina)

Character info (for fun ) -

Name? Tanya Reeves

Age? 19

Birthplace? Sim birthplace Sulani irl birthplace thinking somewhere in the Turks and Caicos Islands cuz her mom is from there

Ethnicity? Afro-Caribbean/Multiethnic (aa and Ethiopian dad - her mother is Afro-Caribbean)

Fav season? Spring

Hobbies? Sewing, gardening, watching messy reality tv shows, attempting to learn Amharic, playing old wii and nintendo games, painting and origami

Religion? Christan

Special Interest? Anything involving modeling or the history of makeup

Fears? Wasp and people who get on their bed with their shoes on

Ideal partner? Any living, breathing human

Pet? A jack russell terrier named Kik

dividers from (@mewryn)

[ambazaar]

The Bitter Taste of Hibiscus 🌺: Part 2

Shanks x oc

Synopsis: Tessa, due to a complicated past, has an opinion about pirates. An opinion that's become a bit muddled since he came to the village for the first time. It's all inconvenient, really. Falling in love.

Warnings: Swearing, Alcohol Use, Facial-Related Injuries, Fluff (may be subject to change)

A/N: I've barely read or seen ANY of the manga or anime so pls don't murder me about inaccuracies. I'm in love with OPLA Shanks and needed to get my frustrations out in writing. So have a fun, angsty short story filled with fluffy goodness. Will be updating as I can.

\\\

Shortly after the Red Force settled into port, Tessa left Makino to tend to her business with the pirates. She wouldn't be caught in the middle, not with her heart racing as fast as it was and sleep coating her eyelids so heavily. She thought to look for her street urchin, but realized halfway to his nook beneath the docks that he most likely would have snuck aboard the ship by now. He'd have bolted to see Shanks the moment he woke, having been counting the days until his return, of that Tessa had no doubt. The young woman sighed, unsure of what to do. 

Makino's voice rang in the back of Tessa's mind, warning her of regrets once more. But it was too early in the day to think of regrets. So, she turned back toward town, careful to avoid the main docks, and began the long trek from the beach to the cottage on the outskirts of the village. 

It was a small thing, Tessa's cottage, with a charming and rustic allure. The vibrant blue of the wooden planks that adorned its exterior had long faded from the coastal sun. The once bright yellow door, now tinged with a soft gray hue, hadn't welcomed visitors aside from Makino or Luffy in years. Inside, its worn walls were decorated with flattened bouquets of flowers that Tessa had picked during her hikes through the hills and paintings by her mother that were older than she was. She hung seashells with discarded fishing wire in an intricate path connecting the only two windows, which cascaded together in blissful chimes whenever a soft breeze caught the milky, lace curtains.

A large, peculiar-shaped piece of driftwood sat above the hearth, a gift from Luffy just one year prior. Not long after the Red Hair Pirates came and left Windmill Village for the first time, he'd found the driftwood on the beach and attempted to shape it to look more like the dragon figurehead of Shanks' ship. Tessa couldn't perceive the resemblance, but she never had the heart to tell him. So, above the hearth it stayed.

Inside the cottage was cold, as she had no need to light a fire last night, having spent the entire evening at Party's with Makino. Tessa reached for the dingy, red shawl hanging beside the hearth, wrapping it around her shoulders, and went to work on starting a small fire. Moments later, she swung a kettle over the open flames and nestled into the large quilt she'd spent most of the spring working on, which draped over an old wicker chair in the corner of the open room. The salty air of the sea drifted through the windows with the cool breeze, mingling with a scent almost like cranberries as Tessa poured the boiling water from the kettle through loose hibiscus petals. It was a tart drink, but one that served better to wake her than most things. She let it rest for a moment and sat back in the chair, turning her head toward the window.

Her gaze immediately fell to the pirate ship.

Despite the feelings Tessa held for their captain, she still remained uncertain of the Red Hair Pirates. She rarely spoke to any of them, usually just in passing and never for very long, despite the fact that they'd been coming and going from Windmill Village for over a year now. They'd established a mutually beneficial relationship with the islanders over that time, so much so that greeting the pirates at port became almost a tradition for some of the villagers. But not for Tessa. It was not completely lost on her that a band of respectful sailors was possible. But a band of respectable pirates? She'd never heard of such a thing.

The first time she found herself face to face with one of them, she'd been on her way to Party's to help Makino when she collided right into Benn Beckman, the first mate. He laughed it off and advised that she should watch her step. She couldn't recall what came over her that day, but his audacity sparked a fire in her chest.

"Well excuse me, sir!" She said, her voice already loud enough for everyone near to turn their heads. "I've never been made to 'watch my step' before you lot came, bounding about like you own the place. And usually when you knock into a lady, you apologize, not laugh in her face!"

The pirate laughed again, louder and much heartier than before. The pale of her face flushed pink, the anger coursing through her overshadowing any fear that might occur from the consequences of her outburst. But to Tessa's astonishment, he simply bowed, placing a large hand over his heart, and asked for her forgiveness. She didn't know what to say or do. When he met her gaze again, a genuine smile crossed his features and she stood there, completely bewildered. 

That's when she heard him for the first time, calling the first mate from beneath the canopy of Party's. "You starting trouble with the locals already, Benn?" He asked. 

"No more than usual, Cap'n." As Benn passed her on the dock, Tessa's eyes rose to the man that he'd referred to as 'captain'.

He was certainly tall, much taller than Makino who stood just beside him, with vibrant red hair and a grayish cape draped across his shoulders, and on his head sat a peculiar straw hat. Peculiar because it adorned the head of a pirate captain: the most fearsome sort of man one could come across. This man, with his straw hat and charming features, didn't look dangerous. In fact, as he watched her enter the bar, she found her gaze fixated on him, not in fear but in curiosity. Specifically his eyes. Dark as pools of ink under the shade of his hat, Tessa wondered in that moment the kind of stories they held within. But, as she arrived at Makino's side, she lastly took note of the three long scars that decorated the left side of his face and steeled herself at the last second, despite the man's warm smile.

"Apologies for my first mate, miss," he said to her. "A life on the seas sometimes causes a man to forget his manners."

Something inside Tessa tensed. Makino sensed it, immediately turning to look at her friend, and saw the hard expression on her face. "I'm sure manners isn't the only thing," Tessa retorted.

Though puzzled, Shanks chuckled and smiled wider in response. Heat rose immediately through Tessa's face, which irritated her more. She finally met Makino's worried stare and said, her words heavily soaked in resentment, "Since when do we do business with pirates?" She surveyed Shanks up and down, taking in the intrigued look on his face, and practically sprinted across to the other dining hut. 

Tessa looked back on that memory and cringed. She'd been so angry with Makino for helping them that day. She couldn't believe that in only a year her opinions on pirates would become so muddled. All because of Shanks and his crew. It was hard to believe there were others like them, at least for Tessa. Her own experiences with pirates had left a bitterness in her heart that cast a dark prejudice on them. So, in the beginning, she'd hated Shanks. She hated that Luffy admired him so much. She hated that the village placed their trust in him so quickly. But most of all she hated that, despite all her animosity and resentment, she'd still fallen in love with him.

She'd known it only a few months later when the pirates had returned from another trek across the seas and their captain called cheers for both her and Makino after they'd spent a whole afternoon making sure his crew was fed. She'd known it when she watched him help a young girl collect her basket of apples that had fallen to the ground, her tears shifting to laughter as he gave her words of assurance. She'd known it when he'd placed his hand over hers that night at Party's, though she hadn't been able to even look at him since. For all he knew, Tessa still hated him. But for the first time in a year, she no longer felt content keeping it that way. 

There was a sudden rapping at the door, which jolted Tessa from a sleep she hadn't known she had fallen into. Luffy was standing in front of her before she could wipe the haze from her eyes. "TESSA," the boy shouted, despite the fact she was already quite awake. 

"Yes, Luffy. What can I do for-" 

The woman's voice caught in her throat as she finally looked upon the boy's face. Her hand instinctively flew to his cheek, her thumb hovering anxiously over the tender stitches just below his right eye. "What on Earth happened?" 

"Tessa, you're not going to believe this! Look!" Luffy bounced away from her touch and stood just in front of the fireplace, the flames mere embers now; how long had she been asleep? Her eyes wouldn't leave the fresh wound on his face. 

"Luffy, please. Tell me what happened!" She urged him, but alas the boy ignored her. 

He raised his arm high above his head, and with a triumphant yell, swiftly thrust it forward. Tessa's breath was forcefully expelled from her lungs, leaving her feeling dizzy, as she observed the boy's arm unnaturally extending across the room, knocking her front door wide open and causing it to dislodge from the top hinge. Luffy instantly recoiled, overwhelmed by immediate regret, and looked to Tessa with sheepish guilt. "I can fix that," He said, lunging forward.  

Tessa's eyes were transfixed on the boy. She observed as Luffy attempted to hoist the door back into place, but found it unable to stay by itself, and had no choice but to let it fall once again. This time, the weight proved too much for the weakened second hinge, causing the door to collapse to the ground. Overwhelmed by an immense sense of remorse, Luffy avoided Tessa's wide-eyed expression at all costs. Fortunately for him, he wouldn't have to explain.

She'd heard many stories about Devil Fruits throughout her life and the unnatural gifts they offered, but also the curse they bestowed upon whoever consumed one. A multitude of emotions swirled within Tessa's mind, yet one sensation eclipsed them all—an abrupt and profound anger that surged from the depths of her stomach, fixating on a certain captain with vibrant red hair.

I'm going to bloody kill him.

---

Part 3

[onepiecereactions]

Pink and Golden, Chapter 10, Koby x Reader

Note: Chapter 10, Koby x Reader. This chapter is SFW.

Chapter 10

Koby shivered as he felt the frozen water surround his ankles and paralyze his feet, but it didn't suffocate his motivation.

It was time, he was doing it, now, right away, he had waited long enough. The days were piling up (he didn't even know how long he had been on that damned islet) and nothing was happening. His body was struggling to adapt to his new life as a refugee because of his injuries. He had eaten more shrimp and sardines than any human had probably eaten in a lifetime. And if the young woman's presence had allowed him to cling to his courage like a buoy in the middle of a storm, her departure and absence seemed to have sealed his future, especially given the circumstances of her departure.

He would have liked to apologize, change things, repent, but now he had no choice, he simply had to assume the consequences of his actions. He woke up each time with the young woman's face in front of him, which gave him a soft, pleasant warmth in his body for a few moments. The little time they had spent together had been enough for the soldier to have her illuminate his life like a lighthouse in the middle of the Circle of the Damned. And he had deeply disappointed her, while she had only helped him since they had met: serving him food and protecting him from storms.

Out of the question to die on this island, and out of the question to leave it before having at least been able to apologize and if possible repair the damage he had caused. And out of the question to let her live in these conditions because of the World Government when she had helped him so much. He was a Marine soldier, so he had to do Justice.

As he sank into the ocean, feeling the sand under his still bare feet, he turned around one last time, scanning the islet he swore he would never see again, or at least not without the young woman. Koby positioned his raft in front of him and climb on it, feeling his bruised ribcage collapse under the shock.

Once lying on it, he was relieved to feel that the boat was thick enough not to collapse under his weight. He tied the raft to his ankle to make sure he wouldn't lose it, and let the current, which was calm for the moment, carry him away.

The islet, the sand, the two palm trees now bare of their leaves, slowly disappeared on the horizon, giving way to an endless ocean.

Koby, lying on his back, closed his eyes for a moment, praying deep inside that he could pass through a period of calm sea currents. The young woman's backpack was securely strapped to her shoulders, and the fishing bag was full, invaluable provisions for the soldier drifting into the unknown.

He used his observation haki for only a few meters so as not to tire himself out too much, the sea monsters did not seem to have spotted him. He must have been in a pitiful state for the sea monsters not to even deign to try to eat him.

[16 hours later].

The sun was slowly starting to set on the horizon, reflecting on the ocean that had been surrounding the soldier for sixteen hours now. Koby waited, letting himself drift, trying to make as little movement as possible, and struggling not to fall asleep and risk capsizing. The current had intensified slightly in the last few hours and Koby had been able to see other islets on his way, the majority made of volcanic rock or rough stones.

But his raft never stopped: it went straight where the ocean guided it.

To pass the time, he had started to list out loud the list of things he would do as soon as he set foot on dry land again.

“Eat a bowl of ramen with Hermepp”

“Take his sheets to the HQ laundry and put them directly on his bed as soon as they came out of the dryer to sleep in warm, clean sheets.”

“Diving in the hot springs of the HQ to remove every grain of sand from his skin and brushing his teeth.”

“Trying to find traces of this woman whose he didn't know the namea and doing everything possible to see her face again and thank her.”

And suddenly the rain.

Koby oscillated between consciousness and unconsciousness as his mind wandered in comforting dreams, forgetting for a few hours the harsh reality and the danger of his current situation.

And his heart skipped a beat when he felt this single drop of rain fall on his forehead and trickle down to his ear.

Koby immediately understood what was going to happen. He was now perfectly familiar with the whims of the Circle of the Damned.

He felt his boat pick up speed and pitch dangerously from right to left as the current became more and more violent. Koby tried to steady the raft, trying to make it follow the rhythm of the waves.

More drops fell on his face, on his chest, on his bare feet. And slowly began to cover him.

Koby looked worriedly at the horizon. He felt his muscles tense and fear creep into every cell of his skin.

He was heading straight into a titanic storm, a pile of clouds as black as night, lightning tearing the sky. He had never had to face lightning since he arrived here.

The soldier felt the current pull him towards the sky. He was at the top of a huge wave that was being created and there was absolutely nothing he could do to slow down. He was first thrown forward, rising inexorably towards the clouds several meters high. The wave finally broke and propelled the soldier into an interminable fall.

Koby felt himself leave the ocean for a few seconds before crashing against the water with force, the wave catching up with him just behind, smashing his raft in a second and pulling him towards the seabed.

The soldier felt the ocean enter his lungs again as the surface gradually disappeared while he sank into darkness. This time he couldn't fight, his body was too bruised.

He was caught in the current of a second wave that crashed above him, turning him in all directions to make him lose all sense of space.

The last light of the surface slowly disappeared as he sank. His back finally hit what seemed to be the seabed, his eardrums screaming in agony, on the verge of explosion. He lost consciousness again, alone, at the bottom of the New World ocean.

[gokitetour]

7 Delicious New Zealand Foods to Try

New Zealand is well-known for its breathtaking scenery and daring activities, but it is also a foodie's paradise. The country has a diversified culinary landscape, inspired by its indigenous Maori culture and immigration cultures. From delectable treats to Savory specialties, New Zealand has a delicious selection of foods to suit every appetite. Pavlova is a light and fluffy dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit that should not be missed. This famous Kiwi dish is a popular choice at celebrations and gatherings around the country. Another must-have is hangi, a traditional Moori way of cooking meals in an underground oven that produces smokey, soft meats and flavourful veggies. For those with a sweet tooth, hokey pokey ice cream is a must-try. This creamy dessert contains crunchy bits of honeycomb toffee, resulting in a delicious blend of textures and Flavors. And seafood fans will want to try Bluff oysters, which are picked from the clean waters of Foveaux Strait and are known for their plump texture and saline flavour. These are just a handful of the delectable New Zealand delicacies ready to be sampled. So, whether you're touring the busy streets of Auckland or the tranquil countryside of the South Island, make sure you sample these gastronomic treats for a real flavor of Kiwi friendliness.

Here are some delicious New Zealand foods to try.

1. Pavlova: Pavlova is a traditional New Zealand dessert made of a delicate meringue foundation and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits, including kiwifruit, strawberries, and passionfruit. This light and fluffy dessert, named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, is a popular choice for celebrations and special events around New Zealand. Its crunchy outer shell and soft, marshmallow-like core offer an ideal combination of sweetness and texture that is guaranteed to please the palate.

2. Hangi: Hangi is a traditional Maori cooking method in which food is steamed in an underground oven. This unusual cooking technique adds a smokey taste to the meal while keeping it moist and delicate. A hangi feast usually includes a range of meats, including chicken, hog, and lamb, as well as root vegetables like potatoes, kumara (sweet potatoes), and pumpkin. The resultant dishes are bursting with flavour and scent, making hangi a must-try culinary experience for tourists to New Zealand.

3. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: Hokey pokey ice cream is a popular New Zealand delicacy made with vanilla ice cream and crunchy pieces of honeycomb toffee. The caramelized flavour and pleasant crunch of the hokey pokey bits complement the sweet and creamy ice cream, resulting in a lovely texture and taste contrast. Hokey pokey ice cream, whether served in a cone or in a dish with toppings such as chocolate sauce or fresh berries, can please any sweet craving.

4. Whitebait Fritters: Whitebait fritters are a famous dish in New Zealand, prepared from the small, transparent fish known as whitebait. These delicate fish are combined with eggs and spices before being pan-fried to perfection, yielding a light and fluffy fritter with a subtle seafood taste. Whitebait fritters, which are frequently served as an appetizer or snack, are best consumed straight from the griddle with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkling of sea salt.

5.Kiwifruit: Kiwifruit, often known as kiwi, is a New Zealand native fruit that has grown in popularity worldwide due to its brilliant green flesh and distinct tangy-sweet flavor. Kiwifruit is high in vitamin C and fiber and may be eaten fresh or added to a number of meals, including fruit salads, smoothies, desserts, and Savory foods. Kiwifruit, whether sliced and eaten with a spoon or used as a colourful garnish, provides a refreshing blast of flavor to any meal.

6. L&P: L&P, which stands for Lemon & Paeroa, is a traditional New Zealand soft drink that has become an iconic Kiwi beverage. L&P is made with natural spring water from the town of Paeroa and flavoured with genuine lemon juice, giving it a notably crisp and zesty taste that is both refreshing and thirst-quenching. L&P is a popular Kiwi drink that symbolizes the laid-back and easygoing culture of New Zealand, whether consumed on its own or blended with other beverages such as soda or ginger beer.

7. Bluff oysters: Bluff oysters are a renowned delicacy obtained from the pristine waters of the Foveaux Strait on New Zealand's South Island. Bluff oysters are renowned for their plump texture and rich, salty flavor, making them among the world's best oysters. Bluff oysters are a gourmet delicacy that seafood enthusiasts will not want to miss when visiting New Zealand. They may be eaten raw on the half shell with a squeeze of lemon juice or cooked in a variety of recipes, such as oyster stew or tempura.

 Conclusion

 Exploring New Zealand's excellent dishes is crucial for appreciating the country's rich culinary heritage. From the classic pavlova to the savory hangi, each meal represents a distinct aspect of Kiwi culture and cuisine. Whether you're enjoying hokey pokey ice cream or the freshness of Bluff oysters, there's something for everyone's taste. For those looking to embark on a culinary journey in New Zealand, acquiring a New Zealand visa from Delhi opens the door to a world of culinary delights. New Zealand's breathtaking scenery and diversified culinary scene provide a sensory feast that should not be missed. So, whether you're touring Wellington's colourful food markets, dining at a quaint café in Christchurch, or having a seafood feast in Auckland, be sure to try these delectable New Zealand delicacies for an amazing gastronomic adventure. With each mouthful, you'll experience the warmth and hospitality of Kiwi culture, providing you with memories to cherish long after your vacation is done.

[pix4japan]

Jinja Daio-do Temple in Tokyo

Location: Jindai-ji Motomachi, Chofu City, Tokyo, Japan Timestamp: 15:06 on July 19, 2023

Jinja Daio-do (深沙大王堂) stands approximately one block (around 120 meters) to the west of the central area of Jindai-ji Temple grounds, where the main hall is situated.

Reconstructed in 1968, this smaller temple is closely linked to the natural spring located behind it, which serves as the water source for the entirety of the Jindai-ji Temple grounds and holds significance in the temple's origins.

The temple derives its name from the deity Jinja Daio. According to legend, a young man named Fukuma deeply fell in love with a girl hailing from a wealthy and influential family. However, their union faced opposition from her parents, prompting them to send her away to reside on a diminutive island situated in the center of a vast lake.

Fukuma beseeched the aid of the deity Jinja Daio, imploring for assistance in reuniting with the girl. One fateful day, a mysterious turtle materialized and guided him to the lake's island. Witnessing Fukuma's seemingly divine safeguarding, the girl's family underwent a change of heart, permitting their marriage.

The couple eventually bore a son, who, as a monk named Manko Shonin, went on to establish the Jindai-ji Temple. This endeavor was a fulfillment of his father's aspiration, an expression of gratitude to the deity Jinja Daio for the intervention that led to their union.

For access details and references for further reading, check out the latest Pix4Japan blog post: https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20230719-jindaiji

Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter ISO 3200 for 1/200 sec. at ƒ/8.0 Astia Soft film simulation

[primalvessel]

@confluxium because he didn't think I would. Cut for length because this one went looooong (by my standards anyway). Inspired by (but not directly chronicling) the pics from here.

They were alone.

Well, technically they'd been alone since they'd rowed over from the mainland, but standing there on the beach with no-one else in sight, the only sounds being the cry of gulls wheeling above them and the gentle rush of the waves as they lapped at the shore... The peace of it was surreal.

It took only a moment for Safiri to notice that his was the only crunch of feet across the sand and he crossed the short distance back to the Miqo'te's side to stand close, intimately so, as the feline looked out over the calm waters before them.

"I never dared dream that we'd be allowed such a thing," Maru murmured, leaning into his lover's side and finally tearing his gaze from one beautiful sight to another. The Hyur looked relaxed and at ease in the simple attire in a way Maru rarely saw and he was determined to commit the sight to memory, bathed in warm light as he was.

They remained there for a long moment, just basking in the quiet and the company until Maru felt Firi's arm go around him and give him the smallest squeeze. It prompted him to look up and press a small kiss to the Hyur's jaw before he was gently guided into turning away from the sea spread before them.

"Come on. There's more to the island than just this."

There was still some reluctance in the feline even as he allowed Firi to guide him, as if he was afraid that looking away from the wonderful sight would reveal it to have never been there in the first place. Nevertheless, he finally turned away and together they climbed the path that led up away from the beach and up to their little tropical paradise proper.

Not before the handsy feline slipped a hand into the open front of his love's shirt though, to press his palm against the cool skin there.

Maru had to stop once more as the little collection of huts came into sight and he swatted his lover when Safiri chuckled softly at him. "Stop!" he protested, a smile of his own on his lips, "I'm allowed to be shocked. This is yours. This whole island is yours."

"Ours," Firi corrected, and dropped a kiss into soft white hair that left the taste of sea spray on his lips. He took one of Maru's hands to coax him closer that he might better see the facilities on offer, beginning with the open-sided main structure and ending with the hot spring with everything in between.

The sun was setting by the time they settled, naked, into the hot waters after a long day of walking, climbing and sightseeing. There was so much more to look forward to on the morrow also, with Maru having insisted that they take some time to go fishing, sunbathe and get frisky, not necessarily in that order.

The eve saw them sat around a small campfire though, with Maru showcasing his skill cooking over it while he made idle conversation, talking enough for the both of them, probably.

"... and then the spear snapped in two and I ended up having to bite it," he explained, sounding very serious about the whole affair, though a grin curled the corners of his lips when he spared a glance for his lover reclined nearby and saw the smile there.

"At least you're honest about where your mouth has been," Safiri replied with an undercurrent of amusement.

"Now how about you be honest about where you want my mouth," the feline taunted in reply with a pointed look (that was completely unnecessary) at the Hyur's groin.

"Don't know what you mean," Safiri replied airily, and crossed his leg over his knee. "Especially after that tale."

Laughing gently, the Miqo'te turned the meat over to finish cooking it through and gave the little pot of popotoes a stir. A little of the island's own butter to soften and flavour it and the simple meal was almost complete (with Maru customarily avoiding his greens).

"I promise I brushed my teeth afterwards," Maru defended lightly and began serving the little meal into the two quaint wooden bowls he'd set nearby for just such a purpose. "Anyway, I came out on top and that was all that mattered," he continued as he handed off one of the filled bowls to Firi and sat beside him so that their knees knocked for a moment.

"Well, I suppose there does have to be a time or two where you're on top," Safiri remarked, hiding his smirk behind a spoonful of freshly roasted fare. He nearly lost it into his lap when the feline gave him a playfully affronted nudge.

"Hey! You take that back, asshole!"

Safiri scoffed, firelight and amusement both dancing in his eyes. "No."

The Miqo'te made a noise that could generously be called a squawk of indignation before he abandoned his own bowl of food and tackled the Hyur into the sand.

Maru topped that night.

x - x - x - x - x - x - x - x

The flower crowns may have been Tataru's idea but when he woke the following morning to be gifted one (very insistently) by one of the mammets as soon as he meandered out into the warming light of the day, it didn't take him long to see that Safiri had obviously been coerced into wearing one too.

How long the Hyur had been there, Maru didn't know. He'd slept deep and peacefully and while he might have stirred when his lover rose, evidently it hadn't been enough to wake him fully. His Firi looked refreshed though, at least somewhat, so Maru didn't ask how long he'd been seated as he was. Instead, he moved closer, trailed his hand along a bare thigh and settled into the space between his lover's legs.

Framed on both sides by quiet strength and having said not a word since approaching, the Miqo'te sighed softly and closed his eyes to feel the sun on his face and enjoy the tranquility of the morning. He rested his cheek against a firm thigh and just basked in the mix of warm and gentle feelings, unable to help the purr that began as a low rumble when Safiri's fingers slid into his hair and scritched lightly at his scalp. It made a little shiver ripple down his spine and he mewled quietly.

In no hurry to start the day, they stayed like that a bell, more than a bell, just existing. With no obligations, no interruptions.

When eventually the Miqo'te stood, stretching his legs and rubbing some feeling back into his ass, he laughed lightly as Firi helped him out with a firm grope before he settled back in against the Hyur's chest and let strong arms coil around him.

"Well I know where your mind has gone this morning," he teased gently, as Firi's hand played over his abs and began to dip beneath the waistband of his pants.

"I'm almost certain that it's your fault," Safiri replied in a low rumble, his free hand splayed across the Miqo'te's throat and collarbones, hinting at what he could do, the control he could have over the feline should he choose to flex his strength. It would never cease to warm his heart that Maru felt safe in the face of that strength, and that feline was strong enough in turn that he need worry less about hurting him accidentally.

"Well then I guess I know which order our plans today are going to unfold," he taunted, turning in Firi's arms so that the hand that had been tracing his happy trail instead rested warmly on the swell of his ass. "At least if we're just fishing later, I don't have to worry about getting around with a limp..."

He stole one more kiss for himself, making it linger as he wrapped his arms around the back of his lover's neck and pressed in against the Hyur's steady warmth, before he pulled away just enough to take Safiri's hand and coax him forward in much the same way Firi had with him the day prior. Always touching, as if not doing so was anathema to him.

Calloused hand clasped firmly in one of Safiri's, Maru let his lover lead the way to somewhere a little more comfortable to work up their appetites...

[hostmyvilla]

“From Sunrise to Sunset: A Day in the Life at a Luxury Villa in Thailand”

Ever wondered what a perfect day in paradise looks like? When you stay at a luxury villa rental Thailand property, every moment—from the first rays of sunrise to the last sparkle of stars—feels like a scene from a dream. With world-class service, serene surroundings, and unmatched privacy, your daily routine transforms into something extraordinary.

Whether you're nestled in a private pool villa resort Koh Samui or soaking in the sunset from a beachfront villa Koh Samui, life slows down—and becomes infinitely more beautiful. Let us take you through a day in the life at one of Thailand’s most luxurious villas curated by Host My Villa.

☀️ 7:00 AM – Wake Up in Paradise

Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves and soft light streaming through your window. In a 5 star villa in Koh Samui or luxury pool villa Phuket, this is your new alarm clock.

Step out onto your private terrace with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The ocean is still. The breeze is soft. The day is yours.

For guests staying at villa syama koh samui, the morning is best spent on the balcony, overlooking a stretch of pristine beach, with the air filled with the scent of frangipani and ocean salt.

🍉 8:00 AM – Gourmet Breakfast by the Pool

In your private pool villa Phuket or beach side villa Thailand, you don’t have to move a muscle. Your private chef, arranged by Host My Villa, prepares a fresh breakfast: tropical fruits, Thai omelets, croissants, and smoothies—served poolside or in the dining sala.

This isn’t hotel buffet dining. This is personalized, in-villa service designed just for you.

🧘‍♀️ 9:00 AM – Wellness in Nature

After breakfast, ease into the day with a private yoga session or a meditation by the sea. Many of our koh samui holiday homes offer dedicated wellness spaces for morning movement, or you can request a local instructor to guide you.

Prefer pampering? Book an in-villa spa treatment. A professional masseuse will arrive at your holiday beech villa, ready to melt away every ounce of stress.

🌊 11:00 AM – Beach Time or Poolside Bliss

There’s nothing more refreshing than a dip in your beachfront pool villa Koh Samui. Or maybe you’ll step down from your villa’s private garden directly onto the beach and take a stroll on the warm sand.

Staying in Phuket? Your beach villas in Phuket Thailand offer access to quiet coves and hidden beaches where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax under the shade of a palm.

🍽️ 1:00 PM – Lunch, Island Style

Return to your villa where your chef has whipped up a light Thai lunch—green curry, fresh spring rolls, and papaya salad, maybe even a chilled coconut to sip.

Host My Villa makes it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality meals from the comfort of your villa. Whether you’re dining in your luxury beachfront villas Koh Samui or private pool villa Phuket, every meal is an experience.

🚤 3:00 PM – Explore or Relax, You Choose

Afternoons are all about flexibility. Want to explore? Let Host My Villa organize a private boat charter to nearby islands, a jungle safari, or a visit to a local temple.

Prefer to stay in? Lounge by the infinity pool, take a nap in your air-conditioned master suite, or watch a movie in your villa’s private media room.

This is the essence of a stay in a luxury villa rental Thailand—complete freedom, zero obligations.

🥂 6:00 PM – Sunset Cocktails and Golden Views

Sunset is sacred in Thailand, and from your beachfront villa Koh Samui, the view is unforgettable. Watch the sky explode into oranges and purples as your private bartender shakes up sunset cocktails.

Host My Villa offers add-on experiences like floating canapés in the pool or a candlelit lounge setup by the beach—perfect for proposals, anniversaries, or simple romantic gestures.

🍛 8:00 PM – Private Dinner Under the Stars

Dinner is another highlight. Whether it's a poolside BBQ or a fine-dining Thai tasting menu, our team ensures that your evening meal is special.

Celebrating something? Host My Villa can arrange a personal musician, floral decor, or even fireworks at your koh samui wedding villa or phuket wedding villa.

🌌 10:00 PM – Rest, Reflect, and Repeat

End your day wrapped in plush linens, listening to the hush of waves. In your best villas in Koh Samui or luxury pool villa Phuket, every detail—from the lighting to the air conditioning to the silence—is crafted for your ultimate rest.

Tomorrow? You get to do it all again.

Why Host My Villa Is the Ultimate Choice

What sets Host My Villa apart isn’t just the villas—it’s the experience. Our portfolio of luxury villa rental Thailand options across Phuket and Koh Samui includes properties that are handpicked for their style, service, and surroundings.

When you book with us, you get:

✅ Curated Villas with Verified Quality ✅ Full-Service Concierge Support ✅ Private Chefs, Spa, and Event Planning ✅ Local Expertise and Personalized Experiences ✅ Access to Thailand’s Finest koh samui holiday villas, private pool villa resort koh samui, and beach villas in Phuket Thailand

Final Thoughts

Luxury isn’t just about what you own—it’s about how you feel. And at a Host My Villa property, every moment is designed to feel like a celebration.

Whether you're planning a holiday, a honeymoon, or a family reunion, our beachfront villa Koh Samui, private pool villa Phuket, and luxury wedding villas Thailand are ready to turn your dreams into everyday moments.

Start living the good life today at 👉 https://hostmyvilla.com/

[coolyecoinau]

How Do You Get to Cook Island for Snorkeling?

Discovering the Gateway to Cook Island Snorkeling

Nestled off the Tweed Coast in northern New South Wales, Australia, Cook Island is a renowned marine sanctuary and a sought-after destination for aquatic enthusiasts. Known for its abundant marine life and vibrant coral gardens, Cook Island snorkeling attracts visitors from across the country and beyond. Its accessibility from the mainland, combined with the natural beauty of its underwater world, makes it an unforgettable experience for snorkelers of all skill levels.

Where is Cook Island Located?

Cook Island lies approximately 600 metres off Fingal Head, just south of the Queensland-New South Wales border. This protected marine reserve forms part of the Cook Island Aquatic Reserve and is managed by the New South Wales Government. The island itself is uninhabited, ensuring pristine waters and an undisturbed habitat ideal for Cook Island snorkeling.

Getting to Cook Island from the Mainland

Access to Cook Island is exclusively via boat. The closest launching points are from the Tweed River, particularly from the towns of Tweed Heads and Fingal Head. Visitors typically depart from boat ramps in these areas, with many charters offering guided tours tailored specifically for Cook Island snorkeling.

The boat ride to the island is relatively short, usually taking around 15 to 20 minutes depending on sea conditions. Due to the island’s proximity to the shore, it serves as a convenient day-trip destination for both tourists and locals.

Best Time to Visit for Snorkeling

The best months for Cook Island snorkeling are typically from late spring to early autumn (October to April), when the water temperature is warm, and visibility is at its peak. Morning trips often provide the calmest conditions, making them ideal for observing the marine life in full clarity.

While snorkeling is available year-round, weather conditions and ocean swells can impact safety and visibility. Checking marine forecasts and booking in advance during peak seasons is recommended.

What to Expect While Snorkeling at Cook Island

Snorkeling at Cook Island offers a unique chance to witness an underwater haven teeming with life. The area is home to a variety of marine species, including:

Green and hawksbill sea turtles

Blue tangs, clownfish, and parrotfish

Wobbegong sharks and stingrays

Vibrant coral formations and soft sponges

The protected status of the island ensures minimal human interference, preserving the biodiversity and clarity of its waters. Cook Island snorkeling is particularly famous for close encounters with sea turtles, often seen gliding gracefully through the shallows or resting among the reef.

Equipment and Safety Guidelines

Most tour operators provide all necessary equipment, including masks, snorkels, fins, and wetsuits. Beginners are typically given a briefing session, ensuring they understand how to use the gear and navigate the currents safely. Life jackets or floatation devices are also available for those less confident in open water.

When snorkeling independently, visitors should be aware of the strong tidal currents that can surround the island. It is essential to stay within designated snorkeling zones and never snorkel alone.

Sustainability and Environmental Protection

Due to its status as a protected aquatic reserve, Cook Island snorkeling is governed by strict environmental guidelines. Snorkelers must avoid touching or disturbing marine life, refrain from collecting any items, and ensure all waste is disposed of responsibly. These efforts help maintain the island’s fragile ecosystem for future generations.

Why Choose Cook Island for Snorkeling?

Among Australia’s many snorkeling locations, Cook Island stands out for its accessibility, biodiversity, and environmental integrity. It offers a world-class experience without requiring long-distance travel or expensive expeditions. For families, solo adventurers, and marine life enthusiasts, Cook Island snorkeling delivers a blend of convenience and wonder in equal measure.

Final Thoughts

Cook Island represents one of the finest examples of Australia’s rich marine heritage. With easy access from the Tweed Coast and a thriving underwater ecosystem, it provides a perfect setting for immersive and responsible marine exploration. For anyone seeking a memorable and eco-conscious ocean adventure, Cook Island snorkeling promises a journey beneath the waves that few destinations can match.

[justjessame]

Always Read the Fine Print, Even When It's Written in Archaic Language 4

Chapter Four: “Spoons, Wolves, and Old Wounds”

I didn’t go far. Where would the fun be in that? Just sitting on a huge juicy pile of tension wrapped in vagueness in the middle of a pack of wolves, then going home to binge-watch Bridgerton?

Nope. Definitely not a “pop some popcorn, click on the latest smutty period drama, and wait for the chaos I unleashed to come find me” kind of girl. Or at least, not anymore.

Once upon a time, when I was a very young and innocent girl, that would’ve been the kind of normal I yearned for—until the Hales happened. One Hale in particular. Since the elder Hale was a constant witness to every slight and insult my poor fragile sunshine self had to endure, he was primed for a slice of the woman it carved me into.

Shaking off the past was getting easier—and that helped. Because reveling in the grenade of “just enough to stir the pot” introductions I’d tossed into the Hales’ new life was way better without the spiral of pain and longing that made up my past.

Perched on a windowsill in the building next to Derek’s new home, I bit my lip in glee, listening to the cacophony of voices—harsh demands, soft respect, and everything in between.

I barely stifled a snort at the young feminine voice dropping her own bomb:

“Can we keep her?”

Silence.

Followed by:

“Peter, can she be my mommy?”

I nearly fell off my ledge.

Peter, snarky as always, shot back:

“Malia, I promise you, if she were your mother, I’d remember creating you with vivid detail.”

Yeah, that was as graphically gratifying as it was mortifying. And I refused to feel even a flicker of pleasure at how he made the idea of having procreative sex with me sound memorable.

That was when I stopped listening—not because I wasn’t enjoying being seen and heard, even if I’d spoken less than ten words—but because there was one voice that hadn’t said a single word.

Derek Hale. Internalizing, as always.

Hopping down with the grace only a blood-born wolf could manage in heels, I narrowed my eyes, plotting my next moves as I strolled back to my house. After all, this wasn’t going to work if I didn’t have both players on the board.

Dad was waiting when I got home. Of course he was. Even as a grown-ass woman who could theoretically rule the world, my dad would always be the Alpha making sure his little girl got home safe and sound. I wonder how he spent his time when I was away at school—and then stayed away—because Beacon Hills had always felt about as homey as a padded room in the loony bin.

“You smell like…”

Bad decisions and regret, I thought.

But he said, “The Hales.”

Was that disappointment I saw flicker across his face? Or hope? They both looked pretty damn similar these days.

“Kind of weird how they never change colognes, right?” I shrugged past him, pulling open the fridge and glaring behind the door. “Did Rosa make—”

My eyes landed on a familiar container, and I sighed with contentment.

“Found it.”

Placing the plastic bowl on the huge marble island, I waited for Dad to stop hovering and unload his list of questions and concerns. Not gonna lie, didn’t miss this part of being “home” either.

I grabbed a bowl from the usual cabinet, then moved to the drawer holding serving spoons, next to the one with utensils. Ladling out some of Rosa’s hearty, fragrant stew—which I’d missed when she’d served dinner, but even reheated—it felt like a tiny taste of normal.

Dad was still waiting, carefully plotting how to navigate this conversation without losing a toe—or an eye.

Tossing my spoon into the air and catching it, I caught his eye and grinned.

“Did you know Alistar showed me how to pop a person’s eye out with a spoon?”

It worked.

With an eye-roll worthy of my past angsty teenage self, he sighed—part exasperation, part laugh.

“Of course he did.”

He grabbed a stool at the island and settled in, leaning forward on the marble.

“Why did you go?”

“Away to school? Paris for an epic spring break?” He waited me out.

I might’ve physically been absent for the past ten years, but he knew me better than most.

“To Disney World?”

My food dinged the microwave, offering a reprieve. I took a deep breath, my back turned.

Even if he heard it, clocking every pulse and tick that screamed “too impulsive” or “bad choices ahead” was something he wouldn’t find in me this time.

“I think you’re going to have to be more specific, Dad,” I said, turning to face him, his patient parental look making me want to scream. “I’ve traveled a lot.”

“You have so much of your mom just leaking out of you,” he said, his voice reverent in a way he rarely used now.

“Okay, smart ass, why did you go to the Hales?”

I took my time. Something he expected, so I didn’t have to spill all my Hale-framed secrets. Mostly because he already knew them, in stark and painful detail.

I hopped onto the stool next to him, dipping my spoon into the stew that might’ve been amazing fresh but was damn good reheated.

A few bites, a few moments to remind myself not every Beacon Hills memory was soaked in angst.

How Mom had always tried to wrangle my curls into something less tornado and more tame.

How Dad’s eyes twinkled as he listened to my wild ideas about being pack Alpha, protecting us from unseen threats.

How Rosa pulled me onto her lap, shaking her head at my daily bruises but reminding me how important I was—not just as a wolf, but as a person.

Setting down my spoon, I met Dad’s gaze.

“I went to let the Hales know I was back.”

That was that.

He stared, waiting to see if I’d say more. When I didn’t, he nodded.

“And were they overjoyed to see my prodigal daughter in her full glory?”

“TBD,” I said, hopping off my stool and moving to clean the few dishes I made with my late dinner.

“Let me know if you find out before I do.”

My back was to him, hands under the warm faucet spray, rinsing away what was left of Rosa’s stew.

“As if Peter or Derek Hale would dare,” he muttered, gruff and final.

Then he was beside me, leaning over to press a kiss to the top of my head.

“Though I suppose I should send Derek a thank you card,” he said, dry pain in his throat. “Saved you real heartache when he called it off.”

He stepped away, leaving me to my thoughts.

As I rinsed the spoon, I wondered if Alan Rickman’s Sheriff of Nottingham was right—would it hurt more to cut out my own heart with a spoon? Or to have it handed back like it wasn’t even worth the effort?

[travelmotivation04]

Discovering Popham Beach: A Coastal Gem of Maine

One of Maine's most beautiful natural treasures is hidden away on the southern coast. Both locals and tourists looking for a tranquil getaway from the bustle of everyday life are drawn to this beach because of its broad sandy shores, natural beauty, and extensive history. Popham Beach is a must-see location because of its distinctive tidal formations and views of neighbouring islands. It provides the ideal balance of adventure and relaxation. Because it is a state park, the beach is easily accessible and kept up. This article examines the unique qualities of this coastal treasure.

The Scenic Beauty of the Coastline

The stunning natural beauty is among the first things tourists notice. The miles-long beach is perfect for family vacations and leisurely walks because of its soft sand and mild waves. The beach dramatically widens at low tide, exposing sandbars and access points to tiny offshore islands. There are salt marshes, pine forests, and far-off views of the Seguin Island Lighthouse and Kennebec River in the surrounding area. These elements combine to create a charming setting ideal for peaceful contemplation and photography. Here, sunsets are especially spectacular, illuminating the beach with shades of pink, gold, and orange.

A Paradise for Nature Lovers

This coastal region has much to offer nature lovers. Numerous species of wildlife can be found in the area, such as seals, shorebirds, and even the occasional bald eagle. Popham Beach is a great place for educational family outings because of its tide pools and estuaries, which act as a natural classroom for observing marine life. In spring and autumn, migratory species can be spotted by birdwatchers, and shell collectors can appreciate the variety of treasures the tide has left behind. The pristine ecosystem of the beach serves as evidence of how crucial conservation initiatives are to maintaining Maine's coastal legacy.

The Rich History of the Area

This area has historical significance in addition to being a beachgoer's paradise. Constructed during the Civil War, nearby Fort Popham serves as a reminder of the area's strategic significance. One of the earliest English settlements in North America, the Popham Colony was founded in 1607 and existed before Jamestown. Despite its brief existence, history buffs can still explore its remnants. Visitors can better comprehend the history of the area with the aid of interpretive signage and guided tours. A trip here is a rich, multi-layered experience because of the way the natural beauty and historical depth coexist.

Outdoor Activities and Adventure

What this place has to offer adventurers won't let them down. While surfers love riding the Atlantic swells when conditions are right, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on calm days. Hiking paths close to the beach offer expansive views of the ocean and neighbouring islands as they wind through pine forests and along rocky cliffs. Another popular pastime is fishing, where fishermen cast their lines from the shore or adjacent piers. Every visit is a new adventure because families frequently bring beach games or explore the tide pools during low tide.

Ideal Spot for Families

Families with kids will love this beach. Kids can safely splash around in the shallow waters due to the shoreline's gentle slope, and there is plenty of room to play frisbee or construct sandcastles on the expansive sand beach. It is convenient for day trips because it has picnic areas and hygienic restrooms. In order to provide an additional degree of security, lifeguards are usually on duty during the summer. Every year, families choose the beach because of its easygoing atmosphere and naturally occurring playground-like features.

Best Times to Visit

Even though Popham Beach is lovely all year round, the ideal time to go will depend on your preferences. With its pleasant temperatures and extensive amenities, summer is the most popular season. Nonetheless, spring and autumn provide more peaceful surroundings and milder temperatures, making them perfect for hiking and taking pictures. With snow-capped dunes and fewer tourists, winter offers a different kind of beauty that is ideal for leisurely beach walks. Checking tide schedules in advance will help you plan the ideal day because tides greatly influence the beach experience, particularly if you want to explore the nearby islands or sandbars.

Accessibility and Amenities

Parking is available at the state park entrance, making it comparatively easy to get to the beach. Bath, Maine, is about a 20-minute drive away, making it a convenient day trip from a number of neighbouring towns. Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and areas with shade are available on the premises. Additionally, the state park has pavilions and grills for beach parties and group get-togethers. Everyone can enjoy this coastal paradise thanks to accessibility features for people with mobility needs. The parking lot can fill up quickly during busy times, so it's best to arrive early.

Local Attractions and Dining

There are many other attractions in the vicinity of the beach that are worth seeing. For a taste of history, head to nearby Fort Popham, or for a more in-depth look at the area's maritime past, drive a short distance to Bath to visit the Maine Maritime Museum. Local seafood restaurants serve delectable fresh catches, such as clam chowder and lobster rolls. Unique souvenirs and delicious treats can be found in small stores and cafes. A number of quaint inns and campgrounds in the area provide warm hospitality and breathtaking views of the coast for those wishing to prolong their stay.

Conclusion

This beach is one of Maine's most charming coastal locations in every aspect. It has something for everyone with its rich historical background, family-friendly atmosphere, and pristine natural beauty. Popham Beach provides an unforgettable experience, whether you're lounging in the sun, exploring tidal islands, or just taking in the sound of the waves. It is the ideal getaway for adventurers and those looking to unwind because of the harmony between calm and activity. You won't regret visiting this beach if you're thinking about travelling to Maine.

[bluebird077]

Breathe Easy Again: Top Allergy Control Treatment in Staten Island

If you're tired of constant sneezing, itchy eyes, and feeling like your home is out to get you, you're not alone. Allergies can turn your cozy space into a sneeze zone, but there’s good news: Allergy Control Treatment services are here to save your sinuses.

Whether you’re dealing with dust mites, mold, pet dander, or pollen, professional Allergy Control Treatment Services can help reduce triggers and make your indoor environment safer and more comfortable. And guess what? If you're in Staten Island, you're in luck.

Let’s dive into how you can reclaim your home or business, breathe freely again, and even save some cash while doing it.

Why Allergy Control Is a Must (Not a Maybe)

Let’s face it—our homes and workplaces are filled with hidden allergens. From the plush carpets that trap dust to upholstery that's seen one too many pet naps, allergens love to hide in plain sight. If you or someone in your household is suffering from allergies, asthma, or sinus issues, investing in Allergy Control Treatment isn't just helpful—it's essential.

Here’s what proper treatment tackles:

Dust mites are lurking in carpets, rugs, and bedding.

Pet dander that clings to upholstery and soft surfaces.

Mold spores hang around damp spots.

Pollen tracked in from outside.

These tiny invaders can trigger anything from a sniffle to a full-blown asthma attack. Not fun, right?

What Are Allergy Control Treatment Services?

Allergy Control Treatment Services go beyond basic cleaning. They’re a specialized approach designed to eliminate allergens and sanitize spaces, using techniques and tools that target the root causes.

Some services may include:

Deep carpet cleaning with hypoallergenic solutions

HEPA filtration vacuuming for fine dust and allergens

Anti-microbial treatments to fight mold and bacteria

Upholstery and mattress sanitation

Air purification and allergen neutralizing sprays

Whether it’s your home, office, or commercial property, these treatments are tailored to fit your space and allergy needs.

Serving Staten Island – Residential and Commercial

Our team proudly serves Staten Island, offering comprehensive allergy control for both residential and commercial spaces. Whether you live in a cozy apartment, a busy family home, or manage an office or retail space, we’ve got the tools to make your environment cleaner and healthier.

We know Staten Island gets its fair share of seasonal allergens—pollen in spring, mold in the fall, and dust all year round. That’s why we tailor each treatment to the unique conditions of the area.

24/7 Services – We Never Take a Day Off (Seriously)

Allergens don’t care if it’s the weekend or 3 AM. Neither do we.

We’re available 24/7, 7 days a week, because allergy flare-ups don’t wait for business hours. Got a last-minute cleaning emergency before guests arrive? Or maybe you're managing a commercial space that can only be treated overnight? We’ve got you covered.

Flexibility and fast response are just part of what makes us one of the most affordable Allergy Control options in Staten Island.

Perks That Make You Feel Even Better

We don’t just stop at eliminating allergens—we go the extra mile to make life easier for our clients. Here’s what we offer to sweeten the deal:

✅ 20% Off for the First 20 Customers

Yes, you read that right. Be one of the first 20 customers this month and score 20% off your entire Allergy Control Treatment. It’s our way of saying thank you for trusting us with your home or business.

✅ Free Carpet Pick-Up and Drop-Off

Got a rug that needs deep treatment? We’ll pick it up, clean it, treat it for allergens, and bring it back to you—for free.

✅ Free Carpet Cleaning with Service

Booking a full-service allergy treatment? You’ll also get free carpet cleaning included. Clean floors, clear air, and no extra charge.

Affordable Allergy Control That Doesn’t Cut Corners

Some people think “affordable” means basic. Not here.

Our affordable Allergy Control packages are designed to give you maximum relief without draining your wallet. We believe everyone deserves to live and work in an allergen-free space, no matter their budget.

You’ll get:

Certified technicians

Eco-friendly, hypoallergenic cleaning solutions

Customized treatment plans

Transparent pricing

There are no surprise fees or upsells—just real solutions that work.

Got Pets? No Problem

We love pets too—but their fur, dander, and saliva are some of the top causes of allergies. If you’ve got four-legged family members, our services are especially useful. We know how to treat surfaces while keeping your pets safe and your air cleaner.

The Power of Clean Carpets and Upholstery

Your carpet and furniture may look clean, but they’re probably holding onto allergens like a sponge. That’s why carpet and upholstery care is a key part of our Allergy Control Treatment Services.

Benefits of allergen-focused cleaning:

Improves indoor air quality

Reduces sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes

Helps asthma sufferers breathe easier

Creates a safer space for children and elderly residents

By focusing on deep cleaning and anti-allergen treatment, we can help reduce symptoms fast—and for the long run.

Commercial Spaces? We Do That Too

Don’t let allergens affect productivity or employee health. If you manage an office, daycare, retail space, or any other commercial location in Staten Island, we offer large-scale treatments that minimize downtime and maximize results.

We’ll work around your schedule—nights, weekends, holidays—whatever you need.

Call Us Now – Relief Is Just One Call Away

Ready to stop sniffling and start breathing easy? Let’s get your space allergy-free today.

📞 Call Us Now: 1-888-552-2891

Remember:

24/7 service, 7 days a week

20% off for the first 20 customers

Free carpet pick-up & drop-off or carpet cleaning

Residential and commercial options

Allergy relief isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Let us help you make your home or workplace a safe, clean, and comfortable space again.

Final Thoughts

Allergies can feel like an invisible enemy, but with the right tools and support, you can take control. Whether you're in the middle of allergy season or trying to prevent it before it starts, our expert Allergy Control Treatment Services are your go-to solution in Staten Island.