#Tea and Coffee Machine Vendor

[byhuenii]

Wishlist

Pairing Bucky x Reader

Synopsis Spring in New York. A quiet love growing louder. One gift from the wishlist at a time. Featuring a soldier who’d fight the world to make you smile.

“Wishlist” by TXT (Tomorrow X Together) inspired

Word count 7k

Themes + Warnings slow burn , friends to lovers , fluff , avengers tower chaos , soft masculinity / vulnerability , everyday intimacy , wishlist as a metaphor for love , GRUMPY X SUNSHINE !!!! , Heavy pining / internal angst , soft!bucky (you’ll love it)

— Wishlist “Please tell me now! Time's up, give me your wishlist ” - TXT

M. list | Request (open) | stream ‘Wishlist’

Spring has finally started to settle into New York.

The city feels warmer, softer. Like it’s healing from something. Pink flower petals drift along the sidewalks. Vendors sell tulips from little carts. Couples sit on stoops with melting ice cream cones and matching smiles. It’s the kind of weather that makes people believe again.

And inside the Avengers compound, it’s doing something to you, too.

You hum when you walk. You leave your window open at night. You wear that sparkly lip gloss again — the one that glints like magic when you smile. Bucky notices every time.

He notices everything.

You’re out in the city with the team that afternoon — no mission, no briefing, just a group day off. Steve claims it’s for “team bonding.” Sam claims it’s because he caught Bucky almost growling at the coffee machine again. Either way, you’re all downtown, weaving through the streets in civilian clothes like it’s normal. Like you’re not the most recognizable team on the planet.

You keep stopping to take photos on your phone — old buildings, neon signs, pigeons fighting over a muffin.

“What do you even do with those?” Kate asks, sipping her iced latte.

“Nothing,” you shrug. “I just like remembering things. Little stuff.”

You snap a picture of a LEGO flower set in a toy store window. Your eyes light up.

Bucky lingers near the back of the group, hands stuffed in his jacket pockets, watching. Not in a creepy way. Just like you’re something rare. Like he’s scared the wind will carry you off.

You don’t see the way Sam glances over at him. Or the smirk Steve’s fighting off.

Spring in New York is a love letter Bucky never expected to read again.

The wind is soft, the kind that tugs at coat hems and hair strands like a gentle tease. The streets are still loud, still fast, but the air smells like wet sidewalks and blooming lilacs. It’s the kind of weather that makes you believe in things again.

And he thinks — maybe that’s why you like it so much.

You’re sitting across from him at a table outside your favorite café multiple chairs pulled out for the rest who are off in line for more pastries. The one with the chipped pink chairs and floral tea cups that don’t match. You’re wearing lip gloss again — that shiny, sparkly one — and every time you laugh, he swears the light hits it just right to make you glow.

You’re talking about some movie you saw, animated, something about stars and soulmates and missed chances. You wave your hands while you talk, wide gestures like you’re trying to physically throw your love for it into the air.

“There’s this one line,” you say, sipping your lavender matcha, “where they say ‘people are like stars, they just need time to burn bright again.’ I don’t know, it just stuck with me.”

Bucky doesn’t say much. He’s never been great with words. But he watches. He listens.

Later that night, the compound is quieter. Dim lights. Everyone winding down.

You’ve long since retreated to your room — third floor, two doors down from his.

And Bucky’s sitting on the floor by his bed, cross-legged, the little notebook open in his lap. It’s not fancy. Just a black journal Peter gave him for Christmas with a note that said, “For your brain spaghetti.”

On a fresh page, he writes:

✦ likes stars / scared of bees, spiders, wasps

✦ hates tea too hot — “tastes like regret”

✦ wants that honey-vanilla-amber perfume — didn’t buy it, said “too indulgent”

✦ LEGO flower bouquet — “they don’t die. that’s sweet.”

✦ gold & silver earrings — expensive. keep an eye on that boutique.

✦ Sony CyberShot digital camera — black preferred. she’s been scammed. check eBay reviews.

✦ bracelet?? something personal. something hers.

✦ red star?

And, tucked in the margin:

✦ her voice softens when she says his name.

✦ he’s not sure he’ll survive hearing her say it in bedhead and morning breath.

Then, at the very bottom — written small, like it might disappear:

✦ you’re the best thing I’ve never been brave enough to ask for.

✦ I think I’m falling. No.

✦ I’ve already fallen.

The next morning the chaos is immediate.

Tony’s complaining about someone messing with the thermostat (“Why is it 72? Are we running a sauna??”), and Yelena is loudly trying to microwave four different types of Trader Joe’s frozen pasta in the common kitchen.

you find the first gift.

Wrapped in brown paper. Twine bow. Sitting neatly on your bed.

No tag. No note. Just… sitting there. Like it’s been waiting

But the second you unwrap it, the scent hits you — warm, honeyed vanilla with that soft amber undertone. that perfume. Warm honey, vanilla, a hint of amber. The one you stood outside the shop window staring at for two whole minutes last week. The one you said was “too pretty” and “too much” and walked away from like it hadn’t already lived in your mind for days.

You glance out into the hallway.

His door is open. He’s not there.

You touch the bottle like it might shatter. Like it might vanish if you admit how it makes you feel.

And there it is — You look around, heart ticking. Did someone hear you say that? Did someone remember?

Outside in the hallway, you spot Peter.

“Hey,” you ask, holding up the box. “This yours?”

He peers inside. “Oh no. That’s fancy. You’ve got a secret admirer.”

You roll your eyes, but when you walk downstairs, the teasing is already in full swing.

“Ooooh, mystery gift #1,” Kate sings, waggling her eyebrows.

“It’s always the quiet ones,” Natasha smirks, sipping her tea. “Bet it’s someone on the team.”

“Bet it’s the barista from that café near Bryant Park,” Yelena says. “She always gives you extra foam.”

You shake your head, laughing as you try to escape the room.

“Just admit you’re in your rom-com era!” Wanda calls after you.

That night, when the compound settles down, two people don’t sleep.

One of them is you — lying in bed, twisting the perfume bottle between your fingers, heart warm and unsure.

The other is Bucky — two floors up, sitting cross-legged in his room, face covered in a sheet mask you gave him as a joke (“good for stress lines, Buck”), laptop open in front of him.

Sam and Steve knock once and barge in anyway.

“Bro,” Sam deadpans, squinting. “Are you Googling digital cameras in a moisturizing mask?”

“And LEGO flowers,” Steve adds. “Don’t think we didn’t see that tab.”

Bucky doesn’t look up. “Shut up.”

“You’re so in love, it’s disgusting,” Sam mutters.

“Disgusting,” Steve agrees.

They flop on his bed like big brothers who definitely aren’t leaving anytime soon.

“You should just tell her,” Sam says after a beat.

“She’s not ready,” Bucky mutters.

“No, you’re not,” Steve says gently.

Bucky goes quiet.

He highlights a camera listing. Reads the reviews. Double-checks the seller location.

“She’s been scammed before,” he murmurs.

Steve and Sam exchange a glance — part pity, part this man is down BAD.

You wake up to birdsong.

And a note slipped under your door.

Not signed.

Just two words, scribbled in tight handwriting:

“For spring.”

You pick it up, press it to your chest, and wonder how long someone’s been watching you this closely. How long they’ve been loving you like this.

“How about romantic?

The feeling can’t be caught…”

— TXT, “Wishlist”

—

It starts with breakfast.

You walk into the compound kitchen with a dreamy little smile, still wearing your sleep shirt and fuzzy socks, hair wild from the night. Everyone’s half-awake, nursing mugs of coffee — Wanda curled up on the couch, Kate upside-down in a chair with a pastry on her stomach, and Tony flipping through some tech blueprint that might actually be a takeout menu.

“Morning,” you say brightly, heading to the fridge.

“Someone’s in a good mood,” Peter mutters, buried in a bowl of cereal he clearly doesn’t want to share.

You glance at the couch, cheeks warm. “I just… someone left me perfume yesterday.”

A pause.

You hold it up — you’d brought it down to show Wanda — and the scent drifts sweet and warm into the room like a memory. “It’s the exact one I wanted. The exact one.”

“Damn,” Kate says, biting into a croissant. “Whoever it is? They listen.”

From behind you, Bucky yawns.

You glance back and—

He’s standing in the doorway, leaning one shoulder against the frame, still in his sleep shirt, hair pushed back, expression… soft.

There’s no other word for it.

He looks warm and full and lit from the inside, like someone cracked his chest open and sunshine poured out.

You blink.

“Did you use that face mask I gave you?” you ask, stepping closer, chin tilted.

“No,” he says immediately. Too quickly.

“Liar,” Sam mutters behind his mug.

“He absolutely did,” Steve adds. “Twice.”

“We have photos,” Sam grins. “I added sparkles to one.”

Bucky groans, dragging a hand over his face. “I hate all of you.”

You catch the faintest pink in his cheeks. The kind of glow you don’t get from sheet masks.

You smile. “It looked good on you.”

His eyes flicker to yours.

“Thanks,” he says, voice just above a whisper.

And you wonder — not for the first time — what it would feel like to be the reason someone softens.

Peter looks up from his cereal like he just remembered something vital. “Wait. Did you check your laundry yet?”

You freeze mid-step.

“Why would I check my laundry, Parker?”

He shrugs, way too casual. “No reason.”

“You’re being weird.”

“I’m never weird.”

“You literally wore Crocs into battle last week.”

“It was a stealth op!”

“You wore banana yellow Crocs.”

Peter waves a hand. “You’re avoiding the topic.”

Your voice gets flatter. “What topic.”

“The topic of how you’re clearly someone’s favorite person in the known universe.”

You turn away just as your cheeks flush. The perfume still sits on your desk upstairs. You’ve reapplied it three times since waking up. You keep smelling your wrist like you’re trying to memorize what love feels like.

“Don’t know what you mean,” you mutter.

Peter snorts into his bowl. “Yeah, okay, denial. Got it.”

Later, after you do check your laundry and nearly collapse over a tiny black box containing earrings too beautiful to be real, the teasing intensifies.

Peter finds you again before movie night and dramatically gasps when he spots the hoops dangling from your ears.

“OHHH it’s you,” he hisses. “You’re the main character.”

You roll your eyes. “Shut up.”

“No, no. You don’t understand. You’re in a cinematic universe of longing and secret gift drops. This is bigger than Endgame.”

“Peter.”

“There are probably sparkles following you when you walk. I swear I saw slow motion just now.”

“Goodbye.”

—

The team is sprawled across the common room couch and floor cushions when Tony walks in mid-movie.

“Alright, who finished my La Croix and left the can on top of the fridge like some sort of raccoon—”

He pauses mid-rant, eyes catching on your earrings.

“Huh,” he says, stepping closer. “These are… nice.”

“Thanks?” you blink.

“No, seriously. Good metal. Hand-hammered work, maybe local. Possibly vintage.” He squints. “Who’s your dealer?”

You open your mouth. Close it.

Peter doesn’t help.

“Mystery gifter,” he stage-whispers.

Tony pauses. Raises an eyebrow. Looks at you. Then —

He looks directly at Bucky, who is sitting stiffly in the corner of the couch pretending to be very invested in the movie credits.

Tony’s eyes narrow. His head tilts. The pieces click.

“Interesting,” he says slowly, like he’s discovered a secret engine blueprint.

But — to his credit — he doesn’t say anything else. Just pats you on the shoulder and walks away humming.

Bucky exhales only after the door slides shut.

After movie night ends, the chaos begins again.

You escape upstairs with Wanda and Kate, trying to downplay your smile the whole time. (Failing, for the record.)

Meanwhile, in Bucky’s room:

“Soooo,” Sam says, flopping backwards onto the bed, “jewelry now?”

“It’s not—”

“Yeah,” Steve cuts in, “because hand-selected artisan earrings placed on top of her laundry is totally something a stranger would do.”

Bucky groans and rubs his face.

“How do you even know she liked them?” Sam presses.

“She wore them,” Bucky mutters.

That’s all it takes.

Steve and Sam exchange twin looks of ohhh, he’s in it deep.

Then Nat leans into the doorway like she’s been waiting for her cue.

“So. Jewelry,” she deadpans, arms crossed.

“Not you too.”

“Come on, Barnes. You’re glowing.”

“I’m not glowing.”

“You literally are glowing. That’s a dewy finish.”

Sam snorts. “We told him. Sheet masks change lives.”

“Sam.”

“Bro. You spent twenty minutes tying that bow.”

“…shut up.”

Bucky sighs and sinks deeper into his hoodie.

“You’re all unbearable.”

“You’re the one playing secret admirer,” Nat teases. “At this point, you might as well start leaving riddles and roses.”

Steve laughs. “Oh god. Don’t give him ideas.”

Much later, after the teasing fades and the others clear out, Bucky is alone with his thoughts and the blue notebook in his lap.

He opens it, flips past the page with your tea preferences and your fear of bees, and adds:

✦ Earrings. Looked at them like they were magic. Like they made her feel known.

Then, underneath it:

✦ She asked about the mask again. Said it looked good.

✦ wears the gifts like armor. like hope.

✦ I think it’s just her. She makes everything look better.

✦ looks so happy in them. I’d do it all over again.

And on your end — when the compound is quiet and the lights are low — you sit cross-legged on your bed and stare down at the earrings in your hands.

You don’t say anything. Don’t need to.

But your heart is a little louder tonight. Beating with the rhythm of something growing.

And maybe, just maybe, you’re starting to wonder what it would feel like if the gifts stopped being anonymous.

What it would feel like if the next one wasn’t a surprise.

But a confession.

“A cellphone filled with a wishlist…”

— TXT, Wishlist

—

You wake to birdsong and golden light filtering through the curtain slats.

It’s a peaceful morning — until you notice it.

Something on your windowsill.

You blink blearily, shuffle closer, and see a box. Pink paper. Slightly messy tape job. But the bow is soft, tied by hand.

Your heart skips.

You open it slowly. Inside: a LEGO flower bouquet.

You gasp — an actual, full bouquet of tiny LEGO flowers. Sunflowers. Roses. Poppies. Snapdragons.

Flowers that don’t die.

And then you see the note, folded underneath the stems. No name.

Just:

For your spring.

(with a tiny red star drawn next to it.)

You sit down hard on the edge of your bed.

Your fingers hover over the bouquet. Your lips tug into a smile so soft it makes your own chest ache.

He remembered.

Two weeks ago – Downtown Brooklyn

The sidewalk buzzed with warm spring life. Outdoor cafés. Bikers whizzing past. You, Bucky, and the others meandering through after grabbing pastries. You stopped in front of a toy shop window.

Inside: a LEGO flower bouquet display.

“Oh my god,” you whispered, hand pressed to the glass. “Look at these!”

“They’re plastic flowers,” Bucky had said, puzzled but curious.

“Exactly. They don’t die. And they’re beautiful.”

You looked back over your shoulder, smiling.

“Permanent hope,” you added quietly.

He had barely blinked at the words. You didn’t notice the way he looked at you afterward. Not then.

But now?

You’re holding the proof that he did.

You FaceTime Peter.

“What.”

“He left me LEGO flowers.”

“Oh my GOD.”

“And a note!”

“Was it a poem?!”

“No, but it said ‘For your spring’ and it had a red star!”

Peter literally puts a pillow over his face and screams into it.

“Parker.”

“HE’S FLIRTING IN SYMBOLISM.”

“It’s not flirting.”

“It’s a declaration of seasonal affection. It’s romantic. It’s war.”

“You are so dramatic—”

“You’re wearing soft pink pajamas and holding hand-built plastic flowers like they’re treasure—you’re dramatic.”

You can’t stop smiling. You bury your face into your hands.

Peter’s voice softens through the phone.

“…you like him, huh?”

“I don’t know,” you whisper. “But I think I’m starting to realize I’ve liked him for a while.”

Downstairs, Bucky is nursing a mug of coffee like it’s the only thing keeping him upright. His hoodie’s rumpled. His hair’s still damp. He hasn’t slept.

Because he spent three hours the night before building that bouquet with his metal hand — slowly, carefully, making sure none of the pieces were crooked. Then taping the box shut with shivering fingers and signing it with the tiniest, stupidest star.

He keeps replaying it all in his head like it’s a mission gone wrong.

“You look like you murdered someone,” Sam says, sliding into the seat across from him.

“I left a note.”

“You what.”

“She’s gonna know.”

“You signed it?”

“…with a star.”

Sam slaps the table.

“HE SIGNED IT WITH A STAR, STEVE.”

Steve walks in holding his protein shake like a weary parent.

“It’s fine. You’re doing fine.”

“I’m losing my mind.”

“You’ve already lost it.”

“It was supposed to be anonymous!”

“You built her LEGO flowers.”

“So?”

“So,” Nat says, appearing from literally nowhere like a shadow with good cheekbones, “you are so screwed.”

Bucky groans into his hands.

“I hate all of you.”

“Not as much as you love her,” Sam mutters with a grin.

That afternoon, you find a quiet moment to sneak away — rooftop, warm breeze, the LEGO bouquet in your hands.

You sit on the edge, legs dangling, camera in your lap, bouquet beside you. The city stretches wide beneath your feet. Spring in full bloom. A little golden, a little messy.

Just like the person you suspect built this bouquet for you.

You pull out your film camera — the one Bucky helped you fix last month when you jammed the shutter. You snap a photo of the bouquet with the skyline in the background. Then one of your hand holding a tiny flower piece.

You don’t even realize he’s watching.

From one level below — balcony shadows — Bucky watches you from a sliver in the curtains. You, sitting in the sun, smiling at something he gave you. The wind catching your hair.

And for a moment, he doesn’t feel like a weapon.

He feels like someone who could give joy.

Someone who does.

That night, he almost throws out the notebook.

Almost rips the “for your spring” page out and burns it in the sink.

But he doesn’t.

Instead, he writes underneath it.

She smiled.

She sat with them for a whole hour.

She called them “hope.”

She’s never looked more like spring than she does now.

Later, as you head back to your room, Nat passes you in the hall and raises an eyebrow at the bouquet in your hands.

“Secret admirer still going hard?”

You smile. “Looks like it.”

“Mmm. You know, when Barnes was Hydra’s weapon, he never did romantic flower drops.”

You blink.

“…what?”

“Nothing,” she says, walking off. “Enjoy your LEGO love story.”

And maybe, as you fall asleep that night — the bouquet on your nightstand, note tucked in your pillowcase — you whisper into the dark:

“If it’s you… I think I already knew.”

“How about romantic? (Yeah)

The feeling can’t be caught (What’s the best present?)”

— TXT, Wishlist

—

It’s a rare quiet morning at the compound.

You shuffle into the common room, tea in hand, eyes still sleepy, hoodie halfway zipped. The sun is spilling across the hardwood floors like honey. May in New York has that soft buzz of warmth—the kind that makes you believe good things are waiting.

You almost don’t notice it at first.

Just a small matte black box on the couch. Unassuming. A soft breeze from the balcony flutters the Post-It on top.

Your name. Written in a slanted, unmistakably careful script.

Your heart skips.

You set the mug down slowly and kneel on the couch. You unwrap the box with almost trembling fingers.

Inside:

A Sony Cybershot DSC. Matte black. Brand new.

You gasp.

“No way—”

You blink down at it, barely breathing. Your throat is already getting tight. You know this model. It’s the model. The one you told Peter about. The one you tried to win off an auction site. The one you swore off because it kept getting stolen out of your shopping cart or from sketchy sellers.

And now it’s here. In your hands. Fully yours.

You power it on with shaking hands. The screen blinks awake.

Gallery: 10 photos.

You hesitate. Click in.

Photo 1: A side profile of you — nose scrunched, talking animatedly. Must’ve been dinner at the compound.

Photo 2: You and Peter, sitting on the balcony with empty bubble tea cups and a shared bag of chips, sun blazing behind you. You’re laughing, hair messy. It’s candid. The kind of shot you didn’t know anyone could capture so perfectly. The light makes you look soft. Like someone’s muse.

Photo 3: A book on your windowsill. Your annotated copy of The Secret History next to your favorite mug. A quiet detail only someone paying attention would know.

Photo 4: Your shadow and his. Leaning together on the balcony during sunset. You didn’t know he was there.

Photo 5: The LEGO bouquet—framed like fine art. On your shelf. On your shelf. Taken before you ever found it.

You feel your chest clench. Your fingers tighten on the camera. You sniff once, barely holding it back.

Photo 6: You asleep in the rec room. Hoodie half-off your shoulder. Your lips parted. A blanket tucked gently over you. Not yours.

Photo 7: A shot of your reflection in the café window. Your gaze distant. Your hand cupping your cheek. You look like a dream. His dream.

Photo 8: You again. Reading. A pencil tucked behind your ear. You’re chewing your lip in thought.

Photo 9: A close-up of your hands lacing Peter’s sneakers into a triple knot. He’s mid-whine. You’re grinning.

Photo 10: The note he left. The tiny “Your name” written in all caps. Sitting next to the camera box. The present before the reveal.

“Holy shit,” you whisper. “He’s in love with me.”

Then you scream.

A real scream.

Out of nowhere. Just emotion and surprise and disbelief colliding in your chest and bursting out of your lungs.

And exactly 1.2 seconds later—

CRASH.

“GET DOWN—!”

Webbing flies. A taser baton nearly clips your bookshelf.

Yelena and Peter burst in from opposite doors—combat mode activated, full chaos.

“WHO’S ATTACKING—?!”

“DID YOU TRIP THE SECURITY—?!”

“ARE YOU POSSESSED?!”

You’re still on the floor, gripping the camera like a lifeline, face damp with fresh, stunned tears.

“Oh my god,” you wheeze. “I’m fine!”

Peter looks around wildly. “You screamed!”

“It was a happy scream!”

Yelena’s brow furrows. “What the hell is a happy scream?!”

“Look!” you cry, holding up the camera. “He got it for me! He—he remembered!”

Peter walks closer and sees the display. His brows lift. “Whoa…”

Yelena peers over his shoulder.

“These are all photos of you.”

“You guys, they’re like—beautiful. Like… heartbreakingly beautiful.”

“Okay, now I believe he’s in love with you,” Peter adds. “This one literally looks like an indie movie poster.”

You sniff again, laugh-shaking. “I think I’m gonna die.”

Yelena: “You better not. I have money on when he confesses.”

Peter: “Wait, I do too.”

You glare through watery eyes. “How many of you are betting on my love life?”

Peter: “Everyone except Bruce and Thor. They’re too scared to jinx it.”

Meanwhile…

Across the World – Mid-Mission

Gunfire echoes in an abandoned warehouse.

Bucky, Sam, Steve, and Natasha are mid-fight. Punches flying. Adrenaline high.

And suddenly—

And Steve yells over the comms:

“Hey Bucky?”

“What?!”

“Y/N got the camera!”

“—What?!”

Sam, dodging a blast: “She screamed so loud Peter and Yelena kicked in a door.”

“She screamed?! Is she okay?!”

Nat, voice smug over the line: “She cried.”

Bucky freezes for half a second. A beat too long.

“Was it—was it a bad cry or a good cry—?”

“Oh, sweetheart,” Nat says, “it was a ‘he’s the love of my life’ kind of cry.”

Sam: “You are so done, man.”

Steve: “She’s gonna kiss you into next week.”

Bucky hides his face behind his metal hand.

“I’m gonna throw myself into the Atlantic.”

Steve’s already grinning. “Peter said she screamed. Yelena thought she was under attack.”

“Is she okay?!”

Sam: “Oh, she’s great. Peter said she’s crying and smiling like she’s in a drama.”

Bucky ducks behind a crate and groans, face in his hands.

“She saw the photos?”

Nat: “All of them.”

Steve: “You took ten, man. That’s not ‘casual.’ That’s ‘wedding montage.’”

Sam: “You put in one of her asleep?! Bro. You’re gone.”

“I’m not gone,” Bucky mutters.

Nat: “You named the file folder ‘For Her Eyes Only.’”

“Okay, maybe I’m a little gone.”

Steve, grinning, lands a knockout punch. “She’s gonna kiss you so hard you forget your name.”

Bucky: “I’m never showing my face again.”

Sam: “Jokes on you—we got the whole thing on camera.”

Steve: “And guess what? When you get back—bracelet time.”

“Oh god.”

Nat: “You’re doing great, sweetheart.”

Later that night, Bucky stares out the Quinjet window as New York lights come back into view.

In his jacket pocket is the charm bracelet. With the red star.

He’s one gift away.

One breath from finally saying it.

From finally being the sixth wish.

Bucky had pulled out his notebook and add:

Camera went well. She smiled. She cried. I didn’t die from it. Progress.

She deserves better than my silence.

But god, she’s beautiful. I want to be the person who sees her like that every day.

And you—back at the Compound—are curled in bed with a camera against your chest, smiling like you already know.

“A cellphone filled with a wishlist…”

“Please tell me your secret.”

— TXT, Wishlist

—

You hear the front doors of the compound open late that night. It’s almost midnight.

Bucky’s back.

And somehow… you don’t go to him. Not yet. You’re still trying to stop the trembling in your hands from the gift he hasn’t given you.

Because the camera? The LEGO flowers? The perfume? The earrings?

Each one made your heart flutter.

But the bracelet?

The little box that you found on your bed after you returned from a late training session — simple and velvet, tied with a red ribbon — that one left you breathless.

You open it again.

The bracelet is delicate and silver, lightweight on your wrist. Five small charms already dangle on it — each one unmistakably chosen by him:

A tiny LEGO flower.

A glinting gold hoop earring.

A miniscule Sony camera.

A teacup — with steam etched into the metal.

And a bright red star.

He is the sixth wish. And he gave you the star from his heart before he gave you himself.

You press the heel of your hand to your chest and exhale shakily. You almost miss the thin piece of paper beneath the satin lining. A note. Folded three times.

It’s his handwriting.

Y/N,

I don’t know if you’ll understand how long I’ve been working on this. Not the bracelet.

Not the camera.

But this —

Remembering the small things. Noticing the details. It’s the only way I’ve known how to say:

You matter to me.

You’ve always mattered.

I’ve spent more of my life losing people than learning them. But you… you made me want to learn again.

I don’t have the words yet. But maybe these will help.

— Bucky

Tears slip down your cheeks before you can stop them.

You don’t sob.

You don’t scream.

You just… sit in the quiet, overwhelmed, your heart trying to make space for a love that’s been there all along.

And then you see the notebook.

It’s half-tucked under the edge of your bed. A black journal with frayed corners. You know this cover.

This is Bucky’s.

He never leaves it out.

You hesitate, fingers trembling, then slowly open it to the first page.

Page One:

Y/N’s List — Important Things to Remember

• Hates tea too hot. Says it tastes like “regret.”

• Loves cherry lip gloss. Will fight Sam over the last one.

• Once said “I like stars because they remind me to breathe.”

• Scared of bees but will run straight into a fight with a HYDRA tank???

• Favorite matcha: the kind with oat milk, vanilla, and an extra scoop.

• Once fell asleep reading her book to the plants on the balcony.

• Asked Peter if ghosts can feel lonely.

• Laughed so hard once, she snorted tea out her nose. I haven’t stopped thinking about that sound.

You flip to a later page.

Page Thirteen:

*She was talking about earrings. Gold and silver mixed ones. Said they reminded her of sunlight and moonlight.

I’ve never seen someone so in love with things that sparkle. I hope she never finds out that nothing glows the way she does when she talks about things she loves.*

Another page.

Page Twenty-Two:

*I don’t know how to say it.

But I would give anything — anything — to be the reason she smiles after a long day.

I want to be her camera. Her flower bouquet. Her favorite song.

But mostly, I just want to be the thing she doesn’t give back.*

And there, tucked at the back of the notebook—

Final Entry:

*Red star. For the sixth wish.

She doesn’t know it yet.

But it’s me.*

BUCKY.

The moment the gift is dropped off, he panics.

He’s back in his room freshly showered, pacing, heart pounding like he’s under fire. His hands are shaking — not from fear, but from something far more dangerous.

Hope.

What the hell did he just do?

He gave her the bracelet.

The bracelet.

The final gift before he either loses his mind or tells her the truth.

He didn’t even stay to watch her open it. Coward.

But what if she hates it? What if it’s too much?

What if—

What if she doesn’t want me?

The thought guts him.

Bucky stares at the desk in his room — the wrapping paper scraps, the ink-stained fingers, the red ribbon he accidentally got tangled around his wrist earlier like some goddamn poetic joke.

He glances at his laptop, still open to the jewelry store’s confirmation page. A hundred tabs open. His Amazon cart is basically a shrine to her at this point. His notes are scattered like breadcrumbs.

And that journal — he left it in her room. He left the fucking journal.

He slams his hand on the desk, breath coming fast.

She’s going to read it.

She’s going to know.

She’s going to know everything.

And it’s not like a mission, where he knows what to do when the danger starts.

No.

This? This is scarier.

Because he doesn’t have a plan for heartbreak.

Because he’s in love with you.

He has been for months. Maybe longer. And he doesn’t even remember when it started — just that it never really ended. It grew quiet and steady. Like spring.

He learned the way you take your tea.

The lip gloss that leaves shimmer behind when you smile.

The look in your eyes when you talk about constellations and ghosts like they’re just neighbors.

How you make the compound feel like home just by walking into a room.

And now he might’ve ruined it. Over a bracelet.

Over a goddamn red star.

YOU.

You’re already on your feet before your brain catches up.

The notebook still in your hand. The bracelet clinks on your wrist with every step. The journal clutched in your hands.

You don’t think. You just go.

It’s late, the halls dim, but you don’t care.

You walk, no — run — toward the hallway. Past the common room. Past Peter and Yelena, who do a double take and high-five behind you.

When you see the soft kitchen light and the shadow moving inside, your heart leaps.

And there — in the kitchen — you find him.

You whisper, “Bucky?” and it’s not a question. It’s a confirmation. He’s here.

Bucky Barnes.

He turns at the sound of your voice.

He freezes.

Your eyes are glassy with tears — but you’re smiling. Glowing. And you’re wearing that damn lip gloss again, the one that catches the light when you laugh.

He barely hears himself whisper, “Shit,” before you crash into him like a comet of joy.

His hands catch you instinctively, arms around your waist as you bury your face in his shoulder. The journal thuds softly to the floor between you.

“Wait, wait—” he tries, but you’re already cupping his face, pulling back just enough to look him in the eye.

Hair still damp from a shower. Hoodie half-zipped. Barefoot. Soft. Startled when you crash into him.

“Whoa—Y/N?”

You’re crying. Laughing. Clutching his journal to your chest.

He looks like he’s about to pass out.

You don’t even give him a chance to speak.

You take his face in your hands. Tilt your forehead to his. Your voice barely a whisper:

“I found the star.”

He swears the earth tilts.

“What?”

You nod. “The sixth wish. It was you.”

Bucky swallows hard, blinking rapidly. “I was gonna… I had this whole—”

His voice breaks.

You kiss him.

It’s warm and unhurried. A promise, not a question. You taste like tears and flavored lip gloss — like honey.

And he’s gone.

He’s absolutely ruined now.

Because no serum, no war, no past life, has ever made him feel like this.

You pull back just a breath and whisper:

“I might as well confess… I like you.”

His whole face crumbles. Relief. Joy. Love.

He exhales like he hasn’t in months. Years, maybe.

His forehead rests against yours. He closes his eyes.

“Fuck,” he mutters, shaking his head. “You’re serious?”

You nod.

“I thought—” he laughs, but it cracks in the middle. “I thought I messed everything up.”

You shake your head quickly. “No. Bucky, this—this was everything. Every gift. Every note. That bracelet—”

“Has a red star,” he says quietly, like he’s giving you the truth for the first time. “Because you’re the only thing I ever really wanted to protect. The one thing I never wanted to lose.”

He says your name like it’s the first time he’s allowed to breathe it.

And then he kisses you again. And again.

The sixth wish.

Is him.

It’s always been him.

And now… you get to keep him.

FROM A DISTANCE…

Peter and Yelena peek into the kitchen from around the corner.

Peter whispers, “Do we… tell Sam?”

Yelena grins. “Oh, Sam already owes me fifty bucks.”

MEANWHILE…

Mission comms channel – earlier that night:

Sam: “Okay, so camera drop — successful?”

Nat: “Yeah, but he looked like he was gonna bolt to Wakanda.”

Steve: “Honestly, if she doesn’t kiss him tonight, I will.”

Sam: “Cap—”

Steve: “I’m just saying. Man’s been in love like it’s a classified operation.”

Nat: “Operation: Simp Soldier.”

Bucky (grumbling): “I can hear you.”

Steve: “And?”

Sam: “We hope you hear us.”

Nat: “By the way, you owe us a mission update and emotional clarity when you get home.”

Bucky: “I’m hanging up.”

Steve: “No, you’re not. We’re invested.”

Back in the compound, Bucky finally speaks, still holding you.

“I read once that the best kind of gift is something you never expected to want but suddenly can’t live without.”

You tilt your head, curious.

He lifts your hand, presses a kiss to the bracelet.

“That’s what you are. To me.”

You lean into him. “You should’ve just told me.”

He smirks faintly. “I was trying. With… flowers and jewelry and… LEGO bricks.”

You laugh — bright and startled.

And he kisses you again. Because now, he finally can.

“Please tell me now, Time's up, give me your wishlist ”

— TXT, Wishlist

—

Bucky Barnes has survived wars, brainwashing, and decades of solitude.

But none of it compared to the sheer hurricane that hit the Avengers Compound the morning after you kissed him.

You and Bucky are curled up on the kitchen couch, your legs over his lap, still in sleep clothes. He’s half-asleep with his arm around your waist, and you’ve got the charm bracelet glinting on your wrist as you sip your tea (not too hot, obviously).

Your head is resting on his shoulder. You haven’t stopped smiling since last night.

Then—

SLAM.

The kitchen door bursts open.

“WE TOLD YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU!!”

Sam, Steve, Peter, Nat, Yelena, all in full-blown chaos mode, cheering like you just won the Super Bowl.

Bucky literally flinches like he’s under attack.

“Why—why are you all awake right now?” he groans into your shoulder.

“Because we knew this was gonna happen!” Peter shouts. “I knew it! I said it! Sam said it. Natasha knew before anyone—”

“I told you he was pining,” Nat says smugly. “Called it six months ago.”

“I said three,” Sam argues.

“You said three because you wanted to win the pool,” Yelena smirks. “Speaking of—Tony? Pay up.”

Tony strolls in, coffee in hand, Pepper behind him. He glances at Bucky, who is flushed, lips bitten pink from where you kissed him thirty seconds ago.

“You cry yet, Barnes?” Tony asks with a smirk. “Fifty bucks says you’re the first to tear up.”

“He already did last night,” Steve says casually, eating a protein bar. “I was on the comms. There was sniffing.”

“I was not crying,” Bucky mutters, clearly lying.

Pepper leans against the counter, arms crossed. “This is what I wake up to?”

“This is what we’ve all been waking up to for the past year,” Wanda chimes in from the hallway. “This painfully slow descent into domestic longing.”

—

You pull out your little black digital camera — the one Bucky got you — and before he can protest, you snap a photo of the two of you right there.

“Wait—did I look okay?” he asks instantly.

You flip the screen toward him.

And he goes silent.

It’s… perfect. You’re both a little messy, sleepy, wrapped in morning light — and love.

You grin and say, “Lockscreen-worthy?”

He just nods, heart visibly softening.

You make it your lockscreen right there. And he literally melts.

That afternoon, after the chaos dies down (barely), you and Bucky sit on the floor of your shared living space at the compound with the LEGO bouquet spread out between you.

It’s quiet now. Just the two of you.

“You’re serious about this?” Bucky asks, turning the instruction booklet sideways.

“Dead serious,” you whisper, nudging his knee.

It’s slow and beautiful, both of you focused and laughing as you build. He fumbles the small pieces. You steal the yellow rose and claim it’s “your flower.”

And when it’s finally done, he sits back on his heels.

“I like the idea,” he murmurs. “Flowers that never die.”

You smile. “Like this feeling.”

You pull out your shared notebook — the one you once wrote your wishlist in.

Bucky taps his pen against the blank page.

You start writing in your messy, lovely scrawl:

“Things We Want To Do Together (Now That We Know)”

Bucky’s additions:

Go to that bookstore in the Village she always talks about

Make her favorite brownies from scratch

Stargaze on the roof without telling the others

Surprise trip to Coney Island

Let her kiss me every morning, just because

Write our own story

You add:

Keep wearing the earrings, perfume, bracelet

Let him keep taking pictures of me

Take pictures of him too

Let him hold my hand in front of everyone

Be the safe place he never had

Say “I love you” when I’m ready

Hear it from him first

You glance up at him.

He meets your eyes.

—

“You know,” Bucky says, his voice soft, fingers brushing your jaw, “that lip gloss you always wear? The sparkly one?”

You nod, surprised.

“I didn’t know it was flavored until you kissed me,” he admits, flushing. “Honey.”

You blink.

“I haven’t stopped thinking about it. It’s—you. Sweet and bright and familiar. And now when I smell honey, it’s you. When I taste it, it’s you.”

You don’t speak. You just lean forward and kiss him again.

This time it’s slow. Long. Perfect.

Later that night…

Peter corners Bucky by the fridge.

“Okay, listen, I’m cool with it. You’re cool. She’s cool. It’s cool.”

Bucky raises an eyebrow. “Thanks?”

“But if you hurt her—like even accidentally—I will get May to give me permission to emotionally destroy you.”

Bucky smirks. “You’d have to get through Yelena and Natasha first.”

Peter thinks. “Okay fair, but I’d still try.”

Bucky claps him on the shoulder. “Noted.”

—

You crawl into bed beside him that night — soft sheets, his arm already reaching for you. Your charm bracelet jingles faintly as you settle in. The earrings glimmer in the moonlight.

“Hey,” you whisper, voice against his collarbone.

“Yeah?”

You lift your head to look him in the eyes.

“I love you.”

He doesn’t hesitate.

“I love you, too.”

And outside the door?

Tony hands Yelena another fifty.

Sam high-fives Peter.

Nat records Bucky’s second happy cry of the week.

Steve just smiles.

Mission complete.

“A jewelry box with a star called you,

My heart overflows again…

I might as well confess… I like you.”

— Wishlist, Tomorrow X Together

(You’ve got mail!) WHAT DO YALL KNOW ABOUT THIS SONGGYGY. THIS IS MY SONG LIKE MY SONGGG MY SONG MY SONGGG. LIKE OUUUHHH THIS SONG HAS ME IN SUCH FEEELLLLSSSSSS. I’ve written tm angst Bucky and I feel like we need some happy slice of life soft solider James Buchanan Bucky Barnes. God that one txt oneshot popped off now here I am with my new improve TXT x Bucky Barnes branded one shots!!! YUP I LOVE THIS. I was geeking and gawking so badly when I was making this you don’t understand lmfaoooo.

Tag List (For Mr. James Buchanan Barnes is open!)

@bbsbrina @herejustforbuckybarnes @barnesandbouquets @winchestert101 @theycallmeanxiety @lovinqbella @starstruckfirecat

[pollyharp]

Here is a fic I wrote about a day in the life of the ninja when there is no villain to fight.

No obligation to read, leave a like if you enjoy it though :)

Title: "Between Storms"

The sun rose over Ninjago City like a soft exhale after a long-held breath. Birds sang. The skyline shimmered. And for the first time in what felt like forever, no monsters, tyrants, or ancient curses cast a shadow over the world.

On the outskirts of the city, atop a forested hill, the Monastery of Spinjitzu stood quietly basking in the morning light. It was a rare thing — the ninja were home, and peace had truly settled.

7:05 AM – Morning Calm

Lloyd was the first one awake, as usual. He sat on the monastery roof, legs dangling over the edge, a warm cup of green tea in his hand. With his powers quiet and his thoughts still, he simply watched the wind move the trees below.

Behind him, soft footsteps approached.

“Could’ve guessed you’d be up here,” said Nya, joining him with her own mug of black coffee.

“Just needed a moment,” Lloyd replied. “It’s weird, isn’t it? Peace.”

Nya chuckled. “Almost suspiciously weird.”

He smirked. “You think trouble’s waiting just behind the corner?”

“Always is,” she said, sipping. “But that’s tomorrow’s problem.”

8:12 AM – Breakfast Shenanigans

Down in the kitchen, Jay and Cole were in the middle of a very serious pancake debate.

“I’m just saying, blueberry is the superior fruit,” Jay insisted, flipping a pancake with unnecessary flair.

Cole raised an eyebrow as he retrieved a bowl of batter. “Chocolate chip. Don’t even try me.”

“You just want an excuse to eat dessert for breakfast.”

“That’s the point of pancakes, Jay.”

Kai walked in, hair still damp from a shower, and groaned. “Why are you two always arguing about food?”

“Because food is important,” Cole and Jay said in unison.

From the hallway, Zane’s voice chimed in: “Nutritionally, they’re both suboptimal. But if you are making extra, I would like three.”

9:00 AM – Training Time

Despite the calm, training never truly stopped.

In the courtyard, the ninja gathered for their morning drills. Wooden dummies were lined up, mats unrolled, and the clang of weapons echoed under the clear sky.

Sensei Wu, calm and timeless as ever, watched from the shade of a tree.

“Even in peace,” he said, “we prepare.”

One by one, the ninja took turns sparring. Lloyd’s movements were graceful, honed by experience. Nya’s strikes were fast and precise. Kai’s fire came in controlled bursts, while Cole’s earth-shaking stomps echoed deep. Zane fought like a machine — because he was one — but also with a warrior’s heart. And Jay, chaotic as ever, kept everyone on their toes.

Their laughter interspersed with grunts and shouts — a family playing at war, though no war loomed.

11:30 AM – Free Time

Training ended early.

Cole found himself in the garden, tending to the vegetables he had planted weeks ago. He hummed an old rock song as he gently trimmed the tomatoes.

Jay, unable to sit still, had built a makeshift kite and convinced Lloyd to help fly it. It lasted a glorious four minutes before getting stuck in a tree. They laughed anyway.

Zane was sketching in the library, tracing the angles of a bird’s wing with almost surgical focus.

Nya and Kai were fixing the monastery roof tiles together — mostly to keep their hands busy and their minds clear. The rhythm of hammer and nail brought comfort.

No one mentioned villains or destiny. No one needed to.

2:15 PM – A Visit to the City

Later, they made a group trip into Ninjago City — not to fight or rescue, but to browse shops, visit an arcade, and eat dumplings from a street vendor who always gave them extra because “you saved my cousin that one time.”

They posed for photos with fans. They stopped by the museum to see their own old armor in a glass case, which was both strange and humbling.

A kid tugged Jay’s sleeve and whispered, “Are you really a lightning ninja?”

Jay knelt down, smiled, and sparked a small bolt between his fingers. The kid gasped.

“You bet.”

6:00 PM – Dinner and Memories

Back at the monastery, they cooked dinner together. It was chaotic, hilarious, and more than a little dangerous (especially with Kai near the stove). But they got it done.

Around the big table, the conversation flowed: memories of old battles, jokes about weird villains, and heated debates about the best pizza toppings.

“And remember that time Ronin turned us into old people?” Jay laughed, mouth full of noodles.

Kai groaned. “Don’t remind me. My back still hurts thinking about it.”

Zane raised his glass. “To peace — however long it lasts.”

They all clinked their glasses together.

9:00 PM – One by One

As night fell, the ninja peeled away one by one.

Cole stayed up drawing in the common room, charcoal smudged on his cheek. Nya polished her weapons by moonlight. Jay dozed off mid-sentence with a comic book on his chest. Kai stared at the stars for a long while, quietly thankful for the stillness.

Lloyd, once again, returned to the rooftop. This time, Zane joined him.

“You’re always watching,” Zane said.

“Can’t help it,” Lloyd replied. “Feels like if I look away, it’ll all go wrong again.”

Zane placed a hand on his shoulder. “But tonight, it hasn’t. And tomorrow is not ours to predict.”

They sat in silence after that, listening to the wind.

11:47 PM – The Quiet

In the deepest part of the night, the monastery was still. No alarms. No missions. Just the soft breathing of heroes finally allowed to rest.

And somewhere in the dark, beneath the stars and the gentle hum of the world turning, the peace held.

For now.

THE END

[leilani-lily]

~Oh Deer~ (Chapter 9)

A thousand apologies my dearest does and bucks ｡°(°.◜ᯅ◝°)°｡

This took much longer than anticipated; I hit a bit of a wall, and time escaped from me. But we're here! We trekkin' on! The story continues \( ᐖ)/

.... And we're actually splitting this into 3 rather than 2 because over 6k later and we're still not done yet so ahaha! Whoopsies~ (´∀｀);

｡°⚠︎°｡ Final note. This is a WARNING that this chapter includes mention of VIOLENCE, GORE, and SEXUAL ASSAULT so please read with caution if this is a trigger for you!! ｡°⚠︎°｡

Thank you all for your love and support, honestly ꨄ I've been feeling down lately and re-reading comments has really helped to boost my spirits and push me to keep going! I love y'all dearly ( •̯́ v •̯̀)♡

OK! Without further ado~ SYNOPSIS: AroAce! Alastor x Chef!Singer! Reader. You venture off on your own to grab Alastor's gift, unaware of the dangers to follow... Word Count: 6.2k Chapter under the cut! ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Your feet pounded on the pavement below you and you jogged towards the coffee stall. Your eyes were sharp and alert and your grip on Alastor’s microphone tight. You knew you had to be quick and extra careful now being on your own. But surprisingly enough, you weren’t afraid. Your blood was pumping with adrenaline, and with Alastor’s staff, you felt more powerful than you ever had in your entire life. It was exhilarating, to say the least.

Dodging in between sinners and recognizing landmarks, you were able to find the vendor in question without any problems. You breathed a sigh of relief, coming to a stop in front of the display table and taking a moment to catch your breath. A large, older imp with a white goatee raised an eyebrow at you questioningly from behind the counter. Finally, you stand up straight and give him a quick smile before your eyes flickered over everything he had to offer. 

As much as you enjoyed some of the quirky mugs on display, you knew in your heart what you really wanted. The problem is, you only knew the bare basics about coffee; you had no idea what made a good machine or not. You glanced around at all of the modern tech and felt your shoulders sag. Alastor would hate all of these; you needed something from his time; something more classical. 

“Somethin’ ya looking fer in pa’ticular dollface?”

You lifted your head to the imp across from you. He was leaning against the table with his other hand on his hip, his eyes tired and dull. You gave him a sheepish grin, clearing your throat quickly. 

“Ah, yes please…” you start, “This might sound weird. I’m looking for something from the 30’s that helps to brew coffee.” a thought crossed your mind, and you could feel yourself beginning to sweat, “I… uh. Actually. I don’t even know what they used back then… A kettle? Or some sort of special press…?” Your eyes drifted down awkwardly. Satan’s Ass, you have no idea what the Hell you’re looking for. This guy’s gonna think you’re an idiot. 

To your relief the imp said nothing, but you could tell he was judging you hard. He looked you up and down before simply shrugging off the table and turning on the spot. He began to shuffle through the shelving unit behind him, tea kettles and mugs clattering as he searched. The imp spoke to you over his shoulder.

“Ehhh, I don’ know girlie. I know I had somethin’ a while ago, but might’ve been snatched already.” he shuffled some more, “Antiques like dat are hard ta find, n’ when ya do, dey sell pretty quickly. Humans n’ nostalgia n’ all ‘at.” 

You could feel your fingers fidgeting nervously; you really hoped you didn’t just risk your safety for nothing. The excitement from earlier was beginning to fizzle out with the thought of not being successful. Maybe you could get him a nice mug instead? Or maybe one of those cute, little stirring spoons…

“Well I’ll be blessed th’n damned again…”

You looked up to the seller to see him turn around, a crooked smile on his face as he held what looked like two glass pots connected like an hour-glass. Your eyes widened in amazement at the strange looking contraption. 

“Called a ‘Silex Vacuum Siphon’. D’know what year it’s from, but ya ain't gonna find something more vintage den dis, I can guarantee.”

You tucked Alastor’s mike under your arm as you carefully took the glass contraption in your hands. It was definitely used, and could use a good cleaning. But there were no cracks or chips to be seen, no major damage that could affect its ability to brew. Given it was nearly a century old, it was in fairly good condition.

“It’s perfect.” you breathed, thumb grazing over the glass tenderly as your heart pittered excitedly. Alastor would absolutely love this, you just knew it. You had to get it for him, it was like it was destiny. Your head whipped up to the seller.

“How much?”

Said imp looked you up and down for a moment before his eyes landed near your arm. A sly smile crept up his mouth as his pupils flicked back up to your face.

“How ‘bout that fancy lookin’ cane o’ yours?”

Immediately you placed the siphon back down and clutched the microphone close to your chest, shooting daggers at the creature in front of you. “Absolutely not.”

To your relief, the imp just smiled and shrugged his shoulders, “Eh. Was woith a shot.” he chuckled, helping your tense shoulders to slowly relax. His eyes darted between you and the siphon, clearly deep in thought before crossing his arms.

“400”

You felt your breath catch in your throat. For fuck sakes, you figured it would be expensive, but this was highway robbery. And you knew very well that he knew that too; he was totally upping the price knowing how desperate you are. And as much as you needed it, you didn’t have enough on you. A thought crossed your mind, something you had observed when you explored the market. With as much confidence as you could muster, you laid your hands flat on the table and leaned in, giving him a very serious look.

“200”

The imp’s smile creaked up to his ears. “375”

You had to stop yourself from smiling and breaking the facade. It was working. Thank God, he seemed like the type who enjoyed a little haggling. If you could just get him down a little more, maybe you could actually pull this off.

“250”

“350”

“300” You finally declare, before quickly adding, “And! you wrap it up nicely for me.” you stare him down, leaning back up and crossing your arms in front of you. “That’s my final offer.”

The background noise of the market droned on as you both glared at each other across the booth. Eventually, the imp’s lips curled up devilishly before giving a sigh and shaking his head.

“Ya drive a hard bargain toots. Deal.” He cocked an eyebrow and reached a clawed hand out. You shook his hand coolly, but it was so hard to contain the excitement bouncing around in your chest. There was something exhilarating about negotiating prices; you could see why some demons got such a high off of coming to markets like these. Of course, this purchase was still going to drain you of all your cash, but it was well worth it. 

While he got to work bubble wrapping the siphon, you basically dumped your purse out and gave him every cent you had. He made sure to cushion the glass carefully and even found an empty box to place it in for double security. You honestly didn’t know how this interaction would've gone; you were initially worried he would’ve robbed you blind or threatened you. But as he handed you the bag with the goods and gave a final nod, you were beyond relieved to find that he actually seemed to be a decent guy. Maybe this market wasn’t completely full of thieves and swindlers like you had thought. 

You were practically skipping down the alley, one hand tight around Alastor’s microphone and the other holding your precious gift (but careful not to swing it around too much). You couldn’t wait to give this to him. You could feel your whole body tingling with anticipation. You really hoped that it did make a good cup of coffee; it would be a shame if it didn’t. Even so, it was such a funky looking thing, at the very least it could make for a cool decoration and hopefully bring back fond memories… You wondered how much of a difference there was between drinking coffee from a coffee machine or a siphon. You’d have to brew a pot with him tomorrow morning and-!

Your daydreaming was instantly snatched away as you were quickly dragged into the darkness of the ally beside you.

You went to scream but a large paw had clamped around your mouth before you could utter a sound. The bag slipped from your grasp and fell to the ground with a clatter, but thankfully you kept your grip on the staff tight. You immediately went to swing your arms, but both your wrists were grabbed, looking like mere toothpicks in the claws of the Hell Hounds that pulled you in. You kicked your feet up in protest as your yells were muffled, but you were no match for the sheer strength these creatures had as they dragged you further into the darkness and away from the crowds. They hauled you backwards until you felt your heels no longer dragged, indicating you had stopped, but you were barely aware of your surroundings. You continue to thrash your shoulders around and kick your feet up, desperately trying to escape like a caged wild animal. 

“Now now, there’s no reason to cause such a ruckus.”

Your eyes flash open and whip to the deep voice ahead of you. Your eyes fall onto a large silhouette leaning against the wall to your right, the brightness of the market ahead of you shading your captor’s full appearance. But as he pushed off and stepped closer, your eyes adjusted and were finally able to take in the finer details. Dripped in a rugged leather jacket and ripped jeans, the wolf looking Hell Hound sauntered towards you. His grin was fierce, and neon-yellow eyes practically glowed in the darkness. You could feel your mouth go dry and your legs turn to jelly. 

Your initial frenzied shock subsiding, you took a moment to look up at your two captors holding you back, One seemed to be a tall, muscular Mastiff with a slobbery snarl, his paws holding your right wrist and shoulder. The other was a Doberman type with cropped ears and sharp eyes, gripping tightly to your mouth and other wrist. You mumble out a pathetic plea and shimmy your shoulders again, trying to get their attention and hope that they take pity, but they pay you no mind, focusing instead on their alpha. 

“Don’t even bother chickie,” the silver dog snarked, making you turn your attention back to him, “We Hounds are very loyal to our pack; they’ll only listen to me.” Your eyes narrowed into angry slits, shooting daggers at the alpha. He merely snickered in reply. 

“You’re probably wondering who we are,” he mused, putting his hands behind his back and calmly pacing in front of you.  “Wondering what we want, why you’re here, ‘yadda yadda ya…” the dog babbled, making a yapping motion with his claws. He turned to you and gave you a cocky grin. “You should know that we don’t usually do this kind of thing… we’re actually nice guys once you get to know us!”

The two dogs behind you chuckle darkly, not at all making you feel reassured. 

“We’re nothing but humble thieves,” the wolf continued, sauntering back over to you, “Steal enough to make a humble living. Only take what we need. Provide for the pack. Today was supposed to be like any other…” 

The alpha’s yellow eyes suddenly grew dull, his smug smile slowly falling to a sneer as he stopped in front of you. The look on his face made a nervous shudder crawl down your spine. 

“... Until that ugly ass, bob-cut bastard stepped in.”

Bob-cut…? What in the Hell is he-

“Tyrion was so sneaky about it too, I was sure the wallet was as good as ours.” the wolf continued, his voice a mix of sorrow and venom. “But then that red-clad fucker saw him and…” you noticed his paws clench into tight fists, his eyes narrowing angrily. 

Red-clad… Oh god… could he mean?

“I saw it with my own eyes. That mad-man butchered him like a pig. Didn’t even give him a chance to apologize or make amends.” His nose was scrunched up in rage before it softened, his eyes holding the tiniest bit of horror, “But I think what was the most haunting was the way that creep smiled the entire time. Almost as if he was enjoying it.”

… God fucking damnit Alastor. 

“You seemed like such an easy target too.” the alpha’s neon eyes flicked up to you. “We didn’t realize what kind of monster you had on a leash.”

You felt your heart sink into your stomach as you recalled that wild look in Alastor's eyes earlier, the way his smile seemed sharper... Damnit, you felt so stupid now. How did you not notice? Dear God, how many others had died today by Alastor’s hands? It was clear that this ‘Tyrian’ was trying to steal from you, but did that really warrant death? You felt a twinge of guilt settling in your stomach. 

“So when my boy’s noticed you gallivanting on your own, I couldn’t believe our luck.” the wolf chuckled, leaning in closer until you were face to face, “You seriously made our job so much easier.”

Your cast-down gaze immediately scrunched into one of distrust, feeling your body become on-edge as you focused back on your captor. The wolf smirked at your helplessness, eyeing you up and down before his gaze fell to your left hand. His eyebrows shot up in interest.

“And look at this!” He taunted, leaning back up and reaching for Alastor’s staff, “You even brought us an apology gift! What a nice little girl~”

Your eyes widened in horror, trying to jerk your hand away from the wolf’s grasp. But the Doberman held your wrist tight, making it near impossible for you to do anything as the alpha grabbed hold of the microphone and ripped it from your grasp. You let out a whimper of despair as it left your hand, to which the silver dog’s ears perked, and turned to give you a hungry look.

“Hmmm, what a pretty sound. Almost makes me want to hear it again~”

You could feel your blood boiling at his words, and in a fit of rage, you kick your feet up aggressively. To your dismay, the leader jumped out of the way in time, a joyous laugh escaping his muzzle as he hopped to the side. The two dogs holding you immediately tightened their grip on you, pulling you back and holding you more securely. You huffed through your nose like an angry bull, shooting the wolf a venomous glare as he howled and dusted off his jacket. 

“Wooh! And feisty too. Gotta admit, that just turns me on more~” he grinned, showcasing his sharp fangs and blackened gums. His pupils flicked between his friends, “Do me a favor boys, secure those legs of hers so she doesn’t do that again.” 

Almost immediately, the two henchmen each step on your feet with their large paws, pinning your feet underneath theirs. You try to lift your legs up and away to test your mobility, but sure enough, your feet were locked in place. Panic started to settle now realizing just how much trouble you were in, and instinctively, you jut your shoulders out aggressively to try and once again escape. The wolf snickered at your struggles, slowly moving closer to you. 

“Now originally, we were just going to kill you and leave it at that.” the alpha hummed, eyes slowly grazing your body, “But hey, why stop there? Why waste a perfectly good meal without getting the chance to have a bite~”

Faster than lightning, his free paw came up and slashed at your chest, making you cry out in pure agony underneath the Doberman's paw. White specs blotted your sight as your mind froze in shock. You didn’t have to look to know; you could feel what he had done. Your body felt both cold and hot, from where your dress was torn and your body exposed to the air, and from where you could feel your blood begin to soak into what remained of your dress. You tried so hard to not make too many noises after the wolf's disgusting words, but the way your skin was burning, it was hard not to. Your eyes were beginning to water as you focused your attention back on the leader. Guilt be damned, you didn’t feel a thing for these bastards anymore. You wanted to make them hurt the way they hurt you. 

Outrage helped you find the strength to thrash around again, desperately trying to free your limbs so you could land a punch, a kick, anything. The Hell Hound took a step back to avoid your violent thrashing, chuckling at your display and licking his lips.

“Calm down now Sheila, don’t make this harder than it needs to be. It will be over before you know it…” He began his advance again, and you could feel your skin begin to prickle with panic. You continue your thrashing, lifting your legs and pulling at your arms, hoping that something would give way before it was too late.

And by the grace of God above, you felt your left shoe loosen under the paw of the Doberman.

An opportunity.

You spring into action, giving your left knee one final thrust upwards, making your foot pop out of your shoe and free from its confinement. Without even thinking, you slam it down hard into the Doberman’s bottom foot, making sure to dig your heel in deep. The skinny dog howled in agony, his grip on your arm and mouth loosened, giving you the chance you needed to act. As he bends over to grab at his tender paw, you bring your left arm across your chest and swiftly ram your elbow right into his muzzle. The force, along with his now injured foot, is enough to send him toppling over and slamming onto the ground, clutching his now bloodied nose.

Not wasting a precious second, you take the momentum from your left elbow and swing it over to your right, turning your body and socking the Mastif right in the face. He too yelps in pain, letting go of your right arm and freeing your other foot. As he steps back, distracted by the punch you landed, you grab him by the shoulders and lunge your left knee square into his groin. The Hell Hound let out a pathetic squeak as he immediately crumpled to the ground, curling into fetal position as he cradled his tenders.

Two down. One to go.

“Oh you BITCH!”

Right as you turn to face the wolf, his arm was already raised and ready to strike, swiftly bringing it down and backhanding your cheek. You cry out in pain, the sheer strength knocking you off your feet and making you fall harshly on your backside, cracking your head on the pavement. Your bun had come undone, your hair curtaining your glassy gaze as you watched the alpha throw the microphone to the side and stomp towards you. Too dazed by the blow, you felt him come down on you and straddle your hips, bringing his paws down over your throat.

“You think you’re tough shit girlie?” he snarled, his grip on your neck tightening, “Let’s see how tough you are once you beg for mercy.” 

You gasped for air desperately, your hands clawing at his paws and legs kicking out behind him. Your heart was racing anxiously, eyes darting all around you to see if there was anything around that could help you. A shimmer of light catches your eye, and you're just able to turn your head ever so slightly to your right. Your silver hair pin glistened in the light beside you, like a gift from God himself. 

You turn your attention back to the wolf, not wanting to reveal your plan to him. You could feel your vision begin to spot from lack of oxygen, but you stretch out your right arm, desperately trying to reach the pin without making it obvious. You felt the cool metal suddenly come in contact with your fingertips, rolling it closer to you into it finally was tight in your fist. With as much strength as you could muster, you swing your arm up and over, stabbing your assaulter right where his shoulders met his neck.

The wolf immediately howled in pain, rolling to his side and off you to grasp at the makeshift weapon lodged in his neck. You gasped for breath, feeling your blurry vision slowly speckle back as you choked in air. Exhaustion was taking over at this point; your head felt heavy from all the blows, and you could feel your body becoming numb from the blood-loss. Your eyes lazily scanned the area until they locked on Alastor’s mike, and you knew this would be your last chance if you wanted to survive this. 

You force your weak body to move, crawling on the ground as quick as you could towards the staff, scratching your arms and stomach as you went. You whimpered in agony, wishing to just give up and let sleep take over. But Alastor was waiting for you. Your friends back at the hotel were waiting. You couldn’t give up, not after coming this far.

Finally, you manage to stretch out and grab the mike, pulling it close to your mouth and taking a big breath.

“ALAS-!”

A fuzzy hand gripped your ankle and yanked you whole body away, making you cry out in fear as your plea was cut off. Your body scrapped painfully on the ground, dirt and tiny rocks grating against your open wounds. You whip your body around, cane still tight in hand and flinging it over to strike your opponent. But the wolf caught it skillfully in his paw, his pupils constricted and baring his fangs, the fur on his neck now sticky and tainted red. 

“Enough of this shit.”

The hound threw the staff out of your grasp and to the side, straddling you once again, but this time pinning both your arms over your head with one arm and leaning over you dangerously. You sobbed out in agony, your mind desperately telling your body to fight, but too exhausted to react. The alpha sneered down at you, panting and eyes wild with fury.

“Believe me when I say I find no pleasure in killing.” he growled, his hot breath hitting your face and making you whine out in dread. “But now…” The dog began to raise his free arm high in the air, his claws extracting with a sharp sound. 

“I’m gonna enjoy watching you bleed out.” 

A sob escaped your throat, tears streaming down your face in thick streams. This was it. This was going to be how you died. You had never actually died in Hell yet, and a part of you was scared. How long until you came back to life? Would you remember any of this… Fuck, would you remember anything at all? You couldn’t imagine a life outside of the hotel, not now. Not without the friends you've made. Certainly not without Alastor. The thought was unbearable. 

His arm came down swiftly, and you cried out in terror, shutting your eyes tight and turning your head, trying to block out the nightmare in front of you. You heard a slash of skin being torn and felt your whole body tense at the sound. You waited for the searing pain, for the blood to gush out from you until you became numb. 

But oddly enough, you didn’t feel anything.

You dared to peek up at the wolf on top of you, a peculiar look on his face as he was frozen in mid swing. His eyelid twitched, mouth partially open before his top half suddenly began to … slide?

“Funny you should say that, I was thinking ₮ⱧɆ ɆӾ₳₵₮ ₴₳₥Ɇ ₮Ⱨł₦₲.” 

Before you could comprehend where the voice came from, the wolf's upper body slid clean off his waist, toppling to the side and beside you on the ground. You slowly sat up, unable to speak as blood began to pool around you, both from his severed chest and his hips and legs. A large black tentacle came up from behind you and grabbed onto one of the wolf's ankles, picking up the severed lower section and flinging it off of your body. You blink in recognition, feeling your  initial shock subside and your chest tighten with hope. You turned around towards your saviour, but had to hold in your gasp at the creature behind you.

Microphone once again tight in his grasp, this demon was as tall as the buildings surrounding you; body barely able to fit between the narrow alleyway as he bent over you. Horns tripled in size and much more resembled deer antlers, black tentacles splayed from his back and writhing around, huge hands and talons sharp, eyes black as night and scarlet pupils in the shape of  dials, and a red ‘x’ on his forehead burning brightly. 

You had never seen Alastor in this state; in his true demonic form. You almost didn’t believe it was him. But his characteristic smile was ever present, your skin feeling that familiar buzz of electricity from his sound waves. You knew just how powerful he was, but to witness him at his full potential, it truly was a sight to behold. 

The giant form was watching you this whole time, dials flickering over your tiny body below him. From your face, to your torn chest and dress, to your bloodied legs, and back up to you. You felt a chill crawl down your spine as you locked eyes, your breath catching in your throat. Any other person would have been terrified looking up at such a creature, but oddly enough, you felt the safest you had ever been. Though you could feel the outrage that was emanating from his very body, you could sense the recognition in his eyes, the kindness deep within those haunting eyes.

The clatter of a loose can snapped you both out of your gaze, Alastor whipping his giant head up and forward, once again sharp and on alert. You heard a whimper of fright and manage to notice the Mastiff tumble out from the shadows and begin to run, yelling like a child and scrambling to get as far away as possible. There was a sudden buzz in the air, the Radio Demon’s smile curling up on his face and drooling blood. A chilling laugh escaped his throat, his jaw practically unhinging like a snake. 

“Well that was not a wise decision on your part…” Alastor growled, his voice deeper and booming as the sound practically shook the ground beneath you. His large body began to move forward, crawling like an animal and the screeching of static ringing out in the air.

“Don’t you know a hunter ⱤɆⱠł₴ⱧɆ₴ ł₦ ₳ ₲ØØĐ ₵Ⱨ₳₴Ɇ??”

The Overlord pounds forward, surprisingly fast for his size as the Hell Hound screeches in horror, sprinting further into the darkness of the alleyway ahead. You sat in the pool of the alpha’s blood, still stunned at the events of this afternoon and unable to do anything other than sit and stare. You numbly look over to the severed wolf beside you, his eyes already glossy and deprived of any life.

One.

You look back up to the large lanky demon stomping forward, laughing maniacally as whimpered screams of the Mastiff could be heard bouncing off the brick walls.

Two.

You blinked for a moment, your brain slow to process, but eventually catching up to the current events and what seemed wrong about this picture.

Fuck. 

Where was the Doberman. 

You heard some shuffling from behind a dumpster and whip your head over, your previous question instantly being answered. The skinny dog limped forward, eyes locked on Alastor and unaware of you watching him. He limped forward, his right paw still sore from you stomping on it. But his arm was tucked into his jacket suspiciously, and you felt your eyes narrow dubiously. A soft click snapped from inside the cloth, and the Doberman pulled out what appeared to be a gun, pointing it right at Alastor’s back. 

But there was something about this weapon that made you feel uneasy. The silver finishes that swirled around it, the way it practically radiated light in the darkness. There was something about this weapon that felt unnatural; like it didn’t belong in this world.

It seemed almost… Holy… 

You felt your blood run cold. 

It was all a blur. Rage and fear had taken full control of your body. Whatever exhaustion you had felt earlier was forgotten, whatever aches and pains slowing you down were no longer a hindrance. Completely fuelled with adrenaline and desperation, you scramble forward, bending over and grabbing your hair pin splayed on the ground. You sprint at a speed in which you never had before, screeching out Alastor’s name in warning before leaping onto the hound from behind.

The Doberman shouted in protest, raising his arms in defense and misfiring. The sound ricocheted off the walls, causing the Radio Demon to whip his head around, mouth half full of the Mastiff to a sight truly unbeheld. 

Your legs tight around the Dobermans waist, your one hand gripped at his head while the other continuously stabbed him in the neck. The dog clawed away at your arms desperately, howling out in pain as blood began to gush from his throat. But his screams were nothing compared to yours. Like a wild animal, you shrieked in fury, holding him tight and eyes feral as you punctured his neck again and again. The Doberman’s eyes eventually rolled to the back of his head, falling to his knees and landing face first on the ground. But as you went down with him, you continued your assault, kneeling over him with both arms overhead and slamming the hair pin into his back again and again and again.

Alastor watched from afar, jaw hanging open and the Mastiff’s carcass falling out from between his razor teeth. Never had he imagined he would see a spectacle such as this, certainly not from the likes of you. Not the girl who sang jazz in the kitchen, laughed at his horrendous puns, and slept so peacefully in his presence. He was convinced you were an angel in disguise, too pure for this damned world. 

And yet.

Here you were, stabbing and slashing and drenched in another's blood.

And he got to witness it.

Your furious screams started sputtering into sobs, and Alastor immediately snapped out of his thoughts. He immediately shifted into the shadows, slithering to you at lightning speed and emerging beside you, back to his regular appearance and hesitating a moment before gently placing both his hands on your shoulders.

“Y/n,” he spoke tenderly, “Y/n, darling. It’s ok. He’s gone. You’re safe.”

The sound of his voice made you whip your head up to him, snapping you out of your daze. Your eyes were wide with horror making Alastor flinch, unsure how you were going to react. Immediately, you turn your upper body to him, grabbing onto his cheeks with bloodied hands and inspecting his face all over.

“Are you ok??” you sob, eyes panicked and looking all over his body, “you didn’t get hit, did you?? God please tell me you’re ok!”

Alastor blinked back his confusion, his eyebrows furrowing at your words. “Of course I’m alright my dear, whatever do you-!”

A glimmer of light caught his eye, and his gaze was momentarily pulled away from your frantic face. Upon laying eyes over the peculiar weapon, he felt his eyes widen in recognition. There was no mistaking the silver swirls decorating the gun. He had heard rumours of such weapons, not yet having the pleasure of seeing anything of the like in real life. 

He had heard the gunshot earlier, and was worried you were on the other end of the rifle which had triggered him to turn. But he hadn’t considered that the bullet was intended for him. Of course, a regular bullet wound was of no concern to him, he had survived much worse. 

But a bullet from an angelic weapon? 

As he formed the picture in his head, you calling out his name desperately and your sudden panic for his well being, it didn’t take him long to put the pieces together. 

You didn’t kill out of self defense.

You had killed to protect him.

You had killed for him. 

His mind was tumbling with this new wave of information and emotions, something that he didn’t often struggle with. But he felt your hands slip away from his face, causing him to focus back on you. Your head was bent down, hair draping over and covering your face, and soon your shoulders began to tremble. The distinct sound of you crying caused a jolt to shoot up Alastor’s spine, and immediately he lowered a hand under your chin to tilt your head up towards him. Sure enough, big salty tears were streaming down your face. But what caught him the most off guard was the weepy smile spread across your face. 

“Thank God.” you wept, your voice so soft he almost didn’t hear it, “I-I was so worried… I couldn’t live with myself if…” your lip trembled as you burst into tears. Whether they were tears of relief or fear, he wasn’t sure, but one thing was for certain.

Alastor had never seen someone so shaken at the thought of him dying.

And that made him feel… something. 

But he didn’t have time to delve into that. Not right now. He had to address this situation before he could dissect his thoughts. He knelt beside you, truly taking in your state of dress and being. Your dress was torn to shreds and blood-soaked, your chest bearing deep claw marks, the side of your head had dried blood spilling from your hairline, cheek swollen, scrapped stomach and legs, and bruises scattered all over your body. 

Rage swelled up in his body. Furious at the hounds who did this to you. Bitter at you for thinking that going off on your own was a good idea. And most of all, outraged at himself for allowing this to have happened in the first place. And when that last thought trickled into his brain, he felt something else slither in his mind to replace that anger. An ancient feeling he hadn’t felt in a very long time; ever since he was alive. 

Guilt.

What a terrible emotion. He hated it with every fiber of his being. He never felt regret or sorrow for the actions he took since descending to Hell. Why would he when dealing with demons and creatures alike that he saw as mere obstacles in his way? But as he looked down at your crumpled form, his usual sunny sparrow clipped of her wings and trembling before him. Knowing that he had broken his promise of protecting you… 

His eyebrows furrowed, ears falling flat on his head as his jaw clenched tightly. 

Of course, you weren’t at all aware of the torment currently happening in Alastor’s mind. You were just so damn relieved he was ok, and that you were alive to tell the tale. Your choked sobs were slowly lessening, trying to focus on your breathing and just so freaking grateful to still have oxygen in your lungs. As you took deep breaths to calm your racing heart, you could feel your eyes growing tired, body slowly relaxing finally knowing the horror was over. The aches and pains were coming back to life, your chest especially burning painfully and your dress sticky with blood. Whatever adrenaline that was pumping through your veins was fastly subsiding, blood loss making your head heavy and limbs numb. 

You didn’t even realize you were falling over until you felt long arms catch you, holding you up so you didn’t hit the ground. You could hear the familiar buzz of Alastor’s radio-like voice speaking to you, but your head was swimming, and your ears weren’t able to pick up what he was saying. You tried to look up at him, but your vision was so blurred, he was just a red fuzz in your eyes. You were so tired; you just wanted to sleep. And Alastor’s body was so warm and familiar, it was like a comforting blanket. You leaned in closer to his body, desperate for that feeling after such a harrowing event.  

You could feel yourself fading fast, and a single thought emerged that made you panic a moment. The bag. The present. You can’t leave that damned thing behind. You reached out a hand and lazily padded at Alastor’s chest, mumbling out a string of words that you prayed made sense. The red blob tilted to the side, and you knew he was confused, but you couldn’t fully explain yourself. He was smart, you knew he would figure it out. And you knew he would take care of you; you were in safe hands now. 

You could finally allow yourself to sleep. 

Your vision was quickly dimming, darkness beginning to surround you until eventually your eyelids fell shut and you blacked out completely.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

FIRST PREVIOUS NEXT

My beautiful does and bucks: @saccharine-nectarine @doowopshewop @mysterypotatoink @wendds @crispybelieverworld @raicomme ((WE GOT MORE BEAUTIFUL SINNERS YAY ꨄ ))

[nanamineedstherapy]

Samosas, Sockets & Strategic Sarcasm

Previous Chapter - [Tumblr/Ao3] A/N: If you came here for plot, sorry. Today we have samosas, sockets, and semi-functional serotonin. It’s a slice-of-life palate cleanser—just you, the interns, and one possibly haunted coffee machine. (PS: This chapter is low on corporate trauma, high on found family with bad coping skills. Enjoy. Or rage. Both valid.)

You weren’t supposed to go.

You didn’t do field visits anymore—not after the last one ended with a warehouse fire, a broken AC unit, and Sukuna getting banned from Rajiv Chowk, Delhi's Shibuya.

But then Yuji barged into your office at 9:04 AM with a clipboard, a nervous smile, and a hot Americano held out like a peace treaty.

“Ma’am,” he said, sheepishly, “you’re on today’s site roster.”

You didn’t look up. “I’m not.”

Junpei peeked in behind him. “The vendor sent us a message. They deep-cleaned the toilet because they heard our CEO’s coming.”

Yuji added, “They even put phenyl. The good kind.”

You stared at them. Blinked once. “Phenyl is not a reason to relocate me.”

“But field’s fun!” Yuji insisted. “And we’re testing the new Insta-friendly brew-pod machine in Sector 63. Kokichi said it has ‘aesthetics.’”

You sipped your coffee. “…Fine. But if I see a single chipkali, I’m burning the building.”

Ten minutes later, you were in the backseat of a half-broken company SUV with five interns and a playlist titled “Corporate Chokehold: Vol. 3.”

Nobara—operations intern, nails like switchblades, temper like Delhi traffic—turned to face everyone with the confidence of a woman who’d fought her landlord and won.

“Okay,” she said, turning around in the front seat like a substitute teacher on Red Bull. “I made everyone playlists. You’re not allowed to complain.”

“Why is mine titled ‘Girlboss But Screaming’?” you asked.

“Because it fits,” said Kokichi, deadpan.

Yuji fist-bumped him. Junpei laughed. Megumi—stoic, folded into the corner like a cat in human form—just shook his head and turned up the AC.

They were chaos. Loud, all under 25, too eager, too caffeinated to be safe. And they worshipped you in the way only juniors who’ve never seen their boss cry over payroll do.

The test café was unfinished—concrete, cables, and the faint smell of damp walls and desperation. You walked in, heels clicking, sunglasses still on, sipping your cappuccino like it was a press statement.

“Where’s the machine?” you asked, already regretting this.

Junpei pointed at the corner. “They said the plug shorted. Again.”

You sighed. “Amazing. We’re launching India’s first AI-enabled coffee pod dispenser in a haunted PG.”

While they fussed over wires and breakers, you sat on a dusty crate, stared at the ceiling and contemplated leaving your own company.

Then Megumi appeared, holding out a samosa like a silent offering.

No words.

Just... samosa.

You blinked. “I didn’t say I was hungry.”

“You skipped breakfast,” he muttered, not looking at you. “You’re mean when you’re hungry.”

“Are you my PA now?”

“No. But HR won’t let me file another grievance.”

You took it. Grudgingly.

Nobara plopped down beside you, sipping warm Limca from a reused paper cup.

“You’re not scary once you stop yelling,” she said.

“Do you want to be unemployed?”

She grinned. “Nah. I’m unionising the interns.”

Then Kokichi walked into a spiderweb and screamed like a news anchor caught in an MLM scandal.

Yuji tripped on a paint bucket.

Junpei, god bless him, tried to climb a rickety shelf and brought down a full crate of cups.

And you… laughed.

Real laughter. The kind that started in your stomach and rolled out before your brain could censor it.

Megumi blinked. “Did you just—glitch?”

“Shut up.”

The terrace was where you crashed next, everyone sweaty and slightly bleeding. The tea was watery, the sandwiches stale, and the sun kept threatening to murder everyone in linen.

You didn’t mind.

Nobara came back with a spreadsheet crumpled under one arm.

“Ma’am,” she said, quieter this time. “Do you think I’m good enough to go full-time?”

You looked at her.

Hair a mess. Eyes sharp. Posture slightly slumped from lifting cartons. Trying. Really trying.

You took a sip of your warm Nimbooz and said, “You’re annoying. But you’re sharp. You’ll get there.”

She beamed. Not giddy. Not grateful. Just... understood.

“Don’t get used to compliments. You will report to Toji; he’s not good with those,” you added. “Prepare for gym talk and protein packets in the mailroom.”

She groaned. “Fuck. Okay.”

Yuji kicked her lightly. Kokichi stole her Limca.

Somewhere, Junpei was doodling on the café walls.

And you just sat there. Under the ugly Delhi sun. Sipping flat soda with people who made your startup feel... bearable.

You didn’t think about investor Gojo fumbled.

Didn’t think about the deck Suguru hadn’t submitted. Didn’t stress about Sukuna, Toji and Nanami’s burner Twitter accounts ratio-ing investors.

You just existed.

No rage. No ego. No debt spiral-induced existentialism.

You just sat.

“Hey,” Yuji whispered suddenly, leaning close. “You okay?”

You blinked. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

“I dunno,” he said. “You always look like you’re one payroll error away from homicide. But today you looked... okay.”

You bit back a smile. “I’ll deduct your salary for that.”

“Totally fair.”

At some point, Nobara put on a second playlist. Kokichi started sketching another prototype. Megumi cleaned a data sheet with a pen he didn’t borrow from Nanami for once. Junpei made samosa jokes. Yuji asked you about the machine specs with genuine curiosity.

And none of them asked you about the boys.

Because they didn’t care who you were at IIM. They cared about who you were now.

And right now, you were just their boss. Their shark. Their war general.

And they’d follow you to hell if it came with free WiFi and quarterly bonuses.

By 4 PM, the machine still wasn’t fixed. Kokichi had duct-taped a fire hazard into existence. Megumi declared it “mostly safe.”

You stared at it. “If this explodes, I’m blaming all of you.”

“Noted,” said Kokichi.

Yuji saluted.

Back in the car, you sat in the middle seat.

Yuji offered you half his KitKat. You took it. No words.

Megumi put on lo-fi beats.

Junpei snored softly.

Kokichi fell asleep with his laptop still open.

Nobara took a selfie. Captioned it: “We tested nothing. But we had fun.”

You rolled your eyes and added a like. Quietly.

Back at the office, no one said anything when you walked in with paint on your pants and samosa oil on your hand.

Toji was wrestling Ino for some reason.

Sukuna blinked at you. “Did you... go outside?”

You ignored him.

Suguru appeared from behind a ficus. “You smell like fresh cement. Lovely.”

Nanami raised an eyebrow when you dropped a working brew-pod schematic on his desk.

“Prototype worked?”

“No,” you said.

Gojo watched you walk past.

Slightly confused. Slightly soft-eyed.

You didn’t look back.

Walked straight to your cabin. Sat down.

Opened Slack. Typed:

Field update: It’s not about the damn coffee. It’s about the team. The real one.

Also, budget a new fuse box. Kokichi set the last one on fire.

–CEO

And hit send.

You didn’t hate today.

Because you didn’t feel tired.

You felt... fine.

---

A/N: Tell me which intern you'd unionise with. Be honest. Also— Did the samosa scene make you soft? Did Yuji's KitKat offering hit your lizard brain like it hit mine? Do you think the machine passed QA, or are we all collectively lying on Slack? Talk to me in the comments. I’m running this startup with bad mental health and vibes. I need your emotional Google Map reviews. 😌

Next Chapter - The Utahime Fallout - [Tumblr/Ao3]

All Works Masterlist

[pigtailedgirl]

I have watched this show how many times...

Hilariously just now noticing after Fraser makes judgey face to Ray for being mean to Hugo the vendor when Ray dumps out and insults the machine coffee in front of the guy, then Hugo gives Fraser special tea, it's politeness for the win right, implying being nice is the way for better?

Yet as Fraser and Ray continue their convo into the hallway, Fraser promptly also dumps the tea cause it too was awful.

Hee.

[satyamagencies]

Discover the Best Coffee Vending Machine Manufacturers in Jaipur for Your Business

In today's busy work life, coffee is no longer just a beverage — it's a morning ritual and an energy boost. If you own a business with a corporate headquarters, co-working space, retail outlet, or hospitality company, offering fresh coffee can improve your reputation as much as employee morale. The important thing is to find the best coffee vending solution, and that starts with knowing the best and most reliable coffee vending machine manufacturers in Jaipur.

Jaipur, with a growing industrial base, has emerged as a potential vending solutions center. With growth in demand within Rajasthan and northern India, some local vendors have entered the fray with the latest, cost-effective, and efficient machines tailored to every type of business need.

Why Choose Coffee Vending Machines for Your Business

Coffee vending machines are appropriate for those businesses that need to provide instant and ready coffee at a price without the expense of a full-time barista or a cafe setup. Some machines spit out a range of beverages like espresso, cappuccino, latte, and even tea. Programmable, power-saving, and low maintenance, newer machines make a fantastic buy for any business.

Getting the appropriate machine, however, begins with selecting the appropriate manufacturer. That is where Jaipur steps into the picture.

Things to Remember While Selecting Coffee Vending Machine Manufacturers

Before discussing the leading coffee vending machine manufacturers in Jaipur, it is necessary to identify what makes a manufacturer top-notch. The following are some elementary things to take into account:

Product Variety: Choose manufacturers with several models that are capable of handling various capacities and fluid types.

After-Sales Support: Technical assistance, upkeep, and spare part availability are paramount.

Customization: Certain businesses require machines tailored to their branding or beverage preferences.

Pricing & Quality: Competitive prices should not compromise quality or durability.

Client Reviews: Word-of-mouth is vital. Seek manufacturers with good word-of-mouth and long-term client associations.

Welcome to Satyam Agencies—A Name to Trust in Jaipur

While discussing the reliable coffee vending machine producers in Jaipur, there is one name that comes to mind—Satyam Agencies. Due to its customer-oriented spirit and newest vending solutions, Satyam Agencies has been catering to organizations in Jaipur and other places for many years. They are worried about providing world-class coffee vending machines that are best suited for use in offices, commercial spaces, and hospitality industries.

Satyam Agencies are into different kinds of machines that include fully automatic models, semi-automatic models, and compact models suitable for small spaces. Satyam Agencies' machines are not only efficient but also are operated smoothly with the assistance of timely after-sales service and service engineers. With one machine installation to multi-unit installation for a chain of offices, Satyam Agencies takes good care of quality as well as affordability. Their technical knowledge and customer-friendly approach are the reasons why they are one of the most popular coffee vending machine manufacturers in Jaipur.

Best Coffee Vending Machine Manufacturers in Jaipur

Other than Satyam Agencies, some other manufacturers are making waves for Jaipur in the coffee vending industry. Some of the couples that are worth investigating include

Royal Vending Solutions— Specialized in high-fashion designs and smart vending solutions, their models are perfect for modern office environments.

Jaipur Beverage Systems—Offers customized beverage solutions like tea and soup vending machines and coffee vending machines.

Rajasthan Vending Works—dealing in bulk models for large customer footfalls like malls and hospitals.

Pure Brew Technologies specializes in green and energy-efficient vending systems.

All such companies, like Satyam Agencies, are part of a new trend when Jaipur's coffee vending machine manufacturing firms are diversifying their products to suit new business demands.

The Jaipur Advantage

One of the main reasons why businesses like purchasing vending machines in Jaipur is based on the price-quality ratio. Jaipur manufacturers are cost-aware compared to manufacturers in metro cities without compromising on build quality or technology. Additionally, being based locally close to regional clients implies faster service response time and reduced transport costs.

A few of the coffee vending machine businesses in Jaipur have also adopted the latest automation and IoT technologies that enable the businesses to monitor usage, maintenance schedules, and beverage consumption in real-time.

Pre-Purchase Tips

Estimate Usage Needs: Plan the number of daily users to choose the right machine size and model.

Request a Demo: Good manufacturers like Satyam Agencies will readily provide a free trial or demo unit.

Check Warranty & Support: A reliable machine is worthless without the support it maintains.

Test Ingredients: Some manufacturers also provide pre-mix material supplies. Make sure that the ingredient quality matches your brand standard.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality coffee vending machine is a good idea for any forward-thinking company. With numerous quality coffee vending machine suppliers in Jaipur, from well-known brands like Satyam Agencies to others, firms can easily get a good solution within their preferred price bracket. From office units to commercial models of high capacity, there are solutions available in Jaipur through the means of better service and innovation.

Start your coffee story today by connecting with the best of the business — because your people are worth a better cup.

[murkyverminsatyr]

Vending Machines for Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Buying the Right One

Vending machines for sale are becoming an increasingly popular investment for entrepreneurs and businesses looking for passive income opportunities. Whether you're interested in snacks, beverages, or specialty products, vending machines offer a low-maintenance way to generate revenue.

This guide will help you understand the different types of vending machines for sale, key factors to consider before purchasing, and tips for maximizing profits.

Types of Vending Machines for Sale

1. Snack Vending Machines

Snack vending machines are among the most common types available. They dispense chips, candy, cookies, and other packaged snacks. These machines are ideal for offices, schools, and public spaces with high foot traffic.

Key Features:

Multiple product selections

Cashless payment options (credit/debit cards, mobile payments)

Energy-efficient models available

2. Beverage Vending Machines

Beverage machines offer cold drinks, including sodas, water, juices, and energy drinks. Some advanced models can even dispense hot beverages like coffee or tea.

Key Features:

Refrigeration systems to keep drinks cold

Can-vs-bottle dispensing options

Touchscreen interfaces for user convenience

3. Combo Vending Machines

Combo machines provide both snacks and beverages in a single unit, making them a space-efficient solution for locations where installing two separate machines isn’t feasible.

Key Features:

Dual dispensing mechanisms

Larger capacity than standalone machines

Ideal for small break rooms or convenience stores

4. Specialty Vending Machines

These machines cater to niche markets, offering products like:

Fresh food (sandwiches, salads)

Electronics (phone chargers, headphones)

Health and beauty products (lotions, sanitizers)

Key Features:

Customizable product trays

Temperature control for perishable items

Higher profit margins due to unique offerings

Factors to Consider Before Buying Vending Machines for Sale

1. Location

The success of your vending business heavily depends on location. High-traffic areas like malls, hospitals, and universities tend to generate more sales.

Best Locations for Vending Machines:

Office buildings

Schools and universities

Gyms and recreation centers

Public transportation hubs

2. Machine Cost and ROI

Vending machines for sale come in a wide price range, from a few hundred dollars for used models to several thousand for high-tech machines. Consider:

Initial purchase cost

Maintenance and repair expenses

Expected monthly revenue

3. Payment Options

Modern consumers prefer cashless transactions. Look for machines that support:

Credit/debit cards

Mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)

NFC and contactless payments

4. Maintenance and Durability

Choose machines from reputable brands known for reliability. Key maintenance considerations include:

Ease of cleaning

Availability of replacement parts

Warranty and customer support

5. Product Selection and Inventory Management

Stocking the right products is crucial for maximizing sales. Consider:

Popular items in your target location

Seasonal trends (e.g., cold drinks in summer, hot beverages in winter)

Inventory tracking features in smart vending machines

Where to Find Vending Machines for Sale

1. Direct Manufacturers

Buying directly from manufacturers ensures you get the latest models with warranties. Some well-known brands include:

Crane Merchandising Systems

Royal Vendors

Automated Merchandising Systems (AMS)

2. Online Marketplaces

Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace often list vending machines for sale, including used and refurbished options.

3. Vending Machine Distributors

Specialized distributors offer both new and refurbished machines, along with business support services.

4. Auctions and Liquidation Sales

Government auctions or business liquidations can provide heavily discounted machines, though they may require repairs.

Maximizing Profit with Your Vending Machine Business

1. Optimize Product Pricing

Conduct market research to set competitive prices

Adjust pricing based on demand and location

2. Regular Restocking and Maintenance

Keep machines fully stocked to avoid lost sales

Schedule routine cleaning and servicing

3. Leverage Technology

Use smart vending machines with real-time sales tracking

Implement remote monitoring to manage stock levels

4. Marketing and Promotions

Offer discounts on slow-moving items

Use social media to promote your vending locations

[unitedvendinguk]

Why Commercial Hot Drink Machines Are Essential for Businesses

In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency and convenience are key factors that contribute to success. Whether it is an office, a café, a hotel, or a retail space, providing high-quality beverages can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and employee productivity. One of the best ways to achieve this is by investing in commercial hot drink machines. These machines offer a range of benefits, from cost savings to improved service, making them an essential asset for businesses of all sizes.

1. Enhancing Customer Experience

For businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors, customer experience is a top priority. Offering freshly brewed coffee, tea, or hot chocolate through a commercial hot drink machine can improve customer satisfaction. These machines provide a quick and consistent beverage service, ensuring that customers receive high-quality drinks without long wait times.

For cafés and restaurants, investing in a reliable hot drink machine means they can serve a variety of beverages efficiently, reducing the workload on baristas and staff. Hotels and convenience stores can also benefit by offering self-service options, enhancing convenience for guests and customers.

2. Boosting Employee Productivity

A well-caffeinated workforce is often a more productive one. Many offices have realized the importance of providing quality coffee and tea to employees. Commercial hot drink machines offer a hassle-free way to provide a steady supply of fresh, hot beverages throughout the day. Instead of employees leaving the premises to get their caffeine fix, they can simply grab a quick coffee in the office, saving time and maintaining focus on work tasks.

Moreover, having a well-stocked beverage station can contribute to employee satisfaction and morale. Employees feel valued when their employer provides quality amenities, fostering a more positive workplace environment.

3. Cost-Effective Solution

One of the biggest advantages of commercial hot drink machines is cost efficiency. Buying coffee from cafes daily can be expensive, both for employees and businesses offering free beverages to staff or customers. A one-time investment in a hot drink machine can lead to significant cost savings over time. Businesses can buy coffee beans, tea bags, or hot chocolate mix in bulk, reducing overall expenses compared to purchasing individual drinks from external vendors.

Additionally, these machines minimize waste by controlling portion sizes and ensuring consistent beverage quality, further contributing to cost efficiency.

4. Versatility and Customization

Modern commercial hot drink machines are designed to cater to diverse preferences. Whether customers and employees prefer espresso, cappuccino, latte, or hot chocolate, these machines can provide a variety of options at the touch of a button. Many advanced models even allow users to customize the strength, temperature, and milk content of their beverages, ensuring a personalized experience for every individual.

For businesses, this level of versatility is essential, as it helps cater to a wider audience with different tastes. Having a machine that serves multiple drink types can also enhance customer retention, as they are more likely to return if they can get their preferred beverage easily.

5. Low Maintenance and Easy Operation

Another reason commercial hot drink machines are indispensable for businesses is their user-friendly nature. These machines are designed for ease of use, requiring minimal training for employees or customers. Many models feature automated cleaning systems and simple maintenance procedures, ensuring hassle-free operation.

For businesses that prioritize efficiency, such as convenience stores and offices, having a machine that does not require constant supervision or technical expertise is a significant advantage. Most machines come with warranties and support services, making it easy to maintain their functionality over time.

Conclusion

Investing in commercial hot drink machines is a smart decision for any business that values efficiency, customer satisfaction, and cost savings. From enhancing customer experience and improving employee productivity to offering versatile beverage options, these machines provide numerous advantages. Whether in an office, café, hotel, or retail setting, a high-quality hot drink machine can make a noticeable difference.

For businesses looking to invest in top-of-the-line commercial hot drink machines, United Vending offers a range of reliable and high-performance options. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, United Vending ensures that businesses receive the best beverage solutions tailored to their needs. Upgrade your business today with a premium hot drink machine and experience the benefits firsthand.

[thirstymaart]

Expand Your Business with Tea & Coffee Vending Machines on Thirstymaart

The demand for Tea and Coffee Vending Machines is growing rapidly in workplaces, cafes, hotels, and public spaces. As a vendor, listing your products on Thirstymaart allows you to tap into a broad market and connect with businesses looking for high-quality vending solutions.

For Vendors: Why Sell Tea & Coffee Vending Machines on Thirstymaart?

☕ Key Benefits of Selling on Thirstymaart

Reach More Customers – Businesses, offices, and cafes are actively searching for vending machines.

Increase Brand Visibility – Position your brand among top vending machine suppliers.

Streamlined Selling Experience – Manage your orders and customer inquiries effortlessly.

Bulk Order Opportunities – Get inquiries from corporate offices, hotels, and industrial setups.

🏪 Types of Machines You Can Sell

Instant Tea & Coffee Vending Machines – Perfect for offices and restaurants.

Fully Automatic Coffee Machines – Barista-style coffee at the touch of a button.

Semi-Automatic Vending Machines – Cost-effective solutions for small businesses.

Multi-Drink Vending Machines – Serve tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soups.

Coin/Card Operated Machines – Ideal for self-service stations in public places.

For Customers: Find the Best Vending Machines on Thirstymaart

🔎 Why Buy from Thirstymaart?

✔ Wide Range of Choices – Browse different models and brands. ✔ Competitive Pricing – Get the best deals from top vendors. ✔ Trusted Vendors – Buy from verified suppliers with quality assurance. ✔ Bulk Purchase Options – Suitable for businesses, hotels, and hospitals.

Why Should Vendors Choose Thirstymaart?

✅ Targeted Marketing – Reach businesses and enterprises looking for vending machines. ✅ High Demand Category – Offices, malls, and restaurants need vending solutions. ✅ Customer Insights & Analytics – Understand buying trends and optimize your listings. ✅ Easy Listing & Sales Management – Upload your products with clear descriptions and images.

Tips for Selling Vending Machines Successfully

📸 Upload Clear Product Images – Show machine design, buttons, and features. 💡 Highlight Features & Specifications – Mention capacity, brewing options, and automation levels. 🛠 Offer Installation & Maintenance Services – Many buyers prefer a full-service package. 🎯 Target Different Business Segments – Cater to offices, hotels, restaurants, and retail spaces.

Start Selling Tea & Coffee Vending Machines on Thirstymaart Today!

With businesses actively searching for vending solutions, Thirstymaart is the ideal platform to showcase your Tea and Coffee Vending Machines. List your products today and grow your business in the automated beverage industry! ��

https://thirstymaart.com/profile/sangli/as-corp

[coffeeandteavending]

The Ultimate Guide to Coffee Machines for Instant Coffee and Renting Coffee Machines

Introduction

Coffee is an essential part of our daily lives, helping us start the day with energy and focus. Whether you run an office, café, or simply want to enjoy a fresh cup at home, choosing the right coffee machine for instant coffee is crucial. Many businesses and individuals also opt for a coffee machine on rent to save costs and enjoy the benefits without long-term commitments.

This guide will help you understand different types of coffee machines, their benefits, and how renting a coffee machine can be a cost-effective option for your needs.

1. What is an Instant Coffee Machine?

A coffee machine for instant coffee is designed to prepare coffee quickly and efficiently. These machines use instant coffee powder or granules, which dissolve in hot water to provide a fresh and consistent cup every time.

Benefits of Instant Coffee Machines:

Speed: Instant coffee machines prepare coffee in seconds.

Consistency: Ensures the same taste every time.

Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain.

Cost-Effective: Saves money on expensive coffee beans and complex machines.

2. Types of Coffee Machines for Instant Coffee

1. Automatic Coffee Machines

These machines are ideal for offices and commercial spaces as they can make multiple cups quickly. With a single push of a button, you get hot coffee instantly.

2. Semi-Automatic Coffee Machines

These provide more control over the coffee-making process while still offering convenience. They require manual adjustments but work well for small offices or homes.

3. Single-Serve Coffee Machines

Perfect for individuals, these machines use pods or instant coffee sachets. They are compact and easy to use.

4. Commercial Coffee Machines

Larger establishments like restaurants and hotels use these machines. They can serve hundreds of cups in a day and come with advanced features.

3. Why Rent a Coffee Machine?

Buying a coffee machine requires an upfront investment, maintenance, and repairs. Instead, opting for a coffee machine on rent provides flexibility and financial ease.

Advantages of Renting a Coffee Machine:

Cost Savings: No large initial investment.

Upgrades: Get the latest models without extra cost.

No Maintenance Hassles: The rental company takes care of servicing and repairs.

Flexibility: Change or return the machine as per your needs.

4. How to Choose the Right Coffee Machine for Instant Coffee?

If you are looking for a coffee machine for instant coffee, here are some factors to consider:

1. Capacity

Small offices (1-10 people) - A single-serve or semi-automatic machine is ideal.

Medium offices (10-50 people) - Choose an automatic machine.

Large offices (50+ people) - A commercial-grade machine is the best choice.

2. Features

Milk Frother: If you like cappuccinos and lattes.

Multiple Beverage Options: Machines that offer tea, hot chocolate, and more.

Customization: Adjustable coffee strength and temperature settings.

3. Budget

Consider your budget before buying or renting. Renting can be a good option if you don’t want to invest a large amount upfront.

5. Best Places to Rent a Coffee Machine

If you’re interested in getting a coffee machine on rent, you should look for reputable vendors. Consider:

Local Rental Companies: They offer quick delivery and maintenance.

Online Platforms: Websites that offer subscription-based coffee machine rentals.

Catering Services: Some catering companies also provide coffee machines for rent.

6. Maintenance Tips for Coffee Machines

Proper maintenance ensures that your coffee machine lasts longer and performs efficiently.

1. Regular Cleaning

Wipe down the exterior daily.

Clean removable parts like drip trays and filters.

Run a cleaning cycle weekly.

2. Descaling

Mineral deposits build up over time, affecting the taste and performance. Use a descaling solution every 3-6 months.

3. Use Filtered Water

Filtered water prevents mineral buildup and improves coffee taste.

4. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Always read the instruction manual to ensure proper care and avoid common mistakes.

7. Best Coffee Brands for Instant Coffee Machines

Choosing the right coffee brand enhances the taste of your instant coffee. Some of the best options include:

Nescafé – Offers a variety of flavors and strengths.

Bru – Known for its strong and aromatic taste.

Starbucks VIA – A premium instant coffee option.

Davidoff – High-end instant coffee with a rich flavor.

Conclusion

Investing in a coffee machine for instant coffee or opting for a coffee machine on rent depends on your needs and budget. Instant coffee machines offer quick and easy coffee-making solutions, while renting provides flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Whether for home, office, or commercial use, choosing the right coffee machine can enhance your coffee experience while saving time and money.

If you are still unsure, renting a coffee machine for a trial period can help you decide before making a long-term investment. With so many options available, you can easily find the perfect coffee machine that meets your needs and budget!

[global-research-report]

Hot Drinks Market Outlook: Innovations, Consumer Trends, and Future Prospects

The global hot drinks market size is expected to reach USD 567.7 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 7.4% from 2025 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Hot drinks help in reducing the prevalence of various lifestyle related diseases such as blood pressure, obesity, and stress. Increasing awareness related to the various health benefits associated with consumption of hot drinks among the young generation is expected to drive the market over the forecast period.

The vendors are launching various ready to make drinks with various flavors and aromas to attract young consumers. Increasing product availability and retail outlet is driving the market for hot drinks over the forecast period. Furthermore, manufacturers are adopting various food safety regulations such as GRAS, Kosher, HACCP, USDA Organic, and GMP to ensure delivery of quality product and to attract larger customer base.

Increasing prevalence of various lifestyle related diseases in both developing and developed countries has led to an increase in consumer interest in healthier products, thereby providing growth opportunity for hot drinks over the forecast period. It has been surveyed that hot green tea is known to be very healthy, which helps to increase the metabolism and weight loss. Furthermore, herbal tea helps in detoxification and relieving stress, which is expected to fuel demand for tea over the forecast period.

Coffee dominated the market in 2018 and is expected to maintain its lead over the forecast period. Increasing penetration of organic coffee and coffee pod is a key factor fueling the demand for coffee over the forecast period. Tea is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. Increasing launch of flavored and aroma tea is driving the interest of young consumer.

Asia Pacific is expected to expand at a CAGR of 7.9% over the forecast period. Increasing number of millennials, coupled with franchise outlet in the region, is a main factor driving the regional hot drinks market over the forecast period. Moreover, increasing installation of coffee wending machines at office premises will provide growth opportunity for the hot drinks over the forecast period.

Hot Drinks Market Report Highlights

By product, the tea segment dominated the global hot drinks market with a revenue share of 39.0% in 2024. Tea is the second most consumed beverage globally, surpassed only by water, and the most widely consumed hot beverage worldwide.

The Asia Pacific hot drinks dominated the global market with a revenue share of 41.6% in 2024. The Asia-Pacific region, home to approximately 4.3 billion people, constituting about 60% of the global population, has emerged as the most lucrative market for the hot beverage industry.

The industry is highly competitive with the leading players including Costa Coffee; Starbucks; Celestial seasoning Inc.; Caffe Nero; and Ajinomoto General Foods Inc.

Various manufacturers are concentrating on new product launches, capacity expansion, and technological innovation to estimate existing and future demand patterns from upcoming product segments.

Hot Drinks Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global hot drinks market on the basis of on product and region:

Hot Drinks Product (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

Coffee

Tea

Others

Hot Drinks Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

North America

US

Canada

Mexico

Europe

UK

Germany

France

Italy

Spain

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

Australia & New Zealand

South Korea

Latin America

Brazil

MEA

UAE

Key Players in the Hot Drinks Market

Tazo Tea Company

Tata Global Beverages

Keurig Green Mountain (KGM)

Costa Coffee

Starbucks

Celestial seasoning, Inc.

Caffe Nero

Ajinomoto General Foods, Inc.

Associated British Foods (ABF)

Tim Hortons

Order a free sample PDF of the Hot Drinks Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[pradeepibrew89]

Top Reasons to Choose an Automatic Tea Coffee Machine for Your Office

Creating a comfortable and productive work environment is vital for any successful office setup. Providing your employees with a quick and easy way to enjoy their favorite beverages can significantly enhance their productivity and satisfaction. This is where an automatic tea coffee machine for offices from Pradeep iBrew becomes essential.

Effortless Convenience

An automatic tea coffee machine simplifies the process of preparing beverages. With just the press of a button, employees can enjoy perfectly brewed tea, coffee, or filter coffee without the need for manual effort or expertise.

Versatile Options

Pradeep iBrew’s machines cater to diverse preferences, offering everything from refreshing tea to the rich taste of South India’s favorite filter coffee. Whether you want a tea maker machine or the best filter coffee maker machine in India, Pradeep iBrew delivers unmatched versatility.

Cost-Effective Solution

Investing in an automatic machine reduces dependency on external vendors, saving money in the long run. Plus, it minimizes the time spent by employees away from their desks, boosting efficiency.

Hygienic and Reliable

Automation ensures beverages are prepared in a clean, hygienic environment, maintaining consistent taste and quality every time.

Enhance Office Culture

A shared coffee corner becomes a hub for social interactions, brainstorming sessions, and team bonding. With Pradeep iBrew’s filter coffee machine, you can create a welcoming atmosphere that fosters collaboration and creativity.

Upgrade your office setup today with a Pradeep iBrew automatic tea coffee machine – the perfect blend of convenience, taste, and reliability!

[teacoffeevendingmachines1]

Coffee Vending Machine Dealers in Chennai - Tea Coffee Vending Machines

Greater demand can be found in the super-active city of Chennai for coffee vending machines nowadays, as mornings start drenched in freshly brewed coffee smells. Workplaces, education institutions, and commercial establishments provide instant coffee solutions a very important service, so the demand for reliable coffee vending machine dealers arises. The list of the best dealers in this field includes tea coffee vending machines, which has gathered a good reputation for being able to offer good product quality and excellent service.

Increasing Demand for Coffee Dispensing Machines

Chennai, the metropolitan destination, with a very strong coffee culture is slowly moving in for a quick bite without sacrificing taste. Coin-vending machines have become a part of corporate office properties, malls, hospitals, etc. All these can be accessed instantly, and one can save time and be assured that quality never gets compromised. Today's vending machines come in various varieties like tea, hot chocolate, soups, etc., and are, therefore, indispensable.

 Why Go for Professional Dealers in Chennai?

Buying a coffee vending machine is not at all about the product, rather it has much to do with the service. Here are some of the main reasons why professional dealers in Chennai, like teacoffeevendingmachines, are preferred: 

1. Variety of Options:

Responsible dealers have vast types of machines to meet every need, from compact single-serve devices for small offices to high-capacity devices for big companies.

2. High-Quality Devices:

One of the things used as a guideline in vending machines is the quality. This is one way to ensure the lifespan and efficiency of the machine if sourced from a reliable manufacturer, bringing in top-quality devices for the dealership.

3. Customization:

Every place has its specific needs. Professional vending machine dealers offer equipment that can be customized to the required beverages, flavors, and sizes of cups.

4. Maintenance and Support:

Regular maintenance is the most important aspect of the proper functioning of vending machines. The right vendors deliver timely support and after-sales service to ensure that the downtime is minimal.

5. Affordable Pricing:

Competitive pricing is another factor that makes reputed dealers stand out. These dealers offer value for money by having that balance of cost with quality.  Here's what makes them a preferred choice:

Diversified Product Range: Ranging from basic coffee machines to fully automatic, which can dispense multiple beverages, they can meet varied demands.  Their best customer service is available from installation to service, hence keeping hassles away from the customer's side.  The company is environment friendly and has also developed a range of machines that give minimum waste.

Low-Cost Rental and Buying Options: The companies can either buy or rent the machines according to their budget. 

Professional Consultation: Informed employees of the company guide their clients on which machine is most suited for the client's respective needs, thus realizing customer happiness. 

Conclusion

Be it a small business house, a giant corporation house, or even an educational institution, investing in a coffee vending machine is taking the right step to enhance convenience and employee satisfaction. Selecting a reputed dealer like tea-coffee vending machines implies giving you the best products and services dedicated to your needs. With their expertise and quality commitment, they help Chennai fuel up with some great coffee one cup at a time.

[vendingmachinesau]

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is king. Whether at the office, in schools, or at busy transport hubs, having easy access to snacks, drinks, and other essentials can make a big difference in our day-to-day lives. Enter the automatic vending machine — a reliable solution for on-the-go snacking and quick purchases. If you’re looking to explore the best Automatic Vending Machine in Australia, you’ll find that modern vending machines have come a long way from the traditional snack dispensers. Today’s machines offer a variety of options, from healthy food and drinks to electronics, hygiene products, and more.

The Evolution of Vending Machines

Automatic vending machines have evolved significantly over the years, adapting to meet changing consumer demands and advancements in technology. Here are some of the key developments:

Smart Vending Technology: Modern vending machines are equipped with advanced technology such as touch screens, cashless payment systems, and remote monitoring. This makes transactions smoother and maintenance more efficient.

Diverse Product Offerings: While snacks and drinks remain popular, today’s machines can also dispense fresh food, coffee, hygiene products, electronics, and even PPE (personal protective equipment).

Sustainability Features: Many newer machines are energy-efficient and designed with sustainable materials, contributing to a greener vending experience.

Customizable Options: Businesses can customize machines to match their brand, select product ranges, and tailor the customer experience to suit specific needs.

Top Automatic Vending Machines in Australia

If you’re considering investing in an Automatic Vending Machine in Australia, it’s important to choose a model that aligns with your business goals and consumer preferences. Here’s a look at some of the top types of vending machines available:

1. Traditional Snack and Drink Vending Machines

These machines remain the most popular choice for businesses, offices, and public spaces. They offer a wide variety of chips, chocolates, soft drinks, and water, making them a convenient solution for high-traffic areas.

Best For: Offices, schools, retail spaces, and public transport hubs.

Popular Brands: Ausbox, SVA Vending, and Vendpro.

2. Healthy Food Vending Machines

As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for healthier vending options has grown. Healthy food vending machines offer snacks such as nuts, protein bars, fruit, and smoothies, as well as low-calorie beverages.

Best For: Gyms, fitness centers, health clinics, and educational institutions.

Popular Brands: MVM Healthy Vending, Fresh2Go Vending, and Snackwise.

3. Hot Beverage Vending Machines

Perfect for busy workplaces or public areas, hot beverage vending machines can dispense a variety of drinks, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and more. These machines often feature customizable options for different tastes and preferences.

Best For: Offices, waiting rooms, universities, and hospitals.

Popular Brands: Necta, Crane National, and Lavazza Professional.

4. Specialty Vending Machines

These machines are tailored to dispense unique products such as electronics, hygiene supplies, cosmetics, or even PPE like masks and sanitizers. Specialty vending machines are ideal for locations with specific needs, such as airports, hotels, and large retail stores.

Best For: Airports, hotels, and corporate offices.

Popular Brands: VendSmart, U Select It, and Vendi.

5. Combination Vending Machines

For locations that need to offer a mix of snacks, drinks, and fresh food, combination vending machines are the perfect solution. These machines can hold a variety of items, allowing businesses to provide diverse choices without requiring multiple machines.

Best For: Office break rooms, recreational centers, and large retail complexes.

Popular Brands: Seaga, Royal Vendors, and Combo Max.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Automatic Vending Machine in Australia

Selecting the right Automatic Vending Machine in Australia involves more than just choosing a product type. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Location and Space Requirements: Consider the size of the machine and the available space. Some locations may benefit from compact machines, while others can accommodate larger models with extensive product offerings.

Payment Options: Ensure the machine supports various payment methods, including coins, notes, card payments, and even mobile options like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Product Capacity: Choose a machine that can hold enough products to meet demand, reducing the need for frequent restocking.

Energy Efficiency: Look for machines with energy-saving features to keep operating costs low.

Customization and Branding: If you’re looking to reinforce your brand, select a machine that can be customized with your company’s logo, colors, and messaging.

Maintenance and Support: Consider ongoing support and maintenance requirements. Partnering with a reliable vending machine supplier in Australia ensures that technical issues are resolved quickly and efficiently.

For further information- https://www.vendingmachines.com.au/

[pentag]

🟣🟠Multiverstar Modded - Update 3.0: Forming of the Fleet - Now live! (+ Quick Start update)

The mod pack has been updated

All of the newly added mods are now included in Multiverstar Modded Mod pack . Please update your local mod pack by pressing “Subscribe to all” before connecting to the server!

Update notes

New expansion

New playable species

Alta

Arachne

Indix

Kobold

Kyterrans

Lastree

Mannikin

Nightars

NostOS

Ryophi

Skelekin

Squamaeft

New character creation options

More Idle poses

Bright Orcana Colors

Bunnykin Pastel Colours ADD

Vibrant Colours for Bunnykin ADD

Arcana's Human Hairstyle

Arcana's Aegi Hairstyle

Arcana's Kitsune Hairstyle

More Slime Hairs (Only Add)

New Avali content

Avali Plus

Avali Augments And Assorments: Revisited

Better Ships - Avali Walls

Avali mannequin

New clothing and armor mods

Dresses n Skirts Pack

Suits n Stuff Pack

Scientist Outfit Pack

Skittle's Christmas Goodies

Wings and Things

New Protectorate Gear

Expanded Protectorate Gear

Tacticool Gear Pack

HOUND Fashion 0.9.3

New wigs

Skittles Ultimate Wig Pack

Empress Wigs - ANY VERSION

Demon Horns Wig Variations and Hairstyle

Cyberpunk Stylist (Wigs & Hairstyles)

New weapon mods

Expanded Magnorbs

Swords Unite: Durandal

Swords Unite: Ferozium Katana

Swords Unite: Violium Katana

Swords Unite: Solarium Saber

Solarium Cannon

Adaptive Coffee Launcher

Tommy Guns

The Dyeable Flamethrower Mod

Tanks!

New functionality

Capture's Pod (The pet system from Pandora's Box)

Craftable Concoctions

Cosmetic drinks

Field Control Technology

Planet Search

Planet Transponder

Quantum Stable Item Frames

The Bookstore (Also sells official server lore!)

Universal Liquid Source (Normally unobtainable, only spawnable!)

New alternative crafting stations and reskins

New blocks and platforms

Better Chains, Alternative

Engine Blocks & Cables [Updated IDs]

Extra Materials

Platform Hatches

New decoration

Neki Furniture - Standalone

Tidalbelt's Astronomical Models

Unwrecked: Refurbished Goods

Vertical Ship Thrusters

More Teasets

Because just tea sets are not enough!

New food and drinks

A Freakin Noodle Vendor

Coolesterol - Stuff for machines to vend

Diabetuus - Stuff for machines to vend

New Frackin' Music addons

Arcana Frackin Music Addon

Maple Music Fracking Addon

Quality of Life changes

Peacekeeper Space Station Teleporters

Refinery Expansion

Extras

Give the avian oculemonade

Solarium Fishing Rod (and lure and reel)

Terramart employee change?!

Looks like the Floran got bored of her job. An Avian has taken over.

Lots of fixes and changes to ensure the best possible player experience!

Yes, growing bubbulbs in a growing tray no longer crashes the game. :)

Please note that not all of the above mods' contents will be available on Multiverstar Modded due to legal and community reasons!Unavailable items show up in-game as a "Perfectly Unavailable Item".

For the full list of added mods, check out https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3044400052

We have a new Spawn!

Many thanks to Dex, Zeta and Chronos for having built it!

Quick Start - Patches

Updated BYOS - Multiversal megapatch

Updated Multiverstar Modded - SIP megapatch

Unlinked the Tanz Lighting Overhaul patches collection. If you were using those patches, please unsubscribe from them and use the one below!

Added:

Quick Start - Wardrobe patches

Added a large amount of addons

Quick Start - Instant Crafting Patches

Added SCS Stations: Instant Crafting Add-on

Quick Start - Other

Added Planet Search

[kahwa22]

How To Start A Coffee Shop Business

Starting a coffee shop business can be a rewarding venture, but it requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Market Research: Conduct thorough market research to understand the local coffee market, target demographics, competition, and consumer preferences. Identify potential locations for your coffee shop and assess their foot traffic, visibility, and suitability for your business.

Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your vision, goals, target market, menu offerings, pricing strategy, marketing plan, financial projections, and operational details. A well-defined business plan will serve as a roadmap for your coffee shop and help secure financing from lenders or investors.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Register your coffee shop as a legal entity, obtain necessary permits and licenses, and comply with health, safety, and food handling regulations. This may include acquiring a business license, food service permit, health inspection certification, and zoning approvals.

Location Selection: Choose a prime location for your coffee shop that is easily accessible, visible, and has high foot traffic. Consider factors such as rent, lease terms, parking availability, proximity to competitors, and the overall ambiance of the area.

Design and Layout: Design the interior and layout of your coffee shop to create a welcoming, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing environment for customers. Choose furniture, decor, lighting, and signage that reflect your brand identity and enhance the customer experience.

Equipment and Supplies: Invest in high-quality coffee brewing equipment, espresso machines, grinders, refrigeration units, POS systems, and other supplies needed to run your coffee shop efficiently. Consider factors such as durability, energy efficiency, and capacity when selecting equipment.

Menu Development: Develop a menu featuring a variety of coffee drinks, teas, pastries, snacks, and other beverages or food items that cater to your target market's preferences. Experiment with different recipes, flavors, and ingredients to create signature drinks and unique offerings.

Supplier Partnerships: Establish relationships with reputable coffee bean suppliers, local bakeries, and food vendors to source high-quality ingredients and products for your menu. Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules to ensure consistent supply and cost-effectiveness.

Staffing and Training: Recruit and hire skilled baristas, kitchen staff, and customer service personnel who are passionate about coffee and committed to providing exceptional service. Provide comprehensive training on coffee preparation, customer interaction, hygiene standards, and safety protocols.

Marketing and Promotion: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your coffee shop and attract customers. Utilize a mix of online and offline marketing channels, such as social media, website, email newsletters, local advertising, community events, and loyalty programs, to build awareness and drive foot traffic.

Soft Opening and Feedback: Conduct a soft opening to test operations, gather feedback from customers, and fine-tune your menu, service, and ambiance. Use feedback to make adjustments and improvements before the official grand opening.

Grand Opening: Host a grand opening event to celebrate the launch of your coffee shop and generate buzz in the community. Offer special promotions, discounts, or giveaways to attract customers and encourage repeat visits.

Customer Engagement: Foster relationships with your customers by providing personalized service, soliciting feedback, and engaging with them on social media. Encourage customer loyalty through rewards programs, special events, and exclusive offers.

Continuous Improvement: Continuously monitor and evaluate your coffee shop's performance, customer satisfaction, and financial metrics. Identify areas for improvement, implement changes as needed, and stay adaptable to evolving market trends and consumer preferences.

Starting a coffee shop business requires dedication, hard work, and attention to detail, but with careful planning and execution, you can create a successful and thriving establishment that becomes a beloved community hub for coffee enthusiasts and local residents.