#cookbook as a parting gift

[queenangella]

it’s so fucking weird leaving a job I actually like what is this feeling I don’t like it

[loveletterworm]

It's been a couple days since I was reading through the Sonic cookbook and strangely I think I have to conclude that the five nights at freddys cookbook i acquired as a joke (and because i thought maybe my niece would be impressed by it but she never visited me to see it...) has probably a better understanding of what recipes make sense to include in a cookbook where a large part of the target audience is children. Because the Sonic cookbook is breaking out ingredients like Bone Marrow and 4 Whole Tilapia (you have to skin them yourself but I think you keep the eyes in.) while from what i recall the fedy cookbook i think was like. Salmon burger. Mac and cheese with things in it. Like kind of adventurous but still reasonably within "children would eat this" range. It's very easy to imagine a child finding something they'd want to make in the freddy cookbook but I think in the Sonic cookbook they'd be stumped for a bit. and its just a bit odd. That's my review of the 2 novelty video game cookbooks I own I know you didn't ask about this. You have to hear about it anyway.

[atticwindowatdawn]

screenshot editing

sumahama reshade preset | relight shader | sonder photoshop actions | sunblind lighting mod | film grain overlays | light leaks (I use Pinterest to find interesting ones)

CAS

default skin | default eyes | face overlays | teeth defaults | imperfection teeth | skin details | dimples | freckles | body presets | eyebrows (also make-up) | piercings (also make-up) | more cas columns | more traits in cas | stand still in cas | cas lighting | cas background | more cas presets

gameplay

sims 2 ui

adeepindigo mods (background stories, connected sims, dynamic teen life, education overhaul)

ballet mod

basemental drugs

bienchens mods (oh so many, mostly autonomy related ones)

custom traditions

little miss drama

grannies cookbook

icemunmun

kiarasims4mods (love their custom traits and aspirations!)

kuttoe (emotional traits, random texts)

longer parties + more guests

come thru thy window

lumpinou (first impressions, milestones expanded, no romantic satisfaction, open love life, RPO, talents and weaknesses)

MCCC

midnitetech mods (home hobbies, flex part-time agency, sequential art)

missyhissy mods (custom wants, hobby mod, hopes and fears, sims 2 personality mod, teenage reactions interactions)

more kisses

pandasama childbirth mod

simcontrolhub

simkatu (all of them)

cute romance

betterbuildbuy + tool

ui cheats

utopya (kiss n grind, passionate gifts, romantic complaints)

wonderful whims

[tqlepatia]

⋮ ⌗┆FA$$HION KILLA .ᐟ ( PART II )

— OLDER ! RICH ! SEVIKA × MODEL ! MOTHER ! READER ( HCS ) —

౨ৎ - 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐒' : " Here it iss !! I writed 2 times and tumblr deleted 😓 but thank God i have a big patience and writed it again, — angst, baby blues implied, and a lot of fluff (･ω･) . ".

𖹭 - Sevika knew she wanted to marry you the second she saw you doing shoots for the bridal collection of Vivienne Westwood, specially on the last dress.

𖹭 - "How would you feel about keeping one of those dresses?" You didn't understand until she pulled a ring from her blazer pocket, unmistakably the one that once belonged to Sevika's mom.

𖹭 - When you walked through the aisle, Sevika let herself cry a little in front of people, for the first time in years.

𖹭 - Honeymoon in Italy. You both barely left the room, too busy making love all day and night.

𖹭 -Sevika bought a new property-lush land, a greenhouse, a marble kitchen filled with cookbooks.

𖹭 - You started sleeping in, missing fittings without guilt—You stopped walking for a season, turned down four campaigns, and didn't feel bad about it.

𖹭 - You began documenting your domestic life privately-film photography, garden photos, table settings.

𖹭 - At night, Sevika would read the newspaper while you journaled on the sofa around the left side of the pool, while sometimes looking at the sky full of stars, sometimes she would stop reading a bit to massage your legs.

𖹭 - You started feeling the difference in your body- heavier breasts, longer naps, sudden cravings.

𖹭 - Sevika notice before you did, She held your hand the moment the test turned positive, barely blinking, just whispering "Okay."

𖹭 - Your bump showed faster than expected, and so did the press commentary.

𖹭 - Many brands of luxury tried to get a piece of the cake, trying to surf on the hype of one of the biggest supermodels being pregnant, sending gifts 24/7.

𖹭 - You began being tagged in "before/after" photos on Instagram, which led you to delete the app and all your social media.

𖹭 - She rubs your back when you throw up and kisses your hair even when you smell like ginger, massage your feet, make your breakfast with help of chefs.

𖹭 - She kissed every new stretch, every soft swell. "You're making something holy", " isn't so graceful that you are bringing another life to this world?" she whispered in soft nights.

𖹭 - Time to time, you realise how much your image was built over validation and numbers everywhere; your height, your weight, how many calories you consumed per day, your number of followers, or even how many runaway shows you got to.

𖹭 - You spent most days on the terrace in robes, drinking ginger tea, reading books about motherhood, so did sevika.

𖹭 - She took over the kitchen. The first time she made soup, she FaceTimed her aunt. You sat on the counter and laughed for twenty minutes at the story of Sevika's short childhood.

𖹭 - Your baby came fast. The labour was simple, you felt bad about the mother beside your room that screamed for hours after you finished your labour, and Sevika was there, holding your hand the whole time, crying as you screaming of pain.

𖹭 - She held the baby first. Then she gave the little girl to you like an offering, the little one was identical to Sevika's baby pictures, for a moment, you thought that the photos had materialised inside your womb.

𖹭 - You bled for weeks, and no one told you how lonely it would feel. The world celebrated the baby but forgot the woman who brought her into

𖹭 - You loved your baby. But sometimes, when the crying didn't stop, you had to put her down and sit on the floor, whispering "Please, please, please."

𖹭

- 𖹭 - 𖹭 - You stayed off the runway for five years. Not because you couldn't. But because you refused to miss her first laugh, her first tantrum, her first step, and all these things.

Some nights, you sat outside on the garden steps and asked the stars for forgiveness for not being glowing, grateful, or the best mom that your daughter deserved.

𖹭 - You and Sevika barely fight, but now you're in a bad mood almost all the time due to the lack of sleep and tiredness, you and she started having little fights till... they weren't little anymore. "I gave up My LIFE for this baby, Sevika! And what did you give up? Nothing! So don't tell me what to do with my daughter." After the fight, she kept silent and slept in the living room.

𖹭 - You cried almost all night that day, at midnight you went to see her awake with the strong brightness of the TV illuminating her face, by your expression she already knew that you were feeling guilty for the words so sharp as a knife earlier. "Lie here love, sleep on my lap, then we'll go to the bedroom, okay?"

𖹭 - Sevika posted photos rarely. The back of your baby's head. You're stirring soup. You asleep against her chest. Always faceless, always sacred, like the world doesn't deserve to see you and your baby.

𖹭 - Your child giggles uncontrollably when Sevika blows raspberries on her little and soft belly, and Sevika grows a habit of treating her like royalty. Some days, the little girl even chooses Sevika’s clothes for work.

𖹭 - The photo Sevika took of you sleeping with the baby on your chest became her phone background for a year ( she changed it for a photo when the little girl took her first steps, you looking at her like this 😮 )

𖹭 - The hate comments stopped mattering when you saw your child run to you, arms open, calling you "mama" and climbing into your lap.

𖹭 - Your daughter painted your nails with Sevika one lazy Sunday. She chose pink. Sevika let her paint hers too. The mess stayed on your hands all day.

𖹭 - You caught her once sitting on the nursery floor alone, staring at the toys. You asked what was wrong. She said, "I never had this. Not even close. I didn't know what it looked like until now." You kissed her temple and told her, "Now you're building it. That's the point." She didn't say anything, just pulled you into her lap and held you like she was grateful you ever existed.

𖹭 - When the fashion house begged you back, you almost said no. Until you looked at your daughter and thought, She should see what it looks like when her mother chooses herself, too.

𖹭 - You worked out until your legs shook, counted almonds, cried over a single croissant, habits thay you got when was just a teenager looking to follow your dreams career, and they're back. But you weren't chasing beauty, you were begging to feel like yourself again, before the world carved judgment into your skin. Sevika found you on the bathroom floor once, scale beneath your feet, and said, "No body is worth this war." But you were already deep in it.

𖹭 - You practice your walks again, more than satisfied when you notice that you still remember perfectly how you used to walk, that was already a part of you, was engraved on your brain—in a way you never forget

𖹭 - The first show you did after five years, you cried backstage. Sevika stood behind the curtain, hand on your shoulder. "You never stopped being a goddess," she said.

𖹭 - After the runway, you went straight home. You didn't want the afterparty. You just wanted to kiss your baby's forehead and check if she was fine.

𖹭 -Interviews started pouring in. You declined most. Until one day, you said yes. It was in your garden. Just two chairs, tea, and wind. The interviewer asked, "How are you so calm now?" You said, "Because I stopped needing approval, the only one I need is from my daughter."

𖹭 -You told her about the hate, the body talk, the way motherhood was romanticized and weaponized all at once. You and the interviewer cried. Not because you were broken. But because healing had finally arrived, The clip went viral. Not for drama. For its stillness.

𖹭 - Sevika watched the interview ten times. "You looked like the woman I fell in love with," she said with a big smile kissing your forehead

𖹭 - Every night, Sevika kissed you like it was the first time. Because in your softness, she found her strength, too.

𖹭 - You started hosting dinners with no phones. Just stories, music, and laughter. You read poetry again. You began to write your own.

𖹭 - When storms hit, Sevika insists you all sleep in the same bed. "Just in case," she says. In case of what, you're never sure. But you never fight it. You like the way she tucks the baby between you two, how her arm curls around both of you like you're precious cargo. You fall asleep to the sound of rain and Sevika's breath, like the world could end and you'd still be safe.

౨ৎ - 𝐓aglist ; @prettyinpink69 , @abbysdollie , @marieeeluvsyou , @littlelovelunette , @madzorwhatever , @zvmbitegirl , @salsalsusu , @kataranda.

[kosagum]

how to fix a toilet — gojo satoru · fluff · 1k words

summary: while moving in with gojo, you fall in love with him again, again, again.

you’re watching GOJO fix a toilet and you think you’ve never been so in love in your life.

of course, you have loved him. but you haven’t gotten to love him like this, standing over the open tank of a toilet with a hand running through his white hair and a pout on his lips as he, with no knowledge about plumbing or waterworks or even toilet repair, tries to fix one.

you should be unpacking in another room, but instead, you lean against the doorway to the bathroom and just…watch him. that is, until he speaks up.

“baby, can’t we call a plumber?” gojo whines, peering into the toilet tank with one hand sifting through the toolbox at his feet. you stifle a giggle behind his back when he picks up a wrench, eyeing it with a frown.

“nope.” you certainly could, but you want to keep him like this longer. “you said you’d fix the toilet if it broke, and it broke. that’s the only reason i agreed to move in with you.”

“the only reason?” gojo looks over his shoulder at you and gapes. “not because i’m your boyfriend?”

that makes you smile, but that’s not it, either.

you’d been all but living together before this; you’d find his socks in your dryer and your favorite snacks in his pantry, he had a spare toothbrush in the cup by your sink and you had one in his, and you both wore the clothes—his jackets, your coats and sweaters—hanging side by side in your closet.

gojo begged you to move in with him every day. and finally, when you realized you didn’t want to live in a home without his socks, his toothbrush, or his jackets, without him, you said yes.

really, there’s no one else you’d rather move in with.

you pretend to think, listing with your fingers as gojo’s gape gives in to a grin. “you’re also annoying, stubborn…”

“still your boyfriend,” he says, pointing the wrench at you with pride. annoying. despite yourself, your smile widens and doesn’t fade when he turns back to the toilet.

malfunction aside, the toilet is shiny and new, as is the bathroom and the rest of this house. the empty rooms are full of sunlight and wet paint and half-unpacked cardboard boxes holding your and gojo’s things. any surface not covered by a box is by housewarming gifts: cookbooks from geto, puzzle sets from ieiri, and a too-big bouquet from all of gojo’s students that you both ended up having to split between vases, leftover bottles, and whatever else could be used as a container.

but the bathroom is not so empty. a shower curtain from gojo’s old condo hangs over the bathtub, towels from your old apartment pile in a corner, and a cup for your toothbrush and his is on the counter by the sink. not a spare toothbrush—his toothbrush, right beside yours.

your eyes fall back on him, still here in the bathroom with you, trying to fix the toilet. and you think this must be love, too. sharing a space, the toilet and the toothbrush holder and everything else in it, and falling just a little more from that alone.

feeling your eyes on him, gojo glances back at you and, to your dismay, catches you staring. “sure you don’t have any other reasons?” he grins again, and you roll your eyes as he tilts his head at you with a laugh.

oh, you have plenty.

you won’t tell gojo all of them now while he’s in the middle of fixing the toilet. but from the eager look on his face, you think he already knows.

“well,” you start, toeing at the tiles beneath you. they alternate between cream and baby blue, your color of choice for the bathroom tiling and his. “i do love you. like this.”

gojo’s grin widens.

he definitely knows.

he sets the wrench down on the bathroom counter and sidles toward you, an eyebrow raised in equal parts amusement and affection. “you love me fixing our toilet?”

you snort as he gets closer, face now only inches away from yours. “i loved you fixing our toilet. which you still haven’t finished fixing, by the way.”

“tell me more about you loving me first.”

you finally laugh, and he tries—and fails—to bite back a grin at it. “seriously,” he says, nudging your foot with his. “tell me.”

you look up at gojo, and in every single one of the thoughts that come to mind is him.

his shoes are kicked off by yours in the foyer. your reading glasses and his sunglasses lie side by side on the counter. two sets of keys are thrown into the tray, matching mugs are stored in the kitchen cupboards, and your clothes are folded next to his in drawers and closets in the bedroom. on walls and tables all over the house sit pictures of you both in frames.

and here in the bathroom is gojo himself, trying to fix the toilet and making you laugh while doing it.

“i love you here,” you finally say, gesturing with an arm at it all.

and gojo grins even wider at you, wide enough for his cheeks to dip into his dimples, and then you’re sure of it: you’ve never been so in love in your life.

he scoops you up, and you laugh again and throw your arms around him as he laughs with you, spinning you around once, twice, before setting you down on the seat of the toilet. your shared toilet.

“i love you here, too,” he says, grinning as he kisses your nose. “and here—” your forehead, “and here—” your cheek, “and here—”

and as you laugh and try to push him away, only for him to cup your face with his hands and kiss you on the mouth, you fall again, again, again.

[ledesaid]

Recipe #3 – How to Create a Temporary Divine Avatar

Marvel presents his son to the League; we already know what Billy was up to this Easter.

Two out of every three sorcerers prefer homemade spells. Join the movement!

Notes like these are usually scattered at the bottom of the pages of the magical cookbook.

Billy is interested in having a bit more time to prepare his recipes. It’s no fun when the cauldron melts from having been left too long with mermaid tears. Can you believe they become acidic with a long cooking time?

To avoid leaving the potions on the fire in the face of a villain’s threat, Billy has prepared “a temporary avatar.”

He only needed a divine fruit, available exclusively in the Garden of the Hesperides. Hera was very happy to help him continue on his learning journey and gifted him one without any problem. The rest of the journey had Billy singing a series of unintelligible chants until the early hours of the morning.

And presto, magic!

He only hoped that the league would believe him.

And Batman doesn't believe him.

--

Part 1 | Part 2 | u are here | Part 4 | Part 5

[asunflowerana]

brownie bonding — Nanami Kento

summary: kento makes most of his quality time with his baby daughter.

warnings: pure fluff, dad!nanami, cooking.

wc: 800.

A warming melody of jazz echoes on the portable radio in the kitchen, filling the bonding moment perfectly. Nanami is just finishishing tying a cook’s apron around his waist, feeling a bit awkward to wear such a flowery print, but it was a request from his baby daughter. There’s no way he would refuse her. 

“You look pretty, daddy!” His sunshine compliments him, sitting in the high chair at the counter with her head covered by her tiny cook’s hat. She isn’t a kid that plays around: if she’s going to cook, she’ll wear the proper clothes for it.

Six years old, acting that way already. Imagine when she’s sixteen.

He can’t help but send her a fondly smile. One of the good things about having a kid is that you will always receive an honest answer from them. His little girl it’s saying he looks pretty, so maybe flower prints actually suit him. 

He moves his focus to the counter, checking the ingredients on display: sugar, butter, wheat flour, powdered chocolate, milk, eggs, chocolate chips. The mixer is set, the oven is heating up, and they have everything they need to start the day’s recipe:

Brownies

You’re on your way home from a business trip today, and they both came up with the idea of ​​surprising you with some brownies. In addition to welcoming you home with a delicious gift, Kento also takes this opportunity to spend more quality time with his daughter. She’s growing up so fast that he’s been feeling guilty for missing some moments of her life because of work. He wants to make sure that as long as he has time, he’ll make the most of it alongside her.

“Alright sweetheart, what’s the first step?” He claps his hands, giving her the task of leading and guiding them through the recipe. She bows to read the children’s cookbook she got for her birthday last year, and points her little index to the first illustrated step.

“We need to mix eggs with sugar.” She says, cautiously taking the mixer’s bowl and placing it in front of them. “Can I put them in, daddy?”

“You can, but you need to be careful with the eggs. Break this way.” He demonstrates to her, tapping the tip of the fork against the eggshell until it breaks a small part. He then opens it halfway, and pours the yolk and whites into the bowl. “Your turn now.”

Eri picks up another egg, and tries to imitate exactly what her father did, but ends up hitting the shell too hard, causing the egg to break right on the table and smear the wood with white and yolk. The dirt definitely doesn’t please her father, but he isn’t going to make a big deal of it. These things happen, even to adults, and he doesn’t want to make his daughter feel guilty about something like that. So when she looks at him with those fearful little eyes waiting for a scold, he starts to chuckle at the situation, making her visibly relax as the moment passes by.

They continue with the recipe, now with Nanami directly helping her put the ingredients into the bowl, and his heart warmed to see his daughter having fun cooking, her mini apron’s all dirty from chocolate. “Now we have to add the flour.” He takes the bag from the counter, and gives it to her. “Think you can do it, sweeheart?”

She nods eagerly, and starts pouring flour into the meter. A small amount of flour escapes, but she manages most part of the process, placing the measured flour into the bowl. “I did it!” She announces as soon as she’s done, a huge one missing tooth grin on her face.

Nanami smiles at his daughter’s delight, caressing the top of her head. “Yes sweetheart, you did it.” He presses the ‘on’ button on the mixer, and it starts to churn all the mixture into the bowl. The two watch together the mixture incorporate and become a smooth brown dough, which soon after was put on a platter to bake in the oven.

Since the brownie would take about forty minutes to bake, Nanami thought it would be a good time to give his sunshine a bath and get her ready before the sweet is done.

But his daughter has other plans in mind.

“Daddy, you have flour on your face.” She points in the direction, making him run his hand over his whole cheek. “No, missed.”

“Where’s it?” he asked, leaning his face close to let her clean it for him.

She puts one of her flour-covered hands to his nose, laughing when she sees the art she’s made on her father’s skin. “There.”

His first reaction is deadpan, not believing he fell for a six-year-old child’s trick. But he’s definitely not a quitter: as soon as she gets occupied laughing at his face, he places his hands on her sides and holds her, giving her a mischievous smile. “So this is how you want to play, huh? Very well, young lady… You shall be defeated.” He starts tickling her body, making her squirm and laugh even more. He releases her eventually, and the two soon start a big flour fight around the room, running and throwing flour everywhere.

Not only they’ll give you a brownie tray, but also a pretty messy kitchen to deal with afterwards. But you can’t deny that it’s worth the price. 

© asunflowerana 2024 — all rights reserved.

[bubble-leaves]

Could you write out some reth headcanons please? I don't care what it's about, I just want more content about the silly little soup man. Have a good day!

who doesn't want more of this adorable rascal?! ❤️

Reth . . .

- thinks all about you during his shift at the bar

- often checks the distant windows to see if you just so happen to pass by the inn

- is unafraid of physical affection; he's all yours, and he'll let you know

- is a touchy-feely guy himself, so prepare!

- often rambles to Zeki and Ashura about you, just literally anything about you (Ashura thinks it's endearing, but Zeki can't stand the sap)

- is usually sleep deprived but tries to maintain his energy for you

- falls asleep in literal minutes if he lays down with you, ESPECIALLY if he's in your arms

- always knows what will fluster you and catch you off guard; is a suave and occasionally smug flirt

- LOVES making you blush and speechless, it's practically the life in his lungs

- loves making you breakfast. And yes, he makes more than just soup; he loves using the pancake recipe that's in the baking cookbook you gifted him around the time you were beginning to know each other

- is always taken aback when you do acts of service for him or reciprocate his thoughtfulness; his face always becomes pinker, but he tries to keep his cool

- wants nothing more than to fall apart in your arms after a long day

- loves quietly discussing his day with you as you hold him and caress his back. He shows a different, deeply hidden part of himself when you're both like this; he's hushed, genuine, and totally encapsulated in the moment

- secretly chats with Jel and Tish about you

- doesn't like to get drunk, at least, not REALLY drunk, despite working at the bar

- is a laughing/crying emotional drunk

- melts on the inside when you bring him meals during his shift

- LOVES LOVES LOVES when you come to visit him during his break in his storeroom; you're his favorite source of energy recharging

- is lowkey (highkey honestly) protective of you and worries about your safety often, especially when you're on perilous quests

- bakes small cakes or a batch of cookies for you when you're feeling blue

- is overrall a sly dog and sweet boyfriend that's *obsessed* with everything about you

[potatoplace]

this is me trying

ACOTAR x Archeron!Reader

The Afterthought: Chapter 3 | series masterlist

part 2 | part 4 | ACOTAR x reader masterlist

Story Summary: The day after your birthday is spent shopping for Solstice presents and a surprisingly pleasant conversation with one of your sisters. Winter Solstice proves to be a pleasant affair for you this year.

Warnings: self worth issues, discovering bisexuality, honestly there's not much here, it's a fairly fluffy chapter, lemme know if I missed something

Words: ~8.2k

Author's Note: here it is! It's only like... half of what I wanted to cover in this chapter, but I'm happy with what I've written. I hope you all like it! It's a bit nicer of a chapter, mainly fluff-ish with very little angst imo. (It's a lot nicer than I'd planned to be... lol) enjoooyyyy 🫶

18+ only pls

🤍🤍💝🤍🤍

You woke when the sky was still dark, the house beneath you quiet. Your body was still aching, the sharp pains having woken you from your dream of the cabin and your father.

Forcing yourself from the tub, you pulled your bedding back to its rightful place and drew a bath. The steaming hot water was the perfect remedy along with your fingers rubbing gentle circles over your lower abdomen.

The sky was just beginning to lighten when you dragged yourself from the bath and dressed, resolving to do you skincare when you returned from your mission.

Shopping for Feyre's birthday and Solstice was your one true goal for the day, and then you could hibernate for the two days before Solstice.

Your eyes roved over the stack of presents on your desk, catching on something you hadn't expected.

A plate with a piece of white chocolate raspberrry cake, a single candle sticking out of the slice. Along with it was a matchbook and a note. You tried to read it, but only got as far as deciphering who it was from- Feyre, from the signature at the bottom. Most likely an apology of some sort, but you could wait to have someone read it for you.

You turned your eyes to the cookbooks your sisters had gifted you. A sigh escaped your lips, and you walked over to look at them once more. The dessert book Elain had gifted you would be helpful for your gifting ideas- you wanted to give each couple, Mor and Azriel a box full of their favorite cookies and sweets.

Personal gifts would only be for Feyre, Mor and Azriel, seeing as it was Feyre's birthday, and Mor and Azriel had picked out more personal gifts for your own birthday. And of course Nuala and Cerridwen, you had always appreciated their willingness to share some of the cooking duties with you.

Mind settling back on the cookbook that Elain had given you, you flipped through it, attempting to identify everyone's favorites by the drawings accompanying the recipes.

Your head was starting to hurt.

A shake of your head and you closed the book, opting instead to tug on your coat and a hat, grabbing the cookbook before leaving your room, shutting the door behind you quietly.

Before you set out into the wintery city, you stopped by Nuala and Cerridwen's room, a soft knock on their door enough to have Nuala opening it.

"Could I come in?" You asked softly, trying to avoid waking those sleeping down the hall.

"Of course, Y/N," Nuala said with a smile, opening the door wider to let you slip inside, eyes catching sight of the book in your hands. "Did you need help reading a recipe?"

"Not quite, well... Yes, but I would also really appreciate if the two of you could help me find the recipes I need for Solstice presents, if you wouldn't mind?"

"Oh, I'd love to!" Cerridwen said once she had emerged from the bathroom, a towel still wrapped in her hair to dry. "Oo, a book of Solar Court desserts! I haven't seen this one before," the wraith said excitedly once she looked over the cover of the book. "Did you have anything particular in mind?"

"I was hoping we could find recipes for everyone's favorites, I'd like for all of them to have something they like. And maybe sugar cookies too, that could be decorated for Solstice."

"Ah, a challenge," Nuala smirked, a glimmer in her eyes. "Did you happen to want a little *help* making all of this?" She asked hopefully.

"If the two of you wouldn't mind, that would be lovely. But don't feel like you have to, please."

"Anything to help you out and spend a bit more time with you Y/N, it's been lonely cooking without you recently," Cerridwen reassured you, a gentle hand on your shoulder. "Now, let's get to finding those recipes, and Nuala and I will go shopping for any ingredients we'll need tomorrow if that's okay with you?"

You beamed at the twins, happy that they weren't upset at you disappearing on them for three weeks. "I would be so grateful to the two of you if you could help out. Thank you so much!"

The three of you sat down on Nuala's bed, flicking through the cookbook and marking each page that had a recipe you would need.

For Nesta, you would make thumbprint cookies with a blackberry jam- a dessert she had enjoyed since childhood, one that she had stared at hungrily for so long while your family had been impoverished. And for her mate, Cassian, you would bake lemon bars. He had absolutely devoured some at the Summer Solstice celebration this year, only leaving a few for everyone else.

Elain you would give chocolate dipped lacy cookies, her favorite treat to have with tea. Lucien would be receiving snickerdoodles, his favorite cookie and the first thing that Elain had baked for him.

Feyre absolutely adored thin lemon-ginger cookies, and with any possible morning sickness or nausea they could be a simple enough treat for her to have. For Rhys you would be making chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, made from his mother's recipe which Cerridwen had carefully tucked a copy of into the back of the cookbook for you to hold on to.

Mor would be getting lavender and pistachio macarons, snickerdoodles, and peanut butter fudge- the last you recipe you had stumbled across in the back of the book, and you knew it would be perfect for Azriel as well. For him you would be making the peanut butter fudge as well as a mint chocolate fudge, lemon bars, and peanut butter cookies. You hadn't seen him eat many sweets, but when he did they seemed to be either peanut butter, lemon, or mint, and you wanted to cover your bases.

And for everyone, and to give the three of you something to decorate, you would be making sugar cookies, hopefully in shapes resembling trees, ornaments, snowmen- really anything that would scream winter.

With the recipes picked out, the book left in the their care, and the twins' promise to gather the supplies, you set out for the Rainbow, in search of a present for Feyre.

The streets were quiet as you walked past rows of houses and apartments, the snow on the ground muffling everything.

It was easy to find the store you needed for the present you had in mind, the wood and paint scented air greeting you when you stepped inside. You glanced around, trying to familiarize yourself with the shop.

On your left was a wall of easels and canvases, the right taken up by every color of paint imaginable. You went to the left first after picking up a basket, setting nine small, square canvases inside before turning your eyes to look for rope and fasteners to connect all of them together. Your idea was for her to be able to paint one square per month of pregnancy, something to remember how she felt carrying her child.

"Did you need help finding something, love?" A female voice asked from the back of the shop, startling you out of your thoughts. You whipped around, eyes met with the sight of a beautiful fae, her skin shimmering in the light, constantly changing between the colors of the rainbow as she moved beneath it.

You managed to catch yourself from staring at her, your manners kicking in as you met her eyes- bright orange now, but you had a feeling that they would also change hue in different settings, the color shifting from a light sunrise to a burnt orange already.

"I was hoping to find some kind of rope to connect all of these, and something to fasten them to the actual canvas, if you have them," you replied shyly, your heart rate picking up as she came closer to you.

She was so pretty. You felt like you had months ago, staring at Cassian. But that was-

"I certainly do, love! They're on the other end of the shop, come with me," the fae said, her cool hand grasping yours and gently tugging you along with her. "What pattern were you wanting to put them in?"

"Uhm..." You tried to restart you brain, repeating the question in your head until you found its answer. "A three by three grid, I think."

She picked out several pieces of rope, as well as a small bag filled with pronged pieces of metal. "This should be enough of both, but if you need more you know where to find them now!" You nodded and followed her as she made her way to the counter in the back. "My name is Irina, by the way," she said as she bagged your items and wrote out a receipt.

"I'm Y/N." Just introducing yourself made your face flush, your mind replaying her name as you watched her fingers write.

"Oh, Feyre's sister?" Irina asked you, her eyes flicking up to meet yours once again. You nodded in confirmation, and she smiled. "I was wondering when I might happen across the youngest, I've already met your other sisters as well. Feyre's studio is just a few buildings down, and she comes in quite often for supplies. How has Velaris treated you so far?"

"Oh, uhm... It's a lovely city, truly. How... How much do I owe you?" You asked, trying to steer the conversation to a more pleasant topic.

"Eight gold marks, but I've already charged the account on file for you, Y/N."

You gave her a grateful smile. "Thank you, Irina. You have a beautiful shop here, I can see why Feyre comes in."

"Why thank you, Y/N! I'm very proud of it, and even more proud that our High Lady chooses my paints to use for her masterpieces," Irina sighed happily. "I hope the rest of your shopping goes well, love."

"I'm sure it will, thank you," you said with a smile before turning and slowly exiting her shop, your heart still racing from her presence.

You walked lazily through the Rainbow, eyes glossing over beautiful paintings and woven tapestries. You had nearly reached the end of it, almost in the Palace of Hoof and Leaf when you saw a stall that truly caught you eye.

Hairpins.

As children, the one purely material thing that you and Feyre had yearned for were hairpins. A woman in the village had made them by hand, delicate sticks with delicately crafted flowers attached to one end, sometimes with small gems dangling on short chains. They were far out of your price range while destitute, and you had almost entirely forgotten about your desire for one after your family had regained their fortune.

The ones from the village paled in comparison to these absolute works of art, lifelike flowers made of gems with matching petals dripping from them, secured only by small metal chains. Some had strings of pearls falling from them, others with a chain of sparkling diamonds.

You approached the stall, fingers hovering over the beautiful hairpins, but you were too afraid to touch them.

"Hello," the female behind the stall said, her silver skin shining, even shaded from the winter sun that had started shining brightly while you had been in Irina's shop. "Were you looking to buy a hairpin today?"

You smiled bashfully at her. "I might be, I'm not sure yet. They are absolutely beautiful, though."

The female beamed at you. "Thank you very much. They also double as a dagger, if needed," she said, pulling a thin sheath off of one of the hairpins, revealing a thin, sharp piece of ash wood. "They only open for the person it belongs to, so long as you place a small dot of blood on the sheath, it will appear as a simple hairpin. They're rather handy, for us females to keep around..." she trailed off.

Having something... Something to protect you could be nice, even if it wouldn't be much help in the end. But for peace of mind... And it could be nice for Feyre to have one, in case her magic is drained from her somehow...

Your eyes trailed back down to the hairpin that had drawn you to the stall.

A silver sheath with pink hydrangeas on the end, tiny flowers dripping down a short chain, tinier diamonds filling in the spaces between them. It was absolute perfection.

Another silver hairpin drew your eyes, this one with crescent moon at the end, a large sapphire hanging between its edges. Dangling from its bottom edge were two chains that met an inch down to continue as one, covered in small sapphires and glittering diamonds. Very Feyre.

"I'll take the both of these, please," you said as you lightly tapped both of them, not quite trusting yourself to hold them and not drop them.

"Ah, those are two lovely picks. May I ask who they are for?"

"The flowers are for me, the moon for my sister," you answered, watching as she carefully placed each in a velvet bag.

"What account would you like to credit it to?" She asked once she had tied off the bags, opening up the thick ledger next to her.

"Uh... Y/N Archeron, I suppose?"

"Ahh, the High Lady's human sister! If the crescent pin is for her, you chose perfectly," she said with a wink as she handed the hairpins to you.

Your nose scrunched as you smiled, "It is, and I thought so as well. Thank you so much...?"

"Opal. I'm always happy to sell my work to appreciative eyes," she said with a sparkle in her eyes.

"I may be back for another, at some point. Have a happy Solstice," you said cheerily as you left her stall, walking carefully after you spotted a patch of gleaming ice.

"The same to you, Y/N!"

The Palace of Hoof and Leaf proved perfect for finding tins for the sweets you would be baking, with an entire store dedicated to gift boxes.

Nesta and Cassian would be receiving one with a scene of the Illyrian mountains, a blazing bonfire the centerpiece, flanked by said mountains in the distance. For Elain and Lucien you picked a scene reminiscent of spring, a pond surrounded by trees with a clearing in front of it. In the clearing is a small, brown bunny, watched from bushes by a red fox. Very fitting, considering how Feyre always called Lucien a fox.

Rhys and Feyre would be getting a box decorated with the three peaks of Ramiel in the dead of night, a bright silver moon and speckles of stars lighting the sky. Perfect for the High Lord and Lady of Night.

Mor is receiving a tin with the view of Velaris at night from the House of Wind, what she had told you was her favorite view of the city.

And for Azriel, you chose one covered by a view of the sea from the cliffs of Velaris, late into a sunset.

You were satisfied with your choices, and left the Palace to cross the river and enter the Palace of Thread and Jewels.

Here, you found most everything else that you needed.

For Nuala, you got a new set of embroidery hoops as you had noticed hers were a bit worn, and truly she could never have enough seeing how many projects she had going at all times. In the same shop you picked out a variety of threads, including a selection of metal threads as she had mentioned a month or two ago that she wanted to try using them.

Before you left, you picked up a few skeins of soft yarn in jewel shades for Cerridwen, as well as a pair of knitting needles that were charmed to not lose any stitches if you accidentally dropped them.

You wandered further into the Palace, eyes grazing over beautiful gowns and spools of fabrics before they caught on something.

Red leather thigh high boots, a pair of matching gloves displayed in the same window.

That was a perfect present for Mor. You had even seen her in a pair of similar boots in black, so you knew they were her style.

And red. Her absolute favorite.

The boots and gloves were purchased quickly, tucked into a bag that you slung over you arm with the other two. You continued your journey, looking now for something for Azriel.

Quickly though, you found another present for the twins. A nice apron for both of them, one in a pale golden color with a silver moon and stars embroidered along the chest for Nuala, and a midnight blue apron, with similar silver stitching for Cerridwen. A nice apron always made you happy, and these ones seemed cute enough and close enough to each twin's typical color palette that they might wear them.

You ended up finding a nicely bound pale blue diary, almost the exact shade of Feyre's eyes.

If she was going to document her pregnancy in paint, she may as well have the option to document it in writing.

You explored the last few buildings of the Palace before giving up on a gift for Azriel from the shops it contained. You'd rarely seen him in anything but his Illyrian leathers, so you couldn't pick out a piece of clothing that you knew he would like. And he seemed to have all the gloves he would need, nearly always having a pair on hand.

The only thing you could think of...

Perfect!

You made your way back across the Sidra, through the Palace of Hoof and Leaf, and passed through the Rainbow before landing in the Palace of Flame and Steel.

You were searching for a dagger.

The Shadowsinger always had a dagger on him, if not an entire belt of them. Surely he could always use one more?

Twenty minutes spent wandering through the Palace had you shivering and slightly frustrated. Nothing seemed right for him, the hilts either entirely plain or completely encrusted in jewels.

While you were sure the plain would be just fine, you wanted something that seemed like him.

Not that you knew him very well.

You frowned as you entered a shop, its display window filled with knives, swords, and axes. Warm air rushed over you, smoothing your smile into a neutral expression as you took in the overwhelming amount of weapons inside.

An entire side of the shop was dedicated to knives and short swords, which you immediately gravitated towards.

There was some of the same fare you had seen outside, yes, but most of the knives had subtly decorated hilts, a good middle ground in your opinion.

You picked over them carefully with your eyes, trying to find one that Azriel may actually like to have. It was difficult, but you finally found one that you thought he might like. Fairly simple, a five inch blade with a black leather hilt, a small sapphire crescent moon on both ends of it. The gems matched his many siphons, and the knife came with a plain black leather sheath, a metal clip on one end so he could attach it to a belt if he wanted.

Your final purchase completed, you trudged back to the River House, taking as long as you could. You knew at this point that people would be awake and buzzing about, and you hardly wanted to speak with any of them. All you wanted was to put your Solstice presents away, make some tea in the new pot Azriel had gifted you, and eat the slice of cake that had been brought to your room some time last night.

Still, you dragged yourself back inside, shaking the snow off of your boots before you shut the door behind you. Quiet chatter was coming from the living room, but you paid it no mind as you snuck upstairs, shutting the door behind you softly.

The bags of presents were slid underneath the bed for safekeeping and to be away from any prying eyes. The only thing you kept out was your hairpin, the velvet bag soft as sin beneath your fingertips.

Should you...? Yes.

You shrugged off your hat and put it back in its spot, then your coat and replaced it on its hanger, leaving you in your dark blue wool dress and winter boots. Those were next, changed instead to your warm and fuzzy pink slippers.

Gently, you used the inside of the hairpin to prick your finger, and after replacing the sheath placed a drop of blood onto the metal, which sunk into it a moment later.

You went into the bathroom, your brand new hairpin in hand, and brushed out your hair. It took a couple of tries, but soon enough you had your hair secured in a bun, hairpin stuck through the middle. The petal chain hung down, and the sight of it in your hair made you tear up a bit.

Leaving the bathroom and going to your desk, you picked out a tea from the sampler that Azriel had gifted you, this one a strawberry green tea. You then pulled your new teapot and cups out of their box and braved the walk downstairs to the kitchen with all the items you needed for your relaxing afternoon, hopefully followed by a restful sleep.

When you entered the kitchen, it was blissfully empty, the rest of your family seemingly chatting in the living room, the buzz of which you could just barely hear.

Water was set to boil and you quickly washed the teapot and cups, a dish towel drying them just before the water began to boil. Tea leaves were poured into the strainer, hot water poured slowly and evenly over them.

It could almost be an art, you think.

"Oh, Y/N," Feyre said from behind you, just as you set the kettle back on the stove. "Could we- could I join you for tea? In your room I would guess?"

Lip between your teeth, you thought on it. As far as you could tell, Feyre hadn't wanted your birthday to turn into her pregnancy celebration. She had noticed you hadn't had cake...

"I suppose. For a cup," you replied, attempting to set a boundary with her.

Feyre nodded her head in agreement, a soft smile on her face as she watched you place two cups on a tray, the other two finding a place together in a cupboard. You waited another minute before removing the leaves, emptying the strainer and washing it. Once the pot of tea was on the tray, the two of you went up the stairs and into your room.

The tray went on your dresser, and you gestured for Feyre to take the squishy armchair in the corner of the room as you poured tea for the both of you. You passed Feyre her cup before pulling the chair at your desk over to her and sitting, your own cup of tea in hand. A cramp rippled through you, but you forced down any discomfort so that you could get this conversation out of the way.

"How are you feeling? Any morning sickness at all?" You asked Feyre, blowing on your tea after.

"A bit, but I've been having some ginger tea as soon as I wake up, and that seems to have helped." Feyre paused, taking a sip of her tea. "Mm, I like this one. Is it one that Azriel got you?" You nodded, taking your own sip. It was good. "And the tea set he got you is really pretty. I... I really didn't want for your birthday to end that way, Y/N. We tried to hide my scent but I guess something went wrong or... I don't know, but I feel so bad that we ignored you again," Feyre said tearily. "I really didn't want that to happen, I swear."

You sighed as you looked at her. You had already suspected it, but it still hurts. "I know you didn't Feyre, but it's still... It wasn't fair to me."

"I know it wasn't. I'm so sorry, I don't... I don't know how to make it up to you," she said quietly. "I... We're all going up to the cabin the day before Solstice, and staying through the night of Solstice. Did you... Did you want to come? Or you could stay here, if you'd prefer. I know last year was... Well, Nesta..."

Your mouth fell into a straight line as you thought back on last Solstice.

An absolute nightmare.

Nesta had been overly aggressive to you, still fully controlled by her rage and new mating bond. And just, overall, you had felt so out of place and unwelcome in the otherwise cozy cabin.

And on your cycle? Contained to an even smaller area?

"I'd rather not, if that's... If it's alright with you, Feyre," you said hesitantly, taking a nervous sip of tea after you finished speaking.

Feyre nodded her head in understanding. "I thought you might not, so I have one small ask: Would you be willing to have lunch with me on Solstice? I still want to see you, and spend time with you, if you'd like?"

The request was something you hadn't expected from your sister. Lunch?

"I think... I think that would be nice, Feyre. I'd like that."

Feyre's expression lightened at your acceptance, though her eyes still held unshed tears. "Really? Oh, thank you Y/N, I'm so excited to spend some one on one time with you!" Feyre said, as close to a squeal as you thought she would ever get. "And I do have a Solstice present for you too, I wanted to make sure you were celebrated then too." Feyre finished off her cup of tea and stood, placing it on the tray before standing in front of you. "Could I... Have a hug?"

A small smile played on your lips from the hesitant way she asked. You simply stood from your chair and set down your teacup before pushing yourself into her arms, savoring the warmth of her as you held each other.

"I'm looking forward to it too, Feyre. And I have a few presents for you too, so we can do a little exchange," you said once you pulled away from her. You looked at her- really looked at her. Your smile grew. "You're pregnant!"

Feyre was grinning as the tears finally fell from her eyes. "I am! I never thought- I never thought I would find a man that I would actually like enough, Y/N," she confessed through her tears.

"I know you didn't, Fey. I'm so happy you found Rhys."

The two of you embraced again, this time in joy of her expected child.

"Well, I should get back to work, I think. I've been planning an after-Solstice revel for the Hewn City as a way of breaking some of the barriers between us, but dealing with Kier..." Feyre sighed. "He's such a pain, but I don't truly have anything against the other citizens, so I'm pushing through. You're welcome to come, if you'd like?"

You instantly shook your head. "No, the one time I went I was so uncomfortable, I think I'd rather hear about any drama after, please."

Feyre's head bobbed. "I thought that might be the case. No worries there, sissy, but... You will come to Starfall, yes?"

"I'll be at Starfall, Fey, don't worry," you reassured her as the two of you made your way to your bedroom door. "Good luck with the planning, from what Mor has said about Keir he's... kind of the worst, right?"

Feyre chuckled. "He definitely is, Y/N. I'll see you later."

"See you later, Fey," you said, watching as she walked down the hallway. Your door shut softly, and you returned to your tray of tea.

One more cup, and you would do your skincare. And a bit of cake, as well.

🤍🤍💝🤍🤍

Two days later and the Inner Circle was departing for the winter wonderland of a cabin Rhys had, and you were in the living room seeing them off with Nuala and Cerridwen.

"Have a good time!" You said cheerily, mainly to Feyre and Mor.

"Oh, I'm sure we will," Feyre laughed, sending a mischievous look to her mate before turning back to you. "I'll see you tomorrow at noon, right?"

You nodded in agreement. "Definitely, Fey."

"Good! Have a good day here, you two take care of her, alright?" Feyre asked the twins, who nodded enthusiastically. "I'll see you tomorrow!"

She and Rhys winnowed off, taking Cassian and Nesta with them, along with their bags.

"Y/N, I had an idea, if you're up for it?" Mor asked once they had left, taking Feyre's previous spot in front of you.

"Depends on what it is, Mor."

"Well, I thought that I could come back ahead of everyone else tomorrow night, and the two of us could have a cozy little sleepover! Lots of hot cocoa, chocolate, staying up all night talking. How does that sound?"

You grinned at her, so happy to have her as a friend. "I would love that Mor!"

"Perfect! I'll most likely be back before dinner, but I will send a note if I'm going to be late." Mor's expression matched your own as she turned to leave, taking Elain, Lucien, and Azriel with her as she winnowed.

And then you were alone with the twins in the River House, much quieter than it had been all morning.

"So... Are you two fine with starting to bake now?" You asked both of them.

"That sounds perfect, Y/N!" Nuala said, clapping her hands together.

"We do have a Solstice present that we'd like to give you early, though," Cerridwen offered.

You thought back to the aprons you had gotten for the two of them. "In that case, I have one for each of you as well."

"Meet in the kitchen in five minutes?" Nuala asked.

"That sounds fine," you said, already rushing over to the stairs.

As promised, the three of you reconvened in the kitchen a few minutes later, all of you holding presents behind your backs.

You passed the two gift bags over to them, and they both handed you a small box.

They insisted that you go first, so you carefully opened the wrapping paper, then the boxes, met with your own set of pink measuring cups and spoons, their size engraved into the handles in the first box. In the second was something that looked similar to a magnifying glass, but the twins showed you its use quickly by having it hover over the recipe book Elain had gifted you.

The glass read out the title, "Decadent Desserts of the Solar Courts of Prythian," and tears filled your eyes.

"It will help you read recipes, or notes, anything really, if the two of us aren't available. We thought it would be a nice gift, seeing how your family has forgotten to teach you to read. This way, you can teach yourself," Nuala explained softly as she passed the glass back to you.

"Not that we wouldn't love to teach you, but... I don't think your feelings about that have changed yet, right?" Cerridwen asked.

You wiped the tears from your eyes as you nodded. "Yes, but this is... This is such a fantastic gift, thank you both so much." You wrapped your arms around the two of them, feeling like you were embracing sisters. "Go ahead and open your presents, I know they aren't much-"

"Oh nonsense!" Nuala interrupted you as she pulled out her apron, running her shadowy fingers over the golden fabric. "This is beautiful, Y/N!"

"I love it, oh, look! They have matching embroidery, Nuala!" Cerridwen said excitedly, running her fingers over the stitching. "These are just perfect, Y/N, thank you." It was your turn to be embraced by them, and you gladly soaked in their kind words and true enjoyment of the present you had gotten them.

"Now that we have presents done, should we get to baking?" You asked, already moving to pull out mixing bowls.

"There's no time like the present," Nuala said, and the two of them sprung into action, grabbing necessary ingredients and cookie sheets.

Baking with the two of them was a wonderful experience, as it always was, but today felt a bit different.

It felt like you were finally having the family holiday time you had craved, baking for Solstice with both of the twins.

The time flew by, and by the end of the day the three of you had made nearly everything you had wanted for tomorrow, the only sweet left unfinished was the sugar cookies. The dough for those was left in the cold box, and all of the other sweets were left on the counters overnight.

Together, the three of you made and enjoyed a hot meal, and ended the night sipping tea and eating a few of the goodies you had made earlier.

The next morning was easy, pleasant as you cut out little trees, ornaments, stockings. You all giggled over your attempts to make an Illyrian cookie, which turned out more like winged blobs.

While they were cooling, Nuala and Cerridwen made frostings in every color possible, and you packed up the tins of sweets for your family members.

Nuala helped you write out little notes of well wishes for each couple, and an extra one for Mor and Azriel stating that you had an extra Solstice present for them that you would give them in person.

And with the presents out of the way, the three of you decorated sugar cookies for the rest of the morning, the color schemes and designs getting more and more questionable as time went on.

That's how Feyre found you at noon, walking into the kitchen after winnowing back from the cabin.

"Feyre!" You exclaimed, dashing around the counter to pull her into your arms. "Happy birthday! Do you feel any older yet?"

"Thank you Y/N," Feyre giggled, squeezing you back. "Not yet, I still feel like a baby."

"Well, you are a baby still, Fey. At least compared to most of Velaris," you said cheekily, smiling when she swatted your shoulder gently.

"Yes well... This baby and my baby are hungry, are you ready to leave for lunch?"

You nodded. "Let me get my coat and boots on, and then we can go."

"Okay, I'll be here," Feyre smiled, and then her eyes locked on the cookies. "Can I have one?"

"Of course you can have one Fey, you're the birthday girl after all!" You said before you left the room, hurrying up the stairs to grab your outerwear.

By the time you returned to the kitchen, Feyre was sitting on a stool, decorating a cookie with precise strokes, turning one of the blobby cookies into something that resembled Rhys.

"That's a pretty cookie, Fey."

Feyre's head snapped up from where she had been entirely focused on her decorating. A light blush dusted her cheeks as she said, "Thank you, sissy. The girls told me you all tried to make Illyrians, and I thought they were just too cute to not do one of Rhysie."

"Well, you did a lovely job. Shall we go?"

Feyre nodded and stood from her stool, licking a small bit of frosting off of her thumb. "You made some really good cookies, Y/N. Are all of the tins filled with them?"

You shook your head. "No, they're filled with everyone's favorites, the sugar cookies were more for everyone. When you go back to the cabin, would you be able to take them with you? If not, I can give them out tomorrow."

The two of you walked to the front door, you opening it for Feyre and shutting it behind you. "I should be able to manage that just fine, sissy. Now, I was thinking we could go to Arlina's, I feel like pasta."

"Pasta sounds nice," you replied, letting Feyre lead you at a leisurely pace, locked arm in arm as the two of you took in the snow covered city.

Arlina's was a cozy little bistro only a few blocks away from the River House, tucked between some apartment buildings. You had been there once before, a few months after you had been brought to Velaris.

Once the two of you were seated across from each other in a booth, you pretended to look over the menu, but you already knew you would be getting the same thing you had last time. It had been very good, and you also wouldn't have to ask for help reading the menu...

The food was as good as you remembered, and your and Feyre's conversation stayed light, mainly focused on Feyre's duties and her hopes for her future, now that she has a little one on the way. You preferred talking about her, talking about your life right now... Would be a bit of a mood killer. And today was about Feyre.

During dessert- a delicious crème brûlée that you and Feyre shared- Feyre started to fidget.

Not much, but enough that you noticed.

"Yes, Fey?"

Feyre sighed at being caught. "You know how Starfall is coming up?" She asked.

Your narrowed your eyes in suspicion. "Yes?"

"I was hoping that you would go dress shopping with me- us," she corrected. "I want you to feel included, and it would be really nice to go dress shopping as sisters, like we were never able to."

Your first instinct was to say no, but this was Feyre. Feyre, who was sitting across from you and giving you her best puppy dog eyes.

You sighed. "Fine, but can you tell the two of them to behave again? I know that they have... Issues with me, but I would like to feel comfortable in a room with them again at some point."

"Oh, I've already told them to behave. Honestly I should have done it so long ago, it's not fair to you. From now on I'll do my best to make sure you can feel comfortable in the family again, okay?" Feyre said honestly, and you finally believed her.

"Okay. What day were you thinking about going?"

"I was thinking in two days time, I have a few meetings tomorrow, and that revel I was telling you about, so most of us will be busy then."

You nodded your head. Two days. You could prepare yourself for Nesta and Elain's inevitable scrutiny over two days. Especially with your evening plans with Mor tonight. "That sounds fine to me, Fey."

Feyre smiled at you widely before taking another bite of dessert.

🤍💝🩵💝🤍

The rest of your afternoon with Feyre flew by, your short walk back to the River House led to presents.

You had given her her gifts first, soaking in the absolute joy in her eyes when she realized that you had gotten her two gifts for her pregnancy journey, already telling you about what she wanted to paint for the first month. And the hairpin she absolutely adored, promising to wear it tomorrow night to the revel after sealing it with her own drop of blood, as you had with yours.

She had nervously handed over your own Solstice present, an apron that she had made for you. It was in a light pink, with slightly clumsily sown stitching, but you loved it so much. Something that she had made, just for you.

You had bid her goodbye after the two of you decorate a few more cookies, her arms now loaded with two bags, filled with tins of sweets.

You made Nuala and Cerridwen rest while you cleaned up, taking care to get every last bit of dough or sugar off of the counters and each dish cleaned.

After, you retired for your room for a while, a bit of light cramping having you in the bath again, soaking in the heat.

Just a few minutes after you had finished getting dressed, you heard Mor yelling something from downstairs.

With your slippers on, you exited your room and went downstairs, happy to see an excited looking Mor sitting in the living room, a couple of gift bags sitting on the coffee table in front of her.

"Happy Solstice!" The blonde said brightly, bouncing out of her seat to wrap you in her arms.

"Happy Solstice to you too, Mor," you giggled after she let you go, air returning to your lungs. "Did you want to do presents now?" You asked, gesturing to the bags on the table.

"If you'd like, or we could wait a little bit. I'm fine with either!"

"I'll go get yours, then," you said, and did exactly that, returning a few moments later, excitedly shoving a bag into her arms. "Open it!"

Mor did so, gasping when she pulled the boots out, and squealing when she saw the matching gloves. "Oh mother Y/N, these are perfect! Thank you so much!" The blonde exclaimed, pulling you into a hug. A playful look crossed her face, a smirk on her lips as she said, "Do you know what these would be perfect for?" You shook your head. "That stupid revel tomorrow! I'm already wearing this tiny little black dress, and these would look stunning with it."

"That does sound like a good time to debut them, it'll probably drive Keir up the wall," you joked.

"Yes it will," Mor sighed happily. "Now, open your gifts! Honestly I should have given them to you earlier, now that I think about it, but they'll still be useful."

Mor had given you several pairs of underwear, these specifically spelled with cycles in mind, making it so there was no noticeable scent, and also designed to come clean with no staining every time. In the same bag was a square herb filled pack, designed to be heated and kept against your skin as a way of minimizing the pain of cycles. Both were such thoughtful gifts, but you were most excited for the underwear. That meant less scathing looks from your judgmental sisters.

The second bag contained a large assortment of bath products, from bubble bath soap to deliciously scented bar soaps, to salt mixes that were supposed to help with aching muscles. She had managed to fit in a bath pillow, one that's able to get wet without being ruined, as well as a few face masks that appeared to lay over your face.

"Mor, these are such wonderful presents, thank you," you said gratefully, pulling her into a hug.

"I thought you might like them," Mor chuckled. "After all, you can never have too many self-care products in my humble opinion."

"Mhm. Humble," you giggled at her. "Did you have anything specific planned for tonight, or are we winging it?"

"Well, I thought we could do some extra skincare, I've already got an order of food in at Sevenda's- I got you curry." You nodded in approval. "And we can talk about how amazing those macarons you made were!"

You blushed under her gaze. "Nuala and Cerridwen helped..."

"Oh, it was all you, Y/N. I'm sure they helped a bit but you are such a wizard with baking!"

You almost went to deny her praise again, but thought better of it when she narrowed her eyes playfully at you.

"Skincare?"

"Skincare," Mor smiled, and let you lead her up the stairs and to your room.

The evening you spent with Mor was great, the two of you eating your takeout in your bed once it arrived, clay masks on your faces. You talked about the last couple days, Mor complaining about how the citizens of the Hewn City treat her, you opening up about how hurt you were over your sisters' gifts.

"I can't believe they forgot, though, Y/N. That's not something small, and I'm shocked that they haven't attempted to teach you yet..." Mor said disapprovingly. "I could help you, if you'd like?"

You shook your head immediately. "No, I'll be able to teach myself now, with a gift the twins got for me. It reads out the words it passes over, isn't that neat?" You asked, hoping she would understand that you'd rather not speak about the subject much.

"That was very thoughtful of them, I wish I'd thought of it!" Mor sighed. "I do hope that you feel more welcome here, now? Than a few weeks ago, I mean."

You glanced at her, seeing the emotion in her face. "I am, Mor. You've been a big part of it, I hope you know," you said softly.

"Good, I'm glad I can help. And you're just such a lovely person, it's hard not to want to spend time with you."

You blushed once more under her gaze. "Thank you, Mor."

"Any time, love."

The endearment she used had a pretty face flashing in your mind, a question on your tongue.

"Is it..." you trailed off, unsure if you wanted to ask the question.

"Is it... what?"

"Is it... normal...? To... to uhm..." you started nervously. "Is it normal to like girls...?" You asked Mor quietly, half hoping she would ignore your question.

"Like... To like girls as friends, or... To like girls like boys?" Mor asked cautiously.

"The... uhm... Boys."

Mor sighed, but not one of disapproval. You didn't think...

"Of course it's normal to like girls in that way, sweets. Maybe not for everyone, but I know that... I know that I do," Mor answered softly.

You turned your face to her, finding her cheeks pink, maybe for the first time since you had known her. "Really?"

"Yes, I've known for a couple of centuries, now. I still like boys some, but... I do find girls much more interesting." Relief flooded your heart at her words. "Can I... Ask what brought this on?"

"Oh, well... When I went shopping for Solstice presents, I met this really pretty shop owner, Irina? And I... I felt how I used to feel around... Cassian," you admitted.

"Well, Irina is very pretty," Mor said wistfully. "You have good taste," she joked as she nudged you gently with her elbow, getting you to smile.

"I do, don't I?" You giggled, feeling lighter with how accepting and calm she had been. The two of you sat in silence for a minute, before you had an idea. You looked over at Mor, a glint in your eyes. "What do you say to eating far too many cookies and passing out from so much sugar?"

Mor's eyes shined brightly in the candlelight of your room. "I say yes."

The two of you snuck downstairs, even though you didn't need to, it just felt right with the copious amounts of sugar you were about to consume.

You set to making a pot of tea while Mor grabbed a sinful amount of cookies and set them on the tray. She carried everything up to your room, you trailing behind her.

Mor had grabbed all of the sugar cookies that you and the twins had decorated all silly, including several deformed Illyrians that the three of you had attempted to make look like the three in the Inner Circle. Plus one of the ornaments that Cerridwen had written swear words on, claiming that she 'couldn't fit any other words on them.'

After a bit more talking, and all cookies eaten, Mor left your room so the both of you could change, and returned a few minutes later with hot chocolate for the both of you, a mound of whipped cream nearly overflowing from the mug.

"I'm really glad you suggested this, Mor," you said quietly once the two of you had laid down in your bed, all candles extinguished. "It's been really nice."

"I'm glad I did too, Y/N. This is a lot more fun than the bickering that I'm sure happened tonight at the cabin, that lot can never go too long in a confined space without arguing about something," Mor complained lightheartedly.

"You included, Miss Morrigan." Mor scoffed at the implication. "Tell me that you don't enjoy the drama a little, hmm?" She remained silent, and you giggled. "That's what I thought."

"Well, it's not my fault that they're so easy to bicker with..." Mor said sulkily before yawning. "Alright, I'm exhausted. Who knew eating cookies and takeout could be so tiring?"

"Not me," you said, yawning a moment after. "I guess that's our cue to try and sleep," you laughed.

"Sounds like a plan to me," Mor said quietly, her breathing evening out a bit as she tried to sleep.

You tried to do the same, but it took a while, with the now unfamiliar noise of someone sleeping near you. But soon enough, you had drifted off into a peaceful sleep, cushioned comfortably for the first time in months.

🤍💝❤️💝🤍

General Taglist: @daughterofthemoons-stuff @lilah-asteria @meritxellao

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[canidaefello]

Requested by @merry-andrews

‼️ ⚠️ : possessive and controlling behavior

Homelander marriage headcanons:

When he proposes, he doesn’t give you the option to say no. He pops the most beautiful ring on your finger with a smile, and already has a wedding date set up.

He’ll propose to you a second time for the cameras in the most beautiful, corny and extravagant way. Of course he knows you’re not gonna say no either when there’s so many eyes on you.

He confidently insists he doesn’t need a prenup. It’s not that he doesn’t want one, he knows he doesn’t need it.

Homelanders a groomzilla. He needs to approve your attire for the big day, needs to put the wedding in a chapel to give that wholesome American feel to the public. He makes the colors American flag themed of course. Anyone wearing white dies. Anyone breaking the dress code at all dies.

He really means his vows about never leaving you.

He loves calling you his spouse, it makes him feel all warm inside knowing you’re his.

He’s known as the “wife guy” type where he loves to talk and brag about you any chance he gets, and he knows people can’t tell him to shut up.

Anyone jokingly referring to you as the “old ball and chain” get chewed out, or glared at if they’re lucky.

He makes Ryan call you his new parent, of course.

Homelander expects a more traditional masc/fem relationship now that you’re married, he’s not gonna say this outright though. He’ll just keep saying stuff like “why don’t you quit your job and let me work? You’re married to the most powerful man on earth, you shouldn’t have to worry about work” “I can take care of everything” “hey this shelf is pretty dusty” “I got you my cookbook, you can keep yourself busy with this”.

He’s generally so much happier now that he knows that its til death do you part. Hes gotten slightly nicer to Ashley and the rest of The Seven.

He likes the quote “happy wife, happy life”, so he’s gonna make sure you’re happy. Not in a way that conflicts with his satisfaction, but wants to make sure people treat you like royalty.

If you don’t already have a dog, he’s gifting you a puppy, a golden retriever or a doodle of some kind. He wants you to get practice in for raising a baby soon.

He will never forget your anniversary. He will however get pissed if you do.

Loves to fiddle with his wedding ring when he’s nervous.

Hates that he has to wear gloves over his ring.

If you accidentally lose your ring, he gets worried and searches everywhere, even though he could replace it in one second.

[littlemssam]

Mod Updates

As always delete old Mods Files and the localthumbcache, when updating my Mods!

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Ask to Cook/Bake/Grill/Mix Drink! (including Cupcakes and Experimental Food) Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Ask to Go for a Walk & Bath (Dogs) Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Ask to Upgrade Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Auto Employees | Custom Lot Trait Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Autonomous Gardening Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters. No Talking Addons merged into one Package, so delete old Files!

Call a Babysitter Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Can I come over? Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Chores Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Cookbooks Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Dog Walker & Dog Jogger Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

First Love Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Foster Family Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in some SimFilters

Give a Gift & More Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Let Friends Age Up Small Tweak to the Pie Menu so it will always shows up

Miscarriage Chance & Abortion - Miscarriage Part Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Miscarriage Chance & Abortion - Abortion Part Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

My Pets Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Personal Objects (Computer, Tablets & more) Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Quick Walk (with the Dog) Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Romantic Massage Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Roommates Ghosts and Infants should be available as Roommates now. Assign Beds should show up on Murphy Beds as well now.

Send Sims to Bed Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Small Invite to Hang Out Overhaul Added Support for some more Simpicker Travel With Interactions. Even through Ghosts are playable now, EA does not allow NPC Ghosts to be chooseable to Travel with, I "fixed" that in the Mod now.

Social Activities (Visit Friends, Family and more) Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Ultrasound Scan Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Unlock/Lock Doors for chosen Sims Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

Random Small Mods

Purchased Items delievered via Mail Added Support for more Purchase Interactions on Computer. Added (Delivered via Mail) Text to supported Purchase Interactions, so it is easier to see which ones are edited by the Mod.

Special Paddock Gate & Stable Stall Door Removed Blacklist of Ghosts in SimFilters

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My Site with all possible Download Links: lms-mods.com

Support Questions via Discord only please!

[bleedingichorhearts]

𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐬

𝕬𝖚𝖙𝖍𝖔𝖗: I wanted to do something with just the Tarnished. Would this be considered Teratophilia? They are not entirely human, are they?

𝕬𝖉𝖉𝖎𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖆𝖑 𝕹𝖔𝖙𝖊𝖘: The Tarnished is a completely imaginable character. You create the Tarnished yourself. This can be considered true or not. “They/Them/Their” will be used to describe a singular Tarnished.

𝕾𝖚𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖗𝖞: Smut & Normal headcanons for the Tarnished.

TW // Smut, Teratophilia.

|°ᴛᴀɢ ʟɪꜱᴛ ᴀᴘᴘʟɪᴄᴀᴛɪᴏɴ°| |°ɪᴄʜᴏʀ’ꜱ ᴀᴏ3°| |°𝕄𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕃𝕚𝕤𝕥°|

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫: 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝

"An unbearable fate for those who are a Tarnished. Their golden hue of their eyes leaving them. Their souls unable to rest, have lost the grace of the Erdtree, banished and are... maidenless."

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜/𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜:

Stright up, and of course, they do not speak. Actions tell more words type of Tarnished. They will speak to you with their body language, or maybe with a stick drawing into the ground. It's a bit confusing at first. It just seemed like squiggles to you until you realized 1: they might have lost some brain cells each time they die or 2: they could be so old they are writing ancient tongue, but you get a hang of it after (quite) a while. Their ability to just spawn back from the dead becoming really handy for their dedication to 'talk' to you.

On the subject of their dedication. These Tarnished are the most determined in the The Lands Between and out, considering their life is just full of rebirth; trial and error: over and over and over and over again. You have to honestly question their dedication when you keep seeing them after their death so many times. The first time they had died and reappeared actually scared you, but you suppose it was alright considering they have given you a gift when they did...

Gifting, it's one of their strong suits... in a way. Their gifts could range from: Stormhawk Feather's, Erdleaf Flower, Bloodrose, all the way to Sliver of meat and Crab eggs. It's not the best for the last two, but hey. If you have a cookbook for them, and you're hungry, maybe it's actually a great gift? Plus, you can feed them as repayment. However, if they are really dedicated and you return such an interest to them. They gift you a Rune, more or so a Rune Arc, but who knows if you're lucky enough for them to show their... true devotion to you with a Great Rune. They do not give those up easily; if not ever.

With gifting Sliver of meat and crab eggs. You might find more than you bargained for if you accept those foods. They can be like a cat bring back its kill to show you how well they did. Plopping a Eagel, Ram, or a damn Giant Land Octopus down at your feet: ripping a part off of them and offering it to you. You reject? Sad li’ knight, they will not gift you another body for a while. You accept? They’ll go hunt some more things for you, no matter how hard it is. For you to use as trophies, as evidence of their hard, devoted work.

Oh, they love your approval. From being banished and loosing everything they had… It’s reasonable they want your approval, attention and may have developed abandonment issues. They want nothing more to stay close to you, but at the same time. Their goal of having to become an Elden Lord and wanting to be near you; wanting your approval. It messes them up a bit. With the abandonment part? They won’t “say” anything about it, but you can tell they have it by how dedicated they stand by you. Having their full faith in you to not betray them; banish them like they have been before.

They would fight, defend or even act upon vengeance for you. Those lesser knights annoying you? Trying to beckon you closer? You don’t have to say nothing and they are killing them off, whether if it’s in front of you or not. Arrow incoming? They pull you in a roll with them or block it with their shield, their body covering yours. If they found out you have been forced to rest 6 feet under soil of the so called gods? It’s safe to consider them enraged and will go on a spree. How dare they take the only thing that was kind to them?

Despite the more dark end. They like following you around like a lost puppy of a Monstrous Dog. Fully capable of killing, but really until they or you are provoked. They may have lost their grace, their guide and maiden, but they believe you can replace that. That you can become a grace to them. A guide and perhaps… even their maiden. A real, true maiden to them. If you know what I mean.

Can be really possessive. They are not willing to share, nor are they willing to let you go. They have found their grace, their guide, their maiden. You think they are going to let that go so easily? They have been banished, and you are the only one that has blessed them of what should not be. You may not be powerful as themselves, but they can always provide, it’s what they are supposed to do, no? What do you mean no? Have the creatures of The Lands Between lost their senses? Did they gift you something that unknowingly makes you delusional? They will however, give you independency if that’s what you want; expect them to teach you too. They have be alone before…

They do have a bit chivalry blood in them, but it doesn’t mean they will use it for occasions. The enemies they face? Consider it a war crime with how vivid their actions can be when taking down an enemy, especially in front of you if they are trying to impress you. Honestly, the only times you seem them without blood staining their stolen armor is when they are next to you, wanting a good image and reputation with you in order to dazzle you. Regardless of what the rumors spread and what you have seen with your own eyes. They don’t care for what they have done. The gods abandoned them. Now? They will abandon them. A taste of their own medicine.

I’d like to say they have been trying to court you, in a way, since they have seen you and offered you their gifts. You wouldn’t know it at the beginning, but as time goes past and you learn about their social cues of growls, huffs grunts, and body cues? It becomes more apparent they are trying to court you, ever slowly too. You’re not sure if you should be smitten with it or not… One hand they are really dedicated on being by your side, but on the other hand? The drive to become Elden Lord can be a bit more powerful…

𝐒𝐞𝐱𝐮𝐚𝐥/𝐒𝐦𝐮𝐭:

They definitely have a praise kink, and combine that with your voice too? Consider them nearly at your mercy. Nearly, because they like to be alert when having heated times with you. That said, they are more of the dominant type, but to have you saying praises in their ear, whispering it? Perhaps they can be swayed of being a bottom. Just keep those praises up while your tone is gentle; cooing and they’ll be a puddle in no time, and ready to take you.

I believe they will get excited about what you wear. Whether it would be dress, a maids outfit or even a set of armor yourself. They definitely get excited when they see you with clothing, or no clothing. Surprised them at first when they saw you without clothing, but they are not complaining. To see your skin is like another blessing that has been bestowed upon them as you are allowing them to see you at your most vulnerable.

Will take you anywhere, doesn’t matter where it is. They will take you anywhere they please. It’s could be in front of a shrine, a church and possibly in front of an enemy if they magically didn’t kill them all off. One of the locations was on a sacrificial stone top, and by god did they made sure to make you feel like a pleasured sacrifice to them.

Blood Play. They definitely have to have a kink for blood. Not one of hurting you, but just smearing it over your skin. They would simply return back from battle: drenched in their enemies blood and just- swipe the blood spattered on their armor and put it on you as if they shared the battle with you too. (Or just to annoy you as they like your attention.) Though, this can come in as a way of marking. If they are the one injured, and you’re patching them up? Except to be smashed up against them with their hands to be a bit… wandering.

Sit on their face. That’s a death they are so willing to take from you. It’s a battle they want to conquer, and they do it excellently too. Their tongue either short or long. Lapping, twisting and sucking on you, very explorative. Let them be embraced with the grace of your juices. Let only you to conquer them in such a filthy way. It’s a loss they would be proud of.

Surprisingly vanilla, likes to lay you down in the safety of your quarters. Watching as the sheets/comforter waves a little bit when they place you down. Their hands wandering over your body: from the sides of your body all the way up and down from your thighs and collarbone. Taking it slow as they prepare you, massaging you before taking you like you should be taken. Taking you as their spouse, their counter part, as their maiden.

Loves to make you weak. Loves to raw you until you can’t walk the next week without them. Loves to see your blissed face as they would overstimulate you. To see drool lob off your tongue. They are filthy, and continue to be when they are taking you when they please. Their hands keeping you in place by your hips. They like to see how well they are treating their cute, handsome maiden.

Would breed you like no tomorrow, and that is …false for them. They can breed you everyday. They are reborn and ready to come back to you to show you just how much they can provide. Ready to pin your knees to your shoulder and absolutely take you over and over. They certainly got the infinite time to try and produce their heir’s with you.

Oh, I would be careful however. Whenever they are reborn as their frustration can become… hate sex. There was plenty of times where they have been reborn and have ripped you of your clothing to relieve their frustrations. You can try and hide, but with them having… dead, aged experience. It a bit hard to do so. They do like the chase and challenge you give them though. A bit silly you are, hiding from them.

There’s gotta be a thing in The Lands Between with something similar to sex pollen. You can’t tell me there isn’t in there, and the Tanrnished to be affected by it? It could last long. They would try and play it off at first, but as it gets more obvious it’s affecting them greatly… They can’t resist the sudden pull to you. The sudden call to claim and take you again and again until all is satisfied. It definitely makes you numb for at least a couple+ weeks, and that’s okay because you are lovingly pleasured, claimed by your lover and get great aftercare afterwards for their rather… rabid behavior.

[expfcultragreen]

Fwiw the people who think it's their mission to expand their race are rarely good parents because they're not in it to parent

Having kids out of duty messes up the kids, they get ignored because ultimately theyre just a "necessary" product that has to be produced. I'm talking about myself.

The dudes are often batshit toward people they see as refusing to do this supposedly all-important duty

If it's the most important thing a human can do why didn't the pope have kids, he's an important guy right? A wise and educated and principled guy? How could he do something so "wrong" so publicly unless it isn't wrong....my understanding is it's a piety thing but also a who has time, thing...ysee when you have them because you "have to" you tend to lose them in the shuffle, which is a mean thing to do, have a kid and effectively (emotionally, even quasi-physically) abandon them (or use them as stress relief by abusing them)

*discussion explicitly about unwanted children being aborted* "that's eugenics" it's eugenics to not force people to have babies they don't want? Eugenics isn't just when abortion it's also when forced birth

Specifically, eugenics is population control; when people can't get abortions they want that's eugenics, when people are forced to abort (capitalism debate; making them have the kids without getting rid of the capitalism doesn't uneugenics it your just conacriptinf in the opposite direction) or get sterilized that's ALSO eugenics

[kiame-sama]

[Human reader being filmed while having a rare moment to themselves] This is human reader. Human reader likes her personal space.

[next shot is Human Reader being crowded by the Monster twst cast] This is Monster Twst, they also like human reader’s personal space.

Jokes aside I love your au! I think it’s really breathed some life into the aus of twst!! I especially love your world building!! I must admit, when I first read some of the monsters that you picked for the cast I was hesitant, but now I can’t imagine them as anything else? Especially Rook!! When I first went into this au I was expecting a wolf, some breed of hunting dog, maybe a bird of prey, something like that right? But I can totally see him as a spider now!!

If I may ask, this is in regards of poachers in your au, are they strictly trying to kill reader, or are there poachers hoping to catch her as like, an exotic pet? What would be the ratio/market for that? Personally speaking, I can totally see someone trying to get close to the royals/high ranking families of the twst guys by stealing reader and presenting them as like an “exotic pet” (even though I know it would end awfully for that person) imagine Hades or Maleficant’s reaction to that… yikes. On the other hand, if someone tried to gift reader to Leona’s family, that would be like free PR for them. Like imagine the show of “we would never!” and the following act of showing how trustworthy they are in taking care of such a “fragile species” you’d have to pry Reader away from their cold, dead, furry grippers

Oh!! And do you have any old wives tales/folk legends regarding humans and, well, their body parts? Ik this sounds morbid, and I’m so sorry, but I have a headcanon that some humans were used for potions. Idk what kind of potions, but I just know someone was dripping blood or throwing hair into a cauldron. I also can’t get this thought out of my head of some guy in twst having a “lucky charm” that’s like, human hair or something, kinda like rabbits feet, that “their grandpa passed down to them and it’s been In the family for generations”, you know? Last question, I promise, do you think Crowley has a secret collection of human artifacts? I can totally see Reader snooping around and finding an ancient cookbook or a map of the island that shows you where you can finds herbs, spices, fruit, and safe places to hunt

Warnings: poachers, talk of Human consumption, my monster AU, history of my AU, some Crowley history for this AU,

~~~~~~~~

- The poachers are not only trying to kill the Last Human, though there are many. Some are seeking this Human to be a pet, either for themselves or someone very influential. Some are seeking to be 'middle-men' and take the Human to sell later down the line. There are even a few older Fae poachers looking to 'raise' this Human as they lost their own adopted Human children a while back and seek to rekindle that feeling even if this Human is technically an adult already.

- Some poachers do seek to kill this Human and sell them piece by piece to whoever is buying. Human wombs and testicles were often used in 'fertility' potions as it was believed Humans were fertile universal breeders (they technically were, but consuming their parts did nothing for monster-folk fertility). Human teeth were often collected by Fae as luck charms (hence the idea of a tooth fairy) and many Fae who raised Humans still have their Human's baby teeth or have since passed those teeth on to their descendants. Many poachers are looking to get and sell the Human's teeth for charms, the meat to those eccentric monsters that want the rarest meat, their reproductive organs for these 'folk-medicines', and the other parts to whoever will pay enough for them.

- Those Poachers that seek to sell the Human as an exotic pet will absolutely go to the most influential they can think of- Hades and Malefecent are high on that list given their age and power- but several dignitaries and Kings/Queens are also on the list of potential buyers for a pet Human. Some even seek to take this Human to put in a Zoo/nature preserve as this is the last of a species after all, why not parade this specimen around for all to see? It will end very poorly regardless of who these poachers try to sell the Human as a pet to, but ESPECIALLY bad in the case of Falena, Maleficent, and Hades for different reasons.

- None of these poachers realize THE Malleus Draconia has already staked a claim and made this Human part of his Hoard. Some would stop dead in their tracks and give up the hunt if they were to find out, some are desperate enough to try their luck. None will succeed if Malleus has anything to say about it.

~•§•~

- Crowley does have a lot of Human artifacts! He is a Crow and Humans made such lovely items that he has collected quite a bit. (Y/n) isn't the only Human Crowley has tried to keep before. He is determined to keep this one, unlike the last little female Human six-hundred years ago who was unfortunately taken away from his care for reasons. He loves Humans. LOVES them. He loves that they are such a diverse species and he loves the way Humans just make things work even between monster-folk that traditionally hate each other.

- Crowley collects Human things and fully sees this current Human as his chick. He will try to parent them regardless of how old they are. He loves the idea of raising his own Human and is somewhat hoping this Human can give him that sense of parental success or even provide a half-human infant he can raise later on. Of course, he is not sure who he would ever allow to mate his precious chick in order to make that half-human infant, but the idea is still one he holds out hope for.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Do you think it's possible that Trey actually hate Riddle and baking?! I mean I never thought about that nor I thought about it until nowdays but I have read Trey's labwear vignette and some spoilers from the current chapters of book seven and I'm confused (I play through the English account only but I don't mind spoilers)

To recap for those who haven't read Trey's Labwear vignettes, it's a story that centers around him growing strawberries which he will use in a strawberry tart for Heartlabyul's next tea party. I will only be discussing these vignettes in this post, as the book 7 Heartslabyul update that's out so far currently does not cover Trey's dream and I believe what's already present in the vignettes is sufficient to answer Anon's question.

So firstly, here is how Rook responds when Trey tells him about his plans for the strawberries: "Heh, and here I thought you were just a strawberry enthusiast. But the real reason was Riddle—the Roi des Roses. [...] Such profound loyalty! That's what makes you the Chevalier!" Trey replies with, "Profound? That's laying it on a little thick. Riddle and I go way back, so I happen to know what he likes. That's all there is to it."

The vignettes continue and lead into Trey giving his strawberries away to Jade, who needs them to replace the fruit meant for an important customer's birthday cake. (Floyd ate the fruit, lol) In exchange for doing Jade this favor, Trey asks that he acquire a strawberry tart from a very fancy and exclusive bakery so he can present said tart at the Heartslabyul tea party. This surprises Rook, who says, "I was wondering if a strawberry tart made with your love might make Riddle happier, that's all." Trey just replies with, "Ha ha. As if."

Both Rook and Jade express that they believed Trey was "the type who'd rather feed Riddle homemade treats baked with love", only for Trey to shatter their expectations of him. "Just what kind of guy do you think I am, anyway?" Trey asks. "I mean [...] I can see how others would get that impression of me... But honestly, love has nothing to do with it. My main priority is keeping my housewarden/dorm leader from going berserk with his tyrant mode. That way, all's right with the world, as they say." Rook then states that though he thought of Trey as Riddle's loyal knight, perhaps his perception of him was off--because, in reality, Trey is very cunning. Trey just laughs it off and claims to be "normal".

Now, based on just that summary alone, it's easy for someone to judge Trey's comments as uncaring towards Riddle. He doesn't claim to have a profound loyalty to Riddle, dismisses his knowledge of Riddle's tastes, is willing to take shortcuts to obtain something for him instead of handmaking it, and then outright admits he doesn't bake with love in mind. However, this does not mean Trey hates or even dislikes Riddle or the act of baking itself.

Trey states "I DO enjoy cooking [...]" (which also includes baking) in these same vignettes, so the latter claim that he hates baking is already debunked. If you want to believe he’s lying, that’s up to your discretion. However, I believe he does have a real interest in it, as he bakes even in situations where he is not expected to serve others, like in Science Club. Furthermore, Trey considers an internship in the food industry and potentially getting a patisserie license. He also consistently asks for cooking-related items as gifts for his birthday (aprons, flour sifters, cookbooks, etc.) and wishes for a food processor in Wish Upon a Star. If he despised cooking or baking, why would this be a consistent part of his career plans and free time?

To debunk the idea that Trey actually "hates" Riddle, we need to read between the lines and seek out supporting evidence.

You also need to keep in mind that Rook and Trey are the two main conversationalists in these vignettes, and these two have VERY different perspectives and ways of communicating. Rook is over-the-top and emotional, whereas Trey is grounded and realistic. If Rook is going to claim Trey is a total Riddle loyalist, it's quite an extreme comment and of course it's gotta be Trey to remind him to tamp down his expectations. Their personalities will inform how they act and interact with one another.

We should also remember that Trey—yes, Mr. “I am Normal” Clover—is a student selected by the Mirror of Darkness. That means that he, like everyone else at this NRC, has problems with being honest about his emotions and being open “friends” with others. However, it’s also true that Trey is often mistaken for a nice guy and a caring older brother figure because of how often he plays mediator or helps others out. Trey is aware of this perception that others have of him as well (“[…] I can see how others would get that impression of me…”).

In any case, the focus here isn't Trey rejecting a love for Riddle, he is rejecting the notion that he bakes "with love". As in, he doesn't subscribe to being all sentimental about his cooking. He just... makes food, and is honestly probably sick of it given how often he has to take charge of the baking for the tea parties they have (see: his own Dorm Uniform vignettes). Trey has to cook for his younger siblings when he's at home too, maybe even help his parents with the bakery. On top of that, he has to frequently manage other people and make sure they don't cause a mess (and if they do, he has to help clean it up). It's so routine yet also so demanding to him, so the guy probably wants a break. And honestly? Is there genuinely something wrong with wanting to take a shortcut once in a while (especially when you already work your ass off) and buy a nice high-quality snack instead of making it yourself? It was the easier way for Trey to save himself the hassle (not to mention the time, effort, and ingredients) by buying a cake. It's not even like he's cheaping out or providing an inferior product in the place of the strawberry tart Trey would have baked. In the end, he would still achieve the same result with a lot less pain on his part. Riddle would still be given a tasty treat, he would still be satisfied. Trey says as much himself: ""[Riddle]'ll be delighted when he finds out this's from a famous patisserie. I don't have to make a whole tart from scratch for him to be happy."

As vice dorm leader, Trey has to deal with a lot of things. Chief among these things and exclusive to him is managing Riddle's temper, which Trey clearly states ("My main priority is keeping my housewarden/dorm leader from going berserk with his tyrant mode."); this conflict is also present several times across the rest of the main story, events, and other vignettes, like Trey's Ceremonial Robes ("Well, we managed to avoid having Riddle explode in a blaze of anger, so I'd call today a success."). Can it be stressful to deal with someone who's very anger-prone? Yes. Does it wear on Trey to always have this job fall to him? Also yes. But does he despise Riddle for this? No. If anything, Trey is INCREDIBLEY patient with him, and he grants him this grace because they are friends and he understands Riddle's background, where that rage and the need for control is learned from. (You may also want to consider that Trey himself may harbor guilt about the role he played in Riddle's trauma; that's a topic I have written about at length in this analysis.) Rook remarks on this too: "From where I'm standing, your bond appears to go far deeper than that."

I think it's made pretty clear in book 1 that Trey cares a lot about Riddle, even if he may also get worn out with him at times or not always want to put 100% of his efforts in. Recall that it was Trey that intervened when Riddle summoned rose bushes to attack Ace--because he didn't want to see his friend turn into a murderer. Recall that it was Trey who called out to Riddle after his OB--because he doesn't want to lose him. This might be hard to visualize from the in-game assets alone, so I implore you to read the official manga adaptation. Trey's raw emotions really come through in his expressions. The concern, the sorrow, the fear he feels witnessing one of his childhood friends spiral into his worst tendencies, reliving his trauma... and then there’s Trey’s stone-cold determination to pull Riddle out of the dark… It's all there:

***Lots of images from the manga below the cut!!***

And then???? The relief and joy Trey wears when he realizes Riddle is okay… that he can finally apologize for not being there for him… that Riddle is improving as a person… that he can still laugh with him, advise him… This is a genuine friendship here.

Look at this splash page as well! Trey is glancing in an almost forlorn way at Riddle. The text, as well as the framing, implies a longing to be closer—to reconnect after so long apart and emotionally distant.

The had so much fun together as children too!! And look at how heartbroken Trey looks after having lost the ability to hang out with Riddle 😭

BUT THIS PART REALLY GETS ME THE MOST…

In Twisted Wonderland, hands are a very important symbol. It's what links--what connects--two people. The hand beckoning you in the mirror begins our journey, NRC's prideful students refuse to hold hands or to band together, etc. And what do we see recurring in Trey and Riddle's friendship? That's right, it's hands.

Trey offers his hand to Riddle when they first meet as children. You can tell from the panels just how hesitant Riddle is to accept him. Then, in modern day, when OB Riddle has been defeated, he reaches out toward a keyhole which is shining with a light. As the blot drips away from his flesh, Riddle finally comes back to reality... and whose hand is he holding? Whose hand is he squeezing so tightly? Yeah, it's Trey's--and I think that this, in of itself, speaks to the strength of their bond.

The light novel makes Trey’s care for Riddle even more obvious. There is an entire chapter dedicated to Riddle’s post-OB flashback, and towards the end of it, Riddle remarks that he hears a voice calling out to him gently. He wonders if it is his mother, but the next chapter then opens and it’s made clear that it was Trey all along.

I genuinely don't think that Trey, would go to so many of the lengths that he does if he secretly hated Riddle. He supports him, advises him, and eventually stands up to him (when he was so hesitant to do so before).

I definitely don't think we're supposed to interpret Trey's Labwear vignettes as "oh, he hates Riddle". It's meant to be more of a piece on Trey's cunning and how he's not as 'nice" as many other characters see him as. He's willing to take conveniences that are offered to him, and he'll make deals with others to get those conveniences--but at the end of the day, it's all for a good cause: maintaining the peace.

[wisecura]

Sheets

megumi fushiguro x fem-reader

p.1

p.3  ( ⸝⸝꩜ ᯅ ꩜⸝⸝;) p.5

p.4

AN: Thank you for reading! Please reblog and like if you enjoy this series!

warnings: yandere, obsessive behavior, possessiveness, mommy kinks, mommy issues, arranged marriages, forced marriages, angst, eventual smut, clan politics, age gap (5 years from meg, and a little over 10 with toji), toji aint the best dad, mentions of child abuse, slowww build.

Short summary: Your arranged marriage to Toji Fushiguro had been sudden and unexpected, but now you found yourself living under his roof alongside his moody stepson. Your only directive from your clan head before moving in was clear: keep a close eye on Toji, the notorious Sorcerer Killer, and his son, a potential sorcerer prodigy.

birthdays and interrogations

Megumi’s foresight was right on the money.

His father hadn’t returned home after their spat—he’ll, not for several days.

You couldn’t help but wonder how often things unraveled like that between them, the tension simmering beneath the surface until it inevitably boiled over.

The next few months with Megumi fell into a steady routine. 

Megumi had started joining you for breakfast regularly, his quiet presence at the table becoming a comforting and consistent part of your mornings. He seemed to warm up to you a little more after your conversation that night.

Though he still didn’t say much, the steady rhythm of shared meals filled the space with a sense of easiness. More than you could expect from the unexpected blend in family.

After school, he would return home, spending his evenings—occasionally—in your company, whether it was in the living room while you tidied or in the kitchen as you cooked. He spent a good portion of time just in your presence.

He still carried his signature scowl more often than not, but it had softened over time, losing its sharpness.

You'd known early on that Megumi wasn’t much of a talker, yet the conversations you did share held weight. There was a quiet vulnerability in the way he’d let his guard down in small, careful increments. It wasn’t much, just glimpses here and there of him beneath the tough exterior.

He’d ask questions about your day, mention things about school, or make begrudging comments about Toji’s latest absence or fight.

When Megumi's birthday rolled around, you wanted to throw him a party—something simple, but enough to show him you cared. When you mentioned the idea, he brushed it off, his scowl deepening as he muttered something about birthdays being no big deal.

You could tell by the way his eyes lingered, a mix of disbelief and confusion, that no one had ever gone out of their way for his birthday before. His embarrassment was almost endearing, and you couldn’t help but smile at the thought of surprising him. How would the kitty puff up this time?

Toji, unsurprisingly, was nowhere to be found on the day. You hadn’t expected him to show up, but that didn’t matter. You were determined to make Megumi’s day special.

You decorated the kitchen with a few streamers and a handwritten “Happy Birthday” sign.

It wasn’t much, but you hoped it would make him happy. You’d even make a small cake—a recipe you’d found in an old cookbook—and the scent of frosting and sugar lingered in the air even after you finished baking.

The biggest challenge had been deciding on a gift. Your clan had given you a small stipend—a rare concession you’d managed to secure during one of your carefully planned visits. That much had been a stretch, but you managed. You’d met with them once or twice, offering just enough feedback to maintain their interest without revealing anything significant. It was a fine line to walk, but it granted you the luxury of a little extra money.

Megumi wasn’t exactly forthcoming about his interests, but he’d mentioned a thing or two. It didn’t hurt that you just so happened to notice the gaming system in his room.

It hadn’t taken much effort to discreetly check the brand and do a little research on popular titles that might suit him. You triple checked his current collection, making sure you didn't buy him a copy. You wrapped the games neatly, setting them on the table alongside his cake.

When he got home, he strolled into the kitchen and saw the setup. And that flustered reaction was everything you’d hoped for, even if he tried to downplay it. His scowl deepened, and his cheeks turned faintly pink as he mumbled, “You didn’t have to do all this.” But you caught the way his eyes softened, the way his lips quirked up ever so slightly, despite his efforts to hide it.

“You’re allowed to celebrate, you know,” you teased gently, pushing the wrapped gift toward him. “Come on, open it.”

He hesitated for a moment before finally reaching for the package. As he unwrapped the games, his expression betrayed a flicker of surprise, followed by something you might’ve called gratitude. He was impressed. “How’d you even know?” he asked, holding up one of the cases.

“I have my ways,” you say, keeping your answer vague. No need to admit you’d snooped a little.

The two of you spent the evening together, enjoying the quiet celebration. You’d cooked one of his favorite meals—something he’d mentioned in passing weeks ago—and lit candles on the cake, insisting he make a wish before blowing them out. For all his protests and attempts to act unbothered, you could see it meant something to him.

As the evening wound down, Megumi sat across from you at the table, fiddling with one of the new game cases. You were chatting about a sale they were having at the grocery store the next day, the air around you just seemed so lively. He’d never associated the apartment with anything other than cold and desolate.

He didn’t say much, but he wasn’t able to stop the faint smile that spread across his face. It wasn’t even a big celebration. But for the first time, in a long time, Megumi felt like someone cared.

Toji, meanwhile, continued his sporadic visits to the apartment. His presence like a weather shift—unpredictable.

Sometimes, his arrivals brought an icy chill, marked by curt exchanges and a tension you could almost taste. Other times, his visits erupted into heated arguments with Megumi, their voices echoing through the walls.

You’d learned when to stay silent, carefully observing the dynamic between them until you felt absolutely needed. When you did speak, your words were short, clipped, and almost always in Megumi’s defense.

You couldn’t help it. The boy had a way of stirring up your protective instincts, and you hated seeing the rift between father and son grow deeper with every spat. It didn’t help that you could relate to him.

And it also didn’t help that Toji was never around long enough to deal with the aftermath of these arguments. Megumi would sulk in his room for the rest of the day, shutting himself away, resulting in a silence that filled the house. You couldn’t help but associate Toji’s sporadic presence with Megumi’s absence, and it made you feel…lonely.

You’d grown so attached to the boy—his quiet company, his rare smiles. And it was becoming harder not to resent the man you’d married.

But you told yourself—it could always be worse.

Although Megumi and his father could barely share a room without wanting to rip each other’s throats out, your encounters with Toji weren’t entirely negative. He had moments of surprising thoughtfulness—checking in on you, asking if you needed anything. It was a nice gesture, though you weren’t sure how much sincerity lay behind it. He seemed intent on playing the role of “husband,” though thankfully, he hadn’t tried to sleep with you. He was away more often than not, and even when he was home, he never stayed long enough to share a bed.

He was tolerant. Leaving you somewhat restless. What did he want from you? From your marriage?

One evening, as you tidied up after dinner, Toji approached you, leaning casually against the counter. His arms were crossed as his sharp eyes studied you with an unreadable expression. This night was more tense, Megumi had left almost immediately after dinner, another small spat breaking out between the two. You’d only stepped in briefly like before, but the end result was the same. You and Toji. Bathed in silence. 

“You seem awfully protective of the kid,” his voice low but pointed. He watch you closely, gauging for any minuscule change in your expression. “…Almost makes me wonder if you’re planning something.”

You froze for a moment, his words catching you off guard. Placing a dirty bowl down a little harder than necessary. You meet his gaze evenly, with deliberation. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

He shrugged, his smug grin only half-formed, and his eyes serious. “Means I’m not blind. I see how you hover around him—how careful you are with your words. Makes me wonder if you’re working an angle.”

You bristled at his insinuation. You’d never show Toji much softness, that was for sure. But Megumi. Megumi was different. You make your tone as firm as you could before replying. “Megumi has nothing to do with this. I wouldn’t drag him into…whatever shit my clan is trying to stir up. He doesn’t deserve that.”

Toji’s expression shifted slightly, something thoughtful flickering behind his sharp features. He’d never heard you so defensive before. You were always so even and clipped. The reaction was reassuring, but not absolute. He needed clarification.

“So, you are reporting to them?” He'd already assumed, but he would mind you confirming it. Especially since you were being so open with him. Your clan had some ulterior motives—not that that was surprising. What clan didn’t? But to tell him so forwardly…especially knowing he could send you away. There was some level of trust you were seeking from him.

“Yes,” you admitted, though your voice softened with a hint of frustration. “But…I’m not telling them much. I don’t have much of a choice here. It’s just enough to keep them off my back. I’m not here to be their little spy, and I won’t let them use Megumi for their bullshit.” Perhaps you were hoping to gain some sympathy from your situation. You were being honest. He could tell.

But could you appeal to the better nature in the wild card standing before you?

For a moment, Toji said nothing, his sharp eyes studying you with a weight that made the air feel heavier. He hadn’t expected your tone to take on such a defensive note, the emotion laced in your voice cutting through the practiced composure you always seemed to carry.

It was a constant. Around him, you’d been nothing but polite, your speech prim and proper—you’d been a quiet presence, never revealing too much, always staying just on the edges of their fractured household dynamic.

Hell, this conversation had only started because he’d noticed Megumi’s growing attachment and acceptance towards you—something that had caught him off guard.

He couldn’t quite wrap his head around it. The kid was prickly and aloof with just about everyone, but with you? He was… different. More open, even if it was subtle. Toji hadn’t decided if he liked it yet, or if it made you a bigger threat. He wasn’t entirely sure if he could trust you—or if he even should.

Your reaction left him somewhat confused. A young girl stepping into a housewife’s role for her older husband and teen son. You should be wanting an out to this. Should be less happy. Less protective over Megumi.

His gaze boring into you as if trying to peel back the secret you kept hidden. Deciding that you likely weren’t lying about your sentiments, he continue.

“You’re pretty sharp for someone so young. Playing your clan like that… takes guts. Or recklessness.”

“I’m not reckless,” your hands fidget under his words. “I just know how they operate." You mumble more to yourself. "And I know how to survive.”

His smirk returned, and he pulled back a little. “Yeah, I can see that. But you’re still a kid. You shouldn’t have to play those kinds of games.”

You blinked, caught off guard by the faint trace of concern in his voice. “I’m not a kid,” you replied softly, the words echoing with a tone of defiance that felt uncomfortably similar to Megumi’s.

“You’re eighteen,” he countered, his tone resolute and stern. “That’s young. Too young for this kind of shit. You’re not wrong about the clan. They wouldn’t hesitate to put you to use. I get why you’re doing what you’re doing. Hell,” his voice tinged with a dark sort of humor, “they’ll probably have someone else lined up for you by the end of the week if they pulled you.”

Your chest tightened at the reminder, though you forced yourself to keep your expression neutral. There’s been that question that’s been burning the back of your mind since this all started. Since you met him those months ago. Something that never made sense.

“Why did you agree to the marriage then?” you asked, the question slipping out before you could stop it. “If someone else would’ve taken that place. If they didn’t force you.” If you knew my presence here could be dangerous.

Toji’s gaze darkened, lips set into a thin line as he processed your question. “Figured it was better than leaving you to someone worse,” his tone evasive. “I don’t like the clan bullshit. Never did.”

There was an uncomfortable silence before he added, almost begrudgingly, “You need protection, too. It wasn’t right what they were doin’.”

You tilted your head slightly, studying him. His words didn’t entirely align with the aloof, dismissive man you’d been learning to navigate. His cold and unpredictable nature. The Sorcerer Killer.

“So, can I trust you?” Trust that you’ll keep me safe.

That you won’t send me back.

He snorted, his smirk returning faintly. “Trust is a stretch. But for now, yeah, you’re safe here.”

The unspoken sentiment hung in the air, heavier than the words he’d spoken. You couldn’t tell if it was a warning or a promise—or maybe both. What warning could he possibly be giving you? He wasn’t someone you could necessarily lean on—let alone read, but at least, for now, he wasn’t an enemy.

Your clan hadn’t let up during that first year. The snippets of information you’d provided weren’t enough—they needed more, demanded more, than you were willing to give. Representatives began knocking on your door with frustrating regularity, their grim smiles and strained words were an uncomfortable familiarity.

The landline rang incessantly, as though they were hoping to catch you off guard. Maybe to glean some tidbit you hadn’t shared during your carefully measured visits.

You’d done your best to subtly turn them away, declining their offers with polite firmness and brushing off their pointed reminders of your “obligations.” But damn were they persistent.

They’d even popped up at the door during your shared dinners with Megumi, the unwelcome interruptions souring the brief moments of happiness. It was enough to set a nasty taste in your mouth, leaving you somewhat salty. 

You hadn’t wanted Megumi to get involved, but the way his sharp eyes tracked your every move—it was clear he wasn’t oblivious to the clan visits. Even so, he never said a word about it. Megumi had been shielded from clan affairs for most of his life, and you wanted to keep it that way. Yet, each time you returned from one of those meetings, he seemed quieter, more distant.

It was as if an unspoken itch tore at the corners of his mind, questions he wasn’t ready to put into words. He never confronted you directly, but the intensity of his gaze and the taut set of his shoulders said enough.

And your clans more prominent questions lingered in your mind:

Was Megumi truly as promising a sorcerer as they claimed?

Would he eventually be adopted back into the Zenin clan and rise to take over as its head?

Was Toji Fushiguro up to anything suspicious?

And you—were you doing your part?

Building trust, forming a bond with the two, setting the foundation for future alliances?

Should you be left at that house?

Are you being useful?

The implications were unmistakable, sinking in with a cold, relentless clarity. The only reason you were here was painfully obvious—you were nothing more than a tool. Something disposable, easily manipulated and shaped to fit their needs. Your value wasn’t rooted in who you were but in what you could do for them. But you knew this already.

You had Megumi now.

And Toji

Even if he seemed to doubt you. He had every right to. But as long as Toji backed you, this was your home. This was where you belonged. For the first time in your life, you felt like you had something real—a family. A place that felt safe.

Megumi had noticed the tension in your shoulders, the tightness in your jaw, every time you returned from one of your exchanges. He could see the way your smile strained when you came back to him. Though you tried to hide it, you never quite managed to mask your emotions fully—not from him.

He’d developed the habit early on of reading you, attuned to the subtleties in your demeanor. Without even realizing it, he’d become quietly vigilant, watching over you in those moments. Then again it was hard not to memorize something so radiant and warm. Especially when it turned sour.

In the short time you’d been there, Megumi felt like he’d come to understand you better than he expected. He’d learned so much about you—your kindness, your charisma, your warmth, and the way you had a knack for smoothing over the jagged edges in his life.

It baffled him that you’d stuck around for as long as you had, but it also stirred something in him that he couldn’t quite define. Relief? Gratitude? Maybe even a flicker of hope. You wouldn't be leaving...right?

At first, he’d been hesitant to let himself get used to you. Because...people left—that was the one constant he’d come to understand.

No matter how much you wanted them to stay, they always found a way to slip through your fingers. And good people—people like you—seemed to bear the brunt of the world’s cruelty.

Whether it was bullying at school or tragic accidents that seemed to plague life around him, he’d learned that the world punished goodness more often than it rewarded it.

And then there were the visitors—those constant knocks at the door, pulling you into conversations that had you coming back tense. He knew it was from your clan. Could hear the familiarity in the way you said their names. You'd always laugh and wave it off, but he could tell you weren't exactly comfortable. Whether it was from him or the visits, he couldn’t tell.

Each time, his unease grew, a nagging at the back of his mind he couldn’t ignore. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something—or someone—would pull you away. Test your place in his life. Because that’s how it always went. Something always happened. It always did.

After a full year of hesitation and wondering. Something happened.

And everything…shifted.

p.5?

AN: Thank you for reading! Please reblog and like if you enjoy this series!

I will also be posting updates here:

https://www.tumblr.com/communities/obsessedjjk

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