#ALSO for the proposal part... there's no way they're ever getting a ''normal'' marriage

[piracytheorist]

Twilight Eyes Project: "Secure a Wife" (part 2)

First part here

Naturally, "Twilight eyes" stay on during his side mission with Franky. Then he bursts into Camilla's party, wounded and disoriented enough to mess up his introduction.

And thus... slightly different expressions from manga to anime.

In the manga, it's full-on Twilight eyes. Brow going downward to the center, focused and narrowed eyes. The anime has the first two, though as of focused eyes... they make use of animation to show he's so shaken he can't focus his eyes on one place. His slip-up does look funnier when he's trying to present himself as Very Put Together™ as he does in the manga, but I think it's funny either way. Also, I appreciate the small extra whump bone from the anime.

Continuing on the humorous aspect, he switches all the way to reassuring Loid eyes as he tells everyone how absolutely, definitely normal his situation is. No biggie. Just a head flesh wound. He sleeps those right off.

"Loid eyes" stay on as he continues his ploy. Nothing to see here, please continue, are you having fun, my dear wife whom I definitely did not meet just a couple days ago?

Those eyes keep up until Camilla tries to embarrass Yor in front of everyone with details about her "past job"... and here goes.

Loid eyes. He will show everyone how proud he is of his wife.

But then, slowly, his eyes don't look so strained anymore...

... until they're outright sad eyes.

The direct proof (along with the short flashback) that what Twilight says there is the truth for him: he doesn't judge Yor, instead, he honestly supports and praises her for her dedication and her strength.

And when he finishes his praise, he looks towards the others... and the audience doesn't get to see his eyes.

Yor does.

And the truth she sees in his eyes is enough to not only bring tears to her eyes, but to also stay with her and give her strength multiple chapters/episodes later.

This smile isn't the one he actually gave her. But it's the one she remembers.

(Wrong angle in the anime, but we can forgive that)

They leave Camilla's party, get attacked by the smuggling ring, Twilight knocks a few of them out and tells Yor to run for it, Twilight eyes on as he keeps himself alert for any possible attack.

Yor voices her worries about the well-being of his "patients"... and what else can he do but put on the Loid eyes. Which I'm actually sure weren't necessary with her, lol.

Unstoppable force (Yor believing everything she sees and hears) meets immovable object (Twilight suspecting everything and everyone).

Subtle Twilight eyes as he starts to question... well, his own judgment, at this point 😆

They get attacked, and Yor kicks a guy into another dimension before he can hurt Loid. And!

I would just really like to know what his thought process here was. This look is on the verge between "Loid eyes" and "real eyes". But this next panel/shot feels like it's closer to "real eyes".

He was actually amused by how far she kicked that guy, huh 😆

They kick a few more guys' asses, then Yor drops the "why don't we get married" question. Twilight is, understandably, shocked and confused. It's actually something he'd planned for, but it came unexpectedly and just so freely and willingly from Yor.

When his mind picks up from the shock, he puts on the thought process.

And we get investigative eyes.

Twilight accepts, gives her the best marriage proposal to ever grace a screen, starts with Loid voice for "Even in sickness, or in sadness," and switches to Twilight voice for "No matter what hardships await us, let us be there for each other."

Twilight eyes as he finishes his vows,

And... this, as he thinks "Until my mission do us part"

I want to make it clear that I completely doubt he'd already grown any feelings for Yor already. Probably the only thing he'd feel for her at that point was that he sympathized with her mental fortitude and willingness to sacrifice herself in order to protect and support someone she cared about. The pleasant face he has at the end could be merely his expression of relief that the mission was going smoothly.

But then, isn't that what becomes the foundation of the feelings he'll grow later? The relief that she is the kind of person who will protect the peace he fights so hard to maintain himself? A relief that will grow strong enough to lead him into revealing true parts of himself to her?

There's definitely a lot to take away just from the way Twilight's eyes are drawn, in any case.

(anime only fan here, don't spoil me for the manga)

[avonne-writes]

Love Under The Sea

(NSFW headcanons for my merman AU)

Culture

Love is important to merpeople. They’re generally monogamous once they establish a courtship. If there is no courting involved, it's not frowned upon to have more than one partner.

A courtship consists of several rituals. Collecting shells for the other, giving gifts, sharing intimate touches (e.g. rubbing fins together), feeding each other and wearing specific beads/other accessories in their hair.

Lip-on-lip kissing is considered kinky. They usually stick to closed-lipped kisses on other body parts, like the cheek. Touching someone's neck with your lips is either threatening or it's a show of trust, depending on context. It's because merpeople have razor sharp teeth.

To propose, one has to give their partner a moon- or a sun-related gift and ask if they want to tie their lives together.

This is because merpeople believe the Moon and the Sun are two gods fighting over the sea, pulling it back and forth as the tides change.

So, one can have a moon- or a sun-marriage. The proposal gift is usually something simple like a gemstone, but some mers get more creative.

They have their own wedding rituals and recognize marriage between two adults. Once married, mers wear a specific type of earring/earcuff.

Besides courtship and marriage, casual relationships between young adults are not only prevalent, but encouraged because their society believes it's a way to learn how to bond with others.

Some mers are referred to a soul-healer if they don't manage to form enough casual relationships.

Same-sex relationships are accepted as equal.

Almost all mers have non-heterosexual experiences since it's considered a casual, friendly bonding activity for young adults.

They're open about sexual attraction because 1) it's almost impossible to hide arousal for males (see more below) and 2) casual sex is considered normal.

But! They're very private about romantic attraction until the first few steps of courtship are successful.

When it comes to sex, they have more limited options for poses, which they make up for with sex toys. Bondage is also quite standard (easier to enjoy things if you don't float away...). Handjobs/fingering are the most popular activities.

On the other hand, blowjobs are considered very kinky and dangerous if not done right due to the sharp teeth.

Anatomy

Based on my "thorough research" of cetacean reproduction...

In mer form, mermen have an anus and a genital slit on the front side of their bodies.

Their penis is retracted when they're not aroused and it only extends when it's hard. Their balls are not accessible. The penis looks like a normal human penis, but it's much harder than a human one (needs to work underwater).

Mermaids also have only one slit (that branches off internally) and an anus.

Mermen produce a large quantity of semen (necessary for successful reproduction underwater).

Mermaids breastfeed and usually give birth swimming, because it's said to be healthier and less painful.

What about mer!Aemond in particular?

He was one of those poor mers who were forced to attend soul-healer sessions, to no avail. Being casual about anything is not his forte.

He loves the sun but rarely ever sees it because he avoids The Land.

He wants a sun-marriage. His parents have a moon-marriage and it's miserable, he thinks he'll be better off turning towards the sun.

He exchanged a few handjobs with both mermen and mermaids, but he never had a blowjob and never had sex in human form. He has never been penetrated, but he did go all the way with Alys a few times.

Seeing a cock go from soft to hard turns him on because it's such an exotic sight to him, to see a soft cock. Balls too.

He has never had a courtship but desperately wants one no matter how he denies it to himself.

He has never been kissed on the lips.

He daydreams about kissing someone's neck not to threaten their lives but to have proof of how much they love and trust him.

[plaguethewaters]

little superhero au thingie!! except the superhero part is super duper nonexistent and this chapter is litterally just cbeeduo proposal. Enjoy!

---

"You've gotta forgive me, because I'm about to get really sappy here."

Ranboo says, and Tubbo thinks it's awfully ironic. It's night, brilliant stars shining over them - the only true advantage of no public lighting at all - they're on the roof, sitting on the thickest blanket they own and huddling together for whatever warmth they can find, the few remnants of their picnic laid abandoned to the side. They've been out all evening, eating sweets and heart shaped sandwiches, because Ranboo had always been a little extra. He thinks, we've gotten past the sappiness threshold a whole lot ago, and also, there's no way whatever you've got to say could be worse than this romance novel ass- situation.

His hand is taken into Ranboo's, who starts rubbing at his knuckles with his thumb. He does that often, when he's nervous - but also, Tubbo muses, he's nervous about pretty much every single aspect of his life, so this isn't anything new. Then he starts talking, with a way too big, almost suspicious smile on his face, his voice low.

"You know I don't- I don't think I've ever been as happy as I am now. I didn't know this kind of happy even existed, I think, not until you two came into my life." His gaze is soft and, as previously anticipated, unworldly sappy. "You've made me truly content with my life in entirely new ways, and continue to do so every single day. I can't really imagine my future without you in it."

"You're making this sound like a marriage proposal, bossman." Tubbo giggles, just to lighten the mood. Mostly because he's right, and he does not know if he could survive the weight of a love so, so fucking ginormous, settled on his shoulder's like the world's heavier and softer mountain, not without a little comedic relief.

"I mean..." Ranboo kisses his hand, doing a so-and-so gesture with his free one, "Kind of?"

The mountain doesn't move, and Tubbo's suffocating. This is not how he imagined he would die.

"I-uh. sorry?" he manages to shutter, while his mind helpfully supplies him with a series of his possible obituaries. "Young man dies of Too Much Emotion.". or "Romantic relationship actually a trap, Villain dies because Boyfriend loves him too much." (Boyfriend? Fiancè????? What the absolute hell.)

"I mean, i mean not now, obviously that's- that would be a little too much to dump on you so soon." Ranboo laughs, clearly as nervous as he looks. "Just, like, I've prepared a whole speech, goddammit, let me say it properly."

Tubbo sees the light. His heart is definitely going to explode.

"Okay I've, I've started this a little wrong. Because I said, right, I said, I can't imagine my life without you, but it's more like, like, I couldn't have imagined my life without you. I would've never even tried. I don't think I realized I could imagine a life for myself outside- outside of hero work. I either died at fifteen - or, or seventeen, or twenty, or whatever limit I decided to give myself that year - or got an eternity of work, no escape at all. Then, then you, and Tommy, and suddenly I'm dreaming of white picket fences and wedding bells and large breed dogs and- did you know I was a writer? When I was little, I used to have notebooks over notebooks full of short horror stories, and then I stopped because with housework and normal work and trying not to starve I never had the time - you've made me want to write again. You made me realize I could dream, and follow those dreams and succeed."

The speech comes out rushed, all too many words confined in all too little space, too little time. He sounds like he's afraid if he doesn't speak soon enough, someone is going to come and steal his voice, leaving his feelings forever entrapped.

His gaze shifts, and now he's staring directly into Tubbo's eyes. The intensity is overwhelming, oppressive, painful. His eyes bore into Tubbo's skull with the force of a drill, carving a hole from his eye socket to the center of his brain, then making a little cave in it and resting in it's center.

"I don't- marriage right now would not be a good idea, I don't think, but? Maybe, in the future... Will you marry me?"

Their stares break, and the parasite removes itself from Tubbo's poor, poor brain. Then he's playing with Tubbo's fingers, looking blushy and shy to the side - because of course he's nervous now, after completely destroying him, leaving unable to think anything but an infinite sting of I love yous and wondering how on earth he got this lucky and fuck. Tubbo would die a thousand times over if it got him to look this pretty again.

What the hell was he supposed to say now? He isn't, and has never really been good with words, not when actions and punches have always done the job just as well - how could he speak now, having been hit in the face with a confession like that? With the, the- he would call it the burden, he guesses, but that's just entirely the wrong word - the responsibility, the knowledge he's the reason Ranboo was able to grow and get through all of that, given to him like it is no big deal. He would've never thought of that. In fact, he was worried he'd been doing way too little support wise, lacking the knowledge and emotional maturity needed to properly help someone like that.

Like even now, after the whole speech, he still isn't all that convinced. All he ever did was love Ranboo - which isn't news, and would continue not to be news as far as he's concerned. He loves him, will love him even if he somewhat disagrees with the confession, because how could he be possibly worth so much in Ranboo's eyes, who deserves so much more than he could possibly give, and he loves him so much - but he does not know how to say any of that.

So, he just kisses him.

And again, and again, trying to push into his lips anything that cannot fit into his mouth and failing still, but nobody's to say he doesn't fucking try. When he stops, it's because his traitorous body runs out of air to breathe, but he still keeps as close as possible, resting his forehead on Ranboo's. If he has to stop to breathe, they'll fucking share the breaths too.

----

Ranboo has learned, by now, that Tubbo kisses like he's fighting.

Mostly by way of focus and determination: he kisses with the same kind of concentration one might have when operating a sniper rifle - or, much more topically, when defusing a tickling bomb. There's no second in which he's idle, any rest clearly ruled by strict necessity rather than any want or will. When he does retreat, surrendering finally to the need of air, he doesn't part neither far nor long, touching their foreheads together or breathing in his neck, his hands mapping all available territory to make way for later exploration.

Ranboo has seen him battle, has fought him directly in the past, and he finds no difference between the crushing adrenaline of a missed punch, of wrestling for a loaded gun, of running towards a lit fuse - and whatever he is feeling right now.

A hand finds its way to his thigh, squeezing the soft flesh, and the little air he'd managed to keep in his poor lungs gets knocked out of him. Maybe they are in battle, actually. Maybe killing him is Tubbo's way of saying no.

Because - and he's said this already, but his brain is too scrambled to pay attention to something as utterly unimportant as repetition (anything less important than this). Because he's used to Tubbo, to the way he seems to equate love and war, to the almost violence of his affections but this feels... different, somehow. Somewhat. He's not focused enough to register what's actually changed.

Maybe it's the way his mind had already been lost in the anxiety of the moment, before his little speech, and the suspense for an answer now; or maybe it's just the thick layer of tears evenly coating each of their faces.

Which, by the way, does not help to ease his worries at all, to be entirely honest. Not that - don't get him wrong, it's not that the kissing isn't nice (heavenly, wonderful, amazing, showstopping and a plethora of other words that do not even come close) but it doesn't really enlighten him as to what Tubbo's answer is going to be. Is this a "Yes of course I'm going to marry you" type of kiss or more, like, "No how dare you ask that I'm kissing you just so you shut up" deal?

(Now, a normal person, in a hypothetical fictional audience, would probably butt in right about now with, let's say, a text to speech device of some sort. And they would say, with all the confidence of anonymity, they'd say: "Ranboo, this is a really stupid dilemma. Why would he ever choose to reject with a kiss? Nobody does that ever." And they would probably be right! But the hand is still on his thigh, and another hand is rubbing slow circles into his waist, and the kiss is still happening, so forgive him if his reasonings aren't all that rational right about now.)

He manages to detach himself eventually - not easily, not even particularly willingly - for the few moments absolutely necessary to regain a couple braincells and learn how to use his own mouth again.

"Uh- U, I, Is this-" Not to use it well, mind you, but he isn't going to complain. he'll take what he can get and deal with it. "Uhu-"

"What was that, bossman?" Tubbo giggles, voice still raspy from the assault to his lips, and Ranboo finds it somewhat insulting; loquacity is an absurd standard to hold for the guy currently being lobotomized.

"Wh- was that, uh" Tubbo's hand is slowly rubbing at his cheek in what was probably meant to be encouragement, but only manages to scramble his brains even more. "Was that a yes?

"No."

His stomach plummets.

He knows, logically, that he should not have expected anything. They've been dating for not even a year, and this was sprung on Tubbo so suddenly, and everyone always say to never ask if you aren't sure your partner will say yes but Ranboo will never be sure of anything in his life (at least not how he was sure this would've worked) and he needed to ask like, physically. And at the end of the day it's not like this is gonna mean anything for their relationship, because ring or not he knows Tubbo loves him (maybe, hopefully, because he cannot begin to imagine the contrary, it would tear him apart), but he had dared to hope-

"No," Tubbo continues, "I've just started making out with you, because that is how normal people reject proposals in real life." He's smiling, still caressing his cheek, and Ranboo wants to die a little less. He pointedly ignored the disembodied voice of the fictional audience member reminding him how they were right. (Just because you were doesn't mean you gotta act mean about it. Meanie.)

He groans, quite loudly, so that all of his horrible pain is heard, and hides his shameful face in the warm crook of Tubbo's neck.

"Never start a sentence like that ever again, for the love of god."

Tubbo laughs, bright and loud. "Oh, you poor baby", he croons, mockingly. Ranboo is being made fun of, but the guy doing it is exceptionally beautiful and also his fiance now, so all the haters are quite obviously just jealous.

"You're right though," Tubbo continues, "I wasn't quite finished answering."

Whatever smart, flirty and witty reply Ranboo could have given him gets swallowed by a chocking sound, as the push of lips and the warmth of hands pull him onto yet another battlefield.

---

"You know what would be really, really funny actually?" Tubbo asks, after everything is done. He's basically sitting in Ranboo's lap now, only one lonely knee left hanging on the blanket. They cuddle together tighter, mostly because they want to, but also because it got so cold on that roof once the sun went down and now it feels far below freezing.

"Hmmmm..." he rumbles, a content rumble (NOT. a purr. shut up.) so loud it almost hides his voice. "No, what would?"

"If we just pretended to be married already." Tubbo sits up a little bit.

"Just like. Hear me out."

"I'm hearing, I'm hearing."

"Okay, for one - we've got like, another full year before we would be able to actually get married and you and I both know I've got zero patience to wait that long. And we're like, super wanted criminals, so nobody would want to marry us even if we were legal, right?"

"Absolutely correct."

"And also. Think of the Bitches faces when we get into battle against them and we have wedding bands on, calling each other 'husband' and shit"

A pause.

"Oh, oh my god" They both start laughing at the same time, falling back into the blankets in a mountain of little giggles. The thought is, as expected, absolutely hilarious, and with the added giddiness of being able to be husbands, of loving each other that much - it doesn't look like they'll be stopping anytime soon.

The moon is high in the sky, the cold is still frigid, and their laughs are loud enough for several noise complaints. Tonight, they hug each other and go to bed. Tomorrow, chaos would begin for real.

[ace-exploring]

Thank you for starting this blog, it's been eye-opening for me. I'm a fellow ace with a question that I hope isn't too intrusive! Was "wanting to have sex with this person" part of your decision to get married? And if it wasn't, what *did* make you decide, "This is the one I will marry"?

I'm someone who has never wanted sex with anyone, and I'm trying to figure out what "decision factors" to use when deciding to get married if "wanting sex" isnt part of the equation.

Hi there Anon, thank you for your kind words.

Wanting to have sex with my husband wasn't a factor in why I married him. I was 20 years old when we met (and when I accepted his proposal), and I didn't realise I was ace until I was 35.

Part of helping me figure out I was ace was that I ONLY wanted to have sex with my husband. I thought not being sexually attracted to other people while you're in love was completely normal, hence why it took me so long to figure out it's actually kind of not.

So my last long-term boyfriend before I met the man who would become my husband cheated on me and dumped me for the other girl, primarily because I didn't have sex with him (we tried, and it was his issue, but he blamed me because he was a teenage boy). I was pretty hurt, so I wrote out a long list of everything I wanted in a partner as a way to protect me from falling in love again. The list was a mix of physical attributes, personality, interests, and ideologies. I lived my life and became independent. I dated a couple of men casually, but it didn't work out for various reasons. I did not realise I was ace, but I also didn't have sex with any of those guys I dated.

When I met the man who would become my husband, he ticked off everything on that list, even obscure little things. As I got to know him, I fell in love, and marriage seemed the next logical step. He was and still is my best friend in the whole world.

Side note; this is before Facebook existed, so I literally fell in love with him before I knew what he looked like. We met online and chatted before starting phone calls. When we finally did a face reveal, I was thrilled to find I found him attractive. Again, I didn't know I was ace.

Other side note: I would be more comfortable calling myself demi if I had never experienced sexual attraction to a complete stranger, but as that has happened to me, I feel more that the graysexual label fits me. Graysexual being 'only feels sexual attraction on occasion.'

I feel like when I say 'I married my husband because he's the only person I want to have sex with', I'm partly reassuring allos that yes, we do have sex and he's not trapped in some sexless hell they're all imagining I lured him into like some asexual spider lady, sapping all joy and love from him and forbidding him from ever experiencing the one act they seem to think is more important than everything else. And partially because in hindsight, it's true. He is the only person I want to have sex with.

And that's fine for me, it works for me, and it works for our marriage.

But every relationship is different.

I'm a sex-positive graysexual heteroromantic, and my story and experience will be different to the next ace.

[thewholecrew]

@headstrongblake asked: how do they feel about marriage? do they ever want to get married? what do they feel about valentine’s day? / all kids who want

how do they feel about marriage? & do they want to get married?

grant ward - for most of his life, marriage never even seemed like an option to grant, he would see couples married and never think that he would be someone lucky enough to be allowed connection at all, let alone have a normal enough life to marry them. though his parents marriage for the most part was for show, if some how, some way grant was ever able to have a partner and not have any obstacles interfering, he would like to marry his partner. he would prefer to be the one to propose because if him and his partner made it this far, it would show his ultimate commitment to this person. underneath the mask of appearing like he might not care for it, is a deep yearning to have a more normal life with a partner and family

kassy harwell - for most of her life kassy viewed marriage in a very distasteful way when she thought of how it originated, which was for a man to claim and own a woman. now older, she still has no interest in marriage because she has no overall real interest in being committed to anyone in general. she sees it through a less misogynistic lens now (for the most part) and would be happy for those who do wish it. overall, she's not completely against it and for specific cases or legal reasons or if it would just be easier, i could see herself getting married but it would be more of something she should do and not necessarily something she has deeply dreamed of. if she was to ever get married she would keep her last name because there is still that inherent feeling of control over her otherwise. she also really would not want who she is to be erased, she wants to be known for her name and profession, not (insert partner)'s wife instead

nathan bishop - nate had never really had a family in the typical sense and never knew his parents. i think part of never experiencing having a family has definitely influenced his desire to have one of his own. though nate can appear like a bit of a playboy he is really only a one person commitment kind of guy and when he finds that person he would love to marry them. the only negative thoughts i could see him having about marriage is how expensive weddings are and how he couldn't provide enough to make it the most special occasion for his partner. he absolutely adores the thought of being able to call her his wife and not in an overly possessive way but in admiration and though she is the most precious and beloved person in the world to him

alec cross - he has always dreamt of having a happy ever after and that includes getting married, he think's its magical and truly so special for two people to show their ultimate commitment. he loved everything about it to the engagement party, to invitations and decorating and planning, the FLOWERS, the written vows, how everyone has come together to cherrish this happy moment. he definitely would love to get married, but there is the small problem that he is polyamorous therefore it worries him because if there is a potential for more partners they can't all get married because of the law

rev everheart - they really have no interest in marriage, they can be committed to someone without that and it just seems like such an unnecessary hassle to them. they're not 100% against getting married and if their partner would want that then they would too but rev would be a little resistant when it came to the wedding itself, which was probably the biggest deterrent to them. they would wear a suit at their wedding and be the one to wait for their partner, not be walked down

trinity lambert - she doesn't really know how she feels about marriage. being a closeted bi girl at an all girls school where all her relationships had to be hidden and private she never really thought she would be able to share her partner openly with the world and not have to worry let alone thinking they could get married. she wasn't someone who grew up dreaming of it but she is a bit of a hopeless romantic and if marriage would be the next step and her partner asked her she would be over the moon

hunter everheart - as much of a loner as he may appear, and as though nothing seems to phase him, good or bad, when hunter does find a partner who he cares deeply for he would absolutely wish to show his commitment and love to them by proposing. a lot of his life, hunter never thought he would have the chance to grow close with someone because of what his father had put him through and until that is dealt with i think he would still be hesitant however, i think in the end that longing would win against his caution (which could possibly be to their detriment) but hunter would love to have a family of his own, and marriage would be one step towards having that

how do they feel about valentines day?

grant ward - he has never celebrated it or really thought about it before. i wouldn't say he's overly invested in the holiday -- not until he has a stable relationship, then i can see him trying to do a fairly grand gesture for it (depending on if his partner cares much about the holiday) because i do think grant definitely is a bit of a romantic at heart

kassy harwell - she doesn't really care about this holiday either and a lot of the time she would only go out of her way to make it somewhat special would be for alec. she lowkey thinks the holiday is unnecessary and if someone cares about their partner they shouldn't have to wait for a specific day to go all out and spoil someone, however she's all for the 'galentines day' get togethers. she also doesn't mind the chocolate and reason to go buy herself a new pair of lingerie, or to plan a fun session/evening with a person of her choice

nathan bishop - honestly the more i answer these kinds of questions the more i realize what a big softie romantic nathan is because he absolutely would love to spoil his partner for valentines day, however the only problem would be that he wouldn't be able to fully make the day as special as he wanted due to his limitations with how much money he has

alec cross - he absolutely LOVES valentines day. everything about it from the colour scheme, decorations, to the grand gestures of love, and gifts and professions of love, being able to go on a cute and romantic date. he loves both being spoiled and spoiling his date, and going out for dinner and all the restaurants are filled with (hopefully) happy couples who are all in love. but he also uses this holiday to appreciate all his friends as well and would love to be included in 'galentines day' etc

rev everheart - they hate this holiday and think its gross and stupid, and that it shouldn't give people a pass to show their affection so publically and in everyones face. if they were asked out for a valentines day date they would still go (depending on who asked) but probably be a little grumpy and uncomfortable depending, plus they wouldn't want any pda or touching themselves

trinity lambert - she doesn't really have an opinion on the holiday, when she was younger, she only liked it because it gave her an excuse to send anonymous love letters to her crush without people knowing who it was from or thinking anything of it. she does really like dressing up for the day and whether she has a date or not would dress and do her make up in theme for valentines day

[yeonban]

✔ shalfei ofc <3

Send me ✔ and I’ll bold what my muse would do with/for yours.

Acquaintance:

hold the door for them | help them carry something | let them borrow something | let them use their phone | smile at them when passing in the streets | shake hands with them | flirt with them in a bar | share a taxi with them | give them a ride home | lend them money | sit next to them on public transportation | offer them some food | help them find something they lost

Friendship:

let them stay the night | listen to them complain at 4 am | help them get over a break up | go out shopping with them | pet sit for them | help them move houses | help them find a lost pet (for a mission or smth) | go on vacation with them | stay up all night with them | help them hide a dead body | provide an alibi for them | take their side | talk about their future plans | be maid of honour/best man/etc. at their wedding | share food with them

Lover:

let them stay after sex | gentle sex | rough sex | experiment | handcuffs | bdsm | whips | orgasm denial | aftercare | cuddles after sex | tea/coffee/etc. after sex | gentle kisses | rough kisses | passionate kisses | sloppy kisses | lazy kisses | hang out without sex | hide their relationship | cheat on them | cheat on someone else with them | dirty talk | loving talk | gentle touches | rough touches | nervous/shy touches | say “I love you”

Married/dating:

take them on expensive dates | pay for dates | make them pay for dates | go to the movies | put out on the first date | get an arranged marriage | stay at home most nights | cuddle in front of the tv | propose first (although definitely not society's type of marriage) | drop hints until they propose | give a big/expensive/elaborate proposal | have a quiet proposal | say yes to a proposal from them | have a big wedding | have a small wedding | elope | get married in Vegas | go on an expensive honeymoon | go on a cheap honeymoon | have kids | get a pet | move in together | laugh during kisses | laugh during sex | tickle fights | fight over who’s cuter | make them sleep on the couch after fights | make up sex | angry sex | no sex | let their parents stay over | let their family visit often | tell them “I love you” every day

Platonic:

fight | hug | laugh at them when they get hurt | help them hide a dead body | provide an alibi for them | tell them they’re annoying at least once a day | share food with them | help them move houses | walk them down the isle | try to sell them online | set up an online dating account for them | set them up on blind dates | try to set them up with your friends | listen to their problems | help them cook | cook them food | make them watch shows they don’t like with them | tell them they’re an idiot/loser/dork/nerd affectionately

[everythingsinred]

Let's Talk About NatsuMikan: Natsume (pt. 30)

The last ever part of my essay! We finally reached it!

We'll wrap up with Kageki no Kuni no Alice! Naturally, they're only side characters in this work so when they do appear, it's mainly to prop up the main story, but sometimes they exist in their own right, and I'll focusing on that aspect. In fact, this part will probably be more fun than the last one and it isn't even the same manga anymore! What are they like now that they're a happy couple that isn't separated by distance, memory loss, or a concealing barrier? We shall see!

Kageki no Kuni no Alice Chapter Four

So far in Kageki, we’ve been introduced to Tsubasa’s sister Hikari, who has joined the new Alice Opera Troupe to find her long-lost brother who was taken to the academy at a very young age. This essay isn’t about her, though, so we’re not gonna fixate on anything she’s been up to in the past few chapters. This chapter is special because it’s when we finally get to see Natsume properly! He’s appeared a couple times so far, on a mission with Tsubasa, but he hasn’t said much. Now is his time to shine!

And the first thing he does is tell Hikari to leave the school. When she asks who he is, he shuts her down, saying it isn’t important. He’s just telling her what Tsubasa told him. He denies that anyone would want to be Tsubasa’s friend, but there’s no doubt that’s what they are at this point.

He has Mikan by his side, and they are both here to visit Aoi at the Opera School. Aoi scolds Natsume for being mean and Mikan apologizes for him.

The first appearance of the rings! Also, it's so cute how much time they spend together now ;-; They visit Aoi together! Visiting sister-in-law with husband... Okay, I'll stop now.

This spin-off takes place only a short time after they’ve returned Mikan to the academy. She’s only been back for a couple weeks but it’s interesting to see how they’ve both gotten used to each other quickly. It’s a testament to how much time they’re spending together now, that they’re not anxious to be around each other at all, and that they even have matching promise rings already.

Promise rings, or pre-engagement rings--are exchanged to show the whole world that although there are not any plans for marriage, the couple is entirely committed to each other and to a future together. It’s a promise for engagement. Natsume and Mikan have already exchanged alice stones, devoting themselves to each other forever and that included a proposal as well, but those alice stones are all gone now.

No doubt they’d like another way to replace what the alice stones represented before. Mikan can’t spend too much of her alice without running out, and Mikan wouldn’t want an alice stone from Natsume if it meant he was using up what little lifespan he has left. Instead, they go for a non-alice approach, traditional promise rings.

And it's fine because they already did the alice approach. Mikan had his alice stone for about a year around her neck, and Natsume still has her heart in his body, keeping him alive (how literal yet poetic). Going the more "normal" route of devotion at this point isn't a loss when they've already had the extraordinary one.

They’ve only been together for a couple of weeks, but the years they’ve been separated have not at all damaged their love, and they very quickly commit to each other again.

In any case, Natsume is relaying the message that it is better for Hikari to leave, since the mysterious Ema could put her in danger.

The chapter began in media res, so we must go back to the beginning to see what happened before.

He arrives to tell Hikari that she’s talentless and should just leave already, and we can see that Natsume hasn’t outgrown his habit of showing kindness through insults. Perhaps if Hikari gets so downtrodden about her lack of skill, she’ll give up, and he’ll have achieved his mission without putting himself out there.

Narumi scolds him for disturbing class again, implying this isn’t the first time he’s criticized the performances. Aoi complains that Natsume never visits normally, but he denies that he’s here to see her at all. Then Mikan arrives, and we’ve finally come back full circle.

Natsume is somewhat famous, even on the Alice Opera campus, and he quickly finds admirers in Aoi’s class. But they are dejected to find out that he has a girlfriend already, who doesn’t even notice them, because she’s excitedly greeting Hikari.

Hikari is over the moon to find somebody willing to talk to her about her brother so she asks a lot of questions, but Natsume is the one to answer that all Tsubasa wants is for her to get out of the school and stay away from Thoma.

Mikan scolds him for being mean, and Natsume brushes it off as just relaying the message without any of the sugar-coating that Tsubasa would have used. Ema--rather, Thoma--appears, and Natsume decides to leave after they share a tense moment. He’s ready to go and Mikan comes after him.

It's little moments like this that I am obsessed with! Mikan calls for him to wait and he stops so she can catch up! They like spending lots of time together! They're in love!

Narumi trails after them, and comments on how nice Natsume was to do that for Hikari, despite the fact that he came off as a bad guy again. Natsume explains that he knows the Opera School is sketchy, being run by the MSP, and thus it takes quite a lot to be able to get into the school. His sister, who he describes as a weirdo would fare just fine, but it’s suspicious that Hikari made it in since she doesn’t belong. He asks Narumi point blank if he’s planning on sacrificing her for Thoma’s sake, and just like Mikan, we’re left a little in the lurch about what they’re talking about.

Narumi counters that it isn’t his intention at all. He let Mikan, another unassuming girl who ended up being treated suspiciously as well, into Alice Academy, where she met Natsume. Was that a mistake? If he hadn’t let Mikan into the school, they wouldn’t have fallen in love and wouldn’t be together now. He then asks Mikan if she regrets it.

Sure, plenty of pain and suffering came as a result of joining the academy, but she also met many loved ones and was able to entirely turn Natsume’s perspective around, essentially saving his life in several ways at once.

She takes Natsume’s hand and looks into his eyes and says, “Not at all!” She has faith in Naru because his decision led to their finding each other, so whatever he has planned for Hikari and Thoma can’t be so evil either.

Have I ever actually "read" Kageki? No. I can't focus on anything in the main plot and even when I try, I end up skipping a lot to see my beloveds. Apologies!

Natsume acts annoyed, but he squeezes Mikan’s hand and concedes, scolding Naru for dragging Mikan into this.

Now we see another aspect of their relationship, now that they're dating. Naru knows it too, that he can drag Mikan into a conflict and immediately get Natsume to cave that way. Mikan could get Natsume to do anything, because he is so devoted to her. It’s not just that he goes along with whatever she says, but that just having her say it can convince him. He listens to her because he values what she has to say. She doesn’t have all the facts about the situation, but her words make several points to him. He doesn’t regret meeting her either, wouldn’t trade her coming to the academy for anything, so he can’t complain anymore.

He drops it, but he does tell Mikan to stay away from Naru, who manipulates her, and Hikari, whose face Mikan had been impressed by to the point that it bothered Natsume.

Chapter Five

Hikari is being bullied by Bear. Mikan and Natsume come to pick him up, like parents picking up their troublemaking child from school. Natsume criticizes Hikari for not standing up for herself and she is morose to see the “strange and annoying people” from yesterday. Mikan is able to grip Bear. Sato, Hikari’s cousin, protests that Hikari is simply disciplining herself by allowing Bear to torture her, but Natsume thinks she’s just hiding her true feelings.

They have come to pick up their child (Bear). I'm gonna go scream now. It's also interesting seeing Natsume and Mikan thought of as "strange and annoying" now that they're no longer main characters. Are they kinda freaky to other people? I love them so much.

This is an interesting criticism to bring up, because Natsume has been so dishonest about his own feelings. Now, he’s more open, showing genuine affection with Mikan, but he’s still holding back, like with Tsubasa who he refuses to acknowledge as a friend despite the fact that they chat and hang out and have each other’s backs.

It’s even more interesting because holding back negative feelings for everyone else’s sake is a page ripped directly out of Mikan’s playbook! She does this incessantly, the endless epitome of the phrase “grin and bear it”. He’s calling Hikari out here, but also revealing that he doesn’t believe it’s healthy for Mikan either, to just hide all her feelings to keep others happy.

Hikari wonders what Tsubasa had said specifically about wanting her to leave, and who the mysterious “Thoma” is that Natsume had mentioned. Natsume then continues to warn her about Thoma, and naturally this warning comes off as rather insulting, so when Thoma-Ema comes across them, he uses his voice pheromone alice to tell Natsume, “house”. This prompts Natsume to use his alice in anger, but he naturally has no choice but to submit and walk home, to his dorm.

It turns out that Bear was bullying Hikari to push her into revealing her true feelings, even the “ugly” ones, like anger and sadness. He apparently burned her photo album and set her only pictures of her family on fire, which prompted her to finally release her anger and anguish. Bear was doing this to help, and Natsume did as well, using a non-burning fire to push her, all so that Tsubasa could see that she was putting her all into her position at the Opera School.

Legitimately so adorable. I cannot look at them, all official and together, without wanting to sob. Also, put that fire out, Natsume. Fucking ridiculous.

Mikan exclaims that Natsume is amazing for being able to produce a flame that doesn’t burn. It’s nice that Natsume wanted to help Tsubasa and Hikari, but he maybe also wanted to show off to his girlfriend a little too. Having her call him amazing, after she was so entranced by Hikari, must be nice and reassuring, as if having her wearing a promise ring symbolizing her commitment to only him isn’t enough.

Anyway, this was all part of Tsubasa’s plan to see if Hikari was genuinely interested in the Alice Opera School. Of course Bear cooperated with Tsubasa, but Natsume only vaguely explains his help by saying that Hikari will help them find Hotaru… somehow.

Chapter 5.5 Omake

After Natsume was told to go home by Thoma, he is walking to the dorms with Mikan, hand in hand. They’re really dating now, and it’s so casual, as if they walk like this all the time when they’re together--which is often.

Mikan asks what Natsume had been up to when she was gone, and Naru shows up out of nowhere to chime in that Natsume had really struggled without her. Without Mikan, he was something of a trouble-maker. Mikan wonders how that could be true when he skipped grades, so Naru explains that he went on missions to rack up points and graduate. Though they weren’t missions that would further hurt Natsume’s body, Mikan still looks concerned.

I have no comprehensible comments for this. Also sorry for bad quality. I took a screenshot so I didn't have to use two images. :P

Natsume doesn’t want her to worry. He had to live long enough to see her again after all, so he refrained from excessive use of his alice. He distracts her, rubbing her face with his knuckles to get her to stop worrying.

In any case, it’s not as though Natsume studied hard or has any more knowledge than the other students. He just earned more credit with missions rather than with exams.

Shiki has now appeared as well, and both he and Naru steal Mikan’s attention away. They tempt her with pictures of Natsume in middle school, which would require going to Shiki’s room, but Natsume won’t allow that. He puts his arm around her and takes her away.

No, she is, they agreed on this on Christmas years ago. You weren't there for it, Narumi, but it happened, you can ask Shiki.

This sort of “monopolizing” behavior is probably an amalgamation of things. Natsume doesn’t know how much time he has left, so he’s eager to spend as much of it as he can with Mikan. Also, before he knew his feelings were requited, he’d spent a lot of time distancing himself. As a result, he didn’t hang out with her as much as he could’ve, and it might be something that he has come to regret because of all those years he couldn’t even see her. She also doesn’t mind spending so much time with him, so it’s something of a rewarding circle to be by her side and be welcome there.

Chapter Six

The girls at the Opera School will be visiting the Alice Academy campus in disguise as males during the school festival.

Natsume is hanging around the Special Ability classroom as they prep for the festival. It’s interesting to see the contrast between the last festival we saw and this one. Last time, several years ago, Natsume hated the festival and despised how excited everyone was about it, because he couldn’t participate. In the end, he used his magic lamp to get his genie Mikan to spend time with him, so they spent almost the whole festival together. This time, he doesn’t have to use a wish to be with Mikan, and he’s not complaining about how overhyped the festival is. He just hangs around Mikan, without actually helping, like a parasite.

Tsubasa and Mikan are working while chatting, but Natsume is simply sitting and reading. They talk about the Opera girls coming, and Mikan teases him about getting beat up by Thoma before, which prompts him to put her in a headlock.

They have the range... can be cute and sweet, but can also tease each other. They're so perfect.

It’s cute that for all their lovey-doveyness, they haven’t lost the ability to tease each other. They can be childish with each other, even as they get older. Them being in a committed relationship doesn’t mean discarding light-hearted insults or even headlocks. They can hold hands one second and stick their tongues out at each other the next. It’s a lovely duality.

Natsume doesn’t want to be Thoma’s bodyguard again, but Ruka comes in, talking on the phone to Thoma, and promises that Natsume will take on the duty again.

Natsume is dejected about this, and Tsubasa teases him, while Mikan points out that Ruka is relying on him.

Chapter 11.5 Omake

Hikari needs pointers for a kiss scene for class.

Though she could ask Tsubasa, it’s revealed that his relationship with Misaki is relatively new (which is surprising but also not) so he couldn’t demonstrate very much since he probably doesn’t have a lot of experience. But then the group, hiding in the bushes, sees Natsume and Mikan coming along.

Mikan is eating some sort of sticky and messy dessert. Some of it gets on her face, and Natsume, smiling sweetly, tries to point it out to her. They might have been talking before, but this scene is merely for educational purposes! We can only observe and hope that romance will blossom.

They’re both ignorant to the audience watching them, so Natsume leans in to lick some of the sweet off of her face. He keeps licking, and she smiles too.

TThat dog straight up sucks man.

We can rest assured that, with this scene and the fact that they are promised to each other, they are doing quite well in their relationship. There must be so many kisses shared between them that we haven’t seen, so many sweet scenes between them that we can’t witness, because this spin-off is from Hikari’s perspective and she’s not all that invested in their relationship.

When they realize they’re being watched, Mikan is embarrassed and red-faced, and although Natsume might be embarrassed as well, he’s also angry at being interrupted and spied on. Nobody likes a voyeur (let alone three), and his sweet moment with Mikan was spoiled because of them.

Conclusion

I know this is short, but there's only so much NM in here that I can analyze. The last part especially lacks much NM, and definitely no moments of them on their own together. I can only say "see how happy they are together!!!" without being redundant. I mean that's how I end up reading Kageki each time anyway, but it's conducive to an interesting essay. We can just all agree that they're happy and committed to each other and leave it at that!

As for any questions about Ruka: he is their biggest supporter and has been for years! All he wants are two of his dearest people to be happy and they are! I don't really think Natsume would get "jealous" of Ruka hanging out with Mikan at this point. He knows Ruka supports him and as their relationship grows stronger, he'll learn that Mikan is fully in love with him. He trusts them together, and doesn't view Ruka as a "threat". Natsume is aware that Ruka probably still has feelings for Mikan and wouldn't want to rub their relationship in his face, but over time, even if it takes a while, Ruka would ultimately want to move on, which would be great for everyone's sake, especially his!

Kageki has the set-up for a very happy life for all of the characters! We can see the bright future ahead for all of them, and even the suggestions that saving Hotaru and her brother are right on the horizon. Although I personally wasn't invested in the main plot of Kageki, the glimpses we get into our beloved characters reveal a new time of peace for these kids. Well deserved. Finally.

Basically, each tiny glimpse into their life that we get we can see just how much Natsume and Mikan's relationship is flourishing. Now that they're dating, Natsume clings to her like a leech, hanging around her when she's in the Special Ability's RPG, and she tags along when he goes to visit his sister. He goes with her to pick up Bear and when they walk together, they hold hands. Sometimes, they kiss. Sometimes, he licks her face, I guess?! They have exchanged promise rings and are now very happy together.

It's been fifty-four days since I first posted part one of my essay. I started writing this essay years ago, but I was convinced nobody would be interested in reading something so long and undeniably tedious. I was surprised that there was genuine interest in this essay, that people were excited to revisit Gakuen Alice. Some people read every single part as soon as they came out, some skipped around a bit, some haven't quite gotten around to it, but either way I wanted to thank you guys for reading.

This whole essay is around 83,000 words long and took 30 parts to post in completion. That's quite a lot! Me writing so much and you reading so much just goes to show how much love there is for this "strange and annoying" couple!

I really had so much writing this essay, but it was also really tiring. On the days when I wrote for this, which was most days, I'd try to do about a volume a day. I wanted to keep a consistent posting schedule without getting overwhelmed and sometimes I cut it close, but I finally finished! I really want to do a Mikan one, and it's definitely going to come, but not for a little while. I need a break, and to focus on my fics and original writing for a bit. I'll get back to it soon enough, and it'll probably be longer than Natsume's, least of all because she isn't dead for twenty chapters.

Thank you so much for sticking around and reading this! I love you so much! If you've left replies or comments in the tags or notes on the GA discord, then I'm really so grateful and was happy to read all of it! I hope you all had fun reading this, and that you have a great day. Thanks for supporting me! Love you!

<- Previous

[tinyboxxtink]

"Black Magic" *Part 4*

Whoooooo! Okay alright here's 4, I don't know if I can get 5 up tonight but at least you'll have the whole "day". [you'll see]

YA'LL enjoy this because....it's gonna come crashing down. I'm so sorry. Maybe I should leave it here tonight. Yeah I might.

Also-- WINK! When you see it you'll know. 😉

@bookishfanfic

@stars-in-the-skies-world

@omgsuperstarg

@chasingeverybreakingwave

@gibbs274

@milkshqke

@wanniiieeee

@word-scribbless

@objection-argumentative

@aprildecker-blog

@lolliepopsicle

@madamsnape921

@stars-trash-18

Part 3

Part 5

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

“Well!” he wiped tears away from his face and then yours before he gathered up your trash and threw it away. “ I think that's quite enough of the melodramatic stories today. Now it's time to show you my favorite place,”

He took your hands and let you further deeper into the park. You had never been this deep into Central Park before you don't think you'd ever actually been in Central Park, you've just passed it. You were kind of a shit New Yorker.

“Where are we going?” You asked as he pulled you faster down some steps until you reached what you could only describe as a “Cave”.

“You'll see,” he smiled as you approached the cave. You both walked inside and before you was something you never thought you'd see.

“Oh my god…” You said breathlessly. Are those…?”

“Penguins” You heard a smile in his voice as you stared. In front of you with a long glass tank encased in the stone. It was full of happy, smiling, swimming, penguins.

“How... why….why is this here?”

“Well the zoo is right next door.” He explained. “And they accidentally made the penguin exhibit about a foot outside of the zoo's zoning area. So, while it is technically part of the Central Park Zoo, this one area is completely free to the public. It beats paying $50.” He laughed.

“Penguins are my favorite,” you said softly as you just continued to stare at them. It was true. You loved penguins since you were a little girl and you had no idea why. They were just so cute.

“Mine too,” he smiled, taking his arms and pulling you into his chest from behind. They look so happy. And they're in little tuxedos. Which I highly approve of,” He joked. You giggled in response.

“I like to come here when I've had a really long day or a really bad day in court.” He continued to explain. “And just sit here and watch them; and imagine how much more enjoyable life would be as a penguin. Look at them they're so happy and carefree, not a worry in the world.”

“God wouldn’t that be nice,” You sighed. “No rent, no bills, no annoying job.” you have laughed, giving him a nudge

“And.. They are also monogamous,” He stopped laughing and turned you to face him.

“What?” You stopped laughing as well, giving him a stunned expression.

“Did you know that when a male penguin fancies a girl penguin he will look everywhere until he finds the perfect rock or pebble as an offering to said female. And if she accepts it, then they're together until they die.”

“So.. basically like an engagement ring,” You whispered. Oh god.. what was happening?

“Yeah I guess so they get engaged and married. Without the wedding of course.” He nodded.

“Can you imagine that? I mean they’d be pretty prepared already in their little tuxedos” you laughed, hopefully trying to change the subject getting away from marriage although you didn't really know how. “Rafael…”

Okay surely even if he was under this spell, was there kind of some kind of backstory? Did he think you had been together for a very long time? There's no way he was going to propose after one day was he?

“Don't worry carino, I'm not proposing. He laughed, noticing the panic in your eyes. "I'm not that crazy.”

“Right you laughed and nodded your head. “Of course. Because we've only known each other so shortly….?” You tried to ask in a leading way.

“Right. But if we're being totally honest,” he took your hands. “I think I fell in love with you the moment you walked in the door on your first day.”

You silently gasped.. Could that be true? Was that him making that up in his head? Did he have memories before today? Did he have real memories before today? How far did this thing go? Could he actually really be saying that? Your mind started swimming.

“I..” You looked into his eyes, searching for sincerity. Obviously it was there but you didn't know if it was fabricated or real. But any real form of sincerity was moot at this point. Right?

“Really?” Was all you could say back.

“Yeah,” he smiled while he stroked your hair. “Really,”

That was it you couldn't take this anymore. You Broke down crying once again, and threw your arms around him. You were holding him so tightly, as if he was going to disappear in front of your eyes any second.

“Please Don't leave me, you sobbed. “Please don't leave me,”

“Hey hey hey,” He took your arms and pulled you over to a bench in the cave. Then he sat you down and put both hands on your shoulders.” I'm not leaving you. I'm not going anywhere, okay? Never,”

“You can't say that,” You sobbed. You completely threw any thoughts of keeping this under wraps out the window.

"Why not?” He looked at you quizzically.

“Because….because this isn't real!!” You kept sobbing.

“What…? Baby you have to calm down,” He started getting really concerned.

“I….” You tried to find the words to explain it without sounding crazy. Then you realized it didn't matter.

“I...my roommate Chloe she's a...well she, she made this...stuff, that I put in your coffee yesterday and it made you think you're in love with me.” You realized you had said explanation a little too loudly, as the very few other people that were in the cave with you gave you strange looks and started to walk away. You looked at Rafael who was just staring at you in disbelief and confusion.

“What are you talking about?” He half laughed. Baby look I don't know what you think you did. But if you're talking about what I think you're talking about--- magic isn't real.”

“Yes it is!” You continued to sob. “I didn't believe it either. That's why I did it. I thought on the off chance maybe it would work but I didn't really think it worked like this” you gestured between the two of you.

“What, make an actual connection between us? Has anything you said to me today been a lie?”

“No” You started to calm yourself down.

“And I can promise you nothing I have done today has been a lie, or fabricated in any way,” He wiped the tears from your face.

“So again, I don't know what you think you did, but my feelings for you are real. The only magic here is the magic of true love,”

“See who says that?!” you cried angrily. “Nobody says that for real, Rafael. Not unless they're--”

“Under some kind of magic spell?” Rafael asked sarcastically

“This isn't funny!”

“Okay so what you're just saying is that tomorrow I'm going to wake up, and just think you're a normal girl and what? Think today was a fluke?”

“No.. you're not going to remember anything.”

“I really doubt that,”

“It's true! Why do you think I said back at Maria’s that I need you to hold on to this day? I need you to remember this day? I wasn’t just saying that to be cute.”

“Okay well I'm taking you seriously now. I'm committing this day to my memory this entire day even with your nutty little break down here.” He took both of your shoulders and looked at you seriously.

“Because I'm going to prove to you that this is not some kind of magic spell. It's me and you and our real feelings. I told you I fell in love with you the day I met you, that was before today. That was three months ago!”

Could that be true? Could this have just fast forwarded the time that it would have taken you to get here? Is he really going to remember this?

“Okay” was all you could say.

“Okay.” He smiled, pulling you into him again and kissing your forehead while stroking your hair. “I'm never going to forget you Y/N. I could never forget you,”

“Okay,” you repeated, believing him a little more this time.

Rafael glanced at his phone. Oh God it's four fifteen already,”

“So…? Do you turn into a pumpkin at 5?” You joked.

“No but I did promise Olivia that I would drop off some paperwork. Do you mind?”

Oh God you really don't want to face Liv again, at the risk of exposing your secret. But what else could you do?

“Yeah I guess that's fine.” You shrugged.

It definitely was NOT fine.

-----

You walked into the NYPD police station nervously, as if you were a hooker doing a perp walk. You hoped that maybe since Raphael had calmed down maybe Olivia would just think this morning was a joke after all. You hoped he wouldn't say anything.

“Olivia!” He walked over to her desk and still had your hand in his.

“Hey Rafa.. what is this? I thought you weren't dating your intern?” She frowned.

“Oh I'm not ... Apparently I'm under her spell,” He laughed.

Oh my God oh my God oh my God what…. Why was he being so flippant about this? Oh God.

“...Excuse me?” She asked him seriously.

“Did you get her in on this Y/N? Pretend that she has no idea about us?” He asked you while still laughing. You wanted to crawl into a hole.

“I don't have any idea about-- didn't you say this morning that you were kidding?” Olivia looked at you angrily.

“What? I don't remember this morning.” Rafael looked confused.

Oh God maybe it was starting to wear off and then forget-me-nots were working oh God oh God oh god….

“What is wrong with you?” Olivia put both of her hands on her shoulders, then she looked at you. “Did you actually do something to him?

What? No, I didn't do anything!” You cried defensively, hoping she would back off.

“Liv back off she didn't do anything. Magic isn't real. What is wrong with you?” Rafael stood in front of you.

“Then explain how you feel right now???” Olivia crossed her arms.

“What are you talking about? We've been in love for months now!”

Oh shit. Oh GOD.WHAT?

“WHAT?” Olivia almost screamed.

"I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to overeat like this." He gave her a look.

“Oh that is bullshit.” She spat, and then looked at you over his shoulder. “You did something to him and I will damn sure figure out what it is,”

“Liv you need to seriously back off,” Rafael increased the space between the two of you.

Liv nodded, but mouthed to you over his head with a whisper. “I am going to figure out what you did and you're going to pay.”

You gulped and looked at Rafael who was still glaring at Liv. “Look Olivia, you need to get over whatever thing you have for me and just let me be happy.”

That was it! That was why she was so upset about this. She was in love with him too. Oh God. You suddenly wondered how accessible that spell that Chloe did was.

“I.. you.. we…” She stammered. “Here's your warrant,” Rafael tossed some papers at her and walked out the door with your hand in his. You looked back at Liv who was still fuming. That can't be good.

----

“Can you believe the nerve of her?” He scoffed as you walked out.

“Yeah totally,” You laughed nervously.

“I'm sorry about her. She doesn't know when to stop beating a dead horse,” He sighed.

“So you know she's had a thing for you? And you've never had a thing for her?”

“I mean there was a time when we first met that I thought maybe something could happen. But too much time has passed and I don't feel that way about her anymore, but apparently she still does.” He shook his head.

“And besides whatever feelings I thought I had for her went out the window the moment I saw

you,” he smiled, pulling you in for a kiss.

“Oh I mean since this morning,” he teased. But you knew he was right on the money.

“Haha. Can we please not joke about it?” You asked dejectedly.

“I'm sorry carino. Let's go get some dinner huh? Forget about this?”

“Yes please” You smiled.

---

He took you to his favorite restaurant Forlini’s and you two had an amazing dinner laughing, talking and discussing Broadway shows.

"Wait so you saw RENT with the ORIGINAL cast?!"

"Yeah…." He lightly chuckled. "I know, I'm super old."

"Oh I wasn't going to say that at all. I was going to say you are so lucky!!!!” You squealed.

“So you've never seen a show on Broadway?” He asked.

“Well...when I first met Chloe she was working as a PA for one of the directors of a show that had just gone to Broadway. It didn't last very long; it wasn't that great of a show. Except for the leading actor in my opinion,”

“Oh really?” he looked at you curiously. “What show?”

“It was called “Leap Of Faith”, I think? It was based on some movie about some televangelist creep con man, who fell in love with the sheriff and his heart turned to gold or some lame-ass thing like that. You rolled your eyes

“Oh really was it that bad?” he laughed.

“I mean, the songs were good and like I said the leading man Raul Esparza was amazing,” You smiled as you sipped your wine.

“Raul Esparza? You know when I was younger, people used to say that I looked like him.” He chuckled as he sipped his scotch.

“Really?? Nah I don't see it. You're way more handsome,” you smiled.

You continued to have a fabulous dinner so fun and easy, you almost forgot it was all fantasy. Before you knew it, Rafael was walking you to your door.

"Well I had a fabulous 'last’ 24 hours with you mi amor,” Rafael smiled.

“Yeah.. me too,” you said sadly.

“You sure you don't want me to come in?” He asked you with mischievous eyes.

“No, you better not.” You wanted so badly to let him, but you didn't want tomorrow to be jarring for him.

"Oh right I might wake up tomorrow and forget where I am," he teased, tickling you. You laughed while he was doing it, but the pain of really knowing he was right knocked you right back to sadness.

"Well good night beautiful. I'll see you tomorrow" He grinned.

"Yeah…." You smiled sadly thinking "not like this,”

He kissed you gently, but you pulled him in for a deep long passionate kiss, desperately memorizing every detail. His tongue, his mouth, his hands, his smell, his skin on yours.

"Wow, I should be under spells more often he chuckled. He gave you one last small kiss, and you held onto his hands.

"....Baby I'll stay if you want me to, you don't have to be so sad," He stroked your hair and gave you a reassuring smile.

"No…" you shook your head silently chastising yourself. "Let him go," you said mentally.

"No it's ok I'll see you tomorrow" you have him the bravest smile you could.

"Ok. Maybe tomorrow when you see you were being silly I'll sleep over," he winked, walking down the hall.

You slowly shut the door and fell down the floor sobbing.

Chloe came running out of her bedroom to check on you.

"Aw honey…."

"I love him Chloe,” you sobbed. “I didn't know how much or even if I really did before today but I really love him.”

“Oh honey. I can make more right now, even a bigger batch so it'll last longer!” She offered.

NO you shook your head sternly. "That's not fair to him"

"Well….it might be,” She gave you a hopeful look.

“What are you talking about?”

“Come on,” She picked you up and dragged you to her room.

She sat you on her bed as she went and pulled an ancient looking book from her shelf. You read the cover: “The Grimoire.”

“I borrowed it from my friend Maggie,” She explained. “Basically it's a master list of spells,”

“And she just let you borrow this?” You gave her a suspicious look.

“I told her it was an emergency.”

“Really?”

“Well! It was. Of the heart. She gets it she’s an empath and a romantic,” She assured you. “Anyway!” She turned to a dog eared page.

“Read” it she instructed.

You read the page: “ ‘Emotion Magnifier’....what is this?”

“It's the spell I used on Rafael.” She smiled.

“...What?”

“It wasn't really a love spell per say,”. She explained. “Those are frowned upon in the witch community. Y'know free will and all,”

“Wait so this didn't mess with his free will?”

“No ma'am! It just magnifies whatever somebody already feels. You just have to zone in on what emotion you want to draw out. So I used amorous feelings on Rafael,”

“So...that means...what exactly…?” You wanted to make sure you understood what she was saying.

“Well since he went so insane this morning, it magnified some already pretty strong feelings for you.” She smiled

“WHAT?!”

Your mind was spinning. Had he really been telling the truth about falling in love with you the moment he saw you? Has this actually just sped up the process of your relationship? Why hasn't he ever said anything? You've never really talked. How was this possible?

"So...what you're saying is…"

"He was clearly already smitten with you darling," She grinned even bigger at you.

"Oh my god….oh my god!!!!" You squealed. Maybe...maybe those feelings would be stronger than any potion, maybe he would remember today.

You went to bed that night with a hopeful heart.

-----

[scarletemeterio-thesecond]

Hi! Really love your writings! Could I request an azula x fem reader where azula become firelord and they're living their happy lives? Thank you!

omg i really liked this request! and also thank you so much!! for this imagine let's just pretend that zuko is younger and that azula is totally mentally stable lmao, and once again i'm so sorry for taking so long! hope you like it!

(also this turned out like extremely domestic and family related, hope that's okay hehe)

•••

A New Step (Azula x Fem!Reader)

Warnings: none

Genre: Fluff

Fandom: Avatar, The Last Airbender

Summary: See request

Word Count: 759

•••

Neither of you thought that your current life would ever be possible. The past hadn't been easy, but you were lucky to say that you'd got over it.

You met Azula when you were kids, and have always been there for each other ever since. You'd helped her stand up against her father and get away from him, you showed her what true love was, and once the war was over, it was her turn to be Fire Lord.

She was happy, happier than she'd been in a long time, and it was all because of you. You were the one who was always by her side, who always helped her no matter what and who always saw the good in her. And you were the one she was in love with.

Azula was a little scared of telling you, but once she did, you obviously told her that you felt the same way, and immediately started dating. Being with her was extremely exciting, full of unexpected moments and also full of love. It wasn't long until she allowed same-sex marriage in the Fire Nation, hoping that one day you two would get married.

And you did. And your life together was amazing.

She'd proposed in the training room since it was the place you spent more time together. Everything had happened in that room; every laughter, every tear, every hug and most importantly, your first kiss. She wanted the moment to be special for you, she wanted to show you how much you meant to her and that she wanted to spend the rest of your life by your side.

You wanted the same. You wanted to be with her forever, to wake up everyday by her side and go to bed with your arms wrapped around her.

…

Azula had a meeting that morning, and she'd just got back from it.

"How did it go?" You asked as Azula entered the room. You walked over to her and started helping her change her clothes.

"It was fine, a little boring as always, but Izumi will officially be Fire Lord after me," she replied. You obviously couldn't have kids together, and even if you decided to adopt, they wouldn't be blood related to your wife, so some paperwork had to be done in order to make your niece the rightful heir.

"Well, that's great!"

"Yeah, it is," she said. She sighed and sat on your shared bed. You could tell she was thinking about something, so you sat next to her and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"What's going on?"

"It's just that this whole Izumi thing has been making me think a lot," she answered.

"About what, love?"

"About kids, and about how I think it would be amazing to adopt a little one," she told you, kind of hiding her face from you to hide how much she was blushing.

"Are you serious?"

She nodded shyly and you wrapped your arms around her neck. You pulled away a little and started leaving kisses all over her face. "I'd love that, Azula. Oh, I can already imagine a little one walking around the palace!"

She wrapped her arms around your waist and kissed you softly on your lips. The two of you lay down in bed and stayed there for the rest of the day, talking about what having a kid would be like.

Once it was time for dinner, both of you decided to stay in your room and share a moment together.

You'd decided you'd like to adopt a little girl. Both of you liked the idea of raising her without the obligations and responsibilities of being the heir to the throne, you wanted her -and any other kids you'd decide to adopt in the future- to have the closest thing possible to a normal life.

That is what you loved about being with Azula. You were always on the same page, and even when you weren't, there was always communication between you two.

She never thought she'd be this happy and even though she always fantasized about you being the one by her side, sometimes she still couldn't believe that it was real. You were her wife, the woman he loved the most in the entire world, and the best part was that she knew you felt the same way towards her.

Being the Fire Lord's wife sometimes was a bit difficult and overwhelming, but moments like these made everything absolutely worth it, and you would never change a single thing about it.

•••

TAGLIST: @just-a-belgian-girl @sorrythatspussynal @noodlesfluffy

[lemon-boy-stan]

being his girlfriend - min yoongi “fluff alphabet”

ACTIVITIES - What do they like to do with their s/o? How do they spend their free time with them?

I think the answer is obvious. Both your lives are extremely busy so you’d spend most of your time chilling on the couch and sleeping, I’d say. Either one of them or both. 

BEAUTY - What do they admire about their s/o? What do they think is beautiful about them?

How flexible you are. That’s what he loves. You just go with the flow. Oh, and don’t forget he loves everything else, too. 

COMFORT - How would they help their s/o when they feel down/have a panic attack etc.?

When you feel down Yoongi would definetly let you cuddle him. He’d get out one of the puzzles you’d been saving and would do it with you and would most likely try to talk to you about whatever it is and get your mind off the subject but wouldn’t be too hard on it because he’d understand some people don’t really like to talk about things that upset them.

When you have panic attacks, Yoongi remains calm. He doesn’t get frustrated like you’d think he would, in fact quite the opposite. He’d always have whatever it was (sometimes holding things close helps) with him and wouldn’t ever be embarassed if it happened in public, he’d come straight to your side, whispering to you and soothing you. 

DREAMS - How do they picture their future with their s/o?

Let’s be real, you guys have never even thought about kids. A marriage is possible, but you’re both the same kind of people with the same kind of past. You’re not ready for a family yet and you’re completely fine with that. 

EQUAL - Are they the dominant one in the relationship, or rather passive?

It depends. Both of you have busy lives, and you don’t really work around the apartment seeing as there are eight of you in there to take turns doing stuff. 

FIGHTS - Would they be easy to forgive their s/o? How are they fighting?

Fights with Yoongi end very quickly. He’s very level-headed and understanding and would probably apologise quickly so things are back to normal. 

GRATITUDE - How grateful are they in general? Are they aware of what their s/o is doing for them?

It takes a long time for things like this to happen, for both of you. At first you were both quite closed-off, but over the years you started getting closer to each other and appreciating each other more. 

HONESTY - Do they have secrets they hide from their s/o? Or do they share everything?

Never. End of story. 

INSPIRATION - Did their s/o change them somehow, or the other way around? Like trying out new things or helped them overcome personal problems?

Yoongi most definetly helped you with your anxiety and/or depression. You helped him recover when he came out of surgery, too. 

JEALOUSY - Do they get jealous easily? How do they deal with it?

Do I really have to re-write this?

KISS - Are they a good kisser? What was the first kiss like?

Well, Yoongi kisses like how he sings, so, I’d say, yeah, he is. I mean:

LOVE CONFESSION - How would they confess to their s/o?

Probably before or after the first make-out or when you’re doubting yourself.

MARRIAGE - Do they want to get married? How do they propose? What would the marriage be like?

Some time in the future, although I do think you’d be the one proposing (he’d have it in his mind somewhere, even bought a ring, and he’d forget to). Your weddding would be small, probably just your families and the boys’ families. You’d argue over who the flower man would be. Of course, the wedding would be kept off the internet.

NICKNAMES - What do they call their s/o?

Oppa. Yoongi loves to be called this. Also, he calls you “sweetheart” but only during sex. You made up a nickname, “Yoo-Yoo” for him that he hates but secretly loves. 

ON CLOUD NINE - What are they like when they are in love? Is it obvious for others? How do they express their feelings?

Not very well. Him liking you was a slow-burn kinda experience.

PDA - Are they upfront about their relationship? Do they brag with their s/o in front of others? Or are they rather shy to kiss etc. when others are watching?

Oh, hell, no. You’re both very similar people. You don’t need the world to know you love each other. It’s that simple. Also, he doesn’t really like to be touched or be babied. 

QUIRK - Some random ability they have that's beneficial in a relationship.

I mean, his singing/rapping. It’s like how he kisses. 

ROMANCE - How romantic are they? What would they do to make their s/o happy? Cliché or rather creative?

Not very. Nor are you. Your dates are normally netflix and chill (literally! not the making out part!) and takeouts. You don’t really believe in first month anniversaries either.

SUPPORT - Are they helping their s/o achieve their goals? Do they believe in them?

Absolutely. He’d help you achieve whatever it is you’re trying to and would encourage you to no end it’s so unlike him. 

THRILL - Do they need to try out new things to spice out your relationship? Or do they prefer a certain routine?

lol no. maybe sex stuff but otherwise nah.

UNEDRSTANDING - How good do they know their partner? Are they empathetic?

He knows you better than your fans do and that’s saying something.

VALUE - How important is the relationship to them? What is it’s worth in comparison to other things in their life?

A lot. He’d rather be back at home with you than traveling on tour, so for him, lockdown is great.

WILD CARD - A random Fluff Headcanon -

Yoongi keeps a photo album of everything you’ve done together. 

XOXO - Are they very affectionate? Do they love to kiss and cuddle?

Oh my god, have you met the man? n-o. Absolutely not. The only thing you’ll get the closest to cuddling is sleeping together on the couch or bed.

YEARNING - How will they cope when they're missing their partner?

Calls you. Every. Single. Day.

ZEAL - Are they willing to go to great lenghts for the relationship? 

I guess? Just, after he’s had his coffee.

MASTERLIST  - requests are open!

[inevitably-johnlocked]

Hullo! I was wondering if you knew any johnlock fics where Sherlock thinks that they're in a relationship but they're not? Thanks!

AMBIGUOUS RELATIONSHIPS

Hey Lovely!

Sorry for the title above, I use them now to quickly ID a post when I draft them, LOL LOL!!

I only know of a few fics that is almost exactly this criteria:

A Need To Know Basis by mattsloved1 (G, 934 w., 1 Ch. || Humour, Romance) – As the cab door shut firmly, the DI had yelled out they were to make an appearance at Scotland Yard the next day. It was while John watched London pass by that it happened.

How To Give Your Boyfriend Who Doesn’t Know He’s Your Boyfriend the Best Valentine’s Day Ever by unicornpoe (T, 9,832 w., 1 Ch. || Valentine’s Day, Fluff and Crack, Soft Sherlock, POV Sherlock) – Sherlock is pretty sure that John Watson is his boyfriend. He’s also pretty sure that John doesn’t know it. But with a little help from a magazine, some friends, three crepes, five dates, one awesome CD, and a stalker van, John is bound to realize just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Winter’s Delights by Kate_Lear (E, 21,173 w., 1 Ch. || Holmes Family, Christmas, Fake Relationship, Friends to Lovers, Bed Sharing, Domestics) – Sherlock takes John home for Christmas to meet the extended Holmes family. Part 1 of Winter’s Delights

You Can Imagine the Christmas Dinners by ardenteurophile (T, 23,584 w., 9 Ch. || Pre-Slash, Drama, Fluff & Angst, Humour, Romance) – Sherlock takes John along for Christmas dinner with Mycroft and Mummy (And “Anthea”, too). Over the course of the evening, John realises that everyone in the room - apart from him - seems to think that he and Sherlock are a couple. Part 2 of Xmas Dinners Verse

The Soul Remembers by i_ship_an_armada (E, 43,636 w., 10 Ch. || Oblivion AU || Post-Apocalypse, Movie Fusion, Science Fiction, Action/Adventure, Angst, Dreams, Bittersweet Ending) – John Watson is the lone security repairman stationed on a desolate, nearly-ruined future Earth. His dreams are plagued by a tall, dark-haired man, and when his dreams meet reality, he will be forced to question everything he believes is the truth about his life.

——

And here are several others that are close-but-not-quite:

So, this is normal for us now? by TooManyChoices (M, 1,445 w., 1 Ch. || Bed Sharing, Tooth-Rotting Fluff, Est. Rel., Cuddles) – John and Sherlock have been sharing a flat, and a life for some time. This is a story of how the glacially slow movement of their relationship makes another agonising crawl forward another inch.

The Case of the Made-Up Case by DoubleNegative (T, 2,394, 1 Ch. || Fake Relationship, Clubbing, First Kiss, For Science) - Sherlock takes John to a club. For a “case.” Yes, John, a case. Part 1 of The (Secret) Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

Get It All in Writing by aceofhearts61 (T, 2,423 w., 1 Ch. || Ace Sherlock / Straight John, Love Letters, Romantic Friendship, Asexuality, Schmoop) – Sherlock and John write each other love notes. Part 8 of A Love with No Name

Surety by hudders (G, 2,477 w., 1 Ch. || Jealous Sherlock, Drunk John, Drunk Lestrade, Drinking, Alcohol) – Sherlock is pissed because it seems that four pints of larger, two shots of tequila and a glass of wine has resulted in Lestrade becoming a little bit too friendly with everyone. And by everyone, Sherlock really means John.

Where You Are by Mazarin221b (E, 2,478 w., 1 Ch. || Beach Sex, First Time, Fluff, Smut, Holidays, Pining) – He can admit he’s secretly a little glad Sherlock didn’t come with him. He needs a break. Sherlock is a handful at the best of times, and the near-constant apologizing, fixing, dealing-with, and following up on is exhausting. The near-constant unrequited attraction is a bit exhausting, too, to be honest, and John could really use a tiny bit of rest from the relentless hammering on his brain and heart.

Rooftop Confession by Random_Nexus (T, 2,514 w., 1 Ch. || Ace Sherlock, Developing Relationship, Friendship / Love, Angsty Fluff) – Sherlock asks John to join him for a slightly unexpected discussion.

Bagged & Tagged by Regency (T, 3,339 w., 1 Ch. || Drunken Confessions, Fluff and Crack, Marriage Proposal) – A very inebriated John devises a clever means of proposing marriage to Sherlock. Unfortunately he’s forgotten all about it by the next morning.

A Bit of Indulgence by beltainefaerie (NR, 3,364 w., 1 Ch. || Fake Relationship, Pride Parade, Declarations of Love, Fluff, Dev. Rel., Case Fic) – A case leads John and Sherlock to fake being boyfriends and John runs into an old acquaintance.

Christmas at Holmes Cottage by johnlockedstarkid (G, 4,295 w., 7 Ch. || Christmas, Fake Relationship, Love Confessions, Holmes Family, Pining, Kisses, Fluff, Allusions to Mystrade) – Sherlock doesn’t want to have to deal with his mother’s wishes for him to find a partner when he goes to visit them for Christmas, so asks John to pose as his boyfriend. Little does he know he’s not the only one who wishes that the relationship could be real.

five times sherlock holmes lied to john watson (and one time he finally told the truth) by miss_frankenstein (G, 5,948 w., 5 Ch. || TAB Compliant || Homophobia, Pining Sherlock, Oscar Wilde Trials, Happy Ending) – Set in “The Abominable Bride” universe, this piece adopts a familiar format to chronicle Sherlock’s quiet suffering in the wake of the 1895 Oscar Wilde trials and the particular way they affect his relationship with (and feelings for) John.

Five Times John Noticed But Didn’t Really by ScandalousMinds (T, 6,383 w., 5 Ch. || Domestics, Fluff/Angst, Bratty Sherlock, Idiots, Pre-Slash, Jealous Sherlock, Love Confessions) – 5 times John (thought) he noticed something peculiar about his and Sherlock’s relationship but really missed the obvious.

that thing you like by misspamela (E, 7,165 w., 1 Ch. || Holmes Family, Fake Relationship, Friends to Lovers) – “Happy Christmas, etc. etc.” Sherlock and John go to the Holmes’ for Christmas, and everyone thinks they’re together.

Unkissed by 221b_hound (E, 7,506 w., 1 Ch. || Post-TRF, First Kiss/Time, John Thinks Sherlock is Ace, Dream-Merman-John, Kissing, Hand Jobs, Frottage, Hugs, Sherlock Doesn’t Realize They’re in a Relationship) – Sherlock returned from the dead a year ago. John returned to Baker Street six months ago. They’ve been in a couple since then. or at least, not NOT a couple. For two smart men, they sure can be dumb. Luckily, an art thief tries to drown Sherlock, Sherlock has a fever dream and things are about to change. Part 1 of the Unkissed series

What Meets the Eye by worldaccordingtofangirls (M, 8,251 w., 1 Ch. || Amnesia, Fluff, Hospital) – Amnesia is just another case to solve. Piece together unfamiliar faces, reconstruct the old identity, the lost reality. A challenge that Sherlock could even enjoy. He can read people like books. The man with the silver hair is his boss. The tottering old woman, his landlady. The girl with the worried look in her eyes… infatuated. And as for John Watson? His husband. Obviously.

Bread and Wine and Curry Once a Week by cwb (E, 8,737 w., 1 Ch. || Fluff, Friends to Lovers, Stroppy Sherlock, Love Letters, POV John) – Sherlock asks John for relationship advice. Little does he know that it’s him that Sherlock is in love with.

A Lifetime Together by LondonGypsy (M, 8,886 w., 1 Ch. || Tooth-Rotting Fluff, Falling in Love, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, Pining Idiots, Alternating POVs, Domestics, Retirement) – John and Sherlock falling in love.

The River Variations by withoutawish (T, 11,619 w., 1 Ch. || Soulmates, Emotional Hurt / Comfort, Three Garridebs, Romance, Light Case Fic, Near Death Experience, Angst and Fluff, Dark Humour) – John Watson never knew that he wanted a ‘no toast in the mornings’ normal until he realized what an honor it is to be destroyed by Sherlock Holmes.

John Watson doesn’t have a Boyfriend by naughtyspirit (E, 18,932 w., 7 Ch. || UST / URT, Fluff & Smut, Voyeurism, Masturbation) – John’s date has gone very well. Sherlock requires tea. John wishes he hadn’t resolved that their relationship was strictly hands off and isn’t about to address it. Unless he has to. Smut, fluff and shower time for a naked John Watson.

Just a Kiss by emmagrant01 (E, 19,695 w., 7 Ch. || 5+1, Case Fic) – Five times John and Sherlock kissed because of a case and one time they kissed for real.

Through the Clouds by Mazarin221b (E, 20,004 w., 6 Ch. || Retirement, Sussex, Bees, Home Improvement, First Time, Romance) – Sherlock takes a remarkably early retirement at 47, and convinces John that a change of pace would do them both good. They buy an old cottage on the South Downs, and exchange their nonstop life in Baker Street for quiet contemplation, bee studies, and book writing. They might go completely insane, but sometimes it takes stepping outside of the life you’re living to find the life you want. Part 1 of Through The Clouds

The White Lotuses by SilentAuror (E, 20,340 w., 1 Ch. || Slowburn, Domestic, Romance) – One day John realises that he just isn’t where he belongs, which is back at Baker Street with Sherlock. So he goes back and Sherlock, in his own way, courts him. Romance.

5 Times John Got the Girl (and lost her) and 1 Time John Got the Guy (and kept him) by LiviKate (M, 21,695 w., 6 Ch. || 5 and Ones, Kissing, Oblivious / Awkward Sherlock, BAMF / Sexy / Stud John, Embarassed John, John’s Scar, Hurt/Comfort, Jealous Sherlock) – John has always had good luck with the ladies. He’s charming, friendly and funny, not to mention great in bed. However, his usual skill with the opposite sex is constantly being thwarted by Sherlock and his outbursts. How will John ever get a leg over when Sherlock is always cockblocking him?

Ghost Stories by SwissMiss (M, 22,256 w., 1 Ch. || Pining, Holmes Family, Christmas, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, Bed Sharing, Fluff, Hurt/Comfort, First Time) – Sherlock’s parents think he and John are a couple. They might be onto something.

Among the Secret Things by Kate_Lear for coloredink (E, 26,073 w., 14 Ch. || Angst, Drama, Amnesia) – Sherlock would be the last person to describe himself as given to flights of fancy, but at the look on Lestrade’s face he could swear that something inside him curls up and dies. Part 1 of Among the Secret Things

Five Times They Kissed for a Case, and One Time They Kissed for Real by fleetwood_mouse (M, 32,406 w., 6 Ch. || 5+1, Slow Burn, Fluff / Angst, Mutual Pining, Friends to Lovers) – A stolen ring! An artful blogger! And many more adventures for your enjoyment.

Where Else Would I Be? by cwb (E, 34,910 w., 10 Ch. || Retirementlock, Domestic Fluff, Falling in Love, Parentlock, Fluff and Smut, Reminiscing) – John and Sherlock’s five-year-old granddaughter spends the weekend with them in Sussex. Sherlock happily indulges her whims, and John takes care of them while quietly revisiting the past thirty years of their lives together.

An Experiment in Empathy Series by belovedmuerto (T, 62,397 w. across 13 stories || Empath AU || Psychic John, Psychic-by-Proxy Sherlock, Empathy, Psychic Bond, Romance / Bromance) – In which John is an empath, Sherlock is Sherlock, and an epic bromance happens. In the aftermath of The Great Game, John creates an unexpected bond between himself and Sherlock. Now they have to learn how to deal with it. John is better at this than Sherlock is.

——-

BUT I have done a list in the past called “Do They Know They’re in a Relationship?” so I think you will enjoy that one too :)

If any of my Lovelies have any fics that meet the criteria, please let us know!!! Otherwise in the meantime, I think you’ll also enjoy these lists :)

[rosegoldannie]

I'm a sucker for Feysand, Elriel, and Elorcan so something starting with a fight between them? Idk like they're already together but something happens and one of them thinks they gonna end it or somthing. All angsty and such that ends with fluff because I dont want my heart broken that bad. That make sense and/or sound interesting?

Uh YES!

please send in any prompts you think of, this was sosososo fun! Sorry it took awhile, I just wanted to get it right.

Feyre glanced across their shared living room to see her boyfriend of two years typing away on his phone. As of late, this had become the norm; she would arrive home from work, and he would either be exactly as he was now, or in the middle of a call.

Whenever she asked what he was doing, he would give a half-answer, never really telling her much. At first, she had been unbothered, and assumed that he was speaking with clients from work. But after nearly three weeks of this, she had begun to grow somewhat hurt, resentful even.

She had attempted to distract him, even going to far as to wear some new lingerie to bed, but he had been uninterested, and told her that he was tired, and didn't feel well. Feyre had been disappointed, but ultimately climbed into bed with him.

Turning back to her sketchbook, she continued working on her newest piece: A portrait of her boyfriend, as she had seen him these last few weeks -- almost exactly the same, but with a certain guardedness to his eyes. A closed-offness that concerned her. With the exception of his recent personality change, he was exactly as he had always been: loving and affectionate, constantly showering Feyre with praise and love. And while the logical part of her brain screamed that it was something else, a small, small part whispered that it was because Rhys had tired of her, that she wasn’t enough..

The longer that thought sat in her mind, bouncing around, the more velocity it gained, until it was the only thing she could hear above the roaring of her heartbeat. Not enough, not enough.

Before they had begun dating, Rhys had been somewhat of a womanizer. Always respectful, but also always seeking out a nighttime companion. Had she really expected him to give that up for-No.

No. Rhys loved her. Feyre knew he did. She also knew that he would never cheat on her. Not after Tamlin, therefore it must have been something else.

That stupid, wicked thought still rumbled. Not enough, not enough. Tired of you. 

The lead of her pencil snapped with a loud crack!

Feyre blinked in surprise, holding it up for inspection. Rhys glanced up, his gorgeous violet eyes meeting and holding hers. How she loved his eyes, the way they caught and reflected the light, that little spark of wicked humor that flared whenever he told a joke. The way they softened when he smiled, that shimmer of joy and life that was a balm to her weary, broken soul. Gods, she loved him. She would have happily spent eternity gazing into his eyes. Something seemed to shift in their swirling depths, as if he had come to a decision. He motioned to the setting sun now streaming in through their bay window. “Walk with me?” He murmured. His words sent a slight tremor of fear through her, but she forcefully shoved it back.

“Sure,” Feyre replied, tossing her sketchpad onto the table, and pulling on a hoodie.

Rhys gave her a smile. Not huge, but something.

~~~

The setting sun turned their city aflame in gold, as if it had been just pulled from a forge. It turned his normally tan skin alight, as if he glowed from within. Feyre fought the urge to ask if she could go back and grab her sketchpad.

Rhys was near silent as they walked, a noticeable sheen of sweat on his brow. A sickening feeling settled in her gut. He’s going to break up with me, Feyre thought, shoving her hands deeper into her pockets. 

Several times, they each tried to make conversation. It always failed, sending a jolt of sadness into her heart. It had never been this way between them before. They had always flowed seamlessly together, always anticipating what the other would say or do next, but completely surprised all the same.

Keeping a slight step ahead, he lead them to their favorite park, where they would sit together and watch the families, sometimes joking about how marriage was undesirable, or planning what they would name their children.

He stopped beside the fountain by which they always sat, and motioned for Feyre to take a seat. She did so, albeit suspiciously. Her fists clenched in her pockets, blue-grey eyes tracking his movements. Waiting.

Despite their relationship beginning as purely physical, those moments in the park with him had allowed her to simply imagine a future in which she was married. Rhys had resurrected a part of her that had perished years prior at Tamlin’s hand. And now she savored every second before he inadvertently destroyed that part of her.

“Alright,” He began, pacing back and forth. Feyre braced herself for the heartbreak to come. “Feyre, we’ve known each other for years, and I swear that you are the best thing that has ever happened to me.” A warm feeling spread through her, a shy grin on her lips, even as that blasted voice returned. But you are not enough. Not enough. Her grin vanished, but Rhys continued. “I-honestly, I don’t know where I would be without you.” He took several steps toward her, until Feyre had to lean her head back to see him, his voice lowering. Gods, did he not know how his words affected her? How every word was both a balm and a shiv to her broken and fragile heart?

 “You brought back a part of me that I was certain had died long ago. Feyre, you made me want to live.” An aching tightness began in her throat, spreading to her chest. Feyre clenched her eyes shut, waiting for the final blow. The blow which would shatter her soul, the soul they had worked so hard to mend. But you are not enough. “You made me become the person I never knew I could be. Without you… Without you, Feyre Archeron, I am nothing. My heart has been yours since before the Universe was created.” He dropped to one knee, hand going to his pocket. “And I will love you until the end of time, regardless of your answer.” He pulled out a small, velvet box. “Feyre, I would crawl across miles of broken glass, swim through lava, anything to see you happy.” He popped the lid open to reveal a simple, sapphire ring. “Feyre Archeron, will you marry me?”

Instantly, her hands flew to cover her mouth. “WHAT?” she hissed, leaping to her feet. This wasn’t a breakup...he hadn't brought her to their spot to break her heart. He had brought her here to declare his love. Rhys was...proposing to her? 

Suddenly it all clicked into place. The few times she had managed to catch a glimpse of his phone, he had been searching for rings, or texting Mor about a ‘surprise’. A long forgotten memory surfaced, of when they had first moved in together. 

In between carrying boxes up countless stairs, he had pulled her aside, away from their friends. And Rhys had sworn to her that he would never break her heart, that if the relationship were to end, it would not be from him.

Rhys was everything she had never known she wanted: Someone who loved her dearly, supported her passions. He listened to her, he supported her ideas, and called her out on bullshit. He held back her hair when she was sick, and rocked her back to sleep when she awoke from nightmares.

And so Feyre barely had to think before she replied clearly and truly, “Yes.”

[cinaminho]

Woman Like Me | H. Jisung

Group: Straykids

Genre: Mafia AU

Warnings:'lil fluff,, some mild violence,, swearing,, funny??,, Tiny Angst

Requested: Yes, " [Mafia] can I get something where you get smart mouth in front of Jisung and his gang and we’ll you finish he rest 😂😂"

Plot - His Temper has been tested many times with all the frustrations of being a mafia tech plus a part time hitman , his daily activities are stressful enough. With a Hot headed tantalizing lover like you He would've guessed being together would be a different level of difficulty, but not this difficult and how is that even though you make that Tiny vein pop near his temple in frustration that'd he finds it addictive and more reason to fall for you even if he isn't willing to admit it to anyone.

--------- ♡

Sidenote - I didn't know if you wanted it long or short so I apologize if it's too short.. Or long.

It wasn't unknown that'd you'd pop up at the SKZ's headquarters it'd gotten to the point where no one questioned you when you walked in nor did you acknowledge anyone standing guard out of the fifteen men and women per side you had to go through , they knew not to Question Han Jisung's future wife. You guys are engaged so an unlikely alliance can be formed between two former rival mafias as your brother is meant to take over your Father's corporation soon.

Although Jisung and the rest of your father's or should you say Brother's mafia got along well as you did with the other 8 most important Members of Stray Mafia, you two had a very Rocky beggining and bolders were about to be tumbling your way soon if you two couldn't at least learn to be friendly with one another.

Mafia merging wasn't unheard of it usually did involve two children from the opposite gangs getting married but those things didn't last nor seem believable since ninety nine percent of them were forced yours being one of them. Mafias never stayed merged when the lovers from opposing sides didn't get along it'd cause them to clash even worse than before the arranged marriage.

You guys had to make it seem genuine in order to establish your mafias as a bigger threat. Your eyes trained ahead focused on the automatic opening doors infront of you that you'd soon enter which would be the main part of the headquarters a.ka. The surveillance room where Jisung worked. Your feet tapped against the shiny metal tiles beneath you as you walked into the room inhaling the smell of disinfectant whipes, you bet Jisung whiped all the technical equipment down.

You looked around seeing many familiar and unfamiliar faces moving about doing different things, checking surveillance, fixing equipment, testing equipment you name it, to anyone even you it looked like a C.I.A organization which is what they kind of were but, you know, on the more crooked side.

You Spotted Jisung where he'd normally be behind what you'd describe as a fence of tables with Computers , cameras , and other technology fenced around him with a big enough opening for someone to walk through, though, no one besides The other 8 elite stray members and you came to that side of Jisungs work space.

Speaking of the other 8 members that's exactly where they were, chattering. You strolled over confidently clearing your throat Making your arrival known to those who had their backs to you including Jisung who spun in his computer chair to see you his giddy smile instantly dropping once he saw you a frown replacing it which brought you a smile of your own . "Not happy to see me I'm assuming." Your voice laced with fake concern. Jisung rolled his eyes already knowing you were being fake, "Exactly so don't ever assume otherwise."

He sassed back. A glare war began between the two of you. "Well~ The love birds bickering Begins." Chan clapped causing both of your attention to snap to him, "My favorite part of Y/n visiting." Hyunjin chuckled. "Y/n it's lovely to see you!" Jeongin chimed in Bowing to you before embracing you in a hug which you returned.

You clearly heard Jisung groan in annoyance making you two let each other go "Can't you see they're evil yet you still like them?" , "Y/n is nice to us and actually is useful when we need help finding a location if we can't get to you." Seungmin countered from Behind Jisung leaning against one of the computer desks, "I also don't kill people." You added "That hasn't been proven." Jisung grumbled sneering at you.

"Oh whatever Jisung, get back to typing fake reports on the computer, yes? The day is slow so what the hell could you possibly be doing." Within two point zero seconds a chorus of 'ooh's' were heard from the other members , you cockily lifted a brow crossing your arms because what'd he have to say now?

"My God, Jisung, you really have a fireball on your hands eh?" Felix chuckled. "Leave him alone he's clearly angry." , "Ohh this is good." Minho and Changbin added. "Ruffling a few of his feathers won't get him completely heated up, Right Jisung... Jisung?" Woojin had gotten no response from the young technician who's eyes were hooded black with rage.

You seen him angry but didn't flinch an eyelid, the way he was gripping the arms of the chair as he began to tremble it didn't look like he was breathing as his lips were pressed together roughly and his entire face almost completely bright red .

"Take it easy Jisung it's just kidding around , Alright?" The leader cautiously spoke being the first after you to take notice in his anger. You still were feeding off of his anger satisfied that you could bother him like this and infront of his colleagues or friends was absolutely beautiful to you. You could tell by the twitching of his fingers that he was ready to boil over just about.

Good because that's what you wanted, let him make a scene and be embarrassed by the attention lashing out later at the onlookers. Jisung squeezed his eyes shut for a minute or two before opening them looking as if all anger had vanished you discretely furrowed your brows which Jisung caught and gave you a knowing smirk making you grit your teeth silently.

He stood up from his seat making all the curious males eye him carefully as he took heavy steps towards your frame. "Y/n may I talk to you in the combat room?" His voice was honeyed you became suspicious naturally at the lack of aggravation in his voice, "why i-" , "Combat room, now." He quickly spat forcing you to turn in the opposite direction and walk until you two disappeared out the doors and down the halls .

"You don't think..." Hyunjin asked trailing off knowing that Chan knew what he was asking by his suggestive tone "Not in my combat room." He said flatly eyes still on the automatic door you two had exited out of , "Of course not you freak." Woojin mumbled.

----- 🔫

You felt Like Jisung was shooting darts with his eyes at the back of your head forcing you to stop and face him "Jisung I hope you-" , "No talking until in the combat room." He blunty spoke pointing for you to face the opposite way again and head into the room. You growled quietly before obeying.

Your eyes scanned each side of the halls for the combat room you were so lost in space that you didn't notice Jisung had stopped, "The door is right here you Dimwitted Ninny." Jisung called out making you instantly turn around stomping towards him glaring harder than ever letting him know that you didn't take lightly to that name but all he did was tilt his head signaling for you to go inside. You slipped passed him eyes not leaving his suspicious of what he might do but once you were sure he wouldn't try anything you took in the scenery of the blue soft padded wall room.

You sighed turning to him nonchalantly "I know what this is about." Jisung closed the door before turning to you, "You don't say?" His sarcasm was more than clear "Yes it's about what happened out there." You concluded. Jisung let out a Taut chuckle, "Yeah you really had 'em goin out there." You were sure despite the chuckle that he was far from amused "Look Jisung, WOAH!" Was all you could say followed by a puff of air leaving your lips wincing as your back collided with the Tile floor.

You cradled the back of your head letting out strangled shrieks in pain it took you a few moments to come back to your senses, "Did you.. Did you just PUSH ME?!" You spoke almost wheezing. "Yeah and I owe you more than that!" He announced.

Within seconds you were off the floor and before you knew it infront of him with the back of your hand colliding harshly with his face causing an echoing smack in the room. If you were in shock before then he was absolutely stunned now, "Did you just.." , "bitch slap you? Yes I did and I owe you more Than That!" You laughed bitterly restating his previous words to you.

"You really are the fiancee from hell!" He spoke thickly making you scoff sending him another blow but this time with your foot to his knee making him double over instantly grimacing in pain , "hmph, almost looks like when you proposed." You said satisfied and walking towards the door dusting yourself off.

Your two feet were brought from under you though as Jisung had other plans once again making you collide with the floor and groan in pain, Jisung quickly pinned himself over you fighting to get your hands down, "Are you seriously fighting me right now?!" , "It's the combat room isn't it?" He said struggling above you as you were pretty strong "your fighting skills are as weak as your hacking!" , "Your blocking skills are as weak as your driving skills Master 'I don't know how to parallel park'" .

You found a way to bring your knee up and powerfull into his chest causing him to fumble back and grip it you'd definitely knocked the air out of him pouncing on him giving him no chance to recover "You're unbelievable!" "For Enjoy this? I know!" , You almost stopped immediately "Wait you like this?" You said out of breath sitting up but he didn't answer instead he sent a painful blow to your shoulder your yelp in pain could've broke the windows.

Jisung stood up cracking his neck and rolling his shoulders back "Yep I do and now that I've handle that I can get back to work." Jisung jumped up and approached the door but it came swinging open revealing a very panicked and concerned leader also Hyunjin along with an amused Changbin and Minho, "ohhh so that's what all the tusseling was." Changbin smirked "Oh thank God!!" Chan sighed relieved.

"Yeah guys I just had to handle-" An 'umph' was heard from Jisung as his entire front came in contact with the wall infront of him and his arm behind his back pressing to pop out of it's socket all of which wad being done by you, "You could never handle a woman like me." You panted out smirking. Little did you know he was smirking as well.

He'd grown to enjoy these little matches because that meant more space for loving once you tied the knot and less fighting ,you guys just found things to pick at simply because it turned into lowkey flirting though that wasn't how it started out but you both were aware that it's what it'd progressed too, this was a bit more obvious though neither would admit it, hard to explain, didn't make sense, it was all complicated but it was how you two did things.

"So should we break this up?" Hyunjin asked "Ruin their Date? I don't think so, c'mon guys, back to the main headquarters." Chan ushered while closing the door leaving you two to wrestle with a chorus of Disappointed cries from the boys as they left.

-

-

-

That ending was bad and I planned for it to be different but I'm just now finishing this at 3 a.m. so give me a break... Please? Anyway, I hope whoever reads this enjoys it, I'll fix the typos later but I must sleep now ❤.

[helloworlddemo1122-yahoopar-blog]

EXCLUSIVE: Sean and Catherine Lowe on Why They're the Only 'Bachelor' Couple to Get (and Stay) Married

They’re the only Bachelor -- so far -- to get married after becoming engaged on the ABC reality series and now Sean Lowe and Catherine Giudici-Lowe are opening up about the secret to their lasting relationship!

ET’s Lauren Zima visited the pair -- who got engaged on the season 17 finale before tying the knot in 2014 -- at their Dallas, Texas, home, where they got candid about the ups and downs of meeting on TV, married life and being new parents.

EXCLUSIVE: Sean Lowe and Catherine Giudici Are Planning Baby No. 2!

“Part of our success comes from the fact that we're not the typical Bachelor couple,” Sean says. “We don't do a lot of the Bachelor reunions and go and meet up -- that's just not us. We live our own life and do our own thing, so we don’t really feel that pressure and that’s the way we like it.”<p>“We get along so well with the other couples that are successful -- so Bachelorette couples that have made it,” Catherine adds. “We all have something in common, which is that we just want to be normal [and] make our relationship work.”

Their plight to be as normal as possible means they still find it “bizarre” to reflect on how they met on a reality series. Sean confesses that once a week he asks, “Can you believe we met on a TV show?” while Catherine compares their love story to shopping.

“[It was] like I saw him on TV, was like, ‘I want him,’ then got him,” she reflects. “I didn’t think he would choose me in a million years. All the girls knew that, on paper, we don’t make any sense. I don’t even think I was cast for Sean. I think I was cast to be Filipino!”

Despite her doubts during filming, the pair hit it off over the course of just three dates and fell for each other. Catherine notes how the nature of the series forces couples to address their “non-negotiables” for a prospective relationship as fast as possible.

“Hard conversations that you would have with a significant other after six or nine months, you have on your first date,” she says. “’Do you want kids? Where do you want to live? Do you want to work after this?’ Whatever things don’t match, you can be like, ‘OK, I’m going to send her home this week because it doesn’t make sense.’”

WATCH: Sean Lowe and Wife Catherine Love Their ‘Little Family’

In Catherine’s case, she made complete sense to Sean, who presented his final rose and popped the question on the season finale. However, the early stages of their engagement were difficult, with Sean signing onto Dancing With the Stars, which meant he was suddenly off rehearsing for up to 12 hours a day, while Catherine was left on her own. Catherine also had a challenging time adjusting after leaving her friends, family and career behind in Seattle to be with Sean in Los Angeles, before they moved to Dallas last year.

“Usually when you move into a city, you have a job, so you know people,” Catherine says. “Well, I didn't have a 9-to-5, so it was really us two together. I was living his life and with his friends, so I hadn't developed a group of friends that I could confide in. The first year of marriage was the hardest, but once you go through those hardships, you grow, understand each other better and understand what you need better. So, I got an amazing group of friends that I couldn't imagine my life without.”

“She made this tremendous sacrifice and she comes from a different family, a different way of doing things, a different way of handling conflict and a different way of living life,” Sean explains. “When you meld two worlds together, naturally there's going to be conflict, hard times and we definitely had some bumps along the way, where we thought, ‘This is much tougher than we thought it would be.’”

The fact that they had never lived together until they were husband and wife heightened conflict during their honeymoon phase, with frequent arguments erupting over Catherine being “super messy,” while Sean is “very neat.”

“We really had to understand our boundaries, what makes each other tick, what things we need to let go and what things are important to each other,” Catherine says.

“I was a typical dude,” Sean admits. “If she was upset about something, I would say, ‘If you just do this, that would fix the problem.’ Well, she's not looking for me to fix the problem -- she wants me to empathize. That only took me about two years to figure out!”

EXCLUSIVE: Nick Viall Dishes on Recruiting Fiancee Vanessa Grimaldi for Sexy ‘DWTS’ Performance

Catherine shares how during some of her low moments, she turned to Sean’s mom, who assured her that he would make up for their hard times. And he has! She tearfully describes how Sean tells her he loves her every day and has never said ‘No’ when she asks him to change a diaper or help out with their son, Samuel, who was born in July.

With hopes to adopt and eventually have five children, the pair is happier than ever and say they finally have, “every duck in its row.”

“I think we hit a sweet spot,” Sean says. “Samuel's now at the age where we have a good grasp or a good feel of division of labor. I'll wake up and take care of him in the morning, she takes over and then I take over. In the first few months, it’s a lot of trial-and-error and officially the mom has a lot more pressure and the baby physically needs to be with her. But we're in a good spot right now.”

In fact, with family life going swimmingly, the couple is launching their professional passion project, a furniture line named Home By Sean & Catherine Lowe, which Catherine describes as “sophisticated and comfortable – sophista-comfortable!”

“It’s been a passion project of ours because we're all about family and being at home and being comfortable, but still being sleek and stylish,” Sean says. “We just want things that look good, but also really comfortable.”

As for their own home furnishings, ET couldn’t help but notice one significant piece of décor hanging outside the couple’s bedroom -- the final rose that Sean handed Catherine on The Bachelor!

“It made sense to dry this one and make it permanent because it was accompanied by a ring and a proposal, so this is a really special thing,” Catherine. shares. “We don’t want to shy away from the fact that we got engaged and fell in love on The Bachelor, so that is the only red rose I will allow in my house!”

WATCH: Chris Harrison Celebrates 15-Year Anniversary of ‘The Bachelor’ With Throwback Pic

So, what advice would the pair give to others hoping to land the final rose on The Bachelor?

“You have to have a solid foundation when you go on and I think that was something that I am blessed to have had,” said Catherine. “[I was] like, ‘It would be awesome if he chooses me, we’ll have a cool life and I’ll love him and we will do all of these things. But if I go home, then it’s just not meant to be, and I’ll go home to a family who loves me and a job and life that I appreciated and respected.”

“Try to tame your crazy a little bit,” Sean offers up to prospective contestants. “If you want to go back to a normal life and go back to your job after the show, don’t act like a crazy monster because it’s going to be really difficult once those episodes start to air. Just tame it!”

See more on Sean and Catherine below.

[helloworlddemo1122-yahoopar-blog]

EXCLUSIVE: Sean and Catherine Lowe on Why They're the Only 'Bachelor' Couple to Get (and Stay) Married

They’re the only Bachelor -- so far -- to get married after becoming engaged on the ABC reality series and now Sean Lowe and Catherine Giudici-Lowe are opening up about the secret to their lasting relationship!

ET’s Lauren Zima visited the pair -- who got engaged on the season 17 finale before tying the knot in 2014 -- at their Dallas, Texas, home, where they got candid about the ups and downs of meeting on TV, married life and being new parents.

EXCLUSIVE: Sean Lowe and Catherine Giudici Are Planning Baby No. 2!

“Part of our success comes from the fact that we're not the typical Bachelor couple,” Sean says. “We don't do a lot of the Bachelor reunions and go and meet up -- that's just not us. We live our own life and do our own thing, so we don’t really feel that pressure and that’s the way we like it.”<p>“We get along so well with the other couples that are successful -- so Bachelorette couples that have made it,” Catherine adds. “We all have something in common, which is that we just want to be normal [and] make our relationship work.”

Their plight to be as normal as possible means they still find it “bizarre” to reflect on how they met on a reality series. Sean confesses that once a week he asks, “Can you believe we met on a TV show?” while Catherine compares their love story to shopping.

“[It was] like I saw him on TV, was like, ‘I want him,’ then got him,” she reflects. “I didn’t think he would choose me in a million years. All the girls knew that, on paper, we don’t make any sense. I don’t even think I was cast for Sean. I think I was cast to be Filipino!”

Despite her doubts during filming, the pair hit it off over the course of just three dates and fell for each other. Catherine notes how the nature of the series forces couples to address their “non-negotiables” for a prospective relationship as fast as possible.

“Hard conversations that you would have with a significant other after six or nine months, you have on your first date,” she says. “’Do you want kids? Where do you want to live? Do you want to work after this?’ Whatever things don’t match, you can be like, ‘OK, I’m going to send her home this week because it doesn’t make sense.’”

WATCH: Sean Lowe and Wife Catherine Love Their ‘Little Family’

In Catherine’s case, she made complete sense to Sean, who presented his final rose and popped the question on the season finale. However, the early stages of their engagement were difficult, with Sean signing onto Dancing With the Stars, which meant he was suddenly off rehearsing for up to 12 hours a day, while Catherine was left on her own. Catherine also had a challenging time adjusting after leaving her friends, family and career behind in Seattle to be with Sean in Los Angeles, before they moved to Dallas last year.

“Usually when you move into a city, you have a job, so you know people,” Catherine says. “Well, I didn't have a 9-to-5, so it was really us two together. I was living his life and with his friends, so I hadn't developed a group of friends that I could confide in. The first year of marriage was the hardest, but once you go through those hardships, you grow, understand each other better and understand what you need better. So, I got an amazing group of friends that I couldn't imagine my life without.”

“She made this tremendous sacrifice and she comes from a different family, a different way of doing things, a different way of handling conflict and a different way of living life,” Sean explains. “When you meld two worlds together, naturally there's going to be conflict, hard times and we definitely had some bumps along the way, where we thought, ‘This is much tougher than we thought it would be.’”

The fact that they had never lived together until they were husband and wife heightened conflict during their honeymoon phase, with frequent arguments erupting over Catherine being “super messy,” while Sean is “very neat.”

“We really had to understand our boundaries, what makes each other tick, what things we need to let go and what things are important to each other,” Catherine says.

“I was a typical dude,” Sean admits. “If she was upset about something, I would say, ‘If you just do this, that would fix the problem.’ Well, she's not looking for me to fix the problem -- she wants me to empathize. That only took me about two years to figure out!”

EXCLUSIVE: Nick Viall Dishes on Recruiting Fiancee Vanessa Grimaldi for Sexy ‘DWTS’ Performance

Catherine shares how during some of her low moments, she turned to Sean’s mom, who assured her that he would make up for their hard times. And he has! She tearfully describes how Sean tells her he loves her every day and has never said ‘No’ when she asks him to change a diaper or help out with their son, Samuel, who was born in July.

With hopes to adopt and eventually have five children, the pair is happier than ever and say they finally have, “every duck in its row.”

“I think we hit a sweet spot,” Sean says. “Samuel's now at the age where we have a good grasp or a good feel of division of labor. I'll wake up and take care of him in the morning, she takes over and then I take over. In the first few months, it’s a lot of trial-and-error and officially the mom has a lot more pressure and the baby physically needs to be with her. But we're in a good spot right now.”

In fact, with family life going swimmingly, the couple is launching their professional passion project, a furniture line named Home By Sean & Catherine Lowe, which Catherine describes as “sophisticated and comfortable – sophista-comfortable!”

“It’s been a passion project of ours because we're all about family and being at home and being comfortable, but still being sleek and stylish,” Sean says. “We just want things that look good, but also really comfortable.”

As for their own home furnishings, ET couldn’t help but notice one significant piece of décor hanging outside the couple’s bedroom -- the final rose that Sean handed Catherine on The Bachelor!

“It made sense to dry this one and make it permanent because it was accompanied by a ring and a proposal, so this is a really special thing,” Catherine. shares. “We don’t want to shy away from the fact that we got engaged and fell in love on The Bachelor, so that is the only red rose I will allow in my house!”

WATCH: Chris Harrison Celebrates 15-Year Anniversary of ‘The Bachelor’ With Throwback Pic

So, what advice would the pair give to others hoping to land the final rose on The Bachelor?

“You have to have a solid foundation when you go on and I think that was something that I am blessed to have had,” said Catherine. “[I was] like, ‘It would be awesome if he chooses me, we’ll have a cool life and I’ll love him and we will do all of these things. But if I go home, then it’s just not meant to be, and I’ll go home to a family who loves me and a job and life that I appreciated and respected.”

“Try to tame your crazy a little bit,” Sean offers up to prospective contestants. “If you want to go back to a normal life and go back to your job after the show, don’t act like a crazy monster because it’s going to be really difficult once those episodes start to air. Just tame it!”

See more on Sean and Catherine below.

[helloworlddemo1122-yahoopar-blog]

EXCLUSIVE: Sean and Catherine Lowe on Why They're the Only 'Bachelor' Couple to Get (and Stay) Married

They’re the only Bachelor -- so far -- to get married after becoming engaged on the ABC reality series and now Sean Lowe and Catherine Giudici-Lowe are opening up about the secret to their lasting relationship!

ET’s Lauren Zima visited the pair -- who got engaged on the season 17 finale before tying the knot in 2014 -- at their Dallas, Texas, home, where they got candid about the ups and downs of meeting on TV, married life and being new parents.

EXCLUSIVE: Sean Lowe and Catherine Giudici Are Planning Baby No. 2!

“Part of our success comes from the fact that we're not the typical Bachelor couple,” Sean says. “We don't do a lot of the Bachelor reunions and go and meet up -- that's just not us. We live our own life and do our own thing, so we don’t really feel that pressure and that’s the way we like it.”<p>“We get along so well with the other couples that are successful -- so Bachelorette couples that have made it,” Catherine adds. “We all have something in common, which is that we just want to be normal [and] make our relationship work.”

Their plight to be as normal as possible means they still find it “bizarre” to reflect on how they met on a reality series. Sean confesses that once a week he asks, “Can you believe we met on a TV show?” while Catherine compares their love story to shopping.

“[It was] like I saw him on TV, was like, ‘I want him,’ then got him,” she reflects. “I didn’t think he would choose me in a million years. All the girls knew that, on paper, we don’t make any sense. I don’t even think I was cast for Sean. I think I was cast to be Filipino!”

Despite her doubts during filming, the pair hit it off over the course of just three dates and fell for each other. Catherine notes how the nature of the series forces couples to address their “non-negotiables” for a prospective relationship as fast as possible.

“Hard conversations that you would have with a significant other after six or nine months, you have on your first date,” she says. “’Do you want kids? Where do you want to live? Do you want to work after this?’ Whatever things don’t match, you can be like, ‘OK, I’m going to send her home this week because it doesn’t make sense.’”

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In Catherine’s case, she made complete sense to Sean, who presented his final rose and popped the question on the season finale. However, the early stages of their engagement were difficult, with Sean signing onto Dancing With the Stars, which meant he was suddenly off rehearsing for up to 12 hours a day, while Catherine was left on her own. Catherine also had a challenging time adjusting after leaving her friends, family and career behind in Seattle to be with Sean in Los Angeles, before they moved to Dallas last year.

“Usually when you move into a city, you have a job, so you know people,” Catherine says. “Well, I didn't have a 9-to-5, so it was really us two together. I was living his life and with his friends, so I hadn't developed a group of friends that I could confide in. The first year of marriage was the hardest, but once you go through those hardships, you grow, understand each other better and understand what you need better. So, I got an amazing group of friends that I couldn't imagine my life without.”

“She made this tremendous sacrifice and she comes from a different family, a different way of doing things, a different way of handling conflict and a different way of living life,” Sean explains. “When you meld two worlds together, naturally there's going to be conflict, hard times and we definitely had some bumps along the way, where we thought, ‘This is much tougher than we thought it would be.’”

The fact that they had never lived together until they were husband and wife heightened conflict during their honeymoon phase, with frequent arguments erupting over Catherine being “super messy,” while Sean is “very neat.”

“We really had to understand our boundaries, what makes each other tick, what things we need to let go and what things are important to each other,” Catherine says.

“I was a typical dude,” Sean admits. “If she was upset about something, I would say, ‘If you just do this, that would fix the problem.’ Well, she's not looking for me to fix the problem -- she wants me to empathize. That only took me about two years to figure out!”

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Catherine shares how during some of her low moments, she turned to Sean’s mom, who assured her that he would make up for their hard times. And he has! She tearfully describes how Sean tells her he loves her every day and has never said ‘No’ when she asks him to change a diaper or help out with their son, Samuel, who was born in July.

With hopes to adopt and eventually have five children, the pair is happier than ever and say they finally have, “every duck in its row.”

“I think we hit a sweet spot,” Sean says. “Samuel's now at the age where we have a good grasp or a good feel of division of labor. I'll wake up and take care of him in the morning, she takes over and then I take over. In the first few months, it’s a lot of trial-and-error and officially the mom has a lot more pressure and the baby physically needs to be with her. But we're in a good spot right now.”

In fact, with family life going swimmingly, the couple is launching their professional passion project, a furniture line named Home By Sean & Catherine Lowe, which Catherine describes as “sophisticated and comfortable – sophista-comfortable!”

“It’s been a passion project of ours because we're all about family and being at home and being comfortable, but still being sleek and stylish,” Sean says. “We just want things that look good, but also really comfortable.”

As for their own home furnishings, ET couldn’t help but notice one significant piece of décor hanging outside the couple’s bedroom -- the final rose that Sean handed Catherine on The Bachelor!

“It made sense to dry this one and make it permanent because it was accompanied by a ring and a proposal, so this is a really special thing,” Catherine. shares. “We don’t want to shy away from the fact that we got engaged and fell in love on The Bachelor, so that is the only red rose I will allow in my house!”

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So, what advice would the pair give to others hoping to land the final rose on The Bachelor?

“You have to have a solid foundation when you go on and I think that was something that I am blessed to have had,” said Catherine. “[I was] like, ‘It would be awesome if he chooses me, we’ll have a cool life and I’ll love him and we will do all of these things. But if I go home, then it’s just not meant to be, and I’ll go home to a family who loves me and a job and life that I appreciated and respected.”

“Try to tame your crazy a little bit,” Sean offers up to prospective contestants. “If you want to go back to a normal life and go back to your job after the show, don’t act like a crazy monster because it’s going to be really difficult once those episodes start to air. Just tame it!”

See more on Sean and Catherine below.