#Mastering Cash Flow

[lutherspeight]

Mastering Cash Flow: Innovative Strategies for Small Businesses

Cash flow management is the lifeblood of small businesses, dictating their ability to operate, invest, and grow. Effective cash flow strategies distinguish businesses that thrive from those merely surviving. Mastering cash flow management enables businesses to navigate the ebbs and flows of their financial cycles with confidence, ensuring they have the necessary funds to cover their obligations and seize growth opportunities.

Small businesses often face a unique set of cash flow challenges that can impede their financial stability and growth. Seasonal fluctuations can lead to periods of significant financial strain, while late payments from customers can disrupt cash flow projections and create a gap in available funds. Additionally, unexpected expenses, such as emergency repairs or sudden market shifts, require immediate financial resources, further complicating cash flow management.

This article is designed to empower small business owners with innovative strategies and practical tips to enhance their cash flow management. By exploring effective techniques for forecasting, receivables management, and leveraging financial tools, we aim to illustrate how small businesses can improve their financial health and position themselves for sustained growth.

Essential Cash Flow Strategies

Accurate Cash Flow Forecasting

The cornerstone of effective cash flow management is the ability to project future cash flows with a high degree of accuracy. Accurate forecasting helps businesses anticipate their financial needs, plan for upcoming expenses, and make informed decisions about investments. It involves analyzing past financial data, understanding market trends, and considering potential variables that could impact the business's finances. By developing a reliable cash flow forecast, businesses can create a financial roadmap that guides them through each fiscal period, ensuring they maintain a positive cash flow position.

Efficient Receivables Management

Managing receivables efficiently is crucial for maintaining healthy cash flow. Strategies such as invoice automation can significantly reduce the time spent on billing processes, ensuring invoices are sent promptly and accurately. Offering early payment discounts can incentivize customers to pay sooner, thereby accelerating cash inflows. Additionally, implementing clear payment terms and following up diligently on overdue accounts can help small businesses minimize late payments and maintain a consistent stream of revenue. By focusing on receivables management, businesses can enhance their liquidity and reduce the risk of cash flow disruptions.

Mastering cash flow is not just about overcoming financial challenges; it's about setting a foundation for growth and stability. By adopting accurate cash flow forecasting and efficient receivables management strategies, small businesses can improve their financial health and navigate the complexities of the business world with greater ease.

Implementing Effective Cash Flow Practices

Optimizing Payment Terms

Optimizing payment terms with both suppliers and customers is crucial for maintaining a healthy cash balance, a key component of effective cash flow management. For small businesses, negotiating favorable payment terms can make a significant difference in how cash moves through the company. With suppliers, aim to negotiate longer payment periods that allow you to keep cash in your business longer, enhancing your liquidity. This might involve discussions to extend payment terms to 45, 60, or even 90 days, if possible.

Conversely, when dealing with customers, shorter payment terms are preferable. Encourage prompt payments by setting terms such as net 30 or offering incentives for early payment, like discounts. Implement clear communication from the start about your payment expectations and adhere to a consistent invoicing schedule to avoid delays. Managing these terms effectively requires a delicate balance, ensuring you're not stretching your resources thin while maintaining positive relationships with partners and clients.

Leveraging Technology for Cash Management

In the digital age, leveraging technology is a game-changer for cash management. Financial software and online tools can automate and streamline cash flow management, offering real-time insights into your business's financial health. Start by selecting a comprehensive accounting software that integrates with your banking and offers features like automated invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting. These platforms can significantly reduce the manual labor involved in financial management and provide accurate, up-to-date information on your cash flow status.

Additionally, online payment platforms can expedite the receivables process, allowing customers to make payments quickly and securely online. This not only improves the customer experience but also speeds up the cash inflow, improving your cash balance. Look for tools that offer mobile access, enabling you to manage your cash flow on the go and make informed decisions anytime, anywhere.

Elevating Small Business Through Cash Flow Mastery

Navigating Financial Health with Precision

For small businesses, mastering cash flow is akin to navigating through turbulent waters with a reliable compass. As illustrated in the diagram, the journey begins with identifying cash flow challenges unique to each business. Accurate forecasting and efficient receivables management form the core pillars that support sound financial planning, enabling businesses to anticipate future needs and maintain liquidity.

Strategic Adjustments and Technological Leverage

Optimizing payment terms represents a strategic pivot towards enhancing cash flow dynamics between a business and its stakeholders. This step, as highlighted in the flowchart, bridges the gap between incoming and outgoing funds, ensuring a steadier cash balance. The subsequent adoption of technology for cash management marks a critical advancement, introducing automation and real-time insights into financial operations.

Harnessing Tools for Agile Adaptation

Exploring cash flow tools and embracing market-driven technological innovations allow businesses to remain agile and responsive. This adaptability is essential for navigating market changes and seizing growth opportunities, as depicted in the later stages of the diagram. The culmination of these strategies leads to the building of financial resilience and the potential for sustained business growth.

A Blueprint for Financial Stability and Expansion

The flowchart serves not only as a guide to cash flow management but also as a blueprint for achieving financial stability and driving business expansion. By following the outlined steps, small businesses can transcend the challenges posed by financial fluctuations, positioning themselves for prosperity in an ever-evolving economic landscape. Embracing these innovative strategies and tools empowers business owners to steer their enterprises towards a future marked by resilience, adaptability, and growth.

Top 10 Cash Flow Tools for Small Businesses

QuickBooks: A comprehensive accounting solution that offers extensive cash flow management features, including invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting.

Xero: Known for its user-friendly interface and powerful cash flow forecasting tools, Xero helps businesses manage their finances efficiently.

FreshBooks: Ideal for small businesses looking for straightforward invoicing and billing solutions that can positively impact cash flow.

Wave: A cost-effective choice offering free basic accounting features, including invoicing and expense tracking, perfect for startups and small enterprises.

Zoho Books: Part of the Zoho suite, this tool provides excellent integration capabilities, making it a great choice for businesses looking for a comprehensive financial management solution.

Sage 50cloud: Combines the reliability of desktop software with the flexibility of cloud access, offering robust cash flow management capabilities.

Kashoo: Simple yet powerful, Kashoo is designed for small businesses needing basic accounting features with a strong emphasis on cash flow management.

Square: Beyond processing payments, Square offers valuable insights into sales trends and cash flow, making it a handy tool for retail businesses.

PayPal: A widely used platform for receiving payments quickly and securely, helping businesses improve their cash inflow.

Plaid: This tool facilitates connections between banking data and your financial apps, allowing for seamless cash flow analysis and management.

By optimizing payment terms and leveraging the right technology, small businesses can implement effective cash flow practices that ensure financial stability and foster growth. The tools listed provide a range of options for managing cash flow, from comprehensive accounting software to specific payment platforms, each contributing to better financial control. Embracing these strategies and tools can transform your business's approach to cash flow management, positioning you for success in the competitive small business landscape.

The Future of Cash Flow Management

Innovations in Financial Technology

The landscape of cash flow management is undergoing a significant transformation, thanks to the advent of emerging financial technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain. AI is revolutionizing the way small businesses forecast cash flow, analyze financial data, and make predictive decisions about their financial health. By automating routine accounting tasks, AI enables business owners to focus on strategic financial planning and insights. Blockchain technology, on the other hand, is enhancing the security and transparency of financial transactions, making it easier for businesses to track and manage their cash flow in real-time. These technologies not only streamline financial operations but also provide small businesses with powerful tools previously accessible only to larger corporations, thereby leveling the playing field.

Adapting to Market Changes

In today's fast-paced business environment, the ability to adapt to market changes is crucial for maintaining a healthy cash flow. Small businesses must remain agile in their financial planning, ready to adjust their strategies in response to economic shifts, consumer trends, and unforeseen challenges. This agility is facilitated by embracing financial technologies that provide real-time data and analytics, allowing business owners to make informed decisions quickly. By staying adaptable and leveraging the latest in financial tech, small businesses can better capitalize on growth opportunities and navigate the uncertainties of the market with confidence.

FAQs: Enhancing Cash Flow Management

How can I create a more accurate cash flow forecast? 

Creating a more accurate cash flow forecast involves leveraging historical financial data, understanding your business cycles, and incorporating real-time financial insights. Utilize financial software that offers forecasting tools, allowing you to simulate different scenarios and their potential impacts on your cash flow. Regularly updating your forecast with actual financial results will also improve its accuracy over time.

What are some immediate steps I can take to improve my cash flow? 

Immediate steps to improve cash flow include invoicing promptly, following up on overdue payments, and reviewing your expenses for potential savings. Consider offering discounts for early payments to encourage quicker cash inflows. Additionally, renegotiating payment terms with suppliers and creditors can help to better align cash outflows with your revenue streams.

How do online payment solutions impact cash flow? 

Online payment solutions can significantly improve cash flow by facilitating faster and more convenient transactions. They allow customers to pay invoices promptly, reducing the time between billing and receipt of funds. These solutions also simplify the reconciliation process, providing real-time visibility into your financial position.

Can renegotiating with suppliers really make a difference to my cash flow? 

Yes, renegotiating with suppliers can have a profound impact on your cash flow. Extending payment terms with suppliers can delay cash outflows, preserving cash within the business for other operational needs or growth opportunities. It's important to approach renegotiation with a focus on building long-term relationships, ensuring mutually beneficial terms that support your business's cash flow requirements.

In conclusion, mastering cash flow management is essential for the success and sustainability of small businesses. This article has explored a range of innovative strategies and practical tips, from leveraging emerging financial technologies to optimizing payment terms and embracing online payment solutions. These approaches not only help in navigating the complexities of cash flow management but also in harnessing growth opportunities in a competitive marketplace. As we look to the future, the integration of AI, blockchain, and other financial technologies will continue to transform how small businesses manage their cash flow, offering unprecedented accuracy, efficiency, and strategic insight. Business owners are encouraged to embrace these advancements, not merely to withstand financial challenges but to propel their businesses forward, ensuring financial stability and fostering expansion in today's dynamic market environment.

[aeth-eris]

★ financial guide for the rising signs [2nd, 6th, 10th] ★

★ aries rising ★

your financial success is built on consistency and long-term stability, not quick wins. with taurus ruling your 2nd house, money grows when you treat wealth like a garden, planting seeds that will pay off over time. you thrive financially when you own assets, build slow but steady income streams, and develop financial patience. stop chasing instant gratification—your wealth is strongest when it’s rooted in something tangible. luxury and financial comfort are meant for you, but you have to build them brick by brick.

your 6th house in virgo makes you a high-efficiency worker, someone who functions best when there’s structure, organization, and refinement. you make money by perfecting a craft, streamlining processes, and offering exceptional value. your best financial move is to create a system that allows you to scale your work efficiently. you’re at your worst when you’re working aimlessly without a clear financial plan.

your 10th house in capricorn means you were born to lead, build, and accumulate wealth over time. you’re meant for legacy careers, business ownership, and high-status roles. people respect you when you take charge, so stop underpricing yourself or playing small.

how to make money effectively:

develop long-term wealth strategies—real estate, investments, high-end services

charge premium rates for expertise and reputation

create a financial structure that supports stability

what to avoid:

chasing quick, unstable money

overworking without a strategy

switching careers before establishing mastery

★ taurus rising ★

your financial power is in communication, adaptability, and multiple income streams. with gemini ruling your 2nd house, money flows to you when you leverage your voice, ideas, and connections. financial success doesn’t come from routine—it comes from diversity in income sources. you are meant to write, teach, sell, or speak your way into wealth. the more financial channels you open, the more money circulates to you.

your 6th house in libra means you work best in aesthetic, harmonious, and collaborative environments. you aren’t built for chaotic, high-stress jobs. you thrive in team settings, networking-based careers, and industries that blend beauty with logic. financial stability comes when you learn to balance your workload instead of overextending yourself.

your 10th house in aquarius demands an unconventional, tech-forward career path. you are meant to break traditional job structures, innovate, and align with futuristic industries. you do best in digital entrepreneurship, social media, trend forecasting, or anything that involves forward-thinking ideas.

how to make money effectively:

monetize your ability to communicate and teach

build multiple income streams—investments, digital products, freelancing

work in tech, media, or networking-heavy industries

what to avoid:

relying on one static job

working in environments that lack creativity

ignoring opportunities in digital markets

★ gemini rising ★

your wealth is deeply emotional, tied to security, intuition, and financial comfort. with cancer in your 2nd house, money doesn’t just pay the bills—it makes you feel safe, nurtured, and at home. your income thrives when you create financial stability through consistent cash flow, savings, and emotional alignment. financial stress deeply affects you, so it’s essential to prioritize steady income rather than risky financial ventures.

your 6th house in scorpio makes you a deep, obsessive worker. you aren’t interested in shallow or meaningless tasks—you work best when you’re fully immersed in something that feels powerful. your financial strength comes from mastering hidden knowledge, psychology, finance, or investigative work.

your 10th house in pisces means your career should be intuitive, creative, or healing-based. you excel in spirituality, psychology, creative arts, or behind-the-scenes industries. your wealth is strongest when you trust your intuition in financial decisions and align with work that feels meaningful.

how to make money effectively:

build a secure financial base to reduce stress

monetize your intuition, creativity, or depth of knowledge

work in psychology, spirituality, creative arts, or research fields

what to avoid:

taking jobs that feel emotionally unfulfilling

working in environments that lack depth or purpose

ignoring financial planning and relying on instinct alone

★ cancer rising ★

your financial success is built on self-worth, confidence, and personal branding. with leo ruling your 2nd house, money flows when you own your value, embrace leadership, and position yourself as someone who deserves high earnings. you don’t attract wealth through small, quiet roles—you thrive when you command attention and make bold financial moves. underpricing yourself or working behind the scenes limits your wealth potential. financial success comes when you set premium rates, build a reputation, and confidently market yourself.

your 6th house in sagittarius means you work best in free-flowing, exploratory environments. you’re not designed for strict routines or micromanagement—you need variety, freedom, and adventure in your work. you thrive when you’re constantly learning, traveling, or expanding your knowledge.

your 10th house in aries makes you a self-made success. you aren’t meant to follow a traditional career path—you’re supposed to take risks, initiate projects, and carve your own way. your professional reputation grows when you move fast, innovate, and trust yourself to lead.

how to make money effectively:

charge higher prices and position yourself as an expert

monetize your personal brand, leadership skills, and visibility

choose work that offers freedom, travel, and expansion

what to avoid:

waiting for permission or validation before taking financial risks

settling for low-paying jobs that don’t challenge you

forcing yourself into structured, routine-based work

★ leo rising ★

your financial success is built on precision, planning, and efficiency. with virgo in your 2nd house, money comes when you treat your finances like a system—organized, methodical, and structured. you thrive when you budget carefully, invest in skill-building, and refine your financial strategy. spontaneous spending or reckless investments disrupt your natural wealth flow. success happens when you track income meticulously and build sustainable wealth through careful management.

your 6th house in capricorn makes you a relentless worker. you have an intense work ethic, but you need to ensure that your effort leads to long-term success rather than just grinding for survival. your wealth expands when you commit to one field and steadily rise through the ranks.

your 10th house in taurus means your career should be stable, luxurious, and built for long-term wealth. you are meant to own property, invest in high-end businesses, or work in industries that prioritize security and financial stability.

how to make money effectively:

build financial routines and long-term wealth strategies

focus on high-quality work that leads to reputation and authority

invest in tangible wealth like property, luxury markets, and stable industries

what to avoid:

working endlessly without a clear financial plan

undervaluing your expertise and meticulous skills

making impulsive financial choices instead of planning ahead

★ virgo rising ★

your financial success is tied to relationships, aesthetics, and social influence. with libra in your 2nd house, money flows when you use charm, partnerships, and artistic talents to generate wealth. your earning potential expands when you surround yourself with financially successful people and work in industries that blend beauty, balance, and intelligence.

your 6th house in aquarius means you work best in unconventional, flexible environments. you aren’t designed for traditional 9-to-5 jobs—you thrive when you can innovate, experiment, and work on your own terms. your wealth builds when you stay ahead of trends and tap into progressive industries.

your 10th house in gemini means your career should involve communication, education, and media. you excel when you’re writing, speaking, teaching, or sharing ideas with the public.

how to make money effectively:

leverage social connections, networking, and collaborations

work in aesthetic industries like fashion, branding, design, or public relations

monetize your voice, writing, or ability to share knowledge

what to avoid:

working in rigid, traditional jobs that limit your creativity

avoiding financial discussions or neglecting money management

sticking to one income source instead of diversifying

★ libra rising ★

your financial power is rooted in secrecy, transformation, and hidden wealth. with scorpio in your 2nd house, money isn’t just about earning—it’s about long-term accumulation, financial control, and strategic investments. you are meant to build private wealth, passive income, and financial independence through methods that aren’t obvious to others. your money grows when you invest wisely, keep your financial moves private, and create wealth that isn’t easily disrupted.

your 6th house in pisces makes you a fluid, intuitive worker. you function best when you can follow inspiration rather than rigid schedules. your work needs to feel meaningful, creative, or spiritually aligned.

your 10th house in cancer means your career should be emotionally connected, nurturing, and deeply fulfilling. you thrive in real estate, finance, healing professions, or work that allows you to support others.

how to make money effectively:

build passive income and long-term wealth strategies

work in finance, psychology, healing, or real estate

keep your financial success private—money grows best when protected from outside influence

what to avoid:

oversharing your financial plans before they manifest

choosing jobs that feel shallow or emotionally unfulfilling

avoiding money management out of fear of instability

★ scorpio rising ★

your financial success comes from expansion, risk-taking, and trusting your instincts. with sagittarius in your 2nd house, money doesn’t come through slow accumulation—it comes through big leaps, bold decisions, and aligned opportunities. financial growth happens when you invest in yourself, take strategic risks, and follow your gut on money matters.

your 6th house in aries makes you a fast-paced, action-driven worker. you work best when you can move quickly, make independent decisions, and avoid unnecessary bureaucracy.

your 10th house in leo means your career should be high-profile, leadership-based, and tied to personal recognition. you are meant to be seen, respected, and known for your achievements.

how to make money effectively:

take calculated financial risks—investments, entrepreneurship, or industry leadership

monetize your personal brand and leadership skills

position yourself in high-visibility roles where people trust your expertise

what to avoid:

playing small in low-status roles that don’t challenge you

waiting too long to take financial risks and expand

ignoring financial planning in favor of short-term wins

★ sagittarius rising ★

your financial success is built on discipline, long-term planning, and strategic wealth-building. with capricorn in your 2nd house, money doesn’t come from luck—it comes from calculated effort, financial responsibility, and structured income streams. you are meant to accumulate wealth slowly and steadily, focusing on stability over quick money. financial success happens when you treat money seriously, create structured goals, and build assets that appreciate over time.

your 6th house in taurus makes you a consistent, hardworking employee or business owner. you thrive in stable, predictable work environments where your effort compounds over time. financial success is strongest when you create a routine that guarantees steady progress toward your goals.

your 10th house in virgo means your career should be practical, analytical, and detail-oriented. you excel in careers that require precision, problem-solving, and a structured approach to success. your path to wealth involves mastering a craft, refining your skills, and gaining a reputation for reliability.

how to make money effectively:

build structured financial plans and investment portfolios

work in industries that reward consistency, expertise, and long-term strategy

create multiple revenue streams that grow over time

what to avoid:

relying on short-term gains instead of sustainable wealth-building

working in unstable jobs with no long-term potential

ignoring financial planning and delaying wealth accumulation

★ capricorn rising ★

your financial success is tied to innovation, technology, and unconventional wealth-building methods. with aquarius in your 2nd house, money flows when you break away from traditional financial structures and embrace modern, progressive income sources. your wealth isn’t built through slow accumulation—it’s built through disrupting old systems, networking, and staying ahead of trends. financial success happens when you embrace new industries, invest in digital business, and use social influence to expand your financial reach.

your 6th house in gemini makes you a multitasking, fast-paced worker. you thrive in careers that keep your mind engaged, allow for constant learning, and involve communication or technology. your best financial move is to build diverse income streams rather than relying on one job.

your 10th house in libra means your career should involve social connections, aesthetics, or partnership-based industries. you succeed when you leverage your ability to connect people, create beauty, or navigate business relationships effectively.

how to make money effectively:

invest in tech-driven businesses, digital markets, and networking opportunities

create flexible income streams that allow financial independence

work in industries that prioritize aesthetics, relationships, or innovation

what to avoid:

following outdated financial models instead of embracing new ones

working in rigid, creativity-stifling jobs

ignoring opportunities that involve social influence or technology

★ aquarius rising ★

your financial success is built on intuition, creativity, and fluid income streams. with pisces in your 2nd house, money flows to you when you trust your instincts, embrace imaginative work, and allow wealth to come to you rather than chasing it. you don’t follow traditional financial rules—you manifest wealth through subconscious alignment, creativity, and spiritual awareness. financial success happens when you remove limiting beliefs around money and let abundance flow naturally.

your 6th house in cancer makes you an emotionally driven worker. you function best when your job feels meaningful, nurturing, and deeply connected to your values. you can’t thrive in cold, impersonal workplaces—you need a work environment that feels supportive and emotionally fulfilling.

your 10th house in scorpio means your career should be deep, powerful, and transformative. you succeed in roles that involve research, healing, finance, or uncovering hidden knowledge.

how to make money effectively:

monetize your creativity, spirituality, or intuitive skills

create passive income streams that let money flow without constant effort

work in industries that involve healing, psychology, or artistic expression

what to avoid:

following strict financial plans that don’t align with your natural flow

working in emotionally draining jobs that don’t fulfill you

ignoring your natural ability to manifest wealth effortlessly

★ pisces rising ★

your financial success is built on bold action, independence, and high-energy decision-making. with aries in your 2nd house, money doesn’t come from waiting—it comes from taking risks, trusting your instincts, and constantly staying in motion. you don’t accumulate wealth through slow, careful planning—you build it by jumping on opportunities, acting fast, and believing in yourself. financial success happens when you take charge of your earnings and don’t hesitate to claim financial independence.

your 6th house in leo makes you a natural performer and leader in the workplace. you thrive in high-energy jobs where you can be recognized, admired, and rewarded for your hard work. your best financial move is to put yourself in visible positions where people trust and follow your expertise.

your 10th house in sagittarius means your career should involve travel, adventure, and continuous expansion. you succeed when you embrace new experiences, follow your passions, and take risks in your professional life.

how to make money effectively:

take bold financial risks that align with your instincts

build a personal brand that makes you stand out in your field

work in industries that offer freedom, independence, and high rewards

what to avoid:

hesitating too long before making financial decisions

staying in jobs that don’t allow you to be seen or recognized

ignoring your need for financial independence and self-driven success

★ book a reading ★ ★ masterlist 1 ★ ★ masterlist 2 ★

[astroxrion]

How you will experience luck in this life, based on Your Jupiter House Placement—

Jupiter in the 1st House

You glow different. People like you, trust you, and often say "yes" without thinking twice. Your big personality pulls in lucky chances just by showing up. You grow by being confident, bold, and fully yourself. When you believe in your own story, doors open fast. Your presence alone inspires others, and the more you step into who you are, the more the universe gives. Trust your instincts—they're your magic wand.

Jupiter in the 2nd House

You've got a gift for stacking blessings—especially in the form of cash, value, and steady wins. Money tends to find you when you stick to what feels right and build things that last. The more you own your worth, the more the world reflects it back. You expand through investing, owning stuff, and believing you deserve more. Riches grow when you're grounded and generous. What you touch can turn golden—so touch wisely.

Jupiter in the 3rd House

Your words? Lucky. Your ideas? They travel far. Communication, writing, teaching, and talking open up wild expansion for you. You're meant to think big, share often, and move through life with curiosity. You get blessings through siblings, short trips, and deep conversations. The more you express, the more your world grows. Say it, write it, tweet it, post it—something will go viral. You're a natural connector. Stay sharp, stay curious, and speak your truth.

Jupiter in the 4th House

Home is your secret garden of growth. Your luck comes through family, roots, and places you emotionally belong. You can build a strong foundation that gives forever. Real estate, ancestry, healing generational stuff—that's where you bloom. A happy home expands everything. You're protected when you go inward. The more you create safety inside yourself, the more life wraps around you like a warm hug. Your legacy is rooted, rich, and deeply blessed.

Jupiter in the 5th House

You were born to create and be celebrated. Luck finds you when you express yourself—art, music, romance, or just being playful. Kids, fans, and audiences bring expansion. You glow on stage, in love, or anywhere you're having fun. Big blessings show up through joy, flirting, and risk-taking. Don't play small—go full sparkle. Creative risks turn into gold when your heart's in it. Fame, love, or both—they're yours when you stay true to your vibe.

Jupiter in the 6th House

Your daily grind becomes divine when you serve with heart. You get luck through routines, helping others, and staying sharp about health. You expand when you treat work like a mission, not a chore. Miracles happen in your schedule—seriously. The more you commit to steady improvement, the more life blesses you. Clients, coworkers, even random tasks become portals of growth. A clean system equals a big life. Master the details. The blessings are in them.

Jupiter in the 7th House

You're lucky in love and partnerships. People show up to support, uplift, and expand you. You grow through deep one-on-one connections—whether in romance, business, or creative collabs. The right people bring big blessings. You might marry well, attract powerful allies, or glow up through contracts. Your mirror is magic—choose it wisely. Balance isn't boring for you—it's the key to expansion. Keep your heart open and your standards high. Your luck walks in with others.

Jupiter in the 8th House

You've got deep power. Luck flows through transformation, intimacy, and shared resources. Inheritances, investments, mystery money—it's all yours when you surrender to change. You expand when you trust life's deeper currents. Spiritual power, sexual energy, and psychological insight are your hidden gold. People might fund you, believe in your vision, or offer you access. The more you embrace endings and rebirths, the richer you become. You're built for deep wealth—not just cash, but soul-deep power.

Jupiter in the 9th House

Your whole life is one big adventure. Travel, higher education, philosophy, teaching, publishing—this is where your luck explodes. You're here to expand people's minds, starting with your own. When you share wisdom, you grow. Life rewards your curiosity, especially when you chase what feels big and true. Foreign lands, big ideas, spiritual quests—that's your playground. You're not just lucky—you're a walking vision. Say yes to the road, the book, the leap. The universe follows you.

Jupiter in the 10th House

You're born for big success. Your public image, career, and goals are blessed by Jupiter's glow. You grow when you aim high and lead with purpose. Life puts you in front of people—bosses, fans, or crowds—and says, "Go." You've got leadership luck. Fame, status, and legacy come easier when you go all in. The more you take your role seriously, the more the world opens up. Be seen. Be bold. Your success uplifts others too.

Jupiter in the 11th House

You get lucky through your people. Friendships, social networks, the internet—this is where blessings drop in. You were built for going viral, making waves, and rallying groups around big visions. The more you give to the collective, the more life gives to you. Community is your magic. Dreams manifest when you stay plugged in. You don't just join movements—you lead them. Keep connecting, keep dreaming out loud. The crowd wants to follow your light.

Jupiter in the 12th House

Your luck is silent, sacred, and strange. You're protected by something bigger—call it spirit, intuition, or the dream world. You expand when you rest, retreat, and reconnect with the unseen. Art, healing, solitude, and spirituality are secret blessings. Magic happens behind the scenes for you. When you stop forcing and start flowing, life rises to meet you. Miracles happen quietly—but they're real. The universe is on your side, always. Let go, tune in, and receive.

[thebluester2020]

[ZZZ] "How To Recieve An A+ In Housekeeping!"

Summary: Attempting to get a job in Victorian Housekeeping Co. is a very strenuous process! One must show a wide variety of skills, good vocabulary, and excellent manners— all three were skills that you were failing at but, luckily the leader of the company had the perfect method to teach you these skills and it all starts with a program! Warning(s): Dom! Lycaon / Sub! Reader, Brat-Taming [Reader's a bit mouthy at best tbh] Spanking, Slight Edging, Cum Denial [Kinda? Lycaon encourages reader not to cum but doesn't do anything to enforce it tbh], Lycian being gentlemanly as hell. (Feel free to tell me if I missed anything!) Side Note(s): I won't say I am/am not a furry. But I will say that my taste in dudes will always favor them where they're stoic and serious but have a secret soft side. Respectfully, those types of men make me want to do the sexy splits on them.

Anyway, hope y'all enjoy this <33

"Your manners are terrible"

When those words left the wolfman's mouth sternly as you sat before him, only a desk separating the two of you, you could've sworn you felt a metaphorical anvil drop into your stomach. You had been job-hunting for a couple of weeks now, after your last gang had disbanded due to the leader getting caught up with the law. You no longer had a steady flow of cash (albeit a little illegal ) coming in!

From gang member to attempted housemaid...it was laughable. Even to you.

And clearly, the leader of the Victorian Housekeeping company thought so too from the way he looked at your resume with a strict gaze once more before resuming looking at you. You were fully expectant of another harsh sentence to slip from his sharp-toothed youth until...you heard a heavy sigh escape him.

He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms, the very room seeming to react to the movement by the way the single light above you two flickered. His then he huffed. "There is a way to improve to improve your manners, however, you'll be learning from me personally."

You gasped. "Really?! Thank you so much, man!"

His ear twitched at the casual "man" you threw his way. "...Sir or mister is a more proper way of speaking to your male superiors."

You cleared your throat and uttered a 'sorry'. "The program will be for three weeks. Each week will be dedicated to a specific set of manners that you are to master if you wish to join the company."

"Which are?" You responded.

"The first week will be vocabulary, communication with clients, and the correct words to address people by," As Lyacon said this, he opened a drawer on his side before pulling out a piece of paper and sliding it to you. You slowly began to read over the paper, one that seemed like a contract of sorts as the wolf continued to talk.

"The second week will simply focus on posture."

You scoffed as your eyes flicked back up to his. "Posture? Ain't that just walkin'?"

"Proper posture is harder to achieve than one may assume Ms. Y/N." He said. "The third week will be—"

The sudden clearing of his throat made him stop immediately, your face suddenly but quickly turning red as you reached a section on the paper that caught your eye.

Complete submission is expected by those who train under Von Lycaon, especially those he offers "favors" to.

"F-Favors...?"

"Favors hint towards a sexual nature, if I'm to assume that was the inquiry to your question?"

In your former gang, you had heard about Von Lycaon and the whole attitude of the white wolfman. He was a pinnacle of perfection in seemingly everything he did! There didn't seem to be a single thing he half-assed, to put it crudely, and what's more? He didn't get distracted. So...for a document to suggest that he wanted submission during sex?

You didn't know if it was shocking or expected.

"I didn't expect the Lycaon to need a document to garner sex." You said.

A rare chuckle left him. "I don't," He answered. "But everyone learns quicker and better when praise and pleasure is included, correct? This is merely a suggestion for you to learn faster. You are more than welcome to opt out of this."

"And if I accept?" Upon that question, the corners of Lycaon's mouth curled up slightly as he slowly leaned in until you could just barely feel his breath.

"Then you will learn fast. On my honor, I promise you."

You should've said no to this optional part of the program. All you needed was a job and Lycaon made it clear that there was a sexless version of the program where you'd simply learn the old-fashioned way! No pleasure or sex included but...as your eyes steadily trailed over the thiren, you couldn't deny he was a handsome individual. It wouldn't be unpleasant in the slightest to have benefits while completing your training under him. And as you steadily came to that conclusion, your thighs beginning to clench underneath the desk.

The thiren briefly sniffed at the air before he closed his eyes and exhaled. He was as still as a statue for a brief moment before he cleared his throat and offered you a pen from his breast pocket.

"I didn't give you an official answer—"

"Your scent gave me a suggestion." His raspy voice in combination with the sudden feral look in his eyes...you all too quickly shooed away any doubts you may have had before you began to sign away on the line at the bottom of the paper. And once you did, sliding the paper gently back to the wolf, he read over it briefly before he folded it neatly and placed it back into a drawer.

"We shall begin Monday," Lycaon said. "Please be prompt and on-time, I don't tolerate tardiness."

"Yeah, yeah." You scoffed.

And thus, your training as a potential housemaid for the Victorian Housekeeping Company has officially begun.

. . .

| Week One |

You had slept in, you had forgotten to set a timer over the weekend, too engrossed with the fact that you had basically agreed to have sex with Lycaon during your three-week training! The second you arrived home, it was a struggle to not touch yourself to the thought of what he looked like underneath his kept-together appearance.

You imagined he'd be soft to the touch judging by how much fur he had.

Would he be firm with his gaze, demanding you to be perfect even in the heat of the moment? Or would be he gentle and accommodating with you?

No matter how much your body cried out for you to indulge yourself a little, you saved it until you experienced it for yourself.

But right now, as your head was bowed down in apology to the wolfman for making him wait over forty minutes to your first day. You had a strong feeling you wouldn't be experiencing anything pleasurable today. "Once again dude, I am SO sorry!" You said.

"I forgot to set a timer, then I wanted to stop and get some breakfast along the way—"

"Stop," He snapped his jaws with a growl seeming to bubble just underneath the surface, the sight of his fangs making you shudder out of fear and...the slightest hint of excitement.

"First appearances are important, the most important out of any interaction and you sullied it on your first day of training? How do you expect to work for the company with such a flippant attitude?"

"I said sorry—"

"Sorry does not cut it Ms. Y/N. Excusing being a minute or two late is another matter but forty? Punishment is the only fitting way to solve such blatant disregard for other people's time." At those chilling words, Lycaon took a single step toward you before he took your chin into his hand, his eyes scanning over your nervous form with a critical gaze before he eventually sighed.

"I have a punishment in mind, please see to it that you are undressed in my office within' five minutes, and be on time."

Your eyes widened to the size of saucers before you huffed defiantly. "I'm not doing that!" You yelled.

His ear flicked, to him? You sounded like an impudent child, screaming and doing anything to get out of being scolded by their parent. "No?" He tilted his head.

"No!"

A wolfish smirk crept onto his face. "Every minute you stand here is an additional minute to your punishment Ms. Y/N. Do take care to remember that."

And so, there you stood.

| + | + | + |

You wouldn't be able to claim that he wasn't patient for the entire duration you had a fit about being punished on the first day of training. For about ten whole minutes, you stood there staring at the thiren until you eventually got bored and decided that "your punishment wouldn't be that bad" and simply went to his office!

You sat on a black couch and waited and when Lycaon came in?

The way he so quickly got his hands on you felt like you were being thrown around by an uncouth beast, a complete switch from the gentlemanly wolf you were talking to just a few minutes ago.

Slap! "Count." He ordered.

"O-One—Ah!"

He tutted his lips with a shake of his head as his hand slapped against your ass again, your maid uniform tugged up to your midsection as he pinned your hands down with his free hand. "Proper communication is most effective when you're speaking clearly Ms. Y/N...also, it's "one, sir"."

Another slap against your red behind rang out in the air, your body jerking forward a little at the movement. "At this rate, you'll never reach fifty." He sighed.

"W-Wait...!" You begged. "J-Just give me a break...so I can c-catch my breath—" When he slowly inched his hand upward again, your eyes widened as you quickly remembered your manners. "S-Sir! J-Just let me catch my breath...please."

If your eyes weren't blurry with tears, your mind getting fuzzier and fuzzier as you tried to ignore the ache in your cunt. You could've sworn you saw his tail move a little. After a minute, however, a sharp gasp left your swollen lips when you felt a finger graze against your sex, the featherlight touch making you shudder as you whipped your head around to look at the Lycaon.

Unconsciously, his tongue poked out to sweep against his upper set of canines as he focused on how your slick oozed out from your pussy so shamelessly. But at the same time? He figured he shouldn't have been shocked at the lewd sight, his keen hearing didn't miss the way a tiny moan would escape your lips at each slap. It was as if you wanted him to keep going and didn't want your punishment to end anytime soon.

Such behavior wasn't befitting of a potential future employee at the company. "Are you done recuperating? If so, then let us continue."

"W-Wait..." You begged. "J-Just a little time- Ah!"

"Now, now—" He pressed his hand down on your wrists a little more, lightly pinching at your thigh with the tip of his claws to calm your squirming. "—If you focus and count Ms. Y/N then your punishment will be over very soon, please remain focused."

After a final warning, he was quick to resume his smacks against your ass. The pain and pleasure eventually blurring into one another enough for your brain to somehow find a way to "center" itself. And, after around twenty minutes...Lycaon finally released you from your bent-over position over his lap and got up.

A lingering rebelliousness in the back of your head wanted to curse out the wolf as he stood, fixing his cuffs until they were neat again as if he wasn't rocking a blatant boner in his trousers! Yet as your mouth began to open as he walked further away...it quickly shut when he started walking back to you after grabbing something from a bookshelf behind his desk.

"What is that?" You asked.

"Aloe cream, it should help with the burn and any burning sensations."

Oh, you thought.

How...nice of him.

At your silence, his head tilted as he sat down next to you. "Are you alright?"

"Huh? Oh, y-yeah...I just wasn't expecting aftercare." You blushed.

"Your work would be even more affected if I didn't do this, I wouldn't want that." Suddenly, your heart skipped a beat.

. . .

| Week Two |

You didn't want to admit it to yourself at the time but you knew full well as to why your heart skipped a beat that day. At first, you tried to joke and claim that you were a masochist starting to bloom! Von Lycaon was handsome, yes but you knew how to distinguish between work and personal lives! Besides, you wanted money more than you did romance and if the latter interfered with your money...you weren't in any shape or form interested in it.

But, at the second week's coming, this week focused on posture if your memory served correctly. You couldn't lie or joke to yourself anymore.

You developed a crush on your future boss.

And it grew harder and harder to deny that fact in your...current position. Naked aside from your short black heels, you were standing right in front of Lycaon with his pants pulled down just enough to reveal his leaking dick. The tip seemed to turn increasingly into an angrier red as you continued to stay frozen in place. "Are you uncomfortable?" Lycaon's words snapped you out of your thoughts before you shook your head.

"N-No sir! It's just..." You went quiet for a second. "How...how is this going to teach me posture?"

"If you would come closer, I will show you." Like a siren's song, the beckoning of his clawed finger made you take small steps forward until you were finally in front of him. "I'll be letting you take control of me for some time," You could've sworn you caught a smirk on his lips at his words. "If you manage to fuck me until I cum with the correct posture then consider your training done, and welcome to your new job as a new maid to the Victorian Housekeeping company. I'll be generous and not even include the third week of training."

"But—" As his hand found its way to your hips, he gently tugged you forward until he slowly maneuvered you to straddle him on his lap, his cock throbbing against your stomach as beads of sweat started to appear at the back of your neck. He reached the middle of your stomach, easily! And that wasn't even considering his girth. "—If your posture fails, you will unfortunately stick to the original training program. And I must warn you, most do not manage to get through week three."

You jumped a little when you felt Lycaon's hand move down to your pussy. "What are you doing?" You voiced out shakily, your clit throbbing at Lycaon's touch as one finger alone was enough to cover your entire clit.

"Preparing you of course," He said with an "obviously" tone. "No matter how much I can smell your eagerness in the air—" A sharp moan escaped your lips when his finger started to slowly move, your cheeks burning at the fact you let out such a noise from such little stimulation. "—I doubt you will be able to fully take me without a little prep."

"Y-You..." You bit your tongue to keep a curse from flying out, your hands quickly moving to his shoulders as you tried to ground yourself and not lose yourself too quickly to the pleasure. A task that you were quickly failing at as you felt a knot slowly begin to form in the pit of your stomach, scorching hot tears brimming your eyes as a single line of drool fell from the corner of your lips.

And Lycaon was enjoying every second of it.

If he were to be honest with himself.

He didn't want you to succeed this time.

After having so much fun with you last week, he would say that he had gotten a bit greedy. As entertaining as it was to tame your bratty behavior and mold it into something more palpable as someone who would be interacting with clients often, it was torture all the same to him to not shut you up with his cock instead! It wasn't enough to rut into his hand at the end of every day, heated pants leaving his lips as his tongue lulled out of his mouth like some common dog begging for a slip of meat.

To say that it was unbecoming of him to set you up for failure was an understatement, rubbing your needy bud until you nearly squirted on him wouldn't make you last very long when you were actually seated on his cock. And as cruel as it was for him to say...how unbecoming and un-gentlemanly it was...

He was so fucking eager for you to fail.

"S-Sir..." His ears perked to your whining as your head fell his chest, his ears then moving to the sound of lewd squelching coming from your pussy. "Please...I-I'm so close..." You whined.

He allowed himself to play with you a minute longer until...he took his finger away.

He struggled to withhold a laugh at your state, your eyes seeming to be confused and stuck between wanting to glare angrily at him or beggingly like a wanton whore for him to continue. "Don't look like that," He said. "If I were to make you cum now, you would be too shaky to fuck me."

You were too shaky now.

But, you'd first kiss the seat of a toilet lid before admitting defeat.

"I-I won't fail this..." You said with determination, although breathlessly.

His tail wagged ever so slightly at your determination. "We shall see," He responded before he relaxed against the couch with a deep sigh. "Please begin at your leisure Ms. Y/N." When you took him into your hand, you felt a surge of confidence at Lycaon's not-so-quiet sharp inhale of breath. You prayed that he was just as needy as you because as you lined him up to your entrance and started to slid him into you, every inch that sunk further into you made your mouth gap wider and wider until you were certain you looked like a gasping fish.

He rubbed against your walls so nicely too, his girth stretching you out just enough to where it made you drool as it touched spots inside of you that you hadn't had a clue existed until today!

"F-Fuckkkkk..." You moaned out once you were fully seated on him.

You sucked your bottom lip into your mouth, desperately trying to ignore that burning feeling in your core as you began to move.

"Shit." Oh, how you just wanted to just shove a hand over his snout to keep him from letting out such sexy noises. His raspy voice and the way his thumbs rubbed encouraging circles into your hips...it wasn't good for you. You'd cum faster at this rate.

"Faster," Lycaon suddenly ordered, opening one of his red eyes to look at you.

"I...I can't- Oh!" Your words caught in your throat when he suddenly fucked up into you. A squeal nearly leaving your throat as you shut your eyes tightly to try and force back that urge to cum.

"Disobeying a superior now Ms. Y/N?" One of his hands slowly dragged up your back before it gently shoved you forward a little. Immediately, you fixed your posture although you nearly fell back over a couple of times. "You should watch yourself, my type of punishment for this act won't be very fun."

You doubted that.

But, as your hands tightened on his shoulders and you fucked yourself more quicker onto him. Tears started to flow down your cheeks more easily as you couldn't deny the burning feeling in your stomach anymore, how the way Lycaon's dick throbbed inside of you and pressed against your most sensitive spots...the urge to beg him for the chance to cum, just once was on the tip of your tongue but you tried to stay focused. "Oh my God..." He moaned deeply.

"Fuckkk..."

"A-Are you close?" You whined.

He scoffed. "Not even close," You felt your hopes nearly crash and shatter at those words. "But...your pussy feels so good on my cock," He praised, his tail thumping against the couch unabashedly as he stared up at you with hooded eyes and a feral gaze. "Perhaps, instead of a maid, you should be my personal breeding toy."

His smirk grew when he felt your pussy tighten around his cock.

"Yeah?" He asked. "You like that?"

You shook your head, shutting your eyes tightly as if not seeing him would help your situation anyway. However, as you felt a furred hand cup the side of your face, the feeling of breaths hitting your face. Your eyes slowly cracked open to the wolf thiren's face right in front of yours, panting and moaning with little to no shame before he smiled. "So pretty like this Y/N..." He said before his leaned down to begin pressing kisses to the side of your neck.

Briefly, the thought of whether or not this was a part of the training flashed in the front of your mind. But...as quick as it came, it was gone. You wanted to believe that...he wasn't following some manual when it came to his actions, that they were meant just for you and you alone. "You're so wet, making so much noise...I think I was right in my earlier suggestion hm? Maybe you will do better as my toy."

You shook your head. "Don't lie." He lightly nipped your shoulder, the sharp sudden pain being just what you needed to throw you over the edge before...Lycaon's ears moved to the sound of gushing and the feeling of wetness splashing against his pants and a bit of his thighs.

Without a second thought, his fingers shot down to gather some of your cum onto his fingers before he tasted you, a groan rumbling out as he almost shocked himself with how fast he got hard again. But before he could mention it, much less suggest it, when Lycaon returned his gaze to you. He saw you passed out against his chest, the very sight making him laugh ever so quietly before he sighed.

He supposed he was feeling a touch bit generous...he expected you to cum within seconds of fucking yourself onto his cock but it took you longer than that! To the point, he actually began to worry about cumming first or not! Although he had a mind not to be, he decided to be generous and forgiving seeing as you fucked him until the point of total exhaustion on your point.

He'd give you a passing A+ for effort.

[sorryitsmyfirstdayonearth]

Marked (MOC Dean x female reader)

Chapter 7 - In another life

CWs Aftermath. Soft sex. Right person, wrong time? Bittersweet ending / sad ending. 18+. 7.9k words.

Mark of Dean series master list ⏐ SPN masterlist

You leave the bunker on a Wednesday.

You’ve been thinking about it for a while. The hallways that once seemed homely, like something out of The Hobbit now seem oppressive. Your room, which used to be your sanctuary, the first place that was all yours, your first home after losing your real home, is cold. Dean’s cups and sandwich wrappers aren’t there anymore to remind you of him, but everything else does. 

It's like he's in the air. The dust particles flowing around the lamps and light fixtures. He's in the water you wash yourself with, and the water you drink. He's inescapable, in a way.

What helps with the final decision is the call you listen in on. It’s late at night, and you’re carrying a dirty coffee cup that’s been on your bedside table for two days to the kitchen. On the way back to your room, you hear Sam’s voice.

It’s low, so you know he doesn’t mean for you to hear him. You would just ignore it if he didn’t say Dean’s name in that moment. 

You stand in the hallway, unsure what to do. In the end, though, curiosity gets the better of you and you approach his bedroom door, which is slightly ajar.

“I know that,” he’s saying. “I know.” He’s quiet, as his brother speaks. You close your eyes, but you can’t even hear the murmur of Dean’s voice. You’re not sure if you wish you could.

"I said I know that," Sam says, voice insisting. "I'm just... Jesus, I'm so tired of all of this." Your hand goes to your face, fingertips running along your skin as you keep listening.

“Dean,” Sam says, his voice urgent, like he’s interrupting him. “Just come home. We can deal with this.”

You swallow, low thrum of panic beating in your chest. You hear a long sigh leave Sam.

“Good,” he says, sounding relieved. “I’ll see you then.”

By the time he hangs up, you’re already back in your room, throwing clothes into a bag.

Sam realizes you’re gone a few hours before Dean arrives. It doesn’t help that Dean stops the car outside of the bunker, sits there for a long time. Trying to push himself to come back in.

He was surprised when Sam called. Told him that it’s time to come back, to put this all behind them. He didn’t apologize for punching Dean, not that he needs to, but he could hear it in his little brother’s voice.

Dean finally parks his car. He’s become more steady in the last days, feels more like himself again. It’s like he’s coming out of a long, intense sickness, the one that leaves you feeling unlike yourself for days and days and days. But he’s slowly finding his way back to himself.

He walks into the library. Sam is sitting at one of the long tables, looking down at the wooden surface with a frown on his face. Dean drops his duffel, and Sammy looks up.

“She’s gone,” Sam says and Dean is sure the world has stopped spinning.

It takes Dean three months to find you. 

It’s the result of a lot of looking and a good amount of luck, but finally, he finds a trace. It’s just a small slip-up - the fake card you used once to withdraw as much cash as the limit allowed is an old one, one he and Sam have long discarded. It’s a coincidence he checks it, too, doesn’t mean to, gets it mixed up with another one in the mess of numbers and passwords. 

From there, he follows car rentals nearby, catches you running a red light in a town twenty miles away from the rental place. In the photograph taken by the camera over the stop light he can’t see your face, but he knows it’s you. He would recognize you anywhere.

You exchange the car at another branch of the rental place, and that’s where he loses the trace for a while. Sits late into the night, staring at the laptop screen, skin buzzing with the frustration that he can’t make calls since no one will answer at this time. His eyes burn and his neck feels like a clenched fist, and still he keeps looking.

He crawls into bed, groans at the stretch of his body, at his muscles relaxing. Hugs the pillow, stares into the dark. Waits for something to come over him - lust, depression, anger. Mostly, he feels pretty little these days. It's like emotional batteries inside of him have been drained. Not calm, exactly. Something different. He waits to feel dread at it, but he's not even afforded that, his oldest companion.

Either you haven’t moved on from that town - some no-name dump in the middle of nowhere - or you have. Turns out, he finally finds, you bought a car. Cash, fake name. Dean only finds out cause he calls the place, chews up the useless asshole working there until he spits out a name he can connect to you. You used your mother’s maiden name. All things that could be easy to miss. He follows that car via footage until it stops somewhere.

Ashtown. What a name. From there, you don’t seem to move.

It’s all small enough that he knows it’s not on purpose. You really don’t want him to find you. You’re not secretly leaving a trail of breadcrumbs for him to pick up. He doesn’t want to think about that, and yet, his thoughts keep returning to it. The times he lies down to sleep, he stares at the ceiling, wondering if he should just let it go, leave you in peace.

It feels different, after a while. The urges from the Mark, they’re staying gone, but Dean feels distant echoes of worry and fear start to nip at him. They're his familiars do, but they come at him from a weird distance. He'll lie there, holding his breath and suddenly suck in air through his nose. He just wants to know that you’re okay. He wants to know – no, he can’t say it, even to himself. He squeezes his eyes shut, rolls onto his side.

He wants to know he hasn’t ruined you. Hasn’t destroyed you. He knows that coming after you to get this answer when you don’t want him to follow you is contradictory. But he doesn’t know what else to do. The alternative is dropping it and moving on. And if he did that…

He doesn’t know how. He thinks if that happens, all the things he used to feel will never come back. He'll just be this empty shell forever, never filled up again with anything, even the bad stuff. Just like hunting jobs have always served to make him ignore every little bit of hurt in his life, looking for you is the lifeline he desperately clings on to, because the only alternative is that he just ceases to exist.

He doesn’t tell Sam where he’s going, the day he packs a bag and drives after you. He swears to himself that this is the last lie he’ll tell his little brother for a long, long time, and he hopes he can keep that promise to himself. He really does.

Being out on the road feels good. He leans back into the leather seat. Everything’s so loud around him all the time. He doesn’t know when that started or if it will ever go away.

One night in a motel, then another one. The woman working the front desk makes eyes at him. She’s attractive, and Dean considers it, considers her. Holds the key to his room tight in his fist, its edges pressing into his skin. He could do with the distraction, with the tiredness afterwards. The emptiness.

But at the same time, the thought disgusts him. Not the woman, but the thought of his body meeting someone else’s. It sets free an anxiety in his chest that almost robs him of his breath. The idea of wetness and sounds and movement, like nausea, like someone ramming a burning iron rod into his naval. He swallows, shakes his head, leaves to go to his room, alone.

He walks in, throws the door shut, drops the duffel on the ground and a second later, he’s kneeling in front of the toilet, coughing up acidic saliva. He leans his forehead against his hand. He’s shaking and sweaty and cold. And all the feelings rush in.

He wants to sob, sob like a child, scream in that way that when you hear it, goes into your bones, opens up a longing so deep it can never be fulfilled. But he’s never been able to access that part of him.

He crawls into bed. Normally, he would get food, drink a couple of beers, just enough to make the edges of his consciousness become fuzzy. Now all he wants is the give of the mattress. He wants to climb in and surround himself with fresh, white sheets. He wants to be clean.

He grabs one of the pillows, hugs it. He pushes his face into it, imagines it smells like you, like his pillow did that night you first came to him. It feels like a lifetime ago. He wishes you were here, your smaller body pressed against his. Just to have you close, not sexual, or not really. Just to feel someone else breathing beside him, someone he knows. Someone who knows him.

He falls asleep wishing he could cry a single tear, but nothing comes. The next morning when he checks out, gets into his car, he’s gotten a hold of himself again. He’s all focus.

Ashtown is exactly how it sounds - dark, grey, hopeless. A place on the road to somewhere else, really. Everyone who got stopped here always meant to move on at some point. Dean knows these places. He drives through town once, then parks the car. If you’re here, the Impala’s gonna be the easiest way to spot him. And if you don't want to see him, will you bolt? He shakes his head, walks away from the car.

It’s the kind of late afternoon that feels like evening breaks for hours. The sky is low and heavy with clouds and before long, a light drizzle starts. Dean walks, turns up his collar, looks at the people walking past him, just enough to know that none of them are you. There’s a diner up ahead, he sees. He should eat, then return to his search.

The diner’s lights are bright and warm. The building, small, square, nothing much really, is up a few stairs, its windows big and inviting. He looks up just before he mounts the stairs to the door and there you are.

You’re enveloped by the light inside, so much so that for a second, Dean thinks you are the light. You’re moving around just then, and it takes Dean a minute to realize that you’re working. So struck is he by the sight of you, the light of you, that he doesn’t notice the waitress uniform - soft blue with a white collar.

You don’t see him. You can’t, with how bright it is inside. He’s out here, in the darkness, invisible to you. It’s where he should stay, he thinks, as some of the rain collects in his hair, runs down his face in thick rivulets.

He could turn around and leave, and give you the peace you want. Leave and stop fucking up everything you’re trying to be. It’s not your job to quiet his guilt by letting him know you’re okay, whatever that means in this context. He could do the right thing.

He watches you while you write something on a pad, listen to a patron, presumably, give his order. You finish writing, nod, then look up, your eyes landing on Dean.

There’s not much in the way of a reaction, and for a second Dean wonders if you really can’t see him out there. But from your look, he knows. You blink slowly, but you don’t seem surprised. It’s like you’ve been expecting him.

You move to the little window leading to the kitchen, leave the order and then go behind the counter, start doing something. You’re just continuing work, Dean realizes. He still has to make the decision to walk inside.

He can still leave. Maybe you knowing that he came looking for you but had the sense to leave again is enough. But he can’t. He can’t leave. He knows that now. He never stood a chance.

He walks inside, a small bell over the door announcing his arrival. An older waitress waves her hand at him from nearby.

“Just sit anywhere you want, honey,” she says, “be right with you.” 

Dean nods, but his eyes haven’t left you. Someone’s paying on the other end of the diner, and you’re not looking at him.

He walks the other way, his hand running into his hair to shake some of the rain out of it. Sits down. There’s no one seated nearby and he sits so he can see the rest of the diner, see you.

The older waitress gets to him first, friendly smile on her face and coffee pot in her hand.

“What can I get you?” she asks, putting a cup down and filling it. Dean barely manages to tear his eyes from you.

“Just coffee,” he says, and then, after a second, nods in your direction. “And I would like to talk to her.”

The woman’s expression so far has been friendly, welcoming, but now it slowly disappears as something like contempt settles on her face.

“Little young for you, wouldn’t you say?” she asks and Dean looks up at her.

“No,” he shakes his head, swallows when he realizes how that sounds. “I mean, I know her.”

“Uh-huh,” the woman says, then leans on the table, stretched out arm holding her up.

“You think I don't know your type?” she asks. “You think just cause you're handsome and sad, you can do no wrong? You can just walk through the world and take whatever you want?”

Her face is close to Dean's, staring down at him, eyes narrowed, corners of her mouth pulled down. She feels like God, looking down at him and not liking what she sees.

“Please,” he says, same as he would to God. “I just need to talk to her.”

With a snarl on her face, the woman turns away, walks back to the counter. She gets there just when you do too, and she leans towards you, whispers something to you. You listen, then look towards Dean, let your eyes rest on him for a second. It makes his skin feel like it’s on fire.

And then, and both panic and bliss spike in him, you walk over to him. He watches you the entire time, and it feels like an eternity. He knows every little part of you, every inch, and yet it feels like he’s seeing you for the first time.

When you reach him, you look down at him. You don’t sit, instead stand there, hands just hanging down your sides, not hiding yourself.

“She thinks you’re gonna proposition me,” you say, voice neutral. Dean swallows again, unsure what to answer to that.

“I’m sorry,” he says and that could mean a million things. “For just showing up here. Can we talk?”

You shift your weight from one foot to the other.

“I’m working,” you say, and Dean nods, of course you are.

“But I can take a break in a little bit,” you continue, and he nods again.

“Good,” he says, then: “That’d be good.” You nod, look at him for a moment longer, then turn and go back to work.

Dean waits. He drinks the coffee, which isn’t good, drinks it slowly so that maybe it lasts until you can take your break. He doesn’t know what will happen if he finishes the coffee first, because it gives him something to do, somewhere to put his hands.

He looks at you the whole time. He wishes he could stop, but he can’t. The other waitress keeps throwing him nasty looks.

At last, you’re done. He watches as you take off your apron, walk through a door near the kitchen, then come out a moment later with a grey cardigan on. You go to the counter, rummage around, and then turn back to him. When Dean sees what you got, he needs to slowly let a breath out through his nose, or he thinks it’s gonna destroy him.

You put the small white plate with the piece of pie down in front of him, then the napkin, then the fork, and only then you sit down on the bench across from him. Your hands go on the table, fingers interlocking while you look down at it.

“It’s blueberry,” you say, voice low. “Not exactly the best in the world, but it’s better than most of the food here.” Dean nods. He's not hungry, but still he feels like he cannot simply ignore this present you have brought him.

He picks up the fork, brings it to the pie, separates a small piece. Some crumbs fall off it when he brings it to his mouth. You're watching him the entire time.

The dough is too dry, and he immediately wishes he had some more of the horrible coffee to wash it down. The blueberry's good, sweet and strong. He chews, slowly, then sets the fork down. You haven't stopped watching him.

“How did you find me?” you ask. Dean interlaces his fingers, in an unconscious mirror pose of you. 

“You ran a red light,” he says and you think, then nod slowly. “After that, it was just a lot of footwork.”

“Sleuthing,” you say and Dean thinks he detects the slightest twitch at the corners of your mouth. He allows himself to smile a little.

“Exactly,” he replies.

You look up, over his head, somewhere to where the wall of the diner must be.

“I didn't want you to find me,” you say, still looking at that spot over his head. “But I can't say and pretend I haven't been hoping you still would.” You lower your gaze again and it lands on him. It doesn't make sense, really, what you're saying, wanting one thing and hoping for the opposite. But to Dean it makes perfect sense.

“I thought about leaving you alone,” he says, his voice clear, his mind clear, he's noticing. He feels so sober, speaking to you. “But I… I didn't want to.”

You look at him intently. It's the truth, but he maybe hasn't admitted it to himself. He wanted to see you. He wanted to know that you're okay. It’s the reason he came after you, not for your safety, not really, but for his.

He wanted all of this. It's all he ever does, is want stuff. He's so full of want that he doesn't know if there's room for anything else.

“So what do we do now?” you ask. Dean tears his eyes off you, looks around.

“Can I take you to dinner?” he asks, and it sounds strangely formal. “When you're done with your shift?” 

“This is the only place around,” you say. “And I don't wanna eat here. Also I'm pretty sure Maggie would poison your food.” You smile a little, so Dean does too.

“We could drive somewhere,” he suggests, but you shake your head.

“I'm tired, Dean,” you say. “I wanna go home when I'm done here.”

For just a second, he thinks you mean the bunker. That you're saying that you're gonna come back with him, get in his car and simply let him drive you back there. But the next second he understands that that's not what you mean. That you're not coming back.

“Okay,” he says, “I understand.” You sigh softly, then lean back.

“You can come to my place,” you say. “It's a shithole but I have stuff for dinner there.”

Dean feels unsure, suddenly. Going to your place feels a little too much like going to your place. Not that he doesn't want that. Not that he doesn't want to lie next to you among your things, touch you. He immediately feels bad for thinking it. He shouldn't, he thinks. But he also can’t exactly stop himself.

“Then I’ll wait for you to be done,” he says, but you shake your head.

“They don’t like it here when you sit for hours and just order one thing,” you say. Dean nods slowly.

“I can wait in the car,” he says. “I parked down the street. In front of a pharmacy.”

“Okay,” you say, and then you’re getting up, and Dean wants nothing more than to sling his arms around your waist, pull you in, hold you close, press his cheek against your stomach and feel your body heat radiating out from you into him, for your fingertips to touch his forehead like he’s being baptized. He swallows, hard, the moment nearly overtaking him.

“I’ll see you there in a couple of hours, then,” you say, and then you’re turning away, walking back towards the door you came out of only a few minutes earlier.

You watch out of the corner of your eyes as Dean eventually stands and reaches into his pocket. He pulls out a wad of bills, lays a few on the table. Probably a nice big tip in the hope of soothing Maggie’s mistrust.

He walks to the door but then stops, and you can’t help but look up, look at him. His expression is soft, gentle, and the two of you look at each other for a moment. Then Dean looks down before he finally turns and walks outside.

The rest of your shift is slow and boring. There’s some local kids that come in. They’re loud and brash in the way teenagers are - laugh too loudly while shiftily looking around, throwing fries at each other. One of the girls goes into slight hysterics at a joke, the sound so shrill you feel it at the base of your neck.

When you first came here, all those weeks ago, they would have filled you with rage. It would have taken you everything not to walk over, tell them what little shits they’re being. You probably would have scared them - they’re not the type of young ones that are tough. Their loudness is a sign of their fear, their anxieties. You’d have stood behind the counter, imagining grabbing one of their wrists in your hand and squeezing until they begged you to stop.

You don’t feel that way anymore. You don’t really get angry anymore, or irritated. You wonder if that means the effects of the Mark have been completely flushed from your system, or if it’s something deeper, something darker. Apathy making a nest in you after everything that has happened. 

A few times you dream about the Styne mansion. Dream you’re inside of it and can’t find your way out. Wake up sweating, shaking. 

When Dean walks into the diner, you feel almost nothing. Or less than you expected anyway. Maybe it’s because you always knew he was going to come. 

After your shift, you put on your jacket. There’s a slight drizzle and you wrap your arms around you as you walk down the street, keep your head down so not so much rain gets into your face. You don’t look up until you’re nearly past the pharmacy.

The Impala is there. It’s only now that you realize that part of you wasn’t expecting it to be.

Dean sits in the driver’s seat. The collar of his jacket is popped and he’s looking out into the rain. There’s the slightest frown on his face like he’s concentrating on something. For just a few moments, he doesn’t see you and you get to watch him.

He looks a little tired, a little worn. There used to be a lightness about him that you can’t see any trace of now. You wonder if you’re the same. You miss it, laughing with Dean, the joy of being around him, how no matter how dark things got he always could find the smallest things to be happy or excited about. But you’re not sure if it’s something either of you can ever get back.

That’s when he sees you. Through the fallen dark, through the rain, through endless secret hours of feeling each other, through murder, through near death, through something you called love but can't figure out the shape of now. He sees you, slightly raises his chin. Maybe he didn’t believe you would be there, either.

You walk forward, over to the passenger side, open the door, get in. Once you’ve pulled the door closed behind you, you turn to Dean.

He looks at you with absolute softness, and in that moment, it all floods into you. You want nothing more than to grab his face, pull him in, press yourself against him in the hope that you can locate his body’s heat, warm yourself on it. You want to explore every single inch of his skin, map him, press your lips against everything and everywhere and see what it does to him.

Instead, you nod, and Dean nods and then he starts the car.

You lead him to your apartment and then through the dark hallway, up the stairs. You throw him an awkward smile when you unlock the three locks that close your door and he smiles back politely. Then you’re inside. You grab him a beer from the fridge, tell him you’ll quickly change. While you’re just a room away from him, take off your uniform, open your hair, you feel more naked than you ever have. But Dean doesn’t walk in. You’re not sure if you were wishing he would.

Back in the kitchen, you get him to chop some vegetables while you put oil in a pan, heat it. You open a beer too. Ask him about Sam, about Castiel, about Charlie. About work and cases and anything else. Listen to his voice, which is so familiar to you and yet so strange. There’s a moment where you look up at him and he smiles at something he’s telling you and you need to make a fist, because the love and grief you feel in that moment threaten to choke you on the spot.

The two of you begin eating in silence. The food’s good and you compliment Dean, and he compliments you back and you both sort of chuckle at that. When you’re done, you ask Dean if he wants another beer, but he declines. Says he should get going soon, look for a motel.

“Or you could stay here,” you say.

It’s out of you before you’ve even thought about it. But the truth is, you knew you were going to ask Dean to stay since you saw him standing outside of the diner. Knew that you wanted, needed, to lie next to him, hear his breathing, feel his body right beside yours. That you’ve been empty this whole time and he's the first drop of anything you've felt in a long time.

“I don’t know if that’s a good idea,” Dean says. You lean your head to the side, look at him. You’re not going to beg. That’s not what this is about.

“Dean,” you say, voice soft. “It’s not about that. Can we just…” You don’t finish the sentence, because you’re not sure where it’s going. Dean looks at you a second longer, and then what you assume is the rule he made for himself before coming here breaks, and he nods. 

“Okay,” he says.

You have a spare toothbrush, because the one you bought for yourself came in a double pack. You stand next to each other over your bathroom sink, brush your teeth without speaking. It’s so normal. It’s something a couple would do but it’s not something the two of you have ever done together. 

Dean takes off his flannel and his boots, and then you tell him you don’t want his dirty jeans in the bed and he awkwardly chuckles, before taking them off too. You pull on the t-shirt and leggings you wear to sleep. 

You come back from the bathroom and he’s already sitting in bed. You stop with your hand on the light switch, look at him. It’s like you’re playing house. Like both of you have agreed to this charade before whatever has to happen happens. Like you’re both trying to push off the inevitable for just a little longer, even though you don’t actually know what the inevitable is. Maybe it’s saying goodbye. Maybe it’s properly saying goodbye, not with one of you screaming or bleeding or fearing for their life. Maybe it’s looking the other in the eyes and shaking their hand and saying too bad we never stood a chance.

You swallow, turn off the light and walk towards the bed, get in. Dean scoots down, puts his head on the pillow and you reach over, turn off the bedside lamp, then turn to look at him in the dark. You can see the outline of his face in the low light coming in from the street. You could trace his features on a piece of paper, every little bit, you’re pretty sure. He’s breathing in, holding the air longer than seems natural, then breathing out. Like he’s controlling his breathing, has forgotten how it really works.

“Dean,” you say after long minutes. You hear him lick his lips, swallow.

“Yes?” he asks. You’re quiet, unsure if, even without having to see the expression on his face, you’re able to ask for what you want.

“Can you hold me?” you ask and it feels too big, too dramatic. Trying to put words to any of this feels like it’s breaking it - like the naming of it is making it disappear. 

But Dean moves, comes closer to you. His fingers meet your shoulder and you turn, awkwardly, until your back is meeting his chest, and his arm goes over you. You can feel his breath on the back of your neck, and you wish you’d put up your hair, so you could feel more of it. Carefully, you lay your hand on his arm where it’s around you. Then you close your eyes, sure that you will never sleep, not with him this close. But you do. Of course you do.

The next morning finds you soft and quiet. It’s raining outside, but the sun is slowly creeping through. You are cool in places, except all the places where Dean is still touching you. You just barely break through to wakefulness, and when you do, realize where you are and who with, you try to go back under immediately. But it’s too late. That moment is gone and you can’t get it back.

Dean wakes up with a deep, long exhale, his body slightly moving along with his arm that’s still over you. You squeeze your eyes shut, like that can somehow turn back time, allow you to go back to wherever you need to go to keep him here with you.

Dean says your name, voice low and raw. You turn yourself until you’re lying on your back, look at him. His face is close and you raise your hand, fingertips landing on his chin. 

"Is it over?" you ask. Dean moves his face against your fingers while he looks at you.

"I thought things would just become clear the moment we saw each other," he says after a while and you nod slowly. You realize you thought the same thing. That you would simply know what to do.

"It feels like..." you start, pause, trying to get your words just right. "Like we never happened. Like something else did." You see the slight narrowing of Dean's eyes as he takes in what you're saying.

"Yeah," he says, just keeps looking at you. Maybe he feels it too. Like the two of you were watching yourselves the whole time. But that it wasn't really you.

“I don’t know what to do,” you say, voice quiet like you’re scared to say it out loud. Dean moves his face, making your fingertips run over his skin, causing a light scratching noise against his stubble. Dean’s gaze goes over your face, like he’s trying to remember you. Like he’s trying to commit you to memory.

He thinks you’re more beautiful than you’ve ever been in that moment. He’s seen you crying and ravished and drenched in blood. But right then, sleep in your eyes, pillow crease on your cheek, looking up at him defiantly, questioning him and everything he’s ever done, he thinks you might be the best thing he’s ever seen.

He wants to turn back time. He wants to take you out on a date before he ever even touches you. Wants to ask if he can hold your hand before he makes you beg for him. He wants to look at you for hours and days without doing anything. He wants to be innocent again.

But he can’t.

You take his face in your hands and pull him towards you and Dean closes his eyes before his lips meet yours. He sees fireworks behind his eyelids as he tastes you, tries to imagine it’s the first time. It is, in a way. For the first time, his head is clear. For the first time, he gets to kiss you and really feel it. 

His hand goes up to cup your cheek and the skin there feels so soft under his thumb that he’s sure he must be dreaming. He breathes in, and he concentrates on that, tries to pick out every single note of what makes you you.

You wrap your arms around Dean's neck, pull him in, your breathing hiccuping, and with all the strength in the world, he pushes his hand flat against your stomach, getting your attention.

You pull back and he sees the confusion on your face, the immediate worry threatening to turn into panic that he will reject you again. But that's not what he's doing at all.

“Slow,” is all he manages to say.

A cracked smile breaks out over your lips, and you nod, just a little. Then you raise your head, kiss his cheek and Dean needs to close his eyes at that, at that feeling that seems to encompass everything in the world.

“Slow,” you say back, then kiss his other cheek. “Sweet.”

Dean breathes out through his nose, trying to contain the emotions rolling inside him, to steady himself for what he wants to say next, what he wants to request. He opens his eyes and looks deep into yours.

“Like it's the first time,” he says.

He sees it then, the understanding, reflected in your face in the tears that mist up your eyes, the slight movement of your beautiful lips. The reflection of what must be playing on his face as well. The unsaid that follows his words.

Like it’s the last time.

You take a shuddering breath, and all Dean can do is lean in, kiss you again. It’s the only power he has, or can hope to have - to somehow make you understand the depth of his regret and also of his absolute joy that he got to know you.

His fingers find the hem of your shirt, and he begins slowly pushing it up, allowing his fingertips to brush over your skin at the same time, trying to feel as much of you as possible. You let him and as he pulls the shirt up, it gets caught on your chin, only for a second, and you have to work together to wrangle it off you, which makes you both laugh when Dean tosses it away. You drag him against you again, and Dean catches himself thinking that he didn’t know love could be like this: so simple and so sweet. He always thought it was about owning, even before the Mark, about making someone completely yours. It’s not, it turns out.

He’s feeling dizzy with the amount of skin he now has access to. You’d think he’s never touched a woman before, but that was always just nakedness. This is about being bare. He shifts a little, kisses your neck and then a slow, sensual trail down to between your breasts where he can, your hands pushed against the back of his head, be enveloped by you. You wrap yourself around him, and the warmth and scent of you is everywhere.

Now you tug on his shirt, and Dean needs to fight himself to take his hands off you for you to pull it off. He’s kissing the soft skin of your breast, then the delicious pebble of your nipple, making you gasp and arch up against him. 

His hand goes to your hip, then wanders down, pushing into the waistband of your leggings. More skin, and Dean moans open-mouthed against you as his hand finds the dip of skin where your thigh begins. All of you is too perfect.

With your help, he drags the leggings down until you can kick them off. For a second, he’s met with an impossible choice - kiss his way up or down your body. But as much as he wants to taste you, what he wants even more is to see your face.

So he settles himself over you again, looks into your eyes while his hand wanders inwards, middle finger finding your soft center. You grab the underside of his arm when he does, fingers tensing against him, a small sigh leaving you.

He begins petting you, so gently, like he has all the time in the world. He doesn’t, he knows that abstractly. He knows that this day will come to an end, knows that at some point he will say goodbye to you, get in his car and then need to figure out how the hell to move on without you. He’s pretty sure there’s a breakdown or two he’s got heading his way. But he swears to himself he won’t self-destruct. It would be disrespectful to you to allow himself to break apart. He hopes he can keep the promise.

He kisses your lips, softly, as he keeps touching you. Your hands keep running over him, stroking every part of his body you can reach. Your fingers dance over his shoulders, his back. If he wasn’t already freckled all over he’s sure your touches would mark him there. Would change him forever.

Your breathing is getting heavier, your hips making small, controlled movements and Dean breaks the kiss so he can look at you again. He watches your face, looks into your eyes, your breathing unsteady and your perfect lips parted. 

You begin pulling one leg up, your body slowly tensing and then you eyes squeeze shut, your shoulders pull up, small heavenly sounds leaving you as you fall apart under him. Dean never understood that - falling apart. He gets it now. It’s like you’re opened up, split into a million pieces and then slowly come back together.

You raise your hand, cup his face, pull him in. You just saw white behind your eyelids but all you want is to kiss Dean, feel him. But it takes too much coordination, so you end up with his nose pressing against your cheek, your opened mouth breathing into his. Sharing air. 

Dean keeps pressing soft kisses to your face and jaw while you come back to yourself. When you can open your eyes again, when your breathing is controlled, you run your hand down his body. Find the waistband of his underwear and begin pushing it down.

You can’t quite reach and Dean isn’t doing anything to help, so you turn your head, look into his eyes. There’s a soft terror there, like you’re asking him to jump off a cliff. You cup his face again, look at him, and just wait.

“What if I’m wrong?” he asks. You stroke your thumb along the rise of his cheekbone. You know what he means. Not the Mark. Not any curse. He’s asking what if he, Dean Winchester, is fundamentally wrong. Broken shortly after coming out of the box, the warranty lost, never to be quite right again. Maybe he is. Maybe he’s all these things. Telling him he isn’t would be disingenuous.

“So what?” you ask. “Even if you are, so what?” 

Dean’s lips move, but no answer comes out. He takes a shuddering breath, and there’s tears in his eyes.

“What if I can never be right?” he asks, his voice shaky. “What if the stain is in me?”

You run your hand over the side of his face, his ear, his hair.

“I can’t fix that, Dean,” you reply. “No one can. But that doesn’t mean it’s true.”

He slowly nods.

“Did I ruin you?” he asks. You feel your own tears come to your eyes. Maybe he did, you’re not sure. You can’t find it in you to assign any blame, or be mad.

“We’re all ruined,” you reply instead. It’s not a real answer - maybe there’s fault to go around, or maybe you’re both just the victims of bad circumstances. Dean looks into your eyes, then leans down and kisses you again. He closes his eyes, so one of his tears dislodges, drops onto your face. Mixes with yours there.

You kiss him back, and then the two of you are touching again, exploring. Filling your need and the other’s need. Dean presses his lips against your neck and you turn your head so he can reach you better.

In the end, you undress him together - your hand helping his, or the other way around. You shift a little and Dean kisses you again. You wrap your legs around him.

He enters you slowly and carefully. Like he really does think you’ll break apart there under him. But you don’t. You don’t at all. You close your eyes and moan softly. Dean watches ever small movement in your face, for any sign of pain or pleasure. Moves accordingly. It’s like you’re a painting and he is the artist staring at you, seeing the vision of you before you're even done.

One of your hands goes up, grabs the edge of the pillow under your head. Dean brings his hand up, untangles yours from the pillow, cards his fingers between yours. That’s how he holds on to you, all parts of you connected in some way or another. 

It feels like hours. Like you’re intertwined, slowly pleasuring each other, for days. There’s no fast chasing, no rushing into the feeling. It’s curious, exploratory. The edges of it perfectly mapped out.

Dean now knows exactly what the vein in your wrist feels like under his thumb. The sound of your cheek rubbed against his. The feeling of your bottom lip when he presses his tongue against it before it slips into your mouth. Where you blush when it all overtakes you. The sensation of your most intimate parts against his hand.

You know exactly the color of his eyes, each speckle of color, the phases of his irises. His shoulder blades under your fingertips, the way they move and press against his skin, like he's trying to get away from himself. The quick way he inhales when you wrap your legs tighter around him. The way he keeps kissing you more and more the closer to his release he gets.

The way you both press close to each other when it happens. The way the tips of your noses feel pressed against the other. The way the breath catches. The way the body tenses, tenses more, and then relaxes. The sounds. Oh, the endless sounds.

Afterwards, Dean lies on his back, and you on your side, pressed as close against him as possible, his arm slung around you, his thumb petting the back of your hand which is splayed on his chest. You’ve kicked the covers away, neither of you wanting anything to hide your nakedness.

You’re both quiet. You can hear Dean’s heartbeat, its soft rhythm lolling you in, trying to drag you to sleep.

“Do you think,” Dean says eventually, and you turn your head a little so you can look at his face, “anything would have ever happened between us if I hadn’t gotten the Mark?”

You chew your lip, think, even though you don’t need to. You already know the answer.

“No,” you say quietly. “Because you were desperately trying to be good and I saw you as some kind of idol I could never touch.” Dean frowns a little and you love him more for not wanting that to be the answer. How he’s fighting against the end of this just that little bit more. How he simply can’t give up. If your relationship would have somehow been destined, was always going to happen, maybe that would change things. 

“But we love each other,” he says, the sureness in his voice breaking your heart. The unfairness of it all. That sometimes two people love each other and are still not meant to be together.

“Yes,” you reply. “But we both would have held back. I think you know that.” Dean clenches his jaw, but then he nods. He knows just as well as you do that the Mark opened a door that would have stayed tightly locked otherwise. That he would never have pursued you without it. He knows it deep in his bones, but still the thought that this is the only way it could have happened makes him a deep sadness.

“So what does that mean?” he asks. You move your hand where he’s still petting it, wrap his thumb up in your palm.

“It means we get now,” you answer. “And that’s it.”

You see it then - the need in Dean to keep fighting, to find a solution, somehow, anything, it doesn’t matter what. He’s never been good at giving up. But you also see him mentally go down that road. 

“It happened though,” he says, voice quiet. “It was real.” You nod against him.

“It happened,” you reply. He tenses his jaw again, but you can see the fight slowly go out of him. He wraps his arm closer around you, pulls you in, presses a long kiss to your forehead.

“Just a little longer, okay?” he asks, his lips moving against your skin. You can’t help the smile that breaks through and onto your face.

“Yes,” you say. “A little longer.”

Dean’s duffel, which he brought up with him yesterday, is by the door. He’s showered, wearing new clothes. He put on his jacket, and is just running his hands over the pockets to make sure he has everything he needs.

You are following him as he walks to the door, wooly cardigan wrapped around yourself. You’ve been holding it together, but you can feel the sadness, the preemptive grief, crawl up your throat.

Dean turns, sighs. You look up at him, and you know he’s barely holding it together too.

“So,” he says, but its forced casualness sounds all wrong.

“Text me when you get to the bunker?” you ask, your voice teetering on the edge of cracked. “Just so I know you’re safe.” He nods.

“I will,” he answers.

“And say hi to everyone, okay?” you continue, hoping that talking can somehow put off the inevitable. 

“Yeah,” Dean answers, and then there’s nothing else to say.

The two of you look at each other, really look at each other. 

“You know,” Dean says, his gaze dropping to the floor, “maybe someday… I don’t know.” You nod slowly.

“I think we both have a lot to figure out,” you answer and Dean looks back up at you, his expression endlessly soft. “But yes. Maybe someday.”

Dean gives a terse, forced nod, and then you’re in his arms. All the desperation you didn’t feel during your lovemaking is in your touching now, in your goodbye. That’s what you keep telling yourself. It’s not a farewell. It’s just a not right now.

Dean holds you for a long time, your cheek pressed against his chest, but you know no matter how long he does it’ll never be enough. Neither of you is willing to break the contact, but then Dean moves, and you can tell he’s holding back tears, or at least you think he is. His defenses back up, at least somewhat, in the bright light of day.

He runs his hands down your arms and you look down, sniffle, leaving him to plant a soft kiss on the top of your head. His lips linger there and then he breaks away. 

He picks up his duffel, swings it over his shoulder. Looks at you for another second, and then he has to turn around, open the door, walk outside. You follow him, until you’re standing in the door, and then he’s taking the first steps down. The staircase turns at some point, the banister thin metal bars, and Dean stops, looks back up at you.

The smile is barely there, but you see it on his face. Like a little bit of sun breaking through the storm.

“I’ll see you,” he says, and you nod, your own smile breaking through, along with a tear that runs down your cheek, stops over your lip.

“I’ll see you,” you say, voice not as steady as his. 

Dean nods slowly, and then he takes the rest of the stairs and is gone.

[chaos-chloe]

I have a request for the Clooless guys

Could it be the Clooless guys meeting the reader in person for the first time at a like at a mall or a fair. The twist is the reader has never shown their face so they don’t know what they look like. So the reader decides to have fun with them. Following them around and sending the guys photos of them in a group chat. This is flustering them because clearly the reader can see them but they can’t find them. Eventually they walk up to the group pretending to be a fan wanting a photo, they get it, then send it to the group chat ending their little game. The reader apologizes offers to pay for a meal and some drinks as an apology and they all have a fun night.

I hope your having a good day or night

Fairly Clueless - Clooless/Pezzy x reader

Summary: Faceless reader/youtuber plays mind games with the guys

TW: cursing, lmk if I missed anything <3

As I was leisurely walking up to the ticket stand, I grabbed my season pass out of my small black purse that was slung over my left shoulder. The girl saw my pass and let me walk through without a word, which made me quite paranoid. I kept my head on a swivel making sure no one is recording or recognizing me. My hair was flowing down my shoulders, ending at the bottom of my back. 

I kept walking around the vendor section looking for a certain small trinket, to add to my collection of weird little things. My eyes spotted a copper witch broom besom on a skull, as I was about to grab it another hand snagged it up. My eyes trailed their arm up to their face, my eyes widened and I backed up slowly, it was Droids as in ElasticDroid. My eyes wandered around the open area and saw the guys trying to meet up with Droid. 

I played it cool and kept looking around at the vendors table, I was listening into the guys conversation. 

“Droid, we finally found you. Why do you keep moving while we are trying to meet up with you man?” Puffer asked, annoyed .

“Dude, I’m sorry but look what I found! Isn’t it cool, like um uh ____ would have?” Droid questioned excitedly.

“It’s slightly creepy, not gonna lie. But it does seem like ____ would have that on her shelf.” Grizzy responded wearily, he kept his eyes on it.

“Droid, are you buying that for her?” Pezzy asked.

“Duh, of course I am. Why else would I have it in my hand?” Droid snarked back at Pezzy, the guys laughed together. 

I sneakily walked away from the group, I had a master plan forming in my head. I took out my phone to make it look like I was trying to take a picture of the surrounding venue, but really I was taking a picture of the guys.  They were laughing at Droid, as he took out his wallet to pay for my “surprise” new trinket. I opened Discord to send a text. 

*PICTURE*

{You guys look like you are having at that vendor's table ;)}

Before I sent that non-cryptic message, I started walking away, so they wouldn’t see me being suspicious. 

Droid

{Uh what?} 

Pezzy 

{when did you decide to move to Texas, WHAT?!}

Puffer

{Definitely not creepy at all ____}

Grizzy

{Nah this is why I stay home, ____)

{whattttt noooo, definitely not creepy Puffer. <3)

{I always lived in Texas Pezzy}

{love you droid *mwah*}

{Grizzy shush, you love meee}

Droid 

{_____ where are you?}

Grizzy

{yeah, let’s meet up}

Puffer

{Nah, we hate woman lol}

Pezzy

{true fuck woman LMAO}

{I’m really feeling the love guys}

{maybe we will meet up after I do some browsing, and looking at the animals *mwah*}

I put my phone away in my purse and pulled some cash out and stuffed the bills in my pocket. I walked to wing 3B, where they kept the animals. I found a table where you can buy a bucket of food for the fur babies, after my transaction I marched my way through people with a purpose to feed the babies. I reached my first destination of a pen with a momma goat feeding her kids, I tiptoed over to her, grabbed a handful of feed and stretched my arm over the chicken wire fence to have my hand right there in front of her face. Momma goat finally relaxed when she realized I wasn’t here to harm, but to help her take care of her and the babies, she ate right out of my left hand. 

After the goat finished eating I moved onto the other animals, while walking around I spotted the guys again and snapped a quick picture once I got my phone out of my purse. 

*PICTURE*

{Hmmm, you guys must be Clooless} 

{hehhe}

Puffer

{Hahah I see what you did there}

Grizzy

{Reallll funnny}

Pezzy

{*face palm*}

Droid

{ahaha what?} 

{cmon on droid keep up with me}

I put my phone up in one of my pockets in my bottoms. Walking away from the scene to the next animals, llamas. As I was feeding one of the dark caramel colored llamas, I heard a set of footsteps walk up to me. I spun on my heel being face to face with Pezzy, I saw Puffer slowly walking to Pezzy. 

“Yes? How can I help you?” I asked politely, trying not to be suspicious.

“I just wanted to say that my friends but mostly me, think you are really beautiful. Is there any way I can get your number?” Pezzy answered my question with another question. I shifted on the soles of my feet, thinking about it. *they don’t have my number, so might as well give it to them and fuck around with Pezzy later*

“Um yeah sure, do you want to write it down or type it into your phone?” I agreed 

“Oh yeah, my bad.” Pezzy fumbled to get his phone out of his left pocket. He opened his message app and I quickly typed my number in with a contact name of ____.

“Text me later okay?” I suggested with a smile and wave goodbye

“Will do, _____.” Pezzy smiled and walked off 

I was giggling with a small jiggle in my body as I walked to different sections. My brain is reeking with excitement and ideas of how to fully fuck with them and reveal myself to them at the same time. After feeding and visiting all the animals and seeing all the children light up with smiles, I took myself outside to go explore the fair games set up. 

When I arrived at the games, the boys minus Pezzy were standing around with a drink in their hands laughing and picking on each other. I walked shyly up to them acting like I was a fan wanting a picture or a hug.

“I’m so sorry to disturb y’all but is there any way I can take a picture with y’all or at least a hug?” I asked with my cheeks turning a bit pink. 

“Oh my god, yes. C’mon Grizzy take the photo.” Droid said excitedly and set his bag on the ground. I handed my phone to Grizzy, then all of us got in frame, made a funny face and clicked! Photo success!

“If you want, Pezzy should be back any minute if you want one with him.” Grizzy suggested while Puffer was giving me a hawk eye like he was trying to figure me out.

“I would love to, but I have to start heading home. Thank you again, y’all stay safe.” I wish them luck and hopefully I don’t get caught just yet. 

I walked back to my car, unlocked the driver side and slid onto the seat. I took a deep breath to calm my heart rate, my heart feels like it is beating out of my chest. Once my keys were in the ignition and my phone hooked up to my bluetooth stereo, I opened the groupchat to reveal my “prank” on the guys. 

*PICTURE*

{it was nice meeting you guys <3}

Grizzy

{nah, no way you playing?!}

Puffer 

{I TOLD YOU GUYS SHE WAS SUS}

Droid 

{WHAT?! I WAS PLAYED WITH BEFORE I WAS TAKEN TO DINNER}

{I CANT BELIEVE THIS BULLLL SHIT}

Pezzy

{....____?}

{Hi guyssss, I hope you all aren't too mad?}

{I was nervous, don't fully expect me to have face cam on now lol}

{yes, pezz?}

Puffer

{Pezzy you really sought after her didnt you?}

Pezzy

{I DIDNT KNOW ON GOD PUFFER}

Droid

{Now you lost me and grizz}

{we are starting at eachother like 2 big idiots}

Puffer

{you know how pezzy surprisingly got a girls number}

Pezzy

{SHUT UP PUFFER}

Grizzy

{OMG YOU ASKED ____ AND DINT KNOW IT WAS HER!?!?}

Droid

{Pezzy just has that aura mannn}

{well i wasnt gonnnaa say anything…}

{I DIDNT want to put him on the spot like that, cmon puff}

Puffer

{what?! Someone had to dude}

{anywayyyys, I’m heading to Waffle House yall. Yall coming as well? My treat?}

[salmonskinrolltf]

Emilio Bedilio

[Author’s Note: Proof of life! I can’t say I’ll be back to writing consistently any time soon, but I’m really trying to master short stories that are ACTUALLY short, because that would help me at least dip my toe into TF writing more often. So here’s my attempt to do that. Of course it’s over 2,000 words. Oops. Anyway, I hope you enjoy!]

I am Emilio Bedilio, the genie of the- sweet Agamemnon, this man is beautiful!

Sorry, I got sidtracked. I am Emilio Bedilio, the genie of the lamp. That lamp over there. The one that just got rubbed by this hunk. It looks a little dented and tarnished, sure, but it’s home. I’ve lived there a long time. Such a very long time. So long, in fact, that my English is a little rusty. It’s not my fault! I speak 16,000 languages, after all, and English is one of the newer ones.

Last time I was out, a guy wished to be the hottest person at his school, so I changed his internal temperature to 99.7 degrees Fahrenheit. He wasn’t too happy with me. But I thought I was giving him what he wanted! So that’s why I reeeeeeeally need to pay attention to what Aaron wants. That’s this guy’s name, by the way. My powers give me access to so much more information than you mortals could ever process. Anyway, stop distracting me! I’ll let Aaron tell the rest of the story, so I can focus.

——————————————

Holy shit! There really was a genie in that lamp I bought at the flea market that Stacy dragged me to! I didn’t even rub it. I was just heading back from the dorm shower and brushed it with my towel, then this huge purple plume of smoke came out, clarifying into a floating man with a huge mustache. The genie of the lamp, apparently. He says I only get one wish, which seems like a ripoff, but who am I to complain? Genies are fucking real, man!

I don’t need much time to choose my wish. I already look like.. well, like this. I’ve already got the best, hottest girlfriend in the world. And the coolest friends. All I need is some cash, so I can ditch this shitty dorm and move into that swanky off-campus apartment I’ve had my eye on. And live a comfortable life down the road and shit. Anyway, it takes me like three seconds before I say, “I wish I was the richest person in town!”

The genie sits there for like a full minute and a half. Did he not hear me? But then all of a sudden he snaps his fingers and dissolves back into smoke, which gets sucked back into the lamp. I feel a rush of energy sweep over me and my body begins to tingle. Weird. I kinda just figured my wallet would feel heavier or something, but maybe being rich would fundamentally change how I look in some way. Nicer teeth or whatever.

I look over to the warped full-length mirror on the closet door. I pull back my lips and inspect my teeth. Nope, nothing. I glance down, making sure my dick is still the same size it always was. Yup. Weird…

Suddenly, I feel a chill on my solar plexus. A silver chain has appeared around my neck, and a ring that’s hanging on it is pressing into my skin. I inspect it. Does it have like… my new family crest? Nope. It looks like a pretty normal ring. I set it back down, but instead of the cold feeling returning, the skin on my chest suddenly feels boiling hot. I watch as dark ink begins to flow across my skin, seemingly emanating from the spot where the ring is touching me.

It forms a word in loopy script that I can’t read in the mirror, and I’m distracted when the burning sensation envelops my left arm and more tattoos emerge on my shoulder. A shark and a cross. My chest and arm hurt at first, but the feeling slowly fades, as does the ink, settling into a dark grey, like I got them done a few years ago.

I’m confused about what’s going on. But haven’t I always said that if I won the lottery, the first thing I’d do was get a tattoo? That probably explains why - ouch! My cheek is hurting now.

Oh, no. Oh no, no, no. I watch in horror as another cross tattoo inks its way across my cheekbone, right where a gangster would have a teardrop tattoo. Fuck. I rub my face. Do these things come off? It looks so trashy. Why would I get that, even if I was rich? I- I feel- I feel… full.

My stomach is inflating, starting from the beltline, each row of abs disappearing one by one behind a layer of fat that forms a small but sturdy gut. All that hard work, gone in just a couple seconds. I want to cry. I rub at my new stomach, feeling its heft. I bounce up and down on the balls of my feet a bit. At least it’s not jiggling too much. It’s like… tight. I can fix this pretty easily I think, if I up my gym time over the next couple months.

I remove my hands from my stomach, leaving two handprints behind on my skin. The skin there looks darker than it was before. Redder, almost halfway between a sunburn and a tan. As I look, the color slowly spreads from my handprints across my entire stomach, speeding up as it races downward, turning my dick, legs, and feet the exact same human-lobster color. It goes upward too, spreading across my chest like I’m flushed, filling in the formerly ivory skin beneath my new tattoo, spreading up to my neck, my cheeks, my nose, my eyebrows, my forehead… Which I can suddenly see more of.

As the color rushes upward across my forehead, my still-damp bangs begin to retract, shrinking past my eyes until I can only see them in the mirror. They stop halfway up my forehead. Then, as if I’m watching a time-lapse video of someone using a hair dryer set on high, my hair frizzes out, going from sleek salon-cut bangs to a dry, unconditioned mess that looks like it was cut by a three-year-old with safety scissors.

But I don’t even have time to process any of this as the changes accelerate. My forehead is now fully brown-orange, and as the color reaches my hairline, it spreads to the roots of my hair, too, as they begin to fade from my standard brunette to a light auburn, the color rising to the ends of each strand like that time in grade school when we put food coloring in the water those roses were dipped in.

I turn my head to see that the new hair color is spreading on the back of my head too, but it doesn’t stop at the ends of the strands this time. As the auburn color reaches each tip, it just… keeps going. The strands lengthen and twist, forming cascading waves as the mass of frizzy, newly lightened hair extends to my neckline and cascades down to my shoulders. Some strands in the messy mullet - and that’s what it is now, a mullet - are even spilling out over my ears in their eagerness to bounce in every direction possible.

I shake my head, feeling the voluminous hair tickling against the back of my neck. It feels kind of… nice? But fuck no, I look like a tool. This definitely isn’t what I wished for. But… I shake my head a little more, enjoying the sensation. As I do so, my eyebrow color begins to fade to a lighter auburn, too. And… did one of them fall over my lips? No, a bristly mustache is beginning the form, the same color as the rest of my new hair. As it fluffs out over my lips - god, that’s going to get in my mouth when I eat - more scraggly hairs burst out from under my lip, forming a bristling soul patch that then spreads into a straw-colored goatee, reddening further as it spreads up my cheeks, my sideburns, and eventually connects to my hair. My… My mullet.

A few more straw-colored hairs burst forth in the center of my chest, though they don’t spread quite as thickly. They just seem to be… hanging out. Lazily, almost. Sparse. Prickly. Ruining my whole smooth aesthetic, not that I have the same musculature to highlight anymore. My pecs grow thicker, smoother, the tattoos tightening against my newly forming bulk. The same thing happens to my arms and legs. They don’t swell with fat, they just get… thick.

I rub my beard, feeling the prickly feeling against my sensitive palms and trying not to enjoy it. But I’ve always wanted to be the type of guy who could easily grow facial hair… Haven’t I? I must have tweaked my nose when I was doing that, because it looks shorter now. Rounder. My lips are thinning out, too. Fuck. No. The magic is still going. My face continues to shift. Eyebrows grow a little closer together. Skin gets a little drier. But then… everything settles. I poke at my new face and body, in awe of how different I look from the way I was just a few minutes earlier.

I stare at the mirror in trepidation, but nothing else seems to change. I think… it’s over? Thank goodness. I need to-

There’s a knock at the door. Suddenly I remember the reason I was showering in the first place. Stacy was coming over. Fuck! I can’t let her see me like this. Or… can I? Maybe she can help. And a growing part of me feels like I mostly look pretty good. But I should at least try to cover the gut. And the tats. Well, the ones I can cover. I can’t look so different that she won’t believe me. Maybe I can convince her that my drama kid roommate was testing out a wig and fake beard on me or something.

I go to grab a button-down from my dresser, but all I find in there is a vest with an American flag pattern. Shit, that won’t cover the tats at all. But at least it’ll hide the gut.

Pants. Need to find pants. I open the next drawer down, and of course all that’s in there is a pair of worn denim overalls. This will have to do. I slip the overalls on easily (it feels so natural), then turn toward the door and swing it open to reveal Stacy. She has her same dark black hair, bold red lips, and sultry look as usual.

She stares at me, jaw agape. “… Aaron?”

Thank fuck. She recognizes me. Maybe it’s the eyes. Maybe we really are in love. I’m so elated and grateful. I want to hug her, kiss her, nuzzle her neck. But I don’t do that.

As if on autopilot, I lean against the door, revealing a thick thatch of auburn armpit hair in the process. She wrinkles her nose. Do I smell? I just showered!

I try to act nonchalant and say “hey,” but my voice cracks. Is it higher than usual? More nasal? And is that a hint of a drawl I’m detecting? While trying to hear the sound of my own voice, I don’t even notice what I’m saying.

“Hey, darlin’. You look sweeter’n a spoonful of molasses. How ‘bout we get you out of them clothes?”

Stacy’s face falls. “What the fuck did you just say to me? We’re going to the movies, remember?”

I’m so embarrassed by what just came out of my mouth that I can’t even figure out what to say next. My mouth moves anyway, and I say, “I ain’t going to no chick flick. I’m a real man. Now get over here or get out.”

“What is WRONG with you?” she snaps. “And are these tattoos real?” She grabs my collar and widens it to read my chest. “RENECK? Is that supposed to say ‘redneck’? It’s not even spelled properly.”

I splutter, staring down at my chest. Is that what it says?

She gives me a long, hard stare. “You have nothing to say for yourself? You know what? I have finals next week. I can’t handle this right now.” And just like that, she turns around and storms out.

Fuck. Fuuuuuuuck! What the hell is going on? I need to talk to that stupid-ass genie. I know he said I only get one wish, but the least he can do is reverse whatever the fuck he did. I rub the lamp, but nothing happens. I rub it again. Nothing. I knock, and the lid opens up a crack. Emilio’s voice emanates from within. “Your wish has been granted. What is it, Aaron?”

Exasperated, I ask “What did you do to me? I asked to be the richest man in town, not some redneck asshole.”

To my surprise, Emilio laughed, saying “Well, isn’t that funny? Now, I gave your request a lot of thought. It turns out the word “rich” means a lot of things in English, and I had trouble figuring out which you meant. But given the high concentration of men named “Rich” in your area, I assumed you were talking about exhibiting their qualities, but in a more concentrated way than any other Rich. The Rich-est if you will. And more than 70% of those men named Rich live in trailer parks in the area. I didn’t know why that’s what you wanted, but humans are funny that way. Sorry about the mixup. It can’t be fixed, but at least you’re healthy and safe. No harm, no foul!”

The lid snaps shut as I scream “Very harm! Very foul!” My accent is definitely a full-on country twang now, emerging in my agitation. I need to fix this. All of it. I decide that I can at least get rid of the beard right now. The hair would have to wait for a proper stylist and the tattoos would be a whole process, but I can shave. I turn around to run to the bathroom and grab my razor, but as I spin, the world whirls around me. When my dizziness settles, I’m no longer looking at my dorm room, but the dingy interior of a trailer home. Empty beer bottles are on the couch, dirty laundry is in the sink. A huge Confederate flag hangs above a bed sitting against the far wall.

I try to peer out the window on the front door, which has blinds so dusty that they look black. I can’t really see, so I open it up and step outside, the steps creaking under my newfound weight. Yup. I’m in a trailer park. In a daze (but not so much so that I don’t lock the door behind me, using a key that has materialized in my pocket), I wander aimlessly, trying to get my bearings and find my way back to the school.

As I make my way through a park I swear I’ve never been in before, I catch sight of a swing set. A vivid memory of pushing a kid on those swings blossoms in my mind. Oh yeah. Colton. My son. Had him back in high school, before I dropped out. I get to see him once a month, make sure he learns to be a proper man. Go to football games and spit on the ground and all that shit.

As I look around, my sense of direction grows clearer. Oh yeah. That corner is the liquor store where I get my Bud Light. Across from the bar where I try to pick up girls on Saturday nights. Where was I trying to go, again? Some school? Nah, I’m not looking to bang any college chicks today. Too snobby. Maybe I’ll hit up the tattoo parlor though, I picked up a few extra shifts this week at the EZ-Mart and I know exactly what to spend the extra cash on…

[theartkid15]

CEN AND RIGEL MASTER POST?!! ROTT I’m so sorry this took so long i promise im alive i was just trying to think of good silly ideas for yer boys.

Anyway……. Let’s get on with it!

Cen- he bites as a defense mechanism and has sent scraps and lootbags alike to the ER. Now the doctors recognize his bite pattern on first glance.

Rigel- he doesn’t tap people on their shoulder or nudge people to get their attention, he pinches people instead. And not with his fingers, he pinches people with his knuckles which hurts 10x more . If that makes any sense.

Cen- normally he would steal from an art supply store or a stationery shop for his art supplies. But sometimes he needs to get a little creative if his resources run low. So it’s common to see him swiping the charred pieces of wood out of a dead fire to later use as charcoal. Or find various flowers and berries to later reduce to a decently pigmented watercolor. You can even make paint out of eggs. He uses that art supplies he created the most when he feels a creative burst.

Rigel- On really, really, really, slowly days of selling the newspaper, Rigel actually tries to read it and annotate it. Maybe even fix a few grammar or spelling mistakes he can catch right away. He can’t catch every mistake from the paper and some of the annotations can be wrong, but it kills time and makes him feel smart considering all his knowledge is self taught.

Cen- you know those caricature artists you find on the street during events or just in a more populated area? Yeah, Cen became a caricature artist for a day as a quick cash grab during a festival in Ramshackle. But he wasn’t one of those artists that pin pointed and accentuated your nicer/ cuter features. No, he pin pointed and made ur most ugly features you are probably the most insecure about the vocal point of the drawing. People were given crimson chins, buck teeth with food stuck between it, monumental foreheads, hairlines that recede back for miles and so much more. People left his booth either in tears or laughing so hard they couldn’t breathe.

Rigel- he is the reason both himself and Cen wear those fingerless gloves. Rigel would get a good flow of writing creativity and NEEDED to write down every idea in his mind before he would forget it all. So he would write nonstop for ideas for pomes or stories to write about later. But all that writing made his hands and writs hurt and cramp up. So he tried finding solutions from tape to bandages to making a makeshift ice pack. It provided temporary relief but it wasn’t a full proof fix. Until he was scavenging for food and food two pairs of compression gloves. He thought it was a dumb idea but he was desperate for a solution. After wearing the gloves for a few days without any pain, he kept both pairs, one to wear daily and the other as a backup. But he realized that Cen was experiencing the same thing with his art. So Rigel begrudgingly gave the second pair to Cen. Now if only one of them could find a knee brace for Cen’s jacked up knee……

Cen- on the topic of his jacked up knee, if he walks for an extended period of time his knee starts to click when he walks. Which wouldn’t be so bad if it wasn’t so audibly loud and annoying. It doesn’t hurt from when he first initially injured his knee but due to being broke and having insufficient funds, he can’t get a doctor so it never healed correctly for him. His knee also has an infinite popping glitch so Cen can pop his knee as many times as he wants with having to wait. So he pops it on purpose to gross people out. How did he injure his knee? He couldn’t tell you, either play fighting with his brother or running away from authorities, or just doing something incredibly stupid.

Cen and Rigel’s way of bonding is playing fighting. Like one will start in by throwing those fake air punches pretending to beat each other up. Before they actually start hitting each other. They keep a score board on how many wins they have over each other as a way to see who is the superior twin. Another way they bond is practicing different tricks on their homemade skate boards or practicing different parkour moves to be able to get around town faster or to evade the police. 9 times out of 10 they get bruised or earn themselves a new “battle scar” because they become a little too confident in their abilities.

Rigel- lowkey has one-sided beef with elderly people. I dunno, maybe it’s because of the sweater vest he wears but older people approach him because he is a little more nicely dressed than the average scrap. And he is sick and tired of having to repeat himself over and over again or having grandmas think it’s okay to pinch his cheeks.

Cen- he once convinced Rigel to cut his hair since it was grown out to the point he was getting confused as a girl. Cen would do it himself but he knew he would get impatient and cut off too much hair. So he made Rigel do it. But Cen kept moving too much and Rigel accidentally chopped off too much hair in the back. After a moment of silence followed by Rigel cackling at how chopped his brother looked, Cen promptly beat him up, mourned the loss of his hair, and then proceeded to find something to cover up the shame of the bald spot. Thus his signature cap, he decided to keep it even after his bald spot grew back hair because he thought he looked cool.( insert that one audio “ damn we messed up we gotta go bald”)

Rigel- he sometimes thinks about their parents. Why they left, why they abandoned them, where are they now. He gets in his own head a lot and will think for hours about it if you let him. He wonders what they would look like, if he inherited any defining traits or qualities, something. He wrote a poem about it once, about missing someone you never even met. He doesn’t show it to Cen but he keeps it tucked away somewhere safe. He is thankful he isn’t doing this whole surviving thing alone and he was given a built in best friend.

Cen- on his end, he harbors a lot of anger and resentment towards their parents. He feels extremely abandoned and just angry that his life has to be so hard. That everything would have been better if their parents just stayed. He convinced himself a long time ago that if they ever showed up he is walking the other way and he is taking Rigel with him. He had that mentality that he doesn’t need parents if he has survived this long without any help. His anger comes out in short violent bursts that he tries to keep contained and away from Rigel. The most healthy coping mechanism he has is trying to visualize and draw what their parents could look like before destroying the drawing because it doesn’t look right or it isn’t realistic. Only one drawing survived this treatment and it is kept tucked away where only Cen knows its whereabouts.

If they did have parents Rigel is a mamas boy, Cen is daddy’s boy.

Rigel- he wishes he was able to go to a school to get educated. He learns through instructions and structured lectures. But after overhearing Tre’s

Experience with private school and how long the school day is and the amounts of homework, projects, and tests he would need to do, he figures it’s better to keep that dream a dream and not a reality.

Cen - he learns better through visual modeling and being able to use his hands to figure out things on his own. That’s why art calls to him so much. He is able to use sensory input such as sight and touch into an activity. So using pencils or charcoal, or using paint brings happiness. And he was so excited when he found some natural clay on the outskirts of town and made little pottery pieces for himself and Rigel to use. Cen has a lot of dexterity and eventually able to use both hands with the same skills and technique that he is basically ambidextrous.

Dante is kinda the father figure/parental figure to all of the younger scraps in general. But Cen and Rigel are the only younger scraps brave (dumb) enough to break into his tavern/ bar when they are looking for something to eat or drink. In short both twins almost got their $hit rocked by the angry old man before he realized they just needed something and were willing to risk getting caught or hurt if they stole something. They made it out alive and still cause absolute havoc in his bar and thus earned themselves the loving nickname from Dante, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumb.

One time they switched spots for a day. So Rigel as Cen and Cen as Rigel they tried to not make it seem obvious of the switch but realized they didn’t have to when literally nobody in the entire town noticed the switch. And both twins were genuinely so offended because of it because they thought they had more defining traits than that. So after the switch they didn’t talk to anyone for a few days before they finally snapped and told everyone that they swapped places for a day and no one noticed.

Kay- this one might be a little out of character but listen. When Stone is having a really good day or a bad day, he pulls the some prank every so often. He either pays the twins or trades something with them for a favor. It’s simple. To find his sister Avrille, distract her, pickpocket her or even just annoy her, and the second she notices she is being robbed or messed with, to kick her cane out from under her to make her face plant onto the cobble stone. Cen, Rigel, and Stone get a kick outta it, but Stone tries to be more nonchalant about it. But Cen and Rigel are always willing to pull pranks or mess with people on other’s behalf, but for a price or fair trade.

To add onto that, they are kinda like everyone’s messenger boys. Mainly just scraps and the select few people they know from the working class( Maroon or Dante ). They mainly started this when Ditch and Vinnie first broke up and their turf got divided. They didn’t want to talk to each other nor even look at each other but they still needed to communicate for “business purposes “ on Ditch’s half. So they got recruited to send messages back and forth between Vinnie and Ditch. Things quickly escalated with the messages, going from “ Ditch says you need to give up five more feet of your turf” to Vinnie sending back her message of “ well then tell Ditch he is being a petty a$$ b!tčh”. Soon Cen and Rigel now knew the feeling of what it’s like being of a child of divorce.

Rigel and Cen do start unnecessary drama when they truly get bored. Like they pick out a person they know or someone random in a crowd and start making things up that are almost not believable but somehow still entertaining enough to be believable. That is how people now think Vinnie has fleas, Stone is faking his accent, Skipp’s scarf is alive, Ditch is naturally a ginger and files his teeth to look sharp, Tre is actually bald and wears a wig and so on. This has gotten them in trouble on multiple occasions in the times they have gone too far.

For a dollar extra they will sell you their “underground newspaper “. It’s just a Frankensteined newspaper with random scraps of paper taped onto it with petty drama that is going on in the scrap and lootbag world. They are professional ease droppers and will find out any gossip they can so they have dirt on people for blackmail.

Rigel- has unnaturally long and thick eyelashes. Cen taunts him by calling him pretty boy.

Cen- has unnaturally well kept and long fingernails. Rigel taunts him by asking him when he is gonna file down his talons.

They are honestly horrible gift givers, even to each other, not even on accident they just don’t know what to get people. Like Cen forgot everything Skipp likes ( PAPER APPLE?!) and literally picked up a cool rock and gave it to him as a gift. Skipp still loved it because in his words “at least you thought of me when you found this rock”, but later Cen stole a few apples from Skipp and drew him a couple pictures. Rigel didn’t know what to get Tre for Valentine’s Day ( POLICE REPORT?!) and Rigel could not be found for the entire day because he was doing side quests to figure out what to get Mr. Fancy pants Rich McGee. Later he handed Maroon a piece of paper and told her to give it to Tre when she can, the paper turned out to be a decently sweet love letter and poem.

Cen - when he started dating Skipp he didn’t act all lovey dovey at first but over time he just fell harder for that ginger. To the point he was mindlessly doodling him on the sides of the newspaper they were supposed to sell and when Skipp was brought up in conversation, he would talk about him for hours if you let him with a love struck look on his face. Which of course would cause Rigel to gag and tell his twin to save the sappy story for someone else who wants to listen.

Cen - convinced Skipp to switch hats for a day. It was honestly very cute if it wasn’t for the fact that they gave each other lice afterwards. But they still switch accessories every so often. Like they switch gloves or Cen takes Skipp’s scarf for a day.

Cen - the only time Cen is ever really quiet is when he is listening to his boo boo bear Skipp (kill me) play his mandolin. He just sits and watches for however long Skipp can play, violently shushing anyone that is coming between him and listening to the music that Skipp is making.

Rigel- he is happy for his twin that he found someone to have a stable relationship with. He doesn’t feel the need to be overly protective of Cen because he can handle himself. But he did pull Skipp aside and tell him that if the relationship goes down in flames, his mandolin, scarf, and Skipp himself will go up in flames. But Rigel doesn’t worry about Cen and that relationship too much, and is willing to give advice if asked, even if the advice that is given is just “ he is just a guy, run him over with a stolen car”.

( idk any popular ships with Rigel so i choose police report as the main ship ( Rigel x Tre))

Rigel - he jump scares Tre just to get attention and serve as a greeting to the wannabe cop. He chats with him for a few minutes, and of course convinces Tre to buy a newspaper off of him, maybe even flirts a bit before running off with Tre’s wallet in his hands.

Rigel- he admires Shakespeare and his works, and really wanted to go see at least one play of his in Ramshackle, he didn’t care which play it was, if it was McBeth, Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet he just wanted to see one live. And so that was his and Tre’s first date to go see Romeo and Juliet as corny as that sounds. Now while Tre is in musical theatre he can still tell when the acting is really bad but Rigel couldn’t care less because this was the first time he was witnessing a live performance.

Rigel - He does ask Tre a lot about schooling and just learning in general. Which gives Tre the idea of bringing some workbooks and literature pieces for Rigel to do and analyze. It’s their own way of bonding and keeping Rigel out of trouble for a few hours.

Rigel - if he ends up dating Tre, he and Cen included have an infinite get outta jail free card glitch. Because Tre is a weak softy and caves instantly when Rigel makes the least convincing puppy dog eyes that he was completely innocent of whatever he is accused of ( he isn’t, he knows full well what he did and will do it again)

Both Cen and Rigel are both kinda envious of each other and it kinda fuels some of their bigger arguments. Where Cen is much more confident, outgoing, and more brave to take risks, Rigel’s lacks some of those abilities. Where Rigel is able to analyze a situation, use cation, and more book smart, Cen falls short in those aspects.

At the end of the day if they admit it or not they still be each other and couldn’t function without the other. They are a package deal and where one goes the other is bound to follow. GRRRRR I LOVE THEM SO MUCH THEY NEED TO EXPLODE-

- anyway that is all, I literally wrote down all my ideas until I couldn’t write anymore. I hope you enjoy and if I mis-characterize anyone I apologize. Anyway @rottmeltson dinner is served hopefully you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed making it.-

See ya later- 💜✨🪻☀️💫🔮🌙⭐️🪐

[loveisanimaginarydagger3000]

The Babysitter (1)

Meeting The Maximoffs

Wanda Maximoff X Reader

Summary: In need of money and a way to escape the problems at home, you get a job babysitting two lovely boys named Billy and Tommy Maximoff. What happens when you start to feel things you shouldn't for their mother? Will it bloom into love or leave you heartbroken?

The Babysitter Master list | General Master List

A/N- I would just like to say that there will be some sensitive issues in this story such as alcoholism, homophobia, anxiety as well as more mature content such as smut so, if you continue to read this, please consider this warning.

Meeting The Maximoffs

The sound of the bell rang around the room, Professor Stark in front of the first row, reminding everyone in the class to have completed the assignment by Monday before returning to his desk, fingers moving to type away at his keyboard, presumably writing an email about the assignment as people were flooding out of the door, his words falling on deaf ears. You made a mental note to complete the task before grabbing your backpack from the ground, quickly placing all your books and notes away before hurriedly leaving the room and the college campus.

The sound of directions filled your earphones as you looked down at your phone, the screen displaying a map with a blue line to lead you towards your destination of the house you were going to be babysitting at. Your gaze flickered between the screen and your surroundings as you stepped off the bus after thanking the driver, your mouth parting when you turned the corner your phone told you to. The street of houses here had you looking at them in awe, the area clearly wealthy judging by the houses that you felt should be referred to more as mansions.

Your feet carried you to the intended house, your hands nervously putting your phone away and fixing your outfit a little before ringing the bell of the large house. While waiting for someone to answer, your fingers fidgeted with one another as you were unsure of what to do.

Soon, the door swung open to reveal a tall blonde man with striking blue eyes dressed in professional attire, a soft smile that was definitely not genuine covering his face as he offered his hand out to you.

"You must be Y/n," you took his hand, shaking it briefly and trying not to grimace at his firm grip while nodding at his words.

"Yes, that's me sir," you say, noticing how he appreciated the formality, "You must be Mr Jarvis?" He nodded his head and moved to let you into the house, you follow behind him while your eyes scanned the hallway.

A smile took over your face at the sight of a photo of two young boys, both grinning ear to ear in the photo as they were dressed up in Halloween costumes, one in a sky-blue jumper with silver lightning bolts running across it, the other in a navy jumper and red cape flowing behind him. Your eyes flickered over to another photo this time of the two boys and a woman but before you could look any more at it you heard your name being called from another room.

"So," Mr Jarvis started, "I'm not sure how much you have discussed with my wife over the phone, so I'm going to cut to the chase and make sure we're both happy with everything." You sat opposite the man, listening attentively to what he was saying, a little shocked by his forwardness though. "You are to look after the twins, make sure they do any schoolwork, keep them entertained and feed them," the way he was speaking made you think it was something rehearsed, something he didn't actually care about but had to make sure was done, "Be in bed by nine if neither of us are home and that's pretty much it. It will most likely be Monday to Friday as my wife and I both work, and you will need to be on time as my work only lets me out to pick the boys up from school to bring them home. We'll pay you in cash afterwards."

"What time will I need to be here for you to go back to work?" you ask, praying that it fits with your class schedule.

"By four at the latest," he looks down at his watch, noting the time and standing to grab his suit jacket that was draped over the sofa. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to get back to work," your eyes widen at his words and follow after him.

"Wait, I'm starting now?" you practically blurt out, your nerves doubling every second he continues to get ready to leave the house.

"Yes," he answers shortly before walking to the bottom of the stairs and calling the twins down, "Tommy, Billy, come down here." The sounds of feet running down the stairs fill your ears as you see the two boys from the photo come into sight. "This is Y/n, your new babysitter so listen to her and behave," he ruffles both of their hair, one of them seeming to not like the action, before turning back to you. "Any issues, call or message Wanda," with that said he makes his way out of the house, the sound of the door shutting echoing inside your head.

At least you were good with kids... right?

With a nervous expression, you look at the boys who have smiles on their faces, pure excitement emitting from one of them, the other clearly more timid than his brother. You crouch down and give him a comforting smile, tilting your head to the side as you smile at the other.

"I'm Y/n," you offer the more confident brother your hand, his smaller one taking a hold of yours and shaking it a little too enthusiastically making you laugh.

"I'm Tommy," he says, teeth showing as he seems to like the idea of having a new babysitter. "This is my brother Billy," you give a soft smile to Billy who gives a small one back.

"Well, how about we have some fun now we've got the house to ourselves," your tone is playful, both of their eyes lighting up at your words.

"Can we be ninjas?" Tommy rushes out, your eyes widening once again. His brother laughs at your shocked and equally confused reaction.

"I..uh.. Sure, we can be ninjas if we want to," you chuckle out, "But after we play, we have to do our schoolwork." They both groan a little, but you raise your eyebrows at them, making them giggle at the fake serious look you were giving them.

An hour ago, if someone told you that you were about to play ninjas with two nine-year-olds you would have simply laughed in their face, now look at you. "Do you want to be a ninja too Billy? Or do you want to be someone else?" His face lights up at your question, your heart melting a little at his shyer nature.

"I can be something else?" He looks to his brother who is already doing karate moves in the air, your gaze following his and mouth tugging up into a smile. You nod at him and wait for him to think of something he wants to be. "Can I be an astronaut?"

"Of course you can," your tone is cheery, and you stand upright, mirroring the position Tommy was in. "So, we have a ninja and an astronaut, what's the first plan of action for tonight?"

"We have to sneak into the living room and defeat the bad guys!" Tommy exclaims, taking his role seriously and crouching down, slowly creeping towards the room. You copy him, watching as Billy also mirrors the action, and gradually make your way into the living room. You have to hold back your laughter when Tommy and Billy both check the corners of the other doors in the house before they leap into the living room. Billy doesn't fight as many bad guys as Tommy, the latter slicing his palm through the air and punching imaginary figures. "We did it!" he cheers, face beaming up at you as he goes to high five you.

"We did," Tommy looks proud of himself while you turn to his brother, "Now, I think it's time for a mini trip to space for our little astronaut over here."

Moving to the middle of the room, the boys either side of you, you bring your hand up to your mouth in the shape of a radio. "Pshhht, this is your captain speaking," chuckles fill the room with the voice you put on as well as the awful static noises you try to make. "Are we Psshhhht," another set of laughter, "Are we ready for take-off?"

"This is astronaut Billy saying he's ready," he says, eyes full of joy while he looks up at you. Tommy also says he's ready and you put your captain's voice again.

"Taking off in 10...9...8...7," the twins joining in with the countdown.

"6...5...4...3...2...1!" At the end of the countdown, you lift Billy off the ground, swaying your body around with him earning a squeal of surprise and excitement. You place him down after a little more flying through space, his brother pretending to steer the spaceship.

"And that concludes our space mission," they both pout a little, trying to make you guilty for ending the fun so soon.

"But we never flew back to earth," Tommy counters, you just shaking your head at them.

"If we all do our schoolwork then maybe we can fly to another planet then back to earth," you reason, the twins practically sprinting to go and get their homework. You sit with them at the table, pulling out your own work to do while they start theirs.

You want to say many, many things about the work Mr Stark gave you to do but refrain from saying them due to two little people sitting near you. Your pen scribbles word after word for your assignment, your gaze occasionally flickering over to the others to make sure they are doing their work and understand it.

"Y/n?" you hear Tommy say, "Can you help me with my maths question?"

"Of course I can," you move your chair so it's next to his, your eyes searching the paper for the question. You notice he's doing fractions and wish your work was like these fraction questions instead of an entire essay on science theories. After a few minutes of explaining, a flash of realisation and understanding washes over his face while he tries another question on his own.

The sound of the door opening catches your attention, your eyes checking your watch to see that it's just gone half five. You wait at the table with the boys who haven't seemed to notice someone's home until she walks in.

Your mouth parts slightly at the sight of the woman, no, the goddess that just walked into the room. A smile that could brighten any room, mesmerising green eyes that practically enchant you and auburn locks cascading down her back with a few framing her face adorns her perfect figure, your mind lost for words at the beauty of this woman. The boys rush over to her, hugging her and letting her lean down to press a small kiss to their foreheads before turning all of her attention to you. The expectant look on her face suggests she asked you a question, making you flush at the intensity of her gaze.

"Uh... pardon?" you say, embarrassed from being too captivated by her to listen. She simply smiles at you, nose scrunching at your nervous state.

"I said 'You must be Y/n, the new babysitter," there's a slight teasing in her tone as she repeats, "It's lovely to finally meet you face to face."

"You too, Mrs Jarvis," you awkwardly say, Tommy and Billy going off to watch Tv as they claim to have finished their work.

"I actually go by Miss Maximoff," she corrects politely, "And no need for formalities, call me Wanda, dear." The way her words have a slight accent to them has your face flushing even more, especially at the term of endearment. "I hope they behaved for you," she says, her head looking over her shoulder at her boys sitting on the sofa, engrossed with the cartoon currently playing.

"They were perfect for me Miss Ma-" Her eyes look over at you, eyebrow raised, "Uh Wanda." Your flustered state must have amused her as she let out an angelic laugh, your mind desperately wishing to hear that sound again. Your gaze travelled to the twins, your mind replaying the surprisingly fun afternoon you had. Stuck in the memory, you don't notice the way Wanda looks at you, an undecipherable glint in her eyes before her words break you out of your thoughts.

"Well thank you for taking such good care of them and somehow managing to get them to do their work," she jokes out, before reaching into her purse to find some cash to pay you. She offers you £50 and your eyes widen at how much she's giving you.

"That's way too much Wanda," you say in disbelief, you would have been happy with £10 never mind fifty. "I only looked after them for two hours," she shakes her head at you dismissively and takes a hold of your hands, placing the money there. You're too busy trying not to panic at the feeling of her hands on yours to stop her from pulling away.

"I can already tell they love you, so please take it," her eyes hopeful that you won't try and refuse once again. "Consider it a starting bonus," she argues, and you open your mouth in protest but close it almost immediately after as you can't think of anything to say to make her change her mind.

"Thank you," you say, looking up with an extremely grateful expression, "This really means a lot to me." You see the questioning look in her eyes and avert your gaze to your watch to see the time. "Um, I'll be going now if that's ok?" you move to the table to pack your books away, trying your hardest to ignore the feeling of her eyes on you.

"Yes, that's fine dear," when you turn you see a soft expression on her face and silently thank her for not pressing any further. "Billy, Tommy, say goodbye to Y/n," she calls, and the boys come rushing towards you with wide eyes.

"But we still have to go to another planet," Billy says, Tommy nodding his head along to what his brother says.

"And we need to get back to earth," Tommy adds, your heart clenching at the worried expressions on their faces. You look over to Wanda who just has a confused but entertained expression on her face. You move closer to them, Wanda even more intrigued by what was happening.

"Pshhht this is your captain speaking," they giggle at the static noise again, Wanda letting out a chuckle at your fake voice, your cheeks flushing as you look back at her. "Mission to Mars will happen on Monday, Pshhhht and mission back to Earth will happen afterwards," the worry washes from both of them at the promise of continuing the game before they rush over to hug your legs.

"Goodbye Y/n," they both say, then walking back to the sofa as you pull your backpack on and walk towards the door with Wanda close behind.

"Thank you once again for taking such good care of them," her voice is gentle as she holds the door open for you.

"It was honestly no problem, Wanda," you step out of the house, turning back to her before leaving properly, "They're amazing kids, you should be really proud of them." A small tint of pink covers her cheeks at your words

"Get home safely Y/n," her fingers brush a stray strand of hair behind her ear, "I'll see you Monday."

You watch as she shuts the door, a smile on her face, and start to walk down the drive, whispering a small 'See you on Monday' to yourself as your mind fills with thoughts of a certain woman.

---

The journey begins...

I hope you enjoyed :)

Please leave any thoughts/comments/votes <3

Ao3- LoveIsAnImaginaryDagger

Wattpad- LovePersevering2

[astroa3h]

venus through the houses (positive traits) 🦢

Let's talk the positive side of Venus through the houses. Venus is your cosmic bestie dictating your love life, cash flow, and what makes you tick aesthetically. She's all about the allure, the glam, and the heart-flutters in relationships. Where Venus lands in your chart is like your personal love and beauty filter, shaping how you flirt, treat yo' self, and chase what you value. She's the vibe for your romantic escapades and your secret weapon for charm and attraction.

✨Venus in Your 1st House✨

When Venus graces your 1st house, you radiate charm and attractiveness. You're the person who catches eyes the moment you walk into a room. Even if you don't notice. Your vibe? Irresistibly magnetic. You care deeply about your appearance, not for vanity, but as a form of self-expression, making you a walking piece of art.

✨Venus in Your 2nd House✨

With Venus in your 2nd house, you find joy in the material world. Luxury to you isn't just about splurging—it's about surrounding yourself with things that have real beauty and value. You have this knack for making everything around you lovely and comfortable, creating a personal oasis that reflects what you value most.

✨Venus in Your 3rd House✨

Venus in your 3rd house makes you a master of words. Whether it's a heartfelt note or a witty text, you have a way of connecting that's utterly enchanting. Ideas and conversations aren't just exchanges of thoughts for you; they're opportunities to bond and share the beauty you find in the world.

✨Venus in Your 4th House✨

In your 4th house, Venus creates a sanctuary of love. Your home? The warmest, most inviting place on earth. You have this incredible ability to make everyone who enters feel cherished. Harmony in your personal space is not just a wish; it's a must, and you pour your heart into making it a reality.

✨Venus in Your 5th House✨

With Venus playing in your 5th house, life is your canvas. Romance, creativity, fun—you approach all of it with a heart full of joy. Your love stories are the ones people dream about, filled with grand gestures and heartfelt creations that showcase your unique way of expressing affection. Not to mention, you're a huge flirt, in the best way.

✨Venus in Your 6th House✨

In your 6th house, Venus finds beauty in the routine. A perfectly brewed morning coffee, a workspace that’s both functional and beautiful, the satisfaction of a well-done task—these are your love languages. Acts of service are your go-to, showing love through the meticulous care you put into the everyday.

✨Venus in Your 7th House✨

Venus in your 7th house is all about partnership. You shine brightest in a duo, thriving in relationships that are built on harmony, fairness, and mutual respect. For you, love is about creating balance and understanding, making every partnership an opportunity to grow closer and stronger. You may have been a twin in a past life.

✨Venus in Your 8th House✨

When Venus delves into your 8th house, love goes deep. You're drawn to relationships that transform you, craving emotional intimacy that breaks barriers. Your approach to shared resources and values is equally profound, finding beauty in the trust and closeness that comes from true partnership.

✨Venus in Your 9th House✨

With Venus in your 9th house, love is an adventure. You're drawn to different cultures and philosophies, finding beauty in diversity. Your open-hearted curiosity leads you to form connections that broaden your horizons, teaching you that love, in its many forms, is a journey of continuous learning.

✨Venus in Your 10th House✨

In your 10th house, Venus elevates your public image. Your career or social standing benefits from your innate charm and aesthetic sense. You understand the power of appearance and relationships in achieving success, using your grace and diplomacy to navigate the professional world.

✨Venus in Your 11th House✨

Venus in your 11th house dreams of a better world. Your friendships and community involvement are guided by shared ideals and hopes. You believe in the beauty of collective dreams and the power of working together to create a more beautiful, harmonious world.

✨Venus in Your 12th House✨

In your 12th house, Venus speaks softly of hidden love. You find beauty in solitude, in the acts of kindness that go unnoticed, and in a compassion that knows no bounds. Your understanding of love is deep and spiritual, connecting you to the universal in profound, often private ways.

xox astro ash 💖

Get your own astrology reading @ astroash.net

TikTok - astroa3h

[pinchofhoney]

Sorry I'm invading your inbox again but I wanna see what you do with this song. Can be with any character. I just wanna see what amazing thing you come up with (when you have the time of course)

the broken self

carlisle cullen x fem!reader

word count: 1.1k

warning: esme simply does not exist in this one, mention of the tough past, our reader is not a vampire and i don't think she's aware of what carlisle is

summary: If I could start again, I would find a way. Now, you've been given the chance, so what's your next move?

a/n: hey, hello!!<33 thank you so much for your request, as always! in case you don't like what i have prepared, i'm sorry. in my defence, i didn't know from the very beginning which way it was going to go and i've always been pretty terrible at interpreting things (me writing for twilight was not on my bingo list for this year, but the autumn weather outside the window has made me do so. happy hua hua hua hua huooooaaa season!!)

pages that may interest you: masterlist ♡ taglist ♡ who i write for

also, my requests are open!

gif is not mine, credit to the owner

The Cullen house was bathed in the soft, fading light of the setting sun, casting long, amber shadows that stretched across the polished wooden floors. It was a striking contrast to the usual vitality that filled the grand halls and spacious rooms, typically bustling with the presence of the vampire family. But on this particular evening, the house felt still and serene, as if time had momentarily paused.

With each step down the wooden stairs, you could feel the texture of the handrail beneath your fingertips. You ran your hand gently along its length, a small ritual to dispel the dust that had managed to settle on it in the absence of bustling activity. The house seemed to sigh in response, as if it too welcomed your presence in the calmness.

As you made your way through the dimly lit corridors, you reached the doorway of Carlisle's study. The soft glow of a desk lamp illuminated the room, casting a warm and inviting aura within. There, in the center of the study, sat Carlisle, his slender frame framed by the golden light.

Carlisle looked up from the book he had been leafing through. He welcomed you with a faint smile that didn't quite reach his eyes, but held the warmth of familiarity.

As you stood in the entrance of the room, bathed in the warm, inviting glow, your mind churned with thoughts that had plagued you for far too long. You couldn't help but contrast the serenity of this moment with the turmoil that had defined your past. In this peaceful space, it was easy to forget the chaos you once reveled in, the empire of dirt you had built brick by brick.

Your eyes met Carlisle's, his gaze always so kind and understanding, yet you couldn't escape the unease gnawing at your heart. You had come so far since those dark days of your past, but the shadows of your former self still clung to you like an unshakable curse. You'd worked hard to change, to become someone unrecognizable even to yourself, but the weight of your past sins still weighed heavily on your conscience.

As you gazed into Carlisle's warm eyes, you couldn't help but remember who you used to be. A master of deception, a manipulator of hearts, you had once reveled in the power you held over others. Lies had flowed from your lips like sweet poison, carefully crafted to serve your own desires. You had toyed with people's emotions, played with their feelings as if they were nothing more than pawns in your game.

The memories of your past self weighed on you like an anchor, threatening to drag you back into the abyss you had fought so hard to escape. You had come to Carlisle seeking redemption, seeking a chance to be better, but a gnawing fear lingered in the depths of your soul. What if you were incapable of truly loving someone? What if your capacity to hurt ran deeper than you dared to admit?

These doubts, these insecurities, they clawed at your heart, and you couldn't help but wonder if Carlisle would eventually become another casualty of your brokenness. In his presence, you felt a warmth you had never known before, a genuine kindness that seemed to radiate from his very being. It was a stark contrast to the false facades you had once worn so effortlessly, a reminder of the person you aspired to become.

“Y/N?” the sound of your name suddenly pierced the cocoon of your thoughts, snapping you back to the present. You blinked a few times, returning your focus to Carlisle, who had been regarding you all along with his gentle, unwavering gaze. “Is everything all right?” he inquired, genuine concern evident in his voice. A faint furrow appeared between his brows, underscoring the authenticity of his worry.

You quickly composed yourself, as if slipping into a familiar role. “Oh, yes,” you responded swiftly, putting on a mask of laughter. With a gentle smile, you began to make your way toward Carlisle's desk. “I just got lost in my thoughts,” you added, your tone light and carefree.

The last thing you wanted was for Carlisle to glimpse the chaos within you, to see the shards of your past self that still clung to your soul. The fear that he might stop caring about you if he knew who you used to be was a heavy burden to bear.

As you continued your charade of nonchalance, a wave of hypocrisy washed over you. It was absurd, really, that you, who had always been the one to leave others when you grew bored, now found yourself terrified of abandonment.

“What are you reading?” you asked, your voice casual and genuinely curious as you circled Carlisle's desk and stood behind him, placing your hands gently on his cold shoulders. You were truly interested in the lecture he had been engrossed in, hoping to engage him in conversation and keep him from delving too deeply into your own thoughts.

Carlisle looked up from the pages of the book, a warm smile gracing his lips. “Just some recent research on rare genetic disorders,” he replied, his voice tinged with enthusiasm. “It's fascinating how people's understanding of these conditions continues to evolve.”

You smiled in response to Carlisle's passion. His love for his work was one of the many things that drew you to him, a stark contrast to your past life where you had feigned interest for the sake of appearances.

“That does sound fascinating,” you said genuinely, your hands still resting lightly on his shoulders. “You always manage to make the things I don’t even understand intriguing," you laughed softly.

Carlisle's smile widened at your compliment, and he leaned back slightly in his chair, allowing your hands to linger on his shoulders. “Thank you,” he replied warmly.

A comfortable silence settled between you, the weight of unspoken words and fears still present but momentarily pushed aside by the connection you shared. There was this strange, unexplainable attraction to this man, an irresistible force that dragged you closer to him, just like when a magnet pulls things together.

After a moment, you broke the silence, your tone casual. “You know,” you began, “if you're not too busy, maybe we could go for a walk later. It’s already dark outside, but I think the weather is lovely, and it's been a while since we had some quality time together.”

Carlisle's eyes brightened at the suggestion, and he nodded eagerly. “That sounds like a wonderful idea,” he agreed. “I'd love to.”

[comradekarin]

too many pretending that diss track was hard so let’s just make a few things clear. nicki, you don’t even own your own masters you ain’t buying no one’s catalogue. nicki, your flow was ass on this track so I know we not talking about megs. meg has openly talked about her alcoholism, so that henny line not what you think it is. nicki, you got your ass beat by meek mill and talked about it in a documentary, you really got the audacity to talk about that leprechaun nigga tory shooting meg (and secretly making #freetory posts before deleting them on twitter) as if you weren’t a victim either. nicki, your HUSBAND can’t be fifty feet within a school zone and you got clocked for giving a thirteen year old boy a lap dance, tf you mean meg humping on a minor (no receipts whatsoever). nicki, the amount of grammies you have is N/A, bringing up meg having three is just pure jealously. talking about meg lying about lipo? as if you didn’t lie about getting work done for years before you had to fess up bc them implants in yo shit popped like a ballon. nicki, talking about the men megan has allegedly slept with and poking fun at her promiscuity aint shit when your man a whole ass rapist and you’re entire fucking M.O is pussy this, sex this, ass this. and not even just your man, your pedo brother too. nicki, you cannot possibly talk about megs mom as if your father isn’t still fresh roadkill. nicki, you went to megs producer/friend asking for a beat and he told yo ass NO, do not say anything about beats. nicki, I know you ain’t talking cash when you been using a.i art the entire gag city era because you can’t afford music videos rn. nicki, your little snide comments about roc nation on twitter is funny as fuck. implying that megan got ghost riders yet you, the so called queen of originality, the so call queen of innovation, is on twitter using/stealing jay z lyrics to diss meg who’s under his management. even bey don’t fuck with you.

these the same bitches that got on remy ma saying shether had bars “but wasn’t true” so it didn’t count. nicki spews a whole bunch of bullshit that counts more as a self read than a diss, and it’s hot shit? a hit dog gon holler, and this dog been wailing at the moon for four days now 😒

[cosmicroseflower]

All attachments to doubts, fears, traumas, limiting beliefs, and negative energy are released. I let go of all bad memories and things that were said or done, and what remains is only the knowledge I gained from these experiences. Everything bad that has ever happened to me has completely vanished from my subconscious mind. My subconscious and my inner child are now fully healed. In my subconscious, there's only room for happy and positive memories. I only focus on love. Not old, outdated ways of condemning myself and others. I'm not interested in lower vibrational people. I only attract higher vibrational people in my reality. I only manifest heaven on earth. I only align with loving realties. I am in an eternal relationship with Source. I am anchoring in an abundance of love, joy, wealth, peace, bliss, freedom and ecstasy. What I focus on I instantly see mirrored back to me in my reality. I am electric.

Every cell in my body vibrates at the highest and most elevated frequencies. I live in the present moment with absolute certainty that my every want, wish, and desire is unfolding rapidly, without any effort required. I have faith and confidence in myself. I have all it takes to create my ideal life. I navigate life with ease and unwavering confidence. I am at peace with where I am and fully prepared for all the blessings to come. My future is bright. I have succeeded in every area of my life. All my manifestations have fully materialized. Everything is happening now for me.

I acknowledge the power within me. I have everything I've always wanted, wished, desired, or prayed for. My life is now surrounded by bliss and excitement. - Life is a game, and I play to win. I always win in every situation. Winning is undeniable and inevitable for me. I know exactly how to win at life. I always come out on top in everything. My brain works at a superhuman capacity. I am highly intelligent. I always make the smartest choices and decisions.

My subconscious guarantees that I always succeed, and it is wired for the best and most desired outcomes only. I shift realities with just my thoughts, and with zero effort. - I live in my ideal reality. I have everything I idealize. I have everything I visualize for myself. Everything aligns in my favor. Everything works out for me. Everything goes my way. Everything I desire is already mine. I am so lucky. I am the luckiest person on the planet. I am always at the right place at the right time. Every desired scenario is now my reality. Life is constantly bending to my liking. What I once considered impossible is now possible for me. I am a powerful manifester. I breathe and manifest instantly.

I thrive in every aspect of my life. Everyday my blessings multiply beyond measure. I am bold and invincible. Love flows effortlessly into my life. Money continuously pours into my life. I effortlessly create wealth in infinite amounts. I am highly confident in every interaction. I am surrounded by a stream of miracles. I naturally draw the right people's attention to me. Every second I'm showered with miracles. My dreams are my reality now. My presence is irresistible to all. I am always loved and cherished. Billions of dollars of cash is flowing to me from every direction. I am worthy of receiving millions, billions, and even trillions of cash. I have a billionaire aura now. I only need to be in my feminine energy to receive.

Billions of dollars and generational wealth is my permanent reality. I am a financial genius, mastering investing and saving money with unmatched wisdom and confidence. People are constantly giving me money for no reason at all. I always find exactly what I want at incredibly low prices. I receive unlimited amounts of coupons and discounts. I am so powerful, wise, and intuitive that winning the lottery feels like the easiest thing in the world. I receive massive sums of money through tips and donations that exceed all expectations. I have zero insistence.

Over-the-top money opportunities are constantly drawn to me. Every business I touch transforms into a limitless money-making machine. I breathe and create money. I generate endless wealth, even while I sleep. I can afford absolutely anything and so much more. Financial freedom is my permanent reality. My relationship with money is the healthiest and most abundant it could ever be. - I am the luckiest person alive. Luck follows me relentlessly wherever I go. Luck is irresistibly drawn to me. Lucky opportunities appear to me instantly and inevitably. Lucky encounters happen effortlessly, without fail, every single day. I am an unstoppable magnet for luck. - My intuition is so powerful it guarantees my success every time. Every cell in my body vibrates health, abundance, prosperity, and success. I have unparalleled and unshakable health, both physically and mentally.

My entire being is fully and completely healed, from head to toe, and from the inside out. My mind is crystal-clear, razor-sharp, and focused. - I have everything I desire, including MY ideal career, home, car, wardrobe, and more. The Universe adores me and always conspires in my favor. I am the best and always have been. I am living life on easy mode I am effortlessly making massive amounts of money doing what I love. I am always receiving luxury gifts, free upgrades, and unexpected money. I am constantly finding the best deals, luxury experiences, and exclusive perks. I am always at the right place at the right time to receive what I desire. I am effortlessly attracting luxury, success, and endless opportunities.

I am always surrounded by wealth, abundance, and ease in every area of my life. I am irresistibly magnetic. I am adored, worshiped, and deeply cherished. I am always treated with kindness, loyalty, and deep admiration. I am constantly meeting people who are aligned with my dream love life. I am effortlessly attracting soul-deep love, passion, and devotion. I am receiving the exact type of love and commitment I desire. Money flows to me in ways beyond my imagination. Wealth flows into my life endlessly. I receive abundance from expected and unexpected sources. Money appears for me with ease. Wealth flourishes in my life. I am surrounded by infinite prosperity. I am immersed in limitless wealth.

I attract money from every direction. Abundance finds me in miraculous ways. Prosperity flows to me from seen and unseen channels. Everywhere I go, money finds its way to me. I am a powerful magnet for financial blessings. My income multiplies from endless sources. I am destined for a life of unlimited riches. Every source of income in my life expands exponentially. I always receive more wealth than I expect. I am surrounded by people who genuinely care, support, and uplift me. I am always prioritized, respected, and valued in all my relationships. I am effortlessly excelling in everything I do. I am always attracting dream job offers, collaborations, and success. I am constantly receiving praise, and extraordinary opportunities.

[beastickersco]

The Top 10 Hardest Things About Starting a Small Business (And How to Overcome Them)

Starting a small business is an exciting journey, but it is not all passion projects and overnight success. Whether you’re launching a sticker business, an online store, or a local shop, the process is filled with challenges, setbacks, and lessons you never saw coming.

From funding struggles to burnout, many entrepreneurs face unexpected obstacles that can make or break their business. But knowing what to expect—and how to overcome these hurdles—can help turn challenges into opportunities.

Here are the ten hardest things about starting a small business and how to tackle them successfully.

1. Finding the Right Business Idea

The Challenge:

You might have too many ideas, or you may not be able to think of a single good one. Choosing the right business idea is tough because:

• It needs to be profitable.

• It should align with your skills and passion.

• It has to have market demand, meaning people actually want to buy it.

How to Overcome It:

• Test your idea before going all in—survey potential customers or create a prototype.

• Research the competition—if no one is doing it, there may be a reason such as lack of demand.

• Solve a problem—successful businesses fill a gap in the market.

Your first business idea does not have to be your last. Many entrepreneurs pivot after learning what works.

2. Getting Funding for Your Business

The Challenge:

Most businesses need money to start, but where do you get it? Banks require strong credit, investors want proof of success, and using your own savings is risky.

How to Overcome It:

• Start small and test with low-cost products before expanding.

• Look for alternative funding such as crowdfunding, grants, or small business loans.

• Consider bootstrapping by reinvesting early profits instead of taking on debt.

Pre-selling your products is a smart way to generate cash flow before investing too much.

3. Learning Everything (Marketing, Sales, Accounting, and More)

The Challenge:

As a business owner, you wear all the hats—you are the marketer, accountant, customer service rep, and CEO all at once.

How to Overcome It:

• Learn the basics with free online courses on marketing, finance, and branding.

• Use business tools such as accounting software, AI for content creation, and social media planners.

• Outsource when possible by hiring freelancers for things you do not have time to master.

Focus on your strengths and outsource the rest once you can afford it.

4. Building a Customer Base from Scratch

The Challenge:

No customers means no sales. But how do you get people to trust a brand that just launched?

How to Overcome It:

• Leverage social media by consistently posting valuable content.

• Offer early discounts or freebies to incentivize first-time buyers.

• Encourage word-of-mouth by asking happy customers for reviews.

Building a strong brand identity, including a logo, website, and social proof, makes people more likely to buy from you.

5. Managing Time and Avoiding Burnout

The Challenge:

Most small business owners work much more than 40 hours a week—without a boss to set limits, it is easy to burn out.

How to Overcome It:

• Set a schedule and balance work time with personal time.

• Prioritize tasks by focusing on what moves the business forward.

• Take breaks because burnout leads to bad decisions and lower productivity.

You are more productive when well-rested. Take at least one day off per week to recharge.

6. Handling Self-Doubt and Fear of Failure

The Challenge:

Every entrepreneur asks themselves, “What if this fails?” Self-doubt can kill motivation before you even start.

How to Overcome It:

• Focus on progress, not perfection—you will learn as you go.

• Surround yourself with support by connecting with other business owners.

• Celebrate small wins—every sale is proof that you are on the right track.

Every successful business owner has failed before. The key is learning and pivoting when needed.

7. Dealing with Slow Sales and Unpredictable Income

The Challenge:

Some months are great, while others are painfully slow—especially in the beginning.

How to Overcome It:

• Have a backup fund by setting aside money during good months.

• Create multiple revenue streams by selling online, at markets, and on different platforms.

• Run promotions during slow periods, such as flash sales or limited-time discounts.

Focus on repeat customers because loyal customers spend more and shop often.

8. Standing Out in a Crowded Market

The Challenge:

No matter what business you start, there is competition. So how do you make people choose you over others?

How to Overcome It:

• Find your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)—what makes your brand different?

• Offer top-tier customer service because people remember great experiences.

• Build a personal brand so that people connect with you, not just your product.

Brand story matters—people buy from businesses they relate to.

9. Managing Inventory and Supply Chain Issues

The Challenge:

Whether you are selling physical products or digital goods, inventory management can be a headache—especially when suppliers have delays or price increases.

How to Overcome It:

• Start with small batches and do not overstock before testing demand.

• Work with reliable suppliers and always have a backup plan.

• Track inventory closely using software to avoid running out or over-ordering.

Having a pre-order system can help manage unexpected inventory shortages.

10. Staying Motivated When Things Get Hard

The Challenge:

Not every day will be exciting. Some days, you will want to quit. Motivation comes and goes, but consistency is key.

How to Overcome It:

• Remember your “why”—what made you start this business?

• Join entrepreneur communities because talking to other business owners helps.

• Set small goals by breaking big tasks into manageable wins.

Mindset is everything—keep pushing forward, even when it is tough.

Final Thoughts: Is Starting a Small Business Worth It?

Absolutely. Even though starting a business is hard, the freedom, creativity, and potential for success make it worth the effort. Every challenge you face is a learning opportunity that brings you closer to long-term success.

What is the hardest part of starting a business for you? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Looking for custom stickers for your small business? Check out BeaStickers.ca for high-quality, waterproof branding solutions.

[lol-jackles]

https://www.tumblr.com/walker-girl/750007869557129216/hahaha-this-is-so-funny-love-when-vinnie-pisses

https://www.instagram.com/p/C6tx5zCOUTd/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

I may not have much business experience but I don’t think this is good news no matter how hard AAs try to spin it.

Based on what the ex-master brewer said after a bunch of people were let go over the holidays, that only Gino and one other taproom employee were left. Now with the taproom closed, guess it’s just Gino managing everything with the contract brewing relationship, distribution, sales and marketing.

Seems like the taproom closing is just a first step before FBBC quietly disappears from the marketplace.

Unless the AAs are right and this IS a good thing for FBBC because they outgrew the facility and outsourcing its brewing operations made it a more efficient business.

What is your opinion?

Link. Link. *rub forehead* AAs clearly never had lemonade stands when they were kids.

We used to joke that AAs don't have jobs because the message board threads' timestamps showed they were always online from mornign to night.

Uh huh, FBBC's DS location is temporarily closing down. That's like saying you're temporarily burning down a building. No the building is on fire you donut hole.

Anybody remember when the Ackles were supposed to open a second location in South Austin (X) six years ago? That didn't appear to happen and now they're supposedly looking for 2nd taproom location. Back then I said the Ackles may go the contract brewing route because it cost much less to rent out another brewer’s facility and brew the beer themselves with the FBBC recipes.  But the Ackles end up doing the contract brewing when they stopped brewing at Dripping Springs, laid off employees, closed for 3 days of the week because it cost more to stay open, while most breweries in DP are are open 6 or 7 days a week.

That's not expansion, that's contraction. In other words, they're downsizing because FBBC is struggling because they don't have enough cash flow.

Remember kids, in business, cash flow is king and more important than your mother. Because you can run a non-profitable company indefinitely with positive cash flow. But without cash flow, a profitable company will quickly run into the ground. 

Part of me thinks the search for the 2nd taproom is give Gino something to do as a glorified bartender.

[heroes-of-the-new-world]

Illustration by EJZERO

“Almost there, honey-bunbun!”

Izuku was in despair. What the heck was he supposed to do now? Ulti had carried him right past his destination, and from the sounds of it, they were almost at her crew lounge. Yamato had told him about such places; about how the All-Stars and most of the Flying Six all had their own crew lounges, where they and their officers could meet and relax, or else plot and scheme.

He did not know what sort of place Ulti’s lounge would be. And he did not want to find out. Not after what Yamato had told him, and not after having met Ulti.

Ulti stopped suddenly, and Izuku heard something.

And there it was again. A crash, and shouts of confusion, followed by bouts of laughter.

“Wahahahahaha!”

Then he saw it. A tall woman, clad only in a loincloth and a strip of cloth around her bosom, a Hanya mask covering her face. She was capering around the corridor, in what looked vaguely like a traditional Japanese dance.

“I am Oden and I love to boil! I am Oden and I shall not toil! Haha!”

The bizarre figure drew closer, and Izuku’s heart clenched as he recognised the hair flowing behind the mask. And her voice.

It was Yamato!

“Wha…”

“Is she doing?” En spoke aloud, finishing his thought in Izuku’s head.

Izuku starred, dumbstruck, as Yamato continued her dance. Around her, pirates scrambled to get out of her way, or else laughed and jeered, leering at her performance.

“Wait who the hell is that babe?”

“That’s the Young Master, Kaido’s son Yamato!”

“Son?”

“Never mind that, he’s dancing like an idiot!”

“But that’s a she though right? I’m confused…”

“Oh god Yamato’s dancing like that loser Oden! He must be sloshed hahahaha!”

His heart sank. They were laughing at her. Laughing, as if she was some kind of pathetic joke. Laughing, the way he had been laughed at, long ago, back in his own world.

Why? Why did they have to laugh at her like this? How could she put up with it?

“Shrrrrrrrrrrr…”

The long, venomous hiss drew him from his anguished reverie. It was coming from Ulti. Her eyes were no longer gooey, but bright with malice, and fixed on Yamato.

Izuku shivered. He could feel the change in her countenance, in her very aura. It was cold and dark, and seemed to emanate from her like a frigid winter wind, chilling him to the depths of his soul.

“Come on Sis,” said Page One, suddenly nervous, that aggressive demeanor from before gone, acting like the nervous little brother he was. “He’s plastered, that’s all. Let’s just go on to our lounge, okay?”

“Shhhhhrrrrrrrrr!”

Ulti paid her brother no mind. Her eyes had become reptilian slits, and her body was beginning to change, to transform as his had done, Izuku felt her forearms become scaly.

“Sis!” pleaded Page One. “Come one! He’s not worth it!”

Izuku shivered even harder. Yamato had said that they were rivals, that she had beaten Ulti once before. Did Ulti hate her that much?

“Haha! Haha!” Yamato hopped and skipped, drawing closer. “I am Oden and I love to boil! I am Oden and I shall not toil! Aha-aha-aha!”

“Shhhhrrrrrrr!”

“I am Oden and I have no cash! I am Oden and I love to-----

Izuku let out a yell as Yamato swung, her kanabo suddenly in her hand.

“SMAAASH!” The mace caught Page One on the side of his head, hurling him against the wall with a mighty crash. The wall cracked under the impact, throwing up a cloud of dust and splinters. Izuku stared, stunned, as Page One toppled over, crashing to the floor.

“THE YOUNG MASTER JUST CLOBBERED LORD PAGE ONEEEEE~!” yelled a pirate.

[Chapter 12, Heroes of the New World by Zaru]