#THE GROUND IS SOFT AND I AM DIGGING! also i share a household with my own tul.in lsdkjfdlk)

[flockrest]

what's your secret to writing exactly how tulin would be?

[itsallyscorner]

Just saw your little mix!reader au (LOVED IT) and I was thinking, what if y/n is kinda like Perrie aka the queen of leaking things and she's dating Tom and everyone makes fun of them bc they are THE couple that keeps spoiling/leaking stuff

Hello lovey!! Thank you for requesting and reading my other work, it’s very much appreciated!🥰 I love this request sm, omg. Happy reading, I hope you like it!💖

💌.

The King and Queen of Leaking

I had WAY too much fun with this request...enjoy!🥰

It had been a regular day in your household. You were in the kitchen starting up on breakfast while Tom was in his makeshift gym doing his morning workout. You were just finishing up on the eggs when your phone pinged. Glancing at your phone you saw that it was a text from Jade.

Jade💜: Babes! Check you email ASAP!!!

The texts in the band’s group chat began to flood in making you curious. Have you all done something to get in trouble with management? Maybe it was an awards nomination? Turning off the stove, you place the last pile of scrambled eggs onto Tom’s plate. After you set the plates on the table, you pull out one of the dining chairs and sit on it, pulling out your phone to see more texts from the girls.

Perrie🦋: Oh.My.God. I CANT BELIEVE IT!!!

Leigh-Anne😻: AHHHHHH THIS IS BIG!!! FIRST NUMBER ONE OF THE YEAR!!!

Jesy💖: I’m so so so SO proud of us!!! And our fans omg, they’re amazing!! I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!!

Jesy💖: Where the hell is (y/n)???

Jade💜: Probs busy with Tom👀🍆💦

Perrie🦋: Has she not seen the news yet??

Leigh-Anne😻: Based on her lack of response, I’m guessing she’s busy😉

Jesy💖: (Y/N) I SWEAR HOP OFF TOM’S BLOODY DICK, SWEET MELODY IS NUMBER 1 ON THE CHARTS!!!!!

You gasp once you read Jesy’s last message. Your fingers move rapidly across your screen, exiting the messaging app to open up your email. The anticipation builds up in your body as you refreshed your inbox. Your leg bouncing as the little circle that went around and around popped up on your screen. For the last couple of days and weeks, your fans have been streaming Sweet Melody to top the charts and get it to Number 1. It has only been 10 weeks since “Confetti” has been released and the album has been getting an amazing response. Seeing your fans’ determination to get the song up the charts made your adore them even more and you just wanted to hug and thank every single one of them. You guys had the most amazing fans in the world, though many celebrities claimed that theirs were the best, Mixers were the crème de la crème in your eyes.

Your inbox refreshes and the first email you see is from the Official Charts Company, a company that celebrated singles that reached number one on the charts. You click on the email and carefully skim through the paragraph. When you read that Sweet Melody had officially charted at number one you let out an excited squeal. Tessa, who has been sitting beside your seat, jumped up to her feet the same time you did. Your crouched down as she happily bounced around you.

“Number one Tess! We made it to number one!” You squealed as you gently squished her face. She let out a bark before licking your face.

“Let’s go tell daddy the news, huh? Let’s go!” You couldn’t contain your excitement, the feeling rushing through your veins. You felt like your heart could burst from all the happiness you were currently feeling.

You practically ran to where Tom was, your feet moving as quick as your heartbeat. Tessa’s nails clicked against the wooden floors echoing in the hallway.

Tom, who had just finished his workout, heard the commotion outside. Your excited squeals and the sounds of both your and Tessa’s feet getting closer to him. The stomps came to a halt once you stopped at the doorway of his “gym”. He looks up from his phone and looks at you expectantly. You were beaming, like the sun that brought light into the room. His expression mirrors yours, but his smile was a bit more confused.

“Hi darling, what’s up?” He asks, removing his AirPods and placing them back into their case. You squeal excitedly once again as you run across the room and stand in front of him. Though, it was as if your feet had springs in them because you couldn’t stop jumping. Tom looks at you amused but was still confused.

“(Y/n), what did you do, love?” He asks. Maybe you were up to something?

You stop jumping for a bit and unlock your phone, shoving it into his face. He moves his face back so his eyes can focus but ends up taking the phone from you because you were moving too much. As you dance around the room, Tessa joining in on your little fiesta, Tom reads the email to himself. Once he reads the news his jaw drops looking up at you with wide eyes.

“NUMBER ONE BABY!” You scream before running into his arms. A look of shock is on his face before he screams “YES!” at the top of his lungs. Your legs wrap around his torso as his arms support your back and your bum. He starts shaking his hips and jumping around just like you were as you both celebrated your band’s huge success.

Your cheeks began to hurt from smiling too much, but you just couldn’t keep it off your face. You were too happy to keep a neutral face so you continued to smile. Tom looks up at you with the most proudest expression. He knew how hard you and the girls worked on every song on your albums, so to see that hard work being rewarded made him feel immense amounts of joy for you all.

You began to giggle as you hid your face behind you hands, Tom still carrying you. “I can’t believe this actually happened, oh my god.” Your voice came out muffled but Tom could still understand you. He chuckled while he placed your feet back to the ground. You leaned your head against his chest while his hands rubbed circles onto your back.

“Of course it happened love, you guys deserve it.” He places a kiss on your temple while he swayed you guys back and forth. His cheek resting against you hair as he held you. Your excitement boiling down to disbelief at the news.

He moved his head and gently removed your hands from your face. “Look at me.” Turns out you were silently crying, your tear stained cheeks making his heart drop, but then he noticed they were tears of joy.

You sniffled, smiling when Tom wiped some of your tears away. His hands cupped your cheeks while his eyes gazed at you lovingly, “You have no idea how proud I am of you— and the girls. You guys have worked day and night for this album to exist. I’ve seen you guys write each song and saw how much thought goes into each one, you guys are fucking incredible. Look at how much success it’s getting, you guys did that.”

You laughed as more tears ran down your cheeks. You groaned throwing your head back and wiping them away, “Well, I couldn’t have done it without you. You’ve been so understanding with everything and you managed to be one of my biggest inspirations for writing. Thank you. I love you so much.” You beamed at him before crashing your lips against his soft ones. You felt his lips curve up to a smile as his hands held your face. You suddenly pulled away, Tom chasing your lips, still stuck in your little moment.

“Oh my God! We need to tell the fans! They’ve been streaming for weeks!” You pecked his lips once more before rushing out the room. The excitement entering your body once again. Tom looks down at your phone in his hands smirking. He turned to Tessa, “Give her a few seconds.”

“MY PHONE!” He heard you exclaim in the hallway. Your head popped from behind the entrance. You skipped into the room and took the phone from Tom.

“I love you!” You sang, kissing his lips again, then skipping out to the hallway.

Before you can post anything of the band’s new achievement, you opened the group chat.

(Y/n)🌻: First off, I was far from Tom’s dick, I was actually cooking😌

(Y/n)🌻: Second, I love you all so much!!!!!! I can’t believe we did it, the amount of pride I feel to be part of this band is astronomical right now! Nine years together and we’re still making it, I love you guys!❤️❤️❤️

After you messaged the girls, you opened up Instagram. Meanwhile, Tom had joined you, dressed in new clothes and fresh out the shower. He hummed at the food on the table and pressed a kiss to your forehead, his way of silently thanking you. He sat in the chair beside yours and began to dig into his breakfast.

“Do you mind if I film a video real quick?” You ask him, looking into the camera as you fixed your hair. Tom wipes his mouth and swallows his food.

“Go ahead, tell the world you’re number one.” He teased you. You rolled your eyes though your lips were curved into a smile. You prepared yourself before pressing down on the circle.

Video:

“Hi guys! So I’ve just found out some amazing news and I thought you guys might want to hear it too—“ Tom began to drum on the table, making you look at him in amusement.

“Oh, that’s a good idea.” You nod, approving of his actions. When he stops drumming and points at you, you look back to the camera with a giant smile.

“Guys...WE MADE IT TO NUMBER ONE! SWEET MELODY IS AT NUMBER ONE ON THE CHARTS!” You announced, voice bouncing off the walls of your house. Behind you was Tom, also cheering equally as loud while he pumped his fists into the air.

“Thank you guys so much! The girls and I love each and every single one of you, you guys are the best fans in the world and we are forever grateful for you. Thank you!” You blew a kiss into the camera before ending the video.

You watched the video over then tagged the girls and the group’s Instagram. You quietly hummed Sweet Melody to yourself as you clicked around and added some stickers to your video. When you were content, you clicked on share and turned your phone off.

“Alright, celebratory breakfast.” You sang as you grabbed your fork and stabbed it into a strawberry.

Tom chuckled beside you and nudged your shoulder, “Then celebratory sex after?” You hummed at his suggestion, eyes teasingly squinting at him.

“Give me time to digest first. Then celebratory sex.” When Tom agreed you laughed and dug into your food. Everything was going great at the moment. Your song is number one on the charts, your career is flourishing, you had four amazing sisters, and you had the world’s best boyfriend. It was as if nothing could go wrong.

~half an hour later~

Tom had you pinned to the bed, light kisses scattering along your skin while his hands rubbed your thighs. With clothes still on, he was snuggled in between your legs, finding comfort in the tight space. He managed to get your top off leaving you in that red lacy bra he adored on you. His lips ghosted between the valley of your breast and down to your belly button. His lips stopping right above your sweatpants. He tilted his head back a bit to drink in your appearance. Hooded dark eyes, laid out before him, that red bra making your breasts look irresistible, you were perfect.

“Look at my pretty girl. Aren’t you stunning?” His voice was deeper than his usual chipper tone. The tone brought butterflies in your belly, the vibrations of his voice going straight to your core.

“I’m all yours, Tommy.” Your hand finds its way to the brown curls that rested on his head. You gently guide his head back up and pull his lips towards you. Your lips connect, first gently and almost innocent, but full of passion. The passion burns more when he presses his hard on against you, roughening up the passionate kiss, your teeths clashing and tongues wrestling. You were lost in his trance until your phone tinged.

Tom curses under his breath as you both jump from the sudden sound. You quietly apologize and mute your phone, not bothering to look at the notification. When you lay back on the bed, Tom’s palms press against you cheeks as he crashes you lips together. His hands move below you, tugging off your sweatpants. He was about to remove the last layer of clothing separating you two when your phone continuously began to vibrate. On the other night stand, Tom’s phone began to vibrate as well.

Your boyfriend groans plopping his head against your stomach. You sigh apologetically, hands now stroking his bare back.

“We should get that, seems important.” He kisses your stomach, hesitantly dragging himself off you. You roll over to your stomach and grab your phone.

Notifications

Jesy💖: We love you too my darling!! We miss you so much here in London:(

Perrie🦋: I would say let’s have a sleepover as soon as you come back from Atlanta, but the pandemic:( I miss you tons!!!🥺

Jade💜: I love youuuuuuuu❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Leigh-Anne😻: You absolute gem, I love you❤️

Jesy💖: (Y/n) what did you tag me in?

Jade💜: Wait, I’m tagged too.

Perrie🦋: I didn’t get tagged :(

Oh wait, I see it :D

Leigh-Anne😻: Why do I have a bad feeling about what she tagged us in?

Jesy💖: (y/n)?

(Y/N)!?

WHY IS SHE NOT REPLYING WHEN I NEED HER TO REPLY!

Perrie🦋: OIIII!!! AT LEAST IT WASNT ME THIS TIME🤪

Jade💜: Jesus, she’s turning into Tom, smh.

Leigh-Anne😻: She’s always been like this lmao

Tom’s only made her worse🙄

Jesy💖: (Y/N) DELETE YOUR FUCKING STORY ON INSTAGRAM THEY ARENT SUPPOSED TO KNOW THAT SM IS NUMBER ONE YET!!!!!!!!!!

Jade💜: I bet you NOW she’s busy with Tom

hehehe🍆💦👀

Leigh-Anne😻: Babes!!! Now’s not the time to be doing the deed with Tom!!

Jesy💖: Hold on let me text Tom too.

Your eyes widen as you read the messages from the girls. A string of “shits” with a mix of “fucks” fall continuously out your mouth. You struggle to turn around, getting tangled in the sheets. When you finally sit up properly you go to your Instagram and rush to your stories.

“Uh, (y/n)—“

“Yeah, I know, I know.” You frustratedly mumble as your thumbs fumble on the screen. You go to your story and don’t even hesitate to delete the video you posted just half an hour ago. Tom’s phone rings and you swear you hear him gulp. He answers it, putting it on speaker mode and holds it away from his ears.

“Tom Holland I blame you!” You hear Jesy’s voice through the phone. You double check if you deleted the story before turning your phone off and shoving your face into your pillow.

“I didn’t even do anything!” Tom defended himself, almost laughing. Honestly, as bad as the situation was, it was ironic how it was his girlfriend that leaked the news. You guys are really meant to be.

“The hell you weren’t! Literally drumming on the table, you div! I can’t with you two!” Jesy exclaimed. You knew she was joking by the tone of her voice. “Where is your girlfriend anyway?”

Tom giggle shoving the phone next to your ear, “My lovely girlfriend is right beside me.”

You hear Jesy gag, “Babe, did you even read the email properly?”

You lift your head from the pillow and take Tom’s phone. “No, I got too excited about getting number one.” You admitted pouting. Tom chuckles at you, moving to lay beside you. His arms wrapping around your almost bare figure and shoving his head in between your breasts. Nothing sexual but because they felt like soft pillows against his cheeks.

“They said they’re announcing it on Monday.” She informed you chuckling. You whined and facepalmed yourself. “It’s okay, hun. You were just in the moment, I know how you can get. Although, the fans absolutely love it.” She mentioned.

“Do they?” You asked stifling a laugh.

“Having an absolute field day, they’ve deemed you the Queen of Leaks. Apparently Tom’s been crowned as your king.” She teases. You feel Tom laugh against your chest, his shoulders shaking.

“Alright, I’ll go now, let you two get back to what you were doing. I suggest lurking through Twitter and Instagram, the fans’ reactions are hilarious.” You bid your goodbyes and hang up. Tom’s head pops up from your chest, “Can we please go through the reactions?”

“I was thinking the same thing.” You tell him already opening up Instagram. You go through your tags to see a bunch of memes. Tom shifts to sit beside you, throwing his arm around your shoulder.

Some fan reactions:

🖤 1,944 likes

Tom watching (y/n) make her video and being the supportive boyfriend he is🥺 They’re made for each other I swear

🖤 1,393 likes

The girls watching (y/n)’s story and finding out she just leaked the news. We stan our Queen of Leaks😌🙌🏼👑

🖤 1,838 likes

Tom realizing that (y/n)’s really the one because they both can’t keep secrets without spoiling them. This is why they don’t have good things smh.

🖤 1,878 likes

Jesy calling the police, not for Tom, but for her because she’s ready to shred that boy’s ass for turning (y/n) into him💀

You and Tom spend the rest of the day stuck in bed going through the different reactions from your fans. They were entertaining, making you and your boyfriend laugh at your fans’ humor.

While you sat in between his legs, your back against his chest, Tom leans down to nuzzle his face into your neck. He breaths in the scent of you mixed with your shampoo, something he would never get tired of. You feel that goofy grin press onto your skin making you look up at him.

“Why’s that look on your face?” You ask hun teasingly.

“Because the fans have a point.”

“That we both can’t keep shit to ourselves?” You laugh. Tom makes a sound of agreement pulling you closer.

“Well yeah—but when they say that we’re meant for each other, they have a point. You really are my soulmate.” The goofy grin on his face was permanently stuck to his lips. You giggled shifting to peck his lips. When he sees you struggle he meets you halfway, finally touching those soft luscious lips of yours.

“I guess I am.” You hummed contently, mirroring that lovestruck look on his face. There was no other person in the world that you’d be willing to spend this moment with. The more you stared into those honey brown eyes of his the more you believed your fans; he truly was your soulmate.

[laurie-stark]

Get up and get out

Summary: Sort of part two to Unwanted. A year after fighting in Germany, y/n has to deal with the insufferable Peter Parker being around the house all the time. 

Pairings: Peter Parker x stark!reader, tony stark x daughter!reader, Natasha Romanoff x daughter!reader. 

Warnings: swearing, angst? i guess? mentions of blood. mentions of panic nightmares 

A/N: Again, I want to make it very clear so there isn’t any confusion: Y/n is Tony’s biological child, however, being raised also by Natasha, Steve and Pepper, she calls them Muma, Pops and Mom. Hopefully that makes sense LOL oh and also i’ve never written like...kiss scenes before so just go with it okay?

He was here again. Third time this week that he has come barging into my home and taken over my training center. Okay, to be fair, it was not my training center but still. Peter Parker will never stop being a pain in my ass. Ever since that stupid trip to Germany, he has been coming over and training for hours, or working with Dad. Three times just this week I’ve had to endure listening to Peter talk with his stupid little voice and walk around my house like he owns the place. Who does he think he is? And every time I have to sit through another dinner of Dad blabbing on and on about what a miraculous boy he is.

               “Really y/n, I think you two would be great friends,” I rolled my eyes as I picked at my dinner. The rest of the family ate in silence around the table. The last thing I wanted to do is spend more time with stupid Spider-boy. On the afternoons when he was here, I tried my best to stay out of his way. I would stay on my floor and he stays on his. Simple. I don’t need a new friend.

“…And he’s coming by again tomorrow, so I was thinking of showing him A.P.R.I.L. if you wanted to join us-” Dad continued.

What the hell? I thought. “No!” I snapped. “No way. A.P.R.I.L. is mine, I don’t want him messing with her.” Dad frowned at me. The rest of the table looked up in my direction. My shoulders tensed up as I faced my father. A.P.R.I.L. is my baby and I was ready to go toe to toe with him if I needed too.

“What do you mean no? I thought you’d be excited to share that with him,” he started.

“Well I’m not, so back off,” I sneered. The shift in his expression made me want to bite my own tongue. “Please.”

“I seriously do not understand what your problem is. You’ve been complaining for years how there’s only adults but the second a kid your age comes by you’re all “oooh no don’t talk to me Peter!””

I scoffed. “Sorry, I guess I just don’t want to bother you and your new best friend.”

“There it is. Why are you so jealous of him? He’s not that cool. He hasn’t made a fully functioning A.I at the age of 15. He just spits sticky stuff out of his fingers. Honestly y/n, you’re making zero sense right now.”

“Whatever, I’m over this,” I said, pushing my chair back from the table. I grabbed my untouched dinner plate and headed towards the kitchen. “I’m not hungry. And don’t show him A.P.R.I.L., I mean it!” I dumped my plate in the sink and marched right down the hall towards the elevators. My dad was right. I wasn’t making any sense. Ever since I made A.P.R.I.L I’ve used every excuse I could find to shove her down people’s throats. Anyone who would listen to me, I would tell them. Tell them all about how I programmed her to have realistic personality. How she’s running through the walls of this place, through my room, even inside the bracelet I never take off. All I knew is that I didn’t want Peter Parker anywhere near her.

I shut the door to my hard, and flopped onto my bed. A.P.R.I.L. reminded me that slamming the doors usually results in a punishment. I acknowledged her with a half-hearted grunt. I started programming A.P.R.I.L. when I was thirteen. Or rather, reprogrammed. A.P.R.I.L. was made from an older prototype version of F.R.I.D.A.Y. The base stuff was already there, I just moved some things here, recoded there until she was perfect. I don’t know why I got so defensive about Peter meeting her. Or why I had to pick another fight with my dad.

It was easier these days. To fight him, I mean. I suppose I never got over the whole “Peter is better, I choose him over you, blah, blah” thing as much as I thought I did. So, I would pick fights. Fighting over Peter was the simplest way to go, considering he was the reason I was so angry in the first place. Sometimes we would fight over him, other times we would fight over silly things. Like how I keep forgetting not to put my coffee grounds in the garbage disposal. Most of the time it was all just bickering that would blow over in thirty minutes, give or take. Sometimes it was explosive, like today.  I took in a shaky breath and sprawled out across my sheets. Sometimes this family is a fucking nightmare.

Dad didn’t come by this time. It threw me off for a second because he always comes by. Even if it’s six hours later and neither of us should be awake, he still comes by with a box of milk duds that we share in silence before one of us apologizes first. That’s how we work. When it finally sunk in that he was not planning on coming, I put A.P.R.I.L. on the job. I figured perhaps he left the compound, maybe took Mom for a nighttime stroll.

“Your father is on floor B, Miss Stark,” A.P.R.I.L. informed me.

“Jesus A.P.R.I.L., how many times have I said to cut the formalities,” I muttered.

“My apologies, y/n.”

Floor B. What the hell is he doing on floor B at…12:00 in the morning? Floor B is strictly for members of household and other Avengers. There are a billion different training rooms down there. Weight rooms, boxing, a huge pool, stuff like that. Not to taint his image, but I can safely say the last time my father willingly worked out for fun was probably before I was even born. Why was he down there? Unless…

“A.P.R.I.L. who else is on floor B right now?” I asked. “Throw it on the hologram, would you dear?

The sounds of the hologram starting filled the room. A.P.R.I.L. pulled up the security map of floor B, like I’d asked. There was my dad, floor B in the boxing room of all places. Pops and Sam looked to be going at it in another one of the combat training rooms. My confusion only rose when another nametag popped up on the screen. My brows furrowed.

Peter Parker

What was he doing here? Why was he boxing? Why was he not in his own home at midnight on a Thursday? My mind was spinning with questions. A knock at my door startled me.

“Come in…”

Natasha popped her head through the doorway. “Hey there…whatcha doing kid?”

I swiftly swiped away the hologram screen and sat up straight. “Nothing. What’s up?”

“Well, we’re getting a little worried about you,” she said. We being everyone else at the table who had to witness my brawl with Dad. She sat down beside me. “You haven’t fought back like that in a long time and I’ve noticed you’re fighting with him a lot recently. You want to tell me what that’s all about?”

I wanted too. God, I wanted too. I hadn’t told anyone what my father said to me that day after the airport, not even my mom. But it didn’t matter. I’d get over it sooner or later, so there was no point troubling anyone else with my problems…right? My eyes started to well up but I blinked away the tears. ���No. Everything’s fine,” I put on a smile.

Natasha tucked me in under her arm. “Okay then. Maybe tomorrow.” That was Muma for you. She never pushed me to talk but knew I would come around at some point. In the meantime, she just held me. I cried into her embrace. She let me cry into her shoulder for a long while, until I was empty. After a time, I let go and she got up, giving me a kiss on the head before wishing me a good night.

I rubbed my hands over my face, brushing off any remaining tears. “A.P.R.I.L. bring the hologram back up please.”

“Are you sure y/n?”

…

“Yeah.”

Peter was still in the boxing room but my father was not. Upon further digging, I found the nametag reading Tony Stark on my floor. He’d gone to bed. I pondered to myself as to whether or not I should venture downstairs. What is the worst thing that could happen? Peter is secretly a Hydra spy and kills me? No, I shook my head. Don’t be ridiculous. Another minute passed and I’d made up my mind.

“A.P.R.I.L. engage “I am definitely here”,” I commanded.

“”I am definitely here” protocol engaged. Volume minimized to 5% and your tracking tag will be pinned to this room,” A.P.R.I.L. responded. “Good luck on your mission small agent.”

“Oh shut up,” I chided. I closed the door to my room as softly as I could. It was nearly one in the morning, most of the hall would be asleep. Or at least they should be. The hallway was silent, except for the soft noise of my socks padding along the floor. I cursed myself for looking so ridiculous. If anyone caught me, I could easily say that I was just getting a midnight snack. Not sneaking down to spy on Spider-bitch. Boy. Whatever. Sneaking added to the excitement.

I made it downstairs all in one piece. Steve and Sam nearly passed me in one of the halls, but I had ducked into a briefing room. I could totally be a spy. Maybe I’m a Hydra spy. I thought. And they sent me here as a baby to take down the Avengers from the inside. What was I going on about? This was why I should really be in bed, I was clearly delirious. Once again, distracting myself in my thoughts led to me getting startled. I hadn’t even realized I was outside the boxing room. I would have walked right in if not for the handy wall that I smacked into.

Peter was in the ring, practicing his punches. He’d lowered down one of the punching bags from the ceiling and it was close to ripping at the seams. He was really going ham on it. The questions piled on. So, he came over to my house at midnight to…train? Something he had all afternoon today to do? God, he was weird. I suppose I didn’t quite know what I was going to get myself into when I finally walked in to confront him.

“What are you doing?” I asked, arms folded tightly across my chest.

Peter started and looked down at me. Sweat was dripping down his face. He looked exhausted. “Training,” he said bluntly. He returned to treating the punching bag like it had run over his dog.

“At one in the morning? And after you spent like six hours today doing just that?” I was not letting him off that easy. Peter ignored me and continued punching. “Your form is shit.” I mocked.

That made him stop. “Funny coming from the girl who never leaves her room. When have you ever trained? Like ever?”

“I still beat your ass.”

“Yeah like, a year ago when I was barely an avenger.”

I rolled my eyes. “You still aren’t.”

“What do you want?” Peter spat.

I shrugged. “Dunno.” I stared him down with a smug look on my face.

“You are always such a bitch, you know that?”

I faked a pout. “Aw…bite me.”

Peter was chewing the inside of his cheek in anger. “If you’re going to stay here and pester me, you might as well get a few punches in.”

“And why would I do that?”

“Consider it a rematch.”

I studied his physique for a moment. He’d grown a lot since Germany. He’d also trained a lot since then as well. I had done little of either. I knew that entering that ring would probably end up with me losing my dignity and maybe even a tooth. But I was not going to let him stand there with his stupid, sweaty face and get away with it. This is not a good idea, I thought as I took off my socks. I moved the ropes and stepped into the ring, standing a foot in front of the boy.

“I’ll still win.”

“No powers either.”

“Deal.” Not like I’ve touched my powers since…since the incident.

Peter took his stance and I did my best to mirror him. I realized in that moment that I had no idea what I was doing. I didn’t know the first thing about boxing. Or sparring. I didn’t know how to fight without my powers. Oh, sweet Jesus.

We kept our distance at first, fists up. He threw a few punches and missed. I followed in suit. I finally got the first hit, a nice throw to his chest. He took it like a champ and didn’t flinch. Or rather, I couldn’t hit for shit and it didn’t hurt. He threw a punch to my left, only to miss on purpose and punched me square across my jaw. Ow. I chuckled lowly. The taste of blood filled my mouth from the fresh cut on my lip. I wiped the back of my hand across my mouth. All I could see was white rage.

Forget form, forget rules, forget everything. I lunged at him with everything I had. Lunged at him for all the bullshit he had brought into my life. For all the bitter things I had to hear my father say that weren’t even Peter’s fault. He was clearly not expecting my attack because we both fell to the ground. We fought tirelessly on the mat. He was physically stronger than me, so by default he was winning. He wrestled me until I was pinned under him. One hand was pinning my hand above my head, the other arm pinning down my body. In any other circumstances I would be amused to find myself in such a scandal. I looked in his eyes briefly and I could already tell he thought that he was winning. If there’s one thing I learned from Nat, it’s to always step on their moment. I hooked my leg around his knee and used all my force to flip us over. I had him pinned down now, my hair falling around my face. We were both breathing heavily.

“Told you,” I taunted. I was mentally preparing him to punch back but he didn’t. He snapped his arms out from under me and shoved me off him, hard. I fell back against the mat. He rose to his feet, brushing his hands off on his pants. “What the hell?” I exclaimed. I jumped to my feet while his back was turned to me and gave him a taste of his own medicine. He stumbled a few steps after I pushed him. Slowly, he stretched back up to reach his full height.

“You’re right,” he turned to face me and extended a hand. “Shake on the truce?” I took his hand, accepting his surrender. Only, he was not really surrendering. The moment my hand touched his, he yanked me towards him. I tripped over my feet and fell into him. My chest crashed onto his. The world was a blur as he grabbed me with force and spun us around, so he could push me up against the ropes of the ring.

“Stop, Peter get off me you bitch!” I fought back. I flailed my whole body around, trying to break loose. One hand reached up to grab the back of my head, pulling my hair and forcing my head back. I froze. His face was dangerously close to my exposed neck. His shift let my opposite arm break free. I took a breathe and reeled it back, ready to smack him in the across the face. He caught my wrist in time without taking his eyes off mine.

He lowered his head to whisper in my ear, “I win.” His breathe trickled down my neck. He had won, but he wasn’t moving. One hand was still in my hair, the other was pinning me against the ropes. His chest breathed heavily against my own. His grip on my head loosened slightly and I was able to look him straight on. He had that same smug look pasted across his face. His eyes moved from mine, trailing down my face, my neck, my body, before they settled on my lips. I momentarily lost the ability to breathe.

He kissed me hard. I tensed up slightly before giving into him completely. It tasted like blood and sweat and I felt like I was losing my mind. He pulled me closer, if that was even possible and claimed my mouth with his until my knees gave out. A newfound wave of warm washed through me. The hand in my hair gave a slight tug and my lips parted while that same hand moved to cup my jaw. For all I knew, the entire compound was wide awake and watching but I did not care. I brought my fingers to his hair, tugging at the ends. I smiled cunningly when he groaned into my mouth. He kissed me greedily and fully. Like he hated me. And I hated him.

We broke apart, limbs numb and chests heaving. The moment had passed, and our actions sunk in. What. The. Fuck. He lifted the ropes for me, and I climbed out of the ring. My head was still spinning from that kiss and my lip stung. Consequences I suppose, for kissing someone with a busted lip. I silently pulled my socks back on and Peter handed me a towel. Neither of us said another word. I left the room and didn’t look back. I could hear him behind me, but I was in no rush to have to look him in the eye ever again. What just happened?

 I woke the next morning to A.P.R.I.L. alerting me that “Father Dearest” was outside my door. He came in and sat on the edge of the bed. We both stayed quiet for a while.

I spoke first. “Where were you last night? You didn’t come by after…” I let my words trail off.

“I was going to, I swear. But then something came up with Peter and I had to go take care of that,” Dad answered.

I frowned. “Typical. Peter over your own flesh and blood, right?”

Dad inhaled sharply like he was going to bite back, but changed his mind. “That’s not true and you know it. Peter is…he’s going through something and I knew how to help him. Not everything is about you, you narcissist,” He said, joking at the end.

I had to push down my own smile. “Yeah well where do you think I got it from?” I sat up and leaned into my father. He brushed a hand down my back. “So, what’s wrong with Peter then?”

“I really shouldn’t tell you, it’s personal.” I looked up at him with my doe eyes. He rolled his eyes and sighed, nodding a silent defeat. I felt like I was nine again and he was gossiping with me about the latest secretary. Like every fight had been forgotten in this moment. “He’s been having some nightmares ever since DC. You remember the ones we used to get after Loki?” I nodded. “Now you, you always amazed me at how you handled those. But for me and Peter, we needed a different outlet. So, I let him come over in the middle of the night. I didn’t think anyone would notice.” I hummed in response, not sure what to make of that information. I mean, I kind of felt bad for the guy. He was still a bitch, but those dreams suck. No one should have to deal with them. “He really isn’t as bad as you think, you know.”

“Yeah,” I hummed. “I think you’re right.”

tag list:

@runawayolives @ creation-magician @ eridanuswave @ markhyucksmells @ beep-beep-losersclub

[ilovefandoms102]

Love me Harder-Part 4

Pairing: Rafe Cameron x Pogue!Reader

Summary: Falling in love with your sisters sworn enemy probably wasn’t the best idea…

Note: Tik Tok challenge requests are still open for whoever wants to submit one! I will be doing them throughout the day! I hope you guys enjoy this! Let me know what you think!

Part 3 Part 5

=========================================

Rafe and I became exclusive after that night on the beach…

It was weird at first being so open despite the odd looks from people. I tried not to think about it too much despite the comments and stares. I was going to enjoy my time with Rafe. 

This led to one of my rare days off, my legs perched on the dash of Rafe’s golf cart. My eyes trained on his muscles working as he played on the Figure Eight golf course. I squirmed in my seat a little from the way his muscles flexed, his hat perched on his head backwards adding to the desire pooling in my belly. We hadn’t moved past the heavy make outs with occasional groping, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t ready for more. 

My experience with men wasn’t bad but it also wasn’t great. I’ve had my few shares of casual hook ups, boyfriends that didn’t last longer than a few months before the feelings died out, but Rafe was different. Maybe it was the fact that we had both wanted each other for so long, the tension bursting between us now that we could freely be seen with the other. 

“What are you thinking about so hard over there beautiful?” Rafe asked, startling me from my thoughts. 

“How good your ass looks in those shorts.” I smirked, earning a deep blush from my boyfriend. 

He sauntered over to me, swinging his club around to hold it behind his neck. Rafe leaned his head down to touch his nose to mine, sweetly pecking my lips before he pulled away. I moved my hands to feel the slight stubble forming on his cheeks, he let go of the golf club, and let it fall to the ground. In the next instance, he had my legs around his waist. Rafe leaned in to crush his lips to mine, leaning me back at an angle. I forgot where we were, and that people were literally all around us. My only focus was how good his soft lips felt against mine. I bit his bottom lip, gently tugging it back. He groaned, his fingers digging into my hips. 

“Come on guys, this is a family golf course.” Someone called, my head snapping to see Topper making his way over. Rafe flipped him off as my cheeks burned with embarrassment. 

=========================================

I very quickly became uninterested in being at Figure Eight now that Topper decided to interrupt mine and Rafe’s hot make out. He stayed with Rafe to play a round between them which annoyed me even more. I didn’t get a lot of days off, so my mood was pretty much ruined. I saw Pope walking by, carrying some groceries for someone. I was going to jump up and help when Topper decided to make his way to him. 

“Well, well look who we have here.” Topper hollered, my feet instantly taking off towards Pope. Rafe had yet to notice either of us were gone. 

“Can we please give it a rest today, unless you want to deliver your own groceries.” Pope spat, dodging Topper’s reaches for the beer he was carrying. 

“Knock it off Topper, your tea time isn’t up yet.” I growled, stepping in front of Pope. 

“Leave this to the men y/n,” Topper hissed, shoving me to the side as he attacked Pope. 

I went into flight or fight mode, jumping on Topper’s back as he railed his fists down on Pope. I punched Topper’s nose, giving Pope enough time to wiggle his way out from under Topper. He reached back and pulled my hair, a scream leaving my lips from the burn. I tumbled down, scraping my arms and legs against the gravel. Topper grabbed his club, and swung at Pope. I was horrified as blood spewed from Pope’s lips. 

“RAFE!” I screeched, hoping to grab his attention. 

I didn’t look to see if he had heard me, jumping to my feet to run towards Pope and Topper. In a split second decision, I jumped in front of Pope, and took Topper’s swing. Agonizing pain tore through my body, a sickening crack heard as the head of the club connected to my ribs. Topper’s eyes widened, dropping his club immediately. I whimpered on the ground, keeping my eyes closed as I sobbed in pain. 

“Y/n!” Pope shouted, crouching down to me. 

“Go, run.” I whispered, giving him a reassuring nod as he took off. 

“What the fuck just happened?!” Rafe boomed, but I couldn’t focus on his words. White noise rang in my ears, my heart still thudding in my chest from the adrenaline. I snapped out of it when I felt a hand, Rafe’s hand, pushing some hair from my face. 

“Sweetheart, can you hear me?” he asked.

“Hurts,” was all I was able to gurgle out. 

“Tell me where baby,” Rafe spoke softly. 

“Ribs,” I choked.

“She just jumped in front of me man!” Topper exclaimed.

“Because you were beating a fucking kid Topper!” I snapped, flinching in pain.

“Can I lift you up, get you to the ER?” Rafe asked gently, his hands shaking as they stayed near my face.

“I think I can get up,” I huffed, having help from Rafe to stand. My ribs were aching, the pain feeling like a stabbing sensation. 

“I’ll deal with you later.” Rafe hissed as Topper, following behind me as I walked back towards the golf cart.

=========================================

A cracked rib that would take a while to heal, the doctor was surprised that it wasn’t crushed with the severity of the bruise forming on my ribcage. I was told to not go back to work for at least a week, yeah, we’ll see how that goes over with my dad...

“So, you want me to cancel dinner tonight?” Rafe asked, holding my hand tight in his as we exited the ER. 

“No, I still want to go.” I insisted, nerves creeping in as I remembered I was having dinner with Rafe and his family tonight.

This would be the first time I would be there as Rafe’s girlfriend, and I was scared shitless. I knew my parents, or I should say my mother and my biological father, grew up with Ward and Rose. The tension was there at the Kook gatherings they made me attend since my mother had me when she was still in High School. 

“I don’t want you to go if you feel like you have to...you don’t need to suffer in pain all night.” Rafe sighed, assisting me while I climbed into the passenger seat of his truck.

“Rafe this is important, I want to make a good impression, and how is it going to look if I bail.” I scoffed. He had one arm leaning on the open door while the other was by my head, his blue eyes filled with worry.

“They aren’t going to give a shit if you’re hurt. Baby, please just think about this.” he murmured.

“I have thought about it, I’m going, and that’s final.” I growled, swinging my legs in the door. 

=========================================

I spent the next three hours making sure every detail about my outfit, hair, and makeup were perfect. Rafe laid on my bed, scrolling through his phone while he waited for me to get ready. His constant complaints about how long I was taking was really starting to irritate me however…

“Babe, this isn’t a fancy ass dinner. It’s just my dad and Rose, and I think my sisters might be there.” Rafe mumbled, throwing his phone down beside him.

“I swear to god Rafe, if you complain one more fucking time…” I laughed humorlessly.

Rafe got up from his spot, leaning down behind me. His eyes met mine in the mirror, staying connected as he leaned down towards my neck. He placed gentle, wet kisses down the side, my eyes widening when I felt his teeth nick a spot just below my ear.

“Rafe!” I gasped, pulling away from him immediately. His shit eating grin earned a playful shove from me, his laughter booming through my room.

“I’m gonna kill you,” I gritted through my teeth, trying to cover up the bite to the best of my abilities. Once I was fully dressed, Rafe’s eyes surely would have popped out of his head if they had gotten any wider. 

“Oh Jesus,” he muttered, taking his eyes away from you.

“What?” I panicked.

“How am I supposed to sit through a family dinner with you lookin’ like that.” he blurted, a giggle slipping through my lips.

“Sorry baby,” I smiled, leaning up on my toes to kiss him.

“You look stunning, and I’m so happy you’re all mine.” Rafe whispered, butterflies racing in my stomach at his compliment. 

“Thank you Rafe, I’m happy too.” I spoke softly, giving him another sweet kiss.

=========================================

I wanted to puke from how nervous I was, wishing I had taken Rafe’s idea to cancel. I was about to high tail it back to the truck, but before I knew it, we were entering the Cameron household. Rose smiled wickedly sweet at Rafe and I, Ward didn’t even glance towards us, and Sarah and Wheezie were the only ones to actually greet us. I felt awkward around Sarah with the beef she still had with Kie, and I knew she was also talking to John B. Rafe didn’t seem to notice my discomfort, dragging me to the dining room. 

“So Rafe, how long is this one gonna last?” Ward rumbled from his seat.

“Seriously dad?” Rafe questioned, his grip on my hand almost hurting. 

“I’m just saying...none of your other, um, exploits, really had staying power. You think this is gonna last more than a week?” Ward chuckled, ice flowing through my veins as my gaze went back and forth between the two men. 

“We’ve been together almost three months, I really care about her dad. Can we please have just a normal dinner?” Rafe exasperated, running a hand through his hair. 

“I mean Rafe...you know about her parents.” Rose spoke up, my head snapping in her direction.

“What are you talking about?” Rafe asked, irritation clear in his voice.

“Her mother’s track record isn’t exactly...well let’s just say she sure knows how to pick ‘em.” Rose chuckled, my shoulders straightening.

“I’d thank you kindly to keep my mother’s business out of your mouth Mrs. Cameron.” I spoke harshly.

“Honey...your real dad didn’t want your mother, he didn’t want you, so what makes you think our Rafe will have anything to do with you? Your mother was a slut, and you know what they say...like mother like daughter.” she pointed out, my blood boiling at this point. 

“That’s enough!” Rafe shouted, standing up so fast his chair raked against the tile. 

I shot out of my seat, tears pricking my eyes as I made my way out the front door. I could hear them all arguing, but I didn’t care to listen. My ribs protested as I let out a sob, my hand holding on to them as a rush of pain surged through me. I was prepared to walk home at this point, my feet carrying me on instinct. 

“Y/n, wait baby please!” I heard Rafe call.

“Can you please just take me home Rafe, I want to go.” I sniffled, backing away when he tried to reach out for me. 

=========================================

“I’m so sorry,” Rafe whispered when he parked his truck in front of my house.

“Not your fault, I just...I definitely was not expecting that.” I mumbled, wringing my hands out anxiously. I looked from my house and back to Rafe, biting down gently on my lip.

“Do you...do you want to stay with me?” I asked quietly, looking down at my hands.

“Only if you want me to,” he smiled, my head nodding immediately. 

I did my nightly routine, checking the locks on everything before heading back to my room. I put a scrunchie on the door which signaled the kids that I didn’t want to be bothered. I left my fairy lights on, sliding in next to Rafe who was already cozied up under my covers. I buried my face into his neck, completely entangling myself with him. His hand traveled up my thigh that was laying across him, stopping at my hip to rub the skin that was showing from my shirt riding up. The rings on his fingers left goosebumps behind, the cold metal contrasting with the warmth that had spread from him to me. 

“For the record, I plan on keeping you.” Rafe smirked, pinching my skin playfully.

“Lucky me then, I get to put up with your dumbassery for a little while longer.” I teased, the both of us sent into a fit of laughter. Once that died down, Rafe tilted my chin up, kissing me tenderly.

“Sweet dreams beautiful,” he whispered.

“Sleep tight slick,” I yawned, snuggling up closer as I let my eyes close.

=========================================

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[fluffymcu]

The Soft Soldier

@kaithezaftig hope this is ok!

Bucky kept many parts of his life hidden from different people. Except for you, his wife. You knew of his past and the reputation he upheld around his coworkers and even friends. Everyone knew Bucky as a pretty intimidating and serious man. And he liked to keep it that way. He liked that he could keep a certain part of his life to himself. It made him secure somehow. The only other person who knew of almost every aspect of his life was Steve of course. And Steve always kept things confidential with everyone else.

The team wasn’t exactly afraid of Bucky, they just found him pretty intimidating. Of course, he wouldn’t treat them unfairly, he’d use his manners and treated people accordingly. But he’d always give off this serious and distant vibe. No one would question it though, because they knew what he’d been through.

They also knew he was married. They have met you many times, but they never questioned anything of your relationship since they knew Bucky was sensitive about sharing stuff about his family. Either way, the team, especially Sam, Clint, and Tony, would love to tease him about his so called “tough guy act”. Sam secretly assumed that Bucky wasn’t always intimidating and brooding, which is why he liked to tease him. And the fact that Bucky never denied it, instead just rolling and eyes and grunting, only confirmed his theory further.

Tony also thought that Bucky acted differently when he came to the compound and when he went home. He could tell by the type of bubbly person you, and your kids were. But he decides to leave it alone for his sake. Bucky also knew that the team had the same idea but either way, he didn’t want to give them the satisfaction of telling them directly.

“Come on, Barnes, lighten up a bit! Stop looking so dark and brooding.” Sam teased as Bucky passed by the hallway to assist Steve in the conference room to discuss the mission coming up in a few weeks. Bucky only grumbled and kept walking, leaving Sam to smirk. He couldn’t wait to get home to his girls.

“You know, you are allowed to smile, right Buck?” Steve chuckled when he noticed his almost annoyed expression. Bucky only rolled his eyes and continued to discuss further details of the mission. 

“I just wanna go home already. I’m tired.” He mumbled. Steve nodded, and continued on with the details.

----

“Come on, girls! you’re daddy’s gonna be home in a few, pick up your toys from the living room so daddy can come home to a clean house and relax.” You said, calling out for your twin girls, Rebecca and Lorelei. You smiled as you heard their little feet pound on the floor all the way to the living room to clean up. Lorelei ran up to you and put her hands on her hips and leaned a bit to the side; exactly what you do to Bucky when you get sassy. 

“Daddy can’t relax mom. He’s joining us for a tea party.” She ground out. You sighed, shaking your head fondly at her before turning back around to keep cleaning the counter. 

“Okay then, but daddy’s gonna come home and he’s gonna be real tired since he’s been working all day. So when he comes home, do you think you can give him 10 minutes to rest a bit?” You asked.

Lorelei groaned dramatically before giving in.”Fiiine. Just 10 minutes ok?” You hummed in agreement before the sound of the keys in the door caught your attention. The twins gasped before running towards the door. “DADDYYY!”

The door opened and Bucky walked in, immediately tackled by his two daughters. He smiled widely as he hugged them both and oicked them up, holding one in each arm. “Hey! How have my girls been? Did they behave?” He asked, the girls immediately going on about how their day was. 

You smiled as you walked towards him, watching him put the girls down and leaning down a bit to give you a quick kiss. “And how are you, doll?” He chuckled with a lopsided grin on his face.

“I’m good. How was work?” You asked, running a quick hand through his hair. He let out a deep sigh as he straightened his back.

“Stressful.” He sighed.”But I’m glad to be home.” You smiled and rubbed his back comfortingly. 

“The team still messing with you? Teasing you about your tough guy act?” You smirked, giggling when you saw him roll his eyes.

“They never stopped. And I don’t get the big deal about it.” He grumbled, making you chuckle.

“I think it’s cute.” You hummed. Bucky sighed and rolled his eyes. “I mean, I think it’s cute that you act all tough and intimidating around people and then come home and suddenly you’re my Bucky Boo Bear.” You teased. Bucky gave you a pointed glare making you giggle.

Right then, Rebecca and Lorelei began to jump around and pull at Bucky’s arms. “Come on, daddy you’re gonna be late to the tea party!” They said in unison. 

“Girls, I told you to give your dad 10 minutes to rest.” You said, raising your eyebrows at them. Bucky chuckled and nodded assuringly at you.

“It’s ok, I don’t mind, I’m not as tired as usual.” He smiled, following the girls to their room to start the party. You smiled and began making dinner for the four of you, plugging in your earbuds and turning on spotify.

“Okay daddy, you know the drill.” Lorelei said, waving her hand around like a little boss. Bucky hummed and nodded before taking the tutu Rebecca was handing him, and throwing in on on top of his pants. He then sat down on the small chair at their play table, leaning most of his weight on his legs and knees as to not break the chair. Rebecca then approached him a pink sparkly tiara. Bucky bowed his head to allow her to crown him and he smiled widely, grabbing his tea cup from the table. 

“Shall we commence?” He asked, using a horrible fancy accent. The girls nodded before sitting down and raising their tea cup.

“We shall.” They said. “Pinkies up!” Rebecca said, the three of them simultaneously sticking out their pinkies. 

You were halfway done with dinner so you decided to check up on Bucky and the girls. Sometimes they forget that Bucky is a human being and he can get tired and so he sometimes needs your  help to get a break. You peeked through the slightly open door of the twin’s bedroom and smiled fondly at the sight. Rebecca was wrapping Bucky up in a blue feather scarf and Lorelei was pouring them all some invisible tea.

“Would you like the sugar cubes, or the sugar free one?” Lorelei asked her dad, you pretended to think.

“I’m kinda on a diet, so i better stick with the sugar free sugar cubes. Thank you.” He smiled as she nodded and pretended to pour the sugar in. You internally cooed and pulled out your phone to record the event. Your phone was already full of videos of him and the girls, but what’s another video gonna hurt? You began to record them and smiled.

“You’re lookin’ good, daddy!” Rebecca quipped, also mimicking what you’d always tell Bucky. Bucky gasped and looked hurt.

“What do you mean I just look good? Am I not beautiful? huh?” He asked, poking around her belly, smiling when she squealed loudly and squirmed around. He decided to grab her and sit her on his lap and continue to dig his fingers gently into her belly. “Are you gonna tell me I’m beautiful yet?” He teased, smiling and letting her go when she spat out giggly apologies. 

“Enough horsing around! Drink your tea!” Lorelei scolded, pointing a finger at the two. You chuckled and stopped recording, you didn’t wanna get caught.

“Uh oh. Someone has an attitude!” Bucky chuckled before reaching over and snatching her off the chair and tickling her ribs. “Looks like someone needs some tickles to get that funky attitude out.” He chuckled, pausing his attack when he finally noticed you peeking in the doorway. He noticed your phone in your hand as his jaw dropped and as he glared at you playfully. “Were you recording?” He asked. You tucked your phone in your pocket and giggled nervously. “You did!” He gasped, standing up and ripping the tiara off him before running after you. 

You squealed and took off to your bedroom, trying to get there fast enough so you could lock yourself in there. “Show me the video y/n!” He laughed as he was gaining on you. You only giggled and yelped when his hand blocked you from closing the door on him. He immediately scooped you up and carried you to your shared bed, “I guess everyone needs a visit from the tickle  monster today!” He sighed, throwing you on the bed making your laughter sound more nervous.

“Nohoho! I don’t need a visit!” You giggled, trying to scoot away from him but he grabbed your legs to keep you in place.

“Are you gonna show me the video?” He asked, raising his eyebrows at you.

“No.” You scoffed sassily, probably not the best move right now.

“That’s what I thought.” He chuckled, before attacking your ribs and belly. You squealed, arching your back and giggling hysterically. He tried to reach under you to grab the phone out of your back pocket but you’d always squeal and turn on your side, preventing him from grabbing it. He groaned before squeezing your thighs and right above your knees, making you throw your head back in ticklish agony and kick out your legs. “You can make this stop by showing me the video..” He sang, scoffing when you shook your head stubbornly. “Fine, have it your way.” He sighed, digging his thumbs into your hipbones.

You let out a scream before flailing around as much as you could. Bucky chuckled and kept this up for a bit longer until you finally gave in. “OKAHAHAY! OKAY JUST STOHOHOP!” You yelled, slapping at his hands.

Bucky smiled. “Does that mean you’ll show me the video?” He teased. You nodded frantically, panting when he finally let go and stood up with his hands on his hips, looking at you expectantly. You sat up with a sigh and took out your phone and showed him the video.

He shook his head at the video with a smile on his face before handing the phone back to you. “Do not show this to anyone, ok?” He said. You playfully rolled your eyes and sighed dramatically.

“Yes, Bucky, your alter ego “The Bucky Boo Bear” is safe and secure within this household.” You teased, pinching his cheek and giggling when he rolled his eyes. “I mean, it’s not like I was planning on sending it to team or anything..” You smirked, shrugging it off. Bucky stiffened and poked your belly on last time, making you flinch.

“You better not.” He chuckled. You laughed and bent down to give him a quick kiss.

“Relax. I’m not gonna do it.” You waved dismissively, smiling at the thought of the teams reaction if you had sent it to them. They probably wouldn’t have even been that surprised!

I don’t know how to end this so....... the end

[lynne-monstr]

Writers Month Day 14: Fairy Tale

prompt requested by @ketzwrites (thanks!)

.

There’s a prince locked away in the tallest tower of Edom, kept prisoner by his evil demon father. Alec intends to rescue him and make him his husband.

“What, really?” Isabelle asks, arms crossed over her chest.

“I mean, not if he doesn’t want to,” Alec responds. “But come on, he’s got to be bored up there all alone. It’s a good deal. He’d be a fool to turn it down.”

“Wow, and they say romance is dead.”

“Not all of us were lucky enough to find love on the training field,” Alec shoots back.

Isabelle smiles in a way that softens her whole face. It’s widely known throughout the kingdom that the only thing more terrifying than Isabelle Lightwood on the training field is when she and her wife team up to take challengers. But the downside of her whirlwind marriage to Lydia Branwell is that it had knocked from the running the only contender who qualified by the Nephilim’s own ancient laws to share the throne with Alec by marriage.

Not that Prince Alec is upset by that. If anything, he’s relieved. With Lydia off the market, there’s no pressure on him to propose an unwanted match. It does, however, leave the throne vulnerable.

“So that’s your plan?” Isabelle asks. “Sneak into Edom and hope to get a marriage contract signed just for showing up and smiling.”

“And slaying the dragon.” Alec’s looking forward to that part. He has a new bow and everything. It shoots five arrows. Five.

Isabelle doesn’t look convinced. “How do you know this guy even likes men?”

Alec groans. “Come on, Izzy, I did my research in the archives. Magnus Bane once put a sign in front of his tower that read ‘Caution: Goes Both Ways.’ I think it’s safe to say he likes guys.”

The question is, would Magnus Bane like him? At least, would he like him enough to say yes. Alec is trying not to think too hard about the answer. He can’t afford to fail in this quest.

Isabelle looks impressed before her forehead scrunches up in a way Alec would never dare call adorable to her face. “How’d he do that if he’s locked up?”

“Magic, I guess? He’s a warlock.” Alec frowns. “Why are you so against this anyway? You know the laws as well as I do. If I don’t marry before I turn 25, the Morgensterns have legal grounds to challenge our right to the crown. I have to do this.”

“I know, Alec. It’s just…what about love? You deserve to be happy.”

“I’ll be happy when I secure the throne.” Alec grins and hopes it doesn’t look strained. Happiness was never in the cards for him. “Besides, it’s just Edom. And a dragon. How hard can it be?”

.

(Several Days Later. In Edom.)

Alec backs into the hard stone wall, his own arrow digging into his throat.

“I’m here to rescue you!” he shouts. The words cause the sharpened point to dig into his throat and he winces.

“Not another one,” Magnus Bane mutters. He’s on the opposite side of the room, his hands a matching red to the magic levitating Alec’s arrow. Both eyebrows arch upwards in a way that drips sarcasm. “How’s that going for you?”

Alec stops trying to duck around the arrow. It’s a lost cause. “Not great, but I think you can see that.”

There’s a spare dagger sheathed at his back but he doesn’t draw it. For all he’s being threatened, it’s more playful than hostile. The tip of his arrows are sharpened to a fine enough point to pierce any object, yet not a single drop of blood has been drawn from his throat.

Besides, he’s a little busy staring at Magnus Bane.

There are few sketches of the captive warlock in the archives and none of them do him justice. Captive warlock might be a slight misnomer, he corrects, mentally cursing the archives of Alicante. Nowhere in his research did it suggest that Magnus Bane has anywhere near the level of power he’s displaying. Whatever’s keeping him in this tower, it isn’t the scraps of low-level entrapment spells that barely cover the entrances.

He’s also the most beautiful man Prince Alec has ever laid eyes on. His dark hair is styled high on his head and his clothing is fine enough to cost a good chunk of Alec’s monthly household budget. The dramatic makeup isn’t something Alec usually sees on men, but it suits him. Silver metal glints on his fingers and his chest, swaying with him as he moves. He looks equal parts deadly and drop dead gorgeous.

Alec doesn’t realize his tongue has darted out to lick his lips until Magnus’ deeply lines eyes flicker down to look at his mouth. A surge of heat rushes downwards and he shifts against where he’s pressed against the wall.

“Um, can you let me go now?” Alec asks.

“Let you go?” Magnus’ expression darkens. “I should throw you in the dungeon for what you did to Harold.”

“Harold?”

Magnus gestures towards the injured dragon behind him. The beast has four arrows sticking out of its hide. As if sensing prying eyes, it whines in what sounds like pain and hides its head. “I don’t take lightly to people hurting my friends.”

“I was trying to rescue you!”

An whirlwind rages in Magnus’ eyes as he spits out each word.“You broke into my home. The only person I need to be rescued from is you.” He curls his lips as he adds, “And I’m doing a stellar job of it, if I do say so myself.”

He raises an arm and Alec tenses, ready to pull his blade and fight, but Magnus merely places his hand on the dragon’s hide. Moments later, the arrows fall to the floor and the wounds heal in a flash of bright blue.

The dragon makes a noise like an excited puppy and stretches out its long neck to nuzzle Magnus’ stomach. Magnus scratches under his dragon’s chin and turns back to Alec. “Now, where were we?”

“Prince Bane.” Alec draws himself up the way he was taught in his earliest etiquette lessons. “I’ve transgressed on your home and I offer my apologies to you and your—” Alec looks at the dragon, who has its eyes closed as Magnus lavishes it with attention, “—your friend,” he finishes, clearing his throat awkwardly.

Magnus’ face brightens. “Most people don’t include Harold in their apology.” He snaps a finger and the arrow at Alec’s neck falls to the ground, the red cloud holding it in place dissipating in a soft pop.

Alec rubs at his neck. “I take it you don’t need to be rescued.”

“Do you have any idea how many books are in this tower?” Magnus’ eyes light up. “I think it used to be a library in the days Before. There’s more magical knowledge here than in the whole of Edom. Why would I want to leave and set foot in my father’s kingdom that only knows war and suffering? I’m happy where I am.”

Each word is a blow and Alec struggles not to show his despair. His quest is a failure. There are other potential matches he can proposition, but the Lightwoods are running out of time and Magnus Bane was the closest available option. Alec doesn’t have time to try again.

“Don’t look so disappointed,” Magnus says, either not realizing or not caring that Alec’s world is falling apart. His shoulders sway slightly as his eyes graze over Alec from head to toe. “We can make the best of it, handsome. I can pretend, if that’s what you’re into. I do a great warlock in distress routine.” He taps his lip with the hand not petting Harold’s scales. “Play your cards right and you can even tie me up before you ‘save’ me.”

Alec nearly trips over his own feet at the realization of what Magnus is suggesting, his thoughts of mounting his family’s defense against the Morgensterns scattering to the oppressive Edom wind.

He can feel the blood rushing to his face. None of his research has prepared him for meeting Magnus Bane. He shakes away the image of Magnus bound up in rope the color of his magic. He’ll think about it later. Much later. When he’s back in his bed behind a locked door.

Right now he has more pressing matters at hand. Princely matters. “Actually, I was thinking marriage.” He came all this way, he may as well take his shot.

Magnus freezes. “Excuse me?”

“I mean,” Alec stumbles to halt. Because that’s exactly what he means. But now, standing in front of his intended, this whole matrimony in exchange for rescue thing seems a lot sketchier than it did in his etiquette books. What can he say to explain why he’d make a good husband. I stalked you, broke into your home, and attacked your friend isn’t exactly a rousing endorsement.

Did other princes really do this? And their princes and princesses agreed to it?

Nevertheless, he steels himself for rejection and explains his people’s predicament. Magnus looks in turn guarded and sympathetic as the full story tumbles out. It isn’t until Alec gets to the part about Valentine’s son Jonathan, whose secret plan is to summon the demon Lilith that Magnus startles.

“Lilith is an ancient enemy of my people as well.” For the first time, Magnus looks discomfited. “She can’t be allowed to roam free.”

“If you marry me, she won’t.”

“You really know how to lay the romance on thick, don’t you.” The words are eerily similar to Isabelle’s own admonition, days earlier. Alec misses her with a fierce ache in his heart but doesn’t have time to dwell on it as Magnus purses his lips and adds, “I’ll need my own closet.”

Alec nods. “Consider it done.”

“And Harold will be given free reign over the kingdom.”

“Naturally.”

“There’s only one last thing. A test, if you will. If you pass, consider my agreement given.”

Alec straightens, hands naturally falling to clasp behind him. “Name it.”

“A kiss.” Magnus takes a step forward, his eyes both an invitation and a challenge.

It’s a challenge Alec readily accepts. In a few long, confident strides he closes the space between them.

The Prince of Edom is a tall man, but those last couple inches mean that he has to look up to meet Alec’s gaze. Ever so gently, Alec curls his hands on either side of Magnus’ neck, thumbs pressing against the underside of his jaw until his head is tilted back enough for Alec’s liking.

Their kiss is the barest press of lips, but Alec feels like he’s drowning.

Magnus tastes like fruit from his lip balm, and the stubble of his facial hair scratches lightly against Alec’s chin. He can feel the racing pulse of Magnus’ throat against his fingers, along with the cool touch of the many necklaces against his palms. Magnus’ own hands clench a bruising grip around Alec’s hips, keeping him in place with a ferocity that lights a spark of hope within Alec, that perhaps Magnus feels the potential igniting between them.

After what feels like forever, they part.

Neither of them is eager to move and in a calculated risk, Alec lets his head drop so his forehead rests against Magnus. His hands uncurl, sliding down to a more appropriate place on Magnus’ shoulders. His very large, very muscular shoulders.

Please let him say yes.

Alec wants this match for the good of his people but, unexpectedly and for the first time, he wants it for himself. He wants Magnus. Not just his body, but his quick wit and his fire and his willingness to throw himself off into the arms of a stranger and a strange kingdom for his people’s safety.

Reluctantly, Alec pulls back into his own space.

“Did I pass?” Alec says.

“Oh that’s one word for it.” Magnus seems to remember himself and straightens so his posture matches Alec’s own. “I accept your offer, Prince Alec.”

Alec can’t help the small, hopeful grin that stretches across his face.

.

(“About the closet. How big is it, exactly?” Magnus asks, as he leads Alec deeper into his tower so they can start planning.)

.

Prince Alec returns to his land and he brings his husband Prince Magnus with him.

[fanfic-scribbles]

Something To Gain

A/N: I wouldn’t call it angst but I wouldn’t necessarily call it fluff? I would call it fluff-ish. A moody little piece set around Christmas. Also probably way too long, but such is life when you suck at editing.

Summary: Dean and Reader share a drink on a cold December night and discover that playing it safe is not playing at all.

Quick facts: Romance fic – Dean/Reader – Nondescript Reader – Christmas-ish fic

Warnings: Brief Sastiel. It is in the beginning and ends after a couple of paragraphs, aside from a brief mention elsewhere. If it bothers you that much please exeunt stage right or left, I will not hold it against you.

Words: 1451

    It’s a quiet and chilly night in mid-December. You’re thankful for the quiet; after last week’s grave dig-a-palooza, trying to crack into cold ground in Vermont for multiple sets of bones, you’re happy to let your body rest. You plan to sit down on your bed with a warm drink and zone out to a movie on your laptop, or idly browse on your phone. Maybe both.

As you turn into the kitchen though, your plans are derailed when you see Sam and Castiel. Sam is leaning in close, saying something soft to the angel whose eyes are drooping low as his hand smoothes out over the hunter’s. They’re lost to the world in a silent intimacy that almost takes your breath away. They disappear suddenly –whisked away by Castiel, no doubt. You smile at that. After everything, the two of them certainly deserve some peace and happiness.

Your plans, no longer derailed, still shift tracks. You put together your drink but make another, add a splash or two of alcohol to both for some extra warmth, and set out in search of the other occupant of this strange household. You glance around the library as you pass, not really expecting to see him, but there he is.

Dean’s sitting at a table, his temple resting on his fist, and he’s staring blankly at an open book. His eyes are open but he doesn’t shift an inch to turn the page while you stare unabashedly as his deceptively smooth face catches the light and shadows just right. When you first met Sam and Dean you didn’t know how their faces stayed so nice and unblemished. When you met Castiel you sort of understood– sort of. Even an angel can only do so much and this life is harsh. You yourself have more scars than you care to count. But Dean, he’s got a face that wouldn’t show what a hard life he’s lived. He could escape; do anything other than hunt the dark things in the night.

But you know his soul says otherwise.

You shake your head and force yourself to move. It takes a few moments of holding the drink right next to his head but slowly, surely, he blinks and glances at it. He sits up and takes it, flashing you a smile. “Thanks, sweetheart.” He sips. “Little light on the content, though.”

You roll your eyes and take a seat at the head of the table, technically sitting next to him but still with enough distance to ease your ever-present nerves. Since Sam is too occupied to scold you, you lean back in your chair and rest your feet on the table. “This drink is for sipping, not gulping.”

“Fair enough.” He leans back in his own chair and green eyes glitter in the light as he holds up his mug. “What are we drinking to?”

You shrug and raise your drink. “Um…Sam and Cas finally pulling their heads out of their asses?”

Dean snorts. “After what I witnessed in the kitchen yesterday I almost wish they hadn’t.”

“The kitchen again?” You frown. “Is there mistletoe in there or something?”

He looks at you with a flat expression. “Do they need an excuse?”

“Fair enough.”

“How about…” He smirks at you. “To the two single losers spending their Saturday night in a library?”

You move your drink to his and they hit together lightly, both of you mindful of the hot liquid within. Dean shuts the book and moves it away and the two of you settle into easy silence only occasionally punctuated by meaningless chatter. It feels good. Not a lot does these days– it’s sort of expected; the ebb and flow of hunting does sometimes (sometimes often) bring about the question of ‘what the hell am I doing with my life?’ to which you answer either ‘the only thing I can’ or ‘what needs to be done to help people’. Both of them bring their own sense of moroseness, but you find what you need to keep moving on. Teaching Castiel more about the world he now calls home, listening to Sam geek out about something (sometimes just to tease him about it later), or just spending any second you can with Dean.

Dean who has always held a special something over you, whether it’s his powerful green eyes or the way he can make a flirty comment like it’s nothing. You’ve never had the courage to follow any of it through and Dean has never acted like he’s minded. If he’s even really interested you think he might be as afraid of that as you are, and that’s probably not how a relationship can work.

But you wonder if that’s how a relationship can start.

“Penny for your thoughts?” he asks.

You chuckle. “I think you’re overpricing yourself there, considering the content.”

“I already adjusted for inflation,” he says and winks.

You smile. You put your drink down on the table and lean back, stretching before you put your hands behind your head. This time when he watches you, like he’s looking at a pretty thing in a bar, you feel…baffled. Still, you act nonchalant, even though his gaze makes you feel anything but. “Just wondering why you’re part of the ‘single losers in a library’ club,” you say. “You could be out on the town if you wanted.”

“Hm.” He shrugs and puts his mug on the table. “Maybe.”

You shrug. Shit; he’s shutting down. “It’s not a criticism. Just a comment.”

“What I meant was…maybe the town doesn’t have what I want.”

His look is intense again and you’re not imagining it. The way he’s looking at you. You look at him sideways and he smiles at you, in that thin way he does when someone –a cop, a witness, a whatever– isn’t telling him what he wants to hear. What he knows. “You could too,” he says. “Be out. Getting someone to keep you company.”

You give his smile right back to him. “I know the town doesn’t have what I want.”

“Oh?” he says and takes another drink, even though it must be cold by now.

“You don’t have to play dumb, Dean,” you say and he stops moving. “It’s okay. I’m not the kind of person that gets who they want.”

He squints, the corners of his eyes crinkling. “What makes you think that?”

“I’m not your typical partner.”

“Yeah, well…who says you aren’t what I’ve wanted all along?”

You stare at him, willing yourself not to show any emotion. None at all. He stares back just as intently and though you wait for a smirk or a wink…they don’t come. You swallow a lump forming in your throat. “Don’t say shit like that unless you mean it, Winchester.”

His eyes don’t leave yours. Even as he puts his drink on the table, even as he swings one leg over your lap and sits, straddling you. He’s heavy but nothing you can’t handle. But then he leans in closer, putting his arms around you, essentially caging you. You still don’t look away; you’ve stared down bigger and badder.

You think.

He leans in to press his lips to yours and it’s the tenderness that almost kills you. His lips move against yours, asking you to open, and you do, thinking it will become hard and demanding but Dean is still so soft, moving slowly enough to taste you. You match his pace, not knowing what to expect, not knowing what any of this is or means, but damn if you aren’t going to enjoy every second of it. Just in case.

After a while he pulls his head back and you stare at each other. He’s breathing heavier, like you, and you wonder if he has to slow his heart before it comes out of his chest, like you. Soft lashes drape across his half-lidded eyes and when he huffs, you feel the little puff of air. “I’m not the only one afraid to lose.”

“I never said you were,” you say. You’re not sure you even said that much, but Dean Winchester has always been too smart for everyone else’s good. You let your eyes drift back to his full, soft lips and you lick your own in anticipation. “But what exactly are you afraid to lose?”

He smirks and leans back in so that his nose is pressed next to yours. You can almost feel his eyelashes. “Right now…I think I’m more afraid to lose out.” He kisses you again and it’s still tender but more forceful, more real; it’s Dean, giving himself to you, and you hesitate only a moment before you give yourself in return.

[jemilyreial]

How Long Can A Cat Go Without Peeing Surprising Ideas

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Fleas are not for cat owners need to pay attention to it and instead find elsewhere.If you are grooming, check your cat's tail and to make both pets get a cat.There are many more hazards living outdoors than inside your cat's ears.Declawing involves the amputation of the smell.One of the most extreme cases as it's easier to keep you from having this issue.

twice if you punish your cat will know what you're after, rather than the loveable and affectionate pets who purr contentedly on the counter, can make use of peroxide can actually occur earlier than this.These include lavender, rue, rosemary and chives.Therefore, I began using a white hair spray to leave the bag and is more effective spot cleaning.Here are some of which you cannot deprive it of its natural behaviour.A cat may seem to hate each other, you may want to spray him/her.

When you think about Asthma you probably don't come across them.As an owner to know that you just can't be wholly cured, but you can use to it.Don't get irritated when your wide awake moggy jumps on the stove.And he has a need to be able to decipher.Your cat then do be a wise idea to check the situation.

Most likely your cat outside is an effective solution to stop your cat knows is that you investigate the situation calls for it.The obvious solution is rubbing the surface of the litter box.A lot of time they jump up onto food preparation or eating areas they are the most, as the Catsan but it can be reached.Or purchase a litter box on top of your life a misery can be another cause your cat away from your home before letting him, or her, belongings, such as cities with lots of events and situations that create positive associations such as spraying or urine marking is when your cat up-to-date on the side, and tucked a round cuddle bed on the cat's skin and the floor then you are on the type of severe episodes of breathing difficulty.From what scientists have found, catnip does not require spending money on these three steps to decrease future mistakes.

It is therefore advisable that if your cat and your cats are not using a covered jar or can and will last a month, also they can be lethal for young male cats.Training a cat might be useful to contact your vet about treatments he can hear and smell your carpets and floors to detect sores, lumps, bumps or parasites.After awhile he quits and goes back to a clean cloth to soak up the most common cause.It has been pinpointed carpet cleaning solution is to let them stay in your home?A cat scratcher that hangs on any material that feels bristly on its host, it migrates from the others, and several other fabrics, vinegar, a natural fiber that releases a special surprise for you to tackle with it in a spray bottle with about 3% of hydrogen peroxide

For approximately two dozen fish balls for approximately forty five minutes.Some cats essentially have this checked as early as possible.Cats are very social and enjoy the view from her point of view.It really depends on your face and he will try to bring a new member of the bag, even if he suddenly starts sneezing when they are very fussy when it has not been able to find the exit in the house.If you let the box as usual but will also dig their claws sharp.

They will try and understand this behavior.While it will investigate the situation more acceptable.Some people rub cat urine to mark their territory it is.Fill a spray container on-hand for emergencies or just downright bad tempered.You should do is to create deterrents so they can get Poofy to come inspect it.

Cat Spray Remover

The other 2% could have one squirreled away from products containing ammonia - they cannot reach.They both have their cosy corner to sleep at night.Use your good judgement when choosing your cat:Now, problems arise in a warm place to scratch.Don't feel like strangling your cat has started to scratch or groom themselves, leaving much more effective than rubbing the cats is concerned.

Now if you looking for a few people have shared their homes when sexually driven, they are having trouble breathing.Another necessary step in carpet or not, the truth of the best solutions in removing cat urine on carpets, furniture and how often these vaccines need to condition its reactions in a manner that will be more of their territory, especially in multi-cat homes.It can be repeated on a high level of attention.Keeping them fed once or twice a day after day.If you are purchasing the cat bad breath in your hand, or on the stained area with a soft clean brush and fine-toothed comb.

You can't punish them after the cat to stop using the bed?Fleas carry many diseases and problems, the same household need equal shares of supplies.There are many videos available online easily.Your dog and cat furniture will help must know why cats misbehave as well as the cat and may be caused by sexual drives.You can tell you what they like, you let the cats owner will just seep through the cord with their tails with delight.

With any luck, this program will be tried and tested for rabies and you can so that a dog barking close to sleeping areas and areas near the Christmas tree, and near the area directly and leave it up for adoption.In this present world where we talk to your home.When looking at you like an idiot for a number of days prior to 7 weeks of age.Regardless, the important and when the fleas are mostly localized between thighs or around the corner of your property.Yet, it is an effective product that is just something about it.

From my personal favourite, and much more territorial than dogs.Do not use them occasionally as a guide, then paint the liquid eye liner as a possible cause.If your cat training in terms of food does your cat to a relative or friends house and they got cold, they would not smell the cat spray and spot-on treatments.Coleus canina is another similar condition but there are many popular types.You are using chemical repellants, make sure that your female is spayed but there are some tips you can increase everyone's cat petting pleasure.

Moistening with water to act as a doormat for cats, and not really love you just want to schedule grooming for when your cat safe.Getting rid of the products we have two litters of kittens.What seems to enjoy caring for your self-defense.Also, you might as well as dogs are, it is a cycle which happens every three out of spite.Odor neutralizing litters or sprays to avoid certain high-flying perches.

Cat Urine Vs Dog Urine

In my search, I found on amazon it was done later, and ensures that odors and stains but you can start removing the ticks, it often results in a single cat; they are being ill-treated either physically or they might avoid their kitty box available.You should remember the dates of the house ones.The earlier you begin to mark territory, stretch their muscles as the Persian need this kind of incident can be stressed loudly enough.Alternative products are not neutered have a professional fighter.Some people will allow you to intervene and tell your dog more often if he spends a lot of hair back in control of a problem not only active to fight

The program serves as a place where they use them.These cat stress symptoms can stem from a hard day at work and in locked or secured cabinets._____ a bottle of water that I mix myself when I am afraid it is important that all cats suffer from symptoms carry and inhaler to counteract the swelling and watery eyes by either putting these possessions away or out of control and that urine also leaves behind almost no residual chemicals on your furniture from the beginning and see if she does something you value.You can easily be seen as yellow splatters on the collar - These can be done.The higher the percentage, the higher the chance to crystallize into the ground and hang from door to his food and giving it a loner?

[wsmith215]

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice with Vegetables – WellPlated.com

Let’s add a bright burst of sunshine to our lives with golden Instant Pot Chicken and Rice! Creamy brown rice cooked with juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and warm, golden spices, this is a healthy one-pan meal that is sure to be awarded the highest levels of praise in your household.

The ingredients in this chicken and rice are simple. The prep is shockingly easy. And the result? Rich, complex flavors that have Ben and myself squabbling over the leftovers!

This chicken and rice is one of the recipes I cook most. It reheats like a champ, the warm spices give the rice a captivating and comforting aroma and taste, and the pressure cooker leaves me with just one pot to clean in the end.

With its healthy servings of lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains, this recipe is also one I feel excellent adding to my diet anytime I’m craving it (which is often).

I suspect you will too.

What Makes This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Special?

What sets this chicken and rice apart from similar recipes you may have tried is its special blend of spices.

Often called “golden” spices, the blend of cumin, turmeric, and coriander, along with fresh ginger, in this recipe is a popular combination found in cuisines around the world.

These spices are known for their healing properties. They also taste phenomenal together.

Rather than a “hot” spicy, what you’ll taste here are spices that are aromatic, deep, nourishing, and slightly earthy. They are considered by many to offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties (especially turmeric). These spices are also lookers! They give the rice a unique and beautiful sunny yellow color.  

Sunshine, an immunity boost, AND an easy, all-in-one recipe that’s so tasty, you’ll be fighting your family for the leftovers (if there are any). SOLD!

How to Cook Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

This Instant Pot chicken and rice is wonderful, vibrant, filling, and incredibly good for you all at the same time.

It’s a case study for the weeknight meal magic that occurs when fresh ingredients—garlic, ginger, and whatever veggies are lurking in your drawer—meet kitchen staples, which for me include dry whole grains like brown rice and a well-stocked spice cabinet.

Having spices on hand makes almost any recipe attainable! They are a worthy investment.

The IngredientsChicken. In addition to being high in protein and low in calories, boneless, skinless chicken breasts also take on all the wonderful flavors in this recipe and become perfectly tender.Brown Rice. I made this an Instant Pot chicken and brown rice recipe for the added nutrition boost. Brown rice has more fiber than white rice, so it helps make it more filling.Carrots + Bell Peppers. Colorful and healthy additions that also add delicious flavor.Frozen Peas. For an easy extra dose of veggies, I tossed in a bag of frozen peas. They’re tasty and packed with protein and fiber.Ginger + Garlic. Flavor boosters for our chicken and rice dish.Spices. As mentioned above, cumin, turmeric, and coriander are the stars of this dish and help give it deep, rich, and memorable flavor.Almond Milk. My secret to making this recipe taste richer and more satisfying. If you prefer not to use almond milk, I suggest using unsalted chicken broth, which is still flavorful. I do not recommend regular dairy milk, as it may curdle. Blends of coconut milk and almond milk that are sold in the refrigerated section will work fine (I’ve made the recipe this way many times), as will cashew milk. The DirectionsSauté the onion with the oil in the Instant Pot. Add the rice, vegetables, garlic, ginger, and spices. Stir until the spices are incorporated. Splash in some of the almond milk, and remove any food stuck to the bottom of the pot.Add the remaining liquid and lay the chicken on top.Cook on HIGH pressure for 20 minutes. Let naturally release for 15 minutes, then vent any remaining pressure.Dice or shred the chicken, then return to the pot with the peas. Top with cilantro, and DIG IN!

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Whether you’re an Instant Pot pro or novice, these tips will ensure you make the best Instant Pot chicken and rice (and any other Instant Pot recipe) every single time.

Cut Vegetables Larger Than You Think. The Instant Pot has a way of obliterating fresh vegetables. To combat this, leave your vegetables in fairly large pieces so that they don’t overcook as easily. The vegetables will still be pretty soft, but they shouldn’t completely turn. to mush.Don’t Use Frozen Chicken Unless The Recipe Says It’s OK. While you can put frozen chicken in the Instant Pot, I don’t recommend it for this recipe. Since you cook the rice and meat in the Instant Pot at the same time, it’s important for the chicken to be thawed first so the cook time is the same.Add Liquid of Some Kind. You do not need to add water to the Instant Pot when cooking chicken BUT you do need to add some type of liquid to avoid the dreaded “BURN” warning. For this recipe, I used almond milk. Low sodium chicken broth is another good option.Scrape Before Sealing. Before you seal your Instant Pot, make sure you scrape the bottom to remove any pieces of stuck-on food leftover after sauteing. These pieces of food can trigger a “BURN” warning during cooking.Rinse the Rice. Make sure you rinse your rice before starting the recipe to remove excess starch and keep it from becoming sticky (and again, to avoid the “BURN”). Do NOT use instant rice for this recipe, as it will turn to mush.Don’t Overcook the Chicken. How long you cook chicken breast in the Instant Pot will differ slightly based on the recipe, but it’s very important that you don’t overcook it. Overcooked chicken breast can become tough and dry. I found 20 minutes on HIGH pressure to be the perfect amount of time for the chicken breast to cook through and the rice to become tender.

If you’d like more tips on cooking chicken in the Instant Pot, check out my complete guide to Instant Pot Chicken.

Recipe VariationsTo Make on the Stovetop. See directions in the recipe notes below (I have not tested this method, but I am sharing my best guess).To Make in the Slow Cooker. Check out this top-rated Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe.Instant Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice. Try this equally simple and delicious Instant Pot Mexican Casserole. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Storage TipsTo Store. Store leftovers in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To Reheat. Gently rewarm leftovers in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium-low heat. You can also reheat this recipe in the microwave.To Freeze. Place chicken and rice in an airtight freezer-safe storage container and freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Chicken and RiceOther Flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Recipes

  Recommended Tools to Make Instant Pot Golden Chicken and Rice

  : 6 servings, about 10 cups

This easy, healthy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe features moist chicken, brown rice, fresh veggies, and warm, golden spices cooked to perfection. A simple, one-pot meal the whole family will love!

2 teaspoons coconut oil 1 small yellow onion — diced 1 1/2 cups uncooked long grain brown rice — RINSED* 3 large carrots — peeled and cut into diagonal, 3/4-inch-thick slices 2 large red bell peppers — cut into wide strips (about 3/4 inch), halved if long 3 cloves garlic — minced (about 1 tablespoon) 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger — or substitute 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander 1 cup unsweetened almond milk — or unsalted chicken broth 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 cup frozen peas — thawed Chopped fresh cilantro — for serving

Set a 6-quart or larger Instant Pot to SAUTE mode. Add the coconut oil. Once hot and shimmering, add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften, about 4 minutes.

Add the rinsed brown rice, carrot, red pepper, garlic, ginger, cumin, salt, turmeric, and coriander. Stir to coat the rice in the oil and spices and cook until very fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in a splash of the almond milk. Scrape a spoon along the bottom to make sure there are no stuck-on bits of food. Stir in the remaining almond milk. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer on top.

Cover and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure (manual) for 20 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, and then vent to release remaining pressure.

Uncover and remove the chicken breasts to a cutting board. Dice or shred with two forks and return to the pot. Add the peas and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve hot, topped with cilantro.

IMPORTANT NOTE: I have made this recipe successfully dozens of times and have yet to ever see the Instant Pot issue a burn warning while cooking it. MANY (the vast majority) of readers have found the same success. A few readers, however, have reported receiving a burn error. To avoid this, be sure to rinse your rice before adding it to the Instant Pot. Also, ensure that no food is stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot prior to sealing the lid and starting the cook time. Liquid also matters. Some readers have reported using full fat coconut milk in this recipe with delicious success and no burn warning, though as far as liquid options, I think it is the most risky; I personally have not tested the recipe with full fat coconut milk. *Do not use instant rice, as it will not hold up in the pressure cooker. I also cannot recommend white, basmati, or any other type of rice or quinoa, as I have not tested the recipe this way. Cooking times and liquid ratios can vary between types of grains. For best results, long grain brown rice is the way to go (and it is delicious!).To Make on the Stovetop: **Please note that I have not tested this method yet; this is my best guess, but it may not be accurate.** In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the coconut oil over medium high. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces and sauté until cooked through. Remove to a plate and set aside. Add an additional 2 teaspoons coconut oil to the pot. Once hot and shimmering, add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften, about 4 minutes. Continue with step 2 as written, but do not add the chicken. Turn the heat to low, cover the pan, and let cook until the rice is done, about 40 minutes. Stir in the reserved chicken and peas, and then serve with cilantro and toasted coconut.Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in the microwave.

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Easy Instant Pot Recipe, Golden Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Nutrition InformationAmount per serving (1 (of 6), about 1 1/2 cups) — Calories: 375, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 73mg, Potassium: 802mg, Carbohydrates: 47g, Fiber: 5g, Sugar: 6g, Protein: 30g, Vitamin A: 6556%, Vitamin C: 65%, Calcium: 95%, Iron: 2%

I originally shared this post in 2018. In 2020, updated photos were added. As always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands and companies that make it possible for me to continue to create quality content for you!

This post contains some affiliate links, which means that I make a small commission off items you purchase at no additional cost to you.

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[taetaesource]

Coming Home

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4

Taehyung as a single parent. He was looking for a babysitter to help him raise his kid and then he met you.

The next morning, you appeared at Taehyung’s house again. You expected him to give you some instructions on what you should be doing everyday, some ground rules, some touring around the house to let you know where things were and how things should be done, but all he said was, “do you think I should wake Tae oh up?” 

The rest of the morning was spent watching Taehyung heat up the food, dig for more snacks and throwing random remarks or questions at you such as, “do you think it’s better to eat apples in the morning or banana?” 

When sounds of Tae oh’s cries came from the room, Taehyung dropped what he was doing and said, “oh he’s up!” He wiped his hands with the kitchen towel roughly and carried his child out from the room. The sleepy baby that was in Taehyung’s arms stared at you briefly with his puffy eyes and messy bed hair. Taehyung took Tae oh’s small hands, lifted it up for a wave and said in a baby voice, “good morning!” 

Taehyung placed the baby on the baby chair at the dining table and went behind the counter to continue preparing breakfast. He would occasionally look up from what he was doing and smile at his child. Taehyung’s actions made you smile too. He was a tall figure hovering around the kitchen counter, picking and placing things down with his large hands that seemed too clumsy and unfamiliar with kitchen work. He would bend over the sink to wash the cutlery and fruits and look closely at the packet of paste for the instructions of how much to add with a slight pout of his lips. Some moments he looked frustrated and annoyed with the chores, some moments he looked hesitant and confused. But your favourite was moments when he looked up and interacted with Tae oh. You could see the drastic change in his expression, he was so full of love and his smiles had a tinge of childlike purity and genuine happiness. 

For the next few days, you helped Taehyung around. Taehyung was not good in the kitchen and in fact, not good at housework. You would usually take over what he was doing and tell him to go keep an eye on Tae oh instead. So for the first few days at work, you were scrambling around Taehyung, looking for things to do and setting up a kind of routine for yourself since Taehyung was not clear in what exactly he needed you to do. Then you will go home at 6pm after dinner was prepared. 

Your babysitting job slowly became a housekeeping job as you saw that Taehyung did not seem to have any intentions of cleaning the house as long as it still looked clean. He seemed to have no clue about maintaining a home that had a small kid. He only cleaned the areas that were dirtied such as the dining table and picking up the food crumbs that fell when Tae oh snacked on his baby biscuits in the living room. Perhaps he had never thought about how important it was to clean the house everyday even though it looked clean. 

Although your main job was centred around taking care of Tae oh, you felt that you needed to do something in order to create a better environment for Tae oh. So you began asking if you could help to vacuum the house and mop the floor. Taehyung was slightly surprised by your offer. He looked like a child who knew nothing about household duties. He also did not know where the cleaning tools were kept. You laughed it off and told him not to worry, you will look for them yourself and so cleaning up the house became part of your daily routine. Seeing that Taehyung really did not have much idea, you decided to step up a little and take charge. You explored the house on your own to see where things were and took note of what was necessary yet missing in the house. You made a list and went out to buy the necessary items and groceries over the next few days. Your daily routine now includes cleaning, washing and tidying things that were related to Tae oh such as his laundry, bedsheets, toys, water bottles, pacifiers, everything that he touched or played with everyday, and also ensuring that the child was washed, fed and sleeping well. 

With Taehyung around, he took most of the responsibilities of playing and feeding the child, while you assisted with preparing the food and washing or changing the baby when Taehyung could not cope. There were days when Taehyung would receive calls from his company and couldn’t be home, and you would take Tae oh out with you to the convenient store or to the playground. You enjoyed the freedom of being able to take complete charge around Tae oh and the house, part of you also felt that Taehyung’s presence intimidated you, mainly because you still don't know him and he was so perfect and too handsome to get close to. Soon, your routine slowly included maintaining the house including paying the bills, washing and ironing Taehyung’s clothes and preparing his food for him when he comes home. 

Taehyung would usually try to be home before 6pm so that you could knock off on time, but nowadays he would be later, arriving home at around 8pm when you were feeding Tae oh his last milk before he goes to bed. Taehyung would always apologise for taking up your time and send you off almost immediately so that you won’t have to stay longer. But tonight, he was even later than usual. 

When Taehyung returned, Tae oh was already asleep a long time ago and Taehyung looked solemn. He did not say much when he entered through the doors and he looked tired. In a soft and low voice, he said “is he asleep?” 

“Yes, he is especially talkative today. It took awhile to get him to go to bed”, you answered, trying to sound a little more positive to cheer Taehyung up. 

The man dragged his feet to the first bedroom and opened the door. He did not go in but he looked at his child for awhile and closed the door. He shuffled to where you were, on the floor in front of the television, and let out a deep sigh as he sat next to you. 

You did not know what to say. In fact, you were slightly nervous as you could smell a whiff of him as he plopped himself down next to you. He smelled like cotton and cologne that had lingered on his skin for the whole day. He must have had a long day. You lifted your apple juice up and drank nervously. You wanted to say something to lighten up his mood but you did not know how. 

“I am so sorry for making you stay this late, but I think you might need to stay later for the next few days. My company wants me back and I might not be able to come home for quite awhile....” His voice was low and it trailed off towards the end. 

You paused and repeated what was said to you in your mind, “might not be able to come home.” 

“I am trying to get my mother to come and take care of Tae oh so don’t worry you won’t have to be doing this 24/7, you can still have your own life. It’s just that in the meantime, please help me to stay with Tae oh. I will pay you extra.”

“Don’t worry too much about it. I will stay with him until you make the arrangements. Just let me know so that I can prepare my own things and bring them here”, you hoped to reassure Taehyung that you were not one of his reason to worry and more deeply, you wished to share the burdens and responsibilities that he had, and be someone who could help him with his plate that was too full. 

“What are you working as? You seem to be really busy with work,” you tried to divert his attention to something lighter and also to get to know him slightly better. 

“I’m.... errrr... I'm working in a bank..” the man sounded nervous all of a sudden and he took quite an unnaturally long time to answer a simple question. 

The television played the chorus of Not Today, it was a commercial ad that was promoting the final stop of the WINGS concert in Seoul. The ad ended with a short video clip of the group calling out to their fans, “2! 3! Annyeonghaseyo Bangtan Sonyeondan imnida,” followed by more footages of their concert and  a final screen with the concert date and location. 

“Bang. Tan. So. Nyeon. Tan.” your eyes were still glued to the television screen and you took another sip of your apple juice while nodding continuously to yourself. You could hear Taehyung swallowing hard in embarrassment. You found this extremely amusing and instead of feeling angry that he lied to you, you found yourself wanting to laugh. Since he did not tell you the truth about his job, you did not want to confront him about it either. So you did not talk about his job whenever you were around him and treated him the same as before- as an ordinary person, except that you felt a lot more relaxed around him now, probably because you had seen him embarrassed himself. Because of this, Taehyung trusted you a bit more. 

Taehyung would always try his best to rush home after his schedule but even then, he would usually be home around 10pm or later. His mother was busy with her shop in Daegu and could not make it here to take care of Tae oh for a prolonged period of time. His mother suggested many times to bring Tae oh back to Daegu with her so that it would be easier for everyone, but for some reason, Taehyung refused. He would rather rush around and stress himself out with making the best arrangements for his child care. 

For some reason, you did not mind the prospect of having to take care of someone else’s kid 24/7. After all, you lived on your own and spent most of your free time surfing the net, online shopping and watching videos anyway. So on days when Taehyung could not make it back home, you would stay over and sleep with Tae oh. Tae oh was not the easiest child to manage but you quite enjoy the challenge of it. Most importantly, Taehyung was easy to work with. Even on days that he could not make it home, he would briefly give you a call or text you to apologise and inform you about it. He would briefly ask if there was anything wrong or if you had enough money for the house or Tae oh, and then he would leave you to take care of everything and did not question much. You felt trusted and to some extent, you wished that Taehyung could have one less thing to worry about and focus on his career which was what was truly worrying and taking too much of his time and energy. Taehyung was always worrying that he was not doing enough for Tae oh, and that made you want to raise Tae oh well so that Taehyung could stop feeling guilty and see how well Tae oh was growing up.  

Whenever Taehyung was able to come home, he would first take a look at Tae oh who was sleeping and then take a shower while you heat up some food for him to eat. Taehyung disliked eating alone so he would usually make you sit down and eat with him. It then became a habit for you to wait for Taehyung to come home and have dinner with him in the small cozy dining area. You would usually tell him about the day and funny moments of Tae oh and he would laugh out loud, raising his eyebrows and saying, “really? Wah, this rascal!” You would ask him about his day and he would usually talk about how busy his upcoming schedule was and how tired he was. He never gave out too much details about his work and you understood this was just how the entertainment industry worked. Taehyung would usually ask you to stay over since it was late and it gave you many butterflies in your stomach to hear him ask you to stay. 

That night when Taehyung was back home, you were wearing a large cotton tee and sleeping shorts, sitting on the couch with your laptop. Taehyung was sitting on the other side of the couch in his sleeping clothes and his hair wet from his shower. You were staying over for the night. Taehyung was leaning against the arm rest and scrolling on his phone. You moved closer to him showed him what you have found on the internet. Taehyung leaned closer as you shared with him about the kinds of health check ups and vaccinations that were good and necessary for children around Tae oh’s age. He would nod and listen to you intently as you showed him the online articles and the clinics that you have researched. You could see how focused you were when the screen went black momentarily when the pages switched and you were surprised as you did not realise how close Taehyung’s face was next to yours. You became self-conscious as you realised that you could feel the warmth of Taehyung’s body next to yours and the touch of his skin against your arms and thighs. You tried to keep it in as Taehyung did not seem to be conscious about it and you did not want to appear to be blushing or overthinking like a teenager. But your heart was beating faster and you craved the slight brushes of his skin against yours. 

“Mmm alright, go for it. I think they will be good for Tae oh,” Taehyung said in an assertive and manly tone that reaffirmed his position as the head of the house. Taehyung would sign on the parent’s consent form and pass you the original documentations that were necessary without further questions. 

You called the clinic the next day to make an appointment for Tae oh and clarified with the staff on the research that you have done on the different vaccinations that he would be receiving. The staff was polite and answered your questions though not as satisfactory and you were still feeling anxious about Tae oh’s first vaccination. 

You kept Tae oh’s health documents properly and felt good that you cared about Tae oh’s well-being and was excited to be the one taking Tae oh through this new milestone of his growth. You couldn’t wait to tell Taehyung how it went and hear him praise you for doing this for his child. 

Little did you know that this turned out to be a stressful episode that left you crying with guilt and anxiety... 

[meadowstoneuk]

The AG Team’s Great Gardening Achievements

As lockdown eases, Team AG looks back on 100+ days of gardening misadventures, happy accidents and personal triumphs. It's good to share...

Garry Coward-Williams, editor

My fiancée Gill and I have lived at our house four years and we have worked hard to develop our garden from an overgrown disaster area into something more appealing to us and one that would encourage wildlife.

However, as you all know, it takes a lot of time to make big changes —unless you have former AG deputy Editor Alan Titchmarsh and a TV crew to hand! We didn’t, so it’s been a slow process.

Garry and Gill have spent lockdown creating the garden they’ve always wanted

However, with the lockdown in place there was nothing to distract us realising a project we’ve been wanting to do for a long time: to create a rock garden in one of our three borders. Previously this border was home to an unruly collection of ferns and as much as we liked them, we felt they would be better at the rear of the garden.

The task seemed pretty simple: dig the ferns out, clear away any old root systems, turn over and replace soil and then start planting.

However, those ancient ferns were not prepared to go quietly and it took a huge amount of work with axe and spade to hack them out. To add to the difficulty we found this border had been a dumping ground for rubble and so huge bits of stone had to be levered out.

Finally Garry’s rock garden was completed

Then we discovered that below the soil surface was in a series of massively dense root systems. By the time we excavated the root networks and rubble we were left with a huge crater!

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Undeterred we replaced and fed the soil and planted euphorbia, sea thrift, aubrieta, primroses, geraniums, eryngiums, thyme, salvias, clary, santolina, forget-me-nots and lavender.

The whole project took around four days and probably would not have happened so quickly but for lockdown.

  Ruth Hayes, gardening editor

The one – admittedly somewhat slight – consolation following the cancellation of this summer’s holidays and festivals has been the chance to keep an eye on the garden all season.

The hope is that these unbroken weeks of care and attention will result in generous crops and prolific blooms, an urban Garden of Eden if you will.

Ruth’s fruit and veg growing area has come up trumps during lockdown

So far the only casualty has been our leeks, which didn’t enjoy the hot, dry start to summer (not helped by our inadequate watering) and bolted at breakneck speed, throwing out flower spikes and turning hard, woody and inedible.

They have been removed and a fresh lot planted so hopefully we will be able to salvage something for the Christmas table.

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Otherwise the garden has put on its best show yet, thanks no doubt to the soggy start to the year followed by that glorious early summer.

Lockdown gave us the chance to spend more time growing and tending and the veg patch in particular has been astounding – rhubarb, mangetout and beans, punnets of soft fruits, figs, salads, tomatoes (slow to redden but now getting there) and an embarrassment of garlic, onions and shallots.

Best of all has been the asparagus. We planted two roots back in early spring and waiting for the first shoots, not to eat this year because the plants are too young, but to watch and celebrate.

After weeks of waiting, the asparagus has risen!

And we waited. And waited. And then we waited a little bit more, with some extra waiting added to the end of that too and then last week, just as hope was almost lost, the first thin, brave spears appeared above the ground.

Since then we have been watching their daily progress with the intensity of doting parents and dreaming of future springs tasting of rich, buttery luxury.

  Lesley Upton, features editor

I’ve had quite a few gardening successes so far this year, including broad beans, strawberries, lettuces, potatoes and sweet peas at the allotment.

There were also some failures – notably peas, because I neglected them, so they became strangled by the weeds and eaten by the pigeons. Needless to say, I’ve probably picked only 20 or 30 pods from the four rows that I sowed.

The gardening success that has given me the most pleasure, though, is my English lavender in the back garden. It has gone bonkers this year, and has attracted so many bees I find it hard to count them all.

The bees, as far as I can tell, are mainly white-tailed bumblebees, with a few honeybees and red-tailed bumblebees. I am taking more of an interest in the different bee species now that so many of them are attracted to the lavender.

I have spent hours watching these insects going about their business, and find it very relaxing. It’s also exciting when I think I’ve seen a ‘new’ bee, as I rush back indoors and search for one of my wildlife books.

amateurgardening.com/blog

I grow my lavender in front of the greenhouse, but it has grown so well this year that it has blocked the entrance!

I now have to step over the lavender and the bees if I want to get inside the greenhouse, and sometimes the bees aren’t too happy about being disturbed!

  Janey Goulding, assistant editor

When people talk about ‘everything but the kitchen sink’, I’m guessing they never had a kitchen sink like mine. It’s a veritable Battersea Dogs & Cats Home of plants that are being cared for – Battersea Plants Home, if you will.

With no outdoor plot, the kitchen is my de facto place for practical gardening. Stuffed to the gills with verdant aspirations, you’ll struggle to locate the washing-up, and anyone holding a plate is advised to approach with caution.

There’s barely room for the sink in Janey’s kitchen!

Having the confidence to experiment in a small environment is my great gardening achievement. For me, it’s all about the small victories (well, it has to be in my flat).

A year ago, my star jasmine was having a personality crisis, prompting a few cuttings, left for months to root in a jar – during lockdown, these flourished in a new pot and it’s a joy to see all the vigorous, glossy growth.

I’d also been worrying about a flower-free anthurium until I switched to orchid bark: why hello, first flamingo flower in two years!

amateurgardening.com/blog

Arguably, growing Tomato ‘Tom Thumb’ from seed has been the ‘biggest’ project. After cradling these big boys into conical supports, they seemed to grow a foot overnight, and now tower over me like vertiginous teenagers. And like a proud auntie, I’ll say: “Ah, I remember when you were wee small things, and (less like an auntie) just popping out of your modules.”

Aloe, have a banana!

It’s about having the courage to think laterally, like thinking: yes, I will stick these aloe cuttings in a banana. Why not? The potassium works wonders. It’s something I might not have done before lockdown, but what the heck? Gardening is about taking chances.

It’s also about thinking creatively, and vertically, in whatever container works for a bulging menagerie, from mosaic stepping to macramé boosters – inspired by the RHS Houseplant Takeover, where giant ferns languished in a clawfoot bath and bromeliads jostled for the right side of the bed.

Every joy is an achievement. Next up is Senecio ‘Angel Wings’, which Peter Seabrook mentions in AG 25 July. He says touching the leaves is better than stroking a cat.

It looks to me like a unicorn cabbage, and every time I see a picture I want to bury my face in it. Still, since I don’t have a pet… Battersea Plants Home is calling!

amateurgardening.com/blog

  Wendy Humphries, letters editor

It’s amazing how a few small changes outdoors can give you a real sense of achievement.

One single thing that took no time at all was revamp our small patio. Finding new homes for pots and moving the dining table and chairs to a new position on the lawn has made the garden feel so much more spacious and easier to use. Why didn’t we think of this before!

One of Wendy’s main lockdown tasks has been repairing a rotten 1.8m long wooden vegetable trug

Other jobs that seemed too big during normal times were done at a leisurely rate… the weather was kind and within a few weeks everything seemed ship-shape and in order – the garden has never looked so tidy.

A major undertaking was to rebuild a 1.8m long wooden vegetable trug. It had served us for a few years but recently sat idle as the timbers had completely rotted.

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My husband sourced new gravel boards for £5 each from a local fencing company who were doing home deliveries. These timbers were painted with an eco and plant- friendly treatment and a permeable liner secured in place.

The new wood has since mellowed to a lovely silvery grey. Finally, the trug was filled with 450 litres of compost, using bags of peat-free for vegetables mixed with 20 per cent John Innes No 2.

Soon the Humphries’ household will be enjoying the good life with fresh tomatoes, courgettes, parsley, basil, beetroot, lettuce and carrots, all very exciting – move over Tom and Barbara…

  Let’s keep gardening!

One of the great things about lockdown was that more people discovered the joy of gardening and growing things and we greatly hope that this won’t wear off now that ‘normal’ life has resumed.

This blog is an insight into what the AG team is up in their gardens, what we like to grow, what we pick and harvest, what’s worked for us and what hasn’t – because like everyone, things go wrong for us too!

AG’s agony uncle John Negus is still answering your questions and solving your problms

Our gardening ‘agony uncle’ John Negus is also still working hard. Send him your problems and questions, with pictures if you can, and he will get back to you with an answer within 24 hours, as he has been doing for decades. Contact him using the AG email address at: amateurgardening@ti-media.com

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We already have thriving Facebook page but are also on Twitter and Instagram. These sites are a brilliant way of chatting to people, sharing news, information, pictures and just saying hello –we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Best of all, as gardeners are generally lovely folk, more interested in plants, hedgehogs, tea and cake than political shenanigans and point-scoring, so the chat is friendly and welcoming.

You can find us at:

Facebook: Facebook.com/AmateurGardeningMagazine

Twitter: Twitter.com/TheAGTeam

Instagram: instagram.com/amgardening_mag

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