#always soft lemon cheesecake cookies

[royal-food]

Always Soft Lemon Cheesecake Cookies

[toasttt11]

my au’s favorites and facts

august crosby

favorites

blueberry waffles

blueberry muffins

sidney’s banana bread

tea, any kind

tacos! specifically street tacos

her moms blueberry pie

favorite season is spring

favorite color is soft orange like the sunset

she loves sunflowers or roses

facts

always loved anything to do with baking, tends to stress back when feeling overwhelmed, any free time she enjoys using it by baking, especially with her diet she can’t eat all of what she bakes she ends up donating most of it or bringing it for the staff of the arena.

loves starting her day off with a run, especially outside and getting some fresh air.

is a big gift giver and is always giving gifts to the ones she cares for.

genuinely adores being a godmother and is always looking for presents and trinkets to bring or send to them, she also makes sure she had everything for them at her house when they come to visit her.

loves when she has free time to explore around outside and find hikes she likes, she has found a lot of trails in vegas that she loves.

brinley matthews

favorites

peanut butter M&Ms

peanut butter and bananas

steak, loves anything that is grilled

s’mores with peanut butter

peanut butter and jelly sandwiches

peanut butter and chocolate workout shakes

favorite season is summer

favorite color is yellow

favorite flower are baby’s breath especially the rainbow ones

facts

hates being cold, always on the ice is wearing a long sleeve compression shirt under her jersey to not be cold.

has some thing peanut butter before every game no matter what.

crochet has been something she has done most her life, it’s what she always has with her during travel.

always had curly hair and has always hated it, never likes trying to style it and ends up getting it straighten and getting treatments for it stay that way.

has always been very tall and was used to he taller than most of her teammates even though she is a girl.

loves animals specially dogs, and has always wanted to have her own dog.

maleah barzal

favorites

grilled cheese and tomato soup

french fries

anything dark chocolate and raspberry

cheesecake

favorite season is winter

favorite color is lilac

lavender is her favorite sent and flowers

facts

she hates to cook but is very good at, Malakai loves his moms cooking and makes him mom not hating cooking as much.

rarely ever drives and one of the first things she bought for herself was hiring a driver.

always has some kind of sketchbook or tablet with her in case she gets an idea.

she always carries her big purse that’s filled with work, her sons toys and always snacks for him.

maleah could of easily continued her hockey career and without a doubt would of been an amazing player but she never had the passion for it like others do.

always enjoys designing clothes for people she cares for and has lines of clothes in honor of some of the people she is closest with and the lines are inspired by their styles.

carina knies

favorites

anything coffee, she needs it to survive

lettuce wraps, anything for the filling

salmon bowls!

not the biggest sweets person but loves sweets that are lemon flavored

favorite flowers are orchids

loves summer

favorite color is purple

facts

during a trip to her grandparents when she was younger she tried pottery and fell in love with it, she continued to do pottery since then and it’s something she’s loves to do to de stress and something completely away from hockey.

Joseph and Carina had to build many sleeves and bookcases for all of the legos he has given her and the ones he no doubt will continue to give her.

carina is not a big jewelry person but she has a few pieces that she really loves.

she is quite protective of her little brother matthew and he is probably one of her more soft spots, not that she lets anyone know that.

is a big dog person.

gemma fantilli

favorites

cesar salads are one of her absolute favorites

spring rolls and any type Chinese food

chocolate chip cookies

favorite flowers are periwinkles

loves winter especially if there is snow

favorite color is green and yellows

facts

she loves vintage jewelry, her favorite piece is a heart locket her grandmother had given her, sadly when her grandmother passed away she left all her jewelry for her Gemma.

snowboarding is her absolute favorite thing to do outside of hockey, if she had tried snowboarding before she did hockey she most likely would’ve pursued a career in snowboarding instead.

macklin and gemma are always finding new shows to watch together, and while they can’t always watch all the episodes together they watch most of season together.

always wear her beaded bracelet that she had matching with Macklin.

phoenix zegras

favorites

any type of crepes especially with nutella

big coffee person, loves chocolate in it

chocolate crossiant

favorite color is orange

likes just red roses

summer is his favorite season because he’s see his family more.

facts

favorite thing to do other than hockey is playing his electric guitar.

he’s the oldest sibling and his siblings use to always follow his him around like little ducklings.

he really likes to watch sunsets.

he spends a lot of his free time with his godsons.

viola hughes

favorite

caramel coffee is her favorite

anything with caramel

ice cream

favorite flowers are sunflowers

favorite season is summer

favorite color is purple

facts

she has the biggest sweet tooth and is always having something sweet even with her diet.

likes to be in the passenger seat when she’s in the car, doesn’t like to drive after her accident.

she loves wearing fun sunglasses and tends to always have them on her face or in her hair in the summer.

likes to find new hiking spots and arizona has a lot she can try.

livia drysdale

favorites

chocolate chip cookies

pizza is one of her favorite cheat meals

hummus and pita chips

doesn’t have a favorite flower she loves all of them

favorite color is green

favorite season is winter

facts

always wears gold jewelry.

when she was younger she would beg for her brothers or parents to make her cookies.

she use to hate her all of her freckles but seeing how much wyatt loves them she grew to like the.

always has some type of plants in her house and her parents have so many at their house from her, jamie also has some in his house from her.

willa smith

favorites

loves anything lobster

her moms protein smoothies

most of her meals are chipotle

favorite color is blue

favorite animal is dogs

favorite season is definitely summer

favorite animal are dogs

facts

most of the time her music is always playing taylor swift.

she really wants a golden retriever.

since she was a kid she’s always had some type of braids in her hair.

blue has always been her favorite color and almost always she boys something it’s in blue, she always gets her hockey stick blue.

has a gold necklace with her initial on it, she gets a smaller necklace with gabe and ryan’s initials and starts wearing that one too.

[greyslin]

Strawberry tico ice cream

#STRAWBERRY TICO ICE CREAM INSTALL#

Always developing new flavors! Pies:Ĭheesecake with blackberry, Frozen cheesecake with raspberry. Always developing new flavors!Ĭarrot cake, Red berries cake. Mango, Lemon, Strawberry, Red berries, Mango-passion fruit, Strawberry-kiwi. Always developing new flavors!ĭulce de leche/caramel, Vanilla, Chocolate, Cherry, Red berries. Paloma (tequila with grapefruit soda), Mojito, Vodka-mango, Baby mango (vodka with mango and chili powder). Always developing new flavors! With alcohol: icemochi icecreammochi peanutbutter pretzels pretzel chocolate kinder asmr mukbang eatingshow tiktok emojimukbang tiktokmukbang foodchal. Beef, Tico chili, and lettuce wrapped in a large flour tortilla, smothered in cheese, topped with fresh tico de gallo, sour cream and black olives. Strawberry, Raspberry, Blackberry, Oatmeal, Plain yogurt. Always developing new flavors! Cream:Ĭhocolate, Cookies ‘n cream, Vanilla, Chocolate covered vanilla, Cherry, Almond milk with dried fruits, Red berries, Chai. Lemon, Mango, Strawberry, Pineapple, Tamarind, Red berries, Lemon-chia-chili powder, Cucumber-lemon-chili powder, Cucumber-alfalfa, Mango-passion fruit, Strawberry-kiwi. in nude cuckold&039 s model hip - cums gold strawberry fuck blowjob boy. Popsicles made with 100% natural ingredients without any artificial sweeteners or dyes. cock negro beautys exotic tico sexy barefeet masturbates off retro. Gradually pour the hot cream into egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly. Whisk sugar, egg yolks, remaining 1/4 cup cream, and corn syrup together in a large bowl. Ideal for appetizers, cut into cubes as a snack. Marshmallow Sandwich Biscuit Coated with Chocolate Flavor - Strawberry. Heat 1 1/4 cups of cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to bubble at the edge of the pan. This cheese is used in countless dishes because of its characteristic smell and taste, pearl-colored, for direct consumption, or as the consumer prefers. Low-salt cheese, characteristic in odor and taste, white to pearly colored, for direct consumption, it can be used in salads or as the consumer prefers. Fresh cheese:Ĭheese pleasant in smell and taste, pearl-colored, for direct consumption, its use is recommended in countless Mexican dishes such as enchiladas, sopes, flautas, fried tacos or however the consumer prefers. Soft, pearly color paste, pleasant in smell and taste, for direct consumption, can work for quesadillas or as the consumer likes. Product pleasant in smell and taste, soft pearl colored paste, forms strands when heated, especially for making quesadillas, if refrigerated consumption can be direct, or used grated in countless of dishes as a garnish on the surface or as an ingredient of such. A FORM RECORD Tranh nostra tico THROUGHBRE. Dairy flavor with a hint of chipotle with adobo. 15 per 1,000 Strawberry Plants, Acres, near Sykesville, Howard Co. Smooth reddish paste, pleasant smell and taste for direct consumption can be used to make quesadillas or any way the consumer likes it. When processing is complete, add mix-ins or remove ice cream from Deluxe Pint and serve.Products of the highest quality because we are concerned about caring for your health and your palate. Select TOP, FULL, or BOTTOM, then use the dial to select ICE CREAM. Refer to the quick start guide for bowl assembly and unit interaction information. Remove Deluxe Pint from freezer and remove lid from Deluxe Pint. Place storage lid on pint and freeze for 24 hours. Pour base into an empty CREAMi® Deluxe Pint. Allow mixture to sit for 10 minutes, stirring repeatedly. In Costa Rica, the ice cream sandwich is made by Pops and very similar to the way it is in North America, with a slice of vanilla or strawberry flavoured ice crean, sandwiched between two. In a large bowl, add strawberries, sugar, corn syrup, and lemon juice. If this occurs, select RE-SPIN to process the mixture a little more if not adding mix-ins. NOTE: If your freezer is set to a very cold temperature, the ice cream may look crumbly. When processing is complete, add mix-ins or remove ice cream from pint and serve. Place bowl assembly on motor base and twist the handle right to raise the platform and lock in place.

#STRAWBERRY TICO ICE CREAM INSTALL#

Place pint in outer bowl, install CREAMi™ Paddle onto outer bowl lid, and lock the lid assembly on the outer bowl. LOTTE Tico Mini Milk Chocolate and Vanilla Ice Cream Bars 510mL Deliver from Kalayaan Branch Pickup at Kalayaan Branch, Fairview Branch, and Marikina Branch. Remove pint from freezer and remove lid from pint. Allow mixture to sit for 10 minutes, stirring regularly.Īdd heavy cream and mix until well combined.

[rollzicecream01]

The Best Dessert Restaurant With a Variety of Cheesecakes!

Customers are often searching for “the Best Cheesecake Near Me”, and restaurants can attract them by offering a variety of those cheesecakes. But on the restaurant side, buying cheesecake from the best dessert supplier is equally important. To gauge out a good cake supplier, they should be able to offer a variety of flavors at high quality. Those flavors include the following.

Blueberry key lime cheesecake: Shortbread cookies are served as crusts in this type of cake. Important ingredients used in this type of cake are fresh blueberries, sour cream, lime zest, and lime juice. Anyone’s mouth starts watering with just the thought of adding fresh blueberries. Vanilla wafer crusts can also be made by the custom restaurant desserts supplier. Being a restaurant owner, you must know the technique used by wholesale restaurant desserts suppliers to make the blueberry sauce. Select the supplier who creates a delicious sauce. Sauce plays a very important role in building the taste of cheesecake. The filling and sauce of blueberry key lime cheesecake should always be fresh so that it can taste good.

Red velvet cheesecake: You will agree with the fact that these cakes are the best types of cakes and red velvet is one of the best cake flavors. During the holiday season, ensure that you add the red velvet cheesecake to the menu as kids and adults alike love it. The best restaurant dessert supplier can always offer you good quality red velvet cheesecake. A properly created red velvet cake is the one that is refrigerated for around 8 to 10 hours.

Chocolate cracker crumbs are used to create crust in this type of cake. For filling this type of cake, important ingredients used are cream cheese, unsweetened cocoa, white vinegar, red food color, vanilla extract, whole buttermilk, etc. Cream cheese topping should be created in such a way by the dessert supplier that it can enhance the overall appearance of this cake.

Avocado cheesecake: The crust of the avocado cake can be made from a cracker or pistachio vanilla wafers. It is important to check the fillings offered by the best restaurant dessert supplier for avocado cheesecake. In case the filling is not as it should be then the taste of this cake will not be perfect. In avocado filling, it is important to add lemon peel along with avocado, cream cheese, and sour cream. A good dessert supplier will create a smooth mixture of the mentioned ingredients and can also add vanilla pudding mix to it.

Lavender honey: Restaurants demand this type of cake as it is soft, aromatic and scrumptious. The lavender honey cheesecake is very attractive and available only during a specific season. Your seasonal dessert menu should certainly include this type of cake. Instead of crackers, many dessert suppliers make use of vanilla wafers to create a good crust. The flavor of lavender honey with vanilla seems to be an amazing combination.

For More Info:-

Halal Food Near Me

Cookie Dough Near Me

[imagine-docx]

sneaky.

Summary: Being neighbours with a cute boy has some perks. Also, Sam is being the best wingman (no pun intended) he possibly could. [neighbour!chubby!buckyau]

Warnings: Swearing, and some insecurity mentions and some body shaming.

A/N: Hello, quarantine has me writing again as I am officially done uni for the year. So please enjoy this jumble of different AU’s thrown into one. - Amanda 

➽───────────────❥

You have lived next to James Barnes for the last two and a half years and you guys never really talked, just smiles and nods whenever you see him, and occasionally swapping mail that accidentally went to your respective houses, this was mostly because your schedules conflict but also Bucky didn’t know how to talk to a cute girl but he won't mention that part.

You’ve heard rumours about how he was a serial abuser and other nonsense from the neighbourhood, because honestly Anita from five houses down creates random fantasies she might as well be an author.

He was so used to getting stares and glares for his left prosthetic and round stomach, due to the rumours that were spread around the neighbourhood and he always shied away from contact with anyone in the area. You on the other hand? God literally sent you, so warm and loving. 

He was working on his car one day, while his cat was outside with him. Looks back to see Alpine and doesn’t see his cat, slight panic until he sees that Alpine wasn’t there, but that cat is everywhere so it doesn’t bother him that much.

He heard soft lo-fi music coming from across the fence, indicating that you were outside. He looks over and sees you sitting there, on your computer between papers and notebooks and his cat sitting with you.

To you, Alpine wasn’t much chaos, in fact, a designer, he would randomly paw at something and it clicked with you that the two outfits look good.

“I’m so sorry, my cat is bothering you.” Bucky called out.

“Not at all, he constantly is spending time over here, love him like he’s my own,” you smiled at him.

“Thank you for looking out for him,” he said, looking down at his feet.

“Not a problem. You look exhausted, come get some coffee!” You exclaimed, with the brightest smile he’s ever seen, plastered onto your face.

“Are you sure?” He didn’t want your reputation to be tainted by having him over for some coffee.

“Come! How do you take your coffee?” you said, trekking back to close all your notebooks because honestly, it's not everyday that your cute neighbour talks to you and work can always wait.

You went inside to make both of you a cup of coffee, his black, and yours with some cream and sugar. You also plated two lemon bars for the two of you, and grabbed a little yogurt from your fridge for Alpine to enjoy. 

“I’m surprised you wanted to be seen with me. Especially with all the rumours, I found everyone believing them.”

“Honestly, half of them came from Anita and she is a whackjob. I’m surprised people listen to her.” You said taking a sip of your coffee.

He laughed, “You would be surprised, people look at me like I killed someone.”

“When I first moved in she told the entire neighbourhood that I got a divorce and needed massive space from my ex husband because I found him cheating with one of his juniors. People actually believed it which makes it worse. For like a year I was getting sympathetic looks for a divorce and relationship that didn’t even happen.” You cut a piece of your lemon bar with your fork.

He laughed, and felt so much more comfortable with you, like he has known you for so long. “My old place caught on fire, and I got trapped, lost m’arm. Girl left me because I had no arm, no place to stay, hit rock bottom, gained a few pounds, and Stark helped me by getting me this arm, even though I work for him and he paid for this place for me.” He said looking down, he felt comfortable enough for you to know what happened, but avoided your look, scared of judgement. 

You reached out for his flesh hand and gave it a gentle squeeze, “You’re doing amazing James, don’t listen to what the neighbourhood chatties have to say. That’s why half of their men turn off their hearing aids when they talk.” 

He smiled and you removed your hand, “Bucky.”

“Pardon?”

“Call me Bucky.”

“Alright, Bucky. So how did Bucky derive from James, because there is no correlation” you said, shoving the piece of lemon bar into your mouth.

“From my middle name, Buchanan, and I guess it stuck with me since.”

“Wait, you work for Stark Industries?” You said realization dawning on you.

“Yeah…” He said unsurely as if you would kick him off your backyard patio set and never talk to him again. 

“I provide the latest and never seen before suits to Tony Stark!” You laughed.

“Insurrexon?” He asked.

“Yes sir, the one and only fashion director for Insurrexon.” You said.

He laughed, “So you guys are the reason he prances around his office saying his suit is worth more than everyone’s rent.”

“Sounds like a very Tony thing to do, but yes. I am the cause of that.” 

You laughed and spent the remainder of your day talking with Bucky in your backyard while Alpine takes occasional nips at the yogurt left for him.

➽───────────────❥

Since that day, you and Bucky practically became best friends. With your schedule practically all over the place you two were constantly texting to help compensate for the fact you probably saw him for a total of 10 minutes or less a day.

He noticed some days you were coming home super late and noticed the lights in your washroom and bedroom are the only lights that were on when you came home and after that he assumed you fell asleep. He felt bad knowing you didn’t eat and were constantly on the go and eating probably the most unhealthy things possible just to stay alive. So he would drop you off extra portions of whatever he made. 

Or that's what he likes to tell himself. One day on his break he saw the cutest reusable container, it was glass and had little black dresses on it with a hot pink lid, and knew it matched you perfectly. That night he had an extra portion of stir fry and rice leftover in your mailbox with a note saying, ‘make sure you eat something doll’, knowing you would check it before going inside and you would hopefully eat it. 

The next day after the longest shift he possibly could have had, he checked his mailbox and saw the container was back in his mailbox, he frowned thinking that you didn’t eat it. He saw a yellow post-it note attached to the top ‘thanks for looking out for me, btw the stir fry was delicious’ and he smiled, picking up the container he noticed it was quite weighty. He opened it and saw a slice of red velvet cake, keeping the grin on his face, he closed the container, gathered his mail and went inside. 

And that started the entire back and forth exchange of goods.

He would cook dinner for you to enjoy at night when you come home and leave it for you, the next day he got his container back with a form of a baked good.

Everyday on his way home, he was thinking of things to make you to impress you, there were lasagnas, soups with garlic bread, steaks with mashed potatoes, and he always went above and beyond to make it with love for you.

You on the other hand found it so sweet and kept giving him cute little desserts you would bake such as cupcakes, cheesecakes, and cookies, and when you couldn’t bake anything, you would make sure to pick something up on your way home from work.

This clockwork happened almost all the time.

➽───────────────❥

Bucky was in the break room at work with Sam and Steve, and Bucky couldn’t help but gush about how cute he found you.

“Aw Baby Bucky has a crushy wushy on his cute neighbour,” Sam said, reaching for his cheeks to pinch them.

“Knock it off Wilson,” Bucky said, rolling his eyes.

“Buck, I haven’t seen you this happy since Dot,” Bucky winced at the mention of his ex.

“She seems to like you, and enjoys your company, make a move,” Steve said, nudging his ribs.

“She doesn’t look at me that way,” Bucky muttered.

“Buck, she literally ignores what everyone said and openly hangs out with you, I think she likes you.” Bucky felt a little string of hope when Steve said that, but couldn’t help but feel insecure.

He was 34 years old, slightly overweight and had a prosthetic and was IT director for Stark Industries. You on the other hand were slightly younger than him at 30 years old, but, god took his time creating you, you were beautiful inside and out, had a killer personality and worked as a fashion director for one of the biggest fashion chains in North America. You two were on two different levels and you were nowhere in his league.

“So Buck, when are you gonna cook me dinner?” Sam said, wiggling his eyebrows.

“Not in your lifetime.” Bucky retaliated, feeling a buzz in his pocket, he pulled out his phone and saw it was you and instantly smiled.

“His girlfriend messaged him, that's why he’s all smiley” Sam nudged him once again.

The three of them continued talking until Brock Rumlow, the resident dick and lead prosthetic designer walked in. 

Brock pushed passed Bucky to get something from the cabinets. Brock had an attitude problem with everyone and it was still surprising that he worked at Stark Industries. “James Barnes has a girlfriend? Does she close her eyes when she fucks you? Because you are hideous.”

“Rumlow,” Steve warned.

And that’s when Bucky felt coffee trickle down his skin and the scent of coffee engulfed his nose. “Hope your girlfriend cleans you up, she might as well throw you out.” Rumlow said pushing past him.

“Buck-” Sam started before making a beeline to the mens washroom.

Bucky stood in the mirror and looked at himself, his hair was drenched with coffee, his cream coloured cardigan and white shirt were covered in brown coffee splotches, his pants and shoes got minimal damage. He dunked his head over the sink and tried washing out his hair.

As his head was over the sink, there were tears in his eyes. Of course his neighbour wouldn’t like him, he was weak. He looked in the mirror knowing he would have to sit in his coffee stained outfit for the rest of the day.

“Buck? Stark wants to see you whenever you come out.” Steve said from the other side of the door, giving him some space. 

He managed to murmur out an “okay” knowing Steve’s quality hearing would have heard him. It took him a solid 30 minutes before he made his way to Stark’s office. “You wanted to see me?” Bucky said walking in.

“Ah yes, I heard about the coffee incident in the break room.” Tony said. 

“Sorry about that.”

“Not your fault, it’s Rumlow’s. Also how do you deal with Sam? I heard him screeching from here about how he was gonna, and I quote ‘Brock Rumlow’s shit so hard he wouldn’t have seen it coming.’” 

“A lot of alcohol and tuning him out.” 

“Makes sense.” Tony reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet and handed him a card, “Take this, go buy something to wear. Can’t have my top IT director brewing in coffee like he’s a piece of tiramisu.”

“No Stark I can’t take this, you’ve done a lot already.”

“Nonsense. Take Sam and Steve with you, I can’t hear Sam screeching about fighting someone for the rest of the day, that’s gonna be one hell of an HR complaint I’m gonna have to deal with.”

“You got it.”

➽───────────────❥

And that is how Bucky, Sam and Steve spent two hours walking around Brooklyn attempting to find clothes for Bucky. Bucky couldn’t find anything that made him feel right, it was emphasizing his stomach which he didn’t want to show off.

This kept making Bucky smaller, and he didn’t want to be out anymore. Sam kept trying to hype him and Steve was reassuring that he looked fine. But after that altercation in the break room, they understood that he wasn’t in the best mood and just wanted to go back to the office and have this Friday be over. 

➽───────────────❥

You were sitting in a tiny coffee shop called Dream Bean with Wanda and Natalia planning for the next collection that was supposed to drop for Valentine’s Day, the ‘Love Bomb’ collection.

“I’m thinking colours like pastels, reds, pinks, whites.” Wanda said.

“So take Valentine’s Day and throw it into a collection?” Natalia said.

“Pretty much.” You stated.

“Makes sense.” Natalia stated, taking a sip of her iced latte.

“Is this more date night and sexy lingerie?” Wanda asked, working out a sketch in her notebook.

“I mean a lot of people are single on Valentine’s Day, so why not make it a feel good collection.” You stated nonchalantly, sitting back into your chair and taking a sip of your iced coffee.

“Oh, I love having a creative genius,” Wanda exclaimed, brushing her pencil gently across the sketchbook.

“I mean it's a part of my job description,” you laughed, taking a sip out of your iced coffee and looked out the window. You noticed a familiar face. Bucky. Your heart skipped a beat, until you saw that he was drenched in coffee. Your heart hurt for him.

“Hey? Hello? Anyone home?” Natalia waved in front of your face. 

“Oh sorry.”

“You okay?” Wanda asked.

“I just saw my neighbour-”

“Oh the cute one you’re so smitten by?” Nat wiggled her brows. 

“The dinner one! Aw he’s so cute and treats her well.” Wanda said.

“He was covered in coffee and he seemed upset.” You started, wishing you could do something for him. That’s when it clicked with you, “Do we have any samples from the ‘No Guidance’ collection?”

“I think there are copies in my office.”

➽───────────────❥

Bucky got back to work and sat in his chair, and ran his hands over his face. He felt horrible and nothing could make this day better. Rumlow’s words managed to hit deeper than he wanted it too. Usually, Bucky was very dismissive about what Rumlow said, but now that you were a part of his life, it hit deeper.

The elevator dinged, signalling someone was coming up. Secretly he was hoping it was the grim reaper ready to come collect him. “Package for-” He read the package, “James Barnes?” 

“That’s me.” He said not even looking up. When he did, he was greeted by a massive navy blue box with a yellow ribbon tied around it, and saw some white text but couldn’t make out what it said due to the distance. “Thank you.”

He noticed that the box said ‘Insurrexon’ and was confused. That was the company that you worked for. He untied it and was greeted by a white paper with black pen ink staining the paper on top of the red wrapping paper protecting whatever was in the box. 

‘Was in a meeting when I saw you drenched in coffee and wanted to help you out. Hope you like it. Also, can’t have my chef soaking wet, it could get him sick’ and it was signed off with your name. 

His heart burst with awe at the fact she went out of her way to get him clothes so he wasn’t wet. Part of him was embarrassed that she saw him in that state, but the joy overtook that feeling. He took the clothes to the washroom and was going to change.

He worried that he wouldn’t fit in it, but as he slid the items on, it fit. Maybe you did have a good knowledge at measurements and knew what would fit.

He looked himself in the mirror and grinned at the fact she picked an all black outfit with a light washed denim jacket and some black combat boots, he was upset at the fact that she knew how big he was, but was overtaken by happiness as his neighbour, someone he took such an interest in, picked this out, out of the goodness of her own heart.

Once he walked out of the washroom he was whistled at by Sam, “Looking good girl.”

“I thought you didn’t like anything.” Steve stated.

“His lovely girl at Insurrexon sent him stuff,” Sam said, holding up the note with his hands.

“Hey!” Bucky grabbed it. “None of your business.”

“Alright ‘chef’.” Sam mocked.

Bucky reached out to slap Sam’s head. “Hey, hey, hey, no workplace violence!” Steve said, breaking it up. 

➽───────────────❥

It was the end of the day and Bucky had to drop reports back off to Tony. He walked in and gave him all the files that Tony needed. “Is that Insurrexon?”

“Yeah,” he responded.

“Look at you go, getting into the big leagues, huh?” Tony punched his shoulder, “Wait, was it on my credit card?” Tony nearly cried out.

“No-”

“Wait, this collection didn’t even come out yet. How did you get this and how much did you spend?” Tony cried out.

“One of my friends work for Insurrexon and sent it to me for free.”

“Was it a lady friend?” Tony wiggled his eyebrows. Bucky blushed, “IT WAS! But honestly Tinman, you had a long day. Go home, get some rest, spend some time with your girl. I’ll see you Monday.” Tony said shooing Bucky out of his office. 

➽───────────────❥

Upon reaching home, Bucky realized how expensive the brand truly was, and the amount of hype behind it. He also realized that Tony wasn’t lying and this was a collection that didn’t even come out yet, yet you still gave him a copy of it. He paced around his living room, even though his paycheque said he made quite the amount of money, the worth of this collection laughed at that amount. He couldn’t possibly pay it back. He was running through scenarios on how to bring it up and pay her back. He finally looked back at the clothing that he folded and put into a bag to return, and saw Alpine looking up at him, “What should I do, bud?” Alpine just meowed back at him before leaving and returning to wherever he was.

It was close to eight pm when he noticed that you came back home. Your car was in your driveway, and your living room light was on. He had to pump himself up before walking over to your door, he knocked on it three times before you opened it.

You looked even more beautiful, and he didn’t even know it was possible. There you were, makeup free, hair dampened signalling you showered, a pair of black shorts, and an oversized grey NASA shirt. He noticed you were on the phone and mouthed, “I’ll come back later.” He turned around and was about to walk off. 

That’s when you grabbed his flesh wrist and pulled him inside. Closing the door behind him, he kicked off his shoes and admired your living room. He was unsure if he should sit, he looked at you as you were talking to whoever it was. You looked back at him, and signalled for him to sit down. He cautiously sat on your couch. Pen in your hand, you wrote on the post-it note.

“That’s just gonna delay ‘FIVE’ and we’re going to have to push back ‘Love Bomb’ which will have to be scrapped until next year,” you said running your hand through your hair.

Whoever was on the other line said something, you sighed, “It’s a Friday night, I can’t worry about this. Send out an email scheduling an interview on Tuesday for all the directors of different divisions.”

He admired you, even in comfortable clothes, you were a business woman strategizing ways to not prevent any delays. “Yeah, so me, Nat, Wanda, Okoye, Nebula, Val, Carole and Erik.” You wrote it down on your little post-it note, “Alright, thanks Gamora. Have a good weekend.” You said before hanging up. 

You turned around being greeted by Bucky sitting there, “Hi,” he said letting out a breath he didn’t even know he was holding.

“Hi there. Sorry about that, work has my ass on a platter right now,” you said, chuckling, pushing a strand of hair behind your ear.

“It’s okay,” he looked down and remembered why he came, “You didn’t have to do what you did.”

“And what was it I did?” You asked ridding your dining room table of the computer and a few sheets of paper that were littered across the table.

“Give me clothes.” He responded watching your movements.

“Bucky, it’s not a problem. You looked upset and I wanted to help you,” and after those words left your mouth, his heart nearly exploded into tiny pieces.

“I can’t possibly pay you back for this. Even Tony said it was too expensive.” Bucky said rambling. 

“Bucky, do not worry about it. You don’t have to pay me back,” you said gently.

“Are you sure?” He asked.

“If you want to do something, hang out with me,” you said.

“Pardon?”

“We could order dinner? Dessert? Mario Kart? I am open to criticism.” You said jokingly.

“I’d like that,” Bucky said grinning from ear to ear.

“Alright soldier, what are you craving?”

“Pizza?” He said.

“Alright.” 

➽───────────────❥

Of course it was a Friday night and your favourite pizza joint had an hour wait time before they could make your order, and don’t forget the 30 minute delivery window. And honestly, you both didn’t mind and enjoyed each other’s company. Yet here you were sitting on your couch playing Mario Kart together. “I fell off again,” he grumbled at rainbow road.

“Hah- oh no,” you said, getting blue-shelled.

“I just fell off, how can I possibly fall off again?” He exclaimed.

“No no no, don’t red shell me.” You said, rushing to the finish line. The moment you crossed it, ‘FINISH’ flashed across the screen. 

Bucky got up at the sound of the knock on the door, “Pizza’s here.”

“Oh, use my card to pay!” You said going to get your wallet from your bag.

“No Doll, I owe you,” he went to the door.

You stood hovered over your bag due to your cheeks burning from him calling you ‘Doll’. You went to the kitchen and grabbed two plates, and two cups getting ready to set the table. Bucky joined you in the dining room with the extra large pepperoni pizza, wings and soda. 

For some reason, to the both of you, this felt right. Like this is something that you two should be constantly doing. You two were laughing at childhood stories, work stories and other funny things that have happened to you two. He helped you clean up the table and wrap up the extras. 

You took out two pieces of plum cobbler and warmed it up, “Ice cream?” you asked.

“Do you have?” Bucky asked.

“What kind of girl would I be if I didn’t have any?” You joked.

“You have a point,” he laughed.

You two were back at the dining room table. Bucky let out a heavenly groan as he took a bite of the plum cobbler, “I love plum so much, and this tastes amazing.”

“Plum is that fruit that you can always enjoy,” you said, taking a bite of your own.

“I’ve been meaning to ask, where do you get these desserts? They’re amazing,” he said, taking another bite.

You sheepishly said, “I bake the majority of them.”

“They’re amazing, doll. Maybe you should get out of the fashion industry and get into baking.” He joked.

“I don’t know about that part,” you chuckled, “Wanda and Nat might have my head on a stick if I leave.”

“You guys are that close?” Bucky asked.

“Practically attached by the hip. We met in freshman year of college because of this stupid textile course. Here we are ten years later, in the same company. What about you? Any close friends that are work friends but would also commit manslaughter if you left the company?”

He laughed at the comment, “I have Steve, him and I have been friends since childhood and he kept getting beat up in alleys and I had to save him. Then there’s Sam, the drama queen. Him and I met through Steve.”

You nodded your head, signalling you understood. “I don’t want to intrude, but what happened today? Why was there coffee all over you?”

He shifted in his seat, “Oh, uh.”

“You don’t have to answer. I just want to make sure you’re okay.”

“I’m feeling much better now, sugar,” he said, grabbing your hand and giving a gentle squeeze with his flesh hand. 

“That’s all that matters,” You said squeezing back

The two of you continued eating your dessert in harmony, occasionally making jokes.

➽───────────────❥

Bucky didn’t want to go, but it was nearly 1:30 am and he should probably let you sleep. He was strategically trying to leave the clothes on your couch without you noticing, which obviously failed.

You leaned against your door with one bag containing the clothes you gave him and the other containing leftovers and a good portion of the plum cobbler he seemed to enjoy. “Goodnight,” he said, prior to trying to walk off your porch. 

“Wait, Bucky?” You asked.

He turned around, “Yes sugar?” 

You hugged him, at first he couldn’t believe it, but knew this possibly wouldn’t happen again and hugged back. “Thank you for tonight.”

“Anytime doll,” he was so ecstatic, he didn’t notice that you slipped the two bags into his hands. 

“See you around?” You asked, sheepishly.

“Of course.”

You let out a smile, “Night Bucky,” before the door closed.

He smiled, before realizing she slipped him food and the clothes. He shook his head and trekked his way home.

➽───────────────❥

Over the next 2 weeks, you and Bucky got so much more closer. He came to Insurrexon when she was in and could take breaks. Other than that you tried to meet up at random diners, restaurants, bakeries, wherever was convenient to the both of you.

➽───────────────❥

It was a Friday afternoon and Bucky was irritated, Brock was making sly comments about him knowing that Bucky heard it. And on several occasions, Steve had to hold back Sam from swinging and Sam stating that, “Rumlow isn’t ready for this smoke.”

Bucky sat at his desk looking over the file Tony gave him this morning and making notes in the margin for him and Bruce to look over once Monday hit. He felt someone’s presence next to him, “Brock I don’t wanna deal with this right now,” he mumbled out, not even looking up.

“Brock? From Pokémon? I always thought I was more of a Rosa from Black and White two,” you joked.

Once he heard the familiar voice, his head snapped up and grinned, leaning back into his chair, “Thought you were more of a May from Sapphire.”

You laughed, “Is that my favourite fashion director from Insurrexon?” Tony called out.

“Of course it is,” you turned to Tony, smiled and pushed back your hair.

“Are you bringing me some new designs? Or are you terrorizing my IT director?” He said, wiggling his eyebrows.

“I prefer the second one.”

Bucky enjoyed the banter between you and Tony, “Then you are banished from my company.”

“Before you banish me, can you at least let me steal your IT director for an hour for coffee? I will bring him back in perfect condition.” You pleaded.

Tony pretended to think, “Fine, I’ll give you an hour and fifteen, but I want him back in mint condition.”

You said, “Scouts honour.”

Bucky got up and stretched his knees, “If anything comes up, let Sam deal with it until I get back.”

“I would rather not, I’ll pass it off to Banner and hopefully he doesn’t rage out.” Tony joked.

“See you at the Rocket fashion show in a few weeks?” You asked Tony.

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world. I’ll bring Tinman with me,” he joked.

“Doll, meet me at the elevator? I want to pass my file to Banner before I leave.” Bucky asked.

“Of course. Bye Tony,” you said before walking back to the elevator you just rode up.

Bucky grabbed the file off the desk, “So this is the girl who has my Bucky Barnes smitten?” Tony said, examining his movement. 

He blushed and stuttered, “N-no, where did you get that from?”

“Buck, you literally called her doll, and the way you look at her says otherwise,” Tony said, “Don’t let her slip out of her fingers, she is a wonderful person and I can tell that she genuinely likes you back,” he reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet and handed him a card, “It’s on me, now go get your girl.”

“Thanks Tony,” Bucky murmured out.

“Don’t worry Buck, now I will pass this on to the big guy,” Tony spoke, taking the file out of his hand.

Bucky met you at the elevator, you were leaning against the wall on your phone waiting for him. He finally took in how gorgeous you looked today. A quarter sleeve baby blue button up that was fashionably tucked into the high waisted dark blue skinny jeans, some black heels and rose gold jewelry to accent it all. “You ready Doll?”

“Been ready, let’s get some coffee. You look like you need it.” You said.

He smiled and pressed the button for down, you two were laughing and Bucky’s face dropped when the elevator doors opened. Rumlow. He got in, and you could feel the tension. You grabbed his hand and reassuringly squeezed it and kept your fingers interlocked.

Earlier when you were walking in the building, you ran into Steve and Sam by accident who were coming in from their ‘afternoon stroll’ and Sam went off and told you everything about Rumlow. “You know you don’t deserve someone like Chubs over there, why don’t you get with me instead, I’ll show you a good time.” Rumlow said.

“And you don’t deserve a job here, I can’t wait to go to Tony and let him know there’s a harassment claim against one of his employees. He wouldn’t like to hear that his favourite company can’t be providing him fashion anymore because of a harassment claim, would he now?” You gritted.

“Bitch,” Rumlow muttered before getting off.

“You didn’t have to do that,” Bucky said, trying to let go of your hand.

You kept a grip on his hand, “I don’t have to, but I do. You don’t deserve any of that.” “So where do we wanna go?” Bucky said. 

“Up to you,” you smiled at him.

“Well, we are going somewhere expensive because Tony gave me his card,” he chuckled.

You laughed, “Can’t wait.”

➽───────────────❥

You stuck out your tongue, turned back around and walked in the direction of your home.

You and Bucky enjoyed your time at the cafe. He ordered a large black coffee and a plum tart, you ordered a large iced coffee and a rainbow bit cake. His hour was up and you were walking him back to Stark Industries. Your left hand in his right hand, everything about this seems normal.

You two laughed in harmony. You turned towards him, “I’m done for the rest of the day. Movie tonight?” You asked.

“Of course.”

Bucky was about to walk off, before you called out, “Hey Bucky?”

He turned back, “Yeah doll?”

You reached out and grabbed his hand, and pulled him closer to you. You planted a soft kiss on his lips. His eyes widened, upon realization, he kissed you back.

You pulled away, “I promised Tony his IT director back, I’ll be waiting for you to come back.”

He kissed your knuckles, “I can’t wait.”

You were walking away, but turned back. “Also, don’t kill Sam. He told me everything.”

He blushed then realization hit him as to what you just said and let out a loud groan, “You two are the sneakiest.”

[dakotafinely]

Ok so hear me out. Mud dogs having a crush on a sweet and shy human that works in a bakery house. Like lives in a house that’s a bakery. Imagine when the reader hugs them, they smell like vanilla or chocolate. and gives them a kiss on the cheek when they save them from danger or something? Idk, I just really need fluff because I’m going through shit....

Me:*Happy till I read that last sentence* WHOM MUST I DESTROY?

Anyways-

Loathsome:

Your so warm like a little walking oven

Like, hugging you feels like his own personal ray of sunshine

You always come in with sweets and his not only first to devour them, but compliment them as well

However, he eats a whole uncooked onion with zero hesitation, so, ya know, maybe don’t trust his judgements on your cooking all the time

You don’t see it, but when you walk by him he closes his eyes to see if he can decipher what sweets you made last

He literally believes you are the physical embodiment of a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie, personality and all.

You kiss him on the cheek after he catches you from jumping three stories to escape the Yokai cops

It sent him on high you had to drag him away to make sure the cops wouldn’t follow behind

It felt like freshly baked soft bread, and Jesus did he wish it lasted longer

Dastardly:

When he first met you it was a relief you smelled of freshly baked bread and delightfully tempting sweets

Having to deal with rotten onions and freshly peed-in ocean water smells for Lord knows how many years, you were a wonderful change of pace

Often has an arm around you if you’re within reach (and comfortable obviously)

You frequently smelled like strawberries, or maybe it was because somehow Danny formed a mental connection between you and strawberries

But if he were to describe you, it would be a freshly made strawberry cheesecake

Teasing nicknames like “sugar” and “sweets” are a MUST for him, he can’t resist it

You kiss him on the cheek in pure joy when he perfectly catches a cake from the brink of destruction on the floor. It was for a first time client and you always got anxious with the first impression.

He almost dropped the cake again in response

It felt like warm snicker-doodles, and smelled like it too

Malicious:

It almost constantly wrapped around you for warmth

“I’m cold blooded! I need it!” he says, also just wanting to cuddle you because you smell like lemon squares

Seriously, the guy has a border-line obsession with lemon-flavored sweets

“There desserts made out of something sour! Isn’t it weird??”

You, almost constantly smell like lemons. And he loves it

Enjoys learning how to make sweets from you (though no matter what it is, it always ends up burned)

The first time you kiss him on the cheek is when he is actually able to make a dessert without burning it (the one and only time this happens btw)

What was the dessert? Lemon meringue pie

He was so stunned he didn’t even here the rest of what you said, just stared at you with wide, awe struck eyes

Because up until this point, he hadn’t realized he was in love with you

And the whole time he was making the pie, he was thinking about how happy you’d be

“What’d you do differently Mickey?” You ask excitedly, practically hopping in place and snapping the eel out of his trance

“Oh, uh, I don’t know,” he shrugs, grinning at you like a love-sick puppy “guess I just really like lemons!”

And after that, you’d been dubbed the nickname “Lemon”

I hope ya like it! And I hope it makes you feel a bit better anon! I had a lot of fun writing this! Kinda forgot how much I enjoyed the mud dogs honestly lol! Thanks for the ask!

[ukai-simp-services]

hq character’s favorite lip smacker flavors

warnings: none, just slight cursing

a/n: wow the way this was one of my best ideas... anyway some of these are kinda repetitive so bare with me 😭

karasuno

hinata

i feel like hinata would be down for one of the really fruity flavors, like watermelon or mango sunrise. forgets it at home or in your car a lot so you always buy him extra.

kageyama

kags is def giving me the classic strawberry or cherry vibe, like the one that ALL stores sell. they’re the easiest to find and he likes the flavors.

daichi

ok i feel like daichi would use the peppermint flavor a lot, but i can also seeing him use the cinnamon flavor every now and then too, spice things up a little.

sugawara

i can see suga using some of the sweeter flavors, like strawberry as a daily chapstick and maybe sugar cookie when he wants to switch things up.

asahi

mans got the whole berry pack. uses them pretty frequently throughout the day, has a different flavor in different places. like one in his school bag, one in his gym locker, one at home, etc.

tanaka

ok tanaka probably doesn’t use use them that much, but when he does, he fucks w the soda flavors. like coke and sprite.

nishinoya

i don’t even think he knows what lip smackers are....but let’s give him the benefit of the doubt and say he would use one of the sugary ones. like the skittles one.

tsukishima

vanilla. no pun intended. i just totally see him using the vanilla flavor, probably the coconut one too.

yamaguchi

i can see bby using the pink lemonade,,,maybe the cucumber melon too mmmm. applies them a lot.

ennoshita

he uses that lime flavor (i forgot it’s exact name) but that and probably some fruity shit like tropical punch.

ukai

PLEASE. he wouldn’t sell lip smackers at his convenience store so he’s like ?? tf is that babe ?? but, once you show him he’d definitely be down for the rootbeer or coke flavor, he’s a soda man what can i say. BUT i imagine he’d keep it simple most of the time w peppermint. (u also make him start selling them so he ends up trying the fruity flavors~)

kiyoko

god, i wanna say the cherry flavor bc of the mf katy perry song (pls tell me if yk what im talking about) BUT i can also see her using the mint one and the coconut one too. queen has multiple flavors, as she should.

yachi

100% one of the candy flavors, like bubblegum. definitely the cotton candy one too. yachi’s lips always taste good period.

nekoma

kuroo

another cherry chapstick lover, but he spices his shit up with the cherry cobbler flavor. wants to taste good at all times for you~

kenma

doesn't use it often, but when he remembers or you remind him, he'll usually use a fun soda flavor like from the fanta pack,, or even just regular grape.

yaku

giving me grapefruit delight vibes...idk why but he just is. i can see him whipping it out in the lockerroom before practice starts, quickly applying it before any of the other guys come in.

yamamoto

omg ok so i feel like similar to some of the other guys, he’d shy away from using it in front of anyone. but i can see him using the tropical punch flavor ??

lev

tell me lev wouldn’t use the vanilla icecream one...like i can just see it. i feel like he would lowkey take pride in it too, like he knows that shit taste good.

seijoh

oikawa

this mf uses peppermint religiously. but this is oikawa we’re talking about so i think he definitely would have multiple flavors; definitely watermelon, probably chocolate mint, and for sure starburst.

iwaizumi

he’s kinda shy about using them so he sticks to the more lowkey flavors, probably like blue raspberry or kiwi. (pls gimmie a blue raspberry kith haji)

mattsun

i feel like he wouldn’t use it much, but he’d use the lemon drop flavor. loves using it during the winter bc of the weather.

hanamaki

another soda lover. i feel like he sticks to the coca cola flavors, like vanilla and cherry. (i love the cherry one omfg) maybe the root beer one too.

kunimi

bubblegum. that’s it. that’s the flavor. it’s always on him at ALL times. like that shit doesn’t leave his pocket, he once even accidentally washed his pants with it still in the pocket.

kindaichi

mmmm i think he’s definitely a berry guy, likes mixed berry or wild raspberry.

mad dog

yes i just labeled him by his nickname instead of his real name what about it- anyway. why do i think he’d use orange creamsicle on the LOW. like mf HIDES that shit. can never catch mad dog applying mf orange creamsicle chapstick. nope.

fukurodani

bokuto

omg ok bby definitely uses strawberry cheesecake or sour apple. ik they’re like two totally different flavors but, he just DOES. and he’d pucker his lips towards you every time he applies it like “BABY GUESS WHAT FLAVOR MY LIPS ARE” like ok bo c’mere then.

akaashi

he’s a simple man, he enjoys a nice strawberry banana lip smacker on his lips. maybe even pumpkin latte (during the fall of course) bc he’s festive <3

konoha

mans is using the dragonfruit flavor (i forgot if it’s just dragonfruit or if there’s another flavor combined in there) but, he literally just uses that flavor. like idk what to tell you. he just does.

yukie

ok i love her sm, i just know she would have strawberry kiwi and probably strawberry banana too. mmm yummy.

shiratorizawa

ushijima

i feel like kageyama, he would only buy the ones he sees at most stores...so a classic like mango or kiwi.

tendou

ohmygod, mans has a whole mf collection. like first of all, he has the fanta soda collection, obviously. then, there’s the candy pack with nerds, fun dip, laffy taffy, jolly ranchers, etc... he also fucks w any sour flavors. basically, everytime you kiss this man you’ll be tasting something different.

semi

another blue raspberry mf, but also i can see him using the dr pepper flavor LOL....i wanna taste>:(

goshiki

he’s a sucker for the grape flavors, regular of course, grape jelly, grape fanta, etc.

shirabu

mmm i can see him using pineapple. it’s a subtle flavor, but its the one he likes best. i don't think he'd use it all that often tbh, but when he does his lips taste absolutely ~fresh~

date tech

aone

PLSSS i just know mans wouldn't even know what a lip smacker was, would probably just be using normal burt’s bees like most people - till you introduce him to the wide range of flavors that lip smackers have to offer. he'd be like “hm, banana.” LIKE. either THAT or piña colada, he’s really trying for y’all.

kanji

cake donut?? do i have an explanation?? nope. i don’t even know what that would taste like, but i can imagine pretty sweet? just give him a mf kiss.

inarizaki

atsumu

PLEASE. he’d use the strawberry flavor ALL the time. like ok maybe occasionally the vanilla icecream too. but im so soft rn for ‘tsumu’s strawberry lips T_T

osamu

omg he’s such a cheesecake mf i just KNOW, so he’d have the strawberry cheesecake flavor. probably use chocolate moose sometimes too if he’s in the mood.

kita

this is NOT up for debate, he’d 100% use berry pie all the time. kita get ur ass here rn, we’re bouta smooch.

suna

pls bc he’s another one that’d only use it on the low. i’m feeling watermelon,, he’d always apply it before he sees you too.

aran

ooooo i can see him using cinnamon swirl, but also grape on a more common occasion. yummy....

extras

terushima

HHH sour apple for sure. he’d try to put on you all the time so you can taste like him too, he’s like “baby c’mere ;)”

saeko

bitch omg, why can i see her using the cherry cream soda one.... i literally don’t know where she could buy it but she’d fucking have it, like for SURE.

sakusa

STOP bc he’d definitely reprimand you for using lip smackers instead of a brand like ChapStick or burt’s bees. like shut up bitch...but also if you’re persistent like me, then you’ll definitely sneak the lemon drop flavor into his jacket pockets whenever you have the chance. you know it’s his secret guilty pleasure <3

[hidden-otaku-stuff]

Different but the Same (pt. 7)

tw: A few swears, insecurity, family trauma

Word count: ~5.1k

Rating: R18+/M

Omegaverse AU, Rating: 18+/M

Pairings: Iwaizumi x fem!reader, Ushijima x fem!reader

Summary: An unexpected encounter at the Inter-High tournament tossed you into a whirlwind. Being tugged between two males, two different packs, who will reign supreme in this battle for your heart?

Masterlist | prev | next

ch. 7: battle of the packs

“What’s Ushijima-san doing here?” One of her Omega classmates whispered to her friend, looking over their shoulders at the door. The impressive Alpha took up the entire doorway. Semi had left with Tendou just moments ago. 

“Ushijima-san? What are you doing here?” (Name) looked up, echoing the other Omega’s sentiment as her eyebrows furrowed at the sight. The bitter scent of jealousy clung to the air as they glared at (Name).

The corner of his mouth twitched. He lifted a bag. “May I eat lunch with you?” She looked at him, then back at her desk where her textbooks were sitting. A moment of hesitation.

“Uh, sure.” She closed the book, placing them back into the bag as she brought out her own bento. “I thought you normally eat in the cafeteria with the pack?” Ushijima pulled a chair to her desk, settling himself into it. He almost seemed too big for the chairs, she noticed. 

“Yes, but you don’t, and I wanted to eat lunch with you.” He opened his bento, taking out an apple as he bit into it. “Were you studying?” 

She carefully chewed a piece of salmon. “Yes, I was. I needed to finish a group-project before we leave for Tokyo on Friday, so I figured I’d do all my individual work during lunch so I had enough time.”

“What is the project on?”

“It’s just a history project on Japanese revolutions, I’m providing the research and assembling part of it into an essay for a presentation since I’ll be missing the presentation.”   

“You are a proactive student,” Ushijima commented, finishing his apple before he opened up his lunch-box. 

(Name) laughed at his comment. “Not always,” she admitted. “But I do have to try harder since I’m going to be applying for university soon.” She eyed her veggies. “I don’t wanna mess up on my finals this semester.”  

“Do you have time to help me study as well?”

She blinked. “Help you? Ushijima-san, I thought you were planning on going pro?” She laughed. “You already have a spot on the national youth team, don’t you?” 

He shrugged, carefully chewing his next bite. “I still would like to graduate with good grades. And after being so invested in volleyball for so long has left...much to be desired about my academic skills.” 

(Name) hummed. “I suppose that’s fair.” She took a sip of her lemon tea. “We don’t have practice on Wednesday, I can tutor you for a bit at the library after school.” She bit her bottom lip; the original plan had been to go to Aoba Johsai’s practice that day, but she really needed to finish this project and that took precedent. 

“That works for me.” 

“So, what does the great Ushijima-san eat for lunch?”

Ushijima looked up, blinking at her. “The ‘Great’?”

“Well yeah, since you’re quite famous in volleyball circles, and exceptionally popular in our school.” She eyed the group of Omegas that were shooting daggers at her. He glanced over, only for the Omegas to fall over themselves in fits of giggles to escape his gaze. (Name) wasn’t stupid, she knew that Ushijima was a highly sought-out Alpha. In fact, most of the volleyball team was. Something about them just simply screamed masculinity and attractiveness. The fact that they were almost exclusively a pack of Alphas probably contributed to the notion that they were ‘supreme’ Alphas, which of course was supported by the fact that the leader of the pack himself was an Apex Alpha. She snorted internally. If only they knew how stupid all those Alphas could get. It wasn’t particularly uncommon for exceptionally brave Omegas to attempt to court Ushijima, only for him not to realize what was going on and point-blank rejecting them. 

“I suppose that’s fair.” He tilted his bento to her. “I’m having hayashi rice.” 

“Ooh, that looks and smells delicious!” She complimented. “Did you make it yourself?” 

Ushijima nodded. “My grandmother taught me.” He gazed at the food for a moment. “I spent a lot of time with her as a child. This is what she’d make me whenever I did well or had a bad day at school.” 

“Your grandmother sounds lovely.” She smiled at him, taking another sip of her tea.

“Would you like to try?”

“Are you sure?” She hesitated. The Omega was all-too familiar with the immense appetite of Alphas, and she didn’t want to take away from his meal.

“I wouldn’t have offered if I wasn’t sure.”

She snorted. “Always the blunt one, aren’t you?”

“Is that bad?”

“No, it’s refreshing.” Her mind wandered to Iwaizumi, who used to leave things left unsaid, assuming that others would know what he was thinking. Granted, after being with him for so long, he’d gotten better with communication. Ushijima eyed her, holding the bento out. “How about a trade?” She picked up her box. “It’s probably not as good as your grandmother’s hayashi rice, but you can try my teriyaki salmon.”

“Did you make it yourself?”

“Of course, you know I love cooking.” A small smile made its way to his face, matching hers; he was familiar with her cooking especially since she had brought onigiri to practice a few times since they had played the college team.

Ushijima nodded, “thank you.” They traded bentos. Behind the mouthful he had was a sense of warmth that he hadn’t experienced in a long time. The type of warmth that comes from care and love that speaks directly to the soul. It flooded all of his senses. Olive eyes glowed as his scent filled the room.  

“This is so good, Ushijima-san! Thank you for letting me try it.” She purred in delight at the explosion of flavor that bathed her tongue. It tasted familiar. A meal you come home to on a windy fall afternoon after being out all day. “I’ll need to get the recipe from you sometime. If you and your grandmother don’t mind, of course.”

Another curt nod as they passed the bentos back. “I’ll teach it to you someday,” he promised. “I enjoyed your salmon.”

“Thank you!” She beamed. “I’ll make you some of my curry next time. That’s one of my better dishes.”

“Thank you for bringing onigiri to our practices.” Ushijima nodded to her. “We all appreciate the effort.”

“It’s the least I can do!” The Omega wriggled happily. “I enjoy cooking and I’m always happy to take care of the pack.”

“What else do you enjoy cooking?”

She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Anything really. My parents took me to France last holiday, and I’ve been experimenting with French dishes since then.” Her (e/c) orbs examined the Alpha. “Do you cook often, Ushijima-san?”

“Not particularly.” He closed up his bento, cleaning up. “I do not have time for simple luxuries like that.”

“I can imagine volleyball keeps you extremely busy,” she hummed, placing her empty lunchbox down. She pulled out a bag of cookies. “Would you like to have one?”

“What is it?”

“It’s a strawberry cheesecake cookie.” She bit one, a smile expanding on her face at the flavour. “It’s one of my favorite things to bake when I have free time.” (Name) pulled another one out, handing it to Ushijima. He took it carefully, examining it before nibbling it.

“Why do you enjoy cooking?” 

A melancholy expression crossed her face as she stared at the cookies. “I’ve always liked the idea of being in a pack, even before I presented.” She smiled slightly, a tear trickled down her right cheek. He froze, confused. His scent hummed as comforting pheromones pumped out. The Omegas in the background all keened, leaning closer with eyes fluttering shut as they inhaled. “As a kid, I would follow my mother around the kitchen, learning how to cook and generally just spending time with her. I loved watching her pour her heart out into a dish where you could just taste the love, y’know?” (Name) leaned back in her seat, fiddling with the bag. “My father was terrifying. You never knew whether or not he cared or loved you, and it was more often than not that he was upset.” A wry laugh and a tear escaped her left cheek. He watched with concern, his finger lifting the tear off of her face. She leaned into the warmth of his caress, eyes shutting as she let out a soft sniffle. “It was hard knowing what love was in that household, so I figured I’d make it obvious in all of my actions.” She lifted her face to his, blinking back the rest of her tears.

“I am sorry to hear that.” Ushijima’s hand slipped into hers, squeezing it. 

“It’s not your fault.” She cleared her throat, wiping her face with the back of her hand. “So, why do you like volleyball, Ushijima-san?”

He took another bite, hesitating at the sudden topic change. Ushijima squeezed her hand again, enjoying the soft warmth and hoping that his actions would comfort her. “My father used to play volleyball professionally and taught me as a child. My parents are divorced, and he’s abroad right now. It gives me a connection to him, and I enjoy the sport.”

She giggled, eating another cookie. “I’d enjoy it too if I were as good as you.” 

They sat in a pleasant silence as they finished the cookies, simply enjoying each other’s company as a thumb idly swept over her knuckles. The bell rang, and he let out a gentle sigh. His hand slipped away, gathering his stuff. “Thank you for having lunch with me.” With a slight bow, he got up to leave.

“I’ll see you at practice, Ushijima-san.” (Name) waved before the Apex Alpha disappeared out of the classroom door. 

****

She looked up at the sound of a door opening as the fresh scent of pine drafted in.  “Babe, I’m home!” 

“In the kitchen!” She called, using a spoon to stir the pot. Loud shuffling noises echoed the apartment before warm arms wrapped around her waist.

“What’s cooking, good lookin’?” He pressed a kiss to her jaw, his nose brushing against her neck. 

“You need to stop hanging out with Oikawa,” she replied, leaning back into his embrace. “Just making some ragout. How was practice?” 

“The usual.” Iwaizumi’s warm breath caused sparks of electricity to shoot through her veins. “Oikawa was still practicing when I left.” 

“I see.” She surveyed the pot. “Do you want to invite him over? There’s more than enough food for the three of us.” The Omega turned down the fire, letting the pot simmer with a lid. “Even with your monstrous appetite,” she teased, pecking his cheek.

Iwaizumi grumbled. “I just want you to myself.” 

“Should’ve thought of that before joining such a needy pack!” She chirped, turning in his arms to face him. “He’s your best friend, and I worry about him sometimes.” His eyes glinted as he frowned slightly. “You know I worry about both of you, but he’s an idiot so he ends up with both of us worrying about him all the time,” she chided. He huffed.

“Tch. Fine.” 

“I guess I better stop by the grocery store then,” she made a move towards the sink, only for his grip to tighten.

“Why’s that?”

“To pick up some milk-bread to entice him into coming.”

He let out a faint growl. “Just stay here with me.” Iwaizumi’s arms held her close to him. Her eyes fluttered shut, listening to his heart-beat. “I’ll give him a call and we can cuddle while we wait or something.”

“Aren’t you hungry?” (Name) pulled away, blinking owlishly up at her mate. He opened his mouth to argue, only for his stomach to grumble in response. “We could always eat without him.”

“You know he’s just going to whine about it.” Iwaizumi ran a hand through his hair, annoyance clear in his expression.

“Fine, then help me make some onigiri? You can bring it to the pack tomorrow for me.” 

He laughed, his fingers carding through her hair. “You really are too good to us.” 

“Only because I have you in my life, Haji.” Pine hummed like a freshly lit candle. “Now, go call that idiot of a best friend and I’ll start making more rice.” Iwaizumi released her, stalking towards his back in the living room.

“Oi, Shittykawa. Get your ass over here. (Nickname) made dinner and she wants to feed your dumbass for some reason.” The Omega giggled, hearing his best friend’s shrill cry of indignation even though he was not on speaker. She scooped the rice out of the rice cooker, preparing another pot for their dinner. It was more than common for them to always have freshly cooked rice, especially considering how often she was meal-prepping and making onigiris. It was fortunate that her parents understood her pack mentality, and would finance her grocery habits. Her pack would also typically step up and buy her ingredients or give Iwaizumi money. “Yes now, otherwise we’re going to eat it all and you’ll have to get your own food.” Iwaizumi pinched his nose, eyes squeezed shut. He almost always regretted calling Oikawa, but he knew that his mate would’ve bothered him even more if he didn’t do it. Iwaizumi ended the call, placing his phone onto the dining room table. “You ready?” 

He slipped into the kitchen, surveying the counter. “Do you mind making the eggs? I always like how you season it.” Her lip quivered as she sent him a soft, pouty expression.

“Don’t make that face,” he grumbled, lightly flicking her forehead. “You just have to ask and I’d do it.” He pulled on his Your Opinion Wasn’t in the Recipe apron. She glanced down at her own, giggling at the phrase printed on it: I’ll Feed All You Fuckers. Mattsun had gotten them the aprons as a gag gift one Christmas, but she loved them. 

“You’re the best!”

“I know.” 

She stood beside him, slicing strips of seaweed while he prepared the eggs. Containers of pre-made fillings littered the counter alongside bowls of seasonings and toppings. They danced around the kitchen with practiced movements after years of cooking together. He would reach for some seasoning, only for her to have nudged the bowl towards him already. She would reach for the rice, only for him to scoop out a portion onto the nori. Laughter and music filled the air as they simply enjoyed each other’s presence. 

“I missed this,” she admitted, carefully shaping one of the balls as she sprinkled more furikake flakes. 

 He bumped his hip against hers, tilting his face down so his lips brushed against her forehead. “I’ve missed you.” He placed his onigiri down onto the plate, leaning down to press his lips against hers. “I’m so lucky to have you in my life.” 

The door-bell rang, and she was quick to pop a spoonful of salmon filling into his mouth. “Yes you are,” she winked. Brown eyes widened, as she took off her gloves and apron and skipped over to the door. “Hey, Oiks!” 

“Thank you for having me! Ooh, that smells delicious.” Oikawa stepped into the kitchen, beaming at the tray. “You won’t even greet your guest, Iwa-chan? So rude!” 

“Oi, you’re lucky she invited you over for dinner.” Iwaizumi glared. “Otherwise you’d be hungry and at the gym still.”  Oikawa pouted, opening his mouth to whine more.

“Boys.” The Omega’s eyes narrowed. “Go set the table. And you,” she flicked Oikawa on the forehead causing the male to yelp, “stop overworking yourself. If I hear that you’ve stayed late again and that Iwaizumi left without you, I’m going to handcuff you to him.” 

“Kinky.”

“Oi!” A loud crack as Iwaizumi slapped the back of his head.

“Dinner table! Now!” 

Oikawa joined Iwaizumi at the table, helping him clear it and setting out utensils. “As sweet as she is, I always forget she has a scary side,” Oikawa comments. “She must get it from having you as a mate.”

Iwaizumi’s face darkened. “At least I have a mate.”

“You’re so mean!” 

“Boys!”

“Sorry.” They chorused together. Iwaizumi shoved Oikawa, muttering insults under his breath.

****

“Ushijima-san, that’s not right.” She tapped her pencil on her notebook, surveying the Alpha. He let out a sigh, looking up and blinking with exasperation. 

“What did I do wrong for this one?” 

They’d been sitting in the library for the past three hours, two of which had been spent solely on chemistry. It wasn’t that there was a lack of effort on Ushijima’s side. In fact, he had tried really hard to solve the problems by himself. He would just end up using the wrong formula or accidentally skipped a step here and there which caused problems. “You’re supposed to use this formula instead.” She pointed at the formula sheet she had provided him. He leaned in closer, his shoulder brushing against her back. The warmth seeped through his muscles, her scent easing the tension he felt from studying.

“I see...but why do we use that one instead?” As she opened her mouth to explain, the library doors were thrown open. They both looked up as familiar scents filled the room. Ushijima nodded as his pack-mates made their way to their table. “Hello Tendou, Semi.”

“Wakatoshi!” Tendou exclaimed, only to be shushed by the librarian. “We were wondering where you were.” He sat on the opposite side of Ushijima, leaning into his personal space. Semi rolled his eyes, sending the Omega an awkward wave as he took a seat beside her. They were seated at a circular table.

“Hi, (Name). Sorry to bother you.” 

“Do you wanna go get dinner off-campus?” 

“Tendou, that’s not what we’re here for,” Reon reprimanded, hurrying in through the doors to stop the middle-blocker. “Is it alright if we join you two? We all need to study.” Reon glared at the other two. 

Tendou let out an elongated sigh as Reon plopped his bag beside him, sitting directly across from the other Omega. “Sure,” (Name) smiled. “There’s more than enough room at the table. But I’m not tutoring you guys!” 

Tendou cursed, crossing his arms. “Why not? You’re tutoring Wakatoshi!”

“Because I’m tutoring Ushijima-san, and I don’t want to tutor you, Tendou.” 

“Semi-Semi! I’m not a bad student, right?”

“Tendou, you’re the one who always ends getting us kicked out of here.” Semi retorted, taking a seat beside the Omega as he pulled out his own study materials. Tendou crossed his arms, pouting. “Get your stuff out, Tendou.” 

Tendou let out a loud tch before reluctantly pulling out his pens and pencils.

“I am sorry about this,” Ushijima whispered to (Name), leaning down so his mouth was by her ear. An involuntary shiver coursed through her as she lurched back slightly.

“It’s okay, Ushijima-san.” She cleared her throat. “Anyways, this is what you need to do here.” She copied the problem down on her page, writing out each step and carefully explaining why she was doing such. 

“Tendou, stop it!” Semi cursed, glaring at the red-haired Alpha. She looked up, only to have a wad of paper bounce off her nose. Confused, she furrowed her brow. 

“What the fuck do you think you’re doing, Tendou?” The group halted, all looking at her. Semi looked impressed, Ushijima was impassive, a flicker of surprise crossed Reon’s face, and Tendou had an apprehensive look on his face. 

“Having fun?”

She crossed her arms, eyes narrowing dangerously. A shiver crept up Tendou’s spine despite being an Alpha. “And what are you here to do?”

“Distract you guys!”

“Tendou,” she warned. 

He deflated slightly, face darkening. “Study?” 

“That’s right.” She fixed him with a hard gaze. “So, what are you going to do?”

“Pull out my English homework and do it.”

“Well get to it.” Tendou sulked, proceeding to do as he stated. With a satisfied smile, she turned back to the other boys. She blinked. “Why are you guys staring at me?”

“We’ve never heard you curse before, (Name)-san.” Reon commented, meeting her gaze steadily. 

“Yeah, I didn’t know you had it in you,” Semi chuckled, ruffling her hair. 

(Name) batted his hand away from her head. “You guys realize who my Alpha is right?” She rolled her eyes. Ushijima stiffened slightly; all eyes except hers flickered to him momentarily. “He’s always cursing out Oikawa and the rest of our pack-mates.”

Ushijima cleared his throat, leaning down to look at the problem, his wrist brushing against her arm. “That doesn’t sound like a healthy pack environment.” 

(Name) raised an eyebrow, glancing over at the Apex Alpha. “It’s not like he does it to intimidate or fight them. It’s all playful. They’re all fond of one another.” She cleared her throat. “Besides, I don’t think you can talk, Ushijima-san.” Olive eyes shifted up to stare at the female Omega. “Your pack was literally built upon the mentality of who is the strongest volleyball player, not with genuine connections.”

“Hey now, that’s not right,” Semi interjected. She looked at the ash-blonde Alpha. “We might’ve met like that, but we wouldn’t have agreed to be in this pack if we didn’t genuinely like one another.” 

She blinked. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be offensive.” 

“I understand where you’re coming from (Name)-san,” Reon added, sending the fellow Omega a pleasant smile. “From an outsider’s perspective, it can seem a bit forced. Just like how we might have a certain perspective about the Seijoh pack due to being outside it as well.” He leaned back. “But, based on your experiences with the pack, do you still truly think that?”

(Name) hesitated a moment. “No,” she admitted. “I do think that there are real bonds between you guys.” Her gaze examined each of the males sitting at the table in front of her. “To be honest, it does remind me of my pack. You guys are playful in similar ways, and I can tell that the bonds between you guys will last.” 

“You’re in the pack too,” Ushijima finally said, his eyes glancing down at the watch on her wrist before raising to steadily meet hers. The other males also eyed the accessory. Tendou’s eyes sparkled. Semi raised his eyebrow, and Reon simply kept the pleasant smile on his face. 

“I suppose I am, aren’t I?” Her gaze was down, staring at the maroon sleeve that sat in her lap from the jacket that hung on her chair. “Anyways,” she cleared her throat, “we have exams soon so let’s get back to studying, yeah?”  

****

“I don’t understand this!” The Beta complained, head plopping down onto his book.

“Kindaichi-kun, let’s start at the top again, okay?” Her pencil tapped against the book, carefully reading the instructions. “They just want you to solve for x, okay? Where do you think you should start?” Kindaichi peeled his face away from the pages, brows furrowed as he stared at the problem. Kumini was across the table, reviewing his English homework. Both first years were Betas. Laughter erupted from her living room, causing her gaze to shift. “Oi! You guys better be studying, or I’m not feeding you.”

“We’re studying!” Makki called.

“Don’t worry (Nickname)-chan! We’re working hard.”

“You’re hardly working, Oikawa.” Mattsun retorted, flicking through his history textbook.

“All of us are working but Shittykawa.” 

“Iwa-chan!” 

“Don’t lie to our Omega-chan,” Makki rolled his eyes.

“Stop arguing and do your work!” 

“Sorry.” They all chimed.

(Name) pinched her nose as she sighed. “I always wonder how you put up with them,” Kumini commented, not looking up from his work.

“Me too.” She replied before she glanced back down at the page besides her. “There you go, Kindaichi-kun! You’re getting the hang of it.” 

“Thank you for helping me!” 

The Omega giggled, ruffling his hair. “Of course, I told you, I’m always here to help.” She stood up, stretching. Her eyes scanned the rooms. In the living room, Iwaizumi was sitting facing her, his back to the TV as he worked on the living room table, pouring over his literature book. Oikawa was sprawled on the chaise sectional, his laptop sitting besides him as he jotted down notes on the notebook on his lap. Makki and Mattsun were sitting down at the table on opposite sides of Iwaizumi, facing each other as each focused on their own homework. She had been seated besides Kindaichi at the dinner table, their backs to the kitchen, with Kumini sitting across from them. Her eyes glanced at the clock, it was already 7 P.M.

(Name) let out a deep sigh, making her way towards the kitchen as she put on her apron. She was scheduled to leave for Tokyo tomorrow during lunch, and would be gone for the rest of the weekend. The Omega pulled out a cutting board, pulling out various ingredients and spices to start preparing dinner. “Do you need any help?” She jumped, looking up to see Oikawa standing in front of her. His elbows were on the counter, his head propped up against his arm.

“Don’t you have work you need to finish?” 

“I finished! Besides, I feel bad that you’re always the one cooking.”

“Yeah, cause we don’t trust your cooking,” Mattsun commented. Another page flip.

“Why did I even ask you guys to join my pack if all you do is bully me,” Oikawa grumbled, crossing his arms and pouting.

“Why don't you help me peel the veggies?” She offered, gesturing to the potatoes and carrots that sat in the strainer in the sink. “Just, please don’t hurt yourself, okay?” He washed his hands, standing by her side. “Don’t want Coach killing me for messing with his setter’s fingers.” 

“Maybe Shittykawa shouldn’t help then,” Iwaizumi replied, walking behind them to refill his water bottle from the fridge. 

“I can do this! Have some faith in me.” Oikawa rolled up his sleeves, washing his hands and grabbing the vegetable peeler enthusiastically.

“I will kick your ass if you fuck up.”

“I have some confidence that he will be okay.” She smiled, pecking Iwaizumi’s cheek as he stood behind her. One of his hands squeezed her hip before he headed back to his homework. 

“Some?!”

“It’s better than none,” she shrugged, washing the rice besides him. 

Oikawa gingerly picked up a potato, peeling the skin off. “Whoops!” He yelped as it shot out of his fingers. 

The Omega gave him a blank look. “Don’t make me regret inviting you over, Shittykawa.”

“Don’t use that nickname too!” Oikawa pouted. “Iwa-chan, don’t teach your mate your roguish ways.”

“I will end you.” Iwaizumi dead-panned, not looking up from his textbook. 

“When did it become ‘bully Oikawa’ day?” Oikawa muttered under his breath, scowling as he finished peeling the potato. The Omega took it out of his fingers, moving back to the cutting board in order to start chopping the vegetables.

“That’s every-day, Oikawa,” Makki retorted, causing Mattsun and Iwaizumi to burst into laughter. Kindaichi stifled his own laughter out of respect for his senpai. 

“Behave yourself in front of your kouhais,” (Name) scolded, scooping the potato pieces into the pot. A smile breached her face as she surveyed her pack-mates. She was used to such banter, and she was glad that the years hadn’t changed them that much. Kumini shut his book, stretching out. The Beta made his way over to the couch, plopping down and curling up into one of the blankets she had laid out. 

Kindaichi’s brows furrowed as he sighed in exasperation. “(Name)-san, I think I need some more help.” Kindaichi called hesitantly, face flushing pink as he avoided her eyes.

“Bring your work over here, Kindaichi. I’ll help you.” Iwaizumi waved him over, making room on the table beside him. “Oi, Mattsun, scootch over.” 

“Thank you, Iwaizumi-san!” Kindaichi scooped his things up, making his way towards his senpai. Her heart skipped a beat as she glanced between the carrots and Iwaizumi and Kindaichi. Iwaizumi really was the perfect alpha. 

Bonus

“Ushijima-san, are you okay?” Ushijima jerked, looking up. Standing in front of his desk was (Name). She placed a sports drink onto his desk. 

He cleared his throat, “yes I am. Why do you ask?” 

She raised an eyebrow at him. “I could smell you down the hall.” Ushijima frowned, sniffing the air. He hadn’t realised that his scent carried so much. “What’s going on?” She slid into the seat in front of him, straddling the seat so she faced him.

Ushijima shook his head. “It is nothing serious. Do not worry.”

“As your pack Omega and the manager of the volleyball team, I will worry. Whatever affects you will affect the pack.” Her face softened. “Please, Ushijima-san? I just want to help.” 

His frown deepened before he let out another sigh. “I am just stressed about school.” 

“School?” Her brow furrowed. “Do you need another study session?” 

“That might be helpful,” he admitted. 

“Do you normally get stressed out about school?” 

 Ushijima bite back a groan. “More often than I’d like to admit.” He took the drink, uncapping and sipping it. She had gotten him his favorite flavor. 

“Is there anything else I can do to help?” Her (e/c) eyes carefully surveyed him as she considered solutions for his problem.

“No, I’m sure I will be fine after a bit of help.”

“Whatever you say, Ushijima-san. If you think of something, please let me know okay?” She swung her legs over the chair, standing up. “Break is almost over, I should head back to my classroom.” As she moved towards the door, his hand shot out to grab her wrist.

“Actually…” He hesitated, a fear of rejection creeping up his throat. “Do you mind scenting something for me?” 

She blinked owlishly at the request. “Scent something?” (Name) looked down at his hand. It was trembling. 

“I find comfort in your scent,” he admitted, averting his eyes as he looked at the buttons on his blazer. “And I think it would help calm me down when I study.” Her face softened. Though scenting things was typically reserved for courting couples or unmated individuals, she supposed she could do the Alpha a favor. After all, she was his pack’s Omega. 

“Of course, Ushijima-san.” She took out a handkerchief from her pocket, placing it gently onto the desk. “Let me know if you need me to re-scent it, okay? Or if you need something else scented.” 

“Thank you, (Name)-san. I greatly appreciate it.” 

She stepped away, a pink flush filling her cheeks. “No problem!” She laughed awkwardly. “I’ll see you later for practice and we can talk about more study sessions then, okay?”

FUN FACTS

💟 The first time an Omega tried to ask Ushijima out, he ended up accidentally closing the door in her face. Another Alpha also tried to court Ushijima, only for him to think it was a joke and he told them off, saying that the joke wasn’t funny.

💟 The first time (Name) had made salmon, she’d accidentally undercooked it and gave her family food poisoning. Since then, she was extra diligent with her food prep. 

💟 Both Ushijima and (Name) were raised to believe that food was the language of love. 

💟 The first time (Name) had made them dinner, Iwaizumi had accidentally eaten all of the food leaving the Omega to make herself some instant noodles. Since then, she’d learn to make four times the portion just in case. 

💟 The Seijoh third-years have a competition to see who could give the worst present to the others. So far, Makki was in the lead.

💟 The Shiratorizawa librarian had placed multiple suspensions on Tendou to prevent him from being in the library. He was only allowed in the library with supervision by Reon or Ushijima. 

💟 The very first person to officially join Ushijima’s pack was Tendou. Semi was the second.

💟 Ushijima actually hadn’t told his pack-mates that he was courting (Name), but the third-years knew him well enough to guess as much

💟 The Seijoh pack has monthly study sessions which Kindaichi and Kumini always go to in order to see (Name). They miss their pack-mother but were too scared to admit it.

💟 (Name) has actually withheld food from the Seijoh boys before. They had to offer a group apology in order to get their ‘food rights’ back.

💟 Oikawa had accidentally burnt his finger-tips when (Name) was teaching him how to make milk-bread their second year. He was put on bench-rest for two weeks 1.5 months before Interhigh. 

💟 Sometimes the other third-years had a competition to see who could make Oikawa the most upset. When (Name) found out, they were lectured for over an hour. They still secretly did it behind her back whenever they had a chance though. She mostly didn’t want them teaching their underclassmen to be mean to one another and would sometimes secretly team-up with Iwaizumi and Mattsun.

💟 Ushijima spends so much time playing volleyball and working out that he sometimes forgets about his homework.

💟 Though scenting is an intimate thing typically reserved for mates, Alphas in packs are allowed to ask Omega members to scent things for them. That being said, Ushijima only asks (Name) to scent something for him and he asks her every week because of “stress”.  

AN: Tons of bonus content this week! I think this is one of the longest chapters I’ve posted for this fic :)  

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[getreadytosmash]

][For Red][ Almond Chocolate Coconut || Chubby Hubby || Cookies and Cream || Cotton Candy Explosion || Devil’s Food Chocolate || Elderberry || Entangled Mints || Fudge Behaving Badly || Half Baked || Heartbreak Healer || Kiwi Midori || Lemon-Lime Sorbet || Magic Mint Cookie || Neapolitan || Orange Pineapple Whip || Oreo Cheesecake || Phish Food || SNAFU (Strawberries Naturally All Fudged Up) || Tennessee Mud

@blind-mutant

Ice cream Headcanon

Almond Chocolate Coconut: a touch headcanon. Red is rather sensitive to touches around his back, mostly because he still gets phantom back aches from the plane crash he was in as a teenager. Red also gets more concerned over people touching him now due to his heat powers causing possible harm to them. The last thing he wants is for someone to pat him on the arm or back and suddenly burn them by accident.

Chubby Hubby: a body image/self esteem headcanon. While Red is definitely a lot more confident over his body now, what with him being reversed back to his mid-30s and having one hell of a good body...he's more self-conscious about he used to look, as well as the fact that Red's type of gamma means he tends to gain weight more easily than any of the others and this often tends to worry him and causes Red to work out a little obsessively to ensure that he keeps the weight off.

Cookies and Cream: a family headcanon. Growing up, Red REALLY loved and admired his Aunt Betsy, his father's twin sister, who had undergone some experiments of the super soldier serum. She was a big strong point for him growing up, helped a lot under Alexander's abuse and other trauma and is actually who Betty was named in honour of. Red...doesn't currently know that his aunt is actually alive right now and is simply under a new identity due to the government not wanting people to know just how many others were experimented on with the serum.

Cotton Candy Explosion: a childhood/child(ren) headcanon. He'd never admit it to anyone now, but as a kid, Red had a rather big crush on his childhood best friend, Henry. Obviously he didn't really,,,understand this in the 40s, nor would it have been accepted so Red didn't quite realise how he felt until Henry had been put into hospital after the plane accident in his youth. But by then, Red knew that Henry wasn't going to be coming home and more than that, loving a boy in the type of life he lived? Well, best to put any childish feelings and just forget about it all really.

Devil’s Food Chocolate: a vice headcanon. Red really likes nice bottles of brandies or scotch, you know, the fancy drinks officials tend to drink in meetings?? He can't get drunk anymore but Red still likes the taste at least and he likes the memories that come with a nice drink and actual respect from when he was human. He keeps a bunch of them in the alcohol fridge.

Elderberry: a hurt/comfort headcanon. While he's very reluctant to accept any form of comfort from people, Red does enjoy pressure on his back to help him calm down. The weight feels comforting to Red and honestly, what he really needs is a massage to help with his skin hunger and the fact that it would most likely help with the fact that his back has always needed a little more care than Red's been willing to give it, even with his healing factor.

Entangled Mints: a friendship headcanon. Look, he's not...great at being a soft and comforting friend, okay. Red is a mess when people try and be soft with him so often he just assumes that what people want when they're upset is to be dragged into a fight or training of some sorts. You're feeling sad? Punch this sack! You're excited? Let's work out! To Red, simply being there for any exercise or being able to simply work your bodies is the best kind of bonding.

Fudge Behaving Badly: a misbehaving/getting into trouble headcanon. Red is a lot more mischievous now than he used to be. As a teenager and young man, it often took someone else prompting him into acting out to cause some trouble (such as Karen) since he was a bit too stressed out when younger. Nowadays? Red doesn't care about what could happen, he just wants to have fun and that includes smacking Hulk with a water balloon while he takes his afternoon nap.

Half Baked: a bad idea/poor planning headcanon. After becoming a hulk, Red's gotten a lot worse at planning and decision making. It's not anything serious but out of all of the Agents', Red is the most likely to go and shot his guns in the moment all blazing. Though he DOES still work plans out, being a hulk means that he just feels less of a need to think about any sort of planning when he's invincible AND immortal.

Heartbreak Healer: a sad/angsty romantic or queerplatonic headcanon. To Red, Karen Lee Ross will always be his true love. That's not to say he can't find new true loves and such, but no one can ever truly replace the woman he met as a teenager in the hospital, the woman who he had almost crashed a plane with, the joy of their wedding and being able to raise Betty with her. Losing Karen was a part of how Red fell apart over the years and no matter what, a part of him will always wish that he could die, if only so he could be with his first true love again and to just stop that grief.

Kiwi Midori: a creative arts headcanon. Red's surprisingly good at detailed tasks! He's got a good eye for it and when he wants to, often has the patience to sit and finish something for long enough periods of time. I'd say baking is his main creative art, purely because the act of it is soothing to Red if he's feeling upset and also how it helps someone like Jen, who takes comfort in being able to watch Red bake. He likes watching something so simple come together so well and if he does any decorating then, then Red really enjoys working out designs or colouring surprisingly.

Lemon-Lime Sorbet: a sexual/NC-17 headcanon (alt: a secret(s) h/c). As you can imagine with someone in the military and long standing power, Red is...very much into power play as well as corporal punishment, mostly for himself though. There's a thrill to taming a brat and there's another kind of thrill in knowing that he's a very powerful man, whether he's a general or a hulk, and someone having a hold over him? He's weak. Has a daddy kink and 100% Karen pegged him and he would let it happen again when he gets over himself.

Magic Mint Cookie: a magic/supernatural headcanon (alt: a taste h/c). Being a cosmic hulk and different form of radiation, Red is actually much more magically powered than he would think. He tends to draw in magic energy as well as a fair amount of supernatural creatures, such as when Ghost Rider kidnapped him and Emil Blonsky - I like to think that a good portion of that was down to Red's own energy drawing him in along with the SHIT load of guilt that he tends to carry with him. That, and Red's blood is cannonly good tasting for vampires so he's basically a sexy cryptid magnet. And he hates this.

Neapolitan: an intimacy/vulnerability (or lack thereof) headcanon. A lot of Red's inability of being able to be emotionally vulnerable is down to the fact that it's never really worked out for him in the past and this often sticks with him. His father was absent and abusive, his mother had cheated on her husband which was a very serious thing for their family and at the time, his aunt was always forced to be secretive and hidden from him about certain traits, his best friend/crush had been so severely traumatised by his father's violent death that he needed to be placed into a hospital and later died due to complications from a lobotomy, his wife ended up dying of cancer rather young and this caused Red to ruin his relationship with his daughter and any friends over the years to the point where hunting the hulk was all he had and turning himself into the Red Hulk seemed like a better option than being alone with his mistakes.

So uh. Red likes to keep his feelings close, he can't ruin another person simply by being near them, not again.

Orange Pineapple Whip: a kinky headcanon (alt: an eccentricity h/c). Red is...very much into corporeal punishment. More so for himself rather than giving it. Don't get him wrong, he loves taming a brat, but there's also a thrill when he meets someone who can push HIM around, make him want to be a good soldier for them. Red's always been a sucker for a good crop or a firmer hand, especially since he's always been a big man in regards to his power and actual size. Though it's harder to enjoy this kink nowadays with his hulk size as well the fact that Red is a very closed off man about his desires and possibly being vulnerable.

Oreo Cheesecake: a physical health/disability headcanon. After the plane crash, Red was left in a wheelchair for a year before relearning to walk again, but long term back pain stayed with him for the rest of his life, along with some burns on his legs and back from the crash. The burns healed up when he became Red Hulk but the pain of those burns and broken spine still stays with him. As a human, Red often had to take a LOT of painkillers as well as keep his burns down with a salve as well as yoga/ballet stretches that his wife showed him over the years, but Red ended up dropping a lot of it when she died.

Currently, Red suffers a lot of back pain but his healing factor makes it more manage that he doesn't need to take time laying down or letting anyone else know about the pain he's in. Red would defo benefit from some sort of walking aid but he full out refuses due to not wanting to be seen as "weak".

Phish Food: a music headcanon. Red knows how to play the trumpet and learned it purely to annoy Hulk in the morning. Nothing is funnier than hearing Hulk screech, all because Red chose to learn an annoyingly loud instrument.

SNAFU (Strawberries Naturally All Fudged Up): a mistake(s) headcanon. Hoo Boy WHERE to start? Red has made a lot of mistakes in his life, but he counts Betty as his biggest mistake due to how he ruined their relationship over the years. If Red could go back in time and do something better, he'd ensure that he didn't shove Betty away after Karen died. Maybe then, things would have been so much better for them during the most important years, even if they have all of eternity to get better.

Tennessee Mud: an alcohol, drunkenness, intoxication headcanon. Even being human, it's wildy hard to get Red drunk-drunk. Never challenge him to a drinking contest because he WILL drink you under the table...at the cost of being more likely to agree to dares and stupid ideas suggested to people around him. Once, Karen had convinced Red to break into a neighbour's brewery collection to make out,,,ended up with them stealing a barrel of peach cider and tripping down a hill with it.

[yourkeeperoftherunners]

Slice of Happiness

Plot: AU His friends say he’s obsessed when they see him paying a visit to a new dessert cafe every week. But who can blame him when the cheesecake tastes like a cloud and the attractive cafe worker is there to serve it with a smile?

Rating: G

Characters: Student!Han (Stray Kids) x Reader (Any gender), plus mention of other members.

Notes: Hope everyone is staying healthy and safe! I needed a break from some of the series I’m writing on AFF and the ideas I have planned on tumblr. In an effort to write something cute and lighthearted, I imagined Han visiting a place for one of his favorite desserts regularly for two good reasons. All settings and events are fictional!

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

“YAH! GIVE IT BACK!”

His friend smiles slyly as he holds Jisung’s test far out of reach, moving his arm quickly to keep it away. His eyes drifted to the score written at the top in red ink and he huffs as he pushes the test against Jisung’s chest.

“97! Seriously?” Hyunjin whined as he stared in disbelief. “That’s not fair! I swear Professor Danner hates me.”

Jisung smoothed out his test and stuck it into his bag. He continued to walk with Hyunjin and reassured his friend that maybe next time he’d get an A. As they neared the building for Hyunjin’s next class, Hyunjin checked his watch to see how much time he had before the lesson started.

“I forgot, do you have any more classes today or are you done?” Hyunjin asked.

Jisung shook his head and shifted his bag strap, so it sat higher on his shoulder. “I’m done for today,” he said. “I’m gonna go to the cafe.”

Hyunjin rolled his eyes and glanced in the direction of said cafe. “You go an awful lot. Is it really worth the hype?”

Jisung nodded as he looked across the street, his mood dropping slightly when he saw the line outside. It was the afternoon and that usually happened to be one of the busiest periods for the spot, based on his observations.

A Spot of...Cafe was the newest business near their university that quickly gained popularity for their coffee and freshly made case offerings. This year they partnered with the university to allow students to use some of their meal plan snack points for payment, which saw a rise in foot traffic for the cafe. Jisung liked their cheesecakes, which were made fresh in house every day.

Minho took him around the time they first opened and unlocked an opening week deal by checking in on Yelp. He got Jisung’s coffee for free and in return, Jisung paid for their desserts, a slice of cheesecake for him and a cream-filled choux bun for Minho. The first bite had him hooked and he couldn’t help but visit at least once a week, just to see what new flavors they had.

“Everything’s made fresh there and the people are really nice,” Jisung explained. “Have you gone yet?”

Hyunjin shook his head and confessed that it was too busy most of the time he went. He checked his watch again and excused himself, saying he had three minutes to take his seat.

“You know how she is if you’re a minute late,” Hyunjin sighed, rolling his eyes at the thought of his professor. “If you see something there I might like, can you get it for me?”

“I mean, I can just wait for you after your class,” Jisung confessed. “I’ll eat dinner then come back here when your class ends, and we go to the cafe together. Besides, it usually dies down after the early afternoon rush.”

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

“Say it with me. You. Are. Obsessed,” Seungmin said.

Jisung rolled his eyes as he walked faster, forcing Seungmin to jog to catch up with him. After he put his bag back in his room, Jisung ate a light dinner in the cafeteria and happened to run into Seungmin. The latter asked to join him and Hyunjin at the cafe, saying he wanted to get a tea drink for his throat after a tiring vocal lesson.

“What’s wrong with supporting a small business?” Jisung demanded.

Seungmin shot him a look and he extended a hand beyond his sweater paw to poke Jisung’s stomach. Instead of feeling a soft tummy, his finger prodded a firm area of muscle. This made Jisung push his friend’s hand away and he whined about the other’s assumption that he gained weight from frequent visits to A Spot of...Cafe.

“I work out at least 3 if not 4 or more days a week!” Jisung complained. “Minho can vouch for me – he’s making me take that student yoga class on Tuesdays and Thursdays with him.”

Seungmin sighed and apologized for his assumption. “I’m only looking out for your health.”

“I savor the cheesecake when I eat it!” Jisung shot back. “Besides, they make good cheesecake and I got an A on my test. I say it’s worth the slice!”

Hyunjin cleared his throat as he approached the pair during their mini argument. He crossed his arms over his chest and shot them an amused look.

“We’re talking about that cafe, aren’t we?” Hyunjin mused.

Seungmin nodded and the trio began walking to the crosswalk closest to them. “I said he’s obsessed if he goes at least once a week. That’s a lot of cheesecake to eat.”

“Or he’s in love with someone there,” Hyunjin offered. He turned to look at Jisung and noticed his friend was starting to look a little flushed. A smirk tugged at his lips and he asked Jisung if he liked someone who worked there.

“Yah, why would you say–”

“Oho he does,” Seungmin interrupted. “There’s a server/cashier there that always greets him by name and he gets this little lovesick look in his eyes when they talk to him.”

Jisung ducked his head and began walking faster once the walk sign came on. He heard his friends laughing at his secret and he tried to slip inside the cafe before they could catch up. While the cheesecake had been the main reason he came back to the cafe, it didn’t hurt that the attractive server working there happened to be there whenever he visited. Based on his observations, he figured that you were a co-owner or some kind of manager there, as you often got called over to correct mistakes or answer detailed questions about the case offerings. He overheard you telling a neurotic and persistent customer how you baked gluten-free treats in their own pans and had a set of special utensils designated for handling gluten-free items.

“How sure are you?” the customer demanded.

“Sir, I am the head baker here and I am in charge of handling all of our case items,” you reassured him in a soothing voice. “My cousin has Celiac disease and I bake for her all the time. I made sure to adopt the same practices that I did when I bake at home for her.”

“Jisung! You’re coming in later than usual!” you remarked with a smile. “How’s this week treating you, my friend?”

He lifted his head and allowed a small smile to cross his lips. “Yeah I was waiting for a friend to get out of class so we could go together. I’m doing well Sunbae – I got a 97 on my Korean History exam.”

You flashed him a thumbs-up and gestured to the case. “You know I always have the New York Cheesecake, but today I did a Strawberry Swirl and a Lemon Lime one for the summer. I’m afraid we ran out of Chocolate Decadence this morning – sorry!”

“Oh that’s okay,” he said as he studied the shelf with the cheesecakes. “Hmmm...how about Strawberry today?”

“Can we split that? It sounds good,” Hyunjin spoke up as he joined Jisung.

Jisung looked over at him and tried not to pout in front of you. Normally he was hard-pressed to share his treat with anyone else, but he didn’t want to seem rude in front of you.

Seungmin clapped a hand on Hyunjin’s shoulder and added that Hyunjin would buy the slice for Jisung if they shared it. This made Hyunjin snap his head toward their friend and you couldn’t help but laugh at the turn of events.

Before Hyunjin could protest, Seungmin stepped up and greeted you politely, ordering a hot tea drink with yuzu, honey, and mint in it. You rang up his order and asked for his payment.

“You take our student snack points?” Seungmin asked.

“Yes we do,” you replied as you accepted his student ID card. You swiped it and watched as the register noted the payment. The drawer popped open and you shut it, before handing over his card and receipt. “I’ll bring that over to you.”

Seungmin thanked her as he left to find a table and Hyunjin sighed as he agreed to buy Jisung’s cheesecake.

“We can get a big slice and you can eat most of it,” Hyunjin promised. He moved to the register and ordered one slice of the Strawberry Swirl cheesecake, along with a decaf coffee.

Jisung thanked him before joining Seungmin at a table in the corner. They watched as Hyunjin pocketed his ID and waited for you to fill a mug with decaf coffee for him.

“Free refills during this visit okay?” you said as you handed him the mug.

“Oh that’s nice, thank you,” Hyunjin murmured with a smile.

“Course, and I’ll get that cheesecake ready for you,” you replied.

Hyunjin carried his mug over to the table and slowly sat down. He raised the mug to his lips and blew on it. He took a tiny sip and looked thoughtful for a moment.

“They didn’t burn it and it tastes better than the cafeteria coffee,” he whispered.

“Anywhere is better than the cafeteria coffee,” Seungmin groaned. “I don’t drink it, but Chris told me that they constantly burn it and sometimes the machine has overflowed. They really need to get it fixed.”

Jisung nodded as he watched you remove the Strawberry Swirl cheesecake from the case. You carried it to the back counter and pulled out a clean cutting knife for his slice. Carefully, you placed the slice onto a plate and grabbed two forks and napkins. The plate, forks, and napkins were placed on a serving tray and you accepted the tea drink from your barista.

“Here we are guys,” you announced as you walked over. You placed the tea in front of Seungmin and then put the slice between Jisung and Hyunjin. “Let me know if you need refills or if you need more honey in the tea.” You carried the tray back to the counter, then headed to the back to check on some of the cookies you were putting on the top shelf.

“Whoa, that’s a BIG slice,” Seungmin emphasized. He grinned knowingly at Jisung, who ignored him as he reached for a fork and cut off a small piece to try.

He closed his eyes as the soft cream cheese, combined with bits of strawberry and strawberry puree hit his tongue. Combined with the graham cracker crust, it was perfection.

“It is good,” Hyunjin spoke up. He glanced at Jisung who was slowly withdrawing the fork from his mouth to reach for another piece. “Ah, are you going to eat it this slowly?”

Jisung scowled at him as he cut a bigger piece off with his fork.

“You have to savor it!” he insisted before parting his lips to to eat the second bite.

Seungmin sighed as he blew on his tea.

“Looks like we’re gonna be here a while...”

[yetremains]

“...”

“Well damn, alright.” Yang downed the rest of her tea quickly, before gasping for a breath as she shoved her cup away.

“Lightning round, lets go!”

chocolate: when was your first kiss?

“It was in my young teen years, 15 I think. I’d been dating that individual for a couple weeks before they abruptly decided to kiss me then and there. We’d been dancing around the subject for a while. It wasn’t spicy or romantic, merely spur of the moment. Was sweet though. The year after that we had broke up and remained friends for a while until we lost contact.”

french vanilla: how old are you?

“You shouldn’t ask someone their age when they been through shit. Too god damn old is the best answer if you must know. I’m older than 28, trust me. Don’t let looks fool you. But hey, I’m getting even older come December 25th!”

cotton candy: three places you want to travel to?

“Do places long gone count? Can I say Home? Nah probably not. So three places let’s see... Japan, China, Romania. The actual places not whatever anything makes them out to be.”

strawberry: a language you wish you could speak?

“I know a damn lot of languages actually. Sometimes it’s hard to think of the right words to say because of this, knowing so many. It’s one reason I’m so odd with my way of speaking. However, I would not mind learning some dead languages. If that doesn’t count, then... Persian?”

coffee: favorite cosmetic brands?

“Ah hell. I mean, I’m not much of a cosmetic expert here. I work with whatever I really need for a music show or for just every day. I could say L’Oreal because I���m worth it joke but that seems in bad taste. If I was using cosmetics just for the enjoyment or to look special, I just try and get whatever works for me.”

mint chocolate chip: indoors or outdoors?

“Answered this one~!”

cookie dough: do you play any instruments?

“Plenty. I’ve decided to learn a few different ones so I can mix together my own music needs of demands arise for it. But I really enjoy stringed instruments or wind instruments. I carry a small harmonica or Ryūteki in my packs.”

rocky road: favorite songs at the moment?

“Not easy to give an answer for, I’ve got a really broad taste. But I’m thinking something with a heavier beat at the moment-”

butter pecan: favorite songs for life?

“Oh come on this makes it harder. As I said, broad taste. I can find enjoyment in many kinds of music and lyrics. Can’t exactly answer a favorite song for life here.”

cheesecake: what’s your zodiac sign?

“Which zodiac are we talking here? There are a lot out there. But the first one into my head is Capricorn. I am on the 25th of December.”

toasted coconut: the beach or the pool?

“As nice as the ocean can be, fuck the ocean. I’ll enjoy the coast line just fine but you won’t catch me swimming that far out in it. There is damn good reason why I don’t like the ocean much anymore. I’ll relax in a pool or a lake or river, thank you.”

chocolate chip: what’s your most popular post?

“Good question. I’ve made a few social media posts that exploded. But that’s probably not fair considering the music I do. I think my most popular is from years ago when I spray painted a statue of a certain someone to look like a baboon.”

bubblegum: books or movies?

“Both! Why choose? I enjoy both quite a bit. and besides, Books can always be there no matter what. And can hold so much valuable information depending what you are reading.”

pistachio: manga or anime?

“... Both again? But I prefer novels. This is more a guilty pleasure.”

salted caramel: favorite movies?

“I can’t remember the last movie I watched, if I’m honest, let alone a favorite movie.”

birthday cake: favorite books?

“Hmmm. Hard one. I enjoy the collected works of Edgar Allen Poe? There is Shōgun. The Mark of Zorro, Sherlock Holmes, Bram Stoker Dracula... There’s several.”

moose tracks: favorites for manga?

“Not exactly applicable, I don’t remember the name of any I like when I was young.”

orange sherbet: favorites for anime?

“The same as above. Wow I am old... I should really get in touch with these things again.”

peanut butter: favorite academic subject?

“Hah, I loved science and history. A damn lot really. I’ve used both to really help my self along and it’s come in handy. My need for knowledge had me spend a lot of time researching.”

black raspberry: do you have any pets?

“I’ve not had any pets since I was a rookie. Never had the time to truly care for one, and now with a hectic life, I’m not gonna do that to an animal.”

mango: when and why did you start your blog?

“Suppose just to exist and have something to do between pit stops.”

mocha: ideal weather conditions?

“It is torn between two for me. A nice warm day, clear, maybe with a gentle breeze. Some clouds above, and calm. That’s the ideal outing day... But, I suppose due to my birthday, I can enjoy a soft snow coming down,some snow on the ground, watching through a window with tea in hand while bundled up and warm. Much prefer clear day though.”

black cherry: four words that describe you?

“Now that’s just not fair. Let me think... Loyal, Determined, Caring, Protective.”

neapolitan: things that stress you out?

“Being reminded of my failings and those I’ve lost... the people I’ve hurt... Thinking about friends I wish I was closer too but too fearful to be that close. Hm. I can also be stressed out by far too much stimulation for my brain at once that it can spin my gears way too quickly.”

raspberry truffle: favorite kind of music?

“Again, broad tastes. But depending on my mood or feelings, it changes what my favorite kind of music can be. But I will always enjoy something gentle and calming.”

chocolate marshmallow: favorite brands of candy?

“I’ve always been partial to chocolates, or cream items.”

toffee: a card game that you’re good at?

“Ever hear of a game called Egyptian Rat Race? Also known as Egyptian Rat Screw, dunno why of course. I learned this game when I was a kid. 52 card deck, deal to each player until the deck is entirely used and everyone has a pile face down. Starting to the left of the dealer players pull the top card off their pile and place it face-up in the middle. If the card played is a number card, the next player puts down a card, too. This continues around the table until somebody puts down a face card or an Ace. When a face card or an ace is played, the next person in the sequence must play another face card or an ace in order for play to continue.If the next person in the sequence does not play a face card or an ace within their allotted chance, the person who played the last face card or an ace wins the round and the whole pile goes to them. The winner begins the next round of play.“

lemon custard: do you eat breakfast?

“Uh... Admittedly not often. With my metabolism problem I absolutely should, considering the demanding needs. I just can’t always bring my self to do so, the will for it isn’t there. I do snack though.”

dark chocolate: turn ons?

“Ooohh boy... Now this one has me turning a bit red here. I mean there is biting and tight holds, the usual stuff. But... I’m not gonna list a lot here, a turn on can be blindfolding me if I trust my partner enough.”

fudge: turn offs?

“Being an asshole, for one.”

peach: how do you relax?

“A nice cup of tea, maybe some soft music, and let my mind unwind a little. That’s if I’m alone. Otherwise a gentle conversation with a friend about small things... Once upon a time long ago I would have said long hugs or cuddling. Not an option these days.”

praline: a popular book you haven’t read yet?

“I’ve not read The Golden Compass, that has been on my to do list.”

superman: do you like sweaters?

“Weird how this one is with sweaters... but yeah I can enjoy sweaters in the right weather. They can be soft and warm, comfy. Great for cold days.”

cherry: do you drink tea or coffee?

“I drink both actually. But if I have the option for a good tea I’m going to take it without hesitation. Yet the spark of energy from Coffee can’t be denied.”

dulce de leche: an instrument you wish you could play?

“Without a doubt, Taisho-goto. Have you seen one of those? It’s so intricate and amazing, and can sound wonderful. It can be used to play all sorts of things. Fascinates me that the item was half inspired by a typewriter.”

blackberry: have you ever laughed so hard you cried?

“Oh a few times actually. It’s been a good long while now since I’ve gone that far, but it’s come close. But once upon a time this has happened!”

ginger: a new feature you wish tumblr could have?

“To Become A Functioning Website.”

blueberry lemon: favorite blogs?

“Now that’s just kissing and telling...” (( I’d also have to tag and dont wanna spam. ))

almond: favorite mean girls quote?

“Oddly specific, but... Variations of ‘One time she punched me in the face. It was awesome.’. “

butterscotch: what color are your nails right now?

“Uh, natural and colorless? I’ve not painted my nails in a while.”

cinnamon: have you ever been confessed to?

“I have yes.”

blue moon: have you ever had a crush on someone?

“Again, yes. We’re not gonna go into this can of worms.”

cappuccino crunch: do you take naps?

“Sometimes. There comes the occasion when one does get exhausted and needs a damn nap.”

mint: the most embarrassing thing you’ve ever done?

“Get way too flustered and accidentally admit I liked someone.”

brownie batter: do you like sushi?

“Completely! You say we’re going to get Sushi and you have my full attention.”

key lime: where do you want to be right now?

“Home unfortunately.”

red velvet: do you wear prescription glasses?

“Nope! I’m thankful for that, but one day I have no doubt that’s going to change.”

green tea: favorite flavors of ice cream?

“Mochi green tea, chocolate chip mint, red bean, Strawberry shortcake... Gelato raspberry or orange cream.”

[lovemesomesurveys]

[zombiebandido]

Can you recommend any Neil Gaiman to me, aside from Stardust or Good Omens? I’m not familiar with his work.

What's the best concert you've been to, if you've been? Jonas Brothers and Green Day.

What's the funniest screenname you've ever seen? I’ve been on the internet since I was like 9 years old, I’ve come across many.

Is there an animal you like that most people don't? I don’t think so. Most people don’t seem to dislike giraffes, which are my favorite animal. <<< Same. And doggos.

Is there an animal that you think is overrated in terms of how it's liked? No.

Is there a time period you think is underrated? I’d love to bring the 90′s back, that’s all. <<< I’m in.

What about music? Hmm.

Do you find yourself listening to music that's a bit more esoteric? No.

What are your three favorite books and why? I’m gonna give you my three current favorite artists instead: AJ Rivers, Willow Rose, and Mary Stone. They’re murder mystery and psychological thriller authors with tons of books and I’ve really enjoyed the many I’ve read from each of them.

What about authors? ^^^ Do you have any likes you wouldn't tell someone until you got to know them? Hmm. I think things would just come up over time, not because I’m waiting to tell them.

Do you have a favorite language? Spanish.

What about a place you've always wanted to visit? I’d love to be able to travel all over.

What's something someone does or says that just makes you laugh? Tell me a lame dad joke. I’m a sucker for those. <<< lol I am, too. I came across a compilation post recently on here that was pretty great.

Do goldfish crackers ever make you sick, or is that just me? I’ve never had that issue.

Do you have a favorite art style? No.

Do you have a favorite myth/fairy-tale? There’s several I find interesting and enjoy.

Who is your favorite person aside from family? Alexander Skarsgard. ;)

Do any of your pets (if you have them) have weird quirks? My doggo is very quirky. She’s such a goofball.

Do you listen to music from anywhere besides America? Some.

Have you ever "quit" a site and came back to it more than once? I don’t think so.

Do you have an "odd" fascination with anything? Hm. I don’t think I have any “odd” fascinations. 

What is the thing you want most at this moment? I’d really like to just feel decent today so I can enjoy a nice Easter with my family.

What was the last book you read and what was it about? I’m currently reading, “Cold Highway” by Mary Stone, which is the 4th book in a series.

What was the worst book you've ever read & why? I can’t believe I ever read the Fifty Shades of Gray books. *facepalm*

Do you have a favorite breed of dog or cat? Which? Labs and German Shepherds are awesome.

If you like any anime/manga, what are some titles you recommend? --

What do you think about school in general? I think it’s important to get an education. <<<

What's the hardest thing you've been through, & what did you learn from it? The accident that made me a paraplegic and everything that resulted from it ever since.

What are three "unrealistic" things you want most? Good health is the most unrealistic. 

What are some of your favorite foods? Ramen, garlic parm and lemon pepper boneless wings from Wingstop, and scrambled eggs and biscuits smothered in country gravy.

Where do you like to buy your clothes? Boxlunch and Hot Topic. 

Do you take any daily vitamins? No, but I definitely should be.

Who are three of your favorite fictional characters of all time? There’s so many to choose from, though.

If you had to give the world a pre-existing mythological/fictional being, what would it be? Superheroes, maybe? 

When buying Slurpees, if you do, do you get only one flavor or mix them? I always liked mixing Coke and cherry together.

Do you have a favorite 7Eleven food? I liked getting snacks and drinks from there, but I never ate their pizza or hot dogs or anything of that sort.

Do you have any desire to learn (a) foreign language(s)? Which? I’d just like to be fluent in Spanish.

If you could have any career, "realistic"-ness aside, what would it be? I still don’t know.

What are three memorable movies from your childhood? Mary Kate and Ashley movies, Disney movies, and The Rugrats Movie. Ha, I know I cheated by grouping some together, but whatever.

Do you, personally, put a space after ellipses, or not? No.

What do some of the things that inspire you have in common? I haven’t felt inspired in a long time.

Micky D's sweet tea, y/n/other? I used to like it when I was younger. I couldn’t even tell you the last time I had it, though. 

What are three of your best (non-physical) qualities? Blah.

What are three of your worst (again; non-physical) qualities? Blahhhh.

What is one of your firmest beliefs? My belief in God.

Do you ever question things until you're unsure of even the silliest thing? Sometimes.

Do you have anything that keeps you from doing something you'd truly enjoy? My health.

What are your three biggest pet peeves (personality-wise) in others? Arrogance, close-mindedness, and people who just jump on the bandwagon with certain things without doing their own research and forming their own opinions, not even really knowing what the issue is, they’re just following the crowd. 

Do you work to fix your faults? Or at least, admit to them? I’m quick to own up and admit to all my faults, but do I do I shit about them? ...

What are three of your best physical qualities? (NOT EYES!) Blehhh.

What are some of your greatest aspirations? I don’t have any. :/

How do you hope the world will change, if at all? I wish we could see less division and violence.

Who are three (fairly known) people you find very intriguing? Hmm.

What are three things that make you the happiest? God, my family, and trips to the beach.

What is/are your view(s) on god, religion, spirituality, or relations to? I’m a Christian.

Are you arachnophobic or scared of spiders in the least? YES.

Do you play WoW? What do you think of it either way? Nope.

What kind of computer do you have? Windows 7/Vista/XP/Other? I have a MacBook Air, which currently runs on macOS Sierra.

What are you good at? Nothing.

What career do you hope to have? I really don’t know. :/

Are you taking any interesting classes in school/do you not attend? I’m finished with school.

If you don't attend, are you taking any "lessons" for anything? Nope.

A book/piece that has had an exceptional impact on your life? The Bible.

If you know of pandora.com, what is your favorite station? Actually, I was listening to Pandora recently for the first time in years and came across this 90s, 2000s, and Today’s Hits station that I was really enjoying.

Have you ever "lost" a friend in any way? How did you deal? Yeah, I’ve lost a lot of friends. Some were harder to deal with than others.

Any music recommendations? Check out that Pandora station.

What are at least three of your biggest fears? Losing my loved ones, death, and never getting better/getting worse.

Most recently read book that you liked? I’m currently reading, “Cold Highway” by Mary Stone, which is the 4th book in a series. 

Do you have a piece of jewelry you don't like to take off? No. I haven’t worn jewelry in a long time.

Do you have a favorite quote? Why is it your favorite? I have many. Any odd pastimes you have? I don’t consider any of my pastimes odd.

Are you quirky in any way? (Name them please). My eating habits, for sure. I’m just really picky and particular.

Have any practices you aren't opposed to but wouldn't do yourself? Uhh.

Political standing?

Do you have any piercings/what do you think about piercings? I just have my earlobes pierced.

Do you have a favorite material? My soft, fuzzy throw blanket.

What are three names you'd name a pet if you HAD to get a pet right now? I don’t know. I’d have to see them and see what vibe I get.

Do you like to listen to dorky/amusing music? What would be considered dorky and amusing music?

Coffee vs. Tea vs. Energy Drinks: Order from favorite to least favorite. Coffee, energy drinks (only the Starbucks Doubleshot coffee energy drink), and tea.

Do you like more "fruity" sweets or "savory" sweets? Uhh, I like cupcakes, donuts, brownies, cookies, muffins, and cheesecake type of sweet.

What do you hate the most? My health, myself, and where I’m at in my life.

What genres of music are your favorite? I like variety.

Do you believe in true love? Yeah.

Do you believe in love at first sight? If yes, why? No.

What are some of your favorite clothing accessories? I just wear leggings and graphic tees.

If reincarnation exists, what sort of person would you want to be next? What are some things you believe strongly in? My faith.

Where's your favorite place you've been? Beaches and Disneyland.

What sort of books and movies do you like? Horror, psychological thriller, mystery, and YA for books, horror, psychological thrillers, drama, superhero films, some sci-fi and fantasy stuff like Star Wars, action, adventure, and romcoms for movies.

What's your favorite thing to do on a rainy Saturday? I don’t do anything different, but I do love when it rains.

Is there a book you've read that really touched you? Yeah.

Do you have a favorite artist? As in a painter? No.

PC or MAC? Mac.

What do you love doing? Spending time with my family, reading, scrolling through Tumblr, catching up on social media and trending topics, surveys, listening to ASMR, watching YouTube, watching my favorite shows, drinking coffee, sleeping...

If you could create the perfect world for yourself, what would it be? All my loved ones would be there, good health, money wouldn’t be a concern, happiness, I’d have a house on the beach, I’d be comfortable and relaxed and at peace... stuff like that.

Do you think that fate plays a part in people's lives? No.

Are you religious, spiritual, atheist...? I am a Christian. 

What are your opinions on the media? There’s the good and bad. It can be pretty brutal and problematic, for sure.

Do you think that people throw the words "love" and "hate" around too much? Yes.

What is your favorite piece of technology that you own? My laptop and phone.

What's a piece of technology you'd like to own? I have what I want at the moment. 

Are you afraid of technology developing to where we're too reliant on it? Oh, we’re waaaay past that point.

Does it bother you when people do things to fit in with a certain crowd? When they’re doing problematic things. 

Hot or cold? I’d much rather be cold. I like being wrapped up in a blanket, wearing hoodies/sweatshirts, and drinking hot coffee. Being hot is just miserable.  Do you think that Bzoink should extent the character amount for questions? I don’t use Bzoink.

Do you have a favorite combination of complimentary colors? A lot of colors look nice together.

Do you know why all the young people who have nice cars always look grumpy? I don’t think I’ve noticed that.

What's your favorite odd ice cream flavor? I don’t like any odd flavors. What’s with you and odd stuff?

Where do you like to get your ice cream? I’m not a big ice cream person, but the store is fine, ha. It was nice going somewhere like Cold Stone or something as well, though. I haven’t had ice cream in years, though.

What's your opinion on stereotypes/labels? Labels can be useful in some cases.

Do you ever use random word generators for Bzoinkoids?

Do you believe that history repeats itself? Absolutely. There’s proof of that.

Would you rather learn from your mistakes or just undo them? Ha, it’d be nice to be able to undo them.

What was the most interesting class you had in school? I always enjoyed English. And then of course I found a lot of my psych classes interesting. Do you write? If so, what? Nope.

Do you have a favorite website? Tumblr and YouTube.

Do you think that the quality of TV shows is going down? No, there’s so many good shows.

Do you have a favorite culture? Learning about different cultures is interesting. What was a story you heard as a child that really affected you? Hmm.

Who was your favorite grade-school teacher and why? Mr. McG, my 4th and then 8th grade teacher. He was everyone’s favorite. He made learning so much fun and really cared about his students.

Do you think that the world will end? How? Yes, how the Bible says it will.

Do you believe in Global Warming? Have you researched it? Yes.

Do you prefer piercings or tattoos? I only have my earlobes pierced and I have zero tattoos, soo I can’t say I’m big on either one.

Do you remember your dreams? Very, very rarely.

[thesorrowoflizards]

ezra i’d love to hear your thoughts on desserts? what are your faves and stuff you dislike the most? (yes it’s daydreaming about cooking and baking for the murder bois hours)❤️💖💜💙

god cooking is fun but im bad at it but im actually not terrible at baking and desserts--other than breaking eggs, which i still have to ask someone else to do because im a garbage baby

but Y E S  ok desserts are, great. i admit i actually like cooking them more than eating them a lot of the time? especially most cake 

although i do love strawberry cake,, my local grocery store’s generic bakery does this strawberry cake with whipped cream icing that tastes SO GOOD especially chilled. like idk bro that shit is good

chocolate cake is overrated but not disgusting (if its like Moist And Dense its pretty good especially with the right like, fudgey icing?) and vanilla is fine. better in cupcake form

as for like pie, i like pecan and certain kinds of chocolate pie a lot, i like apple and rhubarb but i might pick out some of the filling like a loser, pumpkin pie and coconut cream i can stand in small amounts bc unique flavor but not great texture. key lime and lemon meringue i ADORE in concept but in practice always seem to fail me. peach and cherry i just dont like im sorry :( i mean cherry is good if i just eat the cherry juice soaked crust like a heathen but pretty sure that doesn’t count

fglkhjfgh im trying to think of other desserts... spotted dick is TERRIBLE, had it once, i hate it. all bread pudding sucks im sorry 

cookies,,, chocolate chip is boring unless very fresh and gooey and a little underdone so its like warm cookie dough but not dangerous, shortbread is great if done right but needs something with it, anything with raisins is trash, sugar cookies are only good if they’re those weird soft lofthouse ones, double choc is fine, white choc macademia nut is fine.... i can’t think of any others rn 

apple turnovers? the shit. cherry turnovers? suck. those strawberry cream cheese ones the walmart near me has sometimes? delicious. i love fake strawberry shit ngl

same with fake blueberry shit like blueberry muffins or waffles with like, the weird processed blueberry stains that aren’t really blueberries? good blueberry flavor without the texture i hate

TARTS. LEMON TARTS AND CREAM CHEESE TARTS GOOD. 

uhhhHHHHH im sure im missing so many more desserts i know. some random other ones i’ve tried--churros (had some really good ones at one place and some really bad ones at another), sopapillas (always good but i somehow always make a mess), ice cream in general (strawberry and mint and superman are the best, chocolate sucks, and generally, i like frozen yogurt better. all good with caramel and like, turtle sundae kind of things), brownies (easy to get wrong but if right THE BEST), monkey bread (pretty good), doughnuts (almost all garbage), zeppoli (i liked the strawberry one, surprise surprise), uhhhhhhh im running out of desserts i can think of tbh fuck. uh, fudge, i like a lot of fudge, tbh, but in small amounts. don’t think i’ve had any i straight up hate although the maple nut one was kind of meh. (we used to go to this fudge shop on summer vacation to this same place because of like, family reasons, and we always got fudge so i tried a lot of different fudge. i even made some once!), cheesecake (good! i like it. my mom had a really good recipe for the plain stuff but she hates cooking so i never eat it), those french cream puff things? (nasty, flavorless, weir texture), those little cakes i used to get at my local chinese buffet that i don’t think were actually chinese but were very tasty (very tasty!! they sometimes had these little strawberry ones--I KNOW I KNOW STRAWBERRY LOOK IM A SLUT FOR IT OK), anything banana flavored that isn’t actually a sliced up banana (ew), custard (generally not that good?)..... that’s all i got for now i can’t think of anythng else but if you had any other specific ones in mind hmu (or if theres one i probably haven’t tried but you like you can tell me about it!) 

[gingeryginseng]

Strawberry Cheesecake

A buttery biscuit base and a deliciously sweet filling, this no-bake strawberry cheesecake is adorned with freshly whipped cream and ripe strawberries. It is the ultimate dessert and centrepiece for tea time treats or special occasions.

Truth be told, growing up I was never a huge cheesecake eater. I’d always look over it for something more chocolately and stodgy if there was an option (I am more than receptive to a slice or two of chocolate cake!).

Whether it is because this is my first cheesecake make, or simply because I adore strawberries, this creation was a very early make in my baking journey but one I always compare subsequent bakes to! Undeniably, one of my most favourite makes (and food photography attempts) ever! 

Whilst my love for this recipe is more than apparent, what actually makes it so special? I love how soft and creamy the filling is in comparison to more traditionally dense cheesecakes. I think this can be attributed to the fact I used low fat cream cheese (as dairy is a thickening agent). This, along with the deliciously light and fluffy cream, beautifully melted into the biscuit base which is light and chewy (I personally prefer a more chewy and cookie-like base to a crumbly one. However, any type of biscuit can be used to accommodate for your own preference. Ultimately, it is your creation - experiment and make it your own!).

This is a no-bake and no-egg cheesecake - this should hopefully appeal to more of you lazy bakers or those with dietary requirements. Unfortunately, however, I am afraid this is not a vegan make due to the inclusion of dairy and gelatin to help the cake set. But I have seen recipes whereby non-dairy cream cheese and coconut milk are used to achieve similar results! I have even seen ones made from cashews and almonds!

But how can I forget the pièce de résistance - the strawberries! The homemade purée is the perfect blend of sharp and sweet sensations. Poured within the area of the cream and strawberries, this delightfully added a pop of colour and more interest to my presentation. I love decorating my cakes with fruit - the halved strawberries tasted so fresh and added a bite to the otherwise melt-in-your-mouth filling. 

I could continue to write paragraphs and paragraphs of self-appraisal for this make (I am very modest, I know!) but to reiterate, this cake was so easy and so gratifying to make! So let’s just jump into how I did it!

Ingredients:

Cheesecake

150g Biscuits (I used chocolate chip cookies but digestives are another good option!)

75g Melted Butter (adjust as appropriate - I prefer using more butter in order to achieve a more chewy, and less crumbly, base)

200g (Vegan) Cream Cheese

90g Sour cream / Yoghurt / Mascarpone (this can be substituted for more cream cheese but this makes for a creamier recipe) 

30g Sugar

30g Milk

6g Gelatin / 4 table spoons of Corn starch 

130g Strawberry purée

300ml Double Cream / Coconut Cream

45g Icing Sugar

Fresh Strawberries to decorate

Strawberry purée

200g Strawberries

30g Sugar

10g Lemon Juice

Directions:

Line a cake tin with parchment paper.

Crush the biscuits into fine crumbs and add the melted butter. Combine and press into the cake tin. (You can either leave aside or bake for 15minutes at 180C to harden the base. If doing so, please allow time for the base and tin to cool down.)

In a large bowl, combine the sour cream and cream cheese. Add sugar and mix completely.

In a separate bowl, combine the milk and gelatin. Mix this over a second bowl of hot water to dissolve any gelatin crystals. When done, add this to the cream cheese mix and combine until creamy. Set aside.

To make the strawberry purée, add sugar and lemon juice to chopped strawberries in a saucepan. Bring to a high heat until the mixture is bubbling. Then blend this into a purée.

Add two thirds of the purée to the cheesecake batter and mix.

In a separate bowl, whisk double cream and icing sugar together til thick. Combine 200g of the whipped cream with the cheesecake mix. Refrigerate the remaining cream for later use.

Pour the cheesecake mix on top of the biscuit base in the cake tin. Freeze til set for an hour or two.

Now this is the fun part - decorating! Do so as you please but for my cheesecake, I piped florets of double cream along the circumference of the cake (I used a 2D closed star piping tip). I then placed halved strawberries on top of the cream, and the remaining purée within the icing. (Other decorative suggestions may include drizzling melted white chocolate, using dried frozen strawberries or even making a strawberry jelly with the remaining purée and gelatin. Either way, have fun with it!)

Bon appétit.

Notes:

*Recipe adapted from HidaMari Cooking.

*Photos by me.

[consulting-celiac-in-the-tardis]

47 Gluten Free Sweet and Savory Recipes for Cooking with Kids

New blog post! If you're like a lot of families right now, you're spending more time together than you have in a while...which means now is the perfect time for cooking with kids and finding kid friendly recipes!

Personally, some of my favorite memories from childhood involve cooking and baking with my parents. When I was young, it was a tradition for Dad and me to bake my cake together, and while we had a few less-than-ideal results, the memories are definitely very sweet. And if you want to start the same tradition in your own house, these 47 kid friendly recipes are the perfect place to start. In particular, this round up includes 18 savory and 29 sweet recipes that kids will enjoy cooking and/or eating with you. Whether you're looking for recipes that are keto, paleo, low carb, low sugar or vegan, there are also plenty of options. So let's dive right in to these cooking with kids recipes!

Gluten Free and Savory Cooking with Kids Recipes

1. Chickpea Squash Fritters (Vegan) - Piping Pot Curry

If you need kid friendly recipes that are also loaded with hidden veggies, these vegan fritters are a tasty place to start.

2. Egg & Potato Breakfast Muffins (Grain Free, Dairy Free, Whole 30) - Raia's Recipes

These are easy to make and even easier to eat on busy mornings.

3. Rainbow Vegetable Tortilla Wrap (Vegan) - Recipes From a Pantry

Your kids will have a blast cutting up the veggies of their choice to make this colorful and easy gluten free wrap.

4. Paleo Chicken Tenders (Low Carb, Keto) - Allergy Free Alaska

These chicken tenders are much healthier than their traditional counterpart but still addictively delicious.

5. Loaded Potato Wedge Nachos (Paleo and Vegan Options) - Casey the College Celiac

If you bake these potato wedges ahead of time, your kids can have a blast covering their wedges with whatever nacho toppings they want!

6. 3-Ingredient Tuna Salad - High Chair Chronicles

Tuna, mayo and a surprising third ingredient combine for a delicious and simple gluten free sandwich filling everyone will love.

7. Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese (Nut Free, Vegan) - Wow Its Veggie

Mac and cheese GOALS...whether you have kids or not!

8. Crustless Pizza (Low Carb, Keto) - Low Carb Yum

No crust, no problem. This ham and cheese combo is just as delicious without it.

9. Cornbread Muffins (Dairy Free) - Hot Pan Kitchen

These gluten free muffins are soft, slightly sweet, moist and very kid friendly!

10. Simple Homemade Salsa - Simply Full of Delight

I know one toddle who eats salsa on its own with a spoon...but even if yours doesn't love salsa quite that much, this is delicious with gluten free chips.

11. Vegan Potato Cakes with Carrot and Rice - Little Sunny Kitchen

Leftover mashed potatoes, rice, carrots, onions, and parsley combine into a "cake" that kids and adults will love.

12. Broccoli Cheese Nuggets - Joy Filled Eats

Because what kid doesn't love nuggets of some sort?!?

13. Socca Flatbread (Grain Free, Vegan) - Emma Eats and Explores

This gluten free flatbread only calls for four simple ingredients, and you can stuff or top them however your family likes!

14. Avocado Deviled Eggs (Keto, Low Carb, Vegetarian) - Tasty Galaxy

Serve these with ham so your kids can enjoy green eggs and ham, no food coloring required.

15. Pizza Eggs (Keto, Low Carb) - Peace, Love and Low Carb

Eggs are transformed into an easy and delicious pizza with some creative toppings and seasoning.

16. Healthy Bell Pepper Nachos - Momables

These are "nacho" your traditional nachos, but they're still super tasty!

17. Oven-Baked Healthy Chicken Nuggets - Goodnesst

Rice flour, corn flakes and an egg combine to give these healthy chicken nuggets an addictive crunch.

18. Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese (Keto) - Wholesome Yum

These keto sausage balls are as easy to make as they are to get addicted to, so consider yourself warned!

Gluten Free Sweet Cooking with Kids Recipes

19. Secretly Healthy Sweet n' Salty Trail Mix (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

Get your kids involved in the kitchen by having them help you pick out what ingredients to add to their special trail mix.

20. Easy Flourless Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies - Mash Up Mom

Kids will love how hands-on this four-ingredient recipe really is!

21. Sweet Potato Muffins (Vegan) - Cass Clay Cooking

Gluten free oats, sweet potato and spices combine into a kid-friendly recipe that's especially delicious with nut butter and chocolate.

22. The Fluffiest Waffles (Dairy Free) - Eating on a Dime

These gluten free waffles are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside and one of the best kid cooking recipes you could pick for a lazy Sunday morning.

23. Banana Donuts with Chocolate Coconut Walnuts - Fearless Dining

These gluten free donuts actually have pretty healthy ingredients, but your family won't be able to tell!

24. Maple Walnut Cookies (Paleo, Vegan) - A Sweet Alternative

These cookies are actually super nutrient-dense and the recipe is simple enough for little hands to help.

25. Taste the Rainbow Bliss Balls (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

Kids will have a blast playing around with the superfoods that give this gluten free snack so many fun colors.

26. Healthy Snickers Ice Cream Bites (Vegan) - Rhian's Recipes

Because who can resist ice cream flavors and getting to play around with melted chocolate?

27. Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies - Ripped Jeans and Bifocals

Because what's a better recipe for cooking with kids than a classic chocolate chip cookie?!?

28. No Bake Chocolate Covered Coconut Balls (Vegan) - The Simple Cooking

No baking needed, easy ingredients and a super tasty result.

29. 3-Ingredient Blueberry Cheesecake Bagel (Egg Free) - Casey the College Celiac

This gluten free bagel recipe only calls for three simple recipes, and your kids can have a blast shaping the bagels before they're baked!

30. Peanut Butter Protein Balls (Vegan Options) - Texanerin 

This gluten free snack recipe is so simple, your kids can make them on their own!

31. Frozen Chocobananos - Bacon is Magic

Your kids will need help melting the chocolate, but after that, they can go wild with their choice of toppings.

32. Easy Coconut Oil Chocolate (Dairy Free, Vegan Option) - Eats Amazing

Watching this healthy chocolate form will feel like magic for young bakers.

33. Chocolate Chip Pancakes - Fab Food 4 All

The gooey chocolate center ensures that your kids will gobble these pancakes right up.

34. Thin Mint Cookies - Well If She Can Do It

If your little one is bummed that Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies aren't gluten free, these are the perfect family baking activity.

35. Mini Apple Pizzas (Vegan) - Veggie Desserts

Kids will have such a fun time decorating their own fruit pizzas.

36. Super Easy Raspberry and White Chocolate Muffins (Dairy Free) - Super Golden Bakes

A dairy free muffin recipe for kids who really want to get busy in the kitchen...

37. Dye-Free Coconut Rainbow Cookies (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

These gluten free cookies only call for simple ingredients and are colored naturally with superfood powders and spices. What kid doesn't want to taste the rainbow?

38. Super Fudgy Brownie Cupcakes (Vegan) - My Pure Plants

You measure the ingredients and your little one can pour and mix. As always, just make sure you use gluten free oats.

39. Soft-Baked Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies - Kitchen Treaty

Kids will definitely give these soft gluten free cookies two thumbs up.

40. The Best Healthy Gummies - Marathons and Motivation

You only need three ingredients to whip up these healthy gummies with your kids.

41. Lemon Coconut Energy Balls (Refined Sugar Free, Vegan) - Natalie's Health 

Your kids will love how hands-on this recipe is as they roll their own energy balls.

42. Chocolate Pecan Cookies (Keto) - All Nutritious

These cookies only have 3 net carbs per serving, and are the perfect treat for a family following a low carb diet.

43. Strawberry Fruit Roll-Ups (No Added Sugar) - Served From Scratch

Your kids will have as much fun making these fruit roll-ups as they do eating them.

44. Cookie Dough Pumpkin Pops - My Joy-Filled Life

Because what kid (or adult?) doesn't love a tasty treat they can eat off a stick!

45. Easy Keto Blueberry Muffins (Paleo Option) - Here to Cook

You can make these keto muffins in just one bowl if you need to, and the crumbly texture will win all eaters over.

46. Apple Slice Donuts - Crafts 4 Toddlers

Apple slices get an upgrade from a homemade frosting!

47.  Best Chocolate Fudge Recipe (Vegan) - Happy Kitchen Rocks

This fudge recipe doesn't call for any condensed milk or sugar, and is easy enough to make that your kids can join in.

The Bottom Line of Cooking with Kids and Kid Friendly Recipes

Now that you may be enjoying more time with your family than ever before, I hope that this list of recipes gives you some ideas of how to spend your evenings in...once you figure out which kid-friendly recipe you want to try first, anyway. ;) And if you do end up trying any of these recipes, be sure to tag me in your photos on Instagram (at @collegeceliackc) so I can see and share! What's your go-to recipe when cooking with kids or for kids? I'd love to hear in the comments!

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[hufflesmonsters]

Baker and the Beast, Forever After

A/N: This has been months in the making, but I finally finished it! This story has a special place in my heart, and I can’t just casually mention an important chapter in Belle and Igrisz’s life without writing it out fully. 

The lake water was calm as you walked out onto your back porch, a coffee in one hand as you held a croissant in the other. The soft wind blew the wisps of hair that fell from your bun across your face as you sat down on the chair. Several alligators swam nearby, their reptilian eyes looking at you with disinterest. You felt yourself relax against the wood as you took in your surroundings. It wasn’t often that you were the first one up, Igrisz was always a morning person, er, lizard. Today was a rare treat indeed.

It was also a calm before the storm.

Your mother had expressed interest in meeting “whoever it was that is making you smile again”, and Igrisz, for some ungodly reason, was wanting desperately to meet your family. Which meant your mother, the mother who absolutely feared the infamous lizardman, and had absolutely no idea how you’d managed to “tame the beast”.  You took a bite out of your pastry. Your mother was likely to drop dead.

A strong hand landed in your shoulder, the thumb rubbing soothingly against your skin. You smiled and placed your pastry on your lap before reaching up and placing your now free hand over his. “You're up early,” Igrisz's deep rumble sounded as he sank into the chair on your left.

You looked over at him, accepting the kiss he placed on your cheek. “I'm enjoying the morning,” you said simply.

“You're worried,” he stated flatly. You smiled as you stared back at the water, after two years together, he knew you inside out. “It's understandable.”

“My mom is going to be here by noon, and I don't know if she's going to survive meeting you. She claims to have a frail heart, I don't want to see if it was a joke or not. And then your brothers.” You turned to look at your boyfriend. “Thraz and Irsosz? What are they going to think?”

Igrisz grasped your hand, rubbing small circles in the skin. “Let's worry about your mother,” he suggested. “My family won't care one bit.”

“How can you possibly know that?”

He snorted. “Trust me, I know.” He stood up, his large shadow casting over you. “Bruxo will be here soon, we have to go prepare the den for Thraz and Irsosz,” he leaned over and nuzzled your temple lovingly. “I'll be back before your mother arrives.”

You grabbed his hand and pressed a kiss to it. “I love you,” you told him. While you've told him that multiple times in the past, he never failed to loose the grace in his step. You watched, snickering in glee as he tripped backwards over his own tail and nearly fell into the water.

“I, uh, love you too,” he said coughing into his fist. He cleared his throat and straightened his back. “I’ll get going before you make me lose whatever dignity I have left. God knows you'll have plenty of time later on.”

“You promise?” You asked with a wink, chuckling when he tossed you a dirty look before jumping into the water. You shook your head as he immediately disappeared, the sap was probably hitting himself with a rock for getting so flustered. It was a good thing that he had a thick skull, otherwise he would have beat himself to death long ago.

You stood, grabbing your now empty mug and shoved the rest of the croissant into your mouth. You had a lot of work to do between now and noon, and most of it involved stress baking. You had your mother's favorite recipes all set out on the counter, hoping that when the news broke she'd be comforted by the sweets you'd shove into her face.

You set to work, putting your music on shuffle as you made your way into the kitchen. Aurora was coming by shortly to help out and to keep Bruxo out of your way. You loved him, truly, but he was a menace when it came to your baking. He was always sneaking pieces of cookie dough, slices of cake. You once caught him trying to get out of your house with two pies in hand. At least with Aurora here, you had a chance at keeping most of your goodies.

Your first recipe was a simple lemon brownie, both you and your mother loved them. You grabbed the bowl of lemons that you had bought the day before and grabbed your zester, resigning yourself with the knowledge that you were about to lose either some skin, nail, or sanity by the end of this. You were thankful that this particular recipe didn't call for much zest, only a teaspoon. But still, that took a lot of lemons.

Once you got the zest out of the way, and only lost half of your nail in the process, you quickly went to work on the rest of the recipe. You combined the dry ingredients, mixing in the butter after it was done. You whisked the eggs, lemon juice and zest in a separate bowl, possibly letting out your stress along the way who's to really say. You combined both bowls and mixed, pausing near the end to grease your pan. You finished folding the mixture, then slowly poured it into the pan.  You placed it in the oven and stood back up, hands on your hips as you debated which sugary treat to bake next.

You turned, and let out a scream as you came face to face with Aurora. The other woman jumped, blue eyes wide as she slowly lowered her hands from where she'd been gathering her hair.

“I did knock,” she said after a moment.

“I didn't hear you, when did you come in?” You asked as you recovered from the mini heart attack she had given you.

“Caught you when you were beating those eggs like they owed you money,” Aurora said. “Figured it was best to leave you be.”

You nodded, mouth pressed in a thin line. “I'm just, stressed I guess.”

“Completely understandable,” Aurora said easily as she looked at one of the bookmarked pages in your cookbook. “I'm freaking out and it's not even going to affect me.” When you purse your lips at her, shaking your head when she looked back up at you. “What? You know I’d do anything for you.”

“I know,” you said with a sigh as you grabbed the cookbook to see what to bake next. “Is Bruxo already out there?”

“Yeah, I made sure he was with Igrisz before coming in,”  Aurora confirmed. “Even waited an extra two minutes just in case he tried to sneak back up to the surface.”

“Good, the last thing I need is him trying to sneak away with something,” you ran a hand over your face before sighing. You began to flip through the book, “what do you think we should do next?”

“Ooh, the apple crumb cake,” Aurora said as she pointed to the recipe that you landed on. “You baked it that one time we had a fight and I forgot why I was ever upset.” You smiled as you remembered that day, your first fight with your friend. It wasn’t over anything bad, really. The two of you were literally fighting over whether or not Cap was going to die in Infinity War or not. You ended up winning, and baked the cake to help get yourself back on Aurora’s, and Bruxo’s, good side.

“It is my secret weapon,” you said in agreement.

By noon, the two of you had finished your baking marathon with a chocolate turtle poke cake, your personal favorite and made everyone’s day whenever you offered it in your shop. You didn’t have time to use homemade caramel, but you found that using the sweetened condensed milk version was better suited for this recipe. Lastly was the chocolate chip cheesecake that you often baked once every month, or for special events. It was a fan favorite, and your mother’s absolute fave.

You bit your lip as you looked at the trays, all covered to keep their warmth. You hoped this would be enough. You glanced up as Igrisz and Bruxo walked into the living room, Bruxo rubbing a towel against his scales as Igrisz placed his around his neck. The two lizardmen looked straight to the food, a loud grumble sounded.

You grabbed a wooden spoon and held it up to them in warning. “Don’t even think about it, Bruxo.”

“Why is he exempt from this,” Bruxo demanded as he looked towards his elder brother.

“Because he has a different threat,” you said as you narrowed your eyes to your boyfriend. Igrisz gulped, but nodded all the same. Your sweets were safe at the moment. “Now, my mother called, she’ll be here in ten minutes.”

“I’ll hide in the guest room,” Bruxo said, he turned to Aurora and held out his scaly hand. “My lady?”

“I’m staying out here, as moral support,” Aurora told him as she went over to your side, wrapped an arm around your shoulder as she drew you near. “But, yeah, hide please.”

Bruxo pouted, but did as he was told. He paused by his brother, placing a hand on his shoulder and nodded in silent support. Igrisz nodded at him, patting his shoulder before gently shoving his younger brother towards the hallway.

“I’ll stay here,” Igrisz said as he stepped towards you, reaching for your hand and pulling you in. His free hand laid on your waist as he pressed your hand against his chest. “I’m here,” he said again softly.

You smiled up at him, eyes tearing up despite the absolute cheesiness of the act. “You’re here,” you said in agreement.

“You two are adorable,” Aurora cooed, ripping the two of you out of your Notebook Moment. She smiled adoringly at the two of you, a hand over her heart before she grew more serious. “Your mother is driving up,” she said as she nodded her head towards the window.

You could hear your mother’s engine now, the hum sputtering a bit. You drew in a deep breath, and withdrew from Igrisz. You turned and faced the door, coming over and exiting to greet your mother outside. “Mom!” You said with a grin, reaching down and wrapping her in a tight hug.

“Ah, mija,” your mother said as she withdrew, her brown eyes sparkling as she took you in. “You look stressed, what is the matter?”

“Nothing, mama,” you said softly as you smiled down at her. “When you meet him, just, keep an open mind?”

“I always do,” you mother said, lying through her teeth. She never kept an open mind when it came to past lovers, always skeptical of what they were doing. Granted, some of her mistrust was from several men taking advantage of your self esteem, and some women who weren’t sure if they were gay or bi and had used you as a way to tell. As a result, your mother tended to dislike everyone you brought to her.

“He really loves me, mama,” you said to her softly as you turned to open the front door. You stood to the side, watching her as she entered the house.

“Ah, Aurora, how are you darling?” Your mother said as she spotted the blonde first. When Aurora smiled and said “fine”, she searched the room for your boyfriend. You watched, tense as her brown eyes slowly went from the kitchen, to the living room where Igrisz stood. “¡El diablo del agua! Corre, chicas corren! ¡No los tomarás, tirano flaco!” (1) You watched in horror as your mother tried to take off her shoe.

“Mom!” You placed a hand on her shoulder to stop her as Igrisz took a step forward.

“Ma’am-”

“¡No te acerques más! ¡Aléjate de mis bebés!” (2)

“Mama! He’s the boyfriend!” You cried as you took her shoe out of her hand before she could throw it.

“WHAT?!” Your mother looked at you in shock before looking back at Igrisz, who was unaware of just how close he was to losing a tooth via shoe throw. “When you said you were going to bake him into submission, I didn’t think you meant all the way to the bedroom!”

“I, well,” you paused. “Not into the bedroom, no.” Aurora let out a groan from where she stood, she hated hearing about your and Igrisz’s bedroom activities. You coughed as your mother looked at you with wide eyes. “I mean-”

“Your daughter won me over with her baking, and we formed a relationship a few months after that,” Igrisz said as he saved you from nearly spilling details about your sex life to your own mother. “I care for her greatly, and I wanted to meet the woman who shaped her into the person she is today.”

Your mother paused, gathering her thoughts, before standing tall and proud. Her head was held high, and her chest puffed out in pride. “Yes, I raised my Belle into a strong woman,” she said as she reached up and pinched your cheek.

“I can see where she gets her resolve from,’ Igrisz said with a chuckle as he came closer. “Did you know she yelled at me the first night we met?”

“Of course she did, she always was a little fighter,” your mother cooed as she finally let your cheek go. She turned to Aurora, “did you know about this?”

“She’s dating his little brother,” you said.

Your mother placed a hand over her heart as she looked at the two of you. “There’s another one?” She turned to you accusingly, like you were the direct reason as to why there was more than one lizardman.

“You want to meet him?” You asked with a raised brow, knowing that Bruxo was probably halfway out of the guest bedroom by now.

“Ay dios, mija, I don’t think my weak heart could handle that,” your mother said placing a hand over her heart.

“You were about to beat the shit out of my boyfriend with your shoe!” You said as you shook said shoe at her.

“Oh, give me that,” your mother snatched her footwear back. “I might as well meet my future in law,” she said in resignation.

“Bruxo!” Igrisz called, arms crossed as his brother emerged from the shadows. “Behave,” he growled in warning.

“I always do,” Bruxo said as he came over to your mother, brushing past Igrisz who’d moved to stand behind you, and leaned down to bring her hand to his lips. “A pleasure.”

“Good job,” your mother whispered to Aurora. “Good job, both of you.”

The two lizardmen chuckled as both you and Aurora nodded. “I baked you some things, in case it went south.” You lead your mother over to the counter where you unveiled the treats, your eye caught Bruxo sneaking over, and immediately grabbed the wooden spoon. “Mama gets first pick,” you told him in warning.

Your mother cupped your cheek, a fond smile on her face, before grabbing a slice of apple cake and a lemon brownie. “My sweet girl,” she said as she stepped away. You smiled at her as she took a bite out of her cake, relief flooding through you as you took in everything.

Aurora and Bruxo shared a slice of apple cake, the blonde giggling as he tried to feed her a piece, the crumbs falling. Your mother talked with Igrisz, looking laughably small as she stood by him. Her words were fast, her eyes alight as the two of them talked about you, and your relationship. Your heart swelled with emotion, your eyes misting as Igrisz glanced over to you, his red eyes alight in happiness. You smiled widely at him, you’d never been more happy and in love with this overgrown lizard.

Your mother left hours later, but not after officially adopting Bruxo and Igrisz into the family. You were half tempted to warn Aurora about your mother’s tendency to show up out of the blue with a freshly cooked meal in hand. But, after being teased for weeks by your friend, you were more than happy to sit back and wait for the day your mother decided that a seven foot tall, nine hundred pound lizard man was in serious need of “nourishment” for he was still a “growing boy”. Igrisz had to leave the room when she had said that, and you could hear him cackling from the bathroom.  

You sighed as you looked at the dishes in the sink, placing your hands on the counter as you contemplated whether or not you should do them now or later on tonight. You sighed as two strong arms wrapped around your middle, Igrisz nuzzling your cheek.

“You’re miles away, aren’t you?” He rumbled.

You turned and pressed a kiss to his snout, giggling when he licked your nose in return. “Partly,” you admitted. “This all went far better than I was expecting, I guess I’m just trying to accept it and focus on your brothers.”

“Ah, well, they’ll be here shortly,” Igrisz said as he turned you to face him, closing his eyes when Bruxo let out a gag in the background. “Brux, I will drown you,” he warned before sighing and looking back down at you. “Why is he here, again?”

“Because your brothers will be here shortly,” you reminded him with a smile. You shook your head and leaned against his chest. “And you’re sure that they won’t mind that I’m human?”

“Giving that Thraz’s girlfriend is currently halfway down our driveway, I would say, yes, I am one hundred percent sure that they won’t mind.”

“Oh, good,” you closed your eyes, only for them to shoot open as you pulled away from him. “What do you mean, Thraz’s girlfriend is halfway down my driveway?” You demanded, eyes flying to the window where you saw a jeep with the words “Everglades Sanctuary” on the side. “Who could that possibly be?” You left the comfort of Igrisz’s arms and walked over to your door, opening it as the driver got out.

She was beautiful, with a rich reddish brown skin that shone in the sunlight. Her long black hair was pulled up in a ponytail, with some strands that fell out swaying in the breeze. The woman shut her car door and stretched, a grunt escaping as she settled. She saw both you and Aurora coming close, and smiled widely. “You must be Belle and Aurora,” she greeted as she came over and shook your hands. “I’m Jasmine,” she added.

“A pleasure to meet you,” you said with a smile before cocking your head. “What brings you out here?”

Jasmine frowned. “Igrisz didn’t tell you that I was coming also?”

Realization hit you. “Oh god, oh no,” you sighed and shook your head. “He did, I thought you’d be, well…”

“Ah,” Jasmine let out a giggle as Aurora patted your back. “Not to worry,” she smiled at you warmly. “I thought you were going to be a lizardman as well up until before we departed from the sanctuary.” Well that was a slight relief.

“And where is Thraz?” Aurora asked as she peered at the jeep. “Did he not come with you?”

“He’s, ah, a tad bit too big to travel via car,” Jasmine said as she rubbed the back of her neck. She glanced behind the two of you, waving with a smile on her face, “hey Igrisz, Bruxo!”

“Jasmine!” Bruxo greeted as he leaned against the porch railing, his tail dipping into the water. He gave her a toothy grin as he crossed his arms. “Decided to ditch the old fossil?”

Before Jasmine could say a word, a large alabaster hand shot out of the water and latched onto Bruxo’s tail. In an instant, the young lizardman was dragged off of the dock and into the water with a loud scream, water flying everywhere as he landed into the water. Igrisz started cackling as two large alligator like forms rose out from the depths, one considerably larger than the other. Bruxo broke the surface, coughing and complaining as he swam to the shore, the other two following suit.

The first to leave the water was a massive lizardman, he had to damn near twenty feet long if you had to guess. Scars littered his face and body, showing just how hard he fought to live this long in the world. His amber eyes roamed from you to Aurora, before looking back at Bruxo who shook himself dry. He turned as Igrisz came walking up, and smiled. “Ah, little brother,” he rumbled as he threw an arm over Igrisz and drew him into a hug.

“Thraz,” Igrisz greeted warmly before stepping back as the second lizardman emerged.

He wasn’t as big as Thraz, more Igrisz’s height than anything else. He was white, his pearlized scales shimmering in the light as the water flowed off of his skin. Scars littered the side of his face and down his neck, the light pink contrasting nicely against his skin. His bright pink eyes glittered warmly as he spotted Igrisz, laughing as the two of them embraced.

“Babe,” Igrisz turned and held your hand, drawing your closer to the three of them. “This is Thraz, and his girlfriend Jasmine,” he nodded at the two of them. “And this is my twin, Irsosz,” he added as he nodded to the albino lizard next to him.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both,” you said nervously as you looked from one giant to a smaller one.

Thraz tilted his head as he took you in, his amber eyes blank which spiked your nerves. Then, suddenly, he gave you a toothy smile and drew you into a crushing hug. “Good to meet the girl who put Igrisz in his place,” he said with a chuckle that rattled your bones.

“Don’t hog her,” Irsosz huffed as he drew you from the giant, engulfing you into another crushing embrace. “Thank you for choosing my insufferable twin,” he “whispered” to you, chuckling when Igrisz let out a indingant grunt. “Now, who’s this other morsel?” He asked as he focused his sights on Aurora.

“That  is my sugar pie, my cinnamon apple,” Bruxo crowed as he hoisted Aurora up several feet to present her to his family.  

“Hi,” Aurora said meekly.

Jasmine floated over to you, a smile on her face as the two of you watched as Thraz and Irsosz greeted Aurora. “I see Bruxo lives up to his reputation,” she said lowly.

“Oh, you have no idea,” you groaned as you pinched the bridge of your nose. “I’m glad to see that someone in the family isn’t so dramatic,” you added as you took in Thraz’s calm demeanor.

“Yeah,” Jasmine said as she looked fondly at her boyfriend. “I’d known him for years, it’s almost unbelievable that we’re together like this,” she admitted.

“How did you guys meet?”

“He lives at an alligator sanctuary I work at, he saved me from a falling tree one day and, well, things just happened after that,” she smiled at the memory. ‘What about you?”

“He punched through my window,” you said calmly.

“He what?”

“Yep,” you nodded as you glanced over at her. “Then I baked him some cookies and he suddenly didn’t want to make me leave anymore,” you snorted as Igrisz glanced over at you, red eyes pleading with you to let it go. “But, looking back on it, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Jasmine nodded, a thoughtful look on her face. “Sounds rather impactful,” she mused. “From what I heard, Igrisz used to be a huge hothead.”

“Oh he still is,” you said. “He still terrorizes the town, but Aurora and my mother, and me of course, are exempt from his tyranny.”

“That’s because this whole family is all sorts of dramatic,” Thraz cut into your conversation, his amber eyes rolling as his younger brothers protested. “I don’t know how they ended up like this, I certainly didn’t raise them to act like, well, this.”

“That’s rich, coming from the lizard who caught a tree like it was nothing just to flex,” Jasmine snorted, snickering when he sent her a betrayed look.

“Did you really?” Bruxo asked him with furrowed brows.

“Gods, and you call us dramatic,” Irsosz rolled his eyes.

“I want none of that from you all,” Thraz growled.

Aurora rolled her eyes as she was finally put back down on the ground, smacking Bruxo’s arm lightly. “Don’t act like you didn’t give me a heart attack on the night we met,” she chided. “Standing in the middle of the road, in the middle of the night.”

“Don’t blame him, he’s an idiot by nature,” Irsosz said as he looked at his younger brother, crossing his arms. “An idiot who tends to venture further downstream than he promised to when he first came down here.”

“I thought you’d like the company,” Bruxo said in his defense.

“I like your distance.”

You clapped your hands, smiling at the four lizards as they broke out of their brotherly spat. “Well, I don’t know if anyone would be interested in some dinner?”

“Oh, I am starving,” Jasmine said as she placed a hand over her stomach. “I’d be happy to help out.”

“Same here,” Aurora said as she joined your side.

“We might go hunting, if that’s alright, babe,” Igrisz said as he came over to your side. “It’s been a while since we’ve all been in one place.”

“That’s perfectly fine,” you said as you cupped his cheek and pulled him down, pressing a quick kiss to his lips before pulling back. “We can eat on the back patio, and you guys can come by when you’re done. How’s that?”

“Sounds good,” he said as he pressed another kiss to your lips before stepping back, glaring at Bruxo when he gagged. “Aurora, I might kill your boyfriend.”

“I’d understand,” Aurora said, closing her eyes when Bruxo let out a whine.

Thraz placed a hand on Jasmine’s head, a fond look on his face as the two of them shared a look that exchanged far more emotion than words could ever convey. He nodded towards you and Aurora, and then looked to his younger siblings. “Let’s go, I saw some cows on the swim up.”

Oh god, not Mr. Abernathy’s cows, you looked to Igrisz in panic.

“Let’s go a county over,” Igrisz suggested as he caught your gaze. “There’s plenty of cows and deer,” he added.

“Yeah, that’s where I saw the cows,” Thraz said with furrowed brows, rolling his amber eyes as he placed a hand on Bruxo and steered him towards the lake. “We’ll be back soon, ladies,” he said with a dip of his head.

The three of you watched as they waded into the water, and waited until they disappeared into the depths. Aurora clapped her hands, looking between the two of you. “So, let’s take a vote. Cook? Or order some take out?”

“If I have to cook again I will cry,” you said with a world weary sigh. “Count me down for take out.”

“Take out is good with me,” Jasmine said with a shrug.

“Pizza?” You asked as you looked around the three of you.

“Pizza,” came the answer.

The boys swam up three hours later, their eyes glowing in the setting sunlight as they floated down the river towards your house. You prayed to god that no one would link them to you, the last thing you wanted was an angry old farmer knocking on your door. You would absolutely die if that had happened. And then Igrisz would die for making you go through that. Jasmine and Aurora left shortly after the boys came back, taking their respective boyfriends with them. Irsosz left shortly after, bidding the two of you a good night before slinking into the water to go to the den that Igrisz had prepared earlier that day.

You smiled up at Igrisz as the two of you were soon left alone, leaning against his side as he settled down in the chair next to you. “This was a good day,” you said after a while, the two of you content to just sit there and watch the fireflies dance across the water.

“I told you they wouldn’t care,” Igrisz said as he wrapped his arm around your shoulders and held you close. “All that worrying for nothing.”

“My mother was going to knock out another tooth if I hadn’t have stopped her,” you snorted as you poked his side, smiling when he grunted. “But I’m glad it all worked out. This was a good day,” you said again.

“It’s not over yet,” Igrisz said as he stood, taking your hands in his and pulling you up. “I have something to show you,” he said with a nervous swish of his tail.

You raised a brow at his nervous tick, but nodded all the same. “Yeah, should I get in the boat?”

“Yeah, yeah, that would make it easier,” Igrisz said with a nod as he let go of your hands. He took a step back and walked with you towards the boat that floated off of the back deck. It was a little system that the two of you came up with when you first got together. There were places where he was eager to show you, and most of them were accessible via water only. Hence, the boat. Igrisz would grab ahold of the rope attached to the front of the boat and tow you to the place without much fuss.

You slowly climbed into the boat and yelped as a splash of water hit you as Igrisz jumped into the lake. He rose back up to the surface with a grin, barking out a laugh as you glared at him. “Sorry, babe,” he said as he grabbed the rope.

You rolled your eyes and settled into your seat as he set off, his powerful tail propelling the two of you across the water. You watched as the fireflies glowed against the twilight, the orange glow reflecting against the deep blue water. The spanish moss swayed in the light breeze, the owls were already beginning their nightly calls. The cicadas were loud and frequent, a sure sign that summer was truly here. You watched as the boat was taken into a cove, masked by two willows that covered the entrance.

It was a small little island, secluded near the edge of the lake closer to the forest than the roads. Trees masked the area from view, keeping it a secret between just the two of you. You waited until the boat was settled against the shore and took Igrisz’s hand as he helped you out of the boat.

“Do you trust me?” He asked as he kept a hold of your hands.

You smiled up at him and nodded. “I trust you,” you answered.

Igrisz pressed a quick kiss to your nose before turning you around and placing his hands over your eyes. “I’ll guide you,” he whispered into your ear as he slowly moved the two of you forwards. “Watch your step, there’s a log a few feet in front of you.”

You nodded and poked around with your foot as you took a step forwards, you paused as you felt the log and stepped upwards. From then on it was smooth walking, the two of you waddling as Igrisz took you to wherever, you really had no idea. This was new territory for you, Igrisz had taken you to everywhere else but this small little island. It was pretty exciting actually, you wondered what was in stow for you.

“We’re here,” Igrisz announced suddenly, stopping the both of you. His hands were removed from your eyes, settling on your shoulders as you slowly opened your eyes.

The area was beautiful, low hanging branches covered in solar lamps illuminated the area around the two of you. You gasped as you looked around the small clearing, the soft light casting a slight glow of the mushrooms that adorned the ground. A slight breeze rustled through the clearing, ruffling through your hair as you turned to face Igrisz.

“This is amazing,” you said, tone full of wonder. “How come you’ve never taken me here before now?” Igrisz rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, it’s a special place. I didn’t want to take you here until I was completely ready to.” He held your gaze now, red eyes boring into brown. “I’m ready now,” he said as he took a step towards you. He held something in his hand, fingers closed around it gingerly.

He paused, looking down at you with pure love in his eyes. While his demeanor was calm and collected, the slight twitch of his tail gave away the nervousness he possessed. “Belle,” his voice cracked slightly but he soldiered on, “when we first met I wanted nothing more than to see you leave forever. But then,” he cracked a smile as his free hand came up and cupped your cheek, “then you yelled at me, you stood up to me. It was humbling, and then your baking…”

“Focus,” you said with a slight chuckle.

“You brought out a new side of me, a side I never thought existed. You made me calmer, I felt peace for the first time around you. I looked forward to coming to your home each night, even to the point where I was patrolling around your home during the day time.” He slowly got onto one knee, the two of you now eye level. His hand came up and uncurled, a beautiful silver necklace with a pointed ivory looking pendant hanging from the end of it shown up at you. You looked between it and him, understanding finally hitting you. “I know it’s not a ring, but it’s the closest I can get you. Belle Gabrielle Dubois, will you do me the honor of being my wife? My mate?”

You wiped the tears away from your eyes, grateful that you weren’t wearing makeup for once. You nodded, a watery smile on your face as you gave him a quick, but passionate kiss. “Yes,” you rasped as you pulled back, giggling as he kissed you again. You took the necklace and inspected it, taking notice of the pendant. “Wait… is this an alligator tooth?”

“Well, uh,” Igrisz coughed slightly. “So, according to our tradition, we exchange scales to wear over our hearts. Since that’s not the case, I thought you could, still… wear something of mine…?”

“Is this that tooth you chipped when you slipped in the road and hit that motorcyclists two months ago?”

“That’s not important here,” he said with a couch. Which basically meant ‘yes’.

You gave him a smile, and kissed him softly. “I love it, a fond memory to wear forever,” you said as you pulled away, giving him a wink as you placed the necklace around your neck, the pendant settling right over your heart.

Igrisz rolled his eyes as he stood to his full height, wrapping his arms around your middle and lifting you up to his height. You cupped his cheeks and stared down into his eyes, a fond smile on your face as the two of you just stared at each other. Words couldn’t convey how happy you were, you literally felt like you were about to combust. You were in a new chapter in your life, one that you never thought would happen. And you were so happy that it was with Igrisz.

Recipes talked about

Lemon brownie

Apple crumbs cake 

Chocolate turtle poke cake

Chocolate chip cheesecake

Spanish:

(1) The water devil! Run, girls run! You will not take them, you slimy tyrant!

(2) Don't come any closer! Stay away from my babies!