#broken juniper

[lavalampstealer]

It’s ok bud, we still love you

ref

[enhanced-operatives-division]

Points at you. 10 and/or 11 for starstruck?

Two starstruck asks,,,,,,joy of joys,,

Part of an ask game linked here.

#10. What's an au you have for them?

Since them meeting at all is technically an AU i have 3 different ways that they do meet up. There's the one where Juniper ends up with the agency/adjacent to and ends up working with Reggie (have written a fic with this). The next one is Juniper surviving but basically going stealth and living as normal of a life as he can and ending up meeting Reggie through chance (most recent fic I've written). And then there's my personal favourite where Reginald "You're lucky my tracking skills are still up to snuff" Crane keeping himself busy after Phoenix was MIA and finding Juniper still alive (fic I want to write but haven't started mainly because it may end up multi chapter).

In terms of more AU canon bending taking them and putting them in a completely unrelated situation...I have a guilty pleasure Warrior Cats AU for IEYTD in general. Both JJ and Reggie have perfect warrior cats suffixes in their names already (Juniper and Crane) so they're called Junipersong (charcoal bengal) and Craneflight (tabby Norwegian forest cat). It's very silly but the amount of scenes I have in my mind for it...good lord...

#11. How was their first kiss like?

Augh my friend Imp wrote an absolutely excellent fic about it (tragically in the realm of unfinished Google docs) and I'm shaking their hand about it so hard. Basically Juniper kissing Reggie but he like wasn't ready/fully expecting it and Juniper absolutely panicking because he thinks he's misread every interaction between them both since they got closer. The second one is much sweeter though,,

[painted-fanbird]

At their core, ghosts are amalgamations of energy. Quite literally, in fact. Ghost cores are coalesced energy that’s taken on an elemental flavor. They’re created in places with high concentrations of ectoplasm, which eventually collects and pulls itself into core. That, in turn, attracts more ectoplasm, which is what creates a sentient ghost. Human souls, being made of energy, are naturally attracted to the energy rich ghost zone once they’re freed from living bodies, and spawn cores after being drenched in ectoplasm.

The vast majority of the time, cores are single element, from the following ten: water, ice, plant, earth, fire, magma, electric, air, light, and void. However, dual element cores do also exist. They very rarely occur naturally, and are more often than not the result of ghost fusion, which is the result more powerful ghost absorbing the energy of a less powerful one. This is widely regarded as taboo, as it’s the only way to really “kill” a ghost. Most of the time “killing” a ghost just disperses their energy, but it will recollect over time and they will respawn. Absorption stops that, because the energy is being functionally held hostage by the more powerful personality/conciseness.

Some hybrid cores are stable, such as plant/earth cores, or electric/light cores. Cores they aren’t holding two opposed elements in one. Cores that are holding opposed elements, Like, say, an ice-fire core, are incredibly volatile. Their powers can be difficult to control, they can cause health issues, and typically need ectoplasm to be constantly expended in order to keep them under control.

As a ghost grows and matures, so too does their core. This results in a general power boost and sometimes entirely new abilities. There are rare occasions where the power of a core outpaces what the body can handle though, and the result is all kinds of power outbursts and unpleasant side effects until the body catches up.

So, in a purely hypothetical scenario, what would happen if you took a mature, yet volatile hybrid core, and suddenly placed it into a body that isn’t used to even having a core at all?

Well…

It isn’t always pretty.

[catsinmugs]

something about my sim calling their landlord makes me so happy;

more pictures that didn't really fit anywhere but emerald and nunki are too cute and don't get enough attention SIGHH

[potatobugz]

OH RIGHT! I DREW MORE ROBOT. extra doodles under the cut

:]

[cuntwrap--supreme]

They're buddy pals now, so long as Juniper isn't trying to eat Clio's tail.

[maepolzine]

The Read-Cap: Week of February 24, 2024

Discussing the books that I read in the last week and what I'm planning on reading next.

This week I decided to read only on my Kindle and start with a book that I got when it’s name was everywhere on TikTok, then never got around to reading. And honestly, I forgot what the book was even about going into it. Then the rest of the week, I read some new releases. If you are new to the Read-Cap this a weekly post I’m doing where I share what I’ve been reading in the last week and what I…

[jedi-bird]

Weeded two more raised beds and some of the walkway between them. This is the best time of year to do this since the clay soil of very soft because of the rain and the weather is nice and cool so I don't overheat. There is still a ton to do, but my green waste can is full and I can only do so much at a time before my back and legs start spasming.

The roses all look pretty good right now and are getting their spring growth. The freesias are blooming and have a nice spicy smell. The hyacinths are starting to fade, which makes me a bit sad. The lime tree has it's first flowers and seems to be fine since I secured it's leaning branch. The cara cara has a sucker shoot that needs to be removed next time I'm out there.

Next up is moving the big pots around and making a tiered arrangement under the brush cherry so I can finish setting up the last of the raised beds. I need to get a ton of soil for that as well as for the baby amaryllis that sprouted last year (they're up for a transplant this year). I'm still trying to figure out how I want to rearrange the patio plants to get the maximum amount of space but still leave room for the potted trees.

[moonstruckme]

i was wondering if we could have some roomate!james where him and reader have a disagreement over something and reader feels like james don’t want her there anymore but he comforts her??

Thanks for requesting!

cw: reader feels financially insecure

roommate!James x fem!reader ♡ 1.2k words

“James.” You run your fingers worriedly over the small tears in the doorframe. Look to your roommate in the kitchen. “This is getting out of hand.” 

“What is?” 

“Juniper’s been scratching on the doorframe again.” 

James tsks. “Junie-girl,” he coos, little reprimand to be found in his tone as he looks down at the orange cat currently winding through his ankles, “what are you trying to do to us, huh?” 

You’re not quite so amused. Since James had agreed to look after his friend Lily’s cat while she’s traveling, Juniper has knocked down and broken two of your glasses, scratched up a corner of the couch, and pissed on the carpet in James’ room. You’re lucky you don’t have to deal with the smell of that last one yourself, but you doubt your landlord will be pleased if James can’t get it out by the end of your lease. 

“She’s got to stop,” you say, oddly unsure if you’re trying to reason with James or the cat. “It’s getting really noticeable.” 

“I’m not sure what else to do.” James shrugs. His pan sizzles as he turns over the chicken he’s cooking. “I’ve already moved her favorite scratching post over by the door and sprayed it with the catnip Lily gave me.” 

You cross your arms and sit down on the couch, chewing the inside of your lip. “I’m worried about the security deposit,” you admit. 

“Oh, don’t be.” James waves a hand vaguely in your direction. “My last apartment was way worse than this when I moved out, and they didn’t charge me for anything.” 

His unconcern nettles you. Of course, why would James be upset about a security deposit? He likes to pretend at independence, but you know his parents will always give him funds if he’s in a bind. He doesn’t worry about money the way you do. 

 “Yes, but that was a different landlord, wasn’t it.” There’s a bit of bite to your tone, and you try to soften it. “Maybe someone else could take her for the rest of Lily's trip?” 

James turns, eyebrows lifting as though he’s surprised you’d even ask. “She couldn’t get anyone else to take her in the first place. Mary’s visiting her family, Marl’s allergic, and Sirius would have a cow.” You’re not very inclined to find the last one a spectacular excuse, but you keep your mouth shut. “I agreed to take her,” he says, somewhat firmly, “and I don’t want to go back on that.” 

Heat prickles over your skin. “I just—listen, I can paint over the small things,” you say. “I’m going to try to cover up as many damages as I can, but when your friends come over and break the handle off the microwave” —true story— “or you let their cats tear up the apartment, I don’t know what to do.” 

“I told you I’m going to fix the microwave,” he says without turning around. 

“When, James? That was months ago, and—” 

“And if my friends coming over is a problem for you, it’s not like you didn’t have plenty of opportunities to mention it when we first moved in.” Now James is growing agitated too, his posture stiffening over the stove. “I don’t get where this is coming from. I told you before we moved in that I’d want to have friends here often. When I asked if Junie could stay here, you said it was fine!” 

“I didn’t know it’d be like this!” You feel ridiculous, nearly shouting at him in your mostly lovely apartment. James really isn’t a bad roommate overall; you know you could do far worse. But the small things have begun to add up, and you really cannot afford not to lose your deposit. “I like your friends, and I like Junie, but this is—it’s too much.” 

“You shouldn’t have lived with me if you couldn’t deal with it.” 

James flicks off the stove, turning around to speak to you directly, and you see the moment he sees the glossy sheen in your eyes. His expression pinches. 

“Sweetheart—” 

“No. Do not feel bad for me right now,” you hiss, blinking furiously. “Just because I’m not good at arguing doesn’t mean I’m not still mad.” 

Your anger is rapidly fading, though, as his words reverberate around in your head. You shouldn’t have lived with me. Does he really think that? There are certainly things upon which you don’t see eye-to-eye, but you love living with James. You love spending time with him, sharing things with him, just being around him. The idea that he doesn’t feel the same about you starts spiderweb cracks going through your heart. 

“I’m not good at arguing either,” he says with a hefty sigh. The tension seems to go out of his shoulders with it, and he starts toward you with heavy steps, plopping down on the couch. “Can we just talk, please?” 

You sniffle, working hard to suppress your tears. “Do you think it’d be better if we didn’t live together?” you ask. 

James' eyes widen behind his glasses. His brows hook up in the middle. “No. Why would you say that?” 

You shake your head, not quite looking at him. “I honestly do like your friends. I don’t mind them coming over or helping you do favors for them, and I get that—that sometimes things happen.” You take a shallow breath. Ignore the way James’ hand twitches in his lap. “But you’re right that I didn’t consider all of this when we moved in together. I’m okay with trying to get past it, but if you want me to move out—” 

“Oh my god, no.” James leans forward, trying to catch your gaze. You don’t let him, because just then a small droplet of water squishes out of the corner of your eye and begins a slow trudge down your cheek. “Sweetheart, I don’t want that. I like living with you.” 

Juniper hops up onto the couch, plodding onto your lap and rubbing her side against your stomach affectionately. A wet laugh bubbles out of you, more tears cresting your cheeks as you scratch awkwardly between her ears. 

James makes a sound so soft you think you’ll dream about it. “Can I hug you?” 

You lean toward him in answer. He meets you halfway, needling his arms under yours and folding you into him. You press your face, hot with embarrassment and upset, into the crook of his neck and shoulder, and James’ hand rubs your back in big, sweeping circles, before it stops moving at all, pressing flush to your spine, easing you closer. Junie hops off your lap. Evidently, she considers your comfort taken care of.

“I don’t want you to pity me,” you mumble. When you blink, your lashes leave wetness like the strokes of a paintbrush on his skin. “If you want me to move out, it’s okay.” 

“I don't,” he promises, squeezing you until it almost hurts. “I was being rash. I was only being defensive because you were angry. About very reasonable stuff, if I’m honest. I can pay for your half of the security deposit if we lose it.” 

You shake your head, shifting your body to hug him harder. James meets you a hundred percent. “You don’t need to do that.” 

“I do, it’s fine. It’s my mess. Just don’t talk any more about moving out, okay?” 

You mumble your agreement into his neck. It tickles, and James squeaks, but he doesn’t let you go.

[phoward89]

Based on this ask

You've been married to President Snow for 25 years now and have 4 children between the ages of 20 & 9. When your 15 year old daughter wants to go on her first date, Coriolanus isn't taking it well. He's an overprotective girl dad.

Takes place in the Anti-Hero Universe

Your daughter, Demeter, was a total daddy's girl. She was spoiled and had Coriolanus wrapped around her little finger. Just like her 3 brothers, your daughter was the spitting image of her father. Platinum blonde curls, cerulean blue eyes, mile long legs, and a prominent nose.

Your daughter inherited your smile and your demeanor. You saw so much of your younger self in your daughter. More so than in your other children.

So, of course, Coriolanus had strict rules for his princess when it came to boys. Well, really it was only one rule. No dating until enrolling in the University.

Meaning Demeter couldn't date until she graduated from the Academy- at 18. But, you're sure that when that time comes a new rule change will come into effect- making her age of dating pushed up by a couple of years.

Demi was a bright girl in her first year at the Academy; she was adhering to her dad’s rule until one day she wasn't.

You, Coriolanus, your first born Cassian, his longtime girlfriend Phoebe (who you stopped the president from poisoning a few times since he couldn't stand the flippant girl), Demeter, and your other sons Caspian and Caelestis were gathered around the large, ornate dining table in the presidential palace for dinner. Despite being kept busy as the President, your husband was very adamant that the family ate together every night. Hell, the family ate breakfast together every morning too- in the sunroom.

Minus Cassian's girlfriend since Coriolanus did not let her live in the Presidential Palace. He's still pouting over the last poisoning attempt that you thwarted. One day, you're certain you won't be able to stop him and he'll succeed.

“Seneca Crane asked me to the Yule Ball and I said yes!” Demeter blurted out, an overjoyed smile on her youthful face, as the Avox served the first course.

You could hear a pin drop. Even the Avox paused in their motions of serving the tomato bisque to watch, wide-eyed, President Snow's reaction. Oh boy, everyone knows the one rule your husband had for your daughter. And Demeter announcing that she was asked out and said yes broke that one rule.

Even if it's for the Yule Ball, the rule of no dating is still being broken. Attending a ball or gala with a boy is considered a date. Or at least it is in the Capitol.

“I’m sorry, Demi, but you'll have to tell the young Mister Crane that you won't be attending the Yule Ball with him.” Coriolanus calmly, but cooly, told your daughter. Then he snapped his fingers and motioned for the Avox to continue serving the soup to the family.

Everyone’s eyes fluttered between Coriolanus and Demeter. Yours included. Would she accept her father's order or would she push back.

You knew exactly what she'd do. Hell, it was the exact same thing you did when your own guardian, your older half-brother, forbid you to see Private Snow anymore. You pushed back and picked Coryo; you're sure that Demi’s going to push back and pick Senaca Crane.

And you're right.

“Daddy, all of my friends are going to the Yule Ball. Everyone's going! And I'm going too, with Seneca Crane, whether you like it or not!” Demeter shrieked, only to loudly push her chair away from the table and storm out of the dining room.

“Demeter Juniper, come right back to the dining room! You haven't been properly dismissed yet!” The President orders in a loud, authoritative tone.

But your daughter didn't come back. In fact, you think she stormed off to her room. Not that you blame her.

You knew that Coryo would let her be; that he wouldn't chase after her. Demeter had him wrapped around her finger. She was daddy's little princess. The President would never make a scene by leaving the dining room to chase after her; he’d wait til after dinner to have a word with her.

Hell, this isn't the first time something like this has happened and it won't be the last.

The President took a deep, calming breath while motioning the Avox over. Once the Avox appeared at his side, he told the Avox, “Have a maid wheel a trolley full of all the supper courses to Demi’s room.”

Of course your husband was having the full course meal sent up to your daughter. Even tho she stormed off during dinner, Coriolanus didn't want her going hungry. He loves his children too much to ever let any of them go hungry.

The Avox nodded and took off to get your daughter's meal sent up to her.

“Now, let's go back to our soup.” The President said, causing everyone to pick up their spoons and begin to eat their tomato bisque.

“Mister President, maybe you should let Demeter go to the Yule Ball with Seneca. It could be the beginning of a sweet relationship.” The teal haired girl sitting next to Cassian has the idiotic nerve to tell your husband.

“Phoebe…” Cassian hissed warningly at his girlfriend while giving her a swift kick under the table.

“Yes, well, my son took you to the Yule Ball his sophomore year of the Academy and you've been a barnacle on the Snow family for years.” Your husband curtly told Phoebe, causing Cassian to cringe in embarrassment. “But unlike my sons, I have stricter rules for my daughter.” Coriolanus explained while pristinely bringing his soup spoon to his mouth.

“Phoebe, perhaps you should just enjoy the tomato bisque and not worry about how my husband and I raise our daughter or, in fact, any of our children.” You told the teal haired girl with a pointed fake smile while placing a supportive hand on your husband's under the table, on his lap.

Phoebe’s eyes went wide, but she silently nodded and went back to her soup. In fact, after your remark, everyone began to engage in light conversation while tentatively sipping on soup.

Coryo squeezed your hand, that was on his- on his lap, only to lean over slightly to tell you, “After dinner I'm going to talk with Demi; explain to her why she's not allowed to attend the ball with Seneca Crane.”

“Don’t be too strict, Coryo. Remember, she's young and likes Seneca.” You knowingly advised your husband.

“Hmph.” Coriolanus huffed, fighting the urge to roll his eyes. “I know she's young. She's 15, my darling, and that's why I need to be strict on her about the subject of dating and boys.”

“Honey, my brother told me it was either you or them; I picked you. Demeter's all you in looks, but all me in personality. So, just don't push her too hard on this.”

“I know, my darling rose. I know.” Coriolanus sighed right as a maid came in to clear out the soup bowls.

As the maid left the dining room with a trolley full of empty soup bowls the Avox appeared with the main course. Time to carry on with dinner. They'll be time to deal with your daughter's dating drama later.

Demeter Snow was sitting on her bedroom floor, back against her bed, while thumbing thru fashion magazines. Since her Auntie Tigris was the most popular stylist and fashion icon Tigris, she was looking thru magazines to get ideas for her Yule Ball dress. A dress that her auntie would no doubt make for her.

The young blonde’s dog-earing a page in the magazine whenever a knock followed by her door cracking open and her father's head popping in with a simple, “Demi, it's dad. I'd like to talk.”, sounded out in the air.

“Come in “ Demeter flatly said while going back to thumbing thru her magazine.

Coriolanus walked into the room, only to frown whenever he saw the untouched food trolley near the door. “Princess, why didn't you eat?” He asked while making his way over to his daughter.

“I'm not hungry.” Demeter shrugged, flipping the page of her magazine.

The President pinched the bridge of his nose and let out a low sigh before sitting down on the floor next to his only daughter. Turning to the platinum blonde girl, he sternly told her, “Demi, don't starve yourself in protest. I refuse to have any of my children go hungry, so I order you to eat your dinner once we're done talking.”

“Fine.” Demi sighed.

Coriolanus snatched the fashion magazine right out of his daughter's hands while telling her, “I don't know why you're looking at dresses for because you're not going to the Yule Ball with Seneca Crane.”

“Why not? Everyone else is going with a date. Why can't I go with a date, dad?”

“Princess, you're not like everyone else. You're the president's daughter; you're not going to the ball with a date because it's just not proper.”

“Not proper my ass.” Demi mutters under her breath.

“Excuse me, young lady, but such language is not permitted in this house.” Coriolanus scolded his favorite child. He was appalled by her actions right now. He expected her to accept his word as law, but it seems that you're right about her. She's pushing back, much like you did as a teenager.

“And you know my rules, no dating until you're 18 and have graduated the Academy. That includes balls and galas, Demeter Juniper.”

“Everyone in the districts is right about you, dad. You're such a tyrant. A damn dictator.” Demeter hatefully spat out, taking the President aback. He never thought that his little princess would say such hurtful things to him, but she did.

Blinking, Coriolanus stood up. The President’s shoulders were shaking with a mix of hurt and anger as he told his daughter, “Since I'm such a tyrant; a dictator, you're grounded, Demeter Juniper Snow, and you're not attending any balls or galas this year. Alone or with a date.”

“That's not fair!” Demeter whined as he dad went over to the door.

“Life isn't fair, princess. Maybe your mom and I have been sheltering you too much, but you don't always get things your way in life.” The president told his daughter before leaving her room.

Your husband was in a sulking mood all night while in the family room with you and the children. He didn't seem like himself and when you asked what was wrong he just waved you off; said everything was fine.

You knew otherwise.

Everything wasn't fine. Your husband was hurting and you have an idea why. Your daughter and him had words; something was said that cut him down.

Wanting to get to the bottom of things, you excused yourself with the intention of checking on Demeter. On seeing if she wanted to come down and join the family. Your husband just nodded while nursing his glass of bourbon whiskey. Your younger sons didn't say a word, being too engrossed in their chess match, while your first born son just kept his nose in his book.

So, that's how you found yourself sitting on your daughters bed, holding her while she picked at her strawberry shortcake and complained about how unfair her dad was being.

“I understand you feel like it's unfair, but your dad has his reasons for his rules. And lashing out on him, saying that the districts are right about him being a tyrant and a dictator, wasn't right, Demeter.” You firmly tell your daughter.

No wonder Coryo's sulking. You can't imagine how badly your daughter’s words have hurt your husband. Coriolanus truly believes that his pro-Capitol and strict District political policies have made Panem thrive. And, honestly, after the bullshit you experienced in the Districts during your youth, well, you side wholeheartedly with the Capitol.

With your husband.

“But-” Your daughter began to protest, only for you to cut her off with a motherly, “No buts, Demi. What you said to your dad hurt him. He only wants to keep you safe.”

As your daughter put her half-eaten dessert plate on the trolley, you told her, “Your father works hard not just to keep us safe, but to keep the Capitol and all of Panem safe. For you to say such hateful things to him isn't called for.”

“Everyone else gets to go to balls and galas with dates; I just want to be able to go too.”

“I know, honey, but it's not that simple. You’re the president's daughter; people might try to take advantage of you for that.”

“Mom, Seneca Crane's really nice. He wouldn't try to take advantage of me.” Demeter told you with such conviction. She truly believes that Seneca was just a nice guy that liked her for her.

Sighing, you told Demeter, “I’ll talk to your dad about letting you go to the Yule Ball with Seneca. But, you need to go down to the family room and apologize to him.”

“Okay.” Your daughter nodded, accepting your terms.

Later that night, you're in your large master bedroom with your husband. You're wearing one of your silky nightgowns while sitting at your vanity, doing your nightly beauty regime. Coryo's lounging on the bed you share, dressed in a pair of silky red pajamas. His platinum curls are in their natural state and he's got gold gel patches on under his eyes to prevent bags. His face is also lathered in facial creams, to keep his skin hydrated and wrinkle free during the night.

You and Coryo are in your early 40’s, have been married for 25 years now, and have 4 children- one who's 20, one who’s 15, and the others that're 11 and 9. And after all of that life experience you still find each other as handsome and beautiful as ever. Even lathered up in your nightly beauty and skincare regimens.

“Now, I've got no doubt that Seneca Crane's a nice boy- after all I knew his aunt and she had a personality to die for, but I'm not letting Demi go to that dance with him.” Coryo told you, watching you with sharp eyes, as he sat against the king-size velvet headboard.

“I thought you said that Arachne was a bitch that got a broken bottle to the throat cause she was teasing her tribute with it?” You asked, brow raised, as you finished applying your body lotion.

“I did say that.” Coryo nodded. Running a hand over his beard (which he began sporting after receiving a scar along his jaw from an attempted mine uprising during a business trip in 12 that occurred about 15 years ago), he sighed, “Maybe if it was Heavensbee’s son I'd reconsider, but a Crane?”

You picked up your silver brush and began to brush your hair. “Coryo, I know how you feel about this, but we need to trust her judgment on this.”

“But-” Coryo began, only for you to cut him off with, “No buts, Coryo. Maybe we need to let her go to the Yule Ball with Seneca. Give her a tiny bit of leeway; show her that we trust her.”

“Fine…” Coryo relented with a defeated sigh. Pointing a finger at you, he declared, “But I’m giving him one hell of a shovel talk when that boy comes to pick her up for the Yule Ball.”

And your husband was true to his word. President Coriolanus Snow gave Senaca Crane the shovel talk of all shovel talks. In fact, Seneca was so nervous after that talk that he barely even looked at Demeter. In fact, after the Yule Ball he never talked to her again; made excuses to not be around her, etc.

Safe to say that President Coriolanus Snow scared away his daughter's first potential boyfriend. It could've been worse. At least he didn't poison the boy.

So, after the Yule Ball and the failed date with Seneca Crane, Demeter Snow went back to worrying about her studies and fashion. She didn't bring up the topic of dating again, much to her dad’s relief.

But in 3 years time President Snow would have to deal with his daughter falling for her tribute, but that's a story for another day.

Tags: @kuroosbby001 @purriteen @poppyflower-22 @meetmeatyourworst @meetmeatyourworst @bxtchopolis @readingthingsonhere @savagenctzen @ryswritingrecord @erikasurfer @tulips2715 @universal-s1ut @thesmutconnoisseur @squidscottjeans @sudek4l @wearemadeofstardust0 @mashiromochi @gracieroxzy @belcalis9503 @shari-berri @aoi-targaryen @whiteoakoak @spear-bearing-bi-witch @gisellesprettylies @loverandqueenofdragons @qoopeeya @mfnqueen1 @permanentlyexhaustedpigeon88 @v-love @swiftieblyth @joyfulyouthlover @harvey-malfoy @tian-monique @chxrrybomb22 @marvel-hiddles-stark @xjinnix @devils-blackrose @zombicupcake3 @jacesvelaryons @tempt-ress

[willamaybeck]

pjo/hoo @/amusement park headcanons

idk i thought of this forever ago and it's been sitting in my notes forever, so here

piper throws up on a rollercoaster

percy cannot, for the LIFE of him, win annabeth a prize.

"let me show you how it's done, seaweed brain." she calculates how to throw and wins him a tiny stuffed trident.

rachel has to quickly pull grover away from his feast in the trash cans before someone sees

leo & calypso fix a broken-down ride

jason tries to convince thalia to do the bungee jump dive w him--she offers up piper instead but ends up doing it anyway

(she may or may not nearly strike percy w a lighting bolt)

hazel helps a little girl find her lost earrings and frank is basically in love

everyone realizes they "lost" percy & annabeth at the water park ;)

jason was sent to find them and boy--HE DEFINITELY FOUND THEM

frank accidently gives archery lessons

jokes about grover becoming the amusement park janitor

hazel kinda wishes nico were there but she knows he wouldn't have had fun

rachel & calypso befriend each other

piper gets a piggyback ride from leo & vice versa, as well

frank & grover are "guests" in a hypnosis performance

thalia finds this too amusing and takes pictures for the hunters to enjoy

percy & annabeth stroll around themselves for a while just being cute <33

jason mentions smth about nico being gay to piper (an aside, just a short snippet):

annabeth was trying to sneak up on piper w her yankees cap but now she stumbles back to percy by the restrooms and almost cries laughing.

"all this time we thought he had a crush on me, but it was you!"

percy is so mortified

calypso slaps percy when she first sees him (they were all kinda nervous about them meeting again, esp annabeth even tho she knew not to worry; if your bf can turn down a roman praetor for you w/o even fully remembering you, then you should be fine) but then she thanks him for leaving. he's not her happy ending, and she isn't his.

honestly, he was most shocked to see her wearing jeans

leo somehow catches a water ride on fire??

jason & percy volunteer to be in a sword fighting demonstration--somehow none of the mortal audience notices they discarded the prop swords they were given

piper & annabeth are slightly worried they're going to kill each other

calypso guarantees them this a "rather healthy" confrontation

"of course, verbal communication is the best way, but guys think differently."

grover has a picture of juniper in his wallet. rachel finds this incredibly sweet

leo jokingly volunteers to give grover's goatee a trim

no one appreciates the pun.

grover declines.

hazel almost uses golden drachmas as payment for her lunch and frank just can't help but laugh at her

jason & piper fly around the park

the aerial tramway is for chumps

piper fangirls very much upon seeing percy & annabeth's seat--midair snuggling and forehead kisses

jason calls down to thalia to be calm

she's gripping the ride so tightly

she wasn't even supposed to be IN the cart bc it's only fit for two people but rachel & grover pulled her into it

leo's super fuckn fascinated when learning to braid calypso's hair

he tries to copy piper's braids, but she has to inform him it's complicated due to her uneven hairstyle

thalia, rachel, grover, percy, & annabeth all eat lunch together and it's so comfortable.

thalia had never fully met rachel but now she's just crying from how rachel blatantly broke up w percy w/o even dating him

[lavalampstealer]

Some sketches - ieytd 3 Phoenix and broken Juniper

I’ve changed my mind, Juniper would still be a green, just a more muted/warmer shade. Phoenix in ieytd 3 would be a lot more cautious and not as outgoing, they’d treat missions as more of a “get in, get out” type scenario. Hnngh I can’t say more bc maybe-spoilers so I’ll make a more detailed post later

[raphael-angele]

Nico's Big Brothers

Nico: Conner, can you open this please. *gives him a can of peanut brittle*

Conner: Did Travis okay this?

Nico: Mhm.

Conner: You know you can't eat these kinds of things without drinking water directly after, right?

Nico: Yep.

Conner: Where's your water?

Nico: *points to glass on table*

Conner: Alright *opens can and spring snakes pop out*

Conner:

Nico: :)

Conner: Classic *impressed*

---

Nico: Travis!

Travis: What's up, kiddo?

Nico: Annabeth gave me homework. Can you please help me?

Travis: Yeah, sure. *pulls ups a chair and sits on whoopee cushion*

Travis:

Nico: :)

Travis: *pulls out whoopee cushion from underneath him* ...I'll teach you better pranks if you get an A in this.

---

Visiting an Aquarium:

Percy, carrying Nico: Nico, c'mon. Look at the pretty fish.

Nico, burying his head in Percy's shoulder: No! I don't like the ocean! The ocean is scary! It's gonna eat me!

Percy: *sigh* C'mon. Look, there's a turtle over there.

Nico: *looks hesitantly*

Percy: See? Over there. *points to turtle* Say, "Hi, Mr. Turtle*

Nico: *waves* Hi, Mr. Turtle.

Turtle: *waves back*

Nico: GAAASP HE WAVED BACK! PERCY, HE WAVED BACK!

---

Nico: GROVEEERRRR! *running*

Grover: Woah! Woah! Woah! Nico, calm down. What's wrong?

Nico: *opens his palm to show a baby bird with a broken wing*

Grover: Oooh.

Nico: I think she fell from her nest. B-but you can heal her right? Or Juniper can?

Grover: Nico, I'm sorry. Juniper or I don't have healing powers

Nico: B-but, we can't just leave Beanie alone! He's tiny and just a baby! He needs his family!

Grover: *sigh* I know. C'mon. We'll go to the Apollo cabin to see what they can do. Then we'll put him back in his tree.

Nico: I'll still get to see him, right?

Grover: Of course.

---

Jason giving Nico a tour of Camp: And that over there is the arena. It's where we train.

Reyna: Jason! Who's that?

Jason: Oh, Nico, this is Reyna. She's my best friend. Reyna, this is Nico. He's a visitor.

Reyna: We don't accept visitors

Jason: He's an exception. Diana asked us to-

Nico, playing with a dummy sword: Jason, I'm hungry.

Jason: Aww, okay. Let's get you some food.

Octavian: What are you two doing? And what is that? *points to Nico*

Reyna: Back off, Octavian.

Octavian: No. That thing needs to leave. This place is-

Nico: *throws his dummy sword at him*

Octavian: OW!

Jason: Nico!

Reyna:

Jason: Octavian, are you okay? Do you-

Nico: *throws stones, sticks, and whatever he can pick up from the ground at Octavian*

Jason: Nico, you can't-

Reyna: Wait, give him five more seconds to learn his lesson

---

Nico: *wakes up from his afternoon nap*

Alice: Oh, looks like someone's awake from his nap

Nico: Clovis...

Clovis: *picks him up* I'm here, kiddo. You need anything?

Nico: Hungy...

Clovis: Alright. Let's get you some food. Did you have a good nap?

Nico: Mhm. I had a good dream

Clovis: Aww, tell me all about it.

---

Nico: Charlie.

Charles: Yes, Nico? What is it?

Nico: Can you make something?

Charles: It's kind of what we do here. What do you need?

Nico: I made my sister mad.

Charles: What happened?

Nico: I almost broke her bow. So I want to make it up to her.

Charles: So you want me to make her a new bow?

Nico: Not exactly. *shows paper*

Charles and other Cabin 9 kids: *looks*

Charles: Oh, wow. That's...that's certainly something.

Nico: Can you make it?

Charles: Maybe like...2? 3 weeks?

Soon:

Bianca: Hey...Charles, right?

Charles: That's me. What can I help you with?

Bianca: Nico said that he had you make something for me?

Charles: Oh, so you're Nico's sister. Yeah, I have what he asked for. *hands over case*

Bianca: What is it?

Charles: *opens case* He felt bad about almost breaking your bow so he had me make you this. *shows violin*

Bianca: Oh, wow. That's...very generous of you. All of you.

Charles: That's not where it ends. *pushes a button at the top and the violin turns to a bow*

Bianca:

Charles: He had blueprints and everything.

Bianca: I'm going to say something I swore I'd never say. Oh my Gods.

Charles: *chuckles*

Bianca: How much does he owe you?

Charles: Ah, it's on the house. It looked really cool and all of us wanted to take a shot at it. It was fun enough for us to make it.

Violin

---

Nico: *crying cuz he fell fown and scraped his knee*

Lee: Nico, calm down.

Nico: It hurts!!

Lee: I know, kiddo. I know.

Nico: I want Bia!!

Lee: Michael already called for her. Just be a good boy and keep still, okay?

Nico: *nods*

Lee: Okay, there we go. *blows on his wound and applies betadine*

Nico: Can I get a lollipop later?

Lee: Well, if you're a good boy, I can give you one in your favorite flavor. *patches him up* And we're done. See? That wasn't so bad, right?

Bianca, coming in: Nico?

Lee: Over here. He's fine. He just scraped his knee. Nothing a little betadine can't fix.

Bianca: Oh, good. Thank you.

Lee: Yeah. And he was a very strong boy. *shows lollipop jar* Here you go, Nico.

Nico: Yay!

---

Michael: Good. Don't close your eye. It'll be harder if you do. Stand properly

Nico: *does as he's told*

Michael: And...release.

Nico: *shoots an arrow bullseye* I DID IT!!!

Michael: YEAAA! *picks up Nico* Aww, great job, little man.

Nico: DID YOU SEE IT? MICKEY, DID YOU SEE IT?!?!

Michael: I saw it. And it was perfect. C'mon, let's go tell Bianca.

[angelicguy]

all the toons of toonville USA quickly gathered for my funeral. this was the first death that toonville had ever had within its borders, so the processions were brief and crass. many of them did not know what had happened to me, and arrived jovial with gifts and favors to share with one another.

a whole line of red and blue convertibles filled the one lane street that led to my body. since everyone in town knew each other, they engaged in bright lively conversation about all the sweet memories they had of me. my birthday, my bris, my several rushed visits to the toon hospital were all discussed among the townsfolk who shared their popping candies and hot sodas that they had prepared for the celebration.

Cowboy Frito and Juliet Juniper (one of toonvilles hottest couples) brought a boquet of my favorite treats in apparent memory of me. Dr Lollipop and his beau Beauty Bee were especially excited to witness my body, flayed and broken, as they had never seen one before. Fashionista Frida Frizzlemeister was dressed from head to toe in the most dazzling outfit she had, with a black and white photograph of my own head featured as the centerpiece to her famously glitzy bouquet.

gathered in thousands of seats surrounding my thick, red, plastic coffin, the show was finally on the road. despite being delayed a half hour (the felt arms of the pallbearer made it difficult to actually get the dang thing near my ready grave!), the mood was light, as everyone in attendance were best friends. scattered lines of conversation quickly concluded as Pastor Paisley cleared his throat to begin his eulogy- at least he tried! pranks were all the rage in toonville, and who else but Scoots McBuzz would spit a hot wad of greasegum right at him. Paisley, experienced from his many sunday school classes over the years, grabbed his toupee and ducked down-causing the gum to stick right onto my fisher price brand tomb.

a long pause filled the air, followed by bright laughter at such a farce. in fact, all of toonville decided to cover my final resting place in bits of chewed paper, bottlecaps, smile stickers (the lowest form of their complex currency) and all kinds of knick knacks while hollering with laughter. and what could cap off such a good time like a hearty meal? Chef Al LaRonge had prepared a veritable feast for the hungry attendees, who stuffed their mouths with gooey, cheesy pizza, hot pepper patties and classic peanut butter chocolate superbars.

as the sun set, Mayor Megamouth of toonville declared their first funeral a complete success and thanked everyone for being a part of such a touching event. "he knew every one of you, and would have loved to know he caused such a record turnout among the toontopians!" after cheery "hip, hip, hooray!" and a final goodbye towards my flesh, the now urine-soaked coffin was marched straight into the freshly built mausoleum, the only gravesite to be found in the brand new toonville boneyard.

given the limited use of the land, it was eventually folded into the soda treatment plant. over time, my final resting place became stained with the colors and smell of sarsaparilla, caramel, and beetroot. the foundation eventually buckled beneath the sagging heft of the pop-drenched wood that surrounded my now bleached bones on the fourth of july, the sounds of creaking and splintering masked underneath the no-expenses-spared fireworks show. shapes of cakes and pies filled the air as my remains were carried out to the stinking sea.

[astralnymphh]

patterned palmistry ⋆ | ellie williams headcanons

༺ ellie x witch!reader headcanons/scenarios ༻ ☽𖤐☾

✧˖ ° 🕯 bright blessings!

an: being the witchy little gremlin i am i just had to throw some hcs together for myself but ofc i'd share them here🙄ive been practicing witchcraft since i was 15 so it felt fitting to incorporate it whenever i brace my delusions at the bootycrack of midnight that r all abt ellie 💀 regardless this def isnt gonna be my only witchy hcs post i just didnt wanna spoil all my ideas right away <3 tags: MDNI, slight nsfw (no detailed smut), boob jokes, witchcraft (obv), tarot, palm reading, mostly convos, flirting, not mentioned in the writing but u 2 r alrdy dating, playful bickering, more natural casual writing with some bigger words, no specific religion tied to the practice, generally a fluff piece, lowk cute moments. °________________________⋆༺𓆩☠︎︎𓆪༻⋆__________________________°

I. ☆ ellie definitely had a peak in curiosity the first time you mentioned you immerse yourself in the world of the craft, her ears perked figuratively and were tuned in to learn what that entails. she may not forfeit a nip of skepticism right away but she's more than happy to engross herself in the idea of it. you'd stay up till first light rambling on about the 'rituals', 'divination', the history tied to it and why you practice it. you'd be lying in bed adjacent to her, heavenward to the ceiling, but interwoven in a warm and loving cuddle with her palm residing on your lap whilst you chatted.

"mmmmh-" ellie's hum churns 'round your bedroom, "so that's why you collect rocks."

"crystals."

"same thing," she drones an inwardly giggle, "which crystal will give me superpowers?" a witty remark springs from her tongue.

"babe.." you pout, acting offended yet none is taken.

"didn't mean it like that, y'know I believe you, it's all just new to me." ellie tapes an assuring kiss to your temple, "tell me about your favorite crystals, hmm?" 

⋆༺𓆩☠︎︎𓆪༻⋆

II. ☆ now because of this, anytime you're out on patrol and delight the opportunity of scavenging, she always keeps in mind to find you flowers, rocks, unused candles and other oddities of nature.

"hey babe! I found a black candle for'ya." ellie bolstered a long glass cylinder filled with an opaque charcoal wax, wick still intact, "and- ..some wild lavender." her other arm swings from behind her back, twines of dusty purple lavender upheld in a pinch.

"fuck yeah, needed this stuff.." you graciously tweak the lavender from her, whiffing up its poignant scent.

"always on the lookout.." her voice resembles her proud countenance outwards, essentially, a dorky smirk.

⋆༺𓆩☠︎︎𓆪༻⋆

III. ☆ obviously, the second you mentioned the art of tarot to her, she begged for a reading. whenever a card flew from your shuffling motions, she'd patiently wait for you to place it before her and then she'd swipe it up and admire the art piece detailing the cardstock.

"whew! look at the boobs on this one!" 

"oh- my god, of course you'd point that out." you snatch the card from her, shamelessly ogling the nude depiction that had her attention.

"you're looking at them too!"

"cuz' you said something 'bout it!" you flick the card towards her face, noting, "those are some nice boobs though." 

"why thank you~" 

"wasn't talking about you, idiot!" 

"eh, but.. urs' are the best." her hoarse tone binds a nonchalant flirtiness in its rumble.

"oh really? should we compare the.. four?"

that really stole her attention.

⋆༺𓆩☠︎︎𓆪༻⋆

IV. ☆ the first time you entertained her with a palm reading, it had her all dappy and touched to the essence at the paltry contact you made with her hand. your fingerprints drafting her calloused palms with such a gentle focus on every river lining her hand. she just wanted to smother you with kisses.

"and… this is your heart line." your finger hovers the crevice of her palm-pads stretching from index to pinkie, "ah.. it's a broken one.."

"is that.. bad?" her juniper eyes study your expression meticulously.

"it just means u're closed off, stubborn, have some emotional trauma.. stuff like that." you mindlessly fiddle with her fingers, "lines can change though, so.."

she nods, taking in the insight. she licks her slightly chapped lips clean, "am I stubborn?" her voice rises partially an octave, bending playfulness in her question.

"mm.. no."

"why'd you hesitate?"

"well- the only times ur' stubborn is refusing to let go whenever you hug me- ur' a life-size sloth!" 

"I like huggin' you though." a puppy pout frowns on her lips, "you're like a pillow!"

and oh, how your heart capers a beat, "is that all I am, williams?"

her swift speech conjuncts, "whaddid' I say about that name?!"

"I don't know, I think you like it." 

"nuh-uh I don't!"

you pepper a haste kiss to her knuckles still forcepped in your clasp, totally deterring the crime you've just committed when a half impish half taken aback smile creaks her lips.

"c'mere." vaults from her tongue before she lunges her body forward and tackles you in a saucy position riddled with love bites. guess you'll be reading her palms in a different way tonight.

⋆༺𓆩☠︎︎𓆪༻⋆ V. ☆ an bonus hc, you'd totally mention out of the void about her tattoo n the mystic meanings surrounding moths, like, its for sure one of the topics you'll ramble about one night cause you just feel so wise for knowing. "y'know, moths play a pretty large role in the metaphysical world." "really? i mean, i knew they had some kind of.. 'symbolism' to them-" ellie's hand rolls over the knoll of her forearm, reading the bumps glamoured in that beautiful inking. "yeah, like- luna moths represent transformation, renewal.. oh! and death-head moths are an omen of death.. an- and black witch moths mean either good luck, or bad-" ellie is amused at your prattle shown by her raspy giggles, legitimately having to conceal her scrunched face. "what?" "nothin' you- you're just so cute." "stop.." the embarrassment catches up to you, now having to hide your face to the shadows beneath your hands. her finger cranes out to hook and uncover your nerdy grin, assuring, "never stop tellin' me bout this stuff, ok babe?" a wide delighted beam syncs on her cheeks. goddess above, her dimples and nasal lines are to die for. ⋆༺𓆩☠︎︎𓆪༻⋆

𖤐

in general; she's a curious dork n will ask you oh so many questions, i mean, she loves space and a futuristic sci-fi comic for crying out loud, she's alrdy so imaginative so ofc she'd be open to a realistic amount. she'd also be so respectful and helpful n defend ur practice with so much love. maybe she'd pick up some little traditions and customs like folding letters a specific amount of times, drawing little pentacles, mixing liquid in specific directions, just the simple things that grow on her.

[firewasabeast]

Heyy I'm still under the uncle eddie fic spell. So maybe the first time buck and tommy hold their little babygirl? 🥹

Will I ever be able to write a prompt quickly? Unlikely! Juniper has us all wrapped though, let's be honest. tw: brief mention of child death from SIDS and a stillbirth

“Her lungs were a little underdeveloped,” the social worker, Bev, told Buck over the phone, “so the hospital had kept her for observation. The day her mom was released, she left and never came back. She's one week old, healthy as can be now, and yours if you and Tommy want her to be.”

Buck had no memory of the words that came out of his mouth when he got back to the table. Everyone was at Bobby's for dinner. They all gave him bewildered expressions before they realized what he was trying to say, then everyone was up and congratulating them.

Buck didn't linger in the celebration. He had a daughter to go pick up from the hospital.

He ran out to the truck with Tommy following behind him. He looked overwhelmed, and a little nauseous, but Buck knew he was excited. They'd been waiting for this for so long.

It went beyond Buck and Tommy's time together. They'd both wanted kids since they were young. Both had a spell of believing it would never happen for them. Then they found each other, and everything started to fall into place.

Until it didn't.

They'd been married for six months when they started the adoption process. Even after talking with Karen and Hen, they were naive to it all.

There were so many children out there waiting for a family, they felt like it would happen quickly. They'd have a baby before they knew it!

Except that wasn't reality. Reality was getting your heart broken over and over by a faulty system that does next-to-nothing to protect children and get them into safe homes.

It was a couple who didn't want their baby, but didn't want a gay couple to have it either.

It was a two year old who was forced to go with her biological father instead, even though he'd been arrested three times.

It was a four month old boy who died of SIDS the night before they headed to San Francisco to pick him up.

It was a mother who changed her mind.

A stillbirth.

And just when the feeling had started to creep back in, that maybe they'd never get to be parents, it was a call that put everything back in it's proper place.

The carseat was already in the truck. Tommy had left it there after last time. Couldn't bring himself to remove it and put it back in the garage.

They had to run home for the diaper bag. It had been packed and repacked for nearly two years. The sizing of the clothes changed, colors too, but it was always ready to go... just in case.

After tossing in some newborn and size one clothes, they rushed to the hospital.

Buck's heart was pounding. His whole body was shaking like he'd downed three red bulls in a row.

Tommy wasn't doing much better. His hands were resting on Buck's back, but he kept tapping his fingers on him like Buck was a piano.

The nurse, Angie, came out, a bright smile on her face. “Come on back, dads,” she said, waving them in her direction.

Buck was tearing up already. He couldn't even look over at Tommy. He knew if he did, he'd fall apart.

They had moved her to a private room, so Buck and Tommy could be with her without disturbing the other babies and parents in the nursery.

Angie led the way into the room. Bev was already in there. She looked just as excited as they felt.

Tommy's hand moved from Buck's back down his arm, intertwining their hands tightly.

When she reached the bassinet she leaned over and picked up the little girl.

Buck gasped the second he saw her. Her hair light brown and curly, clinging to her head. She had a button nose, and pink skin. She was so small, like a little football wrapped up in a blanket.

“Who wants to hold her first?” Angie asked.

Buck risked a glance at Tommy to see tears already running down his cheeks in a steady stream.

“You go,” he sniffed out. He squeezed Buck's hand before letting go. Angie brought her to him and he gently cradled her in his arms.

“Oh my,” he breathed out. She wiggled briefly, one arm popping out from under her blanket. Her lips smacked, eyes opened in a glare as she stretched. Then she was settled again, snuggled up close to Buck.

“Did you see her eyes?” Buck asked Tommy. “They look just like yours.”

He nodded, cleared his throat. “Yeah, I- I did. Evan, did you see her arm?”

Tommy gently placed his hand underneath her arm, bringing the birthmark on it into view under the dimmed lights.

The tears that had managed to stay in his eyes began falling when he noticed it. She had a birthmark similar to his. It was a bit smaller, not as bright, but otherwise a pretty close match.

Angie placed a hand on Buck's shoulder, staring up at the boys. “I think she was meant for you two.”

Bev moved closer to the pair, her heels clicking on the floor with each step. “You'll have some paperwork to sign, but I think we'll give you three a minute first.”

“I'll be back in to show you how to fix her bottles, and I've got some formula you can take home with you,” Angie explained. “You'll get to keep the blanket too. They're made by volunteers here at the hospital. But take your time, sit down, lay in the bed. Babies like skin to skin contact, so you may want to unbutton your shirt and let her rest on your chest.”

Tommy and Buck nodded along as she spoke, but they were both too entranced to take their eyes off of their baby girl.

The ladies left the room and Buck turned toward Tommy. “Your turn,” he said as Tommy wiped the tears from his face.

“Let me wash my hands first.” He went to the sink and cleaned up, then headed over to the reclining chair and sat down. “Okay.”

Buck smiled. He walked to Tommy and placed the girl in his arms. She looked so small against him. Her whole body was scrunched up, and she was sleeping soundly. Buck didn't want to judge, knew it wasn't right to, he had no idea what her mom had been through, but he couldn't imagine walking away from such a perfect human being.

Tommy held her so gently, like she was made of glass. He held a finger to her hand and she wrapped her own tiny fingers around it. “She's strong,” he noted with a laugh. “Probably stubborn too, like you.”

“Hey now,” Buck teased. “I am not stubborn.”

“Yeah, okay.”

“I'm not!” He whined.

“Okay, Evan, you're not stubborn.”

“Thank you.”

Tommy brought the baby closer to his face, like he was telling her a secret, “If I didn't agree, Daddy would keep going.”

Buck kneeled down in front of them. “Don't listen to papa,” he said, stroking her arm gently. “He's only right like twenty percent of the time.”

Tommy grinned over at Buck, who was smiling back with fresh tears building in his eyes. “We're really parents, Evan,” Tommy said in disbelief. “Like, for real now.”

“I know. I can't believe it.”

“Me either.”

They were both quiet for a moment, soaking up every second with their girl, then Buck asked. “What are we gonna name her?”

Tommy snorted out a laugh. “I was just wondering the same thing. We'll think of something.”

*****

They spent more time with her, Tommy taking a picture of Buck and her together, their birthmarks front and center, and sent it out in a group chat. Buck had been in the midst of another crying session at that point, but it didn't matter. It was the best picture Tommy had ever taken, he was sure of it.

Angie came back in loaded down with formula, a couple of bottles, and instructions on feedings. She'd been with the baby most of the week, so she knew her schedule like clockwork. Tommy and Buck were endlessly grateful for her.

While Tommy signed his part of the paperwork with Bev, Buck changed their daughter's diaper. As he was wrapping her back up, he paid more attention to her blanket. It was a yellow blanket with trees scattered around it.

“Junipers,” Buck mumbled, mostly to himself.

“What's that, Babe?” Tommy asked. He handed the pen back to Bev and walked over to them.

“Oh, nothing, it's- her blanket has Juniper plants on it. It's different.”

They both seemed to come to the realization at the same time. They stared at each other, then Tommy nodded. “I like it.”

“Me too.”

They looked down at her just as her eyes opened, bright blue with specks of hazel watching her dads closely.

“Madelyn for the middle name?” Buck asked. They'd been discussing using Madelyn since they first decided to adopt. For Maddie, of course, but also for Tommy's mom. Her name was Lynn, and she had passed when Tommy was fairly young. He only had a few, but all fond, memories of her.

Tommy picked her back up, her lips turning up into a little grin. “Juniper Madelyn Buckley-Kinard. It's perfect.”