#cayenne tick

[saltycharacters]

[ID: Digital artwork featuring a collection of ocs with arthropod familiars. The 1st image is a lineup of 4 adults, including (left to right): A ducky isopod man named Tito Chen with a pompadour, sunglasses, and flashy suit, a shorter man named Dante-Enriquez Rivera with a toadbug familiar, curly hair in a bun, facial hair, and suspenders, a person named Blizzard Dunkley with a buzz-cut, agrias butterfly familiar, long blue coat, red-and-blue glasses, and large earrings, and finally a woman named Yolanda Sali with a harvestman familiar, in a nurses coat, stethoscope around her neck. Next drawing features 2 new adults, the first of which is named Maikel Miguel Patagara, who has multi-colored hair, prominent freckles, overalls and a prosthetic on their right foot, alongside a cayenne tick familiar. The second iteration of vim has eye shadows and an unhappier expression, and two prosthetic for each foot, seemingly home-made unlike the previous one. Zi is also wearing a necklace with a giant cat-eye type jewel, alongside a coat that’s on the 2nd person in the drawing - a little note mentions that this is xyr look “after Ireneo died”. Ireneo (Maria) Ressa, the 2nd person, has short grey hair, a long, fluffy coat, black cloth gloves, and some vitiligo, alongside a sowbug familiar. He's holding a notebook, pen tucked behind eir ear, and the 2nd iteration shows them without the coat. The final drawing is a doodle dump of Ireneo and Maikel mostly, showing such things as: them at a bar, Ireneo’s arm around Maikel’s shoulders as she says, “Hey me & my partner saw you from across the bar and we think your vibe sucks ass. Can we beat you up”, them kissing, Maikel at a pottery wheel while Ireneo watches, their familiars with hearts around them, and finally Maikel holding a phone up to their ear and saying, “Hey could you come pick me up they’re pelting me with rotten fruit in the town square again”. End ID]

Been thinking about my bug familiar story again

[stardust-dragon8]

Just started the Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Sky ROM Hack Explorers of the Spirit! All I know about the hack is some out of context screenshots and that the protagonist is very angry. I'm probably going to play it once in a while, so no spoilers please! I'm currently up to the start of Chapter 3.

Anyways, here's Team Cayenne, consisting of Plasma the Charmander and Flora the Chikorita! Plasma is shaping up to be a ticking time bomb that's definitely going to explode, while Flora is baby.

(There’s a darker rectangle around the title of the ROM hack because I forgot "the" before I went to post. . . Whoops!)

[blackswaneuroparedux]

Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle.

- George Burns

Good company and good conversation pairs quite well with a fine dining experience and a satisfying cigar. At a recent dinner event I was pleasantly surprised by the Joya de Nicaragua Cuatro Cinco, an earthy and full bodied cigar.

I was told by my knowledgable dining companion who gave me the cigar that it was a limited edition to celebrate the manufacturer’s 45th anniversary in business. I must say it was an excellent smoke to end a very delightful evening since coming back from Dubai.

The Cuatro Cinco is part of the Joya de Nicaragua line of premium cigars, made in Esteli Nicaragua and as such hand crafted. The Cuatro Cinco featured a Nicaraguan Habano wrapper, Dominican binder and Nicaraguan filler. I would categorise it as a premium cigar with a medium to full with great flavour.

When I held the cigar to my nose, I got earth and leather from the wrapper, with a more pungent earth and hay aroma on the foot. Once the cigar was evenly burning, I got strong cedar flavours up front, backed up by earth, coffee and baker’s chocolate, then red pepper on the finish and on the retro-hale. Midway through the first third, I noted that the body was medium and the flavour profile had shed some of its woody notes for more earth and coffee flavour. The pepper spice was mellow, but definitely present.

As I got into the second third, the flavours continued mostly as they had set up during the progression of the first third, with the body ticking upward into the medium-to-full range. There was an underlying nuttiness that rounded out the subtle spicy notes of cayenne pepper. The last third of the Cuatro Cinco had more earth than anything else, backed up with touches of cedar and coffee and just a bit of cocoa powder and a strong hint of sweet woodiness.

It’s about an under 90 minute smoke if you’re taking your sweet time. And why wouldn’t you if you want to prolong the excellent evening of fine dining and companionable conversation.

[elementalgod-aj]

Anthro Allies Remastered (Part 8)

Now For Part 1 for The Arthropods

Onychophora

Rubber (Mutant Velvet Worm)

Velcro (Velvet Worm)

Latex (Velvet worm)

Tardigrada

Hourst (Mutant Water Bear)

Yasmin (Water bear)

Moss (tardigrade)

Chelicerata

Levi (House spider/Armed Spider)

Weav (Arachne Spider)

Tenichi (Bark Scorpion)

Singe (Fat Tailed scorpion)

Centurion (Horseshoe crab)

Limulidae (Horseshoe Crab)

Reguu (Sea Spider)

Drone (Sea spider)

Pox (Tick) 

Ick (Mite)

Flu (Tick)

Scabies (Mite)

Vivianne (Vinigroon)

Short tail (Schizomida)

Jorōgumo (Whip spider)

Micro whip (Palpigradi)

Pseudo (Pseudoscorpion)

Cowl (Hooded tick spider)

Volant (Camel spider)

Mona (Harvestman)

Myriapod

Cayenne (Myriapod Hybrid)

Zittriapede (Giant Eumillipes millipede)

Ravenous (house Centipede)

Ra-venous (Giant centipede)

Gloria (Amazon centipede)

Edward (Pill millipede)

Blare (Flat Millipede)

Archie (Arthropleura)

Paula (Pauropoda) 

Mulch (Garden centipede) 

Crustacean

Cyrus (Ghost Crab)

Gagamba (Crab hybrid)

Marshell (Spider crab hybrid)

Hikikomori (Anomura)

Shelton (Lobster)

Etta (Crayfish)

Clay (Mud lobster)

Prong (Spiny/Slipper lobster) 

Parkour (Shrimp)

Trawl (Prawn)

Ringster (Boxing shrimp) 

Minute (Krill)

Reinhold (Giant Isopod)

Spokes (Pillbug)

Bonez (Skeleton shrimp)

Jouster (Mantis shrimp)

Nix (Fairy shrimp) 

Junisha (Remipeded) 

Bijou (Copepod)

Giovana (barnacle) 

Previous/Next

(For More Information About The Earthdemons, Neo demons, The Anthro allies , the O'Kong family and more of theses characters as well as updates please visit the @the-earthdemon-hub for more)

[renah]

still thinking about that capybara post and how gringos became obsessed with them, and its so funny to me because for years I've always been wary of them lol

they're common to find in the rivers from my city and they aren't aggressive, but they are the main hosts of the cayenne tick who can transmit febre maculosa (apparently its called "Rocky Mountain spotted fever" in english) which can kill, so people always advised "no matter how docile and cute they are do not interact with them" so that's why I was wary of them... but they are truly funky little guys, I don't blame people for being interested in them

[choco--java]

Phengold Fat Burner Review: A Comprehensive Insight into Weight Loss Success

Welcome to our deep dive into the world of fat burners, specifically focusing on Phengold. If you're on a quest to shed some pounds, you're likely familiar with an overwhelming number of products claiming to be the magical solution. Well, today we're putting Phengold under the microscope to see what makes it tick, and whether it truly lives up to its promises. So let’s get started!

What is Phengold?

Phengold is marketed as a natural fat burner, designed to help users boost their metabolism, suppress their appetite, and ultimately aid in weight loss. The rhetoric surrounding Phengold is quite compelling—who wouldn’t want a product that promises to supercharge their fat-burning potential? Formulated to assist in shedding those stubborn pounds, Phengold comprises a blend of ingredients aimed at enhancing thermogenesis—the process of heat production in organisms, which in turn can lead to the burning of fat stores.

Understanding the Ingredients

At the heart of any fat burner is its ingredient list, and Phengold does not disappoint. Here are some key components that contribute to its fat-burning prowess:

Green Tea Extract: Known for its antioxidant properties and metabolic-boosting effects, green tea extract has been a staple in weight loss supplements.

Cayenne Pepper Extract: This spice is often credited with increasing thermogenesis, helping the body burn more calories.

L-Theanine: Commonly found in tea, L-Theanine may promote relaxation without drowsiness, making it an excellent complement to caffeine's stimulating effects.

Caffeine: A well-known stimulant, caffeine enhances energy levels and can lead to increased caloric expenditure.

These ingredients not only work synergistically to promote weight loss but also contribute to increased energy levels, thus helping you stay active throughout the day.

Personal Journey: My Experience with Phengold

Let’s jump into my narrative—a personal quest revolving around weight loss. A few months ago, like many others, I found myself struggling to shed those extra pounds that seemed to cling on regardless of my workouts or diet changes. Enter Phengold.

I decided to embark on a 30-day challenge with Phengold, eager to see how it would perform in conjunction with my usual fitness regime. The routine was simple: I took two capsules each morning with my breakfast and adjusted my diet to include more whole foods while reducing processed snacks.

Week 1: Adjustments

At first, I experienced a mild caffeine boost which made me feel more energetic during my workouts. My routine felt slightly easier, as if I had an invisible cheerleader propelling me through those last difficult minutes on the treadmill. However, I was aware that any supplement wouldn’t work miracles without my effort.

Week 2: Noticing Differences

By the second week, I started to notice subtle changes—not just in my energy but also in my cravings. Before Phengold, I had a strong inclination toward mid-morning snacks, largely unhealthy. However, I found myself more satisfied after meals, leading to a natural reduction in my calorie intake.

Week 3: The Scale

Moving on to the third week, I hesitantly stepped on the scale. To my delight, I had lost about four pounds! It wasn’t drastic, but seeing any positive movement was encouraging. My friends began noticing the changes in my appearance, and their compliments further fueled my motivation.

Week 4: Final Thoughts

As the week concluded, I was now down a solid six pounds—a combination I believed was due to the Phengold fat burner and my internal dedication. More importantly, I felt lighter and more eager to maintain an active lifestyle beyond the challenge.

Analyzing Its Effectiveness

So, what is the verdict on Phengold? Given my experience, it appears to effectively support weight loss efforts, particularly when combined with healthy lifestyle choices. But let us assess it analytically:

Advantages of Phengold

Natural Ingredients: Phengold utilizes a blend of natural extracts and compounds, reducing the risk of adverse side effects that synthetic ingredients may cause.

Appetite Suppression: Many users, including myself, have reported a decreased appetite, leading to more manageable caloric intake.

Increased Energy Levels: With ingredients like caffeine and L-Theanine, users gain a boost in energy—encouraging a more active lifestyle.

User-Friendly: The capsules are easy to take, fitting seamlessly into any daily routine without fuss.

Potential Drawbacks

However, no product is without downsides:

Caffeine Sensitivity: The caffeine content may not be suitable for everyone. Users sensitive to caffeine might experience jitters or restlessness.

Individual Results May Vary: As with any supplement, results can differ significantly from person to person based on metabolism, lifestyle, and genetic factors.

Cost: For some, the price point may be a consideration. Although it's competitively priced in the market of fat burners, budget-conscious individuals may want to weigh their options.

Real Life User Experiences

To provide a more thorough analysis, I reached out to fellow users. Feedback ranged from thrilled supporters who boasted notable weight loss, to those who found it less effective. One user commented, “It worked wonders for my cravings, but I still struggled with motivation.” Others echoed similar sentiments; while Phengold helped curb their hunger, the onus remained on them to stay active and committed to a healthy diet.

Comparative Analysis with Other Fat Burners

When comparing Phengold to its competitors, it stands out for its clean formulation. Many fat burners on the market contain aggressive stimulants and artificial ingredients that can lead to side effects. Users often appreciate Phengold’s natural approach—it's akin to finding a gym buddy who encourages you without overwhelming your workout.

Other well-known fat burners can show harsh side effects, causing users to abandon their goals, while Phengold tends to promote a more sustainable and enjoyable weight-loss experience.

Final Verdict: Is Phengold Right for You?

So, after exploring the components, experiences, and results, what can we conclude? Phengold appears to be a compelling option for those seeking a support system in their weight loss journey. It’s not a magic pill but rather a complement that dovetails effectively with a dedicated lifestyle effort.

Tips for Success with Phengold

If you’re considering trying this product, here are some tips for optimizing your results:

Combine with Exercise: Regular workouts amplify the effects of fat burners. Incorporate fun, varied workouts to keep you motivated.

Balanced Diet: Instead of severe calorie restriction, focus on a balanced intake of whole foods.

Stay Hydrated: Water aids in digestion and helps manage hunger pangs, so drink plenty throughout the day.

Track Progress: Keep a journal of your meals, energy levels, and weight loss to stay accountable and motivated.

[frostedfernfires]

The Taste of My Existence

Maybe, if I write the feelings swirling in my insides they'll calm? Perhaps. the first taste I remember is boysenberry ice cream exploding on my tongue, the creamy bitter the favorite of an 18-month-old. It's funny once I told my mother I remembered eating ugly ice cream in a dress covered in cherries; she looked at me so oddly, and smiled Surprised I remembered it. Now I laugh while crying as I think of that and let the Long gone now taste roll over my brain. On to cherry cobbler, a beef stew with my father's baritone laughter curled around the carrots, no more after 7 to short Easters, never the beef stew again either, never without tears. Pineapple from the ham while sitting on my grandfather's knee: his piranha in its tank so pretty but no touches he tells all the children. A clock ticks but I can never see it. The smell of chocolate and cayenne in the cookies my grandmother made, she let me eat them while we watched Cinderella 3, it'd just come out! And spiraling down we go, bitter ash on my tongue mixed with mud, school bullies are terrible, adults who watch are worse, the taste of chicken spaghetti down my throat while I walk home, the bitter cold of southern winters bite lessened only by the taste of my mother's cigarette smoke coming to meet me before she did, and the thick hot cocoa with spices and cinnamon to wash away the blood of a busted lip. A slightly burned burger for my wedding, a short drive to the next town, evening winter air coldly sweet: my daughter with the best man and my brother: one of the best burgers yet, my Ratatouille burned, a lesson to why the bride-to-be probably shouldn't cook the day of. Vanilla cupcakes with that sickly sweet only Walmart can produce, for my daughter's 6th birthday, her brother amusing jokes alongside his Skittles, and wishing her Ama could be there. Arizona tea and an edible last bitter taste sitting on my tongue like a stubborn snowflake. And I inhale deeply the cool Summer air, dark rich green how only the wooded night can be. I feel better.

[porschetysonscorner]

The new Porsche Cayenne is a fantastic car, blending the best features of various body types and previous models to get a vehicle that ticks all the boxes. It’s comfortable, luxurious, drives well, and has many great features. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2023 version of the Cayenne Coupe from Porsche.

[thepestexpert0]

5 Natural Wildlife Repellents

Your property is under threat from wildlife all year round. Damaged caused by pests can cause inconvenience and high financial costs to repair the damage. However, there are ways to help prevent the worst outcomes, such as using natural homemade repellents. Of course, you can buy over-the-counter pesticides and repellents. But, many of these pose a hazard to your health and other animals and plants that aren’t considered pests. So, what natural remedies can you create from cheap but effective ingredients in your home? 1. Garlic We know how strong and smelly garlic can be, and animals also feel the punch. Spreading garlic throughout your garden is an excellent way to ward off rabbits, deer, and insects. The most effective method is to create a spray containing up to 6 cloves of garlic. Boil the garlic in 2 quarts of water beforehand and strain that mixture into a spray bottle. 2. Herbs There are lots of herbs that will repel pests. These include lavender, pyrethrum, mint, geranium, basil and sage. Place basil and sage near doorways to ward off rodents and insects. Essential oils are excellent insect repellents. Create a spray repellent containing witch hazel, citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender to rub on your skin to deter insects. Mint is effective against flies and spiders; pennyroyal mint targets ticks and fleas. 3. Soap Soap is effective at warding off squirrels in your garden. Purchase a strongly scented soap and stick them on skewers, then place them around an area that needs protecting. Or wrap and tie soap bars in cheesecloth and put them outside. 4. Cinnamon This is an excellent option to deter squirrels, ants, earwigs, spiders and fruit flies. Be tactful by spreading a consistent line of cinnamon around areas. Otherwise, insects such as Ants may find gaps, so ensure there’s nowhere for them to break into. 5. Hot Peppers Mix hot peppers, cayenne pepper, dish soap and garlic with water, and pour it into s spray bottles. Peppers are potent, so use gloves and goggles to prevent contact with sensitive areas of your body. Try these homemade remedies first, and if problems persist, contact us for further advice. Sometimes DIY approaches don’t have enough power that professional solutions offer. The post 5 Natural Wildlife Repellents appeared first on The Pest Experts Ayrshire. from https://thepestexpertsayrshire.co.uk/5-natural-wildlife-repellents/

[tricksforclicks]

They are getting more interesting

[liaromancewriter]

Falling Into Dust: The Aftermath (part 1/3)

Series Premise: After surviving a deadly poison attack, Cassie struggles with guilt for her part in the tragedy and tries to find her way back to the person she was.

Part 1: Following the funeral, Cassie goes on a road trip with her brother to escape Boston and the guilt she holds.

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine); featuring Max Valentine (OC)

Rating: Teen

Category: Angst.

Trope: And there was a Traumatic Event

Words: 1,170

A/N: This is a story that I've been wanting to write for at least three months, but I kept putting it off as the topic is so emotionally raw. But I haven't stopped thinking about it, so it meant it had to be done. I promise a happy ending by the end, but the journey will be rough. It's set in my version of OPH: Second Year where Ethan and Cassie are already in a discrete relationship prior to the attack.

The bird was back, its blue plumage bright against the fall sky outside her bedroom window.

Cassie Valentine watched her inconstant neighbor from her perch on the armchair propped against the windowsill. Dressed for warmth in a thick coat, boots, dark jeans and black turtleneck, she was still as the clock ticked in the distance.

It was early, just shy of seven a.m. Her brother, Max, wasn’t coming to pick her up until ten. If she had been who she was before, the extra hours in bed would have been welcome and savored.

The person she had become in the aftermath spent sleepless nights, tossing and turning until she thought the covers would suffocate her.

She was afraid to close her eyes. Afraid that she’d wake to find herself back in the hospital room with its plastic walls, astringent antiseptic smells, and perpetual sense of dread.

She would see her friends at the window, their eyes trying to hide the fact that she was doomed. Ethan, her mentor, her lover, her inevitable, would put up a brave front but he had never had a good poker face.

“I’m a doctor, not an actor,” he’d told her once with a wince.

As far as Cassie was concerned, that room was cursed. Two innocent people would never live to see dawn. All because of her.

When her phone pinged, she glanced down at the message that appeared on the lock screen before pressing the button to wipe it clear. She squeezed her eyes closed to hold in the tears she wasn’t ready to shed.

Enough, she thought. Enough!

A couple of hours later she said goodbye to her roommate, Sienna, who was grieving too and taking a few days to visit her family.

Then she checked to make sure she had everything she needed. She always kept clothes and toiletries at her grandparent’s estate in Newport, but those sufficed for a quick weekend.

This time around, she wasn’t sure when she was coming back. If she was coming back.

The knock on her door shook her out of her reverie before she walked, face carefully schooled, to answer. She dropped her mask as soon as she saw her twin brother, Max, on the other side. She never had to put on a facade with him.

Good, bad or ugly, there was no one else in this world she could be herself with completely than with her brother. It wasn’t just that they were twins, although that was a huge factor, it’s that they were best friends, partners in crime; it was always them against the world.

He squeezed her hand in comfort, no words needed to be said. He looked over her shoulder at the luggage stacked in front of the bed.

“It’s a good thing I rented an SUV and not the roadster,” he grinned. “You never did learn the fine art of packing light.”

When she just shook her head and started for the door, he asked,  “Not saying goodbye to Sienna?”

“She left for the airport already,” said Cassie, reading the new message on her phone before tucking it away in her purse.

“Here,” said Max, handing her the keys. “Go settle in the car. It’s the black Cayenne out front. I’ll bring your stuff down.”

By the time they left Boston city limits, she and Max had fallen back on old habits.

“No jazz or blues!” she protested, swiping the screen on the dash to find another channel on satellite radio. There were literally hundreds of options to choose from.

“Plebian,” he complained, trying to push her hand away but failing because she’d always been sneaky.

“Today’s top 40 or songs from this millennium,” she said, giving him a beady eye. “Those are your two options.”

“Fine,” he griped. “Millennium.”

When Boulevard of Broken Dreams by Green Day came on, the twins glanced over at each other and then they were laughing.

“Remember when Jack was drunk and got up on stage to perform this song only to garble the lyrics so badly that it wasn’t clear what he was singing?” asked Max, laughter in his voice.

“I remember the patrons of that bar booing so loud that I thought there was going to be a riot if he didn’t shut up,” howled Cassie, clutching her belly at the memories of her college boyfriend, drunk and baffled when he was greeted by jeers instead of cheers.

“Did he ever remember that night?”

“Maybe in his nightmares,” said Cassie, wiping tears from the corner of her eyes.

“I swear, Jackson McAllister was the most clueless person in the world when it came to recognizing how bad he was at any type of performing. Bless his heart,” she added remembering Jack’s southern roots.

“Hey, look,” said Max pointing at the sign up ahead.

“Friendly’s!” exclaimed Cassie. “I thought they all closed down.”

“I guess they still have some holdouts,” said Max, checking the side mirrors before signaling a lane change. “Ice cream?”

“Like you have to ask,” said Cassie, smiling at the memories of visiting the once ubiquitous chain when she and Max were children.

They placed their order and grabbed one of the tables in the picnic area near the parking lot. Despite the chill in the air, it was nice to be out under the sunny skies.

The siblings reminisced as they finished their dessert before getting back on the road. Cassie checked her phone’s lock screen before placing the device screen down on her lap.

“You know it’s okay to text Ethan,” said Max, noticing her movement. “I’m sure he’s wondering how the drive is going.”

“He’s busy at the hospital,” said Cassie, looking away. “The team’s down to three right now.”

“We’re only an hour out, so you can call him after,” said Max after a few minutes of silence.

Cassie perked up at the next song, giving her brother a wide-eyed, sideways look.

“No!” he objected at her look.

“Come on. It’s Miley and there’s a party in the USA,” she pleaded. “We have to!”

“Didn’t we get enough of this shit at that stupid frat party at GW in our sophomore year?”

“But, Max,” whined Cassie. “Songs like this are meant for carpool karaoke and for dancing.”

“That was you and Eva,” he complained. “The two of you just had to show off for those frat boys and then they wouldn’t leave us alone all week.”

“Fun times,” she said with a smile, “especially when you and Jack tp’d their house.”

“They deserved it,” nodded Max. “Their hazing went too far.”

By the time, the car passed through security gate and up the drive to the big house, she had convinced Max to participate in at least two sing-alongs and swapped countless memories that she shared only with him.

The road trip had been a good reminder of the person she had been then, and the carefree life she’d once lived. Maybe here, the home of her heart, she could begin to find herself again.

Perma-tags: @jamespotterthefirst @starryeyedrookie @genevievemd @forallthatitsworth @queencarb @ohchoices @openheartfan @danijimenezv @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @schnitzelbutterfingers @mainstreetreader @tsrookie @bex-la-get @chaoticchopshopheart @headoverheelsforramsey @thegreentwin @dorisz @custaroonie @pixelnutrookie @adiehardfan @takemyopenheart @dickgraysonsscrumptiousbooty @jerzwriter @choiceskatie @mm2305 @a-crepusculo @barbean @beastlyinstrument @electroniccreatorwerewolf @rosebudde @lucy-268 @crazy-loca-blog @writer-ish @pixelberrygirl @wanderingamongthewildflowers @trappedinfanfiction @rookiemartin @drakewalkerfantasy

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

[mxvladdy]

Mistletoe prt.2

*yeets and runs* Sorry for the break in between.

Leviathan

-gasp! It's just like in his animes -and just like his animes it has to be perfect -boi is playing 5 D chess up in here -Mostly has to hype himself up

It started like any other game session with Levi. Greasy pizza plates and ramen bowls stacked precariously around you on the rim of his large tub. The two of you lounging inside of it.  The hours ticked by surrounded by the sounds hardcore gaming.

He had invited you over to help him grind on a new phone game he bought. It was easier to go through the dungeons in a party then solo. Solid logic, and you never minded playing with him. Except for- well Levi himself. “Not on your A-game today?” You ask peaking over your phone to the demon stretched out across from you. He grunts noncommittally, eyes not even on his screen. They flick back to the screen once he noticed you staring.

“N-no. Sorry.” He muttered, sinking into himself. Hmm-Probably nothing. Happens to the best of them.

Six failed quests later though you had had enough.

“Bro!” You toss your device at him coming to crawl into his lap. You plop down on his blanketed form ignoring his protests and grab his own phone away. “What is up with you tonight? You sick?” Levi squawks flailing his gangly arms trying to push you off. His face and shoulders lighting up bright red with embarrassment.

“G-Get off!” He struggles.

“No!” You swat his hands away to grab  at his face. Hmmm. Flushed but not feverish. “What is up with you today? Omg are you dying!” You straddle him poking and prodding at him. “If you die can I have your stuff? Promise I’ll feed Henry.” At this point you were just teasing him. He wrestles back stuttering and chirping.

“You’re on top of me! That’s the problem!” He frees himself from his blanket cocoon to flip your positions. His claws point into your flesh warningly.

You snort up into your demon’s beet red face. “Noo~You were acting weird before that too. This is your normal awkwardness.” You poke his nose for effect.

“Hmmph.” He pulls off of you and rubs at his face. Levi retreats back to his corner. “You didn’t notice. Of course you wouldn’t.” Notice what? You do a quick inventory of you and his room. Nope. All 10 fingers and toes, his room was its regular tidy chaos.

“Gimme a hint?” You feel stupid. Levi isn’t exactly subtle yet you were stumped. Still hiding behind his face in his pillows he points to his back. His tail to be exact. It wasn’t unusual for him to have his tail out when you came to chill. He used it a lot to grab stuff to drag it into his nest. You follow the line of his tail over the lip of the tub and then up-and up. The tip of which dangled over you a bright red ribbon tied to it… “Mistletoe? Oh-OH.” It was your turn to turn beet red. “How was I supposed to notice!” You shout flustered.

“How was I supposed to know you wouldn’t!” He yells back. You stare at each other for a moment before you both burst out laughing at your shared stupidity.

“I’m sorry Levi,” You snort. Wiping at the tears of mirth brimming at the corner of your eyes you scoot closer. “Let me make it up to you? I believe you’ve deserve more than a kiss or two.”

Satan

-Smoother than a 100 year old bottle of port this one -He knew about this tradition before but will feign ignorance -Suave bastard has you guessing. Does he know about it or not???

You meet Satan’s gaze trying very very hard to figure out his angle. He doesn’t make a move. Instead he just rests on a large stack of books. An inhumanly large stack of books. More stacks and piles stood ominously behind him. “You owe me.” He purs tapping a finger to his lips. Ugh- you did owe him. Technically, it hadn’t been your fault. You were just in the wrong place and the worst possible time to walk in on Belphegor and Mammon somehow flood the library. Those two had supernatural speed and agility on their side when they heard the undeniable footsteps of wraith. You, on the other hand, did not.

At least he hadn’t killed you.

“Can’t you do this with magic?” You sigh hours later. Your fingers were pruning and the amount of paper cuts you had were staggering.

“Some of these books are very fragile. Magic would react negatively with them. By hand is best for these.” His back is to you, his full attention locked on the soggy book he was plotting with a towel. You grouch flipping back on your blow dryer. When you find those two Satan will be the least of their worries. Maybe you could get Lucifer on their asses as well.

Three stacks down and Devil knows how many left Satan finally calls for a break. Weary you drop to his chaise to rub at your sore feet. “Here,” He places a paper cup in your hand. “A little reward. It’s the perfect season for it, no?” Popping the lid you inhale the sweet smell of chocolate and cayenne.

“Thanks.” You take a sip and scoot over to let him sit as well. You drink in a pleasant silence. The chocolate warms you up and boosts your mood greatly. “Ready to get back to it? I bet we can get half of these done by dinner. Maybe then our next break could be hunting down those two clowns?” He laughs. You sound so hopeful for a little revenge.

“I won’t say no. But let’s see how far we get.” He helps you back up and hands you a small pile of leather bound books. “Unfortunately you can’t use heat on these, it will shrink the leather. Just put some of these towels and tissues between each page. And no, the puppy dog eyes won’t work on me.” Damn.

At least these books were beautiful. Gold and silver foil inlaid everywhere, the pages were soft and flexible under your fingertips from use. You could see why Satan wanted you to be extra careful with these.

You get into a groove with these books. Flip a page and insert a tissue. Rinse and repeat. It gave you a chance to zone out and enjoy the artwork on each page. Until the last book. Your flow was interrupted by something bulky nestled within the pages. You flip to the middle of the book to retrieve whatever it was (please don’t let it be another mummified demon rat please!).

It wasn't much to your relief. Instead you extract a dried bundle of green and white. You squint at it, turning it around in the light of your desk lamp. You feel Satan standing behind you. “My, would you look at that.” He snatches the herb from your fingers and spins your chair around to face him. “Mistletoe.” He dangles it up above the two of you.

“You set me up.” You grin leaning close to him. Your hands making their way to his shoulders to link around the back of his neck.

“Perhaps.” He hums. With a wave of his hand you feel his magic encapsulate the books around you, drying them instantly.  He tosses the mistletoe away and reaches for your waist. “Are you mad?” You shake your head.

“No. But you better make it up to me.”  

[heyitssmiller]

Chop It Like It’s Hot

Chapter 6: I’ve Got a Bad Queso Loving You

Pining. Food that may or may not be a disaster. The end of an era.

Also people actually wanted to be tagged for updates?? That makes my heart so happy <3

Tag List: @heyoitslysso @unknown-and-invisible

Chop It Like It’s Hot Masterlist

@lumosinlove

  It was weird, walking into the studio by himself for the first time. Finn kept expecting Logan to be right by his side like always and it hurt a little every time Finn remembered. He walked into the kitchens where he was greeted by a sunny smile and kind eyes and dimples.

He still missed Logan, but it was hard to mope with Leo Knut around.

“Hey,” Leo greeted, motioning for Finn to join him at the station. “Welcome to the final four.”

“Thanks. It feels weird here.”

Leo hummed. “Quiet, right?”

“Definitely less hectic.” Finn agreed, leaning his hip against the counter. “So what are we cooking today?”

“Well, why don’t you tell me? We’re cooking for someone special to you. I’m assuming that’s Logan, right?” At Finn’s nod a strange, unreadable expression flashed across Leo’s face before he continued. “Okay, so what types of food do you think of when you think of him?”

Finn thought about it, then smiled. “Our first date – after years and years of being friends and crushing on each other but refusing to do anything about it – was at a Mexican restaurant. We were on a roadie and went to go get dinner together and I was so frustrated at this point that I kind of just blurted, ‘Is this a date?’” Finn laughed a little at the memory. “And Lo, he just stared at me with those big green eyes of his for a moment and said, ‘I sure hope so.’ And that was it. No more drama, no more fuss. Just those two sentences – that was all we needed.”

The look from earlier was back on Leo’s face. Finn still didn’t know what it meant.

“I think we can definitely work with that.” He said finally. “How about we elevate a Mexican dish? Something to be meaningful but to also showcase your cooking? I've got a few recipes in mind. What about grilled citrus-marinated chicken?”

Finn wrinkled his nose and shook his head.

“Alright. Pulled pork tamales with corn salsa? Polenta stacks? Chipotle Mahi Mahi burrito bowl?”

“Oh!” Finn said excitedly. “I like that one. Logan calls me Fish sometimes.”

Leo laughed. “Why?”

“Nicknames are kind of a thing in hockey. It’s considered weird if you don’t have one. I’m Harzy, Harz, Fish, and probably a few more that I’m forgetting.”

“And Logan?”

“He’s Tremz or Tremzy, usually.” He looked over at the blond, propping his chin in his hand and smiling. “You want a nickname?”

“Oh, god. With a last name like Knut, I’m sure you’ll have plenty to go off of.” He laughed, turning to head towards the pantry. Finn followed after him like the love-struck puppy he was.

“Nut. Nutty. Peanut. Peanut butter. Nutter Butter. Honey bunches of nut – “

“How have you already come up with so many?” Leo stretched to grab a bowl off the top shelf, his t-shirt shifting up to reveal pale skin Finn desperately wanted to reach out and touch.

“I’m a professional hockey player.”

“Fair enough. Can you head to the spices and grab smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper and onion powder?”

Finn grabbed the ingredients and met Leo back at the station. “Ready to get started? You’ll get the printed recipe and you can take as many notes as you want now and use them tonight.”

Finn clicked his pen in response, earning another smile. “Let’s do this.”

“So we’re going to combine olive oil, chipotle chiles, garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper and onion powder into a bowl and whisk it really good. Then you can add the mahi mahi and toss it in there. Next we’re going to place it in the fridge while we start the rice.” Leo covered the bowl and set it in the fridge before reaching for a pot and turning the stove on.

“Add coconut milk and some coconut water to a pot and bring it to a low boil before adding rice, salt, unsweetened coconut and coconut oil. Stir to combine, then place the lid on the pot and turn the heat down to the lowest setting possible. Following so far?”

Finn nodded, definitely feeling a little overwhelmed.

Leo gave him a reassuring smile. “You got this. Next, let the rice to cook for ten minutes then turn the heat off completely. Let the rice sit on the stove, covered for another 20 minutes, then remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Add the cilantro and lime juice – “

“No cilantro.”

Leo looked up from his pot. “What?”

“No cilantro.” Finn repeated. “Lo doesn’t like cilantro.”

“Got it. No cilantro. I think we’ve got enough seasoning without it.” Leo grabbed another bowl and pushed some ingredients towards him on the counter.

“Now we’re going to make the salsa. Add the diced mango, chopped strawberries, jalapeño, lime juice, pinch of cayenne and a pinch of salt to a bowl. Toss it, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until ready to serve. Now we’re going to cook that fish.” Leo grabbed the fish out of the fridge and sent him a sly look. “Hopefully this doesn’t count as cannibalism.”

Finn laughed loudly. “Oh man, wait until Logan hears that.”

Leo fiddled with the settings on the grill, which made Finn a little nervous. As seen in the build your own burger competition, he wasn’t the best with grills. He’d scared away all the ducks with how loud he screamed when he turned the grill on too high and flames erupted from it.

“You’re going to want a medium heat to cook this fish. Once the grill is nice and hot, add the mahi mahi, skin side facing up. Cook these for about 4-5 minutes and then flip them and cook until they’re crisp and mostly cooked through. This is super important: remove the skin.  We’re going to be cutting this fish into chunks and having pieces of fish skin in there would be really gross.

“Last thing is to plate these. All you’re going to do is divide the rice among your tortilla bowls and add the lettuce, black beans, and corn. Divide up the fish and then top each bowl with salsa, queso, and a dollop of sour cream. And you’re done!” Leo looked over at Finn, who was still writing notes. “Not so bad, right?”

Finn gave him a blank stare, then ran a hand through his hair nervously. “Go over it again one more time?”

“Sure.” Leo pushed one of the plates over to Finn. “Want to try some first?”

“Fuck yes.”

***

Logan stood in the studio hallway yet again, waiting with the rest of the families the final four contestants were cooking for tonight. It was going to be weird, being on the opposite side of the judging table. But at least he wasn’t cooking.

They finally got the cue to enter the kitchen and his eyes immediately found Finn, who was grinning madly and running right at him – whether he was allowed to or not. Logan laughed as Finn collided with him, hugging him close. “You just saw me this morning.”

“Yeah, but I missed you.”

Logan melted a little at that and kissed him softly on the cheek. “Did you have a good day?”

Finn whined, shooting a longing look over at Leo. “Lo, you would not believe – “

“Please head back to your stations, recruits!” Dorcas called.

“Gotta go.” Finn sighed, taking a step back. Logan gave his hand a squeeze.

“You’ve got this.”

“Recruits, tonight you’ll be creating dishes for your loved ones. And your team leaders, of course. You can use any notes you’ve taken. You have an hour to complete this task and your time starts… now!”

Logan took his seat at the judges table (weird) and watched as Finn dashed off to the pantry. He made small talk with the other family members as time began to tick down much slower than he remembered from his time on the show. He turned his head when Leo sat down next to him and smiled almost nervously.

“I hope you’re not too mad at me for last week.”

“Nah,” Logan said with a shrug, doing everything he could think of to slow his heartrate down. “I deserved it. I served you guys raw pizza dough.”

“Only because I suggested you start over.”

Logan laughed incredulously. “Because my pizza wasn’t a pizza! Seriously, don’t worry about it.” He looked over at Finn, who was shying away from the grill as he threw the fish on it. “I’m glad he made it instead of me. He’s been so excited to be on this show.”

“He’s really improved a lot. You both did.”

“I’m still not sure I trust either of us in the kitchen.”

“Baby steps.” Leo said with a smile. “You’re more capable than you think.”

He glanced at the clock and let his voice carry to the contestants. “One minute left, recruits!”

Finn glanced up from his plating, cursed, and started working faster.

“Five, four, three, two, one, time’s up! Stop what you’re doing and step away from your plates!”

“I can see why you like this so much.” Logan said, eyes still on Finn as he looked down at his plates critically. “You get to sit here, no stress, and eat people’s food. This is the dream.”

“Not on this show. You should’ve tried some of the earlier dishes this season. I got food poisoning twice.”

“You did what?”

“It might’ve been three times if I’d eaten that chicken you tried to serve in the first challenge.” Leo teased.

“Why isn’t giving a chef food poisoning an immediate elimination?”

“Because then we’d have very few recruits left, and that would be a very short season.”

Finn set down his plates, smiling nervously. Logan looked down and smiled softly. “Mexican food.”

“No cilantro, just how you like it.”

God, Logan didn’t deserve him.

“Let’s see how this tastes.” Leo said, looking down at his plate. “The presentation is really nice.”

They both took bites of their food. The fish was dry, but Logan thought the rest of it was really good.

“It’s under-seasoned a little bit,” Leo commented. “And the fish is a little dry, but your salsa is perfect and the ratios of everything else in the bowl is very nice.”

Logan grinned up at Finn. “I definitely wouldn’t be opposed to you bringing this recipe home.”

“We need move on to the next contestant. Nice job, Finn.”

Finn beamed and grabbed his plates back.

***

“And the chef who will be leaving us tonight is…” Logan held Finn’s hand and waited for Leo to finish.

“Finn. I’m sorry, your time as a recruit is over. Please turn in your apron.”

Finn sighed, squeezed Logan’s hand, and stepped forward.

“It was really close, but in the end the under-seasoned and overcooked fish did you in.” Leo said, looking apologetic. “I’ve really enjoyed having you on the show. You’ve been a joy to teach.”

“Thanks for having me.” Finn said, trying to be cheerful as he handed over his apron. “I had a blast.”

After the cameras stopped rolling, Logan and Finn made sure to find Leo before they left. He was scrubbing down the grill and looked up when he noticed them. “So this is goodbye, huh?”

“Looks like it.” Logan replied, unabashedly staring and trying to memorize everything he could. Was it weird to miss someone when you hadn’t even said goodbye yet? When they were standing right in front of you? 

Finn piped up, “If you’re ever in Gryffindor, look us up. We’d love to see you.”

“Same for when you come to New York for games.” Leo smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes.

“Here,” Finn grabbed his phone out of his pocket. “What’s your number? We can send you our team schedule when we get it.”

Finn, you’re a genius.

“That would be great! I, uh, I really liked having y’all on the show. It’d be nice to see each other again.” His cheeks were red again, and Logan had to bite back a whine. He wanted to kiss those red spots so badly.

But this definitely wasn’t the time. There were people everywhere, two of them were probably leaving in the morning, and they didn’t know when they’d see him again. Or if he even liked them back.

Fuck.

Both Logan and Finn had forgotten just how awful the guessing game really was.

[crtter]

But yeah, if you see a capybara like, chilling at a park or something they’ll very likely be used to humans and might let you pet them (and that’s how I petted one as a child) but now that I know better... you really shouldn’t pet a wild capybara. Their teeth are HUGE and they act unusually territorial after having babies. Also capybaras are well-known for sometimes harboring cayenne ticks, which can give you rocky mountain spotted fever if they bite you.

Which is also called Brazilian spotted fever. I guess that’s because it’s decently common over here.

[imhereforbvcky]

Sweet

Summary: (Natasha x  shy!reader) Your old friend Sam recruits your help for a low-key work party, ya know, at the Avengers Compound. Of course you’re the type of soft-hearted civvie that could fall head over heels for a particular red-headed assassin while you’re there.

Prompt/Request: This is not exactly the silly drunken interaction @whyhello-there requested… There are drinks and it’s lighthearted, but it’s more a bunch of sober spies being cute than it is drunk shenanigans.

Warnings: A little swearing, FLUFF

Word Count: 2518

“Are you sure it’s okay that I’m here?”

Apprehension rippled through your voice like a current. You’d known Sam Wilson forever. Friends like him didn’t come around every lifetime. Refusal wasn’t even in your vocabulary when he invited you to a work party, but now… Well now, you were nervous.

“It’s just a barbecue.” He gave you that look, the one that’s half a smile and half an exasperated frown. It was the one he gave every time you worried too much. “No one’s makin’ you stay if you don’t have fun.”

“But you are makin’ me go even though I’m nervous,” you smirked, nudging his side with your elbow.

He chuckled, warm and infectious. “And you’ll be glad I did. Trust me.”

“I do,” you grumbled as he shoved the massive tray of food into your arms.

While Tony would be spinning up cocktails, tossing (and dropping) bottles of scotch, Clint planned to grill farm fresh chicken, and Wanda had already set to work stringing up lights and setting out vases of flowers with feather-soft petals. Sam, with a little help from a friend, covered the sides.

As a man of easy smiles and affectionate banter, the list of things Sam Wilson took seriously was not a huge one. But good food? Top of the list.

Your mouth watered just looking at the bright yellow corn on the cob, waiting to be slathered in creamy cheese sauce and a hint of cayenne. The tangy pineapple slices would sweeten with a few minutes on the grill. You’d helped Sam fill jalapenos with cheese before wrapping them in bacon. The peach halves were the hardest to resist, but you couldn’t wait for Sam to serve them up grilled with thin strips of basil and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

His was a tall order with such an unusual crowd, but on the bright side, it meant that today, he needed a hand. It meant you would meet your heroes. Everybody’s heroes. Real life, living breathing heroes. The Avengers.

Sam placed his palm on the biometric scanner and the panel came to life. After a few chirps from the machine, he pulled the door open and held it for you. The room looked like something out of Architecture Digest. Wide and open, concrete and glass stretched in every direction. The enormous retro furniture seemed lived in and relaxing. The space was austere but you immediately wanted to stretch out and nap in the sunlight pouring through the floor to ceiling windows.

“Woah,” you breathed, mouth still agape.

Lights ticked on as you moved through the space and powered down as you left. There were no clumsy TV remotes on coffee tables, no unsightly cables. It was all efficient, energy saving, and bright.

It absolutely screamed Tony Stark.

“C’mon,” Sam encouraged, taking the tray of food off your flagging hands. “Party’s out back.”

Feeling more out of place by the second, you followed close at his heels. The glass walls extended in every direction, like a thin skin wrapping around the entire building. It reminded you of a snow globe, holding a whole world safe within.

Except for here, at the entrance to the party. Here, the panels had been pushed to the side, like the wall itself had opened up. It felt like standing in the mouth of a great concrete cave, waiting to step into the sunlight of another reality.

It was a different world in more than just appearance. The Avengers lived a life you could only guess at. You watched them through the looking glass, through the lens of television and internet media. Apart from Sam, they were practically a work of fiction to you. Now they were a mere step away.

“Who’s your friend?” The voice drew your attention immediately. Smooth as silk, somehow low and vibrant all at once. The question was for Sam, but it had been aimed in your direction. She was staring at you, smiling, but sharp green eyes roved over every detail. You could feel it like the heat of the sun piercing through a cloud.

Sam called your name and you blinked quickly out of your reverie.

“Quit hiding in the shadows and gimme a hand!” he hollered from half way across the courtyard. He hadn’t stopped at the precipice as you had. He’d crossed it easily because this world of legends was his own.

You nodded, tried to laugh away your silliness, your anxiety, and stepped into the sun. The pair of you set to work about the food like clockwork. While you began unwrapping the corn, Sam had turned aside to light and oil the grill.

When you looked up she was standing there. The one from before. The one you were sure was some sort of enchantress, because once again your tongue stilled and you couldn’t drag your eyes away. Hell, you could barely breathe. Wasn’t breathing supposed to be involuntary?

She smiled again and this time it was warmer, her eyes were softer as she watched you for a moment before they flickered to the tray in front of you. You, however, couldn’t look away from her face long enough to see her reach for one of the peach slices.

“Uht-uh! You better not!” Sam scolded from your side as he returned from the grill for the corn.

She laughed and held up her hands in surrender.

“Some spy,” he teased her with a wink before turning back to the grill.

“I almost lost a finger trying to snag one earlier,” you admitted, surprised at your own voice.

“I think he’s hangry.” She said it loud enough for you to know it was more for Sam’s benefit. She was good at that. Saying things without really saying them at all. She could mold and move a conversation in the subtlest ways. You could see immediately why she was so good at her job.

“No, you deserved it,” Sam complained. “You both know there’s snitchin’ in my kitchen.”

She smiled at you and rolled her eyes. You felt that heat again as they slid back to you, skimming over your figure, a little more slowly this time. A little less sharp and a little more intrigued.

It seemed desperately far away when you heard Sam introduce you, give your name. “She’s an old friend,” he said. Next he pointed with his tongs to the woman whose gaze remained steady as ever on you. You hadn’t dared to even swallow. “And this is—“

“I know,” you blurted. The tension in your gut had simmered to a rippling boil and burst out of you with nervous energy. “I-I know who you are.”

She never faltered, but you noticed her posture stiffen slightly, and she gave the tiniest nod. The sun glinted in her red hair when she did, a shimmer of copper light was all that gave the motion away.

“But now that I’m talking, I’ve realized I should have just kept my mouth shut because I have no idea what to call you,” you laughed, tight and uncertain.

Her lips flinched, it was the only notice that she’d even heard you. If you weren’t so anxious, so instantly head over heels, you’d have recognized it for what it was: she was stifling a laugh, and only just managing it.

“And god, you are so impressive. I knew you were beautiful from TV and everything but I-I’m… oh my god I need to stop talking!” You looked over at Sam for help. He glanced at you from the corner of his eye with raised eyebrows and a laugh ready to erupt. But he offered no lifeline.

You jumped when warm soft hands closed around one of your own. Hers. Gentle and adept, soft. Skilled hands, not workman’s hands.

“I’m Natalia.” That damn smile again and you were lost. “But friends call me Natasha.” You nodded. “Good friends call me Nat.”

“And what should I--?”

“Hey Nat! You’re up!” Clint called from the other side of the open courtyard.

She looked over her shoulder and nodded.

“Hey, Happy Feet! You want in?” Tony called to Sam, holding up a handful of darts beside Barton. “I need a partner.”

“Penguins don’t even fly, Tony,” Rhodes lamented from the pool.

Sam tipped his beer bottle towards Rhodes in agreement, before glancing at you and Natasha, a sly grin drawing out the dimples in his cheeks. “I’ve got my hands full with these jalapeno poppers, but uh… you get my buddy here a drink and I bet she’ll play.”

“Okay, dear, we are down by a metric fuckton and I have a lot riding on this game,” Tony explained by way of pep talk. The world’s worst pep talk. “So if you could maybe make a bullseye on this shot, and save my dignity, I would be forever in your debt.”

“Tony,” Natasha drawled, half a reprimand. “You’re scaring her.”

“I-no. No pressure,” he smiled, laughing now as he threw an arm over your shoulder. You knew he was kidding. Mostly. “But don’t embarrass me in front of the super spies.”

With a sip of your drink for courage, and a deep breath for focus, you stepped up to the line and made aim.

It was the worst shot of your life.

The dart didn’t even make the board. It clattered off the concrete behind the target and sunk into the dirt. The little red tip waved up at you derisively.

Tony sighed and Clint whooped. You heard none of it because Natasha’s hand had begun to slide down your arm and wrap around your own.

“Damn it!” Tony cursed.

“Loser makes the next round,” Natasha explained beside you, tipping her empty glass. She said it so softly you knew without turning your head that she must be close, coiling around you and humming into the shell of your ear. You wanted to curl up against the warmth of her body, now pressed against your arm. “C’mon I’ll help you carry them.”

“Bet’s a bet, man!” Clint prodded behind you as you walked toward the bar.

“FRIDAY?” Tony called with the distinctive groan of defeat.

“Yes, Boss?”

“Change all my access codes to Tony Stank.”

Natasha laughed and glanced over her shoulder, allowing herself a moment to revel in her victory. It was a light breeze on your shoulder, a kiss of her warm breath as she turned her head. Her smile beamed buoyant and luminous. All the sharp edges chased away by the light of idle and pleasant company. Of trust and love. Family.

You’d always loved and been drawn to people who laughed easily, like Sam. But you’d never quite appreciated it like this. To hear it so freely given from someone so noticeably cautious with their everything, was truly captivating. You regarded it like a gift, a treasure, a breakable crown laid in your hands. You wouldn’t waste it or break it.

“So what will you make us?” she asked.

You hadn’t even noticed you’d reached the bar already.

“Uhm. I could make something with peaches?” you suggested, remembering.

“Sounds sweet.” Her eyebrow perked up and she leaned forward on her elbow, watching with mild interest as you got to work. “Are you as good with those ingredients as Sam?”

The laugh came at once. It was loud and mortifying before you quickly covered your mouth, eyes wide. She seemed to enjoy it though. She laughed with you; another gift.

You’d already lost count of how many ounces of vodka you’d poured into one of the glasses. So, no. Definitely not as good as Sam.

“No,” you finally managed. “Not even close. But I can follow direction.”

“So you’re sweet too,” she mused, eyes locked on her fingertips fiddling with the hem of your skirt.

She never touched you, never moved an inch closer, but you could feel the want of it like a match held an inch away from your skin. Like a heat arcing from her skin to yours. Instead she waited, measuring the breaths before you took half a step closer. And another, until you were close enough that her knuckles brushed against the smooth skin of your thigh.

“Am I?” you asked, hardly more than a whisper. It was a nonsensical question, but the sensible part of your brain had short-circuited the moment you felt her sun-warmed skin.

She nodded, slow and easy. The pads of her fingers traced the edge of your jaw. “You’re soft,” she murmured with a lazy smile.

“So are you,” you muttered, abandoning the vodka to entangle your fingers with hers, the ones that had stilled on the hem of your skirt.

A small non-committal laugh passed her lips. Softness was not a word often used to describe the Black Widow. At least, not in the way she had adorned you with it.

Instead of arguing this, she focused on the ways you were soft: soft skin beneath her palm, soft breath tickling her lips, soft nervous smiles, timid and kind. Natasha liked soft things. They were rare in her world and all the more beautiful for it.

Your eyes fluttered closed the moment she began to lean forward. Her kiss was soft and warm. Lips gently molded against yours, first your upper lip, twice, then the bottom. She didn’t probe or push, and neither did you. There was no expectation or demand, only an indefinable want simmering beneath your skin and a slow quiet affinity glowing in your eyes and hers.

“Gentle things are scarce around here,” she murmured, tracing your lips with her thumb. “I hope you won’t be, милая.”

The bright green trees and lush rolling hills of upstate New York passed by the window in a blur. It wasn’t quite regret that tugged at your spine, wound around your gut and squeezed your lungs until you heaved a long, deep sigh. No, not regret at all.

It was a longing, a sentimentality for something you’d only known for a brief moment. You shook your head and chuckled at yourself, at your own absurdity. How could one be sentimental for a time only just passed?

Sam glanced over at you from the driver’s side, fully aware that you hadn’t heard a word he’d said for the past twenty minutes. You’d walked out of that compound with stars in your eyes, and now you were giggling at nothing.

“So then I rode a hippo up Mount Everest and discovered there’s a cave up there with a cyclops named Hank. Hank makes a mean margarita.”

“Hmm sounds good,” you agreed absently. You probably would have agreed to anything. Probably already had. “Hey Sam-I-am?”

“What?” He glanced over at you with a warm grin. You always loved the way the apples of his cheeks swelled and his eyes shone when he was holding back a laugh. A real friend could make you laugh with just a look.

Or a word. And boy, did Sam laugh when you spoke next.

“I think I’m in love.”

“Only someone as soft as you could fall so hard, so fast.”

Will reblog with tags shortly.

[hayjeon]

Lavender (ft. Taehyung) drabble

→ painter!taehyung / apollo!taehyung? Honestly idk yet  → 1.3k words, warning for basically only a ton of sexual tension

Wow I haven’t actually written anything for months. I’m super rusty but I got this idea out of the blue while watching videos about teenagers painting on their jeans. I missed you guys so much, and this officially marks my return to tumblr writing. Enjoy, lovelies. 

“Stay still,” he hisses, a large hand splaying over your ribs. Your breath hitches at the motion, his long, cold fingers a little too close to the bottom of your breast for comfort. His eyes flicker up to you, and you frown at his gaze, but tighten your lips in a silent frown anyway and avert your gaze to the other paintings in the studio. The corner of his mouth twitches quickly in a smug smile, before disappearing along with his eyes, which refocus on the task at hand. 

He takes his brush, dipping it into the purple on his palette, perched dangerously on the edge of the bed that also somehow houses your figure, his torso, and a full cup of water on it without tipping anything. One, two. The bristles glide through the lilac oils, picking up the pigment that you had painstakingly mixed and taken measurements of earlier. 

He then lifts up the fine brush, and rubs the part of your rib, just underneath your breast with the thumb of the hand that lies there already. Then he gently presses the bristles to your skin. 

It feels like...you can’t describe it. It’s not just the feeling of a wet brush gliding over your skin. Here, at this particular area he’s chosen to paint on, you can feel everything. The microscopic rocks that you failed to crush completely when grinding the color. The oils gliding over your skin. The other parts of his painting that are slowly beginning to dry in the brisk air of this particular morning and underneath the warm glow of sunlight that filters through the windows covered with white chiffon curtains. The way the bristles aren’t just uniform, but actually truly different in sizes, conformed to create a beautiful raindrop shape only the most prestigious artists can purchase. The way his fingertips press into your skin, not harshly, but firmly enough to make your breath stutter. The way the air filtering through the curtains caresses your skin, creating goosebumps over your ribs, and the way his fingers gently smooth down the area in an attempt to get you to calm down. 

It’s a good thing all of this makes you basically unable to breathe, because, quite frankly, if you took too big of a breath, he would probably glare at you again because you would move your ribs too much. 

He swishes the soiled brush in the clear glass pitcher, and then dips it into a darker purple, repeating the motions over, and over again. 

His hands carefully maneuver your torso, sometimes dropping down to your hips so that he can angle you ever so slightly to the right, or to the small of your back as he asks you to slowly turn onto your stomach. It feathers up to your neck, and sometimes your shoulders, brushing your hair out of the way or pressing a little harder to have you straighten out. But, this....it lighted your insides with a fire you couldn’t describe. 

Your skin prickling with licks of light and darts of heat. The hairs on your skin rising everytime his fingers dance over your body or graze much too softly to be accidental. And your cheeks igniting with a heat caused by the intimacy of the feeling of his breathe fanning over your lower back. 

Brush into the water, paint, then back again. 

You’re basically on your stomach now, and you let go of the blankets you’d been clutching so tightly as you situate yourself so your breasts are completely hidden by the mattress of the bed. Taehyung doesn’t say another word, and continues painting. You’re honestly not sure how long he’s been painting. But you’ve heard stories. 

You’ve even seen some of them, sculptures of naked women or paintings of the nymphs that are too detailed to be a guess. You’d heard the panicked whispers of gossipers in town, those who were bold enough to speak of the god that ruled your entire lives, talking about the way Apollo would seduce hundreds of women with his art and his music, his beauty, and his sweet words.

And you’ve seen it too, in person. Even the slightest movement, the way he moves his hair out of his eyes, or licks his lips when he’s focused. Even his gaze, sharp and dark, yet intentionally gentle, is provocative in nature, whether or not the god is trying to. His jaw and nose seemed to be shaven of marble by the world’s most talented sculptors, hair and eyes so dark even Hades would envy. Hands so beautiful, fingers long and slender, yet possible of so much destruction, and so much blessing. 

Now, resting two inches below your breast, wrapped around your rib. Lovely. 

Time ticks by, and slowly, you become used to the sensations. Your eyelids become heavy. Taehyung continues painting. 

It was a bit odd, too quick and too disorienting the way you ended up here. You had stumbled upon a beautiful field of purple flowers one day, lavender, you think, by the smell of the field. Your parents were elsewhere picking flowers for an event, and then one moment you were playing with the flowers, and then at another, you were whisked into a room of light. 

Chosen, by the gods. 

The highest honor a young woman could ever desire. 

And then, he’d revealed himself, dimming down the luminescence so you could at least open your eyes and adjust to his features. He’d introduced himself as Taehyung, and he told you he’d chosen you because of art. You had no idea then, and you’re still confused now. You were never particularly interested in arts, much less the arts, and had never played an instrument well or sung like your sister. Your interests lay elsewhere. But he’d just smirked knowingly. His beauty captivating you and everyone else. Your parents were ecstatic and your community put on a shrine for Apollo in the center of the town, and it was too late. Everyone was under his spell. 

When he’s in human form, he spends most of his time here, in a studio, in which constant warm sunlight filtered through windows covered with long, cascading white curtains. From wall to wall, lay canvas or hides covered with intricate paintings of history, portraits of other gods, landscapes you’d never seen or heard of before. Everyday, you would come in, mix the list of colors and pigments that he demanded, and you would leave. 

Until today. 

“Let me paint on you.” He suggests, tone light as if discussing the weather. 

“I-I beg your pardon?” you almost drop the bottle of crushed cayenne. 

He sits on his stool, gently running a towel over his brushes. “I said,” he looks up at you, “I will paint on you.” 

“Where?” You blurt, and at his eyebrow’s flicker, you bow your head gently, “where would you paint?” 

He stands from his stool, slowly taking steps towards you, and you inch backwards, step by step, until he’s a hairs-breadth away from you, and your knees hit a bed. 

Immediately, by reflex, you scramble, arms coming up to cover your chest and you screech, “Please! Don’t!” 

He watches you from a standing position with his hands still occupied by the towel and the brush, and an eyebrow raising into his long hair. He laughs lowly, the chuckle sounding throughout the temple. “Human, I won’t do such things to you.” He chuckles, setting down his tools and sitting at the edge of the bed. “I prefer consenting women. Makes it much more fun.” He laughs to himself again, and stands, heading towards his pigments. 

“Take off your shirt, I won’t look. Cover yourself up with the linens there, but I want to paint on your side.” 

You let out a heavy breath, and roll your eyes secretly as you cast off the top of your dress, your back towards him. Gathering up the white soft blankets, you press them to your bare chest and lay on your side, careful to not let anything show. The rest of your skirt remains bunched around your waist, down to your ankles. 

He comes over with his palette. 

“Now. No looking,” he states, and smirks up at you. 

“Wake up.” 

“Human, wake up.” His low voice timbers through the fogginess of your mind, and you blink once, and twice before darting up with the covers pressed to your chest. 

“Be careful,” he hisses, a hand heavy on your shoulder to make sure you don’t move too quickly, “The paint is still not completely dry, and even yet, you can still smear it. Stand.” He holds out a hand to you, and you warily gather as much fabric against your chest out of the way of the painting before standing with him. You can see a glimpse of a few of the purples, blues, and lilacs he’d been dipping into earlier, curling around your side. 

“I want you to see it here,” he murmurs, and you follow him to the huge mirror on one side of the studio. 

You approach it, bundled up in white, and he lays his hands on your shoulders, and turns you slowly so you catch a glimpse of your where your shoulder blade is. 

It’s stunning. 

Swirls of lilac, lavender, purple, darker blues, limes, greens, and even golds and silvers spin together into a marvelous mural of a lavender field. The flowers start from your right shoulder blade, curling up inquisitively to your shoulder and neck, and drops down to your mid-back and borders your ribs and your side there. 

“It’s...gorgeous.” You breathe out, and Taehyung lets out a low chuckle at how breathless you sound. His eyes in the mirror are trained onto your back as well. 

“Do you recognize it?” He murmurs, and you nod. “The field...the lavender field where you...chose me.” 

“Where I chose you.” He echoes, and his eyes flicker up to meet yours in the mirror. “Precisely. Because you are art.” He murmurs, and you finally turn your head from the mirror to where Taehyung stands in front of you. 

He reaches out, eyes fanning your features, and a finger intertwining with a lock of your hair.