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skilliqcourse Ā· 1 year ago
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5 Essential Skills Every Beginner Flutter Developer Should Learn
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Flutter has become a popular choice for mobile app development due to its cross-platform capabilities, rich widget library, and fast development cycles. If you're a beginner looking to start your career into Flutter development, here are 5 essential skills you should focus on learning:
Dart Programming Language
Dart is the programming language used for developing Flutter applications. It's essential to have a good grasp of Dart's syntax, features, and principles. Here's what you should focus on:
Variables and Data Types: Understand different data types (e.g., int, double, String) and how to declare variables.
Functions: Learn how to define and call functions, as well as using parameters and return values.
Control Flow: Master if-else statements, switch-case, loops (for, while), and handling exceptions.
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP): Understand classes, objects, inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation.
Asynchronous Programming: Learn about async and await for handling asynchronous operations.
Flutter Framework
Once you're comfortable with Dart, dive into the Flutter framework itself. Focus on these key areas:
Widgets: Understand the concept of widgets in Flutter and learn about different types of widgets (stateless vs stateful).
Layouts: Learn how to use Flutter's layout widgets (e.g., Container, Row, Column, Stack) to design responsive and flexible UIs.
Navigation: Understand how to navigate between screens using Flutter's navigation APIs (e.g., Navigator).
State Management: Learn different state management techniques in Flutter, such as setState, Provider, Bloc, and Riverpod.
Animations: Master the Flutter animation framework to create smooth animations and transitions.
Flutter Packages and Plugins
Explore the Flutter ecosystem and learn how to use third-party packages and plugins to extend Flutter's capabilities:
Pub.dev: Explore packages available on pub.dev and learn how to integrate them into your Flutter projects.
Firebase: Learn how to integrate Firebase for backend services like authentication, real-time databases, and cloud functions.
HTTP Requests: Understand how to make HTTP requests using packages like http or Dio.
Device Features: Learn how to access device features (e.g., camera, location) using plugins.
UI/UX Design
A good understanding of UI/UX principles is crucial for creating user-friendly and visually appealing applications:
Material Design: Understand the principles of Material Design and how to implement them in Flutter.
Responsive Design: Learn how to create responsive layouts that adapt to different screen sizes and orientations.
Typography and Icons: Understand how to use typography and icons effectively in your Flutter applications.
User Interaction: Master GestureDetector, InkWell, and other widgets for handling user gestures.
Testing and Debugging
Learn how to test and debug your Flutter applications to ensure they are robust and bug-free:
Unit Testing: Write and execute unit tests for your Dart code using tools like flutter_test.
Widget Testing: Test your Flutter widgets using Flutter's widget testing framework.
Integration Testing: Learn how to perform integration tests to verify interactions between different parts of your application.
Debugging: Use Flutter DevTools or IDE debugging tools to diagnose and fix issues in your Flutter application.
Next Steps
Build Projects: Apply what you've learned by building real-world projects. Start with simple applications and gradually increase complexity.
Community Involvement: Join Flutter communities (like Flutter Dev, Stack Overflow, Reddit) to ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from others.
Continuous Learning: Stay updated with Flutter updates, new features, and best practices through official documentation, blogs, and tutorials.
Ready to start your Flutter development Career?Ā 
Enroll in SkillIQ's comprehensiveĀ Flutter Development CourseĀ today and advance your learning with expert guidance and live projects. From Dart language basics to advanced concepts, Equip yourself with the skills needed to build powerful cross-platform applications with Flutter. By mastering these essential skills, you'll be well on your way to becoming a proficient Flutter developer.Ā 
Take the first step towards a successful career in Flutter development now!
For detailed inquiry,
Contact us on: +91 7600 7800 67Ā 
Visit us: https://www.skilliq.co.in/
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it-related-online-course Ā· 2 years ago
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basprotec Ā· 2 years ago
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red-riot-unbreakable-heart Ā· 1 year ago
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AAAA are you planning on continuing the "How They Kiss" series? If so could you please do my sweet baby Hitoshi next? :cccc
Ooooo yessss - I've been wanting to write some Hitoshi fic for a while!! šŸ’œ
Shinsou x Reader | Headcannon: How Hitoshi Shinsou Kisses šŸ’‹
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The first time Hitoshi kisses you – you totally don’t see it coming. It happens in the library on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Hitoshi is sitting in your favorite spot of the city's library – a cozy corner hidden from view behind the oversized art book section. He’s dragged two large beanbag chairs into the tiny space, waiting for you to join him as he studies for an upcoming Pro hero rescue certification exam. He’s flipping through flashcards when you arrive bearing a purple travel mug filled with his favorite caffeinated beverage. You know your friend is a chronic insomniac – with his permanently baggy eyes and constant yawns - so you decided to get him a refillable mug so he can keep his coffee close throughout exam week. You’ve stuck a cute sticker of a black cat with big eyes to the side of the mug, knowing his TikTok algorithm is almost exclusively cat videos.
ā€œā€™Toshiiiiii!ā€ You warble quietly as you drop your school bag next to your beanbag chair. ā€œI brought you a ā€˜lil treat for studying so hard!ā€
Hitoshi looks up in surprise, his forehead still wrinkled in concentration. He puts down his flash cards and when he realizes it’s you standing over him, he smiles easily. Things have always been like this between the two of you – soft and comfortable.Ā 
ā€œYou brought me something?ā€ He instantly locks on to the steaming mug of coffee, his eyes crinkling into a smile when he sees the cat sticker. ā€œIs that the cat from Kiki’s Delivery Service?ā€
ā€œYup!ā€ you hand him the cup as you plop down into your chair and start shuffling through your bag for your notes. ā€œYou told me it was your favorite movie as a kid, so I found a little sticker of Gigi on Etsy.ā€
After a few moments of digging through your bag, you finally find the sheaf of notes you’re looking for and you yank them out – sheets of paper flying all around you. ā€œWhoops!ā€ You hastily gather the papers back into a neat stack.
When you finally look up, you meet Hitoshi’s eyes – he’s giving you an intense, searching look. His eyes are wide, and there’s a soft pink blush across the high points of his cheeks. He absentmindedly smooths a hand through his wild hair, seemingly lost for words.
ā€œWhat?ā€ You say, a little startled at the sudden tense atmosphere. ā€œEverything okay? Is that not your preferred flavor of coffee?ā€
ā€œOf course you remembered my favorite flavor.ā€ His voice a quiet rumble and seems to catch in his throat.
You swallow, suddenly feeling hot around the collar as he continues to gaze at you through those bright violet eyes. You can see him biting back his next sentence, seemingly steeling himself to say something.
After a few moments, he takes a steadying breath and his eyes sparkle with a look of resolve. Hitoshi softly places the hot mug of coffee on the ground before leaning towards you. Instantly, he’s a breath away from your face – his delicate features magnified as he tilts his face towards yours.
ā€œYou’re just soā€¦ā€ He whispers, moving to brush his thumb against your cheek. Your skin feels like it’s blooming with tiger lilies at the contact. ā€œā€¦sweet.ā€ His tired eyes flutter shut and he leans into you – guiding your lips to his.
The first kiss is feather light – tentative. He wants to make sure you want him back – he needs you to want him with the same deep intensity he’s been feeling in his gut for you for so long. His lips are impossibly soft and taste like a light berry lip balm, and you find the flavor absolutely delicious. When you respond eagerly he smiles into the kiss, blissful. How lucky is he to get to kiss your pretty face?
Hitoshi climbs into the beanbag chair with you deftly, moving his hands to cradle your face. He moves his mouth against yours slowly, purposefully – almost lazily. It’s such a Shinsou way of kissing that it makes you giggle.
ā€œHey, now.ā€ He breaks the kiss, bringing his forehead to yours as he takes a shaky breath. ā€œIs my kissing that bad?ā€ He’s smiling, but you can tell he’s the tiniest bit nervous for your answer.
You lean in to kiss him again and he pulls back, his lips just out of reach – teasing.
ā€œYour technique can use some refining. But I know someone who can help you practice.ā€ You grin, winding your arms around his neck and pulling him back in for more. He loves that – the banter, the ways you are able to both make him feel comfortable and keep him on his toes. He deepens the kiss, and you know it will be a while before you get back to studying. His flash cards lay abandoned on the floor by your stack of notes.
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After that, he’s hooked on you. Any trace of nervousness is nonexistent. In just one afternoon, Hitoshi Shinsou has become a lean, mean, make out machine. He absolutely cannot be stopped. He kisses you everywhere he can – in the library, in dark corners of your favorite bar, at the convenience store. He’s constantly trying to sneak away with you so he can crash your lips together in that way that makes his brain feel all blissed out and fuzzy.
I think we’ve all seen just how much determination Hitoshi has – it takes a lot of unwavering dedication to claim a spot in the hero course. He’s just as determined to figure out how you like to be kissed. He pays attention to what makes your pulse race – maybe he kissed your neck a certain way and you moaned? He’s filing that away in his brain so he can do it again and again and again. You don’t like it when he bites your lower lip? He takes note and never does it that way again. He’s committed to figuring out exactly what makes you tick and how he can maximize your pleasure every time. He can’t believe how lucky he is to have the affections of someone like you – someone so sweet and gorgeous and goddamn perfect.
Of course, once he realizes you find him irresistible – he’s smug AF. He becomes such a goddamn tease. You’ll get a rare private moment and move in to kiss him, only for him to dodge your advances until your lips form a disappointed pout. He absolutely revels in how much you want him and loves to build up the tension between the two of you. He’ll kiss you playfully on the cheeks before your disappointed look causes him to concede. ā€œSorry, Sweetheart.ā€ He says in his low, gravely whisper. ā€œYou know I love to tease.ā€ And then he’ll kiss you with as much passion as he can muster, until your legs turn to jello. After all – it’s not in a hero’s nature to do anything half-assed.
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Thanks so much for reading!!
Interested in some ~smuttier~ Shinsou content!? Check out my story:
Never Too Tired To Love YoušŸ’œ
My Master List! šŸ’œ
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sohyxn Ā· 11 months ago
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WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS⠀───⠀JANG WONYOUNG.
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SYPNOSIS : jang wonyoung is a hardworking student who rarely takes time for herself. when her best friend convinces her to take a trip to vegas, wonyoung reluctantly agrees. but her simple getaway takes an unexpected turn when a beautiful stranger offers her a drink.
TAGS : wlw, fluff, strangers to lovers, uni student! wony x bartender! reader, reader is the same age as wony.
NOTES : inspired by the movie what happens in vegas? read the continuation here šŸ‘©šŸ»ā€šŸ¦Æ
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it was supposed to be just a simple girls' trip to vegas - wonyoung's friends had practically dragged her kicking and screaming to the club, despite her protests. but the moment wonyoung stepped inside, she felt completely out of place among the pulsing music and flashing lights.
that is, until a gorgeous bartender caught her eye. "you look a little lost," the woman called out, flashing wonyoung a playful grin. "can I get you a drink?"
wonyoung hesitated but something about the bartender's warm smile, inviting demeanor put her at ease. "uh, yeah, sure. a vodka tonic, please."
as the bartender mixed the drink, their eyes kept meeting, and wonyoung felt a spark of electricity between them. "I'm yn, by the way," the bartender said, handing wonyoung the drink.
"wonyoung," she replied, taking a sip. "thanks for the drink. and for not judging me for looking so out of place."
yn chuckled. "hey, we all need a break from being the responsible one sometimes. why don't you let me show you how to have a little fun?"
before wonyoung knew it, she was laughing and dancing with yn, all her inhibitions melting away. the night flew by in a blur, and when wonyoung finally stumbled back to her hotel room, her head was spinning - both from the alcohol and the intoxicating woman she'd just met.
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when wonyoung awoke the next morning, she was disoriented, her mouth dry and her head pounding. as she slowly opened her eyes, she realized she wasn't in her own room - and there was a warm body next to her under the covers.
wonyoung's eyes went wide as she recognized the familiar messy dark hair and chiseled features of the woman beside her. "yn?" she breathed, her heart racing.
the bartender stirred, then blinked her eyes open, a sheepish grin spreading across her face. "well, good morning, ms. jang."
suddenly, the memories of the previous night came rushing back - the drunken stumble to a 24-hour chapel, the impulsive "I do's", the hazy recollection of yn's lips on hers. "oh my god, I got married?" wonyoung squeaked.
yn let out a low chuckle. "looks like you're stuck with me, babe."
as the reality of their situation sank in, wonyoung felt a mix of panic and something else - a flutter of excitement at the prospect of being "stuck" with the captivating bartender. but before she could sort out her feelings, her phone began to ring, yujin's frantic voice on the other end.
"wonyoung? girl, what the hell happened last night? I just got a wedding certificate in the mail - and your name is on it!"
wonyoung winced, glancing over at yn. "you're not gonna believe this..."
the memories came flooding back - the hazy, drunken stumble to a 24-hour chapel, their laughter echoing through the dimly-lit halls as they giggled and leaned on each other for support.
"are you sure about this?" the sleepy-eyed wedding officiant had asked, eyeing them skeptically.
"absolutely!" yn had slurred, flashing the officiant a dazzling smile and pulling wonyoung closer. "this is the love of my life right here."
wonyoung had tried to suppress a giddy smile, her inhibitions lowered by the alcohol coursing through her veins. "yes, yes, we're sure," she'd insisted, gazing adoringly at yn.
the next thing she remembered was the officiant pronouncing them wife and wife, and yn swooping in for a passionate kiss as wonyoung melted into her embrace.
now, as wonyoung met yn's sheepish gaze, the memory of that spontaneous, alcohol-fueled union sent a thrill through her. "I, uh, I guess we got married last night," she admitted to yujin over the phone, unable to keep the hint of a smile from her face.
wonyoung took a deep breath, trying to process the whirlwind of events from the previous night. "yujin, I... I got married to yn. the bartender from the club."
there was a stunned silence on the other end of the line. "you did WHAT?!" yujin finally exclaimed. "wonyoung, what the hell? how did this happen?"
wonyoung glanced over at yn, who was watching her with an amused expression. "we, uh, we were pretty drunk last night. we ended up at a 24-hour chapel and... well, we got married." she let out a nervous laugh. "I'm as shocked as you are."
yujin let out an exasperated sigh. "unbelievable. so what are you going to do now?"
wonyoung chewed on her lip, considering the question. "I... I don't know," she admitted. "this is all so sudden. I mean, I just met yn last night, and now we're..." she trailed off, glancing over at her new wife.
yn reached out and gently squeezed wonyoung's hand. "hey, it's okay," she murmured. "we'll figure this out together, alright?"
wonyoung felt a flutter in her chest at yn's reassuring touch and words. there was something about this woman that made her feel safe, even in the midst of this crazy situation.
"yujin, I... I think I need to talk to yn," wonyoung said, her voice soft. "can I call you back later?"
"yeah, sure, girl. just be careful, okay?" yujin replied, her tone softening. "this is a lot to take in."
"I will," wonyoung promised. she took a deep breath and turned to face yn fully. "so, what do we do now?"
yn gave her a warm smile. "well, first of all, good morning, wifey," she said with a chuckle. "and second of all... I think we should take things one step at a time. no need to rush into anything." she reached out and tucked a stray lock of wonyoung's hair behind her ear. "why don't we start with getting some breakfast? I'm starving."
wonyoung felt a blush creep across her cheeks at yn's gentle touch. "breakfast sounds good," she agreed, a small smile playing on her lips. as she followed yn out of the hotel room.
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yandere-fetish Ā· 1 year ago
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Yandere Chairman X Female Reader
Part One
warnings: cheating, mentions of death, family life
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One day, you, a wealthy business woman, wake up with visions of the future.
Your husband left you for his childhood sweetheart, your son despises you for trying to split him and his lover up, your daughter was kidnapped and killed, and you were left to die, paralyzed, in some healthcare facility.
You're so scared that you decide to test your theory, just to feel better about your life.
You set traps for your husband.
You monitor your son's personal life.
You give your daughter bodyguards.
You continuously tell yourself that your dreams are just that; dreams. There's nothing to be afraid of, there's nothing to worry about because they're not true. You're not a fortune teller.
But it was all true.
Your husband was secretly meeting his childhood sweetheart while your son was deeply in love with the same woman from your nightmares. You were happy that your daughter hadn't been kidnapped, nor murdered. You were just in time.
And you were not going to make the same mistakes of the you in your dreams.
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Of course, you want to give your twenty-three year old son a chance, but the moment you try to speak with him, he answers a call from his "friend" and refuses to acknowledge you. This happens several times until you've had enough of it. The two of you have a heated argument, to which he stomps away and your nineteen year old daughter is left with the task of calming you down.
Your heart hurts when you try to spend more time with your family, especially your husband, but he suddenly has a business trip coming up. He doesn't want to catch dinner because he's tired and is working early in the morning.
You can't help but think he's going to her.
But instead, you grow closer to your daughter, spending the entire week being pampered after feeling so down about the results of your life.
It isn't until a small dinner date with your daughter causes you to catch Yandere Chairman's eye.
Yandere Chairman had been dining with many of his peers when he happened to glance your way. Your radiant smile has him pause on his words while you gushed over the other woman you were sitting with.
Yandere Chairman assumes it's either your daughter or a sister since the two of you look so alike.
His demeanor completely changed after spotting the two of you enjoying each other's company. You both were such beautiful women that he couldn't take his eyes off of you two, especially you.
Yandere Chairman whispers to the waiter for the bill to your table and picks up the tab, his heart fluttering at the way you blush and thank the waiter. He finds your companion cute while searching for the mysterious and generous benefactor before giving up and calling it a night.
Yandere Chairman watches you leave with a look of longing in his eyes.
"Someone catch your eye?"
"Hm, *drinks his brandy*"
"The (H/C) women? ——, you should keep away. She's married."
*his eyes say elaborate*
"*laughs* That was Mrs. Kessler and her daughter, Cerise Kessler. They're the wife and daughter of Jonas Kessler, the one that runs the real estate designs.. ah, ah, Kessler Properties."
"The man who pitched the Ansel House?"
"Yes, that's him."
"What is someone like her doing with scum like him?"
"I think it was a business deal or something like that. Only one of the few families that still allows arranged marriage."
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It was an especially lovely day when you had slapped the divorce papers on the table, as well as the photos taken of your soon-to-be ex-husband and his mistress getting frisky several different times. Your husband is appalled, but nonetheless denies divorce.
It isn't until you're able to cleanly give your husband what he wants (a certain property that ends up being infertile) before you're given your divorce.
Extremely happy after getting his signature and a divorce certificate after a quick and clean process with the lawyers, you’re off to have a few drinks, never looking back at the mistake you left behind.
What you didn’t see was the look of shock come across his face. Didn’t you say you were desperately in love with him at one time?
Before you knew it, you were celebrating your successful divorce alone at an elite sunroof bar.
It just so happens that Yandere Chairman had just finished a fruitful business deal with one of the top billionaires around for his own business. When he saw you sitting there at the bar all by yourself, he had to meet you. For some reason, he was drawn to you.
When Yandere Chairman takes a seat next to you and begins a conversation, he notices that instead of being sad or lonely like he originally thought you would be, you’re very bright with a smile on your lips and a gleam in your eyes. This only awakens a new want for you.
The both of you get to talking, even to the point of exchanging numbers. Yandere Chairman even goes out of his way to help you move out. He’s all ready heard about your divorce (first from his sources, then second from your mouth) so of course he’s going to help you move on! (Just wait until he gets you into his bed—)
Yandere Chairman goes to the extent of taking off his afternoon to help you decide what house would be perfect for you and your daughter, who he ends up confirming was the woman you were eating with that day.
Yandere Chairman even asks you to dinner to celebrate your achievements in such a short amount of time. He’s such a polite gentleman that he even allows you to invite your daughter.
The restaurant is as lavish as it can be when you meet him there. Your daughter is skeptical, knowing about the divorce and how her father treats her mother, she can’t help but want to be protective over you after another man has asked you out so soon. You’re her one and only mother, she couldn’t let you fend for yourself after willingly walking into a lion’s den.
When she meets Yandere Chairman, her mouth visibly drops. You have to pick it up for her as he helps the two of you settle in.
Yandere Chairman, on the other hand, can feel the intense stares coming from the table while conversing with you. It’s not until he opens the floor for her to begin her questions.
ā€œCerise, is there something on your mind?ā€
ā€œYes. *purses lips*ā€
ā€œ*smiles and takes a drink* Say it.ā€
ā€œWhy did you ask my mom out on a date when you knew she had just been divorced today?ā€
ā€œCerise! Don’tā€”ā€œ
ā€œIt’s okay, (Y/N). I can answer it. *turns to Cerise* I saw an opportunity and I took it.ā€
ā€œSo does that mean you can just toss her to the side whenever you want?ā€
ā€œ*silverware clatters* Cerise! Are you serious?ā€
ā€œMom, I don’t trust him! No matter how handsome or famous he is, for all we know, he could be waiting to take advantage of you like dad! I don’t want you to hurt againā€¦ā€
ā€œ*swallows at her words, then smiles* Thank you for looking out for me, and while it’s very comforting, shouldn’t I be the one worrying about you getting hurt? Look at all the young men there are that barely have any brains, and even less when a hussy wraps them around their finger! Just take a look at your brother.ā€
*laughs*
ā€œSo stop worry about me and make your own mistakes okay? I appreciate you and love you so much, okay?ā€
ā€œOkay, mom.ā€
ā€œThis. This is why, Cerise.ā€
*both turn to Yandere Chairman*
ā€œWhat do you mean?ā€
ā€œI’m all my years, I’ve never had someone in my life that cares so much for others, and whether it ends in marriage or a friendship.. I’ll still be satisfied as long as (Y/N) stays in my life for now.ā€
*smiles*
ā€œAnd occasionally you too, Ceriseā€”ā€œ
ā€œHey!ā€
ā€œā€”if you’d like.ā€
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After that dinner with Yandere Chairman, you both learned a lot about him.
His parents had been in an arranged marriage, and while his father kept mistresses outside, his mother suffered. He wanted to help you as much as he could to not become like his mother.
On many occasions after that, Yandere Chairman would be seen with you, and occasionally with your daughter as well.
Whether it was dinners, business parties, family gatherings, or charity events, Yandere Chairman had one or both of you by his side.
It was a small little family with smiles all around.
Yandere Chairman even plans a birthday getaway for you with your daughter.
The next thing you know, you’re getting in a plane with your daughter to an exotic island paradise. At first, it’s just you and your daughter exploring the town and marketplace, buying a few things here and there (your daughter refuses for you to buy anything and buys everything for you).
When you arrive to dinner, there’s candle lights with rose petals leading you to the table overlooking a beautiful sunset and beach. You’re breath is taken away.
Yandere Chairman gifts you a beautiful diamond necklace you’ve never seen before. Before you can deny his gift, he kisses the back of your hand — taking your breath away for a second time that night.
ā€œYou look so beautiful with the sunset behind you. Happy birthday, (Y/N).ā€
ā€œ*blushes* Thank you, ——.ā€
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Your life with Yandere Chairman has only gotten better and better. Your daughter and him have a good father-daughter relationship, going so far as to your daughter asking to call him her ā€œbetter dadā€, to which you were strongly against until she had a shirt, buttons, office supplies, and anything else made with the logo on it for Father’s Day.
From then on, any Instagram post your daughter made with him had him dubbed as her ā€œbetter dadā€ to the world. She had all ready blocked her real father and brother. She didn’t need scum like them in her life if her mother didn’t either.
Yandere Chairman couldn’t be anymore satisfied even though his relationship with you hasn’t been officially established to the public.
Yandere Chairman speaks with his staff about allowing you and your daughter to visit at anytime, and even claims the two of you as family when needed to give a reason (not that he needs to, he just wants to brag about you two). They all ready knew you two were special, but now it must be serious!
ā€œGive them full access. Don’t let anyone not know who these two are. *points at a picture of you and your daughter.ā€
ā€œYessir. Is there anything else?ā€
ā€œDon’t allow these two in or business to be done with them, no matter the circumstances.ā€
*leaves a photo of your ex-husband and your son*
He wasn't about to allow your ex to come back into the picture and ruin all his plans. You're his, and so is Cerise. He has a right to protect the two of you now that you two will no longer be a secret anymore.
Part two?
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ocielsdemon Ā· 4 months ago
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In Love with a Bat
Part 1: The Encounter
TW: wounds, stitches, needles?
Bruce Wayne x F!Reader
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You can’t recall the exact moment it happened. One dark night, a wounded bat fluttered through your apartment window, and despite the shock, you felt a surge of empathy. You instinctively rushed to help, carefully stitching him up.
But this was no ordinary bat. This was Batman.
As you worked, you marveled at the absurdity of the situation—here you were, a mere mortal, tending to the legendary Dark Knight. His presence filled your small space with an air of mystery and danger, yet you were determined to help him recover.
With each stitch, you felt a connection growing between you—a bond forged in vulnerability and trust. As he lay there, his eyes flickering open to meet yours, you realized that perhaps this encounter was destined to change both your lives forever.
You were a second-year med student—he could tell from the neatly framed certificates lining the walls of your apartment. He didn’t say much, but you noticed how his eyes lingered on them, even with the mask concealing most of his face.
His skin told a story all its own—rough, scarred, and weathered from countless battles. This wasn’t his first injury, and you doubted it would be his last. Still, you couldn’t shake the unease settling in your chest. The Dark Knight himself was standing in your apartment, larger than life yet painfully human in this moment. It was surreal, and no amount of medical training could have prepared you for something like this.
He didn’t flinch as I carefully stitched his wound, his stoic demeanor betraying a hint of admiration for my skill. ā€œYou shouldn’t leave your window open—it’s dangerous,ā€ he said, his voice low and steady. A smirk played on my lips as I replied, ā€œOh, but it’s fine for you to climb through it, bleeding and desperate?ā€ Something about the way I looked at him made his heart race, though he wouldn’t dare admit it. His eyes met mine, lingering just a moment too long.
ā€œInjured anywhere else?ā€ I asked, tying off the last stitch with practiced precision. He gave a curt nod, and without a word, turned his back to me. In one fluid motion, he removed his cape and then his shirt, revealing a deep gash that ran across his shoulder.
ā€œThat cut is bad,ā€ I murmured, leaning in as my fingertips lightly traced the edges of the wound, careful not to hurt him further.
ā€œKiller Croc,ā€ he said simply, his voice low and gravelly, as if that name alone explained everything.
ā€œYou speak so simply, as though you don’t care,ā€ I said, grabbing the sterile alcohol wipes. He didn’t flinch at my words, nor at the sting of the alcohol. Of course, he didn’t care—every night, he put his life on the line. Caring too much would only slow him down.
ā€œPlease, sit down for me,ā€ I instructed, motioning toward the chair by the kitchen island. For a moment, I thought he’d ignore me, but then he silently complied, lowering himself into the chair with a controlled grace that somehow made him seem even more imposing. The silence between us was suffocating, but I focused on stitching up his shoulder, my fingers brushing against his skin more than necessary as I worked.
When I finally finished, I straightened up and looked at him. ā€œOkay,ā€ I said softly, ā€œI suggest you rest. You’ve got a pretty high temperature and slightly elevated blood pressure. Other than that, your vitals are stable—for now.ā€
I sat across from him, trying to ignore how his piercing blue eyes locked onto mine. That was something I hadn’t noticed before—his eyes. They were sharp and intense, like they could see right through me.
ā€œThank you, Ms. Y/L/N,ā€ he said after a pause, his deep voice sending a shiver down my spine. His gaze flicked briefly to the certificates hanging on my wall before returning to me. ā€œYou’ll make a fine doctor someday.ā€
His words were polite enough, but there was something in his tone—something deliberate—that made my breath hitch. He wasn’t just thanking me; he was studying me, testing me. And for the first time that night, I felt like I was the one under a microscope.
ā€œWell,ā€ I replied with a small smirk, leaning forward just slightly to meet his gaze head-on. ā€œLet’s hope you don’t need my help again anytime soon.ā€
His lips quirked into the faintest hint of a smile—barely there but enough to make my heart race. ā€œWe’ll see,ā€ he murmured, his voice low and enigmatic.
Without another word, he stood up, his imposing figure casting a long shadow in the dim light of the kitchen. He moved toward the window through which he had entered, the night air beckoning him like an old friend.
As he reached the open window, he paused for a moment, glancing back at me. The intensity in his blue eyes held a promise—one that sent a thrill through me. Then, with a fluid motion that spoke of years of training and stealth, he slipped out into the darkness, disappearing into the night as effortlessly as he had come.
The silence that followed was deafening, leaving me alone with my racing heart and the lingering warmth of his presence.
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You awoke from a restless slumber, rubbing your temples as fragments of the night before lingered in your mind. Was it all a dream, or had reality blurred into something stranger? Shaking off the thought, you silenced your alarm and began your morning routine. The mirror reflected tired eyes, but you pushed through, the weight of late-night studying—or so you’d tell others—settling heavily on your shoulders.
At the bus stop, you spotted Cairo waiting for you, her dark purple scrubs matching yours. The two of you were headed to the Gotham City School of Medicine, a prestigious institution funded by none other than Bruce Wayne himself. The billionaire’s name was everywhere in Gotham, but here it carried weight—not just because of his philanthropy but because of the expectations tied to it.
ā€œMorning,ā€ Cairo greeted with her usual energy. ā€œHow’d you sleep?ā€
ā€œIt was okay,ā€ you replied with a small shrug, masking the truth behind a practiced lie. ā€œDidn’t get much rest—too much studying.ā€
ā€œClassic,ā€ she teased, rolling her eyes. ā€œYou’re always overdoing it.ā€
The bus arrived with its usual screech of brakes, and the two of you stepped in, continuing your conversation as you found seats together. Cairo had been your rock since your first year of medical school. She was hilarious, loyal, and always knew how to lighten the mood—even on your worst days. Despite her easygoing nature, she was sharp as a scalpel, and between the two of you, there was a playful rivalry: you were top of the class, and she was right behind you at second.
ā€œYou know,ā€ Cairo said as the bus rumbled through Gotham’s gritty streets, ā€œone day I’m going to beat you on an exam.ā€
ā€œYou can try,ā€ you replied with a smirk. ā€œBut let’s be honest—you’d miss me up there at the top.ā€
She laughed, nudging your shoulder. ā€œOh please, I’m just letting you have it for now.ā€
The bus rolled past towering skyscrapers and shadowy alleys that seemed to define Gotham City. The school loomed ahead—a sleek building that felt out of place in a city so often defined by chaos and crime. Yet inside those walls was a haven for ambition and brilliance. It wasn’t lost on either of you that Bruce Wayne’s funding had made this possible; his name was etched into plaques and whispered in hallways like a ghost that haunted every achievement.
As you stepped off the bus and walked toward the entrance, Cairo glanced at you with a sly grin. ā€œSo… any dreams about mysterious vigilantes last night?ā€
ā€œWhat?ā€ You blinked at her sudden shift in tone.
ā€œCome on,ā€ she teased. ā€œYou’re always zoning out like you're hiding something dramatic. Spill it.ā€
You rolled your eyes but couldn’t suppress the faint smile tugging at your lips. ā€œYou’ve been watching too many movies.ā€
ā€œMaybe,ā€ she said with a wink. ā€œOr maybe I know more than I’m letting on.ā€
Shaking your head at her antics, you both entered the building together. The day ahead would be grueling as always—but with Cairo by your side and Gotham’s strange energy buzzing in the background, it felt like anything could happen.
Once the bus came to a halt at our stop, we got off and walked the last few blocks to our university. Once we arrived we went our separate ways and went to our classes.
The day passed in a blur of lectures, labs, and Cairo’s relentless teasing. By the time the final class ended, you were ready to collapse, but Cairo had other plans.
ā€œDon’t forget,ā€ she said as you both packed up your things. ā€œWe’re going to that Wayne Foundation charity gala tonight. You did RSVP like I told you, right?ā€
You groaned, rubbing your temples. ā€œCairo, I have a mountain of studying to do.ā€
ā€œOh, come on,ā€ she said, slinging her bag over her shoulder. ā€œIt’s not every day you get invited to a fancy event at Wayne Tower. Besides, it’s for a good cause—something about funding scholarships for medical students like us. Who knows? Maybe Bruce Wayne himself will make an appearance.ā€
You rolled your eyes at her enthusiasm but couldn’t deny the curiosity bubbling beneath your exhaustion. The idea of mingling with Gotham’s elite felt surreal, but Cairo was right—it was an opportunity you couldn’t pass up.
Later That Evening: The Charity Gala
The grand ballroom of Wayne Tower was nothing short of breathtaking. Crystal chandeliers cast warm light over polished marble floors, and the air buzzed with the hum of polite conversation and clinking champagne glasses. You adjusted the hem of your dress—a sleek black number Cairo had insisted you borrow—feeling slightly out of place among Gotham’s glittering elite.
ā€œSee?ā€ Cairo whispered as she nudged your arm. ā€œThis is way better than studying.ā€
You gave her a small smile as you scanned the room. The crowd was a mix of wealthy socialites, business moguls, and professionals from various fields. It was hard not to feel overwhelmed by the sheer opulence of it all.
A voice interrupted your thoughts. ā€œLadies and gentlemen,ā€ an announcer called from the stage at the front of the room, ā€œplease welcome our host for this evening, Mr. Bruce Wayne.ā€
The crowd erupted into polite applause as Bruce Wayne stepped onto the stage. He was taller than you’d expected, his tailored suit fitting him perfectly. His presence commanded attention—not just because he was Gotham’s most famous billionaire but because there was something magnetic about him. His sharp jawline and piercing blue eyes seemed to scan the room as he began his speech.
ā€œThank you all for being here tonight,ā€ he said, his voice smooth and confident. ā€œThe Wayne Foundation has always believed in investing in Gotham’s future, and that includes supporting our brightest minds in medicine. Tonight’s event is about more than raising funds; it’s about recognizing the potential in this room—the potential to change lives.ā€
Cairo leaned closer to you, whispering under her breath, ā€œHe’s even more handsome in person.ā€
You fought back a smile but couldn’t deny that Bruce Wayne had an undeniable charm.
After his speech concluded, the crowd dispersed into smaller groups, mingling over drinks and hors d'oeuvres. You followed Cairo toward one of the buffet tables when a deep voice behind you stopped you in your tracks.
ā€œEnjoying the evening?ā€
You turned around and found yourself face-to-face with Bruce Wayne himself. Up close, his presence was even more striking—those same piercing blue eyes now focused entirely on you.
ā€œOh,ā€ you stammered slightly before regaining composure. ā€œYes, it’s a wonderful event. Thank you for hosting something so meaningful.ā€
He smiled—a small but genuine expression that softened his otherwise serious demeanor. ā€œIt’s my pleasure,ā€ he said before glancing at your name tag. ā€œMs. Y/L/N… You’re one of the students from Gotham City School of Medicine?ā€
ā€œYes,ā€ you replied with a nod. ā€œI’m in my second year.ā€
ā€œAnd top of her class,ā€ Cairo chimed in proudly from beside you.
Bruce raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. ā€œIs that so? Well, I’ll have to keep an eye on your career—you might be running Gotham General someday.ā€
Heat rose to your cheeks at his words, but before you could respond, someone called his name from across the room.
ā€œIf you’ll excuse me,ā€ he said with a polite nod, but not before adding, ā€œEnjoy the rest of your evening.ā€
As he walked away, Cairo let out a low whistle. ā€œWell, someone just got noticed by the Bruce Wayne.ā€
You shook your head, trying to play it cool despite your racing heart. ā€œHe was just being polite.ā€
ā€œUh-huh,ā€ Cairo said with a knowing smirk as she grabbed another glass of champagne from a passing waiter. ā€œPolite or not, I think we just witnessed history.ā€
You laughed softly but couldn’t help glancing back at Bruce as he moved through the crowd with effortless grace. Something about him lingered in your mind—something more than just his wealth or charm.
And for reasons you couldn’t quite explain, you had a feeling this wouldn’t be your last encounter with Gotham’s most enigmatic billionaire.
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Part 2 coming soon…
(I swear I only write once every seven months)
Part One: The Encounter
Part Two: Through the Shadows
Part Three: The Return
Part Four: Into the Light
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fandomnerd9602 Ā· 9 months ago
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Wedding Daze (Pt. 2)
Bambi!Wanda x Reader
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The day had arrived. Yours and Wanda’s wedding. You were finally marrying the doe hybrid of your dreams.
You woke up on your couch to the rich smell of pancakes. You turned to your kitchen to find Wanda baking at the stove. The boys were coloring at the table.
ā€œGood morning my buckā€ your mate intones with a smile on her face. The light catches her antler’s ivory shine at just the right angle.
The boys came rushing out of their room, excited as could be. To you, this was just a glimpse at the life that awaited you after today.
And then came a knock at the door. Natasha burst in a second later.
ā€œCome on Bambiā€ she ushered her friend to the door. ā€œWe got to start getting you ready.ā€
ā€œBut i made breakfastā€ Wanda grasps for her spatula.
ā€œFine. Breakfast first. Then wedding prep. Hey (Y/N)!ā€ It’s like your best pal completely forgot about you for a split second.
Within the hour, your pal Natasha whisked your mate off for last second wedding planning things. Pietro was more than happy to whisk you and your boys off to the venue.
The venue in question was the sanctuary courtyard. Under the gazebo, you would say your vows, unifying you and Wanda in holy matrimony. You could feel your heart flutter just thinking about it.
ā€œSo who’s gonna be your best man, Poppa?ā€ Billy asked.
ā€œI don’t have a best man, budā€ you answer back. His face dropped a little before you picked up Billy and Tommy and continued, ā€œI got two!ā€
The twins giggled in excitement. You and Pietro worked to string up the lights and decorate the gazebo.
Tony Stark, ever the show off, arrived with the dance floor, DJ and catering taken care of.
ā€œCan’t have you dance in the grassā€ he shrugged.
ā€œNo paparazzi?ā€
ā€œAt my pal’s wedding? I’m not that heartlessā€ he gives a wink and helps set up the DJ too.
Dusk was fast approaching as you and Wanda found yourselves getting ready in separate rooms. Pietro walked into Wanda’s room as she stood there in her forest themed wedding dress.
ā€œSestra you look…wowā€ was all he could say. ā€œIf Momma and Poppa could see you nowā€
ā€œWill you walk me down the aisle, Pietro?ā€
ā€œOf courseā€ he gives Natasha a quick wink.
A familiar face came running up to your bride. The little pitter patter of cheetah feet hitting the grass as Riri came running up and hugged Wanda tightly.
ā€œWanda!ā€ The little cheetah hybrid giggled. Wanda was practically a teary eyed mess as she held the little cub whose life she changed, was back in her arms.
Meanwhile, you couldn’t help but smile as Riri’s adoptive parents came up to you with smiles on their faces. A nice panther hybrid couple walking arm in arm.
ā€œT’Challa, Nakia,ā€ you greeted them, ā€œI’m so glad you and Riri could make itā€
ā€œThank you for the invite,ā€ the panther gentleman spoke up, his voice rich like that of a king. ā€œRiri was so excited on the car rideā€
ā€œSo much energy,ā€ Nakia chimes in, ā€œbut we love her so muchā€
Wanda holds Riri close. ā€œWould you like to be one of my bridesmaids?ā€ Your doe asks with a grin.
The boys were all getting ready with you as you finalized some details with T’Challa and Nakia. They anticipated that Riri would be part of the ceremony.
You lead the boys out to the gazebo. Turns out your old friend Tony had taken a couple certification classes.
ā€œHey if anyone’s marrying you, it’ll be meā€ Tony intoned before immediately backtracking, ā€œnot that I like you in that way, I belong to Pepper after all.ā€
You straighten out your boys’ outfits. They looked so cute in their little tuxedos.
You could see everyone in the crowd. Your friends, Dr Stephen Strange, Pepper with baby Morgan, Yelena and Kate, T’Challa and Nakia, a few co-workers. But you couldn’t see…
Your thought was cut off as Natasha came up to the gazebo and took her place as maid of honor. Riri was right behind her, taking her place as a bridesmaid. And then came to classic wedding march.
Pietro interlocked his arm with Wanda’s as he led her down the aisle. Wanda’s face was obscured by wedding veil. And yet thru the veil, you could see only love and adoration in her eyes. She walked down that aisle like the queen she was.
The design on her wedding dress was an interlocking design of stitched branches of woven gold. It was beautiful. It made your queen look like a goddess.
Pietro led Wanda right up to you and gave you a wink. He joined his nephews at their side.
ā€œDearly beloved,ā€ Tony intoned. ā€œWe are gathered here today to join these two souls in matrimony. And as I understand, the happy couple has their own vowsā€
Wanda turned to you and took your hands in hers, ā€œdetka, you made me see so much that I never saw before. You made me see how brave I truly am, that I am a survivor. You helped me to learn to love again. Now all I want to do is spend my days, loving you, raising our boys together, protecting you when you need it, comforting you when you’re hurting. I will love you into eternity and into foreverā€
You try to fight back the tears but you find your strength, ā€œWanda you are the light of my life, my strength, my heart, my mate, my everything. I will love you til my dying breath. I pledge to love you each and every day, to be your strong tower, your lighthouse in life’s many storms. To be there for you and our boys in every and all seasons. I love you Wanda Maximoff and I am all yours.ā€
A few tears make their way down your doe’s cheek, ā€œI love you and I’m all yours tooā€
ā€œ(Y/N), Wanda,ā€ Tony smiles, ā€œyou may kiss the brideā€
You couldn’t kiss her fast enough as you moved the veil up and around her glorious antlers. She grabbed you by your suit’s collar and pulled you into a fiery, passionate kiss.
The building embers in your chest exploded into a fiery inferno of your love and passion for each other as the crowd clapped and cheered for you.
Billy and Tommy were clapping and cheering as you and Wanda slid your rings onto each other’s fingers. And with that it was official.
ā€œMay I present to you, (Y/N) and Wanda Maximoff-(L/N)ā€ Tony announced to the cheering crowd.
You held your wife close. Your wife. It sounded just so right.
Pietro wiped away a stray tear. ā€œSaw that, tough guyā€ Natasha whispered in his ear.
ā€œAnd now the newlyweds shall share their first danceā€ Tony announces, ā€œtry not to step on each other’s toesā€
You lead your bride out to the center of the dance floor. Her hand lands gently on your shoulder as yours takes a hold of her waist. She interlocks her other hand with yours.
Heart beats fast
Colors and promises
How to be brave?
How can I love when I'm afraid to fall?
But watching you stand alone
All of my doubt suddenly goes away somehow
ā€œMy buckā€ she whispers
ā€œMy doeā€ you whisper right back.
The two of you sway to the music, the world around you just evaporates. In this moment, it’s just you and the woman you love. The gentle lights of the Edison bulbs reflect in your eyes and bounce gently off her ivory like antlers.
I have died every day waiting for you
Darling, don't be afraid
I have loved you for a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
Pietro smiles, his attention at first on the two of you, but then he finds his eyes drawn to Natasha. The way she gently held your boys made his heart flutter. She was a natural mother.
And all along I believed I would find you
Time has brought your heart to me
I have loved you for a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
You held your doe tight in your arms and kissed her softly to the clapping of the crowd. Little Billy and Tommy ran out to you both. You and Wanda were more than happy to share this next dance. The dance of a family.
You and your doe danced with your little boys in your arms. You held Billy in your arms and Wanda held Tommy in hers.
You made your queen and princes feel exactly like that in this small moment as the four of you swayed to the music.
ā€œSwitch, detkaā€ your wife gently says. You and her switch boys for the next song on your wedding playlist.
Pietro watched from the corner of the dance floor. A bittersweet smile made its way across his face. He looked up to the stars above.
ā€œDon’t worry Vis, they are lovedā€ he says softly.
Natasha saunters up to him, drink in hand.
ā€œCare to dance, Romanoff?ā€ He asks with a smirk.
ā€œUnless it’s Swan Lake, I don’t do much dancing.ā€ She stares at him with intent. ā€œBut there are other things we can do, Maximoff.ā€
She walks off and Pietro quickly follows.
You locked eyes with the love of your life and smiled. She smiled right back. A love story that was just turning to its next chapter. And you were looking forward to writing it with your wife and two boys.
You and Wanda walked off arm in arm, ready to face the future as married mates. Nothing was gonna surprise the two of you anymore.
And then you came face to face with Pietro and Natasha making out in the nearby bushes. The two of them were practically trying to rip their outfits off.
ā€œBratok?!ā€ Wanda exclaimed, trying to hide her shock.
ā€œHey sisā€ he said slightly embarrassed. Natasha simply purred, her wolf tail swishing.
ā€œAlways knew you were a tail chaser, Pietā€ you chuckle before guiding your bride back to the reception and your kids.
Tomorrow you and your family would hit the road for a family vacation. Your family. Your wife, your boys, it sounded just right.
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suguwu Ā· 1 year ago
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MOON EATER I TWO
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"But truly, Master Diluc—why am I here?"
"I would wed you," he says, flexing his hands in his lap. "If you are amenable to it."
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minors and ageless blogs do not interact.
masterlist
pairing: diluc ragnvindr x f!reader
notes: hopefully this posts bc dividers are giving me trouble but mostly i hope you enjoy!
content: marriage of convenience, politics, some manipulation, pining, jealousy, some blood and gore.
wc: 5k
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You take the Ragnvindr name on a mild autumn day.
It’s a simple thing, Diluc thinks. Two signatures side by side, yours jagged like a cliff face, his flowing like a peaceful river current. He watches the ink sink into the paper as Jean clears her throat.
He glances up at his old friend; her eyes—the gentle blue of the early morning sky—soften. He stiffens. Jean has always worn her heart on her sleeve and now, the smile that curves her lips is a dandelion thing, delicate and fleeting. There’s something melancholic to it.
ā€œCongratulations,ā€ she says, quiet but firm. ā€œMay the breeze bring its blessings to your union.ā€
The wind curls in through the window, catching against the marriage certificate, the edges of it fluttering in the sudden puff of air. The breeze swirls through the office, tugging at your simple dress with cheeky fingers, sending your earrings dancing. You laugh, free and delighted, and Diluc’s chest tightens.Ā 
(Your little sailboat spun around in the current, small enough that the water churned around it like a storm-struck sea.Ā 
ā€œI’ll get it!ā€ Diluc called as he rolled his pant legs up, exposing skin as pale as the moon, dusted with freckles, cinnamon on top of cream. He waded into the river before you could protest. The water was cold, eddying around his legs, and he grunted as he reached for the toy. It drifted away from his grasping fingertips like a crystalfly rising to the sky, just out of reach. He reached out further, stretching as far as he could over the deeper water, where the current grew teeth. He grit his teeth as the boat bobbed along, buffeted on all sides by the rippling water. He stretched further, rising to the tip of his toes, a stubborn ballerina.
ā€œBe careful!ā€ Kaeya called from the shore.
Diluc startled. He tumbled into the deeper water, yelping as it swallowed him in its frostbitten mouth. The current spun around him, sinking its teeth into him, but he sputtered his way to the surface. It tugged at him as he treaded water. Diluc spat his soaked hair out of his mouth as he looked for your boat, but it was long gone.
Kaeya and you met him in the shallows. Diluc stood, grimacing as his clothes suckered to him, still heavy with cold water.Ā 
ā€œAre you okay?ā€ Kaeya asked.
ā€œYeah,ā€ Diluc said. He looked at you. ā€œSorry about your boat.ā€Ā 
You stared at him for a moment, eyes wide. Then you laughed, loud and echoing, as bright as the sunlight reflecting off the river’s surface. Diluc’s heart fluttered against his ribcage.Ā 
ā€œYou’re an idiot,ā€ you said, but there was almost something fond in your voice. ā€œI’m glad you’re okay.ā€Ā 
Diluc beamed.)
The wind dances around Jean’s office for a moment more. It undulates around you, ruffling the pristine cecilia pinned sweetly into your hair, and your laugh billows out like campfire smoke once more. The breeze plays over Diluc’s neck, tugging at the crimson strands of his hair, making them dance like flames.Ā 
Finally, the breeze dies out, but only after it makes the marriage certificate flutter once more.
ā€œWell, well,ā€ Lisa purrs from her place beside Jean, gazing out from beneath the rim of her hat with a bemused expression. ā€œA blessed union indeed.ā€Ā 
ā€œYou think so?ā€ you ask, and you’re back to that rosebud smile.
Lisa nods. ā€œOf course, cutie. With that timing? There’s hardly anything else it could be.ā€
Diluc meets Jean’s wide eyes. He thinks of fish mouthing along the top of a pond, but the expression is quickly gone as Jean gathers herself.Ā 
ā€œWell,ā€ you say, glancing over to Diluc, your eyes shining, reflecting his own image back at him. Your ability to be unreadable has plagued Diluc over these last few months; he supposes he shouldn’t be surprised you give nothing away now. ā€œAn auspicious start to our union, husband.ā€Ā 
ā€œYes,ā€ he says, unable to conjure up any other words, too caught on being called husband by you.Ā 
Lisa chuckles before reaching out for the certificate. She signs as a witness with a flourish, even though her handwriting is atrocious. Jean takes it next; her signature is looping and beautiful, curling like sweet pea tendrils.
You tilt your head. ā€œIs there anything else needed?ā€ you ask Jean.Ā 
ā€œNo,ā€ she says, handing off the certificate to the Knight’s clerk that has just appeared at the ring of a bell. ā€œYou’re legally married. Congratulations again.ā€
ā€œThank you,ā€ you say. ā€œYou’ll be at the party, yes?ā€
Jean nods.
ā€œWonderful,ā€ you say. ā€œWe’ll see you then.ā€
ā€œActually,ā€ Jean says, ā€œI was hoping to speak to Sir Diluc for a moment.ā€
He blinks.
ā€œOf course,ā€ you say, before murmuring a goodbye. You sweep out of the office, brushing past Diluc as you do. He breathes in and the scent of you fills his lungs, with the sweet addition of the cecilia’s pollen. The door closes behind you.Ā 
ā€œWhat is it?ā€ he asks Jean roughly.Ā 
ā€œSirā€”ā€
ā€œI’m not a knight anymore.ā€
She flushes, the apples of her cheeks pinkening like ripening strawberries. The air goes ozone heavy, the breath before a lightning strike. He glances at Lisa; she smiles sweetly despite the static electricity crackling around her. Jean lays a hand on her shoulder.Ā 
ā€œOf course,ā€ Jean says to Diluc as the ozone starts to fade away. ā€œMy apologies, Master Diluc.ā€
ā€œWhat is it?ā€
She coughs. ā€œI understand that you don’t like the Knights, Master Diluc, but it’s important that they’re present at your wedding celebration.ā€
He stiffens. ā€œWhy?ā€
ā€œThere will be several diplomats attending, including representatives of the Qixing,ā€ she says, looking mournful. ā€œThe Knights will need to be present as a protective measure.ā€
ā€œMy staff areā€”ā€
ā€œNot Knights of Favonius,ā€ Lisa says. Diluc frowns at her; she flashes her teeth in a lazy smile. ā€œIt needs to be the Ordo, not civilians.ā€Ā 
ā€œWon’t the Qixing have their own people?ā€
ā€œYes. But the Knights will need to provide an escort anyway.ā€Ā 
Diluc grits his teeth.
ā€œMaster Diluc,ā€ Jean says, far too gently. ā€œIt is only for a night.ā€
He bristles. ā€œOne night is one too many,ā€ he snaps.Ā 
Jean’s face hardens. ā€œThis is a matter of national importance. It is not a suggestion, Master Diluc. There will be Knights present as security at your wedding celebration.ā€Ā 
(The blood on his face was still hot.Ā 
It dripped down his cheek, but Diluc paid it no mind. He reached out with a shaking hand to his father, his body propped up against the carriage like a broken puppet. The gash on his father’s side was deep enough that Diluc could see the white glint of bone, like teeth in the crimson mouth of the wound.Ā 
ā€œFather,ā€ he gasped.Ā 
His father grabbed his wrist as he reached for the wound to put pressure on it. ā€œDiluc,ā€ he wheezed, his rich voice breaking over the syllables. ā€œPlease.ā€
Something opened in Diluc’s chest; it poured, and poured, and poured.
He knew what he had to do.)
Leather creaks as he clenches his hand into a fist at his side. Jean’s eyes dart to it, but she stays firm, her lips set into a thin line. In this moment, he realizes she looks every inch the Grand Master, with her head held high and her blue eyes burning like a comet through the sky.
ā€œI’m sorry, Master Diluc,ā€ she says. ā€œWe cannot budge on this. And your wife has agreed.ā€
ā€œFine,ā€ he snaps. ā€œBut only for the celebration, not before or after.ā€Ā 
Lisa opens her mouth, but Jean holds out a staying hand. ā€œVery well,ā€ she acquiesces.
ā€œIs that all?ā€
ā€œYes, Master Diluc,ā€ Jean says, her voice soft and a little bit sad. ā€œThat’s all.ā€
He strides from the room without a goodbye. The door clicks shut behind him, the guard outside it coming to attention. Diluc pays no attention to him, heading towards the exit.
He’s almost to it when he realizes there’s no sign of you. He halts, glancing around with a furrowed brow. There’s not even a hint of your scent to guide his way. He closes his eyes for a second, resigned to his fate, but before he can ask the guard if he’s seen where you went—
ā€œMy, my,ā€ a velvet voice purrs out. ā€œLost your new wife already, Master Diluc? Impressive.ā€
He sighs. He turns around to face Kaeya, meeting his pale lilac eye with a scowl. The other man smiles, an indolent curve of his lips, a fat cat lounging in a golden patch of sunlight.Ā 
ā€œDon’t.ā€
ā€œDon’t what?ā€ Kaeya asks, raising a perfect brow. ā€œI’ve barely said anything.ā€
ā€œGood. Let’s keep it that way.ā€Ā 
Kaeya laughs. ā€œI’ll keep your wife’s message to myself, then, shall I?ā€
ā€œDidn’t know you were a delivery boy now.ā€
Kaeya’s eye crinkles with his smile. ā€œI made an exception for her.ā€Ā 
Diluc takes a deep breath and ignores that. ā€œWhat’s the message?ā€
ā€œOh? I can talk now?ā€
ā€œSir Kaeya.ā€Ā 
The knight hums. ā€œShe’s at Good Hunter. She says you should join her for lunch. And surely you won’t keep a lady waiting, will you?ā€
Diluc turns on his heel. Behind him, Kaeya laughs, an airy puff of sound.Ā 
ā€œYou’re welcome!ā€Ā 
Diluc ignores him and makes his way to Good Hunter. Most of the townspeople leave him be as he strides through town. He takes the long way around, trying to give himself time to shake off the remnants of his conversation with Jean. He comes to Good Hunter from the opposite side, and he catches sight of you from the terrace above the little plaza. You’re chatting with Sara, a small smile on your lips. He pauses to watch you for a moment. The afternoon sun is casting shadows around the plaza, but it haloes you, burnishes you gold.
Sara laughs, barely audible over the hubbub of the plaza. Your smile quirks at the edges, picking up on her joy, and Diluc thinks of how the moon has no light of its own, that it only reflects what it’s given.
As if sensing his gaze, you glance towards him. You wave, elegant and sure, and Diluc nods back to you before he realizes that the two Fatui stationed just beside the terrace are waving back. He grits his teeth. He stalks past them on his way to the stairs; they quail before the scowl he knows is carved into his face.
By the time he reaches you and Sara, though, he’s managed to calm himself. He comes up beside you and tries to ignore the soft heat of you.Ā 
ā€œMaster Diluc,ā€ Sara says. ā€œWe were just discussing some menu possibilities for your reception.ā€Ā 
Diluc raises a brow. ā€œI thought Adelinde was taking care of the preparations?ā€
ā€œShe is,ā€ you say smoothly. ā€œI told her I’d bring some of her notes to Sara when we went into town today.ā€
ā€œI see.ā€
ā€œIs that all you need?ā€ Sara asks.
ā€œActually, I was thinking we would get lunch here. What do you think?ā€ you ask, turning to Diluc with a little smile.
ā€œI had intended to go to the Angel’s Share to check in,ā€ he says.Ā 
ā€œOh,ā€ you say. ā€œLet’s get something to bring there, then.ā€Ā 
Diluc sighs. He wonders briefly if Adelinde had put you up to this—she’s always vexed by how often he forgets to eat while he is working.Ā 
ā€œVery well,ā€ he says. ā€œSara, we’ll have an order to go.ā€
She nods and takes your order. As she steps away to prepare it, you and Diluc step to the side as well. The two of you are quiet for a few long moments. Diluc tugs on his glove, fixing the way it sits on his wrist, the buttery leather sliding back into place.Ā 
ā€œI had hoped to return to the winery by midafternoon,ā€ you say. ā€œWill your work be finished by then?ā€
ā€œYou don’t need to wait for me,ā€ he says. ā€œI can take a horse if you wish to take the carriage.ā€Ā 
You blink slowly, a gentle sweep of your eyelashes. They catch the sunlight, the fan of them casting sweet shadows on the top of your cheeks. ā€œI don’t mind waiting for you.ā€
ā€œOh.ā€
You smile, a slow bloom of your lips. ā€œBesides,ā€ you say, ā€œI should think it would be interesting to see exactly how Master Diluc runs his tavern. I’ve heard you bartend. And that you’re good at it.ā€
He can feel the tips of his ears start to heat. ā€œI do bartend on occasion.ā€
ā€œYou’ll have to make me a drink sometime.ā€
ā€œAs you wish.ā€Ā 
Sara calls out for you then, her voice a sharp, bright chirp that cuts through all the plaza’s noise. You hum, stepping back to the counter. Diluc follows you quickly, pulling a pouch of mora free from his belt. He reaches around you to hand it to Sara.
ā€œThank you, Master Diluc,ā€ she says, sounding amused. She starts to count out his change as you whip around to look at him.Ā 
ā€œI could have paid,ā€ you say, nose scrunching up the smallest bit.
(ā€œDon’t do that,ā€ you said, nose scrunched up into something crinkled and ugly as you batted Diluc’s hand away.Ā 
ā€œSorry,ā€ he said softly, drooping like a wilting flower. You glanced up at him. Sighed.Ā 
ā€œJust sit,ā€ you said. ā€œYou can watch.ā€
ā€œOkay!ā€Ā 
Diluc plopped down beside you. You were pressed shoulder to shoulder; you were a long line of cool skin against the pyro-enhanced heat of him. He leaned into you to better see what you were doing and grinned when you didn’t pull away.)
ā€œI’m aware.ā€
You examine him for a moment before shaking your head. ā€œThank you,ā€ you say to him. ā€œI suppose.ā€Ā 
Diluc accepts his change from Sara, leaving a hefty tip, and then hoists the basket of packaged food onto one arm. Tentatively, he offers the other to you; you tuck your hand into the crook of his elbow without hesitation. He catches himself before he makes a sound.
The walk to Angel’s Share is quiet. You return any greetings you receive, but you don’t stop, allowing Diluc to continue leading you. He’s deeply aware of your hand on him; it feels as if you’ve sunk beneath his skin, singed a mark into his bones. You give a little squeeze that makes his breath stutter. He walks a little faster, but you don’t seem to notice, matching his pace unconsciously.Ā 
ā€œMorning, sir,ā€ Charles says as the two of you slip inside Angel’s Share. He pauses for a moment as he takes in your presence. ā€œMiss.ā€
ā€œGood morning, Charles,ā€ Diluc says as he locks the door behind him; he’s long learned that people will try to come in no matter the posted hours. ā€œHow is set up going?ā€
ā€œBusiness as usual, sir. Is there something I can do for you? Wasn’t expecting you today. Didn’t realize you were in town.ā€
Diluc clears his throat. ā€œWe had an errand to run,ā€ he says. ā€œI thought I’d take a look at the books while I was here. I’ll—we’ll be in the office.ā€
ā€œā€˜Course.ā€
Diluc starts to head towards the office. You follow him after a moment, calling out a quiet goodbye to Charles. The door to the office sticks a bit; as always, Diluc makes a note to get it fixed. You watch him force it open with a little smile on your lips, but you don’t say a word. He watches you take in the small, meticulously organized office before you cross the threshold and settle in one of the chairs before the desk. Somehow, you make it look like a throne.Ā 
He sets the basket of food on the desk, careful to avoid the few papers lying on it. ā€œI’ll get some utensils,ā€ he says.Ā 
You nod. He stands there for a moment, unsure if he should say anything else, but you’re starting to unpack the basket, carefully moving the papers to the side. He steps out of the room and blows out a quiet breath. It takes him a moment to realize that he’s rubbing at the crook of his elbow, where your hand had rested.Ā 
When he comes back to the office, you’re settled in the chair, the basket fully unpacked. You’re pursuing one of the books that had been stacked in the corner, your brow crinkled as you read. You glance up as he steps through the door and smile. It’s that rosebud smile of yours. Something in Diluc aches, deep in his bones.
(Kaeya’s smile was tentative as you tugged him along, your fingers laced together. Diluc frowned at the sight, running up to meet the two of you.Ā 
ā€œWhere have you been?ā€ he demanded.
ā€œWe just went to the sandbearer tree, Luc,ā€ Kaeya said, his violet eye wide.
ā€œYou didn’t wait for me!ā€
ā€œYou were taking too long,ā€ you said, raising an eyebrow. ā€œAnd we’re back now, aren’t we?ā€
ā€œI guess,ā€ Diluc said, kicking at the dirt of the courtyard. ā€œDid you climb it?ā€
ā€œYeah!ā€ Kaeya chirped. ā€œWe went really high, too!ā€
Diluc frowned, his brow thunderous. ā€œI wanted to climb too.ā€
ā€œOkay,ā€ you said. ā€œLet’s go, then.ā€
Diluc perked up. ā€œReally?ā€
ā€œUh-huh.ā€Ā 
ā€œGreat!ā€Ā 
You smiled at him, as sharp and golden as the amber mountains of Liyue, and his heart pounded.)
You tilt your head in question. Diluc shakes himself out of the cobwebs of memory and steps closer.
ā€œShall we eat?ā€ you ask.
ā€œYes,ā€ he says, rougher than he means to be. ā€œLet’s.ā€
You smile, flower petals yet unfolded.
He wonders if he’ll ever see you smile for real again.
—
This is, Diluc decides, worse than any battle with the Abyss has ever been.Ā 
Your wedding reception is in full swing, the music rising to the winery’s rafters, carried by the light breeze winding through the open doors. Beyond them, the sunset is pouring across the horizon, dotted with bruised clouds that are limned with orange, a fiery kiss on a painter’s palette. The crowd spills out into the vineyards like wine, pooling together in small groups. Several people are well on their way to drunk, and Diluc watches them with a frown, glad the harvest is already done.Ā 
The Knights, of course, are doing nothing. They’re stationed around the vineyard and the winery itself, but most of them are watching the festivities with wistful expressions on their faces. They’d be useless if they were needed. Diluc’s staff, on the other hand, are casually moving through the crowds, light on their feet, their eyes sharp. Someone shifts in the shadows at the top of the stairs; Diluc doesn’t need to look to know it’s Adelinde surveying the winery from above with shrewd jade eyes.Ā 
(ā€œYoung Master Diluc,ā€ Adelinde said. ā€œYoung Master Kaeya.ā€
Both boys flinched. When they glanced up at her, she was watching with sharp, verdant eyes, the green of them gone to seaglass in the low light, washed out into something softer.Ā 
Diluc and Kaeya exchanged a glance. They’d been careful when they sneaked out the balcony door, tired of the never-ending parade of guests, desperate to loosen their starched cuffs. No one was looking their way.
Somehow, Adelinde always knew.Ā 
ā€œHi Adelinde,ā€ Diluc chirped. ā€œWe were just getting some air!ā€
ā€œRight,ā€ Kaeya said, after Diluc jabbed him with an elbow. ā€œIt was…stuffy in thereā€¦ā€
Adelinde stared down at them before her stern face softened. ā€œYou shouldn’t be out here alone,ā€ she chided.Ā 
ā€œPlease, Addy?ā€Ā 
She sighed.Ā 
ā€œAlright,ā€ she said. ā€œBut I’m staying out with you.ā€
ā€œOkay!ā€
She melted into the shadows. In time, Diluc forgot she was even there at all.)
Adelinde shifts again, stepping further back in the shadows, her eyes gleaming in the candlelight. Diluc watches, but she moves again, and she’s gone. Even with his discerning eye, if she’s there, he can’t tell.Ā 
He refocuses when you touch his hand. It’s a ghost of a thing, a gentle brush of your fingers over the back of his glove, but it scorches through him like a forest fire. He glances at you.
You’re resplendent in the candlelight, your skin aglow and your painted lips curving like the crescent moon. There are cecilias pinned in your hair again, the cream petals dainty as they catch in the breeze, revealing golden stamen tucked between the petals like treasure. He’s sure that if he touched one silken petal, it would bruise under his fingertips.Ā 
You wear them like they’re made for you, nature’s finest crown. The breeze ruffles the delicate petals once more, loosening a flower. The bloom threatens to fall, a collapsing ballerina, and Diluc reaches out without thought, pressing it back into place with careful fingers.Ā 
ā€œAh, the sweetness of youth,ā€ someone says, and Diluc jerks back as if burned.Ā 
It’s a Liyuen who carries himself with the quiet confidence of someone with influence. He’s older, his hair gone gray as riverstones, but he stands tall. He speaks in Liyuen for a brief moment, the phrase just familiar enough that Diluc can recognize it as a formal greeting.Ā 
You smile, your eyes crinkling with it.Ā 
ā€œZhiming,ā€ you say, bowing slightly. ā€œThank you for coming. I know the journey is long.ā€
The older man inclines his head. ā€œNot nearly long enough to keep me away from something as important as this.ā€
You laugh, covering your mouth behind your hand. Your wedding ring flashes in the candlelight. ā€œYou’re too kind,ā€ you say. ā€œDiluc, may I introduce Zhiming of the Liyue Qixing? We work together on trade policy.ā€Ā 
Diluc gathers himself at the mention of the Qixing, though he’s very aware that the tips of his ears must be bright red. ā€œA pleasure,ā€ he says, nodding to the older man. ā€œDiluc Ragnvindr. The Dawn Winery is very grateful for our continued partnership with the trading unions.ā€Ā 
The other man eyes him for a moment, his deep brown eyes keen. A hawk’s assessment. Diluc meets his gaze.Ā 
ā€œAs are we,ā€ Zhiming finally says. ā€œMay it continue for many years.ā€
Diluc nods.
ā€œAre you staying long?ā€ you ask lightly.
ā€œFor quite a few days,ā€ he says. ā€œThe Knights of Favonius have kindly agreed to provide me an escort around Mondstadt during my stay. Hilichurls have been gathering of late, apparently.ā€
Diluc can’t help his scoff.Ā 
Your smile ripples as Zhiming raises a brow. ā€œIs this news to you?ā€ he asks.
ā€œNo,ā€ Diluc says. ā€œMy staff works hard to keep the road to the winery clear of them.ā€
ā€œNot the Knights?ā€
ā€œThe Knights are inefficient at best,ā€ Diluc says. ā€œMy staff is much more capable.ā€
ā€œI see,ā€ Zhiming says thoughtfully. His gaze darts to you for a moment, a lightning strike glance. ā€œHow unfortunate.ā€Ā 
ā€œDiluc exaggerates,ā€ you say with a little laugh, resting your hand on Diluc’s forearm. You squeeze and he stiffens. ā€œHe simply prefers his staff, since they’re handpicked. Now please, Zhiming, go enjoy yourself. Yumei is here.ā€Ā 
A flush settles onto the older man’s cheeks, darkening them. ā€œOh. It would be rude to not say hello, wouldn’t it?ā€
ā€œVery,ā€ you say, a smile curling on your lips. Zhiming dips his head in farewell before disappearing into the crowd.
Your smile shifts as you turn to face Diluc. He finds that you’re once again unreadable, a still, serene pond with murky depths. You lean in close; his heart skips. He can smell the cecilias, can smell the delicate notes of your perfume, the salt of your skin. He catches himself before he sways forward to be even closer.Ā 
ā€œWhat was that about the Knights?ā€ you ask.
ā€œThe truth.ā€
ā€œI understand that you’re upsetā€”ā€
ā€œYou understand nothing.ā€
You take in a breath. Your eyes gleam in the candlelight, knife-edged. Your mouth tilts, lips thinning into a gash, and Diluc thinks of the way the crab broke beneath your hands all those years ago.
ā€œYour quarrel with the Knights is your own,ā€ you say softly. ā€œI will do nothing to involve myself in it. You may have your opinion of them, and have it freely, but you will never disparage them in front of a foreign guest. Do you understand me?ā€
Diluc sets his jaw.
ā€œIt is hard to have my opinion freely when you constrict it so.ā€Ā 
ā€œMaster Dilucā€”ā€
ā€œI have a right to speak my mind on the Knights and their poor performance.ā€
ā€œDo you truly have no thought for their image?ā€
ā€œIf the Knights are so concerned about their image, they should do something about it. Perhaps if they tried being competentā€”ā€
ā€œShut up,ā€ you bite out, and Diluc is so taken aback that he actually does.
You meet his stunned gaze steadily, and suddenly, he is back in the dark of a thick pine forest, the crunch of fresh snow under his boots, the endless, unyielding cold sinking its teeth into his very bones.
He thinks he sees why the Harbinger likes you so much, now. You must remind him of home.
ā€œI would ask that you think of the consequences of saying such a thing,ā€ you say, voice frostbitten, so different from your usual careful tones. ā€œOf what it means to dismiss our country’s protectors in front of a foreign agent.ā€
That gives Diluc pause.Ā  ā€œIā€”ā€
ā€œHadn’t thought that far? Yes, that much is clear to me.ā€
Someone coughs. Diluc glances up and the grin he sees makes him want to groan. Kaeya tilts his head, his navy hair flowing down his shoulder like the night sky chases the sunset. His smile sharpens into something sly.Ā 
ā€œOut of the honeymoon stage so soon? Such a shame,ā€ he says.
Diluc resists the urge to pinch the bridge of his nose. ā€œWhat do you want, Kaeya?ā€
Kaeya hums. In the candlelight, his lilac eye has darkened to the color of a fresh bruise. It glitters like frost. ā€œWhy, nothing from you, Master Diluc.ā€Ā 
Diluc frowns.
Kaeya turns to you. ā€œFrom the bride, however—a dance?ā€
He holds out a hand, his long fingers unfurling like petals. He bows too, ever-dramatic; a smile flutters to life on your lips.Ā Ā 
ā€œOf course, Sir Kaeya,ā€ you say, placing your hand in his. He curls his fingers around yours delicately and Diluc thinks of trailing ivy, how it swallows everything it touches.Ā 
He watches Kaeya lead you through the crowd, artfully spinning you through it, a thread through the needle’s eye. There aren’t many people dancing, but the musicians strike up a tune for the two of you. You murmur something to Kaeya; the man’s smile grows sharp, a fishhook grin. He whirls you away, your skirt flaring like a blossom. The two of you move like silk, rippling and flowing together. You laugh as Kaeya bends you back over his arm.Ā 
Diluc looks away.Ā 
—
It’s late by the time the reception begins to wind down, the silver moon a lonely mirror hanging high in the velvet sky. Diluc watches from the courtyard as people begin to drift home, laughing their way along the road to Springvale and the city, their joy spiraling to the sky like smoke.
You’re laughing too. He watches as you bid goodbye to a couple in Liyuen clothing, bowing slightly to them as they start down the path. The next group to leave is a group of merry-makers, their cheeks flushed with alcohol and their voices booming. He loses sight of you among them and takes a single step forward before he catches himself.Ā 
ā€œI hadn’t thought of you as a worrywart,ā€ Lisa says as she sweeps up beside him. He wrinkles his nose as the scent of the roses she’s wearing woven into her hair reaches him; they’re cloying, the aroma heavy in the air.Ā 
ā€œI’m not.ā€Ā 
She laughs. ā€œIf you say so.ā€Ā 
He stares out into the vineyard again. The group has moved on, a few laughs coming from them as one of Diluc’s workers corrals them away from the vines and back onto the path. You have apparently had enough, as you’re coming back up to the winery, tugging at your dress to keep the hem off the ground.
(ā€œMaybe we shouldn’t,ā€ Kaeya said as he eyed the path up the mountain. It had churned into a thick, oozing mud with the rain that trapped the three of you inside yesterday. ā€œIf we get dirtyā€”ā€
ā€œIt’s just clothing,ā€ you said, already hopping over the worst of the mud.
Diluc hesitated. His father would scold them if they got too dirty. But you glanced back at him, a challenge burning in your gaze, and he scrambled after you.)
ā€œHi,ā€ you say, a little bit breathless. ā€œIs that everyone?ā€
ā€œThere’s a few more stragglers inside, darling,ā€ Lisa says.
ā€œIncluding you?ā€ you ask, but you’re smiling.
Lisa’s lips quirk. ā€œIncluding me. Jean’s helping clean up.ā€
Diluc frowns. ā€œShe doesn’t need to do thatā€”ā€
ā€œOh, I know,ā€ Lisa says. ā€œBut you know how she gets. I’ll convince her in a few minutes. I just wanted to see Master Diluc carry his bride over the threshold.ā€Ā 
Diluc starts. He glances at Lisa and for the first time, he notices the tipsy flush in her cheeks, the way her bright green eyes are hazy, a morning mist over a lush valley. Her smile is a little bit wicked.Ā 
ā€œWe hadn’t intended toā€”ā€
ā€œOh?ā€ she says. ā€œBut it’s tradition, Master Diluc.ā€Ā 
ā€œWe’ve hardly been traditional,ā€ you say wryly. ā€œStop trying to get a rise out of him, Lisa.ā€Ā 
The mage pouts. ā€œYou’re no fun.ā€
You smile serenely. ā€œSo you say.ā€Ā 
ā€œI suppose I’ll go get Jean,ā€ she says, ā€œbefore she starts washing dishes.ā€
She sweeps off without another word. The scent of roses lingers behind her, sweetening the air. You sigh. ā€œSorry,ā€ you tell Diluc.
ā€œIs that something you would want?ā€ he blurts out.Ā 
You blink. Light from inside slants golden through the windows; it highlights your eyes, makes them gleam. ā€œPardon me?ā€
ā€œBeing carried over the threshold,ā€ he says. There’s warmth rising in his cheeks and he can only hope that his blush isn’t as crimson as his hair. ā€œI can do that. If you want it.ā€Ā 
A smile unfurls on your lips. ā€œIt’s fine,ā€ you say. ā€œBut it was kind of you to offer.ā€Ā 
Diluc nods, tugging at the cuff of his glove.Ā 
You tilt your head, that same little smile on your lips, but you don’t say anything. Diluc glances away, taking in the way the crystalflies are fluttering through the vines, glowing softly. They’re flecked through the darkness like stars. When he glances back, you’ve gathered your dress and are making your way towards the doors to the winery. He flexes his hand and casts his gaze back to the vineyard.
ā€œDiluc,ā€ you call. ā€œAre you coming?ā€
He glances at you. You’re haloed by the light of the winery’s open door; it limns you with gold. Your face is hidden in a broad stroke of shadow, but Diluc thinks he sees the starlight gleam of your smile before you turn to step into the winery.Ā 
Diluc does the only thing he can.
He follows.
205 notes Ā· View notes
sk1bidi-n1k0-e4ts-people Ā· 2 years ago
Note
Oooooh!!! Tony with his toddler daughter! I bet she was a sassy little young lady, and super cute!
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Summary: tonys daughters toddler years
Warnings: cursing, Lil talk bout bio mother being an ass, tony being evil šŸ‘æ,
A/N: after I get this out I might not post for a few days due to the hurricane, oof, but I'll be back. Love yall!
+•°+*°•++•°+*°•++•°+*°•++•°+*°•+
it was mid (birth month) when tony got a knock on the door, it was currently 7 p.m, he didn't have guests, he had no plans for tonight, "Jarvis, who is it?"
"It appears that no one is there, only a small basket on the front porch sir" the ai announced to the billionaire, who got up and walked to the front door. Opened it, and saw the small basket with....a baby.
You were holding a envelope in your tiny hands, sleeping peacefully, tony bent down and took it out of your grasp and read the letter inside,
'Dear tony, I dont care what you do with her, just get her away from me! I cant so it anymore, shes only 2 weeks old, shes yours now.' His eyebrows scrunched up in confusion, along with the letter came your birth certificate, one thing he noticed was that the only name on it, was his.
He bent down once more to pick up the small newborn, raising you to his chest, cradling you in his arms. He looked around in search for anyone, closed the door and walked inside.
For a while he just stared at you, wondering how you could possibly be his, of course there was a huge possibility you could be the result of a one night stand, but he was still in shock. Your eyelids fluttered before you opened them fully, revealing large e/c orbs, looking up at your father, like he was the only thing that mattered in the world, and he looked at you the in same way.
He decided this was his chance to not be like his dad. He was going to keep you, and love and cherish you forever.
+•°+*°•++•°+*°•++•°+*°•+
You were now 3, your terrible 2s had come and gone, right now it was around 8:45 am, when you usually wake up naturally, but tony took this opportunity and decided to have a little fun with you... 😈
You were a very intelligent child, you clearly had more of your fathers genes, you looked like him, you were smart like him, you were surpassing the expectations of a 3 y/o to an extent, anyway back to tony and you, he quietly creeped to your bedroom to wake you up, (just wait..) you had already been waking up a little already, your dream slowly fading away, when you heard the door creaking you snapped back into reality, he had clearly done this before because of the fact he can make a 3 y/o jump up like that 🤣
You sat up in your small bed, eyes wide, knowing what was coming. You repeatedly shook your head no as fast as you could, hoping tony would understand your message, tony nodding his head yes instead, you squealed in fright, leaning back into your wall of pillows/stuffed animals, pulling your blanket up to your nose, hoping that looking scared would trick him into just giving you kisses instead. (3 years old and already guilt tripping)
he had come very close to the rail of the bed while you were doing this. Slowly he leaned over the rail and picked you up, put his hand on your stomach (see where this is going) this is when you broke, screaming, you tried to wiggle out of his grasp, to no avail. He had began tickling the life out of you, there was no getting out of this one, your tiny muscles working hard to try and get out of his grasp.
"No no no, your not getting out of this one"
"WHYYYAAHAHAHAH"
"Because i still have something left if stock for you." His smirk was evil, this whole sceam seemed evil to you, your heart pumping faster and faster. When he get a good grasp on you, he lifted your pajama shirt up, exposing your big belly. He lifted you up, and blew a giant raspberry on your belly, shaking his head to make it worse for you.
"NOOAAHAHAHHAHAH" Your screech was ear piercing, clawing at his hands holding you to him. When he stopped, he lifted his head up and pulled you toward his face. You squeezed your eyes shut as tight as possible, expecting the worst, tony chuckled at this.
"No more tickles sweetheart, just wanted to give you a kiss" he said kissing your forehead, you relaxed at this, trying to catch your breath.
+•°+*°•++•°+*°•++•°+*°•+
You had just gone to the park with your father, that consisted of tons of slides, lots of swings, a couple of wiggly bridges, all the good stuff, you and your father were very worn out from this, though tonys tired-ness being from chasing you and yours from being chased by tony, you were both exhausted. You thought since he was tired he wasn't all there, so you took your chance.
"Daddy!"
"Hm"
"What da hell?? You didn't-"
"Hold it right there missy, where did you learn that word?"
"Rhody" you said with a small smirk on your adorable little face šŸ¤—
"Oh my god" he said face palming and shaking his head, leaning on the kitchen counter.
+•°+*°•+
You both decided on a movie, (lion king 1994) tony laid down on his back, and you climbed onto him, laying on his chest, your head resting on his collarbone. Tony had one hand on your back, the other fiddling with the remote to put on the movie, you relaxed at the feeling of his warmth, listening to his heartbeat, so comforting.
Tony had lost track of time upon singing 'hacuna matana' with you (definitely spelled that wrong) it was past your nap time, and you were nodding off on his chest, you slowly felt your eyes fall, not having the strength to open them back up. You soon fell into a deep sleep, small snores coming from you, tony knew you would fall asleep at one point, you always cuddled with him when you were feeling tired. He also fell asleep not long after, your movie playing quietly in the background, it was also raining outside, creating a very comfortable environment for you two to fall asleep to.
A/N: im sorry I kept yall waiting for this one, but I'll be back fresh from my break soon enough my babies! Mwuh! ā¤ļø
*title is Toddler years*
Tags:
@animealways
@white-wolf-buckaroo
@yummyangy
@zebralover
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slifarianhawk Ā· 27 days ago
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Chapter 50: New Perspectives (Normal P.O.V)
I lay on the bed, my head lost in a haze. My body burning with exhaustion and strain. My virus flowing through me like a raging river trying to heal the after-effects of birthing my children.
I could hear the voices of those close to me. Gale and Jill were talking in the hall with hushed tones. I could hear Cryo Wolf talking with Nighthawk. Wolf was chewing out Nighthawk like a father would. But the closest sound to me was Albert, humming.
I couldn't tell what he was humming, but the sound was soothing. I heard a soft coo and a chuckle. Then I could hear them, my little ones. The soft, gentle breathing of newborns. I opened my eyes to a heart melting sight. Albert holding one of our children humming his shades on as if not to scare them.
I smiled, "What time is it Albert? Have I been out for a while?"
I saw a smile form at the edge of his lips, "Not at all, my precious lotus. The little ones finally got to sleep. I went ahead and filled out the paperwork, though I think you should use you B.S.A.A. contacts to get the official birth certificates. I used the names we discussed, though. You did an amazing job, Tabitha."
Wesker, more often than naught, was a man of few words and fewer emotions. Yet, in this moment, I saw a sparkle in his eyes that I hadn't seen since the nineties. He had a look of pure joy.
"Who are you holding?" I chuckled softly, pushing myself up to anyone sitting position.
"The girls are still getting checked over by the doctor. Tabitha, meet Erebus, our son. The firstborn of our triplets." Wesker said, handing me him.
The small child had Albert's blonde hair, and the moment I saw his eyes when he looked up at me, he had my original rich chocolate brown. The viruses didn't pass down. It was a bit of a shock, but deep down, i felt relieved.
"He is amazing, Wesk." I sighed, holding little Erebus close.
I felt my heart flutter, a rarity for me. After eight years of fucking hell, something while not originally in my plans felt right. A desire over two decades with a glimmer fruition finally with in my grasp. Even if my hands were sweaty and clammy.
"Hello, my sweet little Erebus, a lament my heart never had the chance to express. You don't know how long I waited to meet you." I whispered silently as I pressed my cracked lips against his forehead.
"My, my... someone has become poetic in their absence." Albert teased softly as he fills out a birth certificate.
"Hardly, I had to come up with different affirmations. Repeating the same thing to yourself will only make you stuck." I chuckled with the lightest tone of mirth in my voice, "but you are right, Albert. I'll contact someone in the B.S.A.A. and have him submit ones. Could you give me a moment, Wesk? We dont need my contact thinking you're over my shoulder."
I had a serious look on my face debating on what to tell O'Brain. I wondered if he had retired to write that novel he always wanted to. I felt it deep inside, the itch that had now been burning since Alex captured me. My mission... It must continue. Even if it meant losing everything in the end.
"Of course, my lotus, I'll go check on Evelyn and Eva. Do what you need to." Wesker said, walking from the room.
I waited for a few moments, and Cryo Wolf walked in, handing me a sat phone, "Here, Boss, I'm going to head out with Nighthawk. We need to head back to HQ, don't we? I know that look in your eyes. Your fire got doused in alcohol didn't it?" He asked his icy eyes, looking sharp.
"That's right, Wolf. I won't let the world fall, but I can't let this fade either." I said my voice melancholic and strained, "I'll find away. I always do."
With that, I dialed Clive. The ringing was like a droning pain in my heart. The tone pressing on my developing migraine. I felt pressure from all sides, I could not be caught by any side again. I had to play the spy for Wesker, I had to be the double agent for the B.S.A.A. and the world. I had to be the mother my children needed. Most importantly, I had to hold myself true and heal the scars. If I can't, then he couldn't either.
"O'Brian, what's your handle?" O'Brian asked, his voice held an edge.
"Pheonix reporting in, reborn from ashes." I spoke, making sure I couldn't hear or smell anyone, "mission back on rails."
I heard Clive gasp and trying to get himself together, "Tabitha, how?"
"It's me Clive, even if i fall, i come back... That's why you gave me the moniker Pheonix all those years ago. Your intel banks will be flowing soon. This Pheonix is guarding her nest. Three hatchling, their flames are bright, my friend." I spoke.
"The report, you were pregnant. You need documents for them." Clive sounded exasperated but relieved at the same time.
"Yes, I'll have archer send the information...put the last name as Redfield. My children dont deserve to be hunted for being their parents' offspring. Archer will be your contact point from now on. I'll be his. It'll look better coming from a soldier not seen in the hands of the enemy." I spoke, "Pass this to Chris and Claire for me."
I took a shuddering breath, "Be careful, but you've got a fire with you burning in the shadows. That flame won't be extinguished."
"Tabitha...No... Pheonix, you know you are walking a fine edge." Clive said a breath of shock in voice.
"A thin fragile edge, between evil and justice. A fractured path towards the golden hour from the blue hour. I know, Clive. But I need to believe that dawn will be bright and lovely." I sigh, "From now on and to the future, that's the way the barrel of my gun is aimed."
"Understood, agent Pheonix... you are relieved of duty." Clive spoke reluctance heavily laden in his voice.
"And to you, my friend, I say thank you." I hung up and shattered the phone.
I stood up, my muscles fully regenerated. The muscle atrophy from disuse a meager distant memory. I eventually everything shall fall. It's a grim mentality, but it was necessary from this point and on.
I was a failed Umbrella experiment at one point, a Pheonix at another point. Yet I knew with a cold and unforgiving certainty what I was now. I am a shadow of the woman I once was and the woman I could be. I walked a road that neither side wanted.
With a shuttering breath, i stood up. I looked to Cryo Wolf. I hand him the sat phone. He knew my resolve was firmed now. This was a new facet of me.
"Your daughters are being brought up soon. Eve Angeline and Evelyn, they look more like you." Wolf spoke.
"Well lets hope they got my best traits." I chuckled.
"You're set on this path, huh?" Wolf smirked.
"That's right, I'm fine being the bad guy. So long as the future is bright." I said, looking out the cracked window, "project fallen, begins now."
Hey, everyone, silfarianhawk here! Sorry for the long delay but after roughly 48 rewrites and months of irritation and road blocks, i posted this chapter and move on  to the epilogue. But don't lose interest, dearhearts, for resident evil: Fallen angel is beginning. Till the epilogue, my name is Silfarianhawk and I'm not so far away. 🪷
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skilliqcourse Ā· 1 year ago
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Boost your app-making skills in Ahmedabad with SkillIQ's Flutter training. Learn cross-platform development and create awesome apps with our expert-led courses.
For more information:- https://www.skilliq.co.in/courses/flutter-training-in-ahmedabad/
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mamayan Ā· 2 years ago
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So, I was looking the tag "Across the Spiderverse" on the tumblr when I see a request for "Miguel’s reaction would be if you asked him if he’s ever masturbated before?". It got me wondering, how would Tomura, Dabi (and whoever else you want to write) react to this kind of question? - Anon 🌲[English isn't my first language, sorry if I wrote it wrong]
That is a very good question Anon 🌲!
Tag List: @sharpcheddarcheese (for Spinnerā™„ļø)
Tomura, Dabi, and Spinner’s reaction to being asked if they’ve ever masturbated before!
Warning: Low risk, slight nsfw
Tomura Shigaraki: ā€œDo you masturbate?ā€
Best to ask this question in private, if you ask in front of a crowd or the League, he could become volatile.
Whether he has Father covering his face or not, he’ll turn red from the roots of his hair down to his toes.
Of course he’s masturbated, excessively even, nightly, and daily, and sometimes in the middle of gaming if he can do it single handedly.
He’s a pervert, but to ask him so directly to say that he is?
He will ask you right back to your face, ā€œDo you?ā€ because he wants to throw you off your game too.
If you become just as fluttered or more as him, he’ll feel better and possibly make fun of you to take the spot light off himself.
If you confidently claim that card, he’ll scoff and claim false bravado as well and own it too.
If you vehemently deny it, he could possibly react violently. Depends on who you are to him.
As his lover? He’ll lose it. You’ll be dragged into his lap and forced into his version of ā€œteachingā€ you how to touch yourself. Expect to be teased and edged endlessly. He’s downright filthy about it.
Dabi: ā€œDo you masturbate?ā€
Dabi’s answer depends less more on how you ask him.
Are you genuinely curious? He’ll look at you like you’re an idiot. ā€œOf course I do.ā€ He owns it shamelessly and without hesitation.
Are you’re trying to flirt? He may lie and pretend he’s never done it before, and even ask you to ā€œshow me how’s it done?ā€ A great way to get in his pants. 10/10
Are you being condescending and acting like you’re above him? He’s not a patient man and will absolutely drag you to his level very quickly. If you’re not someone he’s into, he’s violent. If you are someone he’s into, well, he doesn’t have a framed certificate of Professional Brat Tamer on his wall for nothing. Prepare to be humbled.
Are you asking out of jealousy or anger? Hoho, it can go one of two ways.
a). He’s into it and will one hundred percent show you why you should appreciate the respite he gives by getting himself off instead of using you. He’ll stop masturbating for a whole month just to prove a point.
b). If he takes it disrespectfully, please refer back to his Brat Tamer certification.
Are you asking with a pout/sadness? He’ll show you so quickly how much better you are than his hand right then and there. Also, refer back to point a).
And finally, the worst scenario, are you asking in disgust? Oh, please, give him a reason. He will take it. He is more than happy to show you what happens to those with a holier than thou attitude. You wanna sniff your nose up in disgust? He’ll give you something to feel disgusted about. Every inch of his disgusting self, he’s more than happy to provide. You’ll be humbled faster and more violently than if you were just acting like a brat. This is a step too far over his mental line of cute bratty and disrespectful little shit. Dabi has a thing for making whiny messes out of those who want to stick their nose up at him. He’s happy to comply and wreck you.
Spinner: ā€œDo you masturbateā€
Be nice, he’s just a sweet lizard with a penchant for violent destruction and sharp objects.
Embarrassed no matter how you ask it, once again, be nice.
He 100% does masturbate, albeit far less frequently than most think! He’s busy thinking about his ideals and goals with the League, so give him a break.
He’s going to ask and stutter why you want to know?!
If you outright say you’re attracted to him and are flirting, he’ll make an escape attempt. Check the sewers later.
If you tell him you’re just curious and he can tell you really are, he’ll mumble and curse at you for being nosy and weird. He’s still stuttering and fumbling around. His actions will answer for him.
If you tell him it’s cuz you’re trying to not feel weird about it yourself, like out right admitting to being shamed for it, he’ll become angry on your behalf! ā€œWho told you that it’s not normal?!ā€ Once again, outs himself immediately. Depending on how distressed you are, he may say ā€œYeah, doesn’t everyone?ā€ Awkwardly of course.
Bonus points if you get him to awkwardly deny it, and then tell him you wanna show him how to do it. He won’t even know how to breathe, let alone deny you if you’re bold enough. Have funā™„ļø
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ravenclawwitchc Ā· 6 months ago
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Golden Apple
Notes:
On a sweltering Christmas Day in Sydney, Ran and Conan celebrate his 'eighteenth' birthday - a date they chose together when he became Conan.
Between stolen ice cream bites and sunset kisses, they navigate their unique relationship away from judging eyes.
The sun beat down relentlessly. "It’s so hot," Ran murmured, fanning her flushed cheeks with Conan’s baseball cap, which she’d snatched from his head. Sweat ran down her face and back, and his too. Their equally disheveled states caught each other’s eyes, drawing small, sheepish smiles to their heat-flushed faces.
Conan’s fingers brushed her cheek, hesitantly, as if testing the waters. His gaze, obscured by the glint of his glasses, was hazy and charged, enough to make her chest tighten. Was he going to kiss her? Her eyes started to flutter closed—
And then he grinned, a boyish blush lighting his face, before darting across the street to the ice cream truck.
ā€œSuch a kid,ā€ Ran muttered under her breath, but the smile tugging at her lips refused to be hidden.
ā€œThat’s what dating someone younger is like,ā€ Sonoko said once, sprawling across Ran’s bed, her freshly painted red nails gleaming in the sunlight. She waved a hand lazily, poking an invisible hole in the air before mockingly poking Ran in the forehead. ā€œBut judging by his face, he’s definitely your type. Weird taste, though.ā€
Ran was silently thankful Sonoko hadn’t tried to moralize her relationship with a seventeen-year-old.Ā Almost eighteen, she reminded herself, marking the days with quiet determination.
Youth had its perks. She bit the tip of her ice cream cone, letting the melting mix of cream and chocolate coat her tongue. Beneath, a green scoop peeked out—mint? Conan didn’t hesitate to lean in and take a lick, casual as ever, like sharing cherry tomatoes in the kitchen. Red juice had once dripped from his hands, but his mouth had been up to much nimbler tasks than that since.
Today was not his real birthday, they knew it.
The drug didn’t work in neat numbers, but he’d seen Shinichi’s death certificate. When the time came to register Conan Edogawa’s identity, he’d chosen to share the date with her. It was the first time he’d known such pain and, in that pain, discovered the joy of forgiveness and rebirth.
December 25th. The birth of Christ. The day he and Ran decided to live on in this form, ending the lies and welcoming new love. How fitting.
He hadn’t expected her to hold the date with such devotion, almost like a believer.
How much difference was there between seventeen and eighteen? Especially when the soul inhabiting his youthful body was older than hers. He hadn’t been thrilled when she dragged him to the beach to celebrate. Eighteen felt monumental, a milestone worth fireworks. Not for him, but if her restraint during their more intimate moments was because of it... Well, he had his own ideas about celebrating.
The perfect moment would be under the covers, wrapped in darkness, her breath trembling as midnight crept closer. A kiss, warm and tender, on her skin—a tiny trespass, a crime in miniature.
But six kilometers of hiking from one beach to another? That hadn’t been on his agenda.
His gaze swept over the distant horizon, tracing the sea’s jelly-like shimmer before settling softly on her face. How could someone at twenty-seven still look so innocent, so portable? Or was she naĆÆve enough to think this would exhaust an eighteen-year-old’s boundless energy and thoughts?
The ice cream on her tongue, the sweat trembling on her lashes, the little sighs she made—Ah, apple.Ā He couldn’t resist pulling out his camera.
ā€œWhat are you doing?ā€ she laughed, shielding her face.
ā€œMemories, of course.ā€
She misunderstood, thinking he was admiring the scenery. She invited a passerby to take a photo of them. Leaning against the railing, hot as a branding iron, he felt the green branches tickling his back. It was itchy, laughably so, prompting him to share the feeling urgently with her.Ā If it hurts, we’ll hurt together,Ā she’d once said.
So this time, itĀ wasĀ a kiss.
Not rushed, not forceful—gentle and lingering, lips brushing, tasting salt. Worried she’d get shy, he looped a hand around her neck, a touch possessive but mostly just wanting to hold her close. Here, in the southern hemisphere, far from judgmental eyes and the fame of Beika, they could walk hand in hand, carefree in the warm afternoons. Logic, like the cases that used to bind him, had evaporated.
ā€œMerry Christmas,ā€ someone said, returning the camera. Ran managed a flustered but polite response, cheeks burning.
She hadn’t noticed the passerby had switched to video mode after snapping a few shots. The shimmering sea framed two figures as radiant as the sun, caught in profile.
Before she could feel embarrassed or angry, he tugged her along. ā€œThe view from the hill should be great. Let’s go there next!ā€
The bus back to the city required two transfers. The streets bustled with people of all colors—Asian, white, Black—and they blended in naturally, two drops of water in a sea.
ā€œHold my hand,ā€ she reminded him. ā€œIt’s crowded today.ā€
ā€œHoliday season,ā€ he replied with a knowing smile.
The bus was decked out in Christmas ribbons, the windows reflecting the twinkle of holiday lights. The warmth of strangers’ laughter filled the air, popping like bubbles. For once, they were invisible in a foreign land.
When they were noticed, it was only to receive a cheery ā€œMerry Christmasā€ from the driver. Ran, never stingy with her own cheer, returned the greeting, her voice sweet and lilting with a hint of her Japanese accent. It made Conan hold her tighter. A man in love sees rivals everywhere.
ā€œMan,ā€ he thought smugly, ā€œnotĀ boy.Ā Your man. Introduce me properly next time, won’t you?ā€
As the bus passed brightly lit shops, the largest Christmas tree in the southern hemisphere came into view, standing tall in the square. Warm December winds stirred its branches, dancing with twinkling lights. Christmas trees and summer breezes didn’t quite fit, but this place—this moment—was theirs: warm winds, a sun reluctant to set, and the heat radiating from a simple touch.
The streets, strung with lights and stars:
ā€œNot as fancy as London’s angels, but still beautiful, right?ā€
ā€œYes, yes. Ran-neechan’s always right.ā€
If theyĀ hadĀ gone to London, they could’ve huddled closer in the cold. But here, in her sundress, her laughter bright as the sun, her hair tousled by the wind—she was the picture he’d treasure forever. Southbound breezes would forever remind him of this unique traveling companion. Should he set this photo as his phone wallpaper? Frame it alongside the amusement park memories?
There was still time for a sunset picnic on the grass, watching it sink over the bridge and opera house. Then, dinner before the evening light show. Ran flipped through her notebook, marked with smiley faces and cute doodles.
After 10 PM, she’d simply drawn a heart.
ā€œWhat does that mean, Ran-neechan?ā€ he teased with wide, innocent eyes, playing dumb in that way only he could.
The "neechan", once scolded into retirement on a Christmas night long ago, had taken on new meaning. It was a cue now, for her to hush his mischief, his restless desires, with her lips—or something else entirely.
But not here, not now. ā€œToo many people!ā€ she scolded, trying to stay firm.
Of course, that didn’t stop him from stealing another kiss. Christmas magic excused everything—even fake birthdays and forbidden romances.
She tasted like apples—sweet, crisp, and eternal. His kiss lingered, promising more moments, more tomorrows.
ā€œWhy insist on celebrating Christmas in Sydney this year, Ran?ā€
ā€œTake a guess.ā€ She grinned mischievously as they boarded the plane, her tone as carefree as if she hadn’t meticulously planned every detail of their trip. Then she left him hanging, retreating behind her sleep mask to fend off his signature puppy-dog eyes—a trick that usually never failed him.
Was now a good time to ask? He traced her lower lip with his own, his tongue brushing lightly against her teeth as though the question had slipped out by accident. Yet the butterflies in his chest betrayed his careful nonchalance.
Her gaze softened, bright and tender, settling on his nose, then his lips. When she finally answered, her voice was a syrupy whisper, melting between their shared breaths:
ā€œBecause… the temperature here in December feels just like Tokyo in May. Happy birthday, Merry Christmas, Shinichi.ā€
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astral-athame Ā· 4 months ago
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( Let's pretend this was sent on the actual day for valentines - @drjxng ) There's a knock for delivery - a small bouquet of flowers, random but never missing a rose, since he wasn't sure still of her preference. There's also an envelope with a gift certificate to an all-inclusive spa place that was not limited to that, but also included a session for a manicure, pedicure and a massage. With the gift certificate was a separate note from Mikoto, written in a neat script: Happy valentine's day. Take a break and get ready by 7. Wear your best dress. - M
@drjxng
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Was it bad that she had been so caught up in writing (not even a song, at that, just writing) that it had skipped her mind entirely that it was Valentine's day?
The knock had initially been met with confusion, and when she opened the door to a delivery of roses, she felt, for a second, perplexed. That was, until it dawned on her as she took the bouquet into her arms- Valentine's Day. Of course. Even so, she hadn't actually expected to receive anything. The relationship with Mikoto wasn't a real one and he was under no obligation to treat the day as anything special. But she felt her heart flutter a bit just the same. She'd never been sent flowers on Valentine's Day, she'd always been single for the holiday. The gesture was sweet, romantic, and when she caught herself grinning like a school girl with a crush, she had to remind herself that none of it meant anything, really. It was all pretend. That was okay, though. She kind of liked pretending.
She'd have to use the gift certificate for the spa, take some time to herself to relax. She had the bad habit of pushing herself too far, not taking the time she needed to unwind, and she supposed this was as good a reason as any to finally offer herself the bit of pampering she maybe deserved. (Was it fair of her to think she was maybe deserving of it?)
By the time 7 came around, she felt rejuvenated. She felt good. But there was a bit of nervousness starting to bubble up, as well. She had done as instructed and put on her best dress- usually she preferred to wear black, but she'd recently bought a nice, red, dress that complimented her complexion and dark hair better than the same old black clothes did. It toed the line between sultry and classy- not overly revealing, but offering just enough skin to be eye catching. She'd carefully done up her makeup and her hair, as well, hoping to look presentable. But maybe he'd think it was too much. Or not enough. She didn't dress up like this often and she was starting to second guess herself a bit over it all. Why did she so badly want to impress him? Why did it matter so much to her that he would look at her and find her beautiful? For the hundredth time, she had to remind herself it was all an act. And yet...
She hadn't the time to reconsider her appearance, though. Mikoto was pretty precisely on time, as she could have expected, and when she answered the door she tried to do so with more confidence than she actually felt. She was a bit taller in her heels, but remained a decent bit shorter than him even so, having to look up a bit to meet his eyes. "Hi," She said simply, a slightly hesitant smile in place as she brushed her hair back behind her ear with her fingers. This shouldn't feel as much like a scene from some sappy romance movie as it did. She could feel her face flush just a bit, trying not to focus on just how handsome he looked. "Thank you for the flowers and the gift certificate. It was sweet of you," In fact, the flowers were in a vase behind her, just within his view. It hadn't been entirely intentional that they were in his line of sight, but she felt acutely aware of it now for some reason.
She wanted to reach out to touch him, to brush her fingers against his cheek, maybe even to lean up and kiss him, but she was wary of crossing lines, of acting too forward when there were no cameras, no need to play at romance. Maybe she just wanted to play at it for her own sake, to selfishly feel that kind of affection. She toyed with the idea, then let it slip. It would do her no good to get too heavily invested in a fantasy, no matter how pretty that fantasy seemed.
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fraoula1 Ā· 3 months ago
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š“šØš© 5 š…š®š­š®š«š¢š¬š­š¢šœ š’š¢ššž š‡š®š¬š­š„šžš¬ šŸšØš« š“šžšœš”š¢šžš¬ š¢š§ 2025
In today’s fast-paced tech world, side hustles can be a fantastic way for professionals to boost their skills and earn extra income. With advancements in artificial intelligence, remote working, and a growing need for tech solutions, 2025 is filled with exciting possibilities for tech enthusiasts.
This post dives into five promising side hustles, supported by data and trends. Techies can capitalize on their expertise and thrive in these areas.
1. Remote IT Support
With businesses shifting to hybrid work models, the demand for remote IT support has skyrocketed. According to a report from the International Data Corporation (IDC), the global IT services market is set to hit $1 trillion by 2025, hinting at tremendous opportunities in this field.
Techies with skills in troubleshooting can offer services to both businesses and individuals. The TechServe Alliance notes that the demand for IT support roles surged over 10% last year, making this a vibrant market.
Starting a remote IT support hustle is easy. Freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow techies to find clients quickly. Depending on the complexity of the service, they can earn between $25 and $150 per hour while enjoying the flexibility to work on their own schedule.
2. Cybersecurity Consulting
As cyber threats evolve, companies increasingly prioritize cybersecurity. A report from Cybersecurity Ventures predicts that costs from cybercrime could reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. This statistic underscores the growing need for cybersecurity professionals.
Techies with experience in cybersecurity can offer their services to businesses looking to protect sensitive data. A survey by Proofpoint found that 55% of organizations fended off phishing attacks, indicating a strong demand for seasoned professionals.
In this consulting niche, technology experts can earn between $100 and $500 per hour, based on their experience and project complexity. Earning certifications, like the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), can significantly boost credibility and income potential.
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3. Software Development and Mobile App Creation
As the world becomes more mobile-first, demand for software and app development is expected to rise. Statista reports that the global app economy may generate over $407.31 billion in revenue by 2026, presenting a lucrative chance for techies skilled in coding.
Developers can enter this space through freelancing or by launching their own projects. Tools like React Native and Flutter allow for efficient cross-platform application development, saving both time and resources.
Freelancers can charge between $50 and $200 per hour based on expertise and project scope. For those willing to turn a side hustle into a full business, the income from app sales and in-app purchases can be enormous.
4. Data Analysis and Visualization
Data remains one of the most valuable assets today, with analytics aiding decision-making. The global data analytics market might reach $300 billion by 2026, creating fertile ground for techies skilled in data analysis.
Freelance data analysts can help companies extract valuable insights from their data. Utilizing tools like Tableau, Power BI, and R can help create compelling visualizations, making their services even more attractive.
Data analysts typically charge between $40 and $150 per hour depending on analysis complexity. Mastering data storytelling enables techies to transform raw data into practical insights, positioning themselves as key assets for businesses.
5. E-Learning Course Creation
The rapid growth of online learning has made creating and selling e-learning courses a sought-after side hustle. The global e-learning market is anticipated to reach $375 billion by 2026, driven by rising demand for skill development.
Techies can harness their knowledge to develop courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable. Topics can range from programming languages to software tools and emerging technologies, such as AI and machine learning. Statista reported that 42% of online course creators are tech professionals, showing the market's strong bias toward technical education.
Successful courses can generate substantial passive income, sometimes yielding thousands of dollars. Since course creation has low overhead, techies can concentrate on producing high-quality content and devising effective marketing strategies.
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Unlocking New Opportunities in Tech
The side hustles mentioned offer exciting paths for tech-savvy individuals aiming to enhance their skills and income in 2025.
As technology keeps evolving, the need for skilled professionals in IT support, cybersecurity, software development, data analysis, and e-learning will continue to grow.
By leveraging their expertise and using the right platforms, techies can build rewarding side hustles that provide financial perks and opportunities for personal and career growth.
Whether solving challenging problems for clients, creating innovative apps, or imparting knowledge, the potential for side hustles in the tech sector is vast. The key is to find a niche that aligns with personal interests, engage in continuous learning, and embrace the entrepreneurial spirit in this dynamic environment.
In a landscape where technology is at the center of everyday life, techies hold a unique position to lead future innovations. Engaging in these side hustles will not only keep them relevant but also equip them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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