#is customer service a soft skill

[airgrace]

Diploma in Travel & Tourism Management

The Diploma in Travel & Tourism Management gives you the complete understanding about the functions of Airline Reservation, IATA World Geography, Itinerary Planning, Airport Ground Operation, Travel & Tourism, Amadeus and Galileo Global Distribution System (GDS)

The Diploma in Travel & Tourism Management is the course designed by the experts who are experienced in in handling the Airline Reservations, Holiday Packages, Visas Travel & Tourism, Fares and Air Ticketing and Global Distribution System.

Duration: 12 Months

What you will learn

After completing this course you will be able to:

Advise customers/passengers on their itinerary domestic/international

Promote services and facilities available to airline passengers during their travel

Planning the itinerary and co ordinating with the passenger through out the journey

The formalities and procedures at the domestic and international airports

Have good understanding about the holiday packages

Advise customers on passport and visa requirements, along with selling travel insurance

Knowledge on usage of Global Distribution System to make and maintain reservations and issue travel documents

Course Content

Grooming

English Communication Skills

IATA World Geography

IATA Global Indicators

Travel & Tourism

City & Airport Codes

Airport Handling

Destination Management

Well Known Tourist Places

Land Transport (Car/Train/Bus)

Air Transport (Flights – Commercial and Charter)

Sea Transport (Ferries and Cruises)

Electronic Miscellaneous Document (EMD-A & EMD-S)

Amadeus GDS

Galileo GDS

Personality Development

Computer Skills

MS Word & MS Excel

Typing Skills

Interview Skills

Who should attend

This course is recommended for:

Who wants associate with Airlines and Airport Ground Staff

Who wants to be a part of travel & tourism domain

Travel Agents

Airline Reservation Agents

Tour Operators

Qualification

Pursuing or completed 12th Standard

Under Graduate / Graduate

Also, learn about our Advance Diploma Course and Travel & Tourism Diploma

[sgrji]

The Top 10 Essential Office Skills for Success

In today’s dynamic and competitive business environment, having the right set of skills is crucial for professional success. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance in your current job, mastering these top 10 office skills can make a significant difference in your performance and employability. Communication Skills: Effective communication is the cornerstone of any…

[sanguineterrain]

Feel like I’m so basic but Jason Todd with a crush and him having zero social skills and just being super clumsy despite being highly competent when he’s in the field. Crush is like real sweet and kind maybe a service worker ✨

anon u are so true and real for this bc jason is definitely an unsocialized cat when he has a crush 💓

jason todd x gn!reader. shyish/anxious jason with a big fat crush. baker reader. annoying customer. the duality of jason todd. 1.6k words.

also i fully believe that silently leaving huge tips as a way to flirt is like. a wayne trait. 100% that family does that bc of bruce.

prompt lists are here! i reblog all fics to @sanguinelibrary

****

Business has been slow.

It's not like you expect your cafe to be packed to the rafters all day long, but you've had a grand total of four customers today. One of them only came in to ask where Starbucks was.

Frankly, you're not sure the cafe can afford to stay afloat for much longer. Gotham isn't known to preserve small businesses, and the conglomerates (cough, Wayne Enterprises) are taking over the world anyway.

So today is a reading day. You might even close early.

You're at a table in the back, so absorbed in Poirot's sleuthing that you don't hear the door open. It isn't until you turn the page and look up that you see your resident lurker waiting quietly at the display case. You flinch so hard that you spill iced tea on your jeans.

"Shit," you murmur, grabbing a wad of napkins and patting yourself dry.

Jason (as is written on his coffee cup) looks up from the pastries, teal eyes wide. You smile briefly at him. For such a big guy, his footsteps are astonishingly soft.

"Is everything okay?" he asks, voice rough like he doesn't speak much.

"Yeah, fine. You just startled me—I didn't hear you come in. Were you waiting long? Sorry about that."

"Oh. No, I wasn't. Sorry." He shifts weight between his feet. "You seemed pretty engrossed in your book. I didn't, uh, want to disturb you."

"Oh, hey, don't worry about that! It's literally my job to be here," you say, though you can't help but melt over how freaking sweet that is.

Jason visits you a minimum of twice a week. He's been coming for a couple of weeks. You know a whole three things about him: he's a university student, he pretty much only dresses in red or black, and he's unfairly cute.

At first, you were reasonably wary of him because it's Gotham, and he's so damn quiet. It's a little scary. You thought maybe he was an undercover spy casing the joint. Now you know he's just awkward.

"Slow day?" he asks.

"Slow year, more like. How are you? How was your exam?"

He blinks. "Exam?"

"Didn't you have an American lit exam last week?"

"Oh. Uh, yeah. Wow. Yes, I did. It was okay. Got an A."

"That's great! I knew you'd ace it."

His cheeks turn pink. Okay, you actually know four things about him: he blushes a lot.

You go to start the coffee machine. "Do you think you'll—"

"I-I have to go."

You watch, stunned, as he hurries out the door. That's when you notice the fifty dollar bill in your tip jar.

You don't know if you should bring up yesterday. Jason's back; that probably means everything's fine, right? You're not sure if you said something wrong, though. You've gone over the interaction a hundred times since and you can't figure out why he's so skittish around you.

"Hi. Hibiscus tea, please," he says, stoic as always.

You prepare his order, yesterday's interaction still fresh in your head. You should say something, shouldn't you? Or...

"Sorry about yesterday," Jason blurts, so fast you almost miss it. "Running out, I mean. I was, uh—I forgot something."

Well. Looks like he's going to bring it up for you.

"Oh, you don't have to apologize! If I said something wrong..."

Jason shakes his head fervently. "No, God no. You're perfect."

Your eyebrows shoot up. He turns red this time.

"I mean—not perf—well, you're amazing, don't get me wrong! Except, like, what is perfect, y'know? My brother has gotten into the habit of calling everything perfection like some kind of sitcom character. Alfred will make pie, and Dick'll go, "Alfie, that was perfection." And I feel like it's such an exaggeration—"

Jason's mouth snaps closed. He rubs his forehead.

"Um, I actually have chronic foot-in-mouth disease. It gets really, stupidly bad. Sorry."

You're trying hard not to giggle. You want to smother him in frosting and take a bite.

"You're really sweet, you know that?" you say.

"I'm really not," he says with a sigh.

"Not true. Can you do me a favor?"

"Anything."

You go into the kitchen and return with your latest experiment: matcha cream puffs.

"Do you mind trying these for me? You're not allergic to anything, are you?"

Jason's shoulders hunch. "Are you sure you want my opinion?"

"Of course I'm sure," you say happily. "I trust you."

"You trust me," he repeats quietly.

"Yup!"

Jason takes a puff and bites. He starts to nod.

"It's really good. You're really—all your creations are—yeah. It's good."

You squint. "No notes? Really?"

"They're perfection, as my brother would say."

Fuck, you like him so much.

"Have another one," you say, pushing the tray towards him.

"I shouldn't—"

"Wait! I'll pack you some!" you interrupt, flitting back to the kitchen to get a Tupperware.

Jason helplessly accepts the container of puffs you shove into his hands.

"Let me pay-" he tries to say, but you shake your head.

"Nope! I won't accept payment for these. Not from my favorite customer."

"Your favorite?"

"My favorite," you confirm, grinning.

"Oh." His ears turn pink as he walks to the door, cream puffs in hand. "Uh, right. Thanks. See you tomorrow."

"Jason? Don't you want your tea?"

"Shit. Yeah." He returns to the counter and takes his drink. This he insists on paying for, so you let him, because you do have rent to pay, after all.

"So nice to see you!" you add, because the stiffness in his gait is kind of throwing you off.

He just nods, slipping out the door as quietly as he came.

Today, Jason's in a red workout tank. You have to make the conscious effort to not ogle his arms.

"Hey, Jason!" you say cheerily.

"Hi," he says softly.

"The usual?" you ask, and he looks up in surprise.

"You know my order?"

You gently roll your eyes. "Of course I know your order, silly. Favorite customer, remember?"

"Oh." He looks away, brow furrowed. Then he turns to you and his expression smooths over. "Yes, please. Thanks."

"Sure. Give me one second? I just have to finish decorating some sugar cookies."

"Take your time," Jason says, then goes to skulk by the window.

The door is suddenly swung harder than necessary, thumping the glass.

"Hey!"

You look up from the cookies. A man in a suit is waving his phone impatiently.

"I ordered a dozen muffins. Where are they, huh?" he demands.

"Oh, right! Well, you called ten minutes ago, so they won't be ready till six, sir. Can I get you something while you wait?"

He scoffs and stomps to the counter. You almost back down, but you don't; that's exactly what these bullies want.

"This is exactly why no one eats at dinky cafes like yours. You can't even do this!" he fumes, shoving a finger in your face.

"Sir, like I said, the muffins are baking..."

"I know the city's health inspector personally," the man spits viciously. "One call, and I can—"

"Say one more word."

You blink as Jason is suddenly between you and the customer, stood at his full height. He's all muscle and broad shoulders, looming over the guy. You peek around him.

"What the fuck, man?" the angry customer squawks. "Move!"

"No, you move," Jason says, tone lethal. "Sit quietly at a table and wait for your muffins to bake. Then you can thank the nice baker for waiting on your sorry ass and you're not gonna come back. They have far more patience for entitled fucks than I do."

"Fuck you," the man spits.

Jason calmly closes the distance between them and whispers in his ear, hand like a vice around the jerk's shoulder. You watch as he turns pale, eyes growing wider.

"Sound good?" Jason asks pleasantly, all teeth. The man gapes at him.

Wow. Yeah. This is really doing something for you.

The oven dings. You go to retrieve the muffins, packing them as quickly as possible. You give him the box and the man nods.

"Thanks," he mumbles, then scurries out of the store.

Jason turns to you, and it's like looking at a completely different person.

"You okay?" he asks, posture stiff like he's still prepared for a fight.

You nod, a little dazed.

"Yeah. Wow. Jason, I... you didn't have to do that. I mean, thank you for doing it, but..."

"Hey, that guy was a jackass. And if you have trouble with him or anyone else, call me, okay?"

This side of him stuns you. If you didn't know better, you'd think he had this exchange regularly.

"Call you?" you ask, smiling. "How will I call you if I don't have your number?"

He freezes, eyes wide. "Oh. Uh. Um..."

You lean over, elbows on your counter. He watches you. You cup your hand around your mouth, pretending to divulge a secret.

"This is where you, the cute guy who frequents my struggling cafe, gives me your number."

"You think I'm cute?" he asks.

"Devastatingly so," you say, grinning.

He's quiet for a long moment. Your smile starts to dim.

"Did I read this wrong?" you ask. "If I came off too strong..."

"No!" he says a little too loud. Jason winces. "Sorry. No. I... you're... fuck, I'm not good at this. I don't even really drink tea or coffee, to be honest. I just come in to see you."

"You do?"

Jason sighs. "Yeah. Shit. That's creepy, isn't it?"

You laugh and he visibly softens.

"No, Jason," you say warmly. "It's sweet."

"So can I still ask you on a proper date? Not coffee."

You grin. "That would be perfection."

[izzystizzys]

“…I’m sorry, but I’m afraid I still don’t quite understand”, Fox says, for what must be the dozenth time that hour. His heartbeat pounds behind his eyes in an incessant drum of hurt, and his head aches with every breath like someone’s taken a rusty fork to the inside of his skull and raked his brain out. Fox’ eyes are beginning to burn the way they start doing around hour 80 of a shift, and he has to suppress the brief urge to check over his shoulder. Not even Stabby could come up with a ploy this contrived to make him sleep. Probably.

In front of him, General Grievous coughs awkwardly, long spindly durasteel limbs shivering with its force. “Certainly”, he vocalizes, in that deep, watery cadence. “For your glorious triumphs in battle, your awe-inspiring victory over me in close combat, and your undeniable warrior spirit, I accept you as my consort. I have proven my skills through the ritual capture, and thus, by Kaleesh custom, we are now wed, Commander Fox. I will honor you as my war-bride, and visit vengeance upon your enemies. I swear it to you.”

Expectantly, Grievous tilts his faceplate to the side, and Fox only just catches the suppression of the manic giggle that wants to escape him. Yeah, probably not Stabby - maybe a dying fever dream? Has the infected gash from that skirmish on the lower levels five rotations ago finally decided to end him? If so, it’s not fast enough for Fox’ tastes.

Here’s how it happened: Fox has no kriffing clue. All he knows is one moment an emergency alert tore him from precious Scream Closet time this morning, he went to rescue the Chancellor’s dumb ass again, and whoop, here he is on General Grievous’ ship with the war-criminal himself declaring them happily married. And eyeing him up and down like a piece of candy.

Why, Fox thinks, desperately, does this always have to happen to me?!

Chancellor’s still kidnapped, by the way. Fox has other priorities for the time being.

“I swear to aim my weapons in your service”, Grievous continues, when it becomes exceedingly clear Fox is not going to break out of his shocked stupor anytime soon. “I swear to aim true and strike with murderous intent, I swear to uphold the sacred bonds of our clans in the name of our union, I swear to raise a strong, bloodthirsty brood of warriors with-“

“Wait”, Fox interrupts, once his brain has caught up past the astromech dial-up sound it seems to be playing on repeat. “Uphold clan bonds? You murder your way through my brothers like a rabid nexu on spice on the regular!”

Grievous’ faceplate, which should be for all intents and purposes totally expressionless, does something that reminds Fox strangely of contrition. It has him gaping and shivering in discomfort, in any case. “A fact I regret, but acknowledge lies in my past before the fateful crossing of our paths. I am a warrior at soul, you must understand, my worthy mate.” Durasteel faceplates don’t turn soft. They don’t. And coughs don’t sound loving. They simply do not. “But I uphold the bonds of these sacred vows under Kaleesh law, that I swear to you, my beloved.”

“All I did was grapple you to the ground”, Fox says, mourningly. “Cody has kicked you in the head dozens of times and you’ve never tried to marry him.”

“He is not you, and his battle lacks the lustful vitality and love of violence of yours”, Grievous declares, and Fox really cannot tell whether the sound that erupts from him is a lovelorn sigh or a hacking death-gurgle. This cannot be his life.

Just then, a droid conveniently enters, putting a pause to all Fox’ sufferings. He’ll need to tell Thorn to research Kaleesh divorce proceedings. Or, better yet - he needs to blow up this whole karking ship including himself and destroy all evidence of this ever happening.

“Generals Kenobi and Skywalker awaiting in custody, Sir”, says the droid, nervously. “They are here to rescue Chancellor Palpatine, but we cut them off just out of the hangar bay.”

Internally, Fox rolls his eyes so hard it hurts his brain. “The Jedi can wait”, Grievous hacks out, and for once Fox agrees with him. Let the two dick around onboard, there’s bigger issues at hand.

“But Sir”, says the droid, all twitchy with an anxiety Fox eternally wonders who the kriff programmed into the damn things, “what if they try to escape and -“

A deep, growling noise erupts from deep within Grievous’ massive metal chest, amplifying Fox’ pounding headache by a thousandfold. “I have no time for this”, he snarls at the cowering droid. “Remove yourself from my and mine beloved’s sight.”

“Roger Roger”, the B2 squeaks, hesitantly, before adding on - “The Chancellor-“

Harrumphing petulantly, Grievous stomps one massive, clawed foot and makes what feels like the whole viewdeck shake. “I will twist his head off his body like a rotten fruit”, he declares. “That will get those pesky Jedi off my ship faster, and then we can continue saying our vows.” He pauses, thoughtfully, and then hooded eyes ringed by what must surely be rotten flesh fix on Fox inexorably. “It will be my wedding gift to you, beloved, an offering of peace to your brothers.”

Fox opens his mouth to protest, but quickly snaps it shut again when his husband already turns tail and storms off.

Huh. Maybe this marriage thing isn’t all bad.

[inou-ie]

Pairing: Jingliu x Ruan Mei

Warnings: alternate universe - historical, courtesan ruan mei, trans jingliu, cunnilingus, vaginal sex, , creampie, rough sex, breeding, multiple orgasms, overstimulation, fluff and smut, eventual smut

Author's notes: just reuploading my works from ao3 for my tumblr children!

men and minors dni

The first time Jingliu stepped into the brothel, her gaze was immediately ensnared by the sight of a captivating woman skillfully playing a string instrument. The courtesan’s porcelain complexion and cascading chestnut locks, adorned with turquoise accents, held Jingliu in rapt attention.

She had entered merely due to an invitation, yet found herself unexpectedly drawn to the allure of one particular courtesan. Despite her initial reluctance, Jingliu found herself drawn to the offer bestowed upon her as a sword master – the privilege to select any courtesan of her choosing.

Intent on departing without indulging in such luxuries, she couldn’t shake the impulse that stirred within her. Before she knew it, she was already having her way to a private chamber, her heart pounding with anticipation, compelled by an inexplicable pull towards the courtesan with chestnut-hued locks, whose allure had captivated her from the moment they first met.

“Good evening… I am Ruan Mei,” the courtesan introduced herself with a graceful bow, cradling her ruan tenderly in her arms.

“You may call me Jingliu,” she replied softly, settling into a seat opposite Ruan Mei with a quiet sigh, her gaze lingering on the enigmatic woman before her.

“Jingliu…” Ruan Mei echoed, her voice imbued with a delicate warmth as she endeavored to recall a distant memory. With a practiced yet strained smile, she gently set her instrument aside before selecting a bottle of wine, pouring a glass for Jingliu with practiced precision.

“A sword master, if I’m not mistaken?” Ruan Mei’s voice carried a soft lilt as she attempted to initiate small talk, following the prescribed protocol. “I’ve heard whispers of your prowess… from some of my patrons,” she murmured softly, nudging the glass towards Jingliu with care.

“You carry quite a reputation,” Ruan Mei added, her gaze fixed upon the tabletop rather than meeting her customer’s eyes, a subtle sign of deference ingrained in her demeanor.

“That is merely a title…” Jingliu responded with a respectful nod, noting Ruan Mei’s avoidance of eye contact as she accepted the glass of wine.

As Jingliu took a sip, she broached the delicate subject of their arrangement. “Sexual…” Her words hung in the air, causing Ruan Mei to visibly tense, her demeanor shifting uneasily. Noticing the discomfort, Jingliu decided not to mention it directly.

She gently tapped her finger on the table to capture Ruan Mei’s attention. “I’ve been informed that such services are not within your offerings, so there’s no need for concern… I’m not here for such matters,” she reassured, finishing the remainder of her wine in a single gulp.

Ruan Mei let out a relieved sigh, her shoulders relaxing as she reached for the wine bottle once more, intending to pour another glass for Jingliu. However, Jingliu halted her with a polite gesture.

“No need, I can pour for myself,” Jingliu stated calmly, taking the bottle from Ruan Mei’s grasp and positioning it within her reach, a silent gesture of self-sufficiency.

As Ruan Mei finally met Jingliu’s piercing crimson gaze, her own eyes widened imperceptibly at the sight of the formidable and striking woman before her. It was a rare occurrence for Ruan Mei to meet a customer’s gaze so directly, but she found herself captivated by the intensity of Jingliu’s eyes and the peculiarity of their interaction which was very different than the usual clients she encountered.

“Then… what can I do for you?” Ruan Mei inquired, her fingers instinctively seeking solace in the familiar embrace of her instrument.

“You were quite skilled at playing that instrument,” Jingliu remarked, her gaze softening as she met Ruan Mei’s eyes with a faint smile. “I’d like to witness your performance once more,” she requested, a glimmer of anticipation dancing in her eyes.

“Is that really all you’ll ask of me?” Ruan Mei’s voice trembled with hesitation, her mind flashing back to the deceptive tactics employed by previous patrons who feigned kindness and gentleness to manipulate her into engaging in sexual activities.

With a subtle nod, Jingliu reclined in her seat, pouring herself another glass of wine with deliberate movements. “Yes, that’s all,” she affirmed calmly, her demeanor exuding a sense of sincerity as she lifted the glass to her lips, taking a measured sip.

Ruan Mei paused for a moment to think before gracefully lifting her ruan into her arms, her movements were fluid and effortless, a testament to years of dedication and practice. With delicate precision, her slender fingers danced across the strings, coaxing forth a melody that seemed to weave through the air like an ethereal tapestry.

Each pluck of the strings resonated with a gentle yet haunting melody, filling the room with a sense of tranquility. Ruan Mei’s brow furrowed in concentration, her eyes closed in serene focus as she lost herself in the music she created.

Jingliu was mesmerized by the sight before her, finding herself entranced by the sheer beauty and gracefulness of Ruan Mei’s performance. The way her fingers moved across the strings with such finesse, the subtle tilt of her head as she leaned into each note, it was as if she embodied the very essence of elegance and poise.

Lost in the hypnotic rhythm of the music, Jingliu felt the tension melt away from her muscles, replaced by a profound sense of calm. It was a rare moment of respite amidst the chaos of her daily life, and for that, she was grateful.

As the final notes of the melody lingered in the air, Jingliu found herself reluctant to break the spell woven by Ruan Mei’s enchanting performance. With a soft sigh of contentment, she set her glass aside, her gaze lingering on the courtesan before her with a newfound sense of admiration and appreciation.

“That was… very beautiful,” Jingliu remarked softly, a faint smile gracing her lips as she savored the lingering echoes of Ruan Mei’s melody. The intensity of her gaze softened as she met Ruan Mei’s eyes, a silent exchange of appreciation passing between them.

“Thank you,” Ruan Mei responded softly, her fingers gently caressing the smooth surface of her ruan as she spoke. “I love playing this…” she murmured, a tender affection evident in her voice.

“I’ve only had the pleasure of hearing you play twice, but…” Jingliu’s voice trailed off, her movements fluid as she poured herself another glass of wine. “But I truly love it. The way you play is incredibly calming,” she admitted before taking another sip, her gaze lingering on Ruan Mei with genuine admiration.

Hearing Jingliu’s words, Ruan Mei couldn’t help but feel a flutter of warmth in her chest. It was the first time someone had complimented her playing in such a heartfelt manner, and she found herself drawn to Jingliu’s sincerity.

“I… love embroidery too,” Ruan Mei suddenly confessed, surprising both herself and Jingliu with her candid admission. There was something about the genuine connection she felt with Jingliu that emboldened her to share her other passions.

With a gentle smile, Jingliu nodded in understanding. “It seems you have interest for things that are… relaxing. Perhaps you could teach me embroidery next time,” she suggested, her expression serene as she settled back into her seat.

“Teach you…?” Ruan Mei’s voice carried a mix of surprise and curiosity as she edged closer to Jingliu, her eyes reflecting the newfound emotions stirring within her. The simple act of sharing her interests and receiving a positive response was a novel experience for Ruan Mei, one that filled her with a sense of warmth and connection she had never felt with anyone else before.

With a gentle nod, Jingliu met Ruan Mei’s gaze, her expression earnest and sincere. “Yes, if that is alright with you,” she affirmed, her chin resting delicately upon her palm.

Ruan Mei’s mind raced, searching for more aspects of herself to share with this unexpected confidante. “I like pastries as well…” she confessed softly, her eyes flickering with anticipation as she awaited Jingliu’s reaction.

Jingliu blinked in surprise at the revelation before letting out a small chuckle. “You do? Would you like me to bring you one when I visit you next time?” she offered, a genuine warmth infusing her words.

The delighted expression that spread across Ruan Mei’s face was a sight to behold. “You would?” she breathed, a hint of admiration shining in her eyes as she regarded Jingliu.

And so, the conversation flowed effortlessly between them, with Ruan Mei sharing more of her interests and ideas with each passing moment. From her love for traditional theater to her fascination with life sciences, she poured out her thoughts and passions to Jingliu, who listened with rapt attention.

For the first time in her life, Ruan Mei felt as though she was engaged in a genuine interaction, free from the constraints of obligation as a courtesan. She no longer felt the need to put on a facade for her customers; instead, she could simply be herself.

Meanwhile, Jingliu savored the sound of Ruan Mei’s voice, finding solace in the simplicity of their conversation. It was a welcome reprieve from the chaos of battle in her daily life as a sword master, a reminder of the beauty and humanity that existed beyond the confines of her sword.

“Would you come back?” Ruan Mei’s voice was soft, her fingers lightly grasping the fabric of Jingliu’s sleeve as she sought her attention before she departed.

“Of course, with desserts next time,” Jingliu replied with a gentle nod, her touch tender as she patted Ruan Mei’s hand reassuringly.

As Jingliu left the brothel, Ruan Mei couldn’t shake the sense of excitement that bubbled within her. It was yet another new sensation, unfamiliar yet exhilarating. The memory of their meaningful conversation lingered in her mind, each word exchanged between them a testament to the genuine connection they had shared.

For the first time in her life, Ruan Mei felt her heart race with anticipation, a flutter of hope stirring within her. Jingliu’s respectful demeanor and genuine interest in her had left a profound impact, filling a void that had long existed within her.

In that fleeting moment of interaction, Ruan Mei had experienced something she had been missing for so long—a true connection, untainted by the expectations of her profession. And for that, she felt a sense of gratitude and longing, eager for the next opportunity to converse with Jingliu once more.

As the days stretched into weeks, Ruan Mei found herself eagerly awaiting Jingliu’s return, her interactions with other customers now feeling mundane and exhausting in comparison. She longed for the comfort of their conversations, the genuine connection she had felt with the sword master.

Finally, after a month had passed, Jingliu reappeared at the brothel, her presence bringing a sense of relief and anticipation to Ruan Mei’s heart.

“Good evening…” Jingliu greeted with a faint smile, though the weariness in her eyes did not go unnoticed by Ruan Mei.

“Jingliu…” Ruan Mei murmured softly, her gaze drifting to the bandages adorning Jingliu’s arms and the patches on her face.

“Are you alright?” she inquired, edging closer to Jingliu in concern, her eyes scanning the extent of her injuries.

Jingliu simply nodded, not wanting to burden Ruan Mei with her troubles. With a gentle motion, she reached inside her clothing, retrieving a carefully wrapped dessert and presenting it to Ruan Mei with a small smile.

“As promised,” Jingliu mumbled, her voice tinged with exhaustion as she settled into her seat with a deep sigh, closing her eyes in weariness.

Ruan Mei followed Jingliu’s lead, settling into her seat across from her before gently cradling her ruan in her arms. “Shall I play for you?” she offered with a warm smile, hoping to offer some form of solace to the weary sword master.

“Mhm, it’s alright… eat your dessert first. Don’t worry, I made sure nothing is mixed in that,” Jingliu reassured, her tired eyes flickering with a hint of amusement as she watched Ruan Mei’s reaction.

With a nod of understanding, Ruan Mei accepted the dessert from Jingliu, carefully unwrapping it to reveal a slice of cake that looked almost too beautiful to eat. Its golden crust shimmered under the soft glow of the brothel’s lights, tempting her with its decadent aroma.

Ruan Mei’s eyes widened in surprise as she took in the sight before her. Unlike the drugged offerings she had received from previous clients, this dessert appeared to be pure and untainted. A sense of trust blossomed within her, a rare feeling she had not experienced in quite some time.

Tilting her head in curiosity, Ruan Mei examined the pastry before taking a small, tentative bite. The flavors exploded on her palate, a symphony of sweetness and indulgence that filled her with a sense of warmth and contentment.

For the first time in a long while, Ruan Mei allowed herself to savor the simple pleasure of a delicious treat, grateful for the genuine kindness and consideration shown to her by Jingliu.

“It’s delicious…” Ruan Mei remarked between bites, her expression alight with pleasure as she savored the flavors of the pastry, while Jingliu watched with a soft smile.

“I’m glad…” Jingliu murmured, her fatigue momentarily forgotten as she took in the sight of Ruan Mei’s enjoyment.

Feeling a surge of affection, Ruan Mei scooted closer to Jingliu, extending her arm to offer a bite of the dessert to the sword master. Initially declining with a gentle shake of her head, Jingliu relented when Ruan Mei silently insisted, bringing the pastry to her lips.

With a small, reluctant smile, Jingliu took a small bite, the sweetness of the dessert mingling with the warmth of Ruan Mei’s gesture. As she savored the flavor, she couldn’t help but be captivated by the delight that danced across Ruan Mei’s face.

Jingliu felt a sense of connection that transcended the boundaries of their respective roles. It was a simple gesture, yet it spoke volumes of the genuine bond that had formed between them—a bond that Jingliu cherished more than words could express.

With a soft sigh of contentment, Ruan Mei scooted even closer to Jingliu, their sides touching as they sat beside each other. She continued to munch on the dessert, humming softly in delight as Jingliu watched her with a serene expression.

They didn’t need words to fill the space between them; the simple sound of Ruan Mei’s humming sufficed to create an atmosphere of tranquility and ease. As Jingliu’s gaze lingered on Ruan Mei, her eyes were drawn to the soft curve of her lips, adorned with a delicate layer of frosting from the dessert. Ruan Mei’s makeup was light and understated, accentuating her natural beauty with subtle touches of color that complemented her brown hair and turquoise accents. A hint of chapstick added a soft sheen to her lips, enhancing their natural allure and drawing Jingliu’s gaze.

As soon Ruan Mei finished eating, she leaned towards Jingliu. A soft sigh of satisfaction escaped her lips and Jingliu reciprocated the gesture, their bodies instinctively drawing closer in the quiet intimacy of the moment. “Thank you for the food,” Ruan Mei murmured, her voice carrying a note of genuine gratitude.

“It was my pleasure,” Jingliu responded, her gaze softening as she watched Ruan Mei settle against her, an overwhelming urge to embrace her surging within her. However, she resisted the impulse, mindful of the courtesan’s aversion to physical touch.

“What… can I do for you in return?” Ruan Mei mumbled, her curious gaze meeting Jingliu’s with a sincerity that touched the sword master’s heart. It was a look she had never received from anyone else, a testament to the unique connection they shared.

Jingliu shook her head gently, offering reassurance. “It’s alright, you don’t have to. It was a gift,” she assured, though a flicker of confusion crossed her features at Ruan Mei’s insistence on reciprocity.

“But… both of us have to benefit,” Ruan Mei persisted, her determination evident in her tone. “How about… I show you how to do embroidery?” she suggested, a faint smile gracing her lips as she met Jingliu’s gaze.

The suggestion took Jingliu by surprise, her features softening into a smile at the unexpected offer. “I would like that,” she replied earnestly, her eyes reflecting a genuine warmth as she looked at Ruan Mei.

Ruan Mei retrieved her embroidery kit with a sense of purpose, eager to share her passion with Jingliu. Returning to their previous position, where they leaned against each other in quiet companionship, she began her tutorial with gentle guidance.

“So first, you do this…” Ruan Mei’s voice was soft and measured as she demonstrated the delicate art of embroidery, her slender fingers moving with grace and precision. Each movement was deliberate, each stitch executed with care, as she imparted her knowledge to Jingliu.

As Ruan Mei guided her through the process, Jingliu couldn’t help but be captivated by the sight before her. Ruan Mei’s hands moved with a fluidity that spoke of years of practice and dedication. Her focused expression reflected a deep connection to the craft, a passion that shone through in every stitch.

Despite Ruan Mei’s patient instruction, Jingliu found herself entranced by the beauty of her hands and the concentration etched upon her features. It was a mesmerizing sight, one that drew her gaze irresistibly, even as she attempted to focus on the task at hand.

“Would you like to try?” Ruan Mei’s voice carried a hint of anticipation as she looked up at Jingliu, offering her the embroidery hoop. The sword master nodded, accepting the delicate tool with care, but her attempt at replicating Ruan Mei’s movements resulted in a mess of tangled threads and misplaced stitches.

With an apologetic chuckle, Jingliu sighed in slight embarrassment. “Forgive me… my hands are used to holding a sword,” she mumbled, her tone tinged with self-deprecation, eliciting an amused chuckle from Ruan Mei.

“That’s alright, it was your first time,” Ruan Mei reassured, her gaze drifting to the scars and bandages that adorned Jingliu’s hands and arms.

Almost unconsciously, Ruan Mei’s hand reached out to gently trace the scars, her touch light and tentative. “Do they hurt?” she asked softly, her voice filled with concern.

“They’ve healed, so they don’t hurt,” Jingliu reassured, flipping her hand to show her palms, silently hoping for Ruan Mei to place her hand in hers. To her surprise, the courtesan complied, her delicate hand resting in Jingliu’s palm.

Jingliu’s heart skipped a beat at the contact, her pulse quickening as she slowly closed her hand around Ruan Mei’s, testing the waters to see if the gesture was welcomed. It was a tentative gesture, born out of a desire to offer comfort, and she held her breath, waiting for Ruan Mei’s response.

Ruan Mei gazed up at Jingliu, giving her hand a gentle squeeze before withdrawing almost immediately, causing a twinge of disappointment to flicker across the sword master’s features. She had hoped to hold onto that fleeting connection a little longer, but her disappointment was quickly replaced by a rush of anticipation as Ruan Mei’s hands moved to caress her bandaged arms.

“How about these, do they hurt?” Ruan Mei’s voice was soft and gentle, her touch tender and comforting.

“Not at all, I’m used to this,” Jingliu reassured, her voice steady despite the emotions swirling within her. Her gaze shifted down to watch Ruan Mei’s hands as they explored her arms with gentle care, her touch leaving a trail of warmth in its wake. As Ruan Mei’s hands traced the contours of her scars with a tenderness that took her breath away, Jingliu felt a rush of gratitude wash over her.

“You have plenty of muscles…” Ruan Mei murmured, her touch tracing the contours of Jingliu’s arms before moving upwards to explore her shoulders, feeling the strength beneath the surface.

“I… hold my sword every day…” Jingliu responded softly, her gaze locked with Ruan Mei’s, a silent acknowledgment of the physical demands of her profession.

Ruan Mei nodded in understanding, her fingers now delicately tracing Jingliu’s neck, her touch light and probing as she felt for the rhythm of her pulse and the flutter of her veins.

“It’s fast…” Ruan Mei tilted her head in confusion, her gaze searching Jingliu’s face for answers. But Jingliu remained silent, her eyes averted as she struggled to admit the truth—that it was Ruan Mei’s presence, her touch, that set her heart racing with a fervor she could scarcely contain.

With a deep sigh, Jingliu gently reached up to brush a stray strand of hair away from Ruan Mei’s face, a tender gesture that the courtesan seemed to welcome as she leaned into Jingliu’s touch. The longing to hold the courtesan grew stronger with each passing moment, Jingliu’s heart aching with the desire to embrace this beautiful woman in her arms.

“Thank you for today…” Jingliu mumbled softly, reluctantly pulling her hand away, her gaze filled with an unspoken yearning.

“You’re going already?” Ruan Mei’s voice was tinged with confusion, her hands lingering on Jingliu’s shoulders as if reluctant to let her go.

“Forgive me… As much as I wanted to stay longer… I have duties to attend to,” Jingliu sighed regretfully, her expression reflecting the weight of her responsibilities as a sword master.

“Would you come back again soon?” Ruan Mei’s voice was soft, almost pleading, as she looked up at Jingliu with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. For her, Jingliu represented more than just another customer; she was the first person to truly see her, to acknowledge her as more than just a courtesan. In Jingliu, she had found a kindred spirit, someone who listened to her interests and treated her with genuine respect and care.

With a small smile, Jingliu nodded in reassurance. “Of course, I’ll make sure to,” she promised, her words carrying a sense of sincerity that warmed Ruan Mei’s heart.

Before Jingliu departed, Ruan Mei reached out, offering her the unfinished embroidery they had worked on together. It was a silent yet poignant reminder of the bond they shared, a testament to the connection they had forged in the quiet moments they had spent together.

Jingliu accepted the embroidery with gratitude, her fingers lingering on the fabric as she took in the intricate stitches and delicate patterns. It was a symbol of their shared experiences, a tangible reminder of the promise they had made to each other—to finish what they had started, together.

With a final glance at Ruan Mei, Jingliu tucked the embroidery safely away, a silent vow to return and complete their project. As she left the brothel behind, her heart felt lighter, buoyed by the hope of future encounters with the woman who had captured her heart in ways she had never imagined possible.

Ruan Mei waited patiently, her gaze fixed expectantly on the entrance to the private chamber each day, hoping against hope that it would be Jingliu who walked through the door. But day after day, the sword master failed to appear, and with each passing moment, Ruan Mei’s demeanor towards her other clientele grew colder and more aloof.

Even as she poured them wine or tea, her expression betrayed her inner disgust towards them. Her interactions with them became increasingly curt and detached, her reluctance to engage in idle chatter evident in her distant demeanor. 

Weeks turned into months, and still, Jingliu remained absent. With each passing day, Ruan Mei’s longing for the sword master intensified, a gnawing ache in the depths of her soul that refused to be appeased. Despite her foul mood, she continued to entertain her other customers, fulfilling her duties with a sense of resignation that bordered on despair.

But deep down, Ruan Mei yearned to escape from it all—to leave behind the confines of her profession and seek solace in the arms of the one person who had made her feel truly safe and respected. Jingliu’s absence weighed heavily on her heart, a constant reminder of the emptiness that pervaded her existence in the absence of the one person who had touched her soul in ways she had never imagined possible.

Ruan Mei hugged her ruan tightly, her sigh echoing the heaviness in her heart as she stared blankly at the table where she awaited her customer for the night.

“Good evening…”

The familiar voice startled Ruan Mei, causing her to lift her head abruptly, her heart racing at the sight of the crimson orbs that met her gaze.

Without hesitation, Ruan Mei rose from her seat, her hands trembling slightly as she approached the sword master, her eyes betraying a mixture of relief and longing as she reached out to grasp Jingliu’s hand with both of hers.

“I thought you wouldn’t come back…” Ruan Mei’s voice was soft, barely above a whisper, her words heavy with unspoken emotion.

“Forgive me… I was away on duty…” Jingliu’s response was gentle, her touch reassuring as she held Ruan Mei’s hand in return.

As Ruan Mei took a closer look at Jingliu, she couldn’t help but notice the fresh injuries that marred the sword master’s appearance—the bandages, the bruises. Concern flickered in her eyes as she met Jingliu’s gaze, her worry evident in the furrow of her brows.

“I’m alright… I’m sorry I came straight here after returning,” Jingliu trailed off, her tone tinged with regret as she noticed Ruan Mei’s concerned expression. “I didn’t have time to prepare myself properly,” she explained with a weary sigh, the weight of her responsibilities weighing heavily upon her shoulders.

Noticing the exhaustion etched upon the sword master’s features, Ruan Mei acted instinctively, settling down on the bed before gently patting her lap in invitation.

“Please, get some rest,” Ruan Mei urged softly, her voice infused with concern as she gestured for Jingliu to lie down.

“I-I’m completely fine…” Jingliu attempted to protest, her voice tinged with stubbornness, but the pleading look in Ruan Mei’s eyes softened her resolve, and she found herself slowly approaching the courtesan.

“Then, just a bit…” Jingliu relented with a defeated sigh, allowing herself to lie down on the bed and rest her head upon Ruan Mei’s lap. The gentle caress of Ruan Mei’s fingers in her hair brought a sense of comfort and solace, easing the tension in Jingliu’s weary frame.

“I have been waiting for you,” Ruan Mei murmured, her voice soft and full of longing as she gazed down at Jingliu, her eyes devoid of the usual facade of indifference she presented to her other customers. There was only admiration and affection shining in her eyes, a reflection of the deep connection she shared with the sword master.

“Mhm, forgive me,” Jingliu responded, her voice barely above a whisper as she closed her eyes, allowing herself to succumb to the soothing sensation of Ruan Mei’s gentle touches. Jingliu felt a sense of peace wash over her, the weight of her burdens momentarily lifted in the presence of the woman who had come to mean so much to her.

As Ruan Mei continued to hum softly, her fingers gently tracing patterns through Jingliu’s hair, the sword master felt herself being lulled into a state of peaceful relaxation. The gentle touch of the courtesan’s fingers against her scalp was incredibly soothing, and soon Jingliu found her eyelids growing heavy with drowsiness.

Though Ruan Mei longed to engage Jingliu in conversation, seeing the exhaustion etched upon her features, she chose instead to focus on providing her with the comfort and relaxation she so clearly needed. With each gentle stroke of her fingers and each soft hum that escaped her lips, Ruan Mei worked to lull Jingliu into a state of tranquility, allowing the weight of her burdens to momentarily slip away.

Before long, Jingliu appeared to have succumbed to the embrace of slumber, her breathing steady and her expression serene. Ruan Mei couldn’t help but marvel at the sight of the normally stoic sword master, her face softened in sleep, a rare glimpse of vulnerability.

“I wish you could stay with me forever…” Ruan Mei whispered softly, her hand tenderly caressing Jingliu’s hair as she traced the contours of her features with gentle fingers.

With a sigh, Ruan Mei carefully arranged Jingliu on the bed, ensuring she was comfortable and at ease. Placing a soft pillow beneath her head, she lingered for a moment longer, her gaze lingering on Jingliu’s peaceful expression.

But as Ruan Mei stood up, a sudden thought crossed her mind—a fleeting impulse that she couldn’t ignore...

How would it feel, she wondered, to be held in Jingliu's strong and protective embrace?

As Ruan Mei kept looking at Jingliu, her heart raced with a mixture of longing and apprehension. Her eyes traced the contours of the sword master’s form, lingering on the bandaged arms, the exposed skin of her neck, and the scars that adorned her body. But it was Jingliu’s lips that captivated her most, their softness and allure stirring something deep within her.

With a trembling breath, Ruan Mei gulped, her pulse quickening at the sight before her. Before she could fully comprehend her actions, her body moved of its own accord, drawing her closer to Jingliu until she lay beside her, her gaze never wavering.

“Jingliu…” Ruan Mei whispered, her voice barely above a murmur, filled with a desperate longing to keep the sword master by her side.

At the sound of her name, Jingliu stirred from her slumber, her eyes fluttering open to meet Ruan Mei’s intense gaze. Startled by the proximity of the courtesan, Jingliu sat up abruptly, her expression a mixture of surprise and confusion.

“I fell asleep… forgive me,” Jingliu murmured with a sigh, but Ruan Mei followed suit, sitting up beside her, her gaze never wavering as she continued to gaze at the sword master with undisguised longing.

Sensing the intensity of Ruan Mei’s gaze, Jingliu couldn’t help but meet her eyes, a flicker of curiosity sparking within her own crimson orbs.

“Is there something on my face?” Jingliu inquired, her hand instinctively reaching up to touch her features, searching for any imperfections.

“Nothing,” Ruan Mei replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper as she edged closer to Jingliu, their proximity closing the distance between them.

“I have an insane request…” Ruan Mei murmured, her voice trembling with uncertainty as she clasped Jingliu’s hand in hers, their fingers intertwining in a silent plea.

“What is it?” Jingliu responded, her voice gentle yet tinged with curiosity as she regarded Ruan Mei with a soft smile.

Ruan Mei’s breath caught in her throat as she gathered her courage, her heart pounding with anticipation.

“Would you… consider buying me out?” Ruan Mei’s voice wavered as she voiced her request, her gaze searching Jingliu’s for any hint of a response.

“If it’s you… then…” Ruan Mei trailed off, her voice barely a whisper as she leaned closer to Jingliu, the air between them charged with tension and unspoken longing.

Jingliu’s surprise was masked by a practiced facade of composure, her expression unreadable as she processed Ruan Mei’s request. For a moment, there was silence between them, broken only by the sound of Jingliu's voice.

“Buy you out…?” Jingliu repeated, her gaze drifting to the side as she contemplated Ruan Mei’s request.

“Yes, I don’t think I’ll be able to bear waiting for you for months again,” Ruan Mei confessed, her voice tinged with vulnerability as she sought reassurance from the sword master.

Her words hung in the air, heavy with longing and desperation, as she expressed her inability to bear the separation any longer. Her hands gripped Jingliu’s clothing, as if seeking an anchor in the tumult of emotions swirling between them.

Jingliu turned her gaze back to Ruan Mei, her crimson eyes widening slightly in surprise at the gravity of the situation. The idea of purchasing a courtesan out seemed surreal to her, a notion that had never crossed her mind before.

Despite her status as a renowned sword master, the thought of buying someone out of servitude, especially someone as sought-after as Ruan Mei, felt daunting and unfamiliar.

For a moment, Jingliu remained silent, the weight of Ruan Mei’s request settling heavily upon her shoulders as she grappled with the implications of such a decision. She knew that money was not an issue for her, but the notion of owning another person, even with the intention of granting them freedom, gave her pause.

Feeling the weight of the silence, Ruan Mei’s anxiety bubbled up until she could bear it no longer. With a desperate gesture, she seized Jingliu’s arms, enfolding them around herself tightly, causing the sword master’s breath to catch in her throat.

“I don’t want anyone else to approach me… I want you to be the only one who can see me… talk to me and touch me,” Ruan Mei whispered against Jingliu’s chest, her voice soft yet pleading.

“I want to serve you… and only you,” she added, her gaze meeting Jingliu’s with unwavering determination.

As if responding to an unspoken command, Jingliu instinctively drew Ruan Mei closer, holding her in a tight embrace as if shielding her from the world.

“How could I ever refuse a request like this…” Jingliu murmured softly, her arms cradling Ruan Mei’s head and back, offering comfort and reassurance in the warmth of their embrace.

Ruan Mei’s heart raced as she felt herself melting in Jingliu’s arms. It was everything she had yearned for—a tight hold that made her feel safe and cherished.

With a soft sigh, she dared to inch closer, carefully climbing onto Jingliu’s lap, straddling her form and enveloping the sword master in her own embrace. It was as if she sought to merge with Jingliu, to become one with her being.

“Ah… this is…” Jingliu’s voice faltered, her throat tightening as she observed Ruan Mei clinging to her, their bodies intertwined in an intimate embrace that stirred emotions within her.

“Jingliu…” Ruan Mei’s voice was barely a whisper as she nuzzled into the comforting scent of the sword master, her body pressing even closer despite their already intimate proximity.

Jingliu could feel her own heartbeat quicken, but she forced herself to take slow, deep breaths, attempting to regain her composure and steady her nerves. She didn’t want to do anything that might frighten or unsettle Ruan Mei, after all.

“I feel… delighted. Being with you is all I desire,” Ruan Mei whispered, her touch gentle as she ran her fingers along Jingliu’s neck and cheek.

Jingliu couldn’t help but feel a rush of warmth at Ruan Mei’s words, her arms instinctively tightening around the courtesan to offer support as she sat on her lap.

“Are you certain?” Jingliu asked, her voice soft yet filled with concern.

Ruan Mei nodded, a faint smile gracing her lips. “I want to belong to you, and only you,” she affirmed.

Jingliu felt her blood rush, unable to hide her own flustered state, especially with Ruan Mei so intimately close.

With a gentle sigh, Jingliu pulled back slightly, her gaze fixed intently on Ruan Mei’s face. As their eyes locked, Jingliu’s expression softened, and she leaned in closer, her focus shifting to Ruan Mei’s inviting lips.

The movement was slow and deliberate, allowing Ruan Mei the opportunity to retreat if she wished, but Ruan Mei remained still, leaning in to meet Jingliu halfway.

Their lips trembled slightly as they drew nearer, the anticipation palpable in the air. Finally, their lips met in a tender kiss, sending a jolt of electricity through both of their bodies. With each brush of their lips, their hearts surged with emotion, the sensation overwhelming yet exhilarating.

“You taste just like my favorite pastry…” Ruan Mei whispered against Jingliu’s lips, her fingers tracing delicate patterns along the sword master’s ear. “I want more…” Her words hung in the air before she leaned in again, pressing her lips against Jingliu’s with a sigh of contentment.

Feeling Ruan Mei’s lips against hers, Jingliu couldn’t resist. She gently cradled Ruan Mei’s face in her hands, drawing her in closer as they shared another kiss.

"So soft..." Jingliu sighed, drawing back slightly from their passionate exchange to behold Ruan Mei's flushed face and gentle features.

She couldn't resist the urge to smile warmly before pressing her lips against Ruan Mei's once more. This time, she deliberately traced the curves of Ruan Mei's mouth with her tongue as she deepened their kiss, coaxing a luscious moan from the courtesan.

To her delight, Ruan Mei did not shy away but responded in kind, swirling her tongue around Jingliu's enticingly as their kiss grew increasingly heated.

The courtesan's slender hands gripped Jingliu's silky hair with undeniable force, as if she wanted to hold her in place forever. Ruan Mei kissed her deeply and fiercely, her lips slacking slightly yet laced with an insatiable desire that made Jingliu's heart race.

In response, Jingliu delicately maneuvered her tongue around Ruan Mei’s sweet mouth, guiding their passionate embrace while eliciting moans of pleasure from the beauty before her.

As the kiss became increasingly desperate and their tongues mingled erotically, saliva glazed their parted lips. Beads of sweat glistened on both their foreheads as they panted heavily, every breath causing a faint whisper of excitement in each other's ears.

"Jingliu, more..." Ruan Mei whimpered amidst gasps for air as she thrust herself closer against Jingliu's bulging form below; an audible groan escaping from deep within the sword master's throat at the feel of pure perfection nestled between them.

As Jingliu began to lose herself in the frenzied passion, she knew she had to break away momentarily to catch her breath.

Yet before she could gather herself, Ruan Mei's lips clung stubbornly to hers, coating their parted mouth with a glossy line of drool as their exhales mingled.

In response, Jingliu felt an uncontrollable surge of arousal course through her body - her erection swelling within its constraining fabric – fueled by this passionate embrace that left her utterly consumed.

"More... more..." Ruan Mei breathed softly into Jingliu's mouth as she craved every sensation this powerful sword master had to offer. She couldn't believe how much her hunger had grown, how deeply she now desired another's warmth and closeness – a stark contrast from her previous indifference towards intimacy.

She found herself craving more of the intimacy she once thought she could live without. It was a sensation she couldn’t deny, a hunger that grew with each moment spent in Jingliu’s arms.

"I can’t hold back any longer..." Jingliu groaned deeply, her hands gripping tightly onto Ruan Mei’s curves as she urged her further down towards her bulging length that begged for release.

Ruan Mei let out a gentle yelp as she felt the unmistakable heat and size of Jingliu's swollen erection pressing against her. Their embrace only intensified, as Jingliu's hips started to grind insistently against hers.

Gasping for air, they broke their passionate kiss, their eyes locked in a fierce mutual lust that was almost palpable. With an unspoken understanding, Jingliu slowly guided Ruan Mei towards the soft covers of the bed while trailing tender caresses up her legs and thighs, every touch causing goosebumps to rise across the courtesan's sensitive skin.

With a soft, pleading look in her eyes, Jingliu gently rested her hand just below Ruan Mei's breasts.

"May I..." she whispered tenderly before placing her other hand firmly on the curves of Ruan Mei’s hips.

"I promise to take care of you," she pledged earnestly as her pulsating erection rubbed sensuously against Ruan Mei's clothed core. Without any hesitation, Ruan Mei wrapped her legs around Jingliu's waist, drawing her closer with an affectionate smile.

"I trust you completely." Her words set fire to Jingliu's passion, causing her to thrust forward eagerly as she reveled in the intoxicating heat and fragrance of her beloved courtesan.

With utmost tenderness, Jingliu delicately pulled and coaxed off each piece of Ruan Mei's clothing until she lay before her in all her glory:her delicate, ivory skin; full breasts that rose and fell with every breath – a vision that filled Jingliu with unbridled desire.

Lower still, she noticed the glistening moisture seeping from between Ruan Mei's plush folds, beckoning her like an alluring siren song of pleasure. The sight was nearly overwhelming for Jingliu; she simply couldn't resist anymore.

As urgency surged through her veins, Jingliu discarded the remaining pieces of her clothing until she was completely bare before Ruan Mei.

Her muscular physique shimmered with perspiration, every hard-earned scar on her body testament to her prowess as a sword master. But Ruan Mei couldn't take her eyes off that magnificent erection – thick, proud and pulsating enticingly as it craved satisfaction.

Ruan Mei drew in a shuddering breath as Jingliu's stiff erection lay tantalizingly close to her folds, causing her cunt to clench and unclench in desire.

"You're so beautiful," Jingliu whispered reverently as she slowly lifted her hands upwards, cupping Ruan Mei's full and round breasts tenderly.

"Mhm," Ruan Mei moaned softly with her eyes fluttering shut, surrendering herself completely to the sensations coursing through her body. Rough and calloused hands left soft caress on her breasts before squeezing them affectionately – an action that sent delightful shivers down her spine.

As Ruan Mei moaned blissfully, Jingliu bestowed an array of tender kisses upon her skin while slowly licking around the sensitive flesh of one erect nipple. Finally, she enveloped it with her mouth, savoring its taste as she drew it deeper into her mouth.

Pleasure coursed through Ruan Mei's body as she ran her fingers through Jingliu's hair – a soft hum escaping her lips. Encouraged by this response, Jingliu playfully pinched and twisted the other nipple with her fingers while maintaining gentle suction on the first – every touch causing Ruan Mei to writhe beneath her in ecstasy.

"Does it feel good?" Jingliu asked softly as she showered affection upon the courtesan's second erect nipple. Ruan Mei let out a soft moan, her hands gently running through Jingliu's hair.

"So good..." she breathed before losing herself in sensations that rippled through her core with each tender touch. Without any further preamble, Jingliu's tongue glided downwards, tracing Ruan Mei's sensitive skin until it reached her lower abdomen where the heady scent of her dripping arousal filled the air.

Jingliu could hardly resist – her thumbs separated Ruan Mei's folds wider and wider, her gaze fixated upon the plump and throbbing bud waiting for her attention.

Ruan Mei's head slowly rose as she watched Jingliu lower her lips towards her delicate folds. Her breath caught in her throat as she felt a teasing flick of the sword master's tongue on her sensitive bud, sending shockwaves of pleasure rippling through her entire body like wildfire.

Emboldened by this response, Jingliu began to lap at Ruan Mei's swollen folds more insistently, drawing out every drop of essence that seeped from within.

As Ruan Mei started spreading her legs wider, Jingliu deepened her exploration, running long strokes from Ruan Mei's swollen core down to her sensitive opening before flicking back up again with precise flicks that sent waves of sheer bliss spiraling through every inch of her being.

"... good, so good...!" Ruan Mei's moans grew louder with each lick, her hips unconsciously rising to meet Jingliu's attentive mouth as the sword master's skilled lips engulfed her clitoris.

The pleasure was building rapidly within her until it threatened to consume her entirely, causing her body to arch and tears of ecstasy trickling down her cheeks.

Ruan Mei's cries became more desperate, a plea for even more intense sensation that echoed in the air around them. It seemed as though every stroke from Jingliu's tongue brought Ruan Mei closer to shattering point - so close that she could barely breathe, suspended on the edge of release.

And then, almost imperceptibly gently at first before intensifying in pressure and urgency... Jingliu began nipping at the swollen bundle of nerves beneath her lips. With each delicate suckle and teeth graze, wave after wave of pure bliss washed over Ruan Mei until she finally erupted into climaxes like thunderbolts lighting up every nerve ending from head to toe.

"Sweet..." Jingliu breathed as she continued her relentless feast on Ruan Mei's pulsating core. Her fingers gently pulling back the sensitive hood to reveal even more of the swollen clit which she then attacked with voracious hunger - suckling and biting at it lightly as another powerful climax surged through Ruan Mei's body.

She wanted to make this moment last forever, to bask in Ruan Mei's blissful ecstasy until her body could take no more.

"Hold on for a moment! Please... I'm still–" Ruan Mei pushed Jingliu's head away in an effort to postpone another release but her pleading voice only spurred Jingliu into a frenzy; she tightened her grip on the courtesan's thighs, urgently suckling and nipping at her quivering clit with increasing passion.

Her mouth was awash in Ruan Mei's sweet juices - a nectar that had begun to fill her senses like a drug. She fed greedily from the source, desperate to drain every last drop of pleasure from the woman beneath her as another climax approached – even more intense than the first.

Ruan Mei whimpered helplessly; each hungry suction from Jingliu sent shockwaves of bliss radiating outward through every inch of her body until finally, she shattered once again in an explosive release that left her breathless, writhing beneath Jingliu with trembling limbs.

As Ruan Mei's whimpers faded to soft sobs, Jingliu couldn't resist pressing one last tender kiss against her swollen clitoris before gently pulling away. Her body hummed with desire, yet she felt a deep sense of satisfaction - knowing that she had given pleasure to the beautiful courtesan lying beneath her. 

Feeling an overwhelming sense of satisfaction mixed with tenderness, she lowered her body beside the quivering courtesan and wrapped her arms around her tenderly – offering comfort as Ruan Mei struggled to recover from the intense pleasure that had just overwhelmed her. She kissed Ruan Mei on the forehead gently before running her fingers through her hair, relishing in the warmth and softness of it.

"Forgive me... I couldn't help myself." Jingliu whispered as soft kisses brushed against Ruan Mei's temple and hair as she showered affection upon the exhausted woman.

With a contented sigh, Ruan Mei snuggled closer to Jingliu's comforting warmth, looking up at her with a soft smile. She then reached out and gently stroked the sword master's stiff erection.

"Let's continue..." she whispered, her eyes locked on Jingliu's as she fondled her shaft teasingly. Jingliu grunted softly in response, surprised by Ruan Mei's bold touch.

"Are you sure? You can rest for a moment," Jingliu offered kindly. However, Ruan Mei’s grip tightened ever so slightly around her length as she pleaded, "Please." Her gaze holding steady on Jingliu's face, she gave one final tug before rising on her elbow gracefully; offering herself to be claimed once again.

Watching Ruan Mei climb onto her slowly aroused Jingliu immensely, her erection growing heavier at the sight of the courtesan's alluring body.

"I want to feel all of you," Ruan Mei whispered softly as she rested a hand on Jingliu's muscular abs, teasingly stroking her swollen length with the other.

"Take your time..." Jingliu reminded as she encircled Ruan Mei's waist with her strong arms, ensuring her body was steady and well-supported.

Ruan Mei nodded softly, her breath growing warm against Jingliu's chest as she started to descend gradually.The tip of Jingliu's erection rubbed circles against the tender flesh of Ruan Mei's folds, teasing her entrance before slowly slipping in.

The courtesan's muscles squeezed around Jingliu, an instinctive response to the intrusion that had them both panting and wanting more. Slowly but steadily, Ruan Mei sank deeper onto Jingliu, stretching her wide and filling every inch of herself with pleasure.

Despite initial sting from being stretched wide open, all Ruan Mei could think of now was how much deeper she craved to go.

"Let me ease you further." Jingliu murmured, her hands sliding down to caress Ruan Mei's trembling thigh before gently cupping her ass.

She shifted her angle slightly and with a steady thrust forward, she managed to bury half of herself inside Ruan Mei's warmth. It was tight—almost more than she could bear—but their combined moans made it all worth it.

"I'll be slow..." Jingliu assured, gripping Ruan Mei's ass tighter to maintain their connection as she savored the sensation of being buried within the courtesan.

"Does it hurt?" Jingliu asked, looking at Ruan Mei as she took deep breaths to keep herself composed.

"Just a little," Ruan Mei replied, her voice barely audible over her ragged breathing. Her eyes traced Jingliu's face as she noted the fiery blush that spread across her cheeks and the heavy panting that seemed to make each breath rip through her body.

Ruan Mei realized then that Jingliu's pleasure was deeper, more intense than hers – it filled her with warmth and affection for the sword master.

With a steady rhythm, Jingliu started slowly pumping in and out, deeper and deeper, filling Ruan Mei with each thrust until discomfort morphed into pleasure. In response, Ruan Mei embraced Jingliu closer, pressing her lips against her face while gently grazing her nose and cheeks with kisses. 

"So incredibly tight," Jingliu's voice almost soundsd like a whimper, her eyes fluttering shut as Ruan Mei's velvety flesh rippled around her cock.

She had never experienced anything like it before - every squeeze was intense, drawing pleasure up from the base of her erection and flooding her senses until she could hardly think.

"Deeper..." Ruan Mei breathed against Jingliu's skin as her hips surged up and down to meet every thrust. The sensation was overwhelming but she craved more; needed to be filled by everything Jingliu had to offer. 

Responding instantly, Jingliu thrusted deep inside Ruan Mei until their bodies were nearly fused together, the base of her cock smacking against Ruan Mei's sensitive flesh eliciting a soft moan from them both.

Jingliu's breath came in ragged pants, her lids half lowered as she watched Ruan Mei undulate on top of her. Every stroke sent ripples of pleasure through her body, making it harder and harder to resist the mounting pressure building inside her.

"You feel so good..." Ruan Mei moaned softly, lost in the sensations coursing through her as she trailed kisses along Jingliu's chest and neck. The feel of skin against skin mixed with their shared sweat fuelled Jingliu’s hunger for release until finally she couldn’t contain herself any longer – she groaned loudly as she thrust up powerfully, impaling Ruan Mei deeper and deeper while savouring every shiver that rippled through her delicate frame. She started pounding into her fiercely from below – the need to reach their mutual peak overcoming all else.

With a moan of pure ecstasy, Jingliu's muscles locked up as unbearable pleasure coursed through her. She instinctively tried to lift Ruan Mei off her body, intent on pulling out and spilling her seed. But Ruan Mei leaned down to capture Jingliu's lips in a fierce kiss before tightening around the thick length filling her core.

"No... I'm..." Jingliu panted desperately against her mouth, feeling the climax threatening to overwhelm her. And yet Ruan Mei clung tighter still around her, unwilling to let go even for an instant.

The courtesan pressed herself more intimately against Jingliu, her nails digging into the sword master's hips as she swayed sensually above her.

Overwhelmed by the sensation of being enclosed so tightly by warm velvet walls that pulsed rhythmically against her shaft, Jingliu's body convulsed involuntarily; hot spurts of cum erupted from inside the courtesan's quivering loins, flooding her depths and coating their joined bodies in sticky warmth.

The intense surge of Jingliu's seed sent a shock wave of pleasure through Ruan Mei's core. It was so much that she found herself reaching her own peak, her entire body trembling as sweet release washed over her. With a soft moan, she squirted against Jingliu's hips, completely overwhelmed by the sensations coursing through her veins.

Her legs shook so hard they felt like they might buckle, and all she could think about was clinging to this moment – her walls holding tight to the sword master inside of her.

"Please... don’t move..." Ruan Mei begged in a voice thick with lust and satisfaction as she buried herself more fully into Jingliu's embrace, their mingled essence making them one tangled mass of heaving bodies and pulsating desire.

Drool trickled from the corner of Jingliu's lips as she succumbed to a sensation unlike any other – it felt like Ruan Mei's womb was trying desperately to consume her entire essence.

Breathless moans escaped her parted lips as her fingers clutched at Ruan Mei's hips, trying to have some sense of control.

Meanwhile, Ruan Mei’s toes curled reflexively, every throb of Jingliu's cock sending bolts of pleasure inside her. When she finally regained a semblance of strength, Ruan Mei gently tugged on Jingliu's wrists before slowly sitting up, basking in the sight and feel of every glorious inch of softening flesh that filled her utterly.

With deliberate sensuality, she started grinding against Jingliu – teasing herself with just enough friction to heighten their mutual desire while leaving them both craving more.

"Not... done yet?" Jingliu croaked, a husky growl vibrating in her chest as she watched Ruan Mei’s enticing performance.

"Just one more time, please..." Ruan Mei breathed softly, urging Jingliu's hands up to play with her full breasts while their hips continued to roll sensually together.

Within moments, Jingliu felt an intense surge of lust coursing through her veins – the grip of Ruan Mei's pussy was like a vortex sucking her back into desire's embrace. It was too much to resist and it wasn't long before she was fully erect once again.

"I crave you even deeper inside me... don't hold back, be rough if you wish to." Ruan Mei whispered desperately, her body yearning for Jingliu so bad – craving for their connection to go beyond mere physical pleasure and extend into something far more profound.

With a solemn nod, Jingliu whispered back, "I understand," as she carefully guided Ruan Mei to lie down. Her breath caught in her throat at the sight of Ruan Mei's pussy – glistening wet and swollen from their previous union, bearing the mark of their intense pleasure.

The image sent a fierce hunger coursing through her veins – she could hardly wait to claim more territory within those sweet folds.

Ruan Mei moaned softly as Jingliu gently spread her legs apart, revealing the treasure trove that begged for attention. Their shared cum trickled out between her folds in slow drips, painting an enticing trail for Jingliu's hungry gaze to follow.

"Please..." Ruan Mei pleaded plaintively when it seemed like Jingliu might linger too long; clutching firmly at Jingliu’s rigid cock in an effort to steer it towards where she craved contact the most.

A lustful groan rumbled from Jingliu's chest as she pressed forward, her erect cock slipping smoothly back into Ruan Mei's welcoming depths.

They moaned together in bliss as they were once more deeply united – it was like coming home. Savoring this intense connection, Jingliu expertly folded Ruan Mei in half; lifting the courtesan’s legs to rest on her powerful shoulders while pinning her sweetly curved body to the mattress with her own muscular frame.

The new position had Ruan Mei gasping for breath – every thrust now drove them both higher and deeper into ecstasy while forcing her legs apart wider than ever before.

With a firm grip, Jingliu pinned Ruan Mei's wrists to the mattress – immobilizing her completely as she surged forward. She started with slow and deep strokes before gradually thrusting hard and fast until she was pounding Ruan Mei into the bed.

Her frenzied thrusts grew faster and more powerful with each passing second – their bodies slamming together with an exhilarating force that left Ruan Mei moaning loudly.

Tears of ecstasy streaked down her flushed cheeks, the pleasurable agony consuming her as Jingliu worked herself deeper into Ruan Mei's trembling core.

As the desire for release intensified within Jingliu, she pressed her body closer to Ruan Mei, driving herself in faster and harder than ever before; aiming to hit that spongy spot deep within her beloved courtesan's pussy time after time.

Every penetration elicited a sharp cry from Ruan Mei – part pain and all pleasure. Her entire being quivered under Jingliu's relentless pursuit of bliss as every stroke sent waves of euphoria spiraling through every inch of her being.

Ruan Mei's voice was hoarse with need as she begged, "Like that... just like that, please," her legs wrapped possessively around Jingliu's waist, urging her deeper. The sensation of being stretched wide by the sword master's thick cock was too much for her to bear – her cunt clamped down on Jingliu's invading flesh in a desperate attempt to give her immense pleasure. 

In response to Ruan Mei's pleading whispers, Jingliu devoured her lips in a fiery kiss – their tongues danced wildly within each other's mouth as pleasure surged through them both. When Ruan Mei moaned into Jingliu's mouth, body convulsing in waves of blissful pleasure, the sword master knew she was reaching the pinnacle of her desire. Yet, she refused to back down – continuing to pound relentlessly as she battered her cervix with relentless thrusts.

Ruan Mei loved the stinging pain Jingliu was giving her womb and how wide her walls had stretched went to accommodate her thick length... she wanted to be claimed completely, to be owned by the strong woman on top of her.

Her quivering walls wrapped themselves around Jingliu with an almost painful grip, sending a jolt of pleasure through the sword master's being that she could barely suppress a shudder.

Far from easing up, Jingliu redoubled her efforts; riding out the intensity of Ruan Mei's climax while her legs pushed harder against her – urging her on in a primal mating dance.

Incoherent moans cascaded from Ruan Mei's lips as she clung to Jingliu like a drowning woman seeking salvation. Jingliu knew she shouldn't push the courtesan any further but those walls squeezing her cock made her lose control entirely; pounding harder and faster until  Ruan Mei's climax hit her like a tidal wave, squirting heavily all over Jingliu's lower abdomen and groin as she threw back her head, screaming in ecstasy.

The sight pushed Jingliu closer to her own climax – every pound of her cock elicited grunts and groans as she hammered herself deeper into Ruan Mei in desperate pursuit of relief. Their hips bucked together fiercely as the sword master felt herself reaching the brink.

"Ruan...Mei," Jingliu whispered hoarsely as her cock started to swell even further within its warm and tight embrace, spilling yet another generous load inside Ruan Mei's filled depths until she overloaded.

The volume was so abundant that even plugged by the Jingliu's cock, droplets seeped from Ruan Mei’s overflowing hole. Jingliu's arms wrapped fiercely around the courtesan, pulling her into a clinging embrace as they trembled together – drowning in aftershocks of pleasure that left them breathless and spent.

A long, satisfied sigh escaped Ruan Mei as Jingliu gently rocked them both back and forth, her softening cock caressing the courtesan's sore cervix and walls.

She bestowed a shower of tender kisses on Ruan Mei's neck and face before finally meeting her gaze with deep, soulful eyes. "Are you alright?" she murmured softly in her raspy voice.

Without breaking eye contact, Ruan Mei nodded slowly before replying in an equally soft tone. "More than alright..." She breathed out; hugging Jingliu tight around her waist while giving her back soothing scratches – giving each other some form of comfort.

Sharing one last sweet kiss on the lips, Jingliu slowly eased her length out from the courtesan's swollen walls with a heavy groan. Every inch caused the muscles to grip her tighter as if begging for more – but she persevered, breaking free when it was finally over.

Almost immediately, strings of thick cum started flowing from Ruan Mei's sated hole, dripping down onto the bed sheets beneath them. "Mhm... thank you." Ruan Mei hummed contentedly as she sank back into the mattress beneath her, placing a gentle hand against her distended womb which bulged invitingly with Jingliu’s seed.

Jingliu's heart swelled with emotion as she beheld the sight before her. Despite Ruan Mei being adorned with sweat and tears, her beauty remained undiminished.

And the knowledge that the courtesan's womb now cradling a part of her own being stirred deep within Jingliu, evoking a warmth that threatened to spill over into tears. Unable to resist the impulse, she tenderly laid herself beside Ruan Mei, enfolding her in a protective embrace that spoke volumes of unspoken devotion and affection.

"I will buy you out as soon as you're well rested... so please be assured," Jingliu whispered, pressing a tender kiss to Ruan Mei's temple as the courtesan nestled closer, seeking solace in her warmth.

Despite the stickiness of their bodies and the lingering scent of their shared intimacy filling the room, Jingliu found herself enveloped in an overwhelming sense of contentment. It was as though this moment, this embrace, was the culmination of all her efforts and sacrifices.

Ruan Mei could only offer a faint nod in response, her exhaustion weighing heavily upon her as she returned Jingliu's affection with a soft kiss against her chest. With each passing moment, her eyelids grew heavier, surrendering to the comforting embrace of sleep that Jingliu provided.

Weeks passed since Jingliu successfully secured Ruan Mei’s freedom by buying her out. The sum was considerable, but Jingliu deemed it worthwhile; after all, she had little else to spend her wealth on. The two spent their days together in Jingliu’s home, which soon became a shared haven for them both.

Jingliu would leave the house each day and return at night or in the afternoon. Meanwhile, Ruan Mei patiently awaited her return, either embroidering or taking in the surroundings of Jingliu’s home. She cherished the peace and quiet, appreciating the lack of pressure to engage in activities she disliked. Jingliu respected her space and allowed her to enjoy her time at her own pace.

“Welcome home,” Ruan Mei greeted Jingliu as she entered through the door. Jingliu’s eyes widened slightly before softening at the sight of Ruan Mei holding an almost finished embroidery piece.

“I’m home,” Jingliu mumbled, glancing away as she still wasn’t accustomed to having someone greet her when she arrived home, just as she wasn’t used to Ruan Mei wishing her a good day when she left.

Despite the unfamiliarity, she slowly began to welcome the change. Now that Ruan Mei was with her, Jingliu felt a stronger desire to return home safe and sound. While Jingliu had never sought death, she had been indifferent to it.

In the past, she would return home battered and bandaged, yet no one would care or tend to her wounds. But now, she wanted to avoid injury to spare Ruan Mei worry; she wanted to return home as soon as possible. Jingliu started wanting to live... to stay and take care of Ruan Mei.

On the other hand, Ruan Mei eagerly anticipated Jingliu’s safe return each day. The pastries and new embroidery tools that Jingliu brought home were just added bonuses—Ruan Mei would have been content with just Jingliu’s presence.

She longed to continue being by Jingliu’s side, to serve her and her alone. Ruan Mei cherished the sense of belonging she felt with the sword master, even though Jingliu insisted that Ruan Mei didn’t owe her anything. Still, Ruan Mei couldn’t help but feel the urge to do something for Jingliu.

“You look tired…” Ruan Mei commented as she approached Jingliu, immediately scanning the sword master’s body for any signs of injury.

“I’m completely fine, please don’t worry,” Jingliu reassured her.

“I understand.” With a soft sigh, Ruan Mei nodded before gently taking Jingliu’s hand and leading her to their shared room.

Jingliu’s eyes widened at the sight of a prepared dinner and a bottle of wine arranged near the window.

“You… didn’t have to,” Jingliu murmured, though her gaze lingered on the food and the night sky outside the window.

“I wanted to. This is what I want,” Ruan Mei said softly, placing a hand on Jingliu’s back to guide her to sit down.

As they settled in, Jingliu looked at Ruan Mei with a mix of gratitude and affection, which warmed Ruan Mei’s heart. For her, Jingliu didn’t need to say anything; her eyes conveyed everything.

Jingliu eagerly savored each bite of the food, relishing the thought of Ruan Mei preparing it for her, making it taste even better.

Ruan Mei also enjoyed her meal, stealing glances at Jingliu and smiling faintly each time.

After they finished, Jingliu leaned back with a contented sigh and looked at Ruan Mei.

“Thank you,” she mumbled, reaching to gently tuck a strand of Ruan Mei’s hair behind her ear.

“It was my pleasure. You eat so well, it feels nice to cook for you,” Ruan Mei replied, leaning into Jingliu’s hand now resting on her cheek.

They gazed at each other for a while, their eyes brimming with affection, before Jingliu broke the silence, pulling her hand back.

“Have you decided?” Jingliu began, her gaze shifting to the night sky. “About what you would like to do…” she continued.

Ruan Mei looked up at the night sky as well, sighing deeply. “I have… it’s been on my mind since I was still in the brothel,” Ruan Mei responded. “Living on my own…” she trailed off, turning to look at Jingliu with a blank and unreadable expression.

Hearing Ruan Mei’s words, Jingliu gripped her own hand tightly. She knew she bought out Ruan Mei to give her freedom, a chance to live a life of her own choosing, even if it meant being apart from her.

Jingliu had to show she was happy for Ruan Mei, regardless of her decision. With a deep breath, she tried her best to offer Ruan Mei a reassuring smile.

“I understa–” Jingliu’s words were interrupted when Ruan Mei moved closer, settling comfortably in her lap and embracing her tightly.

“…choosing it never crossed my mind,” Ruan Mei continued, her voice soft as she held Jingliu close. “Whenever I think about the future, you’re always there… right by my side,” she added, her hands gliding up and down Jingliu’s back, providing soothing comfort.

“Will you let me stay with you? Is that alright?” Ruan Mei asked, her voice muffled as she buried her face into the crook of Jingliu’s neck, breathing in deeply Jingliu’s scent.

“Are you certain?” Jingliu asked, her heart swelling with happiness as she embraced Ruan Mei in return.

She held her tight, as if holding her for dear life. “I would love that… please stay with me,” Jingliu mumbled, her voice filled with sincerity, and Ruan Mei nodded, moving closer to Jingliu and pressing their bodies together, finding solace in each other’s embrace.

After a moment of silence, Ruan Mei pulled back slightly before leaning close to Jingliu’s face, her gaze lingering on her lips as her fingers gently caressed Jingliu’s cheek.

“It’s been… so long,” Ruan Mei murmured, leaning closer to give Jingliu’s lips a soft peck. “You haven’t touched me since then,” she added, wrapping her arms around Jingliu’s head and pulling her towards her breasts.

Jingliu’s breath hitched, her heart beating fast. It’s true that she had been avoiding touching Ruan Mei, not wanting her to feel like she was bought for Jingliu’s pleasure alone. She wanted Ruan Mei to feel free to make her own choices, not confined by any obligations.

“You’re right…” Jingliu sighed, only for Ruan Mei to cup her cheeks gently in her hands.

“I miss your touch,” Ruan Mei said, her voice filled with longing as she looked straight into Jingliu’s eyes. “I miss the feeling of your body against mine… inside mine,” she added, her eyes conveying her desires vividly.

Ruan Mei’s words were like a soothing balm to Jingliu’s soul, granting her the permission she needed to embrace her desires for Ruan Mei. With a sense of relief washing over her, Jingliu’s hands moved to hold Ruan Mei’s hips tightly as she leaned in closer, their lips meeting in a soft and tender kiss.

A soft sound of happiness escaped Ruan Mei’s lips as she felt Jingliu’s kiss, her longing for the sword master evident in her every touch.

“It feels good…” Ruan Mei murmured between kisses, her words encouraging Jingliu to explore further, to reassure her that her advances were welcomed.

With a sudden movement, Jingliu lifted Ruan Mei in her arms, carrying her towards the bed with care and gentleness, laying her down gently.

“I’ll be gentle,” Jingliu reassured softly as she climbed onto the bed, positioning herself above Ruan Mei.

Ruan Mei chuckled softly, nodding in agreement before pulling Jingliu closer. “I won’t mind if you’re a little rough,” she whispered, her hands tracing Jingliu’s abs through her clothes.

The bed creaked rhythmically beneath them, a symphony of their shared ecstasy filling the room. Ruan Mei’s voice mingled with Jingliu’s groans of pleasure, the sound of their passion echoing in the intimate space.

Despite Ruan Mei’s limbs wrapping tightly around her and restricting her movements slightly, Jingliu felt nothing but an overwhelming sense of security, cradled in the embrace of the one she cherished the most.

“I love this…” Ruan Mei moaned, her words filled with passion as tears of pleasure streamed down her cheeks, mingling with the fervent kisses exchanged between them.

They lost themselves in each other, the moonlight casting a soft glow upon their entwined bodies, heightening the intimacy of the moment. With each movement, they found solace and fulfillment in the other, their connection deepening with every touch.

Every kiss, every caress, brought Ruan Mei closer to Jingliu, fulfilling a craving that had long lingered within her. She wanted to stay in Jingliu's embrace, loving how her deepest part is being reached and touch by the sword master, she loved the stretch, the feeling of her insides being molded for Jingliu alone.  

For Ruan Mei, being with Jingliu in this way was pure bliss. She craved the intimacy, the closeness, and the sensation of being fully embraced by the one she admired. In Jingliu’s arms, she found happiness and satisfaction, a feeling she never wanted to end.

“You’re so beautiful…” Jingliu’s words escaped breathlessly, her eyes filled with admiration as she gazed at Ruan Mei, who lay beneath her, panting heavily, her hair tousled and her body glistening with sweat.

“You make me want to live…” Jingliu continued, her voice barely above a whisper, as she reached out to gently grab Ruan Mei’s hand, pressing soft kisses to her palm and wrist.

A smile graced Ruan Mei’s lips, despite the exhaustion evident in her features, as she reciprocated Jingliu’s affection, her fingers tenderly caressing Jingliu’s cheek and hair.

With a satisfied sigh, Jingliu shifted to lie beside Ruan Mei, pulling the blanket over their entwined bodies as she wrapped her arms around her, holding her close.

“…thank you,” Ruan Mei murmured, her voice barely audible as she nuzzled closer to Jingliu, her eyes fluttering closed as she succumbed to the embrace of sleep.

"Thank you for staying with me..." Jingliu whispered, kissing Ruan Mei's head before closing her eyes as she continued to stroke Ruan Mei’s hair, the rhythmic motion lulling them both into a state of tranquility as they basked in the gentle glow of the moonlight filtering through the window.

[goodbuckcharlie]

Dirt and oil - Quinn Hughes

Summary: Quinn would like to consider himself a gentleman, raised by THE Ellen and all, but when he finds himself in need one the side of the road, he can’t help but be surprised when his Knight in shining armor is a 5’2 girl named Daisy

Note: just a short one today, this was also written fast as I spent my morning at the hospital waiting on my grandma to be okay. She fine now but this helped me not lose my mind. So please give this short fix some love and maybe when everything is better I’ll make a cute part two.

“Shit this is not happening right now.” All Quinn wanted was to go to the grocery store in peace, but of course his front left tire was flat. Now his father has taught him many lessons in life, but changing a tire was not one of them.

As the blinking lights of his hazards went off, Quinn sat on his phone hoping to find a YouTube tutorial on how to change a tire. He was way too embarrassed to call one of his teammates for help. About 15 minutes later, Quinn had learned absolutely nothing off the internet and was currently debating on calling a tow truck.

That was until a school bus yellow jeep pulled up right behind him on the side of the road. Quinn expected another man to exit the vehicle, but to his surprise a short woman with black curly hair and more tattoos than he can count exits the front seat.

“Hey there big guy looks like you can use some help?” The girl walks over to Quinn with her tool box in hand, “my name’s Daisy and I think I can be of assistance, so tell me what’s your problem?”

“Oh I just got a flat tire,” Quickly Quinn turns off his phone and faces the girl next to him, “I don’t want to inconvenience you so I’ll just call the tow truck company.”

“It’s seriously no biggie,” Her button nose cringes from the cold breeze, but her perfect customer service smile doesn’t falter, ��I was just heading in to work.”

“Oh then I would hate you to get in trouble with your boss,” Daisy giggles at Quinn comment. The boy nearly lost his mind at the juxtaposition of her soft giggle and her tough outward appearance.

“Oh I doubt my boss would mind, but let me make sure,” Daisy looks into Quinn’s driver side mirror, “Hey Daisy is it okay if I’m late to work cause I’m helping this poor boy is distress? She said it’s fine as long as the poor boy in distress tells me his name, you know for insurance reasons.”

“I totally forgot, I’m Quinn,” Daisy holds out her hand as Quinn introduces himself.

“Well Quinn, let’s change that tire for yah,” Daisy directs Quinn out of his car, and he opts to stand to the side of her as she worked on his tire.

“So if you don’t mind me asking, how did you get into working on cars?” Quinn attempts to make small talk.

“My paps owned the shop up the street and since he was a single parent, I had to spend a lot of time at the shop,” Daisy works on the tire with ease, “I learned how to change a car tire before I could even drive.”

“Woah I’m impressed,” As soon as the words left his mouth, he realized how bad that sounded, “I mean I’m not impressed that you can do it, I mean I’m impressed that you learned from a young age.”

“It was just another life skill you know,” Not moving her attention from the tire, Daisy continues the conversation with Quinn, “just like learning how to ride a bike. When you grow up around cars, it’s second nature.”

“You know I understand that,” For some reason, Quinn feels comfortable around Daisy, and he can feel himself opening up to her, “I love what I do and all so I have no complaints, but Hockey has become second nature to me since I grew up around it.”

“Hockey huh?” For a moment, Daisy looks towards Quinn, and he can’t put his finger on it, but something about the tiny spot of grease on her face causes him to admire her more, “You look to delicate to play such a violent sport.”

“Looks can be very deceiving,” The two share a laugh before Daisy goes back to working on the car. They make some more small talk until the car is done.

“That spare should hold you for a little, but I recommend stopping by the shop so we can get you a fresh set.” Daisy pats the side of the car like a dad would.

“Thank you so much,” Daisy just shakes her head insisting it was no problem, “Well tell your boss I’m thankful that she let you come to work late to help little ol’ me and if there’s anything I can do to show my appreciation just let me know.”

“Well you didn’t hear this from me, but the boss loves the coffee shop next to the shop,” She walks over to her own car while walking away from Quinn, but before entering she shouts over to him, “maybe when you get your new tires you can ask her to a coffee date?”

Before Quinn could respond, Daisy is already back in her car setting off back onto the road. When Quinn got back into his car he notices a business car on the front seat.

Reynolds’ Autobody shop

7am-5pm Monday through Friday

He flips the card over and a smile is brought to his face.

Daisy Mae Reynolds

(xxx)xxx-xxxx Call me hockey boy

[eggtartz]

✧ 20th October ✧

Giyu Tomioka // Destress (f! swordsmith villager reader)

kinktober masterlist

warnings : soft sex, giyu is straightforward

you weren't the best swordsmith there is, so you resolved by doing what you can well. serving people. you name it, restaurants, massage services, your name is quite infamous in the service area of the swordsmith village. unlike them, you wanted to contribute more rather than just simply living there. today, the chief village had alerted you to serve a full on massage and relaxation for one of the hashiras who's coming to the village.

you were exhilarated as always, finding happiness in what you're doing. you waited by the hot spring bath where you met him, his towel on your knees. "tomioka-san? ah, what an honour to meet a hashira" you lowered your head to bow at him "thankyou" he said silently "i was informed that you want a massage? will you want to have a cup of warm tea while you're relaxing inside the hot tub?" you asked, being friendly.

"yes, that'd be great" he answered. you nodded and gave another bow before going inside to brew some tea. the water hashira was known to be stoic but as far as you observed, he looked quite.. normal? handsome, even. you did not understand all the fuss about him being stoic and expressionless. perhaps, he's stressed.

stress is a no no for you.

"tomioka-san, i have brought you tea" you smiled, kneeling at the edge while putting down a tray with cups and kettles. "yes, thankyou" you waited there, hands on your lap as you looked at him expectantly. "uh, yes?" he raised his brow. "the massage, tomioka-san. i usually massage my customers while being in the hot tub because the water has healing purposes" you smiled. when you noticed he went radio silent, your smile quickly falter.

"u-unless, if you refuse then that's okay too" you said, averting your eyes as you felt ashamed for barging into his personal space. you slowly shifted back, in order to dig a hole and hide in there forever until you heard sounds of water splashing. "i don't mind" he said, empty eyes looking into yours. "o-okay.." you stammered, quickly taking a special ointment and rubbed it along his muscly scars. you took note of multiple scars as his broad shoulders relaxed.

"it's warm" he commented as you slowly massaged his back "yes, it's supposed to relax your muscles for you to be less tense" you said, hand swiftly moving on his back. you eventually went into the warm, steaming water while massaging his arms. "oh, you're very skillful. it's not wonder the chief recommends you" he said, voice low.

"yes, i try my best" you smiled politely to him. working on his biceps, you could feel his eyes boring into yours with curiosity but you remained silent. he gave small grunts when you pressed a pressure point, his muscles spasming.

"y/n. i paid in full for you but still this isn't me forcing myself. i just wanted to know" he said when you're massaging his feet, water splashing underneath you "what is that, tomioka-san?"

"sex. i wasn't intending to but your touches makes me.. hard" he looked away, blush on his cheeks. "if you'd like, i'll pay extra for it." you smiled "a customer order is always a pleasure to be fulfilled" you smiled and gently took off your already soaked yukata. giyu's breath hitched when your boobs came on display and he's trying not to peek at your pussy.

he also removed the towel around his waist, he won't be needing that anymore.

you swam closer to him, breathing at his face. his hands slowly crept to your waist as he finally, so slowly kisses your lips. it was slow and almost felt intimate as he pulled you closer with easy strength that he has mustered. you smiled when he fingers your entrance, liking the dominance and the fact that he isn't hesitating to use you for his own destressing ways. you softly mewled when one finger entered your cunt, your slick mixing with the warm water doubling the pleasure and it pulsed with anticipation.

"o-oh.. tomioka-san.. need it.. please.." you plead with half lidded eyes. "patience, y/n. i'm the customer here" he said, almost mischievously. you whimpered when he pushed you to the edge of the hot tub, the wall behind you while he teased your pussy with the tip of his dick. you couldn't see much through the water but you knew it was going to stretch you good.

"oh!" you yelped when he pushed inside as giyu gritted his teeth. it was so easy sliding inside you, your pussy is basically inviting him and warming him up. he gnawed on his lips as he had to pull out but pushed back in with double the intensity. his thrusts were shallow, but deep as you made ah, ah, ahs with your eyes getting blurry.

"y/n" thrust "you" thrust "feel" thrust "so good" his pace was slow as he took his time burying inside you like he never wanted to leave. your hands went behind his back that was still moist with ointment and held it tight, scratching it with your nails. giyu almost growled, lifting your body with his hands under your knee "spread it for me" he whispered as your hands spread your needy, greedy cunt that swallowed his dick without difficulty

"damn it.. gonna cum.." he panted beside your ear, whining and breathless. you held on tight to his back, placing sloppy kisses to his neck. you clenched your pussy in purpose at times, giving him the utmost pleasure at all times.

"oh! i can feel it tomioka-san! o-oh!" you moaned as he came inside with a grunt. "damn it! you're too good!" he growled again, pushing your body harder to the wall behind you as he pistoned himself inside your weeping cunt. "wait! you're gonna make me cum tomioka-san!" you screamed, feeling your brain disconnecting from your body as he was going too fast, as if he didn't creampied you earlier.

"that's the point, y/n. you did a good job with my stress, it's time for me to pay something back. pay something that isn't money" he nibbled on your ear one hand of his teased your clit, flicking it and rubbing it and it swell under his touch. you were knocked out by his teasing and sinful plap plap plap sounds accompanied with wanton moans and groans could be heard from a distance.

"gonna cum!" you yelled as he quickly pinched your clit. you squeeze your eyes, feeling your wetness which was as warm as the water. you panted until giyu decided to give you another heartwarming kiss, a hand behind your back as he held you. it was a passionate one, tongues swirling as his cock is getting touched again.

"we can go for another one, free of charge of course" you smiled.

[yoonkinii]

How y♡u first met Sukuna!

Warning(s): None Requests open! (only for this AU) Masterlist (check for more AU content here!)

Life feels like a dull melody, endlessly looping without change. Each day blurs into the next: wake up, attend college classes until your brain can’t take it, work until your feet throb, return home to study and work some more, then catch a few fleeting hours of sleep. The cycle repeats over and over again, with only minor changes being added to the never-ending routine. 

The air of the store is frigid as you reorganize the frozen food, red vest covering your white long-sleeve uniform shirt. THe fabric irritates your skin, causing an incessant itch, but you had to endure it, knowing that wearing anything else would beckon the wrath of your shift manager. 

Your fingers ache, tinged a faint red from the freezer’s chill. You could have finished a lot sooner were it not for the haphazardly thrown boxes of frozen food, which you have to constantly rearrange in order for them to be in the right places. Every time you thought you were done, another misplaced container catches your eyes, prolonging the task. 

Letting the magnetic door shut with a soft thud, you sighed, shoulder aching from the relentless task of lifting and moving items. Stepping back, you inspected the freezer for any remaining misplaced containers. A wave of relief washing over you when none were in sight. 

“Um, excuse me?”

You turned to the voice beside you, the well-practiced customer service smile automatically appearing on your face. 

“Yes! How may I help you?” 

Your tone was cheerful as you clasped your hands in front of you, looking at the customer. He wore an unfamiliar school uniform, dark blue pants and a button-up sweater with a red hoodie-like trim. It was clear he was in high school based on his attire. His hair, an unusual color cut into an undercut, caught your attention.

He must dye it, you mused, maintaining your smile. As you observe him, you also notice two matching, almost triangular slits under both of his eyes. Perhaps scars or birthmarks? It wasn’t your place to know, so you quickly pushed those thoughts aside. 

“Oh, I was just wondering where the canned sodas were.”

Your mind instantly mapped out the store’s layout, a skill honed from countless hours of restocking. 

“Those are in aisle 5C. I’d be happy to take you there if you’d like.”

The boy’s smile could rival the sun as he nodded eagerly, showering you with ‘thank you’s’ for your help.

That’s how you found yourself in the drink aisle, having an interesting discussion with the young man.

“Yes, but wouldn’t you say Dr. Pepper is better than just plain Cola?”

You hummed in thought, eyeing the vast array of soda crates lining the shelves. “While Dr. Pepper is good, if you’re bringing it to a class party, wouldn’t you want more variety? For example,” ou bent down and pulled out a certain crate of coke. “This pack has a variety of flavors, and some people can’t stand the taste of Dr. Pepper. Are you sure everyone in your class likes it?”

The young boy was silent for a moment, now crouched beside you as he examined the crate. “You have a point.”

“Yuji, what the hell are you doing? I sent you in to get drinks for your class like ten minutes ago.”

Both you and the boy, now known as Yuji, snapped your heads up at the sound of another voice. Yuji stood up immediately, turning to face the source of the interruption. 

“Sorry, Uncle. I was having a hard time deciding,” Yuji apologized, scratching the back of his head. 

You grabbed the crate of soda you had recommended and stood beside Yuji, finally getting a look at the man who had spoken. Suddenly, a loud crash resonated through the aisle as the crate of sodas slipped out of your grasp and landed on your foot, eliciting a string of curses. 

“Oh my God! Are you okay?” Yuji’s voice echoed in your head as you kneeled, cradling your throbbing foot.

Oh my God, he was stunningly handsome. Not Yuji, but the resemblance was clear. Yuji’s uncle, whoever he was, was breathtakingly beautiful, and you had just embarrassed yourself in front of him. He easily stood over six feet tall, towering over his nephew. While Yuji shared similar features, his uncle’s were sharper and more defined by age. Intricate face tattoos adorned his skin, accompanied by two slits in both of his brows, a barbell piercing through his left brow. His hair, styled similarly to Yuji’s, appeared to be its natural, unique color. 

Maybe it wasn’t dyed after all. 

He looked every bit of a high school troublemaker. His ears were pierced with gauges and several piercings lined his helix. Tattoos, similar to the ones on his face, trailed down his neck and beneath the collar of his sweatshirt. His hands were casually shoved into his jean pockets as he quirked up a brow of annoyance. 

Mentally scolding yourself, you stood up and bowed at the waist. “I am so sorry. The crate slipped from my hands.:

“No, no! It’s okay, really. Are you sure that you’re alright?”

Yuji’s voice carried concern, his brow furrowed as you regained your full height. There was no way in hell that you would admit that his uncle had been the real reason you dropped the crate. 

You tensed as Yuji’s uncle shifted, sidestepping you to bend down behind you. He held up a new crate in his hand. “Let’s go. You’re already wasting my time, kid.”

Yuji nodded briskly, taking the crate from his uncle’s hand and hurrying towards the front of the store. Swallowing hard, you glanced at the man beside you. His eyes met yours, almost making you jump out of your skin. Quickly looking away, you stared at the floor in silence.

“Sorry if my nephew bothered you at all.” His voice, velvety smooth, resonated through the aisle. 

“What?” You blinked, turning to face him. “Oh no! He wasn’t a bother at all.”

Your heart thundered. His eyes—a deep maroon that gleamed in the light—captivated you. Did Yuji share the same trait? You couldn’t remember. 

He arched a brow, seemingly unconvinced by your response, before walking away and disappearing from view. As he departed, you visibly relaxed, leaning against the shelf for support. Your hands rose to cradle your heated face.

God, who knew someone could make face tattoos look so hot?

[wisteriaiswriting]

may i request for sweet fluff hcs with the shimada brothers? preferably a reader who is slightly younger than them

𝔽𝕝𝕦𝕗𝕗 ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕔𝕒𝕟𝕠𝕟𝕤

Words: 646

Might've gone a little overboard for them. :)

No matter how long you two date or remain friends with him there will always be an air of mentor and student. It will never leave, whether it's easily observable or underlying. (In his words, ‘You never stop learning.’)

He tries to stay around you 24/7, making sure you’re safe by watching over you. If it’s not possible he’ll have someone who is trusted to take his place until he returns.

Isn’t the biggest fan of pda due to the fact he’s never dealt with it and he gets embarrassed. But he tries to make up for it later in private, which is repaid in cuddles and kisses.

His main love language is acts of service, if giving gifts were on it would be up there. But this allows him to feel useful and needed, even if he knows he doesn’t need to he’ll do it anyways.

Speaking off giving if you look at something for even a few seconds in person or mention something online next thing you know it’s sitting on your bed later. (Unless it wont fit then it’s waiting outside your door.)

He sews. Learned it when he was young and only improved on the skill, which he is happy to use now. By making you custom clothing and garments, making sure it’s your favourite colour, material and clothing type.

His dragons will start gravitating towards you, while it starts simple soon enough all their time outside of battle is spent hanging around you. In their small forms.

But once they become bigger it only makes their cuddle piles harder to leave, not that you would want to. At this point Hanzo has learned to join instead of leaving.

Everyday he’ll dote on you about your health. If you’re eating and drinking enough, injured? Searching and retrieving a medkit or medicine for you.

If you get sick he’s one of the best people to help you. He’ll stay around as much as possible, staying just far enough away and knows what not to do. (No kisses :()

He will train you, there will be no exceptions. While it’s mainly hand to hand combat, sparring and so on, if you turn out decent at bows he might let you try his out. (Unlike someone who shot him, Genji.)

Back in his younger years he would’ve had no shame when it came to pda, sorry but he wouldn't give up being a playboy. But you will always be his one and only.

In the current days he’s become a bit more reserved although he does enjoy and allow you to hold hands and some quick kisses. (His mask nudges your face.)

If you allow him he will carry you around, whether you’re injured or not. The usual is the bridal carry but for laughs he will do the fireman carry.

If you ever get seriously injured he’ll have no clue what to do, so he has to find the nearest support. Small ones are fine, luckily he knows the basics.

When he starts training you, he will go soft on you. Even if he tries not to, it's difficult, he tries not to hurt you. Panic will ensue if he lays the smallest injury on you.

Soon enough he’ll bring you along to the shambali monastery to meet Zenyatta. And if you two get along and meditate together he will fall harder.

He’ll try to convince you to meditate with him, even if you don’t and just hang around he’ll be happy.

His love language is quality time. Just spending time around you, whether you speak or not.

Will let you apply the balm to this scar as it helps keep them painless. Plus he gets even more time with you.

Please play with his hair. He will melt into your arms the moment you do, his scalp has become a lot more sensitive.

[ihni]

The flower whisperer

First fill for the @harringrove-flip-reverse-it; day 1, prompt: "Language of flowers" (SFW prompt turning slightly NSFW)

(Read it on AO3 here)

~~~

The bell over the door jingled happily, and Steve wasn’t exactly surprised to see Billy enter the flower shop. It was a Friday, after all, and Billy usually came in on Friday afternoons, and had done so for the last couple of months.

At first he’d just bought a random bouquet of flowers and left, but as the weeks passed he and Steve started talking more. Small talk at first, and then Billy started asking Steve for his opinions on what flowers to use for his bouquet, and sounded surprisingly interested when Steve got to talk about one of his favorite subjects; different flowers and their meaning. Billy lingered for longer each time, even walking around the shop and appearing happy to just hang out there and wait if Steve was busy with other customers.

Sometimes, Steve wondered who the lucky lady was who got all of Billy’s flowers. The guy wasn’t wearing a ring and he never mentioned a girlfriend, but who else could it be for? One time in the very beginning, Steve had asked who it was for – just to get a feeling of what kind of flowers would be suitable, of course – and Billy had gotten a soft look on his face and even given a crooked smile as he replied, “A … special lady”.

So yeah. Probably girlfriend. Which meant that Steve didn’t have a chance, which was a shame really because he’d recently come to terms with the fact that he was into men just as much as he was into women, and Billy was definitely someone he was into. The man was gorgeous, with his long dark-blond hair and very slightly freckled skin (Steve had been delighted when he’d first seen the freckles, following a couple of sunny days in April) and perfect teeth that were almost blindingly white when he smiled. And he was funny too; biting and sarcastic and quick as a whip, and he could get Steve laughing like no one else – and blushing too, like the times he called Steve ‘pretty boy’ or ‘gorgeous’ and Steve couldn’t help the flutter in his chest.

Steve knew that it wasn’t real flirting – no matter what Robin said – because of the aforementioned girlfriend, but still. It gave Steve the butterflies whenever it happened.

So he was always looking forward to Fridays, and was always happy to see who he was considering to be his favorite customer. Which is why his face split in a grin as soon as he turned around at the jingle of the bell and saw who was there.

But something was off, this time. Billy wasn’t smiling back. Wasn’t sauntering up to the counter and leaning over it like he usually did. Didn’t even say hello. No, this time he stalked up to where Steve was standing and said, short and to the point, “I need a bouquet.”

Not used to such a direct approach without at least some small talk first, but hiding his confusion behind his customer service skills, Steve straightened up. “Uh, okay, are you looking for anything in particular?” He winced internally at the formal tone of voice he had adopted.

Billy didn’t seem to mind, though, as he was also in business-mode. “I need something that says ‘I want you. I need you. I desire you carnally.’”

Hearing those words coming out from Billy’s mouth made Steve’s mind screech to a halt. His mouth fell open and he had to blink a couple of times to come out of his stupor. “Oh. That’s … graphic.” He winced again, visibly this time, because, “Not that there’s anything wrong with that! Um. I mean, the customer is always right, and all.” He attempted a laugh that sounded more like he was getting strangled, and powered through to avoid letting Billy speak. “Okay! Let’s see. Um. You could use mistletoe, for ‘kiss me’, and a rose for ‘passion’? And maybe, um, sweet pea for ‘pleasure’?”

Leaning on the counter now, Billy still didn’t smile. He held steady eye contact with Steve as he said, “How about ‘I’ve wanted you since the first time I saw you. You are the most beautiful person I have ever seen, and you are everything I think about. It is becoming a problem, and my friends are starting to complain about the amount of time I spend talking about you.’”

Okay, wow. Maybe Steve was wrong before? Maybe it wasn’t a girlfriend that Billy was buying the flowers for, but a potential girlfriend? And now he was going in for the kill.

“That’s a … tall order.” Putting aside his own soul-crushing disappointment, he tried to keep his voice steady as his mind whirred. “I’d probably go with a calla for ‘beauty’, daffodils for ‘you’re the only one’ and primrose for ‘I can’t live without you’.” He thought for a second, and added, “And perhaps gladiolus, which means ‘give me a break’, I mean, for your friends’ reaction, although I’m not sure it’s normally used that way …”

“Right, right,” Billy said somewhat distractedly, staring intently at Steve’s mouth – probably uncomfortable with putting words to his feelings for his crush in front of someone who was still basically a stranger. “And how do I say ‘I can’t stop thinking about how I want you tie me to the bed and fuck me filthy all night long, and not quit even when I’m begging for mercy. I don’t want to be able to stand up the next morning’?”

Steve blinked again. “You … want … you want this person to … “

“Fuck me. Filthy. All night long.”

“Right. Yup. That’s what I …” Steve swallowed and cleared his throat. “That’s what I thought you said.”

Billy was still staring at Steve, but looking straight into his eyes now. And had he gotten closer? Steve was pretty sure he was closer than he’d been a minute ago. And was it getting hot in here?

“I … You’d need a cactus,” Steve said, thankfully without his voice breaking. “For ‘endurance’. And you could add some grass, I guess, for, um … ‘s-submission‘.” This wasn’t for a potential girlfriend, was it? Steve had gotten it so wrong. “And maybe some tulips for … um. ‘Perfect lover’.”

For the first time since Billy had entered the shop, a slow smile spread over his face. “‘Perfect lover’, huh?” he purred. “I like the sound of that. Add like twenty of those.”

“I, uh,” Steve said, face flaming. “I actually don’t have all of that in at the moment. I can do some of them, but not … not all of them.”

“That’s fine,” Billy said, his tongue darting out through his lips, and great, now it was Steve’s turn to stare at his lips when he spoke. “You get the gist. Make me a bouquet out of what you’ve got in stock, pretty boy. Something for wooing.”

It was actually somewhat of a relief to turn away from Billy today. Steve was almost shaky when he walked around the store, putting together flowers that usually wouldn’t go very well together, but trying to make them look good nonetheless. During it all, he could feel Billy’s eyes on him as he walked around the shop.

Eventually, he had a finished bouquet, which he brought to the counter. He didn’t dare look up at Billy, even as he counted the cost and told Billy his total. Handing over the money, Billy took the flowers for a second, and then promptly shoved them into Steve’s chest.

Startled, Steve grabbed the bouquet so he wouldn’t drop it, and his eyes darted up to meet Billy’s.

“What –?”

“For you,” Billy said, gruffly.

Steve’s brain stalled for the nth time. He mentally went through all the things that Billy had asked for today, and felt his face heat up. “For me?”

“Yes. You.”

“But … Wait, don’t you have a girlfriend?”

That actually seemed to throw Billy for a loop. He frowned and looked genuinely confused. “No? I’m … gay?” Immediately after, he winced. Not used to saying it out loud, perhaps. Steve sometimes did the same when he talked about his own bisexuality. “What made you think I have a girlfriend?”

“You kept asking for flowers that meant, like, ‘you have beautiful eyes’ and ‘I am charmed by you’ and stuff like that, what was I supposed to think?”

“I was flirting – with you!”

“You – what?”

Billy looked heavenwards and muttered under his breath, “Oh my god, I can’t believe Heather was right.”

“Who’s Heather?” Steve couldn’t help asking.

“Well, not my girlfriend!” Billy said, with great emphasis. “Heather is my best friend – my very lesbian best friend – and she said that you probably didn’t even know I was flirting with you.” He looked down, and was that a dusting of pink on his cheeks? Adorable. “She told me that I needed to go in here and be as clear as I could possibly be about my … about my intentions. Which, you know,” he nodded to the bouquet that Steve was still holding. The filthiest bouquet he had ever had the pleasure of putting together.

Steve felt light-headed. Probably because all the blood in his brain had rushed south.

“Well … those intentions were … very clear.” He cleared his throat. “But I actually think we forgot about the ‘filthy’ part.”

“Yeah?”

“M-hmm,” Steve said. “The flower language – surprisingly – doesn’t have anything for that but, you know, we do have daisies in the shop, and they stand for innocence and purity, so you know …  You could always, like, burn one of those or something and spread the ashes over the rest of the flowers?” He gestured sprinkling something invisible. “As a finishing touch.”

Billy’s smile reemerged, with a – quite irresistible – mischievous twinkle in his eye.

“I like it. So … is that a yes to the date?”

“What date?” Steve said, letting a bit of snark come back into his voice. “You haven’t asked me yet.”

It only made Billy’s smile grow wider. “Would you, Steve, do me the honor of going on a date with me?”

Heart fluttering in his chest, Steve attempted to fight the twitching in his lips that wanted to bloom into a smile. Instead he raised his eyebrows and tried to play it cool. “Hmm. And what would we do on this date, if I say yes?”

Billy played along, his tongue peeking out again. “I was thinking dinner … maybe a movie of your choosing …”

“Classic date activity, I like it.”

“And then for us to go somewhere private where you can tie me to the bed and fuck me all night.”

Steve pointed a finger at him. “I’m going out on a limb here, but I’m guessing you want me to fuck you filthy?”

“Oh yeah, in the absolute filthiest manner you can manage. Yep.”

“Well then,” Steve said and straightened up. Turned his back and ignored the small questioning noise that Billy let out as he walked off into the back of the shop. But he wasn’t gone long. When he came back – still holding the suggestive bouquet in one hand – he handed Billy one single flower he had dug out from a mixed bouquet that had originally been for a wedding. “Looking forward to it,” he said, biting his lip.

With a nod – and definitely blushing now – Billy took the flower.

An anemone, for ‘anticipation’.

[wenclairfamily]

The History of the Wenclair Family

Wednesday Addams and Enid Sinclair. They were a duo that shouldn't have worked… but they did… and somehow their relationship resulted in marriage and children. This is the story of how their romance happened, and their family came to be...

Originally upon first meeting Enid Sinclair, Wednesday Addams found herself barely able to stand her room mate. However over time, the two developed an unprecedented bond. Enid found herself highly respecting Wednesday, while Wednesday found her soul slowly becoming soft only for Enid. A short time before turning 18, Wednesday allowed herself to begin experimenting in intimacy with Enid, and an unbroken bond between the two girls' souls was born.

As Wednesday began to discretely experiment in intimacy with Enid far longer than she had first anticipated, Wednesday eventually had to come to grips with her long term plans for where her and Enid's relationship would go. But upon wondering who she wished to be buried alongside one day, Wednesday realized there was only one person she wanted for that to be. So one night while surrounded by stuffed animals with heads cut off that were soaking in fake blood, Wednesday asked Enid to marry her... and Enid immediately accepted.

Around the time of their wedding, Wednesday used a rare plant extract from her mothers' garden that could allow a woman to become pregnant with the DNA of another woman (but very intimate intercourse still had to occur to enable the process). Despite Enid being shocked at first that she unintentionally knocked up Wednesday, the two women agreed to improve their communication going forward; and in early December, on Friday the 13th - the two welcomed their twin children into the world: Harmony Addams, and Ana "Anarchy" Addams.

Once their two children were born, Wednesday and Enid found work in the fashion industry; with Wednesday creating dark gothic creepy creations for one demographic of customers, and Enid making all the lighter stuff for the rest. Together the two raised their children in a gothic mansion (with Wednesday allowing Enid to plant bright plants in the backyard). Every day after school, and on the weekends: Wednesday would train Harmony and Ana in combat survival exercises, while Enid would teach her girls all the latest dance moves.

Upon reaching their teenage years, Harmony and Ana became strong young women. Harmony wound up learning she had gained both Enid's werewolf genes, and Wednesday's psychic abilities. Ana, while gaining no special abilities of her own, had still inherited all of Wednesday's intelligence and combat skills (while still having Enid's pleasant personality). Unfortunately, after the two girls accidentally caused a zombie frog outbreak at their school: Harmony and Ana were kicked out... only for their mothers to enroll them at Nevermore Academy.

During her first semester at Nevermore, Harmony found herself growing closer (in a romantic sense) to her childhood best friend: Megan, one of the first normies to attend Nevermore. Despite the two always being very close, Harmony had doubts if the two should take their relationship to the next level; due to them being so young, and due to conflicting visions of the future she was having when it came to her life with Megan. However, the two eventually consummated their relationship on one very romantic evening, and eventually the two agreed to get married once they both turned 18.

Ana meanwhile eventually found her own special individual to love... a kitten. After rescuing it from the woods where it was all alone, Ana named the stray cat: Stormageddon the Conqueror, and together the two started a freelance bounty hunting service together. On top of that, Ana and her cat have achieved a seat on the city council, beaten up vampires, defeated mutant clones, stopped an army of rogue sirens, and fixed the space/time continuum. Almost nobody understands how, but Ana and her cat have become an incredibly formidable duo.

Upon two Nevermore teachers attempting to kill Harmony and Ana (after the attackers revealed themselves to be the children of Laurel Gates), two staff positions at the school opened up. Wanting to be close to their daughters (and wanting to return to the place they met): Wednesday and Enid became teachers at Nevermore Academy, and even moved into the school (making their old dorm room their new home). Enid took over the art department, while Wednesday took over the school's self-defense courses, and school security. And now the story of Wednesday and Enid's family continues at the same place it began...

Check out my HUGE Wenclair Series to Read the FULL STORY

https://www.wattpad.com/user/WenclairFamily (T-rated version of my stories)

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14168842/1/The-Passion-of-a-Moment-Enid-and-Wednesday-s-Family-and-Legacy (M-rated version of my stories)

https://archiveofourown.org/works/43420609 (alternate link for M-rated version of my stories)

*First Picture in Post by: @emeriart, Harmony/Megan Picture by: "AnnieK", Steampunk Kitten Picture From Google Image Search, All Other Images (except screen captures of the Wednesday TV Series) created by: Me (with assistance from multiple AI programs)

[rorlokiswifey]

Make up artist! Loki Headcanons!

I colored this image to give it a lil more life?

💚 Loki loves bright colors! Anything green, purple, blue and pink is on his radar!

💚 His favorite part of doing the make up is graphic liner or eyeshadow! That is because he enjoys showing his artistic skill when it comes to the graphic eyeliner and gets to do fun color combinations!

💚 With eyeshadow Loki often uses glitter or pastel colors to make the eyes pop out of one has dark eyes! And of one has light eyes he used a more nudy base or more soft colors!

💚 Loki is probably someone who does make up for drag queens or events! He loves that he can go all out and do different combinations as well as styles! Especially the bold and confronting lines of make up, often it doesn’t need to be blend but it’s still takes a lot of work!

💚 one of Loki’s favorite styles is gyaru make up! He is a fan of how bold, saturated and unique the subculture is, especially with the meaning behind it! He has many Gyaru clients and always asks to learn more about the subculture in Japan!

💚 even though Loki is a make up artist, he also plans on doing nails and hairs, he thinks it’s part of the art itself because one’s nails should also be a match to one’s make up!

💚 Loki can often be found at comic cons! Helping cosplayers with their make up look, he has his own stand and brands of make up he used. During his stay he also offers glitter tattoo’s!

💚 Loki plans on having his own brand one day that can suit any style! He would sell them at a reasonable price and make them of safe, healthy and eco friendly materials, even if they would be hard to find!

💚 He has done make up for runaway shows! Ofcourse he has been credited and even joined on in on the walk! This is to show how his make up style changes depending on the undertone, style, color combinations, aesthetic and ofcourse saturation!

💚 despite the mostly make up applications, Loki is also fond of body art. His go to color would be gold, a color that would suit any body type, color or undertone yet give off an angelic majestic and phenomenal look!

💚 Loki as a make up artist is trying to do everything when it comes to the body. Hair, nails, make up, skin care, anything you can think about. He care a lot about presentation, service and the health of his customers!

💚 because of his work, Loki learns a lot about different cultures! This caused him to take an interest in henna/ mehendi, he currently takes lessons on how to apply them as it is both applied on the hands and feet, while brides often wear red mehendi. So lot’s of practice for him!

💚 Loki actually thought of becoming an tattoo artist! But because he lacks artistic skills he found his passion more in make up! But he might be one one day. At least that’s what he thinks!

💚 Loki loves patterns and lace! He uses them in his work, he adds diamonds amd gems too, often taking inspiration from lace to do body art, he uses a technique where he puts make up ok old lace and presses it against the body, causing it to make a mark of the make up!

💚 Loki started making videos on how he does certain looks or how he makes his make up look fabulous. He even gets sponsors, yet he’s always honest with his followers in which product works and which one doesn’t.

💚 Make up artist Loki might have even done make up for Idols or Vkei bands, if there is one thing he loves it’s weirdness, he will try to find the weirdest of it all! It made him listen to Kpop ad Vkei haha

💚 Despite Loki’s love for weirdness, he also has a fixation on more feminine things! He likes designing clothes, headwear and skirts with lots of bows in pastel colors, usually pastel blue, pink, green and white.

🌸That’s all that came to my mind…thank you for reading!~ 🌸

[girlboss-enthusiast]

Please tell us how to get into IT without a degree! I have an interview for a small tech company this week and I’m going in as admin but as things expand I can bootstrap into a better role and I’d really appreciate knowing what skills are likely to be crucial for making that pivot.

Absolutely!! You'd be in a great position to switch to IT, since as an admin, you'd already have some familiarity with the systems and with the workplace in general. Moving between roles is easier in a smaller workplace, too.

So, this is a semi-brief guide to getting an entry-level position, for someone with zero IT experience. That position is almost always going to be help desk. You've probably heard a lot of shit about help desk, but I've always enjoyed it.

So, here we go! How to get into IT for beginners!

The most important thing on your resume will be

✨~🌟Certifications!!🌟~✨

Studying for certs can teach you a lot, especially if you're entirely new to the field. But they're also really important for getting interviews. Lots of jobs will require a cert or degree, and even if you have 5 years of experience doing exactly what the job description is, without one of those the ATS will shunt your resume into a black hole and neither HR or the IT manager will see it.

First, I recommend getting the CompTIA A+. This will teach you the basics of how the parts of a computer work together - hardware, software, how networking works, how operating systems work, troubleshooting skills, etc. If you don't have a specific area of IT you're interested in, this is REQUIRED. Even if you do, I suggest you get this cert just to get your foot in the door.

I recommend the CompTIA certs in general. They'll give you a good baseline and look good on your resume. I only got the A+ and the Network+, so can't speak for the other exams, but they weren't too tough.

If you're more into development or cybersecurity, check out these roadmaps. You'll still benefit from working help desk while pursuing one of those career paths.

The next most important thing is

🔥🔥Customer service & soft skills🔥🔥

Sorry about that.

I was hired for my first ever IT role on the strength of my interview. I definitely wasn't the only candidate with an A+, but I was the only one who knew how to handle customers (aka end-users). Which is, basically, be polite, make the end-user feel listened to, and don't make them feel stupid. It is ASTOUNDING how many IT people can't do that. I've worked with so many IT people who couldn't hide their scorn or impatience when dealing with non-tech-savvy coworkers.

Please note that you don't need to be a social butterfly or even that socially adept. I'm autistic and learned all my social skills by rote (I literally have flowcharts for social interactions), and I was still exceptional by IT standards.

Third thing, which is more for you than for your resume (although it helps):

🎇Do your own projects🎇

This is both the most and least important thing you can do for your IT career. Least important because this will have the smallest impact on your resume. Most important because this will help you learn (and figure out if IT is actually what you want to do).

The certs and interview might get you a job, but when it comes to doing your job well, hands-on experience is absolutely essential. Here are a few ideas for the complete beginner. Resources linked at the bottom.

Start using the command line. This is called Terminal on Mac and Linux. Use it for things as simple as navigating through file directories, opening apps, testing your connection, that kind of thing. The goal is to get used to using the command line, because you will use it professionally.

Build your own PC. This may sound really intimidating, but I swear it's easy! This is going to be cheaper than buying a prebuilt tower or gaming PC, and you'll learn a ton in the bargain.

Repair old PCs. If you don't want to or can't afford to build your own PC, look for cheap computers on Craiglist, secondhand stores, or elsewhere. I know a lot of universities will sell old technology for cheap. Try to buy a few and make a functioning computer out of parts, or just get one so you can feel comfortable working in the guts of a PC.

Learn Powershell or shell scripting. If you're comfortable with the command line already or just want to jump in the deep end, use scripts to automate tasks on your PC. I found this harder to do for myself than for work, because I mostly use my computer for web browsing. However, there are tons of projects out there for you to try!

Play around with a Raspberry Pi. These are mini-computers ranging from $15-$150+ and are great to experiment with. I've made a media server and a Pi hole (network-wide ad blocking) which were both fun and not too tough. If you're into torrenting, try making a seedbox!

Install Linux on your primary computer. I know, I know - I'm one of those people. But seriously, nothing will teach you more quickly than having to compile drivers through the command line so your Bluetooth headphones will work. Warning: this gets really annoying if you just want your computer to work. Dual-booting is advised.

If this sounds intimidating, that's totally normal. It is intimidating! You're going to have to do a ton of troubleshooting and things will almost never work properly on your first few projects. That is part of the fun!

Resources

Resources I've tried and liked are marked with an asterisk*

Professor Messor's Free A+ Training Course*

PC Building Simulator 2 (video game)

How to build a PC (video)

PC Part Picker (website)*

CompTIA A+ courses on Udemy

50 Basic Windows Commands with Examples*

Mac Terminal Commands Cheat Sheet

Powershell in a Month of Lunches (video series)

Getting Started with Linux (tutorial)* Note: this site is my favorite Linux resource, I highly recommend it.

Getting Started with Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi Projects for Beginners

/r/ITCareerQuestions*

Ask A Manager (advice blog on workplace etiquette and more)*

Reddit is helpful for tech questions in general. I have some other resources that involve sailing the seas; feel free to DM me or send an ask I can answer privately.

Tips

DO NOT work at an MSP. That stands for Managed Service Provider, and it's basically an IT department which companies contract to provide tech services. I recommend staying away from them. It's way better to work in an IT department where the end users are your coworkers, not your customers.

DO NOT trust remote entry-level IT jobs. At entry level, part of your job is schlepping around hardware and fixing PCs. A fully-remote position will almost definitely be a call center.

DO write a cover letter. YMMV on this, but every employer I've had has mentioned my cover letter as a reason to hire me.

DO ask your employer to pay for your certs. This applies only to people who either plan to move into IT in the same company, or are already in IT but want more certs.

DO NOT work anywhere without at least one woman in the department. My litmus test is two women, actually, but YMMV. If there is no woman in the department in 2024, and the department is more than 5 people, there is a reason why no women work there.

DO have patience with yourself and keep an open mind! Maybe this is just me, but if I can't do something right the first time, or if I don't love it right away, I get very discouraged. Remember that making mistakes is part of the process, and that IT is a huge field which ranges from UX design to hardware repair. There are tons of directions to go once you've got a little experience!

Disclaimer: this is based on my experience in my area of the US. Things may be different elsewhere, esp. outside of the US.

I hope this is helpful! Let me know if you have more questions!

[blkdaddie]

Welcome to Meskhenet

Meskhenet - The Egyptian goddess of childbirth

The moment I stepped into Meskhenet, the air was thick with the scent of top-shelf spirits and the underlying sweetness of ripe citrus. Soft jazz melodies whispered through the dimly lit room, where the lighting was just low enough to create an intimate atmosphere. It was my fourth visit this month. The allure was undeniable, and it wasn’t just the cocktails that kept me coming back.

“Evening, Alex,” called a familiar voice. Tyler, one of the bartenders, flashed me a smile from behind the bar. His belly, prominently round beneath his perfectly fitted shirt, swayed slightly as he mixed a drink with expert precision. “The usual?”

I nodded, sliding onto a stool. “You know me too well, Ty.”

He chuckled, his cheeks dimpling. “It’s part of the job. Keeping the regulars happy.”

Meskhenet wasn’t like any other cocktail bar in the city. The staff—every single bartender—was a pregnant man. It was the novelty that drew first-timers through the door, their curiosity piqued by whispers of this extraordinary place. But it was the quality of the service, the ambiance, and the unparalleled mixology that turned those curious glances into loyal patrons.

As Tyler expertly crafted my Old Fashioned, I glanced around. The bar was a spectacle of polished wood and plush leather, every detail meticulously chosen to exude sophistication. The clientele ranged from business professionals unwinding after a long day to couples on dates, their eyes glistening with intrigue.

A new patron, wide-eyed and hesitant, approached the bar. His gaze lingered on Tyler’s belly, then flitted away, embarrassed. Tyler noticed and leaned forward, a knowing smile on his lips.

“First time here?” he asked, sliding my drink in front of me with a flourish.

The newcomer nodded, swallowing hard. “Yeah, I’ve heard about this place. Didn’t really believe it until I saw it myself.”

Tyler’s laugh was warm and inviting. “We get that a lot. It’s a bit of a shock at first, but we’re just like any other bartenders—only a bit more… expectant.”

As the night wore on, the bar filled with the soft hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses. Tyler wasn’t the only one who knew how to handle the attention. Michael, another bartender, was equally skilled, his hands deftly mixing drinks even as his belly pressed against the bar.

A patron, emboldened by a few cocktails, leaned in towards Michael. “So, what’s it like working here?” he asked, his voice slurred but curious. “Do you… you know… mind all the staring?”

Michael’s eyes twinkled with amusement. “Honestly? It’s part of the charm. People come here expecting a show, but they stay for the drinks and the company. And we’re well-compensated for the attention.”

“Yeah, but why do it?” the patron pressed, his curiosity piqued.

Michael set a finished drink in front of another customer before turning back. “For some of us, it’s the pay. For others, it’s the atmosphere. And then there are those who enjoy the attention. We know what the patrons think when they look at us, and we’re okay with it. It’s all part of the experience.”

I sipped my drink, savoring the balance of flavors. The bartenders were more than just a novelty—they were artists, crafting each cocktail with a finesse that kept people coming back for more. It wasn’t just about the spectacle; it was about the quality.

A regular next to me, Emma, leaned over, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Admit it, Alex. You come for the drinks but stay for the view.”

I laughed, shaking my head. “Maybe at first. But it’s more than that. It’s the whole package. The ambiance, the skill, the… uniqueness.”

Tyler overheard and winked at us. “Glad to hear it. We aim to please.”

As the night deepened, the bar buzzed with life. Meskhenet wasn’t just a place to grab a drink; it was an experience, a blend of fantasy and reality served with a twist of lime. And as I watched the bartenders move with practiced grace, their bellies a testament to the unique allure of the place, I knew I’d be back.

[cha-melodius]

oh man, okay, so, firstprince, Harrod's food hall

(In which I take Henry's canonical skill at recommending cheese to its logical extreme. This got longer than I intended because I kept waxing rhapsodical about cheese [only half joking]. I hope it lives up to your wildest dreams!)

chamel’s fandom fest info | read all the fics

Will You Brie Mine?

(firstprince, 5.8k, T; read it below or on AO3)

“Ah, Alex,” he says with a soft, fond smile curving his lips and crinkles at the corners of his blue eyes, like he’s pleased to see him.

Alex pointedly ignores the way that something in his stomach swoops.

“We have a new Manchego in this week that I think you’ll love,” Henry continues.

Right. Henry’s pleased to see him because Alex is his best customer. Alex assumes so, anyway. Surely no one else buys this much cheese on a weekly basis.

He hadn’t meant to start this little routine. June had been telling him since he moved to London that he had to go to Harrods and visit the food hall, so he’d gone just to be able to shut her up about it. And sure, it’d been reasonably impressive and he’d gotten some tasty stuff out of the trip, but he probably wouldn’t have been back if he hadn’t wandered by the cheese counter and caught sight of the most beautiful man he’s ever seen standing behind it. Alex hadn’t really spent much time contemplating his sexuality until he was suddenly confronted with floppy golden hair, ridiculously full lips, the finest cheekbones he’s ever seen, and broad shoulders only emphasized by the contrast of the green apron tied snugly around his narrow waist.

(It had still taken him several weeks of visits to the cheese counter before he realized why he was so drawn there, and a few more to come to terms with the fact that he really, really wanted to kiss the man behind it.)

Unfortunately, he’d been caught staring and had to play it off like he was particularly interested in cheese. He likes cheese, don’t get him wrong, but he never really thought too hard about it. Now he’s in pretty much every week to see Henry and has learned more about cheddar and brie and gruyere than he ever wanted to know. His fridge is always full. He brings cheese plates to pretty much every gathering he’s invited to. It’s kind of becoming a problem.

He hasn’t stopped visiting, though.

Today, as Henry tells him all about the Manchego, Alex tries his best to listen and not fixate on the mole next to the corner of Henry’s mouth or the way his shoulders strain the seams of his white uniform shirt. It’s not a particularly easy task for him, in all honesty.

“Would you care for a sample?” Henry asks, as if Alex has ever said no to him.

“I’d love one,” Alex tells him instead of saying I’d like to sample you.

The Manchego is quite good. Alex buys a chunk and takes it home, along with a baguette and a bottle of wine that Henry recommended to go along with it, then stands in front of his refrigerator and contemplates how absurdly pathetic he is.

Maybe he should make fondue for dinner.

~~~~~

“I don’t get why you don’t just ask him out?” Nora says as they weave their way through the various food hall areas. They’ve already purchased several pastries and a pile of chocolates, though Alex wouldn’t let them visit the wine shop until they’d seen Henry.

If Alex had his druthers they wouldn’t be here at all, but Nora is visiting for a job interview and pretty much demanded that Alex take her to see ‘the hot cheesemonger’ that he’s been talking constantly about for the last six months. (He hasn’t. She’s grossly exaggerating.)

“He’s in the service industry, Nora,” Alex argues. “Being hit on by customers is the worst. You get put on the spot and you have to smile and act all polite while you’re trapped because you’re at your job? I’m not going to do that to him.”

She pops a chocolate truffle into her mouth and chews thoughtfully. “Mm. You could casually ask when his shift ends and bump into him.”

Alex shoots an exasperated look her way. “That’s not better.”

“Oh, but accumulating the world’s finest collection of cheese in your one-bedroom apartment just so you can see him is a completely reasonable course of action.”

That, he doesn’t deign to dignify with an answer. Anyway, they’re nearing the cheese counter, which means they’re definitely done discussing this. He spots Henry immediately, looking unfairly adorable in his little green hat as he helps an elderly lady pick out some munster, and browses the display cases behind the counter as they wait. The fact that the other employee at the cheese counter doesn’t even bother trying to help him probably says something.

Eventually Henry finishes and turns toward them, though his smile falters slightly when he sees Nora. Weird. Probably Alex is just imagining things, because a moment later it’s back to normal.

“Hullo Alex,” he says, and Alex’s stomach does that swoopy thing at his name on Henry’s tongue, same as it does every week. “You’re early this week.”

Alex ignores the pointed look that he can feel Nora giving him. “Nora is visiting and wanted the ‘whole experience’,” he explains, gesturing with a sideways nod of his head toward her. “We’ve already hit the bakery and chocolate shop. Saved the best for last.”

Henry’s smile widens, and he ducks his head slightly before he looks back up. “Not actually last, though.”

“I mean, obviously Eric over at the wine shop is the best.”

“Of course,” Henry says solemnly. “Good to know where I stand.”

“You know me, always here to put you in your place,” Alex returns. Next to him, Nora loudly clears her throat and gives him a pointed look, and he has to bite back the too-revealing grinning on his face. “Right. Nora, this is Henry. Henry, Nora.”

“Hi,” she says, smiling in a way that makes Alex nervous. “Pleasure to meet you. I’ve heard so much about you.”

“Nora.”

Henry looks bemused by this information, his eyebrows arcing skyward as he glances over at Alex. “Really?”

“Ignore her,” Alex tells him.

“I’ve heard a lot about your cheese, then,” she revises, eyes sparkling with pure mischief.

“She doesn’t know what she’s talking about,” Alex says. He can feel his fucking cheeks getting hot and prays it’s not noticeable. “Whatcha got this week?”

“Ah, a new one arrived that I think you’ll get a kick out of. Tête de Moine.”

Alex furrows his brow. “Tête…”

“… de Moine,” Henry repeats. “It means ‘monk’s head’.”

“Of course it does.”

Henry huffs a soft laugh. “It’s from Switzerland. This one’s aged four months, and it’s very full-bodied, with an earthy nuttiness to it. The real trick is in the serving though.”

“Oh?” Alex prompts. He has to admit, he could fucking listen to Henry talk about cheese all day. It’s not really the cheese, though; it’s how passionate and animated he gets, sometimes downright rapturous. It’s the spark in his eye and the confidence with which he speaks and the sheer depth of his knowledge.

Behind the counter, Henry holds up a finger to indicate they should wait a moment, then sets about retrieving a small wheel of cheese already set up on some kind of circular contraption. There’s a post sticking through the center of the wheel with a small blade radiating out toward the edge, which has a handle that Henry grabs. In one slow, smooth motion, he spins the blade around the top of the cheese wheel, and a delicate little rosette of cheese appears. Then he pinches it carefully by the base and holds it out over the counter toward Alex. It looks for all the world like he’s handing Alex a flower.

“Like this, it melts in your mouth,” Henry says, and Alex barely manages to avoid swallowing his tongue.

Their fingers brush as Alex takes the little cheese rosette from him, and Alex feels a little frisson of electricity even though Henry’s wearing gloves. Henry watches him expectantly as he sticks the whole damned thing in his mouth—because what else is he going to do with it?—and oh. Wow, that’s really something. It does melt in his mouth and it’s a little funky but not too much?

Henry’s cheese recommendations truly never miss.

“That’s fucking amazing,” he says once he’s finally swallowed it. “And it has to be served like that?”

“The only way to eat it,” Henry confirms. Then he turns his smile toward Nora. “Would you like to try it?”

“Sure,” Nora agrees, and as soon as Henry’s attention is diverted toward the cheese again she kicks Alex in the shin.

He gives her a what the fuck was that? look, and she in turn replies with some significant eyebrow raising and head tilting toward Henry, like he’s supposed to know what she’s on about. A moment later, she schools her expression back to normal as Henry reaches out to hand her a rosette, which she polishes off in about two seconds flat.

“Yeah, it’s good,” she says in her typical understated manner.

Whatever. Alex knows an exceptional cheese when he eats it. “So how do you sell it, then?” he asks Henry.

“Well, you can buy the whole wheel and the girolle to go with it, but I assume you’re not particularly interested in acquiring specialized cheese equipment,” Henry says. Honestly, Alex would probably let himself be talked into it, if Henry was doing the talking. This is definitely becoming a problem. “But I can shave you a collection of rosettes if you think you’ll eat them within a day or two.”

“A bouquet, then?” Alex jokes.

Henry’s cheeks go slightly pink, and Nora kicks him again. Alex ignores her.

“I suppose so,” Henry says.

“All right then. And the wine?”

“A full-bodied variety, like Bordeaux or Côtes du Rhône.”

“Perfect,” Alex says. “I have one at home, so I won’t even need to visit Eric.”

Henry’s lips quirk upward. “A shame to miss out on the best stop.”

“Did I, though?” Alex asks, scrunching up the side of his face in fake thoughtfulness.

It makes Henry laugh, which is pretty much everything.

He can’t even be annoyed that Henry pretty much ignores him to ask Nora about her visit as he works on the rosettes. Then he catches himself thinking that it’s kind of sweet that Henry’s making sure she’s included, before realizing that it’s his job to chat with the customers.

Jesus, Alex is hopeless.

“He’s nice,” Nora says once they’re done and have walked far enough away. Alex wasn’t looking for her approval, especially since probably nothing will ever happen, but still. He trusts her judgment. It feels good. “Also he totally wants to dick you down.”

“Nora,” Alex hisses, eyes going wide as he looks around to make sure no one heard her.

“And you obviously want him to, so.”

“How could you possibly know that after ten minutes?”

“Besides the fact that the entire time it looked like you wanted to eat him instead of the cheese?”

Alex huffs in frustration. “I meant about what he wants.”

Nora stops walking in the middle of an aisle between counters, and Alex drags her to the side so they don’t get mowed down. “Alejandro. Babe,” she says flatly. “The look on his face as he watched you eat that cheese was nothing short of pornographic.”

“You’re imagining things,” Alex scoffs.

“He. Wants. You,” she repeats firmly. “Ask him out. He’s not gonna say no, I promise. Ninety-six percent.”

Alex bites his lip. “Ninety-six?”

~~~~~

Nora’s numbers should be reassuring. Instead, Alex is freaking out. Ok, maybe he wants Henry, and maybe Henry wants him, but he’s never dated a dude before. He’s done precisely nothing with his bisexual revelation, partly because he’s always swamped with work and partly because he doesn’t want to go hook up with random guys. It’s not like he hasn’t kissed a guy before; he flat out made out with Liam back in high school, and it was nice but he still managed to come out of it thinking he was straight, so. That doesn’t inspire much confidence. The idea of kissing another man now makes him weirdly nervous because if he does and if the same thing happens—worse, if he kisses Henry and it doesn’t do anything for him—then he loses all of this. He likes what they have now. He still doesn’t know a lot of people in London outside his office. As ridiculous as it sounds, the cheese counter feels like a lifeline he can’t afford to let go of.

It’s probably better if they just stay friends. Acquaintances. Whatever the fuck they are.

Anyway, Nora is probably wrong. She couldn’t possibly be that certain after watching them interact for ten minutes. He holds firm to this (misguided) belief right up until he makes his weekly trip to Harrods and Henry positively lights up when he sees Alex approaching.

“Oh good, you’re here,” Henry says, not even bothering with a greeting as he immediately goes into the case to fetch something.

“Hello to you too,” Alex says with a lopsided smile.

“Yes, hello,” Henry huffs, “now come here and close your eyes.”

What.

Henry’s not even looking at him, he’s too focused on the cheese in front of him, and Alex has no fucking clue what to make of any of it.

“Uh, Henry? Is this some kind of new thing y’all are doing?”

Henry smirks at him. “Only for mouthy Americans. Are you coming?”

Jesus’ tits. Alex looks around, but not a single person in the bustling food hall is paying attention to them. Henry appears to be by himself at the counter today. With a deep breath, Alex braces himself for whatever’s about to happen and steps up closer to the counter.

“Now close your eyes and open your mouth,” Henry tells him, which is more or less what he expected, but still. Those words, in that voice. It’s a fucking lot.

“Henry, what—”

“Come on, after all this time, don’t you trust me?” Henry teases.

Well, when he puts it like that.

So Alex closes his eyes and opens his mouth, and a moment later a small morsel of cheese is deposited on his tongue—via toothpick, he realizes as he closes his lips around it, and not Henry’s fingers. Thank god, honestly. Fortunately, the flavor of the cheese completely distracts him from how insane all of this is, because wow. It’s hard and a bit crumbly, salty with a tang and kick of smoky, fruity spice that builds on his tongue. There are peppers involved, chiles like he has rarely tasted since he moved here, and the flavor of them just about punch him in the gut with the flavor of home.

He opens his eyes and finds Henry watching him raptly. That’s a lot, too.

“It’s unbelievable,” Alex says honestly. “What is it?”

“Queso de cincho enchilado,” Henry answers, with passable Spanish pronunciation. “Imported specially from Guerrero.”

“What?”

“I did some research and found out one of our suppliers had a contact in Mexico,” Henry explains. “And, well, you’re always complaining how it’s nearly impossible to get Mexican ingredients here, so I thought you might like it.”

Alex’s throat feels like it’s closing up around the emotion that’s trying to choke him. “You ordered it… for me?”

“If any of our customers deserve a special order, it’s you, Alex,” Henry says, a small, soft smile curving his lips.

“Oh,” Alex says.

His brain is spinning endlessly, like a gear never quite able to make contact with the next one. He needs something to make sense of this. He needs… a list.

1. Henry went out of his way to order something for him. 2. Henry saw a chance to bring Alex something that means something to him and made it happen. 3. Henry chose not just any Mexican cheese, but something special, something he wouldn’t get anywhere else. 4. Henry cares enough to know him.

Fuck.

With a truly heroic effort, he manages to paste on a smile, shoving the rest of it deep down where he will decidedly not inspect it later. “Well, thank you. It’s amazing. Honestly, I don’t know what to say.”

“That has to be a first,” Henry quips, and Alex protests with a ‘Hey!’ and a laugh, because the only other alternative is having a breakdown in Harrods about cheese.

They fall into something like their regular banter after that, and all of this is fine, it’s fine, it’s fine.

It’s totally fine.

~~~~~

The queso de cincho enchilado haunts him. Quite literally, since he bought a large quantity of it and every time he looks in his fridge he’s reminded of what Henry did for him. It feels like a lot. It feels like maybe too much.

Maybe Alex needs to take a step back before he goes spinning out of control and fucks something up, badly.

For the first time in a while, he doesn’t visit the food halls that week, or the next. He’s got a crazy case on his plate at work and can’t afford to spare the time anyway. It’s fine. Henry probably won’t even notice he’s not there.

Then, a couple of days after the day he usually visits, he’s in the middle of a long, brutal run through Hyde Park to try to clear his head when he nearly collides with someone in a wool peacoat and a Burberry scarf.

“Jesus fuck, asshole, watch where you’re—”

Alex cuts off because, when he finally regains his balance and turns toward the person, he looks up into a pair of startlingly familiar blue eyes.

“Alex?”

“Henry,” Alex exhales. He suddenly feels much more out of breath than he did a second ago. 

Alex would try to claim that he almost doesn’t recognize him out of his uniform, but that would be a lie. He’d know that face anywhere. Those eyes, those cheekbones, those lips curled into a small, pleased smile. He’s bundled up against the February chill, but he still looks effortlessly put together in a way that makes Alex starkly aware of how sweaty and bedraggled he is in comparison. Alex is so overwhelmed by seeing Henry here, outside the safe realm of the Harrods food hall, that he almost completely misses the beagle sitting, well-behaved, at his feet.

“You’ve got a dog,” he manages. He feels strangely unmoored by the situation.

“That I do,” Henry says with a little chuckle. “This is David.”

Alex doesn’t mean to make a face, but it happens. “Weird name for a dog.”

“It’s after Bowie,” Henry tells him.

“Oh, well. That’s cool.”

A beat of silence stretches between them. Fuck, this is awkward. It’s never this awkward when there’s a case full of cheese between them. 

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt your run,” Henry ventures.

“No, it’s fine. You just surprised me.”

“So you usually berate innocent pedestrians while you’re running, then?”

His teasing surprises a laugh out of Alex. “Fuck off with ‘innocent’, you stepped into my path.”

“Well, yes,” Henry admits. “And I do apologize for that. David was very excited about a squirrel.”

“Oh, blame it on your dog, real smooth,” Alex says, grinning, and Henry laughs. Alex makes a motion toward the beagle. “Can I pet him?”

“I’m sure he’d enjoy that,” Henry says.

Alex squats down in front of David and holds out his hand for him to sniff, which David does and then proceeds to immediately tuck his nose under Alex’s hand and nudge it up onto his head. He’s utterly adorable, and Alex spends several minutes scratching behind his ears and feeling some of the remaining tension bleed out of him—dogs really are magic—before Henry speaks again.

“We missed you at the cheese counter the past couple of weeks,” he says lightly. We, like any of the other employees there care about whether Alex comes in. He’s probably just that weird guy with the cheese addiction to them. He can appreciate why Henry would put it that way, though.

With one last pat, Alex stands again and pushes a hand back through his hair before remembering how gross it is. “Yeah, I got slammed at work,” he says. It’s mostly not a lie. He doesn’t actually need to explain why he wasn’t there, except he feels oddly compelled to. He quirks his lips into a sardonic smile. “Sorry, I know I’m probably a substantial part of your monthly sales quota.”

Henry laughs softly. “You are,” he confirms, a teasing glint in his eye. Then his expression goes more serious. “But that’s not why I was concerned.”

Oh. Henry was worried about him.

“Well, I’ll be back this week,” Alex promises.

“That’s good to hear,” Henry says, and when he smiles his eyes crinkle at the corners. “I should let you go before you catch a chill out here.”

Alex doesn’t want Henry to let him go, although yes, he’s getting really fucking cold in his thin exercise gear now that he’s not moving anymore. He thinks maybe if he wasn’t completely disgusting and exhausted he might ask Henry if he wanted to go get a cup of coffee. Or tea, whatever (he knows, in fact, that Henry’s a tea drinker). It’d be low stakes, friends get coffee all the time, and he could feel things out a bit more. Asking if he wants to get together some other time feels more intentional. Like a date.

They’re not at the shop. Alex could just ask.

“Yeah, ok,” he says instead. “It was good to bump into you, man.”

For some reason Henry’s smile seems to go a little tight at the edges. “It was. I’ll see you soon, Alex.”

~~~~~

It doesn’t occur to Alex until he’s standing in the shower later that he could have asked for Henry’s number at the very least. Now who knows when he might run into Henry again. Maybe he could just haunt Hyde Park during the same time frame and hope that he runs into Henry walking David again. Maybe he should just take Nora’s suggestion to ask him when his shift ends and meet him then.

He’s still contemplating his options when he visits the cheese counter that week. It’s oddly busy for some reason, and he waits a while for Henry to be free. Unfortunately that also means that they’re not going to have as much time as usual to chat, which is quite honestly the whole reason he visits. He’s just wondering if maybe he should come back later when Henry appears in front of him, clearly tired and worn around the edges but no less beautiful for it.

“You guys are hoppin’ today,” Alex says, glancing around.

“Yes, well, lots of romantic cheese plates to sell, I suppose,” Henry sighs.

Alex frowns in confusion. “What?”

“It’s Valentine’s Day tomorrow?”

“Right, yeah, I totally remembered that,” Alex says, shaking his head as he bites his lip. “Shows you where my head’s been.”

“I hope for your girlfriend’s sake that that’s not actually true,” Henry points out, and now Alex is confused again.

“Girlfriend?”

Henry frowns back at him. “Nora?”

Alex chokes out a surprised laugh. “Oh, Nora’s not my girlfriend. I mean, we dated a while ago, but now we’re just friends. She’s dating my sister actually.” Henry’s eyebrows shoot up. “Don’t ask. Anyway, that’s why she’s trying to move to London—her and my sister, actually—because June feels a need to watch over me or something, I guess. It’ll be good to have them here, though.”

“Oh. That’s nice,” Henry says. “Sorry for assuming, you just talk about her quite a bit.”

“God, don’t tell her that,” Alex groans.

“So no girlfriend, then?” Henry asks casually, or it would be casual if he weren’t avoiding Alex’s eyes and fidgeting with some kind of cheese.

Alex swallows and licks his lips. “Nope. No boyfriend either. I’ll just be hanging out with James Bond tomorrow, I guess.”

“What?” Henry asks sharply, for reasons that are beyond Alex.

“I dunno, Bond movie marathon sounds like a good way to spend Valentine’s Day alone.”

“Right, of course,” Henry says with a tight smile. No explanation for the weird reaction is forthcoming, so Alex shrugs it off. “Our special cheese this week might be kind of moot, then.”

“Why’s that?” Alex asks.

Henry turns away to grab something, and when he turns back he’s holding up what looks like some kind of heart-shaped brie. “Neufchatel,” he says. “From Normandy.”

“The heart shape seems a little gimmicky for the Harrods cheese counter.”

“Ah, but it’s not actually a gimmick. The shape goes back to the Hundred Years’ War,” Henry explains. “The English occupied the region, and the story goes that the French dairy maids who fell for their occupiers gave them as gifts to the Englishmen.”

“Ok, now it makes sense,” Alex laughs. “Of course y’all would sell something that commemorates the people you tried to conquer falling in love with you.”

“I didn’t say it was an admirable story,” Henry protests, flushing a delightful pink. “It is a wonderful cheese, though.”

“Well?” Alex prompts. “You gonna give me a sample of your occupier cheese?”

Henry laughs and shakes his head, but he cuts Alex off a chunk and passes it over the counter. It actually is delicious, ridiculously creamy and velvety on his tongue. It’s also the kind of cheese that’s probably not something you’re going to eat alone, since he doubts it will keep well after it’s been cut into, but…

Alex has to admit, he’s kind into the symbolism of Henry giving him this particular cheese. Not that Henry is giving it to him, Alex is buying it, not to mention that Henry has probably sold a hundred of these heart-shaped cheeses today, but still.

“Yeah, ok, it’s really good,” Alex says, like it pains him to admit it. “I’ll take one.”

Henry blinks at him. “Really?”

“For my date with James Bond.”

A kind of weird look passes over Henry’s face again, but it’s gone as quickly as it had come. “All right,” he says. “I’ll get that wrapped up for you.”

Alex watches Henry package up the cheese, which means he absolutely sees Henry pick up a pen and write something on the inside of the butcher paper that he wraps around it. But Henry also gives no hint as to what it could be as he hands over the cheese and rings Alex up at the cash register. As expected, he doesn’t really have time to linger; there are more customers waiting to be served, so Alex takes his purchase and heads home, the small package burning a hole in his pocket. He can’t very well unwrap a soft cheese in the middle of the London streets or on the tube or something, so whatever Henry wrote remains a mystery until he gets into his kitchen and nearly tears the paper off.

It’s a phone number. Henry’s phone number.

Alex checks the time, and by now it’s after the food hall counters close. With slightly shaky hands, he types the number into his phone and presses call.

“Hullo?” a familiar voice answers, slightly distorted over the line.

“Henry,” Alex breathes. He just saw Henry less than an hour ago, and yet still the sound of his voice sets every one of Alex’s nerve endings on fire. “Um. It’s Alex.”

“Ah. You got my message, I see.”

“I did,” he confirms. A little puff of disbelieving laughter escapes him. “Leaving your number on the inside of a cheese wrapper? Really?”

Henry laughs softly. “I suppose I got tired of waiting for you to ask me for it.”

“Why didn’t you just ask me for mine?”

“If I did, it would have to be for some kind of special order purposes,” Henry tells him. “And I couldn’t use it for personal reasons. It’s against company policy.”

“Oh,” Alex says. “Yeah, I guess that makes sense.” He takes a deep breath. “I wanted to.”

“Wanted to what?”

“Ask you. For your number. Or… on a date.”

He hears Henry exhale, and then, with immense fondness, he says, “You certainly took your time.”

“Fuck off,” Alex says automatically. Something thrums under his skin at Henry’s answering laughter. “I didn’t want to fuck it up,” he confesses.

“You didn’t,” Henry says softly. “You won’t.”

“How can you possibly know that?”

“After six months, I think I know you at least that well, Alex.”

And yeah, Henry does.

“So, uh,” Alex starts, not even knowing where he’s headed with this until the words are coming out of his mouth, “Turns out I’ve got this really romantic cheese that probably shouldn’t be eaten alone.”

“I can confirm it’s better shared.” He can hear the smile in Henry’s voice.

“So you could come over, if you wanted. To my place. Tomorrow? I’ll make dinner. Not just cheese.”

“I’d love to,” Henry says, his voice full of something that fills Alex to the brim with warmth. “I can bring wine?”

Shoot. In his rush to get home, Alex forgot about the wine. So really—

“That’s perfect, baby.”

Alex feels the noise Henry makes over the phone in his toes.

~~~~~

Whatever possessed him to make their first date on Valentine’s Day at his own apartment and to volunteer to cook dinner, Alex is sure he doesn’t know. They could have gone for coffee. They could have gone out to dinner a few days later, or something reasonable that didn’t involve Alex fretting over last minute menu plans and laboring over the stove for hours. He considers something from his Mexican wheelhouse before deciding that sourcing ingredients at this point would be nearly impossible, and in the end he takes inspiration from the Neufchatel and goes French. Coq au vin, potatoes, haricot vert, crusty bread that he picks up from the French bakery down the road. For dessert, though, he dips into his precious supply of dried chiles that his abuela sent him and whips up the batter for a spiced chocolate lava cake that will bake while they’re eating dinner.

So, you know. Nothing fancy.

Henry shows up right on time with a bottle of wine to pair with the cheese and another for dinner, which he’d chosen after wheedling tonight’s menu out of Alex via text earlier. He’s utterly stunning in a blue sweater that looks ridiculously soft, and Alex desperately wants to touch it. Or maybe he just desperately wants to touch Henry.

He doesn’t, though. He greets Henry at the door, and they do the slightly awkward dance of knowing this is a date and knowing each other pretty well, but not knowing exactly what they are to each other yet. Are they on hugging terms? Kissing? Alex sidesteps the question entirely by taking the wine from Henry’s hands and leading the way back into the kitchen. 

It’s blissfully not awkward after that, though. The conversation flows easily as Alex finishes up the last bits of dinner. They drink wine and eat heart-shaped cheese and Henry drops light touches on Alex’s hip or his arm or his lower back as they maneuver around each other in the small space. He’s suitably impressed by Alex’s cooking and isn’t shy with his praise, which warms Alex to the core.

It is, all in all, probably the best date Alex has ever had, and by the time they retire to the living room couch after dessert he feels like he’s going to vibrate right out of his skin with anticipation. Something of it must show on his face, because Henry gives him a gentle smile that is clearly intended to put him at ease as he relaxes into the couch, his body angled toward Alex and his wine glass dangling loosely from his fingers.

“I’ve had a lovely time tonight,” he says, nudging a knee up against Alex’s.

“I’m glad to hear that,” Alex replies honestly, putting all of it into the smile he returns. “Me too.” Then he pauses, steeling himself, and Henry must sense it because he just waits. “There’s something you should know,” he says eventually. “I’ve never done this before.”

“Done what?”

“Dated a guy.”

Henry’s expression is maddeningly neutral. “But you want to.”

“I didn’t do all of this because I don’t want to kiss you,” Alex retorts. That, at least, brings a pleased smile to Henry’s face. “I just… this isn’t some experiment for me, but some things are going to be a little novel.”

Henry nods and sets his wine glass on the coffee table, then shifts on the couch closer to Alex. He slides one hand onto Alex’s thigh just above the knee, and the other he reaches up to the side of Alex’s face, gently cupping his jaw. “We can take things as slow as you like.”

Alex leans in, inhales the scent of Henry’s cologne. “And if I’m not interested in taking it slow?”

“I can’t say I’d complain,” Henry answers with a soft puff of laughter.

His eyes drop to Henry’s full, wine-stained lips, to the mole at the corner of his mouth, to the other one at the edge of his jaw. They both sway closer, until the tips of their noses nearly brush.

“I have another confession,” Alex says abruptly, and Henry lets out a fondly exasperated sigh as he pulls back again and looks at him expectantly. “I’m not really that into cheese. Or, I wasn’t, I guess. I only really visited to see you.”

“I know,” Henry says, biting back a smile.

“What do you mean, you know?!” Alex demands.

“I mean, it was clear that you didn’t actually know much about cheese, and though you seemed interested, you never really struck me as a connoisseur,” Henry tells him. He takes a deep breath and lets it out again. “That’s why I always hoped, even when I thought you had a girlfriend.”

“Oh,” Alex breathes. “So you wanted me…?”

“Christ, from the first time you stopped at my counter, Alex. Now will you please kiss me—”

Alex leans in and presses his lips to Henry’s, and it’s everything he could have imagined and more. Henry’s lips are plush and soft under his, and he tastes like red wine and chocolate and chiles, and Alex already never wants it to end. Kissing Henry is new in the best way—from the way Henry’s end-of-the-day stubble scratches against his own, to the strong hands in his hair, to the sensation of the hard planes of Henry’s waist under his palms—but at the same time there’s something achingly familiar about it. Like coming home.

The more they kiss, the more he realizes that there’s something else that’s different about this kiss: it feels, unmistakably, like the last first kiss he’s ever going to have.

[trulybetty]

oct' 26 x jack-o-lanterns

Prompt: jack-o-lanterns (something sweet this way comes p.II) Pairing: marcus pike x f!Reader Word Count: 3,305 Warnings: barely beta'd is the name of the game, all mistakes are my own. mentions of baking, a tiny dash of spice, no spoilers here 💕 Summary: maplewood, a small town nestled in northern bc where people flock to see the changing blossom trees and celebrate the fall season. after losing your job you find yourself a part of the community which includes the towns baker who left a less than stellar impression on you. AO3: linked

x. masterlist | something sweet this way comes part I

Something Sweet, This Way Comes Part II | Jack-o-Lanterns

The preparations for the Trick or Treat Parade were well underway, it was an annual celebration in the town’s main square, outside the town hall. Maplewood, while a small community, serviced a great deal of people outside the town. Many of its inhabitants lived rurally, meaning trick-or-treating wasn't feasible for many of the children.

However, before that could happen the mid month tradition of the Jack-O-Lantern Hunt took place. Businesses and landmark buildings alike all decorated or carved their own pumpkins and people would follow the trail visiting each location on their maps. It was a way to encourage business and bolster the festivities after Thanksgiving had passed.

Black Cat Books was no exception, Libby had been putting the final touches to the store's pumpkin when the bell rang above the door signalling a customer.

“Marcus!” she called out, “what do we owe this please?”

You rolled your eyes as the enthused cheeriness of your friend, you were currently engrossed in the latest shipment of fall mystery novels and the scanning of them into the POS system.

“Evening,” he greeted, looking a little out of his element in the quiet bookstore. “Actually, I was looking for a gift.” 

“I can help you with that,” Libby remarked standing from her stool, “who is it for?”

“Sarah actually.”

“What’s the occasion? Her birthday isn’t until the summer isn’t it?” Libby asked, making her way around the counter.

You watched Marcus out of the corner of your eye as he scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, “Not her birthday no, she broke her arm on the weekend at her soccer match down in Fort Nelson.”

“No!” Libby exclaimed, “poor girl, she lives and breathes soccer.”

“I know, so I thought I’d get her something to cheer her up. She’s always talking about her visits here. I was hoping you’d be able to recommend a book maybe?”

Libby looked thoughtful for a moment, “Hm, I’m not entirely sure.”

Before you could catch yourself you cleared your throat and grabbed a book off of the shelf behind you, “This one,” you said as you tried to be as nonchalant as you could handing it to Marcus, “Sarah was debating on this one the last time she was in here but said she was going to wait until she got paid.”

Marcus accepted the book, a soft smile on his face as he looked at the cover, “Thank you.”

“You're welcome,” you said, your eyes meeting his for a fleeting second before you turned your attention back to your work.

“So how are you managing at the bakery with Sarah out of commission? Isn’t Maria on vacation too?” Libby asked, referring to the bakeries' part-time weekday employee.

Marcus let out a sigh. “It's been a bit chaotic, to be honest. She was going to be right hand for front-of-house operations this week, and with the Jack-O-Lantern Hunt coming up, it's been really hectic trying to juggle everything.”

Libby took the book and got started on wrapping it, “What are you going to do? The hunt is this weekend.”

Marcus sighed, “I honestly don't know. We're already falling behind on orders, and there's so much to prepare for the parade at the end of the month on top of the pumpkin hunt.”

It was at that point that Libby, forever the matchmaker and opportunist, seized the moment. “You know, my friend here is pretty nifty with her customer service skills.  Maybe she could lend a hand?" she said nonchalantly as she tied the final knot on the gift ribbon.

You choked on your own breath almost dropping the stack of books in your hands, “What? Me? Bu- but you need me here, Libby.”

Libby waved you off with a grin, “Nonsense. It's been pretty manageable here. And besides,” she gave you a pointed look, “it's a good opportunity for you to get to know the town better.” she finished with a not so discreet nod in the direction of Marcus.

You and Marcus exchanged an awkward glance, the tension palpable but it was vastly different than it has been in the past. 

“Think about it,” Libby nudged as Marcus paid and took his wrapped book, thanking her.

He looked at you, a question in his eyes, “Would you consider it? I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t really need the help.”

You really wanted to decline, find some excuse, any excuse. But as Marcus stood there, looking genuinely in need and a bit vulnerable, you felt something shift.

“I'll think about it,” you said, realizing even as you spoke that your curiosity was already tipping the scales. Marcus nodded, a hint of relief crossing his features.

“Thank you, either way,” he said, exiting the bookstore with a small wave to the both of you.

As the door closed behind him, you looked at Libby, who was practically beaming.

“What are you up to Libby?”

“What do you mean?”

“Why are you volunteering to help him?”

“I think you might have more in common with him than you think.”

“Well, aren't you the little cupid,” you said, a bit sarcastically but not without warmth.

Libby shrugged, “When the universe gives you a nudge, sometimes you have to nudge back.”

“You really need to let up on those horoscopes.”

Libby gave you a weary eye roll, “Plus is it such a terrible thing? Baked goods and coffee on tap?”

The next morning guilt had you dragging your feet across to the bakery, with a good shove from Libby, to tell Marcus you’d help him with the front of house operations for the remainder of the week while he looked at finding someone else to fill Sarah’s position a little more permanently. 

As he’d walked you through the point of sale system he used you realised it was the exact same setup Libby had and soon were able to catch on pretty fast. 

“Seems like you're a natural at this,” Marcus said with a grin as you smoothly rang up a customer's order. “If you ever get tired of helping Libby out, you're welcome here anytime.”

As the days progressed it turned out Marcus mostly worked in the back, managing the oven, mixers, and other kitchen duties, which left you mainly responsible for front-of-house operations. This was a relief in some ways, reducing the awkward tension that had started building up between the two of you.

Marcus had said you could read between customers if you wanted to, but the bakery was so busy you barely had a chance to open the book you'd brought along. People were in a constant stream, some coming in to pick up pre-orders, others dropping by for their daily fix of coffee and pastries, and still, others had come out of curiosity, intrigued by the upcoming festivities. 

Despite the business, you couldn't help but notice how different each customer interaction was compared to the bookstore. Whereas Black Cat Books was a haven for the introverted, the bakery was a social hub. Children would come in giggling, pulling their parents behind them as they pointed to the cookies and cupcakes in the display case. Old friends would bump into each other in line and strike up conversations as if no time had passed. 

And everyone, it seemed, knew Marcus.

As each customer came and went, most had something kind to say about Marcus.

“Tell Marcus that the apple tarts were divine, would you?”

“Marcus helped fix my flat tire last week. Can you make sure he gets this thank you card?”

“Ah, Marcus makes the best chocolate cake. Did I tell you he was a lifesaver during the snowstorm last year? Cleared both my driveway and sidewalk.”

The anecdotes were small, simple moments that seemed to paint a portrait of Marcus you hadn't considered. Your previous reservations, based largely on a whole lot of stubborn pride, started to seem trivial in the face of what you were hearing.

While you had been busy contemplating whether he was too good to be true, he was, in fact, doing good in the community you were both a part of. Your wariness was beginning to wane, being replaced by a blossoming curiosity and a tiny little bit of a newfound respect for the man you'd initially written off.

Around mid-afternoon a couple of days later, Marcus finally emerged from the back, carrying a tray of freshly baked pumpkin bread. The smell wafted through the shop, and you inhaled deeply, feeling a sense of comfort that only a bakery could provide.

“How's it going out here?” he asked, placing the tray on a display counter.

“Busy,” you replied, “I haven't even had a chance to crack open my book.”

Marcus glanced at the book lying beside the cash register, “Well, I hope that's a good thing.”

“It is,” you found yourself smiling, “it's nice to be busy. Keeps the time flying.”

Marcus looked pleased, “I'm glad to hear that. I was worried you might find it overwhelming. Between the start of fall, Thanksgiving, Harvest, the Jack-O-Lantern hunt, then Halloween - it’s almost as busy as the Holidays around here.”

“You know, I’ve never heard of so many celebrations stuffed into one month.”

Marcus laughed softly while he continued to work on the display, “I know how you feel; I felt that way when I first got here. But it's a great way to bring people together and share some happiness. Who doesn't need more of that?” 

“Speaking of community, they’ve all got something to say about you it seems Mr. Pike.”

“Oh?” Marcus raised an eyebrow, “Good things I hope?”

You hesitated for a moment, choosing your words carefully, “Let's just say I'm learning that you're very well-liked around here. People appreciate what you do, both in and out of this bakery.”

Marcus looked genuinely surprised, and then his face broke into a warm, appreciative smile. “Well, that's kind of them to say. I just try to do my part, you know? Small town, tight-knit community—it's what makes Maplewood special.”

Friday soon came around and Marcus had let you know that morning that the weekend was taken care of. Maria was back in town and had said she’d work Sarah’s shift that weekend, meaning it was your last day helping out at the bakery.

Despite your reservations at the start of the week, you had felt a little pang of disappointment when he’d made the announcement after you’d arrived that morning.

You were wiping down the counters when Marcus came out from the back again, looking a little flour-dusted but otherwise no worse for wear.

“How'd it go?” he asked, washing his hands in the sink.

“Busy,” you replied, “but good busy. I think I successfully managed to not ruin your business.”

He took the cloth from you, “It’s okay, I’ve got this, you can head out.”

You shook your head and took it back, “It’s okay, Libby has book club tonight, the less time I have to be there for the better.”

Marcus laughed as he crossed the floor to the shop's door, locking it, “In that case, knock yourself out.”

Marcus flipped the sign to close and you paused, realizing Marcus was watching you, “What?” You ask with a grin, unsure why he was giving you such attention.

He laughed to himself and shook his head, “If you’re not wanting to head out any time soon, how do you feel about lending a hand with a bit of baking?”

“You trust me?”

“I think you can handle it, I’ll do the heavy lifting.” he finished with a wink and before you knew it you were following him to the back of the shop.

Once you were both in the back kitchen, Marcus started gathering ingredients from various shelves and corners of the room. “We're making cinnamon rolls, a seasonal special.” he said, placing butter, flour, sugar, and a variety of spices on the counter. You also noticed a small bottle of orange food colouring and a bag of pecans.

“Cinnamon rolls? Not sure what's so seasonal about them,” you said, intrigued by the setup.

Marcus chuckled, “Ah, but these aren't just any cinnamon rolls. They're pumpkin spice rolls with pecans and an orange-coloured spiced glaze. Trust me; these are special.”

“Wow, sounds delicious,” you replied, starting to feel excited about the baking adventure.

Marcus handed you an apron, and you couldn't help but notice how his eyes lingered on you as you tied it around your waist. “You look good in that,” he remarked as he passed by to pull down a mixing bowl.

“Thanks,” you replied, unable to keep a smile from spreading across your face.

Marcus began weighing flour and pouring it into a large mixing bowl and explained the steps as he went along. “First, we make the dough, then we let it rise. After that, we roll it out, sprinkle the filling, roll it up, and then cut it into pieces. Easy as pie, or in this case, rolls.”

After you'd mixed the dough ingredients, Marcus instructed you on the proper way to knead it. To your surprise, he positioned himself behind you, placed his hands over yours, and began guiding your movements on the dough.

“Use the heel of your hand to push and fold the dough back on itself,” he said, his voice soft and close to your ear. “It's all in the wrist.”

You felt a wave of heat rise to your cheeks, your heart racing as Marcus's hands continued to guide yours in perfect harmony. You had been so wary of him just a few days ago, but now, the intimacy of this simple act was breaking down any remaining barriers. You were becoming acutely aware of the magnetic pull towards him you’d been trying so hard to ignore.

Finally, Marcus pulled away, and you took a moment to catch your breath. 

“You're a quick learner,” Marcus finally said, pulling a baking sheet from one of the cabinets.

“Good teacher,” you mumbled, unable to meet his eye, feeling your face grow hot.

After rolling the dough, sprinkling the filling, and neatly lining the rolls on the baking sheet, Marcus popped them into the oven. While they baked, he mixed the orange-coloured spiced glaze, occasionally stealing glances at you and smiling.

“Want to try a taste?” he asked, offering out a spoon he’d practically made appear out of nowhere, or you’d been that focused on his hands as he stirred the ingredients. 

Nodding, you leaned in to taste the glaze from the spoon Marcus was holding. As you did, a drop of the orange-coloured icing escaped, landing on your lower lip. Marcus looked at you, his gaze dropping to your lips. Time seemed to slow down.

“Hold on, you’ve got a little…” His voice trailed off as he gently reached up and brushed away the drop of glaze with his thumb.

Your heart pounded in your chest as Marcus took a step closer to you as he licked off the icing from his thumb. His eyes met yours, asking for permission, before flicking down to your lips. You felt the air grow thick with tension, a magnetic pull drawing you closer together.

“Is this okay?” he asked softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Before you could answer, a sudden knock on the front door of the bakery shattered the moment. You both jumped, startled out of the intimate bubble you’d been in.

Marcus looked as confused as you felt, but then you took it as an opportunity to try and shake some sense into yourself. “I should go,” you said, quickly removing your apron and folding it on the counter.

Before Marcus could respond, another impatient knock echoed from the front. “Hold on!” he called out towards the door, his eyes meeting yours one more time as if to say 'don't go.'

But you were already moving, grabbing your purse and jacket. The spell was broken, but the lingering feelings remained as you felt the ghost of Marcus’ touch on your lips.

As pulled on your jacket you heard Marcus greet the knocker. “Bill, you know it’s past closing, right?”

“It’s an emergency, Marcus, I swear! I need a pie, I saw the lights on out the back and you’re the only one in town who can save me.”

You heard Marcus laugh, his attention now fully on Bill, who was from the art store down the street. Feeling like an intruder on the scene, you took your chance to slip out of the bakery with a quick wave to the two men, the bell jingling softly as you opened and then closed the door behind you.

You didn’t look back as you pulled your jacket tighter against the cold wind that swept down the highstreet, if you had you would have seen Marcus watching you as you looked both ways before you scurried across the street to the bookshop. 

Once inside, you took a moment to catch your breath, leaning against the door. What was that all about? You had a swirl of emotions rushing through your head, none of which made any sense when applied to Marcus. You were still pondering it as you locked up the shop and made your way upstairs to the apartment you shared with Libby.

When you walked in, you found Libby sitting on the sofa, flipping through a magazine with a cup of tea by her side. “You're late,” she noted, her eyes still fixed on the glossy pages before her. “Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, just lost track of time helping Marcus close,” you said, trying to keep your voice casual as you hung your jacket and kicked off your shoes.

“What were you doing, making out with Marcus in the back of the bakery?" Libby quipped, laughing to herself as she flipped another page.

You nearly jumped out of your skin at the suggestion, but managed to roll your eyes and offer a sarcastic laugh. “Please, I still don't see the appeal.”

“That's funny,” Libby said, raising an eyebrow as she set her magazine aside. “Because I haven't heard you say one bad thing about Marcus since you started helping out at the bakery.”

Caught off guard, you felt a quiet panic settle in your chest. You were usually so transparent to Libby, it made you uncomfortable how easily she could read you. “Well, I've been busy. No time for chit-chat when you're up to your elbows in doughnuts and the gossip of the neighbourhood watch.”

Libby eyed you suspiciously but said nothing more. “If you say so.”

“I do say so,” you affirmed, perhaps a bit too quickly. “Anyway, I'm going to take a shower.”

As you stepped into the warm stream of water, you let it wash over you, hoping it would also rinse away the tangled web of emotions that had sprung up so unexpectedly. Your mind replayed the almost-kiss, Marcus' eyes looking into yours, the touch of his hands over yours as you kneaded dough, and you felt a pang of something you couldn't quite place. Was it regret? Longing? It was too confusing to sort out, so you shut off the water, wrapping yourself in a towel in hope of pushing it all out of your mind.

As you looked at your reflection in the steamed-up bathroom mirror, you felt a mixture of relief and disappointment. Whatever it was that had happened at the bakery, it was over now. Tomorrow was a new day, and you would go back to your normal routine, back to your safe, familiar life you’d made for yourself in Maplewood.

But as you crawled into bed that night, the nagging feeling refused to leave you and you resolved to resume your long discarded search for job vacancies in Toronto in the morning. 

Maplewood suddenly felt stiflingly small.