#it was a birthday gift for a dear friend and i got a little carried away

[mllekurtz]

I'm not sure if anyone's keeping tabs, but just a heads-up that there isn't going to be a birds of prey update this month (well, last month technically).

I am about to post Something Completely Different however, a 17k shadowgast post canon get-together one shot, full of pining and longing and tenderness (and spice)!

[harleehazbinfics]

Cookies for Everyone!

--- cannibal chef m.list a/n at the end!

"Everyone! I got all of you something!" You excitedly bounded to them with a covered round tray in your hands.

Everyone turns to you curious as to what you're holding, except Vaggie, who narrows her eyes suspiciously at the tray crossing her arms.

"What's in the tray?" She asks, voice laced with hostility.

"Oh, Vaggie. I'm sure it's something harmless," Charlie tries to mediate with a smile.

"Harmless? From her?" Husk retorts with a snide grin. "I'd believe it when snakes and pigs fly."

Angel gasps hugging Fat Nuggets closely. While Sir Pentious does the same with an offended look hugging his eggbois.

"Too far, my bad."

You waved them off with a laugh, and said, "Oh, goodness no! I could never! I just wanted to give you guys a little something for inviting me to do stuff with you recently. I never had proper friends before, so I made you..."

You drag the suspense and slowly lift the cover making them hitch their breaths anticipating the worst.

What was it? Mutilated body parts? Teeth bracelets? Their stinkiest undergarments?!

You finally presented the gift with a proud look on your face, while their tense faces deflated in relief to see...

"Cookies?"

"PEOPLE SHAPED COOKIES! LOOK IT'S ALL OF US!" Charlie screams elated grabbing her cookie.

"I think those are called Gingerbread Men," Husk remarks at Charlie cynically making Vaggie glare at him.

"Woah! These look great, doll!" Angel complements inspecting the cookie with a smile.

"They also taste amazing!" Pentious adds, melting from the taste of your baking.

"Not gonna lie. I thought you'd give us eyes or nails of our loved ones," Vaggie confesses before eating a bite out of her cookie, "These aren't half bad."

You smile and reply with a shrug, "I'm crazy but I'm not a monster."

"I think we've already passed that, dear," Alastor notes appearing by your side.

"Sir Alastor! I wouldn't dare forget to make you some!" You said giving him a little bag of his own cookies, giving the rest their own goodie bags.

"Well, everyone. We'll be heading out. Can't be late for our reservation," Alastor announces cutting through everyone's conversation taking their attention.

"Reservation?" You ask tilting your head rather cutely, but Alastor would rather die than say that out loud, "I never arranged a reservation for you, Sir."

He grins holding your shoulder, and replies, "I made it for you, of course! Seems like you've already forgotten about your own birthday, sweetheart."

Your head explodes into a red color looking very embarrassed and excited, both at his endearment and plans for you. It made you feel very appreciated that he remembered something you've barely told anyone.

Your brain runs around in delusions. Thinking so far into the future where you'd live together with Alastor, sleeping in the same room being woken up by your pet cat and being a family.

"We can't be late. See you in a while, chums!" The radio demon bids goodbye holding your lovesick form in his arms in a princess carry while you short-circuited.

"Should we name our cat after you, sir? 💕"

---

saw this goin around while i was gone wtf, its oddly and scarily cute ew? /aff LMAO

[radio-writes]

Keep All Your Worries Aside

Alastor on his partner's birthday - Headcanons

Warnings: implied power imbalance, slight manipulation

Tags: Alastor x reader, gn reader, fluff, self indulgent as hell

MDNI

Alastor used to adore birthdays when he was alive. It was the perfect time to get to know people; friends and targets alike.

He also got the chance to earn the person's favor, which was never a downside to him. He never knew when it would be useful to have those people on his side, after all.

Whenever he had partners in his lifetime, whether just for show or out of genuine care for their company, he spoiled the ever living heart out of them. Dinner, gifts, dancing, his absolute undivided attention—whatever they wanted and more he made sure to give it all to them.

It was unconsciously an addicting habit for him. He loved the way it made them so happy. How he knew he was the cause of their smiles and hence could just take it away any time he wanted to. How it made them so thankful to get to spend such a special time with him.

After he died, however, the excitement over birthdays was all but left behind in the mortal part of his existence.

Alastor didn't see the point of celebrating a birthday, specially when in Hell. After all, he was hard pressed to even find anyone that was happy about being born into this world, only to be stuck in such a miserable cesspool in the end.

And besides, not a lot of wandering souls even revealed that much of themselves anymore. Something as personal as a birthday was often kept a secret, in fear of it being used against them somehow.

Perhaps, sarcastically, he has brought up the idea here and there. If he knew it brought some sort of anguish or misery to some lowly sinner, why wouldn't he? 

But when it was his darling partner who just openly shared such information with him? Oh, he just couldn't help but to be interested.

Such a little act showed how much they trusted him, and he couldn't just let that go unpaid, could he? It would mean he would owe them, after all.

Alastor found that his old habits came back a lot faster than he expected them to. He found himself dragging his darling out all around the pentagram—whether they wanted to go or not—showing them off, showing them the sights, showing them a generally great time with his arm looped around theirs.

He bought every single thing they even glanced at, but he didn't dare burden their arms with holding it all. No, he had his shadow creatures trailing behind, carrying all his gifts for them.

Couldn't he just simply bring them into their room at the hotel? Of course! Easily so with a snap of his fingers. But that wouldn't be as fun as getting to show off just how well he could provide for his partner.

It's only when his dear finally asked him to ease up on the fanfare—they feared the trail of shadows would cause a traffic accident at this point—did Alastor finally stop and just transported their gifts to the hotel.

He took them out dancing, shopping, drinking. Always had a hand on them no matter what, to keep them close.

He found that old giddy feeling in his chest seeing his darling smile because of him—knowing he alone caused their happiness.

And when they thanked him at the end of it all? Said those oh so humble words

"I have no idea how to repay you for all of this."

Well, no one could blame him when his grin stretched just a tad bit wider. Eager, excited, thrilled. He hadn't exactly set out to earn any favors on their birthday, it was simply to pay back the trust they gave him.

But hey, he wouldn't turn down having his darling in debted to him. And he could certainly think of a few ways they could return the favor.

It is my birthday and if I say I want fluffy Al, I'm getting fluffy Al.

[myeagleexpert]

【ＨＥ　ＳＡＩＤ　ＴＨＡＴ　ＡＮＤ　Ｉ　ＷＯＮ＇Ｔ　ＦＯＲＧＥＴ　ＩＴ】

You know those important parts where you use the highlighter to highlight something important? So, my dear player, that's what we have here. Some interactions between the characters x yuu and the interactions between them that make me think a lot about the character they are!

Pt1: Heartslabul - Savanaclaw - Octavielle ( You're here!)

Pt2: Scarabia - Igynia - Pomefiore - Diasonia ( Loading...)

Wₕₐₜ ₐᵣₑ yₒᵤ dₒᵢₙg ₕₑᵣₑ? ₜₕₑ Qᵤₑₑₙ wᵢₗₗ cᵤₜ ₒff yₒᵤᵣ ₕₑₐd!

"Trey enthusiastically said he’s going to bake a strawberry tart for my birthday party. Make sure you come to eat some too. …Well, it not like it’s a Rule of the Queen of Hearts or anything"- Birtday Union

"Thank you for coming to celebrate my birthday. …Eh? You’ve hidden my present somewhere in the Heartslabyul dormitory? I see now. The answer to the riddle on this card must reveal the location of the present. Heh, you’ve sure come up with something rather interesting. Well, since you’ve gone through the trouble of planning this for me, I suppose I’ll just have to play along."- Birtday Union

"You are as energetic as ever today, I see. No, this isn’t any sort of rebuke. I truly do hope to see you enjoying my birthday party to the fullest."- Birthday Union

((he deserves to have more light and fun moments, and eat lots of strawberry pies))

"Don't worry, if you get lost, I'll come searching for you. I'm pretty used to looking after my siblings, so I'm sure I'll find you quickly."- Playfull Dress

"Thanks for celebrating my birthday. But I have to say, I wasn't expecting you to have my gift delivered to my dorm like that. You should have just handed it to me directly, since we were meeting up, anyway. Was I shocked? Well, yes... Ah, so it was supposed to be a surprise present! Haha, oh man. You're always finding ways to startle me."- Platinum Jacket

"Riddle’s got a pretty tight handle on everything, there’s not much for me to do as his Vice Dorm Leader. I’m basically just here as decoration." - Cerimonial Robes

"You want to take a picture of me? You’re the record keeper, so just do as you like. …It’s more nerve-wracking if you know you’re being watched, you know?"- Outdoor wear

"Oh, good timing. Help me carry these dishes. Of course, there’s some for you and grim too."- Outdoor Wear

"Hm, you want a scarf? Well... Oh, maybe if I ask Sam, he can lend you a spare one. Just wait a sec."- New Year Attire

"Do you have any plans for the winter this year? If not, what if you got a temp job at a cake shop...? Haha, I'm just kidding."- New Year Attire

((he's so big brother material, I love these little moments of him being so attentive))

"Amusement parks are so rad～! Why don't we take a selfie together right here at the gate? Think of it as the first of many to remember today!"- Playfull Dress

"Oh hey, think you'd want any popcorn? If so, tell me your favorite flavor. Your boy Cay-kun'll get it for you."- Playfull Dress

"Thanks for coming to celebrate my birthday! I’m super stoked! You’re gonna give me whatever I want for my birthday? Well, if you say that… it might make me want to ask for something huge. I’m kidding, don’t worry! How about we go skateboarding together? We can do some sweet tricks and post some pictures online!"- Birthday Union

" “#Birthday #NRCUnionJacket #SpecialMadeForCay-kun” …You know I totally gotta brag about today’s special outfit!"- Birthday Union

" Why are you looking at me like that while petting the tsum? You’re making Cay-kun feel so conflicted～"- Tsum Event

"Pfft, your hair is all over the place from all the wind. Sooo laaame… Eh, mine, too!?"- Playfull Dress

"The whole point of birthdays is definitely the presents. So what did you get your dearest friend Ace-kun, then?"- Birthday Bloom

"I’m good with not dating anyone yet. 'Sides, I’m already busy looking after you lot."-Suitor Suit

"A word of warning. Until I say it’s safe to, deeefinately don’t look up at the ceiling… Juuuust kidding! Haha, did that scare you?"- Halloween

"The basketball club's most promising rookie has arrived! You better not take your eyes off my fresh plays, 'kay?"- Club Wear ((He's a little shit, but I'd root for him in the front row))

"Practicing passes with Floyd is basically a matter of life and death. But that's 'cause he's always throwing them at breakneck speeds!"-Club Wear

"Hey, we should all play basketball together sometime soon. If we invite Deuce or whoever, we can probably get a 3-on-3 game goin'.-" Club Wear

"Are you going to come cheer for me at my next track meet? Then, I definitely can't do anything uncool. Just you wait and see how I do!"- Club wear

"You want me to show you the awards I've gotten from my track meets? You bet! I was hoping I'd get to show you."- Club Wear

"I bet if you, me, and Grim just go ham talking about all that happened today when we get back to school… Ace’ll get crazy jealous."- Rabbit wear

"I think I was able to help my mom feel a bit of relief. And that’s because you all came with me, so, thanks."- Rabbit wear

"I can’t believe you’re here to wish me a happy birthday… Today’s such an amazing day. …Oh, shoot. I definitely have some kind of weird look on my face right now, don’t I? Sorry, I just got so happy I couldn’t help this wide grin. Anyway, thanks so much, Prefect! I’ll make sure to keep doing my best to be someone deserving of your celebrations!"-Birthday Union

((he is my good little boy, I love him, Deuce you live in my heart))

​🇹​​🇴​​🇳​​🇮​​🇬​​🇭​​🇹​, ​🇮​​🇳​ ​🇹​​🇭​​🇪​ ​🇬​​🇷​​🇪​​🇦​​🇹​ ​🇯​​🇺​​🇳​​🇬​​🇱​​🇪​, ​🇹​​🇭​​🇪​ ​🇱​​🇮​​🇴​​🇳​ ​🇸​​🇱​​🇪​​🇪​​🇵​​🇸

"They got bone-in meat to eat right there, and you still order the salad. And that's why you're a herbivore."- Playfull Dress

"You don't have to call my name over and over again, I hear you. I'm just staying silent so I don't ruin all your amusement park excitement."- Playfull Dress ((Are we going to delude ourselves and dream that he was admiring us the whole time? Yes))

"A horror attraction? Sure, I'll tag along with you for that, 'cause I bet I'll get to hear some good screams from you herbivores."- Playfull Dress

"You have my utmost gratitude for such a splendid celebration. …There, I thanked you. I’m not saying it again."- Birtday Boy

"You want to make me happy? Hahah! What fine intentions coming from a herbivore. I’m looking forward to it."- Birthday Boy

"Sneaking up behind me like that, were you attempting to surprise me? Aah, my bad. I’ll pretend I didn’t notice, so go on, continue."- Birthday Boy

"You’re just going to carry drinks around and not even toast with me? Hey, bring a glass for yourself too."- Birtday Boy

"Did this sword catch your eye? The motif of the hilt seems to be a jellyfish. I can let you borrow it, but don’t swing it around."- Halloween ((Would you also have a jar of dirt too? Asking a friend))

"You can’t trust someone who smiles all the time, like Jade. Usually guys like me end up being the more trustworthy ones, you know?"- Halloween

"Doesn’t matter who the opponent is. The only one deserving a win is me"- Beastly Garb

"Magic is strictly forbidden in Catch the Tail. Maybe I’ll train you up for the next one… I kid, this ain’t ever happening again."- Beastly Garb

"Back home, there were a ton of people who took issue with my sense of fashion. You wouldn’t do that to me, hmm?"- Gala Couture

"The rich folks from the Scalding Sands are much richer than royal families in other countries. If you want to butter someone up, you’d have better luck with Kalim"- Gala Couture

"Well, aren’t you super meticulous on something as simple as a cake cutting. I don’t really care how you do it, but just get it done before tomorrow comes."- Blooming Birthday

" I had Cater delete all the pictures he took. Obviously, I asked him nicely. Yeah, that’s right, I’m such a shy boy."- Blooming Birthday

"If you’re going to act all high and mighty, I’m going to expect something grand from you, y'know? So hurry up and bring out my present, already."- Blooming Birthday

"Wouldn’t ya believe it, Vil gave me a sewing kit. Something this special deserves to be shoved in the far back of a drawer for posterity."- Blooming Birthday

"If it’s survival, leave it to me! My experience is different from all the other guys."- Outdoor Wear

" You wanna know the trick to fishing? Hmmー …How ‘bout I trade you for those nuts you’ve got in your hand?"- Outdoor Wear ((What nuts? THESENUT--))

"Grim-kun stole your food? Guess it can’t be helped, here, I’ll share my grilled fish with you. Now you owe me one! Shishishi〜"- Outdoor Wear

"Shishishi, you totally remembered my birthday, right?"- Union Birthday ((It's marked on my calendar, my hyena))

"Thanks for celebratin’ my birthday with me! Since it’s my big day, we should go grab some grub and… Ah! Oh noooooo, this is sooooo terrible, I forgot my wallet… I guess I can’t buy… Eh, you’ll treat me? Really? Maan, it’s really great having such a generous junior like you! C'mon, let’s go, let’s go. Shishishi～" - Union Birthday

"Can’t believe a talkin’ portrait wished me a happy birthday… ’S not something I woulda ever been able to imagine happenin’ to me while I lived in the slums."- Union Birthday

"The guys in the magical shift club gave me some powdered sports drinks. I love gettin’ practical gifts like that!"- Union Birthday

" If you’re gonna come check out our practice, make sure you bring us refreshments! Like sports drinks, nutritional jelly drinks, or even doughnuts!"- Club Wear

"My nickname “Disc Thief” is pretty well-known, so maybe I might get scouted by some pro team with their eye on me… Nah, that’d be too good to be true."- - Club Wear

"We can hear Leona’s voice pretty good even when we got noisy spectators durin’ a game. Guess lions just got a healthier roar to ‘em." - Club Wear

"Even if you can’t use magic, you can still join our club. We got a ton of stuff for a manager to get done!" - Club Wear

(Leona simps… do you think his snores are loud too? And during… NO I DIDN'T THINK ABOUT THAT)

"Hey, are you here to celebrate my birthday? Thanks for coming all this... Wait, you just wanted me to show you my homework? Do you own homework! Geez, don't mislead me like that... ...What is this box? Is it a present? O-Oh. Then, I'll gladly take it... Hey, you didn't do all this just to get a kick out of how I'd react, right?" -Platinum Jacket

"Ah, you wasted no time in coming. …You’re not scheming to horseplay around on my birthday, are you?" - Union Bithday

"You want me to take a picture of in this outfit and send it to my family? …Well, I guess that’s fine. Th-Then… please take one for me." - Union Bithday

"Thanks for the birthday wishes. …Something I hope for in the coming year? I want to grow some more. Eh? I’m already big enough? …I’m not talking about my height! I mean I want to mature more. Whenever you’re around I end up feeling so dazed. It must mean I’m relaxed around you. Thanks." - Union Bithday

((i mean… he's already our big boy… I hope the wolf form grows bigger and bigger too, my cute puppy))

((I feel like Yuu feels lighter and more playful around Jack, to the point of making pranks and having fun together <3))

ɐɐǝs ǝɥʇ ɹǝpu∩ ɐɐǝs ǝɥʇ ɹǝpu∩

"Oh my, I see how your eye shines so... If you've taken a liking to that painting, I shall order a reproduction for you. At a discounted price, of course." - Platinum Jacket

"Young love is wonderful. There is no end to the troubles that come from it, so it's quite a favorable emotion for those of us who impart counsel." - Platinum Jacket

"Laying out on the beach to watch the sunset is actually rather lovely, isn't it?"- Beach Wear

" The water around this island is unbelievably delightful. The water is warm and there are no predators. It is a far cry from my hometow."-Beach Wear

"If I were to describe the Coral Sea in one word, it would be "vast." If you ever decide to visit for a vacation, you may come to regret it. "- Beach Wear

"What could you possibly... ...Oh, it's you. I thought it may have been Stitch-san coming to pester me once again."- Beach Wear

"You may leave it to me to lead us in this dance. Allow me to show you just how much effort I've put forth."-Masquerade Dress

"You wish me to take your picture? Of course, I don't mind whatsoever. Now, what should I ask for in return?"- Masquerade Dress

"Oh, my, are you sharing your pastries with me? I would be elated to take some off your hands. It is rather nice that I can try so many in smaller portions."-Masquerade Dress

" What is it? Eh, oh, I look good in this outfit? ...Fufufu, whatever are you scheming? Please, do tell."-Masquerade Dress

"Jade poured this tea as his gift to me. Only... He had this strangely good-natured smile on his face as he did so. ...Would you care to drink it?"- Bloom Birthday ( you littl-)

"I don't understand why candles are inserted into the cake... Sure, it's lovely to see the flames dance in the dark, but it ruins the cake's presentation when it comes time to eat it." -Bloom Birthday

"Something I would like? ...Then, please sing a birthday song for me. Come, you'll sing for me, won't you?"-Bloom Birthday

"Azul can grant any wish," they say. ...Would you like to see if the rumors are true?- Ceremonial Wear

and this duo dialogue? BOYYY

Azul: I am so honored to be paired with you, Jamil-san.

Jamil: Get moving instead of just flapping your lips, Azul.

(suck this up octoponk)

"Down in the ocean depths, the Sea Witch's favorite lipstick is very popular. The container is even shaped like a seashell... I recall gifting it to my mother once, as well."- New Year ((I have a wish for my birthday present, and I think you do too))

 "Do go on, Tsum-san, do whatever you please. It's alright, I shall be watching over you."- Tsumsitter ((Go ahead little creature, spread chaos, I'll be admiring your work))

"Allow me to show you how wonderous the mountains truly are. I do so hope that you will want to join the Mountain Lovers Club afterwards."- Outdoor Wear

"I brought along a very large backpack, but it is mostly empty. That is so that I will be able to bring home some of the nature's bounty as souvenirs."- Outdoor Wear

"It is more crucial to use your intellect when it comes to potionology, rather than magic. Since you have no magical abilities, don't you think this would be the perfect subject for you?"- Lab Wear

"Could you tell me your favorite dish? It may be a good addition for the Mostro Lounge menu."- Lab Wear

"Have you ever heard the phrase "haste makes waste"? ...Never mind, how foolish of me to ask."- Lab Wear

"In the Mountain Lovers Club I founded, we study the flora that we've collected. ...Oh, does this pique your interest?""- Lab Wear

"May I help you? ...I'm afraid it is somewhat difficult to continue exercising when you're staring at me so intensely."- Pe Education

"You are quite... No, nevermind. You do realize that courage and recklessness are two different things entirely, yes?"- Pe Education

"You wish to climb Moln Mountain? I understand how you must feel, but... Snowy mountains are quite dangerous. It may be better for you to build up your climbing experience little by little first."- Apple Boa

((I don't know about you, but Jade's sentences wander from a nice person to someone suspicious)) ((Do you want to know something? Everything that comes out of his mouth is a trap, suspicious as hell))

"Here, Shrimpy-chan, you can have my fries. Nah, you don't gotta thank me. I just couldn't finish 'em 'cause I just slathered something spicy all over it." - Playfull Dress

" Y'know, I really like big and hefty shoes like these～ I love the way they make big, strong stompy sounds when I walk～" - Playfull Dress

"My shoes and jacket sparkles just like scales! Humans have it so good～ They can just swap up their scales whenever they want just by changing clothes." - Platinum Jacket

Beach Wear Vignette - Dialogue

Floyd: 'Cause, I mean, if someone tells you not to do something, doesn't it just make you want to do it more?

Stitch: Yahahahaha!

Floyd: My pops and mama always told us that it was dangerous for us kids to go by ourselves, so we shouldn't go near it.

Stitch: Grrr, rargh!

Floyd: Hmm? Oh, it's nothing like that. That whole thing where the humans and merfolk were afraid of each other is stuff from a long, long time ago.

Floyd: Folks've been comin' and goin' between the land and sea for a while now, ever since the mermaid princess married that human prince.

"Aha. I'm all ready to go, but is the party ready for me?"- Bloom Birthday ((Chaotic child detected))

"Ah, hey, it's Koebi-chan. So you're gonna give me whatever I want as a present? Then, tell me a fun story you know from up here on the surface. ...What, you weren't expecting me to ask for somethin' intangible? I mean, this is waaay better than getting somethin' I don't need. But I ain't gonna let it slide if you tell me a boring story. Mmkay, you can go ahead and start now～"-Bloom Birthday

"Maaan, passing practice is so boring 'cause it's too easy. Koebi-chan, wanna play 1 on 1 with me? I'll go a little bit easy on you"- Club Wear

"Hm, I don't see your mouth watering. You saying my food tastes bad?"- Apprentice Chef

"I make a ton of grilled sandwiches. I ain't got a recipe or anything. Just toss in some leftovers and grill 'em and you're done."- Apprentice Chef

"Jade'll put shiitake mushrooms in pretty much anything, so I got to the point that just lookin' at 'em pisses me off."- Apprentice Chef

" You make real great-lookin' faces when you're eating, Shrimpy. Didja like my cooking? 'Kay, then next time, I'll make you something even better."- Apprentice Chef (( PLEASE DO ))

" Next time, you should go up on stage, Koebi-chan. I'll be expectin' a fun show."- Port Wear

" Ehhh, my ribbon's crooked? I don't have a mirror, so I can't see it... Shrimpy-chan, why don'tcha fix it nicely for me?"- Platinum Jacket

(っ◔◡◔)っ ♥ Every like, repost and comment is very welcome and appreciated. ♥

[erin-bo-berin]

ok ok I just randomly had another thought. Reader and Steve have always known they'd have kids eventually, but Steve's been trying to convince her to start trying for ages and she keeps being like yeah soon soon just not yet. so Steve's casually mentioning it the morning of his X birthday as he and reader snuggle in bed, and she's giving him the same old story later later--they've developed this whole routine so it's not a big deal when it happens. he has such baby fever it just comes up at any opportunity these days.

so they have his birthday party with the whole gang. and I don't know how you're going to do this but maybe Robin brings her niece?? and we get to see Steve interact with this little baby and his baby fever is just getting worse. and obviously he's adorable and so good with this baby and doesn't want to give her back.

and after everyone finally leaves the party you have two presents for him. first, some very sexy lingerie (you've never worn anything like this before and Steve is going to have to work very hard not to tear it to shreds when he rips it off of you) and so you're getting busy and you're about to really get into it but you have a second gift for him... you're finally ready to start trying for a baby so you give him something that signifies that. I like the idea of giving him your IUD in a velvet jewelry type box but maybe that's anachronistic? I have no idea I just want him to look up into your eyes and know exactly what that is and be like babe? are you serious?

and then we watch this poor boy lose his fucking mind going to town on you (opportunity for breeding kink but not necessary)

I know you have lots of other fic ideas you're working through Erin. I mostly wrote this bc I thought you might like it--no pressure to actually write it if it's not interesting to you!

ok love you bye 🔥🏀

YES HOLY YES. I love this so much I can’t wait for you to read this. Just IMAGINE the disbelief and happiness!

Yes, I’m using another gif of him shirtless in the upside down. Am I sorry? No.

Birthday Wishes

Steve Harrington x Reader

Warnings: Smut

“Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to yoooouuuu!”

Steve groaned, opening his eyes, seeing you laying next to him, head propped in your hand. You were beaming and singing at the top of your lungs.

“Happy birthday dear Steeeeeve,” you continued.

“You’re a horrible singer, you know,” he mumbled sleepily.

You didn’t let that deter you from finishing the song.

“Haaaaappyyyy birthday toooo youuuu!”

He chuckled, amused by your performance.

“Thank you, baby,” he smiled, kissing your nose.

“Did you like the song?” you beamed.

“Eh. 5 out of 10,” he joked.

You gasped dramatically.

“Five out of ten? You hurt me.”

You knew good and well that you couldn’t carry a tune to save your life, so you didn’t take the teasing to heart.

“The look on your face when you woke up was priceless though. You looked like you were in pain.”

“I was. At least my ears were,” he grinned.

“Asshole,” you laughed, hitting his chest.

He laughed, pulling you closer to him.

“So, are you looking forward to your party today?” you asked, laying your head in the crook of his arm.

“I am,” he said, “I don’t know how I got so lucky to have such great friends and a girlfriend to throw me such an extravagant party.”

“Only for the best birthday boy,” you beamed.

“You know what would really make it the best birthday ever?” he asked, nosing your cheek.

You had an idea where he was going with this and you snickered.

“Hm? What would that be?”

“If you finally agreed to start trying for a baby.”

You felt his pout against your collarbone and you laughed inwardly.

Starting a family was something you and he had discussed many times before. It was something you wanted to, but you’d been putting him off, telling him soon. At first, it was because you wanted to wait a bit, but for last few weeks, it had been for a different purpose.

“Soon,” you promised.

He frowned, though didn’t look upset by your answer, just looked like a puppy trying to convince its owner to drop a piece of meat. He was literally giving you puppy dog eyes.

“You’re going to deny me on my 21st birthday?”

His pout deepened and you couldn’t help the giggle that escaped your lips.

“What’s so funny?” he huffed a laugh, all smiles again.

“You just look so cute when you give me the puppy dog eyes,” you smirked.

“Cute enough for a baby?”

“Ah, nice try,” you grinned, wagging your finger at him, “Someone better be a good boy if he wants his presents later.”

“Like at the party later?” he questioned, brow raised.

“Like in private, later.”

Your smile was devious; his interest was piqued.

“I like the sound of that,” he hummed, leaning in for another kiss.

You stopped him with a hand to his chest.

“You need to get ready for your party, big boy. You can’t be late for your own birthday party.”

He relented, sitting up in bed. He threw you a smirk as he headed to the bathroom.

“Who cares? I’m the man of the hour anyway.”

•

“I don’t know which birthday song was worse, yours or all the kids’ screaming version,” Steve muttered to you, taking a bite of his cake.

“You love them,” you laughed softly.

“I do,” he grinned.

“Look who I brought!” came a singsong voice.

“It’s about time Robin showed up,” Steve rolled his eyes, “Always late for something.”

“This time you’ll be thrilled when you see why,” you said, pointing over his shoulder.

Robin had brought her niece, Anna with her. The little girl was just barely six months old, full of curiosity and spoiled rotten already by her auntie Robin. You and Steve absolutely loved Anna.

“Better go get you some baby cuddles,” you told him, “Before Joyce spots her and hogs her for the rest the afternoon.”

Joyce was so maternal and a great mom to her two boys, Jonathan and Will and her adopted daughter El. She loved deeply and fiercely, willing to go to bat for her kids at any time. She was starting to get anxious for grandkids though and you were positive whenever you and Steve had kids, she was adopting them as her own grandkids.

“Already on my way.”

You laughed, watching Steve make a beeline for Robin, taking Anna in his arms. He smiled at her, talking to her and booping her nose with his finger.

Seeing Steve with the kids and babies especially, did weird things to you. You felt a bit of a longing, wanting that to be your own baby. You felt love, seeing how good he was with them. You felt desire, the desire to want to have his babies.

You took a sip of your drink, eyes still glued to your boyfriend.

All in due time.

•

“I’m not sure who spoils her more, you or me,” Robin watched Steve with a grin.

“Definitely me,” he affirmed with a nod, “But she’s just too sweet not to.”

He pretended his hand was a tickle monster, it attacking her tummy making her squeal with laughter.

“Is that funny, is that funny?” he cooed to her, kissing her head, “Uncle Steve loves to make you laugh.”

“You have such baby fever right now,” Robin shook her head.

He groaned.

“I know. I can’t help it.”

“Y/N still hasn’t changed her mind?”

He frowned, shaking his head no.

“She says she wants to. At least she has before, but she just keeps saying “later” or “soon”. What if she’s changed her mind and doesn’t want kids? Or worse, doesn’t want kids with me?” he frowned, brows furrowing at the thought.

“I think you’re just overthinking it,” she said plainly.

“Why do you say that?”

“One, she’s crazy about you Steve. She loves you so much. I doubt she doesn’t want to have kids with you. Two, it’s a big deal, Steve. It’s a big responsibility and maybe it still scares her. Just give her time. Although,” she smirked, peering over his shoulder, “The smolder of her gaze is enough to set your entire outfit on fire, which I’m sure she’d welcome right about now.”

He turned around, seeing you staring at him. You smiled, waving at him innocently before turning to a conversation Max and Dustin were having.

“What are you talking about?” he asked, bewildered.

Robin was just giving him a knowing smirk.

“Just the way she was staring at you just now, while you’ve been holding Anna? She’s practically screaming “let me have your babies!” Steve.”

“I think you’re exaggerating.”

“And I think you’re blind,” she retorted, “I’m telling you, all you gotta do is seduce her a little cause she looks ready for it.”

“Ugh, ew, Robin. I am not discussing my sex life with you.”

“Thankfully,” she shot back, dryly, “All I’m saying it that you should keep trying. I think you both are going to make great parents.”

Steve smiled, handing Anna the toy that had fallen out of her grasp.

“You think so?”

“I know so.”

•

Before the party wrapped up, you’d excused yourself claiming you had to prepare Steve’s present from you. Technically, you were.

You left specific instructions with Robin to let Steve know where to find you when the last person left. You squirm anxiously when you hear his footsteps coming down the hall.

You sit on the end of the bed, waiting anxiously, chewing on the bottom of your lip.

“Babe?”

“In here,” you called back, sweetly.

The door opened and he froze in the doorway, jaw practically on the floor. You hadn’t done anything like this before, so you were a tad nervous at his silence.

You’d bought a matching lingerie set—rose red. It was a sexy, lacy bra and panties set that you felt extremely self-conscious when you’d slipped it on earlier, but his reaction looked promising.

“Damn,” he breathed, “Happy birthday to me.”

You giggled.

“You like?”

“I love.”

He was already pulling his shirt over his head and it was left on the floor by the time he reached you, hand sliding into your hair, kissing you roughly. You moaned appreciatively as his other hand squeezed your breast through the lacy thing, so thin he could feel your nipple pucker through it.

“I’m gonna…” he managed between kisses, “Rip this…” Another rough kiss. “Fucking outfit off you.”

“Please don’t,” you grinned, tilting your head, eyes closing as his lips feasted on your neck, “It was pricy and I was hoping we might be able to use it again.”

His teeth sank into your neck and you gasped at the sensation, his tongue licking over the bitten area, soothing it.

“Hell yes. You’re never getting rid of this.”

Your laughter turned into moans as his hand dipped into one cup of your bra, fingers pinching at your nipple. The slight pinch sent sparks of electricity straight to your clit that had quickly began throbbing, your need for him multiplying in every passing second.

His mouth was back on yours, as you fell back on the bed, him hovering over you. His knee was situated between your legs and you subconsciously ground against his thigh as his tongue moved with yours.

“So needy already baby?” he whispered, hands gliding over your stomach, hooking it into the waistband of the red, lacy panties then snapping it gently against your skin.

You didn’t care that he’d hardly done anything to you and you were already moaning for him as you answered him.

“Yes,” you groaned, “Need you so bad, birthday boy.”

You bit your lip at the growl came from deep within his chest. His hand rubbed over your now dripping pussy, positive he could feel just how wet you were through the material. Somehow, he also managed to unhook your bra with one hand, nimble fingers hard at work.

You slid the straps down your arms, slowly, seductively as he watched you with desire heavy eyes. You tossed it across the room and he took you in with an approving moan. He was hard and throbbing, you could feel it against your hip.

“Get those off,” you ordered, nodding to his jeans.

“Yes ma’am,” he mumbled, standing up long enough to rid of them, returning to hover over you in just his boxers.

“As much as I love these,” he said, leaning down, his tongue trailing over the skin right above the band of your underwear, “They’re gonna have to go.”

“Unwrap me, big boy,” you taunted.

You pretty sure you heard a tiny rip in the underwear as he practically clawed them off like a wild animal. His finger circled your clit, as he kissed your hip bone tenderly before sucking harshly on the area.

You arched in reaction, nudging him with the side of your knee.

“Steve,” you breathed, “Before I become too far gone. I have one last present for you.”

He looked up at you, heat in his eyes.

“What could be better than this?”

“Just wait. I think you’ll like this.”

You sat up, leaning over to pull open the drawer of the bedside table and pulled out a velvet jewelry box.

“Aw, you got me jewelry? You shouldn’t have,” he quipped sarcastically, sitting back on his ankles.

“Shut it butthead,” you laughed, “It’s what’s inside. Open it.”

You handed it to him and he opened it.

“Um your birth control pills?”

“Look closely,” you murmured, bringing your bottom lip in between your teeth, “I haven’t taken it for the last two weeks.”

His eyes snapped up to yours.

“What are you saying?”

He had an inkling of an idea, but he had to hear it come from your mouth just to be a hundred percent sure.

“I want to have a baby. With you, Steve.”

That was all it took. He disposed of the case on the nightstand, not caring if it made it to the surface or fell to the floor—although it was a thoughtful and a gift he loved, he had more important things to take care of in the moment.

His hands cupped your face as he kissed you hard, passionately, full of the fire and longing and happiness he felt. You were already tugging on his boxers, pushing them down as you kissed him back.

“Let’s put a baby in you,” he growled against your lips.

“Yes sir,” you teased.

The teasing lilt didn’t last long though when he thrusted roughly and deeply into you, making you moan in an unusually wanton way. His mouth found your pulse point, sucking on it. You were sure he could feeling your racing heart beneath his lips.

It’s like you’d unleashed something wild in him tonight as he thrust into you roughly, gripping your hips hard enough to leave bruises on them from his fingers.

His hands snaked under your ass and lifted your hips just enough that with every thrust his pubic bone hit your clit, making you see stars behind your eyes. Your legs were wrapped around his back, hands grabbing his own ass as you tried to push him deeper into you.

It was rough, sweaty and passionate sex. In fact, it was the most intense sex you’d ever had with Steve and it was hot. There was something primal about it as you let your body be completely lost in his, moaning without abandon.

Your moans had become a chorus of Steve, oh god and yes. His usually perfectly swooped hair now fell into his face, giving him a sexy, rugged look, the ecstasy written into every micro expression on his face.

His hips tilted the slightest, hitting a delicate spot so perfectly, it made you arch into him with a whine. Your body was buzzing and you couldn’t get enough of him.

“So good, baby,” he groaned, eyes falling shut, “Gonna fill you up until you’re leaking my cum.”

His words were as good as giving you an electric shock and your pussy clenched around him, your orgasm coming dangerously close to unleashing itself throughout your body.

“Steve,” you whined, chest heaving as you reached between your connected bodies to rub your clit.

With a growl, he knocked your hand away, replacing it with his own. Your mouths met in a sloppy kiss as you both got closer to undeniable bliss.

His mouth attacked your neck, sucking hard enough that you knew there’d be bruises left later. His moans were muffled by your skin, but somehow that made it even better as he worked you until you were trembling.

“Cum for me, baby,” he uttered just as you could no longer hold back.

He was throbbing inside you and the feeling became too much as you squeezed around him again, fireworks going off in your head, whole body arching into him.

You cry was pleasure filled as your fingers and heels of your feet dig hard into his skin, the orgasm powerful and swift as it swept through your body. Within a few more thrusts, he was following you, his eyes squeezed and lips parted in such a beautiful sight.

Your soft moan was met with a kiss as you felt the warmth of his release dripping down your thighs. You loved feeling him cum within you, but it was even more special tonight after your gift.

He thrust a few more times, pushing his cum back inside you and smirked against your lips as you squirmed at the sudden sensitivity.

“Gotta make sure it keeps, babe.”

When he pulled out of you—even as sensitive and sore you were—you missed the fullness, the stretch and kinda immediately wanted him back inside you.

He grabbed a pillow from the head of the bed, sliding it under your hips and elevating your lower half. You watched, amused, even in your half dazed and sated state.

“I read somewhere to keep your legs propped up for at least half an hour after sex if you want to get pregnant,” Steve explained sheepishly.

You grin, obliging him as he settles next to you.

“You know, it’s a lot more fun if we don’t get pregnant right away,” you pointed out.

“Jesus,” he breathed, “You keep doing that to me and I just might die.”

“Well, people always say trying is the fun part,” you smirked.

“I’m definitely not denying it,” he laughed, rubbing a hand over your stomach, pulling you closer for a kiss.

“Thank you for making my birthday wish come true,” he smiled, his forehead resting against your own.

You had a devious smile on your lips as you pulled back so you could look at him more clearly.

“Oh honey, we’re only just beginning the celebration.”

He groaned as he captured your lips with his, once again climbing over you.

The birthday boy was going to be in for a night of celebrating, that’s for sure.

[hypnautic-cereal]

I’ve shared about my Welcome Home au on Discord and TikTok, but not here yet

So, I introduce to you: the Wish Maker au!💫

A Welcome Home au of mine that spawned from a meme I thought of one time while I was in the shower. Essentially the WH crew in this au are able to grant different kinds of wishes, and strive to make any and all wishes come true for a more better earth

(Please note that I did each of these art pieces separately, so all the canon sizes are the ones up on this first one⬆️)

First of all, we have our Wally variant: Wally Starling💫

Wally is the newest neighbor to land on Planet Home, as he was recently born from the stardust of a recently died supernova. Wally is gifted the power to grant star wishes as well as a high/moon jump, and aspires to be Judy’s as great of a wish maker as his friends

Up next: Our spectacular star, Sally Starlet⭐️

Glowing wherever she goes, Sally Starlet is the leader and protector of Planet Home. Legends as true as wishes have told that a portion of Sally’s power was distributed among each of her friends. Who knows what power she could behold at full capacity?

Next on our list: Our lovable dog Barnaby B. Beagle🎤

It might not seem like it at first, but Barnaby B. Beagle is a dog of many cultures. Barnaby grew a swift and tight friendship with Wally Starling, even being the one who gave Wally his name when he first arrived on Planet Home! Inspired by 90s family game shows as a sign of his love for fun and friendship, Barnaby grants the wishes from different cultures (such as tanabata tags, and grapes from under the table on the new years countdown)

Next up, our dynamic duo: 🎂Julie Joyful and Frank Frankly📚

Always excited to celebrate any occasion, Julie is your girl to call for a party. Her partying expertise is always to serve for others happiness. With help from Poppy Partridge and Sally Starlet, there’s no party on Planet Home that won’t be ready on time. Once the birthday candles are blown, a dash of confetti from Julie’s hand will have the wish granted in no time

Although they’re always in a rush, Frank Frankly is the brightest/smartest neighbor on the wishful Planet Home. Any questions the neighbors have about anything, Frank is able to answer in various ways. His specialty lies in granted wishes found in nature (such as dandelion puffs or the first winter snow), as well as proofreading wishes to the wisher’s intent. With provided help from Julie Joyful and Eddie Dear, there’s no task to tough for our beloved brainiac

And last up: 🌙Poppy Partridge, Eddie Dear💌, and Howdy Pillar🐛

Looking over the dreams of those down on Earth, Poppy Partridge acts as a guide to those who don’t know what their hearts desire. A scent of lavender and lilac follow wherever she goes, as a sea of stars speckle her pillowy soft tail feathers. Her and Sally Starlet happily work side by side, making sure all goes right from day to night

Folk tales from the old west tell the tale of a person who retrieves the wishes that haven’t been granted so that they can be granted as soon as they can. That there is our confident yet clumsy and forgetful dreamer, Eddie Dear. With his Lasso of Limitless Length and Star of Time, there’s no limit to when and where ungranted wishes will be granted. He takes his job with pride, especially if Frank Frankly is by his side

Ever need that little bit of push when playing the lottery? Or need a wish from that coin you tossed into the well? Well, our terribly generous Howdy Pillar’s got your back. He’d be more than happy to grant you luck and fortune for whatever you might need for the day. He does seem to fall asleep quite often, even with all the energy he needs for the day, so he carries his pillow Benjamin in case he’s ever tuckered out (get it? Cause money…$100…Benjamin Franklin-). So, what Howdy’s Place deal are you looking for today?

JESUS OK FINALLY FINISHED WRITING ALL THIS😭

But yeah, I have a lot to share with you guys about this au, and I hope you all enjoy and stick around for all the stuff I wanna share for it! I even have a whole playlist for this au (as well as a discord server but that was made for the fun of it and doesn’t have any actual functionality lol)

[nikolaiismysugardaddy]

The perfect birthday // Chuuya Nakahara

pairings... Chuuya Nakahara x Reader

contains...! fluff! gn!reader, cursing

I apologize for any mistakes in advance - english is not my first language!

Hope you enjoy! xx

This was written for my dearly beloved friend for her birthday, @estellarjj! Happy birthday my dear Haru-chan ♡

“This should go really smoothly on this special day.” Or at least that’s what Chuuya thought, until everything he planned started to fall apart.

“Let’s see.. blanket, check. Cake should be ready in the evening. Fruits, check. Cheese, check. Picking up flowers from the shop at 3. Fuel in the baby, check. Candles, check. Pick up the gift from the store before the flowers are ready, check. And most importantly, two bottles of the finest red wine, check.” Full of himself, he carefully put the yellow piece of paper in his pocket. Little did Chuuya know, his meticulously planned day was about to take an unexpected turn, ruining everything for his date night. As he confidently walked out the door, basket in hand with the goods in it, his phone unexpectedly started to ring inside his pocket. He placed the items that he carried on his motorcycle’s saddle just to see the least wanted person’s name on the screen pop up. “Boss?” Chuuya tried to hold back the anger building up inside of him as he picked it up. “Chuuya-kun, I know this was supposed to be your day off, but we have a situation. I need you here immediately.” Mori’s voice crackled with urgency. Chuuya’s heart sank as he realized that his carefully planned date may have to start later than he wanted it to. “What happened?” He put the basket under the saddle and got ready to go as soon as he finished the call. “I can’t tell you through the phone right now.” Loud beeping followed the last sentence, along with Chuuya’s disappointed sight. “Fuck.” He tried to distract himself on the way to the headquarters. “Maybe this'll be just some minor problem that can be solved quickly. I just need to finish this matter before 3am. Yes, that’s right. This could still work out just fine.”

“Just as I expected of you, Chuuya-kun! Quick, come. Sincere apologies for calling you in, but this situation requires your expertise. See–” Mori opened his office’s door for the ginger. “What on earth is going on?” He was greeted with by far the most chaotic scene he has ever seen at the headquarters. Chuuya froze at the sight in front of him, not being able to say a single word. He felt the anger building up inside of him with each passing second. “See, Elise-chan wanted to have a picnic, but some unexpected issues got discovered while we prepared for it. For example, Tachihara-kun’s outfit didn’t meet the expectations of Elise-chan’s imagination.” The mentioned mafia executive sat on a small chair with a unicorn-shaped bandaid on his nose. Chuuya’s eyes widened in disbelief as he took in the absurdity of the situation. He couldn’t help but let out a frustrated sigh, realizing that this was just another one of Mori’s overdue actions. As Chuuya glanced around, he noticed the other mafia members frantically trying to salvage the picnic, their faces filled with both panic and frustration. “Well, have fun–” He tried to turn around and leave when Mori’s cold, demanding voice echoed in the room:

“Help Elise-chan pick the outfit for everyone. You know my taste in fashion isn’t as good as our dearly treasured Chuuya-kun’s.” Even though it warmed the ginger’s heart a bit, he couldn’t shake off the feeling that he had to make this day perfect for you. And the last thing he wanted was for it to be ruined by the Port Mafia. 

Chuuya sighed once again and took an uncertain step inside. He wanted to finish assisting Elise-chan as soon as possible, determined to ensure that everything would remain just as he planned. An hour later they finally finished arranging the outfits for everyone, but it wasn’t even near the end. Even though they could finally persuade Akutagawa to wear the awful pink ribbons as the very last step of the finished look, Elise-chan came up with another problem. She desperately wanted to take everyone outside to the park to have a real picnic experience. “Well, I’ll head out then.” Chuuya tapped the end of his hat as he headed to the door. “On your way, let Tachihara-kun ride along with you.” Mori commanded with a sly voice. 

“Haaah?!” He turned around slowly, clearly annoyed with Mori’s order. Chuuya's annoyance was evident as he glared at Mori, his eyebrows furrowing in frustration. “We won’t fit in the car, Chuuya-kun. After that, you can still enjoy the rest of the day.” Like hell, he would, nevermind the fact that his well prepared plans are starting to fall apart. Reluctantly, he agreed to let Tachihara accompany him, but made it clear that he wouldn't be happy about it. They quickly arrived at the nearby park, but for Chuuya’s misfortune, the others arrived sooner. He wanted to abruptly leave the location, but it was no use. Another command came: they forgot the blanket and Chuuya was the faster driver to go back and pick it up from the headquarters. While he was away, they realized they had left the basket with the food and drinks too. So as soon as Chuuya arrived with the blanket, they asked him to take another detour and grab those for them too. “I’m literally going to switch off my phone now.” He stated as he hopped back on his motorcycle. 

Chuuya arrived two hours later at the flower shop than he originally planned. Exhausted, but determined he rushed into the shop, ready to make up for the lost time and ensure that everything will be perfect for today’s occasion. “I’m sorry sir, but we sold the bouquet you asked for. My sincere apologies, we thought you wouldn't pick it up since you were so late.”  Chuuya sighed in frustration, realizing that his detour had caused him to miss out on the bouquet he had specifically ordered. “Nevermind.” He covered his face with his palm as he spoke. “Do you still have some red roses, right?” “Well…” The florist’s face looked troubled, as she hesitated to reply. “I’m afraid we only have those two left.” she finally admitted, pointing at the two remaining red roses in the corner. Chuuya’s heart sank at the sight, but he knew he had no other choice. “Fine, I’ll take them.” he said, trying to hide his rising temper. Chuuya reluctantly handed over his payment, feeling a mix of disappointment and annoyance. He couldn't help but wonder if his day could get any worse.

 It could. And he only realized it when he entered the jewelry store. “Excuse me. There was that one necklace on display a few days ago with a rabbit pendant–” he asked, trying to hide his annoyance in his voice. “We sold it this evening, a few hours ago.” Chuuya's heart sank even further at the store clerk's response. He couldn't believe his bad luck. With a heavy sigh, he mustered up the last bit of patience he had left and asked, "Do you have any necklaces with similar pendants?" 

“Well, we have one, but–” Chuuya interrupted the store clerk, desperation evident in his voice. “I don’t care, I’ll take it.” The store clerk’s surprise was clearly visible, but he quickly rushed to lend the necklace to the ginger and led him to the check-out. Chuuya handed over his credit card, hoping that the necklace wouldn't break the bank. As he left the store, a mix of relief and fury rushed over him. Well, at least he managed to grab something really nice for his loved one…

At least the exchange with the bakery went suspiciously smoothly, but he couldn’t care less about that at the moment. He dropped you a call saying that he’d be there soon to pick you up. Soon, the ginger haired man was standing at the door, waiting for you to open it. “Oh, hey, handsome.” You gave him a light peck on his lips. Excitement rushed over you, not knowing anything about what he planned for the both of you. “Oh, hey, babygirl” He quickly grabbed you by the waist and pulled you up close to his torso. A mischievous grin lingered on his lips as he whispered in your ear: “I have something planned for us tonight, so better be ready for it.” He held your hand and gently dragged you to his motorcycle. Chuuya gave you his helmet and patted the saddle behind himself. 

You hopped on the motorcycle, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity about what awaited you. You held onto Chuuya tightly, but when the engine should have roared to life, it just remained silent. Confusion washed over you as you exchanged a puzzled glance with your lover. His face slowly became red from annoyance as he realized what just happened. “For fucks sake! I can’t fucking believe it. Really?!” You glanced over his shoulder to understand the situation - he ran out of gas. You couldn't help but let out a small chuckle at the unexpected turn of events. Chuuya, clearly embarrassed and annoyed, muttered a string of curses under his breath as he realized his mistake. “Okay, okay, okay. Change of plans. I don’t fucking want to waste any more time. Get inside and wait for my call, alright, baby?” You squeezed him with your arms still wrapped around his waist, nodding lightly with the helmet still on your head. “Just don’t get too worked up over things like this. It’s totally alright, Chuu.” You gently stroked his chest before getting back inside the house. 

Chuuya quickly placed everything in order on the rooftop and got ready to finally celebrate your birthday. When he finally told you to come, you felt the excitement rush over you. You bounded up the stairs to the rooftop, eager to see what Chuuya had prepared for your birthday celebration. As you reached the top, you were greeted with a breathtaking sight: candle lights twinkling, a blanket set with your favorite fruits, some luxurious red wine, and... A really messed up cake. And you could swear you also smell something rotten there.

You couldn’t help but chuckle when you saw his distorted face. “Oh my god Chuu, this looks... amazing!” You took a step closer to him, but he shook his head in disbelief. “The cheese is rotten because I had to drive around all day for those idiots. And on top of that, the cake got messed up while I rushed here to finally meet you. Damn it. And I couldn’t even get enough flowers to celebrate–” If he’s going to continue this rambling, maybe he’s going to explode. A warm smile spread across your face as you walked towards him and firmly grabbed his shoulder. “Hey.” you looked into his eyes and pulled him in for a long, sensational kiss. He took the lead quickly, with one of his hands grabbing you by your hips, while the other wandered up on the back of your neck. Before he could deepen the kiss more, you whispered to his lips with a cheeky tone “You wanted to say happy birthday, right?” He chuckled softly, his lips brushing against yours.

“Oh, baby.” He slipped his hand under your shirt, gently caressing your bare skin. His touch sent shivers down your spine as you could feel the intensity of his desire growing more with each passing second. “I’d rather show you what a happy birthday looks like.” 

The cute dividers are from @cafekitsune ♡

[gothic-daydreamer]

-Gifts-

Larissa Weems x Fem!Wife!Reader

*oneshot*

Summary: Your wife is irritated by an overly-affectionate friend.

Warnings: Jealousy, angst, dark Larissa if you squint.

_______________________________________

"Jenny- I can't possibly accept that!" Jenny giggled at my outburst from her place across from me on the sofa, waving a hand dismissively "oh please, I couldn't wear that. Doesn't suit me. You on the other hand, that would look a million dollars on you"

Jenny was always dressed to the nines, resplendent in silver and the finest clothes money could buy. I admired her for how well she held herself, anyone would mistake her for a rich woman when in fact she was just a secretary to some businessman. It was obvious that most of her pitiful salary went towards her appearance which, sadly, often left her without essentials. That was the main reason I didn't want to take such an extravagant gift from her, knowing it would leave her out of pocket.

"Jenny I can't. That must have cost a whole month's wages!" Jenny sniffed, a little smirk on her face "I like to spoil my friends, especially you. Anyway, I missed your birthday last week so I owed you one" she took a drag on the cigarette she held in her hand, pinching it between her fingers as it neared snuffing out. I tried my best not to show my distaste openly, the smoke smelled awful.

I didn't like cigarettes, ever since I was little I hated the smell. That was one of Jenny's features that I didn't like, it clung to her fancy clothes and her hugs enveloped me with the tobacco smell. I still wouldn't trade a friend like Jenny for the world.

"Jen, no" I gave her the hardest, sternest look I could whilst trying not to appear ungrateful. Jenny's smirk widened, holding the stare and raising an eyebrow at me "You can't win, sweet. Now move your hair so I can put this on for you" I glared, huffing defeatedly as I turned away and swept aside my hair to expose my neck.

Jenny's warm hands brushed my skin as she set the cool silver necklace and it's small, intricate pendant against my sternum as the chain sat around my neck. I heard the quiet click as she clipped it shut and pulled away her hands. Jenny let her fingers linger for a moment too long, and a slightly uncomfortable shiver ran through me. She was always physically affectionate to a somewhat extreme degree, Larissa wasn't very fond of it.

"there... Beautiful" Jenny smiled as I turned back to her, smoothing down the front of my shirt. I returned her smile and cleared my throat, trying to think of how to carry on the conversation. Thankfully Jenny spoke up, a dramatic gasp upon checking her Swarovski watch "oh dear, I've overbooked myself. Got to run" she gave an apologetic smile as she returned to look at the necklace "very nice. Pretty, even"

Without another word Jenny stubbed out her cigarette, slung her red blaser over her black Vivienne Westwood dress, and stood up with an elegance I envied. I stood up to walk her to the door, but we both stopped at the sound of heels in the hallway outside.

"is that Larissa?" Jenny sounded a little excited and seemed to glow when I nodded, I wasn't sure why. Larissa was always apathetic and cold towards Jenny, and in private she was borderline hateful. Jenny looked at her watch again, and frowned "ugh, I really have to go"

I was pulled into a hug and instantly overwhelmed by the smell of smoke and traces of an expensive perfume, it took a moment to relax into her touch as she rubbed her hands across my back affectionately. I heard the hinges squeak as the door opened, and Larissa's heels stopped in the doorway. I could imagine her scowl, her scrunched up nose at the smell of tobacco.

Jenny pulled away, not sparing Larissa a single glance. I saw her sweet smile as she leaned in to kiss my cheek, I did the same to her as quickly as I could so that I could turn to Larissa. The Headmistress had a smiling expression, but her eyes didn't have their regular shine "Jennifer, how nice to see you again" she tried to smile, but it was more of a grimace.

Jenny grinned at the taller woman, her arm around my waist still from our hug. Larissa's gaze lingered on it for a moment, and her eyes hardened a little, but she quickly regained her composure and put a fake smile on once again "have I missed much, darling?" Larissa looked at me, her hands clasped in front of her. I couldn't help but notice the tired lines under her eyes, the stiffness in her shoulders. Poor Larissa had clearly overworked herself again.

Thankful for the chance to free myself from the awkward hold Jenny had on me, I tried to make it look casual as I practically raced across to Larissa. I relaxed into her side instantly, breathing in the relaxing scent of lavender and freshly pressed paper that always surrounded her.

"not much, but look at the necklace Jenny gave me!" Larissa took the pendant between her fingers, raising it a little to see in more detail. Her frown was less concentrated and more of irritation, and when she met my eyes I saw a flash of a scowl cross her face. When I pulled away from a direct hug, Larissa kept a hand on my shoulder and steered me to her side "lovely"

Her lips were pursed, Larissa obviously didn't find the gift 'lovely'. Her hand gripped my shoulder a little tighter "That was most kind of you, Jennifer" Larissa's imposing stature loomed over Jennifer, making the statement sound more threatening than her tone originally did. She didn't scare me, but god Larissa could be intimidating when she wanted to be.

Jenny cleared her throat, awkwardly "I suppose I'd best get going" she muttered, smoothing down the front of her dress. She lifted her handbag, settling it on her forearm. Larissa gave her a polite smile, more sincere than the others.

"a shame I couldn't have spent more time with you, Jennifer. You seem like a lovely girl" the way she says girl makes Jenny visibly irritated, as if Larissa is cementing her place as her superior. Jenny gives a tight smile and nod to Larissa, who I noticed looked a little smug. Jenny didn't meet my eyes when she mumbled her goodbye.

Jenny shut the door after herself, leaving me with my eyes to the carpeted floor beneath us. I took note of Larissa's black 3 inch block heels, elevating her to an even greater height. Cool cream gloves came into my eyeline as Larissa tilted my head up, she looked down at me with loosely veiled satisfaction.

"don't look so timid, little love" her thumb stroked over my lips, and Larissa smirked a little as my breath hitched. Through her gaze she saw doe eyes. A perfect, innocent angel looking up at her as if she was a god. Larissa had never felt so appreciated, so adored as when she was with me. It was refreshing for someone to, finally, see the beauty Larissa often missed in herself. That was her justification for how she spoiled me, she wanted to give back the adoration.

I couldn't look away from her, blushing fiercely as Larissa assessed my face for thoughts. She looked to my right cheek and her lips pursed in annoyance "you have some of Jennifer's lipstick on your cheek" Larissa nearly spat her name, a quiet fire behind her eyes. I raised a hand to touch my cheek, but Larissa took my wrist in a gentle hold "let me"

With a liquid flourish Larissa hastily took her handkerchief from her blaser pocket, it was flower-pattern embroidered specially for her with L.W in the bottom corner of the fabric. It was soft on my face as Larissa wiped the beige pink traces of lipstick from my cheek, so gently it reminded me of my grandmother's tender hand. I looked up to her eyes, but she was focussed on removing the stain from my skin.

With a satisfied smile, Larissa pulled her soft handkerchief away from my face. I smiled like a giddy schoolgirl, I felt almost like one of her students. I wondered how many of them must admire her like this and felt the green monster of jealousy simmer beneath the surface, but it was quickly quelled when Larissa set a lingering kiss upon my cheek. The same one she had just cleared.

She waited a second, maybe two before pulling away and a self-satisfied smirk filled her red lips. I knew she was intentionally replacing Jenny's lipstick mark with her own. Larissa leaned down a little, and I found myself standing closer to her to hear her whispered words "you suit red better, doll"

With that she walked off, leaving the room through the same door Jenny had left through a few minutes earlier. A little swagger to her step, a sauntering sway to her hips. She was proud of herself for leaving me a blushing mess in her wake.

...

It was a few days later after Jenny's visit and I was in the library of Nevermore, my workplace. In that moment I was seated behind my desk with my assistant Silvie, a springing 20 year old who had freshly joined the staff, dealing with students looking for specific books. She was a sweet, young girl. Between the two of us, I like to think we do a good job of maintaining the functionality of this book-mansion.

I clicked on an email from Miss Thornhill, requesting fresh 'botanicum' work-books for her senior students. As always, the email ended with a little smiley face. I laughed at that, Marilyn was such a sweetheart.

There were no fresh emails, so I scrolled down a little to check for any missed requests from other staff members. A notification dinged at the top of my screen, and my stomach fluttered when I saw 'Mrs Weems' as the messenger.

I flew to click on it, it was short but still I was delighted.

To: Cecile Weems

From: Larissa Weems

I want you to wear it when I see you tonight x

I felt my eyebrows furrowed and my lips downturn in confusion, what the hell did she mean? I was answered by Silvie calling over from the reception desk "Cecile! There's a delivery for you!"

I stood up from my desk, feeling the ache in my thighs from sitting so long. I made my way over to the desk and waved Silvie off to deal with the growing queue of students. On the desk in front of me was a large, beautiful bouquet of Gardenias and Anemones. My favourite flowers. Tied with a bow to the surface of the square vase was a nearly flat rectangular box, which rattled a little as I untied the silk bow.

I took a moment to read the label.

Swarovski

I vaguely remembered mentioning that Swarovski was my favourite Jeweler in an idle conversation Larissa and I had years ago. I didn't think she was listening, since she was busy typing away at her computer, but turns out she was. My heart melted.

Sliding the lid from the box, I gasped. A beautiful choker necklace with rectangular cut crystals sat upon a white velvet pillow, i ran a finger across the surface of the silver and nearly shivered at the cold. It was gorgeous.

I saw a label printed on the inside of the box, which made my eyes widen.

£900

I nearly jumped away from the box with the shock I got. I was going to kill that bloody woman for spending so much.

A few stares were being sent my way, so I quickly calmed myself down. I took a deep breath and leaned against the desk, rubbing my temples in irritation. Larissa was going to get the silent treatment for sure... Right after thank you sex.

Silvie was beside me now, baring me an awkward smile "uh... A note came with it, sorry I didn't see it earlier" I nodded reassuringly, taking the little note card from her outstretched hand.

"no worries, Silvie. This was an... Unexpected delivery" we shared an awkward laugh before Silvie wandered off to help Bianca Barclay with something, likely aquatic plants for Miss Thornhill's class. I sighed, looking around at the students. I was glad they were taking such interest in their studies.

With that thought I turned back to the note in my hand, it was short and sweet. I smiled, Larissa was such a romantic.

My darling,

I hope you liked my gift, sweetheart. Who knows? Maybe you'll get another tonight...

Larissa hadn't signed the note. Well, not traditionally. Someone had kissed the bottom of the note, someone with bright red lipstick that left a mark, just like the one I'd let sit on my cheek as a proud display of Larissa Weems' love for me.

God, i thought as my face flustered red, I love my wife.

[sublieu]

Birthday Sex

CW: Drugging, [Slight] marking, temperature play [?]

Story type: Smut

Characters: Rengoku, Mitsuri, Tengen, Suma & the girls, You

A.N: Can't say I didn't contribute this year >:D

"Happy birthday to you~"

You sung out carrying a rather large cake to the living room, smiling with content as you walked in slowly as to not accidentally drop the cake.

"Happy birthday to you~"

You sung again, Kyojuro, a flushed mess is fumbling over his words as he hid in his hair in adorable embarrassment. His friends (Tengen and Mitsuri) were playfully teasing him with suggestive looks and funny whispers.

"Happy birthday dear Kyojuro~ Happy birthday to you~!"

You sung for a final time as you placed the cake infront of of him, not forgetting to kiss him on the cheek with your bright red lipstick. Making him burn up gradually as everyone clapped.

He blew out the candles, which made everyone clapped again and gift him another cheek kiss. If you don't stop he might die from overheating!

As the party grew louder and louder, Both him and Tengen were talking about random stuff before the albino looked over at you, an idea popped into mind and he was about to act on it.

"Hey, I'm gonna go get some more drinks, want me to get you one?"

He asks, the blonde nodded and stood there before you came over to him, giving him a warm, comforting hug and started talking with each other.

Tengen on the other hand was in the kitchen and pouring out the drinks, before he had entered he saw you and him having a conversation and made an extra glass for you; not before adding a strange white powder inside and mixing it with a spoon.

"Thanks for the party y/n, this means alot"

"I'm glad you're enjoying today Kyo, it's the least I could do for a sweetheart like you!"

You reply and laughed at his flushed face again; even whilst you both were married he's still as flustered as the first day you agreed to date him.

"I brought back drinks!"

Tengen interrupts, saying hi to you and gifting you an extra drink he 'snagged for himself' before giving his friend his own. You both downed your drinks and decide to go walk around the party, leaving Tengen alone as he gleamed an evil look in his eye.

As time passed and the party grew more and more wild, a sudden surge of heat grew at your core, you thought that you wanted to go to the restroom and politely leave.

As soon as you entered you fell to the floor, the pain was unbearable and you thought you were seeing your week. But when you took your panties down you were soaking wet and slick with pre. You were confused, just what exactly did Tengen put in your drink?

Shortly after a sudden bang on the door made you jump, you forgot to lock the door and looked back at your husband in the doorway, raging boner and shocked face. Did Tengen spike his drink too? You question before he entered the room and locking the door, the hand-lever locked in to ensure no-one else barges in accidentally.

The room felt hot, burning even; His breathing was uneven and fast, as if he just ran a mile before you finally spoke up.

"D-did he spike your drink too?"

He nods before sitting down on the floor, feeling too weak to even stand straight and placed his head on the door. Thank god you both had a big bathroom.

You crawled over to him and laid on his chest, heaving and panting from very little friction you both subtly gave each other before you did something first;

You unconsciously grind against his clothed boner, Having been drugged meant he's extremely sensitive to touch as he hugged you tightly, to which you told him he's squeezing too hard.

His hand got hold of your dress and *practically* tore your panties off before he unzipped his pants, your slick now dripping onto his cock like lube before he pressed himself inside, thank god for being so wet.

Butterflies started to flutter your insides as soon as you felt being stretched out, he didn't even wait before he rutted against you; Making you cry out in desperation as wet, heavy thrusts bounced off your bright, colored walls.

Clinging onto his neck he suddenly had enough strength to gently lay you down on the cold, tiled floor; which brought your comfort from being so burning hot from the drug. A happy sigh escaped your lips before screaming out in a mess of moans and cries when he started going rougher, and faster.

Flushed and heavy eyelids traced your body as he indulged in himself too, loving the way your breasts would bounce back against his thrusts alongside your pitched cries and moans of pleasure.

He bit down on your neck before sucking on it, putting your legs around his waist as his grip on your waist tightened, his balls heavy with cum as your rough session became more and more rowdy as minutes pass by.

The room made you feel dizzy, the heat gradually became harder and harder to ignore as your climax was inching in, closer... and closer.. till finally you broke down in teary-eyed bliss and squirted all over his cock, squeezing harshly for him to slow down. Which caused him to cum as well; painting your insides with hot, sticky cum before he rolled over beside you, hair a mess and finally calm.

"*hah~* Are you ok? Y/n?"

He asks, already knowing the answer when you just sigh and hiccup. His cum seeping from you and onto the floor. Turning on your side to hug him for comfort.

"H-happy birthday, Kyojuro"

*𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔫𝔢𝔵𝔱 𝔡𝔞𝔶*

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU DRUGGED THEM?!"

"I JUST WANTED HIM TO CELEBRATE HIS BIRTHDAY BY GETTING HIM TO FUCK HIS WIFE"

You woke up to the sound of screaming looking to your side to see that Kyo was still asleep, small snores escaped his lips as you pet his hair gently to wake him up.

"Kyo, sweetie I'm going downstairs for some water ok?"

You speak, only to feel him hug you as if telling you to not go. You reply again telling him that you're hungry and you know he's hungry too. To which he agrees, before giving you a good morning kiss and getting up to unzip his pants and wash off his face.

As soon as you both got down the noise stopped. Stifling a laugh as Mitsuri was now beating him with *his* slipper. Suma and the girls were just sitting there, watching the show.

"What a chaotic morning"

©𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲𝐛𝐮𝐯_ 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐; 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝

[askhubertvonvestra]

A package has been left by the Imperial Spy's Delivery Boy on Hubert's desk. A letter with the imperial symbol lay stamped neatly on top under the twine tying it to the parcel. When opened, it's written in the signature Vestra Cypher: "My Dearest Hubert, Another year has passed, and I am thankful to celebrate it with you. My goodness, you have grown so much. I am unable to see your face up close, but from the presentations you've given with Her Majesty in Enbarr you have become a fine young man indeed. Though I do worry about how much you're eating. Your cheeks have gone a bit thin, and I know you've always had a picky palette, but please listen to Lady Edelgard when she's asking you to rest. Lest you enjoy giving me more gray hairs. Your siblings are doing well. Your sister, ever antsy, has been taking her homeschooling as well as she can, but she misses her friends. She's always complaining about when you're going to come visit us. She knows you're a busy fellow, but she's always looked up to you as soon as she could crawl. I keep having to ration her sugar intake with the war provisions; you know how many cakes she can put away. Your brother's getting taller, though I don't think he'll be as tall as you once he's grown. He's nearly in his teens now, and he's been working very hard on his studies and on learning to ride. I take them out when the weather's nice and I hear from the Vestra Intelligence Network that the area's safe enough. Both of them miss you terribly. I'm hanging on, but I will admit some days are harder than others. I never got to tell you properly, but I don't hold ill will for the incident with the Late Marquis. I loved him, yes, but I still can't look past what he put Her Magesty and you through. Our union was far from smooth, but know you and your siblings were made from love, and despite what you think of him, I know your father loved you all in his own way. I know the decisions you made are for trying to make a better world. Your siblings have it in spades, when they're older I'll be more transparent with them. Such is the life of the Vestra, isn't it? I'm still in good health. I make sure to take walks and keep my ears to the ground in the markets. Nothing formally to report besides old maid gossip, but I think that'd hardly interest a young man like yourself. With the weather change my joints ache a bit, but I've made sure to do my stretches. We believe in you, my dear, and you know if you ever need to, you can come home for a reprieve. Our door is always open for you. I've included a little something for you, a mother worries are always endless. A little something for Her Majesty as well. Tell her I'm thinking of her during this time. Long may she rule. Until I see you again, I love you very much. Happy Birthday my dear, You've made your mother proud. With all the love a mother can give, Lady Vestra" In the parcel's brown paper are an assortment of handmade confectioneries with Lady Vestra's swooping penmanship on a small card with weathered stationary "For My Lady". In a sleek black box holds a golden pocketwatch, ticking quietly. There's a small portrait of his mother and siblings smiling back at him. There's also a small cake in a glass dome, the smell unmistakably his mother's baking. One she would make him when he was a boy.

Ah. Another package from Mother. With her usual keen eye for gift-giving, I see. Childhood confectioneries for us to share in now and a pocketwatch for me to carry always. A suitable choice.

Although she knows full well I consider the portrait to be evidence to conceal rather than a present expressly... I supposed I can humor her giving nature on occasion. They do appear well, at least in this artist's interpretation.

I shall have to thank the delivery boy once again for his discreet service. Not so much as a wrinkle in the parchment either. She would be proud.

"Mother,

I should have known you mark this passage of time more closely than I. Hopefully it is some comfort to you that you are not the only one making note of my birthday, so the celebration lives up to what you would no doubt prefer for the occasion.

There will be no finer birthday than the one where we may meet in person. Through Her Majesty and our allies, that day comes closer with each battle. Some day, you will not have to wait for Imperial presentations to meet with me from such a distance that I cannot see you as well.

You needn't worry about my diet, I assure you. I eat when I must and ensure I receive the necessary nutrients, if only because I'm eating with my peers from time to time. I trust that you will ask Lady Edelgard to verify my claims, and you know she would not lie on my behalf in these matters.

As you also know that I will rest when the war allows. Gray hairs are merely a sign of your compassion and wisdom, my darling mother, and they suit you.

Extend my condolences to my sister, both for her containment and separation from her friends. Her lessons may be a cold comfort of sorts, but I am proud to hear she has taken to them so well. I shall have to reward her with a visit in the near future. While I can't say I agree with her choice of role model, far be it from me to avoid her company. Perhaps I might sabotage your efforts slightly by arriving with a cake. I hope only that you can find it in your heart to forgive me for this egregious slight.

If his opinion is unchanged on the matter, I'm certain my brother will be glad to not share my height. Privacy and going unnoticed have always been rather important to him. I'm very grateful that you are supporting him in his studies and riding lessons, and it gives me no small amount of peace to know the area is secure before he focuses on learning.

Their absences in my life are dearly felt. Though it is beyond me to know if they are better off knowing or not knowing that particular fact. I leave it in your capable hands to decide.

It weighs heavy on my heart to hear of your struggles, but that is balanced with the honor of knowing you can confide in me. I hope you know that that will never change. Even if you were to look on the incident with my late father with disgust, I would remain a bastion for you. We do not have to agree on the former Marquis' capacity for anything resembling love in order for me to be a loyal son to you. I am grateful for your presence to guide my brother and sister to make the most of the world we will create in the ruins of tyranny. The future is theirs to claim and shape for the better with far less bloodshed.

Secrecy is an unfortunate necessity for the Vestras now, yes, but I hope it shall not be forever. That there will come a time when transparency and truth let all of you live your lives fully and in the open.

All the better that you do so in good health, as you enjoy now. You have always been so spirited that I should hardly be surprised to hear you are doing work of your own on these walks to the market. All I ask is that you exercise caution. For your sake, I would greatly prefer that you never hear anything more severe than old maid gossip.

If you require anything to do your stretches in comfort or to help manage the symptoms of the shifting weather, you need only ask. Home is far more than a place, as you know, and I am here for you as you are for me. Perhaps not as well, but I can hope that your belief in me extends to knowing I do my best on your behalf. I will arrange a visit this autumn. Sooner is sadly not doable.

Your gifts are, of course, appreciated and well-chosen besides. I have no doubt that Lady Edelgard will light up with joy to know you considered her in this as well. Your thoughts mean the world to her and myself.

I love you, Mother. Be safe.

Warmest Regards,

Hubert von Vestra"

[xxsycamore]

—𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳 𝘛𝘰 𝘠𝘰𝘶

► SYNOPSIS:

Walking next to Luka, one of his hands occupied with your own, the other carrying a picnic basket, you already consider this a perfect birthday. What more could you wish for?

▍luka x reader  ▍rating: G ▍tags: Birthday surprises; Fluff; Picnics; Autumn themes; Cuddles and Kisses ▍wordcount:  1,288

▍masterlist

▍a/n: Today is a very special day because it's the birthday of a very special person!! 🥺🥺 Happy Birthday, dear @chaosangel767. It's hard to express all my love into a single message!! You're amazing in every way, from a super talented writer to an amazing friend, your sole presence in this fandom leaves me all smiley and warm inside! We're lucky to have you, your works, your support, your humor (!), all of your collaborations that makes this place more than just a community. Thank you for being my friend dear Chaya and stay the amazing person you are <3 I hope you like this lil gift I prepared!

Walking next to Luka, one of his hands occupied with your own, the other carrying a picnic basket, you already consider this a perfect birthday. Recently, he's been busy with work, and you heart has grown fonder for the small moments of intimacy the more you missed them. As if reading your mind, when you two got up from bed this morning - well, when you finally got up from bed after the well-in order cuddle session intertwined with birthday wishes and all other sweet nothings - Luka suggested going for a picnic. You had to patiently wait for him to prepare the food without sneaking as much as a peek in the kitchen - you'd hate to ruin his surprise! - no matter how good it smelled. You caught a whiff of apple pie, of the unmistakable scent of cinnamon that enters your everyday more and more recently, and other delights you tried not to figure out with your nose alone.

And now here you are, and here he is - the contains of the basket still warm underneath the soft blanket covering them, and Luka's hand in yours even warmer.

The path ahead is familiar. It is leading to what could as well be your favorite spot in the whole of Cradle, even if picking one is nearly impossible. Wonderland deserves its name. One life wouldn't be enough to explore all there is to it.

For all well-known pretty sights there are, you're somehow always taken by the ones staying in the shadow. When you and Luka found this small hill not far from the heart of black territory, you wondered how the place isn't more popular. The most remarkable thing about it has to be the big old maple tree standing tall in all its glory atop of the hill.

The hill is rather small and once you go up, you'll find a rather flat area, with a pond situated not far from the tree itself. A tranquil and beautiful place, upon discovering it, you and Luka have come here a dozen of times already. Both admiring the scenery, on one of your picnics Luka asked if you liked the area because it was untouched by human hands. Looking at him upside-down as he'd offered his lap in lieu of a better cushion, you told him that as much as you liked that fact, a part of you wishes someone would make this place bloom to its full potential, imagination trailing off in little add-ons as the sun above made you sleepy…

It was just another conversation between him and you. In fact, you have forgotten all about it. Until now.

As soon as you and Luka make it up the hill, you look up from your feet as you've been trailing off in random thoughts again - and you gasp. Your favorite spot is right in front of you, just as you remember it - for the most part. A beautiful curved bridge is now spreading across the middle of the pond - the pond itself looking better than ever, the water clearer, the surrounding fauna visibly flourishing. You speed up ahead still holding to Luka, and closer up you see that there are even water lilies in the pond now.

"Let's go lay the blanket and I'll tell you all about it."

You nod enthusiastically, keeping your curiosity at bay for the time being. Your belly produces a soft growl and suddenly the basket's contains make for a more intriguing sight.

"Oh, they're shaped like tree leaves!" You exclaim and pick up a cookie from the basket. Outlined with crème and even the veins of the leaf drawn on it, it's unmistakably close to the real thing, speaking volumes of the precise work Luka has put into making them. As if to further bold the comparison, a leaf from the maple tree dances around you in its fall, grazing your cheek before landing on your folded knees.

Luka gently puts it away before smiling at you. You lean in and kiss him, catching him unprepared when he thought you're too impatient to put the cookie in your mouth instead. His cheeks start to feel hotter the more he admires the sight of you admiring him - and his work. In shortly, he explains about the renovation of the spot.

"…And, that's why I've been so busy recently. I'm sorry that I had to spend less time with you. I really wanted to prepare this for you after our conversation."

You're speechless - not only does your dear Luka listens and remembers even the most trivial things in your everyday life as couple, but he also put in so much effort into turning into reality one of your stray daydreams. Not being able to do much more than blink in awe while he talks, the second he's done you throw yourself in his arms - nearly sending him off balance.

He strokes your back lovingly as you whisper countless thank-you's, withdrawing just to ask for additional details and then hugging him anew. He lets you know that his army unit helped him with many of the tasks, but for the most part it was just him and the slowly descending sun in the distance. He had asked Sirius for advice for nourishing the existing fauna around the place. He also confesses that the hardest part was rejecting you when you asked to come here while still in the process of renovation, in order to keep it a secret…

"Ah, I almost forgot. Ed will be joining us here soon. He probably wants to greet you in person. I wonder if he'd like the place, too."

"Mhm! He definitely would! We should save some of the cookies for him, then. He needs to see all of your hard work, not just for the place."

Luka chuckles shyly, gathering what's left from the food in the basket for later on.

"He also mentioned something about taking the Creek family here to try out the pond… I told him he'd look ridiculous marching with them all way into black territory, but he seemed so jovial about it."

You look at him in disbelief, nearly exploding in laughter in the next moment. Wasn't Ed just joking? It's always a little hard to determine when your friend is serious so you can't blame Luka.

In the same time, a strong gust of wind comes by. The orange-red leaves of the maple tree, previously intact on their places due to the lack of wind in the beginning in autumn, now set off for a beautiful dance. They come falling down at you and Luka, and you can't find it in yourself to move an inch. Laughter still alive on your lips because of the latest conversation, you let them land all around you, even on top of you, feeling careless like a child in that moment.

Luka is not much different, only moving to hug you from behind.

"You know, when people learn about this place it won't be our secret spot anymore. So I've been thinking…"

"Let's find another one!" You half-turn with sparkling eyes, excitement rising inside you.

"Mhm. We can even start today. If that's alright with you."

You chuckle and lean in closer, your nose caressing Luka's in the brief kiss. A journey around Cradle is ahead of you, it's your birthday, and you're with your favorite person. The cinnamon flavor from the cookies is still lingering in the kiss. Your friends and found family are awaiting your company for a small celebration in the evening. The day is simply, utterly perfect.

Another gust of wind comes by.

"If you stay here a little longer, I'll have to take the rake to find you among the leaves…"

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[showduo]

the weather outside rather cold as they were making their way towards hyesu's dorm, not even halfway there and maybe, just maybe kiha had been stalling the whole day. there's something he had been wanting to tell the female beside him. ❛ hyesu.. ❜ he says, stopping as hand reaches, taking a hold of her arm to stop her from walking and make sure her attention turns towards him. ❛ i need to admit to something, i did see your birth date on your id back then when i stole your wallet when we met. i remember you asking me about it if i had seen it - i know i said i didn't.. but i did. ❜ keeping a dramatic pause, pulling her closer to him. ❛ i know today is your birthday and honestly.. i feel like you are like me, who doesn't like people to acknowledge the day - or i could be completely wrong and you love spending it, but i know i can't afford much.. i didn't even prepare anything for this day. ❜

hand moving down, his cold hand taking a hold of hers momentarily as he takes a step closer, his mind already running with ideas and something that had been stuck on his mind, something he had been wanting to do for awhile now. ❛ close your eyes. ❜ he says as he lets go of her hand, his hands reaching up to his neck and removing something around his neck; a necklace, something he had been wearing ever since they had met, even for years now. something important to him, one of his treasures and there's no one more important in his life than hyesu to carry something so dear to him and he remembers all those times she had been playing with the certain necklace. that being something he had bought himself. ❛ this is something personal to me, i don't know if you like it or not but.. ❜ he finally moves, walking right behind her, moving arms and hands, fixing the necklace around her neck and pulling her hair and pushing it aside so it doesn't come to tangle up with the lock.

clearing up his throat as he was done, moving back to stand right before her but closer this time. ❛ you can open your eyes, i can't give much - i don't have much, but i wanted you to have it. ❜ moving to get even closer, hands moving to pull her closer to him and looking down at her. ❛ even if you don't like spending it, i just wanted to give something little. ❜ knowing it wasn't just anything, kiha feeling like he had just given a part of himself to her like this. ❛ happy birthday, hyesu. ❜ his voice comes out as a whisper, leaning in to press a soft kiss upon her cheek, letting it linger there before he pulls away and giving a smile to her. arms moving to wrap around her frame, just holding her there and watching her, not wanting to break the moment there as he decides to keep quiet but ends up leaning in again this time pressing the softest kiss upon her forehead, this allowing him to hold her even closer to him, eyes closing as he hopes, wishes that hyesu would come to accept his little gift like that.

            as much as hyesu didn't want to perpetuate the stereotype of her being ' edgy ' or whatever else one can use to describe her, she hated celebrating birthdays. the reason being, she knew that it was because she never really got to celebrate her own — what with her parents always being out and/or too busy making a living that they'd often forget about it, and the fact that that she had been made aware that they couldn't really afford to celebrate it early on in life. simply put, this was the perfect recipe for someone to grow up treating birthdays as just another day. she didn't think she was special enough, hated burdening people in some way, and detested the attention being on her — harrowing as that may sound. in conclusion, hyesu wasn't all for making people sit around and celebrate something that seemed painfully arbitrary to her.

which is why for her birthday this year, all she really wanted to do was hang out. the female made certain she didn't say anything about the day, as most of her university friends didn't even know when this ' special ' day of hers was. all she wanted was a simple day out with kiha, one of the most special people in her life currently — and she got just that. going home a happy and contented woman as it was, kiha's sudden confession took her by surprise, understandably so. the male swore up and down that he didn't see her exact birthdate but apparently, he was mentally crossing his fingers when he said that, lying to her. she was about to scold him for not being truthful, but kiha's sudden change in expression that she interpreted as nervousness causes her to step back a few paces. " kiha, please, i really don't need anyth- " pausing for a bit, she hesitates as a sudden rush of emotions come through, knowing that if this was something he bought with his own money, she would be angry — especially given his current financial situation. she didn't deserve to get anything, right ? so why was he suddenly asking her to close her eyes ?

breathing out a sigh after thinking about it for a second, hyesu does what she's told, eyelids closing slowly. she had to admit, this was the first time that she'd turned curious about what someone had gotten her for her birthday. feeling something cold against her neck, her eyes open, and upon seeing the object that decorated the spot between her collarbones, her lips parted in sheer surprise. she knew this necklace. had vivid daydreams of it, in fact. kiha had always worn this, and now, she's the new owner of it. " kiha ya, " the female's gaze darts upwards, thumb and index finger holding onto the simple silver band around her neck, swallowing hard. was this how it felt like to receive something from someone you held near and dear to your heart ? heartbeat thumping in her chest, hyesu felt the prickling sensation in the corners of her eyes, " are you su- are you sure you want me to have this ? " even with no money spent, she still didn't think she deserved it. seemingly frozen in place for a while, even after kiha grants her a kiss on the cheek, she swallows hard. " t-thank you. really. i'll make sure i'll keep this safe with me at all times. " it felt like he gave a piece of him to her, and that's what made her speechless. she never liked overanalyzing her place in anyone's life, but somehow, with a simple gesture, kiha's made her feel like she's the most special person in his life.

as much as she didn't know how to act whenever receiving gifts from others, all she knew then was that she was feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude towards him. stepping forward, hyesu's arms wrap around kiha's neck, hugging him tightly, " thank you, kiha. this is the best birthday gift ever. " she whispers out, allowing her tears to fall even just for that night. and though she didn't have much to compare it to, hyesu knew deep down that nothing would ever top this gift, as no amount of money could equate to kiha's significance in her life.

and maybe, birthdays weren't so bad after all.

[coollyinterferes]

A light giggle was heard as a child with raven-colored hair and bright amethyst-colored eyes, ran into the Speedwagon headquarters, followed by two black-suited bodyguards, who were chasing after their young lady. "My lady, wait! Slow down!"

Still a little short, she jumps to reach for the door handles before the secretary can reach it for her. And she would have gladly opened the door for her. But Kanako, who was already at the age where she felt she was 'a big girl now', would independently do it on her own. "It's okay, Beverley. I can manage…" And as she waltzed into the big office, she ran to a man sitting at a large, luxurious wooden desk.

"GRANDPAPA!" She yells with delight with the biggest smile on her face. But there was something mischievous behind those innocent smiles, as she hid something behind her back. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" The little Lioness roared. Presenting him with a handmade birthday card, with a childish, almost unreadable handwriting of birthday wishes. And it has a cute, happy drawing inside, drawn by her of them (herself, her adopted grandfather, and his imaginary friend (stand), all smiling happily in the art. "I got this for you too…" Kanako presented another gift, a little bouquet of flowers that was almost as big as her. "I chose the flower!" She added. "I hope you like it…" A shy smile then appeared on her face. And like any child, she waited patiently with excitement to be loved and praised by him, for the gifts she had worked hard to prepare.

brithday asks! 【no longer accepting】 @featherchan

As the commotion around inches closer down the hallway and towards the main office, Speedwagon is able to catch some of it just a couple of seconds before the door swings open, revealing the little one that's behind it all. He raises his gaze from the document he was reading just in time to see Kanako entering the office. The sound of rushed footsteps somewhere in the distance indicating she had once more gotten her poor bodyguards in a bit of a predicament. And although he felt a bit bad for them, it was undeniable that there was something equal parts endearing and impressive about this little girl outrunning her caretakers like that yet again.

A bright smile takes over the old man's face at the sight of his granddaughter coming to see him (granddaughter perhaps not by blood, but he did see her as such nonetheless).

"Kanako-chan, good morning!" He greets her, getting up from his seat and walking over towards the door to receive his young guest. While he had been reminded of today's date earlier in the day by the staff at the headquarters, he is still greatly surprised with Kanako's gesture. The fact that she not only had remembered the date but that she had also arranged some presents and even sneaked around to deliver them herself without even waiting to be taken to his office truly meant a lot to him.

"Oh my. Thank you so much, dear!" He replies with a gentle bow of his head as he crouches a bit so he can be more on an eye level with her. He receives the birthday card Kanako made for him, and which he opens. And, even though he isn't able to look in close detail at it due to Kanako presenting him with the bouquet, he is able to notice a particular sight among the girl's writing and her cute drawings. It's a picture of his stand, something that raises some questions that he might have to ask later on. For now, he focuses on the subject at hand, as not to dwindle down the child's enthusiasm. The sight of the small girl and the huge bouquet she's carrying is just too adorable to Robert.

"Oh, you picked these for me?" Another pleasant surprise; genuine joy written all over his face as he receives the bouquet and looks at the bright colored flowers in it. "You have a very good eye for flowers. They are beautiful. So is the birthday card you made for me." No lies at all, he truly loves Kanako's thoughtful presents. Holding the bouquet and the card in one arm and hand, he uses his free hand to softly pat Kanako's head; his bright and genuine smile hasn't faded at all, not even once.

"Say, would you help me find a vase to put these beauties in?" He motions to the flowers, "I would love to have them here in the office so I can look at them while I work."

[seelestia]

❤❤❤ 𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐑𝐘 𝐂𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐌𝐀𝐒 𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐀𝐀𝐀𝐀 ❤❤❤

Coming into this fandom, I didn't know I'd be able to make friends, let alone one friend, especially because it's pretty rare for me to interact with people especially in a new fandom (even if I have been in a fandom for like 2 years, I don't interact cuz I'm anti-social af :''D)

I'm thankful that I have gotten to meet and make a friend out of you, Lia :D I always anticipate and get excited whenever you go active on your blogs, when I've sent an ask and I know you're answering asks that day, I can't help but feel giddy and wait for your response :''D cuz fr your answers always make my day <3

Though we've only known each other for a small part of the year, I'm glad that I met you because fr you're like the chocolate cake I get at the end of the week after just browsing your blog and our convos :'')

Anyway- enough of the sappiness, let's get into the gifts! >:D

Don't kill me for this :''D you know I had to do it...

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[ one without the text ^^^ ]

BONUS: Your son ain't helping you bestie (^^)

HUEHUEHUEHUEHUEHUE >:DD

aight aight put the sword down tho lia, obviously I'm not just gonna let you suffer with scara and cryptid ayato ;D

Here's a 'sorry for the last gift' gift >:D

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Damsel in distress who? We love carrying tall handsome men (^^)

[ ignore how in both drawings, ayato's outfit don't look similar :'D ] - Ever so sincerely and truly yours, 👹✨ Jae (love ya liaaaaaaa <3)

OH, LORD. OH, DEAR LORD. THE SPEECH AND THE GIFTS??? JAE. 😭 you really didn't hold back with the speech because why are my eyes actually glossy rn, HELP. (/g)

thank you for gathering the courage to come into my inbox (and introduce me to those good SAGAU soup, i'm still thinking abt dipping my toes there soon) and for staying to talk to me, even tho i have a social battery cooldown that lasts for days mostly <//3 but having that cooldown doesn't make me any less happy when i see you in my notifs! and i love that we banter like neighbors that poke fun at each other good-naturedly and i hope we can keep doing that because ik for one thing, you're never ever getting rid of me now, hehehhe. (/lh)

NOW, ENOUGH SAPPINESS. I WANNA SCREAM ABOUT YOUR ART.

i keep telling you this but your artstyle is so clean and distinct, i wanna eat it like it's sour patch kids. NOM NOM. but fr tho, i love how distinct is and how it kinda has your name written all over it like i could pick it out from a crowd anytime, anywhere <3

2) second of all, do you know how honored this makes me feel. jae, you got me feeling like genshinblr's beyoncé, hello??? somebody, save me from faceless ayato and scara. caelin, turn around, please. this minecraft sword isn't enough—

3) IK THIS MUST'VE TAKEN YOU AGES, especially with the details on their designs. TYSM FOR THIS, JAE. 😭

4) me carrying ayato up with my noodle-looking but actually beefy arms, so trueeeee. i'm gonna make it my priv's theme and freak out some more about your gifts on there later, NYEHEHE.

I WANNA KEEP THIS ASK FOREVER IN MY INBOX LIKE A GATEKEEPER. this makes me so happy, aaaaaaa 😭 and i'm so sorry i didn't get to post my gift for you on your birthday GAHHHH it's taking longer than expected because i keep rewriting bits of it <//3 but it'll deffo be out soon! (vague hint: privilege. iykyk, hehe.) BUT AGAIN, TYSM FOR THIS, JAE! i love how we're doing a little holiday trade for each other and it wasn't even planned intentionally at first LMAOOO (the spiderman meme with "i'm preparing a gift for you" "i'm preparing a gift for you" 🥸)

[antvnger]

Ant-Man and Ant-Mun: A Little Birthday Celebration

Scott couldn’t help but feel incredibly guilty. He should have paid better attention. After all, with this peculiar version of quantum entanglement he shares with his dear friend, he's privy to a lot of her forefront thoughts and feelings as she is with his. He should have honed in on her exuberance and understood it for what it was. And he should have checked his calendar better.

He approached her from behind to surprise her, and he silently covered her eyes. She squeaked out an ooh! as he did so, but she kept still, curious to see what was going on. "Guess who..."

She giggled and shrugged. Even without their connection, the voice was unmistakable. But still, it was more fun to mess with her friend. "Ummmmm, are you that one guy who guest-starred on that one popular sitcom in the 90s?"

"Ha ha," he said flatly as he turned her around, but he couldn't keep his straight face for long as she started laughing at her own joke. "You know I'm younger than that version of my face, right?"

"Yeah yeah yeah," she waved dismissively, still giggling. "I know. You like to mention that every time he's mentioned."

He shrugged. "Yeah well, I just want it to be clear."

"Oh it's clear, my friend. Very very clear."

He raised an eyebrow and smirked. "Speaking of ages..." Now she raised an eyebrow and smirked. He presented her with a big plastic bag which carried three wrapped gifts and a card. "Happy birthday!"

"Aaaw, Scott," she grinned wide. "Thank you! You're so sweet. I was beginning to wonder if I'm being honest."

He ducked his head a bit, looking a little sheepish. "I kinda sorta thought today was the 27th."

"Ah." She nodded once. "I see."

"Yeah, a friendly little Anon bird pointed out the day to me, so I booked it to make sure I fixed this. Sorry it took me so long," he said quietly as he offered his bag of gifts.

"You're too hard on yourself," she answered as she accepted the bag. "I understand, Scott. It's okay, really. I've definitely gotten my dates mixed up before too. No harm done." She looked down at the bag before looking back up at her friend excitedly. "Can I open them?"

"Of course! It's your birthday. Just do me a favor and save the card for last."

"Last? That's unusual."

"You'll see."

The gifts were certainly good ones. He knew his friend very well, indeed. A red and black beanie - for she loved beanies - and a new copy of one of her favorite books that had been accidentally damaged and...

"Where did you get these earrings, Scott?" she asked him excitedly, laughing as she pulled them out of the box.

"I have resources," he answered with a chuckle. "Besides, I know you're just as fond of my merch as I am."

"You got that right! They're so cool! Now I can be nerdy and chic, my favorite combination." He laughed at that as she pulled out the card. "If there's tickets to some concert or NFL game in here, I'm going to lose my mind."

"No no," he shook his head, "sorry, nothing that cool."

No, instead there was another gift per se, one right from the heart.

If someone had told me before all this Ant-Man stuff happened that I would literally be sharing a brain with someone, I would have laughed and said to lay off the sci-fi. Yet here we are. And I couldn't be happier to share this weird brain and quantum entanglement thing with you. Are you sure you're not a variant of me? It just makes sense because we're so similar. If a person can have more than one soulmate, then I'd say we're definitely the platonic kind. You're one of my best friends, and I'm so glad we get to go on this crazy adventure together. Happy birthday BFF, Scott

She swallowed the lump in her throat before she quickly tackled him in a hug. "You are one of my best friends ever, and I'm very blessed and thankful to know you. Thank you, my friend."

"No," he said as he returned the hug. "Thank you."

[sydorax-squid]

Sammy

  Sammy sat at the edge of the yard, staring out at the vast forest below. He felt the breeze on his skin, in his wavy auburn hair. He took a deep breath, inhaling all the secrets carried on the wind. He listened as well, heard the whispers of the land, the stories they held in their fibers were carried by the messenger wind. 

  “Hello, Wind,” Sammy said quietly, greeting his old friend. The wind was warm this morning, sweet and inviting. He flexed his shoulders, his large, leathery wings yearned to be used for their purpose and not simply as a barrier against the cold. 

  “Samson!”

  Mama’s voice echoed in Sammy’s head. He sighed. They had need of him again. But for nothing important. It was never important. 

  “Samson!”

  “I’m coming.” Sammy stood, unfurling his huge, red-orange wings. Sammy himself was a slender lad, typical of his particular breed. His body was light and near-weightless, though delicate and breakable. He was built to fly, built for speed and maneuverability and distance. 

  He heard Mama call for him once again. Sighing, Samson curled his wings back, the strong little clawed fingers at the top of the hand-like appendages hooked together, giving his wings the look and use of a fabulous leather cloak. He turned and ran back to the house; it wasn’t far enough to bother flying. It would only make him yearn to travel more. 

  Sammy entered the brightly-lit house full of life. His little siblings were gallivanting around the bottom floor, the triplets barked and yipped and nipped at each other’s tails. Sammy stepped over them, heading for the magnetic center that was his Mother.

  “Samson!” she declared, turning to him. “We just got a letter; your Uncle Timothy and Aunt Hilda will be here in a few days!”

  “Okay?” His disinterest was thick.

  “We’ve got to make sure that they have a place to stay while they do their business, dear,” Mama informed him, sifting through the loose-leaf papers on her desk. “They’ll be staying for about a week, can you go tell your brothers that they need to get some extra blood?”

  “Why can’t Sarah tell them?” Sammy complained. He hated having to go into town. The people there always stared at him. “I thought she could project halfway around the world now.”

  “She’s busy, darling,” Mama said dismissively, quickly scribbling something down on a piece of paper. “We also need some things from Dale and Gaylord.”

  Sammy snickered. 

  Mama glared at him.

  “Gaylord is an old and respectable name,” she began. Sammy nodded his head back and forth with mild disdain. He’d heard this lecture before. 

  “Okay, anything else?” Sammy asked, taking the paper. Mama tilted her head at her son, seeing his secret displeasures. 

  “Samson. You're not upset about what Grandma Tildy said, are you?”

  “…No.”

  “Honey, don’t lie to me.”

  “I’m not upset. Do you want anything else?”

  “No. But go ask your father. Make sure he doesn’t need anything himself.”

  “Okay.”

  Sammy left the study, went downstairs to the Coffin Hold. He turned quickly, tracing his way through the darkness with familiarity. His red-orange wings emitted a soft glow, which helped his lackluster night-sight. Unlike his fellow winged cousins, Sammy wasn’t gifted with echolocation or a strong night-sight. He was cursed. 

  Sam stopped at his father’s large mahogany box. He knocked gently on the lid.

  “What?” came the muffled, irritable voice. 

  “Mama wants to know if you want anything from town.”

  “Other than blood?”

  “Yes, of course,” Sammy sighed. There was a pause as his father thought. 

  “I suppose virgins are out of the question?”

  “Dad.”

  “Just kidding, lighten up. Um, oh, we need some more wood polish. Get the lemon-scented one, that’s my favorite.”

  “Got it.”

  “And some chocolates. Your sister’s birthday is coming up.”

  “Edie’s?”

  “No, Sarah.”

  “Oh.” Sammy made a note to get the cheapest, grossest chocolates he could find. Maybe they’d let him have the expired ones. He smirked to himself. “Okay, I’ll be back.”

  “Mmm.”

  Sammy went back upstairs, nearly bumping into Edie on his way outside. 

  “Oh, sorry,” Edie murmured, hurrying on her way. So secretive, Sammy thought wistfully. She was probably keeping a blood pet someplace. Everyone has that phase, the “Old World’s Way” phase. Part of growing up. 

  

  Sammy, spreading his wings wide, jumped off the roof of the house, flapping wildly as he spiraled high into the air. Samson stopped, hovering above the world, looking down at all the little houses with their little occupants and all the rest that dwells beyond the horizons. But he had a task to fulfill. Sammy tilted his magnificent appendages, shifting his body downward. He floated gently down, as if a lost kite on the friendly wind, traversing the 30 or so miles to town in a matter of a few minutes. He circled overhead, taking advantage of the bright summer day to obscure his visage from those beneath. Sammy glided down, down, down towards the edge of town, towards his favorite place; Patches’ place.

  Sammy tilted his wings back, catching the air to slow his descent as he approached Patches’ house. 

  “Patches!” he called out, his wings silent but for the sound of dancing wind. “Patches!”

  The door to the little house opened to reveal a girl, around Sammy’s age, her face was dirty and her hair messy, she wore simple clothes covered in patches. Hence the name she was given.

  “Again?” Patches asked, seeming a bit irritated. “What do you want?”

  “Can’t I just come by to say hello?”

  “You did that yesterday and the day before,” Patches commented. “What, are you lonely or something?”

  “Maybe I just like you,” Sammy teased, leaning forward, sneering playfully. Patches’ face flushed red as she looked at the handsome boy with the bright red-orange wings. “You’re cute.”

  “I got work to do,” Patches said, looking over her shoulder. “Pa will be back soon. He needs his boots shiny for the interview.”

  Sammy took her hands.

  “Come into town with me,” he told her. “I’ll buy your Pa new boots!”

  “I can’t, I’m busy!” Patches exclaimed anxiously, her heart wanting nothing more than to accompany the young man. 

  “Oh, alright,” Sammy said, sullenly. “You talked me into it. I’ll help you shine your pa’s boots.”

  “You don’t—”

  “It’ll be done quicker, then you can come to town with me! Please?”

  Patches, eager and willing to spend time with her only friend, agreed. Sammy, who had much experience with polishing the coffins in the Hold, applied the same level of skill to this task, resulting in a very handsome shoe. Patches didn't do hers nearly as well, so Sam offered to show her how, repeating the process on the second boot. After about ten minutes, the boots were shined good and proper and Patches was free to go to town with Sammy. 

  “I’ll walk with you,” Sammy declared, hooking the thumbs of his wings together, issuing the look of an ancient gentleman with a fine leather cloak, but with a boyish face and gait. 

  The pair went into town, garnering some quizzical and unsettled looks from the residents, though many knew of the oddities of the Old Family On The Hill and simply ignored the boy. 

  “So what’re we doing?” Patches asked, skipping along barefoot beside Sam. Sam, usually a sullen and unhappy child, skipped unevenly beside her. 

  “I gotta tell Leon and Byron to bring home more… food tonight. We have some relatives coming over in a few days so we gotta prepare.”

  “Why don’t your parents come and get it?”

  “Leon and Byron have the car.”

  “Ah, that makes sense.” Patches nodded, slowing to a walk. She peered into a store. “Look at that lady with the funny hat!”

  Samson went to join her at the window. 

  “She looks like my Cousin Gertrude.” He squinted against the glare of the sun on glass. “Not hairy enough.”

  Patches laughed.

  They continued on towards the Mortuary. 

  Samson stopped at the rainbow colored candy store. He pulled out the coin purse Mama had given him. He counted the money inside. He turned and grinned at Patches.

  “You want a lollipop?”

  Patches gasped. 

  “But it’s not my birthday.”

  “Who cares?” Sammy laughed, grabbing Patches by the hand and dragging her into the store. They looked at all the magical candies, the lollipops, the rock candy, the chocolate bars, the candied nuts, the sugar wafers, the cookies and caramels, the gummies, the licorices, the ribbon candy in all it’s different shapes and colors and patterns, the peppermint puffs and the exotic sweets with the names no child could pronounce. Sam picked a delightfully-decorated box of chocolates with a “CLEARANCE” sticker on it for cruel Sarah and let Patches choose her own treat. She got a spiral lollipop, pink, red, and yellow swirling on a stick. Sammy got a little baggy of mixed hard candy for cheap. He let Patches try some of his but refused to try hers. It was a gift, after all, for her.

  The two children left the candy store as happy as children can be after a visit to the best place in town. They skipped and laughed and ran to the Mortuary to complete their quest. 

  Patches stopped at the door, the smell of ash and formaldehyde and the heavy make-up and wax to fix the dead-struck faces flooded her nose. She felt very uncomfortable. Sammy took her hand, lending his strength, his courage to his dearest friend. She tried to smile away the unease she felt, forcing her feet to drag warily, sticky with doubt, into the forbidding building. 

  “Leon!” Sammy shouted as they entered, irreverently of the family gathered for a wake. “Byron! Mama’s got a message for you!”

  “Ah, the young Mr Aldritch,” Mr Beanuit said, rushing past the confused mourners to meet the auburn-headed youth. “And friend.” He motioned in acknowledgement to Patches. “How can I help you two?”

  “I’m lookin’ for my brothers, Mr Beanut,” Sammy declared, mispronouncing Mr Beanuit’s name on purpose because he knew it irritated the old mortician. It was French, anyway. Hard to figure, the French. What with their… vowels. 

  “It’s ‘Beenwah’,” Mr Beanuit corrected in vain. He sighed. “Your brothers are in the back, as you are well aware.”

  “They won’t open the door for me,” Sammy said simply. It was the truth, his big brothers ignored him. They believed him useless, just like the rest of the Family. “Had to come in the front.”

  “I’ll be having a talk with them about that,” Mr Beanuit said in his gentle, whispery voice, though his tone was firm with resolve. He guided the pair into the back of the smelly building, through the lavishly decorated and furnished viewing rooms and visiting areas. Patches tracked mud in with her, while Sammy took every opportunity to stray and look at some decorative vase or excessive oil painting. 

  Eventually, thankfully, Mr Beanuit got them in the back. Patches held tight to Samson’s hand as they entered the more gruesome area of the Mortuary. Leon and Byron were standing together at an occupied table, performing some sort of macabre ritual on the former Mrs Watts. 

  “Samson,” Leon muttered, setting down his tools. Byron did the same. “What do you want?” 

  “Uncle Timothy and Aunt Hilda are coming for a visit,” he reported. “Mama wants you to procure some more food for the family. She also wants these things from Dale and, heh, Gaylord.”

  Patches snickered along with Sammy at the silly name. 

  Leon sighed, taking the list from his brother’s hand. He glanced at it before tucking it in his breast pocket. 

  “Okay, we’ll get to work on it. Now get lost, we’re busy.” Leon took up his tools once again and Byron did the same. They ignored the huffing of their younger brother and went about their grim work.

  “C’mon,” Sammy whispered to Patches. “We can go to the Drop.”

  Sammy and Patches raced each other out to the Drop, their second favorite place in town, behind the candy store, of course. Patches won the footrace, as usual, and she demanded to see Sammy do loop-the-loops as her prize for winning. The young man smiled, she always loved to see him do aerial tricks. And he always loved showing off. A natural-born performer, he was, especially before Patches. 

  With a great leaping bound, Samson went careening off the tall cliff, unfurling his great red-orange wings and letting the air currents take him up, up, up into the sky! He whooped and howled with laughter as he hurtled through the skies, his eyes thick with a protective layer against the harshness of the speeding wind. Samson performed first a loop-the-loop, then a horizontal spin that turned to a vertical pirouette that ended in a death-defying fall. He pulled up just barely before he hit the craggy ground, his feet grazing the sharp, murderous rocks. The thrill of near-death was exhilarating, he adored this feeling; it was the feeling of life! Pure, unfiltered, raw; true living. 

  Samson came back around to the clapping Patches, landing gracefully at her side, his wings spread wide open with exuberance. He bowed, accepting her praise. 

  “You were wonderful!” she declared. “I wish I could fly; you're so lucky, Sammy. You can just fly away whenever you want. Nothing keeps you tethered, not even gravity!”

  “I wish I could fly away whenever I wanted,” Sammy said, sitting on the soft grass. Patches joined him there, her face clouded with confusion. 

  “Why can’t you?” she asked. “What’s to stop you?”

  “People,” Samson sighed. “I’m supposed to fly at night so people can’t see me, but I can’t see so well in the dark. And my wings, they glow! Like embers in a scorched fireplace. I stand out too much when I fly. If people see me, they’ll get scared, they’ll come after me. And my Family, they’ll be mad, they’ll punish me if I get seen by people. There’s nowhere in the world my Family can’t reach. Especially Sarah. She can travel without moving. I hate her. I hate her freedom. She can go and do whatever she wants, but me? Nah, I’m stuck here. Useless red-headed flyboy. A freak, a failure.” Sammy shook his head. “You don’t wanna be like me, Patches.”

  “But, I am like you,” Patches said. “I’m stuck here because of my family, I stand out because of my appearance, and my grandparents call me a failure every time they visit. Pa tries to tell them how much he needs me, how helpful I am, but they’ll never hear it. And that’s why I can’t leave, Sam. I can’t leave my Pa, he needs me.”

  “Oh, Patches.” Samson said, his view of her growing muddy and wet. “You’re better than me. You stay for your Pa, for love. I stay for cowardice. I’m scared of people and my Family. You're reasons are better than mine.”

  “Reasons are reasons, none are really better than the other, not if you look at it from above, see things in perspective. We’re both staying for reasons we’re not happy with. Isn’t that what matters?”

  Samson flopped back onto the grass, staring up into the sky. He mulled over her words. 

  “Y’know what I think matters?” Sammy asked. “I think it matters that we’re stuck here together. If we weren’t, you and me probably wouldn't have been friends.”

  Patches fell back upon the grass to join Sammy in cloud-watching. 

  “That’s a pleasant way to see things.” She mused, tapping her foot against nothing. “A good reason to stay, too.”

  “Yeah?”

  “Yeah.” She turned to look at him. “For each other.”