#it's all just water under the bridge now most of the time. I'm happy to hang out I'm happy to say hi to the missionaries. I'm happy to tal

[peachesofteal]

Light On - single mom/neighbors fic Simon Riley/female reader Prompt: Your apartment floods. Inspired by and for @liliumbosniacum

"I need to take leave."

Simon's phone is pressed against his face, one hand holding the device, the other with a canvas bag in his hand, it's contents overflowing: blankets, baby clothes, your pillow.

"Everything alright?" Price sounds suspicious, but more curious than anything, and Simon sighs.

"Neighbor's flat flooded. She's got nowhere else to go so I'm letting 'em stay with me for a while." Price, thank fucking god, doesn't push it any further, disconnecting with a rumble about checking in with him next week, wishing him a happy holiday, and a parting good luck.

When he hangs up, you're standing hesitantly in his doorway, pile of clothes in your arms.

"That the last of it?" He asks, and you nod.

"Are y-you sure this is okay?" You're still upset, shaken, and he doesn't blame you. You were terrified when you woke up to bone chilling, ankle deep water, frantically shouting about a burst pipe into the phone over Emmaline's shrieks.

"It's okay, sweetheart. I've got plenty of room." He does. His flat is larger than yours, and though they're both two bedroom floor plans, his bedrooms are bigger, and he has two bathrooms, compared to your one. "I got the crib reassembled in the guest room." He motions to the door that's half opened, a few bags of Emmaline's stuff collected on the floor.

"Thank you." you murmur, and then step forward, burying your face in his chest. He holds you there, rubbing your back, working his thumb into the knot that sits at the base of your neck. “At least we saved the tree,” you laugh, wet and sad, and he hums, bowing to press his lips to your forehead.

“I’m sorry love.”

“It’s alright.” You shrug. “Nothing I could control.” You’ve got a point there, and he appreciates the approach, marvels at your ability to not be angry or frustrated with your neighbor, even though it wasn’t really their fault as well. He’s irritated for both of you, anxious over visualizing what would have happened if the chunk of the ceiling that fell was misplaced and landed on you, or Emma.

You pull away, face twisted up into something that looks painful, tears on your lash line, and he frowns. “Hey, hey. It’s okay, sweetheart, c’mon. It’s alright.”

“I know.” You cry, clamping your hand over the bridge of your nose and trying to turn away. “It’s just all her gifts we-were in my room and now they’re ruined, and-“

“Okay, so we’ll get more. We still have plenty of time.” He reassures, rubbing his palms up and down your arms until you come back to him, letting him fold you back into his embrace. “We’ll fix it. Don’t worry.”

“We will?” You sniffle, and he nods.

“I’m on leave, until after the holiday, so I’ll be around, we can go shopping and replace everything. It’s going to be alright. I promise.” That word slips out of him again, promise. I promise, just like he told you this morning when you were frantic and he said it was okay that you stayed with him, I promise, just like he assured last night when you apologized for Emmaline crying for most the evening. “Okay?” His chin rests on the top of your head, and he turns to kiss you, the touch as soft as he can manage. You hum, and then sigh into him.

“Okay Simon.”

“I’ll sleep on the couch.”

“No.” His refusal is immediate, and you look at him in near exasperation.

“Simon I can’t kick you out of your bed! You’re too big for the couch, anyway, and I don’t mind, I’ve slept on a couch plenty. Plus I’ll be able to hear better, when Emmaline wakes-“

“Sweetheart.” You’re in the living room, bouncing Emmaline in your arms, walking back and forth in front of the fireplace. She’s wearing a red and white striped onesie, like a candy cane, and Simon chuckles when she makes grabby hands at him as he approaches. You sigh, and he tucks his hands under her, lifting her away and into his arms, pleased at how you instantly relax and stretch your back and shoulders in response. “Think you’re getting too big for mama, baby girl.” You roll your eyes, playfully knocking your elbow into his side, and he grunts. “You’re not kicking me out of my own bed.”

“No?” You turn with a hand on your hip, other one holding a half full bottle.

“No, well. I mean-“ he falters, suddenly losing his confidence. “I’m happy to let you have it, or…” He can’t get the words right, can’t communicate what it is he wants to tell you, too worried about scaring you off or being too forward, pushing you too far.

“Or?” You look so pretty, standing in his flat, your belongings, Emma’s, strewn about, just your presence alone making this place feel more like a home than it ever has before. He feels dizzy, overflowing with emotion when Emma lays her head down on his chest, and you smile at her, looking back up at him, delicate, sweet smile on your lips. He bends, tilting your face upwards to meet his, lips ghosting against one another as Emma coos from his arms.

“Or… we can share it.”

[esmedelacroix]

Christmas Special

surprising husband!miguel o'hara revealing your pregnancy to him on Christmas day⋆꙳•̩̩͙❅̩̩͙‧͙ ‧͙̩̩͙❆ ͙͛ ˚₊⋆

1 days til' christmas ← previous part

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You woke up on Christmas morning getting up quickly feeling like you were on top of the world. You got up about to practically skip out of your bedroom smelling the sweet breakfast and coffee Miguel was making.

Until you didn't feel like you were on top of the world and you felt like you were spinning downwards. You had gotten up way too quickly and ate a heavy meal the night prior and now you had to vomit.

As you hurled almost all the contents of your stomach, you heard Miguel's rushed steps and soon he was by your side with a glass of water. You leaned against him feeling a bit distraught that you would have to go through this until you got used to having smaller meals throughout the day and not guzzling water when you were feeling thirsty which was all the time.

Not the best start to such an amazing day but the breakfast that Miguel had made was a great pick-me-up. The two of you went over to sit in front of the tree and open gifts. Miguel had gotten you a whole closet of new clothing, jewelry, a watch, and three new pairs of shoes. The gift that spoke volumes to you was the handmade card that Miguel had made for you.

He always had this skill of being able to make you cry and feel like the most loved woman on earth with a simple handmade card. You wrapped your arms around him, nuzzling your face in his neck. He caressed your hair just happy to see you so happy.

In his card, he wrote about the past week and how all he wanted was for you to be happy during your favorite time of year. About how he loves you so much and is happy that he can call you ‘my wife’. He wrote that he hopes that someday soon you can share your secret with him.

Afterward, Miguel opened his gifts from you. A watch, some cufflinks, a cute apron, shoes, and random clothing had been bought throughout the holidays because you can't stop buying things that remind you of him. He read your Christmas card that explained your struggle with finding him the perfect gift for the holidays but you finally found it. The card alluded to the final gift under the tree. The small rectangular box

Under the tree amongst the torn wrapping paper and gift-wrapping ribbons, sat that same red rectangular box wrapped in dark green ribbon. You picked it up and handed it over to Miguel. He slowly pulled at the ribbon untied the bow, and looked up at you raising a suspenseful brow. He slowly opened the box and put his glass down from the top of his head to the bridge of his nose.

Once he could make out what was in the box he dropped it. He looked up at you, eyes nearly popping out of his skull. He did a double-take looking back down at the box covering him hung open mouth with his hand. "Baby, you're pregnant?" he asked as you could almost hear the tears in his voice.

"Yes, Merry Christmas," you said as you held his arms out to him.

He immediately hugged you, kissing your forehead and peppering kisses all over your face. In between each kiss was a breathful, "Thank you," You had never seen a gift bring him to tears until now.

"I'm going to be a father," he stated aloud forcing himself to believe the words coming out of his mouth.

You knew in any second he was going to ask you to pinch him so you went ahead and did it. "We're having a baby!" Miguel exclaimed as he hugged you again making giggles rise in your throat.

"This is what I've been hiding from you, I wanted to surprise you," you admitted, running your hand through his hair.

"You have no idea how happy you've made me," he mumbled into your chest as his bare warm hands found their way under your tanktop and caressed your stomach. You weren't really showing yet but he couldn't wait to take care of you and see you swollen and carrying a baby he put in you.

"Hi baby," he whispered as he touched your stomach.

"You know I actually had a feeling you were preg—" Miguel started.

"Oh shut up you," you said laughing at his little joke.

This would be you and Miguel's merriest Christmas. You knew the next seven months would consist of Miguel hovering over you and extra princess treatment but you honestly didn't mind. This Christmas wasn't spent as a couple, it was spent as a mom, dad, and child. It would be your first Christmas dinner for three.

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. . .

the end <3

a/n: I hope you all liked this series. I hope you enjoyed your holidays as well. Don't be shy to send me a lil request if there's any other content you'd like to see.

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taglist: @aripet22@to-the-endoftheline@sad-author-san

[sublimecatgalaxy]

Ahhh it’s been so long since I’ve been on here n I saw ur writing for PEETA?! I’m currently rereading the series n On Mockingjay and want to cry everytime he’s mentioned. Anywhoo can I request telling Peeta ur pregnant (obviously after the war is won and all that) in honor of baby #2 I’m due with in a October?<3

GIIIIIRL CONGRADU-FUCKING-LATIONS!!!!! I'm so so so happy for you, so so so so so happy omg. I hope this is exactly what you wanted it to be.

I also wanna reread all the books before the next Hunger Games movie comes out, so excited for that one.

There's a haze across the lake outside our house, steam rising up from the warmer water as dusk settles upon the surrounding acreage. The sky is a pale orange, like Peeta's favorite color, and the stars are already out, speckling across bare sky like freckles.

My hand wanders down to my belly, though it's not growing yet, I know what's growing in there as I think to myself now, sitting on the edge of the peer as I take a deep breath in, filling my babies lungs with the most genuine of oxygen.

He doesn't know yet, I didn't want to tell him until he finally had a break from all the stress he's been under the last few years, finally bridging the gap of his therapy and coming up perfectly clean from all the capitals torture.

He's finally him again.

"Hey, there you are." Peeta's voice behind me makes me smile to myself, realizing this is a better time than never to finally rip the bandaid off and tell him our big secret. "I've been looking for you."

"I'm right here. Where I always am." I smile up at him and I watch his eyes trail over me as he sits down beside me, legs swinging off the dock beside mine. It's so still, everything is quiet except for the frogs singing their song.

"You okay?" He asks quietly, pressing a kiss to the side of my head while he wraps an arm around my shoulders, pulling me into his side. He smells like the pastries he was just working on inside, warm hazelnut and caramel wafting all the way from the open kitchen window to the pier.

"I've never been better." I grin, looking up at him with heart eyes, my whole body buzzing with love as I stare up at him through my lashes.

"What's got you so happy?" He asks, brushing some hair from my face as his thumb brushes against my bottom lip and I giggle giddily, giving his knee a gentle squeeze.

"I have a secret."

"Oh yeah? Can I know what it is?" He asks with a silly smile, eyes flickering from mine, all the way down to my lips.

"I'm nervous," I say through a small, worried smile and his expression softens to something so wholesome, so caring as he worriedly looks across my expression.

"Don't be nervous. It's me."

There's a pregnant (pun intended) pause between us as I think of how to bring this up in a way that's not just blurting out 'you knocked me up', even though that would probably make him laugh. My mind wracks the conversations we've had about having babies, making a family, and he's never given me one ounce of fear that he may not want it with me.

"You always wanted to have babies right?" He pauses, brows furrowing together as he gives me a slow, drawn-out nod.

"It was always the plan after I was de-conditioned... right?" He asks, leaning a little away from me so he can get a good look at me and for a moment I think that he's connecting the dots in his head.

"Right." I huff, giving him a bright smile. "So..."

"Oh my god." His realization is sudden, eyes widening and his smile spreading across his lips as quickly as the thought comes into his head. "Really?" He asks and I giggle, head tossing back in laughter as Peeta grabs my shoulders and shakes me. "You're joking? You can't mess with someone like this-"

"I'm pregnant." I squeal and he throws his arms around me, tugging me to his chest as a small cry escapes him and suddenly, all of the pain of the last few years closes like a book just as another one opens.

[creedslove]

https://www.tumblr.com/creedslove/729946757120851968/as-a-angst-lover-an-idea-came-to-my-mind-last?source=share

Dude can you make a part two where Pena trying to catch guiterez because he's a drug dealer boss? Or something like that? (I know it actually his cousin and not him) but reader choosing to stay with guiterez no matter what pena told reader or how dangerous it is for her?

Javier Peña x f!reader x Javi Gutierrez

A/N: babe, I wasn't going to write it, but now I am and it's thanks to you because your idea is genius and I love you bai

• PART TWO OF THIS HEADCANON

• Peña wasn't able to sleep that night, he had gone home after running into you and your knew boyfriend at the bar, the same bar he used to go with you for date nights, the same bar he kissed another girl and you'd walked on them, it was almost a symbolism and it made him feel so conflicted about it all

• of course there was the jealousy, over the time he spent away from you he had realized he missed you way too much, more than he ever thought he would, and then he realized the mistake he had made; but it was too late, he knew you were happy but he was still jealous

• he tried to leave the place incognito, but he got so agitated to see you kissing your new guy, he ended up bumping into a water, making a serious of glasses hit the floor and shatter and with the noise, your attention towards him also came

• you two exchanged a silent look, you were too shocked to say anything, at the same time Javier just swallowed before mumbling the water some quick apologies and left

• he couldn't even think of being around you and that man; he felt stupid for letting you go, he also felt sad and angry, why did you have to move on from him so fast? you were like a puppy around him, it wasn't fair you had moved on while Javier got stuck in his feelings for you, no matter how selfish that was

• however, there was something else he couldn't get a hold of but it was bothering him; Javier overhead someone calling your new boyfriend 'Javi' and under normal circumstances he would say it was pathetic you dated a guy with the same name as him

• but he had seen that Javi guy somewhere, he knew it and though he didn't understand where, his cop gut feeling told him something was up

• just when Javi was going over some police files, he found what he was looking for: the unfinished investigation on the Gutierrez family; Lucas and Javi Gutierrez were the suspects of ruling the drug trafficking market in Spain

• he didn't know what Javi was doing there but he didn't like you were so close to him one bit, it wasn't right, you shouldn't be associated with someone like him, it was dangerous and immoral

• he grabbed all the files he could get and drove straight to your apartment, hoping you would still be living there

• when the doorbell rang and you opened the door to see Javier Peña, your ex boyfriend, you were surprised to say the least

• of course it had to do with the fact he had seen you with another man, you just didn't know Javier was that petty

"is he here? Your boyfriend? Gutierrez?"

"what? Why? Why do you even care?"

• Javi sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose, then he held you by the arms and made you sit down on the couch

"listen to me, you are in danger with him, your boyfriend... Gutierrez, he's part of one of the most prominent families in the drug cartel, they're very powerful and you should step away from him immediately"

"what are you talking about? Why do you even care? Javi is a great guy, he would never do this, it's his cousin who's in charge, not him, he's got nothing to do with that shit"

"what? You know about that all?"

"do you think I'm really stupid to think all that money comes from olives planting, selling or whatever? Of course I know, but I don't care, Javi has nothing to do with it and I won't break up with him"

"are you telling me you're staying with him even if you know his family is in the shady business, do you even know how dangerous this is?!"

"I do and I love Javi, he's not involved with that, he's a wonderful man and you can quit your worried act right now, I don't care what you say"

"you gotta be fucking crazy, you can't be serious! I'm telling you they're part of a drug cartel! I'm worried about you and your safety, goddammit!"

"no, you aren't worried about me, if anything, you are just jealous and butthurt I got over you and found love with someone else, someone better than you, a man who treats me just like I deserve it, who loves me and makes sure to show me! He doesn't use me for sex like you did, he treats me like a queen and that's why I'm marrying him and staying by his side, supporting Javi no matter what happens while you're probably going to die alone, Peña, because you don't love anyone else but yourself!"

• after your words, Javi had no other business to do around you. He just gathered the files and turned his back to you, walking away; no words, no goodbyes, you were right, he was incapable of loving someone else, but he was right to be worried about you, however, it wasn't his duty to save you from yourself and the consequences of your actions

____

[jelzorz]

129.

When the kids come back, and the castle medic clears them of any injuries, they sit down in the council chambers to give Opeli, and Barius, and Corvus a well-deserved retelling of everything that happened while they were away. Opeli didn't spend every second of their adventure worried sick over her king, her mage, and Captain of the Crown Guard (although Corvus was, arguably, more worried about Soren in particular) to not get all the details immediately, thank you, and her frazzled nerves slowly, slowly begin to settle the longer Ezran talks.

He, understandably, does most of the storytelling. Soren has a jelly tart in each hand and a whole one in his mouth at any given moment, and Callum and Rayla interject every now and then, but they're otherwise happy to let Ezran handle it on his own. They'd had to find an extra chair for Rayla, who ends up seated between Opeli and Callum (although rather closer to Callum) and Opeli realizes too late that Callum had always left the space for her, although whether or not it was a conscious choice remains to be seen.

Anyway, Ezran rambles about drakes, strange butterfly children, and Claudia and Lord Viren, at one point, and then their harrowing escape from Umber Tor (which Opeli pretends doesn't frazzle her nerves all over again), but when the hour is up and Ezran is done, he yawns and settles back into his chair.

"The end," he sighs, munching on the corner of a jelly tart. "Long story short, everything was fine, we're all fine. You had nothing to worry about, Opeli, see?"

Opeli gives Barius and Corvus a look and, between the three of them, agree silently that they beg to differ. She doesn't say that though. She only lets out the most patient sigh she can muster and tries not to rub at her temples. "I'm glad you're all safe," she mutters finally. "You too, My Lady," she adds to Rayla. "Will you be staying longer this time?"

A beat echoes around the table. Rayla flushes, ashamed, but reaches for Callum's hand across the table. Callum grips her fingers, and Opeli's pleased to see that everything that happened between them is clearly water under the bridge. "Yeah," says Rayla. "If you'll have me."

Opeli nods. "I'll have the staff send some things up to High Mage Callum's room then. In the meantime, the four of you should rest. You've had a long journey."

The council meeting adjourns (because it is one, however informal and impromptu this was). Soren wanders off with Corvus. Ezran and Bait catch Barius on his way out of the council chambers to discuss some interesting new jelly tart flavours. Callum and Rayla remain seated at the table blinking at Opeli.

Opeli blinks back. "Is something wrong?"

"Well, I--" Rayla presses her lips shut and looks from her to Callum and back again with pink rising in her cheeks. "Callum's room?"

"Yes, I assumed you'd be sleeping together."

Another beat. Opeli only realizes how it sounds when they both go red and stutter explanations--

"Oh, nononono, it's not--we're not--"

"Opeli, we aren't--"

Opeli raises an eyebrow at them both. "Aren't you?"

A third beat. They have the decency not to lie any further. They look away.

Callum coughs. "I just--you didn't approve of it last time, and y'know, it's not like we were... doing anything then, but--"

Opeli raises a hand and shakes her head. "Contrary to popular belief, I do know what teenagers are like, and I'm certainly not going to fault you for it, especially after what the two of you have been through. I only ask that you try not to start any scandals." She shoos them out of the council chamber then, acutely aware of (and amused by) the way they walk out into the hall like they've got rods taped to their backs. When the door closes, Rayla sucks in a breath.

"So. It's--y'know-- that's all fine?"

"Well, you were going to get around to it at some point," says Opeli shrugging. "I trust you'll be safe. In any case, at least you're all home now. I've learned the hard way to just let you kids be as long as you're not doing anything actively dangerous. It's better for my nerves. Your Highness. My Lady." She bows at them both and heads down the hall ahead of them in search of Barius and a cup of (very strong) tea and tries not to laugh at the way they're still hovering awkwardly by the council chamber doors.

Oh, to be young, she snorts to herself (and, not for the first time, she's glad she's not).

[otomegamesandme]

Otome/Amare Games where you can get the girl

I'm finally making an official rec list of otome/amare games where there is one or more f/f route! This list is also only finished games. Had this on the back-burner for a while due to....life, but let's go!

Heart Fragment (Book 2) (Book 3;unreleased)

System: PC (steam + itch.io)

Price: Base game; free, Book 2; 2.99

Can you collect all of the fragments, solve the mysteries, and find your way to a happy ending? 

In this mysterious otome game, play as a protagonist (name customizable but "Xani" by default) struggling to cope with the hand life has dealt you. Your mother's death was a tragedy that left you cynical and numb to the world. Now, though, greater challenges are piling up fast - and it all begins when you find out you are not entirely human.

The disappearance of a friend. A sudden attack that leaves you wounded. Mysterious characters entering and leaving your life. Growing bonds. Coming to terms with what exactly "humanity" is...

Please. Find a happy ending. Don't let tragedy be the only option.

[Em note: This is...actually my favorite otome I've played this year and may have become my fav otome of all time. Book 2 just came out and idk, it's burrowed into my soul. I need more people to play this so we can all yell about it and theorize about what's going on.]

ValiDate: Struggling Singles in your Area

System: PC (steam + itch.io), XBox, Switch

Price: 14.99

Set in the Jercy City area, our cast of lovers trudge through the dregs of capitalism - a journey, a transition - a rite-of-passage that leads into uncertain mid-adulthood. On one side but not yet out on the other, 13 playable characters find romance amongst cosplay, trash mixtapes, and even poetry straight from the soul.

With over 30 routes to choose from and hours of content, the lives of these singles are in your good (or bad!) decision-making hands.

Pitstop in Purgatory

System: PC (steam + itch.io)

Price: 4.99

Dang, you're dead!

Astrid wakes up in Purgatory and has to make peace with her death. Only problem is… she doesn't remember anything! Point and click your way through adventure-based gameplay mixed with visual novel storytelling, and solve the mystery of our heroine's untimely demise.

[Em Note: Has some point-and-click puzzles, if that's your kind of thing!]

Lake of Voices

System: PC (itch.io)

Price: Free

Anyone can be saved, but not everyone can be.

Kikka the Steadfast is a sensitive and empathetic woman who uses a mask of stoicism to protect herself from the harsh world she lives in. Much of everything she’s done has been an attempt to find some semblance of security, including the career path she chose to pursue. Kikka works as an official guard for one of the many tiny villages in the region. Her most recent assignment is to travel with fellow guard Bemelle to an allied town that’s been under siege by raiders.

With an ever-present sense of urgency, the two find themselves on the shore of Sinnlos, a cursed lake of black water that is home to the Nixi; twisted creatures who take joy in drowning humans. The two need the assistance of a nameless guide to even attempt to cross the maze of bridges spanning the dark waters. But they are not the only ones seeking passage that night. The guide agrees to lead them all, whilst also giving a warning that a group this large has no chance of making it across whole. Someone will be lost along the way. None of them volunteer to stay behind, regardless. And so the ill-fated journey over the lake of voices begins.

[Em Note: By everyone's beloved GB Patch (maker of Our Life). I really like their previous games, not just this one, and I always recommend people play them, even if they are all a bit different then OL.]

Witches x Warlocks

System: PC (itch.io + Steam)

Price: Base Game: Free; DLC; 5.99

Seven days until Halloween!

Seven days until the final exams!

Seven days until Fay Nightshade gets booted out of school for being the only witch unable to cast a single spell.

Take control of Fay and help them cram a semester's worth of studying in the last week before the exams!

How many spells can you learn? And will you manage to find Fay a date for the Halloween festivities afterwards?

The Women of Xal

System: PC (itch.io + steam)

Price: 19.99

The Power of Foresight is On Your Side

You wake up in the universe of Xal alongside Xjena. She came to climb up the dangerous political ladder against other women eying the same, powerful position of Matriarch. But unbeknownst to the world, you two have the power of foresight, and can predict the happenings of the world around you. Help those who need it immediately, or focus on the future and potentially help a wider range of people. The path is yours to walk. Or chuck her into a tragic death run. Players gonna play.

[shrinkthisviolet]

barrisco or thallen (because I have massive thallen brainrot right now lol) and "While I appreciate that you did that for me, I don't appreciate the fact that you nearly died because of it." or "You jumped in front of a bullet!" - "And I'd do it again." for the otp prompt ask thingy please?

Thallen brainrot? Happy to help! I used both dialogue bits for this 🥰 (and it got long, so…under the cut):

It had all happened so fast...Barry, grappling with Thawne, a gunshot, Iris's anguished scream...

"Eddie!" His grip loosened on Thawne as he turned, horrified because that was...

That was blood.

"Barry? Barry!"

No, no, not like this! There was so much he hadn't yet said, so much he wanted to say—

"Barry, open your eyes!"

He'd never gotten to tell Eddie how much...

How much he...

"It's okay, Barry."

No, it's not okay, how can anything ever be—?

"Barry." And then he finally placed the voice. "Barry, it's okay. I'm right here. I'm fine."

And then...then Barry realized his eyes were closed, and he opened them.

And there was Eddie, sitting next to him with a sad smile. "Hey, Flash. You scared us all for a minute there."

Eddie was...he was...but how...? "Eddie, how are you—?"

"Something weird happened," Eddie admitted. "The bullet ripped through me, but then..." he pulled his shirt aside—his clean shirt—to reveal...a healing bullet wound?

"Eddie," Barry breathed, "that's...that's incredible."

Eddie nodded, smile dimming a bit at that. "It's...I guess that makes me a meta too, huh?"

"I guess so," Barry agreed. "That's...is that bad?"

"No!" Eddie said quickly. "No, I just mean...I feel even worse now. About...everything. How I talked about the Flash, most of all.”

"Don't." Feeling brave, Barry reached out and squeezed Eddie's hand. "Water under the bridge. I promise."

Eddie smiled wryly. "You're very forgiving, Barry Allen."

"This coming from you? Nah, you have me beat. You forgave me for...well, that time I went off the rails." It scared him to remember how, how close he'd come to...

To killing him. All for what? Iris was never going to love him any more if he’d killed Eddie.

"Well, so did I," Eddie reminded him, "and you helped me out. Not to mention...I spent months before that hating you. We're even now."

"Eddie—"

"We're even," Eddie said firmly.

"Except we're not," Barry argued, "because Eddie...you jumped in front of a bullet!"

“Technically I shot the bullet.”

"That's not funny."

"No," Eddie agreed, sobering, "sorry. I just mean...I'm fine. You can see I'm fine. And I'd do it again. To save your life? Come on, Bar. That's a no-brainer."

Barry blushed at that. "Even after everything?"

"Especially because of everything," Eddie retorted, smiling. "Now come on. Wells—or Thawne, I guess—is locked up, and everyone's waiting in the Cortex. I figured you'd want a minute alone to..."

"Yeah," Barry agreed, smiling as Eddie helped him up. "Thanks. And...Eddie?"

"Yeah?"

"Thanks for…everything really, but...if you ever do that again—"

Eddie laughed. "I won't, scout's honor."

“Eddie, seriously. While I appreciate that you did it for me...I don't appreciate the fact that you nearly died because of it."

Eddie's smile faded as he looked Barry in the eye, and he nodded seriously. "Okay. I guess we'll just have to figure these powers out, then, huh?"

"I guess we will," Barry said, smiling. "You, me, Iris...and the whole rest of the Team too."

"Sounds like a solid plan to me."

Yeah. Barry smiled. It does.

prompt list!

[alarrytale]

The anon who suggested that maybe HL can't come out because Harry has too many fake gfs and it would hurt their image if he came out as gay. It is most likely true that people in HW protect each other's sexualities and I don't think anyone has come out as gay after having lots of 'girlfriends', as many as Harry has. Male celebrities who have CO as gay or who used bi as a stepping stone, very few of them have admitted to fake relationships. I remember there was one or 2 people who did, not many. For the most part they don't acknowledge their past relationships. They start a clean slate. I hate the idea that there might be something written into their contract that they can't CO or that HW has some secret agreement that people can't CO because it would be like opening pandora's box. I really hope that isn't true. I suppose they could say they're queer and with a same sex partner rather than say they're gay but it would suck because straight people will still project their heterosexual fantasies on them and make up stories and bring up old 'relationships'. I wish there was a way they could CO as gay and have a clean slate. If people speculate about the beard's involvement then that's free PR for them, and with how desperate beards are for fame and that they want to take the easiest way to success, I can't imagine they'll hate the speculation, even if it's bad.

Hi, anon!

I would hate that too if that's what's stopping celebrities from coming out. I'm also not sure if it's comparable to compare this generation of celebrities to previous generations of celebrities. Queer film and music has come so far just in these last few years, and it's become more normalised to have out queer actors and artists. If one of Harry’s celebrity beards were in a happy, committed relationship (or even got married) i wouldn't see a problem in H coming out. There would be water under the bridge and that relationship easily forgotten if enough time had passed. Even if he comes out as gay.

Some beards would love the extra attention, but some may not. I'm thinking of celebrities with their own queer rumours without a steady bearded relationship of their own. TS may be fine as long as everyone's attention is on her and the football player, but i'm not so sure about Kendall and O.

If one celebrity with loads of former celebrity beards were to come out it could shine a light on other closeted celebrities who are not ready to come out. If Leo were to come out (finally), think of all his former under 25's who've also dated other closeted celebrities. Closeted gay men share beards. Gigi has been connected to Leo. And now Bradley C, and Zayn... what does Gigi's fake relationship with Leo say about the validity of her relationship with Bradley and Zayn? It's a can of worms. Gigi would also possibly lose bearding jobs. It's all very complicated, but that doesn’t mean it couldn’t be done.

I think it would be beneficial if some celebrities did come out, because they're mocked and not taken seriously because the string of fake relationships they've had. If Bradley wants that oscar and Leo wants to not be a twitter laughing stock and a meme, they should come out.

[blueberry-macaron]

When it's gets too much (you can rely on me)

This is for the @lovebugs-and-snakecharmers September sprint challenge.

Technically I have broken the rules for the challenge since I have sprinted for about 50 minutes and then didn't touch it for weeks😅 But whatever, I've finished writing it, I had a good time and that's really all that matters, right?

I chose the second prompt: "You did the right thing." "I doubt it. I haven't done the right thing in years. Somehow, though, it still falls on me to be the one making all the tough decisions."

So yeah, hope you enjoy!

~~~~~~~

Wait, so you're actually going to... retire?"

Saying that felt... odd. Talking about retirement, when the woman in question only was only in her mid 20's, her whole life still ahead of her.

Marinette looked at the small hexagonal box in her hand, then she lifted her gaze and met Luka's eyes with a bittersweet smile.

"Maybe," was all she said.

He held his guitar closer. Weird that he still had the instrument in his lap anyway, since he hadn't actually played anything for the last 10 minutes since Marinette had found him sitting all by himself in his usual spot under the bridge.

Well, their spot, really. Marinette had picked up the habit of coming here some time ago, either when a fight had been extremely tough, or her responsibilities had piled up so much that she felt so overwhelmed that she wanted nothing more but to just hide from the world, under the bridge, beside the Seine.

Most times, he was there, too. Strumming his guitar, like he always did. Like he was supposed to from the moment he ever touched a guitar, too young to even say the word.

It was never weird or uncomfortable for either of them. Often, they'd just sit next to each other, talking as much as either felt was necessary or not, and enjoy the gentle melody of Luka's playing, accompanied by the gentle lapping of the water underneath them.

Today was one of those days.

"It's just," Marinette explained, "it's too much. Going to College, having my tailor shop, I have like thousand commissions... then there's my internship, and beating up bad guys... and being guardian..."

She took a deep breath.

"I though about it for months now. And I think... my miraculous would be the easiest to... give up."

Luka's eyes drifted to her hands, her thumb brushing over the box lovingly and he couldn't help but imagine her good bye's with Tikki. He knew they had a very close bond, like all the heroes had with their kwamis, but Marinette and Tikki have known each other the longest. She must be thinking about the little good bye kisses and hugs and tears they must've shared. He could feel it in her song, so intense that it made him shiver.

"So," Luka broke the silence between the two, "in that case... have you already decided who to give it to?"

Marinette lifted her eyebrows, surprised at the question. A chuckle escaped her.

"Funny," she said, "I was sure you're going to ask me something like 'Are you sure about this' or 'why would you give something like that up'. Didn't expect you would just... accept that."

"I trust your judgement."

Marinette didn't answer. Her lips simply turned into a smile. That kind of smile that said 'Thank you, thank you for trusting me' without her actually saying it. The kind of smile that caused his heart to beat just a little faster.

She fumbled with the box, seemingly nervous.

"Chat Noir asked many questions like that."

Oh. Of course.

Luka could practically hear Chat's complaining as if he were there with them right now. No surprise Marinette felt a little anxious.

"What did he say? Was he upset?"

Marinette shrugged.

"He wasn't exactly happy," she said, "but he wasn't super mad either. We had talked a lot about this, how he would miss punching bad guys with me." She let out a small laugh.

"He told me he would be sad about it, but... he'll get over it. Besides, he told me that he just wants me to be in his life, with or without my earrings. And since I'm guardian, that'll still be the case anyway."

Luka smiled.

"So he did learn how to let go after all," he said and Marinette simply nodded.

"So then, what is it?"

Marinette tilted her head in confusion. "What do you mean?"

"Well," he explained, "I first thought you'd be worried about our judgement, especially Chat's. Even if you don't really have to because that's your decision. But he told you it's ok, I'm telling you it's ok, I'm sure the other heroes will, too. Yet you still seem unsure. What's holding you back?"

The way Marinette's body stiffens confirmed Luka's suspicions. There was more fumbling with the box now. Marinette looked at the water and bit her lip.

"It's hard. Giving this up."

She lifted the box.

"I've been Ladybug for years now. And I know that I will still be involved in all the hero stuff, since I am still guardian, and I can't keep doing all this daily fighting with everything else going on in my life now. But..."

Her vioce was barely a whisper.

"I'm still giving up something that's been a part of me for a long time."

Luka didn't know exactly how to answer to that. He plucked at the Guitar strings, debating what he should say to give her a sense of comfort, then ultimately decided to put the guitar away and pulled her into a hug.

"I think," he spoke, "that you need to do... what you need to do. To feel happy."

Marinette looked up at him. Like she always did when she directs all her attention to him.

"I mean," he continued, "I can tell this is hard for you. I can hear it in your heart. But still, change can be good. And honestly," he squeezed her shoulder a little harder, "even if being Ladybug was a big part of you, I think in terms of importance, it can't hold up with the life you always wanted, as a fashion designer, that you... probably chose a long time ago."

He looked down at her hands again, which were now clutching the box, as if she were scared to ever let it go.

"The point I'm trying to make is... You need to do what feels best for you and you only. Even if it's giving up the earrings. As long as you're doing what will ultimately make you happy, I think you're doing the right thing."

Marinette stared at him for a few seconds with a blush on her face, then her eyes wandered over the surface of the Seine again, avoiding his gaze. Even after letting go of the embrace, he could feel her heart, heavy and unsure about probably everything. Like any young heart that doesn't know any better tends to be.

"I still have doubts about it," she confessed, "especially considering that..."

She looked at him again and gently laid her hand on top of his.

"I don't think I have exactly made the right decision in years."

Luka's heart skipped a beat. He forced himself not to jump into any conclusion what exactly she was refering to, but the way her fingers found a place in between his made all the memories come back.

How they went to the ice rink for their first... double date.

How he had told her for the first time how he felt about her right before performing on live TV for the first time.

When she broke down before him for the first time.

When he had invited her to their actual first date in the movie theater.

When he had found out that the thing that really was was stopping her from fully commiting to whatever it was between them was... Ladybug.

How he had confessed to her that he knew about Ladybug and how it had made things awkward for a while.

And how they had learned to accept things as the were.

He had told himself a long time ago that maybe all he and Marinette ever were supposed to be were friends. Just friends. That he would be fine with it. And he was, because having her in his life was more he could ever ask for. But there still was a tiny, selfish part of him that would come out from time to time, with the nagging question if maybe, just maybe, there could be more.

He snapped out of his thought process when Marinette spoke again.

"Yet somehow, it still falls on me to make all the tough decisions," she whined, "I haven't even decided who to give the earrings to."

Luka laughed.

"You still have time for that. I mean, didn't you give them to Alya once? She did a pretty decent job."

"Hmm," said Marinette, "maybe. But then I'd need to find a new fox... ugh, this is really going to take a while."

She leaned back and stared at the sky.

"But I have to admit... I do feel slightly better about this."

Luka smiled.

"I'm glad."

They stayed like this for a while, not saying anything, just enjoying each others company, stealing glances from each other from time to time, their hands locked the entire time. Wordlessly saying 'I'm here for you, don't be afraid, I won't go anywhere'.

They both had lost track of time when Marinette decided to break the silence.

"Luka... even though I'm very uncertain about many thing, I..."

She swallowed nervously.

"I'm pretty sure about one thing."

When their eyes met, he could see her lips curling into a shy smile and he couldn't stop himself from smiling back.

"What is it?", he asked.

"Well, after I have finished this business of mine," she said, "I'd like to... I hope that we... we could maybe grad a coffee, or get ice cream or..."

Marinette paused, trying to find the right words.

"What I'm trying to say is, I kept thinking about... uhm... us. And I like for us to... spend more time together."

Luka tilted his head.

"Are you... asking me out on a date?", he asked carefully.

She looked away, blushing, and nodded.

"I guess I am."

Luka didn't answer right away. Instead, he took her hand, gently sqeezing it and kissed he cnuckles.

"I'm free on saturday."

Marinette turned her head back to him with a blush on her face. But it didn't take her long to recover, and she smiled again.

"Okay. Saturday it is."

[wallgirl]

The Little Nereid Part 27 (final)

Record of Ragnarok fanfiction

Poseidon x OC

Word count: 1,700

Dynamene, youngest of the 50 Nereids, has lived most of her adolescence as a servant alongside her sisters at Poseidon’s palace. But with her coming-of-age birthday and other developments, what she initially thought was just admiration of her master blossoms into something stronger and more passionate… and painful. Loving someone like Poseidon is not easy period, let alone as your first love. But Dynamene is young and naïve, and all she wants is a chance to be at the sea god’s side.

Categories and warnings: Romance, angst, unrequited love, coming-of-age, earn-your-happy-ending, slow-burn (ish); sexual content. Graphic violence parts 15 and 16. Smut part 25.

Now completed.

—

It was with wobbly legs that Dynamene made her way out of the palace and down to the water's edge. She felt as if she'd just left a court trial, confessing her engagement to Poseidon to her parents, and now she felt so weightless she was nearly light-headed. She all but collapsed onto the sand and buried her hands and feet into the warmth. "That didn't go so bad," she murmured to herself, giving her shoulders a shake. "That didn't go so bad at all." She smiled with relief, watching a group of merpeople play in the distance. Now all that's left is to tell my siblings... But that can wait until after the Gods' Council; perhaps when I have Poseidon at my side once more. He can make his case then, too.

"Feeling less worried, now?" Dynamene jumped and whipped around to look behind her. Eione was standing there, hands on hips, grinning knowingly at her.

"I was, until you frightened me half to death," Dynamene groaned. "Thanks for the heart attack."

Eione plopped down besides her on the sand. "So little Dynamene is joining the ranks of our married sisters, huh? Where has time gone..." She squinted into the bright sky. "I'm glad Mother and Father didn't give you much grief."

"You eavesdropper," Dynamene sighed, resting her face against her hand. "But I suppose it's alright to let one of you know before I tell the others. It feels weird, keeping something a secret from you all."

"Well, perhaps I shouldn't have listened," Eione confessed, leaning back on her arms. "But I was already lounging on the roof when Poseidon came by to speak to our parents. They never went inside, so I heard the whole thing."

"You did?!" Dynamene started.

"It didn't take very long. He said his piece about how he wanted to marry you, and that he'd keep you safe... And Mother said, 'what, like last time?' I thought for sure that'd set him off again. But it didn't."

After what had happened in the past, Dynamene found it hard to picture her love maintaining a stoic face against her mother's barbs. "What happened next?"

"He just stood there, and then Father said it was entirely dependent on what you wanted. Then he left. Very dramatic, as I'm sure you can imagine."

Dynamene snorted. "Ah, yes. My fiancé and his flair for drama." But inside, her heart was jumping for joy. It was the sweetest feeling to know that he was making an honest attempt to rebuild bridges with her family. She turned to look at Eione. "...Tell me, do you think I'm foolish for wanting to be with him again?"

"No," Eione said flatly. "I knew it would happen. And I think, once you tell the others, they'll say the same thing. If the old wounds had healed, and the feelings had died, you wouldn't have continued to avoid him two thousand years later."

Dynamene winced. "It was really that obvious, huh?" She sighed. "I tried so hard to forget him, you know. I was just never successful."

"So you have to tell me then, what happened that you two reconnected? This is all so sudden. Nothing for two millennia, and then overnight, you two get engaged?" Eione chuckled. "Sure you're not pulling our leg? Or have you been keeping it under wraps for a while?"

"No!" Dynamene got flustered as she remembered last night's rather passionate reunion. "Um, we just happened to meet last night when I went to see the old palace, and we started to talk, and... um..."

Eione guffawed, her eyes wide, as she put two and two together. "Wait, what?! Is young Dynamene a maiden no longer?!" She fell back in the sand, laughing. "You spent the night with him, and now you're engaged?! It was that eye-opening of an experience, was it?!"

"It is not that cut-and-dry!" Dynamene protested, her face bright pink. "We reconnected emotionally! We had a very honest conversation with each other about how we feel, and the future."

"Oh, I bet you did," Eione gasped, pushing a curl out of her face. "Ah, bless your heart. And his. I'm impressed. Well, I'm glad you two found happiness with each other." She started to laugh once more.

Dynamene gave up her fight against the embarrassed smile that was spreading across her face. "Happy, indeed," she giggled, turning her face away.

"So we'll be getting a niece or nephew sometime, then?" Eione teased, poking her leg. "Hopefully after the wedding, and not before?"

"What, a baby? This soon?!" It was Dynamene's turn to laugh. "I don't think so! We'll have all of eternity to start a family. I'd rather focus on the two of us for now." She playfully tossed a pinch of sand at her sister. "Anyway, I know it'll take time for Mother and Father to completely accept him, but I know it'll come eventually. As long as they can be civil, I'll be happy."

"They'll come around. Poseidon's done some terrible things, but at some point, with the passage of time, even he can change. He may be a god, but he is still a man." Eione leaned over to poke at the glimmering necklace on her sister's neck. "I'm guessing these jewels are from him, then?"

"Yes." Dynamene straightened up proudly. "He'd actually kept the bracelet he originally gifted me all this time... Unexpectedly romantic, don't you think?" She held out her hand to show off the way the bracelet caught the brilliant sunbeams. "I suppose I should take them off, though, until I'm ready to tell everyone else. They'll give it away."

"Aye," Eione agreed. "The moment they see your bracelets, they'll know. But how long will you keep from telling them?"

"Only until the Council has ended. With humanity's fate hanging in the balance at the moment, it'd be heartless to gush over our engagement. It can wait another day or two." She reluctantly slid the bracelets off her wrists and tucked them into her peplos.

"Here." Eione helped her undo the tania and necklace. "There we are. Back to unengaged Dynamene."

"That's the idea," Dynamene teased, holding a finger to her lips. "Why don't we go back inside and see if they've started lunch? All this excitement is making me hungry."

"A woman after my own heart," Eione sighed. She threw her arm around her sister's shoulders. "I hope you'll be staying with us, then, until the Council is over?"

"Of course!" They got to their feet and began the short trek back to the palace. "It really is nice to be home again with all of you. It's just like old times."

"I'll drink to that," Eione agreed, brushing sand off of Dynamene's arm.

---

The afternoon's hopeful atmosphere was quickly extinguished by the following evening. All fifty of the Nereids were gathered in the palace's largest parlor to watch the Gods' Council unfold. A large holoscreen projected on one wall stood in stark contrast to the room's organic stone walls and antique furniture. Dynamene took a seat next to Ianeira and tried not to let her nerves show too much. It was in vain, though, as Ianeira took one look at her and immediately knew what she was trying to hide. "It's going to be okay, Dynamene," she said, patting her sister's hand. "No matter what the gods decide, we'll be fine."

"It's all such gloomy business, though," Dynamene frowned. "In just a few minutes, humanity may be doomed to extinction. And we're such young spirits; we've never known a time when Midgard didn't have humans."

"Maybe the gods will have a change of heart," Ianeira comforted her, although her eyes weren't convincing. "As far-fetched as that may seem."

Dynamene stared ahead at the blank holoscreen and bit her lip. Poseidon more likely than not wouldn't vote, and his vote was just one out of thousands either way. A single vote was vastly unlikely to change the tide, but... I really wish you would vote against their destruction. Her hands curled into her peplos, and she wished she was wearing her comforting bracelets.

"Look, it's starting!" One of the sisters announced, and the room fell silent with nervous anticipation. The holoscreen flashed a silver light, and the vast interior of the magnificent Council of Valhalla's Parliament faded into view. Gods of every pantheon, far too many to count, had taken their seats and were waiting for the meeting to officially begin. A wizened old man made his way jerkily to a throne with a dragon curled around it in the center of the room, below the impatient eyes of the gods all around. The chairman of the council, he hardly looked like someone powerful enough to command such an important meeting of deities.

"That's Zeus?" One of the sisters exclaimed. "He looks even frailer than usual."

"Shush," Ianeira hissed.

Having taken his seat, Zeus began his opening remarks. Dynamene tried to stay focused, but her heart was pounding dizzily in her ears. Would this really be the end to humanity? Would there really be no more trips to human villages, no more dodging sea vessels?

Ianeira reached over and took Dynamene's hand, and she chanced a glance at her elder sister. Ianeira's expression was remarkably stony, but Dynamene could see the tension in her taut jaw and narrowed eyes. Dynamene squeezed back, trying to offer some semblance of reassurance. She thought of Poseidon; wondered what he was thinking about at that moment. Will you really not vote this time around, even with things this dire? Even the thought of him voting against humanity was more palatable than him just sitting back carelessly and doing nothing. Won't you at least take a stance for what you believe in, even if it's at odds with mine?

"It'll all work out," Ianeira murmured. "You'll see."

Dynamene nodded assent. "...It will." She rose her hand to gently nudge the bracelets hidden within her peplos. I believe it will.

And so all the many Nereids sat, together and united as they had been for millennia, as the council began.

---

9 and a half months later...

Thank you.

[n3onstarss]

Unnamed Big Mama AU, Chapter 1

This is my writing account btw, my main is @ne0n-leon, which is where i post about this AU minus the writing parts

Something was wrong. Something was very, very wrong. It was nearly 1 am and not a wink of sleep had reached her. 1 am and yet Lou was getting his phone blown up on the bedside table. The light flickering on and off at increasing speeds, lighting up the room. Faking rest was the best she could do with Lou frantically scrambling out of bed to check his phone. Click-clacking was audibly from his speedy response to the constant pings.

She had her doubts about this being casual, but she always blew it off as agency stuff. Because Lou, her boyfriend, was also her manager.

She'd stared in so many movies she'd almost lost count. Action, romance, thriller, comedy. You name it, she has at least one. Her natural white hair and some special connections had earned her keep.

Lou was grumbling now as she tried to keep her breathing even. This will all blow over in the morning, she thought. Water under the bridge.

Sleep hit her like a bus as she finally passed out, oblivious to Lou's odd glances over his shoulder and frantic typing.

(Line breaker)

The next day was similar to any other. Breakfast, interviews, lunch, work and film, dinner and then 'free time'. Free time was never free though, it came at a price. Being such a well known movie star had made it hard to go out without being harrassed by paparazzi, and Lou certainly didnt help. He was insistent that she "make the most of the publicity, this could earn us a lot of money y'know!" And she would do anything to keep him happy.

So, free time was often dinner dates with Lou, or dates on the town with Lou, pr being out and about with Lou, but never alone and never at home. Never what she wanted, but what she "needed" to do.

Necessity was a driving force, that's for sure.

Complacency, the benefit of the doubt and publicity is what Lou needed from her, and that was what she gave.

Lou, actually, needed much from her. Full access to all their assets, her financial support as he didnt have a job of his own. Her food, her money, her home. Everything of hers, even her privacy, was Lou's, but nothing of Lou's was hers. He insisted his acting career would take off like hers had, that he would be a well known 'cult classic'. He insisted that he would pull his weight, and she believed him without a doubt.

This is how all relationships go. Right..?

Another day out on the town, as per usual. New York was such a pretty place, but lost its charm after too long in one place.

"Come on dear, we're late!"

"Coming Lou!" All she had to do was apply the finishing touches. Sitting at her vanity, a small bowl or red gems in one had and tweezers in another, she applied the gems in a slightly reminiscent shape of spider eyes.

Oh how she missed being herself. A longing sigh slipped from her as Lou entered the room, leaning against the floor and foot tapping rapidly.

"What's taking so long, love? We have a dinner reservation!" Lou was clearly exasperated at her gem appliance, and voiced so. "Love, honey, dear. You do not need those gems. They are best saved for more common, casual affairs like parties. Maybe leave them, just this once?"

She knew it wasnt a question, but she took it as such.

"I'm sorry love, but they're already applied! And they take soooooo long to get back off!" Swinging the tweezers in little gestures helped emphasize her point, apparently, because Lou visibly gave up.

The final gem was applied and, as Lou had been complaining about the entire time, they were 10 minutes late to a dinner reservation that was across town.

She stood up and smoothed out her red, mermaid tail dress while Lou fiddled with his tie. Once they were both situated she offered a false bow.

"Shall we be off?"

"We shall indeed," said Lou, linking his arm with hers as they exited the building.

(Line breaker)

The drive to the restaurant was lengthy and silent. She sat, hands folded neatly in her lap as she stared out the cars window.

Lou, however, was furiously typing at his phone again and practically drooling. It might've just been a great contract, a good deal. She'll never know and she'll never ask.

Benefit of the doubt.

Benefit of the doubt was always something Lou provided her. And so she was expected to provide it back. And provide she did. She turned a blind eye whenever he claimed her stuff was his, she turned a blind eye when money would go missing from her account, she turned a blind eye to the fact he was always texting on his phone but never said who. She ignored all of it if just to keep them both happy. Or.. at least Lou happy.

Speaking of Lou, he was sitting as far across the seat as possible from her, typing away on his phone again. The limo looked empty and felt dead without the chatter that used to accompany these drives. This used to be a place of music and laughter and joy before the seriousness of the public, but now all it held was ghosts of times past. A disco ball, the one Lou had insisted she install, spun slowly in the center, reflecting a dim and dull light. Music played quietly over the speakers and only succeeded in making the atmosphere more melancholy. The mini bar against the wall, really just a little shelf of bottles and glasses, was dusty and untouched. Minus, one spot on that shelf. The spot where Lou kept the Jack Daniels.

The Jack Daniels sat abandoned next to Lou, half empty and lidded. Lou had claimed he'd need it for confidence, but he was always ecstatic to be out in public. So what had changed? What was happening?

The limo finally rolled up outside the restaurant. The very one on the other side of town. The big sign above read Olive Garden. She knew Lou was a known cheapskate when he wanted to be, but this was new. They hadn't been to a Olive Garden maybe ever. How thrilling!

Stepping out of the limosine was like stepping into a nightmare. A familiar one, but a nightmare all the same.

Almost the second they were out of the car they were swarmed by paparazzi, adoring fans, weird fans, and anybody else you could think of. It took millennia to get indoors, rushing autographs and trying to make small talk as fast as possible. Lou, however, kept his arm tightly entwined with hers and walked slower to soak up the spotlight.

They eventually made it to the front door.

"would you like a table?"

she jumped nearly 6 feet into the air. Not literally, oh no no no, but figuratively. She hadn't seen the employee or heard them until they spoke. She was still looking around with her eyes wide, startled when Lou answered for her.

"Yes, please. A table for two." He held up two fingers to emphasize his point.

The employee nodded and walked off, leaving the two to their own devices for a minute. And with this moment, she took in their surroundings. The walls were white, but had brown wooden lattice fences on top. In some places there were little false windows and along the roof they had exposed supports wrapped with faux grape vines. A large white brick fireplace sat in the center with decorative plants around it and pictures hung from it. It was truly beautiful in a way she hadn't known since meeting Lou.

The employee escorted them to ta table on the other side of the fireplace. It was warm and cozy, lit by the glow of the fire. The table was small and round, a light tan top and a rich dark wooden leg. The two celebrities sat down and, while she browsed the menu, Lou began talking to the waitress in a hushed tone. So hushed, infact, that she could barely make out a word. Eventually the employee departed and returned shortly with come champagne in a bucket of ice and two champagne glasses. Neither placed a order for food for a long while, Lou seemed busy with something on his phone and she didn't want to order without him.

From across the table she could hear the sound of something being sent and the power button being clicked before Lou stood up and moved to her side. Instinctively she stood as well.

Moonlight streamed through the real windows, lighting her face in pale silver moonlight while the fire behind her lit Lou in gold. They looked like the sun and the moon, those two. But we all know what happened to Icarus when he flew too close to the sun.

Lou took a deep, shuddering breath. Her hands flew to her mouth as he produced a box from his suit jackets pocket.

"You are the most wonderful woman I know. You are sting, kind, brave and so much more."

the small box was opened as Lou dropped to one knee. a sparkling diamond sat atop a golden band and was surrounded by small rubies, all sparkling in the combination of moonlight and firelight.

"Will you marry me?"

[ceapa-mica]

WAYWARD - Atina’s Story | Chapter 1: The Dream

{cross-posted on ao3} {masterlist}

← Prologue

This is a spin off to my Mandalorian fic Gehat'ik Be Aliit. You do not need to have read this story!

Summary: The story begins on Pamarthe where 16 year old Atina Chuchi wants to make a name for herself participating in an infamous starship race.

Rating: G

Warnings: a little bit of violence

Words: 3169

a/n: This is where the fun begins! Welcome again to this beautiful spin-off. Please mind that my main fanfiction Gehat'ik Be Aliit will remain my number one priority. This spin-off is just something I write in between, so I won't update this one as often as my other work. Also a big shoutout to my friend and beta reader @unmotivated-exhausted-author! Have fun reading!

3 BBY

The city of Sekystia, a usually beautiful and majestic city perched against the edge of a cliff, overlooking the merciless sea as far as the eye could see, was lying under a thick blanket of dark clouds and heavy downpour. 

As the capital of the Outer Rim world Pamarthe, it had its own spaceport which bustled with activity all year round, filling the streets with crowds of travelers eager to tour, buy and sell in such a popular destination . The lack of Imperial presence in this sector attracted many people who preferred to stay off the Empire's radar.

Most of the buildings were made of white stone and wood, modern yet historical in some way. Vendors offered their wares which mainly consisted of seafood and fishing tools as this planet was mostly covered by water, with the exception of several rugged islands that withstood the tides, of which most were connected by stone or wooden bridges, which despite sounding like a lot of space, actually housed several hundred thousand Pamarthens - a folk of excellent pilots with a high alcohol tolerance.

Away from the busy road, a figure in a black poncho walked through the puddles of a back alley, obviously knowing where she was going.

The happy little girl that had softened Hondo Ohnaka's heart had become a woman that oozed confidence, despite only being sixteen years old at this point.

A washed out sign with the words Employees Only didn't keep her from opening the door of a cantina's rear entrance. She entered with a hand on her blaster and peeked around the corner to see if the person she was looking for was actually there.

Her eyes landed on a Weequay who didn't just look completely drunk, he also smelled worse than a wet nerf. As he noticed Atina, he sat up straighter, eyeing the bottle on the table, wagering to throw it at her and escape.

"Aren't you a bit too young for a place like this?" he asked in a slimy voice as she approached his table.

"Zabo, I'm here to collect your debt. Try to run and I'll pull the trigger before you can reach the door." she spoke in an icy tone.

The Weequay chuckled. "Careful with that blaster, you could cause some serious injuries with that thing."

Patrons from the surrounding tables who watched them snickered at Zabo's comment.

Without further ado the teenage girl pulled the trigger, leaving a scorch mark on the table in front of the man.

"Say that again and next time I won't miss your face."

The Weequay slowly raised his hands in surrender.

"Okay okay! You're here to collect for Ohnaka?"

"You owe him 3.000 credits!"

Zabo swallowed and slowly pulled a satchel of credits from his bag which Atina took and counted.

"That wasn't so hard, was it?" she smirked and left the cantina the way she came in, leaving the patrons in astonishment at her apparent ruthlessness.

She commed Hondo Ohnaka to tell him that she had successfully acquired Zabo's debt.

"You've become quite good at this! That son of a mudscuffer owed me for at least six years. Now that you have the credits, go to the port and find a Mon Calamari named Baduk. If you still want to sign up for Crystal Waters that is."

"But what about your credits?"

"You will need an entry fee to participate in Crystal Waters."

"Does that mean… you want to pay that fee for me?!"

"You're associated with me. If you make a name for yourself at this race, it improves my reputation as well."

"Crystal Waters! I've always wanted to go out there and show off my skill, and not just watch. Thank you, uncle!"

"Win this race for me, yes?"

Atina wanted to answer but stopped dead in her tracks. What she needed for the notorious Crystal Waters race was a ship, and she came to Pamarthe on board a shuttle with hundreds of Crystal Waters fans.

"I would win this for us in a heartbeat, but I don't have a ship, you know that."

"I didn't take you under my wing for nothing. Didn't you learn anything in the years we traversed the Galaxy together?"

Atina sighed. "Of course I learned a lot. You- you want me to steal a ship, don't you?"

"The trick is not to get caught! You can do this, Atina. They will only accept you in this race if you have a ship."

"Steal a ship, sign in for Crystal Waters. Got it!"

Atina had never stolen anything bigger than a landspeeder before. Stealing a starship would be a lot harder, especially participating in a popular race with it.

"I have a bad feeling about this…" she muttered after she had ended the comm.

There was a reason why thieves preferred pre Imperial ships: The Empire could not track them. And Atina had a feeling she would need one of those.

She didn't exactly blend in at the spaceport, so she formed a plan in her brilliant mind.

She hid in a closet at the spaceport and waited til nightfall. That's when she kept an eye out for any workers. It took a while until a young Twi'lek worker walked past her. In the blink of an eye she stunned him with her blaster, pulled him into the closet, and took his yellow overall with the words Repair Crew written in black Aurebesh letters on the back. It was a little too large on the arms and legs, but it would have to do.

Atina went to many hangers but most ships were too new and if there were any pre Imperial ships it were usually complete rust buckets that would fall apart during a race such as Crystal Waters. Two days were not enough time to repair one of those.

She had almost given up when she entered a hangar with a pre Imperial Corellian freighter in it that seemed to be in pretty good condition. Atina's golden eyes lit up at the sight. She made sure there was nobody around as she used her slicing device to successfully slice the ramp open.

She went inside, closing the ramp behind her, and looked for the cockpit while wringing her wet locks.

"Oh please, who installed the security measures of this ship? This is way too easy!" She rolled her eyes and started the engine.

Outside a few mechanics came running, yelling and waving at her, but she paid them no mind. The ship left the hangar behind and Atina took her time to get used to the controls.

Flies very smoothly, it's perfect! Now all I need to do is hide the ship until I sign in for Crystal Waters. For now I need to find a place to park it, somewhere with a way back to Sekystia for me to sign in.

It was the middle of the night and the ocean below looked like a dark abyss. Atina searched for any light source. It took her about fifteen minutes to find one and she went down, making a soft landing near a small village on a rocky island. She landed behind a row of houses that must have seen better days.

With a relieved sigh she leaned back in the pilot seat and didn't realize when she fell asleep after a few minutes.

She woke up to broad daylight flooding the cockpit. Rubbing her eyes she went to use the ship's 'fresher and after a quick shower went to the kitchenette to look for anything edible. Some meager ration bars she found made her miss the time she went to Nar Shaddaa with Hondo, where some associates of his treated him like a king, with an entire buffet just for him and his young companion. This had been the best food she had ever eaten. But a warm meal was a luxury many people, especially spacers, couldn't afford. Especially not with the Imperial price gouging that was happening.

Hunger had become Atina's constant companion during her travels alone. That's why making a name for herself was so important to her. A reputation would get her jobs, and jobs would get her credits for food and other necessary items. She was just trying to get by. And this new ship would also make it a lot harder for her. Ships needed fuel, and then there were inevitable repair costs and so on. She had to win Crystal Waters or she would be stuck either on this planet or any nearby system.

She learned that she had landed in a small village named Kerresh and that Sekystia was only two hours away… with a speeder or speeder bike. Eventually she met an old man by his house who was busy chopping heads off fish. What really caught her attention was the dusty speeder bike parking near him.

"How many credits would you lend me your speeder bike for?" she asked, ready to haggle over the price.

"Missy, you don't look old enough to ride one of those."

Atina crossed her arms and bit back a snarky remark. She wouldn't threaten an old man's life, she wasn't the type for that. But she had to think of something.

"I need to go to Sekystia, it's very important!"

The man chuckled. "Let me guess, you're one of those kids going crazy over that stupid Silver Water race…"

"It's Crystal Waters actually, and no, I uh… just wanted to meet a friend."

The man shook his head and put the knife aside. "Why don't you ask the pilot of that freighter behind those houses? They're probably here for the race, they could take you there."

"I already asked them and they uh… they threatened me with a blaster. Not the safest option. I've ridden speeder bikes many times before. A much safer option than asking the crew of that freighter once more." she bluffed.

He wiped his hands on an old rag and scratched his mustache in thought.

"Y'know… I haven't used this bike in two years. Before my leg became so bad I used to travel to Sekystia every two weeks and now I haven't been there since… a long time.  They sell the freshest wasaka berry pie on this ball of water there. Bring me one of those and you don't have to pay a single credit for fuel."

Atina smirked. "Mission accepted!"

It was a bumpy ride over the islands and rocks that were all connected by stone and wooden bridges. The view on the other hand was great. The sky was still cloudy, but a few sun rays tried to break through.

From afar Sekystia looked simply majestic. How it was built on the mountains that rose from the sea. It was breathtaking.

Atina's awe subsided as she steered the speeder bike through the busy streets. People crossed the streets without looking, vendors yelled at her to buy their stuff and some people loudly complained over the speeder bike. Atina gritted her teeth not to yell back and eventually parked next to a general store right behind a landspeeder.

Wasaka berry pie, entry fee…

On her way to the busy spaceport she looked for a vendor selling pies. She hated crowds of people, and why did some people have to wear the ugliest Crystal Waters merch she had ever seen? Many fan shirts of popular pilots had stupid and sometimes sexistic slogans on them. She hated it.

The food the street vendors offered didn't look appetizing, and no vendor offered wasaka berry pie. She decided to look for the pie on her way back and went to the spaceport in search of a Mon Calamari named Baduk. She had to ask several people first before she got a lead on where to find him, and when she did she was taken aback from what he was doing.

He stood on a small ladder, gluing posters with Imperial propaganda on the graffiti sprayed walls of this side of the spaceport.

"Are you Baduk?"

"That's who I am. What can I do for you, young lady?"

Atina's gaze switched between him and the Imperial propaganda on the posters.

"I'm here to join Crystal Waters and pay my entry fee."

"I'm awfully sorry, the deadline to sign in was last night. Maybe next year."

"Please! Can't you make an exception? I had no idea!"

The Mon Calamari raised his brows. "I'm sorry, that's against the rules."

Atina scoffed. "I'm a very good pilot, and I'm here to prove myself! You're missing out on a great chance!"

"Yeah let me guess, your family told you what a great pilot you are just because you managed to shoot a bunch of womp rats from your landspeeder. That's not the same, kid. At Crystal Waters only the best few pilots make it out alive. Keep practicing, one day you might make it!"

Atina's cheeks turned purple, she had to hold back her anger.

"Fine! You missed your chance, old man!" she spat and turned on her heels, leaving the spaceport with anger flaring up in her golden eyes like embers turning into flames.

"I'll show you what I'm capable of!"

On her way back she took some rather quiet streets. The sooner she found a stupid vendor selling wasaka berry pie, the sooner she would be back at her ship.

No matter what the Mon Calamari said, she would fly anyway and let the other ships shower in the emissions of her new freighter. She was not one who gave up so easily.

Eventually a tiny shop caught her eye that displayed the finest baked goods in its windows. The smell was heavenly and she wondered if they had the pie she was looking for.

As it turned out they had exactly what she needed, and she jumped on the speeder bike to return it to its owner along with the berry pie.

It was already nightfall when she returned. In the village of Kerresh people sat on their porches, they were talking and having supper together. The old man who owned her speeder was still in his little workshop. Done with chopping heads off fish, he was now sorting out scrap metal while a young man in armor was talking to him.

"I can't accept. I'm collecting scrap metal! Nothing worth as much as your beskar. Oh! Look who the seven winds brought back!"

Atina put the wasaka berry pie on his workbench and looked at the young man who looked displeased to say the least.

"I can't accept pieces of your armor, now go!"

the old man spoke.

"I'm not leaving until you buy my shin guard!"

"Stubborn Mandalorian…" the man muttered under his breath.

Atina gazed at his crimson and white armor. She knew about the value of beskar, and she also knew that no Mandalorian would simply sell their armor.

He was a pale boy around her age, his blond hair a short buzz cut, and he looked like he hadn't slept in days.

"You must be truly desperate if you want to sell your armor."

"That's none of your business!" the Mando spat, clearly annoyed.

"It's not hard to guess. You look like the Galaxy ate you up and spat you back out again."

"Any more of your perceptive remarks or are you finished?"

Atina shrugged. "I don't know, you tell me. You don't seem to be the type who would just sell their armor like that."

"He's not selling anything to me." the old man added. "Both of you look starved, come on in, I think I can help you."

Atina followed the old man and looked back at the young Mandalorian who hesitated at first, then let out an annoyed sigh and followed them indoors.

The smell of a fish stew lingered in the air. A steaming kettle of it hung over a small fire pit. The old man introduced himself as Garo Hamue while taking three deep plates from his messy kitchenette, putting a portion of stew on each of them.

"What are two young runaways like you doing on Pamarthe?"

"I am no runaway, I'm here to join Crystal Waters." Atina hummed at the delicious taste of the stew.

"With a ship that's obviously stolen." Garo shook his head. "Just because Pamarthe is rather insignificant, don't underestimate the Empire. When they find out what you did, you'll be in great danger. And what about you, young man?"

The Mandalorian stopped chewing and tensed up. "There's no story to tell." he gritted and continued eating.

There was without a doubt a story. Atina had to admit, him being so secretive about it made her curious. But she knew better than to unnecessarily annoy an armed Mandalorian.

The living quarters of Garo's house had two small sofas and he had enough blankets for both of them.

"Don't think I'll allow you to stay longer than one night. Whatever either of you are involved in, I don't wanna be a part of it. Sleep well, kids!"

He extinguished the oil lamp on his wall and went upstairs where his sleeping quarters were.

For several minutes the Mandalorian tossed and turned on the sofa that was a bit too small for him.

"Why does a skinny thing like you wanna join Crystal Waters? People die in that race, you know?" the Mandalorian eventually murmured.

"People who can't properly fly die in that race. I can win this thing."

"Yeah? How can you choose to die for nothing when the entire Galaxy is watching?"

"I won't die. I- I've watched this race every year since I can remember. I watched holo recordings of each winner's strategies and tricks. You think I'm not prepared? I know your armor is part of your identity. You wanna sell it, and for what? Food? If I wore beskar, I would rather die starving in it than to sell it for a package of measly ration bars."

A moment of silence fell between them until he said one word. "Kyr."

Atina sat up. "What?"

"My name is Kyr Saxon."

"Arista Callio." Atina bit her lip, but Hondo had always told her to be careful who she told her real name, and she didn't know where Kyr's loyalties were lying, so a fake name was the best choice.

"So there's no story as to why you're here? I don't believe you."

"And I don't believe Arista Callio is your actual name."

Dank farrik, he's good!

Kyr chuckled as she couldn't find the right words for a moment. "Loth cat got your tongue?"

"Kriff off and go to sleep!" she snapped and turned around, facing away from him.

She didn't know how typical teenagers dealt with their peers on a daily basis. Most teenage boys she had met so far were complete airheads. If that was the case with this young Mandalorian as well, only time would tell. So far she couldn't help but be annoyed by his mere presence.

a/n: Looks like some Mando ran away from home! Atina needs a friend ok?

Please give me some feedback what you think of the story so far. Just because I won't update more frequently doesn't mean I won't read your comments.

[willel]

That’s the point, there’s no competition but ofc sttwt has to make up one, and justify it by saying Bob was better for her family… I’m not sure where it is coming from but it’s disingenuous and annoying, let the Byers-Hopper fam alone :)

If you're the anon still arguing that Bob didn't fit in because Jonathan didn't like him, then I feel like you're being a little disingenuous yourself?

Joyce wasn't lying to herself about Bob, she really appreciated him and loved him. Would they have gotten married and moved away together? Who knows, but she cared about him deeply. It wasn't just a front, he legitimately made her happy and she was devastated when he died. That's what makes it so touching when Hopper was there for her quietly as she cried right after his death. And when he gave her reassuring words and comfort at the Snow Ball.

(that's why I really didn't like how season 3 made it feel like Hopper was rushing her to move on when it was barely even hadn't even been a year yet. I feel like season 2 Hopper would've been more patient and understanding. But whatever. Water under the bridge, he's gotten much better and Joyce has moved on.)

Jonathan had a problem with Bob because he was dating her mom and he doesn't like male authority figures. I feel like you're really reducing Jonathan's character by implying something was actually wrong with Bob or BobxJoyce when it was really just Jonathan working through personal issues.

Even Will sets him straight as says Bob is good actually and treats him like a normal kid, the exact same way Joyce feels. (which could've made things doubly traumatic and tragic if Will had killed Bob directly like they were originally planning)

If you recall in season 1 when Hopper came into the picture, Jonathan didn't trust Hopper at all for the ENTIRE season. He took every opportunity to disobey Hopper and do his own thing. First it was when Hopper bluntly told him to say with his mom and not go to Lonnie's. He didn't listen, he went to Lonnie's. Secondly when he refused to tell his mom or Hopper what was going on with the monster and tried to take it down himself with Nancy. The third time when he insists he should go along to save Will and Hopper tells him hell no. Jonathan doesn't listen and happily goes with Nancy to finish out their big plan to take on the Demogorgon. I still remember how pissed off he looked when Hopper told him no.

It's not until the end of season 2 that it seems like Jonathan is placing a bit more trust in Hopper and follows his instructions, but then you wonder if he's really trusting Hopper or is he content with the plan because he's with his mom and his brother.

As per usual, season 3 drops the development of pretty much everyone so eh.

Anyway, this is an ongoing thing. I'm sure once Jonathan heard what happened with Bob, his entire outlook on him changed. The same with Hopper, probably.

It really is just his trust issues. I really hope they touch on those issues with Hopper next season, it will be delicious angst.

Which is why the bickering is pointless, and getting upset at the twitter kids making stuff up is also pointless. BobxJoycexHopper was the most tame least dramatic love triangle in history. Hopper was sour about it yeah, but there was never any direct conflict between the three of them. I don't know what the point is in getting mad at Bob or trying to tear down Joyce and Bob's relationship. BOB IS DEAD! Joyce is not dating a ghost! Bob is probably happy Joyce and Hopper finally found each other and have a family! I think he started to realize that already in season 2. He really was a nice person and he was good for Joyce in his own way, but he is dead. Now Joyce has another who is ALSO good for her in his own way.

Can Bob rest in peace without twitter kids using him to bash people with, or people finding irrelevant reasons why Joyce and Bob didn't work out when he's... dead?

[suuho]

I wanna gatekeep seventeen 😩😩 It’s scary (I know it’s dramatic) to think that now bts is in a break, Hybe has all this time to fuck them up. This Las Vegas event screams Hybe money grab. They’re over saturating Svt with all this American stuff. And then Jungkook takes a pic with them and all these bored ass army want a price like I just don’t want caratland to change!!! Svt have been one of my favourite groups since the beginning and seeing the turn is a bit scary because it is happening wether people believe it or not.

and hybe is gonna use all that time to — maybe not fuck them up, but to definitely shift their focus and push them as their money makers, which right now is focused solely on establishing their presence in the american market. it's funny, actually, because look at how much business europe is generating with kpop but it's none or barely any hybe artists in attendance. i wish pledis would take over their marketing again, ode to you would have gotten a full proper world tour and i'm so mad it was cut short. (selfishly, i just want them to tour that setlist again but ah, water under the bridge.)

txt and enhypen aren't big enough yet to generate the revenue hybe wants and they aren't as well known either. they are only starting out. compared to seventeen, who have double the history and fanbase that has had enough time to grow and establish itself as the core of their success. on top of that, they are beloved by the gp. bts' success came from the fandom, not from the gp. so, the mechanics are shifting here a little now. while seventeen is being ushered around america, i imagine txt and enhypen to keep the korean market further on lock (which used to be seventeen's main prerogative so they were largely left alone by hybe.)

it is definitely happening but i have faith in seventeen. can't say that about bts, lol. i just want svt to be happy and taken care of as a group, and that's what i fear most. that hybe is driving them into the ground with this because i know members aren't vibing with hybe AT ALL (looking at u hansol, you and me babe)

[mah-o-daryaa]

When I was in sixth grade I read an excerpt from the autobiography The Land I Lost, specifically the excerpt centered around Trung and Lan. And recently, I realized there were parallels between them and Kuruk and Ummi's love story.

So a bit of background: Lan was the daughter of the author's mother's friend, and Trung was their next-door neighbour. Trung and Lan used to play together as children, but as they grew older, they realized that they were in love with each other. So Trung and Lan's mothers decided that they should marry.

But then after the ceremony, Lan was taking a bath at the river when a crocodile swam underneath the bridge and dragged Lan into the water and took her (who was unconscious) to a small island. Trung found Lan's clothes on the bridge and immediately tried to convince his family to help him rescue her, but they didn't believe him. Trung still rode a small rowing boat towards the island with two other men when he heard a voice calling his name. The other men told Trung that he was imagining the voice and that Lan was most definitely dead.

It turned out that Lan had survived (although she was injured, she didn't have any broken bones), and she hid herself from the crocodile by covering herself with leaves, disguising as a tree. Trung brought Lan home, and when she recovered, their families celebrated their wedding a second time because Lan (apparently) came back from the dead.

When I first read the story, I thought "OK, this was rather dark, but I'm glad they had a happy ending!"

But now that I rewatched ATLA and got to the part where Koh stole Ummi's face, I thought to myself "Waaait a minute. The bride was near a source of water? And got dragged in the water by a mysterious monster? And the groom rushed to bring her back? All on their wedding night? That's literally Trung and Lan's story!"

And then I thought to myself "How is this a mere coincidence? The couple were married, but then on their wedding night, the bride was dragged into the water by a clever monster who avoided the blockades (Lan was dragged into the river by a crocodile, who swam under the bridge and grabbed her from behind; Ummi was dragged into the Spirit Oasis by Koh The Face Stealer, who traveled through a rift created by Father Glowworm), and said monster took her to a mysterious place (the deserted island; the Spirit World), and the groom (Trung and Kuruk) attempted to rescue the bride by traveling across the water, knowing he couldn't save her, but had to try. The only difference, of course, is that Trung and Lan's story had a happy ending."

Ironically, I first had the epiphany when I was returning home from swimming lessons, so I think the universe is trying to tell me something. Either that, or this is just another example of Having The Most Important Revelation At The Most Inconvenient Place Possible.

[shop-cailey]

Slurping Korean Ramen at 30,000 Feet! Asiana Airlines Business Class KOR...

BOX VAULT - SELF - STORAGE FL

123 SW NORTH RIVER DR

MIAMI FL 33130

COUNTY MIAMI - DADE

FACING - STREET - R SIDE - IS

A - SMALL - PARK - TOWARDS

R - ROUNDISH - CURVE UNDER

BRIDGE - THAT - GOES - UP SO

ONLY - TIME - RAIN - POURS 2

ROUND - LITTLE - LIGHTS AND

FLOURESCENT - UNDER - THE

BRIDGE - VERY - WELL - LIT SO

GREAT - 4 - READING - SIGN - 2

CAMPING - PROHIBITED FACES

OTHER - SIDE - 4 - HOMELESS 2

NICE - TILE - FLOORS - NEAR

GARBAGE - ON - STREET - IN

FRONT - OF - THE STORAGE

LESS - SOUND - FR - CARS 2

GETTING - FR - AMAZON

3 TIERS - ATTACHED - AS

LIKE - EXERCISE MAT BUT

BECOMES - TWIN - BED AS

4 INCH - THICK - 75 INCHES

LENGTH - FASTER - 2 - USE

GETTING - ANOTHER - RUG

ROSS - $14.99 - PINK FITTED

NEW - SHEET - EYE - SILK - 2

MASK - BECAUSE - NOT VERY

COLD - UNDER - BLANKET - IS

INCONVENIENT - NO - BITE FR

MOSQUITO - WIND - STRONG 2

NEXT - 2 - MIAMI - RIVER NICE

TENT - 90 DEGREES - NOT THE

GREATEST - BUT - NOW - CAN

FEEL - RIVER - WIND - LOTS OF

TIMES - UNLIKE - B 4 - INSIDE A

TENT - SO - 6A - GOT - STUFF 2

BRING - INSIDE - THERE - WAS

ALL - NIGHT - PUMP - GIVING

WATER - GOT - SOME - 2 FILL

JUG - CLOSED - DOOR - AS - I

STANDING - UP - SCRUBBED

MY - BODY - WITH - DOVE BODY

SHOWER - GEL - THEN - SCENT

SO - HAVEN'T - LOST - THAT AS

I - USE - 4 GAL - GARBAGE BAG

CLEAR - 2 - PUT - WATER - IN AS

I - TOWEL - OFF - SO - NO LOST

ON - THAT - WAS - EASY - 2 YES

USE - PORTABLE - TOILET - AS I

SAT - POURED - WATER - WAS

NICE - SO - HAVING BETTER 2

TIME - NOW - REPLACED THE

MAT - WITH - FOLDABLE YES

CHAIR - ON - RUG - AS - I PUT

MY - MAKE UP - ATE - ALSO MY

BREAKFAST - UNTIL - 9A - BUT

EMAIL - GAVE - ME - SCAN - FR

CAPITAL - ONE - CREDIT CARD

FREE - COFFEE - AT - THEIR FL

CAFE - 9TH ST - 7A/7P - DAILY 2

ATMS - THEIR - FREE CHECKING

BANK - PLACE - 2 - USE - FREE

LAPTOPS - BRING - OWN - NO

TIME - LIMIT - BUT - HAD - NO

ELECTRIC - PLUG - GOT - ICE

COFFEE - $8.45 - FREE - WAS

SWEET - AND - DELICIOUS - 2

THEY - HAVE - SOME - FOODS

MORE - EXPENSIVE - TRUE XO

THAN - STARBUCKS - THAT FL

HAVE - USB - ELECTRIC PLUGS

BUT - TASTED - GREAT - LOTS

OF - PEOPLE - LARGE - PLACE

FRIENDLY - COZY - BUT - WITH

NO - PLUGS - THUS - WAITING

4 - BIANCA - 2 - GIVE - ME JOB

STARTING - SHOPIFY - AGAIN

IN - NOV - 2023 - NEW - TRUE

COM - DOMAIN - NEW EMAIL

ADDRESS - I'M - GUT EXCITED

MOST - LIKELY - GETTING MY

OWN - APT - BIANCA - VERY

SLOW - THIS - PATH PROGRAM

CAMILLUS HOUSE - THIS - USA

NOT - GREAT - 4 - HOMELESS 2

GLAD - EXCELLENT WEATHER

NO - SNOW - BUT - I - WANT - 2

LEAVE - USA - WITH - MY - NEW

BANK - IN - FUTURE - EXPLORING

MALDIVES - BORA BORA - TAHITI

ASIA - EUROPE - LOT - INTEREST

IN - USA - NOT - A - GREAT PLACE

MY - HEART - NO LONGER INTO IT

UNTIL - THEN - SHOPIFY - ONLINE

STORE - DROPSHIPPING - CHINA

ALI EXPRESS - FREE - SHIPPING

12 DAYS - REFUNDS IN SECONDS

STILL - CAN'T - FIND - LIST - WAS

SHE - ROBBED - OF - TARP - AND

CART - THAT - OLD - WOMAN - IS

FLAKEY - US ARMY - VETERAN

WHO - I - SLEEP - NEXT 2 - YES

HE - SNORES - BUT - NOT - TOO

LOUD - SAFER - 4 - ME - 2 KEEP

SMARTPHONE - IN - STORAGE

CLOSES - 10P - ANYWAY - SO I

AM - VERY - HAPPY - WHERE I

AM - PROBLEM - IS - NO FOOD

THERE - JUST - GETTING - YES

BETTER - WITH - SPENDING SO

I - HAVE - MORE - FOOD - BUT

MISSION - 2020 NW 1ST AVE

M - F - FREE - FOOD - 4P/6P

BUS 2 - WALK - 4 MIN

EXIT - SCHOOL BOARD - METRO

MOVER - WALK - IS - 15 MIN BUT

TROLLEY - IS - FREE - 4 - THERE

SO - FOOD - ON - WEEKDAYS

THUS - WHERE - I - AM - VERY

HAPPY - BACK - 2 - ENJOYING

WEATHER - TODAY - 1ST TIME

ENJOYED - 45 MIN - SEATING

WATCHING - YOUTUBE - AS - I

WATCHED - MIAMI - RIVER AS

I - ENJOYED - STRONG WINDS

SO - LOVE - WHERE - I - AM

NOW - SIDE - OF - STORAGE

BUILDING - UNDER BRIDGE

2 - SLEEP - NEARER - 2 YES

BRING - MY - THINGS BACK

AND - FORTH - EASIER FOR

MY - SHOULDERS - BACK 2

SO - EASIER - NOW - I - YES

WISHED - DID - LONG - AGO

BUT - I - THOUGHT - TENTS

ARE - BETTER - BUT - NOT 4

SOIL - WAS - SIDEWAYS - AS

HUGE - ROACHES - RATS - &

MOSQUITO - BITES - ANTS &

LOTS - OF - ANTS - SO - HOT

INSIDE - TENTS - ALSO - LEAK

WITHOUT - TARP - SO - HOT - 2

WHEN - HIT - BY - SUN - TENTS

WHERE - ALSO - EXPENSIVE - &

MISERABLE - NOW - WITHOUT I

AM - VERY - HAPPY - AS - I JUST

SLEEP - LATER - AND - RETURN

MY - SMARTPHONE - 2 - STORE

LESS - SOUND - THAN - BEFORE

LOTS - OF - BOATS - ALL - THE

TIME - PASS - BY - MANY - ARE

RIDING - USELESS - PEOPLE AS

THEY - HAVE - NOTHING - 2 DO

SWIMWEAR - DRINK - LOOSERS

MIAMI - GREAT - PLACE - 2 - DO

MANY - THINGS - EDGE - OF THE

MARRIOTT BLDG - I - WAS - YES

THINKING - OF - FRANCHISE

MAX's - CHICKEN - PHILIPPINES

PERFECT - 4 - THERE - WE ALSO

NEED - HELLO KITTY - ADD THE

CAFE - ICE CREAM - I - WANT 2

JOLLI - BEE - FRANCHISE - DO

LOVE - 2 - HAVE - THAT - THEN

WON'T - B - WITHOUT - PINOY's

VERY - BEST - IN - THE - USA 2

SO - THAT's - MY - UPDATE

BIANCE - CAMILLUS - HOUSE

VERY - SLOW - IT'S - QUITE FL

SAD - 4 - THOSE - WITHOUT $

'MONEY - ANSWERS - ALL'

MY - UPDATE - AS - 2 - WHAT

IS - HAPPENING - WITH - ME

IN - MAIN - LIBRARY - GOING

2 - MAKE - RAMEN AND ADD

VIENNA - SAUSAGES AS THE

LIBRARY - NOW - HAS ECKEL

WATER - LIKE - PUBLIX - BUT

NOT - VERY - COLD - EITHER

HAVING - LATE - LUNCH - SO

THANKS - EVERYBODY - AND

PRAY - PRAY - 4 - ME - MERCI