#maybe I should try adding it to a sauce...

[sherbertilluminated]

Cooking for myself this summer is so great! I've spent the past three years of my life in institutions where food is prepared en masse and I'm grateful for the chance to get creative with it!

Does this mean I accidentally bought a bottle of concentrated orange juice that doesn't fit on the shelves of my fridge? yes and yippee

[myuserisunnamed]

can you write about sub yan trying to please daring? thank you!!!

sub! yandere who tries so so hard to make you happy with him, he just wants the reassurance of your love! and maybe a lock of your hair… and maybe a pair of your dirty underwear… and maybe- you know what nevermind, all that matters is that his love is pure, albeit mixed with lust.

he’ll do small things like give you lunch with a… special homemade sauce. or help you declutter your room, but small things go missing every so often. oh well, it should be in your room somewhere!

okay and maybe he did put some hidden cameras in your house… and maybe added an airtag to all of your bags… and maybe- you know what, you don’t need all the details. he just needs you so badly, it physically hurts whenever you don’t look at him.

“please my love, my darling, the reason i am alive, please look at me. did i do something wrong? are you mad at me? do i need to prove you my love by cutting a finger off? or maybe- maybe by killing that one co-worker who’s been annoying you, i know how much you hate them. or is it- is it me?! do you hate me?! i will end it all, and spell your name out with the blood of my throat if you so wish!” he says manically, pointing a sharpened kitchen knife to his throat.

and this happens every single day.

today, however, you had your own little experiment you wanted to conduct. and that experiment being not saying i love you back. who knew it would turn into this? it’s fine, he pulls out the knife every other month or so.

“can you stop yelling, you’re making my head hurt,” you say, rubbing your temples.

immediately he drops the knife, and goes to hug and baby you.

“oh my beloved, are you okay? i’m sorry my love, i didn’t mean to- to make your head hurt. forgive me, oh please forgive me,” he says, peppering your face with kisses.

he’s like a dog, obediently following your orders with his tail wagging of happiness behind him. tell him to do something as simple as cooking a meal, and he’ll do it with a smile. or do something as heinous as get rid of a few people, and he’ll do it with a manic grin.

[why-the-heck-not]

"...and now a quick  1-1.5h simmer" why do I do this

”quick fast dinner, gotta go to sleep soon” then pray tell,, why are u cooking things in separate batches?? and ohmygod is that tomato sauce mf reducing on the stove ?????

[omgfangirlland]

The Shadows That Nurture 12

Y'all are getting two chapters today because a little silly someone, won't @ because they haven't asked to be tagged in the tag list and Idk if they'd like the call out but they know who they are, liked every chapter and I loved your little comments so I finished chapter 13 so I can post this chapter only fueled by your excitement 🥰🥹

CW: people are getting their ass beat, so mention of blood and decapitation.

Masterlist || First || previous<< Chapter 12 >>next

With Nolan completely refusing to face anyone lately, and the announcement that the guardians are dead, you had to get away. You couldn’t sit and wait for him, couldn’t cry over the guardians, couldn’t sit by and watch how worried Debbie was every morning when he’d left. You just couldn’t.

So, while Mark went to university with Amber and William, you cashed in your vacation days and let the shadows lead you away over the seas to Romania. Softly landing in the Hoia-Baciu Forest felt—surprisingly—like home.

The whispers of the shadows nudged you around the forest, deeper and deeper, past the oddly shaped trees straight to a burnt circle of land where dried trees grew. Walking past the circle changed the scenery, from gloomy grey trunks to moss-covered, flourishing weeping willows circling a little lake.

Walking back to the edge of the circle, you stuck half of your body out and back observing the change happening right before your eyes. It seemed to be a Midnight City magic dome thing. Inside the dome, it was quite beautiful, the astilbes and the Japanese irises giving some color to the landscape. Your hands softly traced the taller flora as you got closer to the lake, lifting off the ground to move towards the center where a small piece of rock was.

This was a great place for an altar and the shadows greatly approved, too. Sitting on your ass, crisscross apple sauce, you placed your hands on the smooth surface, transfiguring it to expand and even out a bit more.

By the time you were done setting wards so no one could find the place and adding the actual altar and the statues for Lady Gotham and Death it was already so late.

With a small sigh, you place yourself in front of the altar once more. You were never religious, your biological mother didn’t care, Bruce didn’t, the Graysons didn’t- it felt awkward to pray to them. Constantine mentioned that praying to them could just be talking to them, they’re not Yahweh, they’re not Allah, they don’t abide by those rules.

So, you didn’t either. You thanked them for the blessings they gave you, hoped they were well, and told them about your day, leaving them with a bowl of sliced apples and some flowers, deciding to visit the rest of the country while you still had a few days of vacation.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

“Went to Mars, almost got killed by Martians, got the shit beaten out of me for trying to help the Titan, got half of Teen Team- er… the new Guardians in hospital. Also, his one guy in the college was kidnapping male students he saw as peak alpha males and modifying them to essentially turn them into robocops wannabes consisting of no free will and mech bodies, including William’s boyfriend, for the betterment of the human race.” Marks sighs tiredly. “Amber and I broke up and made up again. Told her I’m Invincible… she knew.”

Debbie just looked at her son, before turning to look at you. Maybe she should stop asking how everyone’s day was. “Don’t look at me like that, ma. For once I had a normal day. Visited a lot of places in Romania after finding a little nook for my altar and got some presents for you two and our friends.” You shrug as you take another bite of food. “How was your day?”

Your mother smiles. Well, maybe she shouldn’t, it was the little normality she had in her life. “Sold a penthouse to a billionaire who had a set of all gold teeth.” You snort at that. “That’s one way to show off.”

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Since sunrise Mark has been searching for his dad and once he did, he immediately tackled him, rolling through the air for a bit before stopping. “Where have you been?! Why haven’t you said anything?” Nolan didn’t get to respond Mark continued. “Are you cheating on mom? Do you have a second family or something?”

“What?! Of course not! Why would you-“ Nolan stutters at the audacity. “Because one day you just decided to up and disappear! You barely come home anymore- Do you even love us anymore? I need you to think about it before you answer- really consider it, because I want you to mean it truthfully- Do you love us?”

The older Viltrumite couldn’t hide the shock, the anguish as he actually thought about it. Loving them meant going against his mission- to a small degree, sure, he could still finish it- but- “Yes... I-I do. I truly love your mother and you deeply. I love your sister just as much. You three are very important to me.”

“Then stop this- nonsense!” Mark waved his arms around. “You’ve been missing for almost two months, barely come home to sleep- You know how paranoid my sister is, she’s making plans over plans on how to take you down because she thinks you snapped and are trying to conquer the planet.”

“She thinks I plan to conquer Earth?” Nolan asks softly, hands clenching at his side. “Yes! She thinks me and mom don’t know but I found her encrypted files- she thinks now that you know the Viltrumites can create offsprings that have powers with humans, you have started making plans to take over. She thinks you killed the Guardians because they could have slowed you down, maybe even stopped you- she thinks you’ll come to me and ask me to help- that you’ll come clean and confess that the Viltrumites are- are these-“

Mark couldn’t finish… How could he? You didn’t come up with these ideas out of thin air- you had evidence. Circumstantial evidence- but it still was so compelling, too many coincidences to be just nothing. “She made plans that could take me down, too. Just in case I would accept to help you- she’s gone mad, dad. And- and I started to believe it too.”

Mark looks at his father, straight in his eyes. “So I need you to come home, to talk to us- I don’t want to believe it- I don’t want to think that you’d ask me to do such bullshit.” The young man clenched his fist. “Please tell me she’s wrong- because if she isn’t- I won’t help you. I’ll do anything to stop yo-“ Mark didn’t finish as Nolan threw a punch, breaking his mask and making him bite his cheek.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

“Honestly, Eve, I can’t believe you didn’t dump Rex the first time he cheated.” You sipped on your soft drink as you walked with Eve. “I know- It’s just- we both-“ She tried to come up with a reason, just a tiny one to try and keep her pride. “You both got your powers in a lab- yes. I know. That doesn’t mean you don’t deserve the respect of a man. And I can’t believe Kat jumped at the first opportunity- is the ‘not your bestie’s ex’ not in the girl rulebook anymore?”

As Eve opened her mouth to respond to that, what came out was a gasp of shock as her eyes caught the fight happening on the news. “What? Are the news more import-“ As you tuned to look behind you at the TVs in the electronics shop your mouth dropped with the drink you were holding.

The flashing pictures of Mark and the Immortal fighting furiously against Nolan make your blood run cold. The robot cameras that were flying around the men managed to pick up some of the conversation, mostly Immortal furiously yelling but- “This isn’t you! You don’t want to do this! You just feel like you have no choice, but you do!” they caught Mark too.

“Is your dad being mind-controlled?” Eve asks, clearly worried as she looks at you. “No…” Is all you say before you disappear with a breeze of air. It wasn’t a good idea to travel via magic right now. Eve caught a glimpse of Omni-man decapitating The Immortal before she changed into her costume and tried to keep up with you.

Somewhere in space, the League of Justice and Laughing Magician could only watch in terror as the news kept up with the man and his son. “Please don’t… Please don’t try and stop him.” John’s whispered payers were met only with Batman’s suspicious glare. “We should go and help!” Superman’s worried pleas was quickly shut down.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Mark couldn’t register everything his father yelled at him as they fought through the air, and he definitely could not after being thrown into the ground and punched twice. But he could answer one question. “You and her… I’d still have you and my sister, dad.” And Nolan hesitated on his third punch. But you didn’t.

Your hit threw Nolan off Mark, making the older man crash into a crater of his own. You didn’t let him get a break. “I trusted you! We all did!” Punch after punch, the ground beneath his head created a bigger and bigger hole. “Mom and Mark love you! I love you! And you go and chose them?!”

You didn’t even notice when John Constantine popped in, almost stumbling through the portal as he ran to your brother, racking his brain for every healing spell he could use. He didn’t care that Bruce would corner him when he went back and interrogate him about this, not when you needed him.

“What is so important about them that we didn’t give you?! You haven’t seen them in years-“ Your yelling cracked as you sobbed, your tears mixing with the blood of the man. Why didn’t he choose you? “Why not us? Why them?! Why are you letting me beat the shit out of you?!” As your hands clenched above your head in a double axe handle motion, ready to turn his face into mush, you’re stopped by your brother’s voice calling your name.

Your fury turns to fear and worry as you look towards him, getting up just to stumble towards him and John. Your tears clouded your vision as you fell to your knees by Mark, gently holding his hand as you inquired about him. “I’m fine- just like, five punches to the head and a throw to the ground.” He croaked out, flinching slightly as his nose set back into place while John continued doing his best to heal the young man.

“In other universes, you either die or get the snot and spline beaten outta ya- this is so much better kid.” Constantine immediately cringes at his words, his eyes meeting yours as he instantly apologizes. “- I should have told you, hen-“

The sound of the sonic boom doesn’t even make you flinch. If Nolan wanted to run away, that was fine by you. “I knew. Nobody is that kind just to help out of the goodness of their hearts.” You said softly, reassuring him with a squeeze of his arm. “I should have done more. Should have told the Guardians or someone about my suspicions, my plans on how to deal with him-”

“You made contingency plans?” At your stutter and confused look, Mark could only laugh, immediately getting what the man meant. The rumors of Batman’s paranoia were true after all. “She even made a few for me in case I accepted.” John huffed in amusement at that. “Well- then we better keep you away from the Bat, he may just adopt you.” Some of the League’s members couldn’t hold in their laughs at the utter disgust your face showed. “With my track record of father figures you better keep the furry as far away from me as possible.” Constantine could hear Hal's laughter from where he sat as she finished speaking.

“We should get going before Cecil shows up.” You sigh while helping Mark get up. “We’re moving again? I just got here…” Eve said as she finally landed, getting Mark’s other side. “You both were hard to find, and I missed everything.”

“No need- I can help with that.” John groans as he gets up, brushing his pants off before he opens a portal to Mark’s home. “Alright, let’s get the lad home.” He lets the kids through first, and before he steps in too, he makes sure to flip off the robot cameras, just for Bruce.

Tag list: @bat1212 @trashlanternfish360 @shycreatorreview @syrooo @a-lurking-fae @alittletiredcry @kittzu @plsfckmedxddy @blackhood1229 @nxdxsworld @leeiasure @dandelion-delusion @lovebug-apple @sillysealsies @tsxukikami @enchantingarcadecreation @alishii @d3nnji @itsberrydreemurstuff @yuyuzi-ling @welpthisisboring @1abi @mxvoid26 @persephone-kore-law @bluevenus19 @ryuushou

[allurearia]

Lovesick lasagna.

Theodore nott x reader! Fluff!!

Where you attempt of making Theo a lasagna wasnt good but not so bad either. Mattheo riddles ver

You had tried making something very special for Theo. The lingering smell of melted cheese mixed with something slightly burnt hung in the air. Pots and pans sat abandoned on the stove, and the cutting board looked like it had seen better days. The lasagna, your grand attempt at making something special for Theo, sat steaming in the center of the table, its edges just a bit crispier than you intended.

You stood with your hands nervously clasped, watching Theodore survey the scene. The moment he had walked through the door, his sharp eyes had taken in the warzone you’d tried (and failed) to clean up. He was Italian, for Merlin’s sake he probably knew how to cook lasagna with his eyes closed and one hand tied behind his back.

And of course, he looked like someone who belonged in the kitchen: sleeves rolled up, dark curls slightly tousled, and looked hot in a “kiss the chef” apron. And an effortless confidence you wished you had at this moment. Theodore Nott wasn’t just good at cooking, he was excellent at it. You’d seen him make everything from risotto to tiramisu, his hands moving with the kind of precision and grace that you couldn't dream to mirror.

And now, here you were, presenting this.

“You cooked?” Theo finally said, his voice calm, though you caught the faint flicker of surprise in his expression. He tilted his head slightly as he stepped closer to the table.

“Don’t sound so shocked,” you muttered, fidgeting with the strings of your apron. “I thought I’d try something… you know, something you’d like.”

His gaze moved to the lasagna, and you swore you saw the corner of his mouth twitch either a smile or an attempt to suppress one.

You quickly grabbed a knife and cut into the lasagna, the top layer crunching a little more than it should have under the blade. Great. That wasn’t supposed to happen. You plated two slices, praying it would taste better than it looked, it wasn't that bad right? and set one in front of him before taking the other for yourself. Theo watched you the whole time, his expression unreadable.

“Alright, go on,” you said, gesturing toward his plate. “Eat. Tell me how awful it is.”

Theo raised a brow, the faintest hint of a smirk on his lips. “You’re already setting expectations low.”

“It’s called not giving you false hope,” you shot back with a sheepish smile before grabbing your fork. He rolled his eyes, but finally, he cut into the lasagna, the sound of the utensil clinking against the plate louder than it needed to be.

You watched him like a hawk as he took his first bite. To your surprise, he chewed thoughtfully, his expression not nearly as pained as you were expecting. You hesitated before taking a bite yourself… and, okay, maybe you had exaggerated how bad it was. It wasn’t terrible but It wasn’t perfect, either. It was a little too salty, the edges were undeniably burnt, and the layers weren’t quite as neat as they should have been.

“Should’ve used a pinch less salt,” you muttered, picking at the edge of your plate. “And I might’ve left it in the oven for a few minutes too long.”

Theo hummed, cutting into another bite. “The sauce is a bit uneven,” he added casually.

You groaned, burying your face in your hands. “Don’t remind me. I already know. I messed up the layering.”

When you peeked through your fingers, Theo was looking at you with an expression you couldn’t quite place equal parts fond and amused, like he found your stress over the meal far more entertaining than he should have.

“Don’t worry,” you said quickly, standing up straighter. “I’ll improve my cooking with time. For you.” You gave him what you hoped was a reassuring smile.

Theo shook his head, a small, genuine smile tugging at his lips. “You don’t have to stress over cooking for me.” He took another bite, as if to prove his point. “Whatever you make, I’ll eat it.”

“Even if it’s bad?” you teased, narrowing your eyes.

“Especially if it’s bad,” he replied smoothly, resting his fork on his plate. “It’s the thought that matters, isn’t it?”

You stared at him for a moment, your chest feeling a little warmer than before. For someone who could be as blunt as Theo, he still had a way of saying things that made your heart flutter. You couldn’t help but smile, even as you shoved another bite of slightly-burnt lasagna into your mouth.

“Next time,” you said, pointing your fork at him, “it’ll be perfect. Just wait.”

Theo leaned back slightly, that soft smile still playing on his lips. “I’ll hold you to that.”

Given how serious Theo was about the food he eats, it would’ve been easy for him to make a face or refuse to eat it. But instead, he just ate, his smile never fading.

It was then that you realized. He loved you, enough to look past the mistakes and still enjoy the effort you put in.

Check out a similar one on Mattheo Riddle

Dividers creds again to @notaorbital

Pls do check out their dividers it's absolutely amazing<33

[psyduc]

pasta a la erik karlsson

THE INGREDIENTS: pasta. alfredo. meat sauce. raw (red) onion. hot sauce (cholula, judging by the video). ketchup (heinz, i think?). a little salt and pepper.

THE RECIPE: boil pasta, chop the onion, serve with all sauces. eat and not die.

hi my name is emily and welcome to jackass

instead of liveblogging this process, i'm just going to add my thoughts to one big post to make it cleaner <3

6:48 pm: the pasta is boiling. i keep looking over at the Pile of Sauces and giggling. i have whispered "what the fuck" to myself a few times now. i'm cooking the whole box, because we're all having spaghetti tonight, but i'm the only one brave enough to try... This

6:54 pm: erik did not mention this as part of the meal but i poured myself a glass of rose. the onion has been chopped. i tried to get them chunky to match the video but that's like too much man, at least have your onions DICED why are they in CHUNKS ERIK

7:05 pm: writing these time stamps i'm realizing i'm a slow cooker because i keep getting distracted by my playlist (rn it's rebel rebel by david bowie). i am starting the alfredo sauce and it's sinking in that i'm about to actually. eat this. like a few bites, there's no way i'm eating this whole plate (this is NOT foreshadowing)

7:07 pm: i almost panicked because i didn't think i had enough milk for the alfredo but surprise, i had EXACTLY enough. this is a good omen.

7:15 pm: everything is done, i am just waiting for the meat sauce to warm up. i'm still whispering "what the fuck" to myself.

7:21 pm: it's time. to assemble.

i grabbed a small plate, but i'm realizing. maybe i should have grabbed less. this is revolting. and i'm not even done adding things

added and mixed. i'm laughing. erik eats this. before every game? it overwhelmingly smells like cholula which is fine but oh my god. oh my god? no. no. this poor man's stomach. oh my god

7:30 pm: i've put it off. it's time to take a bite

IT'S JUST. IT'S JUST A LOT OKAY. THIS IS A LOT OF FLAVOR AND NONE OF IT REALLY GOES TOGETHER? it's like way too acidic. biting into a red onion is a terrible surprise. it's too saucy and it doesn't feel Good in my stomach, like i have taken two bites and it's settled so heavily already. okay no three bites. it's... it's just upsetting. this is an upsetting experience. what the fuck is wrong with you erik karlsson. you eat this and then you go and play professional hockey?

FOUR BITES IN AND IT DOES NOT GET BETTER. why does he do this to himself like can we send someone to check on him fr i am genuinely concerned about this man like i made this meal for the bit but he willingly does this to himself?????? 82 games a season???????

IN CONCLUSION: i managed five (5) bites. they were all bad. don't make this. someone arrest erik karlsson immediately i am so serious.

[anystalker707]

Together?

Pairing: Vinsmoke Sanji x [gender neutral] Reader Summary: Hanging out after a busy night at Baratie. Tags: Bitter sweet / Sanji is very loving / Boyfriend material / Sanji needs to hear some truths

MASTERLIST

          “They’ve lost their minds,” Sanji said in a lower voice tone as he stepped closer to you while you stirred the boiling sauce without taking your eyes off it—a little distraction could ruin a job of hours, and you’d learned that the worst way. “Oregano does not go in everything,” he whispered next to your ear while looking over your shoulder to check what you were doing. He never criticized your job, of course, unless he were to say something about how you should stop following the recipes and orders so strictly, but you knew better than that. Seeing what happened with Sanji for it was enough of a lesson.

“Just shut up and cook,” you sighed as you put the pan on the counter and replaced it with another of boiling water on the stove, already getting the next dish started.

Sanji huffed as he showed you a plate of what he’d done. It was certainly nothing from the menu. “Try it.”

You didn’t stop what you were doing, still adding the vegetables to the plates and covering them with sauce as you opened your mouth and let Sanji feed you a piece of whatever he’d prepared. The sweet taste of the pastry contrasted very well with the savory flavor of the filling, which probably consisted of some sort of fish and a rich sauce. You took your time to savor it before you nodded.

“That’s great, Sanji.” You nodded as you finished the dishes and called one of the waiters to say that table 11’s order was ready. “Like, great,” you tried to express, but it was hard since you were always complimenting Sanji’s cooking a lot. “Above the usual.”

Despite how you moved around so fast to keep up with the orders, Sanji still followed you with that plate in hand. “At least you have some sense, but Zeff—”

“We got orders piling in,” Zeff’s voice spoke over the loud clanking and chattering of the kitchen, as if on cue. “That means no one slacking off!”

Sanji knew it was mainly directed at him, of course. He pressed his lips together and huffed, shaking his head. He grabbed the last piece of what he’d cooked and fed it to you before he walked away.

          In comparison to the open hours, the Baratie could actually be very quiet during the late night hours. The mess and euphoria took another tone and another focus. The loud chatter and music coming from the bar could only be heard faintly in the docks area. No one used to arrive at such late night hours, and the crowd was concentrated at the bar, so it would be quite peaceful there. Watching the moon’s reflection on the calm water was soothing.

The relative silence was disrupted by a pattern of footsteps that you knew very well. “I’m going to be reduced to being a fucking chore-boy at some point,” Sanji said as he eventually stopped and took a seat next to you, on the wooden platform of the dock, feet also hanging from the edge. His breathing was a little out of pace and his forehead was a little sweaty, so he had probably been off doing extra chores as some sort of punishment by Zeff. He sighed as he reached inside his jacket and pulled out a cigarette.

You hummed softly. “Hm, maybe.”

Sanji was about to light his cigarette, but he paused and looked at you, dead in the eyes, frozen. “(Y/n), I—”

“No, hear me out!” You sat up properly, trying to come up with a way of saying it in as few words as possible to prevent Sanji from freaking out before you were finished. He looked so cute while angrily trying to get his lighter to work, spinning the sparkwheel with more strength than necessary, sending sparkles flying in the night darkness until he was finally able to light his cigarette. “It’s not that no one recognizes your talent or something, Sanji,” you sighed. “Zeff knows you’re good.”

Sanji furrowed his eyebrows, eyeing you in disbelief, but with that edge of sarcasm.

You observed him for a long moment. “Honestly, what do you want with your life?”

“The All Blue,” Sanji answered without missing a beat. The tip of his cigarette glowed in the dark as he took a drag of it, holding the smoke before slowly exhaling.

“Yeah. How do you expect to achieve it, though?” You raised an eyebrow.

There were a few attempts to answer. A couple of unfinished words came from Sanji as he opened his mouth a few times, but he never properly came up with anything, instead looking off to the sea after returning his cigarette to his lips.

“Exactly,” you said. “You—”

“What does it have to do with anything?” Sanji scoffed.

A silence filled in for a moment as you observed Sanji, trying to wonder what was going on in that mind of his. Sometimes, you wanted to hit him upside the head to check if that’d do anything, maybe shake up his brain and make it work for life the way it worked for food prep.

“Do you think you can find the All Blue by being a chef in the Baratie?” You asked honestly, not really putting effort into sounding all kind and sweet. “What good will it do if you just continue here, being a cook, settled down? It’s so easy to notice that Zeff is trying to push you off, so you can go do something greater, Sanji! He won’t say it directly because both of you are so stubborn, but it’s so clear!”

“But he—”

“He’s a retired pirate,” you cut in. “He’s already lived his life, and the Baratie is what he wants for now, but you? He knows you’re strong and determined. Sometimes he does stuff just to see if you’ll leave and actually do something because you’re so stubborn!”

Sanji clicked his tongue, cursing under his breath as he took another drag of his cigarette. He leaned forward with his elbows on his knees. “How can you even be so sure of it? I’m just not wanted.”

He was so tiring. A sharp sigh escaped your nose as you looked away, shaking your head.

“Even so, do you want to be here your whole life?” You looked at him again. It was hard seeing his face through his hair and in the dark, but you had an idea of the face he might be making. “The world is so big, Sanji. There’s so much to see and live. It sounds a little pathetic, spending your life in a restaurant while you can do much more. While other people are around traveling, partying, discovering things. Living.”

Silence settled in for a second as you thought. Just the idea of all the things you’d heard or read about in the newspapers made your muscles ache to just steal a boat and start sailing.

Everything sounded quieter, suddenly. Your eyes were fixed on the moon as it stood high in the sky, half full, with a trembling image reflected on the dark sea. Maybe the sky also looked different in other places of the world.

“I wish I could even be a pirate,” you said softly, carefully. “That a pirate crew would recruit me. Let me be anything, even if not a cook, let me go with them to explore and see more things out there.” Another pause. “Don’t you wish the same, Sanji?”

No answer came in for a long moment. Smoke continued coming from Sanji as he sat there, almost unmoving.

“Really?” His voice was quiet.

“Of course.”

Sanji was quiet again. He could be mysterious sometimes. Certain subjects or mentions would often make him just fall silent and thoughtful. “Then we should go together.”

“Together?” You mumbled.

“I wouldn’t go without you,” Sanji said quietly, adjusting his posture with a sigh. There were unsaid words, of course, but words that you already knew very well. No one really gave him attention or help like you did, not to mention that if there was someone aside from Zeff who he’d actually turn to, that’d be you. It took someone to calm Sanji’s thoughts or at least help him organize them, and that’d usually be you as well.

“Great,” you stated. Your eyes didn’t even dart his way as you spoke. “I don’t think I’d let you, either.”

A sensation of accomplishment took over both of you, managing to dissolve most of the tension that was going on. Both of you had reached an agreement, even if unspoken, taking away part of the worries that clouded your minds. Even if you didn’t say it, you were always on the edge about Sanji leaving, running away in the middle of the night, and leaving you behind with nothing more than worries.

You finally looked away from the sky, observing the sea under you, and then your gaze fell on Sanji’s hand resting some inches away from your thigh. He would wear rings when he wasn’t cooking, and he always had nice ones. He didn’t even flinch when you grabbed his hand to get the ring he had around his index finger; he was already used to you taking his rings, sometimes returning them days later or just keeping them.

“Pretty,” you mumbled as you admired the details engraved on it. Shamefully, it hung loose around all of your fingers, so you ended up sliding it back on his finger. He grabbed your hand before you could pull it away, though.

Sanji tugged on your hand a little, so you moved closer and let him wrap an arm around you. He put out his cigarette against the wood once it reached the filter. “Why do you take my things, hm?” He raised an eyebrow.

You thought for a moment, and it was difficult to actually come to a conclusion about that. “I’m not sure,” you said softly. Maybe it was the need to have anything of his with you. Feel even closer to him.

“Not afraid I’ll get angry at you?”

With a scoff, you shook your head. “You never get angry at me. I’m too pretty for you to get angry at me.”

The way Sanji took a moment to observe you and then faced away with a sigh made you chuckle victoriously. “That doesn’t mean you should be doing that!” He clicked his tongue, but the annoyance he had wasn’t anything but feigned. A sigh escaped his lips as he visibly relaxed a little, shoulders dropping from their tense stance. “You’re not leaving without me, right?” Sanji muttered into your ear.

“Only if you don’t leave without me.” You raised your eyebrows lightly as you looked at him.

Sanji smiled with a proud air, nodding faintly. He leaned in, but you placed a hand over his mouth and turned his head away before anything could happen.

“You know I hate it when you kiss me right after a cigarette!” You pulled your hand away as he started chuckling.

“Only a little one? Pretty please?” Sanji’s attempts to make a dramatic sad face kept failing since he kept laughing at the glares you sent him. “Come on! I got no kisses today! How am I supposed to live without a kiss from you, hm? Hm?” He wrapped his arms around your waist to pull you closer, kissing your cheek a few times, knowing how all of those made you start melting into his arms. You sighed with a soft groan, turning your face until you could finally meet his lips and give him the kiss he wanted so much.

.𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟.

[thollandsgirl2013]

𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐳𝐲 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬

Parings → Peter Parker x Pregnant! Reader

Warnings → fluff, crazy cravings, pregnancy

Summary → Pregnant Y/n's late-night cravings lead Peter to lovingly indulge her with a strange snack, all while teasing and caring for her.

Peter had been busy at his desk, hunched over some gadget he was tinkering with, when the sound of your footsteps—your now very distinct, waddling footsteps—caught his attention. You entered the room, hands resting on your six-month baby bump, cheeks puffed out in frustration.

Peter couldn't help but smile. "Penguin's back," he teased softly, setting down his screwdriver.

You shot him a glare. "I'm not a penguin. I'm pregnant."

"An adorable, waddling pregnant penguin," Peter corrected, walking over to kiss your forehead. His hands naturally found their way to your belly, where he felt a tiny kick. “Hey, little one. Calm down in there.”

You sighed, leaning into his touch. "I need... something."

Peter glanced at the clock. It was 2:30 in the morning. "Something? What kind of ‘something’?"

You narrowed your eyes, deadly serious. "I want ice cream. With... mashed potatoes. And hot sauce."

Peter blinked, clearly trying to process that combination. "Ice cream, mashed potatoes, and hot sauce?"

You nodded, fully convinced. "And maybe some peanut butter. Just a little."

He chuckled, shaking his head as he kissed you gently on the lips. "You and these cravings, I swear." But, as always, Peter was ready to go above and beyond for you. "Alright, let's go get your, uh, gourmet creation."

He led you to the kitchen, holding your hand as you waddled beside him. “You okay? Want to sit down while I work my magic?” He asked, guiding you toward a chair.

You groaned dramatically, lowering yourself into the chair. "I feel like I’m carrying an elephant."

Peter grinned, grabbing the ice cream tub from the freezer. "An elephant with very, very unique taste."

He quickly heated up some leftover mashed potatoes and reached for the hot sauce. "I’m really questioning this, but whatever makes you happy."

You smiled at him sweetly. “That’s because you’re the best husband ever.”

“Yeah, yeah,” he said with a soft laugh, adding a spoonful of peanut butter to the concoction before handing it to you.

You dug in without hesitation, savoring each bizarre bite. Peter watched with a mixture of amusement and horror, but mostly love. He leaned against the counter, arms crossed, shaking his head slightly. “You’re something else.”

You paused mid-bite, staring at your dish thoughtfully. “This is surprisingly good. You should try it.”

Peter raised an eyebrow, his face a mix of curiosity and dread. “I think I’ll pass, thanks.”

After a few moments, he noticed you resting your hand on your belly, watching the slight movements.

"Is everything okay?" He asked, stepping closer.

You smiled, guiding his hand to your bump. "The baby’s doing somersaults in there. Must love the mashed potato sundae."

Peter’s eyes softened as he felt the little kicks. “Hey there, little Spidey,” he whispered, his thumb gently stroking your belly. “I promise I’ll never judge your weird food cravings.”

You laughed, running your fingers through his curls. “You better not. Our kid’s going to inherit them.”

He leaned down and kissed your belly, his voice gentle. “I love you both,” he whispered, his eyes full of adoration.

You smiled, feeling a wave of affection wash over you. "We love you too, Peter."

He stood up, brushing your hair back. “You need anything else before we head back to bed?”

You pretended to think for a moment before smirking. “Maybe a back rub? My penguin waddle’s making me sore.”

Peter grinned. “Now that, I can definitely do.”

‎∗ ࣪ ˖༺ 𓆩☆𓆪 ༻˖ ࣪ ∗

[storiesabouteli]

Softie. // Elijah Hewson X Reader! (Fluff)

requests: reader meeting eli's mother + reader has a phobia of seeing blood and eli knows how to take care of her well (it's small cut lol)

words: 1,5K.

Eli embraced your anxiety with ease. It was your first time meeting his mother, and you felt a bit on edge. Still, you were welcomed warmly — everything felt cozy, and being there was comfortable, largely because he never left your side.

His fingers rested gently on your arm, his hand steady on your back, especially when someone new came over to say hi. Even when the conversations with his brothers were short, he could read your shy smile — you had never spoken to any of them before.

Sometimes, people would glance from him to you and just… smile. It made your chest feel lighter, like a breath of fresh air. It didn’t feel like you were intruding. It felt like you were being quietly welcomed into a place that already had a space waiting for me.

You slowly began to open up, letting yourself stay in conversations a little longer. Eli’s touch remained steady on you — always a gentle hand on your back or his fingers brushing your arm. His eyes kept checking in on your face, and every now and then, you’d nod and smile at him, just to let him know you were okay.

In just a few minutes, you were in the kitchen with them — with Eli and Ali, his mom. She wasn’t intimidating like your mind had convinced you she would be. Quite the opposite, actually. There you were, chatting about how to make tomato sauce and what could make it better.

Eli mostly listened, the smile on his face never fading. His freckles seemed to follow you like a patrol, and his hair was already a mess from running his hands through it too many times.

Ali cleared her throat softly, and you realized you’d been staring at him too long.

“God, I’m not gonna get a moment alone with you, am I?” she teased.

Your cheeks flared with warmth, and Eli laughed beside you.

“Nope. Sorry,” he said, trying to smooth it over for you. Ali went right back to talking about tomatoes, like she hadn’t just caught you daydreaming.

The kitchen smelled amazing. It was beautiful, too — big and open. It made you wonder, just briefly, what kind of home Eli imagined for himself in the future… and if maybe you were part of it.

“El?” Your voice was soft, almost like an invitation, as you handed him a knife. You’d started helping her peel tomatoes and thought it was only fair he made the job go faster.

He did. And Ali laughed when she heard the nickname.

“You’ve got a nickname for his nickname. That’s adorable.”

Then, with a grin, she asked, “When can you come over again? Eli says you’ve got a sweet tooth — I could plan better next time.”

You bit the inside of your cheek. Even though you were comfortable, your words still had a habit of getting stuck.

“We could come back this weekend, Mum,” Eli answered quickly, giving your hand a light squeeze.

Ali smiled at that — genuinely, kindly. “You’re welcome anytime. Eli told me you work nearby, or… if he’s off playing a show in some other continent and you feel like talking.”

That made your whole body feel icy on the outside, but warm on the inside. Knowing Eli talked about you with her, that she genuinely wanted you around — it meant something.

“We should remind her you're my girlfriend,” Eli teased.

Both your eyebrows shot up, and you and Ali burst out laughing together.

“I’d love that,” was all you managed to say — your voice small and trembling, but honest.

Eli, ever your translator, added, “I’ll give her your number so she can steal all the time you’re supposed to spend with me.”

And when Ali looked over at you, you both rolled your eyes in perfect unison at his drama.

The silence that followed was peaceful — filled with the soft sounds of chopping and the bubbling from the stove. And then you broke it.

You’d expected to maybe cut your fingers eventually, clumsy as you were, but not while slicing a tomato.

You weren’t sure if it was deep or not — you didn’t even want to look. Just the thought of blood made your heart race and your vision blur. Instinctively, you pulled your hand behind your back, fists clenched tight.

“What happened?”

You didn’t hear his voice, but you saw the panic in his face. In seconds, Eli was at your side, hands gently moving from your arm down to your wrists.

“It’s okay,” he said softly, nodding to your face as he held your hands. It wasn’t a deep cut, but it bled just enough for him to know you shouldn’t see it.

“Eyes on me, okay? I’ve got this.”

You didn’t look away from him — not once. And seeing that calm on his face, that quiet confidence that you’d be fine, was enough to steady your breath.

Eli held your wrist under the water. You closed your eyes, taking a short breath to steady yourself, and focused on looking at him. His messy hair had fallen slightly over one eye, and the scruff on his jaw was starting to show — you smiled softly, grateful to have him there.

There was something quiet and special about knowing you could handle this alone, but with him beside you, you didn’t need to — and it never felt like a burden. Truthfully, you didn’t even feel the sting while he washed the cut.

Ali gave the two of you space, pretending to busy herself with the sauce, though now and then you caught her smiling to herself like she was watching something unfold that she already knew the ending to.

“Sorry,” you murmured, barely audible, “it wasn’t even that bad…”

Ali offered a gentle smile from across the kitchen, still wrapped in that cozy air.

“Eli mentioned you don’t do well with blood or seeing people hurt,” she said. “I’m just glad he knows what to do when you’re feeling like this.”

She was so kind, so open — it made you want to stay near her.

“Wow, you really know everything about me. Eli’s such a gossip,” you joked, making her laugh through her nose, a little louder this time.

“Oh, he talks about you all the time,” she said, amused. “Has been for months. I’ve been trying to get him to bring you here forever.”

She handed you a soft, colorful cloth to wrap your finger, but Eli showed up right after with a box of band-aids. Your heart felt warm, and once the bandage was on, he kissed your fingertip and then your cheeks.

You usually hated when moments like this happened — especially around people you didn’t know. It always felt like too much attention when all you wanted was to disappear. But here, with his family, it didn’t feel like that.

You felt safe.

...

Dinner had been lovely.

Eli held your hand on his lap under the table, and the two of you had agreed earlier — if you ever started feeling overwhelmed, all you had to do was squeeze his hand. He stroked your palm gently, and every time someone mentioned a relative you didn’t know or who wasn’t present, he’d lean in, kiss your cheek, and whisper an explanation: who they were, who they were married to, how they were related, and what part they played in the family lore.

Outside the house, just before getting into the car, he pulled you into him, your cold arms pressing into his sides as he held you close. You made sure he didn’t squish the box of sweets his mother had packed for you to take home.

“You were pretty brave out there.”

You looked into his eyes — always shining when they were on you — and at first, you didn’t get what he meant. Then it clicked.

“Not because of the cut,” he added, “but for everything else.”

You were born and raised in anxiety. Eli was the opposite — he could speak to anyone, even complete strangers, with ease. Sometimes you wondered how you two had even met — not in a way that made you feel undeserving, but because certain situations felt so mismatched.

Still, he’d never cared.

And you knew deep down that the only reason it took you this long to meet his mother… was because you were afraid it might go wrong.

You didn’t say anything right away, just let the feeling linger — the quiet happiness of the night settling in your chest. You rested your forehead against his and he whispered, “They liked you. Mum said you were soft… a bit like me.”

You smiled into his embrace as he pulled you even closer.

“You’re gonna have to bring me back, El.”

He nodded, the words landing between you like something gently arriving on a runway, the warmth of him wrapped around you.

Being called brave by him? That would stay with you the whole ride home — maybe even into the next morning.

[sundayeleith]

It's time I post my opinion on the other changes of the demo ! I'll try and make it sort since I want to make another post about Leander's route in particular >:)

Tldr : I liked it and I can't wait to see how everything will go plot wise in the full game 👀

/!\ Spoilers for TS demo update ! /!\

So let's adress the tiny bits first : the origin change, and the minor dialogue/scenario changes. Love it. Yes I like the new origin I think the idea is cool, what I didn't like was the change itself (but that's not the topic). Firstly, it gives us a big info : there IS several languages in the world of TS ! WOOO let's go if that's not a win for bilingual/multilingual MCs idk what it is

The minor changes I notices are mainly a few differences in Kuras and Ais' segments which are very welcome, and more depth added to Mhin's and Vere's segment. First of all thank RSS for shutting up dense people by stating why MC wears bandages rather than gloves. I mean, most of us figured it out a while back by rubbing two braincells together, but it's nice to see it mentionned ! It was seemlessly added to Kuras' segment too, really nice. Then expending the Iris segment was good (also confirmed the NPC telling us abut Ais is Iris, or well, what's left of her anyways)

The new sprites and expression are all super good. Special mention for Vere's smile, truly the highlisht of that category. That and Leander's puppy eyes expression-

Onto Vere and Mhin, I really appreciated being able to explore more choices. Mhin is so cute and what a nerd I LOVE THEM. Also Vere... I know what you are and you have a type 🫵 (he is a freak /pos)

Now let's talk about the bigger changes and also the man of the hour (who's also my wife /j) LEANDER YEEEEEEAH BABYYYYYY. So other's have already pointed out the changes and explained very well the symbolism behind it. They got rid of the dog imagery to get a snake one, which is very clever. Also on the addertsone, a magic item also associated with snakes (or adders) and poison ? Wonderful. Leander in terms of theme and design is already sourrounded by a lot of poison symbolism (notably his color palette, he is dripping in green and has a shade or green that once was made with arsenic) so the changes ties perfectly with it. One thing that was removed which I think should have stayed is the green cloaks on Leander's followers. Not only it would reinforce the cult-ish vibe but go very-well with the snake imagery of the Adders and would even elevate it. That said, maybe it'll be added later or will be noticeable on future NPC sprites. The green cloaks aside if they don't keep it, I hope the Adders will all have a sign of distinction no matter what that could be (bonus if it's very subtle or hidden)

Then for the rest of the changes, they not only changed the Bloodhound into the Adderstone but changed Leader's characterisation. As a Leander simp, to be fair the change isn't drastic, only the presentation is. If anything, they didn't change Leander's character and take another path, but cranked it up to eleven. And I absolutely loved it. He is more charismatic, more assertive, and is very obviously more manipulative and calculated. He isn't outwardly hostile to MC, far from it, but let's me tell you something. After the tavern segment, if you chose Leander's route. When he closes the door and locks it, with his front facing sprite. I was terrifed (/pos) the dev's nailed it and they know what they are doing with him and leaned into that aspect of him more and honestly thank you RSS for catering to us freaks rather than the "but I want Leander to be a normal guy" crowd (I will forever judge them it's a gothic horror game for the love of god). I need him more than before. Oh my god. My only complain tho is I thought Leander would go full scary creeping and stab MC in their room and it didn't happen so I was a bit disappointed BUT. I smell like it's because they are keeping the sauce for the full game. That was a mere sample, a teaser of Leander depravity and my body is READY for it.

I will revisit my Leander analysis doc I never posted and expend on it and make an updated version to match the Demo 2.0 update, but you can be sure I'll post it once I have time to put it together sihfoqhf

Be prepared I have a theory about what's his deal and I can't believe I've never thought about it while it was so obvious 🫵

[wholoveseggs]

Hii I was wondering if u can make an elijah fluff. Like context hes been married for like 1000+ years and he still gets nervous around reader

Dinner can wait.

{Masterlist}

Elijah is nervous about you returning home after a trip, so he cooks dinner to calm himself.

~♡♡ Thanks for the request anon ~ I love domestic Elijah, I could write a million stories on this subject ♡♡~

2k words - Warnings: None, just fluff!

Elijah moved with assured grace around the kitchen, his shirt sleeves rolled up, and his dark hair falling softly across his face as he carefully arranged his ingredients. There was something soothing about cooking, and tonight it was something that he really needed. He glanced up at the clock and sighed, wondering if he had enough time to prepare his special sauce, or if he should just use his normal béarnaise. He decided that he wanted to use the special sauce tonight and reached for a saucepan. As he started to slowly melt his butter, he heard the front door open. A smile lifted the corner of his mouth as he heard the familiar footsteps of his sister enter the kitchen.

"What's for dinner tonight, brother?" Rebekah asked, opening the fridge and reaching in to grab one of his bottles of wine.

"Coq au vin, but unfortunately, Rebekah, it's for two, not three," he said, looking pointedly at the wine bottle she had taken out.

"That's okay," she replied, "I'll just help myself to your wine."

She winked at him and poured herself a generous glass, then pulled out a chair and sat down at the counter to watch him.

"So she's coming back today?" she asked.

"Yes," he said, adding the chopped onions and mushrooms to the pan. "Her plane arrives at seven thirty."

"Do you need me to pick her up?"

"No, thank you," he said. "I've already arranged a driver."

"And have you thought about how you're going to greet her?"

Elijah frowned at her, not liking the look of amusement on her face. "What do you mean? I'll greet her in the same way I've greeted her for the last ten centuries."

Rebekah laughed and sipped her wine. "I think that's the problem, brother," she teased.

"What are you talking about?" he demanded, his knife hitting the chopping board with a little more force than necessary.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about," she said. "Every time your wife returns home after being away for any period of time, you go out of your way to impress her. You cook, you clean, you buy her flowers and gifts, and when you greet her, you are always so polite and gentlemanly, almost as if it's a first date.”

"So?"

"So, Elijah," she said, smiling affectionately at him, "don't you think it's time you stopped trying to impress her and just showed her how much you love her."

Elijah sighed and rubbed his hand across his brow. "I don't think I know any other way," he admitted.

"Then learn another way," she replied, draining her glass and standing up. "I've got a date so I won't be home for dinner, but I expect to see you both tomorrow."

"Fine," he said. "Thank you for your... help."

She laughed and kissed him on the cheek, then grabbed her bag and left.

He watched her go and then looked down at the half-chopped ingredients in front of him. He had always enjoyed cooking for his wife, but this time was different. This time his hands were shaking as he lifted the knife, and his stomach was fluttering. 

Why was he nervous? It was his beautiful wife. His sweet and gentle y/n. The love of his long life. 

They had been married for one thousand years, but his feelings towards her had never changed. She was still the girl from the village who had captured his heart when they were children. The girl he had courted and then married, and who had stood by his side when he had become a vampire and all the challenges that it had brought. He sighed and started preparing the rest of his ingredients. Maybe Rebekah was right, and it was time for him to try a new approach.

When you stepped out of the airport and took your first breath of fresh air, you felt as if a heavy weight had been lifted from your shoulders. You were so close to seeing your husband, and it made your heart flutter. You looked around and smiled when you saw a tall man with dark hair and eyes waiting patiently for you, holding a sign with your name on it.

"Hello," you said, "I'm y/n."

"Good evening, ma'am," he said politely. "My name is Joshua, and I will be driving you home tonight."

"Thank you, Joshua," you replied. "Can we get going? I've been away for too long."

"Certainly," he said, picking up your suitcase and walking to the car. He loaded it into the trunk and then held open the door for you.

"Where is Elijah?" you asked, getting in and settling yourself into the leather seat.

"He had a prior engagement tonight," Joshua replied, closing the door and walking around the car to get in the driver's side. "He asked me to let you know he was sorry he couldn't meet you and that he will see you when you get home."

"Oh," you said, trying to mask your disappointment. You knew your husband well, and you were certain he was lying about a prior engagement. It had happened before, and you suspected that he had arranged a welcome home surprise for you. You would have preferred he just picked you up, no surprises necessary; you simply needed his presence.

When you arrived home, there was a light burning in the kitchen, and as the car pulled up, and you opened the door, you could smell the wonderful aromas of your favorite food. Your husband was definitely here. You got out and walked towards the house, smiling at Joshua and thanking him as he carried your suitcase inside and left it at the foot of the stairs.

"Thank you, Joshua," you said, as he turned to leave.

"You're welcome, ma'am," he said, "and have a good night."

"I intend to," you replied, your lips curving into a smile as you turned and walked towards the kitchen.

As you approached the doorway, you could see Elijah's silhouette in the light, his broad shoulders and strong arms moving quickly as he finished off the meal. You paused and leaned against the doorframe, watching him.

You remembered the day you met him, and how shy and reserved he was, how nervous and uncomfortable he was around you. He was always so sweet and shy, unaware of just how beautiful he was. You remembered how his eyes would light up whenever he saw you around the village, sneaking glances at you whenever he thought you weren't looking. You remembered how happy he was when you had agreed to go for a walk with him. How he would stumble over his words and blush as he told you about his dreams and ambitions. And you remembered the day he kissed you. It was the first time either of you had ever kissed anyone, and he was so unsure of himself, his hands shaking as he held your face and his lips barely touching yours. But his lips were so soft, and the feeling of his warm skin on yours was exhilarating. You remember the day you married him and how proud he was to call you his wife. The way his eyes filled with tears as he kissed you, the way he smiled and held you so tight. His vows still clear in your mind even after a thousand years.

"My dearest wife, I will always be true to you, through everything and no matter what happens. My love will be yours until the end of time. I will always cherish and protect you. You are my everything."

Little did either of you know how long you would keep those vows; immortality had not yet come upon either of you. It was both a blessing and a curse, but with Elijah by your side, you knew you could handle whatever came your way.

You watched him now, still the same beautiful, sweet, and caring man you had fallen in love with. He was the man who had stolen your heart, and he was the one who would forever hold it. He was moving around the kitchen frantically, nervously glancing at the clock every few minutes. He was clearly making sure everything was perfect for your return. You wondered how he didn't hear you come in, but you supposed he was so lost in thought that he couldn't sense anything else. You smiled to yourself, loving him even more.

You stepped forward and wrapped your arms around his waist, pulling him close. He froze, and you could feel his heart pounding against your cheek.

"Hello, my darling," you said softly, kissing his shoulder blade.

He let out a long sigh and relaxed in your arms, his hands covering yours. "Hello," he whispered.

"Mmm, something smells delicious," you murmured.

"It's coq au vin," he replied.

"My favorite," you said. "I'm impressed, you must have put a lot of effort into tonight's dinner."

"I wanted it to be perfect," he said quietly.

"Why?"

He turned around and placed his hands on your cheeks, stroking his thumbs over your skin, his brown eyes were warm and full of emotion. To you he still looked like a the nervous teenager who gathered all his courage just to talk to you.

"Because," he said softly, leaning down to brush his lips against yours, "I missed you so much."

"I missed you too," you replied, wrapping your arms around his neck and pulling him down to kiss you again.

His lips were soft and warm, his kiss slow and tender. You felt his hands slide into your hair and tug gently, his tongue slipping between your parted lips.

"Elijah," you murmured.

"Hmmm," he mumbled, kissing his way down your throat.

"Something is burning," you said.

He immediately pulled back, his eyes wide as he looked over his shoulder. The sauce was smoking, and he quickly reached for the pan and removed it from the heat, turning the stove off.

You watched as he ran his fingers through his hair, his jaw clenching in frustration.

"I'm sorry, it's ruined," he said. "I just..."

"It's okay," you said, taking his hand and leading him out of the kitchen.

"But what about dinner?" he asked.

"Dinner can wait," you said, "or we can order take-out. All I really want right now is my husband."

You smiled and he grinned back at you, his earlier nervousness forgotten. He pulled you into his arms and kissed you, lifting you up and carrying you to the bedroom.

"I love you, my beautiful wife," he whispered, laying you on the bed and climbing on top of you.

"I love you, sweet husband," you replied.

He kissed you again and then proceeded to show you just how much he had missed you.

[evenawatermark]

Bucky Discovers the 21st Century Pt. 1: Food

The food in the forties was, shall we say...lacking (especially during WWII because VINIGER CAKE was a real thing they would make)

so when bucky found out he could try basically any cuisine he wanted whenever he wanted, he made it his mission to try something new every week

he started with Mexican food

a little taco truck down the street from his apartment that had string lights hanging everywhere, black fold-out tables/chairs, and cheerful music blasting from the truck speakers

he looked at the small menu and immediately knew he wouldn't be able to make a decision, so he just told them to give him one of every street taco they knew how to make, along with one of every sauce they had. he settled on a pineapple Jarritos for a drink

he could not believe what he was tasting.

This was a boy who was raised on SPAM and economic hardship and now he had been introduced to a whole new world

it was spicier than anything he was used to but somehow he loved it, the meat was just salty enough, the vegetables tasted fresh, and the Jarritos he picked up on a whim was one of the best drinks he had ever had (fuck alcohol, where had this been all his life?)

he didn't know beans could taste this goddamn good. whenever he thought of beans he thought of the flavorless, slimey, usually cold soup he would have to eat when there was nothing else in the house, but these were warm, soft, and good

he finished everything they gave him and immediately went back to order dessert

the cooks were in disbelief that he finished everything on his own, but after Bucky sang his praises to them and promised he would be back again, they offered him a couple churros on the house, which he gladly took and ate while walking home

when he entered his apartment, he immediately flopped down on his bed, sighing contentedly before closing his eyes

feeling well fed and happy, he proceeded to have the best sleep he had in a while

the next week was Japanese

he chose a sushi bar that was a much farther walk than the taco truck had been

he was slightly skeptical going in, after looking at pictures of sushi online he thought it looked a little plain, but Steve had said this place was worth it, and had even taken the time to write Bucky a list of what he should get (spicy tuna roll, salmon and shrimp sashimi, tuna and yellowtail nigiri, a rainbow roll, and a California roll)

he sat down and was relieved to notice that he was not the only one there alone, in fact, most people looked to be alone. he never liked going to sit down restaurants because of the pitying looks he would get for not having anyone with him, but no one bat an eye here

maybe Japanese food would be to his taste after all

he ordered everything on Steve's list, and the waitress recommended he start with a Miso Soup, Bucky agreed despite not knowing what that was (he had learned by now to always listen to a waitress' recommendation)

the soup was very salty, and the tofu was a strange texture, but Bucky enjoyed the seaweed and he liked drinking the broth afterward, he made a mental note: I do not like tofu

when his sushi came out, Bucky discovered he was right: sushi was plain, but in a way he really loved

it was fresh, and light. not too heavy but just filling enough to where he didn't overear

the soy sauce added just enough flavor that he could still taste the fish, and the spicy mayo added the perfect level of spice that wasn't overwhelming, just a pleasant tingle on his tongue

he paid his bill (way more expensive than the taco truck) and enjoyed the walk home, feeling full but not overstuffed

when he got home, he went through the motions of his nightly routine, which somehow didn't feel as much like a chore tonight, and he went to sleep feeling calmer than normal

the week after was Indian

this restaurant had been recommended by Tony, who apparently came here so often they knew him by name even before he was known as Iron Man because he told Bucky "if you tell them I sent you, you might get a discount"

Bucky would rather die than admit Tony Stark sent him anywhere

but he walked into the restaurant hopeful because despite everything, Tony was known to have good taste

Bucky opened the door and was immediately hit with the strongest smell of spices he had ever experienced, he smelled cumin, bay leaves, sinful amounts of chili powder, and some he couldn't even identify

he was also hit with quite a lot of noise

the cooks were shouting at each other in hindi, there was a small boy clearly being told to finish his homework in a corner booth, and the cashier was yelling a greeting at Bucky

he approached the counter and was honest with the cashier (a teenage girl with long hair tied back in a loose braid) that he really didn't know what to get--he had never had indian food

the cashier seemed amused by this but began asking him what his preferences were, "chicken, goat, lamb, vegetarian?"

before Bucky could answer, he was cut off by one of the cooks shouting something he could tell was an insult at the other

the cashier apologized "it's my dad and his brother, they've owned the place together since I was a baby but they still fight like children"

Bucky smiled and told her he preferred chicken, she asked him how spicy he wanted it and he told her "hot"

she raised her eyebrows and asked him if he was sure. confused, he told her of course he was sure

he paid for the food and sat at a random table while he waited, after a few minutes the cashier walked up to him with a steaming cup in her hand

"have some chai while you wait, it's just black tea with milk but it's my grandmother's special recipe, you'll love it"

Bucky gratefully accepted the cup, surprised at level of hospitality he was getting

he took a sip and immediately fell in love, the tea he grew up drinking was not nearly this rich. the milk made it smooth going down his throat, the cardamom floating in the cup made it smell amazing, and the blend of spices added the perfect amount of flavor

he could see why Tony liked this place

eventually his food came (Chicken Tikka Masala, garlic naan, and mango lassi) and he was amazed at the vibrant color of the meat and the intense smell of all the spices

Bucky, directed by the cashier, used the naan to break off a piece of chicken, made sure to coat the meat in masala, and took his first bite

he immediately felt like he had been slapped in the face

he fought back a cough, his eyes watering. clearly he had underestimated what "hot" meant here

despite this, he couldn't get enough of the flavor of the meat, the richness of sauce, the softness of the naan, and the sweetness of the lassi (which provided much needed relief from the spice)

everything worked together so perfectly, it was intense but beautiful

he finished his whole plate with wet eyes, but he felt full in the best way possible.

he waved goodbye to the cashier, telling her to give his compliments to her dad and uncle and that he would absolutely be back

the week after that was Louisiana

Sam had caught wind of Bucky's culinary adventures and asked him if he had ever had cajun food, when Bucky said he hadn't Sam informed the people on his block

and thus began a two-day long cook off where everyone made their best recipes and gave them to Bucky to try

there was so much food even Bucky was unsure if he could eat it all, and it all had so much salt he was unsure his heart could take it even with the serum

the gumbo was unlike anything he had ever had, there was so many different flavors and textures happening in one little bowl it was almost overwhelming, but he adored every bit

the jambalaya nearly had him in tears it was so good

again, so much happening on such a small plate, teetering on too much but damn if it didn't taste incredible

and of course he had beignets, which were small bites of heaven he could not get enough of, he ate so many Sam had to remind him there were other dishes he had to try

everyone was so eager for him to tell them what he thought, and they were all urging him to pick a favorite, which he told them he couldn't possibly decide

it was Sarah's crawfish boil, which he tried to tell her in private but she immediately bragged to Sam, who had also made a crawfish boil

he refused to speak to Bucky for several days after

Bucky stayed in Louisiana for another week after the cook-off and mentions in passing--almost to no one--how impressive it was that everyone had their own signature dish that they had perfected throughout their life, and how he would love to do that someday

Sam and Sarah immediately started fighting over who would teach Bucky how to cook, and so began the next step in his food journey

i haven't written anything in forever, but I definitely want this to be a series even if I'm the only one interested. I'm thinking of doing bucky discovering modern music next but if you have any suggestions let me know!

[kittybittyblue]

Could I request Human Shadow x female reader relationship headcanons? Sfw and nsfw, please and thank you.

First sonic post :D

Human!Shadow x Fem!reader Dating Hcs :3

Sfw!

Can guarantee this man drives you around on the most fabulous motorcycle

Will drive you anywhere almost no questions asked

I have to say if you guys were living together you would be making all of the money, he can't keep a job for more than a month

He knows how hard you work at your job and can't help but feel guilty that he can't really amount to the work that you do so he tries his best to help by cleaning, cooking, and just generally trying to help you with whatever your working on

Man's keeps the house SPOTLESS. You know how much he tries with his skincare why wouldn't it be different when it comes to the cooking and cleaning.

I doubt he's super big on PDA whatsoever. Maybe a little bit of hand holding in a bust place so you don't get lost, but he mostly gives you affection in private.

This man has trauma for days, I think one of the first things you guys figure out in your relationship is Shadows relationship with Maria

If you let him cry on your shoulder, like no reason other than he's sad, the wedding bells are ringing

He is always the big spoon. Refuses to be the little spoon under any circumstances

I doubt he would initiate any and all affection, like he's not opposed but he just doesn't quite understand when something like that should and shouldn't be initiated

He LOVES horror movies, and first person shooter.

If your into that stuff he would offer to play with you, then absolutely kick your ass or baby you until he thinks you can exit the fucking tutorial

NSFW!

7 inches, slight upward curve, circumcised

Again, doesn't quite understand when to initiate so just leaves it to you.

So fucking oblivious to your advances It like actually hurts

He is most certainly a Dom but I can see once in a while he'll let you take over

If he's being a top, maybe a little bit of groaning

If he's a bottom he is whimpering and moaning like nobody else lives around you.

He treats it as more of a stress reliever than an actual intimate activity.

I can see this man being a master in bed, knows everything your into/not into, what pace to go at based on how your feeling

He has probably gotten with a handful of women, but no doubt he's ever been in a serious relationship.

I wanna say power imbalance kink, really into being the stronger one in any situation

Also probably a choking kink in the way he wants to do it to you, again adding to the power dynamic.

He will not cross any boundaries. Ever. If you have expressed that you're unhappy with something in bed he will guarantee to not even speak of it again around you.

Gets really turned on why you are almost shy or embarrassed to ask for what you want.

Its a huge ego boost if you praise him and he loves it. On the other hand it is almost instinct to degrade you to the point of tears.

I'm not really sure about aftercare. Either he cuddles you and helps you clean up or just fuckin leaves you there.

Either way he's expressed he loves you and that your pretty awesome sauce

I was flooded with requests right after my project was finished, I will never see the end of the smut. Prepare to be spoiled y'all, hope this was what u were looking for :D

-Blue

[daeniradraconis]

All the Lines We Crossed 2 - William Nylander and Auston Matthews

Summary: William and Nora care for Auston after his injury, ending up on the couch where things take a satisfying turn. Warning: +18 only, threesome, light BDSM play and power dynamics, overstimulation, spitting, breeding...well I think thats it Author’s Note: Here’s the second and final part! I’d love to write more headcanons for this couple in the future, but I feel their story is completed now. Have fun reading it!

The smell of sizzling onions and roasted peppers filled the air, and the kitchen buzzed with a chaotic mix of half-chopped vegetables, open spice jars, and William’s unceasing chatter. He stood at the stove with a wooden spoon in one hand, a confident grin on his face, expertly stirring a bubbling pot of sauce.

“Okay, so Auston’s mom gave me the recipe,” William said, his eyes scanning the scribbled notes on a scrap of paper. “But, like, I think we should kick it up a notch with more chili powder. You know he loves it spicy.”

Nora glanced up from where she was chopping cilantro. “William, if you keep messing with the recipe, it’s not even his mom’s dish anymore. It’s your weird little experiment.”

“Experiment?!” William gasped, clutching his chest dramatically. “I’ll have you know, I’m an amazing cook. Auston’s gonna shed happy tears when he tastes this. You’ll see.”

Nora laughed, shaking her head as she reached for the lime wedges. “If he cries, it’ll be because of the chili powder. I can’t believe you actually called his mom for the recipe.”

William turned, tossing his hair in mock offense. “Of course I called her. He’s been all grumpy and distant since the injury, and you know what makes everything better? Food. Especially his mom’s food.”

“You’re ridiculous,” Nora teased, stepping closer and handing him the chopped cilantro. “But, honestly? It’s sweet. You’re sweet.”

He paused, his smile softening as he looked down at her. “Only for him,” he said quietly. Then, after a beat, he added, “And maybe for you. Sometimes. When you’re nice to me.”

She rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged at her lips. “Don’t get used to it.”

Their hands brushed as she passed him the cilantro, and he took it, his fingers lingering on hers just a moment too long. The teasing grin returned, but there was something warmer in his gaze now.

“You know,” William said, leaning closer, “if we kiss now, it’ll make the food taste better. It’s science.”

“Science, huh?” Nora raised an eyebrow, trying to stay cool as her pulse quickened.

“Yep,” William said, closing the distance between them with a mischievous glint in his eye. “Totally proven. Kiss the chef, improve the dish.”

“Fine,” she said with a smirk, leaning in. “For the sake of the recipe.”

The kiss began playful, just a soft brush of lips, but it deepened quickly. William slid his hands around her waist, pulling her closer, and the warmth of his body, the faint scent of spices, made her head spin.

“William,” she murmured between kisses, “the sauce is gonna burn.”

He pulled back just enough to glance at the stove. “It’s fine. I’m a multitasking genius.”

“Uh-huh,” she said, laughing as she nudged him back toward the stove. “Stir, genius.”

William groaned but obeyed, turning his attention back to the pot, though his free hand remained resting on her waist. “You’re bossy. Auston’s gonna love that.”

Just then, the sound of the front door opening echoed through the apartment. Nora turned toward the doorway as Auston walked in, his broad shoulders slumped, a bag dangling from his good arm. He looked tired, but his eyes softened when he saw them.

“Something smells good,” he said, his voice rough from the long day. His gaze flicked between the two of them, landing on William’s hand still resting on Nora’s waist. A small, knowing smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

“We made your mom’s recipe,” William announced, practically beaming as he set the spoon down. “Well, I made it. Nora just supervised.”

“Supervised?” Nora repeated, crossing her arms. “I’m the reason this kitchen isn’t a disaster.”

Auston chuckled, stepping into the room. “I’m just impressed you didn’t call takeout.”

“Rude,” William said, pointing a finger at him. “You’ll be eating your words when you taste this.”

Auston laughed, his eyes flicking between them. “I’m sure I will.”

Auston’s smile softened as his gaze lingered on both of them. He took a slow step toward Nora, his eyes locking with hers as he reached out to cup her face in his hand. Without another word, he leaned in, pressing his lips gently to hers. It was a tender kiss, a welcome release from the stresses of the day.

When he pulled back, his breath ghosted against her lips, and he whispered, “Good evening, beautiful,” in a low, sweet tone that made her heart flutter.

Nora couldn’t help but smile against him, her fingers grazing his chest as he pulled back just enough for their eyes to meet. There was something in his gaze that made her feel like the luckiest person in the world.

Auston then turned his attention to William, who was leaning against the counter with a sly grin. Auston sauntered over to him, a playful glint in his eyes, and reached out, ruffling William’s hair with exaggerated affection. Then he leaned in close enough for their noses to brush.

“Thanks,” Auston murmured, his voice steady but full of tenderness. “I know what you’re both doing for me. And I’m… really grateful for it.”

William’s teasing expression softened, and he met Auston’s gaze for a long moment before responding with a quiet nod. “Anything for you, love.”

Nora watched them both, her heart swelling with a quiet happiness. The way they looked at each other, the unspoken understanding and deep bond between them, was undeniable. She felt so grateful to be a part of it—to witness the love they shared, and now, the love they extended to her.

—

Dinner had been a hit—thanks to Nora, of course. William had focused on making Auston feel comfortable, his hands always close, a playful smirk never far from his lips. For the first time in days, Auston had relaxed. The comfort food worked its magic, and the quiet affection around him lifted his spirits.

Now, the three of them were sprawled on the couch, cozy and intimate. Auston’s injured arm stretched out, still aching, but the tension in his body had disappeared. His eyes flickered between William and Nora, both radiating love. For the first time in a long while, he felt at ease.

Tonight, Nora was in control. She was determined to make Auston feel cherished, like the center of everything. She’d picked his favorite whiskey, the amber liquid gleaming in their glasses as the soft room light wrapped around them. “I’m taking care of you tonight,” she murmured, her voice low, eyes locking with his in a way that made his breath catch.

William had already played his part—throughout dinner, he’d kept Auston relaxed, distracting him with gentle touches and quiet conversation, easing his mind from the pain. Now, it was Nora’s turn to guide the evening.

Auston took the glass from her, their fingers brushing. He exhaled, a soft sound of relief escaping him. “You’re both unbelievable,” he said, gratitude thick in his voice as he sipped the whiskey.

William leaned in close, his lips grazing Auston’s neck as he whispered, “You deserve this, babe,” his fingers trailing over his shoulders, coaxing him into deeper relaxation.

Nora moved closer, her hand resting on his thigh as she traced slow circles on his skin. “Let me take care of you,” she murmured, her voice warm. She could see how drained he was from the injury, how it had taken so much out of him. Tonight, she wouldn’t let him think about anything but the comfort they offered.

Her hand slid higher, reminding him he wasn’t alone—that he was loved. Auston’s breath hitched, his body responding before his mind could catch up. Nora was taking charge tonight, offering him the care he needed. She saw the exhaustion in his eyes, but also the quiet desire.

“You’re so good to me,” Auston murmured, his voice thick with emotion. He leaned in to kiss her, pulling her closer. His lips were soft, filled with unspoken gratitude.

Nora kissed him back, hands threading through his hair, deepening the kiss to make him forget everything else. When she pulled back, their breaths mingling, she whispered, “You’re ours to take care of,” before kissing him again with more purpose. She wasn’t just soothing him—she was showing him how much he meant to her, how much they both cared.

William’s hand slid around Auston’s back, fingers tracing his spine as he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his ear. “You’ve got both of us tonight,” he murmured, his voice low but sincere. “Just relax and let us give you what you need.”

Auston exhaled slowly, the weight of their words and touch settling in. It wasn’t just about the injury—it was the love, the devotion. They were making him feel like he mattered more than anything.

Nora’s lips drifted from his mouth to his jaw, trailing soft, lingering kisses as her fingers slipped beneath his shirt. She took her time, savoring each moment. She let him feel every second, reminding him how desired he was, gently removing his clothes, piece by piece.

“You’re doing so well, Auston,” she whispered, her voice warm as she kissed his neck.

William smiled quietly, running his hand through Auston’s hair. He was content to let Nora lead, watching as she showered Auston with the affection he needed. His eyes never left Auston’s face, filled with love, before pressing another soft kiss to his neck.

This wasn’t the first time they’d been together, but tonight felt different. It was the first time Nora had fully taken control. In the beginning, when they first started dating, Auston and William had showered Nora with affection as she adjusted. Now, it was her turn to give back.

Nora trailed soft kisses down Auston’s chest before slowly sinking to her knees, a playful smile tugging at her lips. Auston exchanged a knowing glance with William—both intrigued by this bolder side of her. With deliberate care, Nora removed his jeans, breath catching as she took in the sight of him, anticipation building "Come on," William said with a playful but gentle smile, his eyes filled with a knowing glint. "Use your hand, but don’t make him come yet."

Auston let out a frustrated sigh. He was used to William’s teasing, especially in moments like this. But Nora just let out a soft laug. She leaned in, spitting lightly onto Auston’s cock, and then slowly, deliberately, began to stroke him, her hand moving up and down in rhythm.

“Oh no, Willy,” Nora purred, her voice dripping with desire. “You just sit back and watch. You can only touch me or give instructions if Auston allows it.” She shot him a playful wink before lowering her mouth onto him, taking him in fully, her throat tightening as she swallowed around him.

William’s breath hitched, his eyes wide with a mix of surprise and lust. He knew Nora was open to trying new things, but this—this was unexpected. Auston grinned, their gazes locked, silent communication passing between them. They didn’t need words. They were already in sync.

“She’s incredible,” Auston thought, feeling a rush of love and admiration for Nora.

“We’re lucky to have her,” William silently agreed, his pulse quickening as he watched them.

William leaned back, his hands quickly shedding his clothes. He moved to sit next to Auston, eyes never leaving the sight of Nora as she worked. The sound of her sucking, the quiet moans slipping from Auston’s lips, made William’s chest tighten with need. It was like everything else in the world disappeared when he focused on them.

“Would it be okay if I sat behind you, babe?” William’s voice was low, soft, as he kissed the tender spot just behind Auston’s ear.

"Yes, please..."Auston’s voice cracked, his words barely escaping through his panting breath. “… just like that… Fuck, right there…”

William’s heart thundered as he heard Auston’s need, his deep voice thick with pleasure. There was something about hearing Auston beg, about the rawness in his tone, that always drove him wild. But seeing him like this—head thrown back, eyes fluttering closed as Nora’s mouth worked on him—was almost too much to bear. Nora looked so beautiful, flushed, her lips and eyes full of desire, each movement purposefully slow, making Auston feel every second of it.

“Feels good, doesn’t it, baby?” William whispered, his lips grazing Auston’s neck, tasting the salt of his skin. He kissed down the side of his neck, moving slowly, savoring each inch.

Auston’s chest heaved, his body trembling as he moaned, fingers digging into William’s neck as he reached back, pulling him closer. “Yeah… Just like that Nora baby…” His voice was rough, needy.

William smiled against his skin, his hands roaming across Auston’s chest, feeling the hard, taut muscles beneath his fingertips. He pinched a nipple, the sharp tug making Auston groan louder, his back arching slightly in response.

“What’s the matter, baby?” William teased, his voice rich with power. “You gonna come for Nora? She’s practically begging for it.”

“Nope,” Nora murmured, pulling back with a soft, wet pop, her lips lingering for just a moment before she slowly lifted her head. Her gaze swept over the two men, now tangled together, their bodies intertwined in a mix of tension and need. A playful smile curved her lips, her breath shallow with desire.

“I want you inside me, Auston,” she whispered, her voice dripping with seduction as she climbed onto his lap. She moved with deliberate grace, each kiss along his chest leaving a trail of heat. Her teeth grazed his skin, just enough to send a shiver down his spine. “Please,” she begged, her voice low, trembling with anticipation, “fill me up.”

Auston’s breath caught in his throat, his voice rough as he met her gaze. “I’ll give you whatever you want, baby,” he murmured, but his eyes darkened with a deeper hunger. “But first, lose the clothes.” He sank back against William, the strength of his friend’s arms holding him steady as he watched Nora with anticipation.

Nora didn’t hesitate. She rose, her fingers trembling just slightly as she peeled her clothes off, tossing them aside carelessly. Her bare skin glowed under the dim light, her movements fluid, hungry. She returned to Auston’s lap, her bare body brushing against his in a slow, purposeful movement. The heat between them flared as their skin met.

Auston groaned, his eyes never leaving her. “William,” he rasped, “would you mind checking if she’s ready for me?”

William’s lips curled into a knowing smirk as he pressed a kiss to Auston’s cheek. “Anything for you,” he whispered, his voice thick with promise. His hand slipped forward, between Nora’s thighs, and she gasped—a soft, breathy sound as she parted her legs instinctively to welcome him.

William’s fingers found her easily, sliding through the wetness of her skin, a slow, deliberate stroke that made her hips instinctively rise to meet him. A soft moan escaped her, the sound deep and throaty as her hands roamed up to cup her breasts. Her fingers teased a nipple, rolling it between her fingers as William continued to work her open with careful, measured movements.

“God, you’re so wet,” William muttered, his voice full of raw lust as he watched her—each movement, each sound she made heightening the intensity of the moment. He glanced at Auston, his tone shifting with desire. “She’s perfect, but she’ll need more.”

With a final, slow thrust of his fingers, William stretched her further, making her hips twitch and grind in response. His touch was firm, methodical—preparing her for what was to come. Nora whimpered, her body already so responsive, her head tipped back in pure pleasure. Every part of her was on fire, an overwhelming mix of sensation.

Meanwhile, Auston dipped his head to her chest, his lips grazing her sensitive skin. He took one nipple into his mouth, his tongue moving in slow, deliberate circles, before gently sucking, sending jolts of pleasure through her body. Nora’s hands clung to him, nails digging into his shoulders as her body moved instinctively with their touches. William’s free hand pressed against Auston’s back, his own arousal evident as the three of them moved together, synchronized in their need.

Nora felt the tension inside her coil tighter and tighter, each stroke, each touch unraveling her further. She was so close. William’s fingers, Auston’s tongue, and the occasional press of Auston’s cock against her thigh—all of it combined to push her to the brink. Her breath hitched, her body trembled, and then it hit her—like a wave crashing over her, her body shaking as her orgasm tore through her, lighting up her every nerve.

“Willy… Aus…” she moaned, her voice trembling, hands gripping their firm, muscular bodies for support, her body now completely undone.

William leaned in, his lips brushing against Auston’s ear. “Look at her,” he murmured, his voice low with admiration. “How beautiful is she while she’s coming from my fingers?”

Auston pulled his mouth away from her breast, his lips brushing softly over her flushed skin. Her face was a portrait of bliss—eyes heavy with pleasure, lips swollen and parted, undone by the passion they’d shared. She looked ethereal, as though she had completely surrendered to the moment. Auston’s breath hitched in his chest as he cupped her cheek, his thumb gently caressing the warmth of her skin.

God, he thought, his heart pounding in his chest. How could he love anyone this much?

"Come here, baby," Auston murmured, his voice low and warm, vibrating with promise. His hands wrapped around her waist, gently lifting her from William’s touch, holding her steady as her body trembled beneath him. She was still floating, her limbs weak and her pulse racing from her last release.

A soft whimper escaped Nora’s lips as Auston guided her down, inch by slow inch, onto his cock. Her breath hitched, her chest rising and falling with the effort to adjust, exhaustion and overstimulation mixing with the raw need she couldn’t quite suppress.

"No… I can't…" she whispered, her voice fragile as her head fell against his shoulder. Her words cracked, the tremor of her exhaustion betraying her. "I can't take more… I—"

"Yes, you can, baby," Auston whispered, his lips grazing her ear, his hands firm but patient on her hips. He guided her into a slow, steady rhythm, coaxing her into the movement with a tenderness that contrasted the hunger in his voice. "You were made for this, Nora. You were made for us."

Behind her, William’s voice joined in, a soft growl of approval laced with heat. "You're perfect, sweetheart," he murmured, eyes drinking in the sight of her body as she moved against Auston’s. His fingers brushed down her back, sending a shiver through her. "We’ve got you. You’ll take it, and you’ll love it."

Auston’s grip tightened, a deep groan escaping his lips as Nora’s walls clenched around him, her body responding with growing confidence. Her hips rolled in time with the rhythm, and she reached up, gripping William’s shoulders for balance, her nails pressing into his skin.

Auston’s hand drifted down, his fingers finding her clit, moving in slow, deliberate circles that made her moan into William’s neck. Each stroke was calculated, building her up higher as her breath hitched with every pulse of pleasure.

William leaned in closer, his chest pressing against Auston back, lips ghosting over her temple as the room filled with the sounds of their bodies—soft gasps, wet skin, the rhythmic creak of the couch beneath them. It was intoxicating, overwhelming, and William couldn’t hold back. The sight of Nora riding Auston, her body trembling with every movement, sent heat flooding through him. His breath faltered, and with a low, guttural groan, he came—hot and heavy—spilling across Auston’s back.

Auston chuckled, his voice husky as he turned his head toward William, mischief flickering in his eyes. "Couldn’t help yourself, huh?" he teased, swiping a finger through the mess on his skin and bringing it to his lips. He licked it clean with a quiet moan, savoring the taste.

Nora, now fully lost in the rhythm, leaned forward, her breath shallow as her eyes locked onto William’s. Her gaze was dark with desire, lips swollen, the heat between them palpable. Her hand rose to cup his cheek, her thumb brushing lightly over the corner of his lips before she slowly parted her mouth.

Without hesitation, William leaned in, steady and deliberate. His gaze never left hers as he let the saliva pool in his mouth before spitting it into hers. His hand cradled her throat, his thumb pressing lightly against her pulse point as she swallowed, eyes fluttering closed in submission.

Auston groaned deeply at the sight, his hips bucking up instinctively, unable to keep still as the scene unfolded before him. "God, baby," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper, his hands tightening on her hips. "You're incredible. Come for me, Nora. Let me feel you."

The words shattered any restraint left inside her. A tremor ran through her, and with a cry of his name, Nora threw her head back, her body tensing as her orgasm overtook her. Her walls clamped down around Auston, and that was all it took for him to follow. With a deep, guttural moan, he spilled inside her, filling her completely.

"Auston," William murmured, his lips pressing a kiss to the curve of Auston’s shoulder. His voice dropped lower, dripping with heat. "Give her everything. I want to see it." His gaze darkened with desire. "I want to see your cum dripping down her thighs."

The words sent a shiver through both Auston and Nora, their bodies wracked with aftershocks. For a long moment, Auston stayed buried inside her, holding her close as their breath mingled. William’s hands drifted over them, stroking gently as they recovered, offering comfort and connection in the aftermath.

Finally, Auston pulled back, carefully lifting Nora off him. Her eyes were closed, her lips parted, her body still trembling from the intensity of their shared release. He laid her down beside him on the couch, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. Then, he turned to William, leaning in to kiss him—a kiss that was tender, unhurried, full of quiet affection after the storm they’d just weathered together.

“I’m gonna clean up,” Auston murmured against his lips, his voice warm.

“Go ahead,” William replied, his fingers brushing over Auston’s jaw. “I’ll take care of her.”

As Auston disappeared down the hallway, William knelt between Nora’s legs.

“Willy… please,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “I don’t think I can take any more.”

“Relax, baby,” William murmured, his lips brushing over the soft skin of her inner thigh. “I’m just cleaning you up.”

His movements were slow and deliberate as he licked along the inside of her thighs, his tongue soft and warm against her skin. There was no urgency, no demand—just quiet affection. As his blue eyes flicked up to meet hers, they were filled with nothing but love.

Nora’s hands found their way into his blonde curls, her fingers tangling there as soft moans escaped her lips. William moved carefully, his tongue sweeping over her sensitive skin, tasting both her and Auston as he cleaned every trace of them away. When he was done, he leaned up, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to her lips.

The moment was intimate and quiet, filled with warmth. Nora sighed against his mouth, tasting the blend of all three of them.

They broke apart at the sound of Auston’s soft laugh. Nora and William turned to find him leaning casually against the wall, his Maple Leafs shirt hanging loose over his frame, his arms holding Nora’s pajamas and a pair of boxers for William.

“I thought you two might need these,” he said, his smile wide as he looked at the two people he loved most in the world.

Auston crossed the room, tossing the clothes gently onto the couch beside Nora and William. He crouched down beside her, his large hand brushing softly over her cheek. Nora’s flushed face was still dazed, her body heavy with exhaustion, her lips slightly swollen from everything they’d done. She was breathtaking like this, undone and glowing. It made Auston’s chest ache.

“Hey,” he murmured, voice tender as he leaned in to kiss her forehead. “You okay, baby? Anything you need?”

Nora let out a shaky laugh, her fingers finding his wrist and giving it a small squeeze. “I’m okay,” she said, her voice hoarse, her body trembling faintly as she sank back into the couch cushions. “Just… exhausted.”

William shifted beside her, already tucking one of the blankets over her bare body with careful hands. “You should be,” he teased lightly, his lips brushing her hairline. “You didn’t make it easy on yourself, baby girl.”

“I didn’t think he’d actually do it,” Nora muttered, her cheeks darkening as she buried her face against Auston’s chest.

Auston froze for a moment, exchanging a glance with William over her shoulder. “Didn’t think I’d do what?” he asked softly, though his voice held a hint of nervousness.

Nora peeked up at him, her lips pressing together before she let out a quiet huff. “When I told you to fill me up,” she admitted, her tone sheepish. “I was just… in the moment. I didn’t think you’d actually…we never did without a condom—”

Auston let out a deep laugh, cutting her off. “Oh, come on, baby,” he said, cupping her cheek so she couldn’t hide her face. “You begged for it. You think I could resist that?”

Nora groaned, covering her face with both hands. “I wasn’t thinking,” she mumbled, her voice muffled. “I’m not on anything. I stopped taking the pill months ago. It was making me miserable—my hormones, my mood, everything. I had to stop.”

Auston’s laughter faded, his face softening. “Why didn’t you tell us?”

“I didn’t think it mattered,because we were always careful…” she said, lowering her hands to meet his gaze. “Not until… well, now.”

William leaned in closer, his hand resting gently on her hip. “Nora,” he said softly, his voice low and reassuring. “You don’t ever have to keep stuff like that to yourself. We’re your partners. We’re in this together.”

“I know,” she whispered, guilt flickering in her voice. “I just didn’t want to complicate things. And it’s not like I expected tonight to…”

“To be this intense?” Auston finished for her, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

She nodded, her cheeks flushing.

Auston tilted her chin up, his dark eyes searching hers. “Baby, listen to me. I don’t care that you’re not on anything. I mean it. Actually…” He trailed off, his ears tinged pink as he glanced at William.

“What?” Nora asked nervously.

William grinned, leaning forward to press a kiss to her temple. “We think it’s hot,” he said bluntly.

“What?” Nora repeated, blinking at him.

Auston laughed, shaking his head. “I’m serious, Nora. The idea of you carrying something that’s ours? That’s… incredible. It’s not just hot, it’s… I don’t know how to explain it. It’s everything.”

Nora stared at them, her heart pounding in her chest. “You’re serious?”

“Of course we are,” William said, his hand moving to rest on her stomach. His thumb traced lazy circles there, as if imagining something just beneath the surface. “The thought of starting a family with you? That’s a dream, baby. One we’d be lucky to share with you.”

Tears welled in her eyes as she looked between them. “I love you both so much,” she whispered, her voice cracking.

Auston leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to her lips. “We love you too, Nora,” he murmured against her mouth.

“More than anything,” William added, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her closer.

They sat like that for a while, the three of them tangled together on the couch, their bodies pressed close under the blanket. Auston’s hand rested on her thigh, while William’s fingers lazily stroked her back.

Eventually, Auston helped her into the pajamas he’d brought over, his movements careful and precise. William slipped into his boxers, and Auston stayed in his Maple Leafs shirt and sweatpants. By the time they settled back onto the couch, Nora was nestled between them, her head resting on Auston’s chest and her legs draped over William’s lap.

The quiet hum of their breathing filled the room, a soft, steady rhythm that pulled her closer to sleep.

“You really think we’d make a good family?” she asked after a while, her voice barely above a whisper.

Auston smiled, his fingers threading through her hair. “The best,” he said softly.

“We already are one,” William added, leaning down to kiss her forehead. “It’s just a matter of time.”

And with that, the three of them drifted off together, wrapped in the warmth of each other’s love and the promise of everything their future could hold.

[cainluvr69]

"Say Aah!" Cain SSR Card Story - The Pinnacle of Deep Frying

Cain: Whew, we sure have walked a lot. Master Sage, you're not too worn out, are you?

Akira: I'm okay. I am getting a little hungry, though…

Cain: I'm definitely feeling it, too. I'm pretty sure I saw a food stall back down that alley. Let's go check it out.

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: Mm, is that smell oil…? Then this stall must be…

Shopkeeper: Welcome, welcome! Step right up!

Cain: Hey, whatcha selling here?

Shopekeeper: "What," you ask… Well, that's a bit rough to answer. Might as well say anything, 'cause I'll deep fry anything!

Cain: …Anything, you say?

Shopkeeper: Eeyup. I'll fry whatever you want, dear customers, and then give it to you. What do you two want? I'll fry it up for you!

Cain: So, really anything? You've got a hell of a business model. Then I'll take a nice juicy cut of bacon!

Shopkeeper: You got it. And for you?

Akira: Umm, I guess I'll take a veggie or two.

Shopkeeper: Gotcha, one nice cut of bacon and our finest vegetables! Both together will be 300 yen.

Cain pulled out his wallet, and as he handed it over, he very casually and naturally touched the stall owner's hand.

Shopkeeper: Alright, now sit back 'n watch!

The shopkeeper grinned and popped a thick slice of bacon and a nougat yam into his pot of oil.

Cain: Man, I love deep fried stuff. I totally get wanting to deep fry anything and everything you can.

Akira: You sure have done that whenever you got the chance, as I recall…

Shopkeeper: Oh, that right? I feel like you 'n me could get along, kid! Here ya go, deep fried to perfection. Here's your bacon.

Cain: Thank you. …Well, don't mind if I do. Damn, that's good! Gimme another!

Shopkeeper: Ahaha! You practically inhaled that thing. Well, gimme just a second. Here's your nougat yam.

Akira: Thank you very much. Now, let me try it…

Mithra: What is that?

Akira: Oh!

Mithra suddenly appeared next to me and snatched my yam out of my hand.

Mithra: Chomp munch. How disappointing. My burnt charcoal has much more impact.

Cain: Hey man, you can't just show up and start picking a fight like that. And while I'm at it, that was the Sage's, not yours.

Mithra: It's their fault for letting their guard down. Besides, they should have something much tastier, with much more impact. In fact, it's terribly inconsiderate of them that they didn't consider doing this.

Akira: (That's an absolutely wild thing to just say like that…)

Shopkeeper: Impact, you say… Well, I guess it's possible that focusing so much on my deep frying means I let flavor fall by the wayside. I ain't as popular as some of the other stalls around here, and I don't get much in the way of feedback, so thank ya kindly for being so upfront about it.

Cain: Mister… Hey, would it be alright if I helped you with your shop?

Shopkeeper: Huh…?

Cain: We're comrades in the art of deep frying. I want to learn whatever I can from you.

Shopkeeper: Well, I'd appreciate the help. Welcome to the team.

Cain: Nice! Well then, let's get right to it… Do you think trying to put more flavor into the coating?

Akira: That sounds like it might be a good idea. Since deep fried food can be a little hard on the stomach, how about mixing in something nice and refreshing? Like how karaage usually comes with lemon slices…

Shopkeeper: I see, I see… Well, let's give it a try!

✦✧☾✧✦

Shopkeeper: And done! Some lightly fried vinegar fish, ready to serve! I added some ultramarine lemon juice to the batter. Here, try it!

Cain: Here we go…

Akira: Thank you very much.

The three of us took a bite of our respective fried fish.

Akira: (…Th-this is…)

Cain: Damn, that's sour!

Mithra: This is much more stimulating, though lightly frying it was unnecessary in my opinion.

Akira: It definitely packs a punch now, but maybe we could make it a little bit more…mellow…?

Cain: We're definitely going in the right direction. There's still something missing, but we're almost there…to peak deliciousness… I know! Mithra, we top this with that secret sauce of yours?

Mithra: Secret…? Oh, you mean this.

Mithra pulled a bottled labeled MAGIC SAUCE out of thin air.

Shopkeeper: Wh-where'd you pull that from…?!

The shopkeepers eyes went wide, and Cain and I frantically exchanged glances.

Akira: (We're in Eastern Country, so it'd be really really bad if it gets out that they're wizards…!) H-H-He's really good at sleight of hand type tricks! This guy, master of stage magic! He loves to surprise people so he always keeps a bottle up his sleeve, if you know what I mean!!

Cain: Yeah, yep! He always pulls it off so cool and casual, right?!

Mithra: What are you two talking about? This is basic magi--momph.

Cain: Anyways, moving on! The sauce he's got here tastes amazing on everything. Wanna give it a try?

Shopkeeper: On everything, you say? Is there really a sauce out there like that? Sounds downright magical.

Mithra: Of course it does. This is my handmade universal sauce.

Cain: C'mon, try it out.

At Cain's urging, we all put some of the sauce onto our fried fish.

Akira: (It's so good. Yakiniku sauce coming in clutch once again…)

Shopkeeper: Th-this flavor…! Y-you gotta tell me! How do I make this sauce?!

Mithra: You can't.

Shopkeeper: Why not?!

Mithra: Because you're nothing but a human--

Cain: Uhhhhhhhh hey! It's actually because the ingredients are really hard to get! It's a real specialty product!

Shopkeeper: Oh, I see… Then would you be willing to part with some? I'll pay you, I've got cash!

Mithra: I refuse. Making more of it would be such a bother.

Shopkeeper: No… It was such a vivid, perfect flavor…

Cain: Well, here's my thought. Why not try to make your own version of it? You're a chef, and you've got a lot experience with, y'know, eating things and examining the flavors, right? I'm sure you can rediscover this sauce's flavor.

Akira: I'd like to help you in this endeavor, too!

Shopkeeper: Well, ya got me. Let me try my hand at it!

✦✧☾✧✦

Shopkeeper: I think I've gotten the base flavor pretty close… What do you think?

The sauce the shopkeeper made certainly looked like Mithra's universal sauce. As for the flavor…

Cain: Mm, something's missing, I think.

Mithra: Yes. Something definitely is.

Akira: I think maybe it's that it's not, like, thick enough? But just a little thicker might be perfect…

Shopkeeper: You sure are eloquent, kiddo. I want to keep you as my taste tester!

Akira: M-me?!

✦✧☾✧✦

We ended up trying several different variations of sauces on different deep fried foods in a lengthy process of trial and error. At some point, Mithra got bored of stuffing himself with fried foods and wandered off.

Shopkeeper: Alright, next up is fried macaroni stalks! Still good to try it?

Akira: Yes. …Here goes. (The sauce counteracts the macaroni stalks' bitterness, but it still feels like something's missing…) (And I've eaten so many things, my stomach feels like it's going to burst…)

Cain: …

Cain glanced over at me with my hand on my belly, and licked a drop of sauce off of one of his fingers.

Cain: Why not add some kind of oil? Like, a climactic oil versus oil battle. You know, like how deep frying stuff plain in butter is really good.

Shopkeeper: No batter, just butter… Damn, I think you might really be onto something here!

Cain: I think the actual flavor of the sauce is spot-on at this point. Other than that, we just need to finish ironing out the proper mellowness and then we're done.

Akira: I think adding some extra oil would be good, too…

The shopkeeper added a few drops of his special, flavorful oil and mixed it in…

Akira: Alright, time for a taste… Mm! This is it!! (This smell, this flavor, it's spot-on yakiniku sauce!) This is it, this is it…! It's a little different from Mithra's magic sauce, but it's really close…this is the universal sauce!

Shopkeeper: Really?!

Cain: You did it!

Shopkeeper: I gotta thank that lad that let me taste this in the first place!

Cain: We'll be sure to tell him.

Shopkeeper: Thank ya kindly. I was so focused on perfecting the art of frying that I forgot to pay attention to the flavor, even though that's what I should've been thinking about if I wanted to make this place more successful. Y'know, I was just about at the end of my rope, thinkin' there was just no helping that I wasn't getting customers since I only deep fried things, but as a fellow afficionado of all things deep-fried…you've given me hope.

Cain: I mean, what else was I gonna do? I'm already looking forward to the next time we come out to this neck of the woods and I get to drop by your stall again.

Akira: Same here. We'll be sure to remember you.

Shopkeeper: And I, you! I'll prepare a deep fried full course meal for you any day!

Akira: (Thank goodness, Cain looks really satisfied, too…!)

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: (But, my gosh, I feel full… I guess we went a little too crazy with the fried foods…)

Cain: You okay, Master Sage?

Akira: Yeah. Just thinking I might've overeaten a little…

Cain: How about we find something light to eat to give your palate a refresher?

Akira: ?! N-no, I'm okay! I feel like if I eat anything else, I'm going to pop… But thank you for the thought.

Cain: Haha. Don't worry, I was just joking. Sorry for making you part of that whole escapade.

Akira: Oh, no, I enjoyed it! Trying to figure out the ingredients for the perfect sauce was really fun.

Cain: I'm happy to hear that. Mithra's special sauce was a big help, but so was your spot-on food reviews.

Akira: I'm really happy that shopkeeper ended up pleased with the results, too.

Cain: Yeah. I hope the next time we come by, that stall's got a big line in front of it.

Akira: And I'll make sure that I don't eat too much…!

Cain: Ahaha, good plan!

****TL Notes: karaage is a type of fried chicken, but distinct enough from what most english speakers picture when they think of fried chicken that i left it as-is. squeezing a lemon slice over it or adding a few drops of vinegar really makes it pop. yakiniku is grilled meat that's typically done over a charcoal stove and topped with, indeed, a particular savory sauce.

Training Episode: The Deliciousness of Killing Two Birds with One Stone!

Akira: Cain? What are you doing in the kitchen?

Cain: Oh, Master Sage. I was craving some good ol' deep fried good and was just about to whip something up. You want any?

Akira: Fried food cravings…?

Cain: Ever since we helped out that fried food stand back in the Town of Blue Scales, I've been wanting to branch out and try deep frying more stuff.

Akira: We sure did eat a lot of fried foods then…

Cain: That said, I still haven't found anything that beats deep fried butter. So there's just this lack of satisfaction I can't get rid of… Can you think of anything good to try? Something unexpected!

Akira: Something delicious, but unexpected… How about ice cream?

Cain: Ice cream…? That's definitely out of left field. Wouldn't it melt if I tried to deep fry it?

Akira: I'm pretty sure there's something you can do to make sure it doesn't melt…

Cain: I see… Well then, let's embark upon a journey to fell the mystery of deep fried ice cream! Eating something warm and cold at the same time is really efficient. Two birds, one stone!

Akira: But if I can't remember how to do it, it's going to take us a long time to figure it out on our own…

Cain: You don't need to force yourself to or anything.

Akira: Huh?

Cain: You know I like spending time with you, Master Sage.

[copperbadge]

I am so close and yet so far from being done with The Chicken Salad War, argh. I have the entire rest of the book plotted out, and there's a little less than a quarter of it remaining to write, I think, but it's going to be an intense quarter. And then the rewrites will be a little more extensive than usual because I've basically been skipping scenes I don't want to write, which isn't a lot but isn't zero.

Anyway, have a scene where Ylias and Simon realize that attempting to make an edible sauce using davzda and harissa paste may be an error.

It took a few more minutes of scraping and blending, but in the end the warm, fragrant harissa paste was scooped out and into a bowl, and they both examined it.

"Now…davzda," he said, sounding excited and doomed at once, like someone about to attend an execution but fortunately not theirs.

"I'm wondering, should we just try to loosen it up with the raw hooch?" she asked. "Or actually make some shakshouka and stir the davzda into that?"

"I think to start, we make a sauce -- some beautiful paste, some davzda, and some broth," he said. "I will reserve some for further experiments."

She carried the bowl to the stove and set out a saucepan, spooning some of the harissa into it and then shuffling aside so he could add broth; he whisked them together cold, then added a careful pour of davzda from the ubiquitous gray-green bottle. The smell that rose from the mixture was…herbal, but it began to fade into something more pleasantly spicy as it heated.

[insert brief hold music here for a part of the scene I don't want to spoil yet]

"Now, I must begin prep for dinner, I think, while this simmers."

"Can I help?" she asked. 

He blinked at her. "Oh -- it is my job and I am too accustomed to it. But..." he added, considering, "You won't go yet, will you? You must taste this sauce. And I have been accustomed to company, but not so much with Eddie now looking after the little ones." 

"Can I criticize your technique?" she asked, grinning, and he laughed. 

"Only in French, and I will not be gracious about it," he replied. 

"I'd worry if you were," she said, stationing herself at the stove to mind the sauce while he gathered ingredients. By the time he was done assembling the meatballs, the sauce had thickened and darkened to an almost mahogany color. Simon procured some twist-bread and fetched crudite from the fridge ("I keep carrot sticks for Joan, and His Majesty will enjoy the leftover cucumber at dinner,") and she spooned some sauce out into a bowl, dipping the bread while he tried a piece of carrot. 

At the first taste, he looked thoughtful, chewing the carrot and harissa sauce with a blank look on his face. Ylias, taken off-guard, coughed and nearly choked when she finally tasted it.

"Oh, no, oh dear," she said, taking a long sip of water while he grinned, still chewing. "It's...so earthy."

"The flavoring in the alcohol, I think," he said, finally swallowing and rinsing his own mouth out. "The oil in the chilis brings out the mushroom in the davzda."

"Ugh, but the worst part," she managed. "That's awful. It's not even bitter, really, not like davzda is, it's just...almost cloying." 

"Yes, but..." he considered, eyes narrowed. "There is good flavor there too, just not in balance."

She tapped her tongue against the roof of her mouth, chasing stray hints of the sauce, then braced herself and took another, smaller taste. 

"You can almost get to it," she agreed, considering more deeply. "I never bother with mushrooms in shakshouka because they're just texture at that point, the flavor's too delicate for the spice. But maybe...if you could just cut the flavor a bit."

"Less davzda?"

"Defeats the point, but maybe. Or..." she considered. "There's a lot of tomato coming through, but it's the acid. Do you think a sweet note would help, or would that just make it worse?"

"Make this worse?" he asked, amused, but he was already reaching for a jar on the counter. "The family likes muscovado in their coffee," he said, using the little spoon in the jar to lift out a mound of golden-brown sugar. "Yes?"

She gestured for him to give it a try; he added a few spoonfuls and then stirred it with the whisk again. The sauce darkened further, but when they tasted it this time, the horror had receded. 

"Oh, that's...actually nice," she said. "Salty-sweet. You could even use molasses -- or a sherry if you wanted."

"Yes. Very good," he agreed, and then he leaned in and kissed her. 

It surprised them both, she could tell; she didn't pull away -- he was a very good kisser -- but when he leaned back, he looked startled by what he'd done.

"Ah, perhaps inappropriate," he said. "Only -- I like this very much, this experimentation. With the sauce," he added in a stammer. "Although, of course -- "

She held up a finger and he fell silent, looking relieved.

"I like it too," she said. "A little warning next time, maybe."