#men guest wedding hairstyle

[fdcbug]

Arranged chapter 2

Margarida

The opening of the door gets me out of my daydreaming. My friend Valentina quietly closes the door behind her and rushes towards me. I stand up and meet her halfway. She hugs me before letting go of me and holding my arms in a comforting way. The worry in her eyes is unmistakable.

“Are you alright? They didn’t harm you right?”

I smile softly at her:” Yes, I’m completely fine. Don’t worry so much about me. My parents couldn’t do much those last three months, after all I had to stay minimally presentable for this marriage.”

“You could denounce them at the gathering before you get married, the royal family will attend they can’t just let an accusation like that slide and not even this family would allow this to continue, they are not this monstrous I think. You would be free.”

I let out a sigh:” I don’t think it would be this easy. Look on the bright side if I marry I will be protected from my family and they don’t seem so bad. I spend a lot of time with his mother and some of his younger sisters to prepare the wedding, they always let me say what was on my mind and respected my choices. Don’t judge a book by its cover, this might not be the worst outcome for me. Plus, if they happen to be terrible I have an entire life of experience nothing will be worse than what already happened to me.”

It doesn’t seem to convince her but she doesn’t say anything else and grabs the makeup case she brought with her. We make a quick process of applying some soft makeup to my face.

Valentina is just done with the finishing touches when my mother and grandmother come into the room. They start doing my hair, putting it in an elaborate up-do and pinning it to my scalp and finishing it with two decorative pins in gold with peonies made of emeralds at the ends, putting them on opposite sides so the peonies are on the outside of my head. I look beautiful but even so my mood is still rather down.

“Granddaughter it is time for you to make up for your mistakes, we expect you to do your duties. At the end of the night you will be married to one of the most vile men in this country. Even so, we expect this wedding to be consummated today and you will please him, after all you have enough… experience in the matter. Do I make myself clear?”

I just nod in response.

They take me down the staircase of the guest building we are at and through a door to the gathering hall where the wedding is. The ceremony is a fast affair, my grandmother brings me to the front where my betrothed is with the priest, he asks us if we agree to get married we nod and write our names on the certificate. Done I’m married to a guy I don’t know anything about and has not said a word to me yet.

The party started with us all just eating dinner together. After that the tables were put away to make space for the more festive atmosphere with music also starting to play. I just stand close to my now husband, people coming to congratulate us and making some small talk.

Well I’m doing most of the talking , he just nods along or stands there looking pissed off.

A few hours have passed already and my head is starting to hurt, if it’s from the hairstyle or the loud noise I don’t know. I put a bright smile back on my face when I hear someone coming towards us.

“I never thought I would see the day you of all people would get married! Damn you surprised me with this one!” A woman exclaims while laughing. She seems close to my age and is holding three glasses of champagne.

A grumpy voice beside me answers her:” Stop being so obnoxious you’re going to scare the girl here.”

“That’s not a very nice way to talk about your wife. I just came here to congratulate you two and have a toast.” She offers the glasses to us. I politely decline, she just shrugs emptying my glass into her own and toasting with my husband.

They start talking, with the woman speaking most of the time about random things she observed throughout the night and only receiving nods or one word answers in return.

“Anyhow, I’m going to take a quick walk with your pretty new wife, you probably want to end this entire thing in a few minutes and I want to have a chance to meet my new friend.” She gives me a grin. “I’m Gabriela by the way.”

She hooks her arm under mine and just starts dragging me away, my protests being drowned out with reassurance that no one will mind.

Nuno

My mother appears in front of me shortly after Gabriela was gone.

“So how was the evening, your sisters are starting to see everyone out. I know you are getting fed up with the noise and general atmosphere.”

“I’m fine, I need to go find the girl, Gabriela grabbed her and went for a walk. I’ll go to bed as soon as everyone is gone. Just one thing what’s her name again?”

“Are you serious, you just married her! By the gods. Her name is Margarida and don’t scare her on her first night in this family.”

I roll my eyes at her and just go in search of the two women. I find them a short time later sitting on a bench in front of the guest building and quickly bid my goodbye to Gabriela. When she is gone, I motion for Margarida to follow me and we make our way to the main building. She just follows me not saying a word and keeping her head down. Weird. It’s extremely quiet as we make our way up the stairs to my bedroom. I open the door and let her in first, closing the door behind me. Turning to her I see her shaking, with tears running down her face.

Well fuck, this was not something I expected to happen.

@mr-orion

[merakkisalon]

The Ultimate Guide to Men's Grooming Trends

Introduction 

In an era where self-care and grooming have taken center stage, men's grooming trends are evolving at a rapid pace. For the residents of Faridabad, Merakki Salon stands out as the go-to destination for top-notch male salon services. In this guide, we'll explore the latest grooming trends and why Merakki Salon is considered the best salon in Faridabad for men's grooming salon needs.

Male Salon Services in Faridabad: A Growing Trend

Male salon services in Faridabad are witnessing a surge in demand for male salon services, as more men recognize the importance of self-presentation and grooming. Merakki has been quick to respond to this trend by offering a comprehensive range of grooming services tailored specifically for men.

Merakki Salon: Your Gateway to Grooming Excellence

Merakki Salon has earned their reputation as the best salon in Faridabad by consistently delivering exceptional grooming results to customers. Their team of  skilled professionals is dedicated to keeping up with the latest grooming trends and techniques to provide guests with top-tier services.

The Latest Men's Grooming Trends

1. Beard Care and Styling: Beards are here to stay, and Merakki excels in beard care and styling. Whether you prefer a neatly trimmed beard or a trendy beard style, their experts can craft the perfect look for you.

2. Skin Care: Healthy and radiant skin is a timeless trend. They offers facials, skincare treatments, and grooming products that cater to the unique needs of men's skin.

3. Hairstyling: From classic cuts to contemporary styles, their hairstylists are well-versed in creating the perfect look for you. Whether it's a sleek professional look or a trendy, edgy hairstyle, they've got you covered.

4. Body Grooming: Full-body grooming is on the rise. They provides services such as waxing, body scrubs, and massages to help you look and feel your best.

5. Nail Care: Well-groomed hands and nails make a statement. Their nail care services include manicures and nail art, ensuring your hands are always in top shape.

6. Special Occasion Makeovers: For weddings, parties, or special events, Merakki Salon offers makeovers that enhance your natural features and ensure you look your best on your big day.

Why Choose Merakki Salon?

Expertise: The team at Merakki Salon consists of highly trained professionals who are passionate about grooming and stay updated on the latest trends and techniques.

Personalized Service: They take the time to understand your unique preferences and provide customized grooming solutions that suit your style and personality.

Hygiene and Safety: They prioritizes hygiene and follows strict safety protocols, ensuring your well-being during every visit.

Relaxing Ambiance: The salon's welcoming ambiance and soothing environment make each grooming session a pleasurable experience.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the world of men's grooming is evolving, and Faridabad residents are fortunate to have Merakki Salon as their trusted partner. As the best salon in Faridabad for male grooming services, Merakki Salon not only keeps pace with the latest trends but also sets new standards in grooming excellence. Elevate your grooming game by experiencing the ultimate in male salon service Faridabad.

Originally Published by: https://merakkisalon.blogspot.com/

[love-menzone]

Glow yourself in your wedding with a new haircut and facial

It would be best if you glossed that day as you make your way up the scaffold to your wedding, but another guest will shine more than you do. This is because you will perform poorly at work on the day of the event, which will cause you to lose your glitter. To be men, you must take the step of doing, or a few frequently think about your pleasures, about how, if you are in excellent company and receiving facial services for men in Mississauga, you can shine on your occasion. Since of this, they can brand you appearance even extra good-looking.For what reason does the husband-to-be need to enlist salon administrations?

Professional help you to custom your bread into perfect shape in quick

Groom with a new hairstyle:

Be on par with your woman of the hour's magnificence, and encourage the groom-to-be to shine during their wedding. The best men's hair stylist is open, and some lucky men have yet to have the faintest notion of what they need to make up concerning them. They are the bunch, making the man of the moment and a comparable lady cuter. Everything they do for you, from haircuts to pedicures and nail trims, is as advertised in the brush set. Due to this, you will tend to hunt for a husband to be at your wedding with reasonable aid.

Take facial and cut services before you are wedding:

You must go to Menzone.ca to receive an arrangement. After the strenuous ward of your special day, you could feel more exhausted and in joint pain; thus, accepting the spa's services in the same stage is also advisable for recovery. The item used for your skin won't result in any skin diseases because they are a primary aid. In light of this, you are advised to continue shining yourself in future style updates, provided you are protected with them. They are also the greatest for your excellent care giving because they have been in that stage for a long time and have healthy skin.

For more information about facial services for men in Mississauga, men's hair stylist, facial services for men in Oakville, mens hair salon, men's salon and spa, please visit the - Menzone.

Reference taken from here.

[pinercv]

Welcome to the game 2 doll maker pics

Ethnic wear and event gowns should be colourful enough unlike other guests and family members. Princess Makeup Salon provides you plenty of makeup option to pick for perfect wedding episode for etiquette looking bride. We have Gujarati weddings, south Indian bride wedding, modern weddings, east Indian princess wedding, north Indian rites to differentiate from other region rituals. In India there are different rituals based on region and religion of bride and groom. Get top notch look in fashion salon makeover and enjoy the game of stylist fashion Indian wedding rituals. Most amazing lehnaga choli for the Indian girlĬolourful modern Sherwani and other Indo-western Style Dhoti and Kurtas Everyone is curious about bride’s wedding lehenga, mehndi design and wedding jewellery.ĭream wedding planner to play as glamorous makeup artistĭesign hairstyle, legspa, handspa, spa with manicure and pedicureĭesign invitation E card and pack into envelope, card makerĬolours of blushes, shadows and amazing lipstick coloursĮasy to play & share picture on social media Wedding dresses of bride are eye candy for all guests. We have dozens of dresses for girls that are perfect for wedding entry of royal bride. Are you fascinated about Royal Indian Wedding Girl Arranged Marriage salon games? play this fashion salon - makeup and dress up game for free! Every girls want to look like princess on her big day. Modern stylist Indian girl is looking for pretty beauty makeup. Bff of bride help her to visit sweet princess hair salon of Priya to get wedding hairstyle perfect. Before wedding day Indian girls visit wedding makeup salon for the perfect wedding look. Invitation cards are written such a way that they are requesting to attend the wedding to shower blessings on newly wed couple. They design wedding card, prepare for wedding decoration, pick clothes for men and women of family and decide wedding venue. Involvement of Bride and Bridegroom’s family is deep rooted. In india Bride and Groom take seven sacred vows in seven pheras or ‘saat fere’ it also known as Saptapadi(satpadi) entails the couple walking around the holi fire seven times. This is definitely one strong defining factor about Indian weddings they are lengthy, joyous occasions filled with celebrations and ceremony. Most weddings in the country span anywhere from over a couple of days to a week - ten days, depending on the type of wedding planned and all the wedding related functions. He gets away with all of his crimes and gets no comeuppance, which has bummed out many players of Welcome to the Game II.Indian weddings, especially held in the country itself, are in a league of their own! Lavish and big, these weddings are never a one day affair.He threatens innocent people into doing his bidding with their lives, including the player character.He brings one of his victims to the player's door in order to confirm that his services are in fact real.He makes a living off kidnapping young, 18-29 year old women and twisting them into living yet immobile sex dolls, prolonging their suffering.He stands out the most of all antagonists in the Reflect Studios universe as the worst, as all the others are shown to have some standards or don't have their villainy made that despicable.He is a German/Austrian immigrant to the United States who makes a living kidnapping women and surgically twisting them into living sex dolls. He serves as a mentioned villain in Welcome to the Game, a major antagonist in Welcome to the Game II, and a mentioned villain in Scrutinized. The Doll Maker is a major antagonist in the Reflect Studios video games.

[eri-cheri]

Now that we have reached the last chapter of the year. It is time to do a 2020 roll call of what I like to call, “State of the Shippers”:

1. IzuOcha. Status: Placated.

-IzuOcha’s could celebrate several cute tidbits throughout the year. Mini moments as they say.

Anime Highlights: The OVA’s came in clutch with moments for shippers all around and IzuOcha is no exception. We got a cute tidbit where Izuku and Ochako bumped into each other and were flustered.

Manga Highlights: Christmas kept on giving to this fandom as the AM doll Izuku gave Ochako made many appearances. A cute fist bump between the two was also exchanged and Mina was right there bouncing with y’all.

Heroes Rising: Izuku super man carried Ochako to safety. And was Angy she was injured. Fans could enjoy the small Lois Lane moment.

Troubling Signs?: Ochako said “I would like to be excluded from this narrative” when it comes to her feelings for Deku. She’s a hero damnit! So if they are in for something, probably won’t be while they are still in school.

II. DabiHawks. Status: Yikes.

- Dabi and Hawk’s very public breakup set this fandom in disarray but also kind of disayay?

Anime Highlights: None yet. This fandom was cruelly cock blocked by Bones. Sorry DabiHawks stans.

Manga Highlights: Where to begin, my goodness. With these fans, I guess the good and the bad is a plus in this homoerotic double agent relationship. We have the notion that Dabi may have known Hawks when they were kids, which may be a positive? Hori sure loves his childhood friends. Other than that. The GIRLS WERE FIGHTIN’. Hawks is now permanently scarred by Dabi and I don’t think it was kinky folks. Tokoyami inserted himself in the middle to White Knight Hawks, Dabi broke up with him via YT expose and overall, shippers could anguish in the absolute MESS that this ship endured this year. But I’m sure that’s part of the appeal. So...yay?

Heroes Rising: They were both in it.

Troubling Signs?: The entire relationship is a troubling sign which again, is part of the appeal. Maybe Hawks will cuddle up with Dabi’s father after the war. That’s troubling! Speaking of...

III. EndHawks. Status: Yearning and Burning.

-If there’s one thing Endeavor couldn’t stop worrying about, it was his hot (in more ways than one) new side piece who probably should have looked at the fine print when signing a contract to be a recurring guest star on “Keeping up with the Todoroki’s”.

Anime Highlights: A fateful meeting finally in high definition for all our eyes to see! Hawks’s unwavering support of his biggest hero was endearing to watch and their shenanigans together spurred the anime onlies to finally jump on the biggest May-December ship in the series.

Manga Highlights: Endeavor’s admiration and concern for Hawks seeped through the pages as we entered our most exciting arc in the manga yet. Fate split these two up yet entwined their downfall together. And that Fate’s name was Dabi...or should I say ⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️⚫️ or should I just say Touya!

Heroes Rising: “Don’t bite my head off, Endeavor.” Geez, can you flirt a little less loud Hawks?

Troubling Signs?: They say never meet your heroes and Hawks is in for a rude awakening. We shall see just how deep his admiration runs or if Endeavor’s past will split our dynamic duo up for good.

IV: TodoDeku. Status: “Precious”

-Shoto’s “Midoriya is in Danger” radar was highlighted in both manga and anime. 4th User’s quirk, who?

Anime Highlights: “Midoriya hasn’t returned yet.” “Where’s Midoriya?” “Midoriya! Grab my hand!” “Have some of my Soba Midoriya.” Shoto gets it. His emotional support friend is a danger magnet. TodoDeku’s also enjoyed tiny tidbits in the OVA such as a hand grabbing scene. Gotta hold tight to those crumbs.

Manga Highlights: Two Words. “Precious Friend.” Deku comes in w/o arms or legs fighting for Shoto and Shoto’s honor. These two spent the entire year worried sick about each other, and going against all odds to save each other. Precious Friends indeed. TDDK fans ate.

Heroes Rising: Shoto kicks some dog ass and then faints thinking of Deku (and Bakugo but shh. Let the shippers rejoice.) On the bright side, we have a 3rd movie coming featuring “The Three Musketeers” so shippers of TdDk can HOLD TIGHT to what’s to come.

Troubling Signs?: Shoto still doesn’t know about OFA and he’s gonna have LOTS of questions after this arc. Will Deku finally tell him? If not, it could make or break the ship.

V. TodoBaku. Status: “Shining through the city with a little funk and soul.”

-Who knew the greatest comedy duo we needed was Shoto and his hot headed “friend” or not friend? It still remains unclear to Shoto. Regardless, these two had a fun year.

Anime Highlights: “I wanna see your cute face”, disco dancing, and more fun in the provisional license training. Plus the OVA added some cute moments between the two such as Bakugo staying behind to save Todoroki during a dangerous excercise and his adorable plan neatly animated for us. I’d say TodoBaku’s really were resurgent and energized this year!

Manga Highlights: Shoto, that is not how you properly Catch a Kacchan, I’m sorry. But at least you did it you mad lad. As with Deku, Shoto spent the year worried sick about Bakugo. While the anime let us have our fun, these two were suffering in the manga.

Heroes Rising: Again, Shoto put a dog down and then fainted with Bakugo on his mind (and Deku but we ignore that. Shush.) TodoBaku’s have the 3rd movie to look forward to which is bound to have some amazing content!

Troubling Signs?: They have a lot of trauma to deal with. And a lot of Deku to worry about. I also imagine Shoto will be hurt about being left out of the OFA secret. We shall see what 2021 has to offer.

VI. KiriMina. Status: Unbreakable.

-Changing your hairstyle to match the gal who inspired you in middle school? Sorry y’all but if Mina were a guy, I’d say that’s gay af.

Anime Highlights: We got that backstory Bois. Red Riot’s origin might as well make him be called Pink Riot. Again with Hori and the childhood friends though I wouldn’t exactly call them friends. They just went to the same middle school but Kirishima was highly influenced by Mina’s Chivalrous spirit! A ship is born!

Manga Highlights: The influence is mutual! Mina creates a move based on Kirishima’s unbreakable and we all let out a collective “awwww”. Also in the war arc, we got Kirishima making sure Mina’s chivalrous spirit shines through right into Gigantomachia’s mouth! KiriMina may just be the unsung MVP’s of this arc.

Heroes Rising: They were in it.

Troubling Signs?: I can’t think of a single one. KiriMina’s can enjoy a peaceful sailing.

VII: KiriBaku. Status: Crumb Collectors.

-2020 was an uneventful year for KiriBaku but Bones made sure there were crumbs aplenty! Thank God for OVA’s!

Anime Highlights: KiriBaku’s did thrive in one episode! Kirishima reflects on the sludge incident and evolves his quirk based on inspiring words from Bakugo! Hooray! KiriBaku’s can thrive in their blossoming friendship. The OVA also has Kirishima (and Kaminari but shh) once again following Bakugo’s lead when it comes to the training excercise. How can you not? He’s so manly!

Manga Highlights: Not gonna lie. There is nothing much here this year. I did find a teeny tiny flake in Aizawa’s flashback. Kirishima and Bakugo are sitting next to each other. Oh! And at the hot pot gathering, Bakugo sits next to Kirishima! Eat your crumbs KiriBaku’s! There’s always next year!

Heroes Rising: Kirishima hangs with a lazy Bakugo and delivers the most hilarious line in the whole movie. “Silly Bakugo, there won’t be villains here!” Hahah... Silly Bakugo. Oh you~ KiriBaku’s can inhale the fact that those two sure love to hover around each other!

Troubling Signs?: With great crumbs come little responsiblity. No trouble if there’s no content! 🤔

VIII: KamiJirou. Status: Singing their hearts out 🎶

-If there’s any ship that’s coming close to canonization, I think this is it, folks! “Think of the person most important to you!” Can’t argue with Midnight!

Anime Highlights: Kaminari does non stop encouraging of Jirou and her hobbies! He works super hard to learn guitar for her sake! We love a king who can encourage his queen!

Manga Highlights: Kaminari thinks of the most important person to him and surprise! It’s Jirou! All of the feels can commence.

Heroes Rising: They were in it!

Troubling Signs?: Kaminari does love his women. And men. Kaminari overall is a huge flirt. But Jirou appears to have his heart strings. ❤️

IX: BakuDeku. Status: Rising. 👑

-Alternative Statuses include Winning, Thriving, Soaring. It’s just been non stop content this year. 2020 is truly the year for BakuDeku. The shippers can rejoice.

Anime Highlights: Three words. Be. My. Cane. The OVA’s helped fan the flames of the BkDk hearts with a surprise! Deku tops! Not only that, we got a lovely shoulder tap of encouragement in the canon material. While in season 4, Deku’s primary focus was Eri. Bakugo and Deku still had their moments to be hella gay.

Manga Highlights: Where do I even begin? I guess we’ll just cut to the chase with Bakugo Katsuki: Rising. We finally saw Bakugo’s true feelings manifest for Deku and if getting stabbed for him isn’t the ultimate showing of love, then idk what is. BakuDeku’s rounded out the year with the Volume 29 cover AND the volume 29 cover drafts to eat at our heart strings. Overall, their relationship got the spotlight in the manga this year. And we’re bound to start 2021 with a dramatic confrontation. Hand holding seems to be the key with these two and it didn’t stop with Heroes Rising...speaking of.

Heroes Rising: The entire movie. Like....yeah. That’s it. [OP, your bias is showing. You have to be SPECIFIC.] {But random criticizer in my head, if I lay out the entire plot of the movie, my post will be too long} [OP....] UGHHHH Okay okay. The POPSICLE MELTING. THE HAND HOLDING. THE CHARACTER DESIGNS OF WHAT MIGHT AS WELL BE THEIR LOVE CHILDREN. Did I mention? “It’s fine if it’s you?” CAUSE YEAH. Oh and All Might randomly officiating their wedding in their heads like idk. Isn’t it just simpler if I say the whole movie??!

Troubling Signs?: Well these two’s relationship is extremely delicate and while it has non stop soared this year, Deku might not take too kindly to Bakugo almost dying for him. Will they stop pushing each other away? Time will tell.

That’s all for this year folks! Happy Shipping and good luck to everyone next year!

[archduchessofnowhere]

Hello. What do you know about the marriage Ferdinand, Duke of Alençon and Sophie Charlotte. Thank you.

Hello! Sorry it took me so long, I was taking a break from this blog since I've been busy with college (the post on Sophie's death anniversary was qued months ago), and then I got sick (F). But I feel much better now so let's talk about Sophie's marriage!

But first I'll start with the source though. The best source of information about Sophie is Christian Sepp's biography "Sophie Charlotte: Sisis leidenschaftliche Schwester", which is only available in German (and I think there's a Hungarian translation coming up soon). I haven't read it yet but it seems to me the most complete book written about her like, ever. Probably he goes into more detail about her engagement and marriage, so if you can get it you should check it out. I used to answer this mainly an Italian translation of Erika Bestenreiner's book Sisi und ihre Geschwister (of which I only read the chapters on Sophie), which I double crossed with some online articles about Sophie that Christian Sepp wrote. So I'm probably missing some details; I hope I can learn more and write about it in the future. Now without further delay, let's continue on the subject.

After the fiasco of her engagement with Ludwig II (truly a terrible moment for both of them tbh), Sophie was pretty heartbroken. For all the portrayals in media of Helene as the "rejected bride", Sophie was the one that actually got publicly rejected and humilliated. Her family was furious at Ludwig, even Elisabeth. But after the scandal passed, it was time to find her a match again.

All the sources I've read (aka Bestenreiner's chapters about Sophie and some other articles) point to Ludovika as the responsible for setting her up with Ferdinand, Duke of Alençon, who was a grandson of the last King of the French Louis Philippe. On him we have this quote from Bestenreiner's book: "Baroness von Redwitz described him as a man of chivalrous bearing, 'with a carefully studied hairstyle and polite manners', whose fluent French was listened to with delight. She added, most eloquently, that he possessed more the qualities of a saint than of a husband".

They met at the court of Dresde, where Sophie was visisiting her relatives from Saxony (the queen Amalie was her aunt), and they both left a good impression on each other. Sophie and Ferdinand got engaged on June 24 of 1868 and married three months later on September 28 at Possenhofen. There is an account of the wedding from one of the guests, the Prime Minister of Bavaria Prince Hohenlohe-Schilling:

The young Duke of Alençon is described by the prince as a 'handsome young man with a lively air. The bride was dressed in white silk with orange blossom trimmings and a hairstyle of orange blossom and tulle. The couple knelt in front of the altar, behind them on the left-hand side Prince Adalbert (best man), behind him the two ministers (the second best man Pfretzschner and myself) and then, behind us, the men of the House of Orleans. On the other side, the Duke of Nemours, the Duchess and all the princesses… Nobody was crying… The bride seemed imperturbable. Before the "yes", the groom congratulated his father and the bride, then her parents. The bride's "yes" seemed to say: "It's all right with me". But I don't want to say anything bad, it just seemed that way to me. After the wedding, I kissed the duchess' hand and wished her well. She seemed really happy and content"

Off to a great start, right?

The Duke and Duchess moved to London (the Orléans had been living in exile on England since King Louis Philippe abdicated in 1848), where they were quite bussy receiving guests. However, soon after Sophie fell into a deep melancholy, and no one could figure out why she didn't feel better, not even after her first daughter's birth a year later on July. Although we can't diagnose her for sure, it seems likely she suffered from depression. The couple moved to Sicily with the hopes she would recover, and she actually did got better; but they have to depart abruptly because it was akward for the Savoyards that members of a branch of the House of Bourbon were staying in the former Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, which was ruled by the Bourbons until the kingdom was annexed to Italy in 1861. So Sophie's brother-in-law, the exiled King Francesco II of the Two Sicilies, invited them to stay over at Rome, and they agreed. Bestenreiner doesn't mention anything more on there time at Rome (although she does goes on a weird tangent about how the Wittelsbach sisters were depressed because they had too much free time??? That's not how mental illness works Erika), so I can't say anything else (if I find more I'll share it).

I ended up digressing a bit, but from what I could gather this marriage wasn't a love match, but a union between two people deemed adequate for each other (spoiler: they weren't).

[snowgoldwaylon]

A Night At The Opera - Grigori Weaver X Reader

Performing is what you loved to do best. Meeting a young soldier is just what you always dreamed off, but while you were on tour for one of the most iconic operas ever written. And you, the main character.

TW: None!

"Y/N! You are live in 10 minutes!" The producer called, as he walked past your mirror.

You glanced in the mirror and just caught the last glimpse of him leaving the room. You turned to look back at yourself in the large vanity, the lights illuminating your current hair style which stood pretty tall.

You were getting final touches to hair and makeup, and it just so happens for this opera, you were the main star. And as hollywood rules states, go big or go home. So you chose the classic big, bouncy curly hair with curled sideburns to give it spice.

It was elegant, you had little glass flowers put all through it so it would glitter and reflect off the stage lights. You wore a stunning ballgown dress, with large bell sleeves. And for the finishing touch which the hair stylist was putting in your hair?

An authentic, diamond and gold lined tiara, which had a long, lace veil attached to the back. You simply smiled at how you looked in this moment. A makeup artist came over and touched up some spots and re-applied the ruby red lipstick you had on.

As soon as they finished, you looked over yourself and smiled. You pushed a falling glass piece back into place, applied hairspray, and got up. You soothed the dress out and turned to the two who had made you look stunning.

"Thank you both, you have made my dream look come true! I think I'm going to permanently hire both of you to tour with me!" You exclaimed, giving a hand.

They both nodded graciously, and bowed with a humble 'thank you' before you were pulled away by someone.

"Okay Y/N, you will be live in one minute. You know the cues, good luck out there!" The stage coach yelled, pulling you to the side stage.

You watched as the young man who played Pollione finish his number, Meco all'altar di Venere. After the dramatic change of scene and the curtain close, the audience clapped loudly. The moment you trained for was finally here!

You watched as Klaus, the owner of the gorgeous, all original opera house approached you. You smiled, and he gave you his hand.

"Miss Y/N, do you look stunning! I must tell you before you go on, we have special guests in the audience. Not to make you worried or such, but these guests are returning soldiers from the war. One in particular who you might have the chance to meet after, is named Grigori Weaver. He loves operas, and even funded this show to go on!" Klaus exclaimed.

You were taken back by the odd sounding name. Grigori? Is that Russian? you asked yourself. You smiled at Klaus, and gave a simple nod.

"Yes Klaus, I understand. Thank you for the information. I do hope to meet him afterwards!" You said.

The stage hand tapped your shoulder, as you saw two men heading towards the curtain strings.

"I must go, Klaus. Thank you!" You said, before taking your spot center stage, right up against the curtain.

The choir filed in behind you on the risers as you stood, singing small voice warmups before it was go time. You felt nervous, but excited. Your heart raced with joy and adrenaline as the final words of the scene were spoken.

That was the cue! With the final dialouge spoken, the curtains opened. The lights suddenly filled your vision, along with the large crowd in the huge theather. A small, soft smile was written on your flawless features as the orchestra began the song.

The flute soloist filled the room with warm, beautiful, contrasted music with crescendos and decrescendos. It sounded almost ominous, but it was beautiful. You stood in the pose as practiced before.

The bell sleeves hung beautiful as you would slightly lift your arms with the music. The violins cued your very first note, and you gave it your all.

"Casta Diva, che inargenti

queste sacre antiche piante,

a noi volgi il bel sembiante

senza nube e senza vel."

You maintained a professional and elegant posture as you acted the part of your character, Norma. You swayed lightly with the music, and smiled as the choir behind you hit the correct notes, pitch, and phrases behind you. You glanced out over the crowd, and right away spotted a man wearing an eye patch in the VIP section.

Suddenly, you felt the urge to finish this aria right, and with ease. Your next cue happened, and you let the bell sleeves hang beside you.

"Tempra, o Diva,

tempra tu de’ cori ardenti

tempra ancora lo zelo audace,

spargi in terra quella pace

che regnar tu fai nel ciel.

 

Fine al rito

e il sacro bosco

sia disgombro dai profani.

Quando il Nume irato e fosco,

chiegga il sangue dei Romani.

Dal Druidico delubro

La mia voce tuonerà.

Cadrà; punirlo io posso.

Ma, punirlo, il cor non sa.

 

Ah! bello a me ritorna

Del fido amor primiero;

E contro il mondo intiero

difesa a te sarò.

Ah! bello a me ritorna

Del raggio tuo sereno,

e vita nel tuo seno,

e patria e cielo avrò.

Ah, riedi ancora qual eri allora,

quando il cor ti diedi allora,

ah, riedi a me."

With the last note of the orchestra, ending right after your vocals pitched down, you struck an elegant pose. The diamond of the tiara made you sparkle as you soaked up all limelight.

Cheers roared and echoed through the halls and walkways of the opera house. Whistles and flowers were thrown as the curtains began to slowly close. You glanced towards the man with the eyepatch again, and saw him standing up.

He joined everyone in a standing ovation because your pure and effortless talent had shaken them to the core, but in a good way. The heat of the lights brought you to a pant, and small specks of sweat beaded at the line of your hair.

The curtains finally came to a close and you released the pose. You quickly made the way backstage to cool off, so you wouldn't look rough for the finishing act.

Producers swarmed you, makeup artists, and hair artists also swarmed you like buzards so they could doll you back up. You were to keep the hairstyle for the final act, but change the dress for a Victoria era wedding dress.

TIMESKIP, END OF THE OPERA

You gathered at the entrance along with the cast to say goodbye to guests as they exited the opera house. This gave guests a chance to get autographs, pictures, and words to say. You were of course, the first at the door for the order of namesake.

Soon, the hundreds of people came, and shook hands with everyone. You were signing many autographs for many people, and snapping many pictures for all. And you were very determined to make sure everyone who asked had one.

Soon, the end of the line came, and out came the man in question. The handsome, dark haired man with the eye patch and a handsome pair of dress blues. He made conversation with everyone, and you even noticed Klaus right beside him, talking.

They came up to you last, and the rest of the cast exited to get cleaned up. You smiled as they approached, and held out your hand.

"Evening, Miss Norma. You did fantastic. My name is Grigori Weaver, could I have yours please?" He asked kindly, taking your hand and giving it a small kiss.

You blushed as Grigori let your hand go, and turned to Klaus.

"This is the gentleman who sponsored the whole show!"

"Ah yes, Grigori. Nice too meet you. I'm Y/N Y/L/N. Or as you know, Norma. On behalf on all my cast and producers, coaches, and myself, we thank you. This production would have been lost if it wasn't for you kind donation." You said.

He smiled at you, and only you. He couldn't get over how flawless and just how polite you were.

"Well, as proven tonight, Miss Y/L/N, it's my pleasure. I do hope you stick around for more performances these coming years, da?" He asked.

"Well of course! I plan on staying in the opera for many years while I attend school and look for my dream job." You said.

Grigori looked at his watched, and slipped his hat on. While he fixed the collar on his jacket, he fished inside his coat for something. He pulled out a brilliant, luscious red rose and handed to you. You gratefully accepted as a blushed creeped across you.

"I must be going now, my job starts soon. But, for you, Norma. Maybe possibly I could come see you perform again this coming week?" He asked.

"Of course you can, I'd love that." You said, with a smile.

"Off I go then. Have a wonderful evening, both of you!" He said as he exited the opera house.

You watched him walk to his very luxurious car, and he looked back. You waved and turned on your heel, walking back with Klaus.

"I think you just got the VIP to fall in love with you, nyet?" He asked.

"Klaus, do not be so foolish! He was simply being nice." You said, walking up the first flight of stairs.

"But, he did say he'd be returing for the other shows. If he does, then that will prove my point for sure!" Klaus said.

You came to your dressing room, and wished Klaus a good evening as you closed the door. You set the red rose in a vase on your vanity and began carefully taking out the pieces from your hair. You couldn't stop thinking about with Grigori had said.

And over the rest of the following days the opera showed, Grigori kept his promise. Soonz the vase was overflowing with roses. And after one performance, you found yourself at one of the nicest restaurants with Grigori.

That was one hell of a night at the opera.

Taglist: @smokeywhalee @wennbergbabe @justagenderfluidstuff @goawaypleasecryingemoji @kazazure @kapanovangswife @xundeadqueenx @direwolfspostsrandomshit

[chalkrevelations]

So, Episode 7 of Word of Honor, and where to start? No, I’m kidding, I know exactly where I’m starting, which is with some recognition of what a great job this show does of developing 98 percent of its multitude of characters, because the first two things I’m going talk about this week aren’t even Zhou Zishu, Wen Kexing OR Wen Kexing’s thirst (AKA, the three main characters of the show).

Well, I guess I’m really starting with the usual warning – this is a re-watch and so there are SPOILERS here, not only for this episode, but for most of the show. Scroll away and come back later if you’re trying to watch all 36.5 eps unspoiled.

SO, I mean, come on. Of course I’m starting with the Smartest Man in the World, who has finally shown up in this episode, and I’m reminded once again what an actual cinnamon roll, too good for this world, Cao Weining is. He’s maybe the single completely good character we meet  – even Chengling wants to burn down somebody’s house at one point because he’s mad. But Cao Weining is almost too good to be true – and yet, there he is! Living his best life, being good, eating good, falling in love, and refusing to let his beautiful, clever, fierce girl’s neuroses come between them. I love him, y’all. And not just because he instantly falls in love with A-Xiang when he happens to see her beat up a bunch of drunk bro assholes in the inn where he’s having a quiet little lunch by himself before she storms into his life like a purple whirlwind. But let’s do think about this from his perspective, yeah? And let’s remember it as we watch the progression of their relationship, as we wait for the revelation we know is coming, and as – many eps down the line – he learns the truth of her. Cao Weining’s first experience of A-Xiang is someone who’s brave and capable, who defies outsized odds to come to the rescue of those in need, who doesn’t allow women and girls to be abused, who expects proper behavior from the representatives of the jianghu, and who is absolutely fearless in demanding just treatment and never even thinks to be intimidated when she faces unfair censure from an authority figure. This is the girl WKX raised, y’all. This is a girl who embodies everything Cao Weining has been taught to believe in as a cultivator. And this is the girl Cao Weining sees every time he looks at A-Xiang. Maybe, just maybe, this is the truth of her, and Cao-dage sees and understands it from the very first time he spots her, and anything else he’ll learn about her is really extraneous. (Hmm. I wonder what other relationship we’ll eventually end up seeing that kind of dynamic in, where someone truly knows you and believes in you, so everything else is unimportant?) Also, Cao Weining tells A-Xiang she’s very beautiful, and how many people do you think have ever told her that before in her life? He asks why he would want to fight and hurt her, and how many people – particularly men, given where she grew up – have ever told her that before? He buys her lunch – twice, because the first round gets cold. Remember a few episodes back, when WKX asked her who the second cutest person in the world was, and she responded that it was someone who would buy her a meal? Well, here he is. For bonus points, it is hilarious how badly WKX responds to Cao Weining’s very existence after ZZS points out the pair of them having a toast at the same inn that WKX and ZZS have stopped in WKX has dogged ZZS’s footsteps into. Poor Cao Weining doesn’t even get the shovel talk – although to be fair, he doesn’t get the full-court Ghost Valley Master press, either, so WKX must have been holding back somewhat – he just gets told to get out, before WKX grabs A-Xiang by the ear and delivers some scathing commentary on her taste in men, like he didn’t immediately fall for some rando who was tits out, drinking himself to death in the gutter.

ANYWAY, from the Smartest Man in the World, we’re going to move to Han Ying, My Beloved, who we see interacting with the Five Lakes Alliance again, this time in the person of Gao Chong, leader of Yueyang Sect and host of the upcoming Heroes Conference, da-ge of the 5LA. I had honestly forgotten we got to see so much of Han Ying this early on. What strikes me here is that this is a guy who I actually could believe is the second-in-command of Tian Chuang at what is it? 21 years old? When he’s doing his job, and ZZS is nowhere around for him to make pining puppy-dog eyes at, he’s focused and determined and a bit forceful and somewhat threatening and, frankly, appropriately arrogant for the job he’s been sent to do. He’s also wearing a cloak with a mini-Collar of Evil. He comes off as, dare I say, a capable leader of an assassin organization and a guy who’s able to do a proxy flex for his boss without looking completely ridiculous - which puts him one up on Duang Pengju, omg that asshole, and also makes me feel a little better about how I want ZZS to wreck him (or I guess, technically, him to wreck ZZS, because I’ve never seen a character (except Marcus Flavius Aquila, THANK YOU for your service, Channing Tatum) who put off such subby service-top vibes. WHY is there not more Han Ying/ZZS on AO3, fandom? I thought better … worse? … better? … of you.) When Gao Chong claims the Glazed Armor is a myth, Han Ying basically calls this older, respected zongzhu a liar and gets up in his face before refusing a dinner invitation and sweeping out in his mini-Collar of Evil with a credible “PAH.” My boy has layers, y’all.

What else? We start out the ep at Luo Mansion, a wedding scene, and I’m struck by how the Ghost Valley colors match traditional wedding colors, here. I’m thinking about how A-Xiang’s wedding dress won’t be red (and I think green was more common during the Tang dynasty?) although all the decorations will be, and I’m thinking about how we have this wedding as a book-end to that wedding, and I’m thinking about how it’s interesting that a girl who was raised in the Ghost Valley and protected by the Department of the Unfaithful meets a man who’s going to be so faithful to her in the same episode as this wedding with/of the dead. Ghoul, who’s one of the attendees from the Ghost Valley, also remarks that the red makes him hungry, so there’s a meat reference to throw into the thematic basket, I guess. (Also, hey. Ghoul is played by the same guy who’s Sun Yongren in Killer & Healer.) Lovelace (ugh) briefly menaces one of the Department handmaidens before Luo Fumeng shows up, and I think she’s Yun Zai or Hong Lu, one of the two maids that A-Xiang rescued from him, although I’m not positive, because her hairstyle is so different and hides a lot of her face, here. So, we’re all attending the “wedding” of Mu Yunge, the apparent fuckboy who got got a couple of episodes ago as bait for Ao Laizi when Changing Ghost got his hands (briefly) on the Danyang Glazed Armor. We did see a brief scene with Yunge in the last ep, when he woke up tied up in bed, being menaced by someone who appeared to be his dead lover – who hanged herself while pregnant with their child – but turned out to be Beauty Ghost using a face-masking technique similar to ZZS’s disguises. In the interim, Ghost Valley has kidnapped 10 cultivators as his wedding party, and – this is the important plot point – that includes Deng Kuan, head disciple of Yueyang Sect. We get to see some of Beauty Ghost’s ruthlessness here, as she carries in the dead woman’s memorial tablet draped in a red cloth – how’s that for some foreshadowing (my f’kn HEART) – to set it down in the “bride’s” place before Yunge is forced to bow three times. (Dead girlfriend was a Mo from Broken Arrow Manor, and I … am not sure if that is significant or not. Is she possibly related to Mo Huaiyang? Does anyone know which sect is associated with Broken Arrow Manor?) Beauty Ghost also kills two of the 10 “guest” cultivators for talking without permission as she explains the next event to them – cage match. Only one of them gets to get out alive. Deng Kuan, the best of them, apparently, pleads with everyone to not let themselves be divided, but we can all guess how this is going to go. I guess maybe he’s the other completely good character we meet, but he sure is a punching bag. He ends up the last man, sort of, standing, as he kills the final other person in self-defense, but not before getting stabbed, and he goes down and is out for the count.

Meanwhile, cut to Zhao Jing and Shen Shen drinking and gossiping at an inn on the way to Yueyang. Shenshen – Shenshen – continues to bemoan Chengling’s uselessness, and also talks about the torture the other Zhang family members underwent just in time for Chengling to overhear in the hallway, so thanks a lot for even more trauma, Shenshen. Zhao Jing is so sad about it all, y’all. He’s just so very very sad, can we just stop talking about it, Shenshen, because you’re making him sad, and he’s just going to let Da-ge figure it all out, OK? Uh-huh.

Fourth plot thread of the episode is ZZS skulking around, following Chengling, trying to convince himself that this kid is safe now that he’s turned himself in to gone to live with the 5LA, even as ZZS spots Tian Chuang spies in the ranks of the Yueyang disciples and among the dumpling vendors on the streets outside. ZZS follows the dumpling vendor, gives him a code phrase and almost gets his head taken off by a Scorpion blade for his trouble, before stabbing Dumpling Man in response. WKX picks this exact moment to wander back into ZZS’s orbit, taking the chance to flirt as Dumpling Man spits up blood and dies in the alleyway, because of course he does. WKX tsks, accuses ZZS of being cruel, and quotes some poetry about fair faces and poisonous hearts, which - like all of his poetry - has a double meaning, because which of them is he really talking about, ZZS or himself? ZZS notes that WKX is openly wearing the (Danyang) Glazed Armor because of course he’s looking for trouble, but WKX loosens his stays and clutches his pearls and replies that he couldn’t possibly be looking for trouble – him? Philanthropist Wen? He’s not a merciless killer like ZZS. Whereupon ZZS finally says out loud what he’s been clearly thinking since he started going on about what an awful person he is in the LAST EPISODE, which is why the hell don’t you stop following me around, then? There’s some more flirting, and WKX continues to follow ZZS around, and ZZS takes note that WKX is obviously flaunting the Glazed Armor out in the open, and then there’s a little sleight of hand when Famous Pickpocket Fan Bu Zhi, oh noes! Steals WKX’s Glazed Armor right off his belt when he isn’t even looking! before WKX continues to follow ZZS around, conveniently into the same inn where Cao Weining and A-Xiang are having lunch. After WKX attempts to chase him away, we discover Cao Weining has had his wallet stolen. WKX deploys his Sadness Eyebrows to convince ZZS to turn over his wallet to pay for Cao Weining’s and A-Xiang’s lunch. ZZS – who does an admirable job of refusing for a bit – finally caves, and WKX orders lunch for everyone, on ZZS. Now all we need is Chengling, because the fam is not complete without Goldbean.

[anders-hawke]

une nouvelle vie, chapter 3

AO3 | @frogsmulder

Lawrence Selden paces by the wedding arch, Simon Rosedale looking on. “Perk up, Mr. Selden. Today you shall be married to the most beautiful woman in New York City; what have you to worry yourself into this frenzy?”

“I worry that I will not satisfy my dearest Lily. I should hate to have gone to all this trouble—especially in convincing her to marry me—only to have her grow permanently dissatisfied and miserable.”

Rosedale laughs, startling Selden. “Are you blind, Selden? Lily has never looked more radiant, and it is because she is in love! You have made her the happiest person in the world by loving her so, and you are lucky that she reciprocates.”

The groom nods and fixes his posture. “You are correct, of course. Lily is the one who suggested the formality of a wedding originally. I suppose it is only wedding day nerves. I’ve heard they plague men on the day of, on occasion.”

Rosedale nods. “You need only treat her well, Selden. Be honorable. That is all she ever asked of me and I could not wholly follow through; thus, she is becoming your wife and not mine.”

Before Selden can respond, Gerty bustles into the room. “Mr. Rosedale, Selden: Lily is ready!”

“The organist and priest are prepared, as well,” Rosedale says. “I’ll give you five minutes before our entrance.”

“I cannot thank you enough,” Selden says, meeting his newfound friend’s eyes.

“It is only the least I can offer.”

—

Lily Bart becomes firmly aware that she is a vision in pure white satin trimmed with lace when she comes to the conclusion that all Selden is able to do is gaze at her as she walks down the aisle on Mr. Rosedale’s arm. He is vaguely aware that his mouth is open but he is entirely unable to remove his gaze from his bride; Selden has been struck speechless in the face of his soon-to-be wife’s radiance. There are tears in his eyes by the time Lily reaches the altar and wedding arch.

She gives him a small smile from under the veil as she hands Gerty her bouquet, taking her spot across from him. She is positively radiant in the sunlight filtering through the glass windows high on the walls, her hair like flames. The couple goes through their vows in a haze of love, each speaking the fateful words that will tie them together: “I do.” When the priest pronounces them man and wife, Lily has to bite her lip to stay her tears; it would not do to cry on her wedding day, even though they are tears of joy.

Selden understands her predicament, she realizes when he lifts up her veil and sees the tears gathered at his own waterlines. In the far reaches of her mind, Lily is aware of the priest having said, “You may now kiss the bride,” but those words pale in comparison to the expression of awe and elation on her husband’s face. She cannot help but grin as Selden cups her cheeks as he leans down and presses his lips to hers for a long few moments. They only part for air and, in refusing to fully break contact, press their foreheads together for a moment.

“I love you,” Lawrence whispers.

“I love you, too,” Lily whispers back.

The newlyweds finally turn to the small group assembled in the pews, consisting of Carry Fisher, Nettie Struther and her family, and the other women of Gerty’s club—women whom Lily has come to know as kind and loyal friends. They offer a long round of applause as Selden leads Lily down the aisle and out into the summer sunlight, where they pause for the guests to gather outside. She tosses the small bouquet into the crowd before joining her husband in the waiting hansom, laughing breathlessly. Selden clasps her hands in his, no words spoken between them; none are needed to communicate the thoughts crowding in their minds like swarms of butterflies.

—

The hotel is, simply put, grand; so, too, is the honeymoon suite the Seldens are set to spend the night in. It is obvious that Carry Fisher had a hand in this arrangement, and Lily laughs good-naturedly with Selden at her friend’s blasé attitude towards funding most of their wedding.

“She insisted,” Lily Selden divulges, beginning to undo her elaborate updo as her husband undresses to his underclothes.

“I’ll have to write her in thanks while we are away. Perhaps a postcard, too. Mrs. Fisher is incomparable.” When his wedding garb is laid out on the dresser, Lawrence makes his way over to Lily, who is standing in front of the room’s ostentatious vanity. “Shall I help you undress?”

“Please,” she says, adding hairpins to the ever-increasing pile on the vanity counter. “The hairstyle is ever so pretty but it uses an absurd amount of pins, Lawrence.” Lily pauses as her new husband helps her step out of the dress, having undone the buttons lining the back of it. “I dare say the bed will be littered with them come morning.” She runs her fingers through her hair, picking out several more pins, before sighing heavily. “I truly felt beautiful, however. I am ever so glad that Carry had the foresight to hire a photographer. She and Gerty promised to keep the results safe until we return.”

Selden only nods, still rendered somewhat speechless; he clears his throat. “Should I...?” he asks, trailing off as he gestures towards Lily’s corset.

“If you’d like to,” she tells him with a smile. “You’ve done it many times before, my dearest.”

He laughs softly, untying each length of spun string with precision. “You are correct, but this time is different than all the others. It is our wedding night, and we have abstained from intercourse for the entirety of our engagement. I should like to... reassess that, since you are now my wife and it would bring you no shame.” He undoes the last tie of the corset and it falls open, leaving Lily in her slip, garters, and stockings.

Once Selden sets the clothing item aside, she turns around to face him. “I was not aware that you are interested in knowing me in such a way.” She searches his face as he takes her hands in his.

“Your beauty lies in more than simply your face, as you are aware. Your mind is even more beautiful. And learning your habits and your mind so completely has only served to make knowing the rest of you more desirable.”

“Truly?” Lily questions, her gaze sliding from his eyes to his lips.

“Truly,” Selden replies, placing one hand on her hip and the other on her cheek.

Mind set on an immediate course of action, she leans forward and presses her lips to his. Where their previous kisses hardly strayed from chaste, this one does so almost immediately. Selden was quite obviously being truthful in saying he desires to explore her body, as evidenced by the way his tongue traverses her mouth, seemingly cataloging every nook and cranny. He clutches at her slip as the kiss goes on, bunching it together as he winds her up, sets her throbbing harshly between her legs like never before.

He winds Lily so tight that she whines, bringing him back to himself; Selden forcibly gentles, tearing himself away from her lips with much effort to press sloppy kisses to her jaw. She feels the hot, slick part of herself deep inside crush in on itself and desperately wishes that she were filled.

“Lawrence,” she rasps, and his low hum in answer as he begins to suck on the soft patch of skin behind her ear makes her knees weak, prompting him to slide his hands around her. “Please.”

The sound he lets out at her words reminds Lily strongly of a beastly growl as he slides her slip up her legs before lifting her onto the vanity counter. She gasps and places her hands on either side of her on the counter for balance, breathing heavily as her husband kneels before her.

“Lawrence?” she questions, shifting her thighs together, which—oh, that is...

And then he divests Lily of her garters and stockings, leaving her slip as the last shelter of her modesty; she cannot say she is loath to give it up.

“Lily,” Selden says, a question in his eyes. “I’ve heard that some women enjoy being orally pleasured by their partners. I must confess that I am not experienced in this and that any attempt I shall make will be one of a studious amateur. But... I cannot help but be quite enamored with the idea.”

She perceives his words with dilated pupils and an insatiable throb between her legs, his talk of using his mouth to pleasure her down there figuratively stroking her where the throbbing his greatest. Lily sucks in a breath and parts her legs, their eyes meeting.

“I am not opposed to the concept of traversing this untraveled road with you, Mr. Selden,” she tells him, the use of his title and surname a prompt.

He understands it easily and quirks his lips. “I am glad, Mrs. Selden. Very glad.”

[weddingtropics001]

Men's Beach Wedding Outfits: Dressing for Sun, Sand, and Style

Dressing for a beach wedding as a man involves balancing style, comfort, and practicality amidst the sun, sand, and sea. Whether you're the groom, groomsmen, or a guest, selecting the right attire ensures you look sharp while embracing the relaxed atmosphere of a seaside celebration.

Choosing the Right Shirt: Lightweight Fabrics for Comfort

Central to any mens beach wedding outfits is the shirt. Opting for lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton is essential for staying cool under the sun's rays. These materials allow for airflow, preventing overheating during the ceremony and festivities. A classic choice is a crisp white linen shirt, which not only complements the beach setting but also exudes timeless elegance. Alternatively, pastel shades such as light blue or soft pink add a touch of color while harmonizing with the natural surroundings.

Pants or Shorts: Embracing Casual Elegance

When it comes to bottoms for a beach wedding, comfort and style go hand in hand. Linen or cotton-blend trousers in neutral tones like beige or light gray offer a sophisticated yet relaxed look. These fabrics breathe well and allow for movement, making them ideal for beachside ceremonies. Another option is tailored shorts, which provide a more casual vibe suitable for warm climates. Pairing these with a coordinating belt adds a polished touch to your ensemble while ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Footwear: Balancing Comfort and Style

Footwear choices for a beach wedding should prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. Many grooms and guests opt for going barefoot during the ceremony, embracing the natural feel of the sand. If shoes are necessary or preferred, consider lightweight loafers, boat shoes, or sandals crafted from breathable materials like leather or canvas. These options provide support and comfort while complementing the casual elegance of beach attire.

Accessories: Adding Personal Flair

Accessories play a crucial role in completing the men's beach wedding outfit and adding personal style. A linen or silk necktie in a complementary color can elevate your look without compromising comfort. Alternatively, a bowtie or casually draped linen scarf offers a more relaxed yet stylish alternative that suits the beach setting. Incorporating beach-inspired elements such as shell or wooden bead bracelets, a floral boutonniere, or a straw fedora hat adds a touch of whimsy and reflects the seaside ambiance.

Layering for Versatility: Adapting to Weather Conditions

Weather can vary during beach weddings, so layering options are essential for staying comfortable throughout the day. A lightweight linen or cotton-blend blazer in a coordinating color can be easily added or removed as needed, providing both style and practicality. This layering option ensures you remain prepared for cooler breezes during sunset while maintaining a polished appearance throughout the festivities.

Grooming and Skincare: Embracing Natural Sophistication

Grooming for a beach wedding should emphasize a natural and relaxed appearance that complements the casual elegance of beach attire. Choose a hairstyle that withstands humidity and minimalistic grooming products to maintain a fresh and effortless look. Skincare is crucial, especially in the sun. Use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin and opt for lightweight moisturizers and grooming products that enhance your natural sophistication without feeling heavy or greasy.

Coordinating with Your Partner: Achieving Harmonious Style

Coordinating your beach wedding outfit with your partner's attire ensures a cohesive and harmonious appearance that reflects your shared style and the significance of the occasion. While matching outfits aren't necessary, consider complementary colors or shared stylistic elements that enhance both your ensembles. For example, if your partner wears a flowing gown with lace details or pastel hues, incorporate subtle accents or coordinating colors into your attire to create a unified look that symbolizes your partnership and celebrates the seaside setting.

Practical Considerations: Comfort and Functionality

Above all, prioritize comfort and functionality when selecting your beach wedding attire to ensure you can fully enjoy and celebrate your special day. Choose fabrics that breathe well and allow for freedom of movement, ensuring you remain cool and comfortable throughout the festivities. Opt for footwear that provides support and comfort for walking on sand or uneven surfaces, while accessories should enhance rather than hinder your enjoyment of the beach environment. By focusing on practicality alongside style, your men's beach wedding outfit not only looks impressive but also allows you to fully embrace and cherish your wedding day amidst the natural beauty of the beach.

Conclusion

Dressing for a men's beach wedding involves carefully selecting attire that balances style, comfort, and practicality to suit the unique ambiance of a seaside celebration. From choosing lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton for shirts and bottoms to selecting comfortable footwear and stylish accessories, each element contributes to a cohesive and elegant ensemble that embraces the relaxed atmosphere of the beach. By prioritizing comfort and functionality alongside personal style, your beach wedding outfit not only looks impeccable but also ensures you can fully enjoy and celebrate your special day amidst the sun, sand, and style of the coastal setting.

[random-brushstrokes]

Georges Rochegrosse - Bal des ardents (1889)

Charles VI of France or Charles the Mad (1368-1422), suffered from bouts of insanity since his mid-twenties. Some concluded this was a form of sorcery or divine punishment, and attempted to rid him of his madness through exorcism. At times, Charles would not recognize himself as king or know who his family was. His physician, Guillaume de Hasigny, unable to cure the mad king, suggested his court keep him entertained and avoid worrying him. His wife Isabeau of Bavaria, along with her sister-in-law, wore extravagant outfits and hairstyles to entertain the king. Some fashions were so excessive they did not even fit through doorways.

Queen Isabeau held a masquerade ball as a wedding celebration for her lady-in-waiting, called the Bal des Ardents (Ball of Burning Men). King Charles, along with five other men, appeared dressed as ‘wild men’ with linen costumes sewn onto their clothing. The costumes were covered in resin, feathers and hair, making the men resemble beasts. They performed a dance for the audience, who was unaware the King was among the wild dancers.

Charles’ brother and brother-in-law, not knowing it was not allowed to carry torches inside to prevent the men from catching on fire, barged in and tried to uncover the dancer’s identities by shining a light on their faces. This caused one of the men’s costumes to accidentally be set on fire and unleashed horror on the guests as the dancers (as well as some attendees) began to burn. Luckily, Charles was saved by the Duchess of Berry’s sizeable dress, which put the fire out. Michel de Pintoin, the Monk of St. Denis, describes the scene as such: “…four men were burned alive, while their genitals fell to the ground producing an intense gushing of blood”. The only other surviving dancer jumped into a vat of water used to wash cups and glasses. (source)

[extremelyblackandwhite]

timeless - 05

PAIRING: medieval!james “bucky” barnes x reader

WARNINGS: mentions of wounds (bleeding)

A/N: today the only highlight of my day was spin class and whenever i get upset i just write, as hamilton would say, like i’m running out of time. enjoy xx

NEXT CHAPTER

Y/N decided that the best way to get her mind off her delirious daydreaming which would surely throw her straight into the deepest and darkest hole in Hell was to go and visit her mother. After all, she was almost sure she would still be upset over Odette throwing her out and Y/N would never dare to make her mother unhappy. Therefore, with a basket holding a few left over treats from the breakfast she had run off from, she made her way to her mother’s living quarters. Once she came in, unlike other times, her mother merely stared her down as if she was a misbehaving child, eyes so glossy and cold one would believe she were dead were it not for the misty fog coming out of her nose every time she breathed.

     - Mother... - Y/N started but Lady Catherine quickly interrupted her.

     - What did I clearly said when we left Arendelle? - she looked down at her daughter, eyes so cold and icy it could kill anyone who looked directly into it, something Y/N didn’t dare to do, choosing instead to look at her feet. - What were you not to do? Why could you not obey?

    - Mother, I am ...

   - What have I been to you? What would you have me be? - she dismissed her child’s pleas, instead returning to sit on her chair. - Ah, but I’m old and ugly and I embarrass you.

    - Mother no.  - Y/N held her hands tenderly. - You could never embarrass me. 

    - You’re ashamed of me. You are ashamed. 

    - No. - Y/N shook her head violently. - But I ... I want to see the world by myself, have my own experiences. 

    - The world ... - the woman sighed, almost disgusted at the word. - You don’t know what’s out there in the world and someone needs to shield you from the world. Men like the one who seems to caught your eye waits in the world but you must know what masks they wear for the world. 

   - I know, mother. I know I was just being polite.

   - Oh darling let’s just return with home. Stay with me who could love you more than I? No one can love you more than I and the world is dark and wild for someone like you. The world has nothing that I cannot supply. - Lady Catherine combed through Y/N’s locks with her fingers. - Stay innocent to the dark things of the world while you can. 

    - But I promised I would stay with Odette to help her throughout the engagement. I gave her my word. - the young woman looked up to her mother, the conflicting of interests clearly fighting in her head. - I ... We ... we can return after the wedding. 

    - Oh, darling ... - Catherine cupped her face, a soft smile on her lips. - You know all I do, I do to shield you from the bad things of the world.

Y/N merely stared at her feet as her mother combed through her hair. She felt guilty, no, guilt couldn’t even describe how she felt. It was almost as if a weight was placed on her consciousness. She remained still in her seating position as her mother continued with her “you don’t know what’s out there in the world” mantra. It was true, Y/N didn’t know what was out there in the world but she wanted to see it yet something always stopped her. Her mother. If Y/N left, she would have no one left and Y/N would feel way to guilty to leave.

Time seemed to stop whenever she was around her mother so the guilt seemed to linger and somehow kept lingering as she returned to the Princess’ quarters to help her prepare for the tournament. Between hair braiding and helping with the picking of the dress, Y/N was lost in her mind. Maybe her mother was right, maybe she needed to be shielded from the world, after all whenever she was left alone in it she had way too many ...  perverse thoughts. 

     - You’re quiet, Y/N. - Eliza mentioned, eyes glued onto the mirror as she applied more rouge to her cheeks. - It’s a tournament, get excited.

     - Y/N hates tournaments. - Odette had a cheeky smile on her face. - She thinks they’re blatant demonstrations of toxic male virility. 

     - Maybe you’ll change your mind, after all Duke Barnes is participating in the tournament. - she put her tongue out, a little childish like wonder in her face. The princess’ face however tensed and with a low tone she asked Eliza to leave her and Y/N alone. - I’ll see you in the boxes. 

The two nodded as the silent embraced the room birthed by the sound of the door closing. Odette sighed, getting up from her setting position with a tense face, every line clearly creased and marked on her normally beautifully young plump face which seemed to make everyone around her smile. Yet, now, it just looked ... worried even. 

The princess pointed at the chair she had been sat in, an unspoken request for having Y/N take her place which she did without much question. Grabbing the silver brush from the side, she started to brush her hair, pulling it up in one of the flower like hairstyles.

     - Rosaline mentioned Duke Barnes went after you after you cut your finger. Is there anything you want to tell me? - she carefully pushed some hairs in front of her face to rest on top of some lilies resting on her hair. 

     - He’s just being polite, Odette.

     - Y/N, you know I adore you like a sister and as such I don’t want to see you hurt. Duke Barnes has never, never shown affection towards anyone and the only person whom he seems to trust is Rosaline. I’m afraid that he might try to take advantage of you. - she settled down the brush, placing her hands on her shoulders before lowering down. - You don’t deserve heartache and disrespect.

     - I think you might be too kind to rule Genoa. - Y/N tried to break the atmosphere which seemed to work as Odette laughed. 

The two ladies took to starting to walk to their own box, outside in the rainy nature of Genoa. She looked down from her box, seeing the swarm of men interested in showing their abilities, willing to woe as many ladies as they could, yet Y/N seemed unfazed by it. However, her attention quickly shifted as James walked the field dressed in dark burgundy clothing with his sharpened long sword in hand. Had she been paying attention to anything else, she would’ve heard Odette’s warnings yet every single warning, every shred of common sense seemed to vanish into thin air whenever she looked at him. There was just something about him, a warmness, a sense of belonging, like seeing a very old childhood friend and while she couldn’t exactly understand it, she didn’t know if she wanted to understand it.

Just like Rosaline had said before, he was a skilled swordsmen, defeating his very first adversaries without breaking a sweat or even trying and she was completely enchanted by him. The way his body moved, how his perfectly tied back hair would come undone, she kept wondering what it would feel to brush her hands through it and as she lost herself more and more in him, the scent was back. The white rose scent. 

The scent itself was enough to throw her off her glare on him, instead turning around to try and find someone with roses in their hair but nothing. Lilies, baby’s breathes, tulips, but no roses. She had first thought that he wore some cologne with that scent but it would be near impossible for her to smell it with him being that far. 

Her mind was so wrapped around the white roses she didn’t realise that he had started to struggle. Standing against one of the king’s men, she noticed how he would overpower him by kicking sand into his eyes and her heart started to beat faster. Hands clutched at the stone of the box as she watched the match, the loud sound of swords making her eyes tear. Yet, she didn’t know pain until the clinging ceased and instead a loud grunt was heard. Things seemed to stop, go incredibly slow, the way his knees hit the ground, the dust that settled and her getting up, only being stopped by Odette putting a hand on her stomach. 

Her breathing speeded up before completely stopping for a few minutes, time running slower and slower until it speed up as he got back on his feet, disarming the man of throwing him into the ground which sent the crowd into a frenzy of applause. Y/N’s heart seemed to return to beating as the maidens presented the Duke with a crown of blue hyacinths. However, unlike other tournaments, they didn’t seem to crown him with it, instead handing it to him.

    - Why didn’t they crown him? - she asked Eliza, a hand in front of her mouth as not to call for much attention.

    - It’s a Genoan tradition. They don’t crown the winner, they allow him to pick a woman of the crowd whom he believes to be the Queen of Love and Beauty. Rosaline tends to get it whenever Lord Barnes wins. 

    - Queen of Love and Beauty? Don’t you think it’s a bit childish? - she smirked as she saw him walk towards Rosaline. 

    - It makes the Princess happy. - she shrugged and Y/N nodded, it wasn’t her place to judge their traditions. 

Her eyes lingered back to James who was standing in front of the King’s box where Rosaline was sat. Yet, instead of slowing down his pace, he continued to walk much to the crowd surprise until he stood in front of her box. Every single person seemed to watch intently, expecting the Duke to crown the guest, Odette, as the Queen of Love and Beauty. 

Y/N smiled, happy at the thought of her friend receiving the honour but instead, without much thought, the noblesman’s arm stretched to place the crown on her lap.

tag list: @lookiamtrying​​​​​ @kmuir1​​​​​ @anxiousdreamersworld​​​​​ @tinymalscoffee​​​​​ @navegandoaciegas​​​​ @cinnabanuxoxo

[tellywoodtrash]

Y'know, we give Shirali a lotta (well deserved) flack for the atrocious suits she's putting the men in, but she's equally unkind to the women. Everytime I watch Helly in non-show related outfits, it reminds me how badly the show needs to stop over-styling her. While some of her looks are cute, they experiment so much with just ridiculous colors and jewelry on her, and weird hairstyles. Some of her best looks on the show have been in the period between Vansh's cliffjumping and Vihaan's entry into the house when she was in more toned down attire. Case in point- Why is she wearing multiple heavy haars and a pearl studded sari for a date with her husband? That's like...guest at a close relative's wedding attire. It looked so off?

The only Shirali show that had SORTA normal dressing was Sanjivani, and that too only because it was set in a hospital. In every other show, literally everyone wakes up every fucking day going YAHAN PAWRIIIIIIIIIIIII HORIIIIIIIII HAIIIIIIIIIIIII 👑💎💍🎉🎉✨✨✨✨✨

[baby-grayson]

okay so what happens next with grayson and hailee? does grayson like take a step back bc of his feelings?? or he stays by her side to help her find what she wants to do with her life??

Ethan and Hailee’s engagement party ends with someone’s tooth in a punchbowl, many tears, and Grayson’s heart tied into a tight, tangled knot.

The morning after Grayson and Hailee’s conversation on the porch was the morning before the engagement party. The house was a whirlwind of nervous energy and polite smiles. Grayson rubbed the sleep out of his eyes while he slowly came down the stairs, turning the corner to see Hailee sitting in a carved dining chair  while her mother swirled her hair around the barrel of a hot curling iron. Her hair was pinned around her head in a series of perfect curls, each falling exactly into place. Grayson stood in the doorway, taking in the image while the women’s conversation faded into the background. Hailee caught him from the corner of her eye, she shot him a flat mouth and raised her eyes. Grayson sent her a nod of support and moved from the doorway, not wanting to linger. He stepped into the pantry and opened a cabinet. He was greeted by the usual array of cereal boxes, standing in an erect line of morning salute. He lazily grabbed the box of cheerios and moved into the kitchen.

He was still rubbing the sleep out of his eyes when Ethan came in holding two button up shirts, each a slightly different shade of pale pink. Ethan stopped in his tracks when he spotted his brother at the breakfast nook.

“Hey- which one of these,” he swung the shirts in the air, “which one is salmon? and which one is bubblegum?” Ethan’s eyes were wide as he searched Grayson’s face for a sign of an answer. “C’mon man,” Ethan groaned when Grayson didn’t answer hastily enough, “Helpme outhere.”

“Uh,” Grayson looked from one shirt to the other and back to the first. “The left.”

“The left?” Ethan urged, “The left is salmon?”

“Yeah,” Grayson nodded, “Sure.”

Ethan groaned again and looked back. He nodded his head at the doorway to the dining room, “They in there?”

“Yeah,” Grayson’s voice was garbled through his first spoon of cereal, “Doing hair.”

Ethan stared at the doorway to the dining room and back at the shirts in his hands.

“Why do you even care?” Grayson lifted another spoon to his mouth, “They’re both pink.”

Ethan rolled his eyes softly, Grayson pretended like he couldn’t see it. “Her dress has these little flowers, we got the shirt to match,” Ethan lifted both of them in the air, “but I took it out of the package and now I don’t remember which one is which.”

Grayson filled his mouth with another spoonful of cereal to avoid continuing the conversation. Carol, Hailee’s mother, stepped from the dining room as she wrapped the cord of the curling chord around itself.

“Ethan,” she started over, “did you need something, pumpkin?”

Ethan looked down at the two shirts in his hands, with his mouth hanging open. He looked back at Carol while she added:

“Oh, are you lending one to Grayson? You’re always so sweet Ethan.” Carol touched a finger to the shirt in Ethan’s left hand, “It’s a good color, but I’m afraid your brother is a little wider than you, might not fit.” She scrunched up her nose at the last few words.

Ethan nodded, feeling a wash of relief while his shoulders fell.

“Now Grayson,” Carol moved towards him as he swallowed his latest mouthful of breakfast. She thumbed the edges of his hair, which was now growing past hair ears, “What do you say we do something about this before the little get together this evening? sound good to you honey?”

Carol’s fingers gently brushed his ear in her inspection of his hair. He was immediately reminded of the gentle, whimsical touch of Hailee’s fingers the night before, when she gave him a nearly identical comment.

“I can do it myself,” Carol’s voice woke him from the soothing mental place he was traveling to, “I’ll set up a chair in your bathroom and meet you up there whenever you’re ready.” She shot him a sweet, hospitable smile and waltzed out of the room.

As if on cue, while her mother disappeared from the room Hailee stepped in, standing between the twins. Grayson thought she looked like a bobblehead, the pinned curls adding immense extra volume to her head. Her blonde locks balled up into ringlets and then immediately went back to her head, where her mother fastened them with neon colored clips. Hailee exhaled and slumped into a chair.

“What’s wrong-” “-you okay?” Grayson looked straight at Ethan, feeling his spine straighten in his chair. If Ethan was fazed, he didn’t show it.

“Yeah,” Hailee nodded, “She’s just-,” she shook her head. She placed her elbows on the table and held her head in her hands, “She’s a perfectionist.” Her tone was sharp.

“I’m sorry baby,” Ethan’s tone was nearly a coo. He kissed the top of her head, somehow navigating his lips between the neon colored clips, “You look beautiful, though.”

Grayson filled his mouth with a spoon of cereal. He wanted to speak up. He wanted to say that Hailee looked like a poodle, and that she was a woman who was perfectly capable of choosing her own hairstyle. Trying to find his place in his new family, Grayson shoved as many cheerios in his mouth as he could fit.

He escaped the situation by leaving his cereal bowl in the sink and going up to the attic. Carol was waiting with a barber’s chair in the middle of his bathroom and a set of clippers open on the counter. “Ready dear?” She stood perfectly perched over the chair: a mixture of Martha Stewart and Sweeney Todd.

Grayson made himself comfortable in the chair while Carol swooped a black cape around him and started spraying his head with water.

“Excited for today, Grayson?”

“Yeah.” he answered politely, “I’m sure it’ll be fun.”

“This must be your first party in quite awhile honey.”

“Yeah,” he answered again, curtly, “I guess it will be.”

“Well don’t worry,” she started combing out locks of his hair. “I won’t tell a soul if you get a little too far into the schnopps tonight- it’ll be our little secret.”

Grayson chuckled softly. He wondered if that’s where Hailee got her sense of humor from.

“Hold your head steady now,” Carol instructed.

Grayson tried to lock his neck into place. “The party’s here?”

“Oh no,” Carol corrected, “The wedding’s here. That’s for certain, four generations have all gotten married in that back barn. But tonight,” some of his hair fell of the floor as she snipped her scissors, “tonight’s we’re going to the old boathouse down by the lake.”

“Oh,” Grayson responded, “Must have missed that.” In truth, Grayson had managed to avoid absorbing any details of Hailee and Ethan’s nuptials. He told himself it was because he didn’t want to be involved in the stresses of everyone else.

Carol nodded, “We’ve been friends with the owner for years, his brother is the mayor. And actually, his son-” Carol snipped her scissors again as her voice heightened, “his son and Hailee Anne used to date in high school. Nice boy, nice nice boy.”

Grayson made a low sound from his throat.

“But oh of course we love Ethan, we love Ethan like one of our own. Trevor could never compare to our Ethan, I’ve never my girl so happy.”

Carol snipped a few more of Grayson’s locks. She put the scissors down to grab a comb. “It must be so odd for you, to be home but not be in your home. Isn’t it honey?”

Grayson sighed softly, “It’s new. But I’m glad to be back.”

“Well just know whatever is ours is yours, this is your home and your family now.” Carol spoke kindly but her words cut through Grayson’s heart. He wondered if she would be as hospitable if she knew the scandalous thoughts he had about her daughter, his brother’s fiance.

Grayson shuddered without thinking. She pulled away from his head, “Just a few more minutes now darlin’, almost done here.”

Grayson offered to sweep the bathroom floor but Carol shooed him away, telling him to find his brother. Grayson thanked her one last time and headed down the stairs.

Grayson left his attic bedroom and headed down the stairs, to stop on the bottom stop. He stared blankly at the front door. Ethan was standing in the doorway, the lilac bushes in the sunshine behind him, with Hailee in his arms. He kissed the top of her head while she beamed. A photographer, a petitely framed girl in a black outfit, snapped pictures of them.

The second camera snap echoed in Grayson’s ears. He stalked out of the room while Hailee twisted her ring to better position it in the frame.

The boathouse was a historic piece of architecture, original to the small Southern town. For the engagement party, the chandeliers were draped with baby pink and cornflower blue swaths of fabric. Each chair was tied with bows that coordinated with its table cloth. Balloons covered each corner of the room, filled with glitter that sparkled and twinkled. The entire venue looked like a pink and blue prom.

Grayson sat at a round table with Ethan, Hailee, and her family. Despite her poodle-esque hairdo (which had the clips removed but still fell in curls that were far too fake to look easy on the eye), Grayson thought she looked like the spirit of springtime.

Her delicate frame was covered in sheets of baby pink tulle. Her dress cinched in at her waist before bouncing out like a ballgown. Her skirt was covered in dozens of tiny light blue flowers. She looked like a ballerina playing a floral princess.

Grayson felt drab compared to the well-dressed party guests. His navy polo and borrowed slacks paled in comparison to the three piece suits, hats, and pocket watches of the men around him.

Ethan wore Hailee on his arm as they greeted party guests at the door: hugging old people and kissing babies. Grayson found his place at the table, listening to Hailee’s father tell stories from his time in the service. Grayson sipped from the mouth of his beer bottle and imagined the memories of his time in the service to slip down and disappear as the liquid slid down his throat and into the abyss.

He was six beers into the night, watching the clock and wondering if he was too tipsy to shower when they got back home. He looked up to watching Hailee and Ethan at the front of the room. Ethan held the microphone in one hand while Hailee draped herself over his opposite elbow,  “We just wanted to thank all of you for being here today-for being so happy for us, with us,” Grayson took another swig of beer while Ethan to continued, “We’re so happy that all of you showed up tonight-”

“SHE SHOULD BE MINE AND YOU KNOW IT ASS HAT!”

Necks craned throughout the room to follow the shout. Grayson nearly dropped his beer on the table. From the fire exit door, the drunk, red eyed and sloppy stood a young man with a trim haircut and a red face.

“FUCK YOU E-CREEP! SHE WAS MINE FIRST YOU KNOW-”

Ethan started scampering off the stage, leaving Hailee, who had gone pale, to stand there by herself. From across Grayson’s table, Carol tapped her husband’s shoulder vigorously, “Devlin,” she was frantic, “Devlin do something!” In turn, Hailee’s father shook Grayson’s arm and said, “Go Son! Go!”

Grayson shot up. The air felt thick as he rushed to the other side of the room. He pulled the guy by the arm, trying to coax him out of the room.

SMACK.

In a fraction of a second, Grayson turned his head to see where the noise was coming from. A single tooth shot out of the guy’s mouth and flew threw the air as Ethan’s fist collided with his face. Grayson’s eyes went wide as he searched his brother’s face for answers.

From across the room, Hailee started to cry. Her legs had abandoned her and she had wilted on the floor, her curls bobbing around her head as she took in hasty breaths.

Somewhere in the room, her mother whispered to her father, “And I always thought Trevor was such a nice boy.”

Her father whispered back, “And I thought Ethan was such a nice boy.”

Grayson looked at the streams of blood coming from Trevor’s mouth and felt himself go sick. His mind flashed with the images of blood and injuries from the past few years: of infirmaries with stained walls and not enough beds. He felt a second sickness hit when he realized that for a moment, he had considered saying something to Hailee about his feelings. The night before, he considered divulging all of his emotions for her: committing to honesty and telling her what he felt. Not just about his growing affection for her, but his belief that her life was holding her back, not letting her by the woman she was aiming to be and live up to her potential.

Grayson took another look at the blood streaming from Trevor’s gums, caused by Ethan’s fists, and wondered if Ethan would have hit weaker or harder if it had been Grayson who spoke up.

[ericsonclan]

A Close Shave

Summary: Marlon freaks out on the day of his wedding and gets a little too close and personal with his electric razor.

Word Count: 2065

Read on A03:

Marlon paced back and forth in the guest bedroom of Sophie’s house, his mind reeling as he struggled to determine whether he had forgotten anything for the wedding back at his place. He had the dog bone cuff links for his suit that Sophie gave him on his last birthday, his suit was already on, his shoes were polished- the rings! Marlon’s hands rushed back to clasp his butt. Nope, the ring box was in his back pocket. Then what was it?

“Hey there, Groomeo,” Louis said, slipping into the room with a playful wink before his face fell as he saw his best friend’s distress. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“I’m forgetting something, something big….”

“What?”

“That’s the problem! I don’t know!” Marlon clasped the sides of his head in frustration, pulling at his hair. “Ugggh, I never should’ve agreed to this!”

“You mean the… wedding?” The hesitance was clear in Louis’ voice.

“No! I mean, yes, but not like that. When I proposed, somehow I thought I’d be able to have enough saved up by the wedding to give Sophie the dream wedding she deserves, but here we are getting married in her parents’ backyard eating homemade burgers and I’m wearing my dad’s suit that I wore to my senior prom,” Marlon collapsed on the bed in defeat, his face wrought with utter dejection.

Louis took a seat beside his friend, placing a hand upon his shoulder as he gave a sympathetic smile. “You know Sophie doesn’t care about any of that stuff. She loves homemade burgers,”

“I know… but she deserves so much better. If we’re gonna be married, I should be able to provide for her. Yet here I am running the same deliveries I did years ago when I met her,” Marlon let out a perturbed sigh which blew a piece of lint off of his suit. The fuzz ball floated through the air for a moment before nestling within the blonde locks of his mullet. “Look at me. I got so frazzled during the wedding that my dumb old mullet grew out,”

“Soph says she digs the mullet though!” Getting to his feet, Louis tried to drag Marlon off the bed and out of his funk.

“She just says that out of pity,” Marlon mumbled, his face half buried under a pillow. “She hates it. You know how we started dating,”

“She told you to cut it as a joke! She told you that when you did it!” Louis pulled on Marlon’s arms, getting him to sit upright only for Marlon to flop back over face first. “This is just wedding nerves talking, dude. You gotta ignore them!”

“No,” Marlon croaked, one eye gazing up at his friend. “It’s the truth. I’ve just been in denial all this time.”

Louis rolled his eyes, his hands coming to rest on his hips. “This is ridiculous. Do I have to bring Ruby in here to talk some sense into you?”

“She always thought the mullet was stupid. She’d probably volunteer to shave it off…” Marlon’s voice trailed off, his eyes wandering to his duffel bag.

Louis followed his friend’s gaze. “Marlon?”

“The razor…”

“What was that?”

Before Louis could stop him, Marlon had jumped to his feet and was rummaging through his bag. He’d packed the razor in case he missed a spot shaving at home, but it could also work for shaving other things. Namely this embarrassment of a mullet. In seconds he had located the razor; his heart raced as he heard its steady thrum. Without hesitation, Marlon lifted it to his head.

“Marlon, NOOOO!” Leaping forward, Louis tackled his best friend to the ground, doing his utmost to wrestle the still buzzing razor out of his hands. “This is a terrible idea, man! Just drop the razor!”

“No! I’m gonna look like a dork in all the wedding photos! I can’t ruin the wedding!” Marlon grunted as he rolled over on top of Louis, trying to angle the razor toward his head once more.

“Hey guys, Sophie was wondering- what the fuck!” Violet stood in the doorway in bewilderment as she watched the pair struggle for ownership of the still buzzing razor. “What sick sort of male bonding ritual is this?”

“Vi! Grab the razor!” Louis yelled, his arms wrapped around Marlon from behind as the two wrestled on the floor, the razor moving ever closer to Marlon’s locks. “He’s freaking out!”

“They need to go!” Marlon cried, rolling back and forth wildly. His hands were white knuckled with how tightly he was gripping the razor.

“Just calm the fuck down, Marlon!” Violet snapped as she joined the fight, trying to yank the pair apart and stop this nonsense. “You’ll look like even more of a dumbass than you do now if you cut your hair during a panic attack so just give Louis the razor!”

“See?! Vi says the mullet’s dumb!!”

“I think every way you look is dumb! Now give it!”

Louis and Violet were trying their best to hold off Marlon’s mullet assault but making little progress. With Louis pinned underneath Marlon and Violet unable to get enough leverage from above to move Marlon’s hands, the razor loomed ever closer.

“Marlon, you’re gonna cut your face!” Louis warned, watching in horror as the razor hovered mere inches above them.

“Just… let me do this…” Marlon grunted, putting all his power into his arms. Violet got a hold of his wrists, pulling back as hard as she could, but it wasn’t going to be enough. With a forceful grunt, Marlon thrust the razor straight toward himself. Louis screamed and rolled them both out of the way. The razor hit the hardwood floor and skidded away, still buzzing steadily.

The trio looked round in shock. Marlon was the first to speak. “Shit, I didn’t mean to freak out like that. Thanks for pulling me out of the way, Lou. Are you…” He glanced back to see his friend sadly looking down at the floor. A mangled dreadlock lay there, cut clean through. “Fuck. Lou, I’m sorry,”

Sighing, Louis pulled his handkerchief out from the breast pocket of his suit. Opening it up, he laid the dread inside then refolded the handkerchief and tucked it back in place. “Rest in peace, little guy. I’ll miss you,”

“You can’t even tell the difference,” Violet lied.

Marlon groaned as he let his head fall into his hands. “I’m the worst,”

“No, you’re not,” Louis got to his feet and offered Marlon a hand up too. “You’re just freaking out. Everybody does on their wedding. We just need a way to calm you down before the ceremony,”

“Good luck with that. I’m a fucking mess,”

Violet looked thoughtful. “I think I have an idea on how to solve this. Lou, get Marlon to the end of the hallway in 5, the point right before you turn right toward the bathroom,” Without elaborating further, Violet left the room.

“Well ok then…” Louis quirked an eyebrow before turning back to Marlon. “You ready to head over there?”

“I guess,”

---

Marlon and Louis waited together at the corner of the hallway. Marlon wasn’t sure what sort of cure all Violet had in mind, but he desperately hoped it would work. The anxiety was driving him crazy.

Louis kept a close eye on his friend, making sure he wasn’t going to make a run for it or anything else crazy. “Vi should be here any second now. We just gotta wait and-”

“Marlon?”

Both men froze. It wasn’t Violet’s voice that had just said that. It was Sophie’s.

“Soph!” Marlon wanted to rush around the corner and hug her, but he knew it was bad luck to see the bride before the ceremony. He glanced back at Louis to see his friend already backing away, giving a thumbs up and an encouraging smile.

“Hey…” Sophie let out a low giggle from the other corner of the wall. “It’s good to hear your voice,”

“Same,” Maron wondered if Violet had told Sophie about his freak out. If she hadn’t, he didn’t want to be the one to mention it. He didn’t want his own stupid panic attack to hurt Sophie.

“Vi could tell I was freaking out so she told me to meet up with you for a few minutes, even though we can’t be face to face,”

She was freaking out? Marlon hadn’t expected that. Sophie was always so chill and easygoing about everything. That’s how she’d been the whole way through the wedding planning up to this day. “You doing alright?”

“Eh, I’ve been better. I have napkins tucked under both my armpits right now so my sweaty pits don’t stain the dress,” There was a pause. “Crap, I probably shouldn’t have said that right before the wedding, huh? Not very romantic,”

Marlon chuckled. “No, you’re good. I… had my own little freak out while I was getting ready too,”

“Oh?”

“Yeah. I was thinking of cutting off my mullet cuz, y’know, you didn’t like it,”

“Marlon, that was years ago. That was before I knew you. I love you in whatever hairstyle you want. The mullet looks good cause it’s on you,”

A soft smile crossed Marlon’s face at those words. He wished he could hug Sophie, hold her close and tell her how thankful he was to have her in his life. He couldn’t see her in the dress, but maybe… Marlon extended a hand, sneaking it round the corner. “Thanks. I needed to hear that,” A warmth surrounded his hand as Sophie took it in her own.

“It’s good to hear your voice too. Makes all of this less scary. Not that marrying you is scary! But, y’know, the future,”

“Yeah,” Marlon gulped, feeling a lump well up in his throat. “Soph?”

“Yeah?”

“I’m sorry. I figure I haven’t helped make the future any less scary,”

“What do you mean?”

“Well… I should’ve found a better job,” Marlon looked at the floor in dejection. “That way I could’ve been saving up for our future and then maybe things wouldn’t be so scary,”

“Marlon, it’s not that. We don’t have a lot of money sure, but I never expected that. I mean I choose a career as an artist for crying out loud! Money doesn’t scare me, it’s more like… kids and stuff. The big life changes,”

Oh. Marlon squeezed Sophie’s hand softly, wishing he could see her face. “You’re gonna be a great mom, Soph. But that doesn’t have to happen right now. It doesn’t have to happen anytime soon if you don’t want. We’ve got time. And shit… I don’t think I’m really ready myself to have kids and stuff,”

“I’m getting ahead of myself, aren’t I?” The wry smile she must have on her face right now was easy to picture. “Well, whatever comes our way with money and kids or whatever else is freaking us out, I know we can get through it. Cause we have each other. And that’s all I could ever want,”

Marlon felt tears pricking his eyes. He tried to swallow the lump in his throat that had switched from one of fear to emotion. “Yeah,” He paused, rubbing his thumb across his soon-to-be wife’s hand. “Hey, Soph?”

“Yeah?”

“I love you,”

Marlon heard a little sniffle from round the corner. “I love you too,”

A chuckle escaped Marlon’s lips. “Look at us, a bunch of saps,”

“Crying before we even reach the altar,”

“Yeah,”

“But they’re good tears,”

Marlon smiled. “Yeah,”

A beeping sound went off and Sophie pulled her hand out of Marlon’s. The sound stopped a moment later. “Shit, I gotta run. That was the alarm for painting nails,”

“Better not keep Ruby waiting,”

“For real. She’s intense about the wedding schedule. I’ll see you soon then. I guess… at the aisle?”

“I’ll be waiting at the end of it,”

Sophie ran off down the hall, the sound of her squeaking sneakers following in her wake. Marlon leaned back against the wall, closing his eyes as a smile covered his face. He was marrying the love of his life. He was one lucky man. Things might be scary, but knowing Sophie felt the same way made all the difference. Straightening his shoulders, Marlon went off to find Louis and figure out what was next before the ceremony. He was ready to get married.

[dahvangogh]

and empty word are evil| Jason Todd

[ prologue | one | two | three | four ]

[ao3 link] [masterlist]

note: hello, there! I KNOW, I KNOW. I'm a day early but I finally got two new comments on this story: one on AO3 and another here in Tumblr, so I got excited and decided to upload it a bit earlier.This chapter sets in motion many things for this story. Also, despite perhaps not being as exciting or long as the others, it is key to the development of the whole thing. As usual, I apologize if there are any grammatical mistakes. I corrected it myself but I'm no English native.Please, could you leave a comment or kudos? It really helps a lot! 

Much love xx

CHAPTER THREE

There are wounds that never show on the body that are deeper and more hurtful than anything that bleeds.”

― Laurell K. Hamilton, Mistral's Kiss

“She hasn’t called me yet… why hasn’t she called me yet? This never happens to me!”

Lisa throws her hands to her head and messes the blonde tresses even more than they are, pacing back and forth in Grace’s open concept kitchen and living room, her posture completely straight.

“Oi, chill!” the raven-haired tries not to laugh, biting her bottom lip “People have jobs and lives, so it’s most likely she is busy!”

The blond turns to look at Grace, who is sitting comfortably on her big comfy sofa doodling in one of her many sketchpads, and crosses her arms under her chest.

“I also have a life, you dumbass. But not even a text? C'mon!”

Grace rolls her eyes.

“Yeah, it’s been a week… perhaps you are getting sloppy in the flirting department?” She tries not to laugh at Lisa’s indignant face and quickly picks up a pillow seconds before the blonde starts hitting her. “Kidding! Just kidding!”

Her friend keeps hitting her, not as if to hurt her but in a playful manner.

“I will have you know that I’m the fucking best at flirting… and other things.”

Grace looks over the rim of her pillow and makes a face as if throwing up.

“Dis-gus-ting” the raven-haired accentuates each syllable, then raises a hand to stop her best friend from starting hitting her again. “No, but for real. Who cares? It’s her loss… you are amazing and the day you date someone, that idiot will be a lucky girl.”

Lisa moves her head to the side and her shoulders drop as if exhausted. Then, she bites her bottom lip while tapping her foot for a few seconds.

At last, she nods and sits next to her on the sofa. The blonde leans her head on her best friend’s shoulder. Grace smiles softly and leans her head on her friend’s crown.

“After hooking up, she told me to wait until her shift was over… then we went to eat tacos.” Lisa’s voice sounds soft and dreamy, not loud and humorous as usual; after a long week, finally telling the ink-haired girl what had happened that night. “We were there for three hours, talking and laughing, and we even closed the fucking place… And it wasn’t a simple hook-up on a nightclub, there was a connection there. I swear.”

The raven-haired smiles while imagining the scene.

“If she saw you eating tacos and didn’t leave your ass there immediately, she is clearly interested.”

Lisa raises her head a bit and looks up at her while Grace looks down, a mocking smile on her plump lips. They hold each other stares for a bit, now the raven-haired is biting her lower lip while the blonde presses her lips together.

Three…

Two…

One

They both burst out laughing, even both keep giggling after a few minutes pass and their laughter has died out.

“Shit, that's true.”

She nods, giggling about how a messy-eater her friend is and pictures it in her mind.

Grace picks the discarded sketchpad and pencil from beside her on the sofa, not the side where Lisa is sitting, and turns a page over.

She quickly draws Lisa’s face, starting with her high cheekbones tinted with hundred freckles and then her petite cute nose, following with her soft-looking jawline. In the drawing, her best friend's big blue eyes are filled with wonder, staring at something they –the viewer of said drawing or the drawer– can’t see, while her thin lips are curled in a lovely smile. Her blonde head, framed with soft long waves, is resting on her hands on the table and Grace adds a napkin holder near.

“Should I draw guacamole smeared all over your chin?” Lisa giggles at that, so the raven-haired quickly draws it. “Perhaps a bottle of Tears of Llorona No. 3 Extra Añejo Tequila besides you?”

“Nah… that thing is 233 bucks.”

Grace huffs, then asks out loud: “Who pays 233 bucks for a bottle of Tequila?”

Dad does, I saw him drink a glass of that thing many times while watching tv or reading.

“Your dad.”

Both laugh while Grace also shakes her head, her father’s expensive tastes never ceasing to amaze her.

“But not me, girl.” Her friend answers back, which makes both of them laugh again. “Desperados is more on my budget… Though sometimes I spend a bit more on a Jose Cuervo one if I feel like treating myself.”

Grace smiles sadly.

Two months after her kidnapping and before she went to Berlin, they both had graduated from their prestigious and expensive private high school. The blonde had decided it was time to come out to her parents and Grace had completely supported her, thinking that Adam and Mary would be open and accept her daughter.

She had been mistaken.

The Addington’s had completely lost it and kicked Lisa out of their home. Thankfully, Lisa’s aunt Marissa had welcomed her in her own home and called Grace to tell her what had gone down.

Three days later, Lisa had been notified that she had been written out of her parents’ will and she wouldn’t be able to get a single penny from the family’s fortune. Plus, to add salt to the wound, she should never call her parents or even step a foot on her old home.

The raven-haired remembers how heartbroken her best friend had been, crying loudly on one of the beds of her aunt’s many guest rooms, while Marissa explained what the family lawyer had informed her.

She hadn’t been sad about the money but her parents’ hatred and lack of love for her.

Despite all of that, Marissa had sat down at the rim of the bed and had helped Lisa sit down. When she had calmed down –Grace remembers running to the kitchen for a glass of water and some chocolate–, her aunt had announced that she wasn’t going anywhere. Marissa unofficially had adopted Lisa, using her own wealth to help and support her niece.

Yet Lisa didn’t like asking for much, too independent and still licking her own wounds.

“Next week, I will buy a few bottles of the expensive ones and we will drink them all while watching RuPaul Drag Race: All-Stars, how does that sound?”

The raven-haired hears her friend harsh breath as if holding her cries.

“Fucking amazing, Gracie.”

She smiles, understanding what her friend is truly saying underneath coarse language, and pats her on the hand.

Thanks.

[ – – – ]

It has been a few hours and they both have just finished eating Chinese Takeaway, sitting in the same position as before but with a big and fluffy warm blanket wrapped around them. Grace is drawing again while they both watch the new season of  Peaky Blinders  on the big living room TV.

Grace is drawing from memory one of her favorite paintings of Empress Sisi, with her beautiful half-braided hairstyle decorated with silver flowers, and lovely white wedding gown. Don’t mistake her, she prefers others over this painting of Sisi, but someway somehow she had memorized only this one.

So beautiful, poor heartbroken Sisi.

“I’m a proud lesbian, okay?” her friend says, her blonde head moving on Grace’s shoulder as if she speaks with her whole self and not only with her mouth. Grace stops her pencil moving. “But I totally understand why so many people want to be dicked down by Tommy Shelby.”

She laughs at that.

“Yeah, he is hot…”

Suddenly, Lisa raises her head from her friend’s shoulder and mimics her friend’s posture, sitting cross-legged and reclining her back against the sofa. Then, the blonde starts arranging the blanket better around her.

“But?” she asks, still busy arranging the big blanket.

“I don’t know... ” Grace sighs loudly and looks at her friend, shrugging her shoulders. “He is handsome, in an i-would-draw-him-time-and-time-again way, but I never thought, and excuse my vocabulary, oh I would totally such his dick.”

Lisa now leans her head back, now looking at her best friend with a sad smile, the TV series completely forgotten or unimportant to them.

“How long has it been since you dated someone?” her voice sounds rueful, though the blonde knows the answer already. “Or kissed someone?”

Grace shakes her head, almost embarrassed about what she is about to confess, and even feels herself blush.

Here we go.

“Since I was eighteen.” the raven-haired sighs, then rubs her hands together, forgetting her drawing for the moment. “I can’t still stand someone touching me that way… It’s hard for me to trust any men. I mean, when you start a relationship you expect to have sex or at least close skin to skin proximity… ”

The last words make Lisa laugh loudly.

“Why do you say it so… formal and weird?”

“Because it’s true!” Grace feels her smile completely gone, her feelings and worries pouring out of her mouth without a stop.“People expect to be able to touch, hug, kiss or do sexual things when in a relationship with someone. But I can’t… I couldn’t possibly stand it. I want to, but I can’t!”

Lisa instantly hugs her tightly, caressing the arm her hand rests on.

“Well, that’s okay. Your mental health is above any fucking relationship.” her friend’s voice is soft and kind, still hugging her tightly. “One day, you might meet someone who will understand and maybe you might try.”

Grace sighs, though weirdly enough something in her stomach starts moving.

I hope it's a stomachache... better to have diarrhea than a relationship.

“Or maybe, you might meet an amazing hot dude with a big dick and only want to kiss him until you die of lack of oxygen… ”

That last sentence makes her laugh loudly, Lisa quickly joining her.

“Doubt it, but hey… if it happens, it’s not a bad way of dying.”

Both laugh again.

“Now, seriously. Have you talked to anyone about it?” her friend looks at her, worry all over her freckled face. “I mean a psychologist. Or perhaps participated in a PTSD group therapy or rape survivors group therapy? It might help, you know... ”

She can’t help but whimper when hearing that word.

“No.” Grace closes her eyes and leans back against her sofa. Despite being best friends, she didn’t like talking about what had happened those three days, though she did explain a bit so her friends, family and police would understand. “My dad made me see a psychiatrist for a few years in Berlin, it was one of his many conditions so I could stay there. To give him peace of mind, you know?”

The raven-haired snuggles into her best friend’s side, searching for warmth and acceptance, then continues explaining.

“I still get in touch with her once or twice every few months.”

Dr. Louise Bell had been like an angel sent from Heaven. She had been kind and patient with her, explaining how the impact of that incident goes far beyond any physical injuries, supporting her and never judging her. Also, the psychologist had been right.

Grace had spent a month in the hospital because of her physical injuries but to this day, she was still recovering from the internal ones.

The world will never feel like a completely safe place ever again.

Nor will she trust others as much as she did before.

Neither does she stop self-degrading herself or questioning her judgment from time to time.

She still has nightmares, a few flashbacks and unpleasant memories coming back to her from time to time. Nevertheless, time helps to heal.

“You are not dirty, Grace. Neither are you damaged goods or unworthy of love.” she always replays Louise’s words in her mind when she is feeling bad about herself or in one of her depressive episodes.

She has improved a lot in many aspects. Grace doesn’t shower three times a day anymore, nor does she start shaking when seeing a man and she has been able to go to a park again.

Not Central Park, though. Not yet.

The raven-haired has gained much confidence and self-love through her friends, Louise’s help and her powers –the last thing helping a lot.

But relationships and intimacy are yet impossible for her.

She had tried but it had gone wrong so soon.

“I did try… I went on a couple of dates with this guy in Berlin and…” She sighs, the memories fuzzy in her mind because of how scared and anxious she had been back then. “All was going well until we kissed but… he touched my waist and I flipped out.”

He had gone flying, but Lisa didn't need to know about that.

Lisa, always kind to her, hugs her closer to herself; letting Grace confide and vent if she needs to.

“Dr. Bell told me to talk about it, to challenge myself from time to time, to reconnect with my body and feelings while not avoiding or numbing them,” Grace explains, thinking back about all she learned in her sessions with Louise. “You know I also took some self-defense lessons, learned yoga and even did massage therapy to not be so uncomfortable with being touched.”

And became a night vigilante of some sort.

“I can stand people touching me but... ” she rubs her hands together, taking a deep breath and exhaling loudly. “A relationship means trusting someone and having intimacy… I’m not ready for that. Not yet.”

“And that’s okay, Grace.”

“Yeah, I know. Dr. Bell always reminds me that everyone deals with trauma in their own way. So even if it has been six years, I can take all the time I need.”

Lisa pats the arm her arm is draped on.

“Please, don’t think I’m pressuring you into going around hooking up or dating random people… I just worry about you sometimes.”

Grace looks up at her friend and gives her a soft smile, nodding. Then, she rests her head on her shoulder, looking at the TV.

“He really looks hot while smoking though.”

She is talking about Tommy Shelby, who is currently smoking a cigarette in front of a nun, looking like a dark prince.

“Fuck, he really does.”

[ – – – ]

Grace is an early bird, she had always been one and probably will always be. The raven-haired likes sitting on her balcony, the views of her skyscraper apartment always being better than any morning News program, with a cup of coffee or even a smoothie.

The building, all constructed with glass and sustainable materials, has forty floors and her apartment is in the thirty-nine. Each floor is divided into two apartments, her thirty-nine neighbor is a nice woman recently divorced who works in an expensive and reputed law firm.

The raven-haired doesn’t usually interact much with her neighbors, though she knows that the five low floors are used for work purposes and that her neighbor from the forty bought his whole floor to make his apartment bigger because he is an eccentric millionaire who doesn’t like sharing that much.

Also, he sometimes likes to use the stairs instead of the elevator.

Imagine using the stairs in a skyscraper of forty floors and with your apartment being in the last? Can’t relate at all.

She looks around her balcony, which is quite bigger than a standard one, and smiles proudly at her good taste in furniture. The raven-haired selected white and black furniture for this place, plus added many plants. A low garden glass table is in the center, a big white sofa placed against her big glass windows and looking directly towards the table and subsequent views, a big white armchair on the left of the table looking at the low table and all big beautiful pot plants through the floor of the whole railing, surrounding it.

“Grace, do you prefer having breakfast here or we go and hit Pauli’s Diner for a quick meal?”

Her blonde friend asks from the kitchen. The big balcony is connected to the living room, which is open-concept with the kitchen, so her voice sounds quite close to her. Grace stands up, places her coffee on the glass table, and folds her fluffy grey blanket on the white armchair.

She picks her cup and walks inside, seeing Lisa in the kitchen preparing more coffee, her stereo on in the WXYZ Radio channel.

“Good morning, Gothamites! It’s me, Alan Scott and currently, it is seven AM of this fine Saturday morning. If you have been paying attention to social media or the News, you probably already know that last night things went crazy in our dear city. But to those who don’t know, last night Poison Ivy was being personally delivered to Arkham Asylum by GCPD until things went BOOM!”

Both Lisa and her look at the stereo with interest, confusion across the blonde’s pale face while the raven-haired waits for confirmation of Harley’s plan succeeding.

“Fuck, what happened now?” her friend mutters.

“I don’t know” she says a white lie, after all she truly doesn’t know what really happened.

“Literally, things went BOOM. The crazy bird Harley Quinn blew up many of GCPD car patrols and the SWAT van where Ivy was being transported allowing the eco-terrorist to escape. Five policemen died on the spot and other seven are in critical condition. Unfortunately, two passed away on their way to Gotham City General Hospital. Despite Batman and Robin trying to help, as of now Harley and Ivy are missing. Commissioner Gordon and Mayor Sebastian Hady’s joint press appearance is scheduled at 10 am today and we will get further information. Now, Molly. What do you think about this horrible incident?”

“God, the Hospital and the clinic are probably bustling.” Lisa’s hands go to her head as if going insane just thinking about it. Then, she turns towards her best friend. “Yesterday and today are my free days, should I call my boss and offer my help?”

Grace is completely in shock.

She had specifically asked Harley to not kill any policeman. The raven-haired had done so when they first talked about the plan in the nightclub VIP room, then twice at their “sleepover” and another time after delivering the explosives.

Harley had promised her she wouldn’t.

That damned harlequin...

“Grace?” her friend calls her, looking up with concern towards the kitchen ceiling where the lights are flashing on and off nonstop. “Grace?!”

I’m going to fucking kill that lying harlequin and make myself a carpet with her hyenas.

The lightbulbs in the ceiling explode, Lisa lets out a very high scream and protects her head with her hands while bending over a bit.

You are a dead man walking, Harley Quinn.