#microchip in my nose

[tikitakatia]

Under Watch — A. Putellas x Reader

"New Neighbour, New Problems "

WC: 1.8k

Summary: The threat against Alexia looms closer, but the management has the perfect solution.

You’re leaning against the hood of the car when she appears. Hair still damp from her post morning workout shower, hoodie slung over her shoulders, earbuds in. Alexia walks like someone who doesn’t expect to be bothered. Which is really ironic, considering that’s your entire job description.

She slows when she sees you. One eyebrow arches. "You’re driving me now? What is this, high school? Should I sit in the back and pretend I need some lunch money?"

You nod toward the driver’s side. "New protocol. Until further notice."

She groans audibly and mutters something in Catalan that you don’t catch, but the tone is universal. Disgust. Annoyance. A hint of ‘I’ll set this car on fire if it proves a point.’

And then she sees it.

The note.

You’d already bagged it, gloved and stored. But the outline where it sat on the windshield is still obvious.

She goes still.

"Another one?"

You nod. "Same handwriting. Slightly more aggressive."

"Of course it is. People get weird when their teams lose. Or win. Or breathe."

"We’re escalating precautions."

Alexia exhales sharply through her nose. "You mean panicking."

"They mean panicking," you correct.

"I mean adapting."

She gives you a long look. Not hostile. Just tired. Then gets into the passenger seat and slams the door with unnecessary force.

"Fine. But I’m choosing the music."

You don’t answer. She turns up the volume anyway.

They break the news right after practice. No warning, no soft lead-in.

“You’ll have a new neighbor starting today,” says the club security lead. “It’s part of our reinforced protection protocol.”

Alexia blinks. "Okay... What does that have to do with me?"

He shifts in his chair. "It’s your new bodyguard. She’s moving into the unit next to yours."

The silence is instant. Then loud.

“You cannot be serious.”

"Alexia, this isn’t just about notes anymore. Someone got inside the building. They knew your car."

"It’s a public parking lot. You let fans in there all the time."

"Not with access to your elevator."

She scoffs. "Maybe the security team should be better at their job then."

You don’t speak. Not yet. You're leaning against the back wall, arms folded, face neutral.

Alexia wheels toward you. "You knew about this?"

"I was informed this morning."

"Of course you were. And you just what? Packed up your little secret agent suitcase and showed up like it’s nothing?"

You shrug. "It’s part of the job."

"Well, I hate it."

"Duly noted."

She turns back to the security team. "This is ridiculous. I have a lock. I have an alarm system. What do you think is going to happen, someone crawls through the vents and I need Sombra next door to kick them in the face?"

"This isn’t a negotiation, Alexia. The club signed off on it. It’s a temporary assignment."

She mutters something under her breath that sounds like "temporary my ass" and stands, grabbing her bag.

“I’m not agreeing to this.”

“You don’t have to. It’s already done.”

A few hours later, you’re unlocking the door to your new apartment with a box under one arm. She’s standing in the hallway with a protein bar in hand, unwrapped but untouched.

“Let me guess,” she says. “You also have access to my building, and floor layout, my grocery list, and the microchip they implanted in my skull at birth.”

“Just your floor. And your training schedule.”

She stares. You unlock your door and step inside. She follows like an angry cat, keeping her distance but making sure you know she’s watching.

“This is overkill.”

You open the window. Sweep the place. First habit.

“You’re not that important.”

She bristles.

“That’s not what I meant,” she mutters, but you’re already plugging in your encrypted laptop.

She lingers in the doorway. "You’re not going to say anything else? No apology for completely violating my life?"

You look up. "I’m not here to violate. I’m here to protect."

She makes a face like that might be worse.

That evening, she stomps by as you’re bringing in another box.

“Are you going to be pacing the hallway all night like some sort of armed Roomba?"

“No. Just until I'm set up."

“Well, can you at least do it silently? Some of us are trying to pretend we have privacy."

You say nothing. She rolls her eyes and disappears into her apartment, slamming the door harder than necessary.

The next morning, she sees you in the hallway.

“I almost tripped over your boots,” she says. “Are you nesting in the hallway now, or should I just assume you live here more than I do?”

You nod toward the wall. “Your door has a new sensor now. Motion-triggered. You’ll hear it if someone lingers outside too long."

She freezes. Her mouth opens, then closes.

Then: "So now my door tattles on people. Great. Can’t wait for it to go off when I get home drunk."

You glance at her. "I'll disable the alarm if you're singing."

She glares. “You think you're funny, huh?”

You don't answer. That, in itself, is the punchline.

Dinner is loud, messy, and deeply therapeutic. Alexia’s on her second glass of wine, slumped into her chair like she’s aged a decade in one week. Patri’s already warned the waiter that the table might need extra bread, patience, and backup wine.

“She’s everywhere,” Alexia says, stabbing at her grilled vegetables and pretending they´re you.

“Like… omnipresent. A specter in a hoodie.”

"Sounds kind of hot," Marta says casually, sipping her sangria.

Alexia throws her a sharp look. "That’s not the point."

"But you’re not denying it," Irene hums.

"It’s irrelevant," Alexia snaps, then sighs.

"I open the door to take out my trash and she’s there. I go down to grab a delivery, she's already standing by the elevator like she’s predicting my thoughts. I swear it's like she has motion sensors or something."

"That’s… literally her job?" Patri says slowly, brows raised.

"Yeah, to protect you?" Irene adds. "Not to wait around until you're ready for a hug."

"Okay, but do bodyguards really need to be so silent all the time? It’s unsettling. She’s like a ninja. I dropped my keys in the hallway and she just... appeared. No footsteps. No sound. Just materialized out of nowhere like a ghost."

"A ghost in Nikes," Marta says, grinning.

"With great cheekbones," Irene adds.

Alexia makes a frustrated noise and drops her fork with a clatter. "This is not the support I expected."

"We’re just saying," Patri starts gently, "you’re not the same level of anonymous anymore. You’re… big. A worldwide football sensation. That means more weirdos, more creeps, more risk."

"And she’s good," Irene says. "Did you know she checked the entire restaurant while we were coming in? Didn’t even make a scene. Just a little loop like she was on her phone."

Alexia blinks. "Seriously?"

"Seriously," Marta nods. "Clocked it right away. Didn’t miss a beat. Kind of badass, honestly."

Alexia sinks a little in her seat. She hates that she hadn’t noticed. Hates that she kind of agrees.

"She even nodded at the hostess like she was confirming something," Patri adds. "Stoic, but polite."

"Oh my god," Alexia mutters. "She’s efficient. She’s polite. She’s a fucking Girl Scout with a security clearance."

Marta smirks. "And did we mention-"

"Yes, yes, she’s attractive, I’m not blind," Alexia grumbles into her glass. "But that’s not the point."

"Maybe not," Irene teases, "but it’s a nice bonus."

Alexia opens her mouth to argue, but her phone buzzes. She checks the new message.

[Sombrita]: Crowd is forming outside. Photos, videos. Suggest back exit. I’ll be waiting by the kitchen doors. Van is ready.

She groans. "She’s already planning our escape."

"That’s actually kind of hot," Patri says with a grin.

Alexia shakes her head, but there’s a reluctant tug at the corner of her mouth. "I just want her to be less… present."

The table goes quiet. Her friends exchange a look.

"Less present," Irene repeats softly.

"Not gone," Marta notes.

Alexia glares at her wine. "You’re all the worst."

Another buzz. 

[Sombrita]: Five minutes. Back exit. Let me know if anyone needs help getting out.

Alexia sighs again. She types back a terse: Got it.

As they gather their things and follow the waiter through the back, Irene leans in close.

"Hey, at least she makes you feel safe, right?"

Alexia doesn’t answer, but she doesn’t argue either.

It’s late when you hear the sensor alarm start its soft beeping. Silent, subtle, set to trigger if anyone stays in the hallway for more than two and a half minutes. You’re on your couch, sweats and tank top, a book open in your hand you haven’t really been reading. She's been standing there for a while.

You wait. Half a minute more. Then, for your own amusement more than anything, you switch it from silent mode to a single loud beep. Just one. Just enough.

"For fuck’s sake!" Alexia growls angrily from outside, voice muffled through the door.

You’re up in a second, unlocking her front door with a single tap of the card.

She’s startled when it opens.

"Have you been watching me this whole time?"

You don’t say anything. You just smirk.

Alexia narrows her eyes. She’s flushed, slightly tipsy from wine with her family, wrapped in a soft oversized coat, hair messy from the wind. She looks more tired than drunk, but the tipsiness makes her looser, sharper-tongued.

"Well? Are you going to let me in or are we going to stand here all night while you flex your creepy telepathic door-opening skills?"

"After you." You step aside and gesture smoothly.

She walks in haughtily, except her handbag catches on the door handle as she passes. The momentum jerks her back slightly, throwing her off balance.

You catch her instinctively. One hand on her elbow, the other lightly at her waist.

"Careful," you say.

Alexia steadies herself but doesn’t pull away immediately. Her gaze flicks up to yours. "Are the reflexes also part of the job description, or do you just enjoy being everywhere at once?"

You tilt your head. "Would it bother you less if I said I enjoy it?"

She scoffs, but there’s a small smirk threatening to betray her. "A little full of yourself, aren’t you?"

You release her gently, stepping back. "Just observant."

She walks into her apartment, still facing you, eyebrows raised.

"Yeah, well. Don't get used to catching me."

"Wouldn’t dream of it."

Alexia turns away fast enough that you don’t see her smile, but not fast enough to stop you from knowing it’s there.

She closes the door behind her, and for the second time that night, you return to your post.

Across the hall, light from under her door seeps into the hallway. You hear her footsteps pause.

Then nothing.

But a few seconds later, the peephole darkens for just a heartbeat.

She’s watching you too now.

[cranberrymoons]

well and the scales of hotness are relative to your location, so Buck for example was probably off the charts hot in small town pennsylvania which equalizes to him being an LA 8 or 9. eddie is an LA 10 but my poor best friend buck has been so blinded by his desperate need to be loved and adored by eddie in all facets of his life that he hasn’t even allowed himself to internalize the enormity of this (Eddie’s hotness) and therefore has convinced himself that what he feels for eddie is just normal average best friendism, possibly with a shade of generic attraction now that he knows he’s attracted to men. and because eddie is an LA 10, everyone else around buck is reinforcing the idea that eddie is An Attractive Person so buck does not realize that what he’s going through is a terrible and unique set of circumstances specifically centered around the fact that eddie is not only really really hot </3 but also perfect for him and also already devoted to him! and buck wants so badly to roll around at eddie’s feet and be patted on the head and told he’s a good boy and to be microchipped and whacked on the nose with a newspaper, and eddie wants this for buck too!!! he wants it so much. but what he needs buck to do is make the first move, but since buck doesn’t Know yet consciously that this is what he wants – well. he is Stuck :(

[pup-pee]

stereotypical bernard is a conspiracist haha drawing

tim; i lov how normal civillian core u r

ber; i just shoved gummy worms up my nose & i think cows r propaganda 4 milk so that we drink microchipped liquids that mend into our bones

[skellyflowers]

My Cat Vessel

A/N: I have never had a cat.

I thought I would ever get a cat. But here I am, looking at this odd fur ball. I don't even know where he came from. I found him on my apartment doorstep. He had a collar and a name tag, so I know his name is Vessel, but no owner contact information. 

I really did try to find Vessel’s owner. I asked my neighbors, I put up posters, tried social media and checked to see if he had a microchip. But no luck. So, for the foreseeable future, I have a little black cat.

Vessel is an… odd little guy. He only eats if I put his bowl on the table with me, so we eat together. I often find him staring at me. Usually from around the room. He runs around my apartment in the middle of the night. He also… yells at me when he sees me. My friends tell me that he is just being a normal cat.

I've had Vessel for about 2 months now and I've learned more of his habits. He likes to sit at the door as I leave to go to work. He only sits in his cat bed if it is on the couch. I'm also pretty sure he is having secret cat meetings with three other cats in my neighborhood. I swear if I come home to three more cats.

“Vessel, I'm home.” I called out. 

I look around for him. Normally he is right at the door when I come home. Ready to give me welcome home bites.

“Vessel? Where are you?”

“Mowww.”

Oh. There he is. Where did that come from? The kitchen?

“Vessel?”

“Mrow!”

I look around the kitchen but I don’t see him. My kitchen isn't that big, where is he?

“Ves, where are you buddy?”

“MEOW!”

“Are you in the cabinet?”

“Meow.”

I open my cabinet and see him sitting in a soup pot. He meows right in my face when he sees me.

“Don’t yell at me! How did you even get in here?”

The cat makes no effort to move. After about ten seconds I pull the pot out of the cabinet, Vessel still sitting inside.

“Get out of there.” I say putting my hands on my hips.

Vessel just looks up at me. He makes a chittering sound. When I try to pick him up he gently swats at my hand.

“We're not making cat soup tonight.”

I turn the pot to pour him out of it. When I place the pot make down Vessel climbs back in the pot. We do this two more times. After the fourth time I flip the pot on top of Vessel. His bowls echo under the pot.

“You ready to come out now?” I ask as I lift the pot up.

He crawls out from under the pot. He then climbs onto my shoulder and headbutts me. He crawls around my shoulders and purrs loudly in my ears.

“Did you miss me?” I ask him.

“Mrow.”

“I missed you too. Did you see your friends?” I ask as I walk to the couch.

“MEOW!”  

“Don’t get any ideas. You aren't for the streets. Not anymore.”

He meows softly in my ear and bats at my nose. He starts to purr again as I scratch his ears. I put him on the couch and started making us dinner. When I look up to check on him, he is sitting on the arm of the couch staring into my soul.

“Don’t stare at me like that!” Vessel decided to jump off the couch and walked into the kitchen to stare at me.

“Mreeow.” 

“You want chicken?” He meows really loudly and rubs against my legs. “Ok, let me get your bowl.”

Vessel jumps on the table to wait for me to bring his food. I put extra chicken in his food and turn on the TV so we have something to watch. Vessel is a loud eater.

“And you want to leave to hang out with your friends..”

 After dinner I put a nature documentary on for Vessel, to distract him. I want to take a bath and really relax tonight. Last thing I need is that fur ball to stand in the bathroom and yell at me while I just try to wash off a long day at work. Before I get in the tub I check on Vessel and see him as close to the TV as possible. His eyes are huge while he watches.

I get about 7 minutes alone before I hear him. At first it's a quiet meow, then a few footsteps. Then a louder meow and tiny paws running. I open my eyes and look at the bathroom door and see a little black paw reaching under the door.

“Ves! Stop!”

“Meowwwww!”

“I'll  be out in a few minutes. Relax.” 

He quiets down after I say that. I decided to cut my bath short. I dry off and put on my robe. As I exit the bathroom and go to the living room I see Vessel. He is loafed on the couch. But with his ears pulled back I can tell he is a grumpy loaf.

“Don’t be mad.” Vessel doesn’t respond but his tail moves behind him. “Ok. My me time is done. You can be as clingy as you want.”

“Meow.”

I walk over to him and pick him up. Vessel flops in my arms and purrs loudly.

“I knew you weren’t really mad at me.” I walk to my room with him in my arms. 

I put him on the bed and changed into my pajamas. I noticed that Vessel covered his eyes… like he was embarrassed. Once I changed and got under the covers Vessel climbs on top of me and starts to make biscuits before settling on my chest. I give him a scratch on his ears.

“Goodnight Vessel.” he quietly meows and I fall asleep to his loud purrs.

[riddle-me-ri]

a/n: so…trying my hand at something a teeny bit different. this isn't a x reader (even though the temptation of putting my self insert there was incredibly strong), shocking I know, but stick with me…I've always wanted to like…write for a fan version of the Rogues…but I was never close enough with anyone to inquire about doing it(or if i did they were too nervous or werent sure which i totally get)…but I finally got to know a beloved mutual @illustratedartist AANNDDD now we're here lol. I know this is a little different–I hope you guys still enjoy it! 

Context/Image for her Mad Hatter Here (please check out the rest of her art, can't recommend her stuff enough!)

Word Count: 816

Content Warning: brief mentions of mind control, spiked tea, hallucinations

Mutual Made Mad Hatter - A Mad Lonesome Man Named Jervis Tetch

“The sun was shining on the sea,

Shining with all his might:

He did his very best to make

The billows smooth and bright —

And this was odd, because it was

The middle of the night.”

A hushed voice muttered the nonsensical poem softly as the owner of the voice tinkered away at some machinations. 

To any passerby the abandoned warehouse on the docks was just that, abandoned.

Rusted, dilapidated, it’s a miracle the walls are still up–or that the warehouse has any functioning lights…perhaps some homeless folks managed to generate some electricity from a nearby generator…

“The moon was shining sulkily,

Because she thought the sun

Had got no business to be there

After the day was done —

“It’s very rude of him,” she said,

“To come and spoil the fun!”

The man chuckled gleefully as he continued the poem. 

He had them all memorized…they were the only words he could say without stuttering or sputtering like a buffoon. Something he was always conscious about–something that always embarrassed him back when he–he wasn’t like this.

“Do you really think it will work?” 

The man scoffed. “Of course, it will! It’s worked before–”

“Ah, yes, before the Bat showed up anyhow…” To the right side of the man’s work station lounged a purple cat with darker purple stripes down his body. His eyes a bright sky blue, his teeth stained yellow much like the man he was speaking to. 

The man groaned. “That flying rodent just got lucky! He-He…” 

The lanky man slumped in his chair. “He drove my Alice away…now she’s hiding some place! I must find her!” 

Somehow remembering the woman he once knew and was utterly enamored by–he was reinvigorated just as quickly as he was discouraged to continue working. 

“Who's to say she isn’t hiding from you?” The cat’s grin got wider–it didn’t budge when the man slammed his fists on the wooden desk, knocking over tools and microchips to pitter patter all over the floor. 

“She wouldn’t–she wouldn’t! I didn’t frighten her! I wouldn’t harm her–”

“Oh, but you have…you have dear Hatter, scared the poor girl out of her wits…” 

The Hatter angrily waved his hands near the cat’s vicinity–its form quickly dissipated into hazy purple smoke. 

Only to take shape on the Hatter’s shoulder. 

The Cheshire Cat snickered. “LIke a weed I always grow back…”

“Will you please just leave me–” 

“Of course I can, but you have to let me leave…you know I only show up because you want me too…or your mind wants me to…however, it’s never because I want to be here…”

The Hatter brought up his gloved hand, his index and middle finger pinching the bridge of his long sharp crooked nose in frustration. 

“Speaking of here…you certain the other villains that plague Gotham would entertain your…rigged cosmetic configurations?” 

“Even if they don’t…” The man’s eyes furrowed in determination. “They will…I will make them…like I made the others…” 

There was another desk on the other end of the room–vials, beakers and tubes all contained a sort of brown liquid…if not for the contraption it was being held in, some would suspect it was merely tea.

“Many become more…agreeable once they have a sip of tea…”

“Well, if they’re willing to drink from a mad man’s teapot I suppose anything is possible...” The cat mused. 

The Mad Hatter attempted to press on with his work. 

He had to make sure these masks were to the proper proportions of his assigned guests or else the chips won’t affect the brain–besides it’s also not proper to wear a misshapen mask, akin to wearing a hat that’s too big or too small. 

Perhaps if he didn’t entertain the vexing feline it would go away.

There was a beat of silence–the Hatter’s shoulders felt lighter–

“You are an awfully mad lonesome wretch Jervis Tetch…” The cat sat haughtily once more on top of the man’s desk. 

Jervis’ motions stilled but he didn’t retort. 

“But I suppose, if these masks work…you won’t be alone…but your madness will remain.” The cat grinned from ear to ear. 

“After all, what’s a mad city like Gotham without its Mad Hatter?” The feline chuckled. 

Jervis lifted his head up–finally to snap back at the cat–but it was gone as quickly as it materialized. 

The man clenched his fists, his palms likely would have bled if not for his gloves. He was real–he was present…tools on his desk…masks near completion…his spiked tea bubbling warmly by the other wall. 

The air wasn’t suffocating for once, the Cat was truly gone and wouldn’t return until Jervis ran himself ragged once more…or he was going through a particularly harsh mental episode. 

The only thing he had close to a companion (for now) and a figment of the lonesome mad man’s hallucinations.

While it wasn’t ideal, Jervis supposed it would do for now–but he won’t be lonely, not for long. 

[happy-lemon]

So my last story post is loosely (but not really that loosely) based on when I got Onigiri. I'd gone to the shelter's website and picked out three cats that seemed like good matches based on their personality profiles and their pictures.

When I got there, we went to the cottage and the staff member couldn't even find the black cat I wanted most. He was going around with a microchip scanner because they had so many black cats. So, I asked about the next cat and he went to get her. She looked at me, blinked, and walked away. The third one had been in the room the whole time, but showed no curiosity. I picked her up, she sat on my lap for a few seconds, and then she'd had enough.

I sat there on the floor for a moment, wondering what I was going to do, and this wee little thing ran up to me, bopped me on the shoulder to get my attention, and when I turned to look at him, he smooched me on the nose.

I didn't like tuxedo cats (who radicalized me? Sylvester and The Cat in the Hat) but he was so charming and silly and audacious that I said, "You know what, I'll take him."

Best decision ever.

[gremlin-girly]

Flufftober 23

Prompt: comfort Food

Pairing: Wanda x Reader

Warnings/tags: FLUFF, very bad jokes, very, very bad cooking on reader's part, gagging, pet name/term of endearment (Honey)

Summary: Wanda is feeling homesick and you make an attempt to cheer her up. Word count: 1k

A/N: sorry sorry - I had a job interview Thursday morning so I've been prepping for it. And then i realised i skipped an ENTIRE prompt by accident 💀😭 Anywho - enjoy ! - Love, Grem x

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If anyone had asked you why you were attempting to cook paprikash at 2am in the compound kitchen, you didn't know how you'd respond.

If the kitchen survived your cooking, that is.

You'd only managed to set one dish rag on fire so far (and begged FRIDAY not to sound the fire alarm) as well as burning your peppers. Because making your own paprika was 'so easy' according to Sokovia4eva29 on Reddit. It was not.

However, you knew it'd be worth it to see Wanda smile.

That's what kept you going past midnight. You wanted to surprise her with a taste of home. She'd been sullen and homesick all week and you could no longer stand to see her so sad and withdrawn. You'd browsed Pinterest, blogs and Reddit until finding a recipe you deemed worthy of following.

However, 3 hours into cooking, you realised you must have gone wrong somewhere because the paprikash you had made was foul. There was too much salt and you didn't know how to fix it. Three hours of work and prep wasted.

You didn't want to even think about the waste of money or food.

You could cry. You really could. You try it again just to make sure it's as disgusting as you think it is, and it turns out you were correct on you first assumption and gag into the sink. You run the cold water and watch it swirl in the drain. How could you have messed it up so colossally?

"Y/N?"

You jump ten feet in the air at the voice behind you and you're about to call for FRIDAY until you realise it's Wanda. She's stood in her pyjamas, weary-eyed and an empty glass in her hand.

"Oh, hey Wands," You say, trying to be nonchalant at her sudden appearance. "Coming to look for microchips for Vis?"

She gives you a wry smile but doesn't laugh, she only wiggles her glass. "Just water."

You kick yourself internally and move aside to let her fill her glass. "Sorry," You grumble. "That was a stupid joke."

"It was. But don't worry about it." She waves a hand dismissively, turning the faucet off and sipping at her cold water. Then her nose scrunches and her brows furrow as she tries to place the aroma of whatever abomination you had cooked. "What's that smell?"

"Ah," You say, trying to hide your embarrassment. "That would be my..." your brain falters. You definitely would not call what you made food. You don't think it would count as edible. "Biohazard."

"Your biohazard?" Wanda cracks a smile. "What do you mean?"

You can feel your cheeks grow warm at her smile and you smile back, awkwardly shifting on your feet. "Well, I tried cooking."

"Cooking?"

"Yeah."

"Cooking what?"

"...paprikash." You say quietly with a small shrug.

Wanda's face brightens immediately and your heart flips. But your stomach drops when she asks to try it.

"That's not a good idea, Wands." Your voice is slightly pleading, your eyes silently begging her not to try it. You're terrified she'll keel over, not even considering the fact she'd never speak to you again for committing such an atrocity that is supposed to be her national dish.

"Please? I'm sure it'll be fine." She bats her eyelashes at you, and you know you can't win. You sigh and grab a spoonful of the poor paprikash imitation and hand it to her.

"Don't say I didn't warn you." You say, watching as she blows on the spoon gently before popping it into her mouth.

"It's... mm.." You can tell by the look on her face she's trying to find something good about the dubious food you've summoned in the saucepan. Nothing about what you have made is remotely natural. Or delicious. "It's good."

"Don't humour me." You immediately retort, grinning madly. "It's disgusting."

"It's not - ugh-" Wanda gags and gives you an apologetic look. "Sorry. Yes. Yes it is. How did you manage to make it so bad?"

"I don't know!" You throw your hands to your head looking distraught. "I followed the recipe to the t."

"Can I see it?"

You nod, handing her your phone with the recipe open on the browser. Wanda takes a moment to scan the recipe, nodding along in approval before frowning.

"How much salt did you use?" Her lips twitch and you very shrewdly say you followed the recipe instructions.

"And how much was that?" She probes again, smiling a little more. The dawning realisation that you may have measured the unit of salt wrong is finally sinking in, and you look at her wide eyed, biting your lip.

"A... a tablespoon." You murmur quietly. Wanda bursts into a fit of giggles.

"A tablespoon?" She guffaws. "Honey, no - it says teaspoon." She turns the phone towards you, her finger pointing at three little letters that clearly say tsp. In your tired haze you must have misread it but that doesn't halt your embarrassment.

"Teaspoon..." You say airily and nod at her. "That... makes a lot more sense than tablespoon."

Wanda grins at you, not even trying to hide her amusement. "It does. Why were you making paprikash at 2am anyway? You could have asked me to help you at a reasonable hour tomorrow?"

Wanda tilts her head at you curiously, watching you fidget under her gaze.

"I - uh - well," You clear your throat. "I wanted it to be a surprise."

"A surprise?"

"Yeah. For you," You give her a sheepish smile and she looks surprised for a moment before breaking into another sweet smile. "I know you've been feeling homesick recently and I wanted to cheer you up." You cast a glance at the saucepan and grimace. "I'm sorry it's... well, just plain awful."

Wanda chuckles again and her eyes are a little brighter than they've been all week. "It was still a nice surprise so thank you anyway."

"You think so?" You say, your heart leaping to attention.

Wanda nods. "I do. Even if it's the worst paprikash ever made." She grins over at you again, and you swear you could melt on the spot. "I can probably fix it. How about we do that tomorrow?"

"Really? I'd love that." You beam excitedly at her. "And I promise not to ruin paprikash ever again."

"I'll hold you to that." Wanda's eyes twinkle from behind her glass as she takes one final sip. "Goodnight Y/N. See you tomorrow."

"Night, Wands." You give her a small wave goodbye, practically buzzing with excitement for tomorrow. Maybe cooking isn't as bad as you thought after all.

[isabeauwolf]

After writing for him multiple times myself 💙🤭🫣

Guess this is my boyfriend Dabi head canons (Of course, I'm always late 🤣 Whoops) SFW Edition

(Please excuse, if these are out of order 🫣 I'm trying to remember everything on the spot)

💙 Dabi would be the yandere and tsundere boyfriend combo. (You can't change my mind!)

💙 He would be mean and bully you, call you weak; it's the only example he's had given who his father.

💙 Would contradict himself by searching for you whenever you are in a room together. Saying it was to make sure you didn't run off or do something stupid. That's on the surface, but internally, he's fearing you would run away from him, abandon him; being one of those "overly romanticized villain chasers" and flee when he becomes villainous, cold, ruthless and his more feral nature pokes its ugly head.

💙Controlling, selfish, manipulative, easily jealous and hiding his true feelings. Blaming you for making him love you or any other feelings you've dragged out of him, long sense buried; the lost embers of his humanity.

💙 When you stay, stare into his eyes; actually, look at him and not through him. It's when he falters and his breath hitches in his burnt lungs and his blacked heart skips. It makes him want to tease and bully you harder, see you flustering and blushing cutely just for him.

💙 Anyone flirts with you? Tries to take you away from him; he'd burn them to ashes without a second thought or after following them, giving them a shake down, a scare and then burn'em.

💙 Put a tracker on your phone or person, so he knows where you are at all times; hell, a microchip. Whichever comes to mind first.

💙 Would absolutely hate when handfreak sends you on missions alone; he'd rather be paired with you like the not so secret overly protective and stubborn jackass that he is.

💙 Give you pet names: baby, spitfire, cry baby, my love; princess, doll

💙 If you come back to him or The Hideout injured. He's seeing red, he's furious; azure blues glaring as he assessing every inch of you for injuries. He kept telling himself he shouldn't care. Shouldn't waste his time. And yet, he does. He does and he hates it, it's annoying. Then when he doesn't see that annoying, happy go lucky smile on your dopey face, you hurt, in pain, bleeding and trying to shrug it off; he's mad at himself for allowing some nameless villain wannabe to hurt you. His doll. His partner. His lover. He feels his body heat up, his quirk thrumming, boiling in his veins, hands twitch as the muscles in his neck tightens and body tenses, his jaw grinds.

💙 With only a few simple words, he drags you away from the others and shoves you into his room. Tells you to sit on his bed as the black-haired flame villain tries to calm himself as he half saunters and half fast walks into his bathroom and comes back with a med kid. "Show me." He's not asking, it's a command. "And be quick about it, doll." You do as you are told, turning and showing him your side. His half-lidded gaze widens when he notices all of the scares on your back. His anger and rage rise higher, nearly during the kit into cinders.

💙 When you call his Villain name he snaps out of it. Releasing a hard explain of exasperation through his nose as he gets to work as you explain what happened. He tries to act nonchalant, tries not to giveaway that he's listening, focusing on every detail: your attacker, where you were and what they looked like as you try not to break down and cry. You bite your bottom lip, your body trembling as he finishes the last of covering your wounds, whispering that you were sorry for being a burden, both to him and The League.

💙 He hates it. He hates how much your words hurt him, affect and makes his heart hurt, bashing yourself as memories of his former self, Touya Todoroki, the lingering phantom and shadows resurfacing. Hitting hard as if you had turned around and physically struck him. Dabi surprises himself, hesitantly and awkwardly pulling you into his embrace; being mindful of your wound as you finally breakdown, openingly crying and sobbing into his chest and his shirt. Clinging onto him as he holds you.

💙 He remains there until your tears have dried, rubbing his large heated hands into your hair or on your back, in small circles. He mentally curses himself for the old muscle memory of helping and holding his younger siblings, his humanity coming back to him. He supposed he could let this slide, a one-time thing, he tells himself.

💙 Yes, Dabi's decided that once you are asleep, he'll avenge you himself. He felt excitement bubbling as he felt inwardly giddy, the thrill of the hunt, the chase, the thought of seeing that low level, low life thug screaming, whimpering and howling in pain, kneeling on the ground underneath his boot heel and begging for mercy when they didn't give you any. Didn't stop when you pleaded, tears streaming down your face, crying for help, for mercy, for him, your friends; knowing a Hero wouldn't come.

💙 After you were asleep and tucked into his bed. Dabi was surprised when Toga, Twice, Mister and Shigaraki were waiting for him outside. Kurogiri and Magne decided to stay and protect you back at the hideout. The rest of The League followed him, stalking like thieves in the night until they found the person who'd hurt you. It was easy to find them. They were bragging and gloating about what they had done; saying The LOV was a pack of weaklings. It is more personal now, both their pride and for avenging you. The group of Villains swarmed on your attacker like a pack of ravenous jackals, demonic angels of vengeance, all teeth, glee and madness.

💙 Who knew that you made The League of Villains, a group of crazies and outcasts bond and grow closer? You may be Dabi's partner, but you were a part of their found family. It was a glorious bonding experience.

More fluff and sweet moments Dabi "pretends" not to notice~

💙 The half-awake and half asleep, dopey smile you give him as he hands you coffee makes his blacked and charcoaled heart melt. He feels his mismatched lips quirk into a ghost of a smile.

💙 Deny it all he wants, but he loves when you cuddle against him in the middle of the night. Once or twice, okay, a handful of times, he's pulled you into his side or onto his chest, or nuzzles his face into your chest, savoring your warmth, your steady breathing. Knew if he did this while you two were awake, you'd tease him.

Your first I love you's and kisses

💙 When he finally admits that he loves you, it's awkward and impulsive. He'd been wanting to tell you. Said in his head over and over again until you called his name and it slipped out, "I love you, Y/n." Your eyes widen, mouth falling open and he knew he'd messed up and said it too soon! He tries to play it off, but you don't buy it. He flounders, blushing harder against his semi-normal and burnt skin as your lips curl into a smile, batting your pretty lashes at him and ask coyly, "You love me?"

💙 He bites the inside of his cheek and grumbles, "What of it? What if I do? So what, doll?" His heartbeat thunders hard against his ribcage as he waits for your answer. Your rejection. He stomach twitching in knots as his anxiety flares and he hates it. What were you doing to him?!

💙 Your smile widens, it's bright and beaming as you hug him when he becomes further embarrassed and glances away. "Good." You lean on your tiptoes and kisses his heated, scarred and stapled cheek. "I love you too, Dabi." You surprised him. You gently cup his cheek, turning his head towards yours and kissing him, his lips against yours. You. You stole his first kiss?! Stole so many of his firsts. His eyes widened, his breath hitches and leaves his lungs as you pull away; a cute noticeable blush creeping across your face. "Sorry, it was a heat of the moment kind of thing." You muttered shyly.

💙 He blinked, turquoise eyes dazed until he inwardly shook himself. His jaw twitches, lips curling into a smug smirk, filled with amusement and mischief sparkling behind his azure blues orbs. "Well, look who grew bold today?" He hums.

💙 Your face turns redder as you bury your face into his chest. "Shut up. If I didn't kiss you first you wouldn't do it." Your voice is muffled by his clothes, but he hears you. Oh. Oh, no. Now you've done it. You've challenged him.

💙 Oh? So you want his fire? His passion? His all consuming embers and hellfire. He had been holding himself back. He didn't want you to run away and take his time. But if you challenge him like that. The games has changed. You've unknowingly lit the coals underneath him and his competitive nature. Dabi's smirk widens into something wolfish and feral, hungry as both of his large, warm hands cradle the side of your face and force you to meet his gaze. "Is that a challenge, doll?" He teases. He's not angry. Far from it, he's secretly happy that you wanted to kiss him. Wanted him as much as he wanted you. "You wanna kiss me? C'mon don't grow shy on me now."

💙 You nod your head, raising your hands to cover his. Not to push him away. No. You skate your palms along his skin, touch featherily light and inch your hands along his firearms, his shoulders and behind his neck, pressing yourself closer, chest to chest and wrapping your hands behind his head.

💙 Dabi chuckles. "Words, doll." Something dark and amused, dangerous as he tries to ignore his traitorous heart fluttering. "Use your words." He encourages, trying to coax more of your stubbornness he's fond of. It's there. He notices your sass and grit forming on your face through the flustered expression and shyness. There you are. He thought inwardly chuckling to himself. My courageous doll. My spitfire. My doll. All mine.

💙 You lick your lips, his blues follows, then flickers back to your eyes. "Yes and what if I do want to kiss you?" You ask back. Something soft. Waiting. Testing the waters. Teasing. Challenging.

💙 Dabi tilts his head. "Then whatcha waiting for? You want a kiss? My fire?" He lowers, hovering over you, caging you against him and the wall, heated hands leaving your face to travel to the back of your head and the other behind the small of your back. "Think you can handle me?" He whispers. Excitement, and twinge of desire growing. "I don't like doin' shit half-assed, pretty baby."

💙 There is it. The smirk curling along your own lips. "As long as you don't chicken out, Dabi." There's the sassy little thing that drew him in and stole his heart.

💙 That earns you a laugh, low and raspy, playful. "Don't regret your choices when you get burned." He takes initiative and control this time. Bringing you into a soft and tender kiss, once again contradicting himself. It doesn't last long. He moves his lips along your own, it's awkward and unsure, then grows more raw, heated, passionate and all consuming, possessive as he pours all of his twisted, mixed-up feelings into it. Trying to tell you without words, his affection for you. How much you make him ache. How much you make him burn and yearn for more. More of your kisses, more of your touches, more of your love and affection, he wants everything you have to give. Growing more greedier as his breaths mingle with your own before finally pulling away. "I'm far from satisfied, baby." He pants, gasping for air as he pulls you back for another kiss. "You'll let me, won't you?" He whispers, breathlessly, his lips tingling as he shivers. Wondering what other feelings and emotions you will brag out of him. "You want another." He kisses you, a light peck. "Another." He does it again. "And another." He hums, chuckling when you nod your head, gasping and knees buckled as you cling onto him.

💙 He continues to tease you in between heated kisses. If even you try to stop him now, he doesn't know, if he could let you go now. You've awakened the greedy, touch and love starved beast caged and chained for too long. Deprived of affection, acceptance, warmth and the embers are only scorching higher, escalating, spreading and isn't stopping.

💙 Only on the rare occasion when you two are alone he would smother you, cling onto you, silently beg for your attention like the love and touch starved, dramatic man baby that he is. Secretly spoil you with stuff he's stolen and completely deny it was from him.

(If I could do a steamy, NSFW Editon and you wanna be a part of the taglist or any of my other Dabi fanfics, let me know, my lovelies!)

Okay, I lied. I had to through in some sprinkles of spice in there! I couldn't help it! It was too perfect not to. X////x

[fallstaticexit]

Some friendships are endless. Even though Mel and Nina have been busy in Del Sol Valley the past 3 years working on a new project, a horror TV series, their bond remained strong as ever with their best friends.

Bonus:

Prev / Next / Extras

Mel: “Hey, what are you up to?”

Loren: Feeding these damn chickens Maeve bought..

Mel: What in the midlife crisis...chickens??

Loren: At first it was just the two but they keep having babies. I named the rooster and hen after your parents.

Mel: Oh, ha ha.

Mel: So, remember how I said we wouldn’t be back in Sulani until after we’re done filming this season?

Loren: Yeeeaahh..?

Loren: [exhales] I missed your gorgeous face, Nina! These 3 years have been way too long.

Mel: Uhh...you miss anyone else or just my wife?

Nina: Baby, don’t be jealous.

Maeve: Holy fucking shit. The Briars are back!

Mel: I knew you’d be happy to see me, Maeve. Bring it in-

Mel: Alright, what am I, old news?

Maeve: We love you Mel! But Nina’s our babygirl.

Loren: Besides, we all know once you know who gets here, we’ll barely see you.

Mel: That’s not true. We all hang out.

Loren: It’s been like that since we were like 11, Starboy. It’s ok, you two are soulmates. In fact, I’m sure Aiden’s already tracking the microchip in your ass as we speak-

Aiden: MEEEELLLLLLLLLLL!

Mel: AIDEEENNN!!

Loren: OWW?!!

Aiden: MEEEELLLLLLLLLLL!

Mel: AIDEEENNN!!

Nina: They’re so cute.

Loren: I think he broke my nose?

Maeve: Ay, bendito!

bonus -

Lyric via txt: “Omfg... if mom calls and ask that you come to some dinner for Mateo, SAY NO PLEASE. I can only deal with her once a year and it’s not Harvestfest yet...”

Mel via txt: “You haven’t talked to mom yet....”

Lyric via txt: “Don’t judge me. Ya mama is infuriating..”

[steverogersnotebook]

Just a little pupdate.

The other day, our gate was accidentally left open, and Bucky took advantage of this and wandered off.

I was frantic. We got to work as soon as we noticed he was gone.

My bff walked the block and drove around the extended neighborhood while I sat on the curb in front of the house, waiting and hoping, while posting lost dog stuff online.

I was struggling to sign up for one lost and found pets site when I heard the clicking of claws on concrete. At first, I thought it was my bff with Peggy (she took her along on her search), but remembered they'd left in the car.

I looked up to see drama boy trotting proudly in my direction. I slipped the slip lead leash over his fat little head and kissed his nose. Then, when Peggy & bff returned, we went for an ice cream cone treat.

All of the imagined scenarios have almost dissipated from my overactive imagination. The stress still lingers a little. I have to update all the doggos microchip information, which means finding their documents. They're not as forthcoming as the little wandering adventurer.

[sunmontuewrites]

The 'not our cat' is now 'our cat'...

Whiskey on Ice watching the vet do her work. He is now microchipped and registered, started his vaccination schedule and is booked in to be neutered in two weeks (smack bang between vaccines today and those in 4 weeks!)

He did not appreciate the cat carrier AT ALL however he didn't yowl and cry during the short drive, just sulked silently and then tried to break free, hurting his nose in the process and making his nose bleed.

4.65kg and about a year old. Now to teach him how to use the cat door - he's pretty quick on the uptake of following the other cats, in that he'll stand on his hind legs to gently take a treat from my fingers or get head/chin scratches.

And he charmed the vet and started purring, so that tracks with all our previous cats being very chilled out with the vet.

[jamisonwritestf2trash]

not to flood your inbox but... what if the mercs found a freaking cat on the battlefield or base.... i saw that video of soldiers playing with a lil kitten... i gotta know what the boys (and also miss pauling) would do.... would it be an immediate ceasefire so all 16 grown men can play with a kitten... would they use a merc's room to house it.... its ligerallyy a kittycat omg ....

What Would The TF2 Mercs (+ Miss Pauling) Do If They Saw A Kitten Mid-Fight?

————————————————————

Long title but cute idea!

Also never apologize for spamming my ask box, I love it, it helps distract me from the fact that I have no original ideas!

This is going to be a mix of on the battlefield and if they decide to keep the kitten!

Also rough because I only have a short blurb for the Blu team (sorry 😭)

————————————————————

Red Team (+ Miss Pauling)

————————————————————

Demo is the first one to see the kitten. I already headcanon that he has a cat he manages to hide from the other mercs, so he's ecstatic. Like eyes filled with joy, hopping up and down, and seeing kind of ecstatic. Immediately finds a way to get the others to stop fighting, if anyone dared to try and continue the fight he'd kill them immediately. Pets and comforts the poor cat because it's all scared :(

Engie is also very excited! He loves kittens, he would protect them with his life. He lays around and plays with the kitten once it's calmed down. Is already sketching out a cat tower and new room for the baby. Has made the executive decision that the Red team now has a team pet.

Heavy is right next to Engie, holding the kitten when Engie goes off to start sketching. Puts the cat on his lap and immediately almost starts sobbing when it curls up and starts trying to nap.

Medic comes over and I'm not going to lie this man is internally melting, it's adorable! But he's also slightly (insanely) worried because his birds always come first, and is always worried when anything threatens their safety. The other mercs eventually calm him down, swearing on their lives that his birds will be okay. He holds them to that, and eventually let's the other mercs keep it.

Scout is also a mix of super excited and sobbing "It's a fricken kitten! Look at it!" Definitely giving the kitten like a million kisses. Is acting so silly, and doesn't care. Booping it's little nose, slow blinking at it, showering it with love.

Sniper is indifferent at first until Scout steals his hat, turns it upside down, and drops the kitten in it. Then he has fucking heart eyes, a single tear running down his face from under his glasses. Turns away and just says fine to the idea of keeping it.

Spy is so against keeping the cat. It's going to be messy, it's going to be loud, and it's going to be expensive. No one else is going to take care of it. Classic dad does want a cat act. Guess who falls in love with the cat after one day?

Soldier is the most excited, hands down. Is so happy about the cat, it's so cute, it's so fluffy, it's just a baby! He's playing with the cat, giving it love, doing the most out of all of them. If the cat can't be found, you know he's with Soldier.

Pyro. Come on, of course, they're thrilled! Will let the cat crawl all around them, and also let it sleep on their gas mask. Just ugh, they're so cute together. Buys the cat little outfits and buys rainbow cat toys, dumps so much love, treats, and toys on this cat.

Ms. Pauling nearly tears down the door of the base after the match to come and see the cat. She is such a cat lady. She makes sure the cat is okay and even takes the cat to the vet to get all of it's vaccines and a microchip, ignoring Medic saying theirs no need, and claiming he can do it. Definitely began to visit the base more and more often, claiming she's only making sure they don't kill the poor thing.

————————————————————

Blu Team

———————————————————

I'll be honest, I don't think the Blu team would do well with having a cat. I headcanon these silly guys as dog people, they would probably be willing to give the cat over to the Red team for the benefit of the cat. They'd call off the match to keep it safe. All the mercs would sit and play, love, or cuddle with the cats with the Red mercs. Honestly, they enjoy the small break from fighting and just enjoy the time with a cat. Occasionally during a battle, they'll ask about the cat inbetween gunfire.

————————————————————

I was going to work on this yesterday and then I slept instead 😭

I was up until like one writing the anime one but it was worth it to get it out, this one took me a hot minute too, but I kind of love how it turned out, I love cats and love the idea of the Red team being big babies for a kitten. Also! I love adding Ms. Pauling to things, she's such a silly too.

[ploverbear]

NOOOOOOO I brought in my twin's cat to the vet today so they could check his heart and they could take a sample from a big bump on his nose (they wanted to see if it was cancer or fungal in nature and how to go about treating it) and to get him microchipped & I asked for it all to be done at once so I could save on paying for the sedation and they agreed and .... looking at what they billed me for I think they forgot to do the nose scrapey today and the chip. Fuuuuuuuck ...

[ateohsixxxx]

I return. You've really gotta do a better job locking that basement door, I only broke three toes and dislocated my shoulder twice during my grand escape.

Now that I'm back tho, headbutt me in the nose while you ride it? -🦂

Return?!? You fuckin—

You got out again??! Bullshit!!!

I’m getting you a fucking shock collar. I need an electric fence. Have I microchipped you yet? I’m gonna make you swallow a fucking AirTag.

You’re lucky I’m horny as fuck, and in the mood to ride it. Yeah, I’ll headbutt you at least once while I’m on top.

Hope you don’t have plans the rest of the day, I’m gonna milk you till you cry. Or pass out.

Oh! Brass knuckles! That’s a good idea, yes

[not-so-allegiant-general]

No such thing as luck @huxloween

"There is no such thing as luck Armitage! There is not! Either you are capable of something or you are not! They were! They stole a ship under your nose and you did nothing! And now you are talking that it was luck!? You are useless! A pffasking never-ending disappointment. There is no some magical force around that decide who will win there is only... "

Hux observed with satisfaction how Pryde gasped for air and fall down on the ground desperately trying to breath. Every member of the Supreme council found another place to look at. Kylo didn't move from his chair. There was certain smugness at his face and for once Hux could share it. He turned around to face Kylo.

"Unfortunate choice of words."

Kylo smiled.

"Indeed." Pryde went almost blue now, tears running from his eyes "However." Allegiant General caught his breath and touched his neck "You did nothing. That is true."

"Indeed. I did nothing. Care to hear my explanation? "

"Yes."

"I put a tracker in Dameron. A microchip. We can find him anywhere. In a few hours we will have a knowledge where is their precious base. And we will crush them. For good." He moved past Pryde and stood next to Kylo. "Did i do well? Supreme Leader?" He asked.

Ren laughed looking at him.

"Yes. Very well, General. Oh. Apologies. I forgot to reveal what is a purpose of today's meeting. I wanted to present to you new Grand Marshall of the First Order. Armitage Hux. The official ceremony will take place in a few days but you should start addressing him accordingly. Congratulations."

"Thank you, love" everyone froze again and Kylo chucked. "What?"

"He thinks that you are lucky bastard" Hux laughed and kissed Kylo shortly. Ren made dissatisfied sound when Hux moved away from him and kneeled down next to Pryde.

"Oh Enric. Just as you have said. There is no such thing as luck."

[nanochronicles]

Journey of a Lifetime for Tiger.

Tiger was 35 days old when he came home with me. From that moment, our bond became unbreakable. He has been my anchor through life’s storms, providing calm during the chaos. Two years later, this whirlwind of a dog, Maxx, arrived in our lives. Maxx carried his own set of traumas, but over time, he learned to trust us. The two became inseparable, even though they sometimes squabbled.

Leaving India 4 years ago was heart-wrenching—I had to leave behind these two pieces of my heart. I returned every year just to spend time with them, something my friends and family came to understand.  

We lost Maxx this year to kidney failure. He was only eight, and the loss shook us. I decided Tiger, now ten, shouldn’t be left alone. That’s when the journey to bring him to Italy began.

May 2024

Our first step was researching how to travel internationally with a pet. The process seemed daunting. Boxer dogs, like Tiger, have snub noses, making air travel risky as many airlines don’t accommodate them. Finding the right airline was our first challenge. Countless calls resulted in repeated “no” responses.

We started the paperwork anyway. Before leaving for Italy, we microchipped Tiger and completed his Titer test for rabies, which came back perfectly. Yet, no airline seemed willing to take him.

One agent in Trivandrum claimed he could handle everything. Desperate, we paid him in advance, only to be cheated. Then my mom found Furry Flyers. Vinayak Prabhu was a saviour, he helped us streamline the process. Despite the distance, he answered every query promptly. He even recommended ITA Airways, the only airline willing to fly Tiger.

August 2024

With the help of my friend Chiara, who spoke on behalf of me to the kindest ITA’s ticketing agent, she took the time, with no rush to answer all our queries and explain the procedures to us. I booked flights for Tiger and me. ITA offered direct flights from New Delhi to Rome—our only viable option.

My friend Chiara helped me speak to the kindest ticket agent in ITA, to get everything confirmed that Tiger could in fact fly, she explained the type of cage to every document we would need. In the next days I booked the flight for me and Tiger.

October 2024

ITA airlines flew direct flights from New Delhi to Rome, this was our one only viable option.

Living in Trivandrum meant we first needed to cover a 3,000 km train journey to New Delhi.

What I thought would be a tedious journey was the most smooth and enjoyable train journey I had with IRCTC, we booked the Rajdhani coupe, so we had a private cabin to ourselves.

The train staff kindly informed us of stops long enough for Tiger’s pee-poop breaks and we stretched our legs and tiny paws.

Tiger’s giant cage for the plane, accompanied us, taking up considerable space but becoming part of our adventure.

First leg of the journey was done or so we thought.

Once in Delhi, we faced two more days of preparation, including obtaining his “Fit to Fly” certificate. I booked a hotel near the airport through Booking.com, only to find it filthy and unsuitable. Without wasting time, we moved to Gurgaon, a gruelling 2.5-hour drive through Delhi’s notorious traffic.

In Gurgaon, Sandeep and Vizhal from Petspot helped us settle into a decent hotel. With their assistance, we completed the paperwork smoothly.

But seeing him off at extra luggage area at the airport was gut-wrenching for me and I am sure he was scared too. We packed his favourite blanket, my T-shirt, and his toy, hoping they would comfort him during the 8-hour flight. Despite reassurances from the ground staff and flight crew, anxiety consumed me until I saw him safe in Rome.

I cannot cannot explain the joy we both had in seeing each other after the longest flight our life (& I have flown 15 hr flight, it was nothing compared to this)

Clearing customs in Rome went smoothly, but we still had a 2.5-hour train ride to Bologna. Tiger’s giant cage posed yet another challenge, barely fitting into the train’s doorway. The train supervisor showed mercy and allowed us to continue without fines. Meanwhile, Tiger’s health was visibly affected by the sudden 20°C temperature drop. Shivering, he endured the final leg of our journey.

Finally, we reached home. The hardest part lay ahead: new environment, new people, new house (no big garden), apartment, city life.

November 2024

The first week brought illness—fever and cough—requiring antibiotics. All through this he adjusted to his new surroundings. He started coming to work with me, new routine set in. We got him to wear a sweater and jacket to help him cope with the cold temperatures. He seemed to enjoy all of it.

December 2024

Though he improved, bronchitis struck the last week Stronger medications were needed, and recovery remains ongoing.

It is going to be 2 months; we are still learning to adjust to everything new.

Tiger’s resilience amazes me. We assumed the journey would be the tough part. At ten years old, he’s adapting to a completely new life. He’s learning to trust new people, embrace a new routine, and navigate this 180° shift from his familiar world. I hope his health stabilizes so he can enjoy a good quality of life in his new home.

Gratitude

This journey would have been impossible without a village of support. Everyone I knew from friends to family came together for Tiger and me.

My Mom – The cornerstone of this effort, I couldn’t have done any of this without her, there was a time I thought I couldn’t fly back with Tiger due to work; we even considered her flying from Bahrain to Trivandrum and then making all this journey with him. She was meticulously working on planning the trip, checklists, excel sheets, and calendars marked, pushing people to get answers. She is the main reason for Tiger in Italy!

Dr Lawernce – Tiger and Maxx’s vet of ten years, always available day or night. I cannot thank him enough for supporting me through the loss of Maxx, preparing me for what was to happen, and making it comfortable for him to pass over the rainbow bridge without too much pain. Even from afar, he continues to guide me through Tiger’s health challenges.

Dr Jacob Alexander, Tvm Zoo Director – He was referred to me by Dr Lawrence, he was vital in sorting all the documents we needed to have for the travel. But he went the extra mile in helping me prepare for the first 3- 4 months in Italy, he wrote down a list of precautionary medicines to carry with him, as he will need time to readjust to everything new around him, from supplements to emergency pills for vomiting to skincare and eye health. I am lucky to have found such good people who cared about him too. His suggestion to document this journey inspired me to share our story.

Lily Chechi: She has been caring for Tiger since the day he came home. In truth, she always preferred Tiger to Maxx, even if she won’t admit it. She was heartbroken when I decided to move Tiger to Italy but also faced the reality that it was becoming difficult for her to take care of him as she was also aging. Her love and care have been a cornerstone of Tiger’s life.

Raju: He sort of became Tiger’s best friend. Over the past few months, Tiger grew deeply attached to him, enjoying rides in the Nano to the vet or simply for a day out. Raju accompanied me and Tiger all the way to Delhi and stayed with us until Tiger boarded the plane. He made the journey so much smoother for both of us.

Furry Flyers & PetSpot - A heartfelt thank you to Vinayak Prabhu from Furry Flyers and Sandeep and Vizhal from Petspot. Their efficiency and genuine care made an otherwise overwhelming process seamless. From documentation to ensuring Tiger’s comfort, you were instrumental in making this journey successful.

My friends – Clement, Jobin, Cyril, Arjun, Nidhi, Chiara, everyone had a role to play in his safe travel. Someone helped me to connect with a friend who had flown with a pet dog, to understand what to prepare for, someone helped me reassure me that everything would be okay, and someone helped me get confirmation for train seats at the last moment. All of them kept in contact through the journey checking on his wellbeing. You don’t say thank you to friends you buy them a beer when you meet again.

My family – Everyone who has been worried about him, his safety and health, sending him duas and prayers and hugs and kisses, thank you for your support always.

Vincenzo – Last but not least: A special message must be written to the love of my life, he who has never had any pet or ever lived with a dog, (must underline this fact) for readjusting his whole life around me and Tiger, from picking us up at Rome airport to getting us home with that giant cage that wouldn't fit into any place. It has been hard for him, and at times he probably might have thought that we must move out. But honestly no words for everything you do for me, I know you do it only because you love me!

A New Chapter

This journey has been as much about Tiger as it has been about the kindness and collaboration of many wonderful people. While the road ahead may bring challenges, it’s also filled with hope and love. Here’s to Tiger, the bravest dog I know, and the incredible team that made his journey of a lifetime possible.