#mom said it was my turn to play with the elf dolls and today the elf dolls are punching me in the face

[kathyprior4200]

Haven Hotel characters

 Heaven’s Princess Coercia Egnam glanced down at her long list of meeting attendants and characters that she was about to address: (her handwritten notes included)

 Princess Coerciona (2P Charlie) *Most important*

Phalla (2P Vaggie) *Hopeless romantic butterfly*

Devil Grit (2P Angel Dust) *Serious stiff spider*

Stalaro the Techno Angel (2P Alastor the Radio Demon) *Sob story sissy*

Klutzy (2P Niffty) *Lazy maid*

Core (2P Husk) *Hyper fool*

Cherubs Pub and Chub (2P Razzle and Dazzle) *My loyal guards*

Lucius (2P Lucifer) *Dad*

Lilian (2P Lilith) *Mom*

Sivart (2P Travis) *Some guy*

Sir Anguis (2P Sir Pentious) *Stuttering scaredy-snake toy maker*

Berri Blossom (2P Cherri Bomb) *Modest mundane dame*

Catie Carejoy (2P Katie Killjoy) *Soft bitch*

Ron Wrench (2P Tom Trench) *WW1 news guy*

Baker the puffer fish (2P Baxter the anglerfish) *Mad scientist fishy fish*

Jazzy (2P Mimzy) *Chubby singer lady*

Joygrand the Heaven-cat (2P Crymini the deviant hellhound) *Who the fuck are you?*

Raa the Koala angel (2P Roo the kangaroo trash Aussie demon) *Who the fuck are you?*

Iris (2P Rosie) *Day of the Dead Barbie*

Valentine (2P Valentino) *Blueberry pimp wimp*

Nil (2P Vox) *TV guy*

Ashen (2P Velvet) *Harley Doll angel*

Nestlings (2P Egg Bois) *Meh*

Nathan (2P Seviathan) *Old friend*

Elsa (2P Helsa) *Meh*

Beth (2P Bethasa) *Meh*

Fred (2P Fredrick) *Meh*

Holly (2p Molly) *Devil Grit’s spider sister*

Ragno (2P Arackniss) *Devil Grit’s spider brother*

Henry (2P Henroin) *Devil Grit’s father*

Alliv the blue tough tabby cat (2P Villa pink girly poodle) *Don’t even fucking know*

Thin Tenders (2P Fat Nuggets) *Potential snack*

Archangels (2P Archdemons)

Anti-Exorcists: White demon beings who convert angels into demons each year. Great source of entertainment.

 E.L.F. (2P I.M.P.) not to be confused with C.H.E.R.U.B. the sheep love spreaders and revivers

D.E.V.I.L. (2P C.H.E.R.U.B.) murderers, hate-spreading black rams

Docile (2P Blitzo) *Some childish leader*

Tirred (2P Moxxie) *Serious one*

Timmid (2P Millie) *Wallflower*

Sunna (2P Loona) *High pussy*

Mia and Tia (2P Tilla and Barbie Wire) *Circus twins?*

Samael *Punishing BDSM angel*

Menadel (2P Stolas) *Swan prince, Quartet’s father*

Flora (2P Stella) *Quartet’s mother*

Quartet (2P Octavia) * Swan princess, bubbly teen*

Mayberry/Juneberry (2P Mrs. Mayberry) (Former Human)

Mary (2P Martha) (Former Human)

Ralph (2P Ralphie) (Former Human)

Ollie (2P Eddie) *Brat kid*

Bio Wizz (2P Robo Fizz) *Circus conspiracy?*

Kiva (2P Verosika Mayday) *Zealot*

Woo-Hoo Land Mascot (2P Loo-Loo Land Mascot) *What a creep*

 (More to be added)

(2P Zoophobia characters)

More characters to be added

 “Alright my subjects, tell me something,” Coceria began as she filed her sharp claws with a knife in a tall leather chair framed by black wrought iron. Her black spiky crown was on her head as usual. An angelic spear rested by the throne. Below her was a large crowd seated in comfortable chairs, many of them in shades of blue and green. “How the flying fuck am I supposed to remember all your names?! I bet half of you guys are insignificant background characters. And the majority of you haven’t even been featured in the show yet!”

 “You mean the Hazbin Hotel show? About our counterparts?” asked Stalaro, holding up a white rose for Coercia. Soft classical music played from his blue microphone staff. The pansexual blue man was occasionally stealing glances at Devil Grit’s fluff.

 “That’s irrelevant right now, you sad sack of stag shit!” Coercia yelled. Stalaro’s rose wilted in his hands and the music scratched to a stop. Tears were forming in his large blue eyes and his fluffy ear tuffs were drooping. “B-but I’m talking about my show: The Hazbin Ho…”

 “Haven Hotel,” Phalla corrected.

 “Right, Haven Hotel! And there’s also that spinoff show Helluva Boss.”

 “Heavenly Boss,” Docile corrected her. The elf sat with his colleagues next to a flyer which read, “Efficient Lifesaving Fellows: We revive and keep mortals alive! Sign up today, 33% off.”

 “Whatever,”Coercia brushed them aside. “Anyway, normally I wouldn’t care much about you guys, but now that I have formed the Haven Hotel, Phalla figured it should be a good time for us to introduce ourselves. Or more precisely, me to talk to you all.”

 “A practical first start,” Devil Grit mentioned with a nod. He was a dark gray faced spider with small green dots below his eyes. His suit was black with green stripes, along with a green bow tie. “Just make sure that everyone stays at least six feet away from me. Social distancing is a safe standard, and necessary precaution.”  

 “I do love making new friends!” Phalla smiled, fluffing her long black hair with teal ends. A glowing green X was over her right eye and a teal bow was perched don her head. “Don’t you, Klutzy?”

 The small blue cyclops angel narrowed her large eye. “Friends. Oh joy.”

 “I must say, Coerce dear,” said Lucius. “I don’t really approve of your hotel and your idea. If the council finds out about your attempt to promote rule-breaking activities…”

 “Banishment to Hell? Or to my room?” Coercia asked, hands on her hips. “Not the end of the world. And my name is Princess Coerciona. I prefer my full title.”

 Core, the friendly white cat, rolled his eyes. He shuffled a few cards in his furry paws. “She’s no fun.”

 “I heard that, cat!” she called, making him flinch back a bit.

 “We raised you better than this,” Lilian added.

 “Oh really?” The black haired princess stood up and turned toward her mother. “You’d rather I be some bubbly musical loving princess who wants to spread “joy and redemption” far across the land? Ha! No. A true ruler commands fear and respect in their subjects. I’m sure Hell’s king Lucifer would agree.”

 Pub and Chub, the naked flying babies grinned in agreement while fine tuning black electric guitars in the background.

 “We do not mention that name,” Lucius began but Coercia was ignoring them again.

 “Lucifer may be a traitor to Him but at least he had guts. If His teachings weren’t so flawed, I’d still be promoting them wholeheartedly. As for my position…maybe another princess may someday take my place, but that’s not gonna happen if I manage to be princess of both realms. But now I’m here, in this lovely, shiny…fake excuse of a paradise with wackos like you. Still, someone’s gotta keep you in line.”

 Phalla giggled while Core pat a sobbing Stalaro on his blue back. He wiped his face as his monocle glinted in the sunlight under his left eye.

 “Your uncle Metatron wouldn’t approve of your attitude,” Lucius added.

 “He wouldn’t even notice, considering he’s too engrossed in his record-keeping,” countered Coercia.

 Nearby on another part of the stage, the ocean-like angels Elsa and Nathan whispered to each other.

 “I don’t understand it,” Nathan said. “Here I was, promoting goodness for everyone, but Coercia laughed at my ideas and pushed me around. And we even went to Heaven High school prom together.”

 “Lucius wanted our two families united, so we could have a higher standing,” Elsa added. “You dating the princess would’ve helped. But sadly she broke up with you and now here we are, envious.”

 “Don’t remind me,” Nathan sighed. “It’s not like I was the one abusing her and mocking her ideas. At least she didn’t run off with a sinner girlfriend to further tarnish her family reputation. Ugh…restraining societal standards affect us even here.”

 “Or maybe…she’s not much of a romantic person to begin with,” Elsa suggested.

 “Not all aromantic and asexual people are cold-hearted,” Nathan said. “She’s just one bad apple.”

 Coercia seethed at them, briefly letting out her black feathery wings and white spiked halo over her head. She spoke in a high-pitched angelic language before retreating back to her regular form.

     “I hate it when she swears,” Elsa muttered.

  Coercia turned to the crowd. “Alright, let’s begin.”

[bentaylorrogerhardy]

Lily of the Valley - Part 10

Joe Mazzello! x Reader!

Summary: Being a young, single mom that worked full-time was hard. When you weren’t working, you were taking care of your five year old daughter, Lily. You had given up on dating after many failed attempts. That was until after a rough day of dealing with your ex boyfriend, your best friend introduced you to Joe.

Word Count: 1689

Warnings: none!

A/N: HI I’M SO SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG I’M TRYING TO FIND A BALANCE BETWEEN WORKING AND WRITING AGAIN PLEASE BEAR WITH ME AHHHH. Enjoy!

“I don’t know exactly where Santa is gonna get you quesadillas for your stuffed animals, Lily,” you said, glancing over her Christmas list for ‘Santa’ she had written out.

“Taco Bell, duh!” she said, rolling her eyes.

“Let’s see what else you have on here…” you said, then started reading off of the list, “a single orange, paper towels, a flying pony...there’s no toys that you want?”

“Yeah, they’re on this one,” she said, grabbing a folded up piece of paper and handing it to you, “I made two!”

“Oh, Lily,” you sighed, laughing a little bit and taking the paper from her and looking at it, “okay, this is what I mean by a Christmas list for Santa. Barbie dreamhouse, a mermaid tail blanket, Barbie dolls, stuffed animals.”

“I’ve been good this year, mommy. I want all of it,” she said, smiling ear to ear, proud of herself for making such an absurd list that she was very adamant about.

“Well, we’ll see,” you said, getting up from the table and putting your coffee cup in the sink, “Christmas is in two weeks, a lot could change.”

“You promise you’re gonna mail my letters to Santa Claus?” she asked, getting up from the table.

“Of course I will,” you smiled, “I’ll send it off right after I drop you off at school!”

“Okay, good,” she nodded, picking up her bookbag, “I don’t want Santa to forget about me!”

“I’ll make sure he won’t,” you laugh, grabbing your purse and keys and heading down to your car.

---

“Am I gonna see Joey after school?” Lily asked in the car on the way to her school.

“I dunno, maybe,” you answered.

“I hope so,” she giggled, “I miss him!”

“I’m sure he misses you, too,” you smiled, pulling up to the drop off area and she got out of the car, “have a good day!”

“I will,” she smiled, “I love you!”

“Love you!” you said back, and she shut the door and headed into the school and you drove off, heading to Joe’s house.

---

“So, this is her Christmas list?” Joe asked when he got into the car after you handed him Lily’s Christmas list.

“Yep,” you laughed, driving away from his house and heading towards the mall, “think it’s doable?”

“Possibly,” he chuckled, “it’s sweet of her to think about her stuffed animals. She doesn’t want them to be left out during the holidays!”

“I guess, but do you know how many quesadillas that is to ‘feed’ all of them? A lot,” you laughed, shaking your head.

“A Taco Bell gift card should suffice,” Joe shrugged, folding the pieces of paper back up and setting them in the cup holder, then taking your hand in his, “so, whatcha getting me?”

“I’m not telling you!” You laughed, “that’ll ruin the surprise of it all.” Truth is, you hadn’t had the slightest clue as to what you were going to get him. You had a general idea; baseball, Yankees things, etc. But, what do you get the guy who’s given you everything for the past couple of months?

“Well, I’m picking your present up later today, just FYI,” Joe responded smugly.

“What’d you get me?” you asked, laughing.

“Let’s just say Jana and Kristen know what it is, because I needed their help,” he said, reaching over the center console and holding your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

“I hope you didn’t spend a bunch of money on me,” you said, pulling into the parking lot of the mall.

“Don’t worry about that part,” Joe said, stepping out of the car after you parked it. You walked around to the other side of the car, taking Joe’s hand in yours as the two of you headed into the mall.

“I don’t want anything too expensive, Joe,” you said, giving him a stern look. He chuckled and shook his head, then kissed your forehead.

“I gotta spoil my girl on Christmas,” he said, then the two of you headed in the direction of the stores.

---

“There! We should probably go there first,” you said, pointing at one of the stores, that just so happened to be a toy store, “we can find almost everything for Lily in there.”

“Everything but the quesadillas, oranges, and paper towels,” Joe laughed.

“Exactly,” you laughed, pulling him into the store with you. You looked around the store; Christmas music playing faintly over the speakers and garland hanging on the shelves. Since it was a weekday and everyone was either at work or school, the mall was empty for the most part. Joe grabbed a shopping cart and the two of you headed over to the Barbie section. Turning down the empty aisle, the shelves were crowded with every Barbie doll imaginable, along with all of the accessories, clothes, and of course, the dream house.

“Okay, so we got the dreamhouse,” Joe said, picking it up, struggling a bit to put it in the cart, then letting out a sigh of relief after dropping it into the cart.

“Now, just a few dolls for it,” you said, fingering through the various types on the shelf, picking some and tossing them into the cart as well, along with a few accessories.

“Now, how exactly are you going to hide all of this?” Joe questioned, pushing the shopping cart down the aisle.

“I was hoping your house?” You inquired, raising an eyebrow at him.

“Was gonna say the same thing,” he smiled back at you.

---

After what felt like hours of shopping, you and Joe had managed to get almost everything that was on Lily’s list. Now, you were in the car heading to Joe’s house to drop everything off, then get Lily from school.

“I wish I didn’t have a business meeting later,” he pouted, wrapping his arms around your waist, “I’d love to be there when Lily gets her picture taken with Santa.”

“I’ll send you pictures,” you smiled, “Jana and Kristen will be there, so I won’t be by myself.”

“Good,” he said, kissing you.

“I better go get her,” you said, “if we’re a second late meeting him, I won’t hear the end of it.”

“Definitely,” he laughed, walking you to the door, “call me later?”

“Of course,” you smiled, kissing him again, “I love you.”

“I love you,” he answered, then you headed to your car and on your way to pick up Lily.

---

“Mom, come on! I don’t want to miss Santa,” Lily yelled from the living room. You walked out of your room and into the living room after getting ready.

“We’ll be there in plenty of time,” you laughed, “don’t worry.”

“Let’s go!” she exclaimed, jumping up from the couch and running to the door.

“Okay, okay,” you laughed, following her to the door, “patience.”

“I’m just so excited,” she giggled, walking to your car, “is Joey coming?”

“I’m afraid not,” you frowned, “he has some work to do.”

“Aww,” she frowned, “but, that’s okay! I can give him one of the pictures.”

“Great idea,” you smiled, and started driving towards the mall. Arriving at the mall, Jana and Kristen met you and Lily in the parking lot.

“You look so cute!” Jana said, giving Lily a hug, admiring her big red bow and festive outfit. The three of you made your way inside and walked to the area where the Santa pictures were being taken. Surprisingly, the line wasn’t very long. There were only about three people in line ahead of you, so it wouldn’t take long.

“So,” you said, turning to Jana and Kristen, “I heard you two know what my Christmas present from Joe is.”

“Only because we had to help him get it,” Kristen said.

“Did you guys let him spend a lot of money on me?” you asked, “I don’t want a ton of money spent on me.”

“Just know that you’re really gonna like it,” Jana laughed. The three of you were interrupted by Lily tugging on your shirt.

“Mommy! We’re next,” she exclaimed, jumping up and down.

“Oh my goodness,” you smiled, “how exciting!”

“Next!” the young girl in an elf costume said and the four of you approached the area where Santa was sitting, Lily running up to him and sitting next to him.

“Hi, Santa!” she squealed enthusiastically.

“Hello!” he said, “what do you want for Christmas?”

“Ummmm…” Lily pondered, “I REALLY want a Barbie dreamhouse and some barbies.”

“Ho, ho, good choice,” he said, “have you been good this year?”

“I have!” she nodded, “VERY good!”

“Then, I’ll just have to see about getting that dreamhouse,” he said. They posed for the photographer and the pictures were taken.

“Oh, Santa?” Lily asked before getting up, “can I ask for one more thing?”

“Why, of course!” Santa answered. Lily looked over at you, Jana, and Kristen then leaned up, whispering something into Santa’s ear. Santa’s face looked concerned, then a smile formed as he glanced over at you.

“Can you make that happen?” she asked with a hopeful look in her eyes. Santa took her hand and squeezed it gently.

“I think so,” he said. She smiled widely, then gave him a big hug before coming back over by you. You looked at the pictures taken, chose the ones you liked, then purchased them. The pictures printed, and then everyone left and went to their cars. After buckling Lily in then getting in the car yourself, you headed home.

“Lily, what did you ask Santa for when you whispered to him?” you asked, looking at her through the rear view mirror.

“I can’t tell you, or it won’t come true, silly!” she giggled. The car ride was short back to your apartment, and Lily fell asleep on the way. After arriving home, you carried her inside, then laid her on her bed. You set the envelope of pictures on the counter after sending a picture of them to Joe, then sat down on the couch to watch some TV, but all you could think of was what Lily could have possibly asked Santa for that she didn’t tell you.

Tags: @hargreevesgrace @deakyspuff @okiegirl24 @joalsglasses @toger-raylor @panicatttckiss @cheeseedreams47 @shesakillerquueennn @cruelnatalie @mrsmazzello @rogerina-owns-me @johnricharddeaconn @jiswoogannon @loveofmychips @v-o-o-d-o-o-c-h-i-l-d @littleliv1 @walkingwheels @cryinq-mazzello @ramibaby @queeniesteiins @inthelapofthe39 @caborhapch @lovesaweed @finnbalortrash21 @leah-halliwell92 @book-nerds-world @coolcxt @lizvxx

[lillianfromaccounting]

The Gift of Family

This is written for @avengerscompound Kate’s Cards Against Humanity Writing Challenge: Holiday Edition. Sorry it’s a day late!

My prompt was Honey, Mommy and Daddy love you very much. But apparently Mommy loves ______ more than she loves Daddy and I chose Steve.

No warnings necessary, unless you don’t like Christmas, mall Santas, or shawarma.

The Gift of Family

When Tony told Steve that they would be spending the day at a holiday charity event, he didn’t expect to have to dress up as one of Santa’s elves.

The red and green tights reminded him of his first Captain America suit, itchy in all the worst areas.

“I’m not sure putting me in green is a good idea,” Bruce murmured.

“It’s for a good cause,” Tony checked his reflection in the mirror. “The kids will love it, and you get to be incognito for a few hours. At least you don’t have to wear this ridiculously, itchy beard.”

Natasha rolled her eyes behind the horn-rimmed Mrs. Claus glasses and secured a knife to her garter holster under the many layers of her dress.

Steve was about to ask her if that was really necessary, but knew what her answer would be, so he continued adjusting his elf hat in his corner of the dressing room.

A knock came at the door. “We’re ready for you,” a voice called out.

Steve took his position next to the photographer. His job was to usher the parents up to the children after the picture was taken and direct them towards the exit line. It was an easy enough job.

Steve had fond memories of Santa Claus. He recalled pushing to the front of the crowds with Bucky at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades when they were kids. No matter how old they had gotten, the sight of Santa at the end of the parade always felt magical.

Now, seeing the hopeful looks on all these children’s faces just made Steve feel a little warm and fuzzy inside.

The kids approached Santa and Mrs. Claus one at a time and sat between them. Sometimes, the child would climb up onto Tony’s lap. He would ask if they had been good this year, and the child would indubitably respond in the affirmative. Natasha would ask what the child wanted to ask Santa for, and the answer was usually a toy or candy or both. Occasionally, they’d get a ‘world peace’ type of answer and Bruce made sure the kid got an extra candy cane on the way out.

“Next,” Clint gestured for the young girl to walk up. Kneeling down to her level, he asked aloud and signed simultaneously, “And what is your name?”

The little girl, clutching a Moana plushie, stared Clint down. Her eyes darted to the side, as if gesturing for him to get out of her way. “If I told you my name, I’d have to kill you, and I don’t want that,” she said quietly.

“OK,” Clint stood up, raising his hands in front of him.

The little girl sidled up to the bench and sat between Tony and Natasha.

“Well, who do we have here?” Tony asked.

“Sybil, smile for mommy!” the mom called out. She was standing next to Steve, taking pictures with her phone.

“Santa, I haven’t been the best this year, but I really need to ask you for this one thing. It will make a difference for the rest of my life,” she said, giving Tony the puppy eyes.

“I need you to take out Captain America,” she said, barely above a whisper. “Like a hit. I brought you my Moana doll as payment. It’s my most prized treasure.”

Natasha smiled, almost proud, at a request that finally spoke to her.

“Ho ho ho!” Tony rolled the greeting into a loud laugh. “And why might you want that?”

“He is going to destroy my parents’ marriage. My brother came home from college and I overheard them the other night. They thought I went to sleep but I had to use the bathroom and on the way back, I heard my dad say, ‘Honey, Mommy and Daddy love you very much. But apparently Mommy loves Captain America more than she loves Daddy.’ Then I heard my brother mumble something about how it wasn’t even fair and that my parents were stacking him on a deck and something about stealing their hands, and then I just ran back to my room and hid under the bed,” she blurted loud enough for Steve to hear. “But the important part is that they promised to take me to Disney next year, and if they get divorced, then I won’t get to go to Disney. That’s what happened to my friend Suzy. Her parents got divorced and her trip to Disney got cancelled. I need to go to Disney. So I need you to take out Captain America.”

The mom hurried up to them, with Steve following closely behind her. “Oh sweetie, no, there’s been a misunderstanding. We were playing a game. Mommy and Daddy are not getting divorced,” she knelt down in front of Sybil, holding her hands. “I’m sorry,” the mom apologized to Tony.

“Oh, it’s alright. That was quite the interesting request,” Tony replied, winking at Steve. “So is Disney in Miss Sybil’s future?”

“Well,” the mom hesitated. “We’ll try. Let’s go now, Sybil. It’s someone else’s turn with Santa now.”

Steve escorted the duo towards the exit line, but his curiosity got the best of him.

“Excuse me, ma’am. What was the game you were playing?” he asked. “With the mom and dad and Captain America?”

“Oh, it’s called Cards Against Humanity,” she replied, looking up at Steve. “It’s a card game where you--you--has anyone ever told you that you look like Steve Rogers?”

“Sometimes,” Steve looked to the floor, which made the bells on his elf hat jingle. “Thank you, ma’am. Happy Holidays.” He quickly resumed his post by the photographer. When he turned back to look at them, Sybil and her mom had disappeared into the crowd.

Later, back at Avengers Tower.

“So did we miss anything good today?” Peter asked, making himself a plate of shawarma.

“I heard someone hired a hit on Steve,” Bucky laughed.

“What?” Peter looked concerned.

“And she was serious about it,” Sam said.

“Are we talking about...?” Peter asked.

“Steve has been a baaaad boy this year. Homewrecker!” Maria chimed in.

“Wait, what?” Peter looked around the table.

“It was a misunderstanding. Something about a game,” Steve said. “Please pass the tahini sauce.”

“That reminds me,” Tony put his food down. “FRIDAY, find one Sybil Lee and arrange for an all expenses paid trip to Disney for her family.”

“How’d you know her last name?” Steve asked.

“It was written on her Moana doll,” Tony shrugged.

“Do you buy everything the kids ask for?” Peter asked. “When’s the next time you’re doing this event? Is there an age limit? Under eighteen still counts as a kid, right? I’m free tomorrow. Can we do a pop-up Santa event in Queens? What’s so funny? I’m serious. I’m not even asking for anything outrageous. Just a LEGO set, or two. I mean, not me, of course. Maybe my friends. Ned’s been an excellent guy this year. He totally deserves the best, like maybe the 7500 piece LEGO Millennium Falcon set. Just a suggestion. Why are you all laughing? Ned deserves the best!”

Steve cleaned off his plate and leaned back, taking in the sight. It had began to snow outside, and the dance of the flurries made it seem that much warmer inside the Tower. This was what the holidays should be about: spending time with loved ones, and he felt blessed to have his Avengers family.

[bvidzsoo]

Abiding Darkness (XI)

 Author: bvidzsoo

 Warning: none, just like nudity

 Pairing: Oh Sehun X OC

 Word count: 4, 192

 Summary:  Belikov Bora is living in Seoul at her grandparents as she had gotten her long awaited scholarship. She’s not new to this world but she’s also not really interested in the famous people of it…so maybe that’s why she gets the shock of her life when a zombie apocalypse begins and she’s stuck with Oh Sehun.

   Laughter filled the quiet room as I rolled my eyes at Jian.

“You can’t say things like that” I snapped at her, making her laugh more “Just because I wouldn’t do something like that--”

“You are a scaredy cat” Jian crossed her arms in front of her chest and I only huffed, looking away from her.

“I killed those things, am I still a scaredy cat?” I raised my eyebrows at that and Jian only rolled her eyes, flicking me off. I scoffed and looked around the relatively empty living room. As I said, this house looks more like no one lived here. No pictures on the walls, no trace of anyone unless you walk into the bathroom and bedroom, where you can find a few clothes and some skin care products, but nothing more. Looking at the things, I’d say it was a guy who lived here but I could be wrong.

“What’s Sehun doing again?” Jian’s voice brought my attention back at her as I pursed my lips.

“Dinner?” I answered but it sounded like a question.

“Do you think Sehun can cook?” I opened my mouth to answer her but then closed it and just squinted my eyes. Well, from what I know...the really good cook is the Kyungsoo guy, who glares a lot and has pretty lips and...that giant who has elf-like ears. So hopefully, Sehun won’t kill us with his food tonight.

“I’m pretty sure he’ll be just fine” I muttered, offering an unsure smile to Jian.

“So we are starving tonight” She mumbled, turning around as she reached for her doll.

“Not really, I could have been a bad cook too” I shrugged and Jian just scoffed.

“But you are not, and usually girls can cook. Mom knew how to cook but dad once almost burned down the whole house” I started giggling at Jian’s glaring face as she gripped the doll in her hands.

“That’s funny, both of my parents can cook”

“Really? That’s so cool” Jian pouted and I smiled at her, leaning in closer as if I wanted to share a secret with her.

“Once this mess is over I will teach you how to cook, good?” At that Jian’s eyes widened and she nodded as I chuckled and ruffled her hair.

“Mr. Oh!” Jian suddenly shouted as she stood up, startling me.

“What?” Sehun hollered from the kitchen and I rolled my eyes. Can’t they speak like normal people? Why need to shout?

“I want to eat” Jian shouted and we could hear a few pots being placed down loudly.

“Be patient, kid” Suddenly Sehun appeared in the doorway, a glare directed at Jian and a scoff on his lips. I just sighed quietly, playing with the sleeves of my blouse.

“What’s for dinner?” Jian just continued like Sehun didn’t speak to her, eyebrows raised in an arrogant manner.

“Food” Sehun snapped, pointing a finger at Jian “If you don’t watch your behavior, you might not have dinner tonight”

“As if” Jian smirked, glancing at me as I raised my eyebrows at her “Bora won’t let something like that happen”

“Well that’s--” My words were cut off as Sehun laughed loudly and fake.

“Not if I steal her away” It was Sehun’s turn to smirk as I looked at him wide eyed and Jian only glared at him.

“You can’t steal her away”

“But I can lock you into a room--”

“Okay, enough” I finally spoke up, eyebrows raised expectantly at the both of them “Stop acting like two sappy teenagers and do something productive like...Sehun aren’t you supposed to finish cooking? And Jian, shouldn’t you help Sehun make the table?”

It was quiet as both look at me, and surprisingly, both were pouting. I sighed and scooted a little lower on the sofa, trying not to move much my left leg.

“You two are so similar” I muttered underneath my breath and both Jian and Sehun just glared at me.

“We are not!” They said at the same time and I raised my eyebrows mockingly.

“Fine, Jian come and help me” Sehun sighed and turned around to go back to the kitchen.

“Only because Bora told me so” Jian said sassily and walked after Sehun, leaving me with a roll of my eyes. These two are seriously so stupid. It’s like they are the same person, except Sehun seems like he’s dumber as he can’t stop fighting with Jian.

I settled back against the sofa, relaxing as finally after so long time, it was quiet around me. No constant humming coming from Jian, and no sighs coming from Sehun. It was just me alone, and unfortunately my choking thoughts. But right now, I’d rather be with my thoughts than have both of them bickering.

After we had breakfast, Sehun carried me back upstairs and I changed into something comfortable that could be used as clothes inside the house, that meaning that I had to borrow one of Sehun’s sweatpants since I forgot to pack mine. It was a little loose, but thanks to the binding, I could fasten it around my hips enough so that it wouldn’t fall. And well after that, it was a little boring. We didn’t have much to do, so I just played with Jian as Sehun decided to charge our phones, in case we could call. Soon after that Sehun fell asleep on the floor and I asked Jian to place a blanket on him, but because she just couldn’t listen to me...she didn’t just put a blanket on him, she also drew flowers on his cheeks with one of her highlighters she brought along. We were both giggling as we woke Sehun up successfully and he only realized what he had on his cheeks one hour later when he went to the bathroom. He came back with his ears and neck red as he glared at the both of us before lunging for Jian. Of course, they ended up smacking each other with pillows while I just sat on the sofa and watched them amused. But I didn’t get away with it either as Sehun decided they should team up against me and tickle me since I couldn’t get away and it left me heaving for air.

Today was fun even though we could have traveled, getting closer to the N Tower. But Sehun and I already decided that we’d leave tomorrow, no matter in what condition my leg was. He brought a long stick for me that could help me walk so even if we’d go slower, we’d be still able to go.

“No, I am sitting there” My ears perked up as I rose into a sitting position, slowly turning my leg.

“No, you are not” I could feel Sehun rolling his eyes just from his tone.

“Why do you want to sit beside Bora?”

“What? I don’t want to” Sehun hissed and a smile stretched on my lips as I heard Jian snickering.

“What a liar! Do you like Bora?” My eyes widened and my heart skipped a beat at the question, this is not good. Why would my heart do that? It was just a simple question. And Sehun can’t really stand us, he doesn’t like me.

“What a stupid question” Sehun scoffed and I felt a little disappointed that he gave that answer, “Do you like Bora?”

“Of course I do” Jian scoffed and I forced myself to smile as I heard footsteps coming my way.

“Shut up” Sehun hissed before he appeared in the doorway, eyebrows furrowed.

I licked my lips as I looked at him curiously and he just sighed, shaking his head as he walked inside the room.

“Something wrong?” I asked, looking up at him as he stopped beside me.

“No, don’t worry” He flashed me a tiny smile before leaning down and hooking an arm underneath my leg and one around my shoulders.

“You know you don’t have to carry me around all day?” I muttered as I felt my cheeks heat up as my face was pushing into Sehun’s hard chest.

“Right, having you limp around would take too much time” He scoffed and I was glad he didn’t see my red cheeks.

“Right, that’s nice of you” I rolled my eyes, ignoring the way his muscles bulged through his t-shirt.

“Very nice of me, I even cooked dinner” He looked down at me as he walked into the kitchen and I just rolled my eyes.

“We both know you wouldn’t have if my leg wasn’t broken”

“At least I was nice enough not to make you stand on your feet” He threw me a grin as he carefully placed me down in a seat, across from Jian. She was glaring at Sehun, lips pursed as spaghetti and some brown sauce were already placed in her plate.

“Spaghetti?” I raised my eyebrows as Sehun served himself some.

“And Kimbap” He pushed a plate towards me and I hummed, leaning forward to place some food onto my plate as well.

“Why is the sauce brown?” Jian asked, her nose scrunched.

“Because it has meat and other things” Sehun muttered as he took a mouthful and started chewing.

“Well, Jian...let’s thank Sehun he cooked for us” I smiled at Jian before placing the food inside my mouth, about to start chewing when a taste...a very...strong taste hit my tasting buds. I started slowly chewing as I tried to play it off as nothing. It’s not...that bad...it’s just...it tastes like garlic and...soia? What is this even? He said he put meat in it? The thing that I chewed and was too mushy...was that the meat?

“Ew, what’s this?” Jian didn’t even try to hide her dislike as she spit the food back on her plate.

“Jian!” I exclaimed after I gulped forcefully, glad that the food was no longer in my mouth.

“Mr. Oh...this tastes very bad” Jian was quick to push her plate away, arms crossed in front of her.

“Uh…” There was silence and I glanced at Sehun to see his ears once again red today, he was pushing around his food with his fork.

“I know” He muttered and Jian scoffed.

“Are the Kimbap bad too?”

“They shouldn’t be” Sehun muttered, pushing his plate away as well. I cleared my throat and left my plate where it was as I reached for the three Kimbap rolls and started cutting them.

“I’m going to starve now because of you, Mr. Oh” Jian glared at Sehun and he just scoffed offended.

“I never really cooked before”

“At least the Kimbap is good” I said with my mouth full of food, glad that the Kimbap was tasty enough to wash away the taste of the Spaghetti.

“Oh, good” Sehun muttered, starting to eat the Kimbap as well.

Jian was hesitant to take one but after a bite, she started eating quickly, the Kimbap quick to be finished. To our luck, Sehun placed more food he brought in the morning, so we wouldn’t be hungry later. As we were eating the bread Sehun chuckled. Jian and I looked at him curiously.

“Kyungsoo would have my head for cooking food like this to two girls” I raised my eyebrows as Sehun just continued smiling.

“Once, Baekhyun decided to cook dinner and he wouldn’t let Kyungsoo or anyone help him. I swear to God, he cooked for at least two hours and when we finally got to eat...we had to order take out it was that bad. Kyungsoo was so mad, he was burning up. He couldn’t believe Baekhyun wasted so much food and we couldn’t even eat it”

I couldn’t help but laugh as I pictured that in my head. Poor Baekhyun, I wouldn’t want Kyungsoo mad at me...his glaring face is quite scary.

“Who are Kyungsoo and Baekhyun?” Jian asked confused as she placed her bread on the table.

“My friends” Sehun answered quickly, standing up to gather the dishes.

“We kinda agreed after that that we won’t cook unless Kyungsoo...or anyone who knows how to cook is there to watch over us. It was funny” Sehun continued speaking and I smiled at him, happy that he was opening up a little bit more.

“Back home my parents would teach me different recipes” I said, catching Sehun’s attention “Both my parents know how to cook so I learned from both. My grandmother’s food was always better though”

“Yes!” Sehun exclaimed, a big smile on his face “Grandmother’s food is always better”

“True” I chuckled and Jian only listened with a pout.

“My grandmother never cooked for me” At that both Sehun and I looked at each other, watching as Jian slowly got sadder and sadder.

“Well, that requires a promise then” I said with a dramatic sigh, getting Jian’s attention, “I promise, that when I will be a grandma I will cook for you”

“Good” Jian smiled, looking me in the eyes, “So now you promised you’ll stay alive”

I just hummed, glancing up at Sehun who’s eyebrows were furrowed.

“Well, I don’t like you, Mr. Oh but you should stay alive too” Jian said with a shrug before getting off the chair and running upstairs, probably to the bedroom.

“This girl” Sehun scoffed, running his fingers through his hair.

“She is something, isn’t she” I giggled, looking up at him.

“Let’s go upstairs too” He muttered, taking me in his arms for the nth time for today.

“Sehun” I muttered, growing a little embarrassed.

“Yes?” He glanced down at me as he started climbing up the stairs.

“I’d like to shower tonight…”

“Oh” His eyebrows furrowed as he looked ahead, “I’m not sure you can shower, probably take a bath”

“Is there a bathtub?” I asked, eyebrows raised as Sehun nodded.

“Oh okay then, I’d like to take a bath” Sehun only hummed as he walked to the bedroom and placed me down on the bed before disappearing, going to the bathroom probably. I asked Jian to help me get my pajamas and then I waited for Sehun while tying my hair in a high bun, I can’t get it wet.

“Can you take a bath alone?” Jian asked, she was resting on her stomach, drawing something on a white paper.

“Maybe?” I sighed, rubbing my temples, “I can try”

“It will hurt your leg” Jian glanced at me and I nodded.

“Sehun will help me, don’t worry”

“But he’s a boy” Oh...well, yeah. Probably not a big deal, he won’t see anything, I just need him to...take the cast off and the rest I can deal with...I guess.

After Sehun returned to the room he took off the cast, careful as to not move my leg too much. The pain wasn’t very bad but it hurt when I suddenly moved as Sehun hauled me up. It felt quite numb because of the cast too, but that means Sehun secured it well around my shin.

Getting inside the bathroom, warm air welcomed us as there was just enough water in the bathtub. Sehun placed me on top of the toilet lid and I sighed, looking around.

“I guess that’s it, I’ll handle it myself from here” I muttered, looking up at Sehun to see him with his eyebrows furrowed.

“I don’t think so” He crossed his arms in front of his chest, “You can’t step on your leg and the bathtub is too far for you to walk there”

“So...do you suggest that...I strip and you just--” I cleared my throat as my cheeks suddenly felt too hot “Place me inside the tub?”

“I don’t--” Sehun gulped loudly as he looked at me, licking his lips quickly as redness spread over his ears “I uh...I guess? I can close my eyes or...look at the ceiling?”

“Uh…” I felt like crying. Does he really have to see me naked? Oh God, what did I do wrong for you to do this to me? I sighed, lifting my blouse over my head. The faster we get over with, the better.

“I guess” I muttered, undoing the binding of his sweatpants and pushing it off my legs as Sehun looked straight ahead, gulping every few seconds. I would have glared at him and told him to man up if I wasn’t too embarrassed, it’s not his first time seeing a woman naked for sure.

“Can you...hold me up?” I muttered, my cheeks feeling like they were on fire.

“Sure” He muttered and looked down but quickly averted his eyes as he gripped my forearms and raised me to my feet. I placed my weight on my right leg as I bit my lower lip and pulled one arm out of his grip.

“You okay?” He asked as he looked past me, eyes fixed on the wall.

“I just...need to take my panties off” I whispered, beyond embarrassed.

“Oh” That sounded more like a breath as Sehun remained quiet, eyes unmoving from the wall as I leaned a little down to be able to push the panties off. I could feel his grip getting a little tighter the lower I bent, trying to not put pressure on my left leg.

“I’m almost done” I muttered, fingers shaking a little as I unclasped my bra, leaving me fully naked. I licked my lips nervously as I looked at Sehun’s chest, voice a little restricted.

“Uhm, I’m-I’m done”

“Yeah, okay” Sehun sniffed, clearing his throat as he remained unmoving for a little while.

I looked up at his face to see him bitting his lower lip.

“Bora” His tone told me that what he had to say next wasn’t something I’d like too much.

“Yeah?”

“I still need to lift you up…” The way his voice trailed off made me gulp loudly. I really don’t want to be in Sehun’s arms naked. Jesus, this really could only happen to me. Can’t Jian help me? She’s a girl too…

“Okay” I sighed and wound an arm around Sehun’s shoulders, his muscles tensed suddenly. I watched his face as he leaned down to hook his arm underneath my legs, still keeping his eyes on the wall. It made my heart skip a beat, that he had enough respect in him to keep his eyes off me when he could just easily stare at me. I’m not sure many guys would do what he is doing right now.

I shuddered at Sehun’s big palm against my bare skin, sending tickles up my spine as his fingers kept brushing against my skin. Maybe he did it unconsciously but I couldn’t find it in myself to dislike it...even if he did it on purpose. He walked us carefully over to the bathtub and licked his lips as my eyes stayed on his face. I knew he had to look down because otherwise, he couldn’t see where to place me. My heart started beating faster at that thought and Sehun sighed before his eyes dropped enough so that he could see. He quickly but still carefully lowered me into the tub and I gasped a little when I felt the warm water against my skin. He was quick to avert his eyes and pull his hands back once I was in the water, looking up at him with a grateful smile.

“Just call for me when you are done” He muttered before quickly going out. Once the door closed I sighed loudly, relaxing my muscles as I could finally enjoy the warm water engulfing my whole body. It felt majestic to wash off all the dirt from my body, to be able to just relax without having to worry about your problems...or the things that are happening right now around us. When was the last time I took a bath?...probably when I was back in Russia.

Taking my time, I didn’t hurry, I truly enjoyed staying in the warm water until it started to slowly turn colder. Knowing that Sehun was waiting for me, I quickly finished washing myself and decided that I didn’t really need his help in everything so I carefully pushed myself up by my hands and sat on the edge of the bathtub, legs still in the tub and careful not to move my left leg much. Taking the towel off the hanger, I dried my upper body and wrapped it around me as well as I could before calling for Sehun. It didn’t take long for him to be back and he huffed when he saw me.

“Bora, what are you doing?” His voice sounded annoyed but laced with concern.

“Helping you from having to help me too much” I shrugged as Sehun just walked closer, eyes looking into mine as he kept glaring.

“I told you to not force your leg much today”

“I didn’t stand on it, it’s fine” I shrugged and Sehun was quick to lean down and take me into his arms only to place me back on the floor. I quickly eased the pressure off my left leg and clutched onto Sehun.

“I need my pajamas” I looked at him and he nodded as he handed me my clothes. He placed a firm hand against my back as I let the towel fall to the floor, cheeks heating as Sehun was a second too late to look away. He saw.

I was quick to dress myself into my pajamas, trying to ignore the fact Sehun’s hand seemed to burn my skin, the way he would trace my skin with his fingers while he waited for me to get dressed, standing a little too close. I know he saw, he didn’t look up when I undid my towel. I just hope...he won’t act weird around me after tonight, I really can’t stand that.

Jian was laying in bed by the time we got back to the room, a drawing in her hand. Sehun placed me onto the bed and I smiled at him before crawling to my place, in the middle. Sehun changed as I observed the drawing, Jian’s eyes dropping every few minutes.

“This is us” She muttered sleepily “Sehun is ugly because he usually is ugly...but the two of us are pretty”

Sehun just scoffed and I chuckled, kissing Jian’s forehead as I took the drawing from her, “That’s nice of you, thank you. I do agree Sehun is ugly”

“No, you don’t” Sehun scoffed as he took the drawing from my hands and placed it on the nightstand table. I just smiled at him before turning back to Jian.

“Good night, Jian”

“Night” She muttered as she turned her back to me, doll in her arms as she curled into a ball. Sehun turned the lights off and I turned towards him surprised.

“What about the cast?” I asked but Sehun was already shuffling under the covers. I turned around to face him, his body turned towards me as well.

“We’ll leave your leg free tonight, try not to sleep on this side too much” A pout fell on my lips as I looked at Sehun in the darkness, his hair falling into his eyes. My fingers twitched to push it back but I could control myself before it was too late. Sehun hummed contently as he closed his eyes and I licked my lips, an annoying thought invading my mind. No, Bora, don’t do it. The guy just saw you naked you don’t want to do this! But then...the urge was stronger than the warning and I couldn’t stop myself from rolling closer to Sehun and burying my head into his chest.

“What are you doing?” Sehun asked startled, pulling a little back. I groaned, winding a leg around him.

“We wake up tangled either way, why not tangle ourselves right now? At least I can sleep in a comfortable position like this” I muttered, muffling a yawn into Sehun’s chest.

“Don’t yawn into me” Sehun scoffed making me chuckle, but his arm was dropped around my waist as he pulled me just a little bit closer.

“Goodnight, Bora”

“Goodnight, Sehun”

Dear diary,

    Despite the fact that we didn’t do much today, it was fun. I got to know Sehun more and Jian and I spent a lot of time together. Well, expect that Sehun came back bloodied, nothing scary happened. Or maybe it’s scary that he saw me naked. I can’t deny the fact that I didn’t dislike it as much as I should have. My heart just...keeps making these weird things and I can’t help it. Why do I like him? He’s not even special. He’s arrogant and cold and snaps at me and glares a lot...I like funny boys, who make me laugh and make me feel safe...so how can Sehun make me feel like that too? Why is this so complicated? He probably will forget me the second this is over. And now I’m just making myself sad...I should sleep, it’s late…

Goodnight diary, 2019.03.20.

 ~Next Part~

[knowles-morgan]

Remember our first Christmas

Paper was everywhere along with boxes from the toys the kids had open. Nora had fallen asleep trying to hold on to her baby doll and the barbies she had gotten. Your year-old son had climbed into Chibs lap and had fallen asleep holiday his motorcycle Juice had gotten him and his blanket in the other. It was a busy morning. The kids had woken up at 4 am and would not go back to sleep. Once they found out Santa had been to the house. Even if Jackie was upset Santa ate the cookies.

“You outdid yourself?” Chibs said to you as you picked up Jackie to place him on the loveseat.

“I’ve gotten better at it.” You said laughing.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of it love,” Chibs said pulling you down to his lap.

“Do you remember our first Christmas?” You asked moving half away of his lap on to the couch to see him.

“Don’t think I could ever forget it.” He said rubbing his hand up your thigh.

The first Christmas you had was Chibs was after you had only been seeing each other for about six months. Nora had fallen in love with him right away. It actually bothered you because you weren’t sure how long he would want to stick around and play dad.

Today was Christmas Eve and you had stopped by the clubhouse that morning to give him his gift.

“Chibs, your girls are here?” Jax said meeting you as you walked up.

“You look very festive today Y/N,” Jax said laughing.

You wearing greening and red leggings. A shirt that said Naughty is the new nice. Some boots and with the jewelry you had on that had bells on them.

“I hear some jealousy in your voice.” You said laughing at him.

“You flirting with my old lady again,” Chibs said walking up and giving you a kiss

“You should wear the bells for me later and nothing else.”

“You can count on that.” You said winking at him.

“I don’t need this thought in my head. Where is Nora?” Jax said walking away.

“She’s in with your mom.”

“Mom must be giving her the gift we got her,” Jax said walking to the clubhouse

“She didn’t need to go that.”

“Love, Gemma does what she wants. Besides we all love Nora.” He said pulling you in for a hug

“Let’s go in and make sure she at least says thank you.”

Walking into you didn’t expect to see everyone got her something.

“Mommy look!” She said holding up a tea set.

“Did you say thank you, babe?”

“Don’t worry mama she was,” Gemma said keeping up to hug you.

Watching Nora and the guys play with all this little girl stuff was a blast, but what really melted your heart was when she climbed in Chibs lap and fell asleep.

“I never expected any of this but thank you so much for doing this for Nora, but I need to get her home. I have to get dinner made and her to bed for Santa.”

After all the goodbyes. With the boys putting all the stuff in your truck. Chibs but Nora in her car seat. Then we walked over to you.

“You need some help tonight.” He said playing with the bells on your necklace.

“We should be okay, but you're coming by for dinner tomorrow right?”

“I’ll be there.”

“I love you.” Chibs had fallen hard for you.

“I love you also.” You said leaning up and kissing him.

Getting into the car you could feel a headache coming on, but told yourself you would take something as soon as you got home.

“Nora. We are at home. You are going to have to walk for I can get your presents in okay.” You said unbuckling her.

“Can I play with them?”

“While I make dinner you can. Then bath time and bedtime.”

“One Christmas movie please?”

“After your bath.” You said laughing

True to your word. She played to dinner. Then after her bath and you both put on your matching flannel pajamas. You stared the Christmas movie. She loved the Barbie Nutcracker. Of course, she fell asleep while it was on. Picking her up and taking her to bed. She didn’t even wake up.

“It’s time to play Santa.” You said pouring yourself a glass of wine.

The first couple of gifts weren’t any problem. Then you decide to put the dollhouse together. It didn’t look that hard. So why were you seating her crying with a worse headache and trying not to throw up?

Grabbing your phone you picked it up and hit number two on the speed dial.

“Y/N.” A sleepy Chibs said

“Santa can’t even put together a dollhouse. My head is killing me. I’m a horrible mother and Nora is going to hate me forever.” You said crying

“I’ll be right there.”

“No. She loves you. I’m the failure.” You said hanging up

Not moving from the floor. To tried and in pain to move. Even when you heard the knock then the key being put into the lock you didn’t move. Maybe the robber can put the present together for you.

“Let’s get you to bed.”

“If her dad wasn’t a dead beat rat. He would be here helping with this.”

“Her dad is here. I should have come home with you guys.”

Pulling him down onto the floor with you.

“That kind of talk could really turn a girl on.” You said put as soon as he leaned down to kiss you. You couldn’t hold it anymore. Pushing him away. You got up and ran to the bathroom. Flipping the light on you ran to the toilet and got sick.

Chibs was right behind you holding your hair up, and rubbing your back.

“Let’s get you to bed.”

Getting up you brushed your teeth and tried to go back into the living room.

“Y/N.”

“Chibs.”

“Your bed is this way.”

“Santa needs to finish his gifts. Eat the cookies and drink the milk. Then I have to be up and have breakfast ready. Then dinner going soon after then. When you all come over. So I’m not going to bed and you can go home.” You said feeling dizzy and starting to go down.

“Come on love,” Chibs said as he caught you.

Carrying you bridal style. You wrapped your arms around him.

“She’s going to hate me.” You said starting to cry again.

“Do you trust me?”

“Yes.”

“Then please lay down and rest. I’ll get you some medicine then you can rest for a bit.”

As he got your medicine he helped you out of your Christmas pajamas and into a shirt. Tucking her in and before he was out the door you were sleeping.

“Mommy Mommy!!!” Was the first thing you heard but her jumping was what woke you.

Sitting up a little and seeing a sleeping shirtless Chibs next to you.

“Merry Christmas ladybug.” You said hugging her

“Santa came Mommy!”

“Did he?” You were truly surprised because last night was coming back to you.

“Can I open them?”

“Let me get dressed and wake Chibs up.”

As she ran to the living room. You could hear her talking to someone. It sounded like Juice and Happy.

“Babe wake up.” You said rubbing his chest

“You feel better?”

“I’m so sorry about last night but I’m glad you didn’t leave.”

“This is where I belong and you need Santa and his elf’s help”

“Oh lord, what did you do?” You said laughing

“Getting your Christmas pajamas back on and let’s go see.”

“You washed them?”

He winked as he got up and got dressed.

Walking out of the bedroom. You couldn’t believe what had happened. The dollhouse was put together and more presents were added.

“Merry Christmas.” Juice and Happy said

Nora was on Happy lap watching the Christmas parade being very good.

“Merry Christmas,” You said giving both guys a kiss on the check.

Walking into the kitchen you saw the cookies and milk had been eaten and the milk was gone.

“Once again Nora, Santa didn’t clean up his mess.”

“I’m pretty sure Santa just wanted to get home to Mrs. Clause,” Chibs said coming in and smacking your ass.

“I’m sure Mrs. Clause will make his home warming very pleasurable.”

“Mama!!!!” Nora said running in.

“Okay okay. Did you say hello to Chibs?”

“No Daddy is always here. Well sometimes.” She said running off.

[wordsforfun-blog]

SUNSHINE KIND OF MIND

Susan and Luca have five children. Every year they have a tradition where they go out with one child and let them buy some Christmas presents for each one of their siblings. It has worked really well these past few years and the tradition is holding strong. This year things are going to be different. Luca got demoted at his job. He loves being a software designer and he is good at his job. Sadly, his company has not been doing so well. Instead of firing him they chose to put him in a lower position. A lot of his coworkers/friends were let go so he is grateful to still have a job but the pay decrease is tough when you have five kids at home. Today is his oldest daughters turn to go out with them and she has been looking forward to it more than any of their children. Luca and Susan have been too afraid to tell her about the budget this year and have failed to do so thus far.

Julia is shorter than most twelve year olds but that doesn’t bother her one bit. People look at her like she is still a kid but she doesn’t feel like one whatsoever. She listens to her parents and keeps her siblings in line, she is not even the oldest child but she is always left in charge when her parents go out. Julia keeps her nose in a book at all times, she walks to school every day in her white soled purple canvas shoes and sways her arm like a pendulum from front to back with the swagger of someone a few years older. She loves going to school and learning and interacting with her teachers and fellow students. She knows she is young and needs to be having fun but she just loves setting a good example for her siblings and showing them that they can have fun and be a good student at the same time.

It is November and the holiday season is in the air. Julia loves to shop for her sibling’s presents. Last year she got her brother a toy that he still plays with today and she wants to impress them each year with her gift giving prowess. Over the years she has bought them various dolls, toys, clothes, posters and so many other cool things. This year she plans on outdoing herself. She has every gift picked out in advance and is ready to get in and get out of each store and be ready to go. On this particular day she is wearing her lucky canvas shoes and a yellow sundress that her mother nicknamed her sunshine outfit. Her mother makes sure to always point out that the nickname is not because of the color of the dress but because to her she is her little drop of sunshine on a rainy day. Julia, her mother Susan and her father Luca are out shopping in the Supermall. Everyone loves it here and you can tell this because of the packed parking lot. To Julia, this is her mall, she has got all of her presents here over the years and it never lets her down, especially during the holiday season. She looked back at her parents as they walked inside. Her mother was so beautiful, he long strawberry hair was draped around her snow white pea coat. Her father was in his normal black suit but he mixed it up with a white tie to match her mother. To her, her parents were the cutest couple in the world and she hoped her relationship in the future would be just as wonderful.

It is very busy today and Christmas music is in the air, song after song carries with it brightness to the tune that lingers in the back of her mind. She doesn’t have the time to sing along to every song or even notice which one is playing but she knows it is blaring in the overheads and she loves it. People are everywhere and everyone is moving a little faster than they normally would be during the year.  The holidays are big in her town and she sees some people looking stressed but for the most part people just cannot stop smiling. This is her time to shop for presents for her brothers and sisters and she waits for this day all year long. She meticulously planned each gift she is getting this year and she started this process the day after Christmas last year.

This mall is the biggest building she has ever seen. It is five stories tall, a large oval shape that Julia and her family have always called The Doughnut. The food court could be considered the doughnut hole and it also contained an ice skating rink. Unlike most malls this one is organized for the shopper instead of from a sales perspective. Each floor is a different color and caters to a more specific demographic such as kids, food, clothing etc. Julia loves the third story, it is bright purple and it has everything a kid could ever want. On the way up the elevator Julia looked out through the glass and across the open space of the mall below. She saw a line of people waiting to have a chat with the bearded man, another line of people waiting for pretzels and many other lines, zigzagging across and between the crowds. A bell dinged and she turned to leave the elevator and commence the shopping. Her mother’s arm on her shoulder just outside of the closing door halted her progress,

“Sunshine, we need to talk.”

“What’s up mom?” She could tell her mom was nervous.

“Well, we, we are really sorry but this year we need to stay on a budget. You can only spend five dollars on the others. That is twenty dollars total, okay?”

Julia was shocked. This didn’t make any sense to her. They always had money. She looked up to her mother with runny egg eyes. The droopy sad look that usually gets her anything she wants. Her mother looked back at her, her round face dimpled with a frown and she knew that she couldn’t push the subject.

Her father stepped a little closer, “Jules please don’t make your mother feel bad. We really wish we could spend more but this year we really have to be careful.” Her father said remorsefully. The truth about his job was just not something he could discuss with his children.

Julia turned away without a word and ignoring her parents calling her name she headed into Toy-Ville. She was mad but she just wanted to shrug it off. This was her favorite store all year round and this time of year that was compounded exponentially, there was no way this store wouldn’t cheer her up. 

The windows were filled with toys she had never even seen, the latest and greatest models were highlighted and they seemed so cool to her. Her eyes were wide with excitement and then she remembered her budget. Instantly, the whole store lost its appeal and this only made her feel worse. The workers had on little elf hats and shoes and carried with them an extra cheery smile. Normally she would have smiled right back but today she pretended not to see them at all.

Luca turned and kissed his wife’s temple grabbing her hand, “I am sorry babe. I really wish we could give them more this year. She seemed to take it pretty well though. I am sorry you had to tell her, I was just too weak to have that chat with her.”

She turned and smiled, “Oh, don’t worry honey. They will all be alright. We raised them well. They know we love them.”

Julia made her way deeper into the store. She heard an electronic trumpet going off from the back of the store and when she found it Julia stopped abruptly at the foot of a brand new shiny display. A black knight on a horse with a red cape in a pretty cool display box and it was the last one, the Epic Knight Five Thousand. The one she had been looking for, it cost thirty dollars by itself. Her parents watched as her shoulders slumped; she turned and walked right out of the store with her head below her shoulders. They slowly followed behind her without a word, clearly worried but they knew they needed to give her a little space. Money was never an issue to their kids before so they knew it may not be easy.

She was furious. That was what she was going to get her brother. He had been playing with his red knight she got him last Christmas for the whole year. He had mentioned wanting another in passing and today she couldn’t get it. She walked the kid’s floor, the whole purple circle with not even a glance into the windows. Her head was held low and her shoulders drooped. The holiday spirit had left her. They followed her as she continued walking.

Luca let out a sigh, “I am so sorry babe. I can’t believe I lost my position and at a time like this.”

“Honey, it just wasn’t meant to be. If they didn’t want you then you wouldn’t be there. The company is having trouble and my heart tells me it will pay off if we show some loyalty. We will be okay.” 

She squeezed his hand and gave him a smile as they turned and followed Julia up the escalator.

“Are you sure we haven’t spoiled them? Look at her. What is she doing? That isn’t our daughter is it?”

“No, she is just disappointed. Remember, she is shopping for the kids. She is not being selfish.”

“Yeah, I guess…” Luca turned and stopped to kiss his wife.

“Guys, what are you doing?” Suddenly, they were in front of Julia and she was peering out from inside a store.”  

Julia turned and walked inside. They looked at each other and followed her into Creatopia. They had walked by it on many different occasions but never stopped in. The employees all wore aprons that were just as colorful as their greeting,

“Hey guys, welcome to Creatopia! How can we help you today?” 

said two workers uniformly and clearly on point for some kind of script they were given.

Susan looked at them with a smile in return, “We are doing okay, just following our daughter.”

The two workers looked to each other. One, a slender man in his mid-thirties gestured to the younger girl, clearly a newer employee that they were going to be her sale.

Luca interrupted them, “It’s okay, we will just be looking. Thanks you guys.” 

He took his wife’s arm and they continued into the store. The associates muttered something they couldn’t hear and went onto the next customer. Susan gave Luca a little nudge with her elbow, 

“They sure seemed happy?”

“Maybe I should get a job here…” Luca said as he gave his wife’s hand a little squeeze.

“Umm, yeah. I would like to see you hold a smile for that long.” She laughed and they both turned their attention to their daughter.

She seemed different all of a sudden. Julia was standing in front of them with a huge smile; in her hands was a bright red and green box with a clear window cut out on the front. Inside of the box was a basket filled with markers, pens, stencils and it was surrounded with different types of things to be crafty with.

“Guys, I know what I am doing.” 

She stood up on the tips of her toes and wrapped her arms about the box in a hugging motion. She had found her siblings presents. Luca got down on one knee,” Oh really? Now, what are you going to do with all that? That looks like one present to me.” He winked at Susan so they could both be on the same page.

“Now Julia, you know we are not here to get you a present right? It is time for your brothers and sister to get something from you.”

“No, you guys this is perfect. It’s got colors and papers; it’s even got those little twisty things. I am going to make their presents. I saw this and I got so many ideas. Is it okay?”

They both looked to the tag on the front with the price. It showed twenty five dollars even. They had both been shopping yesterday with her brother and told him no to something the same price.

Susan looked to her daughter with sad eyes the eyes that Julia knew meant no without saying anything, 

“I am so sorry. We just can’t go over. We just told your brother he can’t go over yesterday. Maybe next year?”

Before Julia could react a woman walked up to them. She was older like Julia’s grandmother and she wore a tan fur coat that dragged behind her, 

“I couldn’t help but overhear you guys. I have a twenty percent off coupon and I did not find what I was looking for. You want it?”

Luca and Susan were taken aback. Luca played it down, "Oh no, that is okay. Are you sure?"

"Yeah, no problem." 

The woman looked out towards the mall as if she needed to be somewhere fast. She handed the coupon off to Luca without another word and blended with the crowded mall. Luca took a step after her to thank her but it was too late.

Susan looked to Julia, "Umm, did you see that babe. What a nice lady. Let’s check out." a tear in her eye.

They all headed the checkout. Julia still held the box like she would never let go of it, 

"Why hello there, just hold that right there and I can scan it for you." said the peppy cashier.

Julia’s smile lit her parent’s hearts. They headed out and into the mall once again.

“So…?” 

Luca whispered to Julia with a wink towards his wife.

Susan understood his signal, 

“Hey, what are you going to be making for everyone?”

Julia played off the question with a wave of her hand, 

“Don’t worry about it guys. It will be a surprise.”

“Okay sunshine, we can’t wait to see what you do for everyone. I am sure your brothers and sister will be excited to see what you make for them. Let your father or me know if you need any help okay?”

“Okay, I love you guys. I got this.” 

She gripped her bag tight in her hand and walked ahead of her parents, her arm swinging back and forth. Susan and Luca looked on as their daughters body language had changed drastically since they were in the toy store earlier. She was happy. They watched her grow so much in the last few minutes and it warmed their hearts. 

The holiday season had always been a big deal for both Luca and Susan’s families even before they were married so they knew it would play a big role in how they raised their own children. They are happy. Luca has been a great husband for more than fifteen years and Susan has been a wife and mother and exceeded Luca’s expectations on numerous occasions over the years. They went into this particular season with lower hopes for their family’s happiness. This was going to be the first Christmas for all of them with a tight budget.

Today, Julia had taught them something. It wasn’t easy and it took a little luck, but, she made them realize that Christmas is not all about the “coolest” stuff you can get for someone or be given. It is not about impressing people with your light display on your house. It is about family, it is about being together and caring for each other. Julia wasn’t going home with the brightest and most sought after items for her siblings. She was going to give them a piece of her heart. She was going to be thoughtful, considerate and creative all at once. On the ride home Luca and Susan held hands across the car seats. They couldn’t stop smiling and Julia was just the same. Her mind was flooding with ideas. 

There was an endless opportunity for her gifts this year and she may even have some stuff left over for next year’s gifts. Julia looked back on her trip to the mall. She was a little embarrassed for how she acted when she found out about the money issue. She knew she was wrong and at home she was going to have a little sisterly chat with each one of her siblings about the holiday spirit and how money is not the most important thing in the world.