#the sacred bond of husband and wife and to make this even more special

[manish123sworld]

[monzabee]

hot girls support 44 – lh44

masterlist

Summary: The one where your husband realises that you are, indeed, his number one fan.

Pairing: lewis hamiton x wife!reader

Word Count: 1.2k

Warnings: cursing? (i’m not even sure), and a whole lot of fluff

Request: “Hi can you do we’re Lewis Hamilton wife is with him to see one of his races but she leaves the garage for some reason and over hears someone talking bad about her husband and she snaps and tells them straight and Lewis is watching her from a distance like damn that’s my wife”

Author’s Note: hi, hey, hello!! i don’t know if this classifies as a drabble but let’s just pretend it does because i realised that i can’t write anything under 1k? this was a very fun request to work on, so thank you to anon, and i hope you guys enjoy! good morning, noon or night wherever you are, xoxobee

Please also note that all of my works are protected under copyright, and not available for reposting on other platforms. 

Both you and Lewis are private people when it came to your relationship. It has always been that way, with him leading a lifestyle in front of the cameras, and you preferring to stay away from those said cameras as much as you can. Over time, you both developed a rhythm, a delicate balance between Lewis's public persona and your desire for privacy. It was an unspoken agreement, an understanding that you valued above all else.. You knew how much Lewis's racing career meant to him, and you admired his ability to excel under the constant scrutiny. And in return, Lewis respected your wish for a quieter, more intimate life together. It was this mutual respect that solidified the foundation of your relationship, allowing it to thrive despite the challenges that fame and attention often brought.

That is not to say that you guys were completely private, of course. You’ve had your fair share of events the two of you attended as a couple, as well as races, but Lewis is always mindful of the fact that you don’t want cameras in your faces. In the early days of your relationship, the media had tried to capture glimpses of your relationship, eager to uncover every detail and learn more about the woman who finally made him give up his bachelor status. However, Lewis, being the fiercely protective partner that he was, had firmly set boundaries to shield your personal life from the prying eyes of the world. He cherished the sanctity of your bond and understood the importance of keeping certain moments sacred and away from the public eye.

The two of you have a special routine for the race days where you decide to join him on the track – you mainly spend your time inside the Mercedes garage, instead of lingering around where the cameras are most likely to be. However, you make sure to leave the garage for celebrations for those races where Lewis is up on the podium, celebrating him with the people who support him every step along the way whom he appreciates immensely; while the podium celebrations were reserved for the public eye, the garage held its own intimate victories. It was here that you celebrated the milestones and shared the unspoken triumphs, basking in the knowledge that your presence was an unwavering pillar of support for Lewis. But for the most part, you’re happy with your routine – it’s safe, familiar and it has worked for a very long time. So you don’t really know why you decided to take Roscoe on an impromptu tour of the paddock, especially when he gives you that look which clearly says that he would rather be taking his afternoon nap.

It's a good day despite the chaos everyone on the paddock seems to be in, but then again, there’s only a few hours until the qualifying session. So, in hopes of avoiding the human traffic, you decide to take Roscoe to a more secluded area in the back. As you walk, Roscoe happily wagging his tail by your side, you take in the sights and sounds of the paddock. The familiar smell of rubber and gasoline fills the air, mingling with the excited murmurs of fans and the distant roar of engines. It's a world you've come to know and appreciate, even if from a slightly different perspective. Lost in your thoughts, you suddenly hear voices growing louder as you approach a group of people gathered in conversation. Curiosity gets the better of you, and you slow your pace, intending to discreetly eavesdrop before continuing on your way. But as you get closer, you realize the topic of their conversation hits closer to home than you expected.

In hindsight, you know better to get involved in situations which might cause you to bother yourself with rude, petty people, but when it concerns your husband and everything that he has worked hard his entire life for, you don’t even hesitate. With the fierce protectiveness you feel inside, you clear your throat to get the attention of the engineers, “Excuse me,” you say as you give them a (fake) smile, “could you repeat that again, please?”

The group falls silent, their faces registering surprise and perhaps a touch of embarrassment. They exchange glances, seemingly unsure of how to respond to your unexpected intrusion. “We just meant that–” The man is quickly silenced by one of his friends elbowing him in the side.

You ignore the silent ow that comes from the man’s mouth and give the trio a stare down. “Well, I guess everybody is entitled to their opinions.” Your sweet smile and dulcet tone is enough to think them that everything is fine, but you’re quick to continue voicing your thoughts, “But that doesn’t give you the right to undermine a man’s hard work, especially when he has broken record after record and don’t even get me started on the fact that not only he is a pioneer in this sport, he is also a role model and inspiration to many and has impact beyond the track.” You let a frustrated hum, “Also, have some respect, the guy is an eight-time world champion.”

The guy who spoke before looks confused as he attempts to point out, “He won it seven–”

“Do you want me to let Roscoe attack you?” You ask as you point to the puppy sitting next to you, who, in hearing his name, looks up at you; all panting and happily sticking his tongue out.

Little do you know, Lewis had been watching the entire scene unfold from a distance, a mix of admiration and adoration in his eyes. He waits until the engineers leave in a hurry, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed on his chest. A smile tugs at the corners of Lewis's lips as he watches you handle the situation with such grace and confidence. As you turn around, ready to head back to the safety of the Mercedes garage, your eyes meet his, and a surge of warmth fills your heart. Walking towards you, Lewis closes the distance between you, his steps purposeful and full of pride. His arms quickly find their place on your waist as he mumbles, “Damn, that’s my wife.”

You roll your eyes at his antics, your face quickly mirroring the smile he gives to you. “Didn’t you see the sign? Apparently, ‘hot girls support 44’.”

“Is that so?” He hums, letting his hands wonder towards the back pockets of your jeans as he continuously presses kisses along your jaw, “It’s definitely right.”

As Lewis's lips trail along your jawline, sending shivers down your spine, you playfully swat at his chest. "Behave, Mr. World Champion. We're in a public place," you whisper, trying to suppress the laughter bubbling up inside you.

Lewis chuckles softly, his eyes sparkling with love and mischief. "Can't help it, love. Seeing you stand up for me like that, it's a turn-on," he teases, his voice laced with admiration. "But you're right, let's save the public displays of affection for later."

With a shared understanding and a silent promise, you and Lewis turn, making your way back to the familiar comfort of the Mercedes garage. In each other's presence, you find solace and strength, ready to face whatever lies ahead. And as Roscoe happily trots beside you, you can't help but feel grateful for the extraordinary life you share with the man who has captured your heart, both on and off the track.

[ladyiristheenchantress]

Anniversary Witchcraft

As you all may or may not know, I am a married witch! I have spoken about my husband before in our motorcycles and car magic post, however I felt now would be an amazing time to talk about some of the rituals we do on anniversaries coming up! (September 17th to be exact) First of all, Happy 7 years darling, I am so proud to be your wife every day, and I am so grateful you have been my raven, my rock, and my partner in crime. I so adore you, and I cant wait to spend the rest of our time on the Tellus Mater together. Till death do us part, but even then we will remain ghosts on our record player. With that said, lets get started!

What is magical about an anniversary?

Much like any holiday, we create personal celebrations like birthdays, celebrations of life, and anniversaries to keep track of the time that has been spend together. It should be a celebration of love and strong living together! The first instance of a wedding anniversary comes from ancient Rome, where on each year of marriage the spouses would crown each other with things (more traditionally, the husbands to their wives) and on their 25th anniversary they would be crowned with a wreath of silver.

Later on, in 18th century Germany, people started a tradition of gift giving, and eventually created a yearly symbol you gift to someone as a tradition each year to ward off spirits, people looking to harm the bond, and even in some cases death itself!

Today we celebrate anniversaries around the world, whether you are recreating Armenian balance bread, or trying out Japanese senbazuru, however you choose to celebrate may it be unique and full of love!

Magical Ideas

Now we may need some spell and divination ideas for our anniversaries so here are some of the ones my husband and I love!

Follow the yearly gift guide! - This fun tradition is actually celebrated and honors world wide cultures because a lot of them had their own yearly traditions adapted into one! The old saying goes on your first year you give paper, the 5th you give wood, 10th you give aluminum, 25th you give silver, and 50th you give gold! These guides are a fun way to get connected to your relationship but also honors tradition which can strengthen your relationship magically!

2. Create a protection ritual for the year on your anniversary - when you start thinking about how to preserve your relationship you get a lot of factors you have to plan for. Every year my husband and I put obsidian arrowheads in the corner of our bedroom as a way to protect our sacred relationship! this process can be as simple or as complicated as you want it to be

3. Petition and honor deities of marriage - Each year my husband and I honor 3 gods, Hera, Aine, and Zepar! This is because we wanted to honor our pagan practices and heritage in our marriage, so we picked one hellenic for my history, one irish for both of our ancestoral line, and one infernal for my husbands history! We do also petition elemental spirits, and update them as we do our yearly river walk

4. Create a shrine to your relationship - We created an altar to dedicate all our gifts to each other, and important works of art we have created, when we put together a shrine for our love, it really helped up to feel connected, so we like to renew it every year

5. Do some divination about the year ahead - Feel free to use this custom spread I use each year! Its awesome if you can do this together! Additionally, you can use cafe astrology to create a free "birth chart" for the day and time of your anniversary

Other ideas?

For my 18+ friends, design a sensual ritual that involves all 5 senses to link yours together

Create a magical meal together to protect and honor the relationship

Create a joint journal or scrap book for memories

Exchange cards, gifts, and sweets to make the other person feel special

Enjoy a nice time out getting coffee or exploring a garden

Make the bed together, and do chores together during the day, then rest and relax at night

In general anniversaries are special! I will be making an age restricted post about sexual magic very soon so stay tuned for that! I hope all of my friends have enjoyed this post, and from our family to yours, happy anniversary!

Tip Jar

[mangalsutrachaindesigns]

The Ultimate Guide to Mangalsutra Chain Designs in Gold

The mangalsutra holds a significant place in Indian culture, symbolizing the sacred bond of marriage. Traditionally, it was a simple black bead chain with a gold pendant. However, over time, the designs have evolved, blending traditional significance with contemporary aesthetics. Gold mangalsutra chains, in particular, have become a popular choice for modern brides who want to embrace tradition while keeping up with current fashion trends.

In this blog post, we'll explore the various mangalsutra chain designs in gold, their significance, and how to choose the perfect one that complements your style.

1. Understanding the Significance of the Mangalsutra

The word "mangalsutra" is derived from the Sanskrit words "mangal," meaning auspicious, and "sutra," meaning thread. The mangalsutra is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of love, commitment, and marital bliss. Traditionally, it consists of a black bead chain with a gold pendant, believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the marriage.

However, in today's fashion-forward world, the design and materials used in mangalsutras have evolved. Gold mangalsutra chains have gained popularity due to their timeless appeal and the ability to blend tradition with modernity.

2. Popular Gold Mangalsutra Chain Designs

a. Classic Gold Mangalsutra Chain

The classic gold mangalsutra chain features a simple design with gold beads or links. This design is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist look while still embracing the traditional essence of the mangalsutra. The simplicity of the design allows it to be worn daily, adding a subtle touch of elegance to any outfit.

b. Diamond-Studded Gold Mangalsutra Chain

For those who want a touch of luxury, diamond-studded gold mangalsutra chains are an excellent choice. The combination of gold and diamonds adds a sophisticated and modern twist to the traditional mangalsutra. These designs often feature a gold chain with a diamond pendant or diamonds embedded within the chain itself, making it a perfect accessory for special occasions.

c. Contemporary Mangalsutra Chain Designs

Contemporary gold mangalsutra chains are perfect for modern brides who prefer a fusion of tradition and modernity. These designs often incorporate intricate patterns, floral motifs, or geometric shapes, giving them a unique and stylish appearance. Some contemporary designs even feature interchangeable pendants, allowing you to customize your look according to the occasion.

d. Layered Mangalsutra Chain

The layered mangalsutra chain design is a trendy option for those who want to make a bold fashion statement. This design features multiple layers of gold chains, sometimes combined with black beads, creating a rich and opulent look. The layered design adds depth and dimension, making it a perfect choice for those who want their mangalsutra to stand out.

e. Temple-Inspired Gold Mangalsutra Chain

Inspired by traditional temple jewelry, this design features intricate carvings and motifs inspired by Indian temples and deities. These gold mangalsutra chains are often heavier and more ornate, making them ideal for brides who want a traditional and regal look. The craftsmanship involved in these designs is truly remarkable, and they often become heirloom pieces passed down through generations.

3. Choosing the Right Gold Mangalsutra Chain Design

When selecting a gold mangalsutra chain, there are several factors to consider to ensure it complements your style and preferences.

a. Length and Size

The length of the mangalsutra chain plays a crucial role in how it looks and feels. Traditionally, mangalsutras are worn long, reaching the heart, symbolizing the connection between husband and wife. However, modern designs also offer shorter options that rest closer to the collarbone. Choose a length that suits your comfort and style.

b. Weight and Thickness

The weight and thickness of the gold chain can affect its overall appearance and comfort. A thicker chain offers a more traditional look, while a thinner chain provides a delicate and modern feel. Consider your daily wear and lifestyle when selecting the appropriate weight and thickness.

c. Design and Pattern

As discussed earlier, gold mangalsutra chains come in various designs, from classic to contemporary. Think about your personal style and how the design will complement your wardrobe. If you prefer a versatile piece, opt for a classic or contemporary design that can be paired with both traditional and modern outfits.

d. Pendant Style

The pendant is often the focal point of the mangalsutra, so choose one that resonates with you. Whether you prefer a simple gold pendant, a diamond-studded piece, or something more intricate, the pendant should reflect your personality and style.

e. Budget

Gold mangalsutra chains vary significantly in price depending on the design, craftsmanship, and materials used. Set a budget beforehand and explore designs within your price range. Remember, the mangalsutra is a significant piece of jewelry that you'll likely wear for many years, so consider it an investment.

4. Caring for Your Gold Mangalsutra Chain

To ensure that your gold mangalsutra chain remains in pristine condition, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips to keep your mangalsutra looking its best:

a. Regular Cleaning

Gold jewelry can lose its shine over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and oils from the skin. Clean your mangalsutra regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap solution to remove any dirt or grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can scratch the gold.

b. Proper Storage

Store your gold mangalsutra chain in a jewelry box or pouch to protect it from dust, moisture, and scratches. If possible, store it separately from other jewelry pieces to prevent tangling or damage.

c. Avoiding Contact with Chemicals

Chemicals found in perfumes, lotions, and household cleaning products can tarnish or damage gold jewelry. Always remove your mangalsutra before applying any products or doing household chores.

d. Regular Inspection

Inspect your gold mangalsutra chain periodically for any signs of wear or damage. Pay attention to the clasp, chain links, and pendant. If you notice any issues, take it to a professional jeweler for repair to prevent further damage.

5. Why Choose a Gold Mangalsutra Chain?

Gold has always been considered a symbol of wealth, purity, and prosperity. Choosing a gold mangalsutra chain not only adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your look but also serves as a long-lasting symbol of your marital bond. Gold's durability and timeless appeal make it the perfect material for such a significant piece of jewelry.

Moreover, gold mangalsutra chains offer versatility, allowing you to wear them with both traditional and modern outfits. Whether you're attending a wedding, a festive occasion, or simply going about your daily routine, a gold mangalsutra chain adds a touch of grace and elegance to your appearance.

Conclusion

A mangalsutra is not just an accessory; it is a symbol of love, commitment, and tradition. With the wide variety of gold mangalsutra chain designs available today, you can choose one that perfectly reflects your style and personality while honoring the rich cultural significance of this timeless piece of jewelry.

Whether you prefer a classic design, a diamond-studded masterpiece, or a contemporary creation, a gold mangalsutra chain is a beautiful and meaningful addition to your jewelry collection. Remember to consider factors like length, weight, design, and budget when making your choice, and take proper care of your mangalsutra to ensure it remains a cherished piece for years to come.

Explore the endless possibilities in gold mangalsutra chain designs and find the one that speaks to your heart, symbolizing the love and commitment you share with your partner.

[malanijewelers98]

Timeless Elegance: Unveiling the Tradition of Gold Mangalsutras by Malani Jewelers

In the realm of fine jewelry, few pieces carry the weight of tradition, symbolism, and timeless beauty quite like Gold Mangalsutras. These intricately designed necklaces hold a special place in the hearts of many, symbolizing the sacred bond of marriage in various cultures. As an expert in content creation, I am excited to delve into the enchanting world of Gold Mangalsutras, particularly those crafted by the esteemed Malani Jewelers.

A Symbol of Marital Bliss

The Gold Mangalsutra is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of marital bliss and commitment. Rooted in Indian tradition, the Mangalsutra is an integral part of a married woman's identity. It signifies the sacred union between husband and wife, acting as a constant reminder of the vows exchanged during the wedding ceremony. Malani Jewelers understands the cultural significance of this ornament and crafts each piece with utmost reverence.

Craftsmanship at Its Finest

Malani Jewelers takes pride in its commitment to excellence, and this is evident in the craftsmanship of their Gold Mangalsutras. Skilled artisans meticulously weave intricate patterns and designs, ensuring that each piece is a testament to both artistic finesse and durability. The careful selection of high-quality gold and attention to detail results in Mangalsutras that stand the test of time, becoming heirlooms passed down through generations.

Variety Reflecting Individual Taste

While deeply rooted in tradition, Malani Jewelers understands the evolving tastes and preferences of today's discerning customers. The Gold Mangalsutra collection is a testament to this, featuring a diverse range of designs that cater to various styles. Whether you prefer a classic and simple design or something more elaborate with diamonds and gemstones, Malani Jewelers offers a variety that allows you to express your individuality.

Versatility in Design

What sets Malani Jewelers apart is the versatility in design within their Gold Mangalsutra collection. Each piece is crafted to be versatile, seamlessly transitioning from traditional to contemporary settings. This adaptability ensures that the Mangalsutra can be worn not just as a symbol of marital commitment but also as a fashion statement, complementing a wide array of outfits and occasions.

Customization for a Personal Touch

Understanding the personal and emotional significance of the Gold Mangalsutra, Malani Jewelers provides customization options. This allows couples to create a unique piece that resonates with their story. From selecting the thickness of the chain to choosing specific pendant designs, customization adds a personal touch, making the Mangalsutra even more special.

In conclusion, Gold Mangalsutras by Malani Jewelers are not just pieces of jewelry; they are reflections of tradition, craftsmanship, and personal expression. With a keen understanding of cultural values and an unwavering commitment to quality, Malani Jewelers has curated a collection that honors the sanctity of marriage while embracing the evolving tastes of today's generation.

Explore the world of Gold Mangalsutras at Malani Jewelers and discover the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Let these timeless pieces adorn you, not just as symbols of marital commitment, but as expressions of enduring beauty and cultural richness.

[navrathanjewels]

Traditional and Contemporary Mangalsutra Designs

In the realm of bridal jewelry, the mangalsutra holds a special place as a symbol of marital bliss and cultural heritage. As brides embark on their journey into matrimony, the choice of mangalsutra design becomes a significant decision. Navrathan Jewellers, renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, offers a diverse range of options that cater to both traditionalists and those seeking a modern touch. Let's delve into the intricate world of Traditional and Contemporary Mangalsutra Designs, exploring the nuances that make each style unique.

The Significance of Mangalsutra:

Before we explore the designs, it's crucial to understand the cultural and symbolic significance of the mangalsutra. In Indian tradition, the mangalsutra is not just a piece of jewelry; it is a sacred thread that signifies the eternal bond between husband and wife. As times evolve, so do the preferences of brides, leading to a fascinating interplay between traditional and contemporary designs.

Traditional Mangalsutra Designs:

Navrathan Jewellers pays homage to tradition by offering an array of timeless mangalsutra designs. These designs often feature intricate patterns inspired by cultural motifs, religious symbols, and regional influences. One can find traditional mangalsutras crafted in gold, with black beads interwoven to symbolize protection from evil forces.Traditional and Contemporary Mangalsutra Designs The exquisite detailing in these pieces showcases the craftsmanship passed down through generations.

The "Mangalsutra Mahotsav" collection by Navrathan Jewellers epitomizes the richness of tradition. Each piece narrates a story of heritage, with classic designs that have stood the test of time. Traditional mangalsutras are cherished not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the emotional value they carry, connecting brides to their cultural roots.

Contemporary Mangalsutra Designs:

In the quest for modernity, contemporary mangalsutra designs have gained popularity among brides who seek elegance with a twist. Navrathan Jewellers - Traditional and Contemporary Mangalsutra Designs understands this shift in preferences and offers a stunning range of contemporary mangalsutras that seamlessly blend tradition with a modern aesthetic. These designs often incorporate innovative materials, unique shapes, and a play of colors, appealing to the modern bride's sensibilities.

The "Fusion Elegance" collection at Navrathan Jewellers is a testament to the evolving tastes of brides. It features mangalsutras with sleek, minimalist designs, often adorned with diamonds or gemstones. The use of alternative metals and unconventional shapes sets these pieces apart, catering to those who appreciate a blend of tradition and contemporary style.

Craftsmanship: Bridging the Gap:

Navrathan Jewellers takes pride in its craftsmanship, evident in both traditional and contemporary mangalsutra designs. Each piece is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who pay homage to the age-old techniques while infusing a touch of modernity. The attention to detail in traditional designs highlights the mastery of intricate patterns, while contemporary designs showcase the jeweler's ability to adapt to evolving tastes without compromising on quality.

It's fascinating to witness how craftsmanship becomes the common thread connecting these diverse styles. Navrathan Jewellers' commitment to excellence ensures that whether a bride chooses a traditional or contemporary mangalsutra, she receives a piece of art that reflects the brand's dedication to quality and aesthetics.

Customization: Tailoring the Symbol of Love:

Recognizing that every bride is unique, Navrathan Jewellers offers customization options for both Traditional and Contemporary Mangalsutra Designs. This allows brides to add a personal touch to their chosen design, making the mangalsutra even more special. Whether it's incorporating birthstones, initials, or specific design elements, the brand empowers brides to create a piece that resonates with their individuality while staying true to tradition.

The act of customization not only enhances the emotional value of the mangalsutra but also aligns with the changing dynamics of modern marriages. It reflects the idea that while tradition forms the foundation, personalization adds a contemporary layer, symbolizing the uniqueness of each marital bond.

Versatility in Wearability:

One distinguishing factor between traditional and contemporary mangalsutra designs is the versatility in wearability. Traditional mangalsutras, often heavier and elaborate, are reserved for special occasions and traditional attire. On the other hand, contemporary designs are crafted with a focus on lightweight and versatility, allowing brides to seamlessly integrate them into their everyday wardrobe.

Navrathan Jewellers caters to this demand for versatility by offering traditional designs with a modern twist, featuring detachable pendants or adjustable lengths. This ensures that brides can enjoy the grandeur of traditional mangalsutras during ceremonies while embracing the ease of wearing contemporary designs in their daily lives.

Changing Trends in Bridal Fashion:

The world of bridal fashion is dynamic, with trends evolving at a rapid pace. Navrathan Jewellers keeps a keen eye on these trends, ensuring that their traditional and contemporary mangalsutra designs align with the current preferences of brides. The brand's commitment to staying relevant in the ever-changing landscape of bridal fashion has solidified its position as a trendsetter in the industry.

One noteworthy trend is the resurgence of interest in vintage-inspired designs. Navrathan Jewellers, with its deep-rooted understanding of traditional craftsmanship, seamlessly incorporates vintage elements into both traditional and contemporary mangalsutra designs. This fusion appeals to brides who appreciate the charm of bygone eras while embracing the modernity of the present.

Investment Value: Balancing Tradition and Trends:

For many brides, the mangalsutra is not just a symbol of love but also a valuable investment. Navrathan Jewellers recognizes the dual role that mangalsutras play as both sentimental and financial assets. Traditional designs, often crafted in gold and adorned with precious stones, maintain their timeless appeal and investment value.

Contemporary designs, while incorporating alternative materials and modern aesthetics, also hold their own in terms of investment. The use of diamonds, gemstones, and innovative alloys ensures that contemporary mangalsutras remain desirable in the ever-changing market. Navrathan Jewellers' commitment to quality ensures that brides can confidently view their mangalsutra as a legacy to be cherished and passed down through generations.

Conclusion:

In the realm of mangalsutra designs, Navrathan Jewellers- Traditional and Contemporary Mangalsutra Designs stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and innovation, offering brides a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary style. The choice between traditional and contemporary mangalsutras is no longer a binary decision but an exploration of individual preferences and the evolving dynamics of modern marriages. As we celebrate the richness of cultural heritage and embrace the allure of modernity, Navrathan Jewellers continues to be a trusted guide, crafting timeless symbols of love that resonate with the diverse tapestry of today's brides.

[vishakha03]

The Art of Personalizing Your Christian Marriage Card

Marriage is a sacred bond between two individuals, a commitment to love, honor, and cherish one another in the eyes of God. When friends and family come together to celebrate this divine union, it's a beautiful tradition to exchange heartfelt Christian marriage cards. These cards carry more than just warm wishes; they symbolize the spiritual journey Wedding Card Online Shopping that a couple is embarking upon. Personalizing your Christian marriage card can add a touch of love and faith that makes it truly meaningful.Christian marriage cards are not just pieces of paper; they are expressions of love, faith, and best wishes for a couple's journey together. They often feature biblical verses, prayers, and beautiful imagery that reflects the sanctity of the marital union. While there are countless pre-designed marriage cards available, taking the time to personalize one can make it extra special and convey your heartfelt sentiments.

Choosing the Right Design: The first step in personalizing your Christian marriage card is selecting the right design. You can choose a card that resonates with the couple's style, whether it's traditional, modern, or rustic. Incorporate Christian symbols such as crosses, doves, or wedding rings to emphasize the spiritual aspect of the marriage.

Selecting the Perfect Bible Verse: Bible verses are an essential component of a Christian marriage card. Choose a verse that is meaningful to the couple or one that reflects the essence of a Christian marriage. Popular choices include Corinthians 13:4-7, which speaks of love's virtues, and Genesis 2:24, highlighting the unity of husband and wife.

Adding Personal Touches: Personalization means adding your own heartfelt message to the card. Write a few lines that convey your love and blessings for the couple. You can also share a personal memory, a special prayer, or a piece of advice Traditional Indian Wedding Cards that is rooted in Christian values. Make it personal, and it will be treasured forever.

Incorporate a Photo: If you have a cherished photo of the couple, consider adding it to the card. This can be a lovely surprise, especially if the couple hasn't seen the photo before. It's a wonderful way to remind them of the love and joy that surrounds their marriage.

Customized Artwork: Customized artwork can add a unique touch to the card. You can hire an artist to create a custom illustration or even design one yourself if you have the skills. This can make the card truly one-of-a-kind and serve as a keepsake.

Choosing Quality Materials: To make your personalized card even more special, select high-quality materials. Opt for quality cardstock, elegant fonts, and professional printing. A well-crafted card will not only look impressive but also convey the thought and care you've put into it.

Envelope and Presentation: Don't forget about the envelope! A personalized Christian marriage card deserves an equally special envelope. Consider using a beautifully designed envelope and adding a seal or wax stamp for an elegant touch. When you present the card, do so with love and reverence.

Consider Religious Symbols: In addition to Bible verses, consider incorporating religious symbols into the design. The Christian fish symbol, the chi-rho, or a depiction of a church can all add depth and meaning to the card's design.

Seek Inspiration: If you're unsure how to personalize the card, seek inspiration from other Christian marriage cards or consult with a pastor or a Christian Marriage Card religious leader. They may offer guidance on appropriate verses and symbols to use.

In conclusion, personalizing a Christian marriage card is an art that requires thought, creativity, and a deep understanding of the couple's faith and values. By choosing the right design, selecting a meaningful Bible verse, adding personal touches, and using high-quality materials, you can create a card that reflects the spiritual significance of the occasion and conveys your genuine love and blessings. Your personalized Christian marriage card will not only be a beautiful keepsake but also a cherished reminder of the love and faith that unite the couple in their journey of marriage.

[yuvan123]

Traditional Look with Our Handcrafted Collections

Handcrafted Karva Chauth Jewellery Guide

Introduction:

Karva Chauth is a revered Indian festival that celebrates the sacred bond between married couples. On this auspicious day, married women fast from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. Karva Chauth is not only a time for spiritual devotion but also an occasion to dress up in traditional attire and adorn oneself with exquisite jewellery. To help you enhance your traditional look and make a statement on Karva Chauth, we present a guide to handcrafted Karva Chauth jewellery collections that will add elegance and grace to your festive ensemble.

Adorn Your Ears with Jhumkas:

Jhumkas are classic and versatile earrings that have been a part of Indian jewellery traditions for centuries. These elegant, bell-shaped earrings can beautifully enhance your traditional Karva Chauth look. Opt for handcrafted jhumkas that showcase intricate designs, delicate filigree work, or embedded gemstones. Whether you choose oversized jhumkas for a bold statement or smaller ones for a more subtle touch, these earrings will add a touch of glamour and traditional elegance to your festive ensemble.

Statement Necklaces for a Captivating Look:

A statement necklace is a must-have accessory when you want to make a captivating impression on Karva Chauth. Handcrafted statement necklaces featuring elaborate designs, intricate meenakari work, or a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements can elevate your traditional attire. Choose a necklace that complements your outfit's neckline and color palette, and let it become the centerpiece of your ensemble. With a handcrafted statement necklace, you can be sure to turn heads and make a lasting impression.

The Allure of Kundan Jewellery:

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[saintobio]

sincerely not. (8)

↳ gojou satoru/reader

with an arranged marriage set in place, the sacred bond is doomed with a wife who wants to make the relationship work and a husband who’s ready to ruin it all. unbeknown to him, a tragic fate already lies within the pages of his romance book.

genre. heavy angst, unrequited love, arranged marriage, modern au, 18+

tags/warnings. profanity, adultery, neglect, mentions of phobias, mentions of pregnancy, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, explicit smut, some heartaches

notes. 12.8k words. please proceed with proper caution! thanks so much bby risa for beta-ing @rinstars bae you’re my savior &&& @kazbrkker my love, ur reactions in the rough draft were fun to read tysm hhhh anyways enjoy everyone !! :D

series masterlist -> episode nine

Flying to French Polynesia was a disaster.

You knew it even before you actually arrived at Bora Bora while flying through Gojou’s private jet and spending the worst twelve hours of your life imprisoned in an aircraft 35,000 feet from the ground. It wasn’t the jet lag nor the turbulence that made you wish that you didn’t go, it was the two specific passengers inside the plane that caused your silence for the last seven hours since you left Tokyo.

Sera was clearly not informed of your participation in their special getaway because her wide, gaping eyes stared at you questioningly as soon as she saw you coming out of the McLaren before climbing up the jet. In spite of her initial reaction, she was fast to veil her displeasure by sending you a welcoming smile. A smile that feigned innocence lasting for five seconds before she walked past you along the aisle, hand in hand with the husband that placed his wife in the same enclosed space as his mistress.

Satoru had noticed the shift in your emotions for the past week where he wouldn’t stop checking if you were alright and if something was plaguing your mind. He came home from work earlier than he usually did to make sure that you had dinner together, but most of those nights had passed in silence with neither of you having the backbone to address the elephant in the room. No, there was no elephant to blame for your marital quagmire. Just a broken wife trying to study the behavioral patterns of her husband for being affectionate and loving once, then detached and distracted the next. You could not tell him that you had seen him tracking Sera’s cycle on his phone, but you doubted that he would care enough that it shattered your heart to pieces thinking about how actively intimate they have been behind your back. It was already unbearable to see her intimate photos on his phone, but to also see how your husband was constantly monitoring her ovulation was just the absolute zenith of your agony.

Gojou had no idea how much he would completely annihilate your heart and soul if he truly ended up getting his mistress pregnant. Whether that was his intention or not, you could no longer find an excuse to stay with him if it happened.

Why has your marriage turned into shambles in less than a year? What did you do to deserve this mess of a relationship when you have always been genuine from the very beginning?

Despite life’s vicissitudes, you chose to see color in your achromatic world. It was your only way of keeping your positivity because you would rather be a sunshine than a storm. Satoru would have it coming one day, but today just wasn’t it.

You were becoming blasé to his brazen display of infidelity to the point that you were simply letting him do what he wanted without so much of a complaint. It wasn’t a free pass to step on your dignity, rather, a reason to pile up all the dirt that you have received like how a lawyer would gather evidence prior to actioning a case. You weren’t a lawyer for sure, but you could use the same tactic before reacting unreasonably. You had to hold onto your last string of pride in order not to become more pathetic than you already appeared to be.

It was better to pretend that everything was fine instead of showing your weakness in front of him. It was better to avoid his line of sight, choosing to join his best friends in playing a game of cards than be the third wheel in an unlawful relationship that made you the villain.

There was unease in Ieiri’s eyes as she laid down her card, pressing her boysenberry lips together when she glanced at the couple from the farther side of the plane. You couldn’t make out what she was seeing because you were facing her in a seating arrangement that had your back turned against your husband. Getou, who was sitting next to you, could sense the tension when he peeked at what was behind for a split second.

Why, you could ask yourself, did you even come? The question should be: why not? Even if he didn’t admit it, Satoru clearly wanted to make use of you by asking you to join the trip so that no one would suspect him of his true nature as an adulterous 25 year-old man. In return, you wanted to make use of this trip as an ultimatum for your consistency as the perpetually sympathetic wife. This trip would be the deciding factor for you to open your eyes to the downfall of your marriage.

You had become a time bomb—ready to detonate everything else around you with one wrong move.

You didn’t really believe your husband’s words when he said that he wanted to enjoy Bora Bora with you because only a person with thick skin could try to cajole his wife to his advantage. None of this trip was planned for you, but for Sera. Even if he said otherwise.

“Man, I don’t feel too good about this trip,” said Suguru, arranging the deck of cards to play another round of poker with Shoko. You tried to focus on drawing the details of the dress that you were designing until he spoke again. “Feel like something bad’s gonna happen.”

A pensive sigh then escaped your lips as you momentarily looked at the window to see the fuliginous skies. If Getou could sense an omen of things to come, you tried to lift up the mood by offering a smile. “You guys say this is a yearly trip?” you began, putting down your iPad and pen. “How did it all start?”

Ieiri took the chance to answer. “Like maybe four years ago? It’s pretty funny ‘cause it was a last minute thing. We were at a cafe and Gojou was joking about flying to Bora Bora right after he saw the advertisement on a pamphlet,” she reminisced the memory with glee in her eyes, “then Suguru dared him to take us there, and that motherfucker really did! We didn’t even get to pack anything—he made us ride the PJ on the same day with nothing but our passports.”

“I remember that day. He’s a bit of a show off, isn’t he?” Getou grinned at you and Ieiri.

You tell me. It seemed that Satoru could always make things happen if he wanted to. “The first time sounds really fun and spontaneous,” you claimed, drinking from the glass of wine on your table. “Satoru spoils the people that he loves.”

With that being said, he loved his best friends as much as he loved Sera. They were the only ones he would willingly spend a fortune to just to guarantee their happiness. Unfortunately, the man didn’t include you in his personal guest list of the people that he genuinely loved. Regardless of the fact that you were his wife, you were already aware that he would never willingly spend time with you. Iceland was out of the question because that whole honeymoon trip was simply obligatory for him.

“Aww. Well, I know he’ll spoil you.” Shoko's statement was laced with an iota of pity. “Satoru’s just… if you give him some time.”

You had given enough, but there was a limit to everything. You could offer your whole universe and there still wouldn’t be a remedy to your failed marriage. How pathetic. For a moment, your eyes dropped down to the gold band around your finger and remembered that Satoru strangely wore his ring when you left the penthouse. What act was he trying to pull this time?

And within the next twenty minutes that passed, you happened to have seen your husband when you went out of the lavatory for a quick bathroom break. He was in a detached recliner seat, draped in a blanket with his arms tightly wrapped around Sera as they slept soundly through the flight. The sight brought a lingering sting to your heart and made you stagnant for a moment as you walked slowly past the aisle. You tried to ignore the gnawing ache that burned your chest until Satoru opened his eyes to see you the first thing.

“Y/N.” His call forced you to halt from your footsteps. Sera shifted from his embrace, eyes still shut as she snuggled on the crook of his neck. Satoru had a minute of panic that bathed in his eyes when he realized that your name unknowingly flew out of his mouth and now he was pretending that he actually forgot what he called you for. “Where are you sitting?”

You kept a stolid mien for your own sake. “With your friends.” Because my own husband chose to neglect his wife for his mistress.

Why did it even matter to him? Did he want you to sit with him and Sera so you could watch how caring and affectionate he was to her? Did he want you to juxtapose yourself from previously being on the receiving end of his skinship and now on the far side of it?

Before you knew it, your feet already carried you away while his eyes followed your trail as you continued walking, making a desperate attempt to avoid him by going back to where Shoko and Suguru were. The two friends had visible empathy on their faces when they looked at you knowing that you saw your husband and his mistress entangled on each other.

But for your sanity, you didn’t succumb to your weak feelings. “I’m back,” you put on your mask of cheerfulness.

Ieiri moved from her seat to give you space and it was too obvious not to notice how she was admiring your ability to remain strong in a situation where you should be broken. “Y/N, can I see your new designs? Mai would have geeked over them.”

“I was actually designing a new one for her and Maki,” you shared, grabbing your iPad and browsing through your collection. “I’m planning to have the dresses made when we get back to Japan then I’ll ask Toji to give it—” Shoot.

The last thing you should have done was to mention the man.

“Toji? As in Toji Zen’in?” Getou’s narrow eyes became surprisingly round. “You’re close with him?”

You let out an awkward laugh. “Kinda, but not really. He knows Gen pretty well, though.”

Suguru smirked in good humor. “Damn. Satoru’s not gonna be happy.”

Ieiri countered the guy’s words by voicing her own thoughts. “He’s literally playing house with Sera. Who cares if he isn’t happy?” You were surprised when she suddenly pulled both of your hands on top of the table and squeezed it in comfort. “Tell me honestly, how do you feel about this whole cheating thing?”

You held your breath. It was hard for you to open up because your marriage was a private affair, something that you wished for no one else to pry into. If only Shoko’s eyes weren’t filled with genuine concern, you wouldn’t have given her an honest answer. “I’m not happy with it,” you stated the obvious, following the slow rise and fall of your chest. “I’m just letting this happen because I have hopes that it’ll end someday.”

Getou looked down as if he was burdened with shame. “He really doesn’t deserve you, huh…”

“Y/N.” Ieiri leaned closer to gaze straight into your orbs. “End their affair after this trip. Don’t let it drag for too long. Satoru’s my friend, but I can’t stand what he’s doing. You should claim your right as his wife and fight for him.”

You opened your mouth to say something because you highly appreciated her encouragement for you to uphold your position as the lawful wife, but then no words have left your lips after you remembered why everything ended up this way in the first place.

Because of this arranged marriage, Satoru had to marry another woman instead of the one that he loved. He wasn’t willing to let her go nor was she ready to free him from her grasp. This was all your fault, he said. Pay the repercussions, he said. You’re already blessed with everything you can ask for, she said.

What else was left for your self-worth?

With it being your first time in Bora Bora, it was expected for you to be in complete awe when you arrived at the destination. You couldn’t express much of your appreciation towards the beautiful islets due to the situation relating to your husband and his mistress, but your eyes still wandered around the place to admire God’s craft in creating such a paradise on Earth. Being here alone was already a testament to how many gorgeous places were yet to be explored.

“Wow,” you gasped with great admiration, turning your head from left to right as you took slow strides on the elevated walkway. For what Bora Bora was renowned for, there were bungalows perched over the crystal waters on stilts—a peaceful haven with floating thatched-roof villas above the clear sea in varying hues of blue, perfect for couples in a romantic honeymoon to enjoy their first stages of marriage.

The warm breeze and the smell of fresh ocean greeted your nose, tempting you to jump on the waters to bask under the sun. But then you remembered who you were with on this trip after getting momentarily lost and distracted from the luxurious oasis through the summer heat. As you turned around, you saw Gojou intertwining his hand with Sera’s as she smiled at him while gushing about how much she missed the place. You could see how his eyes coruscated with love at the sight of her radiant face as though she was the only one who could make him as happy as he was now.

Satoru’s affections were only evanescent when it came to you. Sera was and would always be the recipient of his permanent love.

You had to force yourself to look away knowing that it would only add more wounds to your heart—grateful that Shoko looped her arm around yours with Suguru standing on your other side. “You guys,” you swallowed your weakness back in by plastering a smile, “this island is stunning.”

“Right?” Ieiri adjusted her sun hat and nudged you on the rib. “Should we go scuba diving?”

“Jet skiing is better.” You weren’t expecting Satoru to chime in as he and Sera stopped in front of you like a newlywed couple who couldn’t get enough of each other. And while he was holding another woman’s hand, his vivid cerulean eyes lingered on you as he spoke again. “Ever tried it before?”

You didn’t answer him. You refused to. Instead, you looked at Suguru and pointed towards the parasail from a distance. “Look, it’s what you and Shoko were talking about on the plane.”

The tension was real when you ignored your husband, but Ieiri and Getou saved the awkward air by entertaining you, although you certainly didn’t miss the glances that they traded with the white-haired man. It was Satoru’s best man who put a friendly arm around your shoulder and continued the walk with you. “You should try parasailing with us,” Getou encouraged, orbs hidden from the crescents of his eyes.

You would love to join them, but the thought of ending up submerged underwater in the vastness of the ocean was too terrifying. “I don’t think I can—”

“Mr. and Mrs. Gojou? Welcome to the InterContinental.”

Instinctively, you turned around to face the owner of the voice only to see the man—who looked like the owner of the luxury hotel—was talking to Satoru and Sera as the apparent married couple. You tried to suppress the bitter scoff that almost passed through your lips because it surely sent tiny pricks to your chest to see Sera being mistaken as the wife.

However, instead of correcting the man, Sera got the confidence to tighten her hold on your husband’s arm so she could lean her head against him. “It’s nice to be back.”

“Well, I’d congratulate Mr. Gojou for marrying such a gorgeous wife,” the man complimented her, which earned you glances from Satoru, Suguru, and Shoko. All except for Sera who beamed from the flattering remarks that should have been for you. “We’ve prepared the largest villa and the rooms are all ready as well. Please enjoy your stay. If you need anything, our staff will be more than happy to help.”

This was a painful slap to your face and you didn’t want to stay another second enduring it all. You haven’t even spent an hour in Bora Bora and you were already emotionally battered from everything that you’ve had to stomach thus far. You could only imagine how bad things would be for the next two days and this might end up leaving a huge scar on you, even worse than the Iceland trip which was the pinnacle of Satoru’s journey to putting you in your place.

You were already storming out before any of them made a move because you wanted nothing else but to lock yourself in a room and stay away from Gojou for the rest of the trip. You ignored Ieiri’s calls when you rushed inside the villa, claiming one of the four bedrooms and placing your duffel on the bed before you sat on the edge of it with a frustrated sigh. It was truly insulting to see your own husband not denying when another woman was mistaken as his wife, but what did you expect, really? He dreamed of having Sera as his wife for God knows how long. You already fooled yourself that one morning thinking that your recent lovemaking was a sign of progress to your relationship, that his drunken admissions and childhood reminiscences were improving your marriage—you hated that you fell for it when here he was now allowing Sera to take your spot as his wife.

There was no need to sugarcoat this. You were simply a placeholder for his true love.

You get it. This trip was all about her and you were just expected to be in the background all throughout. In that case, why did Satoru follow you inside your room? Why did he leave his stuff in your bed, crouching down to look at your face with worry-filled eyes?

Did he want to share a room with you because it was an obligation? Well, no one was watching for him to still keep up with his stupid act.

“You know I had no choice,” he tried to explain, placing his hands atop yours, “She was looking forward to the trip and I couldn’t tell her that it’s not right for her to come anymore.”

You gulped and pushed his hand away without sparing him a glance. “Why are you explaining things to me? Didn’t you wanna spend time with her, anyway?”

His bullshit was tiring. You knew for a fact that he could care less if Sera came because he would rather spend his sweet time with her, always have and always would. Unlike your honeymoon in Iceland where he was lackadaisical for ninety percent of the trip, he was actually more enthusiastic about this one because his romantic adventures were always better with Sera. He didn’t need to say it for you to put the puzzle pieces together.

Satoru fixed his composure, sliding his dark sunglasses out of his face as he tried to appear impassive. “Because I don’t want you to get the wrong idea,” he asserted, arms caged on either side of your thighs, “and you’ve been so cold to me for the past week for no reason. What’s your problem?”

The audacity of this man. He would tell you not to get the wrong idea for ‘unintentionally inviting his mistress’ but would also shamelessly parade her around while treating her like a queen.

With this in mind, you erupted into a soft but spiteful laugh. “Does that even matter? You can do what you want. I’ll stay out of your way since I know my boundaries. I’m just here to save your image.”

“Y/N—”

Remembering the words he said during your time in Iceland, you returned it back. “Let me rest.” You pushed his arm away, climbing into your bed and turning your back on him. “I need some sleep.”

You already had your eyes closed when you heard his exasperated huff and you were left with a hollow heart when he slammed the door shut as if it was heavily frustrating for him that you were becoming detached and defiant. Satoru seemed to have always hated it when you rejected his presence because he had grown accustomed to you being his patient wife who showered him with affection despite his bare minimum treatment. The sweet and caring wife that would wake up at six-thirty in the morning every day just to prepare his breakfast and business attire. The wife that would leave post-it notes on the fridge with the words: Eat some fruit, drink water, and start your day with a smile :)

Yes. You wouldn’t deny how stupid you were for trying to make your marriage work. Because every time you believed that you had already built a strong wall against Satoru, he would always find a way to destroy it. And you would always find a way to let him in, forgiving him for his never-ending games.

You knew that you would always be standing by his side when he needed you, but since he didn’t seem to require much of your presence with Sera around, you might as well learn to distance yourself for now.

By ‘distancing yourself’, you meant sleeping for the next four hours to recover from your lassitude. You figured that it was better to shut yourself out instead of summoning your masochistic side when the pain was so deadly you might as well be buried six feet under. No one bothered you during your slumber because the villa was silent when you woke up again. The room needed more lighting as the sun was finally closing down by the time you opened your eyes. It was eventide, you realized.

When you regained the strength and motivation to get up from bed, you could tell that Ieiri and Getou might have toured around with Sera and Gojou while you were fast asleep in your room. They had fun on their own while you chose to be alone and only now did you have the chance to take a leisurely meander through the extensive walkway that connected all the overwater bungalows which were what Bora Bora was famous for.

The cool wind rippled the surface of the sea, creating waves and soothing sounds that enabled your mind to relax as you found your spot on one corner, overlooking the horizon of twilight skies in blue and gold where the clouds began to glow with colors at nautical dusk. You marveled at the spectacular mixture of colors as the wind that blew your hair back, listening to the soft sound of the crashing waves that made a painting come to life.

You had to appreciate Earth’s beauty and how grateful you were to be in a privileged position that gave you the chance to see such astounding views that you wouldn’t see on a typical day.

Perhaps, in an alternate universe, your husband had his arms wrapped around your waist as you two watched the sunset on this romantic hour. Maybe you were happy in that universe, having your spouse whisperering I love you’s in your ear, telling you that you were the only woman in his eyes and that he was happy to have married you.

“It must be tough chasing after a man who doesn’t love you.”

The serenity that you’ve found from the susurration of the sea was cut short as you turned around to see the Camilla of your Charles. Eyes as brown as the color of her hair, lips limned with a mulberry tint like the color that stained your husband’s neck. The upward tug of her lips was her attempt to show the lack of malice in her words.

“I can’t believe you’re torturing yourself for coming with us. But honestly, I respect and admire your resilience,” she added, clutching the diamond pendant on her necklace as she stood next to you. “I can understand you have all the time in the world to try and chase after his love since you have nothing going on for you. You’re not busy like the rest of us. All you do is sit at home like a princess and wait for him while he’s in his office spending most of his day with me.”

You wondered how Sera could look so sincere and innocent while throwing knives for sentences in between. It was plain obvious that she was still absurdly angry at you for sleeping with Satoru after she came to the penthouse that morning and your recent appearance in the office seemed to have fueled more of her vexation. But because you weren’t ill-bred, you didn’t lunge on her and ripped her throat out for saying all those mean things. Your best choice was to retaliate with your own words.

“Not as tough as constantly hiding your relationship because you don’t wanna be labeled as the mistress when that’s really what you are,” you told her, and there was shock that lingered in her eyes until you continued with a smile. “In everyone’s eyes, no one cares about who’s the first love. People care about who’s the one that they married.”

Sera’s smile was nonetheless to veil her growing ire. “Don’t get carried away. Your marriage is loveless. I don’t want you to keep hurting yourself when you know he feels miserable with you.”

When Ieiri told you to end their affair and stake your claim as the rightful wife, you already imagined that a confrontation with Sera could finally do the job. You thought that you could stand on your ground and hold your chin up high because that was how it was supposed to be, and yet with her simple utterance of the fact that Gojou was miserable with you, you lost all of your will to fight for him.

You couldn’t fight for someone who never wanted to be with you in the first place.

“I really like you as a person, Y/N.” She released a sigh, averting her eyes to gaze at the sun disappearing below the horizon. “You’re kind and soft-spoken. It’s your status and selfishness that I don’t like.”

With a still breath, you spoke through gritted teeth. “Selfish?” A humorless laugh followed. It was unbelievable how you were seen as ‘selfish’ when you’ve been willingly allowing her to sneak around with your husband after she literally begged for it.

“You get everything you want ‘cause you’ve been spoiled that way,” she pointed out. “Meanwhile, I have to work hard to get to where I am. I have to endure rude bosses, render overtime even on holidays, and strictly calculate my savings and budget for my family. You don’t understand how hard life is for people like us. Satoru is the only blessing I’ve received in life, so I’ll never let him go.”

You didn’t know what to say in this situation because you couldn’t exactly comment about her hardships in life. Even if you tried to defend yourself and tell her that problems in life came in different forms, you knew that she would still make it all about her. Everything was about her struggles and hardships, never about your agony and suffering.

However, the conversation did lead you to trespass a topic that had been bugging you to no end. “You say you’ll never let him go. Does that mean you’re still waiting around for him even when he’s married?” you questioned in utter disbelief. “You don’t care if you end up pregnant someday when he’s legally bound to his wife?”

Instead of answering you directly, she countered you with a question. “Are you scared that I’d get pregnant before you do?”

Your heart raced. Anger? Hurt? You couldn’t tell which one weighed more. So the two of them aren’t really doing it safe, you assumed in your head, taking a deep breath before you could explode.

A pitiful look appeared on her small, delicate face. “Just know that if I end up having his kid…” she paused before she shifted on her feet to take her leave, “…I’d end up having him, too.”

Gojou knew he could be insensitive sometimes—or most times—but he was being true when he said that he wasn’t intentionally doing it. He was all over Sera since the trip began because that was how things were before you came to the picture. Him, Sera, and his friends on a getaway. He held her hand, kissed her, and spent time with her because they were boyfriend and girlfriend before he ever married you.

With all the aforementioned, it was quite odd that he was feeling incredibly guilty for simply doing what he usually did. It wasn’t like you even screamed at his face calling him a cheater for having Sera around. You were pretty lenient about them so he couldn’t understand why he was the one who was bothered by your lack of resistance to his actions. Satoru despised how you would ignore him because he was getting more and more confused by how he felt.

To boost his stupidity even more, he never should have allowed Sera to join in the first place. This trip should have been just you, him, and his best friends. If he was going to spend time with Sera, then he could have just taken her without dragging you along to avoid all the tension that was surrounding you now. Maybe Satoru could have had more guts to explain that to Sera even if she wouldn’t be too happy to hear it.

“Fuck this,” he muttered, loosening the knot on his robe as he walked outside to find some peace of mind on the villa’s elevated pool area.

Suguru joined him as the man sat on one of the sun loungers with a cigarette between his lips. “You two-timing fucker,” he bluntly quipped, seemingly finding humor in Satoru’s dilemma. “How does it feel to have your wife and mistress in the same house?”

Gojou looked up at the blanket of stars. “Sera’s not a mistress,” he corrected, then added, “and Y/N isn’t even saying anything.”

There was a knowing glint in Getou’s eyes. “Just because she isn’t saying anything doesn’t mean it’s all okay to her.”

“Man. What do you want me to do?” He wasn’t exactly snapping. It just frustrated him how he didn’t know how to handle the situation without hurting the other. “I do wanna spend more time with my wife, but Sera expects me to be with her 24/7 because this is our only chance to freely be together.”

Suguru tossed the cigarette to the wooden floor and killed the ember by stomping his foot on it. “Listen to yourself,” he commanded. “Now Sera’s becoming an obligation for you and Y/N isn’t. You can’t have both. This situation isn’t livable.”

Did Gojou really sound that way? He couldn’t even clear out his statement because he got distracted when he saw you heading towards your room with a heavy frown on your face, determined to lock yourself again until Shoko blocked your way.

“Y/N, don’t tell me you’re gonna stay in bed again?” Ieiri’s voice was loud enough for the two gentlemen to hear. “Let’s chill outside for a while!”

Satoru could hear how his best friend snorted under his breath when he saw the look on Gojou’s face and just how tempted he was at trying to talk to his wife. Confusion clouded his head as he completely froze when Ieiri dragged you to the pool area and urged you to take your place near your husband.

“We went kayaking while you were sleeping. You should have been with us,” said Ieiri, now lighting her own cigarette as you stood at a reasonable distance from Gojou. He pulled you close by wrapping an arm around your waist, but you were fast to stop his wrist before you moved to sit next to Suguru instead.

What the hell?

And throughout your subtle disregard for Satoru, Getou was only finding the situation even more humorous. “You have to join us tomorrow, Y/N,” the best friend insisted. “Can’t miss out on all the fun activities.”

“I prefer sightseeing, really,” you admitted, then revealing why you couldn’t exactly join. “I have Thalassophobia.”

Shoko seemed intrigued. “Wait, like fear of water?”

“You’re not afraid of water. You swim at our pool back home.” Satoru walked towards the mini bar to grab a bottle of Macallan, pouring himself a glass before leaning against the rattan table.

You dismissed their assumptions, although you were gearing towards speaking to Getou and Ieiri more than your husband. “No, it’s fear of what lurks beneath its surface. It’s the deep bodies of water that scares me the most, like… if my feet can’t touch the ground, I’d tremble. I have wild imaginations on what creatures could be under me.”

Ieiri tilted her head in curiosity. “That’s so interesting. I didn’t know people have that kind of phobia.”

“Nah, I think it’s common,” Suguru asserted while leaning on the cushion behind him. “There are so many types of phobias that we don’t even know of. Someone could even invent Gojouphobia one day.”

The man of honorable mention simply shook his head. “Very funny.” Although he must admit, it was the first time he had seen you chuckling in a while and it brought some ease to his heart to see you smiling again.

For the whole conversation, Satoru just couldn’t seem to keep his eyes away from you. His blue orbs were glued on your face, watching the way you pressed your lips together or the way your eyelids fluttered with every blink. At one point, he had to clear his throat just to distract himself, “You weren’t that scared when you took a swim in the blue lagoon.”

Even if he was trying to converse with you, you were still adamant on not meeting his gaze. “Don’t you fucking bring up Iceland.”

It seemed that mentioning Iceland was a trigger for you and Satoru didn’t realize how upsetting the whole trip must have been that you were avoiding any reminiscence about your honeymoon. Had he been too mean to you back then? The marriage was fresh and Gojou was full of bitterness at the time—he must not have realized how harsh he had treated you.

Because of the uncomfortable silence, Shoko took the chance to change the topic. “I swear to God, I almost lost my diamond earring when Suguru pushed me to the ocean—”

“Alright, Kim K. There’s people that are dying,” Getou mocked, only to receive a ball of tissue thrown to his face.

“Shut up!”

“Make me.”

“Are you flirting with me?”

Gojou sniggered at the two. “I think he is.”

And in the middle of their banter, Satoru had almost forgotten about Sera until she came out of the room in a similar robe like what he was wearing, joining the rest of you at the poolside on this starry evening. “Hey, guys.”

You didn’t even acknowledge her with a fake smile the way Shoko and Suguru did.

“Hey, Sera.” Ieiri shifted into an awkward stance and Gojou could read through her body language that Sera made her uncomfortable. “Where’ve you been?”

“Just took a quick shower.” Sera didn’t hesitate in keeping Satoru enveloped within her arms, clinging onto his torso as if to claim him in front of everyone. There was no ounce of shame when she tiptoed to peck his lips and leaned her head against his toned chest. She did it before, she did it many times prior to this trip, but why did Gojou feel strangely hurt when he saw how you sunk back to your seat and looked away? “Satoru promised we’ll spend the night at the jacuzzi.”

You let out a humorless laugh, gazing at the floor. “That’s really romantic.”

The sarcasm that laced your voice made Satoru hold his breath. What was he supposed to say?

“It really is,” cooed Sera, snuggling closer to feel his warmth. Utter silence dominated amongst the soft sound of the splashing waves. The luminescent moon stared at all five of you with great interest because there was nothing more interesting than to see a dramatic scene unfolding between the husband, the wife, and the mistress. Since when did Gojou’s life turn into a movie?

“I’m exhausted, I’ll call it a night,” you announced, taking the initiative to get up and leave. Not once did you try to meet Satoru’s gaze. “I’ll see you guys tomorrow.”

Your exit gained Suguru and Shoko’s “me too” and “me three” as they also made a haste move to leave the couple alone. It was only 9PM and Gojou was sure as hell that none of his two best friends would have decided to go to bed this early if it wasn’t for the guilt that would eat them if they stayed.

Confrontations were not in your repertoire, but Satoru believed that it would have been better to receive your brutal words than to see you completely avoiding his existence like he was as invisible as air.

“Hey.” The knit on Sera’s brows recollected Satoru back to his reality—with her. She would never allow him to think of anyone else but her this time. “The night is ours.”

He didn’t want to break his promise and he tried his utmost best to give one hundred percent of his focus to the woman that he loved, especially now that he had the chance to be all alone with her. This was what he wanted and he had to remind himself of that. While he should’ve uninvited Sera, this was still the perfect chance to spend a romantic getaway with her at one of the most beautiful islands in the world. If the opportunity was there presenting itself, who was he to completely disregard it?

He wanted Sera, not you. He wanted all of her, not even a little bit of you. Satoru needed to wake up and refrain from allowing his mind to fly to the wife that he supposedly hated.

He should be having fun since it was relaxing to sit in a hot jacuzzi surrounded by vanilla-scented candles and rose petals. It was the perfect honeymoon for newlyweds, something that he could have done with you in Iceland instead of the bullshit he pulled back there that permanently left a scar on you.

Sighing, he leaned against the tub and waited for Sera to come back just as he received a notification from his phone. Without a second to spare, he grabbed the gadget that was placed at the edge of the tub and checked what the alert was about.

Day of Ovulation - High Chance of Pregnancy Today

But you just had yours a week ago, right? Gojou was well aware of your cycle because he would often check your phone to look at it. He didn’t even remember installing the app on his phone, so he had no single idea why it was even in there. Did he perhaps do it while he was drunk?

Somehow, his question was answered when he clicked on the notification and saw the label “Sera’s Cycle” written on top. The wideness of his eyes was solely because of his realization that this damn app might have been one of the reasons why you had veen cold to him.

“Sorry it took me so long.” Sera cut him out of his trance when she returned, quickly apologizing for her momentary absence. “I was trying to look for a nice swimsuit but couldn’t pick one.”

Satoru chose not to beat around the bush when he faced her. “Did you put your period tracker on my phone?”

By watching her emotions intently, he was able to see the look of panic that bathed her eyes before she gathered an honest response. “Yeah, since you’ve been acting all weird about the condom thing last time so I put it on there,” she explained, crossing her arms and raising an eyebrow. “Why? Did she see and complain about it?”

Fuck. Gojou needed to calm himself down because his head was boiling just like the foam that bubbled in the jetted-tub. “No, she didn’t say anything but she’s mad at me about it.”

“So, what?” Sera’s irritation grew while she undid the knot on her robe, revealing her stark naked body in front of him without any scintilla of shyness in her bones. Oh. Satoru breathed deeply and eyed every curve that was of ample proportions. “Why does it matter so much to you if she’s mad?”

She was already climbing in the tub, crawling forward to straddle the man’s lap who now had his large hands on her buttocks. He tried to look at her eyes instead of her busty chest. “I just don’t like how she’s giving me the cold shoulder. What if… our fathers’ notice?”

Bullshit. Sera rolled her eyes because she could see the pretentious lies hidden in his words. “Remember what you said to me back in your car?” The woman pressed her bare chest against his toned ones, feathering kisses along his jaw until her breath fanned his thin but plump lips as they brushed. “You said she doesn’t have you.”

“Mhm.” Gojou kneaded her bum.

“So stick by it,” now those words held more persuasion as her chocolate orbs pierced through his diamond blues. “It’s not like you’re gonna stay with her after you get what you need.” Right. You were merely a tool for his ascendancy in the company. Sera was the one who put him back on the right track. “And isn’t it weird enough that you’ve been trying so hard but still couldn’t get her pregnant? Maybe she’s… you know.”

Satoru pulled away to read her expression. “She’s what?” His wife couldn’t be infertile. No. Maybe he wasn’t really just doing it right? Maybe you just need to do it more intimately?

His other woman leaned back and moved her hair to the side in a manner that seduced him of his deepest desires. The palms that gripped her ass were now tracing her curves, reaching to cup her breasts so he could massage the rounded mass. He attached his mouth on the right side of her neck as she arched her back and released her dulcet moans.

“M-Maybe she’s n-not meant to have your baby,” she rasped, grabbing a fistful of white hair. “It’s been a while since we did this, Satoru.”

He hummed, closing his eyes and moving his mouth to kiss her shoulder blades. Despite Sera’s overflowing sultriness, Gojou’s carnal desires were no longer meeting her own. His ardor was no longer at the same level as hers. The emotional connection was no longer present and this was something that he had been afraid of for the longest time.

Afraid that when he started doing it with someone he married, he would lose the same passion for Sera.

If he was true to himself, she could not satiate his needs the same way you would. Sex was different, regardless of the labels, when it was with someone he shared vows with. With you, he could be intimate without worrying about the consequences of pregnancy because you were meant to have his child either way. With Sera, he had to hold back and use contraceptives because it would be a huge scandal if he knocked her up.

He didn’t realize that he stopped Sera’s hand from touching his clothed cock underwater, pulling her wrist before he made a move to get out of the jetted-tub. “Sera, I’m too exhausted,” he made an excuse, “let’s just go to bed.”

Satoru could imagine smoke coming out of her nose with how frustrated she was. “Just tell me. Am I not pretty enough for you?”

Grabbing her robe and stepping out of the tub, she sheathed herself with the cloth and let her glossy eyes afflict him with his guilt. After all, he could go weak on his knees for her.

“No, of course you are. I just don’t wanna do half-assed things with you.” Gojou was fast to deny. “Sera, you’re the prettiest woman in my eyes.”

Her face was rigid and her eyes were lachrymose. “Then say it to her.”

Huh? He brushed a hand on her arm. “Sera—”

“Say it straight to her face how I’m the prettiest in your eyes and that you’ll only ever love me,” she spat, stomping away after adding, “If you don’t do it, you might as well forget about me.”

Gojou hated being given ultimatums because it was putting him on the spot to make decisions without much thought. Sera was well aware of how much he disliked being demanded to do things out of his will, but like the asshole he was, he couldn’t lose her. That was what his mind was telling him.

He was plagued with these deep thoughts even as he joined Sera later that night when they slept in the same bed. This morning, he took his stuff to your bedroom because it became an instinct for him to stay in the same room as you. However, it was Sera who pulled him away telling him how ridiculous he was for even thinking that he should bother staying with you when no one was watching.

The problem was, Satoru couldn’t sleep. At all.

Sera’s warm body held him in a tight embrace as she peacefully submitted to her slumber, but Gojou couldn’t get even a wink of sleep because he knew that he would end up waking up in the middle of the night with how bad his nightmares were getting. This has happened more than once where he couldn’t get himself to reach the stages of REM when he slept next to Sera or anyone else for that matter. Heck, a paradoxical sleep was even more far-fetched when he was alone.

Because of his reasons, he quietly got out of bed at 3AM, tucking Sera under the duvet before he left the room only to transfer to the one on the opposite side.

To you, where he twisted the doorknob as quietly as he could and saw you sleeping in a cute fetal position, allowing him to smoothly slip into bed and wrap his arms around you. You were not awake to feel his warmth, but he was certainly feeling the level of comfort that he needed to finally doze off knowing that you were at arms length away lest he needed your presence to soothe him from his unpleasant dreams.

Getou would have snorted at his face for the ‘two-timing fucker’ that he was, but Gojou couldn’t care less. He didn’t understand what it was like to be caught in such a position.

When you woke up to see Satoru sleeping next to you, you felt disgusted.

Only because you knew what he had done in the other room with his mistress. You knew that they were doing it without any regard for the wife that he met at the altar with vows that he couldn’t fulfill. Why exactly was he even bothering to sleep in the same bed with you? For show? For whatever act he was putting on? You were tired of it.

So instead of waking him up with small kisses on his cheek, you simply rushed out of bed and spent the next thirty-minutes eating breakfast with Suguru and Shoko. Just after exchanging a few conversations about the plans that they had for the day, they then prepared while you ended up having a relaxing time for yourself, basking under the sun as you lay down on one of the sun loungers by the pool in your beige bikini. The view offered a gorgeous landscape of the clear turquoise seas and you knew that you just had to snap a quick photo to post on Instagram.

The picture included half of your glistening body in a sun-lounger overlooking the waters of Bora Bora with the caption: “pov: you’re in a tropical paradise 🏖”. The post quickly garnered likes and comments, especially one from Gen telling you to have a good time and that she was so jealous.

Have a good time? You wished. None of these people lurking in your Instagram knew that you weren’t actually having a great time. Worst of all, they weren’t aware that this trip included your husband's mistress.

On the other hand, you were surprised to see Toji’s comment that it had you chuckling out loud. It was no more than a playful message with an airplane emoji that wrote, ‘✈️ off to paradise’. You didn’t even know that he was following your account until now so you had to click the follow button real quick while stalking his Instagram. There wasn’t anything much to see except some pictures of him and his son traveling around the world. It was clear how much time he had placed to bond with Megumi despite his demanding life as a CEO, making it one of the things that you admire about him—his dedication as a businessman and as a single father.

Your day was going good, but it just had to be ruined when Gojou appeared on your side, taking a seat on the sun lounger adjacent to yours as he grabbed the bottle of sunscreen on your thigh. In an instant, you placed your phone down and looked at him. “Why are you here?”

“Why not?” His response was laced with insouciance. Your husband rubbed the lotion on his arms, protecting himself from the damage that the sun could leave on his fair skin.

“You should be with Sera,” you replied before removing your sunglasses, getting up to leave until he towered over you. At once, the man was unbuttoning his top and holding your wrist simultaneously. “What are you doing?”

A sigh left his lips. “Swimming with you,” he said, then tossing his shirt onto the seat. “Come on. You said you’re scared of the ocean so I’ll swim with you.”

“Satoru, you don’t一”

There was not even a chance for you to resist because the man already carried you in his arms as you flailed when he walked towards the edge of the platform, climbing down the stairs and submerging both of you under the cool waters of the Bora Bora seas. The anxiety that coursed through your entire body made you wrap your legs around his waist because you couldn’t think of anything else but to try and get yourself to the surface.

“Hey, hey. Relax,” he reassured, caging you around his arm and allowing you to put your arms around his neck. “The water’s clear. No sharks here.”

The water was deeper than you could reach for sure, but since your husband was six foot tall, he was able to walk around. “B-Bring me back to the villa.”

Your muffled pleas were ignored when he swam further into the ocean, now floating from beneath his feet all while pressing his lips into your ear. “Give me a kiss and I will.”

You couldn’t deny that the request gave you a rush of dopamine, forcing your stomach to do somersaults because when Satoru was being sweet and affectionate, it was normally easy for you to give in. However, you have already learned not to let him intoxicate you with meaningless affection.

“No,” you rejected his offer, glaring at his ocean eyes that were of the same hue as the skies and seas alike.

There was a haze of frustration in his eyes before he did it upon himself to lean in and encase your lips around his, moving to lock them in a soft but passionate kiss. The movements of his mouth were in harmony to yours despite your initial refusal to let him plant even the quickest peck. Truth was, his kisses lessened your anxiety because it distracted you from your fear towards the deep bodies of water.

The feeling of his tongue rolling against yours, swirling around just as you breathed through each other’s mouth could have been enough to suffice the week's worth of resentment that you had towards him.

In the end, Gojou knew how to soften your heart.

“Still don’t wanna kiss me now?” He pulled away with a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, but that cocky visage was immediately replaced by his troubled expression. “We need to talk.”

About what? You clung onto his shoulders and wrapped your legs tighter around him. “There’s nothing to talk about.”

He was your personal buoy in the vastness of the ocean and he knew that the dependency that you had for him now would soon reflect your relationship beyond the high seas. Satoru only wanted you to realize that you needed him just as much as he needed you. “My phone, I know you saw some things in there,” he opened up, treading water to stay afloat. “It’s not what you think. Sera and I haven’t done it since一”

“Stop,” you interrupted before he could finish his sentence. There was pain in your voice, pain that you concealed with ersatz indifference. “I don’t wanna hear what you two are doing. You’re disgusting.”

He was insane for thinking that it was okay for him to talk about his sex life with his mistress. Sometimes you wondered if Satoru’s obliviousness when it came to hurting your feelings was actually intentional. He hated you after all. That, or he was plain stupid.

“I’m just saying,” he defended, pressing his lips on your shoulder. “If that’s what upsets you, then…”

“...Then maybe don’t give me mixed signals?” you said, chest vibrating against his. “Maybe don’t confuse me with your affection because we both know you’re just acting? Didn’t you say that I would never be her? That it’s not cheating when I never had your heart in the first place?”

Your husband was at a loss of words. And you? You moved out of his grip regardless of the fear that consumed you when you rapidly swam your way to the ladder, climbing back into the villa and wrapping yourself with a towel to leave the man who incessantly called for your name.

“Y/N!”

You came across Sera about halfway into the bungalow, but ignored her presence by heading straight to Getou and Ieiri. The two had no idea about the cold exchange that you’ve just had with your husband一all they knew was that you were joining them for their itinerary of having lunch at Bloody Mary’s and going on a jet ski adventure throughout the afternoon.

“You ready?” Suguru asked when he saw you scrambling to put on a sundress on top of your bikini.

“Yeah,” you answered, glancing at Sera and Gojou who just reunited when he attempted to chase after you. He didn’t need to, not when his mistress was there to entertain him now. “Can it just be three of us?”

Your question must have sounded spiteful and Shoko clearly didn’t approve of how you were letting your husband have some private time with his lover, but based on your countenance, she supported your decision. “Sure, Y/N.” Ieiri turned to Gojou and Sera with a smile. “We’ll leave you guys for a while.”

Satoru couldn’t even enjoy this trip because all he did was to overthink about the shit that he was unknowingly doing to hurt you. It was too much for a person to absorb, but he tried to lay down the issues in his head so he could figure it all out. For starters, you were opening up about your displease towards his actions more and more these days as if you were on the brink of falling apart. In contrast to that was Gojou feeling less and less angry with you for the things that he normally would find irritating. He used to antagonize you for being clingy, now he couldn’t last a day without any form of interaction with you. He used to forget everything around him when there was Sera, but now his eyes were constantly searching for you.

He thought that all the sharp words that he once sputtered towards you were left forgotten at the back of your mind, which was why he was in complete discombobulation when you were reciting every single hurtful word that he ever said to you. How did you even remember his words back in Iceland? It seemed as if everything, since the very beginning of your marriage, had remarkably etched into your soul and inflicted you with great sorrow.

For hours, he couldn’t do anything but to check his phone to get his mind out of his ennui and Sera was growing deeply annoyed that he wasn’t very keen of doing their supposed snorkeling activity because he refused to leave the villa.

It was funny how he should be thankful that you had given him some time alone with Sera, but here he was displeased about it. What was going through his head? He needed some clarity.

When the sun was at least two hours shy from setting, Gojou headed to your room to find his charger as he scrolled through his phone. The first thing he did was to check the recent photos he had taken, sliding his thumb down to review all the other images that he was keeping in his album and realized that one particular photo was absent.

His bum fell at the edge of the mattress as he frantically searched all the other photo albums to find the only photo he had of you.

Sera’s appearance by the door could not even distract him from removing the crease between his eyebrows. “Satoru, are we not gonna—”

“Did you delete her photo?” he snapped, looking up to see her wide confused eyes. “First you installed that period tracker, now you deleted her photo.”

She was livid. His accusatory eyes brought a surge of ill feelings when she stepped in and denied his claims. “Why the hell would I delete her stupid photo?”

He huffed, feeling a fit of pique but choosing to let it go. “Forget it,” throwing his phone on the mattress, he collapsed against the cushion and stared at the ceiling. “What do you wanna do today?”

Wasn’t it too late to ask?

Somehow, while he was busy gazing up at the nipa palm leaves that decorated the roof of your bedroom, he heard a clutter of things falling onto the floor and he realized that it was your makeup bag that Sera had accidentally bumped into.

“What’s that?” he asked, propping himself with his elbows as she crouched down, blinking twice in the same second before erupting into a scoff.

“You say you had a hard time making a baby?” She stood straight with a mirthless smile, showing a blister of birth control pills in her hand that made Satoru sit up in confusion. “She’s taking pills.”

He snatched the blister pack that he almost crushed in his shaking hand as he clenched his jaws at the newfound information. There was nothing else to feel but fire. Fire of the worst kind, fire that would soon erupt into unforgiving flames that would burn you without an ounce of mercy.

“She really just wanted to ruin us, Satoru.”

You didn’t think that this day could be any better since it started awfully when your husband almost ruined it this morning. Fortunately, his two best friends were your saving grace that allowed you to enjoy the rest of the day even without his presence. You went on a decadent lunch at Bloody Mary’s, had a fun jet ski ride behind Ieiri, and also spent the afternoon heat sunbathing at the beach. The image did not leave your mind—the waves crashing onto the shore, snaking rivulets of water onto the pristine white sand, sun-bleached crystals burning the feet, the resplendent stretch of palm trees that gave the beach a tropical landscape.

Life was too beautiful to waste on a man who didn’t love you.

In the words of Ieiri, ‘either win him or lose him’. You were at a point where you could choose the latter because your kindness was nearing its limit. If he was choosing his mistress over you, notwithstanding the prior relations that they’ve had before your marriage, then it was futile to patiently wait for the day that they would end their affair.

Because God knows Satoru would never let her go.

At least you were opening your eyes to the truth. At least you were seeing some light to the darkness that enshrouded you. Taking a stroll on the walkway, it was cathartic to finally be alone in this late afternoon as you left Ieiri and Getou who both went scuba diving. You were fine walking alone by yourself, simply appreciating all of Bora Bora before you leave for Japan tomorrow.

In the middle of your peaceful walk, however, the six foot tall man with the mess of ivory hair and vivid cerulean eyes came stomping down your path with a scowl on his pretty face. He was shooting daggers with the way he glared at you and you could strangely sense an impending doom when he stopped in his tracks—no trace of benevolence in his stance.

You tried to hide the confusion that befuddled your already mish-mash of a brain. “Satoru—”

“You’re so fucking desperate, are you?” His voice was rough and hostile, glaring at you as if he wanted to destroy you then and there. Before you could ask what he meant, he showed your birth control pills that he had already crumpled in his hand, rendering you speechless and static from where you stood. No, this can’t be… “What, you’re still gonna deny it?”

Guilt and tremor swallowed you. “I-I just couldn’t tell you at the right time.”

He was laughing, and it was a feral laugh that scared you even more. Minus the hands that were shaking in vexation, he was clearly seething inside. “You’re so fucking pathetic,” he spat out words laced with venom, “Did you plan to keep fooling me just so I’d have sex with you, huh? ‘Cause no one else would do it with you so you have to ruin me and Sera? You’re just so delusional, are you?”

Your hand almost flew to his face before you even realized what you did. The amalgam of pain, anger, and resentment was now being released from your bottle of emotions as you burst out crying. “H-How dare you! How fucking dare you say that to me!” You punched his chest with your fist as tears kept flooding your eyes, cascading down to your cheeks like waterfall. You could barely breathe from the tightness in your chest, you could barely see from the tears that blurred your vision. “Y-You don’t know what I have to endure just by staying with an asshole like you!”

“You deserve it,” he gritted, holding your wrist as you tried another failed attempt to swing your trembling fist on his chest. It was painful. Everything was painful. You knew he never regarded you as a real wife, but to tell you that you deserved every bit of agony was beyond heartless. Merciless. But even in your sobbing state, he didn’t hold back, “Why’d you hide that you don’t want a baby, then? You’re so scared that I’d stop fucking you?”

Unbelievable. Truly, painfully unbelievable. “You decided upon yourself that you wanted a baby without asking me!” Yelling at his face allowed you to release more tears. The searing ache that burned your skin was fatal to your heart, because at this point, your chest pains were only getting worse. “You want—you want a baby because it was your promise when you were six? Are you insane? You made vows with me on our wedding day and you already broke them! What m-makes you think I’d hold onto your meaningless childhood promises?”

While his nose flared with deep-seated rage, his eyes were now mirroring the pain in yours. You knew not to believe that he was hurt because Satoru Gojou was no more than a spineless soul. “Don’t say that I—”

“No, you don’t get to talk!” You pushed him despite the heavy flow of tears that gushed out of your eyes. Your chest heaved from the lack of oxygen as you weeped, but none of it stopped you from reaching your breaking point. Your husband could see it. He could see that you were about to explode in the most gut-wrenching sight possible. “Y-You… I hate you! You never t-try to see what it’s like for m-me! It’s always about you and Sera, always a-about your happiness and hers… What about me? When do I ever get to free myself from this pain? I’m so tired of having to keep it together for the sake of this marriage! Did you really wanna s-subject my child into the same pain that you were putting me through?” You took a momentary pause so you could allow yourself to breathe, flooded by the overwhelming amount of tears that you were releasing. “I don’t want my kid to grow up with a father that doesn’t value his own marriage! You’re so fucking selfish, you know? You’re so… It’s the first time I ever decided for myself, to not carry your child because I know that I won’t be able to stomach seeing my own flesh and blood growing up in the same household as you did!”

The minute of hesitation that went through Gojou’s mind was his slightest form of sympathy. He might have realized how you’ve been feeling all this time now that you were willingly spitting out words into his face, but for the most part, he didn’t say anything to defend himself. He only grabbed your arm, confusion contorting on his face because he wasn’t sure whether he should keep up with his anger or he should feel bad for hurting you.

Knowing Satoru, he would end up choosing the former. “I never wanted this marriage.”

“And nor did I!” Perhaps you have gone unhinged, but you were emitting tearful laughs while you sobbed. “You said I ruined it for you,” you began, “Don’t you think you ruined it for me, too? Don’t you think I wanted a happy marriage with a husband that loves me, cares for me, and treats me with respect? You disrespected me, took all of my firsts, and made fun of me! You made me feel like a mistress in my own home! I wanted a marriage that would make me happy!”

“Then why did you marry me in the first place!” he growled, loud and vehement. “It’s your fault for thinking that this goddamn marriage could ever work because it never will!”

You knew those facts. You knew that the marriage was never bound to work when his eyes were already all set on someone else. When his decision was already made up before you came into the picture. But what you didn’t and could never agree on was how he was putting the blame solely on your shoulders. “Stop making it seem like I placed you at gunpoint to marry me, Satoru!” you pushed him off and got out of his strong hold. “It’s a good thing that I’m not in love with you. It’s easier for me to leave because I don’t love you enough to stay! Maybe this is why your mom left you, and you know what? I’m glad that she did—”

“What did you say?” Gojou, disquieted by his rage, took a step closer with his clenched jaws and balled fists.

You didn’t mean that. You didn’t mean those stupid words that came out of your mouth because you saw the shock and outrage that flashed before your husband’s widened eyes. The way he held his breath was a sign of how his blood blazed with fire at your decision to bring up his mother because of all the things that you could spitefully say, hurting him with his past was the last thing you wanted.

“S-Satoru, I’m sorry—” Your eyes grew horrified, utterly stunned by the words that you said. You tried to reach for his arm but he was fast to swat it away, “I-I didn’t mean it, I’m sorry.”

The next thing he did was what wrecked you the most because the man had no ounce of sympathy when he slid off his wedding ring and hurled it into the ocean.

“Satoru—!”

You couldn’t believe that he did that, but more importantly, you couldn’t accept how easy it was for him to throw your whole marriage away because you were never once accepted in his heart. In his life. In his soul.

“You wanna leave, then fucking leave. I don’t give a fuck anymore.” It was the last thing that your husband could say before he left you sobbing on your knees with a sore heart and tightened chest. You had to endure watching his figure fading slowly into view as you weeped and struggled to breathe, wanting to stop the pain that only heightened now that you were alone.

Alone was all you would ever be.

But seeing the ring on your finger, remembering how much you valued your marriage all while knowing that it didn’t mean anything much to your spouse, you didn’t think twice about jumping into the shallow waters of the sea. Your whole body quivered with the intensity of your fear, but you continued swimming to the same direction of where he threw the ring because, for your sanity, you had to find it.

You had to do everything to search for it—even if your eyes could barely discern the view underwater, even if the squeezing pain in your heart left you no room to breathe—you were determined to look for his wedding ring in exchange for the torment that destroyed your soul.

Unfortunately, you weren’t as physically capable as the emotional martyr that you believed you were. Because in the midst of swimming deeply into the sea, you were losing air to breathe and you were going farther from the light above the surface. The water blocked out any other noise from up above and you were a minute close to fainting until your body was pulled back with desperate force.

No, it wasn’t your husband. It was Getou who dragged your body out of the water and carried you back into the surface while you gasped and cried your heart out. Ieiri was right there to embrace you in her arms as you buried your face into her chest, bawling and clutching your chest with your inability to breathe. “Th-The ring. P-Please,” your muffled sobs couldn’t be stopped, “It h-hurts.”

“Shh. It’s okay,” Ieiri’s voice broke for you, especially when your hand violently trembled because not even them could save you from the agony that drowned you inside. “Getou’s gonna find it, I promise.”

You couldn’t see the look on their faces because your eyes were falling heavily, but you could feel Suguru’s large hand soothing your back to ease your cries. “Y/N, I’ll search for it. It’s okay.”

I wanna die. You lost the will to carry on because you were at the apex of your pain—the summit of your agony that you could no longer proceed with life knowing that it was never bound to be better. I should just die.

Ironically, it was the last bit of memory that you could remember before the darkness temporarily shut you out from the universe’s never-ending cruelty.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

To say that he was frustrated was an understatement.

The level of anger that entered his entire body after he heard your hurtful words surpassed the twenty-five years worth of rancor that he had for his father.

Gojou wanted to hurt you, ruin you, do everything he can to spite you.

Who the fuck were you to say that he deserved to be abandoned by his mother?

It was his ill-feelings that led him back to Sera’s room, pushing her against the wall, and slamming his lips against hers for a harsh kiss. There was no passion, only roughness in his actions. Sera mistook his rage for eagerness because she allowed him to pull her hair and deepen the kiss, shoving his tongue inside her mouth that there was not enough breathing space for them both.

And at some point, he had her completely stripped off in bed. He had her in a position where her ass was up high and her face was down low. He wasn’t thinking right when he rammed his unprotected cock inside of her cunt, fucking her raw and earning her loudest mewls to cry out from his hard thrusts.

He held her hips close to his crotch as he jostled her body from the back, penetrating her core with low grunts leaving his lips while he spent the next few minutes remembering how you mentioned that you didn’t love him enough to stay and how you didn’t want him to be the father of your child.

Good for you, he laughed in his head because he was pissed. He was too clouded by wrath that he was treating Sera like a whore, rutting his hardened cock into her with forceful movements that made her knees shake.

“S-Satoru—!” Her whimpers were sensual albeit the lack of intimacy on his part. “J-Just like that!”

Fuck. Fuck, he wanted to break you. He thought of all the possible things he could do just to make you regret what you said. And if it was to have sex with Sera without any caution for a possible baby that could grow in her womb after this, he would do it.

Or at least, he was only consumed by spite when he did do it. He already released thick ropes of cum when he woke up to his senses and realized what he had done, immediately pulling himself out of Sera’s cunt to ejaculate the rest of his seed out of her.

What the hell was he thinking?!

Underneath him was a smiling and panting Sera who wrapped her arms around his neck and tried to kiss his lips softly. “I love you.”

He wasn’t in the right mind to respond, and it was a terrible time for Getou to slam his fist on the door, demanding his best friend to get out.

“Get the fuck outta there, Satoru!”

Sera was dumbfounded at the scene, especially when her boyfriend was scrambling to put his pants on before he rushed out of the room.

Suguru’s eyes were filled with disgust when Gojou walked out, only to be grabbed by his shirt as his best friend violently shook the tiniest trace of guilt that was left inside of him.

“How can you behave this way in front of your wife?!” Getou yelling at his face wasn’t new, what was new was the reason why he was screaming at him. “I only tolerated you because you asked for my help, not because I support all the shit that you’re doing! I didn’t wanna meddle into your business ‘cause it’s not my marriage, but I can’t stand this anymore.”

Satoru raked his fingers through his white hair in frustration. “I’m in a tough spot!”

Getou was certainly not buying his excuses anymore. “You’re becoming like the person you hate the most,” he claimed, and Gojou was shaking his head in absolute denial. “Just leave her if you can’t love her. She deserves better.”

His wife. What did Satoru just do to his wife back there?

“Wh-Where’s she—where’s Y/N?” He was becoming frantic as he remembered how much you cried after he left. Only now did his conscience tug at him regretfully.

“She passed out from crying.” Suguru let out a sigh of exasperation. “Ieiri doesn’t want you anywhere near Y/N.”

“But—”

“Don’t push it,” his best friend couldn’t even look him in the eye. “You already lost her.”

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

[spidersmiceandeverythingnice]

OISIN - 4* CASTER - PROFILE

Under the read more!

Summon: “My name is Oisin. I am a poet – and now, I am your Caster-class Servant. Though our time together won’t last forever, I’m glad to meet you, Master."

Initial Information:

A beautiful poet, blessed with eternal youth and wisdom. Though he is a great knight, he is most famous for his silver tongue, which has preserved the legends of many heroes in what is now called the "Fenian" or "Ossianic" Cycle of Irish mythology.

Passive Skills

Territory Creation A

Item Construction C

Divinity C

Active Skills

Heroic Legacy A – Increase defense for three turns and clear own debuffs, increase attack and star generation for all allies for three turns.

Blessings of Youth A – Apply invincibility for 3 turns, apply Arts, Quick, and Buster up for 3 turns. Costs 9 critical stars.

Storyteller B – Drain all enemy NP charge, increase own NP charge, increase party NP gain for 3 turns.

NOBLE PHANTSAM: Dord Fianna – the War Cry to Defend Humanity (QUICK)

Area of effect Noble Phantasm that deals damage to all enemies, special bonus damage to any Threat to Humanity trait enemies. Applies defense down, critical strength down, and slight chance to inflict Terror status to all enemies. Applies attack up, critical strength up, and NP damage up to all allies for 3 turns.

Lines - Room

Idle: “Master, are you doing anything right now? If you’re bored, I can show you the song I’m working on now. No? You’d rather go outside? Well, that’s alright, too. I’ll tag along.”

Master-Servant Relationship: “I’m used to working, living, and fighting alongside others, so this situation is fine for me. Honestly, it brings back pleasant memories.”

Opinion of Master: “I could write a thousand songs about your adventures. I really do consider it to be a privilege to fight at your side!”

Scheherazade: “I think she and I could have a lot in common. And so beautiful too… hey, don’t look at me like that. I’m happily married, you know!”

Author Servants: “There are a lot of very talented people here. I consider myself a formidable opponent, but I think I’ll work a little harder, regardless of that. [laugh]”

Saints: “It’s not that I don’t like them, it’s just that I can’t really understand them. I have my reasons, but that may be the one story I’m not interested in telling.”

Irish Servants: “There are so many famous heroes here from ages past. Of course, I already know the tales by heart but I wonder if there would be any differences in the first-hand accounts…”

Diarmuid: “Diarmuid! It’s been too long since I’ve seen your face! Master, this is the only person in the world who is smarter than my father. He always used to beat us at chess, and that’s just the start of it. I’m sure you already know. What? Oh, don’t be modest! And here – look! I brought you some letters from your relatives. They say you hardly ever visit anymore and – hey, where are you going?!”

Fionn: “Ahh… It’s good to see him in his prime like this. He seems to be very at ease here. Seeing that he’s able to smile and relax like this… honestly, he looks just as Mother always described him. Ah, wait a moment. Please don’t ever tell him I said that.”

Lines – Battle

DECK: QQ/AA/B

Start 1: “Just because I am an artist doesn’t mean that I can’t do battle when I need to.”

Start 2: “That look on your face… I have to wonder if you’re not taking me seriously. Well, it can’t be helped. Best of luck to you!”

Skill 1: “This is the blessing I was given.”

Skill 2: “Hmm… still a bit out of tune.”

Skill 3: “With the strength of my own limbs.”

Skill 4: “With actions that will match my speech.”

Attack: [IDK SOME NOISE]

Extra Attack 1: “With purity in our hearts!”

Extra Attack 2: “You won’t underestimate me a second time!”

Noble Phantasm Activation: “If the time has come to defend humanity – then I will serve with all the power I have.”

Noble Phantasm 1: “For the things we have forgotten, and for all that we have to gain – there is something that I, too, must protect. I swear that I shall defeat all evil in the world. With the purity of our hearts – Dord Fianna!”

Noble Phantasm 2: “This is a story of those who stood should to shoulder to defend humanity's destiny, from all that would covet and destroy it. No matter when, or where, we will always rise to meet this challenge. This is our sacred duty – Dord Fianna."

Noble Phantasm 3: “This hunting horn is not for making music – if you’re skittish, you might want to cover your ears. Listen – to our sacred battle cry!”

Injured 1: “Rude!”

Injured 2: “At least make sure to avoid my face!”

Incapacitated 1: “It seems that… once again… I can’t stay beside you until the end… I’m… sorry…”

Incapacitated 2: “It’s always like this, huh… Strange… this time, it doesn’t hurt…”

Victory 1: “I told you from the start. Before I am an artist, I am also a knight!”

Victory 2: “You know, I think I could make a song about this victory. Someone give me a tune! Hey… wait a minute… why are you all walking away?”

Bond 1: “You know, Master, I spent a long time out of human society. So, I need you to tell me to my face if I ever say something strange. Seriously. I’m not joking. I really don’t know what people talk about these days. I’m counting on your guidance.”

Profile 1: Oisin, the son of the legendary hero Fionn MacCumhail. Because his father had already eaten the Fish of All Knowledge, he was gifted from birth with wisdom and a quick wit. His name literally means "little deer" or "fawn."

Bond 2: “What was it like, growing up with such a famous father? Well, that’s a difficult question. Father has always been good to me. I’ve always felt that the Fianna were my family. Even the most loving and tight knit families sometimes fight… and even so… hm. I wonder… …Um, sorry. [slightly nervous laugh] What was I saying again?”

Profile 2: The story of Oisin's birth is a tragedy. His mother, Sadhbh, was Fionn's second wife. Though they were madly in love, his mother had another suitor, who was a cruel and wicked mage. One day, when Fionn was out hunting, the mage lured the pregnant Sadhbh out of their home by impersonating her husband, and transformed her into a deer before loosing her in the forest.

When Fionn returned to their home and found it empty, he immediately marshaled his knights and began to search for them, leaving no stone under-turned.

Eventually, the toddler Oisin was recovered - but his mother was never seen again.

Bond 3: “Yes, yes. My wife is the most beautiful woman in the world. Every man says that about his wife, but in my case, it’s actually true! She’s a wonderful, wonderful woman, and her family always treated me so kindly. I simply lost track of time, that’s all. Yes, I always meant to go back and visit, but the opportunity always… Eh? I trailed off again? I’m not sure why I keep getting lost in thought. Anyway, let’s talk about something else.”

Profile 3: Fionn was never the same after Sadhbh's disappearance. Plunged into a deep mourning, it was said that his entire personality shifted, until he was nearly a shadow of his former, magnanimous self. It was Oisin who volunteered to seek a new bride for his father, perhaps desperate to see his father smile again. It was these events that eventually lead to the Pursuit, another tale that is narrated in the Fenian Cycle.

Bond 4: “Was it hard? Yes, I suppose it was. All the places that I had loved, and all the people I had loved were gone. Even my own father. Even my first son. And then, I was even stupid enough to fall off my horse. Hah. Sorry, Master, I’ll go now. No, no. It’s alright. It’s just that I would never want you to see me like that. That’s all.”

Profile 4: Like the other Knights of Fianna, Oisin lived a long life full of adventures too numerous to recount in full. He married a fairy woman and went to live in Tir na Nog, the land of eternal youth. Eventually, he decided to return to the mortal world to visit his family. His wife gifted him a magical horse, and told him that he would not be able to dismount, or the blessings of eternal youth that he had been granted would disappear.

When Oisin emerged from the Land of Youth, he discovered that 300 years had passed, and the Fianna had all but completely disappeared.

Bond 5: “I will make sure that they remember you. I’ll fight beside you until the end – and then, I’ll make sure that the world remembers you. Really, it’s the least that I can do. But let’s not talk about depressing things. For some reason, I’ve been wanting to write a love song lately. What do you think? ‘Too early…’ It’s never too early for beautiful music! [laughing] Really, you ought to enjoy life a little more, Master.”

Profile 5: DORD FIANNA - The War Cry to Defend Humanity. A war cry to strike fear in the hearts of humanity's enemies, a power that can wake sleeping kings.

This Noble Phantasm would not normally belong to Oisin. It is said, in Ireland, that their great hero Fionn is not dead, but slumbers beneath a mountain, surrounded by his loyal knights, and that the one who blows upon his hunting horn will rise him from his sleep. When he rises, he will resume his duties, to protect humanity.

But the stories of the Fianna exist in the modern age because, after emerging from Tir na Nog, Oisin wrote them all down. Using his talents for word and song, he told the tales of valor and heroism and adventure, the stories of his friends and family to anyone who would listen. After an accident caused him to fall from the horse that should have carried him back to his beloved wife, Oisin lay dying, feeling each of those 300 years seep back into him, even as he desperately tried to finish the story he was telling.

So in this form, the Dord Fianna is not a war cry, but more like a song.

Bonus Profile, Post Interlude: In one version of the story of Oisin, he encounters a certain saint while traveling around Ireland. The saint listens to the knight's tales, but even so, because Oisin is still a pagan and an immortal himself, he and the saint don't get along very well and part on bad terms. Even though Oisin claims that it wasn't like that, and even so, he never holds grudges, he still can't help but make a face whenever the saint's name comes up in conversation.

[islamicrays]

Some years ago, a sister approached me in a state of panic and in immense pain. She told me that she had got divorced and her ex-husband was blackmailing her with her private photos which he still had on his phone. He was telling her, "If you don't do such-and-such then I am going to spread these photos everywhere until I make you and your family a laughing stock in front of the whole community."

Subhan'Allah. It was at this point that I remembered a verse in Surah Baqarah where Allah spoke about marriage and divorce - and He said, "Keep them (your wives) with goodness or let them go with fairness and gentleness." The Prophet ﷺ said, "The most wicked of people in the sight of Allah on the Day of Judgement is the man who is intimate with his wife and she is intimate with him, and then he divulges her secret (vice versa)." Despite the highly sexualized and disloyal world we live in - Islam teaches us a bond that is so sacred, fortified, dignified and special that there are certain things in our married lives that no one in the world should know except the couple - even if things end in divorce.

I swear by Allah, our teachers would not allow us to say the slightest negative about our wives in front of people. One time, a student joked and said that his wife messed up the food last night and the shaykh got furious. If we are not even supposed to disclose things as small as food getting undercooked or too much salt being added then imagine the blameworthiness of talking to others about the privacy of physical relationships, sharing private photos, sharing personal sins, discussing bad habits, exposing intimacy, and telling people about the fights which take place in our homes. This goes for both genders.

Before it was about exposing people with tongues. Now it is about revenge and exposing people through photos, videos, WhatsApp, and social media. It seems the more technology advances - the more our morals decline and decay. If any teacher in Damascus ever got divorced and nosy people began to investigate, they would say, "I will not speak about a woman from the Prophet's ummah except with good. She is raised in the sight of Allah. She is precious to Rasūl'Allāh ﷺ. She is the daughter of another man, and she will be the wife of another person! What business do I have to speak bad about her?" This is Islam and this adab. Take humanity from the best of humans ﷺ and imitate him. He is our only saviour in this world filled with despicable and lowly people. May Allah protect us all and forgive us for our shortcomings.

-Shaykh Mohammed Aslam

[the-witch-and-her-husbands]

Day Twenty-Five: Web

Her wedding day.

Jilomena took a deep breath as she stared at herself in the mirror. Candlelight played softly over her features as she turned her head this way and that. Her makeup had been done to perfection. She’d used the finest beauty potions that money COULDN’T buy, having been prepared specially for her by her loving fiancé. Her golden hair was piled in becoming coils on top of her head, a few strands loose to frame her delicate face. She even knew herself that she’d never looked more beautiful, radiant even.

For today was the day. She would bind her soul to the love of her life, his for all eternity.

She wasn’t nervous, not exactly. Certainly not nervous about her choice of husband, but more of a general nervousness, wanting every detail of the day to be absolutely perfect. It was more of a mixture of emotions, so many she thought she might burst: nervousness, excitement, pride, wonder, awe, and joy. But mostly, overwhelming, unabashed happiness flowed through her, causing her to glow from within.

It was nearly time. She had no father to give her away, her father had died in a Wizard’s duel before she was born. No brothers, either. The honour would fall to one of the oldest family friends instead. One of her sisters might have done it, but customs in their circles dictated that the bride must be given away by a man.

Lucius knocked politely at the door.

She stood, pausing to check herself in the mirror one last time. This was the last time she would view herself as a single woman, after all. The next time she glimpsed herself, she would be married. Mrs Severus Snape, how well that sounded!

She adjusted the heavy black satin of her skirts. Perhaps not a conventional wedding dress for most, but it was again standard in their circles of society. The dress had a sweetheart neckline, showing off her creamy white skin, and long sleeves of black lace that came to a point on the backs of her hands. It was simple, but beautiful all the same.

She collected her bouquet of blood red roses and went to greet Lucius.

He smiled when he saw her, offering his arm. ‘You look exquisite, my dear. Severus is a very lucky man to call you his bride.’

She returned the smile, taking the arm he had offered. Her veil was still high on her head. The black netting was difficult to see through, like peering through the heavy strands of an acromantula web. It would stay away from her face until the last possible moment.

They were to be married in Prince Manor, his ancestral home, at the bottom of the grand staircase. As they neared the top, Jilomena lowered her veil. Soon enough, everything had an unreal quality. She could only catch glimpses of the assembly below, waiting for her to make her appearance.

After pausing for a moment for dramatic impact, so that everyone might look up and see her posed in all her radiance, Lucius began to carefully guide her down the stairs. She had to be cautious, relying on him totally to be her eyes as she could not see. He had her complete trust, however. He would not let her fall.

Finally, they got to the bottom of the staircase. Lucius paused to kiss her through the webbing of her veil, before giving her hand to her husband-to-be.

They stood facing each other.

‘Is everyone ready?" asked the celebrant. Everyone in the room nodded. "Right, Jilomena and Severus, you stand here in front of me.’

They moved into place, closing the space between them and joining hands.

‘Dear friends and family of Jilomena and Severus, we are gathered here today to celebrate Severus and Jilomena’s bonding and marriage ceremony. Who gives Jilomena to be wed?’

Lucius strode forward. ‘I do.’ The celebrant nodded.

‘Severus, do you take Jilomena Endora Festerworth to be your lawful wedded wife? Do you promise to be faithful to her and no other? Do you agree to share your magic and your life with her?’

‘I do,’ said Severus, almost before the celebrant had stopped speaking.

‘And now you, Jilomena. Do you take Severus Tobias Snape to be your lawful wedded husband? Do you promise to be faithful to him and no other? Do you agree to share your magic and your life with him?’

‘I do,’ said Jil, surprised at how strong her voice sounded.

‘The rings, please.’ The celebrant held out his hand and Lucius placed two plain silver bands in it.

‘Severus, you may go first.’

Severus lifted one of the rings from the celebrant's palm and placed it on Jil’s ring finger. ‘Wear this ring as a symbol of the promises we make here today. May our marriage be lasting and eternal, just like this ring.’

Jil took the other ring and placed it on Severus' finger. ‘Wear this ring as a symbol of the promises we make here today. May our marriage be lasting and eternal, just like this ring.’

‘And now for the bonding.’ The celebrant gestured for them to join their right hands together. Jil wrapped her right hand around Severus’ wrist, and he did the same to her. They then twisted so that their hands were side by side, instead of his on top as he’d originally placed it. The most sacred, the most binding, of all the Unbreakable Vows was about to be performed. It was optional to Wizarding wedding ceremonies, as most couples hesitated before making such an eternal commitment. The congregation leant forward as one, completely silent and transfixed, to actually see such an event take place before their very eyes.

The celebrant withdrew his wand and stepped forward. A thin string of golden light, as thin as a gossamer web, emerged from the tip of his wand and began to entwine around their joined hands. He touched the tip of his wand to their wrists.

The celebrant’s voice changed, seemingly becoming deeper. “Will you vow to bind yourself to this woman, before all others and for all time?’

‘I will.’ Severus’ eyes glittered. The golden band of the spell twisted sinuously around their bound wrists and hands, more snake than ribbon tying them together, glittering as it performed its magic.

‘Will you vow to bind yourself to this man, before all others and for all time?’

‘I will.’ Her voice was barely a whisper. She couldn’t seem to take her eyes off of her beloved. Her husband. Her soulmate. Always.

The spell glowed bright gold, almost blinding in its intensity, before seeming to sink into their skin and dissipate. They reluctantly loosed their hold on one another, Severus the last to draw his hand away from hers.

The celebrant smiled and nodded at both of them, putting his wand away. ‘Jilomena and Severus have been married, and bonded, according to our laws and customs. What magic has joined no man may put asunder. You may now kiss the bride.’

Severus reached shaking hands to lift the veil from her face. She felt as if she could breathe for the first time, as if she had been waiting for eternity for this man to come and find her, brush the webs away from her face so that she may live. Everything seemed to have a shining intensity that wasn’t there before. Colours seemed brighter, sounds sharper. The touch of his hands on her skin was so intense, it felt like it were burning her. Her only thought was for him taking her then and there on the carpet. Everyone else be damned.

For this was the magic of the bonding of their souls. It would settle down once they had consummated the bond.

He brought his face to hers, kissing her chastely and yet with a passionate intensity of which she’d never felt the like. It seemed to last forever and a moment, and yet not nearly long enough. He had a lifetime to kiss her, after all.

The celebrant turned to the congregation. ‘I give you Jilomena and Severus!"

‘Jilomena and Severus!’ The room erupted into cheers and soon their hands were being shaken and hugs given as congratulations were offered to the happy couple.

And then it was time for their wedding breakfast. The house elves had been working for days to prepare the feast, the highlight of which was the ten-tier wedding cake. He placed his hand over hers on the knife as the cut it together, feeding each other the first slice as was tradition.

Of course, she couldn’t resist smearing the tiniest bit of icing on his nose. He smirked, raising an eyebrow at her daring, as he countered by smearing a bit on her cheek which he quickly licked away. Waste not, want not, he whispered in her ear. She could hear the sound it made as he smacked his lips together, savouring the taste. ‘Delicious.’ It made her shiver.

Then it was time for their first waltz. He confidently led her to the centre of the floor, wrapping an arm around her waist to pull her close. He held her hand gently in his, guiding her in graceful circles as the music began.

Everyone else seemed to disappear. The only things in that moment that existed were her, him, the music, and the candlelight that cast its golden glow over them as they moved together. Their eyes were locked together, the moment so intense that she wanted to look away, close her eyes, but she was compelled to keep staring up at him as they peered into the depths of one another’s souls.

All too soon, the dance was over. He pressed a quick kiss to her lips, a promise that there was much more to come.

The champagne flowed, and the room was abuzz with laughter and conversation. Everyone agreed that it was the best wedding that they had attended that year, if not that decade.

Finally, the last crumb of cake had been eaten, and the guests had departed. The newlyweds were alone at last, as the clock struck midnight.

‘Shall we go for a walk, my dear?’ Severus smiled as he offered his arm to his new bride

[astranne]

Crossover Idea Percy Jackson/Vikings

This is just another excuse, to make a female Percy Jackson and ship her with a character I like.

So, we start with the era of the gods, the greek ones. After the romans take over the known world, the greek gods grow weaker and when the christians come, they slowly ‘die’. They use their power for the last time and create Themyscira, the island of the amazons. All the female demigods come back to life and become amazons, Queen Hippotyta gives birth to triplets, the oldest is named Rhea and is the last daughter of Poseidon, the second born bears the name Persephone and is the daughter of Hades. The youngest is Diana and a daughter of Zeus. With their birth, the greek gods finally rest, their essences are being held in the temples, well, after they all bless the daughters of the big three. (They all have black hair, but different eye colours and the face of their mother)

So, times flows slower on Themyscira, the three grow up, the amazons life in peace and yeah. Each daughter has been gifted with a special armor (like Wonder Woman, but Rhea’s armor is blue/silver and Persephone is black and gold) each sister has a lasso of truth, a sacred sword, shield and the weapons of their fathers. Rhea has Poseidons trident, Persephone Hades’ helmet and Diana the spear of Zeus. They learn to control their powers, Rhea becomes a great leader, Persephone a gifted seer and Diana is one of the best healers. One day, all three sisters dream of three men. They hail to different gods, powerful as once the greek ones were. Ragnar, the son of Odin, Floki, the son of Loki and Rollo, the son of the eldest Berserker. The three of them, together with Rhea, Persephone and Diana will show the world the true wrath of the gods. They don’t tell their mother, but when the dreams become more frequent, they do.

Anyway. The finally tell Hippotyta, who just sighs. She knew, that her daughters would do great things one day, but she hoped, she had still some time. But she has hope. In new world, the humans don’t belive the storys of their gods. The don’t have the knowledge and power to hurt her daughters. 

So, the three sisters take their weapons, armors and a ship and sail north.

Now we come to Ragnar, Rollo and Floki. Like in the serie, Ragnar marries Lagartha and has two children, until he begins to dream about a beautiful, godlike warrior and her two sisters. She’s the daughter of Poseidon, of a sea god, who died, because of the lack of faith. He becomes thoughful and slowly rejects Lagertha, who’s pissed as fuck. When he tells her about her dreams, she takes her daughter and leaves Kattegat, because her husband dreams about a woman, who he never met and says she’s the daughter of a god and a princess? yeah- no. She sails away and then comes to Wessex.

Rollo dreams about a fiercy healer, the daughter of a god of the sky and a princess. He knows, she’s important, like her sisters and stops fucking other womans. He also has dreams about a man, a great warrior, who he later realizes was his father. 

Floki first hated the idea of other gods, but when this mysterious woman became a big part of his dreams, the daughter of a god of death and the underworld, he thought about it. He tells Ragnar first, who also admits of such dreams. This becomes their greatest secret, until one day Rollo hears them. He then tells about it too and the three realize, the gods have great plans for them. And some years later, three sisters come to Kattegat.

Since the amazon are blessed by the gods, they can understand any language, also the ones of the animals and are connected with the nature. And since the three are children of the most powerful greek gods, they have even more power. Earl Haraldson tries to take them as his mistresses, but they fight against him and win. 

“I am Princess Rhea, daughter of Queen Hippotyta, ruler of the amazons and the great King Poseidon, the earthshaker. If you lay another finger at me or my sisters, I will kill you.” The whole village is there, when the fight starts.

“My name is Persephone, secondborn Princess of Themyscira, daughter of Queen Hippotyta and King Hades, the one who brings death and controls it.”

“I am Diana, Princess of the sky and the amazons, the daughter of the mighty Hippotyta and the powerful Zeus, the King of the sky. I know, that we are not like you, but we are warriors, blessed by the gods. Not by yours, but still blessed.” When Ragnar, Rollo and Floki finally arrive, Earl Haraldson is shouting something about their death, but is stopped by them and the seer.

“Don’t touch them, Earl. They are children of three brothers, three gods and descendants of War himself. Their gods died long ago, to make place for ours, but they are still daughters of... the most powerful ones. Poseidon, the sea, Hades, the death and underworld and Zeus, the sky.” 

“Their mother... is a Queen, a daughter of Ares, the god of war and rules the amazons, similar to our valkyries. Kill them and you will be punished, be our gods and theirs... but I am sure, they would kill you first.”

“The gods have great plans for you, daughters of gods. Great ones...” Never has the seer spoken so clearly about something, so Earl Haraldson let’s them ‘life’. 

The three vikings and the three sisters meet each other at the feast. The men are totally smitten, just like many others, but the three make it clear, in who they are interested. 

Now it goes pretty much like the series, Ragnar sails to England, while Rhea stays at Kattegat and looks after his son. At first, Björn has been wary, but realized, that his father and this amazon fit better together then his mother and his father. The two of them always fighted and Rhea brought peace in the house. She’s still passionate and as strong as the storm, but mostly calm. 

Rollo and Diana immediatly hit off, so she goes with him to England. While Floki is accompanied by Persephone. The two of them bond over their wisedom, wits and the love and faith for the gods. So, the whole shit with Earl Haraldson happens, but Ragnar is healed by Rhea. After Ragnar becomes Earl, she sends words to her mother, some weeks after the first amazons arrive. The whole series speeds up, Ragnar becomes much faster King, while Rhea is the crown princess to the amazons. 

Rollo becomes known as the Berserker and Diana as the storm woman, Floki becomes the name; the spawn of chaos (he loves the name) and Persephone the woman who controls death or Hela. Ragnar is just refered as the son of Odin and Rhea as the stormbringer. 

So, a year later, Ragnar sails as the King of the vikings together with his Queen to England, Wessex. Her aunt, Antiope will look after Kattegat, just like the other amazons. And Rhea is pregnant the first time. Ragnar meets for the first time King Egbert and is rather surprised to find Lagertha by his side, as his Queen. His own daughter stares at him with pure hate, just like his former wife at Rhea. 

“Ahhh... Ragnar, it’s nice to finally meet you.” 

“It’s King Ragnar”, says a amazon automatically. Lagertha frowns, while Egberts smiles flatters. 

“And who is this beautiful woman by your side?” 

“My wife, Rhea, the stormbringer, Queen of the northmen and the crownprincess of Themyscira. Daughter of Queen Hippotyta and King Poseidon, the earthshaker.” Rhea nods with her head. King Egbert invites them to a bath in his bathhouse. He and Lagertha watch with careful eyes, how Ragnar starts to undress himself and steps in the water. Rhea let’s her coat falling on the ground, showing herself in her armor. She takes her headpice out of her hair and slowly removes piece for piece of her armor. Lagertha is full of envy, when she sees her naked and besides Ragnar, who pulls her onto his lap. 

“A christian lives in a roman house... how interesting.” Egbert is surprised, she could speak his language and knows, that this is roman. 

“How do you know, my Lady?”

“My parents are from ancient greece and I am well educated.”

So, Egbert and Ragnar talk about their lives as kings and such, much like in the series. Lagertha glares daggers at the new wife of Ragnar, she should be Queen of the vikings, not this bitch. She regets sailing away, maybe she could’ve talked some sense into Ragnar. But he dreamed about her, about this daughter of a sea god... and she is mere mortal.

Rhea smirks at Lagertha while playing with Ragnars long hair. When Egbert looks away, she controls the water and makes a dagger. Lagerthas eyes widden, Rheas grin becomes bigger. 

So, Ragnar goes on raid, doesn’t let Rhea come with him bc she’s pregnant. Some timeskip. She births twins, names them Romulus and Remus, becomes pregnant again. Names this son Ivar. 

Anyway. Ragnar is happy, Rhea too, basically everyone. She gives births two other sons, Ares and Thorund and a daughter, Odina.

so yeah... 

If you want to write a story about this, please tag me, so I can read and reblog it! 

Masterlist

[ladyandknight]

Also a husband should submit to his wife:

Pope St. John Paul II - Mulieris Dignitatem

(...) “Of fundamental importance here are the words of the Letter to the Ephesians: "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that he might present the Church to himself in splendour, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. Even so husbands should love their wives..." (5:25-32 ) (...)

Corresponding to the truth of this institution is the exhortation: “Husbands, love your wives”, love them because of that special and unique bond whereby in marriage a man and a woman become “one flesh” (Gen 2:24; Eph 5:31). In this love there is a fundamental affirmation of the woman as a person. This affirmation makes it possible for the female personality to develop fully and be enriched. This is precisely the way Christ acts as the bridegroom of the Church; he desires that she be “in splendour, without spot or wrinkle” (Eph 5:27). One can say that this fully captures the whole “style” of Christ in dealing with women. Husbands should make their own the elements of this style in regard to their wives; analogously, all men should do the same in regard to women in every situation. In this way both men and women bring about “the sincere gift of self”.

The author of the Letter to the Ephesians sees no contradiction between an exhortation formulated in this way and the words: “Wives, be subject to your husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife” (5:22-23). The author knows that this way of speaking, so profoundly rooted in the customs and religious tradition of the time, is to be understood and carried out in a new way: as a “mutual subjection out of reverence for Christ” (cf. Eph 5:21). This is especially true because the husband is called the “head” of the wife as Christ is the head of the Church; he is so in order to give “himself up for her” (Eph 5:25), and giving himself up for her means giving up even his own life. However, whereas in the relationship between Christ and the Church the subjection is only on the part of the Church, in the relationship between husband and wife the “subjection” is not one-sided but mutual.

In relation to the “old” this is evidently something “new”: it is an innovation of the Gospel. We find various passages in which the apostolic writings express this innovation, even though they also communicate what is “old”: what is rooted in the religious tradition of Israel, in its way of understanding and explaining the sacred texts, as for example the second chapter of the Book of Genesis.49

The apostolic letters are addressed to people living in an environment marked by that same traditional way of thinking and acting. The “innovation” of Christ is a fact: it constitutes the unambiguous content of the evangelical message and is the result of the Redemption. However, the awareness that in marriage there is mutual “subjection of the spouses out of reverence for Christ”, and not just that of the wife to the husband, must gradually establish itself in hearts, consciences, behaviour and customs. This is a call which from that time onwards, does not cease to challenge succeeding generations; it is a call which people have to accept ever anew. Saint Paul not only wrote: “In Christ Jesus… there is no more man or woman”, but also wrote: “There is no more slave or freeman”. Yet how many generations were needed for such a principle to be realized in the history of humanity through the abolition of slavery! And what is one to say of the many forms of slavery to which individuals and peoples are subjected, which have not yet disappeared from history?

But the challenge presented by the “ethos” of the Redemption is clear and definitive. All the reasons in favour of the “subjection” of woman to man in marriage must be understood in the sense of a “mutual subjection” of both “out of reverence for Christ.””(...)

- Pope John Paul II

[galadrieljones]

The Lily Farm - Chapter 36 & 37

AO3 | Masterpost

Rating: M (Mature) - sexual content, violence, and adult themes

Summary: To help her process Sean’s death, Mary Beth asks Arthur to take her on a hunting trip, somewhere far away. He agrees, and on their journey to the north, they find quietude and take comfort in their easy bond. They’ve been friends for a while now, but life, like the wilderness, is full of uncertainty and complications, and as they embark on their desperate search for meaning together, they endure many trials, some small, some big—all of which bring them closer to one another, and to their future.

***Acknowledgments for this chapter:

Texas Ranger Woodrow F. Call is borrowed from the Lonesome Dove series by Larry McMurtry; Texas Ranger LaBoeuf is borrowed from the novel True Grit by Charles Portis. I also won't lie when I say that their characterizations are informed by the actors who play them: Tommy Lee Jones as Call in the 1989 Lonesome Dove miniseries, and Matt Damon as LaBoeuf in the 2010 adaptation of True Grit.

Some exchanges in this chapter have been adapted directly from lines in the Red Dead Redemption 2 story mission "American Fathers I."

-gala

Chapter 36 and 37: Stand By Your Man (Pt. I and II)

“So. Texas Rangers, huh?” said Arthur.

It was noon in the high saloon of St. Denis. Arthur, Mary Beth, and Hosea were seated at a round table near the window with two Texas Rangers by the names of Call and LaBoeuf. Hosea had called them in that day to reap their help with the riverboat job, as he was collecting on a favor owed to him from years before. Arthur was smoking compulsively while Mary Beth leaned with her chin in her hands, bored by what she assumed would soon become a show of dueling masculinities. Call and LaBoeuf were both upright characters who took themselves very seriously but in different ways. Call was older and obviously much more distinguished. He had many lines in his worn-out features and a heavy but well-maintained salt-and-pepper beard. LaBoeuf was thirty or so. He chewed on a piece of cocaine gum with a great deal of enthusiasm and carried maybe a little too much weight around his middle section. They both spoke with tough Texas accents that were thick and recognizable but far different from the molasses drawls of Lemoyne.

"Texas Rangers," said LaBoeuf. "That's right."

“You lot still set on shining up your badges as priority one?” Arthur went on. “Or you catch anything worth hangin lately.”

“Forgive him,” said Hosea, straightening his neckerchief, sitting behind a blueprint of the riverboat he had skimmed off the captain's wife some days before. “He’s never had a badge to shine.”

“Not true,” said Arthur.

“We are currently hot on the trail of a man who killed a senator back in Dallas,” said LaBoeuf, unmoved, chomping. “Been on his trail since he left another man dead in Arkansas, husband, and father of one.”

“Killed the poor bastard right in front of his teenage daughter,” said Call.

“Jesus,” said Arthur.

“That’s awful,” said Mary Beth.

“Awful indeed, ma’am,” said LaBoeuf. “We got a tip, says he’s been shacking up here with a gang known as the Lemoyne Raiders. You know of these reprobates?” He said Lemoyne like Lee-moyne.

Arthur smoked his cigarette to the nubbin and stamped it out in the crystal ash tray in the center of the table. “Bunch of old-fashioned hillbilly racists, used to outfit in our camp. I know them all too well.”

“They killed Sarah,” said Mary Beth.

“Who is Sarah?” said Call. He was enchanted by Mary Beth and glanced at her often.

“My goddam prized Foxtrotter,” said Arthur. He reached into his pocket for the tobacco tin. “I don’t like losing animals, Mr. Call, and I got a bone to pick. Even more so than usual.”

“Well, we could certainly use your help, if you’re offering, Mr. Morgan.”

“Oh, I’m offering.”

Mary Beth leaned into him then, whispered into his ear. “You’re hunting Raiders now? What happened to living honest.”

"Gee," he said. He lit his cigarette, smirked at her as he shook out the match. “I don't know, Mrs. Kilgore.”

She elbowed him playfully and resumed her posture at the table. LaBoeuf cleared his throat.

"You got a cough there?" said Arthur.

“No, sir," he said. "Mrs. Morgan, I just overheard your concern."

"Which one."

"I would just like to remind you that bounty-hunting is legal work.”

She glared at him. “It ain’t the legality I’m worried about, Mr. LaBoeuf. Obviously."

"Then what's the worry."

“In my experience, legality don’t mean safe," she continued. "If you drag my husband out on one of your legal missions hunting murderers for the state of Texas, then he’d better not come back shot. That’s all I’m saying.”

Arthur grinned to himself, feeling hot in his cheeks and around the rim of his shirt. LaBoeuf studied her, popped another piece of gum. He had a ripe scar across the bridge of his nose and a superiority complex. “Well then.”

Hosea interjected. “She’s got spunk, our Mary Beth," he said. "Real tenacity. It’s why she needs bodyguards on the job.”

“Of course,” said Call, his voice stern and deep. “And we are happy to provide whatever assistance we can in the way of intimidation, Mr. Matthews, per the terms of our reciprocal agreement. We’d also be willing to enter into new and future negotiations if Mr. Morgan here is willing to assist us on that bounty.”

“The way you law men still rely so recklessly upon the lawless for your enterprise, even as you drive us from the open range and straight to the gallows will never cease to astound me, Mr. Call,” said Arthur. “Nevertheless, I am in.”

“Good,” said Call. He leaned back in his chair with one leg crossed over the other. His coffee sat, untouched and getting cold. He had a canny look about him as he lit a cigarette. “For the record, Mr. Morgan, we ain't Pinkerton Detectives," he said. "We may be law, but we know how the world works. You boys have helped us out of all manner of scrapes, from Arizona to the Dakotas. Mutual respect is in our best interest, and we’d just as soon keep it that way.”

“I admire your nostalgia,” said Arthur, gazing at him. “You keep me and my wife safe on that riverboat, and you and me, we’ll have an understanding. You got my word on that.”

They shook hands.

“Very good,” said Hosea.

"I would appreciate it now," said LaBoeuf, "if we could go over the specifics."

"Of course," said Hosea. He wiped his face with a pale handkerchief and then put it in his pocket. "It's rather simple, really. As a private security detail, you'll have two main objectives at the poker game."

"Go on."

"The first objective is to offer your authority on the manner of Mary Beth's alias. The second is protective in capacity. Mary Beth is playing a rather complex role, and she needs credibility, so as agents of the law in Texas, you can offer that to her. Anyone asks, her father is Larry 'Blue' Johnson, ex-outlaw turned oil man back in Galveston. Old Blue is a real person, or he was anyway, before we put him in the ground back in '91, but the State Government still believes he may be alive. I've had documents forged in his name, deeds of ownership for two fictional oil fields, one in Galveston, and one in Dallas. Those deeds have already been filed with the county assessor, thanks to a couple old buddies I got back in the Dallas City Hall. Those are just secondary insurance, mind you. They exist only as our benefactor at this party, Mr. Angelo Bronte, is a blowhard, but he's got deep pockets, and if he looks into Marie Kilgore's history, this is what he'll find. You two are our frontline defense and pony show. You're bodyguards, contracted by Marie Kilgore's father. Just follow Mary Beth around and stay quiet, looking tough and Texan, badges and sidearms visible. Your presence will be cleared ahead of time, through the riverboat's proprietor and host of the evenings' affairs. He's some local aristocrat or other, young as all hell, entirely harmless, a contact through our associate Josiah Trelawny. What's important is that you are Texas Rangers. Act like Texas Rangers, and everything should go smoothly."

"Sounds easy enough," said Call. "We'll study the blueprint this week and draw up an escape plan in the unlikely event that the night go south."

"Thank you," said Arthur.

"What about Mr. Morgan here," said LaBoeuf. "What's the story on his alias?"

Hosea rolled up the riverboat blueprint into a tight scroll, secured it with a piece of twine, and handed it to Call. "The beauty of Tacitus Kilgore is that he is a known outlaw, reforming as a married man, exactly like Arthur. There's nothing you need to do but keep an eye on him from afar. He'll be cheating cards while performing only minimal sleight of hand. He'll make his winnings believable, but should anybody desire to rustle him up and search his sleeves, you'll let them, and he'll submit. The goal is to make money, and nothing more. Nobody needs to get hurt, but there's gonna be a lot of chips on the table, and so tempers will fly. The priority is Mary Beth's safety. If it comes to throwing hands, exercise your authority, but for the most part, Arthur can handle himself. He gets into a scrape he can't get out of, that probably means the job has gone south, and it's time to relocate."

LaBoeuf nodded. Call studied the scroll as if it were a sacred artifact. Arthur took a deck of cards from his pocket. He had purchased them earlier from the bartender and was now shuffling them with precision. He watched Call through a haze of smoke. "There's one more thing," he said.

Call looked up. "Which is?"

"Angelo Bronte. Hosea mentioned him before. I am concerned that he has an unnatural affection for Mary Beth. We're gonna keep an extra special watch on him throughout the duration of the festivities. Is that clear?"

"Crystal," said Call.

"Bronte?” said LaBoeuf. He had produced a hunting knife from his belt with an ornate handle, took to studying its tip. “What is that, Spanish?”

“I-talian,” said Arthur, unthinking. Then he gave LaBoeuf a kind of strange look. “Spanish? Ain’t you from Texas?”

“Yes, sir.”

Arthur sighed.

"And this will square us away, financially speaking,” said Hosea. “For that time in Denver, the bounty on the train tracks. We let you have the full cake on that, and now you’ll do us the same.”

“Your terms are understood,” said Call.

“Is there anything else?” said Hosea. "Arthur? Mary Beth?"

“If we’re in agreement, then I’m good to go.” He looked at Mary Beth, softened, and took her by the hand. “You good?”

She smiled and kissed him on the nose. “I'm good.”

LaBoeuf smiled then, leaning in and still chomping on that cocaine gum like an addict. “Well ain’t you two cute,” he said, pointing with the knife. “How long you been married?”

Arthur glared at him, but Mary Beth was easy to talk about her romance. “Just a week,” she said, looking at Arthur. “But we known each other a lot longer than that.”

“Well, congratulations,” said LaBoeuf.

“Thank you.”

“You got wives?” said Arthur, pocketing the cards, sipping his coffee.

“No, sir,” said Call.

“Neither one of you?”

“Call here’s got a boy,” said LaBoeuf, casually brandishing the knife in a nonthreatening manner. “Well, more like a teenager at this point. But his momma ain’t no more. Went by the wayside years ago.”

“Thank you,” said Call. He was observing the depths of his untouched coffee. He had his hands folded, gentlemanly, in his lap. “I believe we’re finished here. LaBoeuf and I will be staying at the Parlor House in Rhodes for the purposes of future correspondence.”

“Wonderful," said Hosea, rapping on the table once. "We’ll be in touch soon, gentlemen. The game has been scheduled for one week from Friday.”

“Adios,” said LaBoeuf, saluting the knife as a psychopath.

Arthur, Mary Beth, and Hosea left the bar.

“That man is a veritable moron,” said Arthur. They turned the corner, stopped at the horses. “I ain't one to judge, but goddam.”

“Which man?”

“LaBoeuf."

"Well, I’m not sure about his specific credentials," said Hosea, "but he’s partnered up with Woodrow Call on this one, and Call and I go way back. He’s a good Ranger, an ex-rustler if I remember straight, knows every corner of this god forsaken country and the people in it. LaBoeuf may not be the most cultured among us, but if Call trusts him, then I do, too.”

“Fine,” said Arthur.

“Do you know what happened to his wife?” said Mary Beth.

“I don't believe they were ever married,” said Hosea. “But it was Typhoid that got her. Or, at least I think it was Typhoid. Five or six years ago.”

“Just like my momma,” said Mary Beth.

“Yes, well, sweetheart, a lot of good people have gone that way, I’m afraid.”

“It’s sad,” she said, placing her hand over her abdomen, briefly, like it comforted her.

“I think we’re gonna stay, Hosea,” said Arthur, patting Diana behind the ears—he’d had to take her out in Sarah’s wake. “Kick around the city a little bit. Take in a show, spend the night.”

“You gonna look at the stable for a new mare?”

“Perhaps,” said Arthur. “I ain’t decided yet.”

“Maybe you’ll go back into the wild, break your own.”

“Maybe,” said Arthur, a little blue at the thought of it.

“We'll see you back at camp then.” Hosea mounted up, then glanced down at the two of them as he settled in his saddle. A horse and buggy went by in the background. The streets were starting to bustle with the day. It was warm and muggy, and there as a street fair somewhere. There were children walking around, holding pinwheels, and you could smell the corn-on-the-cob, grilling. “Thank you both,” Hosea continued, his hands on the reins, “for entertaining those men. It’ll be a good score. Of course, it’s still like we said. If, at any time, you get a bad feeling, and you wanna call it off, just say so.”

“Thanks, Hosea,” said Arthur.

Mary Beth smiled, leaning on Watson dreamily, and petting her pretty black mane. “Yes, thank you.”

They exchanged goodbyes, and then Hosea was off, trotting through the city streets, tipping his hat so diplomatically to strangers.

Arthur felt Mary Beth then, her hand on his back. “You okay?” she said, seeming to sense his restlessness.

“Yeah, I’m okay,” he said. He smiled and put his arm around her. He placed a toothpick between his teeth and sighed. “Just a little sad is all. About the old girl.”

“I know,” she said. She put her head on his shoulder.

They took a walk up to the park. On their way, they stumbled upon the street fair, which was along one of the main drags, at the center of the city. There were flags and colorful bunting everywhere, and lots of pinwheels and bubbles, making the world feel pretty and alive. They’d never really been to a street fair like this before. There was a man making balloon animals on the corner, beside a stop sign, surrounded by children. It was something neither Arthur nor Mary Beth had seen in a long time, so they stopped to watch for a little while as the children laughed and clamored for his attention, and then Arthur bought Mary Beth a tulip from a vender in a straw hat, and she blushed.

They bought hot dogs for lunch and a loaf of stale bread and they walked to the park to sit on a bench and feed the ducks. Then, they walked some more. Arthur took out his deck of cards. He showed Mary Beth a couple tricks he’d learned off Trelawny in years past and a couple more he had invented himself. She was captivated and as she sat admiring his gumption in the summertime sun and how it made his hair gold, she thought about how thankful she was to have found a man so good and so true to her, and how for a long time, she had never thought it possible, living the way she did.

“Hey,” she said then, noticing something. She was watching through the crowd in the park and she thought she saw a man she recognized. “Hey, baby. You see that country-lookin guy over there? With them Native men?”

Arthur squinted after her, seeing what she saw. “Yeah, I do.”

“It’s Evelyn Miller,” she said, holding her tulip. “That’s him ain’t it?”

“It is indeed.”

“What’s he doing there? And are those the same men from the party?”

“That there’s a government building,” said Arthur. “But I ain’t sure.”

“Let’s go say hi.”

Arthur thought on it, grinding the toothpick between his teeth and then spat it to the grass. He had a funny feeling. “I don’t know.”

“Why not?”

He sighed. “Could be they’re busy.”

“They don’t look busy. Come on, Arthur. He’s a famous writer. I wonder if he’d remember us.”

So they walked over, arm in arm. When they got close, Arthur puffed up a little bit and assumed his more proper and upright posture. “Excuse me, Mr. Miller?” he said.

“Yes,” said Evelyn Miller. He turned toward them both in his stately manner. He was a man of the southern tradition and seemed to recognize them at once. “Ah, haven’t I met you two?”

“Yes, you have,” said Arthur. He held out his hand. They shook. “I’m Arthur Morgan. This is my wife, Mary Beth. You may actually remember us as the Kilgores, but that’s a bad alias.”

Miller had kind eyes. He smiled in recognition. “The Kilgores,” he said. “Why, of course. That ghastly party. You escorted a drunken fool from the premises if I remember correctly.”

“That, I did,” said Arthur. "Escorting drunken fools is one of my finer specialties."

Miller laughed. He addressed Mary Beth in a gentlemanly fashion. “Mrs. Kilgore. You are as lovely as I remember.”

“Why thank you, Mr. Miller,” said Mary Beth. She made a curtsy. “But you can just call me Mary Beth. Or Mrs. Morgan, if you’d prefer.”

“Noted,” said Miller. “This is quite the coincidence. Oddly enough, I was just speaking with the mayor about you two the other day.”

“The mayor?” said Arthur.

“That’s right,” said Miller. “I don’t mean to be awkward, but I just—I wonder if I might say something rude about it.”

“Go right on ahead,” said Arthur.

“The mayor, well. He thinks you stole from him.”

The Chief and who Arthur assumed to be his son stood nearby in silence, but they did not seem disinterested. Arthur gave Miller a kind of careful look. He didn’t like the notion of having entered into the casual conversations of polite circles. “Stole from him, huh?”

“To be clear,” Miller went on, “he wasn’t very upset about it. He rather liked the two of you.”

“I see.”

“Do you…well, that is to say…” He removed his hat. He shuffled in his shoes nervously.

“You got ants in your pants, Mr. Miller?” said Arthur.

“No,” said Miller, blushing. “No. I just wondered—is that something you can do? Steal things?”

“Excuse me?”

“I apologize,” said Miller. “I just. Well.” He looked at Mary Beth, seemingly conflicted. “I did not mean to imply—”

“Imply what?” she said, feigning that demure sensibility of hers. “That we’d rob a politician at his own party? That’s some highfalutin accusation, even for us.”

This confused him. He shook out his head a little and then looked at Arthur. “I thought she was an oil heiress from Texas.”

Arthur chuckled. “Well, that is the story. In any case I must ask if there is a reason you are asking me to incriminate myself, Mr. Miller. We didn’t come over here to enter into the wrath of the law. We just wanted to say hello.”

“No, no. Well. Not formally at least.” He turned to the chief and his son then, ushering them into the conversation as if he had been remiss. “Have you met? This is Rains Fall, a great chief, and his son, Eagle Flies.”

Arthur and Mary Beth both nodded, said hello. Eagle Flies must have been about twenty-two or twenty-three. A little younger than John. He had some kind of anger in his eyes, but it was not menacing. It was disassociated from man or object and seemed to turn outwardly upon the world as one single, existential atrocity. "How do you do," said Arthur.

“We have not met officially,” said Rains Fall. He wore a dark hat and jacket, as if to hide himself. “We saw you many months ago, however, on the wagon train, crossing the river at Cumberland Falls. Do you remember?”

“I do,” said Arthur.

“Mrs. Morgan, I remember you fondly from the party. Though we did not speak, many spoke well of you.”

Mary Beth smiled politely, seeming surprised. “I didn’t realize I’d made such a splash,” she said.

“Well, I remember.”

“Those are some mighty powers of observation,” said Arthur.

Rains Fall glanced away, heavily beneath the brim of his hat. He had much to say. “Indeed. My people, if we even are a people anymore, were once lead by our powers of observation. We have fought hard, and we have lost a great deal, Mr. Morgan. In the wake of our defeat, we have been repeatedly punished and removed from our land. Now, I am told that we are to be moved again. That is why we are here."

"I thought there was treaties for all that."

"There are treaties," said Rains Fall. "We've made peace treaties. Many, in fact. But those treaties are being been broken."

“In their most recent effort to uproot his tribe, the State Government is clearly contravening one of these peace treaties, proposed and signed only three years ago,” said Miller. "Don't you see?"

Eagle Flies stood by sadly, in deference to his father, seeming unwilling to look Arthur in the eye. Arthur glanced at Miller and felt Mary Beth renew her grip on his arm as if to signal that she was feeling things deeply and that the trajectory of the conversation were about to change.

"What are we getting at here," said Arthur.

“This will lead to war,” said Eagle Flies. He lifted his chin amidst the proposal. His father quelled him with wise words that seemed removed from the situation, high above, but Arthur could see the sort of hot indifference inside Eagle Flies and how he dismissed it. In his heart Arthur agreed with such anger, but he sensed now, too, as if he were tossing adrift in an endless ocean of responsibilities and getting too far from shore to turn back.

“It’s a bad business,” he said to them all, in an effort to end the conversation. “I’m mighty sorry.”

Even still, Miller pressed on. “It’s to do with oil,” he said. “I know it, but I need the proof.”

“What kind of proof?” said Mary Beth.

Arthur cleared his throat, went ignored.

“I believe there were some prospectors who were up on their land a few months ago who have filed reports with Leviticus Cornwall and the State Government, claiming huge reserves of oil under their land.”

“You can do that?” said Mary Beth. “Claim something that’s underneath something else? Ain’t the land just the land?”

“You would think so,” said Eagle Flies.

“Anyway,” said Miller. “If we could just get our hands on those reports. That would be the proof we need.”

There was a dull silence then, filled only by the sounds of the surrounding street fair and all of its ignorant bliss. Arthur was staring at Miller. It all came together and he was promptly put upon. “You want me to try and steal it,” he said.

Miller stared at him, a little slack-jawed. “Well, obviously they can’t, and even more obviously, I would be useless. Listen, I realize this is both a seemingly random and ridiculous request, but Mr. Morgan, we are desperate.”

Arthur was scratching at the back of his head then when he took a step back, as if to leave. Mary Beth watched him closely, still held onto him, waiting to see what he would do. “I ain’t no activist, Mr. Miller,” he said. “I’m real sorry for your predicament, but my wife and I, we’re working folk. We got problems and…a cause of our own. I hope you can understand.”

“We will pay you very handsomely, Mr. Morgan,” said Rains Fall, head on.

"That’s okay,” said Arthur.

But Mary Beth tugged him back. "Arthur," she whispered. "Wait."

This seemed to bring him frustration. “Mary Beth,” he said, lowering his voice. He turned his back to the men for a moment to privately address her. “I ain’t doing this. We got enough on our plate.”

"But you'll help them Rangers hunt that killer from Texas? Don’t you hear this man?” she said. “The government is stealing from him. That ain’t right.”

“I know it ain’t right. And I hear what you're saying, but it ain't the same. Hunting Raiders for the law is easy work I can do with my eyes closed, but going up against the government? That’s a whole other can of worms, Mary Beth and it ain't in our best interest.”

She looked at him. He had a good deal of hefty concern in his eyes and was soft to her. He was talking about her and their future and she understood this time. “Okay,” she said, giving in. She let it go.

But Rains Fall was insistent. “Please, Mr. Morgan,” he said.

Arthur glanced at him over his shoulder. Even still she could tell he was feeling things. He was very conflicted. “You want me to put myself in danger for a damn cause?" he said. "How much we talking then.”

“I told you,” said Eagle Flies to Rains Fall. “They’re all mercenaries.”

“Hey,” said Mary Beth, forcefully. She took a step forward. This surprised Eagle Flies. “It ain’t like that. You don’t know him.”

But Arthur calmed her. “It’s okay, Mary Beth,” he said. He turned to her, palmed her cheeks and smoothed her hair down her neck. She had only been defending him. “It’s okay. He’s right. Not about you, but about me, he's right.” Then he looked back at Eagle Flies. He removed himself from Mary Beth and addressed him man to man. “You wanna know about me?” he said.

“What about you."

“What about this?" said Arthur. "I got a price on my head in two states, my friend. The government don’t like me anymore than it does you, and like you, I been running for as long as I can remember. The same thing goes for my wife here, hence her anger. Like you, our time in this place is coming to a fast finish, and our cause is getting out of here with our lives and the lives of our loved ones. When it comes to any and all things extracurricular to that cause, well, morality is a concept of due relativity, Eagle Flies, and we don’t bend so easy. Now, I agree with you, and I find your dilemma mighty disturbing. But I got a woman and a family, and I gotta get paid for the risks I take, particularly when it comes to stealing from the State Government. Do you understand?”

Eagle Flies said nothing. He looked back at Mary Beth, but she was looking away at the cobblestone now. Rains Fall took over. He said, “We understand, Mr. Morgan. And we will pay.”

“Thank you,” said Arthur. He looked away, looked at her. He could not believe what he was agreeing to.

“You’ll meet my son in three days up near Citadel Rock, just west of the oil fields.”

Arthur nodded. “Fine.”

“We are very grateful for your help,” said Rains Fall, with seriousness. He looked at Mary Beth as well. “We are grateful to both of you.”

Mary Beth smiled, weakly. Arthur could tell she was still upset.

“You’re welcome,” said Arthur. He took her hand as Evelyn Miller broke the conversation, bringing up something or other about the senator.

“This whole thing is a waste of time,” grumbled Eagle Flies.

Rains Fall made to comfort him with a hand on his shoulder. He said, “We must try everything, son.”

Arthur looked away. That sentiment he had heard many times before.

Arthur felt himself stretched by circumstance after that. It was an old sensation very familiar to him. Mary Beth spoke little on their return walk through the town. She suggested they visit the stable, but Arthur was not ready for that. He didn’t fancy horse shopping at the time being, and she understood. They had earlier discussed buying tickets to a show, and so they began to head in the direction of the theater. Arthur could tell she was still cooling off. The day had become serious very quickly, and he could sense her processing as they went along, and even as he knew she did not desire to be preoccupied or for it to derail the day, he was grateful to her. Despite what many would have believed he did not have many people in his life who would defend him like she had so casually that day.

When they got to the theater, Arthur paid for the tickets, and then they went inside where it was only about half-full. They sat down in a row toward the back. Mary Beth had begun to loosen up a little at her excitement for the picture show. She had only ever been to one. Arthur waited until the lights went down, and a hush fell over the meager crowd, and then he took her hands into his in seriousness.

“What’s the matter?” she said, quietly, looking at him.

“Nothing,” he said. “Nothing is the matter. I just—before the picture starts, I wanted to thank you, Mary Beth."

“Thank me? For what?”

“For defending me today," he said, folding his hands over hers, completely. "With Eagle Flies. You didn't have to, but you did. You did it with those Rangers, too. You got my back. You always have, even when we was just friends, and I don't know that I've ever really thanked you for it.”

She smiled up at him, gracious, and she took hold of his ear and kissed him. “I’m always gonna have your back, Arthur,” she said. “This ain’t no one-sided arrangement, and you know that. You're welcome."

It was life-saving. The curtain went up. They turned to see, and the movie was perhaps a most preposterous show of artistic failure. They laughed, made fun of it a little, watched with their heads together, whispering. Even still, as they called it silly, they were having fun, and they had to admit it was sort of neat.