#their little garden party. the boutique.

[natjennie]

what if I was never normal again.

[suraemoon]

Get Ready With Me

- Elvis x Reader -

Summary: It's the 1960s and Mr. and Mrs. Elvis Presley are getting ready for yet another Hollywood party.

Warnings: a paragraph talking about a girl's measurements and a scene getting into a tight dress, skin getting caught in a zipper (not graphically described), sexual innuendos and metaphors that you might blink and miss including a subtle implication that he wants to suck her tits, a sentence talking about “breaking” a woman in, and implying that she might not be the sharpest knife in the drawer. also some references to Christianity.

WC: a cute little 4.5k

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For someone like your husband, Elvis Presley, possessive and protective in every way of what was his, he did not mind showing his wife off. He loved it. A beautiful woman is a man’s best accessory, right? 

Sunset Boulevard parties where businessmen of all the major Hollywood studios would parade around a gleeful smile. Wives were dressed to the nines in expensive getups and accessorized their jewels with apparent frowns.

Diamonds were a girl's best friend. Diamonds were a girl’s pacifier to soothe from the all too quick world around her, a world not made for her or her satisfaction. A man with an arm around her cinched waist, who really could not give a damn that an hour ago she asked when they were leaving, only to be met with a shrug by the man meant to care for her needs the most. Get her a diamond to hold onto for security just in case things go south.

Elvis was different from these men in more ways than one. When the back of your kitten heels lifted slightly from the ground to reach up to your husband’s ear and ask in a hushed whisper when you were to leave and go back home, your husband made it his plan to leave as soon as you two could.

The truth is he did not want to be at those parties either but being ousted in the business meant he had to get his footing and swim along with the school of fish. Any wrong move and you are left behind, forgotten. For as much as he desired to swim the opposite way, he had too much to lose; too much and too many depending on him.

The dim lights above the hotel’s small, tiled bathroom provided a yellowish, comforting tint over the room as if a grandmother had not yet gotten the memo of the newest trend. Those bright, enhancing Hollywood-worthy style mirrors, similar in all ways to the vanity that Elvis bought you last Christmas, were in. As you were a couple who both came from humble beginnings and cracked mirrors neither you nor Elvis complained––at least you aren't in the dark. Checking how your makeup looked under the sun’s natural light cascading through the window helped ensure that your face wouldn’t parallel one of the clowns that walk the boardwalk of Coney Island the moment you step out of this personal Garden of Eden.

After being unveiled with much anticipation from the ribbon-tied gift box on the counter, the candy apple red satin dress slipped easily over your figure, ending a few inches above your knees in length. It was like a glove, except for the fact that it was loose and not yet zippered; the true fit and form waiting patiently to be physically revealed to its wearer. This layer of mystery stayed sitting and waiting.

Elvis picked out this dress for you at a local Los Angeles boutique just last week; this along with many other garments, ranging from a knit sweater for winter and an array of panties for the bedroom. All these he surprised you within gift-wrapped boxes, the box with today’s dress in it taken away before you can get your hands on it. He had to keep at least *something* exciting for today, at least one thing to look forward to, no matter how small. 

Elvis Presley bought most of his wife’s clothing and took pride in knowing all of her measurements by heart. He was sure he could rattle them off on the spot like an accomplished kid at a school spelling bee. This he wouldn’t dare do though. It was a quiet contract of trust not needing to be formally established, one of manners that his mama was sure to have raised him with and should just come with the subconscious of being a human anyway. 

He found that some men were a little too eager to talk about the personal details and inner workings of their relationships. A competition of who’s got the best broad and on some days who's got the worst nag. The one with the smallest waist. The one with the smallest brain. The one who can’t get slick or the one who’s too damn clingy she won’t get off you. 

Anyone who has the chance to get to know Mrs. Presley knows that she is a keeper. Any eye who glances at her knows she is gorgeous. Any quiet spectator who notices her behavior and body language around Mr. Presley knows that she is a very satisfied woman, and no words are needed, that’s enough.

You had no doubt in your mind, under that well-hair-sprayed do of yours, that this dress would resemble all of the other pieces that Elvis had bought many times before and fit both your figure and the latest trends seamlessly. He really was a stylist if you think about it.

You hum a melody as your hands go to zipper your dress, only to find that the zipper is both too small to get a proper grip on and stuck on its track. 

“Elvis?” You call out your voice’s first word in a while.

When hearing his name called, your eager-to-please husband quickly makes his way to the door of the bathroom. He moves suave and smooth as ever with his hands in his pockets before stopping and leaning his forearm on the doorframe taking the rectangle up, admiring the beauty you radiate reflecting to him in the mirror. What’s better than one of you? Two of you. A view from the back and the front simultaneously. He’s got a good one. He’s got the best one. The cream of the crop.

“...Elvis?” You repeat unsure if you should just get on with what you need or if he was even paying attention.

He licks his lips as his eyes go to admire your backside in front of him. “Hm? What is it, honey?”

Your left arm goes behind you, hand gently motioning to the undone zipper of your dress. Elvis hums, a breath of amusement escaping his mouth. The dress didn’t come with your pretty back on display like that? What a damn shame. “I gotcha, honey. Was just a little distracted there is all.”

“Mhm. I could tell you were distracted. Liking what you picked out?” You decide to perform a little shimmy, lips pouting in a playful, seductive manner. As you moved, your cleavage moved side to side with you, the cups of your dress not yet close enough to your body to keep them modestly contained.

He bends to kiss your soft temple. His breath and velvet-covered voice caused the words leaving his mouth to vibrate against your skin in a seductive whisper. 

“Like is an understatement, doll. It's hard to stay focused when ya got such good candy in front of ya.” 

He turns his head back forward and those sky-blue eyes of his that you love so dearly are fully visible to you in the reflection. The diamond on your ring seems to shine brighter when in the presence of his diamond eyes, while they look over you again.

 “Candy so sweet you just wanna put your lips all over it….”

His sight rests again on your teasingly half-covered chest,

“...Candy ya just wanna suck.” 

A blush, not the artificial pigment you powdered on your face earlier with a brush, but the natural light pink of your skin flushes your face. In that moment, Elvis touches your cheek, moving your head sideways for eye contact, getting a glance at the final product of your makeup while doing so. He feels the warmth spread and grins in satisfaction. The illustrious fantasies infiltrating both your and your husband's brains at that moment weren’t as pure as that pink.

He shakes his head as if being physically pulled out of his daydreams and told to remember the task at hand before fantasies turn into realities (they easily and quickly could in a matter of seconds with the two of you) and the remaining minutes are spent on something else other than getting ready. Elvis’ dress shoes then take a step back and his warm hands go to the small zipper on the back of your dress, right above your ass. 

“This is what it must be like to dress one of ‘em Barbie dolls. My perfect lil’ model, looking good in anything put her in. Later we’ll hafta take some more polaroids…some showin’ the dress, some showin’ underneath it too.” 

Elvis loved taking intimate photos of you in different outfits: some sheer lingerie, some completely nude, some without you wearing a top, some without bottoms. Mixed and matched photos were kept in a little box tucked in the drawer of his nightstand. He did it any chance he got. Well, any chance he remembered to do so before completely ravishing you because when your husband needs you, he needs you and who cares about the camera in a moment like that?

Your peaceful disposition is suddenly met with a flinch and your bright smile is interrupted by a yelp as halfway up your back the zipper catches on your skin. Elvis immediately flinches as if he had felt your pain and quickly moves to undo the zipper all the way, leaving you back where you started a few seconds ago. The only thing indicating his presence and touch on you was the small mark of red on your back. A flood of apologies immediately leaves his mouth.”O-oh Jesus, baby. I'm so sorry. I'm real sorry. I-I didn’t mean to hurt ya.”

“It's alright, Elvis. Don’t worry, I’m okay.” You reply, quick to comfort him as if he was the one who had gotten hurt.

“It’s not alright. My lil’ baby’s gotta boo-boo now.”

He crouches down and lowers his head to place a gentle kiss on the red mar that made itself home on the small of your back like a stork bite. The unexpectedness and quickness of his action causes a shiver to move like a wave crashing a peaceful coast throughout your body. But instead of a chilly shiver, it's bundled in warmth, like love sent a lightning bolt reminding you of its presence. Not that you would ever let yourself forget.

“I need to be more careful with my little dolly. If God made ya out of porcelain, I would’ve broken ya by now. Ain’t no doubt about that.”

His soft, tender pecks start to move up your back.

Your breath hitches, “Elvis…”

He whispers against your skin softly before continuing to kiss you, “Gotta make it up to hers.”

“Hers forgives him.” You close your eyes in bliss.

Oh, how much both of you wished not to attend this stupid party. Bedsheets that are beautifully tossed and messy instead of perfectly steamed suits and ties. Warm, passionate kisses instead of cold drinks and equally as cold shoulders. The love marks left on your neck from last night, since covered beneath a layer of foundation, regain their tenderness at this moment. Your body reminds you of what it wants more of, what it desires. Little do you know, so does his as the fabric of his slacks starts to get a little tighter around him.

After leaving a trail of kisses from the bottom of your back to between your shoulder blades, Elvis even more carefully than last time, if that was possible, gently brings up the small zipper all the way to the top using all his concentration to focus intently on not nipping you again. Your focus falls back on the mirror, watching as your body and the dress meet and fall in love. Everything that is supposed to hug, hugs. Everything that is supposed to hold, holds. It’s as if it was meant to be.

“There we go. Atta girl.” You’re unsure if he’s praising the zipper on your dress or you. If asked, Elvis would say both.

Then, your husband looks up to see the finished product of his work in the mirror like an artist would admire his masterpiece. His hands don’t stay off you for long as they are placed on your hips moving up and down in a massaging motion before giving your love handles a soft squeeze.

“Thank you for helping me, E.”

“No problem, honey. It’s what I’m sposed to do. Gotta have my girl looking perfect and you look more than it.”

You turn around for the first time since putting on the dress, assuring him at that moment that all that perfection and body he saw in the mirror was indeed real and not just a dream. Both of your hands cup his sculpted face and you give him a soft, tender, and very rewarding kiss. A small lipstick transfer leaves his lips just a tint pinker than they were before, unnoticeable to anyone but you: the person who made that change happen.

The last step of your personal routine awaited you and that was perfume. A bottle of Chanel Number 5 glistened on the counter as if awaiting the moment and you quickly take it into your hands. Your mind has been trained over the years to know the right spots to put perfume. You spray a little on one of the main pressure points, the inside of your wrist. Before the “getting ready” automatic machine in your brain can rub the now dripping solution into your skin, Elvis takes on the responsibility for you. Your husband swiftly takes your palm-up hand into his and rubs the liquid into your wrist in a soft, circular motion with his thumb. This process is then repeated with your right wrist. When finished, Elvis brings one of your wrists up to his nose, your skin brushing the tip, and smells it. 

he hums satisfied then picks up the bottle, examining it. “When did you get this perfume, honey? It smells really nice.”

“Elvis…you bought me that perfume.”

“Oh.”

“You’re already so sweet, I thought those rose scents came with ya.” He says with a smirk in an attempt to smoothly cover up his mistake.

“Mhm, I was born with citrus running through my veins.” 

“I’d believe it.”

You giggle and while the laugh escapes your lips, your sight falls on the usual next step of your joint getting-ready routine: your husband’s baby blue eyes and what was at this moment not highlighted around them. 

“Need help with your lashes?” You ask softly. Neither you nor he needed to ask technically; both of you knew that this came next in the assembly line of tedious little tasks and that he would say yes.

“I was just about to ask ya,” Elvis replies comfortably and not totally in truth. He knows full well that you, his wife with the beneficial trait of getting the two of you properly in line and ready to go when it came to all sorts of schedules and plans, would’ve gotten to it anyway and frankly, he isn’t in any dire rush to leave. Mascara meant one more stride towards abandoning the warm comfort of this little hotel room. 

“I gotcha.”

Elvis looks over you one more time before dragging his feet on the tile and leaving the bathroom to go sit, making himself comfortable in the dark grey upholstered lounge chair positioned at an angle in the corner of the room.

You grab the mascara tube out of your old light pink makeup bag sitting on the cold counter, now half empty due to products being placed all over the counter in a messy organization, and quickly go to where Elvis is sitting in all of his man-spreading glory. You stop in your tracks for a second to look over him. Elvis smiled, entertained by the fact that the purple tube of mascara and your cute wide eyes were the antonyms to all of the nasty stuff running through his mind while looking at the woman standing before him in all of her obliviously sexy magnificence. 

His being sat down and you standing was the only time where you were taller than him. He looks up at you through those dirty blonde lashes not yet polished, as if you were the holy grail. An angel before him. A picturesque statue needing to be worshipped and he was damn well willing to kneel before you and give you that praise.

Your hesitation was not only due to Elvis’ seductive aura but also apprehension in thinking of a way to get close enough to his face to actually apply the makeup. The bed was a good distance away and continuing to stand wouldn’t be a good angle for application. There were no other chairs around either. Getting on your knees is always a good option, one both of you enjoy in different circumstances; it's just the rug burn would be a pain…

“Sit on me, baby. Don’t act like you’ve never done it before.” 

He continues, his tone nonchalant, “My girl might still be a lil’ innocent but the angels didn’t make her clueless, did they?”

You shake your head with an embarrassed blush arising. “No, they didn’t, sir.”

“You know, by breaking ya in, I’ve put those dirty thoughts in ya head too. Just feel like you’re too scared to act on ‘em sometimes. Ain’t nobody here. Spread ya legs and sit on me. I need your services, honey…your makeup ones and all the other ones my girl gives so well.”

You giggle, cheeks never failing to flush at Elvis’ vulgarity. His subtle innuendos that would've gone over your head just a few months ago before he opened your eyes and made you his on your wedding night. You became one in three ways that day: mind, body, and soul.

Trying not to be hurt by the fact that your husband thought you were too embarrassed to sit on him for a few seconds, an unintentional attack on the state of your womanhood, you do just that.

You spread your legs to straddle him, the tight fabric of your dress trying to work against you as harsh friction on the plush of your thighs as you spread them around him. The fabric after having lost the battle, rolls up your thighs scrunched in the defeat, getting hiked up to an improper length as you adjust yourself on Elvis’ lap with a slight roll of your hips.

Both of you notice how his hips twitched, a bit like a spark, as they met yours. Energy already attracted and apparent in behavior, showed itself physically.

Your lined lips meet his for a passionate but quick kiss before pulling away teasingly. “Sorry.” You peck him again, not sorry in the least about it. “I’m getting a lil’ distracted.”

He laughs before stealing another kiss from those oh-so-tempting red lips of yours. He reflects back on grade-school bible study, this is what Adam and Eve must’ve felt when they ate that apple. “I don’t wanna go to this stupid shit.” 

He kisses you again gently as if normal habit, “Just wanna stay here with my lil wife.” 

You giggle while backing your head away further, knowing that if you keep this kissing up, it will lead to other events and you’ll never make it to this party. Your mind goes back to the memory of last month’s luncheon and how Elvis’ manager was not too pleased that the singer-turned-actor and his wife arrived an hour late to the event with hickeys and flushed cheeks.

“Cmon’ Elvis. You can have me when get back later.”

“Damn right, I will.” He responds matter-of-factly.

You lean forward, both palms pressing next to each other on his chest, and whisper into his cheek before kissing it, “Now sit still, be a good boy, and let me do your eyelashes all pretty.”

He looks at the mascara in your hand before looking back up at your eyes, his mouth slightly parted, “You’re right, lil mama. I got ahead of myself there, didn’t I?”

“You can say that.” You bite your bottom lip as your hands go to untwist the mascara tube, pulling the wand out slowly and wiping the excess product on the side of the entrance before taking it out all the way.

You hold back a giggle as you think of Elvis’ previous words coupled with the opening of this mascara…he really has corrupted your thoughts.

You gently place the tube down, careful not to make a mess and get the product on anything. Then, you adjust your straddle position as you would on the saddle of one of the horses back home to get more comfortable on your husband’s lap, holding the wand in your dominant hand as both of Elvis’ hands go to rest on the round of your ass.

His sky-blue eyes look straight into yours, holding a deliciously intimate and beautifully intense eye contact as you graze the mascara wand on his light brown lashes, careful not to poke his eye like that one mascara incident a few months ago where you were apologizing profusely. 

The sweeping of the curved bristles in an up-and-down motion mirrors the gentle rubbing of his hands on your backside; back and forth, back and forth, with the brush being a little faster than the hands. Both have important purposes and both do their jobs flawlessly.

You accompany your light strokes with soothing whispers of praises and admiration, “Such a pretty boy. My handsome man who I love so, so much. Never loved anyone more.” You hear him respond pleasantly in a warm hum.

You point your pointer finger up and your husband immediately looks up at the beige ceiling above to allow you to coat his tinier, bottom lashes as well.

“Good boy.” You whisper concentrated.

When you finish the willingly made slow process of applying the mascara to your model, his eyelashes have grown a little longer in length and their color has changed from a dirty blonde to jet black, matching his hair and the dying process he first did to it all those years ago.

“All done.” You declare quickly like a toddler finished with their meal.

His eyelashes flutter to adjust to the layer of newly coated polish before his sight rests on your face, giving you an opportunity to admire your hard work.

“Thank ya, baby. You’re the best at taking care of me, aren’t ya? Needed a woman’s touch to finish off the look.”

You twist the cap of the mascara back on and toss it onto a nearby dresser before letting yourself fall more into him. 

Your voice comes out as almost a whine as your head rests on his shoulder, “Do I gotta get up?” 

“You know I’m not gonna make ya, doll. Maybe we should both take off a few layers and then you can come sit on my lap again. We could have a lot of fun like that.” 

His hands start roaming under your skirt but cannot go far due to the tightness of the material, another, now physical, barrier keeping desires away from each other.

You begrudgingly shimmy off of him, like you feel a sense of duty to hosts that you’ve never met to make sure Elvis Presley gets to attend their event timely as promised.

Adjusting the hem of your dress back to its proper length as you get up, Elvis follows suit in getting up from the chair and straightening out his shirt. His mascara was the finishing touch to you two’s getting ready process, like cutting a red ribbon at the opening of a new building.

The air turned bittersweet, anticipation and melancholy almost selfish and uncalled for with the fact that you will have many, many more nights like these and you both know that. For you that doesn’t thin the chill of social anxiety that comes with going to events with arguably the most famous, and perhaps the most recognizable, man in the country. You’ve never talked about these restless feelings with him for it comes with the duty you love so much, being his wife.

His hands go to outline your body shape again, taking you in as he has done so many times before. He whispers to you as he has numerous times in the past. It never gets old, a love so evergreen it can never age.

“You look so pretty, mama.”

“And you look so handsome, Elvis.” You whisper back as if in the middle of exchanging beautiful, not-so-hidden secrets.

These sweet nothings between lovers are cut off by lips suddenly catching on to yours. This being the most intimate and passionate kiss so far tonight, one with enough energy and need to change the tide of your minds and blur the lines of plans already set in stone. 

Your hands immediately go up to cup his face, the kiss not yet broken for the desire to have each other is too strong to pull it apart, almost like a magnet. A pure magnetism that feels so right.

His hands, touchy and soft, trace the silhouette of your figure from the cups holding your boobs to the satin that stops halfway down your thigh. His right-hand tugs on your dress’s hem once it reaches it, granted it is not too far down to find in a moment of such passion. The left hand slithers its way back up the sea of red to cup and squeeze your breast through the delicate fabric. 

He’s moving all these parts simultaneously, both hands and both lips, but the main focus is always on you: the target of his desires, the common denominator to every one of his moves. Meanwhile, you are struggling to keep up with the quickness of this series of events so all of your energy is going toward the, hopefully never-ending, kiss. You moan into it, your need vocal.

Your padded fingers and perfectly manicured nails, not a chip to be seen since you fixed them last night, leave the sides of his pretty face to run through his hair like water would, your heels clicking on the ground as he backs you up. These rhythmic noises of your kitten heels come to a halt when the back of your calf is met with the wood of the bottom of a bedframe behind you.

You lose your balance: thighs, ass, and then eventually whole body meeting the soft sheets of the bed. They are still messy and undone from this morning. As you lay back you quickly glance at the clock sitting high on the wall next to you, seeming to be ticking faster than normal, and then your enlarged pupils go back to your ravager of a husband. His lips have since left your mouth and have moved to your neck, then down to your collarbone. 

The clock reads 7:00 pm, the time the two of you had scheduled in your planner to be the last call to get going. The only sound you hear now is your own heavy breath when Elvis’ lips start to suck the sweet spot on the right side of your neck, you whine out any ounce of doubt you may still have possibly had. 

7:02 now and Lord forgive the both of you, you aren’t gonna make it.

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A/N: This took me too long to write for what it is. I was sick for a whole week straight and that just threw me off my newly boarded writing train. This idea came from a wip that it is similar to but didn’t quite fit with (they’re sisters, not twins). I hate to be a tease with the ending, it cuts off unsatisfyingly, but your good sis is still a little unsure of her ability to write smut. I’ll get there eventually and we can rejoice when it happens. I'll come back to it. Also just noticed the second pic near the title isn’t the most “x reader” friendly and as a brown girl myself that’s my bad. Everything aside, enjoy some Grace Kelly in Rear Window.

[papipedroo]

Sunlight and Lemons

Sunlight and Lemons (Joel Miller x reader 🍋)

Rated: Fluff | Age Gap (Joel is 40 & reader is 23)

Summary: Your father’s Bill and Frank welcome two new guests and one catches your eyes.

The three of you were eating breakfast.

Bill’s famous bacon, eggs, and buttered toast… With extra bacon?

You could tell something was up with the way Frank was bouncing excitedly as he spoke and the way Bill’s lips curled even deeper into a frown.

“Something is going on and I would like to know what it is.” You finally said, eyeing the two men.

Frank cut is conversation about the ripe tomatoes quickly as he began to fidget with his silverwear.

“You set up it up so you tell her.” Bill motioned to Frank with an unamused tone.

“Well sweetie… I decided we’re going to make some friends so I invited guests over this afternoon for a celebratory garden party.” Frank’s eyes lit up the more he talked about what he has planned for today.

“We’re having… Guests?” You muttered confusingly.

They never invite guests. It was practically the number one rule in every given apocalypse… A rule the Bill broke twice and Frank once, but still. It was a real. Don’t let people in and you remain safe.

You looked between the two, not sure who to settle your gaze on until you finally settled on Frank. The one who easily spilt everything.

“Who exactly? Are they dangerous.” You asked.

“Oh no.” Frank waved off your worries immediately.

“That we know of.” Bill muttered.

Frank gave him a look before smiling at you, “The woman I have been speaking with is very kind and she’s bringing a friend of hers, a man.”

You nodded slowly still unsure of the whole ordeal, “I see.”

“We’ll be doing trades with them often.” Frank continued, “So after breakfast, get dressed and I will love some help preparing the table outside while Bill will be preparing lunch a little later.”

Bill’s eyebrows raised as he took a bite of bacon, “I am?”

“You are.” Frank assured.

And that was that.

The three of you were having a garden party with complete strangers. Should be fun…

What was Frank thinking? That was the only thought you had as you got ready.

You couldn’t even be upset with him at that moment. He was the one who found you hobbling to the fence after your terrifying escape from raiders… He was the one who yelled at you to stop… He was the one who opened the gate… Who patched me up… Bill was the one who gave you clothes… And made you food… Gave me what little medicine they had…

You remember that day clearly. You were 17 then and now 7 years later, here you were adopted by two of the most kindest people you knew. You couldn’t have asked for anything more in this world, apocalyptic or not.

You decided to slip on your best dress, a white summer dress with yellow daises embroidered on it. Frank and you had picked it out at the boutique the day after they told you that you could officially stay with them.

You also slid on your favorite worn out yellow sneakers. Even after a few years they were still good. Before you left your room, you hid a small knife that Bill gave you, under your dress. You knew that you couldn’t be too trusting as Bill would say. You left your room after that and headed downstairs to find the front door wide open and Frank dragging out a table.

“Frank!” You called out to him with a laugh, “You were supposed to wait for me.” You said as you quickly rushed outside to help him.

“Sorry, I’m just a bit nervous.” He scratched the back of his head, “It’s been a while since we’ve had guests.”

You gave him a soft smile at seeing him so nervous, “It’s okay Frank, just make sure you let me help you.”

Bill was already in the kitchen cooking lunch by the time the both of you headed back inside.

“It smells wonderful Bill!” Frank leaned over to give him a quick peck on the lips before washing his hands.

Bill had a blush that only Frank could bring out as he muttered, “It’s nothing.”

“More than nothing, I’m starving.” You said reaching over to sneak a bite when suddenly Frank’s light tap on your hand had you pulling back.

“Don’t even think about it sweetie.” He scolded lightly before grabbing the lemonade pitcher out from the bottom cabinet, “They should be here soon. Can you be a dear and fetch me some lemons so we can make some lemonade for our guests?”

You nodded your head, “Sure.” You proceeded to grab a small basket on the counter, “But I expect to be having a feast when I get back.” You gave your stomach two pats to make your point clear.

This had both men chuckling. Bill shook his head while Frank shushed you out the door.

“Of course. Of course. Now go get some lemons.” Frank laughed.

You walked out towards the back where the garden was. It a short distance, but you took my time finding the lemon tree so to nerves.

What if they were mean? Or violent? Or they lied and now a group of raiders were going to show up and kill us?

Plenty of unwanted thoughts filtered through your mind, but one raised above all the others. Just please don’t let my dad’s get hurt.

You had finally made it to the tree when Frank pulled out the driveway.

They must be here. You thought before turning your focus back to the tree. There were only three lemons that you were able to reach, standing on your tippy toes.

“That’s not going to be enough.” You muttered to myself.

Most of them were higher up just begging to be ripped off of the branch. You huffed as you set the basket down and looked around for the small wooden bucket.

“Where did Frank… Ah there it is.” You smiled triumphantly.

It was tipped over on the ground, hidden behind the tree and blending in with the soil. You bent down to grab it and placed it face down on the ground. You were feeling proud of yourself as you stood up on top the bucket to reach a few more lemons.

All seemed to be going well until the last lemon you needed was just a little out of your reach. Instead of just moving the bucket though, you decided that you would just teeter on the edge and grab the last lemon that you needed… Until you did grab it, but ended up teetering on the edge.

“Whoa!” You cried out at the unsteady bucket.

You tried to balance yourself and almost succeeded until the bucket wobbled once again. At that you expected your fate and was ready to feel the hard ground beneath you when suddenly…

You didn’t fall… Not really. Gravity seemed to be on your side or at least two arms were as the held you.

You took a breath of relief looking up and expecting to see Bill.

“Thank-” Your gratitude was cut short as you stared wide eyed at a man you have never seen before.

Is he just my imagination or did a Prince really just sweep me off my feet…

“You’re welcome.” He stated gruffly as he gently set me on my feet.

“You…” Your voice trailed off as you stared up at him, his face calm as he waited for an answer.

My word was he some kind of handsome dressed in sunlight.

You cleared my throat and quickly straightened out your dress. You tried your best to calm your nerves and the growing blush on your cheeks, “You must be the guest Frank invited.”

“I must be.” He answered shortly.

I can see he has Bill’s wonderful conversation skills.

“Well.” You nodded as you shyly looked away, “Thank you…”

“Joel. Joel Miller.” He introduced himself.

“Thank you Joel for saving me.” You replied before introducing yourself as well.

“Beautiful name.” He complimented, a small smile appearing on his face as he watched your cheeks grow even redder.

“Thank… Thank you.” You couldn’t look away from his eyes.

It seemed as if his big brown eyes stared into your soul as his tan skin looked like honey against the sun.

He nodded his head, “Anytime darling.”

You picked up the basket of lemons, “These were for you anyways so I suppose you saved your drink as well.” You laughed lightly.

“Lemonade?” He implied as you began walking towards the house with him following in suit.

“Plum juice actually.” You stated seriously as you tried your best at a the poker face Bill has been trying to teach you.

However, the grimace on his face made you laugh, “I’m joking. It’s lemonade.” You said, easing his worry.

“Real funny sweetheart.” The curl of his lip didn’t make him seem cocky or bullheaded. He looked amused, a spark shining in his coffee eyes, “You need anymore help?” He asked as his gaze softened.

That look left you a blubbery mess, “Oh no. That was all thank you. I better go and find a glass-no a pitcher to put the lemons in. Of course not just lemons! But the lemonade you make from lemons? Yeah… Anyways! Yes! Um.. Yes.” You quickly took a few steps back before rushing inside.

You don’t think your flushed cheeks will ever return to normal again as you heard his honey silk chuckle at your reaction. You placed one of your hands over your chest to at least try and attempt to calm your racing heart.

Oh boy… Just what did I get myself into? But his eyes and how warm his hands were when he…

What was I doing? Right. Lemonade.

[xienst]

MASTERPOST: enstars! summary project

THE ENTIRE ENSTARS! EVENT LORE SUMMARISED: for those who want to speedrun enstars! lore

here is a timeline of all the events in enstars!

this project will aim to summarise as many enstars! stories as possible so u can get the gist of the event stories without having to read through 100 eichi monologues

credits: timeline is copied from wiki

will be updated with links after every story summary!

[PRESENT DAY: year = !]

** events will be referred to by "<season> + <index>

春 SPRING: (C)

Shiny First Years

The Flag's Honor ✻ Crowned Flower Festival

Revival Festival☆Easter Night

Palace of the Ocean

Marching Band

Spring Storm! Dancing Petals, Sakura Festival!

Gang

Sweets Patisserie

Pyjamas

Mail Delivery -> spring section 1 summary

Devil's Mansion

Spring Breeze＊Iconic Book Fair

Lift the Curtains! Yumenosaki Circus

Sacrifice◆Resurrection Sunday of the Undying

Falling Cherry Blossoms＊Wisteria Purple of May

Toy Box

Angel's Wings

Card Battler

Runway

Dream Coloured Prince -> spring section 2 summary

In the Rose Garden

Fresh Green Martial Arts

Yell✳︎Sprawling Happy Spring

Evening Banquet ♪ Band Ensemble

Performance! The Tragicomedy of Romeo and Juliet

Secret Labyrinth

At Your Service! UNDEAD Cafe

Leap! Principal of the Lake's Surface

Play Your Part! Cinderella's Grand Stage

Terror! Tamayori's Haunted Dollhouse

School Festival★The Scramble of a Startup Hero

Billiards -> spring section 3 summary

夏 SUMMER: (X)

Ukiyo Air Ride

Merc Storia

Hero Show

Biblio

The Rainy Season's Blossoms

Breakthrough! The Revolutionary Live Which Heralds the Dawn

Chinatown

Nuclear Ignition ☆ A Sparkling Quintuple-Color Supernova -> summer section 1 summary

Victoria

Amusement☆The Live Party of Cats and Rabbits

Gondola

Judge! Black and White Duel

Round Game

Devotion! Brocade of Driving Away the Rainy Season

Gunmen of the Wilderness

Bridal -> summer section 2 summary

Symphony＊Magnolia of Blessings

Seven-Colored＊Sunshower Festa

Saga＊Rushing Up Rainbow Stage

Pool Opening

Comic World

Shot☆Splash Pool!

Challenge! Tanabata Festival Wishes

Dance Performance! Thoughts That Bridge the Milky Way

Facing One Another! The Celestial Globe of the Night the Stars Meet

Dance Floor -> summer section 3 summary

Dogfight

Ghost Stories

The Seven Faces of the Shapeshifting Youkai

Little Kings

Frozen Ice

Summer of Clear Skies! Summer Camp

Concerto

Set Sail! Pirates at Sea Festival -> summer section 4 summary

Kiseki☆The Preliminary Match of the Summer Live

Radiant! Sunflower Live of Smiles

Scorching Hot! The Scenery of Southern Lands and Summer Vacation

Surfing Ocean

Stars★Glitter of the Prism

Summer Flowers

Late Summer Lesson -> summer section 5 summary

Luminescence＊Summer Night Festival

Yumenosaki Restaurant

Remember! A Midsummer Night's Dream

Best Shot

Holiday

Scorching Heat ☆ A Seaside Beach Match

Buddy -> summer section 6 summary

Farewell! Festival of Memories and Quarrels

Launch! The Night Sky of the Shooting Star Festival

Carmen of Passion

Lost Star＊Wavering Light, Pleiades Night

Deep Sea Mystery

Drop＊The Far Sea and the Aquarium

Summer Sky＊Galloping Cheval Live -> summer section 7 summary

Onibi

Burning Up! Yumenosaki Academy Sports Festival

Fight! Yumenosaki Academy Sports Festival 2

Competition! Yumenosaki Academy Sports Festival 3

Cinema Theater

1001 Nights -> summer section 8 summary

Blue Filament

Cooking

Brilliant Star Air Force

Police Man -> summer section 9 summary

秋 AUTUMN (Q)

Kung Fu

Night of the Full Moon ＊ Hopping Moonlight Luna

The Coloured Flower Cards

Special Training! Mismatched Pair Lessons

Doctor

Rebellion! The King's Horseback Ride

Kiseki★Blitzkrieg Autumn Live

Robin Hood -> autumn section 1 summary

Science

Fruits Parlour

Happening◆Music Festa of Reversals

Secret Acts! The Moonlight Scroll of the Elements

Festival＊Graceful Fleur De Lis

Toryumon

Rosicrucian Story

Showtime

Howl★The Rockin' Star of the Night Sky -> autumn section 2 summary

Afternoon

Boutique

Raising Curtains! Dark Night Halloween

React★Magical Halloween

Lots of Monsters☆Sweet Halloween

Cacophony◆Whirling Horror Night Halloween -> autumn section 3 summary

Enjoyment♪ Autumn School Trip

Invitation★Black Blood Banquet

The Golden Wind＊Wishing Live of Encouragement

Teddy Bear

Colourful Autumn

Meikyoushisui

Hot-Blooded Tough Guy

BADBOYS -> autumn section 4 summary

Scramble ＊ Toyland in a Dream

The Songbird’s Song＊Soirée in the Canary Hall

Underdoctor

Autumn Forest

Discovery! Steampunk Museum -> autumn section 5 summary

冬 winter (D)

The Wolf and Red Riding Hood

Greek Legends

Philosopher's Guidance

SnowboardDream of the Butterfly

Rail◆The Cat in the Snowy Winter and the Camellia Train -> winter section 1 summary

Nocturne

Snow Globe

Agents

Snowflake❄Street Performance Of The Falling Stars

Shine! A Sparkling Starry Night Festival!

Winter Santa -> winter section 2 summary

Brilliance★Knights' Starlight Festival

Noel＊The Angels' Starlight Festival

Carol＊White Snow and the Christmas Eve Starlight Festival

Radiant☆Hot Holiday Party

Throwing! A Snowy Silver-White Snowfight

Eccentric -> winter section 3 summary

Kiseki☆Winter Live Showdown

Winter's New Year Shrine Visit

First Dream Tales (Part One)

First Dream Tales (Part Two) -> winter section 4 summary

Zodiac (Part One)

Amusement Park Show

Zodiac (Part Two)

Daikagura! Celebratory New Years Live

Showdown! Magnificent Phantom Thief VS Detective Brigade

Transparency and Masks -> winter section 5 summary

Clash of Arms! Opera of Moonlight Romance

Dance on Ice

Depart☆Blue Skies Dream Travel

Opening★The Fortune Banquet Live

Saga＊Clashing Rebirth Live

Revival☆Dream Diner Live

Shoufuku＊The Ogres and Brothers' Setsubun Festival -> winter section 6 summary

Last Period

Jewel Candy

Poison À La Mode

Tea Party

The Four Beasts of Fistfighting

Salon de Thé -> winter section 7 summary

Sincerely! Bitter Chocolat Festival

Melty❤Sweetly Unraveling Chocolat Festival

Decorate♥Crimson Chocolat Festival

Marble ♥ Heartfelt Chocolat Festival

Home Party

Onigashima -> winter section 8 summary

Yumenosaki Youth Radio♪

Military

Cunning ◆ Wonder Game

Beauties of Nature

Flutter! Chick and Emperor's Triumphant Return -> winter section 9 summary

[NEXT YEAR: year = !+1]

!+1 spring i think? (context: third years in ! are graduating)

Beasts

Memorial◆Class Live We Make Together

Noble Game

Chuunibyou Trouble

Bouquet of Desire

Chorus★Operetta of Beginnings -> !! spring section 1 summary

Every Pitch With All One’s Heart! Youthful Play Ball

Clash! Recollect--A Festival of Giving Back

Baton Pass! Repayment Festival of Tears and Bonds

Moment＊The Repayment Festival of Moving Forward Toward the Future

Requiem＊Sword of Oaths and the Repayment Festival

Link♪The Symphony that Starts from Here -> !! spring section 2 summary

!+1 post-graduation stories

Photoshoot! Warm Athletics

Puppy Mischief Picnic

Bounce! Hearts and Flowers Bloom--Mall Live

Strawberry Picking -> post-graduation summary

[BACKSTORIES: read with caution *** recommended reading is from year = enstars!]

(year: !-12)

(1) Rainbow (2) Revival - 20

(year: !-several)

(3) Gang: Midnight Gangster

(year: !-2)

(4) Zodiac (5) Meteor Impact (6) Jingle Bells

(year: !-1)

(7) Reminiscence＊The Crossroads of Each One (8) Reminiscence＊Monochrome Checkmate (9) Reminiscence＊Spring Cherry Blossoms and a Night's Encounter (10) Reminiscence＊Ryusei Bonfire (11) Reminiscence ＊ End of the Marionette's Strings (12) Reminiscence＊Gathering of the Three Magicians

-> all backstories summary

AND... THAT'S IT! THATS THE ENTIRE ENSTARS! SUMMARISED

a few things to note:

main story not included -- because it should be read before everything

CN/TW exclusive not included

timeline is definitely shaky but overall flow of stories should still be okay

-project start date: 17 Oct 2022- -last updated: 22 Mar 2023-

[i-did-not-mean-to]

Dandelion, Destroyer of Drinks

Ah, @lordoftherazzles, my beloved friend!

I have taken the liberty of coming up with yet another AU to keep you on your toes and amuse you! I hope you know how much I love and admire you! <3

Words: 1262

Characters: Thorin x Bilbo

Prompt: Dandelions

Warnings: Haunting

Humming, Bilbo Baggins gave the antique teapot—rumoured to be haunted by the grumpy ghost of a long-dead king—a careful wipe.

"How are you today, Dandelion?" he asked and grimaced, his button nose twitching with dismay.

He really had to get out more, he thought wearily. His friend and kinswoman Primula, who had set him up for numerous blind dates with very nice but extraordinarily boring potential partners, was quite right in claiming that he was slowly but inexorably growing shrewd.

Unfortunately for Bilbo, his life—on paper at least—attracted the kind of interested parties that absolutely did not fit the intimate and outrageous fantasies he harboured within his jealously-guarded bachelor soul.

Moreover, he had to concede that he might indeed be rather peculiar if one got to know him a little better.

Before he could linger on that particularly discouraging thought though, the small bell over the door chimed softly.

Making a beeline across the shop, avoiding knickknacks and precariously balanced furniture with the confidence of a sleepwalker, Bilbo rushed to greet his first customer of the day.

"Hullo?" a full, melodious voice called.

Rounding a high shelf full of miniatures of different animals, the proud owner of "Baggins Antiques and Curiosities" almost collided with a tall, muscular fellow in a worn flannel shirt.

"Hi there," he greeted breathlessly, "I beg you to forgive me—I was just in my little garden."

"Garden?" the fellow muttered incredulously and cocked one dark, unfairly shapely eyebrow.

"Well, not a real one, of course," Bilbo chuckled awkwardly. "Would you like to see it?"

To his surprise, the man nodded and lifted a sturdy hand to signify that he was ready to follow Bilbo into the bowels of his small shop.

Again, the antiquary was astonished because—for all his impressive bulk—the stranger threaded his way elegantly even if somewhat noisily through the narrow spaces between display cabinets and single chairs.

"What can I help you with today then?" Bilbo asked, throwing what he hoped would be understood as a kind and politely interested look over his shoulder.

It might well have been true that he hid an adventurous streak under his impeccable waistcoat and cravat, but he certainly was not the kind of scoundrel who'd lead handsome strangers into an inescapable labyrinth for his own amusement.

"It's my sister's birthday soon," the stranger rumbled. "Dís—that is my sister's name, I mean..."

The man fell silent again and Bilbo heard him mumble something unintelligible under his breath.

"I am—as you can imagine—Bilbo Baggins," Bilbo introduced himself, suddenly unbearably keen to learn who this gorgeous man was and why he had entered this shop in particular when there were several high-end luxury boutiques just around the corner.

"My name is Thorin," the man replied with a soft sigh. "And Dís is my only sister—and the mother of my two beloved nephews."

"Ah," Bilbo muttered, "while I cannot claim that women and their preferences are my areas of expertise, I'd feel remiss if I didn't point out the very pricey shops in the vicinity that cater to exactly that clientele."

Holding his breath, he cursed himself for wilfully sabotaging the first—and potentially only—chance at selling something on that day.

Thorin snorted dismissively.

"Yeah," he drawled, "she's not that kind of woman, I am afraid. She'd be deadly vexed if I gifted her something expensive but bland."

Immediately, Bilbo's heart lifted.

"If you're in the market for strange and wondrous things," he purred conspiratorially, "you're at the right address."

When he turned around once more, he found that Thorin had stopped by the first editions and was studying him intently.

"I agree," he grinned and gave Bilbo a slow, intense once-over that made the comfortable, calm bachelor's blood heat up and tint his cheeks a becomingly rosy shade.

"My garden," Bilbo stuttered breathlessly and pointed at an oasis of flower-themed objects.

"Oh, Dís is a terrible gardener," Thorin hooted and started browsing the wares.

Meanwhile, Bilbo observed the cautiously gentle way in which those broad, blunt fingers lifted, balanced, and caressed crystal roses and marble tulips.

Despite his better knowledge and deep-seated sense of propriety, he couldn't help but wonder how it would feel to have those very hands explore and pet his own ageing skin with such interest and tender care.

As Thorin moved gingerly through the organised chaos of Bilbo's eternally frozen landscape, he suddenly stiffened like a hound catching a scent.

"Oh no," Bilbo cried, "not Dandelion. It's haunted."

He chuckled awkwardly—he could hardly believe that he had said this out loud. No doubt, he would lose both a customer and the most appetising sight he had had in months within a single second if he didn't manage to keep his thoughts from flying out of his mouth willy-nilly.

"Haunted, you say?" Thorin's eyes gleamed with humour and enthusiasm. "Nothing too gruesome, I hope?"

Flapping his hands in a manner that was highly dangerous in this setting and for which he would have reprimanded any other person, Bilbo made an undignified sound somewhere between a snort and a stilted chuckle.

"No," he then said in a damnably high and thin voice, "no, just a grumpy ghost who will ruin your tea."

Meditatively, Thorin turned the antique teapot—covered in lovingly hand-painted dandelions—in his mesmerizingly attractive hands.

"Ill-tempered teapot?" he mused aloud. "Oh, that is just the thing for Dís."

Bilbo frowned. The old porcelain vessel and its cooky history had been with him for many years and he was strangely reticent to let it go now.

"Don't worry," Thorin said softly, searching and holding Bilbo's gaze across a patch of crocheted blueberry bushes. "We'll take good care of Dandelion and—if you dare—you are more than welcome to come to tea one of these days."

"But..." Bilbo started and then stopped himself from spouting more semi-superstitious nonsense.

"My money is on my sister and her '7-berries-tea'. What about you?"

There was that expressive eyebrow again, arching in unmistakable challenge.

"I'll bet against the both of you," Bilbo heard himself rumble as he crossed his arms. "Dandelion will ruin even the best of teas. I'll bring a backup gift, just in case you admit defeat."

"Bring it on," Thorin laughed, cradling the teapot in the crook of his massive arm. "If you want to win my sister's heart, you might want to bring a little toy for the boys. Something indestructible—it can be haunted as well, Kíli, my nephew, could turn the devil himself into a friend."

"Oh, the winning charm is a family trait then?" Bilbo grinned and bit the inside of his cheek as soon as he realised what he had just revealed.

"Seems so," Thorin smirked and winked. "Either way, Mister Baggins, it has been a pleasure. And, before you think that I am trying to dupe you, I will extend another invitation. We have more than enough cursed and haunted family heirlooms in the attic. You've been so good as to show me your treasures—would you like to see mine?"

"I'd love to," Bilbo admitted. His eyes almost bulged out of his head when Thorin bent over the counter to scribble his full name and address onto a scrap of old letter paper lying by the antique till.

"Give me a call," Thorin laughed as he put down thrice as much money as Dandelion was worth next to the note. "And I'll get you front-row seats to the epic showdown between Dís the Destroyer and the Terrible Teapot."

@fellowshipofthefics: Here's another one.

Lots of love from me...always a pleasure getting your requests and prompts, my beloved!

[m-feline]

Gala

This is modified from my fanfic TFIS (link).

I already posted the second part (link) but here is the first part.

Masterlist

----

It was the day before the Empire day that something unexpected happened. I received a package that contained the dress, I had seen in the boutique. There was no note or card with the package. But there was a pair of shoes, earrings and a hairpin. For one thing, the sender sure has taste.

Vader didn't comment on my outfit for the next evening. After all, it was the climax of the Ascendency week. A marvelous ball held in one of the most luxurious places of Coruscant. And the Emperor was attending. That if anything else made the whole event twice more important and glamourous. And maybe it was a good idea to wear something else than my old dresses.

On arrival, I wore a robe I had made myself. When I had it on, no one could see the dress and my appearance. When I took it off and handed it to the lobby for coat storage, I swear I saw many heads turn. But they turned quickly back as Vader stared back at them. For this party, I did not need to prepare anything. I had finished all negotiations that I could on days before on behalf of Vader. This might be my most pleasant evening yet. Since the Emperor would be present, Vader would be at his side. And he didn't need me anywhere near him. That meant that I could be by myself for the entire evening. After greeting a few people, a couple of Admirals, and other people from higher Command, I was excused to leave. I heard how the Emperor was announced to have arrived and many people had their attention elsewhere. It was the perfect moment for me to slip away.

The place had a lovely and wide balcony that opened to closed space. It was quiet, calm, and no speeders were passing by. A perfect solitude for someone who wanted to be alone. I could hear the speech the Emperor was giving inside. Just repeating the same text about how the Empire is strong and secure and will stand forever. There was applause and the music began. I simply walked to the railing and watched the secluded area beneath me. They had a garden down there but the plain wall in front of me sort of made the place a bit caged. Maybe it was meant to be like that. A private place for customers to enjoy peace and quiet. In my opinion, they could decorate the wall with a mosaic or something. But maybe that too was the purpose to give the secluded feeling. Or maybe it didn't bother the people who walked down at the garden. It looked more plain only if you looked from the balcony like I did now.

"Lady (Y/n)."

I knew that voice. Thrawn. I wasn't surprised anymore. It had to be him who sent me a dress with everything included right before this party, surely he would be here, and he would find where I would "hide". I turned to meet him. He wore his white Grand Admiral's uniform with plaques and all. His hands were partly behind his back while he stood straight like an honorary navy officer. I saw also that he wore gloves, probably for the party.

"Grand Admiral Thrawn." I greeted him with a gentle curtsy.

"You look lovely this evening." He complimented me.

"You should know. I assume you are the one who sent this dress for me?" I inquired.

"Guilty as charged. You did enjoy the dress so much it would have been a shame if you couldn't wear it for the occasion." Thrawn said as he walked closer. "Your robe was also outstanding, too bad it hides your beauty under the dark hood."

"That is the point of it." I reminded him. "If it wasn't for today's festivity, Vader wouldn't have let me wear this one either."

"Lord Vader always wishes to hide you?" Thrawn asked.

"No, it's not that. Dark is the color that Lord Vader and the Emperor wear. Since I'm Lord Vader's aide, I should also wear dark colors. And the hood is to keep attention away from me and... show respect for my Lord." I tried to explain.

"Too bad, you look very attractive in (f/c)," Thrawn said.

I couldn't hide the little smile that came to my lips. My clan color. He was right and wrong at the same time. I turned to lean my elbows on the railing of the balcony.

"Something amuses you," Thrawn noted.

"I may have always worn (f/c) but I have wished to wear (s/f/c)," I admitted.

"Ah, is there a reason for that?" He asked.

"No. I just wanted one day to dance the elegant dances I have seen the elite of (Naboo/Alderaan/Coruscant) dance." I explained and took a deep sigh of nostalgia.

"That might clarify why you are always taking dance practices. But I have never seen you dance in these kind of events. Are you not confident in your talent?" Thrawn asked.

"Excuse me but my dancing is quite good considering that I don't get to train very often," I argued. "And that I need a male partner taking the lead during the dance. It's not like I can let the hologram lead me."

"Then may I ask you for a dance?" Thrawn asked as he extended his hand.

"What?" I asked like an idiot and turned to look at him. "Y-you know how to dance?"

"I may not be as good as you but I have memorized some basic dancing. What better way to improve your dancing than learn to follow the lead of a corporal dance partner?" Thrawn said.

I heard how the band began a new song inside. I was intrigued to see how well Thrawn claims to know to dance but I also kind of hesitated.

"I rather not go back inside," I said meekly.

"We don't have to," Thrawn said.

He wanted us to dance here? We did have room for that, and we could hear the music clearly from the inside. Whether he or I made a mistake no one would be criticizing us. This could be my only chance to try a proper dance with someone. I took his hand, and he lead us away from the railing to the open space of the balcony. He made me face him and slipped his free hand to the small of my back and pulled me closer. I placed my own free hand to his shoulder and tried not to look up at him. My face was warm and certainly red of blushing.

We began the dance. At first, it felt a bit stiff. I haven't got used to someone else leading the dance. By the middle of the song, the dance started to work as we moved smoothly. Thrawn led me patiently through the song, and I began to relax and follow his lead. And soon the song ended.

"That wasn't so bad," I admitted.

"Glad to hear that. Another?" Thrawn asked.

"Why not? Since we already got the hang of it." I said.

And we danced to another song. The pace was a bit faster from the previous song but Thrawn lead me without problems, and I followed his lead. A couple of times Thrawn made a bold move to lift me a bit. I haven't experienced such a move since I was dancing with my brother. Without a beat, a smile crept to my face as he lowered me down the second time right before the song ended.

"Someone has learned a bit more than just the basics," I said still smiling.

"So I have, these were one of the qualities that make ballroom dancing differ from other dances." Thrawn reminded me. "If you wish, I could show you more."

I should have said no to that and taken a break. But curiosity took over me. And the song that soon began was too perfect to pass. I said nothing and let Thrawn lead me again to the music. The dance was more intimate than I realized. More so, when Thrawn showed his skills of dancing. He lifted me, twirled me, and dipped me during the dance, and held me very close to him. Instead of paying attention to that I was more immersed in the dance and simply waited for his next move. At the end of the song, he made me dip one more time before he pulled me up to face him. We were both out of breath and I finally realized how close we were.

"That... that was... impressive," I said between the breaths. I was sure now my face was warm and red like sundown.

"Thank you for the compliment," Thrawn said also catching his breath but not as obviously as I did.

I walked to the railing and let the small whiff of wind help me cool down. For one part, I was happy that I got to dance my favorite dances with someone. On the other part, it had to be Thrawn. I tried to remind myself that though he is kind to me and no doubt a good dance partner, he is still someone I should be wary of. He knew my secrets and he also could ruin everything if I wasn't careful. I still had no idea what was his end game. Unlike him, Vader was an obvious case. He wanted to find Obi-Wan and end all the Jedi. And then maybe someday, he would surpass the Emperor and defeat him. He was obvious but so dangerous. Thrawn was the very opposite. He was an enigma. I had no idea what he wanted. What were his goals and for what does he want me? But the way he treated me and showed interest made me time to time lower my guard. Just like now.

"Are you alright?"

I almost jumped by his silent approach. Another thing that reminded me to be wary of him. He could sneak up behind me and I would have no idea. Yet, knowing that he has no ill will against me, made me repeat that mistake.

"Yes. I-I'm just catching my breath. It got... a bit warm for a moment I need to cool down." I made an excuse for myself. I didn't face him, I wasn't confident that my face would have cooled down yet.

"You shouldn't let the air chill you excessively. Your attire is slightly light for you to stay too much in cold." Thrawn said and I felt his hands brush my arms. I knew he referred to the sleeves, they were quite light and transparent even if they were long. He was too close, standing right behind me. And I was feeling the same fear that I felt at Chimaera coming back to me.

"I'm alright. It is not so cold." I tried to convince him. His hands slipped under my arms and grabbed the railing in front of me. Caging me there with his arms.

"Grand Admiral?" I turned to face him and hopefully get him to step back. But I quickly realized that it was a mistake. When I turned it came more clear how close he was. All he needed was to bend down just a bit... No, he wouldn't.

"Excuse me but I'll have to..." I tried to dip down and get past his arm and away from this awkward position. When I straightened up again, he grabbed my arm and gently pulled back, and caged me once again between him and the railing.

"There is something I wish to speak with you." He said.

"What is it?" I asked as I backed against the railing. Good thing it was wide enough. If it would have been too low or narrow I might fall over soon. Bad thing was, it kept from getting away from Thrawn. A shiver ran up my spine. What was he up to?

"My lady, I will make soon a proposal to Lord Vader. And I need your assistance to make him agree to it." He whispered. I could feel his breath in my neck. His intentions began to scare me. I didn't quite hear him anymore, I wished that someone would come and this would end. But who? I came out to be alone. I'm not ready for this. Someone, please save me.

"What are you doing?"

My eyes burst open and my head turned to the voice. When I prayed for someone to help me, I didn't mean him. Vader stood some distance away from us, his hands resting at his belt. What he was seeing couldn't be explained otherwise. Thrawn caging me between him and railing and his face close enough to kiss me. A new kind of fear was rising.

"I apologize, Lord Vader. I didn't mean to be disrespectful." Thrawn said and took one step back. His hands let go of the railing, yet they lingered close to my waist.

"I recommend for you to back up from my aide," Vader said without any doubt that he was not pleased.

"As you wish, Lord Vader," Thrawn said and now took more than one step away from me. For some reason, I began to fear more. No matter how scared I was a moment ago to be alone with Thrawn. It was nothing compared to now being here with angry Darth Vader.

[justagalwhowrites]

bestie happy lavender day!!!!! Can’t believe this story is a year old already - it has genuinely enriched my love and experience of both tlou and the Pedro fandom SO much and I am so so grateful for you and the world you’ve created 🥺🫶

I adore all of your writing but this one holds a very special place in my heart :’)

In terms of questions I would love to know how you think a garden party / double date with Joel & Doc / Bill & Frank would go! How do you think their dynamics would play out? I feel like as much as Frank / Doc and Bill / Joel share the sunshine x grumpy parallels, I could totally see Bill and Doc bonding in the kitchen while he cooks and she bakes 🥺 like Bill might be disgruntled at first but quietly respects Doc’s skills around a whisk lol

would love to know what you think!! xxx

EEEEEE thank you so much, Bestie!

It's so amazing to know that this fic impacted you that way. This story is so special to me and I love hearing that it's special to others, too.

OMG an AU where Joel and Doc are together and go see Bill and Frank? Amazing. There are so many parallels here. Frank loves Doc immediately, of course. They're both so happy for a new friend and Frank LOVES that she wears ribbons in her hair and makes her go with him to the boutique to go shopping because, in his words, "I was a little gay boy who wasn't allowed to have Barbies as a child, give me this." Bill and Joel kind of look at each other like "dear lord what have we brought upon ourselves."

But then she charms Bill, too. She has her secrets in the kitchen - like the soy sauce instead of salt in the cookies - and they get down into the nitty gritty of it, geeking out over their shared passion. After Joel and Doc leave Frank looks at Bill and kinda elbows him a little and goes "See? Wasn't so bad." "Guess not. Don't know how she puts up with him, though." Frank kind of shakes his head at the obvious similarities I'm their relationship sailing right over Bill's head. "Good question."

Thank you for asking, Bestie!

Love you!!

[ali-annals]

i could be the way forward (i know I'll pay for it) (forever is the sweetest con, pt 2)

Pairing: Jason Todd x Marinette Dupain-Cheng PART ONE Moodboard

Rating: G | Masterlist | Main Masterlist | Ao3 | WC: 1.6k | TW: -

A/N: This is part of a series called The Eras Tour (Jasonette’s Version), a collection of Jasonette-centric fics I wrote for the Maribat discord server Maribat? Get In!’s 2024 Civil War event. Not beta’d.

Years after retiring from Ladybug, Marinette Dupain-Cheng goes by many other names, switching identities as easily as she breathes…until she tries to swindle the wrong guy.

Marinette swirled her olive in the dregs of her martini, forlornly chewing on the other. The chatter of the multitude of people passing through the bar was a welcome background noise for her to tune out as she thought of her ex-partner. 

The news anchor’s voice suddenly cut through her thoughts of dark hair and teal eyes. Had he said-

“Oh, he was the sweetest boy, always so polite,” said a little old lady who had appeared on the stool next to her. She looked harmless, but she wouldn’t have survived this long in a city like Gotham without having something up her sleeve. “We all missed him greatly. He was a ray of sunshine, one that Gotham let through her smog to give us all hope.”

Marinette turned to her. “Would you mind telling me more about him and what’s happening? I’m somewhat new here.”

The party was in full swing by the time her limo pulled up to the event hall. The chauffeur opened the door for her, her date for the night getting out and offering his hand in silent escort.

They entered the hall, fashionably late and thus commanding everyone’s attention without even trying. She knew she looked good, having put her own touch on the off-the-rack dress she’d found in an adorable boutique. 

She took in the crowd as she descended the stairs, using her temporary height to her advantage. So many dark-haired men here, yet the one she wanted to see wasn’t. 

Her date led her to a small group of people by the foot of the stairs, two of which had ‘PRESS’ lanyards over their suit and dress. 

“Clark, Lois, it’s good to see you! How have you been? This is my date, Melody Dupain. Melody, these are my friends, Clark Kent and Lois Lane.”

“Pleasure to meet you,” she nodded. 

“It’s nice to meet you, Melody,” said Lois. “We just talked the other day, nothing’s changed,” she added to her date. 

“Good to hear. Excuse us, the mayor wanted a word.”

Marinette continued on her way, taking the time her date was socializing to scan the room. 

She excused herself from the conversation, heading in the direction of the French doors she’d spotted as she came in.

The cool air was refreshing after the heat of the ballroom and cloying perfumes. She found a quiet spot overlooking the gardens, underneath a garden party tent of some kind. Little drops of rain soon echoed calmingly as they bounced off the canvas top. 

“May I have this dance?”

She startled, the rain having covered anyone’s approaching footsteps.

“Dancing is a dangerous game. Haven’t you read any Jane Austen, where the characters fall in love because they danced?”

She turned, her breath catching. 

He smirked. “Of course I’ve read Jane Austen; I’m not a heathen, what do you take me for?”

“What are you doing here?”

“Watching my ex-swindling-partner attempt to swindle my dad, apparently,” he shrugged. “And just when I thought life was going to be boring again.”

“How…was everything I heard true?”

“Depends on what you heard, but probably. Although the rumours of my death have been greatly exaggerated. I’m fine now.”

“Jay.”

“Look, this isn’t a great place to get into everything. How about we skip the party and go get Batburger?”

She hadn’t even heard the end of his proposition and she grabbed his hand, leading the way out.

“I’ll take you to my favourite gargoyle and we can talk there.”

“Of course you have a favourite gargoyle,” she rolled her eyes at him fondly.

He opened the door to a black Rolls Royce.

She settled in the comfy seat appreciatively, running her hands over the dash. “You finally got your fancy car, huh?”

He chuckled dryly. “Yep. First long con I ever did, and I’m still runnin’ it. Now I’m actually old enough to drive the things.”

“Please just tell me you’re not pretending to be Bruce’s dead son,” she said as they pulled into the Batburger drive through.

“No, I wouldn’t do that…well, maybe. But no, I’m the real dead son. But why are you trying to swindle the guy who has a dead son?”

“Not so dead anymore,” she retorted, waving at him. “Because I had to see if it was really you, homme stupide . I came to Gotham because it’s a wonderful place to hide, and then I found my ex-partner beat me to swindling high society, only it might not be a swindle at all! What did you even need the money for, if your dad is the richest guy in America?!”

He shrugged, paying and collecting their order. “His money ain’t my money. Also, he didn’t know I was alive, and I had some…things to take care of first.”

They climbed up the rusty fire escape to the roof of the building that housed his favourite gargoyle. Jason handed her her burger and fries. 

“Your dress looks really nice, Mar. Did you make it?”

“I restyled it,” she sniffed, biting hungrily into her burger. “Thank you for the compliment.”

“Why are you so mad? I’m not even stopping you conning my dad or giving you away.”

“Because I thought I’d never see you again, and then I did and I wasn’t even prepared for it, and now I’m thrown all off-kilter! And I can’t in good conscience hustle your dad, he’s your dad !”

“I mean, if it helps, I hustle him all the time,” he shrugged, bumping her shoulder with his.

“It really doesn’t…okay, maybe a little bit. But I’m still not stealing from your dad! This was going to be my last con.”

“What? Why?” He looked at her, startled. “Are you in trouble?”

“Not as far as I know,” she bit a fry moodily in half. “I’m tired of it. Constantly looking over my shoulder, switching up my identity, never getting close to anyone. I’ll use what I have to settle down somewhere and set up a sewing shop or something, live a boring life and find a husband and have two-point-five kids…”

“It’ll never work.”

Marinette punched his shoulder for his immediate pessimistic shut-down.

“Ow! I mean, you won’t be happy without the adrenaline rush, the danger. But,” he raised his finger, “I have an idea.”

“Do tell,” she said dryly, used to his ideas.

“Marry me.”

She coughed out the fry she’d been eating. “Excuse me?”

“I’m serious. Marry me. It’ll take care of a lot of problems for us. We can’t legally testify against each other, in case our pasts catch up to us. You’ll be richer than Croesus, you can bug Bruce all the time –and it’ll be great leverage for me: “Bruce, how could you date your future daughter-in-law”--and we can go around long-conning society with a permanent identity and no one to catch us.”

“And just how will we do that?” she asked, getting interested in spite of herself.

“I can only tell you if you agree,” he said mock-solemnly.

She punched his shoulder again.

“Ow! If you’re gonna turn to punching me, maybe I'll take it back!”

“Tell me why we’re long-conning society, Jason,” she threatened.

“Because we’re the Todd-Waynes during the day, but the vigilantes Red Hood and Mrs Red Hood (name subject to change) at night!”

She blinked at him. “That makes so much sense. Wait, why will I be a vigilante?”

He gave her a flat look. “Pixie. You told me you used to be a hero. You need the adrenaline rush, that’s why you’re currently a swindler. You can go back to heroing, get your thrills, and feel good about it while you do it, instead of sullying your conscience by swindling old men grieving the loss of their son-ow!”

“Fine, I’ll do it.”

“Really?”

“Yes. But you have to answer a few questions for me first.”

“Only if you answer three of mine.”

“You’re a horrible negotiator.”

He simply smiled serenely at her. 

She huffed. “Fine, I’ll answer three of your questions, but you have to answer as many as I ask you. You are getting the better part of the deal, may I remind you.”

“Sounds good.”

“Why do you want to marry me?”

“Ooh, loaded question, right off the bat. Well, I like you. I can trust you, we work well together, we know each other well already.”

“Why did you stay so long with me if your dad is a billionaire?”

“To take care of you. Also, it was nice to have someone around who knew me but also didn’t know me, if you know what I mean.”

“Crystal clear,” she deadpanned. “But yes, I think so. You wanted someone to know you without knowing the past you with all the baggage and pre-made judgments. I felt the same way. Why did you want to take care of me?”

“Why not? I like you.”

“Jason! You can’t just say stuff like that!”

“You wanted the truth!”

“Yeah, but I’m gonna fall off this roof in shock!”

“I’ll catch you then. As long as you’re falling for me.”

Marinette sputtered at his blatant flirting. “ You’ll be falling because of me.”

“I already am.”

“Jason Todd!”

The banter and interrogation continued until all the burgers and fries were gone. Jason sighed, leaning back on his elbows, kicking his feet over the side. “There’s something you should probably know before we do anything else.”

She eyed him cautiously. “Okay…”

“I wasn’t planning on partnering with you, but I felt like there was something between us after the first night. We got along so well after that, and it was an easy cover to keep when I had some Hood business to take care of. But we spent more time together, and I started falling for you. It wasn’t the plan, but I couldn’t stop–and I didn’t particularly want to stop, either. I love you, Marinette Dupain-Cheng.”

She bit her lip hard, willing away the tears. “I love you too, Jason Todd-Wayne.”

[themaribatpit]

Love and War: Chapter 1

Prompt: Aim (Jasonette July) @maribat-calendar-events

Rating: M for violence

Ships: Jason Todd/Marinette Dupain-Cheng

A/N: Sorry, we’re a little late to the party because we’ve been busy. We promise, we’ve got some fun stuff coming soon for Jasonette July.  

Chapter 2

Chapter 1

Ladybug had been caught somewhere she shouldn't be, and this was confirmed by the click of a gun that she heard behind her. She slowly turned around, inch by careful inch she came face to face with the Red Hood. She could see the gun in his hand was pointing right at her, taking aim between her eyes. She slowly got to her feet, yes, this looked bad.  The explanation behind it, being that she was looking for the source of a magical presence that had the gods of creation and destruction on high alert...didn't help either. To him, this probably looked like a hero in a brightly coloured costume snooping around an infamous crime lord's warehouse. Ladybug could only nervously chuckle as she stared down the barrel of the gun.  She couldn't see the man’s face, just the harsh white lights on his red helmet that one would assume were meant to look like eyes.  "Looking for something?" It was hard to tell with the robotic sounding voice, but Ladybug could have sworn she heard a wry edge to the comment.  

"I was," she said as she slowly got to her feet.  Her hands leaning on the edge of the crate behind her.  She tried to keep up her nervous smile, maybe he'll see that she didn't mean any harm. "But since you're here," she said slowly as her eyes darted towards the ceiling, and her pressed her hands down on the crate.  "I guess I'll be on my way." Ladybug pushed herself against the edge of the crate and kicked one of her legs up towards his gun arm, it fired and struck one of the sprinklers above them.  She ducked down and bolted ahead, readying her yo-yo as she made her escape.  

As Ladybug made it out of the warehouse and into Gotham’s cold city streets, they both knew the pursuit would not end there.  The Red Hood continued to give chase as she swung away on her yo-yo. Whenever she managed to latch onto something, a grappling hook was never far behind.  She could do this all night, but she didn’t want to and sooner or later he would catch up to her.  She needed to hide and turn back into Marinette, and fast.  As she reached the twinkling lights and the bustle of Gotham’s Chinatown, she saw her chance to shake him off. 

Ladybug slipped into the alleyway and had mere seconds to throw him off.  “Spots off,” she muttered. With a swirl of green light, she stopped looking like the former Parisian superhero and more like a small young woman.  Marinette dove into the crowd of people who were either making their way home or getting some warm late night comfort food.  Marinette glanced behind her to see the tall figure land surprisingly gracefully on the rooftop she leapt from moments earlier.  While he searched for a woman in a bodysuit, Marinette looked away and dusted off her pink chiffon dress.  

She quickly walked back to her apartment, only stopping to get dinner. As far as everyone else knew, Marinette had come to Gotham to open a small fashion studio.  They didn’t know that Ladybug was here to continue to do good as a hero and as the Guardian of the Miraculous.  Well, at least in the sense that she was continuing to help people by night, while she ran a small boutique and designed clothes by day.  The tiny apartment was no bigger than a shoebox, but Marinette did everything in her power to make it comfortable.  She always made warm bread and sweet cakes in the tiny kitchen.  She had a thick soft futon on the few occasions she managed to get some sleep.  Her sewing machine, mannequin and drawing tablet were neatly sectioned off into one corner.  The tiny bathroom also had a bath she could submerge herself in, and there was a small shelf full of products that made her smell like a flower garden.  As Marinette stepped inside, there was one other thing she neglected to tell her family and friends about.  While Marinette toiled away at her commissions and designs, there was one person who was a constant presence in the apartment.  When she stepped inside and shrugged off her coat, he looked up from his spot atop the futon.  He had been reading a book that was roughly the size of Marinette’s head and leisurely turning the pages. “Busy day at the shop?” he asked. Marinette shook her head, “I was feeling hungry, so I went and got something to eat.” She set a takeaway bag down on the small dining table, taking out the small bento inside and offering it to him. One thing she neglected to tell the people back home in Paris about was the fact that she wasn’t alone in the tiny apartment.  She met someone shortly after arriving in Gotham, and that someone would often stop by the apartment, so often that he practically lived there. He was a guy who, on the surface, towered over her and looked strong enough to crush her into a coke can if he thought about it hard enough.  She was drawn to his kind eyes and gentle smile, and he had a fondness for literature that made him seem like he was more than just the tall brute people made him out to be.  That being said, he could still be intimidating towards other people when he wanted to be.  

As her boyfriend ate the bento, Marinette slumped down on the futon.  She lay there quietly for a moment, her mind racing with thoughts about her encounter with the Red Hood.  She had heard whispers and rumours about him in the area.  People didn’t know what to make of him, but they were all certain that no one should cross him.  Ladybug had probably made herself a target by searching for something in one of his warehouses.  She couldn’t trust anyone else in Gotham to understand or make sense of it, nor did she want anyone else to get hurt because of it.  All she knew was that Tikki had been feeling an unsettling magical presence ever since they had landed in Gotham.  It was like a curse hung over this neighbourhood, possibly the whole city.  They even felt its presence in this very apartment.  They had always felt it from time to time, making a note to tug on the inside of Marinette’s sleeve when they felt it was particularly strong.

The spot on the futon next to Marinette dipped a little when her boyfriend finished his food. He was probably going to read a few more chapters of the book he was reading before she came home. “Jason,” she asked, her voice partially muffled by the bed sheets as she buried her face in them, “could you read me a story?”  Marinette felt his fingers brush against the top of her head, gently sweeping aside the lock of hair in her face.  As he softly read out the words on the page, she felt herself sink deeper and deeper into the futon, letting sleep take her.

Having read aloud the next few paragraphs of his book, Jason glanced down at Marinette, snoring softly beside him.  She looked completely and utterly at peace, she wasn’t plagued by nightmares of killer clowns or the agony of being dragged back into the land of the living.  As far as she knew, he worked at the Iceberg Lounge, she didn’t need to know that he owned the place.  She didn’t know that her colourful little apartment was probably the last place anyone would go looking for the infamous Red Hood.  She had heard of the Red Hood, heard stories of how he became Gotham’s most formidable crime lord.  She once said that she couldn’t imagine what would drive someone to do that.  Marinette once told him that Paris was under a long reign of terror. One where someone’s negative emotions made them a target for magic users who wanted to turn them into monsters.  She felt as though they were, usually, still people underneath.  In this case, they were people who were often being controlled and made to do someone else’s bidding.  She didn’t understand how someone could be driven to kill those same people.  So, Jason kept his other identity to himself. He kept telling himself that it was because he didn’t want to put a target on her back. Ever since he returned from the grave, he fought with everyone he thought had once cared about him. Marinette had been the one thing that hadn’t been tarnished by his ordeal.  

Jason almost never slept when he stayed over in Marinette’s apartment, last time he drifted off to sleep, he had a nightmare about being submerged in the Lazarus Pit.  He woke up to Marinette looking down at him with a very concerned look on her face.  Once or twice, he saw that same concerned look in her eyes when she noticed the scars that marked his body.  So while she slept, that gave him plenty of time to be alone with his own thoughts.

He remembered meeting Marinette for the first time in a small bookshop that he often frequented.  It was run by a charming old couple and Jason liked the place enough that he took extra care to make sure nothing bad happened to it.  As he looked through the shelves lined with books new and old, he spotted a peculiar sight a few sections over.  He saw a young woman that was about a foot shorter than he was, trying to reach a book that was just out of her reach on the shelf above her.  She looked around, unable to find a stool or step ladder to help her reach it.  She resorted to trying to climb the shelves, and only then did he think to go over and help the poor girl.  

Her face was scrunched up in concentration as she got closer to the book that she wanted. Unfortunately, one of her feet also slipped, and she would have tumbled to the ground had Jason not been there to catch her.  The girl gave a startled squeak, before she looked up at him. He stopped and stared for a moment, she had inky black hair, a round heart-shaped face, and expressive eyes that drew him in. She glanced down at her feet, blushing with embarrassment over what had just happened.  Jason quietly chuckled, it was just too adorable.  He reached up and grabbed the book that she had been trying to reach, before handing it to her. “Th-thank you,” she stammered as she took the book from him “Don’t worry about it, just try and remember the shelves aren’t really for climbing,” he joked.

“Sorry, we can’t all be giants,” she retorted, “some of us just have to try and adapt.”

Jason glanced down at the book, trying to start a conversation that didn’t devolve into him mocking her short height.  “So what’s a young lady like you doing trying to reach for a book on knitting?” Jason asked.

“If you must know, I just opened up a boutique in the area,” she said, smiling warmly yet proudly, as if she hadn’t set up shop in one of the most dangerous cities on the planet.  Jason was surprised anyone would set up something as unassuming as a boutique in the area, unless it was a front for something a lot less glamorous. 

“In Gotham, of all places?” Jason asked, her French accent didn’t go unnoticed. She clearly hadn’t been here long as her eyes still had a hopeful shine to them.  She’d probably feel more at home in Metropolis, though no self-respecting Gothamite would say that out loud. She tapped her chin thoughtfully as she looked through the other shelves, seemingly undeterred by the slight surprise in Jason’s voice.

“Yes,” she said, “plan to try and scare me away?”

“Around these parts, there’s probably no one scarier than me,” Jason was only half joking this time. 

“I’m shuddering with fear,” she retorted sarcastically, Jason knew she wouldn’t be laughing if she knew the things he’d done just last week.

“Well, if you do decide to stick around, Gotham might actually get some sunshine this year,” he was about to turn and walk away, to squirrel this fun little back and forth in the back of his mind somewhere. Maybe it would be a funny memory, the kind that would make him smile, at least on the inside.

As he was about to walk out of the little book store,  rapid footsteps trailed behind him and a card was stuffed into his hand.  Jason stopped and looked down at the card, before glancing at the young woman who gave it to him.  “Come by the shop sometime, it would be nice to see a familiar face,” she suggested, with a hopeful glow in her eyes that Jason couldn’t bear to say no to.

Jason glanced at the name on the card, “Marinette Dupain-Cheng, a pretty name for a pretty girl” he thought.  

“Also, I never got your name,” Marinette scratched the back of her head, somewhat embarrassed at the realisation. 

“Jason Todd,” he said, “I guess I’ll see around, Pixie.” With that, he turned and stepped out into the frosty streets.  

Since that day, and the months that followed, Jason had managed to play the parts of the loving boyfriend and the brutal crime lord.  On occasion, the two sides came dangerously close to merging together.  Needless to say, there was a reason other crime lords didn’t come knocking on her shop door demanding protection money.

He came by once as the Red Hood, and this time he was met with Marinette having a much more guarded and serious expression on her face.  Her eyes didn’t miss his holstered guns as he walked into the shop. Him being here was more of a show of the business being a part of his territory.  "Can I help you?" She asked tentatively, her eyes watched him closely. He wondered if she was perhaps trying to gauge his personal style from the leather and Kevlar.  

"This is just a social call, most people around here like to know who's in charge of the area," he explained.  

"Is that so?" she said, "Is there anything I can do for you Mr…?"

"Call me the Red Hood," he bit back the urge to say much more than that, one wrong slip of the tongue could give away who he was under the mask. "And you are…?"

"Marinette Dupain-Cheng, or 'MDC' for short." Marinette handed him the same card she gave him at the bookstore.  This time she carefully placed it in his gloved fingers with both hands, as if she was worried he might bite her if she got too close.  There was a cold professionalism to it, he had to remind himself who he was as he stood before her.  The warm little boutique just got colder at that moment.  

“So, nice place you got here,” he said, trying to make something resembling friendly conversation. Marinette tilted her head to the side, her eyes narrowing in suspicion. He could see her tense up at the remark, as though he was about to imply he would burn the place to the ground if she didn’t pay up.  

Marinette stared silently at Red Hood’s attempt at small talk, her eyes darted between his mask, his hands and his guns.  He understood he had overstayed his welcome. “Glad we got this out of the way, see you around, MDC.” He gave a brief wave as he walked out. 

[theofficersacademy]

PROMPT 1. “GETTING ACQUAINTED”

In prior years, you weren’t a mere thumb tall, but hey... While you’re trapped here, may as well make the most of it, right? After all, your hosts have gone all out for this spectacular soirée, and you don’t appear to be in any imminent danger, so there’s no harm in enjoying the pleasantries.

Let’s meet your patrons, shall we?

Water: A lively and energetic spirit, likely the youngest of the Morfisian elementals. Despite being a playful prankster by nature, she is a compassionate caregiver and always willing to spoil her delightful little charges.

Fire: A lax elemental who is content to be hands-off with their pets, preferring to watch them scurry around their little lives. They only act when one of their charges needs a wardrobe change—dance on the tables all you want, but you better do it dressed in silks and finery.

Air: A chaotic and unpredictable master with a strange idea of fun. They enjoy playing games and tricks on their little ones, often in the form of pausing the world simply to put a chair in their way. They won’t stop your attempts to escape—it seems to amuse them more than anything, really.

Earth: A serious, disciplined spirit attempting to loosen up and enjoy the frivolity. Even so, they are the first to penalize rule-breakers and must be restrained by their fellow elementals to prevent them from pausing the party over every little thing. Particularly nit-picky with their charges.

Lightning: An amiable, passionate elemental whose presence electrifies any party! A true party animal, their enthusiasm for “frivolity” is infectious. They tend to lose themselves in the moment, leading them to be overly protective of their pets.

Well... It’s still a ball, right?

[ Fairy Wings ] - shimmer and dazzle in your new boutique threads! And what’s this... it seems they’ve some interesting accessories to choose from as well, the likes of which may be more functional than you initially thought. Soar!

[ Fairy Rings ] - this unorthodox ballroom opens up to the skies and nature, and perhaps even beyond... rumor has it that circle of mushrooms over yonder leads to a less crowded neck of the woods.

[ Cue the Music ] - there’s certainly music, but it’s unlike any you’ve ever heard before. Maybe it’s because it’s played by crickets with tiny instruments. Dance, request a song, or just stare at your new insect colleagues until they grow annoyed with you, you have so much freedom!

[ Garden ] - Outside of the dance hall, explore the miniature gardens the Elementals created for you, populated with all sorts of strange (and carnivorous) plants you’ve never seen before

[ Rat-Tat Tooey ] - a rat in a little hat is cooking up tiny dishes fit for a five-star restaurant. Partake in the refreshments table and try not to think about what it’s like to be a rat with a human consciousness.

Share some of the refreshments with a friend or stranger

Champagne: This isn’t a church-run event anymore, so the bar is open and flows freely. The waiter-mice might give you judging looks if you make a fool of yourself, and really, how low do you have to go to be judged by a mouse?

Sparkling Water: Fresh spring water that has been magically carbonated. Served with a squeeze of lime or a dash of one of the many fruit syrups available at the bartender’s disposal.

Coffee: Even more popular (to the mice) than the champagne is the coffee. It comes in all types - from light, medium, to dark, french-pressed or drip, espresso or latte - but you’re pretty sure the staff is drinking more of it than you are. Rodents love caffeine... who would have thought

Tea: Just what it says on the tin! There’s a wide variety of herbs, berries, fruits, and other flavors, brewed in a way that requires the leaves to be scooped out afterwards. Mmm nature

Water: The liquid of life, the quencher of thirst. Served in crystalline glasses. And what’s more dramatic than throwing water at someone’s face!

Spaghetti and meatball: A lovers’ portion of freshly-made spaghetti cooked in the monastery’s famous tomato sauce. The titular, singular meatball sits in the center, waiting for one lucky person to have their lover roll it to them with their nose as an offering.

Sweet Bun Trio: The first bun is filled with sweet cream and topped with icing and a candied cherry. The second is a sweet roll filled with almonds, pecans, and dried cranberries and glazed with honey. The third is a bun sliced in half, filled with almond paste and whipped cream, dusted with powdered sugar on top.

Charcuterie Board: Every flavor of cheese you can imagine, all lined up by color and size for the Aesthetique.

Mint candy: For when your breath isn’t as fresh as newly-fallen snow.

Hark! Your elemental overlord speaks to you!

[ Make a Request ] - to your overseers to provide you with your favorite snacks and directions to the nearest bathroom.

[ Pause ] - and become frozen in time, paralyzed while an elemental dips their hand in to rearrange the furniture. The music, inexplicably, changes to a jaunty tune...

[ Indulge ] - in your sudden impulse to do whatever comes to mind, whether it’s hugging a stranger, slapping a friend, or doing push-ups on the dance floor.

[ Escape ] - or at least try to. There has to be a loophole that dispels the curse and lets you flee from this place. From shouting at the heavens to ramming against the doors, throw ideas against the walls and find what sticks!

[jubileebloom]

Episode lists from the last seasons of MLP FiM except I Made Some Of It Up and then gave up on season 9

I am good at titles I swear

Season 8:

Students Abroad: Part 1 Twilight Sparkle and Cheerilee hope to start off the new school year with some additional students in Ponyville’s high school, but the EEA has other ideas.

Students Abroad: Part 2 Chancellor Neighsay is against the idea of having non-ponies attend a school run by ponies. When Twilight tries to convince him otherwise, she runs into problems with the leaders of other countries as well.

The Maud Couple

Manehattan Monthly Magazine Fluttershy offers to look after Rarity’s boutique while she’s away, but when a reporter comes by looking to write about the shop, she has to figure out how Rarity would want all his questions answered.

Grannies Gone Wild

Surf and/or Turf

Horse Play

The Parent Map

Party’s Favored Applejack and Rainbow Dash volunteer to lead a field trip with the multicultural student program, but their students end up arguing about which pony is better.

idk anything but the god damn miscommunication trope

Molt Down

Marks for Effort The Cutie Mark Crusaders are looking forward to joining the multicultural student program next year for their final years of school, but Scootaloo’s poor grades are putting her in danger of being ineligible to join.

idk anything but the mean 6 that was AWFUL

oh yeah gave up on season 8 too

Season 9:

uhhhhh idk just not the mean 3 and the tree of harmony still gets destroyed but Celestia and Luna aren't certain on retiring yet they're just considering it I really should have written this out before posting but I Am Tired and I Am Giving Up

the main point was me just adding on another season for funsies so here we go (I don't even like half of these but oh well here we are I tried)

Season 10:

Insurrections of Harmony: Part 1 Ponies and places of importance are being targeted by the newly discovered League of Silent Voices, but Twilight wonders if they are truly enemies or allies in disguise.

Insurrections of Harmony: Part 2 After the League goes too far with one of their demonstrations, Twilight and her friends must navigate difficult decisions about how to respond to their protests.

Wings out of Whack Gallus, Gabby, Smolder, and Silverstream are all volunteering to help Derpy Hooves make her delivery rounds when they run into her old childhood bully.

Inside and Outside While working on restoring a garden, Sandbar and Yona confront Ocellus over her recent reluctance to stay in her natural form.

Little Creatures, Big Hearts Pipsqueak finds he might be in over his head after he volunteers in a massive Trottingham community service project and takes on a major role.

Larger than Life LARPing When word gets out about Discord’s unique, immersive way of running Ogres and Oubliettes games, he finds himself suddenly popular among a large community of O&O fans.

Fix-up Mix-up Twilight has called up Tempest Berrytwist and Scootaloo to meet a group of researchers who want to experiment with giving them additional abilities. As they question what they truly want, the experiment takes an unexpected turn.

Illuminated Crystal Skies As Flurry Heart is getting a bit older, Cadence and Shining Armor begin to worry if being raised royal is right for her.

Gold Star Grownup Starlight Glimmer’s old teacher has moved to Ponyville to help with the multicultural student program, and Starlight has to prove to him that she’s managed to become a functional adult after being a disaster in his class.

Have A Nice Daisy Someone has been leaving daisy chains on the doorsteps of every home in Ponyville, and in trying to find this mysterious benefactor, the citizens get a chance to bond with their neighbors a bit better.

Too Tired to Trot Rainbow Dash has to talk Spitfire into taking some time off as it becomes clear that the Wonderbolt is overworking herself.

Far From the Family Tree The League of Silent Voices has started revealing private information about powerful figures publicly. But when they manage to unearth who Celestia and Luna’s parents were, the sisters themselves may not be able to handle the discovery.

Of Trees and Time’s Passage A discovery is made about Celestia and Luna’s connection to the late Tree of Harmony, and the effects of its destruction may be worse than they knew.

Radiant Stage Lights Rarity and Kerfuffle write to each other for advice and support as they each prepare for their own upcoming fashion shows.

Animal Jamming Fluttershy is eager to rejoin the revived Pony Tones, but finds it difficult to make time in her schedule as her animal shelter is in full swing.

Lights Shining Down Starswirl and Twilight gather a large group of unicorns to figure out a pressing question: what to do about raising and lowering the Sun and Moon.

League of Losers Conflict is brewing at the headquarters of the League of Silent Voices, as every member has different ways they want to go about their goals.

Mystery of the Missing Marmalade Applejack receives word from Cherry Jubilee that her farm is in trouble, and she begins to suspect that foul play was involved.

Young Souls, Old Stories The Cutie Mark Crusaders and the Young Six team up with the Pillars for an important mission: correct some things their history textbooks got wrong.

Forever Your Filly Overwhelmed by all her responsibilities, Twilight borrows a page from Celestia and Luna’s most recent chapters and spends the day with her parents to destress, bringing Spike along too.

Ribbons and Wrappings Pinkie Pie worries her gift-giving game has gotten rusty, so she decides to find just-because gifts for all her family and friends.

Interdimensional Re-visitors Sunset Shimmer spends a day back in Equestria, bringing some unexpected guests back with her.

Equestria Reborn, Part 1: Every Voice Calling The League of Silent Voices has finally swayed many ponies of Equestria to their side, but amidst the chaos being spread, some start to question their leader’s motives.

Equestria Reborn, Part 2: Negotiations of Traitors With Frostbiters being spotted all over Equestria, it’s up to the three princesses to try to come to an agreement with the League’s leader.

Equestria Reborn, Part 3: Dawn of Dreams Every creature must choose to come back together after it turns out that Swaying Scales’s plans weren’t as benevolent as they had seemed, while Scales reflects on her own rise to power.

Scrolls and Celebrations Some time after Equestria’s government was reformed, Twilight and all her co-rulers struggle to get their paperwork done in time to join in on the Unity Festival.

[mercerislandbooks]

50 Years of Island Books: Cindy Corujo

Cindy Corujo has been a bookseller for 36 years and has the longest tenure of any Island Books employee. Nothing before that matters or counts. She must have started young because she looks no older than 40. June 2023 marks her 30th year at Island Books. While Cindy likes to say that her plans for the future are so up in the air she calls them her future planes, she really only hopes to be gift-wrapping kids' books for birthday parties while Nancy Stewart sings Sticky Sticky Bubblegum every Saturday for the next 30-50 years.

Miriam: Let's start at the beginning, Cindy. How did you come to work at Island Books?

Cindy: I'm pretty sure I was the first off-Island, no Mercer-Island-Connections person to work at the bookstore. Actually maybe Mark who worked in receiving and who was there when I started was—though I think he actually had a Carol Kelly connection through her daughter, Emily. 

I do know that I answered Roger's first ever "help wanted" ad either in Seattle Weekly or in the The Seattle Times—It was 1994.  I had experience, I had worked at a bookstore in Chicago for 6 years. I was a bartender before that, I had a BA in English and had taught English for a very little bit before that—I was pretty sure I was on track to be a famous writer but that hasn't quite panned out... yet. But hey, I wanted to be a Marine Biologist in 4th grade and that hasn't panned out yet either. 

I knew no one in Seattle when I moved here.  I found an efficiency apartment on First Hill and unloaded the contents of my crammed full 14-foot Pemske into it, plopped all my savings into the hands of my new landlord for three months rent with deposit and immediately set out to find work.  Something I never had a hard time finding.  Until Seattle.

I applied and interviewed everywhere for everything.  Even a bridal boutique. Even an artificial limb company. I was just in conversation with "Annie's Affordable Art" in Ballard where I would be framing commercial posters interspersed with customer service in a windowless space when I saw Roger's ad. I think Roger would be the first to tell you that I walked into the bookstore blatantly desperate for the job.

Miriam: Tell me how your work as the store artist grew and bloomed. For those who don't know, the placards, quotes, window displays, and much of the store lettering and aesthetic came from Cindy's artistic hands. How did the rest of the staff discover your gifts?

Cindy: It's touching that you would say this. I will agree that I helped changed the look and feel of the store over time to help Roger build a "fun with purpose" (I stole that from Highlights magazine) environment. I did do the signage, and windows and displays for most of those years. I would never call myself the store "artist." I was certainly the store "scribe" and brought the first blackboards to the space to share fun quotes and event information. The blackboard up front to the right of the front door as you're leaving was the first, and I purchased it for $7 at Goodwill on Dearborn after a day-long and determined hunt for that exact thing. I wish I had kept a record of the quotes I've found over the years—everything from Cicero commenting on kids to my mother opining on wind chimes. Fun Fact: I have never used the same quote twice.   

When I think of the store's true artists, I think of Andrea Lorig, whose art adorned the newspaper advertisements and created the logos in the early days, and of Poo Putsch who painted the play house with such care and loving detail that I only just this past weekend discovered a tiny fairy in the grassy garden painted on the north face and Dr. Deane who built the playhouse and of course, Roger, who imagined and executed a series of fun remodels to transform the floor plan of the store into the interesting maze of steps and nooks and ramps and platforms and throughways that it is and whose personal collection of three typewriters were the seed ("Hey I've got one of those at home--I should bring it by") of our community collection now thirty years in the making. More recently, Brad, who's been here about a year now, has been doing some gorgeous blackboards and signs that completely outshine mine. Sigh. To my credit, a famous publisher once said I should have my own font. Caitlin can testify to that.

Miriam: I would use a Cindy font! I'm a huge fan of the store aesthetic and have loved watching it evolve over the years. Switching gears now—will you tell us about any store memories that are particularly memorable for you? Bloopers welcome, or go heartwarming...

Cindy: When I started, the bookstore was a different place. Stuffed with books.  All the space where we now display all of the beautiful miscellaneous stuff we house today was for the display of books.  All the general sections were divided into subsections.  The place had a classic bookstore vibe and a formal feel—way more formal than me and I wondered how I was going to fit in.  The women who worked there were all ten to twenty years older than me, there were a lot of employees working part time and they were for the most part, really well-read, really well-educated and really well-dressed when they went to work.  I really did not think I was going to fit in. What I learned pretty quickly was that I didn't have to fit in. That Island Books was a place that made room for people. It still is. Since then, I've had the good fortune to spend my entire work life with an evolving cast of fun and interesting colleagues and customers, some of whom I count among my best friends (Hi Wendy!).

We were open when the Nisqually Earthquake hit—All twenty NYTs hardcover bestsellers shuddered and toppled off the bestseller shelf. That was my first clue before running through the store shouting Duck! Though I think I really shouted F*****ck!!! Either way, I'm sure I saved lives that day.

The midnight release of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix—three long years of waiting after Goblet of Fire was published, our modest midnight release party plan grew into a huge happening because of Nancy Page's imagination while on the phone discussing our "plans" with a Tacoma reporter.  We rose to the occasion of Nancy's imagination with the help of Youth Theatre Northwest,  and a bunch of creative and handy customers along with staff all pitching in to make it happen. We had probably one of the best midnight release parties in the United States. In history. Bar none.

I've been through several significant anniversary parties here but I think my favorite was the Pie Social we had for our fortieth (I think). Our spin was—It's our birthday, what are you gonna do about it?  We want pie.

And we got a storeful of pie. So much fun!  So many people came bearing so much pie!

Fast forward to Laurie's tenure. Roger was relieved, ready to retire and stoked to strike out for the territory. Laurie was ecstatic and enthusiastic, did a cartwheel in the main aisle, hosted a wonderful welcome party and brought a new era of being an even more events- oriented bookstore. Laurie and Victor added the comfortable overstuffed reading chairs and beautiful throw rugs. The twinkling lights to the display cases came later.  

Lowpoint:  First author signing ever with no books to sign—we botched our order timing and had no books for the signing. In spite of our eternally mortifying gaffe, it was one of the funnest "signings" we'd ever held.  Everyone was cool with getting their signed copies later and the author (Claire Gebben) couldn't have been more gracious and good-humored about it. We still sell her novel and her memoir.

Miriam: You've seen it all. Let's finish with what you're looking forward to at the bookstore in the year ahead. Besides the big anniversary, of course.

Cindy: Re-opening the play house happened recently, but I'd been looking forward to it for a long time. That little structure has meant a bit to people over the years and it had been closed to kids since Covid.  We did a cleaning, an inspection, and a little facelift. As Laurie said: We're having an Open House.

Also, Anna, an intern, and I are working on the one and only official Island Books Golden Jubilee 2023 Typewriter Fixation Calendar—14 months of sexy typewriters from the Island Books Typewriter Collection with bonus All Inclusive Centerfold. You can read more about our typewriter project here. If anyone cares to pre-order, please let me know. I think it will retail for $23, in honor of our 50th year (2023). I'm pretty excited about how it's turning out so far. We expect it to be ready for press in September and for the release of at least 100 signed and numbered copies in October/November.

Miriam: I want one! No seriously, I am so excited about this calendar. I'm getting one for all my friends too. I hope it's typeset in Cindy font.

To our Island Books community: In the next 50 Years of Island Books installment, I’ll be talking with one of our favorite authors, Erica Bauermeister. Stay tuned!

—Miriam

[hannahhook7744]

Meet Fiona Freeland Foundling;

Fc: Daveigh Chase.

Fic Title: The Marvelous Misadventures of Hannah Hook.

Nicknames: Fi, Fey Girl, Fairy Girl, Dark Fae, Dark Fairy, 'Ona, Fifi, the Goth Fairy, skunk girl, and Bat wings.

Sexuality: Unknown at the moment.

Pronouns: She/her.

Birthday: Halloween.

Height: 3"2.

Hair Color: Coal Black.

Eye Color: Dirt brown.

Place Of Birth: Moors but no one else knows that. Other than Maleficent.

Hobbies: Dancing, drawing, collecting stuffed animals, sewing, coloring, having tea parties, listening to music, trick or treating, playing dress up, knitting, meteorology, creative writing/poetry, arts and crafts, catching fire flies, acting, learning, and gardening.

Likes: Candy, barbies, dark colors, ripped clothes, baggy clothes, bats, skunks, plants, music boxes, tattoos, creepy toys, cute plant pots, flowers, Halloween decorations, berries, woods, magic, movies, musicals, spray paint, games, punk stuff, gothic literature, gothic stuff, and cute baby animals.

Dislikes: Bullies, her dyslexia, her color blindness, her amnesia, loud places, being lost, being compared to people, being alone, and having her picture taken.

Favorite Musicians: Vampire Weekend, Slipknot, Lizz Robinett, Fall Out Boy, The Offspring, Blink-182, Green Day, Iron Maiden, and Black Sabbath.

Physical Quirks/Scars: Tattered looking black, translucent wings. Pale skin. Circles under the eyes. Almost skeletal in appearance (naturally). Dimples.

Family: Unknown.

Honorary Family: Hades, Persphone, and their kids.

Friends: The Stormbringer crew, of course.

Pets: Bagul (skunk).

Love Interest: Noah Aoratos (future boyfriend).

Optimistic or Pessimistic: Optimistic.

Introvert or Extrovert: Extrovert.

Occupation: Junior Pirate and future boutique--tatto Parlor-- flower shop owner.

Extracurriculars: Piracy, Ballet, art club, gardening, and drama.

Favorite Animal: Skunk.

Favorite Color: Black, white, pink, and grey.

Favorite Book: A Light in the Attic.

Favorite Food: Blackberries.

Favorite Drink: Black coffee with whipped cream.

Favorite Movie/TV Show: The Addams family and Scooby Doo.

Favorite Class: Artist and Thieves is tied with Tall Tales and The Tellers who tell them.

Background: It's not every day that a child falls from the sky, but on the rare occasion that one does, everyone remembers it-- which is exactly what had happened in the case of one girl known as Fiona Freeland Foundling.

It had been a normal day on the isle of the lost, with Hannah Hook scavenging for toys and books out of boredom. Eventually finding herself in an Alleyway, where she narrowly missed getting smushed by a falling projectile that was almost the size of her leg. A falling projectile that turned out to be, a little girl -- almost skeletal in appearance-- with high cheekbones, black hair, almost black eyes, and tattered, translucent black wings. A girl who could barely talk.

Instead of running away or screaming, like most people would have, the seven year old pirate captain took the startled and confused little girl home and tried to figure out where she came from so they could return her. Something they never did figure out.

When they couldn't, Hannah named Fiona and gave her a spot on her crew. Promising that one day they'd find out where she came from as they patched her up.

Unbeknownst to them, Maleficent knows. Because how wouldn't she recognize one of her own? But she has no reason to tell anyone that the little girl is from Moors because she'd get nothing from it.

~~~~Playlist~~~~

"Hide and Seek" by Lizz Robinett.

"It's the Hard-Knock Life" by Charles Strouse / Martin Charnin.

"Dead Hearts" by Stars.

"Left Behind" by DAGames.

"Hidden in the Sand" by Tally Hall.

"Carousel" by Melanie Martinez.

"Crybaby" by Melanie Martinez.

Inspired by @thecaptainsgingersnap and @theinnerworkingsofoc yet again. Made to cheer @cleverqueenchild up.

[zenasflower]

Flowers in Liverpool

Flowers are a surefire way to brighten up gloomy spots and cheer loved ones. From bespoke florists to high street favourites and e-commerce platforms there are plenty of options.

Situated in a Grade II-listed building that was once the Old Blind School pub, The Florist features a range of spectacular floral installations that are Instagram gold. Team their contemporary selection with the aesthetically modern Lyngby vase from Broste Copenhagen.

Mersey Flowers

From the manicured lawns of Allerton and Aigburth to the expansive green fields of Mossley Hill, Flowers in Liverpool is home to some of the most impressive parks in the UK. Monty Don takes us on a tour of the city's best gardens, while Adam Frost visits a Japanese garden and Frances Tophill admires a luscious green oasis.

Whether you’re looking for flowers to add to a dinner party or to send to a loved one, there are countless florists to choose from across Merseyside. From bespoke florists to high street favourites, here’s a list of the best flower shops in Liverpool to suit your needs.

A family-run florist in the heart of Liverpool, Fishlocks Flowers create bespoke floral displays and bouquets for all occasions. Their bespoke funeral tributes are an ideal choice to honour a loved one, especially for football fans - they can be made in any colour and come with a personalised message card. Pair their bespoke flowers with the aesthetically modern Lyngby vase by Broste Copenhagen to create a striking display on your mantelpiece.

A Slower Space

A Slower Space is a lifestyle store on Penny Lane, offering a carefully-curated selection of houseplants and flower bouquets. Their creative compositions would pair well with the aesthetically modern Bottoms Up Vase by Danish brand Hay. Founded by husband and wife team Michelle and Michael, the shop was inspired by their experiences travelling and living in Hong Kong.

They’ve been sourcing quirky anthropomorphic plant pots and Picasso-inspired tableware to complement work by Liverpool designers. The duo left their life in the fashion industry to open the boutique, bringing a unique twist to the street that is known for its Fab Four-related attractions.

They also specialise in bespoke wedding flowers, and are members of the Good Florist Guide. This means you can trust them to design a bouquet that will suit your occasion and make the right impression. You can order online, or pop in to collect your flowers. They offer free delivery on orders over £30.

Booker Flowers & Gifts

This flourishing floral boutique is the go-to florist for all things wedding flowers.

Bloom enthusiast Gemma and her creative team will help you elevate your venue and attire with fresh, vibrant blooms. From buttonholes and flower headdresses to enchanting car decor, they’ll create your dream wedding floral design.

They use top-grade flowers for their hand-crafted arrangements and have been rated Best Florist Liverpool by Three Best Rated and North West Regional Winner of the English Wedding Awards 2022. They also offer same day, three hour, and Sunday flower delivery in Liverpool as well as UK and worldwide delivery through Interflora.

Mia loves her varied career as a Florist and enjoys giving Flower School classes in her spare time. Oli started working at Booker Flowers and Gifts in 2019 as part of the Disability Confident scheme and loves his newfound skills and confidence. He is now a valued member of the team!

West End Flower Farm

Swapping the swarms of commuters for a peaceful stroll through an ancient oak woodland with a carpet of blue floral beauty underfoot sounds a little more appealing Flower Delivery in Liverpool. The beautiful Arlington Wood in Hampshire hosts a stunning display of delicate blue blooms from April to early May.

In addition to their online shop, the couple run flower workshops and small weddings on the farm. They’re also exploring the possibility of bringing in bees to help with pollination.

Having previously worked in the world of high level project management, Marianne Mogendorff and Camila Romain dreamed of a ‘good life’ that included a more grounded, nature filled work-life. So in 2017 they swapped the office for the countryside and opened Green and Gorgeous flower farm. They offer flower growing and floristry courses for beginners and professionals. In the spring there are bright tulips, roses and stocks; in summer meadow favourites like cornflowers and poppies are in full bloom; and in autumn rich dahlias can be found.

[banquetwedding]

The Perfect Setting: Banquet Halls in Mehrauli for Every Celebration

It can be quite difficult to choose the ideal location for your big event. But Banquet Halls Delhi Mehrauli a quaint and historic nearby, has a wide range of banquet halls perfect for any kind of event, large or little. Mehrauli offers the perfect venue for making enduring memories, whether you're organizing a small event or a large celebration.

From Weddings to Work Events: A Venue for Every Occasion

Grand Celebrations: Luxurious Banquet Halls for Weddings and Receptions

Mehrauli offers a variety of exquisite banquet halls perfect for grand celebrations like weddings and receptions. These venues often feature opulent décor, spacious dance floors, and state-of-the-art amenities to ensure a flawless event.

Immerse Yourself in History: Embrace the rich heritage of Mehrauli by choosing a banquet hall nestled amidst architectural wonders. Imagine exchanging vows or celebrating with loved ones under the majestic Qutub Minar or within the serene grounds of a heritage haveli.

Modern Elegance: Several contemporary banquet halls in Mehrauli showcase sleek design and cutting-edge technology. These venues cater to those seeking a sophisticated and stylish ambiance for their celebration.

Intimate Gatherings: Cozy Banquet Halls for Birthdays and Anniversaries

For smaller celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or baby showers, Mehrauli offers a charming selection of boutique banquet halls. These venues provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for creating a more intimate and personalized celebration.

Rooftop Rendezvous: Several Venue halls in Mehrauli boast stunning rooftop terraces, offering breathtaking views of the Delhi skyline. Imagine enjoying a delightful evening under the stars with your closest friends and family.

Garden Delights: Embrace the beauty of nature by choosing a Party halls in Mehrauli nestled amidst landscaped gardens. These venues provide a tranquil setting for a memorable celebration.

Corporate Events: Professional Ambiance for Meetings and Conferences

Mehrauli also caters to corporate events, offering a selection of banquet halls ideal for meetings, conferences, and product launches. These venues boast modern audio-visual equipment, spacious meeting rooms, and dedicated business support services to ensure a productive and successful event.

Fully Equipped Conference Halls: Several Marriage halls in Mehrauli are specifically designed for conferences and meetings. These venues feature tiered seating arrangements, high-definition projection screens, and advanced sound systems to facilitate a seamless event.

Boutique Boardrooms: For smaller corporate gatherings, intimate banquet halls with private boardrooms offer a focused and professional ambiance.

Beyond the Venue: Additional Considerations for a Flawless Celebration

While the venue plays a crucial role, a successful celebration requires careful planning. Here are some additional factors to consider:

Catering: Many banquet halls offer in-house catering services, while others allow you to bring in your preferred caterer. Explore the available options and choose a menu that complements your theme and budget.

Décor: The décor sets the mood for your celebration. Work with a professional decorator or unleash your creativity to personalize the space and create a cohesive ambiance.

Entertainment: Live music, DJs, or photo booths can elevate your celebration and keep your guests entertained. Choose entertainment options that suit the occasion and the overall vibe you wish to create.

[udo0stories]

  Posted: 2/20/24 | February 20th, 2024 The most visited place in northern Thailand is Chiang Mai. It serves as a hub for tourists planning to visit the neighboring elephant sanctuaries or go jungle trekking. This place is amazing to me. When I visited recently, I was happy to see that the city's atmosphere—which is among the greatest in the nation for food—had not changed since the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the city is a well-known travel destination, hostels abound. Every kind of traveler and price range can find something here. Here is my list of the top hostels in Chiang Mai to help you choose from the hundreds of options available. If you don’t want to read the longer list, the following are the best in each category: The Best Hostel for Budget Travelers: The Best Hostel for Solo Female Travelers: The Best Hostel for Digital Nomads: The Best Hostel for Partying: Want the specifics? Here’s my breakdown of the best hostels in Chiang Mai and why I love them: Price legend (per night): Under 350 THB $$: 350-500 THB $$$: Over 500 THB 1. Stamps Backpackers This lively hostel is located right outside the Old City. Every night, they host events, and there is a public bar on the premises where you can meet both locals and visitors (they have a great happy hour). They arrange day trips out of the city and have a tour desk as well. I particularly liked that they had a blackboard where visitors could write their itinerary. While the dorm beds in the larger rooms are basic (simple bunks with no curtains), the mattresses are thick and quite comfortable. The smaller dorms also only have single beds, so there are no bunks. You also get your own little alcove, so it feels much more private than the standard dorm. (Note: while the smaller dorms have AC, the larger eight-person dorms only have a fan (it’s a personal fan though).) This is the best hostel in the city. If you can find a room, stay here! Stamps at a glance: $$ It's super easy to meet people Shared activity board Tour desk on-site Beds start at 450 THB. Book here! 2. Hidden Garden Hostel This hostel is incredibly charming, with beautiful architecture and a minimalist design that features lots of exposed wood. It has a boutique feel to it, with large and spacious dorms that don’t feel crowded. The dorm beds are super comfortable and feature individual lights, outlets, and curtains, so you can get a good sleep. It’s a social hostel, but not party-centric. The hostel also has a pool if you want to hang out and relax, as well as a rooftop terrace where you can take in the view. While breakfast is not included, they do offer free snacks all day. The bathrooms are all clean and well-maintained, and the showers have decent pressure too. Located right on the southern outskirts of the Old City, it’s super easy to get around the city from here. Hidden Garden Hostel at a glance: $$ Beautifully designed spaces Female-only dorms Pool and terrace to relax and meet people Beds start at 515 THB, and private rooms start at 1,250 THB. Book here! 3. Mad Monkey Chiang Mai Stay here if you want to party. It’s super lively, with lots of things happening every night, from bar crawls to drinking games. You get a free drink on arrival, which really sets the tone for the hostel. It’s super easy to meet people here. There’s a saltwater pool as well as a bar and restaurant on site, as well as lots of common spaces, including a gym and yoga space. Like most party hostels, the dorm beds are pretty basic (but still comfortable). There are lockers in each room, and most beds have privacy curtains too (rare in party hostels). It’s one of the cheapest hostels in the city too, making it the best choice for budget travelers who want to party. Mad Monkey at a glance: $ Lively, social atmosphere Gym, pool, and yoga studio on-site Free welcome drink on arrival Beds start at 315 THB, and private rooms start at 1,591 THB. Book here! 4. Hostel Lullaby This award-winning hostel offers tons of free perks,

including free breakfast, free bike rentals, and free daily classes (such as Thai boxing or yoga). It’s a laid-back hostel but not overly social (it’s definitely not a party place). There are lots of communal spaces to hang out, both indoors and out. It’s right in the middle of the Old City, so it’s super easy to get around from here. The hostel itself is pretty no-frills. The dorm rooms aren’t huge, but the beds are really comfy. There are individual reading lights, lockers, and privacy curtains for each bed as well. It’s a chill spot with lots of free perks, offering budget travelers a ton of value. Hotel Lullaby at a glance: $$$ Female-only dorm Free breakfast Free daily classes (Thai boxing, yoga) Beds start at 510 THB. Book here! 5. Dozy House Located in the Old City (sense them here?), this is a homely, comfortable hostel with a super friendly owner who is always happy to help make your stay enjoyable. There are colorful murals and art on the walls, and there are lots of laid-back common areas where you can hang out. It’s not super social but more of a quiet and low-key hostel, perfect for budget travelers. It’s one of the cheapest hostels in the city. The dorms aren’t huge, but they have outlets, lockers, and AC. The dorm beds are super basic and only have thin mattresses and no curtains. However, the private rooms here are actually super comfortable and boast thick mattresses. It’s a good hostel for budget travelers looking to splash out on a cheap private room. Dozy House at a glance: $ Super affordable Comfortable and spacious private rooms Great location in the Old Town Beds start at 220 THB, and private rooms start at 880 THB. Book here! 6. Revolution Chiang Mai This party hostel is right outside the Old City, near the Saturday market. There are plenty of common spaces for hanging out, drinking, and playing beer pong. The hostel has an age limit, so you know that there will only be younger travelers staying here. They also have a free nightly dinner, which makes it easy to socialize and meet people. There’s no kitchen to cook in, but there are lots of bars and restaurants within walking distance. The dorms here aren’t huge, but, unlike most party hostels, the beds are actually really comfy. They don’t have privacy curtains, but they do have individual lights and outlets (as well as thick mattresses). There are also small lockboxes for each bed where you can lock up your wallet, phone, and other small valuables. Revolution Chiang Mai at a glance: $ Fun party atmosphere 18-35 age limit Free nightly dinner Beds start at 299 THB. Book here! 7. About a Bed This stylish, minimalist hostel has a boutique feel, with sleek dorms that have comfy mattresses, curtains for the pod-style beds, individual lights and outlets, and lockers. It has a friendly, calm atmosphere, and the rooms have lots of natural light and feature light, natural tones. It’s more of a hostel for quiet travelers or digital nomads looking to get work done. There’s free coffee and tea available all day, as well as a small kitchen and pantry if you want to do some basic food prep. It’s also located right near the Chang Phuak Night Market, where you can find some of the best street food in the city, as well as the centuries-old Wat Lok Moli temple. About a Bed at a Glance: $$ Pod-style beds Free coffee & tea Calm, quiet atmosphere Beds start at 370 THB. Book here! 8. Sylvis Hostel Chiang Mai Located right across the street from Stamps, this hostel has a really great cocktail bar that specializes in Thai drinks made from local ingredients. It’s another energetic hostel where it’s easy to meet people, as they organize lots of events and have tons of common areas where you can hang out. They can help you book tours and excursions too. They also enforce a midnight quiet hour, so you can still get a decent sleep. The dorm beds are quite comfy, with thick mattresses, privacy curtains, and individual lights and outlets. The beds are also pod-style, so you have more privacy.

The shared bathrooms are large and well-maintained, with lots of space and great water pressure. Sylvis Hostel Chiang Mai, at a glance: $$ Cozy pod-style dorm beds Amazing cocktail bar Female-only dorm Beds start at 350 THB, and private rooms start at 1,000 THB. Book here!*** A lively hub of backpackers, expats, foodies, and digital nomads, Chiang Mai is a must-visit stop on any trip to Thailand. Stay in one of the hostels above and have a fun, affordable, and nice place to stay! Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand! My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on-and-off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today. Book Your Trip to Thailand: Logistical Tips and Tricks Book Your FlightUse Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned! Book Your AccommodationYou can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and the best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Don’t Forget Travel InsuranceTravel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are: Looking for the best companies to save money with?Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel, too. Want more information on Thailand?Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Thailand for even more planning tips!